Due to the systematic utilisation of substantial amounts of phosphorus fertilisers on agricultural crops in crop rotation, the amount of available phosphate compounds increases in the soil. It ensures the maximum increase in crop yields. The study of the phosphate level in Chernozem soils in various agrocenoses is really up-to-date. The gist of our research was to determine the specifics of providing mobile phosphorus in typical Chernozem in field crop rotation, especially in sunflower, varying according to fertilisation systems in the forest-steppe zone of Ukraine. The assessment of mobile phosphorus content was conducted using the Chirikov method, which involves extracting mobile phosphorus compounds from the soil using a solution containing acetic acid (CH3COOH) at a concentration of 0.5 mol dmE−3, with a soil–to–solution ratio of 1:25. Phosphorus was determined with the spectrophotocolorimetric method, which is based on the colour intensity of the phosphorus-molybdenum complex. Our investigations showed that the typical low-humus Chernozems have considerable reservoirs of potentially exploitable phosphorus for plant nourishment. We established that the mineral and organic-mineral fertilisation system leads to a greater use of mobile phosphorus with agricultural crops of crop rotation resulting in the formation of elevated phosphate content in the Chernozem soil. By the end of the second rotation, the organic-mineral fertilisation system variant displayed the greatest concentration of mobile phosphorus within the 0–25 cm soil depth, marking a surge of 15.6 mg kgE−1 compared to the unfertilised variant. In the period of sunflower germination, the content of mobile phosphates increased in the soil layers at depths of 0–25 cm and 25–50 cm in the variant of the mineral fertilisation system on 17.6 and 22.2 mg kgE−1 of soil compared to the alternative without the fertiliser. In the sunflower’s ripening period, the mobile phosphorus concentration in the soil at 0–25 cm depth increased significantly in the variant of organic-mineral fertilisation system by 12.0 mg kgE−1 and mineral fertilisation by 14.7 mg kgE−1 of soil if compared with the variant lacking the fertiliser. In the variant of the mineral fertilisation system, the amount of mobile phosphorus increased in the 0–30 cm soil depth by 18.7 mg kgE−1 of soil in two crop rotations compared to the beginning of the first crop rotation.

The objective of the current study was to create a frozen dessert with reduced fat and sugar content, using plant-based ingredients and to evaluate its physical, rheological and nutritional properties. The dessert formulations were developed using plant-based ingredients such as sweet potatoes, potatoes, carrots, and beetroot, combined with date sugar, corn starch and skimmed milk powder. Chemical analysis showed that the sweet potato (SP) sample had the highest energy value due to its carbohydrate and fat content, while the carrot (CR) sample had the lowest. Rheology tests revealed that beetroot-based (BR) samples exhibited the highest viscosity, likely due to the high dietary fibre content in beetroots, while the CR sample was the most fluid, attributed to its lower solids content. The study showed that air bubble size influenced texture and melt behaviour. The overrun, a measure of air incorporation, was highest in the BR sample, contributing to a lighter texture. The hardness of the desserts was influenced by solid content and ingredient composition, with the CR sample being the hardest. Melting rate analysis revealed that all samples melted slowly, with the SP, SPP (sweet potato + potato), and BR samples melting uniformly over time. Overall, the study demonstrated that plant-based ingredients could effectively replace traditional high-fat animal-based ingredients, yielding frozen desserts with favourable nutritional profiles, acceptable rheological properties, and desirable physical characteristics.

The sprouts of various seeds have garnered considerable regard amid consumers due to its verdure, crispiness, and germination potential, offering a cost-effective and straightforward process. The moist and warm conditions are very conducive to germination, fostering the growth of microorganisms and thereby raising food safety concerns. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of ozone on Enterobacteriaceae counts by subjecting wheat (Triticum aestivum) grains, alfalfa (Medicago sativa), radish (Raphanus sativus) and broccoli (Brassica oleracea) seeds to ozone gas treatment. Additionally, the grain and seeds were rinsed with ozonised water during germination. Three different treatment methods were employed for seeds and grains. In the first method, samples were exposed to ozone gas at 20 ppm for 10 minutes, with subsequent rinsing every 12 hours during germination until the rinse water appeared visually clean, at a concentration of 2.0 mg LE−1 of ozone. The second method involved rinsing with ozonised water at a concentration of 2.0 mg LE−1 for durations of 20, 40, and 60 minutes. The third method — treated with ozone gas at 50 ppm and the exposure time of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 h. Untreated samples were used as controls. Evaluation of the samples revealed that Enterobacteriaceae was virtually undetectable in dry seeds. However, after 72 hours of germination in both the control and ozone-treated sprouts and following 7 days of storage at 4±2 °C, Enterobacteriaceae were found at an average of 7 to 8.1 log CFU gE−1 in all samples, irrespective of the treatment method. Additionally, mould was observed only in wheat and radish sprouts during the assessment period. The study showed that there was no significant reduction in the number of mesophilic aerobic and facultative anaerobic microorganisms, moulds and Enterobacteriaceae then treated with ozone gas.

Climate change poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of its implications for both agricultural firms and capital lenders. This systematic literature review aims to elucidate emerging trends in addressing climate-related risks in agriculture and credit sectors. Drawing from a rigorous analysis of 39 articles sourced from Scopus and Web of Science databases, three key thematic dimensions have emerged: (i) agricultural lending and credit risk, (ii) green principles and sustainability, and (iii) the context of developing countries. From the impact of climate change on the recoverability of loans to the imperative of transitioning towards a greener and more sustainable economy, alongside the nuanced challenges faced by agriculture in developing countries, we analysed prominent and recent literary approaches. The findings underscore the need to integrate climate change considerations into agricultural and credit policies. Policymakers and financial institutions should prioritize climate education for farmers and promote sustainable financial approaches. Anticipated climate risks will impact lenders’ capital reserves, necessitating portfolio adjustments. A deep understanding of climate change’s interplay with agriculture lending and credit risk is vital, urging proactive policy and practice. Addressing climate challenges in agriculture demands a multifaceted strategy encompassing tailored credit policies, improved access to credit, financial empowerment, and the mitigation of social inequalities. This review highlights the urgent need for proactive strategies to mitigate climate risks and ensure a resilient agricultural sector, emphasizing the crucial role of research and policy interventions in navigating the complex landscape of climate change impacts on agriculture.

Excessive intake of saturated fatty acids and physiologically imbalanced amino acids worsens the patient’s psychotic condition, creating the risk of developing psychosis and other comorbidities. Therefore, to ensure the optimal amount of amino acids and improve the psychotic state, pea protein isolate is an alternative to nutritional supplementation. The aim of the study was to analyse the amino acid profile of pea protein isolates and their solubility to evaluate their potential for the development of beverages for patients with psychiatric disorders. In the study, the amino acid profile analysis of organic and conventional pea protein isolates was performed using high performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. To evaluate solubility, pea protein isolates were treated in an ultrasonic bath and at different pH concentrations. The results showed that organic pea protein isolate showed a higher composition of essential amino acids (41.27%) and semi-essential amino acids (8.37%) than conventional pea protein isolate. Organic pea protein isolate was able to provide a more appropriate amino acid composition to meet the amino acid needs of patients with psychiatric disorders. Organic and conventional pea protein isolates had higher solubility in the ultrasonic bath of 20 min and in the alkaline environment. The solubility between the two pea protein isolates was not significantly different, but the ultrasonic bath treatment and different pH concentrations were significant, which gave insight and further application in beverage production.

The proliferation of chronic kidney disease of unknown etiology (CKDu) in Sri Lanka may be attributed to exposure to trace elements of both natural and human origin in the environment, which has been extensively explored and widely debated within the scientific community. This research aims to investigate the fluctuation of soil quality in paddy fields concerning depth and to evaluate the corresponding groundwater parameters in a region identified as a high-risk area for CKDu in the North Central region via determining different parameters including trace metals in both paddy soils and groundwater. The slightly alkaline paddy soils in the study area displayed elevated electrical conductivity values in the uppermost soil layer compared to the subsoil layer. Although hazardous metals, including lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), and cadmium (Cd), were detected in the paddy soil, they did not surpass the critical toxic concentrations. A statistically remarkable robust positive correlation was discovered between the concentration of Pb in the soil and its depth. Additionally, the levels of toxic metals, such as lead, arsenic, cadmium, and chromium, in the study area’s groundwater were substantially lower than the safety standards set by the World Health Organization. However, some groundwater samples were found to contain anionic species, including fluoride, in concentrations that exceeded the established permissible limits. The gradual accretion of trace elements within the paddy soil presents a potential hazard for the translocation of such elements into the rice plants, thus constituting a possible threat to human health.

Organic fermented milk products are an area of interest combining functional properties and sustainable practices. Limited information is available regarding the specific components of organic milk that may impact the growth of lactic acid bacteria. This study emphasised the differences in bioactive compounds between organic and conventional milk and their potential influence on lactic acid bacteria growth. Analysis of organic (n = 15) and conventional (n = 15) farm milk using GC-MS revealed differences in fatty acid (FA) concentrations, mainly mono-, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and conjugated linoleic acid. Individual FA, such as stearic, linoleic, and oleic acids, were up to 33.6%, 31.0%, and 25.23% higher in conventional milk. Detection of the whey proteins using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed lysozyme content was up to 40.6% higher in conventional (22.04 µg L⁻¹) than in organic (15.68 µg L⁻¹) milk. Conversely, lactoferrin content was 20.4% higher in the organic (45.27 µg L⁻¹) than in conventional (36.04 µg L⁻¹). No difference in the content of immunoglobulin A was found. The higher concentrations of lysozyme, mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids in conventional milk could enhance a higher inhibitory activity against lactic acid bacteria compared to organic milk.

Sustainable global development calls for a circular economy society with green skills. Farmers and related stakeholders play a crucial role in moving towards a society based on a circular economy, and in line with this position the study focuses on green skills for farmers and related stakeholders managing rural change within the framework of a circular economy society. The aim is to investigate the green skills necessary for Lithuanian farmers and related stakeholders to successfully implement circular economy principles within the agricultural sector. Empirical survey background was formatted from literature review; the data for the empirical survey was collected using a questionnaire survey of Lithuanian farmers and related stakeholders and focus group with Vytautas Magnus University Faculty of Bioeconomy Development academic community and student discussions. The data were collated, synthesised and modelled in order to identify the green skills needed for farmers and related stakeholders to implement the principles of the circular economy in rural society and to be active circular economy society members. The findings explored the significance of developing cognitive, technological, social, and action green skills for farmers and related stakeholders through a whole institution approach (WIA). The links between green skills move in a circle: when cognitive green skills change, technological, social and action green skills change also. The pinnacle of circular economy society green skills lies in action prowess, empowering farmers to not only use, but also to innovative green technologies.

The increasing reliance on renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power necessitates the development of advanced forecasting techniques to address the inherent variability and unpredictability of these energy systems. Accurate forecasting is vital for optimising energy production, maintaining grid stability, and effectively integrating renewable energy into power systems. Traditional forecasting methods often struggle to adapt to rapidly changing environmental conditions and new data inputs, limiting their effectiveness in dynamic contexts. This study introduces the Self-Improvement Cycle (SIC) module, which is designed to enhance forecasting accuracy through continuous learning, adaptation, and feedback integration. The SIC module leverages advanced machine learning algorithms, reinforcement learning techniques, and reflective practice principles to create a self-improving framework that dynamically updates models based on real-time data and external feedback. The module’s design incorporates multiple feedback loops, enabling the system to iteratively refine its performance and remain robust in the face of changing conditions. Reflective practice, a concept drawn from psychology, plays a critical role in the SIC module by facilitating ongoing evaluation and adaptation. By learning from previous predictions and continuously adjusting algorithms, the SIC module demonstrates its potential to improve forecasting accuracy across various domains, with a particular emphasis on renewable energy forecasting. The theoretical and mathematical foundations of the SIC module are explored, showcasing its capability to enhance predictive accuracy and resilience in an evolving energy landscape.

This research seeks to expand the in-depth knowledge on the ethical dilemmas veterinary doctors face while providing care for homeless animals, brought to clinics by volunteers. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with veterinary doctors in Latvia. The study reveals the complex emotions involved in the interactions between veterinarians and volunteers, as well as the factors affecting a veterinarian’s decision made about homeless animals. The results show a positive attitude towards the altruism of volunteers, but significant concerns around financial matters and the use of animals for fundraising. Debates about charging for stray care highlight potential disagreements between veterinarians and activists. Veterinarians prioritise education and advocacy, providing compassionate assistance to pet owners. Societal expectations strongly shape how they perceive their role, emphasising the reduction of animal suffering and the improvement of animal welfare.