Volume 23 (2025)
Special Issue I

Full text of the Journal: Volume 23 Special Issue I

Pages

5-14 T. Banhazi, M. Dunn, A. Banhazi, J. Reixach, A. Ramon-Perez, P. Llonch and J. Maselyne
Sub-clinical respiratory infection identified on farms by monitoring weight changes of pigs with the Weight-Detect instrument
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Sub-clinical respiratory infection identified on farms by monitoring weight changes of pigs with the Weight-Detect instrument

T. Banhazi¹²*, M. Dunn¹, A. Banhazi¹, J. Reixach³, A. Ramon-Perez⁴, P. Llonch⁴ and J. Maselyne⁵

¹InnoTech Vision ApS., Niels Pedersens Alle 2, 8830 Tiele, Denmark
²Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, ul. Chełmońskiego 38C,
PL51-630 Wroclaw, Poland
³Selección Batallé S.A., Av. dels Segadors, s/n 17421 Riudarenes, Girona, Spain
⁴Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB), Plaça Cívica, Campus de la UAB, ES08193 Bellaterra, Sardañola del Vallés, Catalonia, Spain
⁵ILVO, Burgemeester van Gansberghelaan 92/1, BE 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium
*Correspondence: thomas.banhazi@plfag.com

Abstract:

The essential task of growth rate monitoring of pigs is usually undertaken on farms using electronic scales, but new technologies are now available to continuously monitor the weight of pigs. One of these systems (Weight-Detect, WD, PLF Agritech, Brisbane, Australia) has been introduced on a commercial pig farm in Spain as part of the EU funded aWISH project to (1) assess the applicability of the technology and (2) use this information to assess the general welfare status of pigs. The WD unit was installed in early 2024 and manual weight recordings were undertaken periodically using an electronic scale to validate the WD system. In terms of absolute values, the manual measurements indicated that the WD system was able to predict the average pen weight of the pigs with 1.7% (2.0 kg) precision. More importantly, this case study demonstrated that the WD unit was able to detect weight reduction in pigs six days before the clinical signs of a respiratory disease infection were noticed. According to the WD measurements the study pigs achieved an average daily gain (ADG) of 882 g d^-1 between the 20/03/24 and 16/04/2024. However, between the 17/4/2024 and 30/04/2024 their ADG dropped dramatically to 286 g d^-1. The animals were diagnosed with respiratory disease on the 22/04/24, six days after the dramatic reduction in ADG was recorded by the WD system. This period of ADG stagnation has caused an approximate 14-day delay in reaching the desired slaughter weight, (approx. 130 kg), potentially creating significant financial losses for the producer. After the 1/05/24 pigs recovered and achieved an ADG of 645 g d^-1 until their last recorded weighing day on the 20/5/24. These results highlight the WD system’s ability to alert livestock managers about impending health problems before clinical signs appear, so appropriate mitigation measures can be implemented to reduce the negative impacts on welfare and production performance.

Key words:

ICT tools, image analysis, profitability, smart technologies, weight detection

15-26 M. Gaworski and P. Sołtys
Assessment of consumer awareness regarding the implementation of innovative food packaging
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Assessment of consumer awareness regarding the implementation of innovative food packaging

M. Gaworski¹* and P. Sołtys²

¹Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Department of Production Engineering, Nowoursynowska 166, PL02-787 Warsaw, Poland
²Warsaw University of Life Sciences – SGGW, Faculty of Production Engineering, Nowoursynowska 166, PL02-787 Warsaw, Poland
*Correspondence: marek_gaworski@sggw.edu.pl

Abstract:

Food packaging fulfills many practical functions. They protect against harmful external factors and facilitate transport, distribution on the market, and storage of products in households. They also provide information on food products’ type and composition, preparation method, and shelf life. The important role played by packaging contributes to their continuous improvement. An example of this improvement is the implementation of innovative solutions, including active and intelligent packaging. The question remains whether consumers know about these innovative facilities and whether they use them. In search of an answer to this question, a survey was conducted on 210 respondents in the Mazovian region (Poland). The survey aimed to assess consumer knowledge and awareness of active and intelligent food packaging. The study was conducted using the CAWI (Computer-Assisted Web Interview) method. As many as 79% of respondents did not know the term active packaging. It was similar in the case of intelligent packaging – 79% of respondents did not know this type of packaging. Respondents also showed a low level of knowledge regarding the different types of inserts in active packaging and examples of benefits offered by intelligent packaging. The survey results suggest the need to disseminate knowledge and benefits related to active and intelligent packaging.

Key words:

active packaging, consumer awareness, intelligent packaging, respondents, survey

27-44 M. Geidelina-Lugovska and A. Cekuls
Deciphering the paradox: the role of organizational identification in workaholism versus burnout
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Deciphering the paradox: the role of organizational identification in workaholism versus burnout

M. Geidelina-Lugovska* and A. Cekuls

University of Latvia, Faculty of Business, Management and Economics, Department of Management, Aspazijas bulvaris 5, LV-1050 Riga, Latvia
*Correspondence: marija.geidelina@gmail.com

Abstract:

This study explores the complex relationship between organizational identification, workaholism, and burnout. Organizational identification, denoting individuals’ psychological connection to their workplace, significantly influences their work-related attitudes and behaviors. While it often correlates with workaholic tendencies characterized by excessive work engagement, it does not directly cause burnout – a state of emotional exhaustion due to chronic work-related stress. Utilizing a qualitative grounded theory approach, we conducted a comprehensive literature review using Scopus, analyzing 141 articles to identify the antecedents of workaholism, burnout, and organizational identification. Our findings reveal that organization-related factors, such as job demands, social support, job autonomy, and organizational culture, significantly impact both organizational identification and burnout. Conversely, workaholism is primarily driven by personal factors like perfectionism, low self-esteem, and family background. These insights suggest that fostering positive organizational factors can enhance organizational identification and mitigate burnout, while addressing personal factors is crucial in managing workaholism. This research contributes to the economic understanding by highlighting the role of organizational culture and job design in employee well-being, which can impact productivity and organizational performance. The study underscores the importance of developing interventions that balance organizational identification with healthy work habits to promote a resilient and productive workforce. Future research should focus on empirical tests to better understand the influence of organizational and personal factors on these constructs, paving the way for more effective strategies to foster employee well-being.

Key words:

burnout, organizational identification, stress, workaholism

45-56 M. Geidelina-Lugovska and A. Cekuls
Organizational identification, workaholism, and burnout: a cross-sectional study of age, gender, tenure, and work arrangements
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Organizational identification, workaholism, and burnout: a cross-sectional study of age, gender, tenure, and work arrangements

M. Geidelina-Lugovska* and A. Cekuls

University of Latvia, Faculty of Business, Management and Economics, Department of Management, Aspazijas bulvaris 5, LV-1050 Riga, Latvia
*Correspondence: marija.geidelina@gmail.com

Abstract:

This study investigates the relationships between organizational identification (OI), workaholism, and burnout among employed individuals in Latvia, with a focus on how gender, age, and tenure moderate these relationships. Data were collected from May 29 to October 27, 2024, using the QuestionPro platform, resulting in 954 total responses, of which 879 were completed (completion rate: 92.14%). The results demonstrate that high OI significantly predicts burnout (β = 1.167, p = 0.002), particularly when combined with workaholism (β = 2.045, p = 0.001). Employees exhibiting both high OI and workaholism reported the highest levels of burnout. A negative association between tenure and burnout (β = -1.3419, p = 0.020) suggests that experienced employees develop better coping strategies. Gender differences were also observed: women in the high OI group reported significantly higher burnout levels (β = 2.2538, p = 0.045), whereas women in the low OI group experienced lower burnout levels (β = -3.2624, p = 0.020). These findings highlight the complex interplay between organizational identification, workaholism, and burnout, emphasizing the need for organizational interventions targeting workaholism and gender-specific challenges. Future research should further explore the impact of cultural and organizational factors in shaping these dynamics.

Key words:

age, burnout, gender, organizational identification, stress, tenure, workaholism

57-72 K. Karklina and L. Ozola
Sensory assessment and consumer acceptability of confectionery products made with pine cones
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Sensory assessment and consumer acceptability of confectionery products made with pine cones

K. Karklina* and L. Ozola

Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Agriculture and Food Technology, Food Institute, Lielā iela 2, LV-3001 Jelgava, Latvia
*Correspondence: Klinta.Karklina@lbtu.lv

Abstract:

The non-timber part of the forest includes mushrooms, berries, cones, shoots etc. The aim of this study was to evaluate consumer acceptability of confectionery products made with pine cones. For the study two pine cone syrups using osmosis were prepared: pine cone syrup with white sugar (PSW) and pine cone syrup with brown sugar (PSB). Four jams were prepared: apple – pine cone jam without added sugar (AC), pine cone jam with white sugar (CW), pine cone jam with brown sugar (CB), and pine cone jam with stevia (CS). Also, four gummy candies were prepared using different thickeners – gelatine (CG), pectin HM (CpHM), pectin LM (CpLM), and agar – agar (CA). To all products sensory evaluation was performed. In total 23 participants participated in this study. The results showed that the PSW had the most intense colour, aroma, taste, and aftertaste, the sweetness in both syrups was the same. The obtained data for jams showed that the CB and AC was the most pleasant in terms of colour, while the CB and CS was the most pleasant in terms of consistency. For the gummy candies’ colour and texture, the highest rated were CpHM. However, for the aroma, taste and aftertaste, the highest acceptance was found in CG. In conclusion, healthier confectionery products with reduced sugar content can be effectively developed by using a non-timber forest resource such as pine cones. This approach allows manufacturers to create confectionary products that satisfy consumer demand for enjoyable sweetness while addressing health concerns.

Key words:

gummy candies, intensity test, jams, JAR test, Stevia

73-85 A. Karlsons and A. Osvalde
Effect of zeolite, clay and peat on salt stress tolerance of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)
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Effect of zeolite, clay and peat on salt stress tolerance of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.)

A. Karlsons* and A. Osvalde

Institute of Biology, Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Latvia, 4, O. Vaciesa Street, Riga, LV−1004, Latvia
*Correspondence: andis.karlsons@lu.lv

Abstract:

The present study aimed to investigate the effects of natural zeolite, clay and peat amendments on the growth and NaCl absorptions of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) under gradually increasing salinity. Four different growing media based on quartz sands with 10% additions of zeolite, clay and peat were tested. The worst effect of NaCl on plant biomass was evident at the highest salinity levels for zeolite applications. While adverse salinity impact on leaf and root biomass was least pronounced in treatments with peat additives. As expected, the lowest Na concentrations in plant tissues were found in the growing media supplemented with zeolite. In the case of Cl, however, it was the opposite – lettuce leaves accumulated significantly higher chloride concentrations in the zeolite variants in salinity treatments above 20 mM NaCl. In the control, clay and peat treatments, as the substrate salinity increased, the Cl level in the plant increased similarly. Adverse changes in leaf chlorophyll concentration (SPAD) and photosynthetic rate (µmol m^-2 s^-1) parameter appeared under salinity concentrations above 20 mM and were more pronounced in zeolite and sand substrate. According to the obtained results, peat additives can effectively mitigate the harmful effects of excessive salts by binding and immobilizing them as well as improving the water-holding capacity and nutrient availability. The study also concluded that natural zeolite successfully immobilizes cationic sodium, but the harmful effect of chlorine significantly reduced plant growth and photosynthetic performance. Clay additives to the growth medium showed the potential to reduce the adverse effects of salinity on lettuce, however, under the experimental conditions implemented, the effect was small.

Key words:

organic matter, photosynthesis, plant biomass, pot experiment, sodium chloride

86-92 P. Kic
Process of heat treatment and changes in garlic properties
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Process of heat treatment and changes in garlic properties

P. Kic*

University Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Technological Equipment of Buildings, Kamýcká 129, CZ165 21 Prague, Czech Republic
*Correspondence: kic@tf.czu.czs

Abstract:

This paper aims to present the results of research focused on the heat treatment of garlic (Allium sativum) into black garlic. The research compared three varieties of classic kitchen garlic (Dukat, Topaz and Sabagold), grown in the Czech Republic. The course of heat treatment in a hot air dryer was investigated at 60 °C. Changes in the weight and moisture of the samples were monitored gravimetrically for 78 days. The dry matter content was measured gravimetrically after drying at 105 °C. There were certain differences between the varieties studied. The intensive decrease in water content, dry basis u (g g^-1) during the first 20 days was the fastest in the Topaz variety, when it dropped below 0.4 (g g^-1) after only 9 days. In the Dukat and Sabagold variety water content, wet basis w (%), from the original values w = 62 to 66% dropped below 30% within 20 days, and in the Topaz variety below 20%. Changes in the colour of garlic cloves were measured by A CM-600d spectrophotometer. During the black garlic processing, its gradual darkening occurred. Lightness L* decreased in the Dukat variety from 80.39 to 27.47, Topaz from 78.29 to 29.09 and Sabagold from 83.64 to 28.72. In all varieties, colour changes occurred. Greenness (-a*) changed from the 9th day to a redness (a*) whose saturation gradually decreased. The yellowness (b*) of all varieties also decreased significantly.

Key words:

CIELAB system, colour, garlic, heat treatment, Maillard reaction, moisture, spectrophotometer, temperature

93-108 J. Lezdkalne
Integrating human factors into occupational accident investigation: a literature review of methodologies and their applications
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Integrating human factors into occupational accident investigation: a literature review of methodologies and their applications

J. Lezdkalne

University of Latvia, Aspazijas blvd. 5, LV-1050 Riga, Latvia
*Correspondence: jelena.lezd@inbox.lv

Abstract:

Introduction: Accident investigation is essential in safety management, aiming to identify causes and prevent recurrence. Despite various methodologies, gaps remain in information collection and human factors integration. Since data collection is the foundation of investigations, deficiencies can compromise conclusions. This study reviews literature on human factors, focusing on their integration into investigation of occupational accidents. The review explores the nature of human factors and investigation methods that address cognitive, psychological, and organisational dimensions. The study also proposes an integrated investigation flow that combines these methodologies to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of accident investigations.

Methods: A literature review was conducted using academic databases. Keywords included ‘accident investigation’, ‘human factors’, and ‘occupational safety’. Inclusion criteria focused on articles, books, and reports from 1990 to 2025, covering topics of interest and safety-critical industries. Relevant literature was screened and analysed based on its contributions to the research topic. Key investigation methodologies were analysed for their strengths and limitations.

Results: The study revealed a multitude of methodologies available, each with its own set of strengths and limitations. HFACS, HEART and FMEA methods were analysed for their potential to systematically integrate human factor. While these methodologies demonstrate significant promise, their implementation remains inconsistent due to challenges related to training, organisational culture, and resource allocation.

Conclusions: This review emphasizes the importance of integrating human factors into accident investigation methodologies to enhance workplace safety. While traditional methods remain valuable for their accessibility, systemic approaches are essential for addressing complex socio-technical systems. Future efforts should prioritize investigator training and promotion of positive organisational culture to mitigate human factor challenges and improve investigative outcomes.

Key words:

human factors, investigation models, occupational accident investigation, safety-critical industries

109-133 M. Luna-delRisco, L. Rocha-Meneses, E. Vanegas-Trujillo, C. Arrieta-González, S. Villegas Moncada, M. Gonzalez-Palacio, A. Patiño-Agudelo, J. Sierra-Del Rio and L. Castillo-Meza
An overview of the technical and economic opportunities for biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America
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An overview of the technical and economic opportunities for biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America

M. Luna-delRisco¹*, L. Rocha-Meneses², E. Vanegas-Trujillo¹, C. Arrieta-González¹, S. Villegas Moncada¹, M. Gonzalez-Palacio¹, A. Patiño-Agudelo¹, J. Sierra-Del Rio³ and L. Castillo-Meza⁴

¹Faculty of Engineering, Universidad de Medellín, Carrera 87 No. 30-65, 050030 Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia
²Chair of Biosystems Engineering, Institute of Forestry and Engineering, Estonian University of Life Sciences, 56 Fr. R. Kreutzwald Str., EE51006 Tartu, Estonia
³Department of Mechatronics Engineering - MATyER, Instituto Tecnológico Metropolitano, 050034 Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
⁴Department of Environmental Engineering, Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana Bucaramanga, Kilómetro 7 vía Piedecuesta, 680006 Floridablanca, Colombia
*Correspondence: mluna@udemedellin.edu.co

Abstract:

The growing need for sustainable energy solutions has intensified interest in alternative sources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Latin America, with its abundant biomass resources from agricultural and industrial activities, offers significant potential for renewable energy generation. Biogas, derived from the anaerobic digestion of organic waste, presents a viable energy carrier and a promising feedstock for hydrogen production, a key component in global decarbonization efforts. Despite these opportunities, the adoption of biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America remains limited due to high capital costs, technological challenges, inadequate infrastructure, and weak policy frameworks. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the region’s potential by assessing biomass availability, technological pathways, and economic feasibility through data from research institutions and scientific literature. Technologies such as steam methane reforming and emerging biological processes are evaluated, alongside country-specific regulatory frameworks. Findings highlight those countries with strong agricultural sectors, such as Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia, hold high potential. However, economic challenges endure, with substantial investment required for technology deployment. Policy analysis reveals that progressive frameworks and financial incentives in select countries, like Chile and Uruguay, are fostering early adoption. Unlocking the potential of biogas-based hydrogen production in Latin America requires strategic investments, supportive policies, and enhanced regional collaboration. Strengthening these efforts can drive energy security, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and promote economic growth. Supporting regional initiatives with global sustainability objectives will position Latin America as a key player in the transition to renewable energy.

Key words:

biogas-to-hydrogen conversion, economic feasibility of hydrogen, policy frameworks for bioenergy, renewable energy in Latin America, sustainable energy transition

134-150 T.E.A. Mattila, E. Liski, M. Väre and R.H. Rautiainen
Diminished work ability as a contributing factor for farmer’s interest in switching to organic production
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Diminished work ability as a contributing factor for farmer’s interest in switching to organic production

T.E.A. Mattila¹*, E. Liski¹, M. Väre¹ and R.H. Rautiainen²

¹Natural Resources Institution Finland (‘Luke’), Latokartanonkaari 9, FI-00790 Helsinki, Finland
²University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska, 68198-4388, USA
*Correspondence: tiina.mattila@luke.fi

Abstract:

Previous studies suggest organic producers have diminished work ability, but it is unclear if this is due to pre-existing conditions or work exposures in organic production itself. The current study explored whether diminished work ability is a contributing factor to the interest in switching from conventional to organic production. The study used data from 2018, Finnish farmer questionnaire, analysed by machine learning – based approach and logistic regression modelling. Nearly half (46%) of the survey respondents (n = 2,948) had a diminished work ability score. Seventeen percent (n = 501) of the respondents reported being interested in switching to organic production. Farmers with diminished work ability had greater odds (OR 1.56, 95% CI: 1.26–1.92) for showing interest in switching. Those growing horticulture and special crops (vs. cereals) (OR 0.55) and those age 55+ years (vs. less than 35) (OR 0.51) showed less interest in switching. The interest in starting or expanding organic production was higher among those who already had an organic agreement on part of their farm (OR 5.7) and those who had other business activities on the farm (OR 1.36). In summary, this study suggests that diminished work ability predicts farmer’s interest for switching to organic production. Measures to protect the health and well-being of farmers and workers during and after switching to organic production is critically important in achieving not only policy goals to increase organic production, but also good quality of life of farmers.

Key words:

agriculture, logistic regression, machine learning, social sustainability, well-being at work

151-163 A.N.H. Moreira, A.H. Ciappina, R.R. Andrade, D. Casaroli, G. Rossi, L. Conti and G. Bambi
Temporal analysis of pasture vegetation cover incentral-western Brazil using remote sensing
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Temporal analysis of pasture vegetation cover incentral-western Brazil using remote sensing

A.N.H. Moreira¹, A.H. Ciappina², R.R. Andrade¹*, D. Casaroli¹, G. Rossi³, L. Conti³ and G. Bambi³*

¹Federal University of Goiás, Department of Biosystems Engineering, College of Agronomy, BR74690-900 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
²Centro Universitário UniAraguaia, Department of Agronomic Engineering,
BR74223-060 Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
³University of Florence, Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, Via San Bonaventura 13, IT50145 Firenze, Italy
*Correspondence: rafaella.andrade@ufg.br, gianluca.bambi@unifi.it

Abstract:

Brazil is the world’s leading exporter of beef, consolidating beef cattle farming as an important branch of national livestock farming. The expansion of livestock farming and agriculture in recent decades has resulted in a notable increase in pasture areas in Brazil. However, the country faces the growing challenge of pasture degradation, a problem that threatens sustainability and food production. On the other hand, livestock farming in Brazil’s Central-West region, the country’s largest cattle-producing area, particularly in the state of Goiás, can cause environmental damage when sustainable practices are disregarded. Thus, the objective of this article was to evaluate pasture degradation, at different levels, in the Ribeirão Serra Negra Watershed, in the municipality of Piracanjuba, Goiás, Brazil. Using images from the Sentinel-2A orbital sensor, the NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) vegetation index and the vegetation cover classes of pastures were obtained between 2017 and 2021. During this period, the results showed that more than 98% of the areas had some level of degradation, with an average coverage of 6,586.1 ha. There was an upward evolution in the levels of vegetation cover between 2017 and 2019, with the best pasture conditions predominating in 2019. These assessments help identify areas that require greater attention and often necessitate conservation practices and management plans. In this context, monitoring degraded areas is a practice that facilitates the improvement of existing pastures, promotes the rational management of inputs, conserves natural resources, and aligns with development programs focused on sustainability.

Key words:

livestock grazing, pasture quality degradation, Remote sensing, sustainable, vegetation indices

164-179 F.M. Oliveira, P.F.P. Ferraz, G.A.S. Ferraz, D. Cecchin, A.F.S. Stopatto, V. Becciolini and M. Barbari
Evaluation of chest circumference in 3D lateral images of dairy cattle farming for body mass prediction
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Evaluation of chest circumference in 3D lateral images of dairy cattle farming for body mass prediction

F.M. Oliveira¹, P.F.P. Ferraz¹*, G.A.S. Ferraz¹, D. Cecchin², A.F.S. Stopatto³, V. Becciolini⁴ and M. Barbari⁴

¹Federal University of Lavras, Department of Agricultural Engineering,
University Campus, PO Box 3037 - CEP 37200-000 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
²Fluminense Federal University, Department of Agricultural and Environmental Engineering, Rua Passo da Pátria, 156, PO Box, 21065-230, Niterói, Brazil
³Federal University of Lavras, Department of Animal Science, University Campus, PO Box 3037 – CEP 37200-000 Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brazil
⁴University of Florence, Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, IT50145 Florence, Italy
*Correspondence: patrícia.ponciano@ufla.br

Abstract:

The advancement of precision livestock farming has underscored the importance of developing innovative and non-invasive methods for monitoring animal health and productivity. In this context, this study evaluated the application of computer vision to estimate the body mass (BM) of Holstein-Friesian dairy cows using 3D images captured laterally with the Intel RealSense D435i depth camera. The methodology involved correlating chest circumference (CC) measurements obtained in the field with those derived from lateral 3D images. A total of 250 animals were analyzed, with BM ranging from 420 to 855 kg, and the relationship between CC and BM was modeled using regression techniques. The results indicated a coefficient of determination (R² = 0.88) and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 3.94% for CC measured in the field. For CC derived from 3D images, R² was 0.847, with an MAPE of 5.29%. Although the 3D image-based method showed a slight reduction in accuracy, it demonstrated significant potential as a non-invasive and efficient alternative for estimating BM in dairy cows. Furthermore, the study highlights the role of 3D imaging technologies in acquiring detailed morphological data, enabling a more comprehensive understanding of body composition dynamics over time. These findings reinforce the potential of integrating digital technologies into dairy farming, promoting sustainable, precise, and labor-efficient management practices.

Key words:

3D images, computer vision, dairy cattle farming, non-invasive body mass estimation

180-194 S. Rancāne, A. Lazdiņš, G. Petaja, D. Purviņa, S. Zute, I. Jansone, M. Damškalne and G. Putniece
Carbon and nitrogen accumulation by agricultural crop residue under three cropping systems
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Carbon and nitrogen accumulation by agricultural crop residue under three cropping systems

S. Rancāne¹*, A. Lazdiņš², G. Petaja², D. Purviņa², S. Zute³, I. Jansone³, M. Damškalne³ and G. Putniece⁴

¹Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Research Institute of Agronomy, J. Purapukes street 28, LV-5125 Skriveri, Latvia
²Latvia State Forest Research Institute Silava, Rigas street 111, LV-2169 Salaspils, Latvia
³Institute of Agricultural Resources and Economics, Stende Research Centre, LV-3200 Dizstende, Talsi district, Latvia
⁴Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Liela street 2, LV-3001 Jelgava, Latvia
*Correspondence: sarmite.rancane@lbtu.lv

Abstract:

Agricultural crops produce different biomass during their growth, including varying amounts of residue which accumulate a significant amount of carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). Assimilation capacity depends largely on species, variety and growing condition. Carbon accumulation in soil contributes to both – the agricultural production and maintenance of environmental quality reducing atmospheric C and greenhouse gas emissions. In this study, the amount of plant residue left on the field by above-ground and below-ground residue and the amount of C and N accumulated in them in three different cropping systems: organic (Bio); integrated with a low input of N fertiliser (Int-low-N) and; integrated with a high input of N fertiliser (Int-high-N) were evaluated. The most commonly grown cereal crops in Latvia were tested: winter wheat (WW); summer wheat (SW); winter rye (WR); winter triticale (WT); summer barley (SB); summer oat (SO); and buckwheat (BW) as pseudo-cereal crop. The highest biomass of dry matter of total harvest residue in all cropping systems was recorded in WR: 853.3 ± 40.76 g m^-2; 1,482.0 ± 105.06 g m^-2; 1,628.3 ± 115.49 g m^-2 – in Bio; Int-low-N; Int-high-N cropping systems, respectively. The highest amount of carbon (g C m^-2) using organic cropping system was accumulated by residue of: WR (268.6 ± 28.68), BW (239.4 ± 10.50) and WW (234.5 ± 27.41). The highest amount of carbon (g C m^-2) using integrated cropping system was accumulated by residue of: WR – 473.8 ± 64.9; 496.6 ± 62.54 and WT – 458.2 ± 32.57; 521.1 ± 46.26 in Int-low-N and Int-high-N, respectively. Higher proportion of root biomass cereals formed using organic cropping system.

Key words:

: above-ground and below-ground residue, cereal crops, integrated cropping system, organic cropping system

195-207 R. Smigins, K. Amatnieks, A. Birkavs and S. Kryshtopa
Performance and emissions of an agricultural diesel engine with hydrogen injection under different load modes
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Performance and emissions of an agricultural diesel engine with hydrogen injection under different load modes

R. Smigins¹*, K. Amatnieks¹, A. Birkavs¹ and S. Kryshtopa²

¹Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Institute of Engineering and Energetics, J. Cakstes blvd. 5, LV3001 Jelgava, Latvia
²Ivano-Frankivsk National Technical University of Oil and Gas, Department of Automobile Transport, Carpathians Street 15, UA76019 Ivano-Frankivsk, Ukraine
*Correspondence: ruslans.smigins@lbtu.lv

Abstract:

. Excessive use of fossil fuels in transport sector in the last decades stimulated rise in global energy consumption in such way leaving harmful effects on human health and environment. The scale of decarbonization of transport sector in the next decade could be challenging for European Union (EU) as demand for renewable energy, like wind, solar and hydro, will definitely rise. The aim of this study is to find whether hydrogen could be optimal solution for emission reduction in agricultural machinery. In this regard, research was carried out with KOHLER KDI 1903 M diesel engine looking on main performance parameters, as also regulated emissions operating engine with conventional diesel fuel and different hydrogen injection volumes under different loads. Fuel consumption was measured with AVL KMA Mobile device, while emissions was determined using AVL SESAM FTIR exhaust gas analytical system. During the tests, it was observed that the addition of a higher hydrogen concentration provides more substantial benefits that includes a larger impact on fuel consumption and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. Other emissions such as carbon monoxide (CO) emissions had smaller but positive impact, while the addition of hydrogen gas had various impact on nitrogen oxide (NO_x) emissions. At the same time decrease in particulate matter (PM) emissions was observed with higher hydrogen concentrations and more substantial impact was observed during higher load conditions and higher hydrogen concentration.

Key words:

diesel engine, emissions, hydrogen addition, performance, torque

208-219 S. Villegas, L. Rocha-Meneses, M. Luna-delRisco, C. Arrieta-González and M. González-Palacio
Analysis of the potential of livestock excreta for urea production through anaerobic digestion: challenges and opportunities in Latin America
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Analysis of the potential of livestock excreta for urea production through anaerobic digestion: challenges and opportunities in Latin America

S. Villegas¹*, L. Rocha-Meneses², M. Luna-delRisco¹, C. Arrieta-González¹ and M. González-Palacio¹

¹University of Medellín, Faculty of engineering, Carrera 87 #30-65, postal code 050026, Medellín, Colombia
²Estonian University of Life Sciences, Institute of Forestry and Engineering,
56 Fr.R. Kreutzwald Str., EE 51006 Tartu, Estonia
*Correspondence: svillegas@udemedellin.edu.co
All authors contributed equally to this work

Abstract:

Urea is one of the most demanded fertilizers worldwide and in Latin America. The high dependence on international markets to meet the region’s urea demand, the high consumption of fossil energy for its production, and greenhouse gas emissions increase agricultural production costs and create the need to seek alternative processes for urea production to reduce these adverse effects. In this sense, this work explores the possibility of producing urea in Latin America from the ammonia and CO₂ generated in the anaerobic digestion process of livestock excreta under conditions that favor the production of both gases. The results indicate that it is possible to meet the demand for urea for agricultural use by utilizing 15% of its theoretical potential obtained from livestock excreta. This new alternative for obtaining urea brings economic benefits, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and fosters social development. However, it faces legal, infrastructure, and technological barriers that may hinder the adoption of this technology in rural areas of Latin America.

Key words:

anaerobic digestion, fertilizer, Latin America, livestock excreta, urea

220-242 B. Zvara, M. Macák and J. Galambošová
Review: unmanned aerial vehicles and artificial intelligence in precision agriculture
Abstract |

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Review: unmanned aerial vehicles and artificial intelligence in precision agriculture

B. Zvara*, M. Macák and J. Galambošová

Slovak University of Agriculture, Faculty of Engineering, Department of Machines and Production Biosystems, Institute of Agricultural Engineering, Transport and Bioenergetics, Tr. Andreja Hlinku 2, SK949 76, Nitra, Slovakia
*Correspondence: benjaminzvara@gmail.com

Abstract:

To meet the needs of sustainable intensification in crop and animal production, farmers use a set of technologies which are referred to as Agriculture 4.0 to 5.0 or digital agriculture. Differences compared to traditional precision farming techniques are in extensive use of UAV, smart sensors implemented in machines, crops, animals and in the soil, cloud computing, IoT, together with extensive use of AI for data analyses. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), also called drones, have become an essential tool in digital agriculture. UAVs have witnessed remarkable development in the past decades and so in the recent years, the topic of agricultural UAVs has gained the attention of many farmers. The submitted paper provides a review on recent scientific literature dedicated to the utilization of agricultural UAVs. The utilization areas are reviewed in monitoring (remote sensing), interventional applications of various inputs, and other areas of possible utilization. The novelty of this review highlights the importance of the integration of UAVs with artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). Sophisticated artificial intelligence and machine-learning algorithms are developing to analyse UAV-collected data, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency. Machine learning models in combination with artificial intelligence are capable of yield prediction and crop management, effecting future decision-making processes. Several key opportunities can be identified for future research, including the development of more sophisticated decision-making processes and machine learning methods based on artificial intelligence, the automation of agricultural crop production, improved UAV autonomy, and the potential use of UAV swarms in different field operations.

Key words:

artificial intelligence, drone; precision agriculture, unmanned aerial spraying system, Unmanned aerial vehicle