Search

The impact of the active hostilities associated with Russia's large-scale armed invasion of the territory of Ukraine on soil degradation as a result of military actions has resulted in soil damage due to heavy military armored vehicles. Debris from destroyed military equipment, ammunition, and fuel remnants lead to multi-factor damage to the soil system, causing local and global pollution and losses of soil resources. In all the studied cases, mechanical, chemical, and physical soil degradation were observed. This was manifested in changes in granulometric fractions at explosion sites, burning areas, and locations with heavy-metal contamination. Equipment incineration has resulted in an increase in the sand fraction (2.0–0.05 mm) by 1.2–1.8 times and a decrease in the clay fraction (<0.002 mm) by 1.1–1.2 times. The soil contamination levels with regard to heavy metals significantly surpass health standards, with the highest pollution levels observed for Pb, Zn, and Cd. Across all affected areas, changes occurred in the microbiome structure (a 20.5-fold increase in the proportion of mycelial organisms), microbiological process activity was suppressed (a 1.2-fold decrease), microbial biomass (a 2.1-fold decrease) was reduced, and high soil toxicity (99.8%) was observed. Explosions and the pyrolysis of armored vehicles have a significant impact on soil mesobiota and plants. The results indicate the existence of complex interactions between various factors in the soil environment post-explosion, significantly affecting soil health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spent mushroom substrate (SMS), often disregarded as waste despite its abundance in organic matter and mineral micronutrients, has emerged as a valuable resource for diverse applications. While Europe and Asia have witnessed extensive research in this field over the past decade, Ukraine's exploration remains limited. This study conducts a thorough investigation into SMS recycling and reutilization over a 4-year period. Employing experimental and comparative methods, this research unveils compelling insights into the potential of SMS for reintroduction into the primary production cycle and secondary activities. The main conclusions reveal the success of SMS valorization in the production of additives, fertilizers, and alternative fuels. Furthermore, the application of SMS in agroecosystems significantly enhances the soil biological activity. The integration of these methods into production chains not only yields economic benefits for companies but also fosters environmental stewardship, aligning with waste-free practices and the principles of bioeconomy and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to explore the textile dyeing capability using dyes derived from grape pomace. Extractions were conducted with water at different pH levels and with a water/ethanol solution. Cotton (natural and cationized) and wool were employed in the dyeing process for varying durations (100 and 200 min). The colorimetric and fastness properties, in terms of washing (with hot and cold water) and exposure to natural light, were evaluated. The final color evaluation was performed using ΔE*, a parameter quantifying the magnitude of a color difference by comparing the L*a*b* color coordinates of the CIELAB system of the dyed samples with those of the control. The hues obtained on the fabrics resulted in uniform and earthy colors. However, the cationized cotton substrate showed the highest ΔE* values for all conditions used in obtaining grape pomace extracts, in the range of 33.91 to 37.98. This suggests that the surface treatment enhanced dye uptake, while organic cotton achieved a lighter earthy color. Natural dyeing using grape pomace presents a sustainable, ecological, and non-toxic alternative for textile dyeing, resulting in unique and earthy tones with commercial potential while promoting the sustainable use of natural resources and environmental preservation. The key to achieving sustainable development lies in waste reduction and valorization, along with the adoption of conscious consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This paper presents comparative studies on the content and structure of organic matter (OM) and the activity of microbiological cellulose destruction in three types of Ukrainian soils intensively used in agricultural production. Methods: The highest content of humus in the arable layer (4.9%), OM (410 t ha-1), and total carbon (30.9 mg C g-1 soil) was determined in chernic phaeozems, which is 2.2-2.5 times higher than in albic retisols. The soil of natural ecosystems is characterised by a high content of microbial carbon (Cmic) in the carbon fraction of organic soil compounds. Results and discussion: In arable soils, the content and reserves of humus and soil organic matter (SOM) have decreased by an average of 1.5-2 times. The most considerable loss of humus reserves in the soil profile was identified in albic retisols (1.96-1.44 times) and the smallest in chernic phaeozems (1.27-1.81 times). During the long-term systematic application of mineral fertilisers, the Corg content decreased by 8-21% in chernic phaeozems, 12-33% in greyzemic phaeozems, and 6-38% in albic retisols. A significant difference of 2.1-8.0 times was determined regarding the number of aerobic cellulolytic microorganisms and 1.3-3.3 times in the potential cellulolytic activity of the studied soils. The high number of cellulose-destroying microorganisms is characteristic of chernic phaeozems with a high content of OM in the soil; the advantage over other types of studied soils was 1.4 times and 7.8 times for greyzemic phaeozems and albic retisols, respectively. Among the studied soil types, high values of CO2 emissions were identified in chernic phaeozems. Intensive agricultural practices in Ukrainian soils have significantly altered the content and composition of organic matter, leading to reduced humus and soil organic matter reserves. The study also underscores the importance of considering the abundance of cellulose-destroying microorganisms and their potential activity in assessing soil health and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aimed to analyze the cation-anion composition of the soil solution in dark-grey podzolized soil under the influence of long-term anthropogenic factors. Over the extended application of both mineral and organic fertilizers, changes in the cation-anion composition of the soil were observed, depending on the dosage of mineral fertilizers and their distribution within the soil profile. When the amount of mineral fertilizers was increased from 265 kg NPK per hectare to 397 kg per hectare, a noticeable decrease in soil solution pH was observed, with pH levels dropping to 6.1 and 6.0, as compared to the control variant without any fertilizer application, which exhibited a pH of 6.3. The application of mineral fertilizers and manure additionally enriched the soil with ions of organic and inorganic acids, what became the reason for the redistribution between mobile and immobile forms of calcium and magnesium in the direction of increase of their mobility beyond the soil profile. The greatest accumulation of sulphate was observed at a depth of 160-280 cm due to the migration of their water-soluble forms. The main quantity of chlorine was moved and accumulated in the soil layer of 120-280 cm, and the increase of mineral fertilizers increased the content of chlorine in the aeration zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reports on a study that examined the impact of agrochemicals on the levels of surfactants in soil. Specifically, the study found that the use of mineral fertilizers and pesticides led to an increase in the levels of anionic surfactants (ASA) in the soil. Furthermore, the simultaneous application of fertilizers and pesticides had a greater effect on ASA levels than either factor alone. The use of pesticides also led to an increase in non-ionic surfactants (NSA), while the use of fertilizers resulted in a decrease in NSA levels. The study also found that the increase in the levels of mobile forms of key nutrients in the soil was associated with the accumulation of ASA in lower layers of the soil profile. The amount of alkaline hydrolyzed nitrogen under the low protection system increased by 3.0-23.2 mg kg-1 soil, mobile phosphorus by 14.0-144.0 mg P2O5, and exchangeable potassium by 9.0-222.0 mg K2O per kg soil, compared to the control. With the complex use of fertilizers and pesticides in one block, a trend of increasing mobile forms of nutrients in the soil was observed. The distribution of ASA amount in the soil profile is descending. The clear presence of ASA was established only in the soil layer of 0-40 cm. An increase of ASA content in the soil due to the use of agrochemicals and fertilizers is observed up to a depth of 60-80 cm. Using biological elements in agriculture significantly reduces the amount of these substances in the soil profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terrestrial ecosystems play a crucial role in the formation of soil resistome and the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Comprehensive studies of soil microbial communities, their structure, integrity, and level of antibiotic resistance (AR) in various terrestrial ecosystems were conducted. In total, 389 strains of dominant bacteria were isolated from the studied ecosystems, 57 of which were resistant to antibiotics, with levels of antibiotic resistance exceeding 70%. The soil microbiome of primeval forests was characterized by a low content of bacteria resistant to antibiotics; only two species, Bacillus cereus and Pantoea agglomerans, showed a high resistance to antibiotics. In the soil of agroecosystems of medicinal plants, among 106 strains of bacteria, a high level of resistance to antibiotics was found in 13 species. It was established that the number of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is highest in the soil of agroecosystems contaminated by enrofloxacin. Among 190 tested bacterial strains, 42 (22%) were characterized by a high level of antibiotic resistance. Therefore, the soil ecosystem is a key link in the formation and spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, which is a potential danger to humans. To reduce the risk of AR for humans, it is necessary to take appropriate measures to manage the soil microbiome and avoid soil contamination with antibiotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aimed to study the radioprotective and sorption properties of beespine, which refers to the bodies of bees that die during the winter season. The goal was to expand the range of applications for beespine by exploring its potential as a source of radioprotective and sorption properties. The study found that beespine contains biologically active substances, including melitin, melanin, and sulfur-containing amino acids. These substances exhibited radioprotective and sorption properties, which could potentially be beneficial when ingested by quails as part of their feed mixture. Overall, the research suggests that beespine has the potential to be used in various applications beyond its current use as a waste product from beekeeping. Its radioprotective and sorption properties could have practical uses in areas such as animal feed and potentially even in human medicine. In particular, it was observed an increase in the lifespan of quails from 1.5 to 2.2 times with a content of 2 to 7.5% of beespine in the form of a powdered biological mass in the feed mixture after their fractional local irradiation of gamma rays with a total dose of 90 gr, compared to the poultry, in the diet of which there was no beespine. It was also determined that the removal from the bodies of quails with indigestible feed remains (droppings) of 137Cs by 6.6 p.p., 90Sr by 18.7 p.p., Pb by 15.3 p.p. and Cd by 34.6 p.p., respectively, was observed to be higher when adding the beespine (3%) in their diet. It was found a lower level of 137Cs by 32.7%, Pb by 53.2% and Cd by 20.0% in their muscle tissue, compared to their analogues that were not fed beespine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the mineral content of polyfloral honey produced by bees in the conditions of the northern Polissia of Ukraine (the zone affected by the Chernobyl nuclear power plant accident) on the level of accumulation of 137Cs, Pb and Cd in it was studied. It was established that the specific activity of 137Cs and the concentration of Pb and Cd in polyfloral honey depended on the content of mineral substances (ash) in this product. In the polyfloral honey produced by bees from the nectar of autumn pollinators (heather, various grasses), a higher specific activity of 137Cs and the concentration of Pb and Cd were found in comparison with the same products obtained from spring nectar pollinators (apple, cherry, cherry, white acacia, spring rhinoceros ). At the same time, it was found that the content of mineral substances in polyfloral honey produced by bees from autumn honey combs was 64.7% higher compared to this product produced from spring nectar pollen cones. The artificial reduction of ash content in polyfloral honey by 2.4 times due to its processing using sorption technologies contributed to the improvement of the quality of this product. In particular, a decrease in the specific activity of 137Cs by 47.5% and the concentration of Pb by 59.5% and Cd by 41.2% was observed in the processed honey. At the same time, a decrease in sucrose by 1.18 pp, ash by 2.4 times and an increase in the content of amino acids by 58.8% was observed in honey. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was aimed at developing a comprehensive approach and identifying criteria for assessing the quality of monofloral linden honey based on the determination of its organoleptic, physicochemical indicators, pollen analysis and establishing compliance with the requirements of quality standards. 32 samples of honey labeled as linden honey were analyzed. Evaluation criteria for monofloral linden honey in Ukraine have been established. The degree of monoflorality of linden honey can be from 30.0% of linden pollen and higher. According to organoleptic indicators, honey from linden is characterized by a peculiar delicate aroma of linden flowers, mainly has a color from light yellow to white shades, consistency depending on the season (liquid, viscous, very viscous, dense). According to physical and chemical parameters: moisture - 18.5%, proline - 308.12±34.18 mg/kg, electrical conductivity - 0.35± 0.04 M/cm, fructose to glucose ratio - not lower than 1.2, diastasis not less than 11.0 units. Gote, the content of reducing sugars is 85.6±2.47%; sucrose in the range of 2.8-3.9%. It has been established that the quality indicators of monofloral linden honey meet the requirements of the national standard of high-grade honey and the existing EU requirements; the content of dominant linden pollen should not be lower than 30%. It has been proven that the ratio of fructose to glucose for monofloral linden honey should not be lower than 1.2, the proline content is not less than 300.0 mg/kg, and the electrical conductivity is 0.63Ms/cm. A comprehensive approach to the identification and evaluation of the quality of monofloral linden honey has been developed and the main criteria for the degree of monoflorality, organoleptic and physicochemical indicators have been determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural use of the land fund requires monitoring of its fertility, degree of erosion, and level of pollution. The aim of this study was to determine and evaluate the main agrochemical parameters of the soil, as well as the most dangerous heavy metals on agricultural land, which were used for perennial plantations (an intensive apple horticulture). The use of soils for intensive gardening for 14 years (2008-2022) led to an increase in exchangeable potassium by 6.58 times, mobile forms of phosphorus by 14.6 times, calcium by 31.1%, exchangeable magnesium by 18.8% %, molybdenum by 11.2%, sulfur by 46.3%, zinc by 18.4%, lead by 3.1%, cadmium by 2.5%, mercury by 34.5% and a decrease in easily hydrolyzed nitrogen by 12, 9%, humus by 0.06%, boron by 8.6%, iron by 17.9% and copper by 6.8% compared to fallow soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are a number of questions that have remained relevant for a long time when using inoculants based on nodule bacteria. It has been shown that exopolysaccharides (EPS) producing bacterial cells play one of the key roles during interaction and during signal transmission in legume-rhizobial symbiosis, namely, bacterial survival, virulence of rhizobia, shelf life on inoculated seeds and in soil, and efficiency created legume-rhizobial system. In particular, it was found that new strains of soybean nodule bacteria Bradyrhizobium japonicum LG 2 and LG 5 synthesize EPS at 3.2 and 2.8 g/l, with an optical density above 0.8 rel. units, the viscosity of the culture liquid - within 270-302 mPa • s. The high level of synthesis and the chemical composition of EPS of the studied strains ensured the preservation of the viability of bacterial cells on the surface of seeds and on a solid medium. Inoculation of soybean seeds with a culture liquid containing EPS of strains LG 2 and LG 5 ensured the formation of an effective legume-rhizobial system, which is confirmed by the formation of 18-21 nodules / plant of soybeans with a nitrogenase activity of at least 2.9 µmol C2H4 / plant per hour. A graph model has been developed, which proves the direct dependence of the effect of EPS on the number of nodules formed on the roots, the level of nitrogenase activity of the legume-rhizobial system and their indirect effect on the yield and protein content in soybean grain. Prospects isolated by strains LG 2 and LG 5 of B. japonicum for biotechnological production of liquid and gel biopreparations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study aimed to outline the ecological and economic priority areas of forestry production in Ukraine in the postwar period. Theoretical and informational basis of the study were reports of the State Forest Resources Agency of Ukraine, laws and regulations of Ukraine and the European Union, the Global Forest Watch platform, studies of domestic and foreign scientists in the field of environmental protection, environmental economics and forestry management. Economic and statistical (statistical data processing in assessing the numerical relationship of various phenomena and the forest production); correlation-regression (study of the impact of forestry activities); abstractlogical (theoretical generalizations and concluding) research methods have been used. According to the analyzed research, the main problems that will slow the development of new directions of forestry production and forest industry in general in the postwar period are the tenuous relationship between forestry and wood processing industry; low technological level; poor innovation activity; low efficiency of forest resources use; insufficient implementation of the postulates of European environmental policy statements. Criteria for the effectiveness of forestry production environmentalization, taking into account current and retrospective indicators, the current legislative requirements, confirmed theoretical and mathematical models, information on current efficiency, the results of the internal check, etc. have been proposed. Based on statistical data the analysis which allows characterizing prospects of creation and development of new forestry clusters has been carried out. The main characteristics of the cluster in the timber industry for the full functioning of the line and its modernization and ecologization in the postwar period have been outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article is devoted to the study of the intensity accumulation of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu) by vegetables in agricultural lands. Vegetable products play important role in human nutrition and requirements for quality and safety are very strict. The study was conducted on dark gray podzolic soils in the Tyvriv district of the Vinnytsia region. The fruits of the cucumber variety Dzherelo, the zucchini variety Chaklun, and the pea variety Geneva were used for the research. It is noted that the main indicators of climatic conditions during the study period were favorable for growing vegetables. It was determined that among vegetables (food peas, zucchini, cucumber) the highest content of heavy metals was observed in pea fruits. At the same time, it was found that the Cd content in pea fruits exceeded the PL (permissible level) by 1.61 times at a concentration of heavy metals in the soil below the TVL. Among heavy metals (Pb, Cd) higher migration and translocation were observed in the studied vegetables according to Cd, and among heavy metals-trace elements (Zn and Cu) - according to Cu. It was found that pea fruits were characterized by the highest coefficient of accumulation of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu). The risk factor for heavy metals in the studied vegetables was lower than the threshold level of 0.1, except for Cd in peas, where this figure was 1.61 times higher. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peculiarities of Cd, Zn and Cu accumulation in wheat and barley grain depending on their vegetation period have been studied. A certain influence of the vegetation period of cereals (winter, spring) in the natural and climatic conditions of the right-bank Forest-Steppe of Ukraine on the intensity of accumulation of heavy metals in grain has been established. In particular, it was found that in the grain of winter wheat and barley there is a lower concentration, accumulation coefficient, risk factor Cd, Zn and Cu compared to similar spring cereals. Some exceedances of the admissible norm of Cd according to GOST (national standart of Ukraine) 26932 in grain of spring wheat and barley are revealed. The concentration of Zn and Cu in the grain of both winter and spring wheat and barley was lower than the norm compared to the maximum allowable norm (GOST 26932). The grain of winter cereals of wheat and barley was characterized by a lower coefficient of accumulation of heavy metals, and a relatively higher coefficient of accumulation of spring cereals. The risk factor Cd exceeded the normative limit of 1.0 only in grain of spring wheat and barley. Exceedances of the normative indicator (hazard coefficient 1.0) of Zn and Cu in wheat and barley grain of both winter and spring crops were not observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of the study of soil microbiome in Kent soybean crops under the influence of nanopreparation "Avatar 2 Organic" and biopreparations "Groundfix" and "Ecostern" are presented in the paper. It is shown that nano- and biopreparations can significantly affect the number of major groups of soil microorganisms. Features of exposure depend on the type of preparations and compositions in which they are used. It was found that the combined use of nano- and biopreparations inhibits the development of oligotrophs, cellulosic and sporeforming bacteria. As a result, there is a weakening of the destruction processes of organic matter and the predominance of its synthesis. It is shown that the nanopreparation "Avatar 2 Organic", subject to the recommended application standards, does not have a toxic effect on biopreparations that contain soil bacteria Bacillus subtilis, Enterobacter sp., Bacillus megaterium var phosphaticum, Enterococcus sp, Paenibacillus polymyxa, Azotobacter sp. The antimicrobial activity of the nanopreparation begins to appear after increasing the rate of its consumption by more than 100 times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The forest sector occupies a special place in the 'green' economy. Today, forests are of great importance for biodiversity conservation, climate regulation and water resources. That is, now the forest acts not only as a natural capital that provides society with material resources, but it is also a complex ecosystem capable of generating various ecosystem services. Therefore, our study aimed to outline the scientific and methodological principles of rehabilitation of radioactively contaminated forest ecosystems of Ukrainian Polissia in the context of the EU European Green Deal, taking into account modern environmental and socio-economic features to ensure full integration into the European domain. The article outlines the scientific and methodological principles of rehabilitation of radioactively contaminated forest ecosystems of Ukrainian PolissÑ-a in the context of the European Green Deal, taking into account modern environmental and socio-economic features to ensure full integration of the state into the European domain. It was found that the irrational use of forest resources has led to the fact that over the past 40 years there has been a partial loss of forest biodiversity, and broadleaf forests are on the verge of extinction. The Chornobyl accident, which polluted about 3.5 million hectares of Ukraine's forests, has become critical for the country's forestry sector. 1 million 230 thousand ha of the surveyed forested areas had a critical density of radionuclide contamination, 157 thousand ha of which were withdrawn from commercial use due to high 137Cs contamination levels. It was emphasized that deforestation and degradation of forest ecosystems are some of the most pressing environmental problems of our time. The article improves the scientific and methodological principles of rehabilitation of radioactively contaminated forest ecosystems of the Ukrainian Polissia in the context of the European Green Deal taking into account the modern ecological and socio-economic peculiarities to ensure the full integration of the state into the European domain. The revision of the principles and priorities of forest management on the lands affected by the Chornobyl catastrophe and the return of these lands to safe economic use was substantiated taking into account the policies of the EU European Green Deal. It was established that the main actions on rehabilitation of radioactively contaminated forest ecosystems should be focused on the identification of the current radioactive situation in the forests with the aim of the possibility of renewal of forest management activities and production of forest industry products. This will contribute to the improvement of productivity of forest plantations and the renewal of forestry production of the depressed region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the results of monitoring the area adjacent to the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve for investigation of unauthorized landfills and examines the ecological status of these ecosystems. Four unauthorized landfills for solid waste in Pidgirna, Stanislav, Steryshory, and Feresok tracts with an area of 0.15 to 1.5 ha with a waste accumulation period of 12-22 years and different morphological composition were identified, which had a significant impact on the soil and water microbiota. Bioindication methods have shown changes in the microbial communities of soil and water under the direct influence of unauthorized landfills. Increased the number of organotrophic bacteria and micromycetes and decreased content of nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. The highest number of bacteria using mineral forms of nitrogen (25.36–28.61 million CFU/g. d. soil) and micromycetes (51.8- 76.8 thousand CFU/g. d. soil) was in the soils of Pidgirna and Feresok with an advantage of 1.5-1.7 times and 2.5- 3.8 times compared to the soil of the protected area. Results of the analysis of water microbiome showed that it is a sensitive indicator. The high number of anaerobic bacteria of the genus Clostridium was in the tract Feresok, so above the flow of the study area 3.69 thousand CFU /ml of water, in a place close to the landfill 6.22 thousand CFU/ml of water, below the flow of 9.35 thousand CFU/ml of water. Gram-positive bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus varied from the most polluted area in Feresok to the least polluted in Steryshory: 3.89 thousand CFU/ml of water, downstream 7.35 thousand CFU /ml of water. A close relationship was established between the duration of solid waste storage at a certain site and the level of soil phytotoxicity (r = 0.92). In the soil of landfills in Pidgirna, Steryshory, and Feresok tracts, the phytotoxicity index is significant (over 50%), which indicates a high level of soil ecosystem pollution and increased environmental risks in the area of unauthorized accumulation of solid waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of global pollution, zinc is generally considered a heavy metal that can harm human health and other living organisms. However, it is known that zinc is a necessary micronutrient that is involved in many important metabolic processes. In a coronavirus pandemic, the positive role of zinc in controlling COVID is important. Zinc is one of the priority micronutrients that are deficient for most regions of the planet and its deficiency can lead to serious diseases and Ukraine is no exception. It is established that zinc is in short supply for most regions of Ukraine and products that are part of the diet of Ukrainians do not contain enough of it and do not provide the daily physiological needs of people. One of the reasons for such an unsatisfactory situation may be the insufficient amount of zinc in the soils of Ukraine, or the low level of its mobility. It is shown that Zn was characterized by a low level of transition from soil to crop production - the average transition coefficient ranged from 0.10. The reason for this phenomenon could be the low content of zinc in the soils of Ukraine. The grouping of soils of Ukraine by the potential ability to provide plants with a sufficient amount of Zn, taking into account the physiological needs of man was carried out. Using Zn transition coefficients in the soil-plant system and potential mobility of the element in soils of different soil-climatic zones of Ukraine, the division into groups was made: very low potential ≤ 21 mg Zn kg-1, low potential from 22 to 48 mg Zn kg-1, average potential from 49 to 77 mg Zn kg-1, high potential ≥ 78 mg Zn kg-1 . According to the division, an assessment was made and it was found that the population of most of Ukraine cannot get enough zinc naturally through food of plant and, accordingly, animal origin. It is shown that one of the effective mechanisms of regulation of zinc inflow into the soil and increase of its mobility is the system of fertilization of agricultural plants. The analysis of traditional fertilizers of Ukraine and phosphorites from deposits of Ukraine is presented. It was found that the highest content of Zn was in phosphorites - it ranged from 7.8 to 14.2 mg kg-1 . It is shown that, depending on the peculiarities of the technology of growing crops, the soil can be annually introduced from 200 to 20.000 and more mg kg-1 of Zn. It is proved that it is possible to increase the content of zinc in soils by applying agrochemicals, first of all, phosphorus fertilizers, and to increase its mobility and transition to plants - by introduction of technological operations of cultivation of crops, especially in conditions of low level of natural mobility Zn (south and east of Ukraine). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research aimed to estimate the intensity of the impact of some environmental factors on the seasonal development of apical bark beetle (Ips acuminatus) in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) stands in the conditions of Ukrainian Polissya, as well as to evaluate the extent and dynamics of infestation of forest ecosystems. According to the results of the classification of the obtained satellite images, the dynamics of the area and number of tree mortality foci of P. sylvestris per quadrant was determined, which enabled us to create appropriate maps by the area of infestation and its propagation rate. In 2018, there was an intensive increase in the area affected by apical bark beetles compared to 2017. Whereas in 2019 the expansion of the affected areas compared to the previous 2018 slowed down significantly. Approximation of experimental data revealed the presence of a logarithmically normal distribution for the infestation area, and, consequently, the size of the pest population. The Principal Component Analysis revealed that in the studied area the most important factor influencing the population dynamics of ipid bark beetle and, accordingly, the intensity of its invasion, were weather and climatic conditions. Characteristics of the stand had little effect. It was established that favourable climatic conditions led to the fact that in the territory of Ukrainian Polissya I. acuminatus develops in more than two generations per year, and also slightly changed the attack strategy, namely the rate of damage and selectivity. An assumption on the further forming of favourable conditions for the proliferation of I. acuminatus, the emergence of new, not previously characteristic of the pest features of seasonal development and, consequently, the insect invasion on stands of P. sylvestris was made. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of studies on how mineral and organic fertilizers influence agrochemical indicators of gray forest coarse light loam soil. It was found that when applying the organo-mineral fertilizer systems (N60P60K68 with 12 tons of manure per 1 ha of arable land) there was a tendency of increase of humus reserves to 35,1 t/ha per one treatment against the control of 28,1 t/ha. The application of 12 t/ha of manure in crop rotation under the organic fertilizer system contributed to the most intensive accumulation of humus reserves in the tilth top soil (0-20 cm) – 36,5 t/ha, with the soil solution acidity рH = 5,2. Over a five-year period, the average amount of hydrolyzable nitrogen in the experiment increased by 17-50%, mobile phosphorus compounds rose by 50-75 %, mobile potassium compounds increased by 27-50 % compared with the control of 44,1, 150 and 90,8 mg/kg of soil respectively. The highest level of fertility was provided by the application of N60P60K68 with 12 tons of manure per 1 ha of crop rotation area, while the movement of nutrients took place within the root layer with no significant migration processes observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The importance of food requirement for the worldwide country is geared towards China COVID-19 pandemic for the agricultural activity and food production in the world with its seasonal fluctuation of foods availably used in domestic food and general products. Initial preparations of the current dispositions, which will also be made food preparations, along with its cultivation in small-producer countries in Asia, then Afrikaans, South America. With its current continuation, it will be designed in a near future as comprehensive, especially in low-income countries in general. It can be predicted that the social and economic damage that can be thought of worldwide can be a very serious effect. It's definitely the case-by-case scenario in the workforce in the fresh fruit and vegetable and animal sectors with the global total revenue completed every day in large chunks of the world and with the design limiting placement. The ongoing pandemic and the person coming from a country selection in the production sector in the country, on the other hand, require the correct health status of the scanner to be taken into account. While the pandemic is occurring in the use by adapting without being collected, it turns out that not being grown, making it economical will not be completed. This study is planned to be evaluated both in terms of health and in terms of economy, by examining and examining what came with the emergence of the pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virgin forests are unique ecosystems, which can be used as etalon for basic monitoring investigation. The paper presents original results of research. The aim of this study was long term investigation of soil microbiome in primeval forest ecosystems of Carpathian Biosphere Reserve, namely the structure of microbial communities, the number of major ecological-functional groups and determining hot spots. The Hotspots mapping is realized through GIS (Geographical Information System) technology. It was found that the structure and functional activity of soil microbiome change with altitude. Rebuilding structure of soil microbiome was fixed at altitude 555m; 776m; 1040m. The soil at altitude of 1,040 meters above sea level was characterized by minimum content of ammonifiers. At the altitude of 555 meters content of ammonifiers increased at six times, which indicates accumulation of organic matter in the soil. Similar changes occurred with the number of bacteria which are using mineral forms of nitrogen for their nutrition. Their maximum quantity was in the soil of biotope disposed at altitude of 555 meters above sea level. After 10 years, fluctuations of soil microbiota at different altitudes were the same. Long term monitoring during 2008-2018 years allowed determining hot spots in structural successions of soil microbiome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antibiotic resistance is a serious threat to human health and biosecurity across the world. The soil microbiome plays an important role in the development and spread of antibiotic resistance in humans. The aim of this study was to detect the antibiotic resistance soil bacteria in different agroecosystems. We have isolated 244 dominating bacteria; among of them 53 antibiotic-resistant strains had been detected. The most isolates belonged to multi-drug resistant strains, greater than 62,3% of which were resistant to 9 antibiotics. A study of the agroecosystems where Capsicum annuum, Vitis vinifera, Rubus idaeus L., Petroselinum crispum were cultivated showed that the microbial community of soil samples have been characterized by a high content of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. From the soil were isolated antibiotic resistant anaerobic and aerobic microorganisms: Clostridium perfringens, Clostridium oedematiens, Enterobacter cloacae, Enterococcus faecalis, Hafnia alvei, Bacillus megaterium, Bacillus mycoides, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Modern agroecosystems are the source of spread of pathogenic and conventionally pathogenic microorganisms with detected multiple antibiotic resistances and potentially endangering of human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents original results of research. The dynamics of the balance and NPK use efficiency of the typical Ukrainian farm for monoculture cultivation during 2016‒2018 has been calculated. Laboratory analysis of soil (pH value, humus content, N, P2O5 and K2O) and grain (N and P2O5 content) was conducted in 2019. The negative dynamics of basic nutrient balance in the soil was revealed for 2016–2018 (nitrogen deficiency ranged from ‒30,6 to ‒130,9 kg/ha/year, phosphorus ‒ from ‒25,8 to ‒62,4 kg/ha/year, potassium ‒ from ‒34,3 to ‒244,5 kg/ha/year) and intensive pressures on the soil (NUE = 77,0‒260,3%, PUE = 171,3‒1902,3% and KUE = 115,8‒1429,8%). Soil pH was found on average 5,6 (category: close to neutral), the nitrogen content averaged 99 mg/kg (very low level), Р2О5 content ‒ 208 mg/kg (high level) and К2О ‒ 119 mg/kg (medium level) on the farmland areas. The ratio between nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content in the soil of the studied land areas on average reaches 1:0,9:1,2 while the scientifically sound norm is 1:0,9:0,8. The average humus content is 1,93% (low level). The calculated indicators of nitrogen and NUE balance only in 2017 met the recommended standards of the UN Economic Commission for Europe. The PUE and KUE values in 2016 exceeded the average rate of phosphorus and potassium removal from the soil – 22 and 12 times, respectively. Changes of acidity over the last three years indicate the acidification of the soil environment, which is quite natural: only nitrogenous mineral fertilizers are applied to the soil, which is physiologically acidic, soil liming is not carried out, the green manure crops are not sown, organic fertilizers are not applied, and in crop rotation was a monoculture. The widespread practice of plowing crop residues into the soil without applying phosphorus and potassium fertilizers for three years does not meet the crop requirements for phosphorus and potassium and creates high one-way pressure on the soil. Consequently, relatively high sunflower and maize yields are generated from the existing high and medium content of these elements in the soil. The tendency of decreasing humus content in soil has been noticed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil microbial communities play an important role in ecosystems functioning and are on the field scale essential for plant nutrition and health. On a larger scale, they contribute to global element cycling. Furthermore, they are involved in the turnover processes of organic matter, the breakdown of xenobiotics and the formation of soil aggregates. An ecological state of soils depends on the structure and activity of soil microorganisms. The results of soil monitoring in various ecosystems in different climatic zones of Ukraine showed a clear trend for the correlation between the agroecological conditions and activity of microbiocenosis. The most significant influence of agricultural activity on the soil microbiota can be observed on the poorly soddy-podzolic and gray forest soils, where the crop cultivation without fertilization resulted in a decrease in the total count of microorganisms by 2.2-4.5 times. Application of agricultural measures aimed at achieving maximum productivity, specifically the combination of mineral, organic and biological fertilizers, contributes to an average 1.3-4.1 times increase in the total count of microorganisms in the soil, compared with non-fertilized variants. Soils with low content of organic matter and acidic medium, soddy-podzolic and gray forest soils were characterized by a high number of micromycetes, 136-185×103 CFU·g-1 soil, and a relatively low number of eutrophic and nitrogen-fixing microorganisms. The soil of natural ecosystems is characterized by a high total count of the microorganisms with a balanced structure of various ecological-trophic groups and balanced processes of mineralization-immobilization, organic matter decomposition, and humus accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) deficiency is the most common problem of micronutrient deficiency on our planet. This problem is also relevant for Ukraine, as soils are insufficiently provided with Zn, plants are deficient, respectively, and insufficient quantity of Zn is contained in food, which leads to human diseases. Our research showed that the total zinc content in soils increased from the north to the south of Ukraine (Polissya ˂ Forest-Steppe ˂ Steppe): in sod-podzolic soil the Zn content was 40 mg kg-1, in dark gray podzolic - 45 mg kg-1, chernozem typical - 48 mg kg-1, chernozem ordinary - 58 mg kg-1, dark chestnut - 70 mg kg-1 . The content of Zn mobile forms, on the contrary, was subject to inverse dependence - the highest level was observed in the soils of Polissya - 9.5 mg kg-1, the lowest in the soils of Steppe - 0.5 mg kg-1 . Zn was more firmly fixed by the soils of chernozem-type, higher mobility was observed in soils with pronounced podzolic processes. Zn mobility depended from the properties of soil: pH of the soil solution, the amount of organic matter and clay minerals. Zn mobility increased with increasing soil acidity, increasing the amount of organic matter and clay fraction. There was a close inverse correlation between these indicators and Zn mobility: the pairwise correlation coefficients (r) ranged from - 0.861 to - 0.991. Agrotechnological methods of winter wheat growing reduced the quantity of potentially mobile Zn compounds in the soils of Polissya, Forest-Steppe and Steppe of Ukraine in compared to the natural background. However, mineral and organic fertilizers mainly increased their content, as well as intensified the transfer of Zn from the soil to wheat plants, as evidenced by the biological absorption coefficients which were ˃ 1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spent mushroom substrate (SMS) is a by-product of mushroom growing. It is often classified as waste despite that it is high in organic matter and mineral micronutrient. In last 10 years, mostly in Europe and Asia, studies of potential ways of reuse of SMS were done. Most of them showed that spent mushroom substrate can be reused as a bioadditive or fertilizer. For Ukraine, where mushroom growing is on its rise, we’ve decided to test SMS from local producer as a fertilizer. Blueberry was selected as a test culture for this multiyear experiment. For the first year the following parameters were taken for studying: chemical composition of fertilized soil, number of soil microorganisms and the content of total microbial biomass, direction of soil microbiological processes. Spent mushroom substrate of Lentinula edodes (shiitake mushroom) was used as an experimental sample. Peat was used as a comparative sample. As a result of studying of the actual content of elements, in terms of 1 mg / 100 g of dry matter for peat, the following data were obtained: Ca2+ - 427.6, Mg2+ - 210.6, P2O55 - 78, K2O - 29.09, N ammonium - 4.0, N nitrate - 1.61. For the SMS, they were as follows: Ca2+ - 455.6, Mg2+ - 729.0, P2O5 - 338, K2O - 340.5, N ammonium - 41.0, N nitrate - 183.0. As a result of analysis of the cationic-anionic composition of the water extract, in terms of 1 mg-eq. / 100 g, the following data were obtained for peat: HCO3- - 0.15, Cl- - 0.30, Ca2+ - 0.29, Mg2+ - 0.50, Na+- 0.21, K+ - 0.10, SO42- - 1.34. For the SMS, they were as follows: HCO3- 0.01, Cl-- - 0.12, Ca2+ - 2.79, Mg2+ - 2.64, Na+ - 1.18, K+ - 4.22, SO42- - 1.31. The total salt content for peat was 0.11%, pH - 4.31. For the SMS the total salt content was 0.37%, pH - 4.04. For both soil samples the number of microorganisms and the content of total microbial biomass were determined. The enrichment of soil by SMS led to the growth of microbial biomass (406.34±38.10). In the soil fertilized by SMS decreased number of oligotrophs more than in 3 times and pedotrophic microorganisms in 2 times in compare with soil fertilized by peat. Basing on the number of soil microorganisms coefficients of mineralization, оligotrophity, pedotrophity and transformation of organic matter were calculated. For soil fertilized by peat values of the coefficients were next: mineralization – 1.0, оligotrophity – 1.56, pedotrophity – 1.78, transformation of organic matter – 94.61. For soil fertilized by SMS we got next values: coefficient of mineralization – 1.95, coefficient of оligotrophity – 1.21, coefficient of pedotrophity – 2.49 and coefficient of transformation of organic matter – 26.31. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents original results of research. The aim of this study was long term investigation of soil microbiome in primeval forest ecosystems, namely the structure of microbial communities, the number of major ecological-functional groups, functional parameters such as: enzymatic activity of the soil by the level of catalase and invertase. To analyze impact of endogenous and exogenous factors on soil microbial community and succession processes. Estimate biodiversity of soil microbiome by Shannon index in different edaphotopes of primeval forest ecosystems. Microbiological studies of soil were carried out according to generally accepted methods in soil microbiology. Enzymatic activity of the soil: catalase - was determined by gasometric method and invertase - by colorimetric method. Statistical analyses were performed by using Statistica 10 software. Basic descriptive statistics was calculated, that is, the arithmetic mean and standard deviation. The influence of endogenous and exogenous factors in primeval forest ecosystems of Shyrokoluzhansky massif of the Carpathian Biosphere Reserve caused changes in microbial community. For ten years changed diversity and functional activity of soil microbiome. Based on long-term studies of changes in soil microbial communities of natural ecosystems, a succession concept of soil microbiome has been proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the agricultural sphere, a large number of nanopreparations with insecticidal, herbicidal, fungicidal action is used to increase plant immunity to adverse environmental factors and to improve their mineral nutrition conditions. At the same time, a large amount of data on the environmental hazards of nanoproducts has been accumulated: active migration into the environment, phytotoxicity, negative impact on soil, aquatic, terrestrial ecosystems. The toxic properties of nanoparticles depend, first of all, on the presence of nanoparticles smaller than 100 nm in their composition. Therefore, a new scientific direction - nanoecotoxicology - has been actively formed recently. One of the tasks of this direction is development of methods for researching the environmental hazard of nanomaterials. The purpose of our research was to study environmental risks and to establish safety standards for the use of plant growth nanoregulators. Electron scanning and biotest methods were used (effective inhibitory action on soil N-mineralization and ecotoxicity using Allium test). It was found that in the system of nanotoxicology scanning electron microscopy method is expedient to use to determine the size, qualitative, quantitative composition, and structure of nanoparticles, which allows making assumptions about the toxicity of the nanoparticle. Biotesting methods were proposed for quantitative risk characterization and determination of safe nanoparticle application rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lead (Pb) is a widespread pollutant presented in soil, by various compounds. However, only mobile forms represent a danger to living organisms. The mobile compounds are those extracted with 0.1 and 1.0 HCl. Soil indexes like - the content of particles less than 0.001 mm (clay), soil organic matter (SOM) content, pH status of the soil solution significantly affect the mobility of lead. Application of mineral and organic fertilizers can enhance or reduce the mobility of lead in soil as well. The influence of fertilizers on the mobility of lead, as well as the peculiarities of its translocation into plants, was investigated at long-term-field experiments in three main climatic zones of Ukraine (Polissya, Forest-steppe, Steppe). We found that the soil parameters had the influence on lead mobility were in the following sequence: clay content> SOM > soil pH. There was a strong inverse correlation between lead mobility and soil parameters (r = 0.821-0.962). Application of mineral fertilizers increased the content of lead mobile forms in soil (by 7-24%), whereas organic fertilizers contributed to its decrease. Crops were ranged by the ability for lead accumulation in the following order: clover> sugar beets > corn> sunflower> winter wheat. Furthermore, mineral fertilizers contributed significantly to lead translocation from the soil to crops, while the influence of organic fertilizers on this process was insignificant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Terrestrial ecosystems may provide an ideal setting for the acquisition and dissemination of antibiotic resistance, because they are frequently impacted by anthropogenic activities. The soil microbiome plays an important role in development and spread of antibiotic resistance in humans. The aim of our study was to detect the antibiotic resistance soil bacteria in different ecosystems: natural ecosystems, agroecosystems and urboecosystems. Were isolated 468 dominanting bacteria, among them 79 antibiotic resistant bacteria. All isolates were multi-drug resistant, of which greater than 74,5% were resistant to 9 antibiotics. A study of soil samples from the primeval forests showed that the microbial community characterized by a low content of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms. Among 78 isolated bacteria only two of them Bacillus cereus, and Pantoea agglomerans demonstrated high level of resistance to antibiotics. A total 106 strains were isolated from the soil of medicinal plants, 13 of them were antibiotic-resistant. The greatest numbers of antibiotic-resistant bacteria have been isolated from soil of urboecosystems and agroecosystems contaminated by enrofloxacin. Among the 284 tested bacteria 64 were antibiotic resistant. Multi-resistance were such pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic bacteria as: Enterococcus faecium, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Bacillus licheniformis, Serratia fonticola, Hafnia alvei, Bacillus cereus, Bacillus megaterium and Clostridium difficile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The content and stocks of carbon and the activity of microbiological destruction of organic matter in three types of chernozem soils in Ukraine have been investigated. An imbalance was found in the accumulation of the main components of the soil organic matter, as well as between mineralization processes, humus accumulation and degradation of cellulose in arable soils and their natural analogs. In the soil of natural ecosystems, the processes of mineralization -immobilization, destruction of organic matter and humus accumulation are balanced, which is confirmed by a high carbon pool (Ctot) and a fraction of Сmic in Ctot. In the soil of natural ecosystems processes of mineralization-immobilization, destruction of organ resources and humus-accumulating are balanced, which is confirmed by high-quality carbon pool and partial Сmic in Ctot. In agroecosystem is going destabilization of organic matter in the soil, which leads to a decrease of humus content in 1.1-1.5 times, stocks of organic matter - in 1.3-1.8 times. In arable soils, part of Соrg in the total soil carbon pool is 80-82% and 92-94% in the soil of the natural ecosystem. The losses of Соrg from chernozem soils in agroecosystem are 19-29% and this is due to a significant reduction in the content of Сmіc (63-71%). The application of different fertilizers causes destabilization of the soil microbial community, reduces microbial productivity and activates mineralization processes of organic matter, which leads to loss of Соrg and a decrease in the total carbon pool (Ctot) in the soil by 6-18%. The soil of natural ecosystems is characterized by a high content of Сmіc in the Соrg (3.14-3.70%), which indicates a high microbial productivity and fixation of organic substances in biomass of microorganisms. In the arable soils, was the low content of Сmіc in the organic matter of the soil (1.19-1.52%) which indicates the predominance of mineralization processes over the processes of humification. The application of exogenous mineral substances in the soil activates the processes of mineralization (Kmіn increases by 7-18%) and provides a high degree of using by microorganisms of soil organic matter (Kped increases by 6-9%). Organic fertilizers contribute to the formation of a maximum microbial pool, optimizing the structure of soil microbial community, decrease the intensity of mineralization processes (Kmіn) by 15-29% and the decomposition of soil organic matter by 6 to 37%. A significant difference in the parameters of the potential cellulolytic activity of the soil in the natural ecosystems and agroecosystems had been established. At the same time, the soil of natural ecosystems is characterized by a slight fluctuation of the emission CO2 (3.3-4.4 mg CO2 / kg of soils per day). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spread of antibiotic-resistant microorganisms is one of the biggest problems, for the solution of which is necessary a detailed study of this process. We detected the presence of pathogenic bacteria in soil of agroecosystems of such medicinal plants: Mentha piperita, Inula helenium, Thymus serpillum, Rosa odorata and Calendula officinalis. A total of 106 isolates from soil of medicinal plants were examined for resistance to 9 antibiotics: lincomycin, oleandomycin, ampicillin, cefepime, ciprofloxacin, vancomycin, gentamicin, streptomicin, cefamandole. From all the above-mentioned ecosystems, antibioticresistant pathogenic microorganisms have been isolated. From soil with cultivated Thymus serpillum two bacterial strains: Serratia marcescens and Yersinia enterocolitica were resistant to majority of tested antibiotics. From the soil samples with cultivated Inula helenium 15 dominant bacterial strains were isolated. Pantoea agglomerans was one of the most antibiotics resistant bacteria among of others tested. Serratia odorifera biogroup 1 isolated from agroecosystem of Mentha piperita, was resistant to vancomycin, lincomycin, ampicillin and to cefepime. High level of antibiotic resistance was detected for Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus cereus isolated from agroecosystems of Calendula officinalis and Rosa odorata were organic manure was used. The soil of agroecosystems, where medicinal plants are cultivated, is a source of antibioticresistant microorganisms pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic for humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We inventoried the fauna of synanthropic spiders and their prey occurring in different premises of Chernivtsi poultry farm in 2015 and compared with the data obtained in 2011. Steatoda castanea (Clerck, 1757), Ph. phalangioides (Fuesslin, 1775), Ph. ponticus Thorell, 1875, and Tegenaria domestica (Clerck, 1757) formed the dominant nuclei of studied spider assemblages in both years. Spider assemblages of production premises are shown to be more vulnerable in comparison with those in administrative offices, storage rooms, etc. The premises of the last type can be considered as buffer zones to ensure the survival of different spider species and maintenance of normal structure of synanthropic spider assemblages. Spiders on the premises of Chernivtsi poultry farm prey on a wide range of arthropods dominated by Diptera. Nine bacterial species were detected on the external surfaces of studied arthropods, namely Staphylococcus saprophyticus, S. aureus, Streptococcus agalactiae, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Enterobacter cloacae, Proteus mirabilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Frequency isolation varied from 10 % (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) to 80 % (Escherichia coli). The number of bacteria varied from 3.18 log CFU/ml (for Escherichia coli isolated from the surface of Lithobius sp.) to 5.65 log CFU/ml (for Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolated from the surface of Fannia sp.). Among the detected bacterial species S. saprophyticus S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, and K. pneumoniae are known to be of high medical importance. Our study reveals limited role of spiders in the dissemination of bacteria. It is caused by the dominance of webbuilders which avoid frequent moves in the spider assemblages inhabiting the buildings of the studied poultry farm. Moreover, spiders eliminate from the buildings such important mechanical vectors of potentially virulent bacteria as Diptera, Myriapoda, Coleoptera being predators themselves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]