ELLS_Conference

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ELLS_Conference

ELLS Scientific
Student Conference
November 13th – 14th, 2015
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Book of Abstracts
Challenges of global resource management –
social, environmental and economic dimensions
• Enhancing food quality, safety and security
•Transitions from fossil energy to renewable
sources of energy
• Shifts in consumers’ behaviour
•Links between societies, cultures
and environmental problems
•Assessing policies addressing
natural resources
•Examples of the best practices
in natural resource management
• Protecting landscapes for the future
•Supporting endangered species
and diversity in nature
•Novelties in animal sciences
or plant sciences
www.ells2015.czu.cz
130
Disclaimer: All information contained in this publication is subject to change. The conference organizers reserve the right
to alter any details without given notice. The organizers cannot accept any liability arising from changes, errors or omissions.
CULS Prague ©
133
Czech University of Life Sciences Prague – CULS Prague
ELLS Scientific Student Conference 2015
Challenges of global resource management –
social, environmental and economic dimensions
November 13. – 14. 2015
Prague, Czech Republic
2015
Table of Contents:
Welcome Student Conference!
Introduction by Professor Peter Högberg — Vice Chancellor of SLU and ELLS Chair
3
Introduction by Professor Jiri Balik — Rector of CULS Prague
4
ELLS SSC Map of Venues
About the ELLS SSC 2015
About Euroleague for Life Sciences (ELLS)
Vote for the Best Poster Presentation ELLS SSC Keynote Speakers
Overview of Oral Presentations (with Session Chairs)
6-7
8
9
10
11
12-13
LIST OF ORAL PRESENTATIONS
14-61
Overview of Poster Presentations
62-64
LIST OF POSTER PRESENTATION ABSTRACTS
65-127
The students are the main target group and the foundation of the Euroleague for Life Sciences
(ELLS). The annual Scientific Student Conference (SSC), organized by the host of the ELLS Conference and the ELLS student association ELSA, is a central activity for the ELLS network. The SSC
provides excellent opportunities for exchange of experiences and new ideas between students,
teachers and administrative staff from ELLS member and partner universities.
As Chair of ELLS, I consider the SSC highly important as it gives undergraduate and graduate
students an international forum to present research papers and posters relevant to their field of
work and to receive constructive feedback from peers and experts. Moreover, the SSC is an opportunity for networking and I encourage you all to use networking as an essential tool for building
up valuable connections for future success in the field of life sciences and the professional world.
I am very pleased to see how the SSC is growing and developing each year and the success of the SSC
would not be what it is without the engagement of the students. It is also an appreciated conference
for the teachers from all ELLS universities who consider the work of the students as holding very good
quality. The teachers are contributing to the content of the conference by devoting much work on reviewing and evaluating the student abstracts and presentations, before and during the conference.
On behalf of ELLS Network, we would like to express our sincere thanks to last year’s host
of the SSC, the Warsaw University of Life Sciences, Poland, for the organization of a successful
programme and excellent venue. Our warm thanks to this year’s host the Czech University of Life
Sciences, Prague that have prepared an exciting and fruitful event for all of us.
We look forward to sharing and exploring the 7th SCC with you all - enjoy the conference and
thank you for coming!
Best wishes,
Professor Peter Högberg
ELLS Chair of the Board
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3
Dear participants,
Welcome to the ELLS Scientific Student Conference!
I am glad that you decided to participate in the 7th ELLS Scientific Student Conference. For most
of you this is probably your first experience with such an event, which differs from the educational
activities you are involved in at your universities. Every scientific conference is a forum for exchanging, discussing and communicating new ideas and new findings. Scientific conferences also help
to build new personal relations and professional contacts. I hope that you will benefit from sharing
information, from learning about new issues, from making new friends with whom you can collaborate in your future career.
This year’s ELLS Scientific Student Conference is hosted by the Czech University of Life Sciences
Prague (CULS), which has more than a 100 years tradition in education and research in various
fields of life sciences and related disciplines. Nowadays, about 20,000 students and 1,500 academic staff address various issues, ranging from agricultural and food sciences, environmental sciences, forestry and wood processing, mechanical engineering, technologies and biotechnologies,
management, economics, social sciences or informatics. The focus of the university is not only in
the Czech Republic, where CULS belongs to the top six universities in terms of quality, but with
more than 2,500 international students from all around the world, the university has a truly global
involvement (with particular interest in tropics and subtropics).
These few facts illustrate why the Czech University of Life Sciences Prague is the right place for
echoing the topic of this year’s conference: Challenges of global resource management – social,
environmental and economic dimensions. This topic reflects a systematic approach to the issues
we are dealing in life sciences. I wish this conference will be one of your first steps, which you will
remember fondly in your future scientific and professional career.
Prof. Ing. Jiří Balík, CSc. dr.h.c.
Rector CULS
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ELLS SSC 2015 Organising Scientific Committee
Prof. Dr. Vojtech Rada – CULS Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources
Prof. Dr. Josef Soukup – CULS Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources
Assoc. Prof. Ivana Tomaskova – CULS Faculty of Forestry and Wood Sciences
Dr. Petr Prochazka – CULS Faculty of Economics and Management
Dr. Jana Mazancova – CULS Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences
Dr. Peter Kumble – CULS Faculty of Environmental Sciences
ELLS SSC Distinguished Fellowship Committee
Prof. Maria Parlinska – WULS-SGGW Warsaw
Prof. Tiny van Boekel – Wageningen University
Prof. Dr. Andreas Fangmeier – UHOH Stuttgart
Prof. Dr. Franz Grossauer – BOKU Vienna
Dr. Lena Andersson Eklund – SLU Uppsala
Prof. Christian Bugge Henriksen – UC SCIENCE Copenhagen
Prof. Dr. Lubos Boruvka – CULS Prague
Assoc. Prof. Jan Skalos – CULS Prague
Soline de Jong – ELSA Student Association
THE ORGANIZING COMMITEE AT CULS PRAGUE GRATEFULLY ACKNOWLEDGES
THE SUPPORT OF ALL ELLS IROs AND ELLS CHAIR.
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13. 11. 2015
14. 11. 2015
Faculty of Environmental Sciences
ELLS Conference Venues
ELLS
Student Scientific Conference

Lecture Halls / Poster Sessions
ZI + ZII

Student's Lunch and Coffee Brakes
13.,14. November 2015
12. 11. 2014
13. 11. 2015
14. 11. 2015
FZP
SIC
Study and Information Centre (SIC)
ELLS Conference Conference Hall / SA meetings
ELLS SSC Conference Hall
Staff Lunch Coffee Brakes


Plenary Sessions
R

Final Ceremony
12. 11. 2015
Rectorate building
CANTEEN
„MENZA“
Síd
lišt
ní
ELLSConference
Board
TF / IRO
Coffee Brakes
Internacionální
K
Síd
lišt
ní
U Kruhovky
12. 11. 2015
m
iců
ěř
m
ro
Ho
Menza (Canteen)

Rector's Lounge
Lunch 12. 11. 2015
ELLS Conference
Kamýcká
Brandejsovo sq.
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ELLS Scientific Student Conference
Euroleague For Life Sciences
Challenges of global resource management - social, environmental and economic dimensions
Due to global concerns and global impact, sound natural resource management can only be implemented in a broad context. Global concerns result in a complex approach to natural resource management, expressed in three main aspects: economic, environmental and social. These aspects
echo the concept of sustainability, with reference to the overall focus of life-sciences universities.
For this year’s ELLS Scientific Student Conference (ELLS SSC), the call is open for submission of posters and oral presentations which will highlight research conducted by students in the framework
of their degree/diploma thesis. Oral presentations or poster presentations should target natural
resources management and highlight this issue in an economic, social or environmental dimension.
For this year’s ELLS SSC, students will be requested to produce relevant and scientifically based
abstracts or posters that will address the following thematic questions:
• How do we enhance food quality, safety and security?
• What are the transitions from fossil energy to renewable sources of energy?
• Is there a shift in consumers’ behaviour in terms of environmental concerns?
• What are the links between societies, cultures and environmental problems?
• Are policies addressing natural resources appropriate?
• What are examples of the best practices in natural resource management?
• What are the ways of protecting landscapes for the future?
• How to support endangered species and diversity in nature?
• What are the novelties in animal or plant sciences?
The Euroleague for Life Sciences (ELLS) is a network of leading universities cooperating in the fields
of Natural Resource Management, Agricultural and Forestry Sciences, Life Sciences, Veterinary
Sciences, Food Sciences, and Environmental Sciences.
The Euroleague for Life Sciences offers:
International Master Programmes
Summer Schools/Intensive Programmes
Student Exchange - Grants and Awards
International Networking
Joint Teaching and Lecturer Mobility
Due to the complexity of global natural resource management and the challenges that it brings, it is
obvious that the posters and oral presentations will be multidisciplinary. That is also why they might
fit into more than one question as outlined above. The overall aim of the conference is to recognize
the complex world we live in. The questions will be re-formulated into 9 topics which will be later
regrouped into 3 subthemes, addressing three types of dimension of global resource management:
social, environmental and economic.
The Scientific Student Conference
The Euroleague for Life Sciences offers Scientific Students Conferences to give the opportunity for
students to present their thesis to a broad international audience. The themes of the conferences
are different every year, but can be seen from any discipline in the life sciences. Next to the possibility for students to learn from each other, scientific experts are present to give critique to the
students’ presentations and to give insight in their field of expertise. The conference is a way to
formally and informally engage with fellow students and experts.
ELLS Member Universities
Austria: University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna
Czech Republic: Czech University of Life Sciences in Prague
Denmark: University of Copenhagen, Faculty of SCIENCE
Germany: University of Hohenheim
The Netherlands: Wageningen University
Poland: Warsaw University of Life Sciences - SGGW
Sweden: Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
ELLS Partner Universities
USA: CALS - Cornell University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Ithaca, New York, USA
China: CAU - China Agricultural University, Beijing
Israel: HUJI - Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Robert H. Smith Faculty of Agriculture, Food and
Environment
New Zealand: LU - Lincoln University, New Zealand
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Vote for the best poster
We invite all participants of the ELLS Scientific Student Conference 2015 to vote for the best
poster presentations in each theme!
How do I vote?
1. In your conference materials, you will find a voting paper, with the poster themes:
• Environmental aspects
• Food and agricultural sciences
• Socioeconomics
2. Each poster has a number. Write the number of the best poster next to each theme.
3. Leave the voting paper at the Registration Desk (at SIC), no later than 14:30, November 14th
(the voting is of course anonymous).
The final decision on the poster winners will be taken by the ELLS chairs of the poster sessions considering the participants’ vote.
Keynote speakers
Professor Katherine Richardson
Professor in Biological Oceanography and Leader
of the Sustainability Science Centre,
University of Copenhagen
[email protected]
Following the discovery of agricultural practices, some human societies established permanent
settlements. As populations grew, many of these societies recognized that their own wellbeing was
best ensured by enforcing some sort of local environmental management (restrictions on where
waste could be deposited, etc.). Today, acceptance of local and regional environmental management is widespread. Recent discoveries in the natural sciences – not least of which human interference with the climate system - now provide overwhelming evidence that the continued development of human societies demands management of the Earth’s resources at the global level, i.e.
that humans become stewards of the Earth System. This talk examines how science and research
can provide guidelines for this management.
Professor Vojtech Rada
Professor Vojtech Rada is a head
of the Department of Microbiology,
Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Agrobiology Food and Natural resources.
[email protected]
Research at green universities: from agriculture to life sciences.
In the past the universities which are now focusing on life sciences were mostly embedded in the
studies of agriculture. However recently we observe a paradigmatic shift. The research in so called
“green universities” encompasses also other areas of study, including food safety, human health,
environmental sciences, water science, natural sciences and social and economic sciences. We
observe the transition from agricultural to life sciences universities. This presentations deals with
the role of life science (or green) universities in current education systems and research with EU.
While up to early nineties of the 20th century, almost exclusively agricultural research addressed
mainly animal and plant production, current research focusses at environmental sciences, veterinary medicine, human health, biochemistry and biotechologies, genetics and social sciences. The
term bioeconomy penetrates the discourse. This shift suggests the life science universities reflect
actual challenges of global resource management of the Earth.
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11
12
13
Room
WG
2-4
WG
3-2
Z239
Z2
Food and
Health
Multidisciplinary
Protection
Adaptations to
changes
Multidisciplinary
Biodiversity
Addressing
pollution
Economy
and
consumer
behaviour
Sub-theme
Food security
and safety
Enviromental
aspects
Lutz Graeve
UHOH
SCIENCE
Henrik Kaas
CULS
BOKU
Michal
Lostak
Social
aspects
WULS
SLU
SCIENCE
BOKU
Christa
Schafellner
Ewa Rembialkowska
Food security
and safety
Enviromental
aspects
Gabrielle
Lagerkvist
Bjarne
Strobel
Hans Karl
Wytrzens
Session
Chair
Enviromental
aspects
Enviromental
aspects
Social
aspects
Session title
van Dieren
dock Xanthe
Braun
Sabina
Götz Markus
Braathen
Marius von
Osten
Ouředníček
Petr
WUR
SLU
UHOH
SCIENCE
CULS
BOKU
Mika
Aleksandra
Lanters
Stijn
Santini Rui
Nizan
Husen
Abdul
van der
Loo Juulte
Wiewióra
Małgorzata
Koch Alina
BOKU
Gunnarsen
Klara
Madsen
Katharine
Schack
Dybkowska
Katarzyna
CULS
2nd
speaker
Suvorova
Victoria
1st speaker
WULS
WUR
SCIENCE
UHOH
WUR
WULS
SLU
WULS
Eerens
Jessie
Meyer
Catherine
Kloeckner
Philipp
Ponte
Camilla
Moll
Pascal
Synek Jiří
Jöchlinger
Lisa
Tamás
Ivan
3rd
speaker
Room
WG
2-6
WG
3-4
WG
3-5
Z1
Z2
Z239
14.11.2015
14.30 15.30
WG
1-5
WG
3-3
Z2
Z118
WG
2-5
Z1
Parallel
session 4
WG
1-4
Z239
14.11.2015
10.45 11.45
WG
1-3
Z118
Parallel
session 3
Saturday 14.11.2015
Date and
time
Multidisciplinary
Multidisciplinary
Renewable
energy
focus
Adaptation
strategies
Animal
sciences
Soil
related
issues
Economies,
people &
enviroment
Consumer
behaviour
and social
pressures
Sub-theme
Herman
Bürstmayr
Krysztof
Klimaszewski
Food security
and safety
Petr Procházka
Roger
Petterson
Erik
Alexandersson
Josef
Soukup
Nina Drejerska
Sabine
Zikeli
Sabine
Session
Chair
Food security
and safety
Enviromental
aspects
Social
aspects
Food security
and safety
Enviromental
aspects
Social
aspects
Social
aspects
Session title
WULS
BOKU
CULS
SLU
SLU
CULS
WULS
UHOH
UHOH
SCIENCE
Lenz Kathrin
BOKU
Opata John
Clementi
Andreas
WULS
SCIENCE
Lynegaard
Julie
Wieczorek
Pawel
BOKU
BOKU
WUR
Paulus Anne
Eriksen
Sanne Lisby
Reichenecker
Alix
1st speaker
ELLS STUDENT SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE; 13.11 - 14.11.2015, OVERVIEW ORAL PRESENTATIONS
Haager
Daniela
Hoelting
Lisan
Faweya
Nicholas
de Rijck
Arvid
Replacement
van Dongen
Renee
Dubnicková
Natália
Wronczewska
Karolina
2nd
speaker
BOKU
SLU
UHOH
WUR
WUR
CULS
WULS
Iveta
Kyrianova
Meyer
Julia
Luijben
Lucia
Roubík
Hynek
Pebriansyah
Akhir
Tanzer
Julia
Wu Jane
Neuberger
Sabine
3rd
speaker
WG
2-3
Z1
13.11.2015
18:15 19:15
WG
1-2
WG
3-1
Z2
Z118
WG
2-2
Z239
Parallel
session 2
WG
2-1
Z1
13.11.2015
15:45 16.45
WG
1-1
Z118
Parallel
session 1
Friday 13.11.2015
Date and
time
CULS
UHOH
WUR
CULS
CULS
BOKU
SCIENCE
BOKU
WUR
UHOH
SLU
WUR
UHOH
CULS
BOKU
CULS
ORAL PRESENTATIONS
First name: Marius
Last name: Braathen von Osten
Academic status: /
Session: Enhancing food quality, safety and security (How do we enhance food quality, safety and
security?
Abstract title: Farmers‘‘ perceptions and adoption of Conservation Farming: A study from three
regions in Zambia
Justification: Conervation farming is said to improve food security and elevate poverty, while also
improving the agronomic conditions
Keywords: Sustainable development, conservation farming, food security, adaptation
Abstract text: Despite conservation farming (CF) being promoted as a method for Zambian small
and medium scale farmers to meet agricultural challenges, such as changing weather patterns,
decreasing soil fertility, erosion poor water retention, existing research does not address the farmers
viewpoints. CF is by both domestic and international actors said to improve output and sustainably
intensify agricultural production but CF is also known to be knowledge and resource demanding for
smaller farmers. In three regions, this qualitative study investigated factors influencing adoption of
CF in Zambia, such as household and farmer characteristics. The study also researched farmers’
degree of adoption and reasons for discontinuation of CF practices and how farmers’ choices are
influenced by cultural factors, socio-economics and NGOs implementation of the training. Open-ended interviews with key informants and farm-visits examines implementation of CF, while results
from semi-structured interviews compares 100 farmers from the three regions and their experiences
with CF and perceptions of different land preparation methods. The higher educated farmers in the
study expressed a more positive approach to CF and the initial investments. This also applied to
farmers with longer history of steady employment. E.g., retired government workers showed in depth
knowledge about CF practices and were more willing to experiment. Less educated farmers found
technical implementation on their own land to be more challenging. Most farmers found CF to be less
time consuming and more efficient than conventional agriculture. In addition, time management and
planning had improved for many farmers, as well as other perceived improvements. The study adds
to the field by in-depth understanding of Zambian farmers’ choice of land preparation methods and
willingness to try new practices. Understanding farmers’ perceptions of CF and reasons for adopting
will help improve project implementations and training of farmers.
14
First name: Sabina
Last name: Braun
Academic status: PhD student
security?
Abstract title: The impact of waste handeling on small-scale farming in Malawi
Justification: This works evaluate heavy metal concentration at two cultivated sites (a waste dump
and a waste water plant) in Zomba, Malawi. The results are put in a political and social context, trying
to understand why possible contaminated areas are cultivated. How does poverty, low access to land
and poor food security affect food safety?
Keywords: Food security, Malawi, Agronomi, Metals, Pollution
Abstract text: The impact of waste handling on small-scale farmers in Malawi Sabina Braun This
study assess the impact of human waste on the concentrations of heavy metals in arable land on two
sites located close either to a waste collecting point (WD) or waste water treatment plant (WWTP).
Malawi suffers from poverty, low food security and problems with access to land. The aim was to
find out if the assessed areas are contaminated from heavy metals and to evaluate the results and
the land use in a historical, social and political context. Another objective is to evaluate the possible
positive effects the waste can give in form of plant nutrients against the potential harmful effect that
comes from heavy metal contamination. Soil and plant samples were collected from the three sites,
and the concentration of Cd, Zn, Cu and Fe was measured with AAS at the University of Malawi. After
evaluation of the results, some samples were brought to Sweden for a second AAS-analysis for Cd, Pb
and Cr. The concentration of metals in the soil was then compared with the general guideline values
calculated by the Swedish Agency for Environmental Projection. In the comparison WD and WWTP
both showed concentrations of Cd and Pb exceeding the general guideline value. Both sites also
had a higher soil concentration of N and P compared with a reference site. The study was limited of
short time and broken equipment. However, the results can be used for planning a more detailed risk
assessment of the areas. Future action suggested in this study is: a more detailed risk assessment
of metal pollution and hygienic aspects, updated information of background levels of metals in soil,
control of Cd-content in imported fertilisers and an overall focus on ensuring access to agricultural
land and input.
15
First name: Andreas
Last name: Clementi
Academic status: MSc student
Session: Transitions from fossil energy to renewable sources of energy (What are the transitions from
fossil energy to renewable sources of energy?)
Abstract title: Elemental and structural analysis with SEM-EDX of hydrochars obtained from hydrothermal carbonisation of different organic materials.
Justification: Using hydrochars for co-combustion with fossil coals, can be a very effective and
economically feasible way to exploit biomass for energy generation and reducing fossil energy
sources. In addition, carbon materials from HTC have a potential application as energy storage of
electricity or hydrogen. Before that can happen efficiently, further understanding of the reactions
occurring during the hydrothermal carbonization is needed.
Keywords: hydrothermal carbonisation, SEM-EDX, hydrochar
Abstract text: The carbonisation of biomass to hydrochar has the potential to become an
environmentally sound conversion process for the production of a wide variety of products. Besides
the use for the production of hydrochars for combustion, there are discussions about using
hydrochars for environmental, catalytic, electronic and agricultural applications. Since hydrothermal
carbonisation of biomass is highly complex and not yet fully understood, this study aims to elucidate
the reactions occurring during the process at specific process parameters. Therefore carbonaceous
materials were synthesised with a 1.5 litre reactor at 180°C and autogenic pressure using different
feed materials like pistachio shells, bamboo sticks and fir needles. To gain a detailed insight into
the chemical and structural properties, carbonaceous hydrochar materials were characterized by
SEM imaging and EDX analysis. Structurally carbon-rich spheres were detected on the surface of
the hydrochars; size and shape of those carbon spheres strongly depend on the properties of the
feed materials. The formation of the carbon-rich spheres through the hydrothermal carbonisation
of biomass is the consequence of dehydration, condensation, or polymerization and aromatization
reactions. Chemically, EDX data of cross sections obtained from different hydrochars showed, that
dehydration and decarboxylation reactions are hindered by diffusion, since O/C values increase towards the centre of the particle. Furthermore, the Thiele module is proposed as a model for the
observed O/C profiles, which describes the relation of reactivity to diffusivity of a reactant into a pore.
Presentation Preference: oral presentation:::poster presentation
Authors: Andreas Clementi, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna (presenter)
Acknowledgements: Christoph Pfeifer, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna Dietmar Pum, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna Gregor Tondl, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna
Patrizia Stutzenstein, BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Vienna 16
First name: Arvid
Last name: de Rijck
security?
Abstract title: The influence of future climate and elevated CO2 concentration on photosynthesis,
stomatal conductance and biomass of two European vines.
Justification: My MSc thesis is about the influence of future temperatures and CO2 concentrations
on vines and its impact on the wines produced from the berries grown at the vines in two different
climates in Europe. Therefore it is focussing on the food quality of berries used in wines.
Keywords: CO2, Temperature, Stomatal Conductance, Photosynthesis
Abstract text: Future climate change impacts of (elevated) CO2 concentration, temperature and
precipitation will likely bring about nu merous potential influences for the cropping of vines and the
global wine industry. All these different pressures will 1) alter water availability, 2) show earlier timing
in physiological stages (from budburst-flowering, flowering-veraison and veraison-maturity) of 3-6 day
per degree Celsius warming, 3) further disrupt balanced composition of alcohol, sugar and anthocyanin concentration and 4) probably shift regional wines towards more northern European locations.
Therefore, in this thesis there has been researched what the impact is of an increasing CO2 concentration and light intensity on leaf-level photosynthesis and stomatal conductance in Groesbeek and
Wageningen (the Netherlands) and Logroño and Gravalós (Spain) and whether there is a difference
in their responses. Next to leaf-level research there has be done whole-vine research as well, through
the use of an Open-Top-Chamber CO2 Enhancement Experiment. Moreover, there has been researched what the influence is of future temperatures and radiation on the physiological stages of the
vines in both the Netherlands and Spain. This has been done using a vine crop growing model (Bindi
et al. 1997) and the ISI-MIP climate data from 2005-2100. All the parts of this research have been
done to determine whether in the near future present high-quality wine areas, such as the Rioja area
in Spain, would possibly be negatively affected more intensively than the wine quality areas outside
of such high-bulk wine areas. Since the proposed scenarios on global warming suggest a possible
pole-ward shift of wine areas and the consideration that areas in a too cold climate will become possible for cultivation there is the need for more attention in academic literature on those cool-climate
areas, including the high quality low-bulk wines (such as those produced at Dutch vineyards).
17
First name: Natália
Last name: Dubnicková
Academic status:
Abstract title: Energy Mix of the Czech Republic
Justification: Because it deals with the creation of optimal Energy Mix for the Czech Republic.
Keywords: energy mix, Czech Republic, energy
Abstract text: The project “Energy Mix of the Czech Republic” deals with the issue of the use of
energy resources in the Czech Republic. Energy mix is arbitrary proportion of primary and secondary sources in electricity production. The main aim of the project is the construction of the optimal
energy mix for the Czech Republic and its economic evaluation based on the result. For this purpos e
the tool of linear programming is used. For the optimal energy mix equation, 5 main energy sources
were used – solar power plants, wind power plants, water power plants, coal power plants, nuclear
power plants and biomass. The Czech Republic belongs between the largest players when it comes
to renewable energy resources, which is why four out of five sources are renewable. During the construction of the optimal energy mix, several parameters were taken into account, for example cost
of producing electricity, emission produced by each energy resource or energy consumption in the
Czech Republic. After the energy mix is constructed, it is evaluated based on economic indicators.
The project demonstrates whether the current energy mix of the Czech Republic is optimal not only
from the economic point of view, but also from the ecological view. The optimal energy mix should
mainly be balanced, based on savings and competition among energies. Optimal energy mix is supposed to take into account annual season, because mainly renewable energy resources are highly
dependent on the weather conditions of each season. Of course, in practice it is not so easy because
of different property relations of individual sources.
18
First name: Katarzyna
Last name: Dybkowska
Email: [email protected]
Session: Shifts in consumers’ behaviour (Is there a shift in consumers’ behaviour in terms of environmental concerns?)
Abstract title: Supermarket food vs. organic food-comparison
Justification: The trend of bio-food triggered a great shift in consumers’ behaviour. People believe
that eco-food is a key to good health and because of that they are willing to spend much more money
on food then they used in the past. That change has a huge impact on direction of economic development of food industry. These days consumers are more aware and try to pick the best for them
what in their conviction is eco-food.
Keywords: organic food, health, comparison
Abstract text: Nowadays consumers pay more attention to food they choose a nd they are more
aware of food impact on their health and welfare. The change in consumers behaviour towards
organic food have been observed for some time. Ecological products are becoming more and more
fashionable despite their higher prices. Moreover organic food is commonly believed to be a part of
sustainable living which protects environment from damage and pollution. A lot of people in Poland
have changed their lifestyles in order to avoid some civilization diseases. A lot of Poles believe that
bio-food is richer in bioactive substances and have better organoleptic properties than supermarket
products. They also claim that because organic products contain more antioxidants they can prevent
people from the most terrifying civilisation disease-cancer. People are willing to spend much more
money on bio-food despite the fact they can buy the same products in supermarkets for lower price.
In the response of consumers’ needs we can observe rise of eco-markets and shops selling organic
food and at the same time there are a lot of people with critical attitude towards supermarket products. The aim of this study is to compare organic and supermarket food and investigate consumer’s
point of view on eco-lifestyle. Basing on the chemical analyses the content of some bioactive substances in organic and supermarket products was compared. Moreover the study is a contribution to
verifying if organic products are really worth their prices.
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First name: Jessie
Last name: Eerens
security?
Abstract title: Small portion protein-fortified meals are potentially very effective in increasing protein
intake in elderly people
Justification: Elderly often eat insufficient amounts of protein. Protein-fortified meals with a high
protein density, specifically tailored to the needs of elderly people, address this problem and can so
enhance diet and overall quality of life. This research focused on protein content as well as sensory
aspects of the meals and thus contributes to improving food quality.
Keywords: elderly people, protein-fortified meal, portion, taste
Abstract text: Problem: Protein-energy wasting is the main cause of malnutrition in the growing
elderly population. This is caused by various mechanisms of which low protein intake can directly
be addressed. Sensory characteristics and satiation and satiety properties of foods are the leading
determinants of long-term intake. Objective: To develop protein-fortified meals that are acceptable
on all sensory aspects and do not induce satiety so that subsequently, long-term protein intake can
be increased. Methods: Meals were either standard (450 g) or small portion (400 g) and were manipulated to contain either a standard (~ 25 g) or high protein content (~ 30 g). This resulted in four
different samples of which the small portion meals were higher in protein density. In a randomized
cross over design, data on ratings of taste, appearance, smell, mouthfeel and satiety levels were
collected in a panel of elderly people (n = 120) by means of a 100 mm visual analogue scale. Meal
residues were weighed. Results: No significan t noteworthy differences were found between the samples regarding the sensory characteristics. Protein intake was highest (~ 28 g) in the protein-fortified
samples and similar between portions. Satiety was predominantly higher for the protein-fortified
meals. Conclusion: The manipulations were accepted on all sensory aspects and led to a significant
and substantial increase in protein intake. The potential of a small portion to subdue the feelings
of satiety resulting from protein fortification, whilst contributing to a substantially increased protein
intake, makes this a very promising sample to increase protein intake among the elderly throughout
the whole day.
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First name: Sanne Lisby
Last name: Eriksen
Session: Assessing policies addressing natural resources (Are policies addressing natural resources
appropriate?)
Abstract title: Provision and protection of ecosystem services through agriculture
Justification: The thesis addresses how it can be achieved that agriculture provide higher quantity
and quality of ecosystem services and looks at both how current legislation and policies affect this
issue and discusses what can be done in terms of regulation and policies to address this problem
further.
Keywords: Ecosystem services, agriculture, farmers decision-making
Abstract text: Title: Provision and protection of ecosystem services through agriculture Author: Sanne Lisby Eriksen Agriculture depends on ecosystem service to sustain the production of services
such as food and fiber, but can also provide other services e.g. carbon sequestration, regulation
of soil and water quality. The development in European agriculture has lead to an intensive conventional agricultural system, which cause degradation and loss of ecosystems and their services
both within and outside the agricultural area. The current land use and farming practices related
to intensive conventional agriculture are thereby undermining the sustainability of agriculture and
long-term food security and hindering the provision of important ecosystem services to society from
natural and semi-natural ecosystems as well as agro-ecosystems. In order to make agriculture more
sustainable, obtain long-term food security and to ensure the provision of ecosystem services vital
to society, there is a growing interest in and requirement for farmers to focus their farming and land
use management on provide more ecosystem service (besides food and fiber) of a higher quality.
Understanding farmers willingness and ability to provide higher quantity and quality of ecosystem
services can give valuable information relevant to how can it be achieved that conventional farmers
provide higher quantity and quality of ecosystem services than today. This is the focus on this thesis.
The aim of this thesis is to assess and discuss how it can be achieved that conventional farmers
(in Denmark) provide a higher quantity and quality of ecosystem services in the future based on an
analysis and interpretation of Danish conventional dairy farmers willingness and ability to provide a
higher quantity and quality of ecosystem services. The analysis and interpretation in the thesis builds
on a case study of 10 conventional dairy farmers in Denmark in which semi-structured qualitative
interviews were conducted as well as relevant literature.
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First Name: Nicholas
Last Name: Faweya
Session: Transitions from fossil energy to renewable sources of energy
Abstract title: Maximizing the yield of crop residues for bioenergy production
Justification: The continual use of fossil energy has led to some global challenges such as energy security, high/unstable global oil price and associated environmental concerns e.g. global warming and
climate change. There is a need to use alternative energy that is clean, sustainable and environmentally friendly. Therefore, maximizing the utilization of agricultural crop residues as a bio resource for
sustainable bioenergy production will help to achieve this desired transition.
Keywords: bioenergy, agricultural crop residues, best practice strategies
Abstract text: Fossil fuels are currently the world‘s leading primary energy source. However, the
continual dependence on this finite natural resource for economic growth and development has led
to challenges such as high fuel prices, energy security, and the associated environmental concerns
such as air pollution, global warming and climate change. Therefore, there should be a focus on
alternative renewable energy sources which will not only mitigate the problem of the climate change
by reducing the consumption of fossil fuel, but also help to fulfil the global energy demand in a manner that is environmentally sustainable. This study considers the use of agricultural crop residues
which are sustainable low cost bio- feedstock produced abundantly in EU-27 for bioenergy production. An estimation of agricultural residue production potential of the majorly cultivated agricultural
crops including grasslands in EU-27 was done. This calculation was based on the yields and acreage
of these crops using specific residues to product ratios. Furthermore, this research takes a step
further by estimating the theoretical residue production potential of each agricultural crop under the
best practice strategies. The factors considered include nitrogen fertilizer application, crop varieties,
cropping systems, tillage and irrigation systems. The average amount of crop residues available for
bio-energy in EU-27 was estimated at about 3500 PJ/year after considering environmental, harvesting limitations and other competitive uses. This average value represents about 4.8% in EU-27 gross
inland energy consumption. The use of this abundant bio-resource will not only help fulfil the year
2020 target of EU renewable energy directive, but also reduce the land use conflict between the
food and energy crops, thereby enhancing global food security. As a revenue generation source, it
also expands the marketing opportunities for the local farmers, thereby fostering the socio-economic
growth and development.
22
First name: Markus
Last name: Götz
Session: Examples of the best practices in natural resource management
Abstract title: Preparation of activated Carbon from hydrothermal carbonized bark (project thesis)
Justification: The natural resource bark can be considered as a waste material from lumber mills,
where it is usually used to produce energy. Due to its large inner surface, bark could be used for
the production of a biobased activated carbon for e.g. water purification or exhaust gas purification.
Using bark has two advantages: On the one hand it substitutes fossil charcoal and on the other hand
it adds value to local business, like forestry.
Keywords: Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC); bark; activated carbon, biomaterials
Abstract text: Carbonaceous adsorbent was prepared by chemical activation of hydrochars obtained
from Hydrothermal Carbonization (HTC) of poplar bark, robinia bark and cork oak bark. These charcoals have been activated in two different ways: with potassium hydroxide solution at a temperature of
30 °C and in the muffle furnace. The resultant hydrochars and activated carbons were characterized
by their yields, ultimate analysis, FT-IR/ATR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and
Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis (BET). All the results were compared to commercial activated carbon. The results indicated that, on principal, bark is a very heterogeneous material for which no consistent optimum process conditions could be found within this study. The best yields were achieved
from the activated carbon made of poplar bark with 59,53 % followed by activated carbon out of robinia bark with 48,24 % and activated carbon out of oak bark with 33,99 % , referred to the weight of
charcoal sample taken. Moreover the results of BET-analysis show that the activation with potassium
hydroxide solution in the muffle furnace is more suitable than the activation at a temperature of 30
°C, but hydrochars made of cork oak bark gained the best results with a specific surface area of 895
m2g-1 being up against those of activated carbon from poplar bark with 222 m2g-1 and from robinia
bark with 140 m2g-1. The specific surface of cork oak bark’s hydrochar is comparable to measured
data from commercial activated carbon (875 m2 g-1). In addition to the preparation and analysis
of hydrochars and activated carbons a profitability analysis was conducted for Portugal (cork oak)
and Germany (poplar and robinia). It also indicates the high potential of using cork oak bark for the
preparation of activated carbons. Further physical adsorption tests are required to verify the results.
23
First name: Klara
Last name: Gunnarsen
Academic status:
Session: Examples of the best practices in natural resource management (What are examples of the
best practices in natural resource management?)
Abstract title: Enhancing Phosphorous Bioavailability from Waste Products
Justification: Even though phosphorous is present in high concentrations in most european soils,
common farming practise does not succeed to exploit the labile P pool, in stead common practise
continue to feed the soil with easily available P hence keep P-pools unnecessarily high in soils. Moderations in fertilizer strategies can enhance bioavailability of P from poorer P sources. By introducing
mycorrhiza and acidifying fertilizer materials we may obtain better efficacy of natural fertilizers as
manure and sludge.
Keywords: Phosphoro us, Bioavailability, Soil, Mycorrhiza, Sewage sludge, Bioreactor digestate
Abstract text: Enhancing Phosphorous Bioavailability from Waste Products Klara Gunnarsen University of Copenhagen, SCIENCE Phosphorous is one of the main nutrients plants are provided in agriculture. Due to geopolitical insecurity of mined P resources, it is necessary to optimize farming practices to secure P cycling and optimal utilization of waste materials used as fertilizers. Soil P-pools
exceed crop demands many-fold, however most of the P is not available to plants. Through simple
moderations the utilization of P in waste product such as manure and sludge, can be optimized. This
study has looked at two approaches to enhanced P bioavailability; chemical changes in the nutrient
composition through acidification of two different waste materials and the introduction of P-solubilizing mycorrhiza, Penicillium Bilaiae. P diffusion in soil from waste materials has been evaluated
with different pH of waste materials and with the introduction of mychorrhiza. Due to the chemical
structure of the different waste products, acidification resulted in enhanced availability of P from bioreactor digestate but did not alter P availability in sewage sludge. This has been further documented
through plant experiments. DGT gels have further been used to visualize diffusion gradients of P and
other micronutrients that may contribute to the fixation of P in soil. Penicillium Bilaiae did not show
enhanced P solubility as suggested in the literature. Where mycorrhiza was introduced P diffusion
was limited. Secondary chemical binding is being evaluated to address this unex pected observation,
however full explanation is still lacking at this point.
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First name: Daniela
Last name: Haager
Academic status: /
Session: Main session
Abstract title: Hock lesions - an early indication for impaired animal welfare?
University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences (BOKU), Department of Sustainable Agricultural Systems, Division of Livestock Sciences, Vienna, Austria
Justification: Previous studies have primarily defined risk factors connected with the problem,
without describing hock lesions themselves. Hence, the precise impact and severity of hock lesions
on dairy cows is largely unknown. Therefore the project provides novel insights into cows‘‘ welfare by
linking macroscopic and microscopic methods and will strengthen the understanding of how hock
lesions affect the health and welfare of dairy cattle.
Keywords: hock lesion, dairy cattle, animal welfare
Abstract text: Animal welfare is an issue of growing concern. A set of minimum standards to ensure
animal welfare are described within the concept o f, the Five Freedoms, which state, that the animals
should be free from hunger and thirst, from discomfort, from pain, injury and disease, from fear and
distress and free to express normal behaviour. Hock lesions are the most common skin alterations
in dairy cattle and may result in pain and suffering. The objective of this study therefore is an accurate and comprehensive investigation of hock lesions, based on macroscopic, thermographic and
histological examinations of dairy cow hocks on-farm and at the slaughterhouse. This evaluation of
the different methodologies and the correlation between them, will give insights into their reliability
and validity. Especially indications for inflammation, such as increased skin temperature and the
presence of inflammatory cells, could support the hypothesis, that already early stages of hock lesions, indicated by hair loss, are relevant to the animals’ welfare. The expected outputs of this study
are novel insights into hock lesions and a tho rough investigation, categorisation and validation by
linking macroscopic and microscopic methods. Previous studies have primarily defined risk factors
connected with the problem, without describing the lesions themselves. Hence, the precise impact
and severity of hock lesions on dairy cows is largely unknown. This project will strengthen the understanding of how hock lesions affect the health and welfare of dairy cattle.
25
First name: Lisanne
Last name: Hölting
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Virus removal during artificial recharge and the effects of organic matter
Justification: The artificial recharge of groundwater aquifers is a way to manage our water resources.
As the demand for drinking water is growing, especially in expanding urban areas, the use of artificial
recharge gets more important. It is still a challenge to produce safe drinking water through artificial
recharge, especially with increasing DOC levels, which influence natural cleaning mechanisms. My
projects aim at improving best management practice and the design of infiltration basins.
Keywords: bacteriopha ges, organic matter, artificial recharge, drinking water
Abstract text: The quality of drinking water has significant impacts on human health. The contamination of water with pathogenic microorganisms can lead to outbreaks of waterborne diseases.
Groundwater is seen as a safe source of drinking water, whereas surface waters are more vulnerable
to contamination. But today, surface waters are widely used in drinking water production, as the demand for drinking water is growing. Artificial recharge has become an important method to produce
drinking water. Water from streams and lakes is infiltrated through soil in order to recharge the groundwater body. Natural cleaning mechanisms apply when the infiltrated water passes through the soil,
such as the removal of viruses. Viruses adsorb to the soil particles and die off after a certain time.
Different parameters affect the virus removal process. In order to produce safe drinking water, all
parameters need to be fully understood. A laboratory study has been conducted in order to show how
temperature, soil organic matter (SOM), dissolved organic matter (DOM) and ionic strength affect the
virus removal process. The study shall contribute to the design of the drinking water facility (artificial
recharge) in Uppsala, Sweden. Soil and water samples have been taken there. The results show that
the efficiency of the virus removal process in the infiltration basins decreases over time. Organic
matter has been found an important parameter that will attenuate the virus removal. This is of special interest in Sweden, where organic matter levels in streams and lakes are currently increasing.
26
First name: Lisa
Last name: Jöchlinger
Academic status: /
Session: Links between societies, cultures and environmental problems (What are the links between
societies, cultures and environmental problems?)
Abstract title: Copper based fungicides in vineyards and how they affect soil microbiology
Justification: Copper based Fungicides might effect soil microbiology in vineyard soils. The negative
effect could be reduced with additives like biochar.
Keywords: vineyard soils, copper contamination, fungicide, soil microbiology, biochar
Abstract text: Copper based fungicides are a common used treatment method against fungus (e.g.
mildew) in vineyards and are also approved for the organic wine production. Negative effects of Cu on
soil microbiology can be reduced with additives like compost and biochar, which is a residue consisting carbon and ash, created by pyrolysis of biomass. Its positive effects on soil can be activated with
citric acid or tartaric acid. The aim of this work is to find out, how copper affects the soil microbiology,
and how negative consequences can be reduced by additives. In the first part of the experiment,
samples from vineyards, which are historical known for being contaminated, were taken and transferred to the greenhouse for a pot experiment. These samples were treated with additives like compost
and biochar. Microbial parameters like enzyme-activity and the content of Ammonium and Nitrate
was measured photometrically, the respiration rate was measured related to the Flux of CO2.In the
second part of the experiment, not contaminated soil samples from fields in Upper Austria and Burgenland were taken, transferred into pots in the greenhouse and artificially contaminated with the
Copper-Hydroxid based fungicide Funguran. Therefore suspensi ons with six different concentrations
was poured over the pots. Ammonium- and Nitrate-content, respiration and enzyme-activity showed
a significant reduction at high copper concentrations. In experiment one, the soil sample from Styria,
which was treated with the additive of tartaric acid activated biochar showed the highest rates of
Enzyme activity as well as the best levels in Nitrate content. The results of experiment two are expected to deliver a so called dose-response-curve, meaning certain concentrations at which certain
microbiological activity reacts. The use of copper based fungicides has a negative effect on the soil
microbiology. Thus, tartaric acid activated biochar can reduce some of these negative effects.
27
First name: Philipp
Last name: Kloeckner
security?
Abstract title: From source to tap - A study of common contaminants in water in the region of Uppsala, Sweden
Justification: Drinking water is the most valuable good of our daily diet. Contamination of water
poses a severe threat to humans and the environment and should be considered an urgent risk.
Keywords: pharmaceuticals, pesticides, contamination, water, PPCP
Abstract text: In this study, several water samples from the region of Uppsala (Sweden) were analyzed in order to estimate the contamination with pharmaceuticals, pesticides and personal care
products. The water samples were taken according to the natural flow in the aquatic s ystem and
include river samples from river Fyris upstream and downstream of Uppsala as well as lake samples
from the lakes Ekoln and Mälaren. Furthermore, a variety of samples from the drinking water treatment plant Görväln were taken after different treatment steps. The idea behind the selection of
sample sites was to identify possible sources of contamination, to track concentrations and possible
reductions within the aquatic system as well as to evaluate treatment performance of the water
plant with regards to specific compounds. The water samples were extracted with SPE (solid-phase
extraction) concentrated and analyzed with UPLC-MS (ultra-performance liquid chromatography and
mass spectrometry). The analysis was not yet finished at the time of abstract submission; however,
contaminations were expected to be found. Pollution of river water was expected to be higher downstream of Uppsala, i.e. after the river passed the city and effluent from the wastewater treatment
plant has entered the stream. Treatment performance of the drinking water plant was expected to be
inefficient for some compounds, yet sufficiently successful for others.
28
First name: Alina
Last name: Koch
Abstract title: Fate of pharmaceuticals and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during wastewater treatment
Justification: Wasterwater is becoming an increasingly important resource in terms of nutrient recycling for agricultural practices. In order to have a best practice in nutrient recycling we should be
aware of potential risks, such as the environmental impacts of contaminants of emerging concerns,
pharmaceuticals and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). My thesis is pointing out the potential risk
of contamination when sludge used as a fertilizer is applied on agricultural fields.
Keywords: Pharmceuticals, sour ce seperated treatment, blackwater
Abstract: In the past decade, water reuse and nutrient recycling of wastewater has gained more
attention as sustainable water cycle management solutions, driven by the increasingly noticeable resource restrictions of the 21st century. One of these possible solutions is source separated
treatment of latrine or blackwater. However, one major issue of wastewater recycling are micropollutants released into the environment, which can affect ecosystems and human health. This study
investigated the fate and removal efficiency of two emerging groups of micropollutants, pharmaceutically active compounds (PhACs) and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs), in two source separating
wastewater treatments. The first treatment investigated was laboratory-based anaerobic degradation of latrine under mesophilic (37 °C) and thermophilic (52 °C) conditions. The second was a full
-scale blackwater treatment, including wet composting and sanitation with urea. Occurrences and
concentrations in different steps of the treatments of 29 PhACs and 26 PFASs in the liquid and solid
phase of latrine and blackwater were determined. The results showed high environmental concentrations of PhACs in latrine and blackwater with values up to hundred µg L-1 and µg g-1 d.w. in the
liquid and solid phase, respectively. The concentrations measured in latrine and blackwater were
higher than those found in conventional wastewater effluents, due to lower dilution. The average removal rates of PhACs were 45 % under mesophilic and 31 % under thermophilic conditions of latrine
and a slightly higher removal rate was determined in blackwater, 49 %. Some compounds showed
close to complete removal, such as most antibiotics (up to 100 %, n=4). The majority of PFASs were
not detected and the ones detected showed low environmental concentrations in the range of low
ng L-1 and ng g-1 d.w. in the liquid and solid phase, respectively. In the removal analysis, increased
concentrations have been found for PFASs in mesophilic treatment (in average 24 %), possibly due
to degradation of PFAS precursors, and a low average removal rate in the thermophilic experiment
(in average 4 %). No evaluation could be made about the fate of PFASs in blackwater, due to no significant concentrations measured. It is concluded that latrine and blackwater are no major sources
of PFASs and therefore do not represent a major threat to the environment. The removal efficiency
of the two source separated treatments revealed moderate to low removal rates for PhACs and
PFASs. But since the occurrence of PFASs in latrine and blackwater is low, their removal might not
29
have to be considered in the source separated treatments. Regarding the PhACs additional advance
treatments might be necessary or efforts to find a better suitable treatment technique need to be
made, as the treated end-product of blackwater is reused as fertilizer in agricultural fields.
30
First name: Iveta Angela
Last name: Kyrianova
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Seasonal dynamics of gastrointestinal nematodes and lungworm infections in young
goats on organic farming
Justification: My choosen subtheme is - Novelties in animal sciences or plant sciences (missing at
the subthemes above). Thesis examine the progress of the seasonal dynamics of gastrointestinal
helminths and lungworms in young goats and also compares an affect of quantity of nematode eggs
and consistency of faeces.
Keywords: digestive tract, lungs, nematodes, goat, organic farming
Abstract text: This thesis, examine the progress of the seasonal dynamics of gastrointestinal helminths and lungworms in young goats on an organic farm. Gastrointestinal nematodes are an important group of helmin ths that can economically damage goat breeding, due to reduced milk and meat
production and increased veterinary costs. The issue of gastrointestinal nematodes has recently
been highly topical due to the increased resistance of anthelmintics in in goat breeding. Anthelmintic drugs are often erroneously administered which supports the development of resistance.
The study was conducted on an organic goat farm in central Bohemia, where faecal samples from
herd of young goats were collected each month from January 2014 to January 2015, which were
subsequently coprologically examine in the parasitological laboratory of the Department of Zoology
and Fisheries, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences
Prague. We examined 291 samples from which trichostrongylid nematodes, Trichuris sp., Moniezia
sp. eggs and larvae Muellerius sp. were determinated. The overall prevalence and course of the
seasonal dynamics of the detected gastrointestinal helminths were subsequently evaluated. Exogenous factors include grazing management and local climatic conditions that affect the presence
and survival of larvae on the pasture. The endogenous factors include the age of the animals and
immunity, as well as the individual species and interaction of the gastrointestinal parasites. Due to
the growth in organic farming and the increase in the resistance of anthelmintics, various natural
remedies to suppress gastrointestinal nematodes are currently being tested, which is the definite
direction to proceed in.
31
First name: Stijn
Last name: Lanters
Academic status: BSc student
Session: Protecting landscapes for the future (What are the ways of protecting landscapes for the
future?)
Abstract title: Cooling Roofscapes: Climate-responsive design for Amsterdam’s roofscape
Justification: ‚‘Cooling Roofscapes’ investigates the potential of rooftops to adapt vulnerable urban
areas to future climate scenarios in which more extreme and frequent precipitation and heat waves
are expected. The research-based design provides a physical and realistic dimension to the protection of sensitive urban landscapes and a fresh perspective on the role of landscape architecture.
Keywords: rooftop, urban design, adaptation, climate, Amsterdam
Abstract text: Over the last century, extreme weather conditions, such as heat waves and ext reme
precipitation are becoming more common and more frequent in Europe. One of the consequences
is the Urban Heat Island effect. Amsterdam’s Indische Buurt-neighbourhood is one of the most vulnerable areas in the metropolitan region, because of its high population density, large share of
impermeable surfaces and little vegetation. The framework considers two levels of inquiry: the contribution of roof gardens to the thermal management, anticipating expected weather conditions and
its embedding in children’s play environments. The Indische Buurt-neighbourhood can function as
a case to explore the potential of rooftop gardens to reduce the Urban Heat Island effect by means
of (micro) climate-responsive design. A research-based-design approach is applied to focus on the
optimization of the thermal management as part of both the urban outdoor and of the indoor environment in the urban landscape. Prior to the design an extensive climatic analysis of materialization
and albedo, wind directions, vegetation and shade patterns took place. Its focus was on the JP Coenschool, which lacks sufficient playable space and comprises a large number of highly vulnerable children under heat stress, but which also contains a large, unutilized flat roof. A conjunction of the analysis with theories on the spatial stimulation of children to play and on adaptation to climate change
through water sensitive urban design constitutes the theoretical basis for the rooftop design for the
JP Coenschool and its surroundings. The three urban designs for the roof of the school, the adjacent
square, and the street are merged into a concrete plan in which the natural processes, which were
suppressed by urbanization, are attempted to be brought back to regulate heat and manage (storm)
water locally, both on the roof and street level and to provide a child-friendly play environment.
32
First name: Kathrin
Last name: Lenz
security?
Abstract title: Land use/cover classification and change analysis related to Quinoa cultivation in the
Bolivian Intersalar region using remote sensing techniques
Justification: The trend of increasing Quinoa production in the southern Bolivian highlands driven
by international demand is far from sustainable but brings about diverse social and environmental
problems. Unsustainable farming techniques and the conversion of ever more virgin land or pastures
into fields and extension into marginal areas jeopardises the delicate Andean ecosystem, future yield
security and with that the livelihoods of the poor local population.
Keywords: Land use/cover change
Abstract text: The Intersalar region of the Bolivian highlands, located between Salar de Uyuni in the
South and Salar de Coipasa in the North, has experienced substantial land use conversions in the
last decades, ever since the introduction of Quinoa into the American and European market in the
early 1980s. The objective of this project is to detect and analyse the temporal as well as spatial
land use/cover changes in the Bolivian Intersalar making use of free-available, multi-spectral remote
sensing data as well as literature and in-situ research. Land use/cover maps were generated from
multi-temporal Landsat image composites for the cultivation seasons 1990 and 2014. This included
carrying out field work in the study area for establishing training sites, that represented a certain land
use/cover class and was used to train the classifier, as well as randomly distributed validation sites
where existing land use/cover was observed to be used to assess the accuracy of the classification
results. Different common classification approaches of unsupervised, supervised and object-based
methods were applied and compared for best classification performance in the study area. For post-classification change detection IDRISI‘‘s Land Change Modeler is then used which located and
quantified the land use/cover changes between 1990 and 2014, detecting gains&losses and net
changes of the key classes, i.e. Quinoa fields and natural vegetation.
33
First name: Lucia
Last name: Luijben
Session: Transitions from fossil energy to renewable sources of energy
Abstract title: Algae for fuel – Solid growth for Botryococcus braunii
Justification: Powered by sunlight, algae convert CO2 and water to a wide range of chemicals. They
are capable of producing renewable energy carriers such as biodiesel and oils in large quantities.
However, their potential has not yet matured to industrial scale, mainly because the current cultivation-harvest-processing chain is too costly. To reduce harvesting costs, we tried to grow the microalgae
Botryococcus braunii, a natural hydrocarbon producer, in a rotating disk reactor.
Keywords: microalgae, photosynthesis, hydrocarbonproduce r, immobilized, diskphotobioreactor,
Abstract text: The microalgal species Botryococcus braunii produces long-chain hydrocarbons naturally in extremely large amounts. This is of interest for fuel replacement: its hydrocarbons can serve
as renewable drop-in alternatives to existing petrochemical processes. Although product formation is
high, its slow growth rate hampers its uses in industrial scale cultivation; this growth rate must be enhanced. We hypothesized that B. braunii‘‘s slow growth rate is because of its need to attach to a solid
surface. Providing such surfaces would mimic its natural habitats such as shallow riverbeds and sandy coasts. We tested various photobioreactor designs to test for enhanced growth when immobilized.
A variety of natural and synthetic particles were fed to the systems to stimulate algal attachment,
if so preferred. In addition, we examined surface materials in a rotating disk photobioreactor that
pushes the algae towards biofilm formation. No enhanced growth was observed in the various liquidgrowth based approaches. However, B. braunii was able to form a biofilm in the rotating disk system.
Unfortunately, an unidentified fast-growing algal species disturbed these experiments. We therefore
modelled the light limited biomass growth in a biofilm to assess the potential feasibility. The model
predicted a biomass productivity that was four times lower than what we observed, thus confirming
the significant influence of contamination that we observed during experiments. Our hypothesis that
B. braunii growth is enhanced when grown in the present of solid surfaces has not been confirmed.
However, we showed that B. braunii can grow as a biofilm, a feature that will reduce harvesting costs
significantly if applied. Future work should aim to optimize growth B. braunii in a closed rotating disk
system, and to examine its relations with faster growing algal species. When solid growth for B. braunii has been reached, these beautiful algae can play an energetic role in our society.
34
First name: Julie
Last name: Lynegaard
security?
Abstract title: Myogenesis of the intrauterine growth restricted piglet
Justification: By finding the differnece in myogenesis of the IUGR piglet, we can figure out how to
intervene during gestation, and hopefully prevent these giant myofibers and then get a higher meat
quality.
Keywords: IUGR, myogenesis, nutrition
Abstract text: It is still unknown where during skeletal muscle development that the difference is
between normal piglets and IUGR piglets, and therefore where to intervene to prevent a decrease
in muscle development and less lean meat. Furthermore, it is important to provide knowledge on
the production of muscle fibers , and how different aspects of the muscle formation differs in IUGR
piglets compared to normal piglets. Likewise it is relevant to look at other aspects affecting skeletal
muscle formation like maternal nutrition and brain development. The aim of this project is to provide
knowledge on how IUGR affects the skeletal muscle formation, and where it differs from normal
myogenesis. Piglets suffering from IUGR have a lower number of muscle fibers, which is mainly due
to a decrease in the secondary muscle fiber formation. However, authors report an increase in the
diameter of the muscle fibers postnatal, which imply an accelerated hypertrophy. IUGR piglets are
more mature at farrowing, due to an increase in type I muscle fiber, increased contractile force and
less fatigue in the individual muscle fiber. IUGR piglets have an increased brain:liver ratio due to the
brain sparing effect, which occurs prenatally parallel to secondary fiber formation. This indicates
a redirection of the nutrients toward brain development. These results suggest that a nutritional
intervention could be conducted to increase the muscle fiber formation prenatal and hence get
a higher postnatal growth potential. Only one study has reported an increase in the formation of
secondary muscle fibers due to increased maternal nutrition during gestation, but no one has been
able to replicate it. Other attempts to increase the production of muscle fibers have been conducted
with L-arginine and porcine somatotropin treatment of the mothers during early gestation, but only a
small increase in the primary muscle fibers have been reported.
35
First name: Kathrine Schack
Last name: Madsen
Abstract title: Influences of landscape parameters on the reproductive success of great tits (Parus
major) along an urban gradient
Justification: As more and more people move from rural areas to cities the affects of society on
fauna and flora increases, leaving us with the necessity to understand the links between cities and
the fauna living within these. A curial aspect of the survival of a species is its ability to reproduce;
understanding how urban landscapes influences the reproductive success therefore provides important information on how well the city provides habitats for the species.
Keywor ds: Great tit, reproduction, urbanisation
Abstract text: Urbanization increases all over the world causing the surface of the earth to change
inevitably altering the conditions and habitats of flora and fauna. As the natural habitats become
scares and fragmented the urban environments become important habitats in maintaining the health of the population. The aim of this study is to elucidate how the urban landscape influences the
reproductive success and chick condition in the small common passerine great tit (Parus major). The
working hypothesis has been that parameters connected to urban landscapes affects the breeding
conditions negatively and hence results in a lower reproductive success and poorer chick condition.
The field monitoring was carried out in the city of Vienna where 129 nest boxes for great tits were
places at predefined points in a 2•2km grid covering the city.
36
First name: Catherine
Last name: Meyer
Abstract title: Assessing Abaca Cropping and Growth Conditions in Catanduanes, Philippines.
Justification: Abaca fiber is a very important natural resource in the production of tea bag and
coffee filter paper. The production of Abaca fiber is mainly done by smallholders with a low crop
management. This study is part of a project in collaboration with the specialty paper industry aiming
to increase the sustainability and quality of Abaca fiber production under smallholder management
now and in the future.
Keywords: Abaca, Fiber crop, Specialty Paper, Philippines
Abstract text: Abaca (Mu sa textilis) is an economically very interesting fiber crop, endemic to the
Philippines. The pulp of its fibers is used for making specialty papers. Catanduanes Island, located
in the North East of the Philippines is currently the world largest producer of Abaca fiber. The production of Abaca fiber is characterized by poor crop management under smallholder conditions. Recent
studies showed the importance of cover crops in Abaca farms to maintain soil fertility and to control
water induced erosion. Shade plays an important role to obtain high or at least increase fiber yields.
To date, little information is available on crop physiology and ecology of Abaca as well as on nutrient
balances and light conditions of Abaca fields. This study focused on assessing nutrient balances,
light conditions, and growth performance of Abaca under contrasting field conditions. Abaca fields
with contrasting site conditions were monitored during August and October 2014 in three Barangays
of Catandua nes Island. We aimed at assessing local Abaca cropping systems in terms of leaf growth,
pseudostem and biomass production under different field regimes of photosynthetically active radiation and nutrient balances of Abaca fields. Therefore, dry matter production, litter fall of shade trees,
harvest residues, soil samples and their nutrient contents were monitored along the slope at each
studied abaca fields. First results show that sites strongly differed in light interception depending
on farm management and site condition. Also differences in above ground fresh biomass and fiber
yield could be determined. Soil analysis shows a high heterogeneity in nutrient distribution within a
site. Plant analysis is still ongoing and will help to further improve recommendations for future Abaca
cropping. Furthermore, recommendations could be given for the potential use of harvest residues,
which would mean an additional income for the farmers and so improve their livelihood.
37
First Name: Julia
Last Name: Meyer
Other Authors/Acknowledgements:
Loreen Kloss a,b, Lutz Graeve a, Walter Vetter b.
a Nutrition, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
b Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Hohenheim, Stuttgart, Germany
Session: (choose from 9 topics given in the guidelines) Enhancing food quality, safety and security
Abstract title: (maximum 30 words) Food reformulation and reducing sodium consumption in Europe
Justification: (maximum 70 words) Excessive sodium salt consumption has been associated with
negative health effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) and European Commission (EC) have
implemented and encouraged initiatives to reduce sodium intake among European populations with
reformulation of high sodium food products thought to play a major role in reducing daily intakes.
Keywords: (give 3 keywords) food reformulation, sodium, public health
Abstract text: (The text cannot exceed 300 words, excluding title and authors (minimum 200
words). Tables, graphics, photos etc. are not allowed).
The objective of this project was to assess and review sodium intake in the European Union population, determine the progress of efforts to reduce sodium in foods via food reformulation and review
the factors motivating salt reduction in the food industry. As part of the EU Salux project, a review
was conducted of scientific publications as well as government and non-government organization
publications and websites. To date, extensive research has been conducted on food reformulation
strategies to reduce sodium in bread, meat, dairy and convenience foods and some advancement
has been made in other product categories. Many of these strategies are cost effective and do not
affect consumer acceptance. However, industry response is difficult to track and significant reformulation efforts have not been confirmed internationally. This is reflected in the average sodium intake
among Europeans which continues to exceed the WHO recommendation of <5 g/day of dietary salt
(<2 g/day sodium), the internationally recognized intake goal for public health measures. The EC
has approved five salt-related health claims and approximately half of the EU member states have
legislated change in the form of taxation and/or mandatory nutrition labelling. While evidence suggests legislation may effectively promote reformulation, little is known about the impact of these
measures on dietary intake. Food reformulation as a means to reduce the sodium content of foods
has been widely researched, however its effectiveness to reduce sodium intake throughout Europe
has not been verified. Limited motivation among food manufacturers, food safety issues, consumer
acceptance concerns, cost concerns and complications arising from the use of sodium alternatives
remain limitations to use.
38
A buckwheat muffin - a healthy snack?
Subtheme: Enhancing food quality, safety and security (How do we enhance food quality, safety and
security?
Justification: The variety of different kinds of sweets has never been so vast. Most of people know
that sweets and junk food are not the best choice for their health, however we all like to eat them.
By adding fiber and dried fruits to muffins there is a possibility to increase the average daily intake
of fiber especially in children’s diet.
Keywords: dietary fiber, muffins, snacks, fruits
Abstract text: Nowadays, there is a serious issue with the amount of daily intake of dietary fiber.
People eat plenty of highly processed products, which do not include enough dietary fiber. That compound is essential to our body and the digestive system. The dietary fiber is the indigestible portion of
food derived from plants. It consists of two main components: the insoluble fiber and soluble fraction. There is many various plants that are suitable to be used as a source of dietary fiber. One of them
is buckwheat scales – for a very long time the scales were not used in food industry as only the inner
part of the seed was used for producing buckwheat groats or flour. Nowadays, many nutritionists
claim that the remaining part of these seeds is also useful and beneficial to us. The buckwheat scales include phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, and many more. Although we all know that eating
too much sugar and highly processed food is not the best idea, we do it constantly. During our research we tried to produce five types of muffins with dried fruits and buckwheat scales, and to analyse
their mechanical and storing features. In addition, use of dried fruits may increase their taste. The
addition of dietary fiber into muffins may be a smart and interesting way of increasing the amount of
daily intake of dietary fiber, especially for children and those who want to stay in shape, but also want
to eat something sweet or have a healthy snack. The aim of this research was to produce five types
of muffins with dried fruits and dietary fiber. As the dietary fiber was used the buckwheat scales.
Authors:
Aleksandra Mika, WULS-SGGW - Warsaw University of Life Sciences (presenter)
Acknowledgements:
Małgorzata Sobczyk , WULS-SGGW - Warsaw University of Life Sciences
39
First Name: Pascal
Last Name: Moll
Session: Enhancing food quality, safety and security
Abstract title: Identification of the flavonoids main components in several purple wheat samples
using HPLC-MSn
Justification:
Purple wheat is distinguished by its high yield of anthocyanins and other flavonoids. These phytochemicals have been largely proven to have many biological activities which promote the human health
and therefore the food quality too.
Keywords: purple wheat, flavonoids, anthocyanins
Abstract text:
Wheat (Triticum spp.) is one of the most important staple foods worldwide with a yearly harvest
of more than 700 billion t. Besides its high contents of starch, protein and fiber, wheat contains
diverse phytochemicals whose health-promoting properties have been largely attributed through various studies. Purple wheat shows relevant amounts of anthocyanins, a flavonoid-subgroup, that are
responsible for the slightly purple color of the grains. Furthermore, purple wheat contains various
other flavonoids, which have nutritional relevance due to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, antimicrobial and antimutagenic properties. The aim of this study was to extract anthocyanins
and other flavonoids from various purple wheat varieties and to identify them by means of HPLC-MSn.
Most of wheat flavonoids are bound to cell wall constituents which could be determined using an
acidic or alkaline hydrolysis. In this study such a method was not applied. Flavonoid extracts were
fractionated into a methanol-fraction and an ethyl acetate-fraction using a solid phase extraction
(SPE) and analyzed separately. Cyanidin-3-O-glycoside was the unique anthocyanin, which could be
identified certainly. It only was found in the methanol-fraction of the variety Indigo. In each variety
apigenin derivatives were found: apigenin-6-C-hexoside-8-C-pentoside and apigenin-6-C-pentoside8-C-hexoside as well as the sinapic acid ester of apigenin-C-diglycoside. These various forms of apigenin were present in both the methanol-fraction and the ethyl acetate-fraction.
Authors:
Pascal Moll (presenter)
Dipl.-Lebensmittel-Ing. Jochen Ziegler
Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Dr. h.c. Reinhold Carle
40
First name: Sabine
Last name: Neuberger
Abstract title: Analysis of visual communication concerning genetically modified organisms in Austria.
Justification: The study tries to explain different attitudes towards GMO depending on how information (especially in form of images) is presented in the media, what are concerns and are there
differences between societies. GMO might be a positive factor for fighting environmental problems by
breeding new varieties better adapted to climate change or in less need of chemicals. The acceptance of GMO might strongly depend on how media presents this topic.
Keywords: genetically modified organisms, public opinion, visual communication, consumer attitudes
Abstract text: This study aims to describe the emotional appeal of images used on Austrian websites
related to GMO. It is based on the hypothesis that pictures are better memorized and have a stronger
and subliminal influence on our opinions. In general Austrians have a negative opinion when it comes
to the topic of GMO and GM products are currently hardly available in the Austrian market. Due to
that, the more specific hypothesis is, that there are more negative and scary pictures on the Austrian
websites than positive ones. Majority of negative pictures could further deepen a negative public
opinion in Austria thus making it more difficult for future beneficial GMOs to be accepted. But this
study cannot clarify, if the public opinion is against GMO because of the negative pictures or if the
negative picture are on the web because the public opinion was already negative before the pictures
appeared. In the course of this thesis pictures are going to be analyzed in relation to the surrounding
text. Are the pictures enforcing the positive or negative message of the text about GMOs? Only pictures found in Google picture search with the German term “gentechnisch veränderte Organismen”
and only pictures found on Austrian websites will be part of the analysis. A set of variables and an
index will help to describe the pictures and later on to compare and look for coherence. The findings
are compared with other studies about opinions of Austrians on GMO and with a similar study undertaken in Italy.
41
First Name: Nizam Husen
Last Name: Abdul
Home University: University of Hohenheim
Abstract title: Social capital and agricultural technology adoption among Ethiopian farmers
Justification: Agriculture is an important sector in Ethiopia. However, cereal yield is stagnated over
the last years. Numerous studies suggested that the only way-out of this problem is increasing farmers´ productivity through agricultural technology adoption. Nevertheless, adoption is not going fast
as supposed to be in the country. Many research findings concluded that the major determinants
of technology adoption are socio-economic factors, overlooking the social capital factors to ensure
food security.
Keywords: Social capital, Adoption, Ethiopia
Abstract text: Ethiopia is one of the largest countries in Africa in terms of population and land size.
However, food insecurity is big issue. To ensure food security of the country, increasing agricultural
production is a must. But, capacity of improving agricultural productivity is low. Trade and food aid
may help alleviate food insecurity in the short-term. But the long term balance between food demand and supply will only be achieved by boosting domestic food production which hinge on adoption of agricultural technologies. Many research findings concluded that the major determinants of
adoption are socioeconomic and demographic factors, overlooking the social capital. Therefore, this
study focuses on analyzing the influences of social capital on the adoption of improved seeds. We
applied a probit model to analyze the influences of the social capital on improved seeds adoption
using cross-sectional data from 404 respondents selected randomly in Southern Ethiopia. The result
indicated that being a member of traditional credit system (Iqqub) and local labour sharing system
(Debo) lead to5.9% and 7.7% less likelihood of improved seeds adoption at 1% and 5% respectively,
whereas conflict resolution membership (Jarsumma) leads to 3% more likelihood of improved seeds
adoption. Being a member of women association, the interaction between being Iqqub membership
and women association; and interaction between Debo membership and women association lead
to 4.3%, 6.5% and 13% more likelihood of improved seeds adoption at (p<0.000) respectively. This
means if Debo and Iqqub are replaced by women association, adoption likelihood becomes higher.
The female household, monogamous, and using fertilizer with improved seeds lead to 9.7%, 9.7%,
and 4.8% at 5% significance level respectively. Therefore, to ensure food security, policy makers and
development practitioners need to promote agricultural technology adoption through strengthening
women association, women household participation in to adoption, providing technologies as a package and awareness creation.
42
First Name: John
Last Name: Opata
Session: 9. Novelties in animal sciences or plant sciences
Authors: John Opata1, Paul Melichar1, Martin Hegele1, Beloved Mensah Dzomeku2, Jens Wünsche1
1
University of Hohenheim, Institute of Crop Science, Section Crop Physiology of Specialty Crops, EmilWolff-Str. 25, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany
2
CSIR-Crops Research Institute, P.O. Box 3785, Kumasi - Ghana, West Africa
Abstract title: Innovative macropropagation techniques of plantain (Musa AAB), applicable to
small scale farmers
Justification: The research work focuses on the development of innovative propagation technologies
in plantains and bananas with the idea of multiplying large number of uniform planting materials for
resource poor farmers especially in Sub-Saharan Africa at a very low cost. The process will also help
reduce the spread of diseases and pests in farmers’ field and enhance yield which will improve food
security.
Keywords: Macropropagation coconut water benzylaminopurine
Abstract text: Plantain (Musa AAB) is an important food crop in Ghana. It is grown widely in almost
all the agro-ecological zones except the Savanna region. Despite the significance of the crop, there
have been major challenges getting healthy and clean planting materials to establish productive and
sustainable plantations. Traditionally, farmers in Sub Saharan Africa use suckers and corms which
in most cases are infested with pest and diseases. In addressing this major challenge, macropropagation trial was carried out at the Crops Research Institute in Kumasi, Ghana using two major
plantain cultivars, ‘Apantu’ and ‘Apem’ which are known to be recalcitrant in terms of generating
young shoots. A technique was used that carefully removes all leaf sheaths of the young sucker and
then mechanically destroys the apical meristem which suppresses apical dominance and activates
the latent buds. The explants were further treated with hormonal solutions obtained from immature
coconut water and flesh in combination with green papaya pulp containing papain. These treatments
were compared to Benzylaminopurine as commercial standard. The results reveal considerable potential of these natural hormone-based treatments and may prove as an efficient method of multiplying healthy planting materials for plantain. The cultivar ‘Apantu’ which is widely cultivated in all
growing regions of Ghana responded well producing significantly higher number of plants than the
cultivar ‘Apem’. The results indicate that farmers can to a large extent use the method to produce
large quantities of uniform planting materials throughout the year. The results of the studies also
reveal that old mother corms are potential sources for plant multiplication.
43
First name: Petr
Last name: Ourednicek
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Simulation of Pb and Zn transport through the soil profile after amorphous manganese oxide treating (AMO)
Justification: Soils are one of the most important substrate for the food production, but could be often contaminated by potentially toxic metals/metalloids from various anthropogenic sources (waste
production, industry, etc…). These hazardous substances are not degradable and conventional remediation is often incredibly costly. This study is involving an innovative method, which could secure
an effective remediation of such soils, thus could preserve it for present and future generations.
Keywords: AMO, batch experiments, column experiments, soil profile transport modelling, toxic metals
Abstract text: Contaminated soils by various resources of potentially toxic metals/metalloids are
actually introducing thorny and problematic issues nowadays. Effective remediation method using
sorbent, which can stabilize mobile forms of pollutants thus preventing their usage in plants or leaching to groundwater table, was therefore investigated. Amorphous manganese oxide (AMO) was
tested as relatively easy made sorbent. The AMO was applied to experimental prepared soil, heavily
polluted by following concentration of metals (2500 mg/kg for Lead and 4500 mg/kg for Zinc). Batch
experiments were performed. Continuous desorption of Zinc was detected in soils without treatment.
Column experiments and statistical tests were also performed. Statistically significant increment of
sorption capacity was demonstrated during column saturation by experimental solutions. Only 27%
of maximum sorption capacity in AMO tr eated soil was reached after 82 hours of saturation (versus 6% exceeding of maximal sorption capacity in untreated soil) in average. The transport model
(HYDRUS 1D) was calibrated and validated by prediction of following laboratory tests. Speciation
modelling (PHREEQC 3) was used for specification of followed elements and their forms and significant differences (AMO x control) were described.Performed experiments, statistical evaluations and
mathematical modeling confirmed hypothesis that AMO significantly enhanced sorption capacity in
soil and soil pollutants are stabilized and delayed in their extraction. Amorphous manganese oxide
seems to be potentially very efficient sorbent, which should be further tested in field experiments
under real natural conditions in order of future utilization of this matter in extensive remediation in
highly metals/metalloids contaminated soils.
44
First name: Anne
Last name: Paulus
Academic status: /
future?)
Abstract title: Landscape Mapping of Soil Organic Carbon Stocks Using a Pragmatic, Rule-Based
Modelling Approach
Justification: Soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks highly depend on landscape-scale factors such as
land use, soil properties, local climate and geology. Hence, landscape features determine whether
soil is a carbon source or sink. Quantifying SOC in landscapes facilitates comprehensive landscape
management. With accurate spatial information on SOC distribution, land use can be adjusted to minimal carbon losses so that sustainable protection of both landscapes and climate can be achieved.
Keywords: Soil Organic Carbon Stocks, Digital S oil Mapping, Statistical Model
Abstract text: On a global scale, soil organic carbon (SOC) is the largest carbon pool and thus plays a
crucial role in the carbon cycle. At the same time, spatial SOC distribution is highly variable, which increases the difficulty of estimating soil carbon pools. This situation creates a need for improving the
information on carbon stocks. Mapping SOC on landscape scale enables us to consider interrelations between SOC and soil properties, land use, and relief. Recent studies on digital soil mapping and
modelling of SOC often focus on topsoil concentrations and stocks. However, subsoil SOC can contribute substantially to the total SOC pool. The present study focuses on quantifying SOC stocks down
to a depth of 120 cm, detecting spatial patterns, and relating them to soil and landscape properties.
Analyzing the saturation deficit of topsoils we investigate the effect of land use on carbon stocks and
SOC sequestration potential. Cropland SOC stocks of a watershed in the young moraine landscape
of Northeast Germany are modelled using data mining based on a rule-based, predictive model. Environmental covariates are derived from remote sensing imagery, digital elevation models, and soil
maps. Data on SOC content, bulk density, and particle size distribution are gathered from more than
150 soil profiles spread across the catchment. In order to model carbon distribution within the soil
profile, depth functions are created using equal area quadratic smoothing splines. Finally, the SOC
saturation deficit is estimated by subtracting the amount of stable SOC from the saturation potential.
Saturation potential is derived through a regression equation of the clay and fine silt particle fraction.
3D maps of SOC distribution are produced as well as a map of topsoil saturation deficit.
45
First name: Akhir
Last name: Pebriansyah
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: The Production of Short Chain Fatty Acids after a Supplementation of Diets with Milk
thistle (Silybum marianum) in In vitro Incubation of HYLA Rabbits Caecal content
Justification: The evaluation of physiology health status if rabbits in order to obtain food safety and
food quality for human consumption
Keywords: feeding, health status, milk thistle, HYLA rabbit, SCFA, VFA production
Abstract text: Short chain fatty acids (SCFA) are extremely necessary during colonic fermentation of
dietary fibre and have been linked to the health status of rabbits. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the supplement ation of diets with milk thistle was physiologically important for health
status of rabbits. 420 HYLA broiler rabbits were used and tested. They were divided into 2 feeding
groups. The control group was fed a complete feeding mixture without an addition of the milk thistle
and the experimental group was fed a feeding mixture with 1 % of fermented milk thistle. The total
SCFA concentration was estimated by titration after steam distillation. The molar profile of volatile
fatty acids (VFA) was estimated by gas chromatography at 140oC using a Chromosorb WAW glass column (2m x 3mm i.d.) with 15% SP 1220 and 1% H3PO4 (Supelco, Bellefonte, PA, USA), as described
by Ottenstein and Bartley. Nitrogen at an inlet pressure of 80 kPa was employed as the carrier gas.
In the caecum of rabbits, acetate was the main SCFA, followed by butyrate and propionate. By using
the T-Test Statistics it was shown that in the experimental group the total molar SCFA percentage
of acetate was the most abundant (81.79%), followed by butyrate (8.96%) and propionate (5.14%).
There were no significant differences (P<0.05) compared with the control group: acetate (80.75%),
butyrate (11.1%), and propionate (5.02%). The significant differences (P<0.05) were only in hexanoic
and heptanoic acids which are not physiologically important to evaluate the health status of rabbits.
We conclude that the formation of VFA in the caecum reflected increased concentrations of fibre in
a diet of broiler rabbits, so the increasing concentrations of milk thistle are needed in order to determine the effect on the health status of rabbits.
46
First name: Camilla
Last name: Ponte
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Oil Palm Smallholders in Indonesia: the role of Local Institutions in the Configuration
of a Private Certification Scheme
Justification: Local rules and institutions moderate the implementation of global standards for
better agricultural practices and a more sustainable use of natural resources. The in-depth study
of the configuration of a voluntary, private certification scheme among small-scale farmers can be
critical in understanding what strategies work under what conditions in transposing rules and responsibilities among local actors for the limitation of environmental problems.
Keywords: Palm Oil, smallholder farmers, sustainability certification scheme, institutions, practices
Abstract text: In the implementation of sustainability measures in agriculture, such as voluntary
private certification schemes, local governance and institutions are of crucial importance. Their role
is often overlooked when discussing the feasibility and scope of private regulations for better use of
resources. This in-depth study explores the dynamics between local institutions and the rules of the
Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil. The Roundtable scheme was implemented for the first time in
2013 among a group of Indonesian independent smallholder farmers: the Amanah Association in
Riau, Sumatra. The research employs technography, an ethnographic study of socio-technical arrangements, as a methodology, giving a detailed account of how the private certification rules and control measures are transposed and adapted to the farmers’ context, professional associations, and
mat erial reality. The RSPO scheme was found to work, for the greatest part, by borrowing on existing
professional groups and their skills. In constituting the association, it was believed that this was the
most efficient setup. At the same time, the new organization entered into conflict with village-level
government and other institutions, with unclear overlapping of responsibilities and power conflicts.
It is discussed whether ‘borrowing’ from local institutions, as it takes place in this case study, is a
feasible configuration mechanism of RSPO rules and regulations for smallholder farmers in the long
term. It is argued that including material and social conditions in the discussion on sustainability
measures and environmental responsibility is critical for understanding what strategies work under
what conditions in transposing rules for better governance in agricultural practices.
47
First name: Alix
Last name: Reichenecker
Abstract title: Waste Separation on a Mediterranean Island – The Case Study of Porquerolles, France
Justification: Waste separation has the potential to reduce the pressure of an ever-growing consumer society on the natural environment. Today there is a shift towards concepts such as circular economy, which defines waste not as a nuisance but as a valuable resource. Waste separation presents
an important step towards reusing as much as possible the waste we produce. This behavioral shift
is however dependent on the psychological disposition of the individual actor and the solid waste
management system in place.
Keywords: Waste separation, practice, island
Abstract text: Sustainable development, the key word of the past years, is characteristic of modern
society, which is defined by ever-rising consumption and simultaneously an increasing consciousness
about the impacts of our lifestyles on the environment. Waste is emblematic of consumer society, as
waste is its immediate and most tangible product. In the past years waste has been reappraised as
a resource. Products that are discarded still hold a great value as many materials can be recycled
and be reintroduced in the production cycle. A prerequisite for recycling is waste separation at source, meaning at the moment of disposal. Waste separation is a practice in that it is a routinised and
reoccurring behavior shared among multiple actors. For the practice of waste separation to function
it depends on two aspects: the solid waste management system in place and the psychological predisposition of the individual actor. Establishing the p ractice of waste separation on touristic islands
is not an easy endeavor. Porquerolles, a French island in the Mediterranean Sea is no exception
to this challenge. Porquerolles faces two major obstacles with respect to waste separation. Firstly,
the pressure of up to 1 million tourists who visit the island every year, inhabited by 300 permanent
residents, is enormous. Secondly, due to the fragmentation of responsibility on a territory which is
no bigger than 21ha between multiple bodies creates a complex solid waste management system.
The current research examines how the practice of waste separation on Porquerolles is shaped by
the psychological predisposition of tourists, residents as well as employees in the hotel business
and gastronomy as well as the solid waste management system governing the island. Interviews with
key stakeholders as well as questionnaires with visitors, residents and employees offered valuable
insights into how waste separation is shaped. The results of the study have the potential to improve
waste separation where it is already in place and introduce it to the actors and places on the island
where the practice is not yet established.
48
First name: Hynek
Last name: Roubik
Academic status: /
Abstract title: How does awareness of the global development issues affect consumers’ decision
making process? Case study on Czech university students
Justification: Nowadays consumers are surrounded by a great amount of products and services.
The consumers can express their socio-moral attitudes and moral values via the purchase of ethical
products. The thesis enquirers about how the awareness of the global development issues affects
consumer behavior among university students. This work is based on quantitative research using
an online questionnaire which involves 382 respondents from five Czech different universities. The
study programs of the students include global development issues. The questionnaire examined the
awareness of the respondents of the global development issues as well as their consumer behavior
related to the purchase of ethical products.
Keywords: Key words: Global Development Education, Ethical Consumption, Certifications, Czech
University Students
Abstract text: Consumers can express their concern about ethical behaviour companies by means of
ethical buying and consumer behaviour. Consumers are today surrounded by a great amount of products and services. Ethical consumerism is a growing phenomenon of our time which is derived from
the ethical attitudes of consumers. There are many factors influencing the purchasing behaviour of
products. The most important factors affecting each consumer are quality and price. However, might
be one of the factors influencing ethical purchase awareness of global development issues? The purpose of this study was to enquire the awareness of the global development issues and how does it
affect consumer behaviour among Czech univer sity students. Study covered 382 students from five
universities and was conducted from January to March 2015 through online survey. Collected data
were categorized, coded and analysed in a statistical program Statistica 10. Our results revealed
weak positive correlation (ρ = 0.185; α = 0.05) between the awareness of the global development
issues and the purchase of ethical products. It is showing on a little effect on purchasing decision
process, however we can still confirm that the global development education and the information
accessibility plays the key role in the consumer behaviour. Study also confirmed quality (53.6 %) and
price (27.7 %) as the most important factors for decision making process of products followed by
origin (19.5 %), availability (19.5 %), ethical certification (8.7 %) and brand (7.6 %). Systematic empirical research of intention-behavioural gap is key for identification of relations between consumer’s
intention and their actual action. This study will be followed by in-depth research.
49
First name: Rui
Last name: Santini
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Oil biodegradation potential by Arctic indigenous seawater microorganisms
Justification: Regardless the ongoing discussions concerning fossil fuels, the long-term demand of
crude oil is expected to reach a growth of 111 million barrels/day in 2040. As consequence, oil spills
likely will continue as one of the main environmental problems, with current estimates pointing out
more than one million tons of crude oil entering the oceans every year. Biodegradation by indigenous
microorganisms is the most important last fate for oil mineralization.
Keywords: biodegradation, oil, hydrocarbon, Arctic< br />Abstract text: Oil exploration along Greenland coast is expected to develop in the near future considering the potential undiscovered oil resources in its offshore, the continuous world demand for petroleum based products and the efforts of
the Government of Greenland to expand private investments in oil sector in the country. Through the
16S rRNA gene sequences of microorganisms dwelling the seawater of the Disko Bay, Greenland,
this study intends to understand: 1) the microbial community changes caused by oil occurrence;
2) the relevant microorganisms associated with specific hydrocarbons degradation, and; 3) oil potential biodegradation. To attain these aims, degraders traps were installed in four areas within the
Disko Bay region, being two areas with recognized oil contamination coming from ships activities
and two coastal areas with relative lower or no hydrocarbons concentrations. Hydrocarbon-degrading
microorganism quantities coming from the degraders trap we re determined using the Most Probable
Number (MPN) method in plates individually amended with nine distinct hydrocarbons as substrates,
after 10 weeks incubation period. DNA extraction and library preparation were performed and microbial communities identified by sequencing of the 16S rRNA. Raw sequencing data was treated using
the open-source bioinformatics pipeline QIIME. The microorganisms coming from the seawater with
oil pre-exposure showed to be more adapted to oil-degradation than the microorganisms collected in
the coastal waters. The present study is part of a larger research within the project termed Kill Spill,
which is co-funded by the European Union within the 7th Framework and has as its main purpose
“…to develop highly efficient, economically and environmentally viable biotechnological solutions
for the clean-up of oil spills caused by maritime transport or offshore oil exploration and related
processes.” Data from this research expects to contribute with a better understand of oil spill fate in
Arctic marine environment.
50
First name: Victoria
Last name: Suvorova
Abstract title: Cost Benefit Analysis of Biofuels in the Czech Republic
Justification: Energy sector has been driven by biofuels in the last several years. Biofuels production
and consumption in the Czech Republic has been growing and general consensus about prevalence
of benefits related to biofules has been established. Yet, full cost of biofuels utilization is not clear. It
is necessary to conduct cost benefit analysis of biofuel utilization to propose adequate policies that
would maximize social welfare in the Czech Republic.
Keywords: Biofuels, Czech Republic, cost benefit analysis, sustainable energy pol icy
Abstract text: The purpose of this research project is to conduct cost benefit analysis of biofuels
utilization in the Czech Republic and critically evaluate respective government policies concerning
biofuels utilization. Firstly, supply and demand curves must be identified. This is done by method of
multiple regression. Econometric model of biofuels demand contains important determinants such
as prices of biodiesel and bioethanol fuel, crude oil prices, legislation requirements, infrastructure
conditions, liquid fuel transport quantity, etc. At the same time, determinants of biofuel supply are
the prices of raw materials (corn, sugar cane, etc.), amounts of subsidies, imports volumes, legislation requirements, amount of agricultural land for biofuels crops, etc. After supply and demand curves
are identified, this allows to calculate consumer and producer surplus which show overall social welfare effect. Furthermore, the study includes analysis of biofuels external cost, such as pressure on
the food prices, negative impacts on land and water, loss of biodiversity, and air pollution. The results
of this research can be used to evaluate and correct government policy in energy sector concerning
renewable energy resources. Additionally, quantitative results may be used to express what should
be the fair price of biofuels which will imply whether and to what extent their utilization will continue.
51
First name: Jiří
Last name: Synek
Academic status:
Session: Supporting endangered species and diversity in nature (How to support endangered species and diversity in nature?)
Abstract title: Importance of Ash trees (Fraxinus excelsior) for saproxylic beetles, with focus on occurence of Eucnemis capucina and its etology
Justification: Thesis is focused on hollow ash trees (Fraxinus excelsior) and their importance for
occurence of saproxylic beetles and their diveristy and is also focused on endangered beetle species
Eucnemis capucina and its etology.
Keywords: Eucnemis capucina, flight activity, stem cavity, sex ratio, passive trunk window trap
Abstract text: The aim of the thesis was to prove importance of Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) trees with
cavities for abundance of saproxylic beetles with f ocus on Eucnemis capucina and its diurnal and
seasonal flight activity, sex ratio and size of individuals. The research was conducted in NNR Vrapač
on Ash trees with open stem cavities. The individuals were collected using passive trunk window traps. Twelve trees were tested during years 2011, 2012 and 2013. The assortments of samples were
done weekly, in 2013 in order to observe diurnal flight activity the assortments of samples were done
every hour. In total, 4071 specimen from 49 families have been collected. Most individuals were
collected on trees with stem perimeter over 300 cm. Four species from family Eucnemidae were
present in the samples, including Eucnemis capucina which was represented by 254 individuals.
This amount includes 113 males and 141 females. The sex ratio was statistically balanced (n=254,
X2=3.09, p=0.08), lower amounts of males were collected on trees with lower stem perimeter. The
diurnal flight activity was from 7 am to 8 pm (max. 1 pm to 5 pm). Seasonal f light activity was from
the end of April to the end of July with peak at the end of May and beginning of June. The size of
collected individuals was from 3.64 to 6.40 mm, mean 5.20 mm (n= 57, σ= 0.65). No statistically
significant difference in size between males and females was found (t-value=-0.01, p=0.99). Based
on the obtained results we can assume that even low numbers of Ash trees can preserve high
abundance and species diversity of not only saproxylic beetles. Based on the amount of collected
individuals of Eucnemis capucina the NNR Vrapač is for this species the most important locality in
Czech Republic and probably in the whole area of its occurrence.
52
First name: Tamás
Last name: Ivan
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Economic evaluation of Visegrad brand
Justification: Because of the European Union and governmental regulations the domestic product is
a guaranteed quality product and the purpose of creation of Visegrad brand is the support of these
domestic products.
Keywords: Visegrad brand, domestic producers, export, import
Abstract text: Due to Globalization the number of multinational companies and supermarkets have
increased in the world as well as in Central Europe. It proved that is very successful and useful step
which facilitates the life of everyday people. The consumers can buy any product what they want at
cheaper price th an ever. The companies and services would do anything to satisfy and keep their
consumers. It is clear that the beneficial owner of this situation are the consumers. Unfortunately as
everything, this situation has also a negative side. The decreasing number of domestic goods and
producers is one of the negative consequences. The main goal of the paper is to explain why the
creation of Visegrad brand is a necessary step in V4 alliance. Furthermore it shows how the brand
would help to domestic producers and what impacts would it have. To get a real picture and useful
result firstly is necessary to explain what the main domestic products in V4 countries are, concretize
the exports and imports of these countries, looks at who are the main export and import partners
of V4 countries, analyze how functioning and operating the domestic brands of these countries and
how is their structure look like. Finally determines the deficiencies of the above mentioned areas.
Necessary part of this research is also construction and processing of questionnaire where both
consumers and producers are surveyed in order to better understand significance of this branding
strategy. With the help of the results of the above mentioned areas the paper shows a complete
operational structure of the brand and justify why the creation of Visegrad brand is important and
necessary in V4 alliance.
53
First name: Julia
Last name: Tanzer
Academic status: /
future?)
Abstract title: Improving Filter Soil with Aluminium Oxide Coated Sand (ALCOsand) for Road Runoff
Treatment ─ The Performance of Retaining Dissolved Organic Carbon and Heavy Metals in Different
Filter Soil: ALCOsand Ratios
Justification: Urban areas have to be protected against floods due to more sealed surfaces and
strong rain events resulting from climate change. Furthermore, groundwater and surface waters
have to be protected from pollutants contained in road runoff and overflow from conventional sewer
systems. Improved filter soils for sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) show high potential to
tackle both of these needs.
Keywords: Sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS), filter soil, aluminium oxides, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), heavy metals
Abstract text: Both the projected increase in the frequency of heavy rainfall events due to climate
change and the trend towards more and more sealed surfaces constrains the capacity of conventional sewer systems, especially in urban environments. This is because runoff from roads and other
impervious surfaces generated during storm events is commonly conducted out of the city via the
sewer system. Disconnecting roads from the sewer system and infiltrating runoff through filter soils
within sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS) is gaining importance as an alternative approach
for road runoff management. Not only does this approach manage the water volume, it also involves
treatment of the often highly polluted runoff, because pollutants are retained and degraded in the
filter soil. However, recently, concerns about leakage o f heavy metals and phosphorus from filter
soils associated with internal remobilization of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) that forms complexes
with heavy metals have been raised. Aluminium oxides show favourable properties regarding DOC
sorption. Therefore they constitute a promising amendment to filter soils in order to increase pollutant retention. In a previous study, quartz sand was successfully coated with aluminium oxides.
The present project investigates the performance of filter soils containing aluminium oxide coated
sand (ALCOsand) in ratios of 0, 3, 8 and 15%. In a column experiment, these different variants are
irrigated with a synthetic stormwater solution and their retention performance regarding heavy metals, DOC and phosphorus is tested. Furthermore, flow conditions in the columns, particle leakage
and potential destabilisation of the coating resulting in aluminium leakage are analysed. First results
show a high leakage of both organic matter and DOC in the columns not containing ALCOsand and
thus confirm the findings of previous studies. As the experiment is currently running, further results
cannot be presented yet. They are expected in mid-July 2015.
54
First name: Juultje
Last name: van der Loo
Session: Novelties in animal sciences or plant sciences (What are the novelties in animal or plant
sciences?)
Abstract title: Could non-host density affect parasitoid foraging efficiency?
Justification: As biological control is an important aspect of current agricultural systems, fundamental research on the species used as biocontrol agents could cause break-throughs in pest control
and management.
Keywords: parasitoid wasps, foraging efficiency, non-hosts
Abstract text: The foraging efficiency of parasitoid wasps can be affected by many factors, for example abiotic conditions like temperature or light intensity; or host or host plant aspects and their interactions. Also, the species, diversity and density of non-host species ca n affect parasitoid foraging
efficiency. Research has been done on the effect of the density of hosts on the foraging efficiency
of parasitoid wasps. This research will however focus on the effect of different densities of non-host
species on parasitoid foraging efficiency, as non-hosts might interfere with host and host-plant location of parasitoid wasps. I examined the effects of low and high densities of the non-host herbivores
Mamestra brassicae, Spodoptera exigua, Autographa gamma, and Plutella xylostella on the host
location behaviour of the parasitoid Cotesia glomerata. In wind tunnel experiments, the preference
of C. glomerata for plants induced by the host, the non-host or by a mixture of both was tested.
Brassica oleracea plants infested by only the host species Pieris brassicae were preferred by the parasitoid, followed by plants infested by a low density and a high density of non-hosts, respectively. In
a flight chamber experiment, the host searching behaviour of parasitoids in a patch were examined
when the herbivore species composition in a patch was manipulated. No differences in host searching, host location and oviposition were found in the flight chamber experiment, when only hosts,
or both the host and a low density or a high density of non-host M. brassicae were present on the
plant. A tent experiment under semi-field conditions also showed no influence of non-host density on
overall parasitoid foraging behaviour. Therefore, even though host-plant location might be reduced
by a high density of non-hosts, this might be corrected for during host location, the second phase of
parasitoid foraging behaviour. These combined studies show that the first phase in foraging might
not be as important in the total parasitoid foraging efficiency.
55
First name: Xanthe
Last name: van Dierendonck
security?
Abstract title: How the interaction between the immune cells and adipose tissue might be a cause
for the increased prevalence of diabetes in obesity
Justification: The importance of food quality and safety is often associated with acute health-related
problems. However, food has a significant long-term impact on human health. The prevalence of obesity and diabetes increase, while it is hard to create a change in the diets that induce these diseases.
This abstract focuses on the molecular role of nutrients (fatty acids) in the induction of diabetes in
obesity through immune cell reactions
Keywords: Diabetes, Nutrition, Cell metaboli sm, Immune cells
Abstract text: While food security is still a problem in several countries, the prevalence of obesity and diabetes is still increasing worldwide. Food quality and safety are often deemed important
regarding their effects on acute health-related problems. However, food consumption can have a
significant and detrimental long-term effect on human health. This is often disregarded on the individual level, since the exact mechanisms of these effects are mostly still unknown. This holds also
true for the link between diet-induced obesity and increased risk on diabetes type II. It is known that
overconsumption of foods leads to obesity, which has tremendous effects on overall health. For years
already, obesity has been linked to a state of low-grade chronic inflammation, which might be responsible for many of these effects. The increased insulin resistance seen in obese subjects was linked
to this obesity-induced inflammation, which included an upregulation of pro-inflammatory genes and
an accumulation of certain immune cells (macrophages) in the adipose tissue. These macrophages
are thought to be responsible for the chronic inflammation and thus for the induction of insulin
resistance and subsequently diabetes type II. However, it is still unknown which interactions with
the adipose tissue can lead to the pro-inflammatory phenotype that these immune cells show. This
research focuses on the molecular effect of dietary fatty acids on the interaction between adipose
tissue and macrophages. If differences are found between saturated and unsaturated fat ty acids in
the induction of an inflammatory phenotype, this might reveal more of the mechanisms that underlie
the effect of diet on human health.
56
First name: Renee
Last name: van Dongen
future?)
Abstract title: A modelling study on soil redistribution and gully head retreat to analyse the effect of
climate change and land management. A case study in the Awach-Kano catchment, Kenya.
Justification: In this thesis, the importance of erosion prevention in the near future and the suitability of different erosion prevention measures were analysed.
Keywords: Erosion prevention, land degradation, gully erosion, landscape evolution model.
Abstract text: The Awach-Kano catchment (657 km2) is located in West-Kenya and drains into Lake
Victoria. This catchment encounters problems with land degradation, deep gullies (2-10m) are incis
ed in the landscape which are a serious threat to the local people. This study aims to evaluate the
effect of land management practices on erosion and to predict erosion and gully head retreat under
changing climatic conditions. The dimension of the erosion in the study area was estimated by field
observations, erosion feature measurements and interviews. A modelling study on soil redistribution and gully head retreat is carried out with the Landscape Evolution Model LAPSUS. After model
calibration and a sensitivity analysis, several scenarios on climate change and land management
were analysed. The results showed that in an average year 9.91 ton/ha erosion takes place in the
total catchment, with the highest erosion rates at the mid-altitudes where the gullies start incising.
Climate scenarios for 2020, 2050 and an extreme year showed increases of respectively 3%, 6%
and 14% in total erosion, the gully head retreat increased with rates ranging from 15% to 49% for
future scenarios. These results indicate that with a future perspective, protection of the landscape
against erosion becomes more important. Analysis of current erosion prevention measures resulted
in insufficient capacity to deal with the current and expected erosion. The management practice to
improve upstream vegetation decreased the total erosion with 4% and planting of dense shrubs
around the gully decreased gully head retreat with 67%. These kind of modelling studies are of major
importance for the implementation and adaptation of management practices, because it spatially
estimates the impact of soil erosion as well as on- and off-site effects of mitigation strategies.
57
First name: Paweł
Last name: Wieczorek
Abstract title: Assessment of changes in size of ecosystem services after revitalization process on
the North Polder of the Warta Mouth National Park
Justification: Revitalization project in Warta Mouth National Park proves that we can gain big economic and ecological benefits if we manage natural resources in appropriate way.
Keywords: ecosystem services, revitalization, wetland restoration
Abstract text: Wetlands are among the most endangered ecosystems on a global scale. Formerly
they were considered as areas having low economic utility and were degraded as a result of their
drainage. Nowa days, there is widespread recognition that wetlands provide many valuable ecosystem services. But the valuation of this services is a relatively new phenomenon. Nevertheless, it is
necessary to implement the economic valuation of wetland functions, because it can enhance the
efficiency of their conservation. Analyses that focus on assessing changes in ecosystem services as
a result of the restoration works are very rare. Such attempt has been taken, therefore, in this study,
assessing the volume and value of ecosystem services after the revitalization works on the North
Polder area in the Warta Estuary National Park. The main objective of the revitalization project is
improvement of water conditions for birds associated with wetland areas. Ultimately, the project will
lead to the restoration occurring in the North Polder valuable meadow-marshy habitats. Assessment
of possible profits, with which revitalization project is associated, was undertaken in this thesis.
CO2 emissions, water purification service, hay harvesting and agri-environmental payments, as well
as flood control function of the analyzed area (not directly related to restoration works) were taken
into account. The analysis indicated that flood protection service is definitely the most valuable on
the North Polder. Among the benefits directly related to revitalization project, the most important is
reduction of CO2 emissions due to re-wetting occurring there organic soil. In general, taking into account only these ecosystem services, the costs of revitalization works, estimated at more than EUR
4 million, should be reimbursed within over a dozen years. Remembering also about the benefits
for rare species of birds occurring there, it should be noted that the ongoing works have profound
ecological and economic justification.
58
First name: Małgorzata
Last name: Wiewióra
Abstract title: Occurrence of the European green toad (Bufo viridis) in Warsaw.
Justification: This work shows how big cities can provide suitable sites for protected species to live
and breed. We should not ignore a possibility of creating or taking care of habitats and biodiveristy
even in densely built-up and populated urban areas.
Keywords: Bufo viridis , European green toad, urban habitat, breeding activity, amphibian
Abstract text: Urbanization is a phenomenon that is rapidly causing serious loss of valuable habitats
of numerous amphibian species. This leads to a drastic restriction of sites required for breeding and
tadpole growth, population fragmentation and degradation of environmental quality. These factors
pose a considerable threat to the existence of many species. However, it turns out that some amphibians may successfully breed and survive in densely built up urban areas. The example in this work is
the European green toad (Bufo viridis), a medium size amphibian naturally found in mainland Europe
and Egypt. The aim of the study was to characterize breeding populations of Bufo viridis in Warsaw
(Poland) and analyze their reproductive activity. The observations were carried out in the spring of
2015. During the research we managed to localize and describe three separated populations of
Bufo viridis successfully reproducing in small ponds in city parks or small green squares of Warsaw.
The length, weight and sex of every captured individual was noted. The size of the populations was
estimated. During the observations we noticed pairs in amplexus, calling males, strands of eggs,
developing tadpoles and the presence of another amphibian species – common newt Lissotriton
vulgaris living at the sites where toads bred. This study led to a significant conclusion. Even such a
highly urbanized and populated city as Warsaw can provide an appropriate environment for protected
amphibian species, where they can live and successfully bring out offspring. Taking into account
the continuous loss of habitats caused by expanding human civilization, it is essential to take care
of, maintain or create water ponds in city parks since they are crucial for the active conservation of
certain species.
59
First name: Karolina
Last name: Wronczewska
security?
Abstract title: An intelligent packing food through the Europe
Justification: An intelligent packing has a great impact on the security and safety of food chain. The
intelligent packing materials and sensors could possibly improve the safety of food and it shelf-life.
Keywords: intelligent packing, food packaging, safety
Abstract text: Nowadays the consumers pay more and more attention to food quality and environment. People are no longer satisfied with just the regular products, they are searching for not only
tasty, but also convenient and healthy products. All over the world, food companies try to meet consumer demands by enlarging amount and diversity of their products. One way of increasing the quality
of products is development of packing. The functions of packages have evolved through the ages.
Firstly it had to protect food from contaminations, but nowadays it changed. Recently, packages are
meant to inform, protect, advertise and enhance the food quality by many different actions. The informing function of packaging is not only telling what does the product contain but also the storing conditions e.g. temperature or humidity. The conditions in which food was stored are extremely crucial,
because of the possibility of microbiological contaminations and the taste, smell and food structure.
The aim of that research was to analyze the diversity of product packed into intelligent packaging
in several different European countries in cities and compare the number of them with traditional
ones. That research would encourage the local industry to invest in intelligent packaging and will be
an information base on existing intelligent packaging for food. Moreover intelligent systems in food
packing would enable to create a luxurious and extraordinary products for demanding customers.
60
First name: Jane
Last name: Wu
Abstract title: Northern Sudanese Pastoralism and the Impact of Drought: Evidence from Climatic
Models Indicating Decreasing Rainfall and Rising Temperatures
Justification: The research described in this abstract shows the link between decreasing water
availability in the Sahel and northern Sudanese social and cultural changes. As water availability
decreases, governments, companies, and institutions have the ability to respond with innovations
which can lead to broad shifts in ways of life for those who depend on water. This is especially true of
Sudan, which is greatly sustained by pastoralism and agriculturalism for surviv al.
Keywords: Sudan, water, climate change, pastoralism, agriculturalism
Abstract text: This paper reviews and makes critical observations about the predicted impacts of
climate change on pastoralism in the Sahel region of the Republic of Sudan using the Hawawir
people in northern Kurdufan as a reference group. Increasing temperatures and unpredictable rain
patterns will likely result in lower amounts of available water in the Sudan over the next few decades,
further increasing water stress in a country that already suffered greatly under conflict partially over
resource issues. Most economic and resource models predict that increased water stress will result
in a shift from agriculturalism in Sudan to more pastoralist ways of life. However, these models do
not take into account the impact of government-based land allocation, irrigation and technological
schemes, or the fact that rains may not make it to the Sahel at all or only very little. In fact, most of
the remedies to water resource usage and withdrawal hinge on resolutions that benefit agriculturalists rather than pastoralists, leading to the conclusion that for at least some groups like the Hawawir
in Sudan, climate change may signal instead an increased shift to agriculturalist ways of life rather
than the other way around.
61
ELLS STUDENT SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE; 13.11 - 14.11.2015,
OVERVIEW POSTER RESENTATIONS
Nr.
Name
Family name
University
Poster Session
Nr.
Name
Family name
University
Poster Session
A1
Antoni
Adamski
WULS-SGGW
Environmental aspects
B1
Maria Camila
Acero
BOKU
Food and agricultural sciences
A2
Rens
de Boer
WUR
B2
Titis
Apdini
WUR
A3
Edna
Gober
BOKU
B3
Denisa
Binderová
CULS
A4
Gregor
HAAS
BOKU
B4
Ali
Elhakeem
WUR
A5
Sergey
Makaryan
UHOH
B5
Hanna
Frick
SCIENCE
A6
Christina
Mallin
WUR
B6
Thalahitiya Vithanage
SLU
A7
Kacper
Marzecki
WULS-SGGW
Hasitha
Priyashantha
A8
Georg
Mich
BOKU
B7
Caroline Amalie
Holbek
SCIENCE
A9
Veronika
Neidel
BOKU
B8
Inga-maria
Kohler
UHOH
B9
Magdalena
Kracmarova
CULS
B10
Franziska
Krause
UHOH
B11
Marion
Mack
UHOH
B12
Julian
Mr Kofler
UHOH
B13
Md Mizanur
Rahman
UHOH
B14
Marek
Skrobisz
WULS-SGGW
B15
Olga
Witkowska
WULS-SGGW
B16
Katrin
Karner
BOKU
B17
Philippe
Belliard
WUR
B18
Sonja
Zimmermann
UHOH
B19
Oluwafemi
Ajayi
UHOH
B20
Vera
Baumert
BOKU
B21
Severin
Mr Hübner
UHOH
B22
Barbara
Becede
BOKU
A10
A11
Marie Theres
Jelske
Pfeiffer
de Kraker
BOKU
WUR
A12
Luke
Schafer
SCIENCE
A13
Jamie
Smidt
UHOH
A14
A15
A16
Iza
Maciej
Julia
Wadowska
Wójcik
Tanzer
WULS
WULS-SGGW
BOKU
A17
Florian
Ellsässer
BOKU
A18
Joanna
Madurska
WULS
A19
A20
62
Maxmilian
Martin
Breiner
Trčka
BOKU
CULS
63
Nr.
Name
Family name
University
Poster Session
C1
Pauline
BALA
SCIENCE
socioeconomics
C2
Lukas
Boersen
BOKU
socioeconomics
C3
Lenka
Cerninova
CULS
socioeconomics
C4
Dagmar
Holley
BOKU
socioeconomics
C5
Pacifique
INGABIRE
CULS
socioeconomics
C6
Elena
Ms Diago Blay
SCIENCE
socioeconomics
C7
Celestine
Muli
UHOH
socioeconomics
C8
Thomas
Nigl
BOKU
socioeconomics
C9
Nelson Owusu
Ntiamoah
WUR
socioeconomics
C10
Thu Trang
Pham
CULS
socioeconomics
C11
Marcel
Podstolski
LINCOLN
socioeconomics
C12
Magdalena
Rogosz
WULS
socioeconomics
C13
Alberto Serra
Serra
WUR
socioeconomics
C14
Emmanuel Kofi
Zinsu
UHOH
socioeconomics
C15
Andreas
Niedermayr
BOKU
socioeconomics
C16
Alexandra
Ms Fuss
UHOH
socioeconomics
C17
Evert
Los
WUR
socioeconomics
C18
Kanoatkhon
Umurzokova
WUR
socioeconomics
C19
Schirin
Oeding
UHOH
socioeconomics
C20
Theresa
Fuchs
BOKU
socioeconomics
C21
Marketa
Grunova
CULS
socioeconomics
64
Nr.
Name
Family name
University
Poster Session
D1
Gantert
Thomas
UHOH
UHOH MSc award winner
D2
Elena
Krimmer
UHOH
D3
Pataczek
Lisa
UHOH
POSTER PRESENTATION
First name: Maria Camila
Last name: Acero
security?
Abstract title: Assessing microbiological water quality in water cycles in buildings
Justification: The abstract fits the chosen sub-theme, because water is one of the most important, if
not the most important, component in the food chain that supports human life. Its safe distribution
to the consumers is a key element to avoid any risks concerning human health. The new available
methods, like flow cytometry, provide tools to monitor and ensure drinking water quality at the point
of consumption.
Keywords: Flow cytometry, water quality, point of consumption.
Abstract text: Assessing microbiological water quality in water cycles in buildings María Camila Acero, Marija Zunabovic, Ernest Mayr Institute of Sanitary Engineering University of Natural Resources
and Life Sciences, Vienna Drinking water must not embody any risk for human health. Therefore,
chemical and microbiological water quality of drinking water must be a concern to consumers, water suppliers, and public health authorities (WHO, 2011). Water safety planning and management
actions for water supply from water resource to distribution, are tasks of the drinking water supplier.
However, the last few meters from the water meter within the building, if inadequately managed,
are a determining factor of whether there is hygienically drinking water available for the consumers.
Water distribution systems of buildings; provide microorganisms and biofilms with good conditions
for their growth and formation. Since, microbiological water quality vary very fast, the development
of water quality methods to monitor microbial growth at the point of consumption, has become a
necessity. In recent years, Flow cytometry (FCM) has proved to be a rapid and straightforward method
to quantify microbial concentrations in water, providing a wide range of information at the single-cell
level including total cell counts, size measurements, and nucleic acid content (Hammes et al., 2010).
Here we present the application of FCM as a new and innovative method to measure microbial drinking water quality at sensitive points in a university building. The total cell count analysis shows significant changes in microbial concentration after overnight stagnation and through the day, exposing
that a small flush before using a tap can be a suitable mitigation strategy. No correlation with heavy
metal concentration is observed. Likewise, household water meters infected with pseudomonas aeruginosa and biofilm from different steps of a drinking water treatment plant are analyzed with FCM,
demonstrating the application range of this method. References Frederik Hammes and Thomas.
Egli. Cytometric methods for measuring bacteria in water: advantages, pitfalls and applications. Anal
Bioanal Chem, 397:1083–1095, 2010. World Health Organization. Water safety in buildings. World
Health Organization, March 2011.
65
First name: Antoni
Last name: Adamski
Academic status: /
Abstract title: The potency of fish as model vertebrate for water environment toxicological monitoring.
Justification: The toxicological condition of water has been an important issue for ecotoxicologists all
over the world. It is well known, that the toxicity of water affect on diversity of species through bioaccumulation of chemicals in every species of the food chain. Therefore, it is crucial to develop technics
of testing water purity in controled condition, such as Fish Embryo Toxicity test using zebrafish and
the medaka as model species of vertebrates.
Keywords: zebrafish, medaka, ecotoxicology, FET
Abstract text: The enhanced industrialization in developing countries combined with unsustainable
expansion of natural resources consumption, forms a great threat of pollute local freshwater reservioirs. Despite environmental regulations, many of them are already contaminated with chemical
and biohazard waste witch reflects on the condition of fresh water ecosytem. Biomonitoring water
environment using zebrafish (Danio rerio) or medaka (Oryzias latipes) as model species for toxicological and FET( Fish Embryo Toxicity) tests is an efficient way to estimate water toxicity due to it’s
affordable costs, high accuracy of the test results and validated breeding of the fish. Both medaka
and zebrafish are well known model species for many kinds of reasearch. Their complete genom
has been established, witch allows performing complex genetic studies of the fish, such as relative
quantification of gene expres sion performed on genes correled with oxydative stress, inflammation
and detoxification. Furthermore, zebrafish and medaka are used for drug-related tests and pharmacotoxicology. The embryonic development is well described, witch provides necessary information
for malformation and embryo toxicity studies. The transparency of larvae facilitates observation of
pathomorphology changes and internal organs development. This analysis demonstrates the practical application of zebrafish and medaka as a model vertebrate in toxicological research.
66
First name: Oluwafemi
Last name: Ajayi
security?
Abstract title: Production and sensory properties of extruded meat analogue from bambara
groundnut protein isolate
Justification: Poor and low income households in Africa cannot purchase meat to complement their
diets due to high meat cost leading to malnutrition and hidden hunger. Also, high cholesterol content
of animal proteins has been implicated as a contributing factor to coronary heart diseases. Cheap,
protein rich and cholesterol free meat analogue from plant source can be used to solve this problem
of food quality, safety and security.
Keywords: Meat, Protein isolate, Extrusion, Bambara groundnut
Abstract text: Meat Analogue is the major type of texturized plant protein which extensively imitates meat product. It is considered to be healthy food which contains high protein and fibre. Protein
composition of foods is of great importance for growth and maintenance of body tissues. The lack of
protein results into protein energy malnutrition and hidden hunger in certain cases. However, most
of African staple foods are carbohydrate based that are often complemented by protein from animal
source. The price of meat products is increasingly rising thereby making the product to be beyond the
reach of poor and low income people in the developing countries who cannot afford the high price.
Also, due to high cholesterol content of animal proteins which has been implicated as a contributing
factor to coronary heart diseases, an alternative has been consistently sought after in plant protein
foods to solve the increasing problem of food quality, safety and security in this affected region. In
recent years, the need f or less expensive proteins and the growing demand for alternatives to meat
have increased interest in the potential of legume by-products as a source of edible vegetable proteins. In this study, protein isolate from bambara groundnut flour was processed to yield meat-like
product as a cholesterol-free vegetarian alternatives to many of the traditional meat-based food products through extrusion cooking to texture bambara proteins into fibrous substitutes at varying screw
speed (100, 120 and 140 rpm) and barrel temperature (85, 90 and 95°C) of the extruder. Statistical
analysis using Response Surface Methodology (RSM) based on Central Composite design was used
to optimize process variables. Thirteen combinations including five replicates of the central points
were performed in random order for the independent variables. The extrudate at 100 rpm screw
speed and 85°C barrel temperature was of the most acceptable sensory qualities.
67
First name: Titis
Last name: Apdini
Abstract title: Utilization of Indigofera sp. Pellet for Etawah Crossbred and Saanen Does in Bangun
Karso Farm, Bogor, Indonesia.
Justification: Competition among food, feed, and fuel require new exploration for sustainable ingredient for animal feed. Potential legume that contains high protein is Indigofera sp. However, the
utilization of this plant has not well developed. This paper is one of description about Indigofera sp.
as potential feed for dairy goat that supply milk demand in Indonesia.
Keywords: Indigofera, dairy goat, milk production
Abstract text: Competition among food, fuel, and feed t rigger exploration of plants for animal diet
instead of crops. Potential legume as protein source for animal is Indigofera sp. Dairy goat farm is
growing business to support milk demand in Indonesia. One of main factor to increase goat milk
production is nutrition. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of Indigofera sp. Pellet
in diet of dairy goat toward feed consumption, dry matter digestibility, and milk production of Etawah
Crossbred and Saanen does. There were 7 does consist of 3 Etawah Crossbred does (2nd lactating
period) and 4 Saanen does (3rd lactating period) which were treated by 2 types of ration: P0 (60% of
field grass & 40% of concentrate) and P1 (60% of field grass & 40% of Indigofera sp. pellet). The data
that had been collected were analyzed descriptively. Result showed that dry matter consumption was
higher that 4% of body weight, whereas protein intake of P1 was higher than P0. Based on AIA (Acid
Insoluble Ash) Method, dry matter digestibility of P1 w as higher than P0. Milk production was higher
in both of Etawah Crossbred and Saanen does which were fed by P1. The utilization of Indigofera sp.
pellet was more efficient to be converted into milk nutrients. It was described from the ratio between
nutrient of feed and nutrient of the milk. Thus Indigofera sp. Pellet could improve the quality of ration
for both Etawah Crossbred and Saanen dairy goats.
68
First name: Pauline
Last name: Bala
appropriate?)
Abstract title: The role of Local knowledge on Community Forest Management.
Justification: The study contributes in assessing Participatory forest management because its has
been formulated on the principles of democracy where participation by locals is encouraged. Assessing the potential of local knowledge informs policy makers on the contribution that locals can
make of forest management and thus reducing cost of and promoting their participation in terms of
their knowledge and decision making. This further enhances their management rights and give them
a sense of belonging and thus increased conservation outcome as well as their livelihood.
Keywords: Community forestry, local knowledge, participatory forest management, biophysical outcome, forest related
Abstract text: The contribution of local knowledge is slowly gaining recognition in Community forestry. This is exemplified in Nepal where the potential of local knowledge over technical knowledge has
proven adequate to inform community forest management. Forest user groups in Nepal have proven
to be well acquainted to their environmental history, ecological theories behind forest regeneration
and so consciously adopt adaptive management practices without blindly following the technical management plans. However, technical plans and knowledge still predominate community forestry in
other countries due to government’s reluctance to transfer full management authorities to community
forest managers. Understanding the level of local’s forest-related knowledge in such communities is
essential to inform policy makers just how much such regul ar knowledge can contribute to management of Community forest. This study explores the role of local knowledge on community forest management in Tanzanian where community forestry and monitoring was initiated by government policy.
Research questions include: What is the level of community’s forest-related knowledge? To what extent does the locals use their regular knowledge in forest management over professional knowledge;
and what are the biophysical outcomes of the prevailing management? A mixed method approach
was applied .Focus group discussions, participatory observation, document reviews and semi structured interviews with the Key informants were used to elicit data for the first two questions. Forest
inventory data were used to determine the current forest condition-the outcome. Preliminary findings
show that local community forest managers are well knowledgeable about forest species composition
ecological and physiological theories behind forest regeneration, tree sp ecies distribution pattern
and how disturbance and affects forest regeneration. Consequently their knowledge inform their harvesting methods, seasons for wood harvesting, regulation of harvesting as well as conservation of
rare species. They seem to be reliant on professional advice on allocation of annual allowable cut and
other technical planning with knowledge only flowing from one direction from the central government
office. Some of their adaptive management decisions are not officially incorporated into management
plans All the same, the positive outcomes have been observed in terms of forest recovery but better
results can be realized if their local knowledge is fully integrated in management.
69
First name: Vera
Last name: Baumert
Abstract title: Effects of long-term nitrogen deposition on the chemical composition of different soil
organic matter fractions of two temperate forest soils
Justification: Soils are an important natural resource and fulfill highly important ecosystem services,
amongst them their function as carbon sinks. Literature reveals that nitrogen deposition can potentially enhance the carbon sequestration in forest soils. On the other hand, forests are also a natural
resource and are threatened by various negative effects of nitrogen deposition. In the management
of forest ecosystems, this discrepancy is an important fac t to be considered.
Keywords: soil organic matter, forest soils, nitrogen deposition, carbon sequestration
Abstract text: Nitrogen (N) deposition due to anthropogenic activities has several well-known negative effects on the environment, amongst them eutrophication, acidification and loss of biodiversity.
However, it may simultaneously have a positive effect by increasing net carbon (C) sequestration
in boreal and temperate forest soils. N addition to forest ecosystems has shown to stimulate net
primary production, alter litter quality, cause shifts in microbial communities and enzyme activities
and impede organic matter decomposition. These factors may cause altered soil organic matter
(SOM) chemistry and increased long-term soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration. In this study, we
investigate the effects of long-term N deposition (~ 20 yrs) on SOM quality in two temperate Norway
spruce forest sites. The sites located in Denmark (Podzol) and Switzerland (Umbric Gleysol) have regularly received NH4NO3 in amounts of 35 kg N ha-1 yr-1 (since 1992) and 30 kg N ha-1 yr-1 (since
1995), respectively. Soil samples were taken from two organic and 2-4 mineral horizons. Mineral soil
samples are separated by a combined density and particle size fractionation into three fractions that
correspond to functional SOC pools of increasing stability: I) light fraction (> 63 µm, < 1.6 g cm-3), II)
coarse heavy fraction (2 mm - 63 µm), and III) fine heavy fraction (< 63 µm). The individual fractions
are analyzed by mid infrared spectroscopy (MIRS) and pyrolysis-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (PyGC/MS) to identify the distribution of SOM functional groups and different compound classes, respectively. The most significant changes upon increased N deposition are expected in the
light fraction, which is the unprotected and most labile SOC pool. Furthermore, we expect an increase
of N containing SOM compounds and preferential decomposition of easily degradable compounds
but enrichment of more recalcitrant ones. Analyzing different SOM fractions may uncover mechanisms affecting soil C dynamics caused by elevated N input.
70
First name: Barbara
Last name: Becede
security?
Abstract title: Influence of feed additives on antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the poultry food chain
Justification: Due to misuse of antibiotics in animal husbandry resistances are augmenting worldwide. The invention of new substances, inhibiting especially the growth of resistant microorganism,
has to be initiated.
Keywords: feed additive – resistances – E.coli - poultry
Abstract text: Antibiotics, the most important therapeutic discovery in medical history, have revolutionized the way of treating patients; humans as well as animals. However, the misuse and overuse
of antibiotics favored the emergence and selection of resistant strains. Because of the relationship
between food and feed chain, a new goal for researchers is the development of new substances inhibiting the growth of resistant bacteria. One of the most explored microorganisms is Escherichia coli,
which is also an indicator for the appearance of antibiotic-resistances. The aim of this work was to
characterize different antimicrobial-resistances in E. coli isolated from three groups of poultry. Those
three cohorts consisted of one being additionally fed with an antibiotic, one without any supplement
and the last one received a feed additive which was investigated for the reduction of resistant E.coli
in the poultry’s’ intestine within this study. Microbial growth analyzes were carried out using the
Bioscreen-C system to monitor the growth performance of selected E. coli isolates. Subsequently the
results of the resistant and susceptible isolates were compared. Furthermore, the microbiological
experimental design was enlarged by testing the growth performance of the isolates in the presence
of the feed additive. The molecular biological part of this work was the detection of various antimicrobial-resistance genes for distinguishing between resistant and susceptible strains. Therefore
16 primer pairs have been chosen out of previous studies to detect those genes by polymerase chain
reaction (PCR). The PCR results coincide with those detected by a phenotypical method. A reduction
of antimicrobial-resistant E.coli has been observed in the poultry-group additionally fed with the feed
additive. Nevertheless, no significant difference between the growth of resistant and susceptible
isolates could be detected using the Bioscreen-C system. The reason for this may be the failure to
replicate the conditions in the poultry’s intestine.
71
First name: Philippe
Last name: Belliard
security?
Abstract title: Mulching for Soil Restoration and Productivity Gains in Small-Scale Production Systems of Burkina Faso
Justification: The advancing threat of soil degradation and desertification undermines crop productivity, jeopardizing food security, in particular in the developing world. Using native woody shrubs as
a natural resource for organic soil amendments can be an effective strategy to increase soil quality
and crop yield, contributing to counter soil degradation and enhance food security.
Keywords: soil restoration, productivity, mulching
Abstract text: Soil degradation undermines crop productivity and is widespread in Burkina Faso.
Using the native woody shrub Piliostigma reticulatum as in-situ mulch can effectively enhance soil
quality and yield. This on-farm study evaluated the effect of 0 (M0), 100% (M1) or 200% (M2) application of average standing biomass of Piliostigma present in farmers’ fields on sorghum and cowpea
yield. Plant height and leaf number for sorghum starting 32 days after sowing (DAS) were measured.
Sorghum grain and straw yield, thousand grain weight (TGW) and harvest index (HI) were determined
while for cowpea grain yield and TGW was assessed. Plant height significantly increased for M2
compared to M1 and M0 at all sampling dates (P<0.005), while M1 outperformed M0 at 32, 46
and 88 DAS (P<0.05). Average leaf number per plant for M2 was consistently greater than M1 and
M0 (P<0.005) and greater in M1 compared to M0 at 32 and 46DAS (P<0.05). Sorghum grain yield
was significantly higher for M2 than M1 and M0 by 33 and 49%, and for M1 compared to M0 by
12% (P<0.05). Sorg hum straw yield and HI values were similar accross treatments. Cowpea grain
yield increased with mulching rate, with M2 and M1 showing an 86% vs 23% increase relative to M0
(P<0,05). There was no consistent and/or significant benefit of mulching on TGW for either crop. In
terms of using non-destructive plant measurements as predictors of sorghum yield, plant height and
plant stem diameter accounted for 66 vs 59% of the observed variability in yield. We conclude that
single non-destructive measurements may not suffice to accurately predict sorghum yield. Results
show that use of Piliostigma as an in-situ grown surface mulch can improve crop growth and increase yield, however further research is required to evaluate long-term effects on soil quality and crop
productivity.
72
First name: Denisa
Last name: Binderová
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Effect of in vitro digestion of Hibiscus sabdariffa tea on the aluminium levels
Justification: Dried parts of Hibiscus sabdariffa are worldwide consumed in form of tea. This plant
species is able to accumulate soil aluminium. Aluminium is for human organism neurotoxic and
nowadays is also connected with probability of Alzheimer disease occurrence. Characterisation of
aluminium concentration levels and changes after Hibiscus sabdariffa tea digestion could enhance
food quality, safety and security thanks to better understanding of this tea role in daily aluminium
intake.
Keywords: in vitro digestion, aluminium, Hibiscus sabdariffa
Abstract text: Dried parts of Hibiscus sabdariffa are mainly used for preparation of herbal and
fruit tea. This plant also belongs to the species which accumulates soil aluminium. Excessive intake
of aluminium is toxic for human organism. The level of absorption of this element depends on its
form in which is presented in the food matrix and so on physical-chemical properties of food and its
behaviour in human gastrointestinal tract. This work was focused on characterisation of aluminium
content changes after Hibiscus sabdariffa tea preparation and its digestion. As a material were
used 3 different types of Hibiscus sabdariffa herbal tea. For their digestion was used current static
in vitro gastrointestinal model Infogest Working Group (Dropbox, Inc.). Aluminium concentration in
samples of dried Hibiscus sabdariffa matrix, tea and tea digestate was determined by ICP-OES. It was
observed that from dried Hibiscus sabdariffa matrix transferred into the tea 13 – 6 % of aluminium
depending on the type of product. Recorded concentration differences were statistically significant
(p < 0.05). The aluminium concentration significantly (p < 0.05) increased after tea digestion. These
changes were probably caused by element transition to easily dissociable forms during the acid
gastric phase of digestion.
73
First name: Lukas
Last name: Boersen
future?)
Abstract title: Flood Protection Policies and Climate Change Adaptation in Switzerland
Justification: The integration of knowledge on climate change impacts within flood protection policies is crucial when challenging future natural hazards. Integrating climate change adaptation in
Swiss flood protection policy making - both vertically across governmental levels as well as horizontally across key sectors - will ensure efficient protection of landscape structures and other values.
Keywords: CC adaptation, science-policy interface
Abstract text: Climate change being a scientific fact, the linkage of flood events and climate change
on the other hand has not yet been sufficiently proven. Nevertheless, the integration of climate
change impacts into flood protection policies is crucial within the complex challenge of increasing flood events and losses and the protection of landscapes, ecosystems and human lives. The project’s
aim is to analyse the grade to which adaptation to climate change is integrated in flood protection
policy making in Switzerland. Within the study both the integration on vertical as well as horizontal
levels, i.e. across governmental levels as well as across key sectors, and the efficiency of the determining science-policy interface will be regarded. Covering the linkage of flood events and climate
change as well as the potential attribution and the concrete situation for the Alpine region and Switzerland, the concept of policy integration and science policy interface is illustrated. Switzerland as
case study object with the characteristics of not being a EU member and being federally organized
is especially interesting regarding the challenge of vertical levels of organization and communication. Furthermore, the role of EU policy making (e.g. the Water Framework Directive or the Floods
Directive) for Swiss policies, the coherence of federal and provincial flood protection policies, factors
shaping the degree of integration and the role of the science-policy interface are regarded. Finally,
Switzerland’s position in international climate change adaptation compared to other federal states
in the Alpine region is determined and suggestions for improvement of the science-policy interface
for informed political decision-mak ing are presented.
74
First name: Maximilian
Last name: Breiner
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Reduction of the tillage Intensity can improve soil environmental parameters
Justification: Soil is the main natural resource used by agriculture. It is also highly affected by the
different agricultural practicies. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of soil tillage by
measuring various parameters.
Keywords: soil tillage, aggregate stability, dissolved organic carbon, glomalin
Abstract text: Tillage systems have complex effects on the soil physical and biological environment.
In agricultural systems various tillage processes can be applied with different degre es of soil disturbance. This study aims at determining the impact of different soil tillage intensities on the amount
of stable aggregates, which can reduce the losses of soil, carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus. Besides
the effects of tillage intensities we investigated possible differences between samples taken in close
proximity to roots and root-free soil (location). Maize was the cultivated crop and every plot was treated equally during the vegetation period except for the tillage intensity. We compared conventional
(including mouldboard plough), minimized, minimum and no tillage. Therefore soil samples were
taken in the upper soil layer. The stability of aggregates was determined using ultrasonic vibration
and a wet sieving method. Additional biological parameters such as dissolved organic carbon, active
microbial biomass, ergosterol (indicator for fungal biomass) and glomalin, which are mainly responsible for the creation of stable aggregates, have also been measured. Lower soi l tillage intensity
destroyed fewer aggregates due to the lower energy impact. Also, lower tillage intensity increased
the active microbial biomass, the dissolved organic carbon and the ergosterol levels. An effect of
location (root area and between row) was detected only for dissolved organic carbon and ergosterol.
Dissolved organic carbon and glomalin had the highest correlation with soil aggregate stability and
thus seemed to be the most important biological factors for aggregation processes. The study shows
that the reduction of tillage intensity can significantly improve soil environmental parameters, such
as stable aggregates, active microbial biomass, dissolved organic carbon or glomalin.
75
First name: Lenka
Last name: Cerninova
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Does the Czech Republic contribute to development of agriculture in countries of Global South? Analysis of agricultural sector in the Czech Official Development Assistance
Justification: After food crisis in 2008, the position of agriculture has become much more important in the development strategies of international donors. The Czech Republic is not an exception.
Amongst other issues, the Czech agricultural ODA has been focused on agricultural products quality
(standardisation, breeding improvement, etc.), knowledge sharing on food security (consulting and
training centres, etc.) and economic self-sufficiency of small-holder farmers.
Keywords: Evaluation, farmers, development, agriculture, aid effectiveness
Abstract text: Agriculture is still the most important economic sector for 70% of rural people living
in the Global South. Farmers continue to face low productivity of their production, unstable agricultural policy, population growth and climate changes. Therefore, there is a need to improve their
economic self-sufficiency, among others, by effective international development cooperation. The
study analyzes the trajectory of the Czech development assistance focused on the agricultural sector
since 2008, the year when the “Czech Development Agency” (CZDA) was created. The research uses
descriptive methods to analyse the agricultural projects of the Czech ODA according to selected
criteria (type of project, time period, budget, type of funding, project country, target group, type of
implementing organization, etc.). Furthermore, the qualitative evaluation criteria reflecting current
discourse on aid effectiveness in the agriculture and rural development are used. The underlining
framework is based on OECD/DAC evaluation criteria (relevance, efficiency, effectiveness, impact
and sustainability). Primary data includes interviews with the key-informants from the CZDA and Ministry of Agriculture. Secondary data is obtained from the annual reports and statistics of the CZDA.
The Czech development assistance supports the agriculture as a sector priority in all programme
countries of the Czech Development Assistance. However, the detailed agricultural program is being
created only for Ethiopia and Moldova at this moment. Since 2008, the Czech Republic has implemented around 60 agricultural projects, from the supply of technology to the soft-projects in Ethiopia
(25%), Georgia (16%), Moldova (15%) and other countries of Eastern Europe, Africa and Asia. The
typical project takes three year with budget of 8.6 million CZK. Even though agricultural projects are
implemented mainly by NGDOs, private companies, universities and governmental institutions play
also important role in this sector. The Czech assistance to agriculture offers several common strategies and techniques promoting food quality, security and safety.
76
First name: Rens
Last name: de Boer
future?)
Abstract title: Relating nitrogen fixation in peat moss to subsurface water flows and vegetation in a
boreal mire
Justification: Northern mires or peatlands, although small in land coverage (3%), store approximately 30% of world soil C. The importance of peatlands for the global carbon cycle cannot be underestimated. Through better understanding of the C and N-cycles in these ecosystems, conservation and
restoration efforts could be better focused, and the effects of global change on these high-importance wetlands and vice versa could become clearer.
Keywords: peatlands, nitrogen, sphagnum, biogeochemistry, vegetation
Abstract text: Mires are wet ecosystems that globally store approximately 30% of total soil carbon.
This carbon sequestration is closely associated with the dominance of Sphagnum spp. mosses that
create a hostile environment for decomposition. Mires are often nitrogen (N)-limited, Sphagnum depending on input of atmospheric N for its growth. Recent evidence suggests that microbial N-fixation
may be a significant input of N into the mire system, enabling Sphagnum to produce more biomass
and sequester more CO2. These findings contradict earlier work that stresses the suboptimal conditions in mires keeping N-fixation low: cold, acid, poor in nutrients and minerals. I recently set up an
experiment to relate the rate of N-fixation by epiphytic microorganisms with the availability of base
cations due to position relative to minerogenic surface water flow in a boreal mire in Sweden. I also
test the seasonal variation in N-fixation and subsequently assess whether vegetation composition
or biomass can be used as a predictor for N-fixation rate. When surface water of a certain point
originates mainly from surrounding mineral soils, I expect the base-cation availability to be higher,
resulting in a higher N-fixation rate in Sphagnum. I expect N-fixation to be higher in late spring than in
late summer due to a larger water input and thus cation flux in spring. Lastly, I expect a difference in
vegetation composition and/or total biomass between spots with different N-fixation potential and/
or base cation availability. To this end I have marked thirty locations in the mire where I am sampling
Sphagnum shoots to measure N-fixation. To assess the long-term, low intensity influx of minerals,
I will chemically analyse plant samples for base-cation content. Fieldwork runs until early August.
During my presentation I intend to present my final results and discuss the importance of N-cycling
in mires in the perspective of global change.
77
First name: Jelske
Last name: de Kraker
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Improving point sources of Cryptosporidium in the Hofstra model by looking at sanitation worldwide now and in 2050
Justification: This thesis looks at improving a global nutrient transport model by including sanitation
practices in developing countries in order to map pathogen distribution and hotspots.
Keywords: nutrient, transport model, population growth
Abstract text: Cryptosporidium is a protozoan intestinal parasite that can cause diarrhoea and has
surface water as an important mode of transport and is correlated to nutrient transport. The current
model for global Cryptosporidium emissions is by Hofstra et al. (2013). In this study a number of
shortcomings regarding the point sources in the Hofstra model are identified: it disregards people
not connected to a sewer system and the distribution of emissions over grids is not optimal. Therefore this paper proposes a new method to calculate point source emissions of Cryptosporidium in the
Hofstra model for the current situation and the future. This is done by making a distinction between
urban and rural grids and is based on new data on the fractions of the types of sanitation used per
country. A case study on Bangladesh shows that ignoring direct inputs causes an underestimation
of the emissions of a factor 5 in this country. It also shows that between 2000 and 2050 population
growth causes a threefold increase in emissions in Bangladesh, mainly taking place in the urban
areas. This indicates that the Hofstra model underestimates the total global emissions considerably
and that population growth and urbanisation are important processes to consider.
78
First name: Elena
Last name: Diago Blay
Academic status: /
appropriate?)
Abstract title: Framework for development of green infrastructure at local level
Justification: The aim of our report is to develop the most feasible green infrastructure at the local
level in a study case in Denmark according to the European Green Infrastructure Strategy. Likewise,
it aims to find synergies with other European and national policies related to multi-functionality and
biodiversity enhancement such as the EU Biodiversity Strategy, the Rural Development Plan and the
Common Agriculture Policy.
Keywords: Green Infrastructure, land use, planning, biodiversity, connectivity, habitat fragmentation
Abstract text: Habitat loss and fragmentation due to grey infrastructure, urbanisation, intensive agriculture and forestry are the major problems for biodiversity in Europe. As a result, ecosystems are
degraded up to the point that they cannot provide a wide range of ecosystem services. This causes
large social and economic consequences for the European Union but also for national governments.
The European Green Infrastructure Strategy can be applied to enhance landscape multifunctionality, such as improving biological connectivity as well as accessibility and availability of recreational
areas for citizens. Focusing on multifunctionality increases the enabling environment and feasibility
of implementing a green infrastructure project by improving the landscape for nature and people
together. During the process of developing green infrastructure for a case study in a Danish locality,
we designed a framework in order to select the most feasible green infrastructure. This framework
entails three main anal yses. First, a spatial analysis is carried out by describing structures and
functions of a landscape; identifying habitat connectivity and fragmentation, and the land cover and
use. Second, an ecological analysis describes the status and threats to the local fauna and flora.
Third, a social analysis is carried out which includes citizen surveys and stakeholder interviews. The
social analysis aims to identify the current and future demands of recreational activities and their
locations, agricultural interests, urban development and land tenure. According to the results of the
analysis, possible new green infrastructure is described and eventually selected according to two
aspects: implementation feasibility and stakeholder involvement. Finally, support from international,
national and local policies are found for the selected green infrastructure.
79
First name: Ali
Last name: Elhakeem
Abstract title: Can plants respond to root exudates from touched neighbours?
Justification: My abstract is more related to understand the natural phenomenon of plan-plant communication.
Keywords: Maize, root exudates, neighbour plant, touching.
Abstract text: In nature, plants exposed to touch by several means e.g. leaves touching with neighbours, passing animals, etc., which stimulates the plant and alters its behaviour. In this study, we
have investigated the interactions between touched plants and their untouched neighbours through
root exudates. We hypothesised that plants are able to detect signals from the root e xudates of their
touched neighbours, and as a response, they will change their own biomass allocation pattern. Two
experiments were conducted (transferring and sharing) experiments. In the transferring experiment,
touched maize plants were hydroponically grown in half-strength Hoagland solution, afterward these
plants were replaced with three weeks younger untouched plants. The latter were exposed to root
exudates from the former touched plants. In this set up, the control was plants were exposed to root
exudates from the former untouched plants. In the sharing experiment, both touched and untouched
“exposed” plants of the same age were grown together, sharing the same nutrient solution. The control in this case was plants sharing the same nutrient solution with untouched plants. Root exudates
were the only means of interactions between treatments, and the other means (e.g. volatile organic
compounds) were prevented. Plants transferred to the nutrient solution of previously touch ed plants
allocated more biomass to leaves and stems, and reduced their allocation to roots when compared
with the control. By contrast, plants that shared root environment with touched neighbours produced
more total dry weight, stem dry weight, root dry weight and lateral roots when compared to plants
sharing this environment with untouched plants. This study validates the ability of the untouched
plants to perceive and respond to signals emitted by root exudates of the touched neighbour.
80
First name: Florian
Last name: Ellsäßer
Academic status: /
future?)
Abstract title: Utilization of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in Landscape Mapping, Remote Sensing and Monitoring.
Justification: I‘‘m currently writing my master thesis on the measurement of surface temperatures
of vegetated areas to determinate their specific water budget using UAVs. I‘‘m mainly interested
in temperature changes during the day, what implicates measurements during the whole day and
under different weather conditions. UAV measurements represent the future in landscape sampling,
mapping and monitoring and will therefore be an indispensable tool for landscape protection in the
future. Additionally I could add an indoor experiment to the oral presentation!
Keywords: utilization of UAVs in science, remote sensing with UAVs, aerial IR-imaging, landscape
water budgets
Abstract text: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) - also commonly referred to as drones - are a contemporary method of mapping, imaging and monitoring specific areas or whole landscapes. The use
of UAVs in agriculture and environmental sciences was mainly triggered by the availability of GPS and
INS systems mounted on unmanned aircraft, allowing very accurate remote sensing and automatized flights on predefined routes. UAVs are the universal tools for automatized and accurate landscape imagery for small and midsized areas and can carry a huge variety of small sensors and cameras.
Gathering temperature data in the course of the day and during longer time periods is crucial for
estimating water budgets. In comparison to cost intense and time consuming traditional methods
UAVs represent a relatively cheap and fast solution. Writing my master thesis on the ‚‘Conception
and realization of a UAV-based recording system for terrestrial and surface temperatures for water
budget acquisition‘‘ I could gain deep insights in empirical and quantitative methods of temperature data acquisition utilizing UAVs. The presentation will give a general overview on technology and
techniques being used and concentrate on the utilization of UAVs for measuring landscape surface
temperatures to determine water budgets. I will outline the procedures behind organizing, elaborating and carrying out an UAV based experiment and also include the legal situation in the European
Union and in the Member States. There will be a focus on technical backgrounds of the hardware,
mainly on lightweight IR-technology and UAV-structures for temperature measurements, on planning
and implementation of UAV based projects and a small digression on post processing of images.
81
First name: Hanna
Last name: Frick
Abstract title: Can biochar improve soil fertility and contribute to carbon storage in temperate soils?
Insights from a field-experiment in Tuebingen, SW-Germany
Justification: Biochar application to soil is discussed as a means to deal with problems such as
improvement of soil fertility as well as long-term carbon storage in soil.
Keywords: biochar, CEC(pot), soil fertility, temperate climate, carbon storage
Abstract text: Application of biochar to soil is discussed as means for dealing with several of today’s
most urgent problems such as improvement of soil fertility, remediation of degraded/contami nated
soils as well as for climate change mitigation by long-term storage of carbon in soils. Studies from
tropical sites showed that biochar can increase pH-value, nutrient availability, water retention, and
aeration of infertile and degraded tropical soils. Yet, whether the results achieved in these studies
are also true for temperate soils that are already more fertile remains uncertain. The question behind this study was how greenwaste biochar (pyrolysis at 700°C, application rate: 6 kg biochar per
m² in up to 10 cm depth) would effect soil fertility measured as CECpot as well as Corg-content and
how these effects would develop over the first eight months after biochar application. This study
was conducted on a small-scale field site in Tuebingen, SW-Germany, with temperate climate and a
carbonatic arable soil. Biochar addition did not show any significant effects on CECpot, but increased
Corg-content significantly (p<0.05). However, over the investigation period there was a slight increase for CECpot, but a decreasing trend could be observed for Corg. It could be concluded that under
the specific circumstances of this experiment biochar application did not have any benefits for soil
fertility. Concerning the decreasing trend in Corg-content future studies should be conducted to find
out whether the carbon loss is due to initial loss reactions of easily decomposable material like ash
or whether this trend continues in the long-term. In the latter case large scale biochar application
would not be a reasonable measure to store carbon on the long-run.
82
First name: Theresa
Last name: Fuchs
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Enhancing a sustainable diet at the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences
Vienna
Justification: My abstract addresses the sub-theme of food in the respect of sustainability. In order
not to exploit natural resources until they are gone, we need a sustainable nutrition, which is certainly linked to food safety and security. Furthemore, healthy food of high quality is what we need
to be well and this is where organic produce plays a major role. All three aspects mentioned in the
sub-theme are a major point of interest in my abstract.
Keywords: vegetarianism, sustainability, organic produce, CO 2
Abstract text: Natu ral resources are becoming scarce, because the environment cannot recover in
time from the harms caused by humans. In order to offer future generations equitable conditions,
we need to change our lifestyle. The University of natural resources and life sciences is committed
to increasing its sustainability and has set goals in its sustainability strategy. In the present study,
scenarios are calculated in order to find out how many kg of CO 2 equivalents could be saved with
a change in the menu offer at the cafeteria at Türkenschanze. The literature and the present calculations show that an increase in the proportion of vegetarian ingredients and an increased use of
organically produced products result in a significant reduction of emissions.
83
First name: Alexandra
Last name: Fuss
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Multi-Actor Approaches in Organic Plant Breeding - Conceptualising case studies of
European breeding initiatives
Justification: Sub-Theme 4: The research provides excellent examples how various actors work together to tackle a multitude of problems including biodiversity, low yields in organic agriculture,
compliance to regulations. Sub-theme 4 fits as it emphasizes the action of linkage between different
components, this is central in the research presented. Though not one single environmental problem
is addressed the larger context of lack of adapted organic varieties is considered.
Keywords: organic agriculture, participatory plant breeding, multi-actor approach
Abstract text: In organic agriculture a deficiency of appropriate varieties has been characterized
by farmers, researchers and associations, a multi-actor approach could assist to tackle the lack of
adapted varieties. Continuous growth of the organic agricultural sector indicates a prerequisite for organic varieties adapted to the farming system and specific needs of organic crops. The organic seed
sector is confronted by multifaceted problems dependent upon crop species and the local settings
such as ecological, economic, social and political environments. Furthermore, a decisive concern remains as the market for organic seed is minor and financial revenue for commercial breeders is low
if break-even is reached at all. This is one of the main reasons why past activities neglected breeding
for less significant crops (summer wheat). Qualitative in-depth research of numerous initiatives is
considered to conceptualize multi-actor approaches in the Netherlands, Germany and Switzerland.
An alternat ive organizational model is presented to breed crops for small markets, especially the
organic sector. Integrating chain actors in the processes of breeding and propagation should not
only facilitate funding but encourage mutual learning, sharing of experience and knowledge. The
concept provides features for establishing interactions between various actors in complex (organic)
breeding initiatives. Key elements are the level of participation (stage, degree, actors` roles), mutual
understanding and criteria’s set by the actors. The principle of innovation systems and participation
theory form the theoretical framework for analysis. The overarching dynamic concept is developed
to be adapted to a specific context (species, environment, system) and local differences have to be
taken into account. This research is conducted within the frame of a Master thesis at the Institute
of Social Sciences in Agriculture (University Hohenheim) and in cooperation with the Louis Bolk
Institute in the Netherlands.
84
First name: Edna
Last name: Gober
future?)
Abstract title: New mass outbreak of the Spruce Web-spinning Sawfly in Lower Austria
Justification: During the last 20 years outbreaks of the spruce web-spinning sawfly were rare however since 2010 increasing population densities were observed in Austria and Bavaria. Earlier outbreaks were related to air pollution, current infestations are eventually related to changes in winter
temperatures that influence the duration of sawfly larval dormancy.
Keywords: forest protection, insect pest, population growth, damage prognosis
Abstract text: The spruce web-spinning sawfly, Cephalcia abietis (Hymenoptera, Pamphiliidae), is a
pest insect of mature trees of Norway spruce , Picea abies, with irregular mass outbreaks in Central
and Northern Europe. Feeding damage of larvae over several years weakens the trees and induces
attack of secondary pests like bark beetles which finally kill the trees. Adult wasps emerge in May
and lay groups of eggs on old spruce needles. The gregarious larvae spin webs around shoots where
they hide and feed. In August mature larvae drop to the ground, dig into the soil and overwinter as
resting larvae (eonymphs, pronymphs) between one and three years. This different diapause duration makes prognosi s of population growth and tree damage difficult because the number of pronymphs in autumn is the only valid indicator of wasp emergence in the following spring. In 2013, a new
infestation was reported from a 10 ha spruce stand of the forest enterprise Stift Zwettl (Waldviertel,
Lower Austria). The study describes the population dynamics of the sawfly from 2014 and 2015 and
the overwintering behaviour of eo- and pronymphs. We collected soil samples in winter, spring and
autumn and recorded larval density and development status of the nymphs. Emerging adult sawflies
in spring were trapped in photo eclectors, fully-grown larvae were collected in late summer in large
funnels. To determine the physiological activity of the nymphs, larvae from soil samples were analyzed according to their oxygen consumption and super cooling ability. Larval densities in the soil were
very high (> 500 larvae/m²) but the ratio of eo- to pronymphs was 19:1, indicating low numbers of
emerging sawflies in spring 2015. Both eo- and pronymphs are freeze intolerant, eonymphs died at
-12.7 ± 5.4°C while pronymphs survived temperatures up to -20°C. Further results are still under
progress.
85
First name: Marketa
Last name: Grunova
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Environmental education supports conservation action by increasing the immediate
and long-term environmental knowledge of Senegalese school children
Justification: Our article contributes to the theme „How to support endangered species and diversity
in nature“.
Keywords: environmental awareness, Derby eland, sustainable development, wildlife conservation
Abstract text: The extinction of species is often caused by human activity. Particularly the role of
the local community is therefore a key for the sustainability of any conservation programme. We
evaluated the impact of the environmental education programme for school children in the surroundings of the Delta du Saloum Biosphere reserve in Seneg al, specifically its terrestrial part called
Fathala Reserve, dedicated to conservation of African charismatic fauna with critically endangered
Western Derby eland. The questionnaires consisting of questions evaluating knowledge and attitudes respectively were filled in by children before and after the programme in 2008 and 2009. We
assessed three main points: 1) The effect of the education programme on the children’s knowledge
and attitudes to the environment by comparing children’s answers before and after the programme;
2) The long term impact of the education programme ; and 3) The age and sex as factors potentially
affecting the children’s knowledge. We found a significant increase in knowledge in four questions
out of four and a positive change of attitude in one question out of three immediately after participation in the programme. One year later, there remained the positive impact of the programme
on the environmental knowledge in three questions out of four. Age o f children appeared to be a
significant variable, however its effect diminished after the education programme. Their sex did not
have any impact on children´s knowledge either before or after the education programme. Finally we
conclude that the environmental education programme in the surroundings of the Fathala Reserve
successfully increased the environmental knowledge of school children and carries the potential to
support conservation activities of protected area management. However, this knowledge alone is not
enough to change behaviour and attitudes, proving the need to approach the problem in the context
of a complex, targeted awareness campaign.
86
First name: Gregor
Last name: Haas
appropriate?)
Abstract title: Transport of organic waste via the sewage system
Justification: Due to legal restriction food waste disposing into the sewage system is forbidden in
Austria, even though it could portray an effective way of waste management. It would lead to higher
rate of separate collection, which raises the potential of regaining natural resources.
Keywords: wastewater energy, organic waste, sewerage
Abstract text: The separate collection of organic waste represents a logistic challenge and is connected to an additional effort; therefore they are often disposed of along the residual waste. This
limits the potential heat of combus tion and enforces complex treatment processes before a landfilling. Meanwhile (some) wastewater treatment plants demand for organic waste for cofermentation (anaerobic digestion plants) - that is transported by road today. The question arises why the
sewage system is not used for transportation. It is therefore the objective of the present paper to
reason if the transport of organic waste through the sewage system can portray a useful alternative.
As far as the waste management is concerned one can say that the effort for a separate collection
of organic waste can be reduced with the usage of the sewage for waste disposal, which leads to
a reduction of the organic amount in the residual waste and therefore to reduction of the residual
waste itself Due to the superior efficiency of anaerobic digestion plants a higher energy yield can
be attained and enables the re-use of the potential resources (digested sludge as fertilizer/ base
material for compost). The gas production in the Swedish city Surahammar was increased by 45%
(Evans et al. 2009). On behalf of wastewater technologies case Studies (Evans et al. 2009) show
that the concept leads neither to a greater rat population, nor to a higher sedimentation in the sewage system. Possibly overloads and case-specific alterations of wastewater treatment plants must
be expected. Even though a general refusal of the concept seems to be unfounded, it is forbidden in
Austria. If the existing infrastructure can be used (anaerobic digestion plant etc.) and the wastewater
management can adjust to the change in the composition of the waste, it is a useful alternative.
87
First name: Thalahitiya Vithanage
Last name: Hasitha Priyashantha
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Development and quality characterization of skimmed milk set-type yogurt
T. V. H. Priyashantha1, 2, 3, A. Q. Pérez 3, R. M. Baixauli3, and J. K. Vidanarachchi2*
1
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden. 2Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka; 3Aula de Productos Lácteos, University of
Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
*[email protected]
Justification: Yogurt, popular dairy product choice for healthy living styles, with an emerging market
trend for dairy entrepreneurs. At present, hydrocolloids and various polysaccharides are conventionally used in manufacturing of non-fat, low protein yogurts. Furthermore, stabilizers are sometimes
created with unacceptable quality attributes. Therefore, this study aims to develop an improved yogurt gel without added extraneous ingredients by only varying the choice of starter culture, thereby
enhancing food quality and safety.
Keywords: Yogurt, Quality, Sensory, Texture, Bacterial culture
Abstract text: Dairy product quality attributes are crucial in the competitive market, where yogurt
gel’s physical and sensory qualities are not an exception. Furthermore, enabling manufacturer to
maintain optimum quality of yogurt at reduced cost of production is utmost important. The major
scope of the current study was to develop and characterize the quality of yogurt gel produced under
low protein content with diverse starter cultures. Seven different yogurts were produced with commercially available starter cultures at 3.7% of protein content. Textural properties were obtained from TA
-XTPlus_texture_analyser as penetration and back-extrusion tests. Linear viscoelastic properties were
studied with a controlled_stress_rheometer. Microstructure was observed with scanning electron
microcopy (SEM). Sensory properties were evaluated with trained sensory panel. Yogurt gels were
contrasted with quality attributes. Physical properties were highly correlated to sensorial properties
of yogurt gel. There were no effect on gel hardness, firmness and clean cut sensations from bacterial
culture. YoFlex-Creamy-1 resulted with higher creamy sensation and lowest consistency. YoFlex-Creamy-2 resulted with highest firmness and consistency. Firmness, elasticity and consistency values (texture analyzer) differed among the starter cultures, hence different gel properties were produced. Gel
physical properties are much favorable in non-probiotic yogurts than probiotic yogurts. SEM images
indicated chains and aggregates of casein micelles and void pore spaces. Whey and other substances
such as exopolysccarides and culture bacteria might occupy in interspaces of protein network, leading
to different textural properties. Starter culture bacteria influenced rheological properties of yogurts.
G‘ > G‘‘ indicate higher solid nature of gel, resulting stronger yogurt gel. However, position of G‘ and
G‘‘ values were different for each starter cultures. Principal component analysis aids to comprehend
the all observed gel properties and categorize yogurt with broader aspects. Therefore, production of
acceptable yogurt with optimum gel quality was possible with 3.7% protein content.
88
First name: Caroline Amalie
Last name: Holbek
EAcademic status: MSc student
security?
Abstract title: Characterization of pectin using NMR spectroscopy
Justification: Food quality, safety and security can be enhanced by using new technologies for quality
control (QC). Spectroscopic techniques are suitable for QC as they provide a high level of information
about the samples + they are fast, sensitive and non-destructive. This study illustrates the use of
NMR spectroscopic for the analysis of pectin. NMR has the potential of optimizing QC in pectin productions by replacing the existing resource intensive methods.
Keywords: Food production, Pectin, Optimization, NMR spectroscopy, Multivariate Data Analysis
Abstract text : Pectin, a polysaccharide contained in the primary cell walls of land plants, is commercially produced as a powder-product, which is widely applied in the food industry as gelling and
stabilizer agent. A simplified structure of commercial pectin is chains of partly methyl-esterified galacturonic acid residues. Rheological and gel-forming properties of pectin are among others known
to be closely related to the degree of methyl-esterification (DE) and to the distribution of ester groups
along the molecule backbone, referred to as ‘degree of blockiness’ (DB). Determinations of DE and
DB in pectin are currently performed by complex and time-consuming wet-chemical analyses. Development of fast and reliable methods able to characterize pectin is therefore desirable for pectin
producers in the food industry. NMR spectroscopy is a powerful analytical technique capable of providing both qualitatively and quantitatively information from samples being analysed. The technique
has shown potential for being able to characterize the structure of pectin. In general, spectroscopic
monitoring techniques are attractive for industrial process control due to distinct advantages over
other instrumental methods, including simple and non-destructive sample preparation, non-invasive
measurements, rapid response time and high sensitivity. The aim of this study was to investigate
the potential of using high-field 1H NMR spectroscopy as primary method for characterizing pectin,
including DE and DB. A comprehensive amount of pectin samples having varying DE (measured by
titration reference method) and varying DB (measured by the enzymatic reference method) were
analyzed using 1H NMR spectroscopy. The generated NMR data were correlated with reference data
of DE and DB. Based on the NMR spectra and by the use of multivariate data analysis techniques it
was possible to obtain good prediction models for DE values of the pectin samples, and acceptable
prediction models for the values of DB.
89
First name: Dagmar
Last name: Holley
Abstract title: 3D-Printing with wood as a raw material
Justification: 3D-Printing develops new market structures. The production method allows individualized items without additional costs. Is this the end of mass production? Related Open Source
concepts ease access to participation in development for everyone interested and lead to massive
innovation. The utilisation of sustainable materials became an important issue to the 3D-Printing
community and requires further research.
Keywords: Additive Manufacturing, Fused Deposition Modeling, 3D Printing, Wood Plastic Composite, Sustainable Bio-Composite
Abstract text: Today agricultural products not only cover food and energy demands, but also material
utilisation. Polylacticide (PLA), a biopolymer made from corn starch or sugarcane, is one of the most
used raw material for Additive Manufacturing (AM). AM, better known as 3D-Printing, is a fascinating
production method. It allows complex forms, reduces material consumption and opens creating individualized objects to anybody with a computer. There is a demand for sustainable materials like
PLA, but also for materials with comfortable optic and haptic properties, that can be associated with
nature - just like wood. The purpose of this work is to evaluate the potential of wood as a raw material
in AM by classic scientific literature research, a look into internet platforms and a basic examination
of available products. Several AM-processes have been developed mainly for polymers, ceramics and
metal. Although wood seems inappropriate for melting and solidifying or sintering, two AM-processes
have already been realized with a share of wood-particles: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) and
Inkjet Powder Printing (3DP). FDM is based on fusing thermo-plastic filament. PLA can be blended
with a maximum of 40% wood fibres for a wooden appearance, above that mechanical properties
and workability decrease. FDM has a limited potential for wood, but as an open source concept it
is easy accessible and a lot of innovation is coming directly from user-communities. Inkjet Powder
Printing (3DP), working with powder and liquid binder, could have a higher potential. Using sawdust
to substitute commercial powder, higher shares of wood can improve properties and reduce costs.
Today 3DP is still characterized by expensive machinery and industrial secrets. Assuming that AM
will become a serious production method, the wood sector is invited to find out and exploit the full
potential of wood concerning these new techniques.
90
First name: Severin
Last name: Hübner
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Metabolic imprinting effect in beef production: Influence of Nutrition manipulation
during early growth stage on fat marbling characteristics in Wagyu (Japanese Black)
Justification: Ruminants can turn inedible food sources into edible ones. Nonetheless, across the
world cattle feed is heavily grain supported. This study aims for an alternative way to decrease the
amount of concentrate feed and increase the use of neglected natural resources such as pasture
and investigate its impact on meat quality by using this new technology of metabolic imprinting.
Keywords: Metabolic imprinting, meat quality, pasture, beef cattle
Abstract text: The feed of cattle has been transformed into a heavily grain supported diet. For the
sake of a more sustainable beef production and making use of the ruminants‘‘ ecological benefit
of turning inedible food sources into edible ones, alternative ways have to found in order to lower
the input but maintain the safety and quality of beef. The “metabolic imprinting effect” has already
been researched in humans and rats. This study is part of the currently ongoing research at Kyushu
University about how to implement those results in the sector of animal production. With this system the use of concentrate was reduced by over 50% compared to conventional beef production in
Japan. 15 Japanese Black steers were randomly allocated in four groups. The calves received an
intensified nursing of about 1800g milk replacer and concentrate per day with protein and fat level
differing between the groups. After weaning the feeding system followed the common pasture based
production system in Japan. At the age of 25 months they were slaughtered and the beef‘‘s marbling
pattern was visually analyzed as well as fat and protein content were chemically analyzed. The image
analysis revealed a higher fat marbling than cattle raised with the same amount of concentrate and
showed a more evenly distribution of marbling flecks. It is lower than the conventional beef production though. The content of fatty acids is currently examined and results are expected in August.
91
First name: Pacifique
Last name: Ingabire
Abstract title: Modern agricultural cooperatives in Georgia: A way to enhance local agricultural value
chains and to eliminate local middlemen as a source of free market failures?
Justification: Georgian Agriculture characterized by a well balanced climate suffered losses due to
political instabilities, leaving half of the population living in rural area that depends on middlemen to
reach the market. The abstract fits well in the links between societies, cultures and environmental
problems subtheme because it tackles problems in the Georgians welfare and the society after the
civil wars, and how small scale farmers wil l reach economies of scale
Keywords: Agricultural Cooperatives, Supply Chain, Middlemen, Productivity, Georgia
Abstract text: After the collapse of Georgian agriculture sector, local small scale farmers usually rely
on the local middlemen, who is in the monopsony position to deliver products to the market. Middlemen are frequently portrayed in the literature as agents of exploitation of small farmers and source
of failure of the free market assumptions. Nowadays the renewed national and international support
of horizontal integration and the new Georgian Agricultural law on cooperatives from July 2013 permit small scale farmers to move from subsistence agriculture to market oriented producer groups in
all major local products like herbs, wine, honey, cattle meat, dairy products, hazelnuts, poultry, corn
and strawberries. The aim of this research was to identify key constraints that limit farmers’ productivity and market access in 8 local agricultural value chains in Imereti region of western Georgia and
to assess how the horizontal integration of farmers potentially contributes to increased productivity
and to the elimination of middlemen in the supply chain. Primary qualitative data were collected from
key supply chains informants and group of farmers in 11 newly created cooperatives. The preliminary
results from the research confirm high dependency of small farmers on middlemen, who serves as a
de facto barrier to the market access. However, new cooperatives might serve as an efficient solution
through increase in level of processing and quantity of products supplied, increased total added value of the supplied commodities, reduction of informational asymmetry and transaction costs, better
access to markets, higher bargaining power on the domestic market, and even improved access to
international markets for some products.
92
First name: Katrin
Last name: Karner
Abstract title: Pellets versus heating oil: Forecasting pellet boiler substitution potential and environmental impacts in Austria until 2030
Justification: The study provides an empirical analysis on the linkage between heating oil and wood
pellets in Austria. Key parameters on pellet boiler installations are empirically analysed and employed to forecast pellet boiler installations until 2030. In addition, environmental impacts of the
forecasts are assessed to revealing the trade-off between the potentials in reducing GHG emissions
and substitute fossil heating oil and in increasing human toxicity and tropospheri c ozone precursor.
Keywords: wood pellets, environmental impact assessment, regression analysis, fossil fuel substitution, forecast
Abstract text: In Austria, pellet boiler installations have increased substantially during the last decade. However, nearly 30% of the Austrian households relied on heating oil for domestic heating in
2013. While pellet boilers emit less greenhouse gases, the overall environmental impact is ambiguous. Hence, the objective of this study was to identify factors which influence pellet boiler installations
and to forecast scenarios with the subsequent environmental impact. First, a regression analysis
of historic pellet boiler installations was conducted by taking several fuel prices and public subsidies into account. Then, four forecast scenarios were developed to depict potentials in substituting
heating oil boilers by pellet boilers until 2030. The environmental impact of one forecast scenario
is assessed and compared to an oil-fir ed condensing boiler. The regression analysis shows that
heating oil price and pellet price of the previous year influence pellet boiler installations significantly.
Depending on future price developments, the forecast scenarios indicate a potential of 90,000 to
430,000 pellet boilers to substituting heating oil boilers until 2030. The environmental impact assessment reveals large potentials in GHG savings and fossil heating oil substitution (26 TWh), as well
as a lower acidification potential, but human toxicity and tropospheric ozone precursor potential would increase. It can be concluded that pellet boiler installations mainly depend on economic factors
such as the relative price developments between heating oil price and pellet price. Pellet boilers
could play a central role in the transition to renewables in the domestic heating sector, but the share
highly depends on fossil fuel price developments. However, adverse environmental impacts would increase, especially if pellet s need to be imported - due to the prevailing truck based transport system
and the different electricity mixes in pellet production locations.
93
First Name: Julian
Last Name: Kofler
Co-Authors: Anton Milyaev, Jens Wünsche
Abstract title: The physiological, metabolic and molecular basis for biennial bearing in apple (Malus
domestica)
Justification: Maintaining a competitive fruit industry in Europe is challenging due to increasing
climatic variability and the proneness of pomaceous fruit trees to biennial bearing. This study will
contribute to fill the present knowledge gap in understanding the mechanism and concept of biennial bearing in apple in order to come up with solutions and feasible methods in the future both for
farmers and breeders.
Keywords: flower development, hormones, alternate bearing
Abstract text: The biennial bearing behaviour in apple (Malus domestica) is characterized by high
production of small sized fruit in the ON-season followed by low or no yields in the subsequent OFFseason. This cropping irregularity is usually managed by chemical, mechanical or manual thinning
methods. One of the major factors causing biennial bearing in apple is believed to be the overlap of
flower bud formation for the subsequent season and fruit development during the current season
which suppresses floral development by hormonal control and carbohydrate limitations. However,
the specific signals which trigger flower bud formation is still largely unknown.
This study is part of an interdisciplinary research project aimed at increasing our knowledge on the
genetic, physiological and metabolic underlying mechanisms of biennial bearing in apple. Therefore,
buds on 2-year-old spurs were collected from the apple cultivars Fuji, Gala and Golden Delicious with
different degrees of biennial bearing behaviour. Half of the trees were set to ‘OFF’ bearing status
by removing all flowers by hand at balloon stage, whereas the other half consists of trees which
were naturally in ‘ON’ bearing status. Buds were sampled weekly from four weeks until 19 weeks
after full bloom. At each sampling date, five buds for RNA extraction, two buds for histology and 55
buds for carbohydrate and hormone analysis were sampled from each of four trees per cultivar and
treatment.
Experimental design and methods used as well as preliminary data will be presented at the conference.
94
First Name: Inga-Maria
Last Name: Kohler
Home University: University of Hohenheim (UHOH)
Session: 6
Abstract title: Phosphorus-Fractionation of P-recycling material after fertilization on several soils
Justification: The undertaken study fits perfectly into the chosen sub-theme as agriculture in particular and the whole world in general are facing a growing phosphorus scarcity. Recycled waste
products deriving, e.g. from sewage sludge, are a promising alternative P sources and recycling is a
good practice to manage natural resources.
Keywords: Phosphorus-scarcity, P-recycling, P-praktionation
Abstract text: As the element phosphorus (P) is essential to all life and there is no substitute, the
addition of fertilizers containing this nutrient is required for food production. Over the past decades
fertilizers processed from fossil reserves have been used to secure high yields. However, since there
is an increasing scarcity of the natural P sources and production costs are rising, there has to be a
change in P usage. A solution for the discrepancy between P scarcity and increasing P demands is
to recover the element from P rich waste, like sewage sludge. This thesis focuses on eight P recovery
products which have been derived from sewage sludge, sewage sludge ash or sewage sludge water.
A mineral P fertilizer was used as a control. The products were used as P fertilizers on three different
fields in Germany: Scheyern (silty loam, pH 4.9), Cunnersdorf (silty sand, pH 6.9) and Anglberg (silty
clay, pH 7.4). Since P is present in different chemical structures in the soil, and this is essential for its
availability to plants, there is a high interest in decoding the P bonds. The latter depend on the soil
characteristic as well as on the fertilizer itself. Regarding the characteristics of the soil, the pH value
is crucial for the type of P binding. Therefore the P in the samples was fractionated according to its
solubility in acids and bases. This experiment points out in which P fraction each fertilizer shifts its P
and how this shift is influenced by the soil. The efficiency of the recycling products and their suitability as fertilizers was examined in a previous study. The comparison of the product efficiency with the
fractionation experiments to proof if there is a link between fertilizer effect and P fractionation was
undertaken but a link could not be proven.
95
First name: Magdalena
Last name: Kracmarova
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: The application of exopolysaccharide-producing lactic acid bacteria strains in the cheese processing
Justification: Nowadays consumers orientate themselves for low-fat products. Unfortunately, low-fat
cheese has very often worse sensory properties. These products are mostly too hard, dry, gummy
and have flat taste and smell. Solution for enhancing food quality, safety and security of low-fat cheese could be using of exopolysaccharide-producing dairy starters which can have an ability to improve
their organoleptic properties and thereby reduce consumption of full-fat variants and so animal fats.
Keywords: exopolysaccharides, lac tic acid of bacteria, cheese, meltability, sensory analysis
Abstract text: This research is focused on applications possibilities of lactic acid bacteria strains
which are able to produce exopolysaccharides in cheesemaking. Lactic acid bacteria dairy starters
are applied in dairy technology for production of fermented dairy products and cheese. Some strains
are able to synthesize exopolysaccharides (polysaccharides which are excreted into the medium)
which could positively influence properties of dairy products especially sensory and functional. Exopolysaccharides are divided according to the chemical structure (monosaccharides from which they
are composed) into homopolysaccharides and heteropolysaccharides. Exopolysaccharide-producing
lactic acid bacteria strains were used for example for the production of cheddar and mozzarella cheese and also for less known cheese as kariech, kasar and caciotta. It was observed that application
of these strains improved sensory and functional properties especially of low-fat variants of cheese.
Experimental part of this work was focused on application of lactic acid bacteria strains producing
exopolysaccharides for production of low-fat fresh cheese. 3 samples of low-fat fresh cheeses were
manufactured using following dairy starters: mesophilic culture which is not able to produce exopolysaccharides (sample 350), cultures which are able to produce exopolysaccharides (samples 767,
144). Standard was fresh cheese made from not standardized milk and mesophilic culture which
is not able to produce exopolysaccharides. These products were characterized by the content of dry
matter, yield, meltability and sensory profile. It was recorded that the addition of cultures producing
exopolysaccharides led to higher content of dry matter (p < 0.05), yield and meltability. Cheese
containing exopolysaccharides were also softer and had lower gumminess and higher adhesiveness.
Unfortunately, they had worse taste and smell because for their production was not used mesophilic
culture w hich is typical for this kind of cheese.
96
First name: Franziska
Last name: Krause
Abstract title: Characterization of Poultry Collagen - Can Poultry Collagen be used in Coextrusion of
Sausage Casing?
Justification: As the world population is further growing, global resource management, in particular
global food supplies, is getting a more significant topic. Overall sausage production is increasing
worldwide. The availability of natural sausage casing is decreasing and the price is rising. Since the
consumption of poultry increses, the production of pure poultry sausages by using poultry collagen
casing is also a sustainable way to recycle the poultry waste.
Keywords: microstructure, visco sity, collagen type I
Abstract text: As the worldwide sausage production is increasing and the demand for sausage
casings cannot be fully compensated by natural sausage casings, the production of co-extruded
chicken collagen sausages display a sustainable way to recycle poultry waste. The objective of this
study was to characterize chicken collagen, obtained from skin and bone, and proof its suitability for
co-extrusion of sausage casing. Chicken skin and bone collagen were chemically characterized in terms of minerals, dry matter content, protein content, connective tissue content, non-protein-nitrogen
content and degradation products. Furthermore, SDS-Page, rheology, ζ-potential analysis and optical
microscopy were conducted. Bovine telopeptide-poor collagen was applied as standard due to hide
split collagen is used for co-extruded sausages. The SDS-PAGE pattern of all samples revealed distinct α1- and α2-bands signifying monomers of collagen type I. Furthermore, β- and γ-bands were
apparent, standing for dimers and trimers, respectively. Solely, the chicken bone collagen which
had the highest connective tissue content exhibited weak bands indicating that the extraction was
not sufficient and the collagen molecules too large to enter the gel. Low non-protein-nitrogenous
contents and degradation products pointed out, that the collagen samples were structurally intact.
Chicken skin collagen revealed a higher dynamic viscosity than the telopeptide-poor collagen based
on its higher degree of native crosslinks. For chicken bone collagen, the highest dynamic viscosity
could be measured although the suspension appeared very liquid. Thus, firm fragments of the inhomogeneous sample might have falsified the apparent viscosity. Under process conditions (pH 3),
all three collagen samples exhibit a positive net charge. Therefore, electrostatic repulsion facilitates
the gel formation. The microscopic images of the chicken skin collagen indicated the presence of
fibers, while chicken bone collagen featured large fragments and an inhomogeneous structure. In
conclusion, chicken skin collagen might display a suitable alternative in order to produce co-extruded
chicken sausages.
97
First name: Evert
Last name: Los
Academic status: /
appropriate?)
Abstract title: Unravelling the links between agriculture and economic growth: a panel time series
approach for post-WW II Africa
Justification: This thesis addresses the question how agricultural development and economic growth
are mutually interacting in the context of the African continent. While doing so, it questions some
dominant policies and strategies in the field of agricultural development and its role for alleviating
poverty and enhancing economic growth.
Keywords: agricultural development, growth, Africa, econometrics
Abstract text: Different development reports perceive the agricultural sector as a vital tool and
crucial sector for generating economic growth and fighting poverty. This study explores the mutual
interaction between agricultural development and economic growth for 52 African countries in the
period 1961-2010. The study applies panel co-integration and Granger causality approaches in order to unravel the links between economic and agricultural development. The estimation results of
this study imply that the agricultural sector performs different roles in different stages of economic
development. In low income countries, increasing the level of food production plays a pivotal role in
generating further economic development, whereas in the more developed upper middle income
countries the outflow of labour to other economic sectors is crucial for understanding economic
growth. The profoundly stated argument that reallocation of labour from agriculture towards other
economic sectors is among the main drivers of economic growth for developing countries, is therefore only found to be valid under specific circumstances, where the outflowing labour can be absorbed
by developed labor markets. Moreover, panel causality results show the existence of a bidirectional
causal relation between agricultural and economic development, implying that economic growth is
not only the result of, but also a possible pre-condition for agricultural development.
98
First name: Marion
Last name: Mack
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Creating sustainable durum wheat products for Germany
Justification: As producing local and sustainable foods becomes more and more important due to
growing demand and ongoing restriction and capacity of agricultural land. New varieties and climatic
conditions have to be considered in creating sustainable wheats for one of Germany‘‘s staple food:
pasta.
Keywords: Triticum durum, quality parameters, regional, sustainability
Abstract text: Creating sustainable durum wheat products for Germany By Marion Mack & Christine
Lautenbacher (UHOH) Durum or hard wheat (Triticum durum) is used for the production of pasta, couscous and bulgur. 10 % of the world production of wheat is T. durum, the other 90 % are
T. aestivum. The trend of regional and sustainable food is increasing a lot. Therefore both consumers
and the pasta industry ask for regional grown durum. It was shown that growing durum in Germany
is more sustainable than importing it from the USA, Canada, France, Italy or Spain. But are quality
requirements achieved, too? There are different quality criteria for durum wheat such as vitreosity,
falling number, grain color and cooking quality. Depending on the area and the weather conditions
the quality of durum varies a lot. Major challenges are to reach a good protein quality, high protein
content, low outgrowth rate and fusarium resistance as well as frost tolerance of winterdurum . For
conducted research, the following methods were used: falling number- method according to Perten-Hagberg and vitreosity-determination by the Pohl farinator on 368 different genotypes on two
different sites in southern-central Germany. Results conclude that site, climatic conditions and the
variety do have clear influences on the quality of durum in terms of quality parameters and therefore
the pasta-making properties. Nevertheless, there are some genotypes found, mainly modern german
or austrian breeds that are able to fulfill both: falling number and vitreosity requirements. This can
be a valuable conclusion for a successful breeding program of T. durum in Germany for local requirements and to fulfill challenges of global resource management. Keywords: Triticum durum, quality
parameters, regional-grown, Germany, sustainability
99
First name: Joanna
Last name: Madurska
Academic Status: BSc student
Abstract title: The impact of general public on agile, pileated and lar gibbon’s stress response
Justification: Supporting endangered species and diversity in nature should be the main aim of zoological gardens. To stand its duty, zoos have to provide appropriate conditions for animals to live and
breed. My study checks whether gibbons in Płock ZOO show stress responses, which may indicate
that the exposition is not adequate.
Keywords: stress response, primates, zoological garden
Abstract text: Does a modern-day purpose of zoological gardens is still to support endangered species? It seems that animals are not the most important part of zoos any more. They show many kinds
of stress responses and stereotypies, for which mostly humans are responsible. The aim of my study
is to test whether agile, pileated and lar gibbon show abnormal behaviour or not, when they are exposed to a public view. To conduct the study I have to create an ethogram based on a pilot study. In the
main study I observe gibbons’ behaviour in three situations: during weekend (when there is a crowd)
- for one hour, on a week-day - for half an hour, and when zoo is closed - for one hour. Each species
is observed individually. Afterwards the ethograms are compared with each other. According to The
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species gibbons are endangered which means that there is a high risk
of its extinction in the wild. Conclusions which we can draw for the study, apply for adequacy of the
exposition: whether it is appropriate or it has to be improved to support and help gibbons.
100
First name: Sergey
Last name: Makaryan
Abstract title: Production of an environmentally friendly BBQ - charcoal from brewer‘‘s grain using
hydrothermal carbonization
Justification: We used an abundant residual biomass and transformed it into charcoal, which is
aimed to substitute BBQ - charcoal from fossil sources. Hydrothermal carbonization was applied to
brewer‘‘s grains and the biomass was converted to charcoal. Thus resulting in an eco - friendly and
renwable solid energy carrier.
Keywords: Charcoal, hydrothermal - carbonization, biomass, BBQ, pyrolysis
Abstract text: The aim of this study was to apply hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) to produce an eco
– friendly alternative for BBQ – charcoal. The production of beer is a big industrial sector and leaves
residual biomass after the manufacturing of beer, which is called brewer’s grains. Brewer’s grains
does not compete with the food industry and is abundantly available (1,68 mt/a) in Germany. Since
the biomass is wet, it fits perfectly to HTC as a conversion technology, because water is used as an
environmentally friendly solvent. In our experiments, we are going to choose the most fitting charcoal
for barbecuing. Temperatures of hydrothermal treatment ranged from 250 to 270°C, reaction times
ranged from 6 to 10 hours. Additionally, we used nitric acid as an additive to investigate the effects
on the biomass. Furthermore, we used Pyrolysis (‘dry’ – conversion technology) for reference. We
used the german industrial standard 1860 - 2 (DIN 1860 – 2) as a target parameter, if we met these
criteria, we could compete with regular BBQ - charcoal. The charcoal – target for fixed carbon was
>75 % and for BBQ – briquettes >60 %, each on dry basis. Our results showed 36 – 43 % for HTC and
66,81 % for Pyrolysis. Furthermore, the targeted ash – content in the charcoal was <8 %, in BBQ –
briquettes <18 %, we found an ash – content of 4,4 – 5,6 % in the HTC and 14,29 % in the Pyrolysis
samples. The granulation target in the charcoal was 0-150mm; 80 % >20mm and <20mm max, 10
% in BBQ – briquettes. We found significantly smaller granulation 50 – 850 µm >90 % (HTC). Since
the german industry standard is based on the pyrolysis – technology, the results are not surprising.
However, the HTC – technology is a new way of converting residual biomass into an environmental –
friendly solid energy carrier.
101
First name: Christina
Last name: Mallin
Abstract title: Challenging contaminants in Drinking Water - Biological Removal of Pesticides
Justification: Groundwater is in many parts of the world the main source for drinking water production. Pesticides, belong to the category of compounds that are mobile and aren‘‘t taken into
consideration when designing drinking water treatment plants. This research looks into how these
compounds can be removed biologically, already in the aquifer by microorganisms. Keeping Drinking
Water sources clean is one of the main challenges we are facing and doing so in a biological way
minimizes the effect the treatment process can have on the environment.
Keywords: Drinkingwater, Pesticides, Biological Degradation, Groundwater
Abstract text: My Master Thesis research is part of a project with a Dutch Drinking Water Company.
In the Netherlands, as in many countries, groundwater is among the main sources of drinking water.
Compounds that can potentially pollute ground water are either household or industrial waste water
effluents, point sources. Or non – point sources such as pesticides that are applied directly on the
field. These compounds are meant to be active within the topsoil however some are resistant and
mobile, therefore do not adsorb to organic matter and can infiltrate aquifers that are used for Drinking Water Extraction. Certain pesticides, amongst them, Dichlobenil and it’s degradation product
BAM, MCPP, 2,4-D and Bentazon have been measure at micro to nano gramm per liter levels in
groundwater in Europe. My experimental set-up aims at determining if biological degradation of these compounds is possible at differing environmental conditions in soil columns under either, Nitrate
reducing, Methane reducing, Sulfate reducing and aerobic conditions. Once the conditions and, in a
further step, the micro organisms responsible for the degradation are known, Drinking Water Companies can adept their extraction process, by for example pumping the groundwater through a soil layer
at conditions that favour degradation or amend the soil layers accordingly or integrate these micro
organisms in the drinking water treatment process.
102
First name: Kacper
Last name: Marzecki
Abstract title: Differences in white and red muscle fibers distribution in trunk muscles of slow and
fast-growing Russian sturgeon fingerlings (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii)
Justification: Russian sturgeon (Acispencer gueldenstaedtii) is critically endangered species. Studies on the mechanism and progression of sturgeon growth can result in finding a phenotype of an
fingerlings that is more likely to survive in the natural environment. Development of new guidelines
for the restocking programs, to be more efficient, is an urgent need, if our goal is to prevent extinction
of Russian sturgeon.
Keywords: Acipenseridae ; trunk musc le fibers ; restocking
Abstract text: Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii), according to the IUCN Red List, is an
critically endangered fish from the Acipenseridae family. Optimized restocking is vital for the restoration of the natural state of the wild population. Releasing only specimens with certain traits implicating they have higher than average probability of survival and successful reproduction, increases the
effectiveness and decreases costs of restocking. It is well known that growth rate may differ among
and within sturgeon populations, resulting in slow and fast-growing phenotypes with different overall
length and weight. While some probable survival strategies would suggest releasing only the largest
specimens, we questioned the superiority of the larger phenotype. From cultured Russian sturgeon
population, breaded in Division of Ichthyobiology and Fisheries of Warsaw University of Life Sciences, of the same cohort, at the age of 100 and 200 day s post hatching, the trunk muscles for the
histological analysis were collected. Samples were processed and stained using hematoxylin-eosin,
Masson‘‘s Trichrome and PCNA (Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen) methods. The histological structure of muscle tissue revealed that the slow-growing sturgeons, though smaller, have far greater share
of small white muscle fibers. White muscle fibers are fast twitching fibers, capable of prolonged
activity, thus making the smaller sturgeons more active. The difference in activity of the restocked
sturgeons is directly correlated with the increase of their survivability potential. More active fish
search for food more eagerly, are harder to catch by predators and probably have better adaption
to the natural environment. In this case more studies are needed on this phenomenon to improve
current restocking practices.
103
First name: Georg
Last name: Mich
Abstract title: Cross-protection of parasitic wasps through symbiotic viruses
Justification: Gypsy moth larvae are defoliators of broadleaf forests throughout the northern hemisphere. Natural enemies like parasitic wasps play an important role in population regulation of the
pest. The occurrence of the wasps is closely related to an intact forest habitat that provides both food
plants for adult wasps and alternate host insects for overwintering.
Keywords: Insect pests, natural enemies, parasitic wasps, polydnaviruses, host specificity
Abstract text: Braconid wasps are important natural enemies of pest insects in agriculture and
forestry. Female wasps oviposit into the body of insect larvae that provide food and shelter for the
developing parasitoids. At parasitization, these wasps co-inject symbiotic viruses (polydnaviruses,
PDVs) together with the eggs to evade the host immune reaction. The goal of the present study was
to investigate the specificity of the immunosuppressive virus with its associated wasp. We used larvae of the gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar, as host for two PDV-carrying parasitic wasps of the genus
Glyptapanteles (G. liparidis, G. porthetriae). To separate the eggs from the associated virus, female
wasps were exposed to gamma rays which sterilized the wasps but did not affect the virus. At oviposition these wasps injected intact virus and infertile eggs into the host (pseudoparasitism). The
pseudoparasitized host, containing the virus from one species, was then used as recipient larva of
fertile, virus-free eggs from the other species. This procedure was done reciprocally with both wasp
species. Virus and eggs from the same species transferred separately into the same host larva were
used as controls. We recorded the fate of the implanted wasp eggs via dissecting the pseudoparasitized hosts at regular intervals. Virus of G. liparidis supported the development of G. porthetriae
parasitoids in the implanted host but the parasitoid larvae did not emerge. The reverse experiment
showed the same results. Similarly, the combination of virus and eggs of G. porthetriae resulted in
fully developed parasitoid larvae which did not emerge. Successful emergence of parasitoids from
the host larva was observed only when virus and eggs of G. liparidis were combined. The results from
the cross-protection experiments indicate that the virus from one wasp species protects the progeny
of the other species from encapsulation but did not always promote successful development.
104
First Name: Celestine
Last Name: Muli
Home University: Hohenheim University
Abstract title: Effect of households’ Subsistence Orientation on Food Security in Northern Vietnam
Justification: The government of Vietnam views the increased commercialization of maize as an
important element to increase income and improve people`s living standards in rural areas, however
this has exposed farm households that used to be subsistence oriented to high levels of market related risk. Despite this upland rice is the major source of food to millions of people majority of whom
are poor and belong to the ethnic minorities(Minot, 2003).
Keywords: Food security, subsistence farming, Vietnam
Abstract text: In the past, rural households in low income countries produced most of their own
food, but recent studies have shown an increased dependency on cash crop production and market
purchases of food by both urban and rural households. While moving towards a market-oriented production promises higher returns to labor and land, hence possible more income and better access
to food, it can also threaten food security. This can be not only due to the high share of food in low
income households’ spending, but also due to food prices that have been increasingly volatile and
rising since the food price crisis in 2008.
Considering this background, this study examines the impact of households’ subsistence orientation
on the evolution of food security from 2007 to 2010 using a standard Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition approach applied to a random sample of 300 households in the northern uplands of Vietnam
(Yen Chau district). The standard Blinder-Oaxaca decomposition approach helps to investigate the
development of food security over time for two different household groups (i.e. the food insecure in
2007 and the food secure in 2010). This is done by decomposing the evolution of food security in
an endowment component (i.e. differences in households’ characteristics) and a treatment component (i.e. returns to differences in households’ characteristics). In summary, this paper examines
the influence of subsistence orientation in farm production on achieving food security over time. It
assesses whether the overtime-development was different for households that were food secure or
food-insecure in 2007. Findings from the study are expected to provide empirical foundation for food
security-related policymaking in the context of subsistence farming in northern Vietnam.
105
First name: Veronika
Last name: Neidel
future?)
Abstract title: Pathogene transmission in a forest pest insect via feces
Justification: To maintain biodiversity in forest ecosystems protection measures must be handled
with care. Preventive actions and methods for supporting natural enemies of pest insects are one
part of sustainable forest management. Studies on host-pathogen interactions and how they are
affected by environmental conditions help us understand these self-regulating mechanisms of nature.
Keywords: forest ecosystem, biological control, insect pest, microspordia, host-pathogen interaction
Abstract text: The gypsy moth, Lymantria dispar (Lep., Lymantriidae), is a ser ious polyphagous
forest pest on broadleaf trees in Europe and North America. As host specific pathogenes, microsporidia play an important role in the collaps of insect populations during gradations. Within host
populations the disease is transmitted through spore release from infected hosts both via feces and
cadavers; within about three weeks the infected larvae die. The present study deals with the effects
of simulated rain on spore transmission of Nosema lymantriae (Fungi: Microsporidia) in gypsy moth
larvae via feces. Spores of N. lymantriae are taken up with contaminated leaves. Infections begin
in the gut and subsequently spread to other organs until the entire body is filled with environmental
spores. For experimental set up, young gypsy moth larvae were inoculated with 1000 spores each.
After 12, 15 and 18 days, groups of infected larvae were kept on hornbeam foliage in plexiglas cylinders with or without simulated rain (2.3 l/m²) sprayed in two applications at dusk and d awn. After
24 hours of incubation, inoculated larvae were exchanged for healthy test larvae. Three days later
the insects were removed and reared individually for three weeks to allow microsporidia infection to
develop. For diagnosis test larvae were dissected; silk glands and fat body were inspected with phase contrast microscopy for the presence of spores. Results of the experiments provide information
on the significance of precipitation as a promotor of disease transmission.
106
First name: Andreas
Last name: Niedermayr
Session: Novelties in animal sciences or plant sciences (What are the novelties in animal or plant
sciences?)
Abstract title: Measuring the influence of agglomeration effects on oil pumpkin cultivation in Austria: A spatial tobit approach
Justification: The methodological approach in the thesis offers the possibility to analyse the spatial
diffusion of innovative agricultural production branches and identify spatial agglomeration effects,
but has up to now received only little attention in agricultural economics. Therefore, it can be seen
as a methodological novelty in agricultural economics.
Keywords: oil pumpkin spatial econometrics tobit
Abstract text: The oil pumpkin cultivation in Austria has undergone a dynamic development in r
ecent years. The area under cultivation increased from 10.376 ha in 2000 by over 100% to 26.119
ha in 2011. Using a cross sectional dataset of 1.347 Austrian communities for the year 2011, different regression models are estimated to investigate this dynamic development, with the goal of
identifying possible determinants of the oil pumpkin cultivation in Austria. Particular attention is
paid to the role of spatial agglomeration effects, which may occur in oil pumpkin cultivation due to
exchange of knowledge and experience, shared use of machinery or the need of spatial proximity
to manufacturing and processing companies. Spatial agglomeration effects may be modelled with
spatial econometric models, as in contrast to non-spatial models, they allow to incorporate and
measure spatial interactions of observations. Therefore, in addition to an ordinary least squares and
a Tobit specification, the fitted models also include spatial econometric models in form of a spatial
autoregressive ( SAR) and a SAR Tobit specification. The results indicate that the SAR Tobit model
fits the data best, as it takes into account the high proportion of zeroes as well as existing spatial
autocorrelation in the dependent variable (percentage of arable land cultivated with oil pumpkin).
Moreover, it can be shown that oil pumpkin cultivation is influenced by the protected geographical indication (PGI) of Styrian pumpkin seed oil, climatic conditions and also spatial agglomeration
effects. However, remaining problems regarding model assumptions need to be reconsidered, when
interpreting the results. Spatial Tobit models offer the possibility to analyse the spatial diffusion of
innovations, but have up to now received only little attention in agricultural economics. Therefore,
this master thesis also aims to stimulate a more vital discussion on the use of spatial Tobit models
in the field of agricultural economics.
107
First name: Thomas
Last name: Nigl
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Ship recycling - Analysis of Development Methods and Data of Inventories of Hazardous Materials
Justification: The development of IHMs may be regarded as a best practice approach to provide
specific information on the amount and location of hazardous materials on-board ships and thus
prevent negative consequences in the ship recycling process.
Keywords: Ship recycling, Inventory of Hazardous Materials
Abstract text: In the last decades, ship recycling has caused serious problems, such as environmental pollution, work-related casualties and health complications. These problems are mainly caused
by inappropriate conditions for ship recycling on South Asian beaches. The International Maritime
Organization and the European Union aim to solve and control these problems by implementing and
enforcing international regulations (e.g. Hong Kong Convention, EU Ship Recycling Regulation). According to these regulations, all ships (above 500 gross tons) have to be equipped with an inventory
of hazardous materials (IHM), in order to provide specific information on the amount and location
of hazardous materials (HazMats) on-board of the ships and thus prevent the negative effects and
consequences of ship recycling. The goal of this thesis was to analyze hitherto developed IHMs and
to evaluate and critically discuss the methodology of IHM development. For that, thorough statistical
data analyses and several stakeholder interviews have been conducted. Additionally, statistical benchmarks for the relative amounts of the individual hazardous materials are presented. It was found
that methodological divergences in the IHM development for new-built ships and existing ships lead
to considerable differences in the amounts of HazMats found on-board of ships. Statistical modelling
revealed that the individual HazMat expert compiling the IHM and the age of the respective ship are
the most influential factors concerning the amount of HazMats found on-board of existing ships;
however, the influence factors concerning new-built ships are less definite. The findings of the study
underpin the necessity of clear definitions and documentation for IHM development. Additionally, the
acquisition of further common knowledge of the individual hazardous materials, the development of
international standards and an effective control mechanism for material declarations in the supply
chain are desirable.
108
Title: Rethinking and Repositioning Knowledge in Global Resource Management
Name of author: Nelson Owusu Ntiamoah (MSc Development and Rural Innovation)
Name of institution: Wageningen University and Research Center
ABSTRACT
Global resource management has not only encompassed the production of scientific evidence about
which resources matter most to biodiversity, which ones are near-extinct or extinct and which resources must cautiously be exploited for human sustenance and ecological balance. It has also brought
to the fore the multiplicity of anthropocentric factors and of different knowledge, ontologies, power,
interests and actors in the quest for answers about resources, resource utilization and management
strategies. Dealing with the multiple realities, ontologies and interests of actors in order to effectively
manage global resources is not only keenly contested but also embodies profound forms of socio-political engagement in which knowledge plays central role. I argue that global resource management
in itself has meant first, managing the multiple resources of knowledge which potentially expands
the opportunity to produce more ‘human’ and acceptable solutions. Subsequently, knowledge steps
beyond a mere toolkit for showcasing evidence; interacting and mediating between divergent actors
to become a key resource in itself for achieving wider global resource management goals. The inclusion and management of divergent knowledge beyond what science offers is thus key to broadening
the base of accommodation; ensuring justice, equity and peace needed for sustainable resource
management interventions. The paper hinges on the questions: what is the role of different kinds
of actors’ knowledge in resource management? How can the interplay and interfaces of diverse
knowledge effectively improve sustainable resource management? This paper traces key disjuncture, debates, tensions, challenges and ambiguities in knowledge for global resource management
and makes the case for the management of knowledge interfaces. I situate the management of
knowledge interfaces as the sine qua non for maintaining the integrity of global resources.
I conclude that sustainable resource management requires the interplay and interface between scientific knowledge and local knowledge in producing acceptable and equitable ‘human’ solutions that
meet multiple actors’ interests and needs.
Keywords: Knowledge; ontologies; actors; accommodation; nterface; multiple realities
109
First Name: Schirin
Last Name: Oeding
Academic status: /
Session: Session 4: Links between societies, cultures and environmental problems
Abstract title: The Challenges of Succession on Small-Scale Farms: Perspectives from the Swiss Alps
Justification: This project, resting on evidence from case studies and expert interviews, sheds light
on the interplay between traditional farming methods, societal norms/traditions, such as gender
preferences in farm succession, the conservation of sensitive cultural landscapes, and changing
expectations of a new generation of farmers.
Keywords: farm succession, Alps, inter-generational change
Abstract text:
Throughout history, the survival of small farms has been largely dependent on rigid systems of succession, following either a pattern of primogeniture or, more rarely, ultimogeniture . While Switzerland is a country shaped by its deep-set agricultural traditions, these formal patterns of farm inheritance are beginning to stray from the norm. Though marginal mountain farms are more slow to adapt
to the modernization of agriculture, in part due to the limitations imposed by the landscape, they are
not immune to an issue facing farmers worldwide: who will inherit the farm? Additionally, increasing
numbers of alpine farmers are also wondering whether anyone will succeed them in running their
farms. Succession remains one of the most influential components of a farm’s structure and future
development. Fewer and fewer young people are willing to take on the demands of traditional farms.
This change risks not only the eventual disappearance of the farms from the landscape, but, in the
interim, a decline in biodiversity due to farm abandonment and changes in management, a loss of
cultural heritage, and economic losses. While some farmers feel that giving up farming is the best
option, there are others who have found successors, whether inter- or intrafamiliar. Among these
successors are farmers who have begun creating alternative agricultural practices: their initiatives
and expectations, alongside those of the retiring generation of farmers, are the focus of this project.
110
First name: Marie Theres
Last name: Pfeiffer
future?)
Abstract title: Modelling the interaction between riparian vegetation and morphodynamics with a
focus on invasive plant Fallopia japonica (Houtt.). A case study at river Schwechat using CASiMiR
vegetation modelling program.
Justification: Understanding interactions between riparian vegetation and morphodynamics is crucial to describe riverine ecosystems. Besides the anthropogenic impacts on rivers also invasive plants
can be a threat. Protecting river landscapes means not only conservation of unimpacted areas but
also managing existing problems. This topic fits to the subtheme „supporting diversity in nature“ as
well because of the reduction of specie s richness through the mass occurrence of an invasive plant.
Keywords: river, morphodynamic, hydromorphology, invasive plant
Abstract text: Riparian zones are highly dynamic ecosystems driven by a panoply of complex processes both ecologically and physically. To understand these systems it is necessary to observe the
interactions between riparian vegetation and hydrogeomorphic disturbances. Those are coupled in
both directions, the stabilizing effect of vegetation on the river bed by rooting and altering of the
hydraulic conditions as well as the destructive effects of morphodynamics on the plants due to drag
forces, sedimentation, erosion and flooding. Modelling helps scientists to establish a common link
between the ecological, hydrological, hydraulics and geomorphological viewpoints. The modelling
program used in this study is called CASiMiR-vegetation. It is a rule based vegetation model used for
the prediction of dynamic succession and retrogression of the plant species based primarily on scour
disturbance such as shear stress as an indicator of mechanical stress and flood duration as an indicator of physiological stress and is tested at river Schwechat, Lower Austria. Furthermore the impact
of the invasive plant Fallopia japonica on the vegetation-morphodynamics interaction is modelled
and the outputs are compared with the reality. The main objective of this master thesis is to observe
the hydromophological changes of a river stretch over time from the perspective of riparian plant
succession with a focus on the alterations caused by the invasive plant Fallopia japonica (Houtt.).
111
First name: Thu Trang
Last name: Pham
Academic status: /
Abstract title: Impact of biogas technology on rural women. Case study in central Vietnam
Justification: The research investigated social impact of renewable energy on users as well as what
kind of energy and how respondents consumed it before and after adoption of biogas technology
Keywords: biogas digester, women, health risk, extra time, Vietnam
Abstract text: Due to rapid economic growth in Vietnam, the consumption of primary energy has
increased. Thus natural resources were heavily exploited. Smoke from burning of solid biomass and
coal in tight kitchen cause indoor pollution which is dangerous for human health especially women and children. Agricultural development boosted livestock production but it also brought out
the challenge of manure contamination. Biogas technology was chosen as a national solution for
manure management and environmental protection. Beside the availability of clean energy sources
for user it also offers other benefits on socio-economic aspect. Hence this study aimed to analyze the
impacts of biogas technology on rural women in Vietnam. The research carried out in August – September 2013 in district Que Vo - Bac Ninh province – Northern Vietnam and districts Phong Dien and
Huong Tra – Thua Thien Hue – central Vietnam. Data were collected via semi-structured interview by
authors and a trained volunteer. Results revealed that biogas technology cannot fully satisfy energy
demand but it can reduce the consumption of conventional energies. As biogas station does not
create any smoke, thus the women’s health status has improved . Time demand of cooking, fire
wood collection and animal management decreased after biogas adoption by approximately 50 %.
Women‘‘s life, after biogas adoption, was improved by amount of free time, increased family income,
and decreased workload in central Vietnam.
112
First name: Marcel
Last name: Podstolski
Academic status: /
Abstract title: The Evolution of Total Energy Inputs in the New Zealand Dairy Industry
Justification: New Zealand has an advanced, pasture-based dairy industry that is one of the world’s
leading exporters of milk products. The industry has also undergone significant changes in recent
years as inputs increase to drive further production. Energy analysis allows for long-term historic
and international comparisons, tracking the primary drivers of change, and to analyse areas where
environmental impacts can be reduced.
Keywords: energy, dairy, New Zealand
Abstract text: In 1998, Wells (2001) conducted a national study of the total energy inputs of New
Zealand dairy farms. Outcomes of Wells (2001) demonstrated superiority in energy efficiency of New
Zealand dairy production compared to that of European farms. Over the past decade, New Zealand’s
dairy industry has transformed. With the growth of the industry in nontraditional regions, as well as a
significant increases in irrigation, nitrogenous fertilisers, and supplementary feeds, there has been a
substantial growth in milk production driven by an increasingly commodified export market. While the
industry has experienced significant changes in the past 10 years, these changes have not yet been
reflected in research. As a consequence, the impacts of these developments on the energy requirements of milk production are not yet fully documented. However, this study addresses the gap in
data. This study is the first comprehensive, national assessment of energy requirements of New Zealand dairy farms since 1998. In this study, the total energy inputs of 135 New Zealand farms were
calculated to determine their energy intensity and efficiency. Results were compared with energy
input records from 1978 and 1998. Results of this study suggest that, in comparison with historical
data, dairy farm energy intensity has significantly increased in all regions of New Zealand; energy
efficiency has worsened in all but one geographical region. Despite this, New Zealand dairy farms are
still more energy efficient than those of other major international competitors, which suggests the
competitive advantage still remains. This research identifies the key drivers of changes to energy inputs, and offers recommendations for reducing the energy consumption of dairy production, to safeguard against energy vulnerability, and to reduce the environmental impacts of the dairy industry.
113
First name: Md Mizanur
Last name: Rahman
security?
Abstract title: Effects of different ratios of Red clover and Maize silage on chemical composition of
rumen microbes and in vitro fermentation
Justification: Red clover one of the most important legumes of temperate grasslands and essential
for organic livestock production due to their ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen, providing high yields
of high feeding value without Nitrogen fertilization. Therefore, this research work was done to assess
the effects of red clover on ruminant nutrition in order to use them a good source of animal feed as
well as to enhance food security.
Keywords: Microbial protein, Red clover silage, ANKOM RF syste m, Purine, Volatile fatty acid
Abstract text: Microbial protein supply from the rumen is often low in ruminants fed on silage-based
diets and requires addition of dietary protein from concentrates to maintain microbial growth. Concentrate feeds are expensive; therefore, legume silages are an important option for this additional
supply of protein. The aim of this study was to assess the changes on fermentation parameters and
chemical composition of microbial fraction as affected by diets containing different ratios of Red
clover (Trifolium pratense L.) silage (RCS) and Maize silage. An in vitro experiment was conducted to
study the efficiency of microbial protein synthesis by increasing proportions of RCS (200, 400, 600
and 800 g/kg DM) in forage of four total mixed rations (TMR). The TMR also contains lupine, wheat
and soybean meal in a 75:25 forage to concentrate ratio. Approximately 2 g of substrate were incubated with 300 ml buffered rumen fluid for 24 hour in an ANKOM RF gas production system. Increasing ratios of RCS linearly (P < 0.01) increased the ammonia-nitrogen concentration in incubation
medium indicating a higher protein degradation. Molar proportions of butyrate and total branched
chain fatty acids, and the acetate to propionate ratio linearly decreased (P < 0.01), whereas the proportions of propionate increased (P < 0.01). This indicates a shift towards a glucogenic fermentation
with increasing RCS levels, without affecting total volatile fatty acids (P = 0.48). Purine basis content
in the microbial fraction linearly decreased (P < 0.05) on increasing levels of RCS; therefore, caution
has to be taken when evaluating microbial protein synthesis from purine derivatives on animals fed
these diets. Nitrogen content was not affected by RCS levels. Results suggest that increasing level
of RCS promote a more energy efficient fermentation in vitro without affecting the microbial protein
synthesis. In vivo studies are required to validat e these results.
114
First name: Magdalena
Last name: Rogosz
Abstract title: The meaning short food supply chain in sustainable development of food systems in
Poland.
Justification: The meaning of local food system is more and more developing. Consumers are more
consciously and interesing in high quality food from short supply chain. .
Keywords: SFSCs, local food system,
Abstract text: Author: Magdalena Rogosz and Karol Michalak – students at Warsaw University of Life
Sciences. Title: The meaning short food supply chain in sustainability development of food system
in Poland. In this paper we present the meaning Short Food Supply Chains (SFSCs) in Poland. The
aim of study is indicate to developing of this agri-food model of supply chain among producers and
consumers. We try prove interaction between sustainability and changing in awareness and behavior
of Poles. We underline economic, social and environment aspects and determinants. We put the
emphasis on advantage, opportunities, threat and barrier for developing local food chain in Poland.
The Short Food Supply Chains have several types and ways. We show his influence on forms, size and
specific of process: selling, distribution and transport. This work include describe of alternative food
networks (partnerships), local farming systems and direct sales. In the paper we present examples
of short food supply chain which positive developing in Poland. We closer to them structure, range
and organization. We give know about online shopping, cooperative and local markets. We presents
information about scale of demand and supply by shorts food chain. Details based on national and
UE statistics and questionnaire survey. Apart from descriptions we use graphics method, tables and
photos.
115
First name: Alberto
Last name: Serra
appropriate?)
Abstract title: European farmers and agricultural practices: Critical Discourse Analysis of the Common Agricultural Policy on the ‘Payment for agricultural practices beneficial for the environment and
the climate’
Justification: In my thesis I have analysed a European regulation from the last Common Agricultural
Policy. Such regulation addresses farming practices considered beneficial for the environment and
the climate. In analysing this regulation I deeply inquire over the implications that this policy might
have over European farmers and their practices.
Keywords: farmers; Common Agricultural Policy; Critical Discourse Analysis.
Abstract text: The global agricultural situation faces serious challenges. At the European level in
the last decades farmers are diminishing. Farmers in fact face many threats such as price volatility,
high market competitions, and difficulties in the intergenerational farm succession. Likewise the
state of European environment presents many issues derived from food production. However at the
institutional level many institutions such as the European Commission and national governments try
to address the situation of agriculture and the environment. Especially, the new Common Agricultural
Policy claims to address such situation. In order to understand the role of such policy, this thesis
presents a Critical Discourse Analysis of the regulation about direct payment scheme on ‘agricultural practices beneficial for the environment and the climate’. The payment scheme proposes three
different agricultural practices that farmers have to comply with. By ad opting a threefold approach
(micro, meso and macro) to the regulation it is possible to intersect different layers of meanings and
to understand how this payment scheme made by the European Commission supports farmers and
what the implications for the farming practices are. As result it has been possible to observe how the
practices proposed might be considered beneficial for the environment and the climate.
116
First name: Luke
Last name: Schafer
Abstract title: The dual use of aquatic plants for phytoremediation of polluted waters and a novel
source of bioenergy
Justification: This study fits the chosen theme by offering two applications to assist the transition
away from conventional fossil fuels. The first is the utilization of phytoremediation to counteract the
negative effects of fossil fuel production by restoring contaminated coal mine water. The second
application is the potential use of the harvested plant material to produce biogas, a cleaner alternative source of energy.
Keywords: Phytoremediation, Bioenergy, Eichhornia crassipes, Azolla filiculoides.
Abstract text: The dual use of aquatic plants for phytoremediation of polluted waters and a novel
source of bioenergy Schafer, L., Franzaring, J., Fangmeier, A. As future energy production will transition away from conventional fossil fuels, these unsustainable practices will become redundant
and the associated negative impacts will require restoration. This study focuses on treating coal
mine effluent based on the natural process of phytoremediation and the subsequent recycling of the
plant material for bioenergy production. Four aquatic plant species were selected; Azolla filiculoides,
Eichhornia crassipes, Pista stratiotes and Salvinia natans. Three replicates were exposed to five
different mine water dilutions up to 25% without additional fertilizers. Upon completion of the 28
day growth period the plants were harvested and ground into a powder for heavy metal analysis.
Phytoremediation will be quantified by measuring the heavy metals present within the plants tissues.
Plant growth in the contaminated water varied between species with E. crassipes proving the most
tolerant and productive. All E. crassipes plants appeared healthy in contrast to other species were
growth slowed after 7-14d and signs of phytotoxicity emerged, eg, leaf wilting and discolouration. E.
crassipes displayed a consistent growth rate in all dilutions with a doubling time of 20 days. Effective
concentrations (EC50) for P. stratiotes, E. crassipes and S. natans were dilutions of 22.6%, 54.7%
and 57.8% respectively. The EC50 for E. crassipes indicated that growth would not be inhibited in
half strength coal mine waters. Prior studies in biogas production from the anaerobic biodigestion
of these plants revealed promising results. Each plant species produced biogas with considerable
amounts of methane present. Every kilogram of E. crassipes wet biomass yielded six litres of biogas
which comprised of 56% methane (Pereira, et. al, 2008) Utilizing phytoremediation for contaminated
water treatment could assist the transition from conventional fossil fuels to renewable sources of
energy as it is a natural, cost effective process where the waste may yield beneficial biogas creating
a ‘win-win’ situation.
117
First name: Marek
Last name: Skrobisz
Abstract title: The role of estrogen receptor β (REβ) during formation of intersex individuals in critically endangered population of Russian sturgeon (Acipenser gueldenstaedtii).
Justification: Russian sturgeon is listed as critically endangered species due to poaching and
damming of rivers. Number of individuals of this species has been steadily decreasing. Municipal
sewage discharge into water reservoirs and phytoestrogens delivered with feed, increase amount of
intersex individuals in wild populations and aquaculture (e.g. in restocking material breeding). REβ
was chosen as research target due to its potentially involvement in formation of intersex individuals
of Russian sturgeon.
Keywords: Russian sturgeon, REβ, aquaculture, xenobiotics
Abstract text: Estrogens are responsible for important metabolic, behavioral and morphological
changes in vertebrates. Hormones, particularly estrogens which are disposed into environment from
municipal sewage and phytoestrogens from industrial sludge can cause disorder of sex structure in
wild populations of fish. Chronic exposure for xenobiotics can lead to progressive feminization of the
population and may result in decrease of fish population. Russian sturgeon rearing in aquaculture
was designed to reduce obtaining caviar and meat from wild populations. However, nutrition the
Russian sturgeon with commercial feed also results in the development of intersex individuals. This
is due to the presence of phytoestrogens in commercial feed . Detection of the estrogen receptor
β localization in Russian sturgeon was performed by the immunohistochemistry methods. In a test
sturgeon species has been found that the location of the REβ protein changes in ontogenesis. In
tested population of Russian sturgeon were observed male, female and intersex individuals. The research material were Russian sturgeon larvae on 1, 10 and 25 dph (days post hatching) and gonads
on 120, 300, 720 and 1440 dph. The larvae analyses shows absence of REβ protein. In undifferentiated gonads (120dph) the REβ protein was observed in vascular endothelial cells. In the ovary of
older individuals (from 300dph) the REβ positive reaction was detected in follicular cells nucleus,
but in testis only at 1440 dph sturgeons any activity was observed in some germ cells. Younger than
1440 dph male gonads was not showed presence of the REβ positive reaction. In intersex individuals
gonads presence of REβ was noticed in follicular cells of female part. In conclusion, the result shows
that REβ take important part in hormonal regulation, sex determination and may affect in development of the intersex individuals.
118
First name: Jamie
Last name: Smidt
Academic status: /
future?)
Abstract title: Eddy Covariance Measurements Over a Maize Field: The Contribution of Minor Flux
Terms to the Energy Balance Gap
Justification: The EC technique measures the turbulent fluxes of water, energy and matter in the
atmospheric boundary layer. It is used extensively for the creation and verification of climate models,
and should be as accurate and representative as possible. Energy balance closure is commonly
used to judge the quality of EC measurements. By quantifying these fluxes, researchers are better
able to understand the effects of climate change on agricultural landscapes and offer protection and
mitigation strategies.
Keywords: Eddy Covariance, Energy Balance Closure, Regional Climate Change
Abstract text: The lack of energy balance closure is a long-standing problem in eddy covariance (EC)
measurements. The energy balance equation is defined as Rn – G = H + λE, where Rn is net radiation, G is ground heat flux, H is the sensible heat flux and λE is the latent heat flux. Multiple studies
have shown that calculations, instrument calibration and measurement errors alone do not entirely
account for this imbalance. Rather, research is now focused on previously neglected sources of
heat storage in the soil, biomass and air beneath the EC station. This thesis examined the potential
of five “minor flux terms” – biomass heat storage, soil heat storage, energy consumption by photosynthesis, air heat storage and atmospheric moisture change to further close the energy balance
gap. Measurements were conducted at a maize field in southwest Germany during summer 2014.
Soil heat storage was measure d for six weeks at 11 sites around the field footprint. Biomass and air
heat storage were measured for six subsequent weeks at seven sites around the field footprint. Evapotranspiration was calculated using the water balance method, and the EC data was post-closed
using three methods; the sensible heat flux, latent heat flux and Bowen ratio post-closure methods.
During the soil heat flux campaign of 20 May – 1 July, EC station closure was 74.1%, and the field
footprint soil heat storage contributed 3.3% additional closure. During the second minor flux measurement period of 8 July to 24 August, closure with the EC station was 91%. Biomass heat storage,
photosynthesis flux, air heat storage and atmospheric moisture change resulted in 1.1, 7.8, -0.3 and
<0.01% additional closure, respectively, with a total additional closure of 8.6% over the EC station
measurements. The Bowen ratio post-closure method yielded values most similar to the water balance method over the entire season.
119
First name: Julia
Last name: Tanzer
Abstract title: Historical morphological changes of the Danube tributaries in southern Vienna
Justification: From pre-historic times on, the availability of water has been crucial to the evolution
of human societies and cultures. However, human changes to the aquatic environment often had
far-reaching consequences beyond those intended. Especially river regulations often caused loss of
aquatic habitats and increased flooding downstream of the measure. The success of current river
restoration measures is very dependent on understanding the long-term effects of past human interventions to the waterscape.
Keywords : Danube tributaries, Vienna, morphological changes, historic reconstruction
Abstract text: This master thesis is part of the interdisciplinary project URBWATER (Vienna’s urban
waterscape 1683 – 1918. An environmental history), looking at the links between river morphology,
urban development and human water uses in Vienna between the 17th and 20th century. Like in
many other cities, humans and their needs for urban development, flood protection, navigation and
power generation have influenced river morphology and dynamics in and around Vienna with sometimes unintended consequences that required further interventions. In the present project, the state
of the waterscape of the southern Viennese Danube tributaries is reconstructed for eight points in
time between 1663 and 2010. A regressive-iterative approach, using geographical information systems (GIS) and based on historical maps, (hydro)-technical reports and other historical documents
is applied. The reconstruction covers aquatic and semi-aquatic habitats, areas frequently affected
by flooding, artificial waterbodies, as well as man-made structures such as bridges, mills, dams
and embankment protection. Subsequently, impacts of human changes to the aquatic environment,
morphological dynamics and areas inundated at high water periods will be analysed over time. From
the reconstruction it is evident that as southern Vienna developed from a rural landscape with few
scattered settlements to a densely populated urban area, the waterscape underwent major changes:
While in the 17th and 18th century local bank enforcement in villages and diversion of millstreams,
which peaked in the 19th century, prevailed, after 1900 rivers were increasingly channelized and
vaulted in order to make room for the growing city. Recently, some restoration projects and flood
retention basins have been developed. As the analysing phase of the project is still in progress, detailed results cannot be presented at present.
120
First name: Trčka
Last name: Martin
appropriate?)
Abstract title: Buffer Zone Management in the Šumava National Park
Justification: Šumava forests were always important source of timber. Political-social situation changed
dramatically in last few decades. Nature conservation has been recognized as one of the most important processes. Nevertheless mainly man planted forests are used in the same way as before and
nature protection is not taken into account even inside of national park.
Keywords: Šumava National Park, Criteria & Indicators, buffer zone, transition management, mixed
forest
Abstract text: This thesis project provides an overview of current management practi ces used for
forest vegetation belts originally covered by mountain mixed forest species (spruce, fir and beech) at
Czech part of Šumava Mountains. We evaluated four different forest management practices and a
reference stand. By using a simplified version of Multi Criteria Decision Analysis and the concept of
Criteria & Indicators, we evaluated forest management using a set of pan-European Criteria & Indicators for Sustainable Forest Management. Results uncover high variability in forests managed within the
National Park, from no intervention to intensive management. Large, even aged spruce monocultures
do not meet the requirements for buffer zone management because of their vulnerably to wind and
bark beetles, low biodiversity and low nature value. In addition, legal obligations should lead to the
higher proportion of broadleaved trees and fir but it is not always the case and some owners always go
to the limits of laws. Another problem for functional buffer zone is the lack o f dead wood in forests. A
positive trend is the supporting of natural regeneration by selective logging and increasing proportions
of beech and fir. Future buffer zones can be more resistant to bark beetle and large wind disturbances
by improving species and structure composition; transition management is the key.
121
First name: Kanoatkhon
Last name: Umurzokova
Academic status: /
appropriate?)
Abstract title: Sustainability indicators for evaluating national agricultural policies
Justification: The research was dedicated to evaluate the effectiveness of the agricultural policies
in terms of sustainability.
Keywords: Sustainable land management, policy analysis, agricultural research for development
Abstract text: Millennium Development Goals up to 2015 for sustainable development of nations’
are one of the peaks of our civilisation, showing the consciousness of human beings generously
targeting to give opportunities for every nation to live in the satisfactory conditions. New post-2015
Goals will put new chall enges to developing countries. Agricultural researches for development are
one of the milestones in the current trend of sustainability. This research is conducted to perform
policy analysis on potential of agriculture innovation system in Uzbekistan. The part of this study was
dedicated to statistical analysis of the state projects related to the sustainable land management.
There were developed new indicators evaluating the effectiveness of the policies on sustainable land
management, which can be used to improve the monitoring process of the regulations on national
level. The state projects were clustered by ministries they are supervised. Further, there were selected projects intended to promote sustainable land management and analysed the financial values
allocated for projects in comparison with GDP. Research outcomes showed that the regulations in
agriculture and education systems are the most effective in terms of promoting sustainability. The
main performers of these proje cts were universities under the supervision of either agriculture or
education ministries. The effective collaboration of these sectors can be a sign of very favourable
prerequisite for agricultural innovations.
122
First name: Iza
Last name: Wadowska
Abstract title: Natural resource management in aspect of evaluation of influence of selected veterinary drug on seed germination and early growth of various plants.
Justification: In recent years, more and more importance in environmental pollution have chemotherapeutics. Polymyxin E is one of the most commonly used chemotherapeutics. Especially often
it is used in farm animals. Polymyxin E gets into environment mainly from animal waste. Since most
chemotherapeutics are water soluble, and often have low biodegradability, they pose a huge risk for
the environment. That is why this is important to continuously control the ecotoxicology of polymyxin.
We can do this by doing biotests.
Keywords: ecotoxicology, veterinary drugs, polymyxin E, plants
Abstract text: Environmental Risk Assessment is a part of a process which is to assess the potential
adverse environmental product effects. Its main goal is to moderate and control potential risks. According to the report of the European Surveillance of Veterinary Antimicrobial Consumption (ESVAC),
7982.3 tonnes of antibiotics were sold in Europe in 2012. Farm animals usually receive chemotherapeutics orally and most of the drugs are excreted with faeces and urine in active form. Animal wastes
in EU are used as fertilizers and are applied either as slurry or manure or they are dried before the
usage. Since most of the chemotherapeutics are water soluble and show low biodegradability, they
are considered as a huge risk for the environment. In 2003, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) published the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling
of Chemicals (GHS). These document clearly indicates that ecotoxicological information needs to
be provided for each new product. Acute toxicity of veterinary drugs is usually assessed using fish,
crustacean and algae but there is lack of data about their influence on plants. Therefore the aims of
this study were to evaluate the influence of one of veterinary chemotherapeutics on seed germination and early growth of plants and to compare its influence on various species. The experiments were
conducted using the monocotyl Sorghum saccharatum and the dicotyls garden cress Lepidium sativum according test protocol given by Phytotestkit (MicroBioTests Inc.). Influence of colistin (polimyxin
E) on root length of the germinated seeds was determined and EC50 was calculated. The results
revealed a correlation between the increased concentration of colistin and decreased parameters
of early plants` growth. The results confirmed also th e necessity for consideration data from plant
experiments as an important component of the environmental risk assessment.
123
First name: Olga
Last name: Witkowska
Abstract title: Pinch Induced Behavioral Inhibition
Justification: Pinch Induced Behavioural Inhibiton helps vets and owners of cats to calm down this
animals without using specific drugs. In the veterinary consulting room cats often scratch and vocalise.Then, even mundane trimming of claws or an injection in such a patient become a challenge. It is
named also clipnosis. Clipnosis it is part of life science which should be known better to improve the
effectiveness of overpowering without hurting and bad influence on health.
Keywords: PIBI, cats, clipnosis
Abstract text: Pinch-Induced Behavioural Inhibition Olga Witkowska Pinch-induced behavioural inhibition (PIBI), that is the behavioural inhibition caused by the pinch has been documented in relation
to different animals. The aim of the studies was to state whether age, gender, environment, the
instrument used for clipnosis have an impact on its effectiveness. There were selected 45 domestic
cats. The animals were divided into three groups: the first consisted of the patients of the veterinary
consulting room, cats subjected to clipnosis in the enclosed spaces well known to them (animals’
houses), specimens tested in the open space (outside). There were used commercial clips, clips for
drying laundry or the office ones. To determine the effectiveness of clipnosis there was used the
Likert scale from -1 to +1. At the same time, there was determined the number of breaths and heart
rate 10 before the application, 2 minutes after it and 1 minute after taking the clip off which were
measured using a stethoscope. Desensitisation – almost all cats were subjected to clipnosis again
after 1 and 2 months from the first application of the clip. The statistical analysis was made in the
programs Statistica 10, Microsoft Office Excel 2007. A statistically significant decrease of the heart
rate and number of breaths were observed in case of the use of every of the three instruments.
There were no statistically significant changes between the instruments and the places Three further
studies a month apart were performed in 21 cats. The positive reaction (behavioural inhibition)
occurred in the statistically significant percentage of cats with the repetition of the procedure. The
cat’s nature had a very strong influence – positive reaction in 23/27 calm and only 4/18 aggressive.
In conclusion, it is difficult to clearly determine whether clipnosis is an effective method in taming
animals.
124
First name: Maciej
Last name: Wójcik
Abstract title: Using bioindicators in determining the level and kind of aquatic environment polution
Justification: Currently many species of animals are endangered, polution of their natural environemnt often being the cause. Monitoring aquatic environents with the help of bioindicators helps
control biological diversity and makes it easier to determine potential areas of active environmental
protection as well as areas of possible critically endangered species‘‘ restitution.
Keywords: biomarker, xenobiotic, ecotoxicology
Abstract text: Due to constantly increasing human pressure, natural environment is being poluted wi
th significant ammounts of substances that do not normally occur in it – xenobiotics. Some of those
substances are: polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) and dibenzop-dioxins (PCDDs).
Natural bodies of water are potential places of xenobiotics‘‘ accumulation. The substances influence
the condition of both the natural bodies of water they are found in and the organisms that inhabit
them. Living organisms exposed to xenobiotics exhibit measurable changes that can be used to
determine the level of environmental polution. In case of water environments, the changes in the
organisms of fish are the most thoroughly examined and most easily available for analysis. To this
end a wide range of biomarkers is used, among them: biotransformation enzymes (phase I and II),
oxidative stress parameters, biotransformation products, stress proteins, metallothioneins (MTs),
MXR proteins, hematological parameters, immunological parameters, reproductive and endocrine
parameters, genotoxic parameters, neuromuscular parameters, physiological, histological and morphological parameters. Most biomarkers, however, are highly unspecific and appear in response to
many kinds of polution. Using a larger number of biomarkers to establish the level of polution of
an aquatic ecosystem allows for a higher specificity in detecting a xenobiotic in the environment.
Biomarkers are highly species – specific which makes it possible to determine the species of fish
that exhibit the highest level of sepcificity in detecting certain xenobiotics (so called bioindicators).
This in turn can help to discover the presence of a given kind of polution in natural environment. The
monitoring of aquatic environments can help to prevent its degradation and maintain its biodiversity.
125
First name: Sonja
Last name: Zimmermann
security?
Abstract title: Evaluation of different processing methods to reduce the cyanogenic potential of
cassava leaves
Justification: Cassava leaves have an enormous potential to provide protein, vitamins and minerals
to millions of people in tropical and subtropical countries suffering from malnutrition. Developing suitable processing method for detoxification of cassava leaves without destroying the nutrients is needed in order to efficiently utilize all parts of this crop, thereby enhancing food and nutritional security.
Keywords: cassava leaves, cyanogenic potential, detoxification, picrate method, nutrients
Abstract text: Cassava leaves are a valuable food source for human nutrition in tropical and subtropical countries however, they contain high amounts of toxic cyanogenic glucosides. Traditional processing methods for cassava leaves involve pounding followed by boiling for 1 hour or longer, which
considerably reduces the nutrient content. In the present study, four different processing methods
were investigated to reduce the cyanide content of cassava leaves. Total cyanide content of fresh and
treated samples was determined by the semi-quantitative picrate method which is based on a color
reaction of HCN with alkaline picrate and subsequent spectrophotometric measurement. A calibration curve was obtained using a standard solution of linamarin, the main cyanogenic glucoside in
cassava leaves. Fresh leaves were ground and subjected to microwave (800 W, 78 oC, 20 seconds),
ultrasonic (35 kHz, 500 W, 55 oC, 15 minutes), enzymatic (8% Multifect® GC extra enzyme of dried
leaves basis, pH 5, 55 oC, 4 hours) and sodium bicarbonate (2% of fresh leaves basis, 55 oC, 6
hours) treatment. Microwave, ultrasonic, enzymatic and sodium bicarbonate treatment reduced the
cyanogenic potential by 63.6, 84.3, 82.1 and 93.3 %, while the cyanogenic potential reduction in
the respective controls was 59.5, 84.0, 79.0 and 89.6 %. Highest reduction was achieved with the
sodium bicarbonate treatment, which enhances detoxification probably due to an increase of pH
and softening of the plant tissue. The long incubation period may also be a factor for detoxification.
However, no method was able to detoxify the leaves to a level < 10 ppm, which is the safe HCN level
recommended by the FAO. Sodium bicarbonate is a simple and mild treatment which can be applied
in households in developing countries. In our future study, the sodium bicarbonate processing parameters i.e. time and temperature will be further optimized to detoxify cassava leaves.
126
First name: Emmanuel Kofi
Last name: Zinsu
Academic status: /
security?
Abstract title: Soil Quality in the Volta Region of Ghana - Reconciling Rice Farmers Perception with
Scientific Evidence
Justification: The aim of the research is to increase rice production in the Volta region of Ghana to
enhance and ensure food security in the region through the development of extension messages on
the best practices of maintaining the soil quality of rice fields without degrading it. Thus my abstract
fits on the aspect of how food security can be enhanced through an increased and sustained production of rice.
Keywords: Rice farmers, Soil indicators, Soil fertility, Local knowledge, Scientific Knowledge
Abstract text: The Volta regionof Ghana is the country’s third largest producer of rice, producing
about 83,936MT per annum which is about 17% of total national production. The government of
Ghana has also identified rice as a priority crop in the region for poverty reduction and ensuring food
security, thus has formulated policies to boost production. However, intense rice production needs
careful soil fertility management.
The farmers’ perception and their ability to evaluate soil quality thus are key competences and their
local soil knowledge often forms a much better starting point for communication than scientific soil
classifications. However, little is known about farmers’ perception on soil fertility and its management and thus the needs for extension contents. The study explores and identifies the most important attributes/indicators known and used by farmers in the classification of their soils and how
they perceive their soils in relation to these indicators. It al so investigates how farmers’ perceptions
match with scientific measurements and identify common linkages between farmers and stakeholders (i.e. Government, Scientist, development partners etc) on the management of their soils. The
study employs participatory rural appraisal (PRA) tools such as, transect walks, focused group discussion, individual interviews, mapping etc to collect data from rice farmers in the Volta region of
Ghana. The study also uses pair wise ranking method to identify the most important soil indicators
used by farmers in their field management, simple descriptive statistics and perception models to
explain farmers’ level of understanding of the nature of their soils. Laboratory soil analyses are
used to compare how scientific measurements meets with farmers’ view. Maps and matrices show
the flow of information on soil fertility management between farmers and stakeholders if any, and
concrete suggestions for the development of training manual merging lo cal knowledge of soil quality
indicators and fertility management with scientific evidence are elaborated.
127

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