Works of the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences University of Sarajevo
Works of the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences University of Sarajevo (Radovi Poljoprivredno-prehrambenog fakulteta Univerziteta u Sarajevu) is an annual peer-reviewed scientific journal publishing scientific articles, review papers, professional contributions, and preliminary communications. The journal holds the status of a scientific publication and follows internationally recognized standards for scholarly publishing.
Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences University of Sarajevo
IN MEMORIAM posvećen je Prof. dr. Lutviji Karić
Copyright (c) 2026 Works of the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences University of Sarajevo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ECONOMIC RESULTS OF MILK PRODUCTION IN HOLSTEIN AND SIMMENTAL CATTLE BREEDS ON A MODERN FARM IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
This paper presents a comparative analysis of the production and economic results of Holstein-Friesian and Simmental cows on a modern dairy farm in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The research was conducted on a sample of 30 pregnant heifers of each breed, imported from Denmark and Austria, and kept under identical farm conditions. The analysis included age at first calving, milk production in the first lactation, revenue structure, variable costs, and gross margin. Data were obtained from the farm’s electronic production database, while descriptive statistics, a two-sample t-test, and gross margin analysis were used. The results showed that Holstein-Friesian cows achieved higher milk production, with an average daily yield of 34.52 litres compared to 28.39 litres in Simmental cows. This difference was statistically significant. Holstein-Friesian cows also achieved a higher total milk yield and higher gross margin. However, the Simmental breed generated higher additional income from the sale of male and female young cattle and culled cows, confirming the economic relevance of its dual-purpose character. Feed costs were the dominant variable cost category in both breeds.
CELIAC DISEASE – A CHALLENGE FOR PEOPLE AFFECTED IN THE HERZEGOVINA-NERETVA CANTON
Celiac disease is a chronic disorder of the digestive system caused by the intake of gluten in genetically predisposed individuals. It is characterized by a high prevalence and often delayed diagnosis due to nonspecific symptoms, such as chronic diarrhea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fatigue, and anemia, which are frequently pushed aside, or misattributed to other conditions. The disease often occurs in association with other autoimmune diseases. Having in mind a complex administrative structure of Bosnia and Herzegovina, there are also significant differences in the healthcare system among cantons, which ultimately affects the position of patients, as well as the availability of adequate healthcare. The aim of this paper is to present celiac disease through the perspective of the condition itself, as well as the challenges and opportunities faced by patients in the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton. The paper contains a theoretical overview of the disease, an analysis of the availability of gluten-free products, the offer within the hospitality sector, patients' healthcare rights, and finally, a presentation of the experience of a person living with celiac disease. The right to gluten-free foods in Herzegovina-Neretva Canton is granted to patients suffering from celiac disease (K90.0 morbus coeliacus) in the amount of 200 BAM per month, if they belong to the pediatric age group, if they are unemployed, or retired. At the same time, patients suffering from celiac disease who are employed are not entitled to gluten-free foods at the expense of the Health Insurance Institute of Herzegovina-Neretva Canton (ZZO HNK). In the city of Mostar, four contracted pharmacies participate in the distribution of glutenfree food supplies covered by the Health Insurance Fund of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton, while in the other parts of the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton there are another five pharmacies which are involved in distribution (territories of Čapljina, Čitluk, Jablanica, Prozor, and Konjic). The analysis of the three retail chains with the largest number of stores demonstrated that these retailers provide a diverse range of gluten-free food products. Restaurants in Mostar do not offer a satisfactory selection on their menus, which undoubtedly makes the social life of individuals with celiac disease more difficult, especially younger, socially active individuals who travel and work. Even dishes labeled as gluten-free on their menus are recommended to be checked with staff before ordering if they are being prepared under controlled conditions, and whether there is a possibility of gluten contamination from the preparation of other meals. A significant contribution to improving the quality of life of people with celiac disease is provided by the Association of People with Celiac Disease “Gluten free” in the Herzegovina-Neretva Canton, through various activities and initiatives addressed to city authorities, which has resulted in noticeable improvements in the quality of life of people with celiac disease over the past two years since the association was founded.
INCIDENCE OF LACTOSE INTOLERANCE AMONG THE POPULATION OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Lactose is a carbohydrate only found in the milk of mammals and it is one of the most important components of milk. Upon consumption by humans, the enzyme ß- galactosidase (lactase) breaks down lactose into glucose and galactose with the help of water in the small intestine, but its activity decreases or disappears completely when growing up, and consumption of lactose in adulthood can cause indigestion. In this research, based on literature data, it is explained why certain group of people in the world can digest lactose regardless of age, and some others cannot. It is also explained which products can potentially replace milk and milk products. However, the primary goal of this paper is to show the prevalence of lactose intolerance among the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and which dairy products cause them the most problems. Most of the previously conducted research showed that the phenomenon of lactase persistence is genetically determined. It occurs in Europeans in whom the activity of ß- galactosidase is constantly maintained and the European population is able to digest large amounts of lactose regardless of age. On the basis of the conducted survey on the occurrence of milk lactose intolerance among different groups of people in Bosnia and Herzegovina, it can be concluded that the number of people who are lactose intolerant is significantly low. The results show that more than half, i.e. 58 out of 100 subjects tolerate lactose well, while only 20 respondents do not tolerate lactose. The latter answered that among milk and dairy products milk causes them the greatest digestive and other disturbances due to the highest lactose content, while dairy products, primarily fermented milks such as kefir, ayran and yogurt, cause significantly fewer problems.
THE QUALITY OF SUGAR BEET PEKMEZ MADE IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA USING TRADITIONAL RECIPES
Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris ssp. altissima var. saccharifera Alef.) is an important raw material for sugar production and is widely used in human nutrition. The use of sugar beet in pekmez production is not widely distributed on a global scale and is generally limited to specific geographical and agroecological regions, including Central Bosnia and Herzegovina. In this region, the production of sugar beet pekmez is based on traditional methods, and data regarding its production and quality remain scarce. The objective of this study was to evaluate the technological characteristics of sugar beet as a raw material, determine the nutritional and sensory properties of sugar beet pekmez, and assess the influence of agroecological growing conditions on variations in its quality. The mechanical composition, physicochemical parameters of both the raw material and pekmez, as well as the sensory properties of pekmez produced during two consecutive production seasons (S1 and S2) were investigated. Sugar beet contained 17.63°Brix soluble solids and 15.80% total sugars, while the processing recovery reached 68.76%. The pekmez yield was 4.76%. Pekmez samples produced in season S1 showed significantly higher (p˂0.05) viscosity, total phenolic content, soluble solids, total sugars, and sucrose content, as well as superior sensory quality in terms of color, taste, and consistency, whereas odor was evaluated equally for both samples. No significant differences were observed in titratable acidity and directly reducing sugar content between the two seasons. The obtained data represent the first step toward standardizing sugar beet pekmez production using traditional methods.
INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL BASE ON THE SENSORY AND PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF ELDERFLOWER LIQUEUR
The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of different alcohol bases on the sensory and physicochemical properties of elderflower liqueur. Two liqueur samples were prepared using different distillates: grape marc spirit and plum brandy. Sensory evaluation was conducted by both consumers and trained panelists, while physicochemical analyses included the determination of ethanol content, total extract, density, acidity, sulfur compounds, and volatile aroma compounds. The results showed that both samples were well accepted by consumers, with no significant differences in overall liking and taste scores. However, trained panelists identified significant differences between the samples, with the liqueur based on grape marc spirit receiving higher scores for aroma, taste, and overall quality. Physicochemical analysis confirmed differences in volatile composition: the grape marc-based liqueur contained higher levels of esters, while the plum brandy-based liqueur had a higher content of higher alcohols and acids. These findings indicate that the type of alcohol base significantly influences the physicochemical properties and sensory characteristics of elderflower liqueur. Although these differences are clearly perceived by trained assessors, they are less noticeable to consumers. In conclusion, the choice of distillate allows for the development of products with distinct sensory profiles tailored to different consumer preferences.
CONSTRUCTION OF TEMPORARY WOODEN AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURES INSPIRED BY THE TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
On agricultural land, construction is permitted only for agricultural purposes, and within a very limited scope - most often as small auxiliary structures used in agriculture (greenhouses, barns, storage facilities for tools and equipment, etc.). To enable the construction of permanent structures on agricultural land, it is necessary to carry out a land-use conversion process, which is quite complex and often results in the permanent and irreversible degradation of this natural resource. Under certain conditions and in accordance with relevant regulations, it is possible to temporarily convert agricultural land for a defined period, thereby allowing the construction of temporary, prefabricated, and demountable structures for agricultural production, provided that after their use, they are removed and the land is restored to its original state. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, temporary structures have historically been built using natural construction materials available on-site, most commonly in mountainous areas for livestock production. These structures were mainly used for seasonal habitation, housing animals, supporting agricultural activities, and storing tools and equipment. They were of a temporary nature and not constructed from permanent materials, primarily because they were usually located on state-owned agricultural land, where the construction of permanent structures was not permitted, and the land was used seasonally, mainly for grazing livestock. The construction of prefabricated structures primarily made of wood can offer an adequate solution for the use, temporary development, and eventual exploitation of agricultural land in a way that prevents the permanent destruction of this natural resource.
DAMAGE CAUSED BY GRASSHOPPERS AND BUSH-CRICKETS TO AGRICULTURAL CROPS IN HERZEGOVINA
Grasshoppers and bush-crickets (order Orthoptera) are considered polyphagous pests that have caused increasingly significant damage to agricultural crops in the Herzegovina region over the last decade, particularly during summer months characterized by drought and water scarcity. Damage is caused by both nymphs and adults, although injuries caused by adults are generally more severe. Symptoms manifest as feeding damage on leaves, fruits, and other plant organs, affecting a wide range of crops, including vegetables, fruit crops, grapevine, maize, tobacco, and ornamental plants. The research was conducted during the summer months of 2023 and 2024 in the areas of Mostar, Čitluk, Ljubuški, and Čapljina, where 100 plants or fruits per crop were randomly inspected to determine the presence of damage. A total of ten species were identified, among which bush-crickets were dominant in abundance, particularly Tettigonia viridissima, Decticus albifrons, and Ephippiger ephippiger. The results indicate that these pests cause significant economic damage in certain localities, with the most severe damage recorded at the Potpolje locality (Čitluk), especially on vegetables, grapevine, and fruit crops. It was determined that bush-crickets cause greater damage than grasshoppers, with the great green bush-cricket (T. viridissima) identified as the most harmful species.
APPLICATION OF BIOINOCULANTS FOR OPTIMIZING THE USE OF MINERAL FERTILIZERS IN THE PRODUCTION OF SILAGE CORN
Maize is one of the most important agricultural crops globally and in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where cereals are cultivated on 204,368 ha, of which 57% (116,490 ha) is dedicated to maize production. The application of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), such as the genera Pseudomonas and Bacillus, represents a sustainable alternative to mineral fertilizers, particularly in phosphorus-deficient soils commonly found in Bosnia and Herzegovina. A field experiment with ten fertilization treatments, arranged in a randomized block design with three replications, was conducted to evaluate the effects of seed inoculation, organic fertilization, and mineral fertilization on silage maize production. Grain yield, ear characteristics, and nutrient concentrations in maize leaves and grain were determined using standard analytical methods. The highest grain yield (15.2 t ha⁻¹) was achieved with the combined application of organic fertilization (30 t ha⁻¹) and bacterial inoculation, with a statistically significant difference compared to the control treatment. The applied fertilization treatments improved nutrient uptake and increased the content of protein, nitrogen, phosphorus, and magnesium in the grain, while zinc concentration generally decreased, indicating an antagonistic relationship between phosphorus and zinc. The obtained results confirm the potential of combining rhizobacterial inoculation and organic fertilization to enhance maize productivity and improve plant nutrient status.
plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR)
CORRELATION BETWEEN NUTRITIONAL STATUS AND FREQUENCY OF HONEY CONSUMPTION AMONG ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF PALE
The nutrition of children and youth is an issue that is being studied around the world and needs to be addressed at all levels, from the family, through kindergartens, schools, health centers, ministries and departments that operate at the very top of government. Today, socio - economic circumstances affect the purchasing power of the family and the availability of food, thus contributing to the poor eating habits of primary school children. Foods full of sugar are also used, forgetting to use a natural sweetener - honey. Today, honey is one of the last unprocessed natural foods. Honey consumption varies from country to country. There is still no data on the consumption of honey by school age children. The results of many studies show that honey is not just a food sweetener, but that children who consume honey develop a better memory over time. Therefore, the aim of this work is to examine the eating habits of primary school children and the level of consumption of honey and bee products. The results of the research showed the frequency of honey consumption, the type and quantity of consumed honey and other bee products, and the correlation between the degree of nutrition with the eating habits of students.
GREEN AGENDA AS A NEW PARADIGM OF AGRICULTURE IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
By signing the Sofia Declaration on the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans, the leaders of the countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), committed themselves to the implementation of five basic courses of action established by the action plan, which include: 1) decarbonization, 2) circular economy, 3) depollution, 4) sustainable agriculture and 5) protection of nature and biodiversity. This commitment means that the creation and implementation of policies should be strongly marked by an environmental approach, not only because of EU requirements but also because of the practical importance for overall sustainable development. Because of this, support measures in an increasing number of countries imply the application of measures such as making direct payments subject to the fulfillment of the so-called cross-compliance or special payments for agroecological practices, sustainable land management, etc. However, the measures included in the Green Agenda in BiH are applied very modestly, which will be presented in this paper for the period 2018-2021. Practically, measures to support organic production, soil fertility control, and the protection of genetic resources are the only ones on track with the Green Deal goals. It is expected that the new strategic documents in the field of agriculture will take into account the objectives of the CAP, and thus the Green Deal, and will bring the agriculture policy of BiH closer to the policy of the EU, for which BiH decided a long time ago.
CONTRIBUTION TO DISTRIBUTION POTENTIAL RESOURCE FAIRY RING MUSHROOM /Marasmius oreades (Bolton) Fr./ IN CANTON SARAJEVO AND HERZEGOVINA-NERETVA CANTON
Bosnia & Herzegovina (B&H) is one of the most important exporters of edible wild mushrooms in Europe. Today, from B&H, the following are exported: penny bun, girolle, true morel, hedgehog mushroom, and, sporadically in recent times, fairy ring mushroom. The aim of the work was to examine the distribution and appearance time of the potentially resource-rich fairy ring mushroom in a number of localities in Canton Sarajevo and Herzegovina-Neretva canton. The time period of the fairy ring mushroom appearance in new localities can serve as a basis for creating an orientation calendar for picking in the coming period.
INVASIVE PLANTS OF THE CITY OF TUZLA (BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA)
Invasive species represent major direct pressure on loss of biodiversity, human health, the economy of a given area and negatively affect the general benefits of nature. Invasive plants have a high competitive abilty and often spread around degraded habitats and urban areas. The aim of this paper is to represent diversity of invasive plant species in the area of Tuzla city, to analyse the spectrum of life forms and the geographical origin of species. Scientific researches were conducted in 2018 and 2019 during the summer and autunm season using transect sampling method. Based on field research we determined the presence of 24 plant species which makes almost 30% of the whole number of invasive plants in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Major number of species comes from family of Compositae, while the most common life form is a therophyte. With its representation in the city and suburbs of Tuzla, the species that stand out from the list of the hundred most invasive species in Europe are: Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, Ambrosia artemisiifolia L., Reynoutria japonica Houtt., Helianthus tuberosus L. and Robinia pseudoacacia L.
MONITORING THE POPULATION OF THE AMERICAN LEAFHOPPER (Scaphoideus titanus Ball) IN THE TERRITORY OF THE MUNICIPALITY OF ŽEPČE, BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
The American leafhopper (Scaphoideus titanus) is a natural vector of Flavescence dorée phytoplasma. This leafhopper feeds on the plant by sucking, where it introduces phytoplasma into its organism, which it later transfers to healthy plants in the vineyard. The main way to prevent the spread of phytoplasma is to control the vector, and therefore it is necessary to know its ecology and biology. Currently, there is no data on the distribution of the American leafhopper in the area of central Bosnia, so the aim of this research was to determine the presence and population size of this vector. Four different vineyards were included in this research. The population of the vector was monitored with yellow sticky traps from July to September 2022. A total of 579 adults were caught in all vineyards, and statistically significant differences were found between locations. Good agricultural practice can reduce the population of the vector to a minimum, and currently there are no symptoms of grapevine yellows in the area of the municipality of Žepče.
STUDY OF INTRODUCED TABLE VINE VARIETIES IN THE LOCALITY VRAPČIĆI
The aim of this work was to study the effect of pruning on the yield and quality of grapes of three table grape varieties Black Magic, Muscat Bleu and Alphonse Lavallee in Herzegovina. The research lasted three years (2011-2013), each variety had three varieties of pruning, and each variety had four repetitions. The load levels of the studs in this research were 28 (Variant I), 32 (Variant II) and 40 (Variant III) buds per vine. The most important indicators of fertility and quality of grapes of the tested varieties were measured. Research carried out at the site of Vrapčić in the Mostar vineyard shows that all three investigated varieties can be successfully grown at the mentioned site, although the meteorological conditions in the years of the research were less favorable than the multi-year average. For all analyzed parameters, the greatest influence on their values was the variety, as an experimental factor, followed by the year of the research, and the least variant of pruning. Based on all the obtained results, it can be concluded that the Alphonse Lavallee variety gives the best results in the area of Herzegovina.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF ADVANCED MODELS FOR PRECISION IRRIGATION OF MAIZE
Taking into account water resources and their importance for human life and economic development, it is clear that accurate and precise determination of irrigation requirements in modern agricultural practice becomes imperative, especially in the context of increasingly pronounced climate changes and more frequent droughts. Today, there are numerous ways to measure and assess the state of soil moisture and, accordingly, the need for irrigation of individual agricultural crops, in modern agricultural science, software models used for these purposes are increasingly important. This paper provides an overview of some of the more important software models used to determine irrigation needs. Four different models (CROPWAT, EXCEL-IRR, AquaCrop and SIMDualKc) are described and configured to correspond to the state of a maize crop grown during 2021, at the Experimental Field of the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University of Sarajevo, in Butmir. The mentioned configurations included the definition of meteorological, pedological and agronomic or biological parameters in the field and the use of software models to estimate irrigation requirements. The modeling results were presented through crop evapotranspiration, soil water depletion dynamics and crop irrigation requirements. Evaluation of the results of the generated data proves the appropriate accuracy and applicability of all models. However, each of the four used models has certain advantages and disadvantages, and practical application depends on the type of user and available data. Farmers will prefer to use simpler models such as CROPWAT and EXCEL-IRR, while researchers will prefer more complex and accurate models such as SIMDualKc and AquaCrop.
EFFECTS OF BIOSTIMULANTS ON YIELD AND QUALITY OF WINTER CEREALS
Cereals are the most important cultivated crop in the world. Bosnia and Herzegovina (B&H) have relatively lower cereal yields than their surrounding countries. Unfavourable environmental conditions are one of the reasons for low grain yields. However, farmers can mitigate the adverse effects of environmental conditions on yield by applying various agronomic practices. One possible way to eliminate the environment's negative consequences on cereal yield is the application of biostimulants. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the influence of biostimulants on cereal yields and quality in the environmental conditions of central Bosnia and Herzegovina. A field experiment was conducted at Sarajevo, B&H, at the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science. The treatments used in this research consisted of a combination of biostimulants (applied and unapplied) and different cereal species (wheat, barley and oats). Experimental results showed a significant impact of biostimulant application on the quality traits. The oats' mass of 1.000 seeds ranged from 35.9 g (unapplied) to 37.0 g (applied). Biostimulant barley variants had more test weight (60.7 kg hL-1) than those without it (59.3 kg hL-1). Wheat content protein ranged from 10.94 (unapplied) to 11.25% (applied).
THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS IN CROATIA AND ITS IMPORTANCE FOR THE LANDSCAPE - THE EXAMPLE OF BARANJA
The paper describes the development and presents the goals of agricultural development with the aim of sustainability. Using the example of Baranja (a part of the region located in Croatia) and the model of mixed Family Agricultural Farms (FFAs) that deal with ecological production, but also the sale of finished products and processed products, as well as tourism and the application of the "circular guest" model, it is shown an overall model of how it is possible to maintain the tradition of village organization and achieve rural development with the goal of sustainable development. Preservation of natural resources (soil, water and air and overall environmental values) through the application of ecological production, keeping the dimensions of the existing traditional rural construction renovated with old traditional agricultural estates, but also through the application of modern technologies of agricultural production, as well as the connection of agriculture and tourism, programs outlined by laws are implemented, EU regulations and rules, while achieving economic growth of rural communities.
INNOVATIVE USING FACILITIES OF BEE VENOM
Venom production from honeybees has been done since ancient times. Techniques for obtaining bee venom have been developed to the present day. With the new techniques, higher quality and purity medicinal bee venom can be obtained. Bee venom is a colorless, sharp and bitter taste, raw banana odor and slightly acidic (pH 5.0-5.5) structure bee product. It contains peptides, active amine and enzymes such as histamine, mellitin, apamin, MCD peptide, phospholipase-A, hyaluronidase. Bee venom dries in a short time and crystallizes. Bee venom quality varies depending on the technical structure of the collection unit and method, nectar flow, type and amount of pollens, weather conditions, age of bees and strength of the colony. If the bee venom is exposed to oxidation and moisture, its color will change and its medicinal quality will deteriorate. Improper methods can reduce the effectiveness of bee venom. Although it’s a new sector in our country, bee venom has a developing market trend in the world. It’s evaluated in the pharmaceutical industry, especially because its use in Apitherapy. Creams, ointments and needle solutions are produced from bee venom, and these are used successfully in treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as MS, Alzheimer's and rheumatic diseases. Developing nano-bee venom production technology shows promising results in treatment of geriatric and cancer diseases. Beekeepers’ problems in production and marketing of bee venom can be overcome with support and governmental incentives. The development of advanced bee venom innovative products will open new market opportunities in bee products industry.
The building blocks of proteins, amino acids, play a crucial role in both animal and human metabolism and structure. In light of the fact that amino acids are crucial to life, the goal of this review was to analyze their metabolism. It is the liver that has the primary role in the metabolism of amino acids in humans and animals. It is possible to divide amino acids into essential and non-essential ones. Cell membranes in various tissues are the major route through which amino acids travel to the blood, primarily via cotransport systems dependent upon Na+. In most land animals, the ammonium ion is converted to urea. Excess NH4+ is converted into urea. The process by which this takes place is called the urea cycle. During the process, glutamate dehydrogenase generates free NH4+ previously transferred to α-ketoglutarate by transaminases. Fumarate, another product, links the urea cycle to the TCA cycle. The two input nitrogen atoms exit the cycle as urea, which the liver releases into the blood for disposal in the urine via the kidneys. Ammonia could be very toxic to the cells and tissues of all living beings. Therefore, knowing amino acid metabolism is crucial for human and animal nutrition to prevent the prevalence of numerous disorders or diseases.
CHANGES IN CIELAB CHROMATIC PROPERTIES OF WHITE WINES WITH MODELED HIGH CONTENTS OF SULFUR DIOXIDE
Using the CIELAB method, the influence of extremely high doses of sulfur dioxide (from about 300 to about 1200 mg/L) in experimental-model white wines prepared from 31 samples of white wines from the Western Balkan region on changes in the chromatic properties of the wine was investigated. By spectrophotometric measurements and calculations, the values of the CIELAB indicators L* (clarity), a* (color along the red-green axis), b* (color along the yellow-blue axis) and ΔE* (overall colorimetric difference between the two wines) were determined. In the analyzed basic wines, the contents of free and total sulfur dioxide were found to be below the legally prescribed maximum concentrations in wines that are on the market. Changes in the values of indicators L*, a* and b* did not follow linear increases in sulfur dioxide content in experimental-model wines. However, on average for all wines, with increases in the content of sulfur dioxide in the specified range, there was an increase in the value of L* by about 1.6 units, a shift in the value of a* by about 1.5 units in a greener direction, and a shift in the value of b* in the direction of less yellow by about 2.3. Setting the value ΔE ≥ 2 as a difference in the color of the wine that could be determined visually, it was found that the modeled strong increase in the content of sulfur dioxide in the wines led to a significant change in color in about 65% of the analyzed wines. The predominant contribution to presumably visible changes in colors of the modeled wine came from changes in the value of the parameter b*. Bearing in mind the significant changes in the color of white wines noted in this research at the first model increase in sulfur dioxide content (by 200 mg/L), it would be useful to investigate changes in the color of white wines at different thresholds of increasing sulfur dioxide content up to this level.
INFLUENCE OF STUNNING METHODS ON THE FRESHNESS OF RAINBOW TROUT MEAT (Oncorhynchus mykiss Walbaum, 1792)
The method of fish harvesting, which largely causes stress in fish and a number of other changes in the postmortem phase, reflects on the freshness and quality of the fish meat. The main goal of this research is to determine the impact of stunning methods on the incidence of stress and other postmortem processes that take place on the freshness and quality of fish meat during storage and conservation, since the fish, due to their chemical composition of meat and increased water content, is a perishable food. The research included a number of tasks: determining the chemical composition of fish meat, the implementation of sensory analysis (QIM) of fish meat, monitoring the degree of rigor mortis in fish, color shift tracking of fish meat and fillets, and a number of other non core analyses and measurement. The trial included working with three different groups of stunned fish: by dull thud (hammer) in the head, stunning in ice/freshwater mixture and in CO2 solution. From the third group (CO2) have been prepared fillets, 10 fresh and 10 vacuum. The pH measurements of fish and the concentration of lactate in the blood, after harvesting and stunning showed no statistically significant difference between the groups, which means that they have almost the same level of stress. The obtained values of rigor mortis during the analysis showed constant decline for both groups, and that there are no statistically significant differences between two fish groups. QIM grades showed no significant differences between groups.
SEASONAL IMPACT OF HARVESTING ON THE FRESHNESS AND QUALITY OF EUROPEAN SEABASS MEAT (Dicentrarchus labrax Linnaeus, 1758)
The main goal and task of this research is to determine the most suitable and effective method of stunning fish during harvesting which affects the maintenance of freshness and quality of fresh market size seabass meat, and also to determine in which season during storage seabass maintains better quality and freshness of meat. Fish harvesting and stunning were performed twice on the fish farm in the Bay of Neum, during summer and winter period. The fish were stunned using two methods, stunning in ice/sea water mixture (group I) and stunning with anaesthetic (group II). Values of temperature and pH of fish meat and lactate in the blood were also recorded during the fieldwork, then each fish was transported to Sarajevo for further analysis. In the laboratory were conducted the following methods and analysis: measured length and weight for each fish; the chemical composition of fish meat was determined; physico-chemical characteristics of meat; values of the Quality Index Method (QIM) were determined. The results of temperature and pH of meat and content of lactate in the blood don't show statistically significant differences between two groups. QIM results don't show statistically significant differences between two groups within one season, but QIM results show statistically significant differences when comparing summer and winter period, and on the basis of these results it is concluded that seabass during winter storage maintains a longer period of time better quality and freshness than in summer period.
INFLUENCE OF PROLACTIN ON UDDER DEVELOPMENT IN PREPUBERTAL SHEEP
One of the main agricultural activities in Bosnia and Herzegovina is the production of milk, both from beef and sheep. According to the available data, the number of sheep in the world has exceeded one billion (1.08 billion), and in B&H it is slightly higher than one million (1,021,000 heads). About 8.3 million tons of sheep's milk is produced in the world. The structure and function of the mammary gland is of crucial importance for milk production. The development of the mammary gland is influenced by several factors. One of the most important is the action of hormones. A crucial role for the development of the mammary gland is played by prolactin, which simultaneously affects the initiation and maintenance of lactation. Based on the set experiments, exogenous application of prolactin, its influence on the development of the udder in prepubertal females and the histological picture of the udder in untreated and treated udders were established. Treatment with prolactin was carried out by intramuscular injections in a dose of 5 IU, three times for 60 days (every 20 days). One group (36) was treated in the period of early spring (April-May), and the other (36) in the period of early autumn (September-October). Female lambs were on average 250 days old (8.5 months) at the time of treatment. Sixty days after the treatment, the animals were sacrificed and the complete udders with ligaments were taken, which were then measured. The following measurements were taken: mass of the complete udder, mass of the udder without skin and ligaments, length of the udder, width of the udder and diagonal length. The results obtained during both seasons showed that prolactin influenced the development of the mammary gland in sheep.
INFLUENCE OF SEASON ON SHEEP UTERINE MORPHOMETRY
Domestic animals are of great importance for humans, due to various animal products that are irreplaceable in food and clothing. Owing to the development of the digestive organs and the richness in the microflora of the rumen, some types of domestic animals (ruminants) are able to refine and transform various types of plant nutrients and food by-products into high-value animal products, such as meat, milk and wool. Sheep breeding in our country is significantly less important than cattle breeding, meaning that the sheep production is not satisfactory. Numerous factors have caused such situation, and it is clear that more serious work must be done on the development of sheep breeding, since Bosnia and Herzegovina has extremely favorable conditions for raising sheep. Successful sheep production depends mostly on good reproduction, and reproduction depends primarily on the normal and proper development of sexual organs. Numerous factors influence development of sexual organs, including genetic (species and breed of domestic animals) and paragenetic, the most important of which are handling and care, nutrition, breeding season, etc. The influence of the annual breeding season on the establishment of sexual activity in domestic animals is well-known, and this is especially pronounced in sheep. The aim of this work was to determine whether the season influences development of the sexual organs of sheep. The research was conducted on uteri of sacrificed animals taken at the slaughterhouse. The following were examined and measured: 30 uteri of prepubertal sheep (15 in the autumn-winter season and 15 in the spring-summer season) and 30 ewes (15 in the autumn-winter season and 15 in the spring-summer season). The following morphometric parameters were measured: the mass of the uterus with ligaments, the mass of the preserved uterus, the mass of the ovaries, the length of uterine horns, the length and width of the uterus, the length of the fallopian tubes.The obtained results indicate that the examined season influences the dynamics of the development of sexual organs in sheep. This is especially pronounced in ewe and hoggs.
DEVELOPING SIMPLE AND CHEAP MEASUREMENT SYSTEM AND LOGGING BOX FOR OBTAINING CULTIVATOR LEGS DRAFT FORCE USING ARDUINO BOARD
In this work, an Arduino based system to measure the draft resistance of an individual cultivator leg was developed. Two types of cultivator legs were used: S-type spring leg and rigid leg. An extended octagonal ring was used as the sensor. The strength and strain analyses of the ring were performed by a finite element software. The locations of the strain-gauges were selected so that the load-cell amplifier gives high output voltages. The measuring system outputs were calibrated with the digital force gauge meter. R-squared value was observed as 0.9999. The Designed and produced measuring system was tested on the tractor in the field successfully. Different tractor speeds, tillage depths and cultivator legs were considered. The measurement values recorded in the SD card with the measurement system were transferred to the computer and analysed. It was observed that when the tillage depth and the tractor speed increase then the draft force values also increase. As a result of this study, an Arduino-based low-cost draft force measurement system for obtaining draft force of soil tillage machine has been designed, produced, and used successfully.
MICRODISTRIBUTION OF Gammarus bosniacus Schäferna, 1923 (Amphipoda: Gammaridae) IN THE RIVER BOSNA AT PROTECTED AREA OF VRELO BOSNA
The microdistribution of crustaceans in the benthic communities of aquatic ecosystems is influenced by a number of factors such as the availability of resources, the population density of predators and symbionts, the variability and structure of the habitat, and the seasonal dynamics of the species itself. The most important ecological factors that determine the type of habitat for the macrozoobenthos species are the speed of the flow, the type of substrate and the temperature of the water. The species Gammarus bosniacus Schäferna, 1923 is an endemic species of crustacean with a narrow distribution in the upper reaches of the Bosna River in the Vrelo Bosna Protected Area and, according to recent data, in some watercourses on Mt. Bjelašnica. The aim of the study was to determine the density of the Bosnian crustacean population on different types of substrates (microhabitats) in the river Bosna. Sampling of macrozoobenthos was realized four times during each season in 2013 and 2014 at three sites. Population density was monitored in three different microhabitats: phytal, argillal and mesolithic. ANOVA testing revealed statistically significant differences in the number of individuals of the Bosnian crustacean in the investigated microhabitats. Using the t-test, statistically significant differences in the abundance of phytal compared to argillal and mesolital were determined. On the basis of the conducted analyses, it was determined that individuals of this narrowly distributed species aggregate on the plant substrate.
BIBLIOGRAPHY OF PUBLICATIONS ABOUT RAGWEED (AMBROSIA ARTEMISIIFOLIA L.) IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA 1940-2022
Common ragweed is considered as extremly harmful weed and alergic species in Bosnia and Herzegovina. After it was first found in 1940 in Osojci near Derventa, it was significantly spread all over Bosnia and Herzegovina. Therefore, the aim of the paper is to show that, over decades, the problem caused by ragweed is getting gradually more complex. By reviewing a huge number of publications, various papers, graduate, master and doctoral thesis, books and brochures with data on ragweed were singled out. The research period ranges from 1940 to 2022. A total of 109 publications were stated. The largest number of publications was released in 2015, that is 11 publications, and the largest number by decades is 49 publications released between 2010 and 2019.
A CONTRIBUTION TO THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE DISTRIBUTION OF SOME ALIEN SPECIES IN THE FLORA OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
During field research in the period from 2017-2022. in the broader area of Bosnia and Herzegovina, new data on the distribution of alien (non-native, neophyte) plant species were established. This work, concerns new findings on the distribution of following alien plant species: Datura wrightii Regel, Mirabilis jalapa L., i Potentilla indica (Jacks.) Th. Wolf. i Rudbeckia triloba L..
OVERVIEW AND USEFUL VALUE OF WILD PLANTS OF THE CITY OF MOSTAR
The plant diversity of urban areas relative to natural ecosystems has been very little researched. Living conditions in urban areas are strongly influenced by man, from direct habitat changes, higher amounts of nitrogen to the impact on other biotic and abiotic factors. Floristic research of urban areas monitors the impact of urbanization on the composition of urban flora, in this case the urban flora of wild plants. During the vegetation season in 2019 and 2020 a floristic survey of wild taxa was conducted in the area of the city of Mostar (Entity of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bosnia and Herzegovina). The research recorded 165 plant taxa that were classified into 49 families. Taxonomic analysis of wild plant taxa recorded in the City of Mostar, shows the dominance of taxa from the family Asteraceae, Fabaceae and Lamiaceae. Life expectancy analysis shows the dominance of herbaceous perennials, and the spectrum of life forms is dominated by hemicryptophytes. According to usable value, the most common are wild plant taxa used in food, ornamental plant taxa, and honey plant taxa. A larger number of plant taxa has more useful values.