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Item Differential responses of Type I and Type II methanotrophs to nonanoic (pelargonic) acid and glyphosate(Elsevier, 2026) Furtak, Adam; Bilokinna, Anna; Szafranek-Nakonieczna, Anna; Skrzypek, Tomasz; Zięba, Emil; Bieganowski, Andrzej; Pytlak, AnnaGlyphosate (GLY) is the most widely used herbicide worldwide. However, in organic and conventional farming systems, a natural alternative — nonanoic (pelargonic) acid (PA) — is gaining importance. PA is a non-selective herbicide whose mode of action is through disruption of the cellular membranes. PA is also added to commercial glyphosate formulations as surfactant, thereby increasing the effectiveness of this herbicide. Through agricultural application, both compounds enter the soil environment, which serves as a habitat for methanotrophic bacteria (MB). Methane (CH4) contributes to approximately 20% of the greenhouse effect, and by limiting its net emissions from the environment, MB play a crucial role in mitigating global warming. Therefore, potential disruption of MB activity by herbicides is of great concern. This is the first study to examine the effects of PA, GLY, and their combinations on MB. We demonstrate the negative impact of field-relevant concentration of PA (but not GLY) on Methylomonas methanica and methanotrophic soil enrichment cultures (ECs) dominated by Type I (γ-proteobacteria). Type II (α-proteobacteria) MB were more resilient to PA exposure than Type I MB. The underlying mechanism of this differential response was the variable susceptibility of cellular membranes to disintegration by PA.Item The impact of climate-induced extreme weather events on soil constraints and ecosystem functioning(Springer Nature, 2026) Kumar, Manish; Bolan, Shiv; Naorem, Anandkumar; Shukla, Smirti; Chandel, Nitika; Mukherjee, Santanu; Rao, Cherukumalli Srinivasa; Saco, Patricia; Rodriguez, Jose; Furtak, Karolina; Dhupper, Renu; Jenkins, Sasha; Siddique, Kadambot H.M.; Bolan, NanthiPurpose The term “climate change (CC)” describes changes in the Earth’s net energy balance that result in unanticipated changes in atmospheric temperature over time. Elevated levels of greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere are often connected to the negative impacts of CC. Some of the direct negative impacts of CC include rise in sea-level, flooding and drought, wildfires, and rainfall inconsistency. These extreme weather events impact soil health by altering the soil physical (e.g., soil compaction), chemical (e.g., soil acidification) and biological (e.g., microbial diversity) constraints. Although there is a wealth of knowledge available regarding the impact of CC-induced extreme weather events on soil constraints, the interactions and mechanisms are still not fully understood. Hence, this review seeks to offer a thorough understanding of how droughts, floods, and wildfires induced by CC affect soil constraints and ecosystem functioning. This review also offers a deep insight into the effects of extreme weather events on soil nutrient levels and productivity. Method A literature search was carried out using the following search terms in Web of Science Core Collections: TS =(subject search “Climate change” OR “global warming” OR “extreme weather” OR “flooding” OR “drought” OR “wildfire” OR “storm” OR “Soil health” OR “pollutant”) AND TS = (climate crisis” OR “temperature rise” OR “climate disruption” OR “heat wave” OR “hurricane” OR “cyclone” OR “Plant productivity” OR “contaminant” OR “toxic”). In order to conduct bibliometric analysis, a keyword analysis algorithm was applied to extract 1,849 collections of keywords from 1,634 articles concerning climate change and extreme weather events that were published during the study period. To visualize networks of keyword co-occurrence, VOSviewer (version 1.6.20) was employed. Conclusions This review revealed that extreme weather events have strong impact on soil quality and its productivity, affecting the crop yield, which is a major concern of current agriculture practices and global food security. Thus, the most important management and adaptation strategies that improve soil resilience to extreme weather events are detailed in this review along with prospects for future research.Item Microbial Hazards in Post-Flood Soils – An Overview(Polskie Towarzystwo Mikrobiologów, 2026) Furtak, KarolinaBecoming increasingly common across Poland and Europe. However, to date, microbiological studies have primarily focused on water intakes and the presence of indicator bacteria (i.e., fecal bacteria) in flood sediments. Data on soil microbial loads are lacking. This short review synthesizes the available evidence on pathogen detection in soils after flooding and identifies gaps. Some researchers have reported a high diversity of bacterial, viral, and protozoan pathogens in river water and have shown that selected bacteria, such as Escherichia coli or Salmonella spp., may persist in post-flood soils for up to 44 days. The lack of systematic soil-focused research limits accurate risk assessment and may pose a significant threat to public health and food safety. Research priorities and mitigation strategies relevant to climate change–driven flood risk are proposed.Item Combined Effect of Extract Containing Rhizobial Nod Factors and Mineral Fertilization on Growth and Yield of Barley and Triticale(MDPI, 2026) Wielbo, Jerzy; Podleśny, Janusz; Podleśna, Anna; Kidaj, Dominika; Sroka-Bartnicka, Anna; Klikocka, HannaThe development of new methods enhancing the growth and yield of cereals is still needed in crop production due to their great importance in human diet and as livestock fodder. In our study, new fertilizer-biostimulators with micro- and macroelements and extract containing lipochitooligosaccharides (LCOs) produced by Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii were used for stimulation of growth of barley and triticale in greenhouse conditions. The preparations were applied at the tillering and shooting stages, whereas plant traits were studied at flowering and at full maturity. The best results were recorded after the joint treatment of the plants with LCOs and mineral fertilization. The application of such a mixture significantly increased the length and mass of roots at flowering in both studied species. A beneficial effect of the treatment was also observed in barley and triticale yields. At full maturity, the grain mass per plant was significantly enhanced, which was the effect of an increased number of grains per ear and increased mass of 1000 grains.Item The Role of Salicylic Acid in Shaping Plant Resistance to Environmental Stresses(MDPI, 2026) Kostiw, Piotr; Staniak, MariolaSalicylic acid (SA) is a key endogenous regulator involved in plant defense responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. The increasing resistance of pathogens to chemical plant protection products and growing environmental restrictions have intensified the search for alternative strategies to enhance plant health and stress tolerance. Among these strategies, the induction of natural defense mechanisms, in which SA plays a central signaling role, has gained particular attention. This review summarizes current knowledge on the role of SA in shaping plant resistance to environmental factors. The fundamental mechanisms of plant defense, including innate immunity, induced systemic resistance (ISR), and systemic acquired resistance (SAR), are discussed, with emphasis on the signaling function of SA and its interaction with other phytohormones, especially jasmonic acid and ethylene. The role of SA in regulating physiological processes associated with stress tolerance, such as antioxidant system activity, photosynthesis, plant growth, and senescence, is highlighted. The review of research results indicates that appropriately selected doses and timing of SA treatments can enhance resistance to selected pathogens and improve plant tolerance to adverse environmental conditions. However, treatment effectiveness depends on multiple factors, particularly SA concentration and plant–pathogen interactions. Salicylic acid is a promising component of integrated and sustainable plant protection strategies. Further research, especially under field conditions, is necessary to optimize its practical use and fully determine its potential in modern agriculture.Item The impact of antibiotics on the microbiome of edible plants and its implications for consumer health(Elsevier, 2026-04-14) Piotrowicz-Cieślak, Agnieszka I.; Klimkowicz-Pawlas, Agnieszka; Piechowicz, Lidia; Ukalska-Jaruga, Aleksandra; Gałązka, Anna; Krupka, Magdalena; Wolska, LidiaThe aim of this study was to determine the principles governing the composition of the microbiome associated with the soil-root-plant (phyllosphere) system and to analyze the mechanisms influencing its functioning. Particular attention was given to identifying the factors shaping the structure of the soil microbiota, its dynamics, and its impact on plant physiology and human health. The plant-associated microbiome forms a complex ecosystem composed of microorganisms interacting within three main zones: the soil (rhizosphere), roots (endosphere), and aerial plant parts (phyllosphere). Their presence and activity are closely dependent on environmental conditions, such as soil mineral composition and plant-specific traits. A key focus is to identify the major groups of microorganisms that play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. These microorgan¬ isms can perform symbiotic functions, supporting plant growth by enhancing nutrient availability, protecting against pathogens, and stimulating the plant immune system. This study focuses on identifying the major groups of microorganisms that play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance, and on assessing the potential risks posed by specific microbial groups, including their role in plant pathogenesis and in the transmission of harmful substances through the food chain.Item Nitrogen Use Efficiency in Maize over Sixteen Years of Unbalanced Fertilization with Nitrogen and Potassium(MDPI, 2026) Rutkowska, Agnieszka; Suszek-Łopatka, BeataAdequate fertilization with nitrogen (N) and potassium (K) is essential to sustain crop productivity and minimize nitrogen losses to the environment. However, the increasing imbalance in fertilizer use in Poland, with low potassium inputs, may impair long-term soil fertility and nitrogen use efficiency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of long-term potassium omission on maize productivity and nitrogen use efficiency under varying nitrogen fertilization rates. A 16-year field experiment (2003–2018) was conducted in two different regions of Poland (Grabów and Baborówko), on soils with medium to low available potassium content. Maize response to potassium fertilization cessation was evaluated at increasing nitrogen rates (50–250 kg N ha−1). Grain yield, nitrogen uptake (Yn), nitrogen surplus (Ns), and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) were assessed according to the EU Nitrogen Expert Panel (EUNEP) approach. Potassium omission had little effect on maize yield and NUE indices. At nitrogen rates commonly applied in agricultural practice in Poland (~100 kg N ha−1), NUE strongly exceeded 100%. The other NUE indices—nitrogen surplus and nitrogen uptake remained optimal (<80 kg N ha−1, and >80 kg N ha−1, respectively), regardless of potassium treatment. These results indicate a low risk of nitrogen losses under moderate nitrogen inputs, even without potassium fertilization. However, given the declining NUE trend on soils with low potassium content, a reduction in nitrogen use efficiency can be expected, particularly under high nitrogen application rates and continued unbalanced potassium fertilization.Item Weed Communities and Their Diversity Depending on the Age of the Plantation and Selected Plant Species Intended for Energy Purposes(MDPI, 2026) Sekutowski, Tomasz R.; Zardzewiały, Miłosz; Belcar, Justyna; Gorzelany, JózefIn the conducted study, the structure of weed communities and their dynamics were assessed and compared in relation to plantation age and the species of energy crop. Weed diversity within the stands of the investigated energy crops was evaluated in three-year cycles, from 2006 to 2024. The assessment of weed diversity in the stands of the studied energy crops was conducted in three-year cycles, i.e., in the first year of cultivation (2006—the year of plantation establishment), the fourth year of cultivation (2009), the seventh year of cultivation (2012), the tenth year of cultivation (2015), the thirteenth year of cultivation (2018), the sixteenth year of cultivation (2021), and the nineteenth year of cultivation (2024). The species composition of weed communities and the abundance of individual weed species were determined. The diversity and dominance patterns of weed communities occurring in Salix viminalis, Miscanthus × giganteus, and Phalaris arundinacea were described using two indices: the Shannon–Wiener diversity index and the Simpson dominance index. As a result of the conducted observations, it was found that weed abundance, species diversity, and weed infestation dynamics depended on the energy crop species and the age of the plantation. Greater interannual variability was observed in weed abundance, whereas species richness remained relatively more stable between years. The highest species diversity was recorded in the Salix viminalis plantation, where a total of 53 weed species were identified. In contrast, considerably fewer taxa were found in Miscanthus × giganteus (42 species) and Phalaris arundinacea (41 species). Moreover, it was found that regardless of the energy crop species, segetal weeds dominated during the first years of cultivation, i.e., E. crus-galli, A. spica-venti, A. retroflexus, Ch. album, M. inodora, and V. arvensis. In subsequent years of cultivation, however, the dominant species were ruderal weeds, such as A. vulgaris, T. officinale, and U. dioica, as well as invasive species, e.g., S. canadensis and S. gigantea. In subsequent years, ruderal species became dominant. The Shannon–Wiener diversity and Simpson dominance indices indicated differences in species richness and the relative abundance of individual weed species. The highest values of the Shannon–Wiener diversity index and the lowest values of the Simpson dominance index were recorded in weed communities of Salix viminalis plantations aged 7–16 years after establishment. In contrast, the highest Simpson index values, indicating dominance by one or a few weed species, were observed in the first year of cultivation regardless of the energy crop species, as well as in the 19-year-old Miscanthus × giganteus plantation.Item Programming Air Phytoremediation in Row−Alley Agroforestry Systems to Enhance Environmental Benefits: A Modelling Approach(MDPI, 2026) Podhajska, Ewa; Borek, Robert; Halarewicz, Aleksandra Anna; Drzeniecka–Osiadacz, Anetta; Podhajski, Bronisław; Radzikowski, Paweł; Głogowska, Małgorzata; Ptak, BarbaraAgroforestry, where trees and shrubs are planted in row-alley systems, can utilize the natural ability of plants to interact with pollutants and serve as a passive biotechnological method for improving air quality. A method for programming air phytoremediation processes is presented, using appropriately shaped plant structures, considering species characteristics and the spatial configuration of plants in row-alley plantings. The main objectives of this study were: to determine the relationship between pollution reduction and the characteristics of plant communities, considering the parameters of individual plants and group characteristics, to determine strategic parameters for the interaction between plants and pollutant flows, and to identify optimization paths for each stage. The optimization of the air phytoremediation process is presented using the example of changes in the fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentration pattern, analyzed through numerical experiments using micrometeorological computational fluid dynamics models (ENVI-met software). Ex-ante analysis of hypothetical scenarios showed that introducing appropriate configurations of variable vegetation structure could lead to pollution reductions of up to 19%. The effectiveness of the presented plant systems qualifies this method as a type of bioengineering technology, supporting the multifunctionality of agroforestry systems.Item Revisiting Europe's temperate forests: Palaeoecological evidence for an herbivory-driven woodland-grassland mosaic biome(Elsevier, 2026) Czyżewski, Szymon; Søndergaard, Skjold Alsted; Molnár, Ábel Péter; Kerr, Matthew Roy; Kristensen, Jeppe Aagaard; Atkinson, Joe; Trepel, Jonas; Sykut, Maciej; Radzikowski, Paweł; Termansen, Signe Sangill; Wałach, Karol; Pearce, Elena A.; Pang, Sean E.H.; Zając, Bartłomiej; Bergman, Juraj; Thomassen, Emil Sloth; Mungi, Ninad; Fløjgaard, Camilla; Ejrnæs, Rasmus; Buitenwerf, Robert; Svenning, Jens-ChristianUnderstanding the pre-Homo sapiens baseline of the temperate forest biome is crucial for interpreting present-day biodiversity patterns, ecosystem functioning, and guiding restoration. In this review, we synthesize palaeoecological and ecological evidence to reassess vegetation structure across humid-temperate Europe during the Neogene (23–2.6 Myr) and Quaternary (2.6 Myr–1900 CE). We integrate data from multiple proxies – including pollen, macrofossils, isotopic composition, dental ecometrics, microcharcoal, and ancient environmental DNA – to evaluate whether Europe's temperate biome was dominated by closed-canopy forests, open grassland or by more heterogeneous woodland–grassland mosaics. Converging lines of evidence indicate that mosaic woodland vegetation – landscapes combining open, loosely wooded, and closed-canopy patches – prevailed throughout these periods, likely in large part maintained by abundant wild large herbivores. Following the Late-Pleistocene megafaunal collapse, tree cover expanded under reduced herbivore pressure. From the Mesolithic onward, humans increasingly shaped vegetation through burning and hunting. Since the Neolithic, our ancestors partially recreated lost disturbance dynamics through the use of domestic herbivores but also introduced novel drivers that produced ecosystems without historical analogues. These results challenge the traditional paradigm of closed-canopy forests being the dominant natural vegetation type in Europe, showing that homogenous closed-canopy forests are a recent phenomenon that only became the dominant “natural” vegetation after the decline of wild large herbivores and the loss of historical cultural management. Recognizing the woodland-grassland mosaic biome as the dominant natural baseline has major implications for conservation, rewilding, and biodiversity restoration strategies that reflect the ecological and evolutionary history of the temperate zone.Item Extract from Syringa vulgaris L. Flowers—A Special Emphasis on Its Biological Activity: Evaluation of Antioxidant Properties and Modulation of Coagulation Process in Human Plasma In Vitro(MDPI, 2026-03-24) Sławińska, Natalia; Żuchowski, Jerzy; Moniuszko-Szajwaj, Barbara; Skalski, Bartosz; Olas, BeataBackground/Objectives: Syringa vulgaris L. (common lilac) is one of the most popular ornamental plant species. Through the ages, many parts of S. vulgaris, including fruits, flowers, leaves, and branches, have been used in folk medicine due to their beneficial biological activity. Lilac flowers are the basis of many supplements available on the market. Moreover, its petals and flowers are edible and are an aromatic ingredient in preserves and desserts. However, the data about the antioxidant properties of various parts of S. vulgaris is limited only to the in vitro antioxidant capacity of the extracts—so far, the effect of S. vulgaris flower extract on the parameters of oxidative stress in biological materials, including plasma, has not been demonstrated. Therefore, the aim of our study was to investigate the protective effects of the extract from S. vulgaris L. flowers against oxidative stress in human plasma, and its influence on the coagulation process in vitro. Methods: We measured the levels of three parameters of oxidative stress in human plasma treated with H2O2/Fe2+ (the donor of hydroxyl radicals): lipid peroxidation (based on the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)), protein carbonylation, and thiol oxidation. Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) was used as a reference antioxidant. In addition, we studied the effect of the extract on three coagulation parameters of human plasma-activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), prothrombin time (PT), and thrombin time (TT). We also compared the biological properties of the extract from S. vulgaris flowers with the properties of a phenolic extract from Taraxacum officinalis (dandelion) flowers, as they have proven antioxidant activity in both in vitro and in vivo models and can modulate hemostasis in vitro. Results: Our UHPLC-HRMS analyses of S. vulgaris extract led to a tentative identification of 50 compounds, mainly phenolics and secoiridoids. For the first time, the present study demonstrated that the extract from S. vulgaris flowers (at the concentrations of 1–50 µg/mL) significantly reduced plasma lipid peroxidation and protein carbonylation induced by H2O2/Fe2+. Moreover, the concentrations of 1–25 µg/mL significantly reduced the oxidation of thiol groups in plasma treated with H2O2/Fe2+. The anticoagulant tests also demonstrated that S. vulgaris flowers extract, at physiologically relevant concentrations (1–50 µg/mL), did not affect blood clotting times in vitro, suggesting that it is hemostatically safe. Conclusions: Despite the differences in composition, the extracts from lilac flowers and dandelion flowers exhibited similar protective effects against oxidative damage to human plasma components. However, the extract from S. vulgaris flowers had a stronger inhibitory effect on lipid peroxidation than the extract from dandelion flowers.Item Effect of the addition of water extract from guelder rose (Viburnum opulus) flowers on physicochemical and sensory properties of veal burgers(Elsevier, 2026) Kowalczyk, Marek; Domaradzki, Piotr; Florek, Mariusz; Materska, Małgorzata; Żółkiewski, Paweł; Skałecki, Piotr; Teter, Anna; Kaliniak-Dziura, Agnieszka; Pecio, Monika; Dmoch, Małgorzata; Poleszak, EwaThe use of plant extracts is gaining increasing popularity among both food producers and consumers. Extracts can impart health-promoting properties and improve the antioxidant properties of food products, while stabilising sensitive compounds can positively extend the shelf life of food. The objective of the study was to assess the effect of the addition of water extract from guelder rose flowers (GRE) at concentrations of 0.05%, 0.1% and 0.4% on the physicochemical properties (pH, water activity, texture, colour, lipid oxidation - TBARS, α-tocopherol content), sensory properties (beef aroma, off-odours, juiciness, tenderness, beef flavour, off-flavours) and overall quality of veal burgers stored refrigerated for 15 days. Burgers containing 0.1% and 0.4% GRE showed a significantly lower pH (on average, 5.56 in both GRE treatments vs. 5.61 in control samples) and higher purge loss after 10 days (2.39% and 2.90%, respectively, vs. 1.00% in control samples) and 15 days of storage (3.04% and 3.80%, respectively, vs. 1.22% in control samples; P < 0.05). The addition of the extract, irrespective of its concentration, slowed down lipid oxidation and significantly increased α-tocopherol retention (2.15–2.21 μg/g in GRE treatments vs. 1.83 μg/g in control samples; P < 0.05). However, at concentrations of 0.1% and 0.4%, it worsened the sensory properties while increasing the intensity of off-odours and off-tastes, thus lowering the overall quality rating (on average, 6.75 and 5.75, respectively, vs. 7.37 in control samples; P < 0.05). Among the tested GRE levels, a concentration of 0.05% was associated with the most favourable overall outcomes, without significant negative effects on water-holding capacity or sensory characteristics (P > 0.05), while improving α-tocopherol retention and reducing TBARS values. The use of water extract from guelder rose flowers at an appropriate concentration can improve the shelf life and oxidative stability of burgers without adversely affecting their water-holding capacity and sensory quality.Item Preliminary Assessment of the Neuroprotective Potential of the Above-Ground Parts of Two Carlina Species (Asteraceae)(MDPI, 2026-03-18) Mołdoch, Jarosław; Agacka-Mołdoch, Monika; Soluch, Agata; Rudkowska, Monika; Wojtunik-Kulesza, KarolinaThe aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile and neuroprotective potential of extracts from underground and aerial parts of two Carlina species: Carlina acaulis (CA) and Carlina vulgaris (CV). Metabolic profiling performed via UHPLC-UV-MS/MS revealed a distinct chemotaxonomic differentiation between the taxa. C. acaulis was defined as a “phenolic-acid” chemotype dominated by 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (up to 32.11 mg/g in leaves), whereas C. vulgaris was characterized as a “flavonoid” chemotype, distinguished by a unique C-glycoside signature, including carlinoside and schaftoside. A significant aspect of scientific novelty is the first-ever identification of flavonolignans (e.g., salcolin A/B and tricin derivatives) in the roots of both species. In biological assays, the extracts demonstrated a multidirectional neuroprotective mechanism. Good antioxidant properties (DPPH, FRAP assays) were confirmed, particularly in CA leaves and CV inflorescences which revealed 61% of DPPH scavenging, along with the capacity to chelate Fe(II) ions (above 60% for CA inflorescence, CV leaves and CV root), a crucial mechanism in ferroptosis prevention. Furthermore, leaf extracts of both species exhibited effective inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) exceeding 50%, showing kinetic selectivity towards BChE inhibition. These results position Carlina species as a promising source of metabolites supporting the therapy of neurodegenerative diseases.Item Temperature-dependent germination dynamics of herbicide-resistant and susceptible blackgrass (Alopecurus myosuroides) and silky windgrass (Apera spica-venti) from Poland(Nature, 2026) Marcinkowska, Katarzyna; Synowiec, Agnieszka; Łacka, Agnieszka; Wenda-Piesik, Anna; Gala-Czekaj, Dorota; Haliniarz, Małgorzata; Marczewska-Kolasa, Katarzyna; Domaradzki, Krzysztof; Podsiadło, Cezary; Pytlarz, ElżbietaHerbicide-resistant grass weeds, including blackgrass (Alopecurus myosuroides Huds.) and silky windgrass (Apera spica‑venti (L.) P.Beauv), pose an escalating challenge to sustainable cereal production in Europe. This study examined temperature‑dependent germination dynamics of herbicide‑resistant (HR) and susceptible (S) biotypes of both species collected from Polish agroecosystems. Germination was tested under five temperatures: constant 5, 10, 15, and 20 °C, and alternating 15/5°C. Resistance groups were evaluated using the area under the germination curve (AUC), a cumulative measure that integrates both the speed and extent of germination. In both species, temperature strongly modulated germination dynamics. Multiple‑resistant blackgrass biotypes exhibited higher germination rates at certain temperatures, suggesting distinct physiological responses among resistance types rather than uniform adaptation across temperature ranges. Conversely, multiple-resistant silky windgrass biotypes (e.g., M1235) germinated vigorously at 5 °C. Still, they declined at warmer temperatures, achieving the highest AUC at 5 °C but the lowest at 20 °C (a difference exceeding 74 units), suggesting a temperature-specific shift in dormancy release or germination physiology. Susceptible groups germinated more slowly and consistently across temperatures. These contrasting thermal responses reveal that herbicide-resistant populations can exploit different temperature niches, potentially influencing their emergence timing and competitive ability in the field. Understanding these patterns is essential for developing climate-adapted, resistance-aware weed management strategies, including optimized sowing schedules and integrated, non-chemical control measures.Item The physicochemical composition, pollutant content and associated risks for using harbour sediments as a soil amendment(Springer Nature, 2026-03-10) Baran, Agnieszka; Birch, Gavin F.; Proschogo, Nicholas; Antonio, Bernadeth; Klimkowicz-Pawlas, Agnieszka; Szarłowicz, Katarzyna; Ukalska-Jaruga, Aleksandra; Wieczorek, JerzyThe aim of this study was to assess the quality of harbour sediments for potential agricultural use. The study evaluated the granulometric composition, pH, salinity, cationic sorption capacity, total organic carbon, macronutrients, trace elements, PAHs, radionuclides and ecotoxicity of seven sediment samples collected from Sydney Harbour (Australia). The sediments had relatively low organic carbon content and Na+ ions were dominant in the sorption complex due to significant salinisation of the bottom sediments. The sediments presented a higher environmental risk due to metal/metalloid content than PAHs and radionuclides. A major problem for agricultural use of bottom sediments was contamination with metals (Zn, Pb, Cu, Hg, Ni) and salinity. Levels of the above metals were found to be above acceptable limits for bottom sediment/soil. Bottom sediment salinity was an important factor influencing ecotoxicity. There was a significant positive correlation between salinity and root growth inhibition of Sinapis alba and Sorghum saccharatum. Immobilisation/extraction of metals, removal of salinity or enrichment of sediments with organic matter may improve the potential of these harbour sediments for land application.Item Prediction of the spatial distribution of soil organic carbon content in Central European agriculturally used peatlands: a case study of the Grójec Valley, Central Poland(Springer, 2026-03-14) Pindral, Sylwia; Mendyk, Łukasz; Coblinski, João Augusto; Sykuła, Marcin; Joel, Michael Foredapwa; Glina, BartłomiejPurpose Soil organic carbon (SOC) plays a crucial role in ecosystem functioning, especially in agriculturally used grassland habitats, where organic soils often constitute a significant share. They provide a wide range of ecosystem services, such as carbon sequestration and climate regulation, water cycling, and biomass production. At the same time, the grassland environment can be easily degraded by intensive agricultural practices. Understanding the spatial distribution of SOC is crucial for sustainable land management. In this study, we focus on the Grójec Valley, a grassland dominated area in central Poland, to predict the distribution of SOC. The valley is characterized by diverse land cover, including arable land, grasslands, forests, and wetlands. We aimed to use fine-scale auxiliary variables to predict the distribution of SOC content in the uppermost (0–30 cm) soil layers and compare the produced map with existing fine-scale soil maps. Materials and methods Soil samples were collected from 85 locations within the valley and analyzed for SOC content. We implemented the Digital Soil Mapping (DSM) approach using the Quantile Regression Forests (QRF) algorithm to predict SOC content within the study area. As a set of covariates, we included Sentinel-2 data-based indices and various layers produced from a digital elevation model. Results The model proved effective in predicting SOC content across the entire valley. Areas with high SOC content were associated with specific land cover types and corresponded with the organic soil contours on the soil-agricultural map. Our findings can provide important information for decision-makers and farmers about the state of soils within the studied area (which well represent the agriculturally used fen peatlands of Central Europe) to help with targeted soil conservation efforts. Moreover, fine-scale maps of SOC can be useful for precision agriculture and sustainable land use planning. Conclusion This study highlights the potential of integrating digital soil mapping techniques with remote sensing data to predict SOC content at a fine spatial scale. Our results demonstrate that such an approach can effectively capture the heterogeneity of organic carbon in agriculturally used fen peatlands. These findings contribute to a better understanding of carbon dynamics in drained soils, which is essential for improving soil carbon accounting, supporting climate change mitigation strategies, and guiding sustainable land management practices across temperate regions.Item Cross-comparison of national drought monitoring products in Central Europe using a new drought impact database(Springer Nature, 2026) Luintel, Nirajan ; Bueechi, Emanuel; Poděbradská, Markéta; Trnka, Miroslav; Dolák, Lukáš; Cindrić Kalin, Ksenija ; Labudová, Lívia ; Řehoř, Jan; Lončar-Petrinjak, Ivan; Gregorič, Gregor ; Żyłowska, Katarzyna ; Dorigo, WouterMonitoring drought helps to reduce their economic and environmental impacts by enabling early warnings and better resource management planning. In Europe, there are several operational monitoring systems operating at national and regional scales. However, such monitoring systems are rarely validated, which complicates the decision-making process. Therefore, we evaluated six national drought monitoring products in Central Europe using a novel extreme event impact database compiled from national newspaper reports over the period 2000–2023. The drought monitoring indices used in the countries include the standardized precipitation index (SPI), standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI), and standardized relative soil moisture with different aggregation periods. The area under receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) is used to assess the ability of the drought indices to detect impact occurrence. Spearman correlation coefficients (r) between the severity of the drought index and the number of reported impacts are used to assess their ability to capture impact severity. The highest AUC values were obtained for the drought monitoring products of Czechia, Croatia, and Slovenia (AUC > 0.8) while the lowest values were obtained for the monitoring product of Austria (AUC < 0.7). Impact severity was best captured in Poland (for some indices r > 0.6), and worst in Slovakia, Slovenia, and Austria (r < 0.4). With an increasing aggregation period, the correlation generally decreases, while the AUC values show a non-linear pattern, peaking at an intermediate integration time of three to 6 months. The results of this study help to understand the strengths and weaknesses of drought monitoring products in each country and support the development of a common drought monitoring framework for Central Europe.Item Characterization of Fungi Communities in Organic Soybean Seeds Using DNA Sequencing: Effects of Cultivar and Location(MDPI, 2026-02) Olszak-Przybyś, Hanna; Przybyś, Marcin; Bojarszczuk, Jolanta; Księżak, JerzyOrganic soybean seeds are susceptible to colonization by numerous fungal pathogens, which can reduce their germination capacity and nutritional quality. This study evaluated fungi transmitted by seeds and their effects on selected seed quality parameters, as well as the influence of variety, location and growing season. In total, 471 fungal isolates belonging to 24 genera and 37 species were obtained from three soybean varieties (Erica, Es Commandor and Cerez PZO) cultivated at two locations during the 2022–2023 seasons. All obtained isolates were identified based on ITS sequencing, and Fusarium isolates were further characterized to the species level using TEF and RPB2 markers. Fusarium spp. was the most frequently isolated genus, accounting for 35.7% of all isolates, followed by Alternaria spp. (15.9%) and Aspergillus spp. (11.9%). Fungal frequency and species diversity differed significantly between years. Seed germination capacity was significantly lower in 2023 than in 2022 and coincided with higher fungal colonization, lower spring temperatures, and increased rainfall. A significant negative Pearson’s correlation (r = −0.58, p < 0.05) was found between fungi abundance and seed oil content, indicating a direct impact of fungal colonization on nutritional quality. These results highlight the role of environmental conditions in seed-borne pathogen communities and the need for monitoring and seed health management to ensure soybean seed quality.Item Change in the Intensity of Soil Erosion via Water in the Vistula River Basin in Future Climate: A Comparison of the RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 Scenarios (2021–2050) Using the MUSLE Model(MDPI, 2026-02-01) Badora, Damian; Wawer, Rafał; Król-Badziak, Aleksandra; Bartosiewicz, Beata; Kozyra, JerzyThis study aims to assess how climate change will affect the intensity of soil erosion in the Vistula River basin by the mid-21st century. A simulation framework based on the SWAT–MUSLE model was applied, calibrated, and validated against observed streamflow data and driven by climatic forcings from the EURO-CORDEX ensemble (the RACMO22E, HIRHAM5, and RCA4 models forced by EC-EARTH GCM) under the RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios. Simulations were conducted at a daily time step for the years 2021–2050 and compared to the reference period 2013–2018. The analysis included the decadal and seasonal aggregation of the sediment yield (SYLD, t ha−1 yr−1). The results indicate that, relative to the baseline value (~1.84 t ha−1 yr−1), the SYLD increases under both scenarios. In RCP 4.5, the rise culminates during 2031–2040 and then stabilizes in 2041–2050. Under RCP 8.5, a continuous upward trend is observed, with the highest values projected for 2041–2050, particularly for the HIRHAM5 realization. The largest relative increases occur in summer (JJA) and, in the final decade, also in autumn (SON); in the early horizon, autumn may locally exhibit declines that later shift to increases. The spread among RCM realizations remains significant and should be interpreted as an expression of projection uncertainty. The practical implications include prioritizing soil protection measures in sub-catchments with high LS factors and soils susceptible to water erosion, strengthening runoff and sediment control in summer, and planning maintenance of small-scale retention infrastructure. Study limitations arise from the inherent structure of the MUSLE model, bias correction procedures for climate data, and the representation of extreme events. Therefore, greater emphasis is placed on the direction and seasonality of changes rather than absolute numerical values.Item Functionally rich crop rotations increase calorie and macronutrient outputs across Europe(Springer Nature, 2026) Vico, Giulia; Costa, Alessio; Smith, Monique E.; Bowles, Timothy; Gaudin, Amélie C. M.; Watson, Christine A.; Baldoni, Guido; Berti, Antonio; Blecharczyk, Andrzej; Jończyk, Krzysztof; Mazzon, Martina; Marzadori, Claudio; Morari, Francesco; Negri, Lorenzo; Onofri, Andrea; Pasamón, José Luis Tenorio; Sandström, Boël; Santín-Montanyá, Inés; Sawińska, Zuzanna; Stalenga, Jarosław; Tei, Francesco; Topp, Cairistiona F. E.; Walker, Robin L.; Bommarco, RiccardoIncreased crop diversity in cereal-dominated rotations can enhance crop protection, nutrient use efficiency and climate change adaptation. Nevertheless, it is argued that replacing cereals in rotations diminishes food production, threatening food security. Here we compared outputs of calories and macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) for human consumption from cereal monocultures, cereal-only rotations and rotations including two or three functionally distinct crop types (cereals plus root and oil crops, legumes or ley) in 16 long-term experiments across Europe. Rotations with three functional types produced more calories and macronutrients than cereal monocultures and cereal-only rotations with forage crops used to produce milk. Carbohydrate gains depended on growing conditions and crop choice. Advantages increased over time but were lost with forage crops used for beef or biofuel. Functionally rich rotations provided macronutrient proportions closer to recommended human diets. Our analysis shows no trade-off between functionally rich rotations and food production or agricultural land expansion.