Search Results (98)

This study aimed to investigate the effect of wildfire episodes on air quality in terms of particulate matter (PM) and carbonaceous compound concentration in ambient air, and to assess deviations from typical annual patterns. The sampling was performed at a rural background site near the Adriatic coast in Croatia through 2024. To better understand contributions caused by fire events, the levels of organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), black carbon (BC), pyrolytic carbon (PyrC), optical carbon (OptC), water-soluble organic carbon (WSOC), levoglucosan (LG), mannosan (MNS), and galactosan (GA) were determined in PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 fractions (particles smaller than 10 µm and 2.5 µm, respectively). The annual mean concentrations of PM₁₀ and PM_2.5 were 14 µg/m³ and 8 µg/m³, respectively. During the fire episode, the PM_2.5 mass contribution to the total PM₁₀ mass exceeded 65%. Total carbon (TC) and OC increased by a factor of 7, EC and BC by 12, PyrC by 8, and WSOC by 12. The concentration of LG reached 1.219 μg/m³ in the PM₁₀ fractions and 0.954 μg/m³ in the PM_2.5 fractions, representing a 200-fold increase during the fire episode. Meteorological data were integrated to assess atmospheric conditions during the fire episode, and the specific ratios between fire-related compounds were analyzed. Full article

Laurus nobilis L., Lauraceae, bay laurel, has been traditionally used for its various therapeutic properties, and in recent years has been gaining interest for its potential applications in skincare products. However, the biological effects of bay laurel, particularly its hydrosols, a water fraction obtained during essential oil production, remain unexplored. The objective of this study was to identify the volatile compounds in L. nobilis hydrosols (LnHYs) from different coastal regions of Croatia (north, middle, and south Adriatic) and to evaluate their potential safety and efficacy for dermatological applications. Upon isolating LnHYs using microwave-assisted extraction, LnHY volatiles were identified and quantified using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry. Oxygenated monoterpenes were the dominant compounds in all LnHYs (61.72–97.00%), with 1,8-cineole being the most abundant component (52.25–81.89%). The physical and chemical parameters of LnHYs were investigated to assess their purity and quality. Biological activity (cytotoxicity and wound-healing effect) was tested on the human keratinocyte cell line (HaCaT), selected as the experimental model due to its relevance to skin biology. Additionally, contents of polyphenolic substances, antioxidative effects using the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) methods, and the antimicrobial activity of LnHYs toward five skin microorganisms were determined. All tested hydrosols showed similar biological activity, with only minor differences. Cytotoxicity studies indicated the safety of the dermatological application of LnHYs, and the results of the wound-healing assay showed their neutral to mildly positive effect. Considering the growing use of bay laurel preparations in pharmaceutical and cosmetic applications, extensive studies on their biological activity, quality, and safety are essential to either support or regulate their use in humans. Full article

We investigate what drives small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Alps–Adriatic macro-region to offer green products and services. A sample of 2305 SMEs from Flash Eurobarometer 498 is analyzed with a multinomial logit model that distinguishes firms that already offer green products/services, those planning to do so within two years, and those with no such intention. SMEs implementing ≥ 5 resource-efficiency actions are 75% more likely to offer green products/services (RRR = 1.75, p < 0.05). An increase in the share of green jobs to >30% of staff triples that likelihood (RRR = 3.65, p < 0.01). Selling only services reduces the probability by 17%. Country dummies show Austria and Slovenia as early movers, while Croatia lags. This is the first study to apply a three-outcome model to green market activity in this macroregion, thus revealing nonlinear and country-specific patterns that a binary approach would mask. This study has multiple implications for entrepreneurial practice: (i) entrepreneurs should focus on high-leverage resource-efficiency bundles (energy, waste, circular design) rather than single actions; (ii) policymakers should combine financial incentives with green-skills vouchers to accelerate adoption in service-oriented SMEs. Full article

Determination of the ecological state of any water body is crucial for its adequate conservation and is, moreover, required by the Water Framework Directive. Employment of multimetric indices, which integrate various anthropogenic threats to water systems with the responses of different elements of fish communities, improve our understanding and allow us to monitor the ecological state of freshwater bodies. However, design of multimetric indices that describe the ecological state of water bodies based on fish communities has already proved difficult for the Mediterranean region for several reasons, including the frequent presence of species-poor and ecologically tolerant fish communities, high endemicity and a serious lack of localities with undisturbed fish communities. The development of an ecological state index for natural water bodies in Croatia based on fish as a biological element which we present in this paper was also hindered by similar obstacles, particularly due to exceptionally high endemicity present in rivers of the Adriatic watershed, the great number of distinct water types, and significant anthropogenic pressures. Nevertheless, based on comprehensive sampling of fish communities throughout Croatia and following appropriate statistical procedures, we were able to identify stressors acting on certain water bodies, as well as responses of fish communities to them, and, finally, describe the ecological state of natural water bodies throughout Croatia. We also propose measures that will most likely help in achieving improvement and/or maintenance of the ecological states of these water bodies. Full article

Marine litter (ML), encompassing human-made objects in marine ecosystems, poses significant threats to the coasts of some Adriatic islands, despite their remoteness and sparse populations. These islands, reliant on tourism, are particularly vulnerable to ML pollution. This study hypothesized that the natural features of the islands influence ML distribution. It employes an integrated geographic approach combining the results of field survey (via sea kayaking) with various indicators which include: (1) coastal orientation and number density of bays, (2) vegetation exposure and biomass share, (3) island area and number density of bays, (4) bay openness and ML quantity, and (5) bay openness and plastic prevalence in ML. Focusing on islands of Lošinj, Pašman, Vis, and the Kornati and Elaphiti archipelago, the study analyzed data collected over six years (2018–2023). Results highlighted that NW-SE and W-E coastal orientations are particularly susceptible to ML accumulation, especially in the southern Adriatic. Linear Fitting Regression analyses revealed a stronger correlation between number density of polluted bays and the surface area of smaller islands (<10 km²) compared to larger islands (>10 km²). The following findings underscore the need for international collaboration and stringent policies to mitigate ML pollution, ensuring the protection of Adriatic marine ecosystems and the sustainability of local communities. Full article

The composition of an essential oil (EO) depends on both the plant’s genetic constitution and environmental factors. In this study, the leaves of female bay laurel (Laurus nobilis L., family Lauraceae) plants were collected each month in the period from 15 January to 15 December 2022. Twelve obtained leaf samples were hydrodistilled in a Clevenger apparatus and analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 44 compounds were detected in EO and 39 compounds were identified based on MS spectra and RIs (retention indices), accounting for 99.44–99.94% of the oil. The EO consisted almost entirely of monoterpenes (95.56–99.28%) and small quantities of phenylpropanoids, sesquiterpenes and other compounds. The major volatile compound was 1,8-cineole (49.79–64.94%), followed by α-terpinyl acetate (7.14–11.96%), sabinene (3.16–9.01%), linalool (1.77–8.03%), α-pinene (1.46–4.49%), β-pinene (1.55–3.69%) and α-terpineol (0.99–4.77%). The ANOVA indicated statistically significant changes in the composition of the EO over one year. The contents of eugenol, methyl eugenol and elemicin, which are responsible for the spicy aroma of the leaves, were highest during flowering (March) and at the time of fruit ripening (October, November). The harvest time of the leaves can be adjusted to obtain leaves rich in the desired compounds according to whether they are to be used as a spice, medicine or repellent. Full article

The fortified hilltop settlement of Monkodonja, located near Rovinj on the west coast of Istria, Croatia, provides insight into Bronze Age occupation and conflict in the Adriatic region. Established around 2000 BC, as evidenced by a series of C14 dates from human and animal bones, the settlement experienced significant construction phases, particularly in its defensive architecture. Its earliest fortifications, built with limestone blocks using dry-stone wall techniques, date to the 19th century BC, with major expansions in the 16th century BC, where the primary wall was doubled in width and reached over 3 m in thickness. Monkodonja’s architectural complexity, notably the West Gate and Acropolis fortifications, and certain types of artifacts reveal influences from southern regions such the eastern Aegean. However, the settlement appears to have met a violent end around the 15th century BC, suggested by destruction layers, widespread burning, and the presence of weapons such as a lance tip, bronze axe, and slingstones. Monkodonja’s destruction raises questions about broader military conflicts in the Adriatic region during this period. Possible causes could include localized warfare or connections to larger-scale disturbances. Research in Monkodonja is also significant in the context of the debate surrounding the emergence of the so-called Castellieri settlements in Istria at the beginning of the 2nd millennium BC. As early as the beginning of the 20th century, it was proposed that a migration of people to the Istrian peninsula brought this new settlement form and other influences, leading to a significant population increase. The appearance of the Castellieri settlement form coincides with a period marked by documented climatic changes and two major natural disasters in the form of volcanic eruptions. Full article

This study explores the evolution of cycling in Istria, a region located in parts of Slovenia and Croatia along the Northern Adriatic coast, recognised for its vibrant tourism sector. The research aims to evaluate the potential of cycling for both daily commuting and tourism while examining its economic, environmental, and social impacts. The study uses secondary data from 2010 to 2023, econometric methods, and interviews to assess how cycling contributes to economic growth, regional collaboration, employment rates, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In Slovenia, regression analysis indicates that bicycle imports positively correlate with tourist arrivals, which positively influences GDP. However, VAR analysis shows that employment has a negative impact on GHG emissions. In contrast, the increase in bicycles contributes to higher GHG emissions, suggesting the possibility of greenwashing or double pollution. In Croatia, regression coefficients were found to be insignificant, aligning with insights gained from interviews. Nonetheless, VAR analysis reveals that tourist arrivals and GDP positively reinforce each other, while GHG emissions negatively affect employment. Bicycles are shown to reduce GHG emissions, and tourist arrivals are also associated with lowered GHG emissions. The study concludes that cycling holds significant potential for fostering sustainable tourism and regional development; however, the differing impacts observed in Slovenia and Croatia necessitate tailored policy interventions. The hypothesis is partially confirmed in Slovenia, where bicycle imports positively impact tourist arrivals and GDP but are challenged by increased GHG emissions, while in Croatia, the hypothesis is not supported by direct economic gains from cycling. However, bicycles contribute to reducing GHG emissions. Full article

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between CRF (cardiorespiratory fitness) and body composition, specifically obesity indicators, in a sample of schoolchildren from the continental and Adriatic regions of the Republic of Croatia. Given that Croatia ranks among the leading countries in Europe in terms of obesity, it is believed that there is a need to combat this condition starting from school age. The usefulness of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) lies in the fact that it is one of the indicators of children’s overall health and is considered a measure of general health status. The findings will emphasize the need to determine CRF and BMI as important factors that should be addressed from early school years in order to prevent future cardiovascular diseases. Methods: The total sample consisted of 423 students, including 212 girls and 211 boys, from the continental and Adriatic regions of the Republic of Croatia, with an average age of 10.32 years. Body height was measured using a portable stadiometer, while body weight, body mass index (BMI), and body fat percentage were measured using a dual-frequency body composition analyzer (TANITA DC-360P) based on the principles of bioelectrical impedance. The WHR index was calculated as the ratio of waist to hips, while the WHtR index was calculated as the ratio of waist circumference to height. Cardiorespiratory fitness was assessed using the 20-meter multistage shuttle run test. Results: The results show that 25% of the participants were overweight, and 9% were obese. The ANOVA results indicate that the boys had significantly higher values for BMI, WC, HC, WHtR, and WHR, while the girls had a significantly higher body fat percentage (BF%). Additionally, the boys had better CRF, as they ran more meters in the 20-meter shuttle run test. The variance analysis revealed that the participants with normal body weight had significantly higher cardiorespiratory capacity values compared to overweight or obese students. Regression analysis showed statistical significance for the set of predictor variables, which were BMI indicators, on the criterion variable predicting cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) in both genders. The coefficient of determination (R²) explained almost 22% of the shared variability in boys and 19% in girls. Statistically significant beta coefficients were found for body fat percentage (−0.60) in boys and (−0.98) in girls. Conclusions: Body fat percentage (BF%) was shown to be a significant and useful predictor of cardiorespiratory fitness in school-aged boys and girls. Maintaining an optimal body weight along with high levels of CRF should be an important goal in promoting health among children and adolescents. Full article

State-owned agricultural land is an asset that the state must manage in a responsible and transparent manner. Agricultural land is extremely important for farmers as it enables them to carry out agricultural activities. Due to its importance to farmers, it is often the subject of debate as stakeholders are often dissatisfied with the allocation and management of state-owned agricultural land. Qualitative research of the process of state agricultural land lease and the associated legislation in the Republic of Croatia enabled the analysis of the existing business model, with the results pointing to shortcomings in the Initial and Evaluation phases of the process. A steady rise in the number of tenders published in 2015–2022 was recorded. Local administrative units in the Continental region scored higher than those in the Adriatic region (both cities and municipalities) in terms of transparency. Unfortunately, the response rate from the local authorities was below 50% across both region and unit, further indicating low transparency. Based on the findings, a proposal of changes in the tendering process was made utilizing a digital platform as an environment for all stakeholders, which provides functionalities essential for the transparent implementation of tenders for the agricultural land lease in Croatia. Full article

In light of efforts to reduce GHG emissions, liner ship operators in coastal navigation are undertaking numerous activities to contribute to the reduction of fossil fuel consumption during the transitional period toward environmentally friendly propulsion systems without compromising their regular operations. Regular ship overhauls, which include removing fouling from the underwater part of the hull and optimizing propellers, also contribute to this goal and are the focus of this research. The ship propeller, as a key component of the propulsion system, plays a significant role in ensuring reliable, safe, and economical navigation. Proper selection and regular maintenance of the propeller are essential for achieving optimal performance. This paper presents the optimization of a fixed-pitch propeller according to the ISO 484/2 standard to Class I using Metrascan 3D technology. This technology enables a detailed analysis of the propeller geometry, identification of irregularities, correction, and adjustment to achieve better hydrodynamic characteristics. The pitch corrections of the propeller resulted in improved overall vessel performance and fuel consumption, as demonstrated by comparing the consumption before and after the optimization. Full article

A 7.4 m long sediment core has been retrieved from the central part of Lake Vrana on the island of Cres to reconstruct the paleoenvironmental conditions. Lake Vrana is the deepest freshwater lake in Croatia, located in the karst region of the eastern Adriatic coast. A dated sediment sequence in Lake Vrana of 4.4 m has spanned the past 16.4 kyr, and it featured a dynamic sediment deposition until the beginning of the Holocene, including strong sediment input and supply to the lake by runoff sediments of dolomitic origin from the catchment in the period 16.4–14.4 cal kyr BP. High organic carbon content, which originates from mixed terrestrial and aquatic origins in the periods 14.4–13.3 cal kyr BP and 12.7–11.7 cal kyr BP, indicates fluctuating lake levels in shallow water environments during the Late Glacial to Holocene transition. The Holocene sequence indicates the development of more stable conditions and continuous sediment deposition, characterized by an increasing trend of siliciclastic sediments delivered into the lake during the early Holocene (11.7–10 cal kyr BP) and dominantly from 8 to 4.4 cal kyr BP, indicating enhanced input and erosion, which coincides with the humid and pluvial period recorded in the central Mediterranean region. It is followed by sediments with high organic carbon content between 4.4 and 1.6 cal kyr BP, which points to higher lake productivity. Calcite sedimentation prevailed between 1.6 to 0.4 cal kyr BP, indicating stable deeper-lake conditions. Predominantly, siliciclastic sediments from 0.4 to 0.1 cal kyr BP pointed to erosion during the Little Ice Age (LIA), with enhanced precipitation and sediment discharge from the catchment. The re-establishment of calcite sedimentation has been observed over the last 100 years. Full article

In this study, we examined the gastrointestinal tract of the European barracuda (Sphyraena sphyraena) living in the Adriatic Sea near Dubrovnik, Croatia. The study aimed to identify the presence and distribution of four digestive enzymes: alkaline phosphatase, aminopeptidase, acid phosphatase, and non-specific esterase. We found that alkaline phosphatase activity was present in the brush border of the enterocytes in all the investigated intestinal segments. The activity of the alkaline phosphatase was the strongest in the pyloric caeca but strong only in the basal part of the intestinal villi in the anterior and middle intestinal segments. In the posterior intestinal segment, alkaline phosphatase had strong activity along the entire villi. The activity of acid phosphatase was weak in all the investigated parts of the intestine, except in the posterior part, where it was moderate. Aminopeptidase was detected in the brush border of the intestinal epithelium, with stronger activity in the pyloric caeca and anterior part of the intestine and weaker activity posteriorly. The activity of the non-specific esterase was moderate in the pyloric caeca and anterior part of the intestine, while it was weak in the posterior segment and the lamina propria in all parts of the digestive tract. Weak acid phosphatase activity was observed only in the lamina propria of the posterior part of the intestine. This study is the first to evaluate the activity of digestive enzymes in the European barracuda. Full article

Various factors influence wildfire probability, including land use/land cover (LULC), fuel types, and their moisture content, meteorological conditions, and terrain characteristics. The Adriatic Sea coastal area in Croatia has a long record of devastating wildfires that have caused severe ecological and economic damages as well as the loss of human lives. Assessing the conditions favorable for wildfires and the possible damages are crucial in fire risk management. Adriatic settlements and ecosystems are highly vulnerable, especially during summer, when the pressure from tourist migration is the highest. However, available fire risk models designed to fit the macro-scale level of assessment cannot provide information detailed enough to meet the decision-making conditions at the local level. This paper describes a model designed to assess wildfire risks at the meso-scale, focusing on environmental and anthropogenic descriptors derived from moderate- to high-resolution remote sensing data (Sentinel-2), Copernicus Land Monitoring Service datasets, and other open sources. Risk indices were integrated using the multi-criteria decision analysis method, the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), in a GIS environment. The model was tested in three coastal catchments, each having recently experienced severe fire events. The approach successfully identified zones at risk and the level of risk, depending on the various environmental and anthropogenic conditions. Full article

This research addresses the pressing issue of protecting endangered lamprey species in Croatia, a crucial element in preserving biodiversity, particularly in the face of increasing human-induced impacts on natural ecosystems due to global warming. Lampreys, a group of vertebrates with an ancient lineage, are not fully understood taxonomically, posing a challenge to conservation efforts. In the Danube and Adriatic basins of Croatia, where lampreys are found, the lack of modern molecular methods and analyses has hindered an accurate determination of species numbers. This study aimed to bridge this knowledge gap by assessing the genetic diversity and structure of identified lamprey species and lineages in Croatia using the gene for cytochrome b. The research revealed four distinct lineages within the species Eudontomyzon vladykovi Oliva and Zanandrea, 1959 and confirmed the presence of the species Eudontomyzon danfordi Regan, 1911 in Croatia. Genetic diversity and differentiation tests, coupled with molecular diagnostic analyses, indicated moderate to high levels of genetic diversity within and between the identified species and lineages, emphasizing the deep structuring within Eudontomyzon vladykovi species. These results highlight the significance of understanding lamprey taxonomy and genetic diversity for effective conservation. The study provides important insights into the intricate relationships and conservation needs of lampreys, and provides a basis for future discussions involving additional genetic markers. By gaining a comprehensive understanding of the taxonomy, ecology, and genetic diversity of lampreys, we can ensure their conservation and that of associated ecosystems. Full article