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This opinion paper emphasizes the often overlooked but significant issue of animal waste (AW) pollution on beaches, encompassing waste from domestic pets, livestock, wildlife, avians, aquatic animals, zoo animals, and insects. Animal waste pollution affects beach environments, leading to nutrient loading, chemical contamination, and pathogen transmission. Furthermore, this type of pollution degrades water quality, impacting tourism and local economies. This paper proposes four categories of AW based on its source and impact, offering a coastal management perspective. Similarly, a comprehensive approach to addressing AW pollution on beaches is presented, with a focus on removal, education, prevention, mitigation, and behavioral change. Strategies are customized to different beach typologies, considering user demographics, accessibility, and environmental sensitivity. The information presented here highlights the necessity for effective management and mitigation of AW pollution on beaches, show up the interdependence of ecological health, public well-being, and economic vitality in coastal areas. Practices such as dog walking, animal rides, and animal races contribute notably to animal waste (AW) pollution. [Display omitted] • Animal waste (AW) is a significant but often overlooked source of pollution on beaches. • AW influences environmental, public health, ecology, and socioeconomic aspects. • Four categories of AW based on their source and impact. • Environmental, geographical, and weather factors influence AW distribution. • A comprehensive management approach encompassing five key areas is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Animal manures in China contain high levels of antimicrobials due to overuse in CAFOs. • Manure-based fertilizers are a major source of antimicrobials and AMR in farmlands. • China tried but failed to limit the contents of antimicrobials in organic fertilizers. • Stopping overuse of antimicrobials is the ultimate solution to reduce their residues. • Concerted measures are recommended to reduce antimicrobial use in CAFOs and curb AMR. Direct application of animal waste on farmlands was banned in China recently, rendering organic fertilizer production a sound solution for disposing of animal manures and recycling their materials and nutrients. Due to the overuse of antimicrobials in livestock and poultry farms, manure-based organic fertilizers often contain elevated residues of antimicrobials and abundant antimicrobial resistance genes. Land application of such products has caused significant concerns on the environmental pollution of antimicrobials, and the transmission and development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which is a major global health challenge. China's recent attempt to restrict the contents of antimicrobial residues in organic fertilizers encountered strong resistance from the industry as it would hinder the utilization of animal manures as a raw material. Reducing and even eliminating the use of antimicrobials in animal farms is the ultimate solution to the challenge of manure disposal posed by the elevated levels of antimicrobial residues and AMR. Phasing out the non-therapeutic use of antimicrobials, developing substitutes of antimicrobials, enhancing animal welfare in farms, promoting diversification of animal farms, and developing antimicrobial removal and disinfection technologies for animal waste are recommended to improve the veterinary antimicrobial stewardship and manure management in China's animal agriculture. These concerted measures would enhance the sustainability of crop and animal farming systems in China and mitigate the impact of antimicrobials and AMR to agro-environmental quality and human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper designs a biogas power plant that runs on anaerobically digested (AD) animal waste and integrated with a micro turbine and permanent magnet synchronous generator to generate renewable power. Cow dung, poultry manure, and swine have been explored as potential feedstocks for AD, and the various subprocesses are investigated at discrete temperature intervals that cover both the mesophilic and thermophilic temperature ranges (30 °C–50 °C). The biodegradability of animal wastes, retention time, loading rate, and the size of the reactor influence the overall biogas yield. Methane production from cow dung increased from 131.4 L/d at 30 °C to 171.12 L/d at 50 °C in 15 days. Whereas the methane output from poultry manure, and swine at 50 °C were 278.4 L/d and 284.5 L/d respectively. Moreover, a methane recovery efficiency of 75 % and a purge efficiency of 97 % were attained through pressure swing adsorption (PSA). Furthermore, the system is maintained at 25 kW at steady-state conditions, attaining saturation for a torque value of 7.77 p.u. In a dynamic setting, the load is varied for a range of 25 kW–40 kW, and stable sinusoidal waveforms are generated as outputs that indicate the system's ability to withstand load variations. • Microturbine biogas plant uses anaerobically digested animal manure for power. • The system has been tested for both steady-state and transient modes of operation. • PSA for biogas purification and storage has been formulated in the plant design. • The energetics of anaerobic digestion and sub-processes have been characterized. • Methane recovery and purge efficiency are found to be 75 % and 97 % respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steam explosion (SE) technology has been widely used to treat lignocellulosic materials for a long time. However, the investigation regarding SE applied for animal waste treatment is limited. With an increase in the demand for and consumption of meat, the annual production of various animal by-products, such as animal keratinous waste and bone waste, is also increasing in slaughterhouses. Therefore, a green method for disposing of these by-products is needed. In this article, the current SE devices, together with their characteristics and applications in wool, feather, hoof, and animal bone, are reviewed systematically. Different SE conditions result in the production of varying final products, from which keratin and other constituents (protein, lipid, or carbohydrate) can be extracted. Additionally, under proper conditions, SE can induce the liquefaction of animal wastes, such as porcine hoof shells, bovine bone, and even the whole chicken carcass. The advantages and limitations of the SE technology employed for treating animal waste were analyzed. Simultaneously, the reasons SE is used to treat animal keratin and bone wastes were also discussed. This review highlights the potential application of SE technology in efficiently liquefying animal wastes for bio-safety disposal and cleaner production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Pachnoda sinuata bioconverts cattle dung into high-value fertilizer products. • Richness of beneficial bacteria in frass fertilizer increased by 2.5-folds. • P. sinuata larvae reduced manure-borne antibiotic resistance genes in14 days. • Abundance of mobile genetic elements was reduced within a 14-day timeframe. • P. sinuata is excellent candidate for bioremediation of animal waste. Bioconversion of livestock wastes using insect larvae represents an emerging and effective strategy for waste management. However, knowledge on the role of the garden fruit chafer (Pachnoda sinuata L.) in waste recycling and influence on the diversity of microbial community in frass fertilizer is limited. Here, we determined whether and to what extent the conversion of cattle dung into insect frass fertilizer by P. sinuata influences the frass' microbial community and its associated antibiotic resistance genes abundance. Pachnoda sinuata larvae were used to valorise cattle dung into frass fertilizer; samples were collected weekly to determine the composition of bacteria and fungi, and antibiotic resistant genes using molecular tools. Results revealed that bioconversion of cattle dung by P. sinuata larvae significantly increased the richness of beneficial bacteria in the frass fertilizer by 2.5-folds within 28 days, but fungal richness did not vary during the study. Treatment of cattle dung with P. sinuata larvae caused 2 – 3-folds decrease in the genes conferring resistance to commonly used antibiotics such as aminoglycoside, diaminopyrimidine, multidrug, sulfonamide and tetracycline within 14 days. Furthermore, the recycling cattle dung using considerably reduced the abundance of mobile genetic elements known to play critical roles in the horizontal transfer of antibiotic resistance genes between organisms. This study highlights the efficiency of saprohytic insects in recycling animal manure and suppressing manure-borne pathogens in the organic fertilizer products, opening new market opportunities for innovative and safe bio-based products and achieving efficient resource utilization in a circular and green economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The traditional reliance on plastic as the principal packaging material for food poses important problems in the context of promoting sustainable development objectives, particularly SDG-12, which focuses on responsible consumption and production. Despite its cost-effectiveness and durability, research suggests that the non-biodegradable nature of plastic, stemming from robust carbon bonds in condensation polymerization and the use of terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol in polyethylene terephthalate production, contributes to plastic debris accumulation in ecosystems, harming wildlife. Utilizing animal byproducts, like feathers, feet, skin, bones, cartilage, and tendons, rich in proteins such as whey, keratin, and gelatin, offers potential for creating sustainable packaging films. This study assesses not just the environmental impact of plastic but also aligns with broader objectives like responsible consumption, production, and the promotion of a circular economy. This review investigates the distinct properties such as transparency, tensile strength, water/gas barrier properties, low cost, biodegradability and low toxicity, etc of waste proteins produced from animal industry wastes. These proteins, possessing essential functional groups and amide linkages, efficiently interact with various composites. Furthermore, they exhibit notable characteristics such as antioxidant and antibacterial activity, transparency, and exceptional physical and mechanical capabilities. The investigation highlights the films' potential to serve as a viable replacement for petroleum-based plastics, adding to the overarching objective of responsible use and production. This review supports the feasibility of composite materials with properties like transparency, tensile strength, antibacterial, and antioxidant features, akin to traditional plastic films. By using cost-effective organic waste proteins, these films offer an environmentally friendly substitute for petroleum-based plastics. The transformative potential lies in utilizing affordable organic waste proteins for eco-friendly packaging films, replacing conventional plastics, and endorsing sustainable alternatives aligned with responsible consumption and production practices. Challenges include raw material compatibility, strength attainment, source variability, and energy-intensive protein purification. Future studies are vital to refining purification techniques and ensuring economic viability. Embracing sustainable packaging enhances well-being and environmental health, aligning with responsible consumption. • Waste from animal industries could be a cost-effective approach for manufacturers. • High strength and antibacterial properties enhanced with specific filler inclusion. • Replacement of petroleum-based plastics with organic protein from different sources. • Suitable for conventional food packaging with high biodegradability after use. • Inconsequential concerns about migration and toxicity and environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Injection pressure varied from 180 bar to 240 bar. • Two types of nanoparticles, Ce 2 O 3 and TiO 2 , were dispersed in 20 % biodiesel blends at a concentration of 50 ppm. • Increasing engine load and injection pressure improved BTE levels, with Ce 2 O 3 blend reporting the highest BTE. • Ce 2 O 3 nanoparticles were found to be more effective than TiO 2 in reducing emissions. The current study investigated the effect of varying injection pressure on a diesel engine fueled with waste animal fats oil. The injection pressure varied from 180 bar to 240 bar, and parameters such as engine performance, combustion, and emission characteristics were determined. In addition to the biodiesel blends, two types of nanoparticles, Ce 2 O 3 and TiO 2 , were studied. A series of tests were conducted on a single-cylinder diesel engine. Both nanoparticles were dispersed in the biodiesel blends at a concentration of 50 ppm. The results indicated that increasing the engine load and injection pressure improved the brake thermal efficiency levels. The use of Ce 2 O 3 along with the blend reported the highest BTE due to its oxygen content during combustion. Higher injection pressure improved spray characteristics and combustion stability, resulting in better combustion efficiency. However, excessive pressure rise can lead to combustion instability and higher emissions. Ce 2 O 3 nanoparticles were found to be more effective than TiO2 in reducing the emission of hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and soot. Meanwhile, increasing injection pressure can help mitigate hydrocarbon formation and reduce nitrogen oxide emissions, while Ce 2 O 3 nanoparticles promote a more efficient combustion process. The blend with 20 % biodiesel and 50 ppm of Ce 2 O 3 at 240 bar reported the lowest emissions. On the other hand, 20 % biodiesel with 50 ppm of TiO 2 at 240 bar showed the lowest smoke opacity emissions. The study concludes that Ce 2 O 3 nanoparticles and increased injection pressure hold promise in reducing emissions and improving combustion efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of anaerobic biotransformation in thermophilic mode (55 °C) of agricultural waste was carried out. It has been established that organic wastes (wheat distillery vinasse, cow manure and chicken manure) have a great potential for producing biogas with a high content of methane and carbon dioxide with a low content of impurities. Biogas can be recommended as a raw material for hydrogen production. With the ratio of components in the composition of the mixed substrate of distillery vinasse, cow manure and chicken manure - 6: 3: 1 for 21–29 days of anaerobic digestion, the best indicators of the efficiency of methanogenesis for methane (61–63%) and biogas (70–73%) were provided, the share of methane in composition of biogas was 61%. With the biotransformation of alone vinasse, the nitrogen mineralization efficiency (58–67%) was lower than when using a mixture of organic waste (63–69%). From the point of view of obtaining the maximum amount of biogas, it is advisable to add a carbonate buffer or limestone flour (9% wt.) to the substrate to shift the pH of the working solution towards slightly alkaline values. From the point of view of the accumulation of free phosphates in the final solution, the use of a carbonate buffer is more preferable. The anaerobically treated solid sludge remaining after biogas production, as well as liquid effluents (anaerobically treated effluents) can be considered as potential organic and biogenic fertilizers or their components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green hydrogen production from biomass is an eco-friendly and sustainable solution for reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable development. This paper presents potential green hydrogen production from available biomass resources, including agricultural crops and livestock waste in Kazakhstan in 14 regions. The study explores the potential of biomass-to-hydrogen production in Kazakhstan, including the availability and quality of biomass resources and environmental sustainability. The gasification process is chosen as the most efficient technology for biomass resource consumption to obtain green hydrogen. This is the first study in Kazakhstan contributes assessment of the geographic distribution of available biomass resources in the country. The total amount of green hydrogen production from agricultural waste is 432 tonnes/km2/year. Turkestan, Kyzylorda, Almaty, East Kazakhstan, Zhambyl, and North Kazakhstan are listed as regions with the highest green hydrogen production potential with an annual 122.2, 71, 57.6, 35.3, 29, and 28.5 tonnes/km2/year, respectively. Annual green hydrogen production from livestock waste is 5262 × 10−6 tonnes/km2/year which equals to 856 tonnes/year. The top three three regions with H 2 production are Turkestan, Almaty and East Kazakhstan regions with 208, 112.5, and 93 tonnes/year, respectively. The results provide a perspective contribution for different regions to the sustainable energy future and carbon neutrality in the country. • Estimation of H 2 production potential from biomass resources in Kazakhstan. • Gasification technology appears as the most promising alternative for H 2 production. • First study in Kazakhstan assesses the geographic distribution of available resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban farms, particularly those utilizing vertical space and hydroponics, have the potential to address many challenges of the existing food system. The use of organic inputs in hydroponics can conserve dwindling non-renewable resources and mitigate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions associated with inorganic nitrogen (N) fertilizer production and use. The study compared plant growth using organic liquid fertilizer (OLF) from insect and chicken waste in a two-step aerobic bioreactor. Basil (Ocimum basilicum) plants were grown with an inorganic fertilizer control and a novel OLF at two separate locations. In the first part of the study, plant yield, nutrient uptake and tissue elemental composition were used to validate the functional equivalency of OLF versus inorganic fertilizer. The second part of the study used these results to conduct a life-cycle assessment (LCA) to quantify GHG mitigation potential of the novel OLF. N-mass balance showed a liquid nitrogen conversion rate ∼40% for the bioreaction. Solid output from the bioreaction contained approximately 35% of the initial N. N-gaseous loss was approximately 25% of total N-input. Because the nature of gaseous N-loss was unknown, LCA modeled different scenarios varying the percent of gaseous N-loss as N 2 O, as it is the only nitrogen-based gas with appreciable global warming potential. Models showed that N 2 O leakage during bioreaction must be below 5% of total N-input for OLF to mitigate GHG emissions associated with fertilizer usage in urban hydroponic production. Further studies should focus on direct quantification and characterization of gaseous N-loss during this type of bioreaction. [Display omitted] • Evaluation of organic liquid fertilizer (OLF) derived from insect waste for use in hydroponic systems provides the same yield as an inorganic control. • OLF could reduce of the greenhouse gas (GHG) of urban food production, as shown by a life-cycle assessment (LCA). • Quantifying N balances and estimating nitrous oxide (N 2 O) loss are crucial for reducing GHGs emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of animal products has witnessed a significant increase over the years, leading to a growing need for industries to adopt strict waste control measures to mitigate environmental impacts. The disposal of animal waste in landfill can result in diverse and potentially hazardous decomposition by-products. Animal by-products, derived from meat, poultry, seafood and fish industries, offer a substantial raw material source for collagen and gelatin production due to their high protein content. Collagen, being a major protein component of animal tissues, represents an abundant resource that finds application in various chemical and material industries. The demand for collagen-based products continues to grow, yet the availability of primary material remains limited and insufficient to meet projected needs. Consequently, repurposing waste materials that contain collagen provides an opportunity to meet this need while at the same time minimizing the amount of waste that is dumped. This review examines the potential to extract value from the collagen content present in animal-derived waste and by-products. It provides a systematic evaluation of different species groups and discusses various approaches for processing and fabricating repurposed collagen. This review specifically focuses on collagen-based research, encompassing an examination of its physical and chemical properties, as well as the potential for chemical modifications. We have detailed how the research and knowledge built on collagen structure and function will drive the new initiatives that will lead to the development of new products and opportunities in the future. Additionally, it highlights emerging approaches for extracting high-quality protein from waste and discusses efforts to fabricate collagen-based materials leading to the development of new and original products within the chemical, biomedical and physical science-based industries. Waste from food processing is a significant issue for the environment. Animal waste is often protein rich, and so provides a source for the extraction and purification of collagen. This collagen can be fabricated into many different formats and these can be used in a wide range of added value applications. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• ZrO 2 and MWCNT nanoparticles were examined in the diesel engine. • 5 L/min hydrogen effects on the biodiesel blends were determined via performance, combustion and emission characteristics. • Slaughterhouse waste proven to be promising substitute for fossil fuel. • CO, HC and smoke levels are reduced significantly. However, there is positive effects in NOx. In recent years many approaches were carried out in converting the waste into energy. In addition, effective research was also conducted on the nanoparticles in the diesel engine along with biodiesel blends to compensate for the higher viscosity rate, and lower calorific value. Typically adding the nanoparticles to the biodiesel enhances the rate of combustion which leads to less emissions indeed. In this study, the slaughter house waste has been used to produce biodiesel. In order to increase the energy content in the biodiesel, the nanoparticles ZrO 2 and MWCNT were dispersed at the concentration of 50 ppm. Both nanoparticles showed promising potential in increasing the BTE owing to its oxygen content and valence transformation. In addition to above, hydrogen was added via air inlet to enhance the combustion further. Adding the hydrogen to the diesel, decreases the cumulative carbon content involved in the combustion process. Experiments were conducted for the sample diesel and 20 % biodiesel blends under the presence of ZrO 2 and MWCNT nanoparticles at different brake power varying from 0.8 kW to 3.2 kW respectively. In addition to above, the test blends were included with hydrogen gas at the flow rate of 5 L per minute. The performance of the engine was increased at higher brake power. Among the different blends, 20 % blends with hydrogen reported maximum brake thermal efficiency of 10.6 % higher than diesel. On the contrary, the consumption of fuel increased by 7.8 %. With regard to emissions, adding the hydrogen increases the NOx levels due to higher cylinder temperatures and heat release rates. However, the concentration of HC, CO and smoke were reduced due to the influence of nanoparticles and hydrogen content in the biodiesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Adding humic acid (HA) could enhance the removal of aminoglycoside antibiotics in composting. • The contents of HI, HR and HS were further increased with HA addition. • Adding HA significantly improved the carbon cycle related microorganism in composting. • Adding HA significantly reduced the genes' expression of T4SS and oxidative stress in composting. Efficient elimination of antibiotics, particularly aminoglycosides, and Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) from agricultural and livestock waste, as well as enhancing the level of humification, remains a major challenge in the pursuit of high-value utilization of agricultural waste. Here, the roles of bacteria and fungus in the dissipation of aminoglycoside antibiotics, ARGs and the enhancement of humification with the addition of humic acid (HA) to compost systems were investigated. Compared to the control, the contents of humus (HS) and HA were increased by 41.3 and 143.3 %, respectively, and the content of fulvic acid (FA) was decreased by 74.1 % with HA addition. Interestingly, the abundance of aminoglycoside ARGs was decreased significantly (p < 0.05) as well as the abundance of functional genes involved in oxidative stress response and type IV secretion system (T4SS). The bacterium Nocardiopsis related to carbon cycle, and the fungi Ascomycota and Basidiomycota associated with ligocellulose degradation were significantly enriched (p < 0.05). Structural equation models revealed that the decrease in aminoglycoside ARGs abundance was attributed to bacteria promoting HA synthesis, thereby inhibiting the multiplication of aminoglycoside ARGs and ultimately mitigating oxidative damage to microbial cells. These findings shed light on the mechanism by which HA removes aminoglycoside ARGs, and provide valuable insights into enhancing the biosafety of compost products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Nano-carbon/selenite materials minimize ARGs spread in broiler manure. • Dominant ARG subtypes shift due to the changing abundance of ARG hosts. • Nano-carbon/selenite alters microbial DNA replication and nitrogen cycle processes. • The co-occurrence network unveils DNA replication and the nitrogen cycle link. The presence of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in animal excrement has been a significant threat to global public health, necessitating sustainable animal husbandry practices to mitigate agriculture's environmental impact. This study introduces two innovative nano-carbon/selenite materials: carbon-based selenite (Cse) and graphene-based selenite (Gse), synthesized using nano-carbon powder and graphene as carriers. These materials, with their high specific surface area, stability, and adsorption capabilities, were hypothesized to modulate microbial structure in broiler manure, potentially reducing ARGs pollution risk through effects on nitrogen metabolism and DNA replication. The order of ARGs abundance in broiler manure was as follows: control (CON) group > Cse group > Gse group, supporting the hypothesis. The top five antibiotic classes made up over 80 % of total gene abundances, with the multidrug class being the most prevalent, reaching 40.69 % and 40.48 % in Cse and Gse groups, respectively. PCA and LEfSe analyses revealed different ARG subtypes and biomarkers in the groups, showing the impact of these materials on ARG subtypes. Notably, the study demonstrated that Gse, utilizing graphene, exhibited greater efficacy in inhibiting essential microbial DNA replication genes compared to Cse. Additionally, the research identified associations between microbial DNA replication genes and ARGs, indicating a potential relationship between DNA replication and cellular reactions to antibiotics. Furthermore, both Cse and Gse were found to significantly impact nitrogen cycling pathways, possibly through their distinct characteristics that could alter key gene abundance. The findings expand our understanding of the genetic mechanisms underlying biogeochemical processes at a microscopic level. The study also reveals new ideas for mitigating potential hazards of ARGs in livestock waste to human well-being and ecological stability arising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the co-pyrolysis of blends of animal manure (AM) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) waste was investigated using micro-thermal analysis techniques. Thermogravimetry coupled with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy was used to study the process kinetics and potential synergistic effects during co-pyrolysis. Dynamic co-pyrolysis experiments of animal manure (AM) and polyethylene (PE) blends in proportions of (90:10 %) and (80:20 %) were conducted at heating rates of 5, 10, 15, and 20 °C/min under an N 2 atmosphere. The process was analyzed and compared to the results obtained in the pyrolysis of pure components. AM and PE co-pyrolysis exhibited a synergic effect on the pyrolysis process, leading to a favorable change in the CPI pyrolysis initiation index. This was observed in the FTIR, shifting maximum devolatilization peaks by 14 °C towards lower temperatures and a lower activation energy of the main pyrolysis stage, with a decrease from 341.49±4.65 kJ/mol to 273.04±6.93 kJ/mol after the addition of 20 wt% PE to the blend. During co-pyrolysis, the main compounds observed in the FTIR absorption spectra were CO 2 , CO, CH 4 , NH 3 , and aromatic hydrocarbons from AM pyrolysis. Additionally, there was an increase in CH 4 and short-chain hydrocarbons due to the PE pyrolysis. • Co-processing of animal and plastic waste via pyrolysis using TG-FTIR was examined. • Addition of plastics to the animal waste changed CPI over 40 %. • 20 % addition of plastic lower energy activation of main pyrolysis stage by 25 %. • Four independent reaction kinetic models of the AM-PE co-pyrolysis were observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Livestock restriction successfully reduces riverine antibiotic resistance at a watershed scale. • Animal waste reduction is key to decreasing ARG abundance in river. • Long-term surveillance is crucial for environmental monitoring. • The necessity of an integrated framework to effectively mitigate ARG spread. Natural environments play a crucial role in transmission of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Development of methods to manage antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) in natural environments are usually limited to the laboratory or field scale, partially due to the complex dynamics of transmission between different environmental compartments. Here, we conducted a nine-year longitudinal profiling of ARGs at a watershed scale, and provide evidence that restrictions on livestock farms near water bodies significantly reduced riverine ARG abundance. Substantial reductions were revealed in the relative abundance of genes conferring resistance to aminoglycosides (42%), MLSB (36%), multidrug (55%), tetracyclines (53%), and other gene categories (59%). Additionally, improvements in water quality were observed, with distinct changes in concentrations of dissolved reactive phosphorus, ammonium, nitrite, pH, and dissolved oxygen. Antibiotic residues and other pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) maintain at a similarly low level. Microbial source tracking demonstrates a significant decrease in swine fecal indicators, while human fecal pollution remains unchanged. These results suggest that the reduction in ARGs was due to a substantial reduction in input of antibiotic resistant bacteria and genes from animal excreta. Our findings highlight the watershed as a living laboratory for understanding the dynamics of AMR, and for evaluating the efficacy of environmental regulations, with implications for reducing environmental risks associated with AMR on a global scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roxarsone (ROX), commonly employed as a livestock feed additive, largely remains unmetabolized and is subsequently excreted via feces. ROX could cause serious environmental risks due to its rapid transformation and high mobility in the anaerobic subsurface environment. Dissolved organic matter (DOM) is an important constituent of fecal organics in livestock waste and could affect the ROX biotransformation. Nonetheless, the underlying mechanisms governing the interaction between DOM and ROX biotransformation have not yet been elucidated in the anaerobic environment. In this study, the changes of ROX, metabolites, and microbial biomass in the solutions with varying DOM concentrations (0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg/L) under anaerobic environments were investigated during the ROX (200 mg/L) degradation. EEM-PARAFAC and metagenomic sequencing were combined to identify the dynamic shifts of DOM components and the functional microbial populations responsible for ROX degradation. Results indicated that DOM facilitated the anaerobic biotransformation of ROX and 200 mg/L ROX could be degraded completely in 28 h. The tryptophan-like within DOM functioned as a carbon source to promote the growth of microorganisms, thus accelerating the degradation of ROX. The mixed microflora involved in ROX anaerobic degrading contained genes associated with arsenic metabolism (arsR , arsC , acr3 , arsA , nfnB , and arsB), and arsR , arsC , acr3 exhibited high microbial diversity. Variations in DOM concentrations significantly impacted the population dynamics of microorganisms involved in arsenic metabolism (Proteiniclasticum , Exiguobacterium , Clostridium , Proteiniphilum , Alkaliphilus , and Corynebacterium spp.), which in turn affected the transformation of ROX and its derivatives. This study reveals the mechanism of ROX degradation influenced by the varying concentrations of DOM under anaerobic environments, which is important for the prevention of arsenic contamination with elevated levels of organic matter. [Display omitted] • The tryptophan-like in DOM can provide a carbon source for microorganisms to promote their growth. • The arsenic metabolic functions of the ROX anaerobic degrading mixed microflora were characterized. • Dominant functional species differences with different DOM contents during ROX anaerobic biotransformation were proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many economies, including Vietnam, have substantial potential for producing energy from agricultural waste. However, the analysis of using agricultural waste as a renewable energy source and its associated economic and environmental benefits remain unclear. This study aims to a) estimate trends in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from livestock and crop residue burning; b) evaluate the environmental benefits of using biogas in substitution for coal, wood, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) under various scenarios; c) assess the economic viability of a household-scale biodigester, and d) propose recommendations for the effective exploitation and utilization of biogas. GHG emissions were calculated for livestock and crop residue burning (CRB) using activity data and emission factors. The environmental analysis was conducted to understand the role of biogas in reducing GHG by assuming 100 % exportation of biogas in substitution for fuels for electricity and heat generation. The economic benefits were assessed through internal rate of return (IRR), net present value (NPV), payback period, levelized cost of electricity (LCOE), and levelized cost of heat (LCOH). Results indicate that, between 2000 and 2050, CO 2-eq emissions will rise from 38.5 to 95.2 Mt. Environmental analysis shows that replacing coal or wood with biogas can bring more benefits than LPG, in reducing GHG emissions by 68.2 and 67.9 Mt CO 2-eq in 2020 and by 148.4 and 147.9 Mt CO 2-eq by 2050. Economic analysis shows that investment in biodigesters is most viable when replacing LPG with biogas, with NPV = $4878, IRR = 57.2 %, PBP (simple) = 1.7 years, and LCOH = $0.029/kWh. • The study uncovers the spatial distribution of biogas potential across Vietnam. • Biogas could reduce GHG emissions by 50.4–148.4 Mt CO 2-eq between 2020 and 2050. • Replacing LPG with biogas yields the highest economic benefit. • Long-term strategies are needed to effectively exploit and use biogas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural and livestock waste poses a serious concern regarding its management and disposal, as a large sum ends up as solid waste or gets burnt in the field. Therefore, it contributes to air pollution and global warming; thus, different methodologies have been investigated to convert waste into wealth in the form of chemicals, biogas, and raw materials for different industries. In this regard, the electro-methanogenic reactor has shown tremendous enhancement in converting this waste into biogas and bio-fertilizer compared to anaerobic digestion. The improvement is primarily associated with increased hydrogenotrophic methanogens and enriched direct electron transfer in the microorganism matrix. The mini-review aims to provide an overview of existing literature on anaerobic digestion microbial electrolysis cells (AD-MEC) for treating agricultural and livestock waste, offering a promising solution for energy production. It covers technical aspects like pre-treatment methodologies, reactor configuration, and operational procedures. In addition, the economic evaluation of the AD-MEC compared to the AD reactor has been presented to assess the technology's superiority. Furthermore, it identifies potential avenues for future investigations and aims to develop AD-MEC as an efficient and sustainable technology. [Display omitted] • Agricultural and livestock wastes are the most abundant sources of biomass. • Volatile fatty acid buildup limits CH 4 production in anaerobic digestion (AD). • Electromethanogenic process has an advantage over AD for CH 4 production. • Hydrogenotrophic methanogens are prominent in the Electromethanogenic reactors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key stakeholders in aquaculture play a crucial role in shaping public awareness, policymaking, and decision-making. Therefore, the adoption of certain negative perceptions by this group can pose a challenge to the sustainable management of aquaculture. This study analyzed stakeholder perceptions towards the aquaculture sector, assessing their alignment with scientific evidence through an online survey (n = 400). The results revealed that many stakeholders have negative perceptions towards aquaculture. The location, occupation, and income significantly influenced key stakeholders' perceptions about the quality of farmed fish. These categories claim that farmed fish, especially tilapia, the major farmed species, are of poor quality because of the use of steroid hormones in tilapia sex reversal, which poses potential health risks to consumers. There is also a common belief among key stakeholders that farmed fish are raised in poor-quality water and may feed on animal waste. Additionally, they believe that capture fisheries can meet Egypt's fish demand, thereby rendering aquaculture unnecessary. Also, fish marketers and traders foster negative perceptions of the quality of farmed fish. Given the potential threat of these perceptions to the future of the sector, appropriate preventive interventions are needed. These interventions include providing evidence-based and transparent information about aquaculture practices and product quality, ensuring effective communication among key stakeholders, adopting a regulatory approach that promotes key stakeholder engagement, supporting collaborative alliances, and establishing clear certification systems, standards, and regulations to ensure compliance measurement. These measures will help address the negative perceptions and ensure the sustainability of the aquaculture sector. • We studied the perception of key stakeholders towards aquaculture in Egypt. • Location, occupation, and income influence perceptions of farmed fish quality. • Fish traders have the highest influence on negative perceptions. • Negative perceptions relate to aquaculture's significance, feed, water, and hormones. • Several actions were suggested to change these negative perceptions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The smart production system is implemented for more effective labor, less waste, and a reduction of energy consumption. Biofuels are significant substitutes for conventional fuels and decreases air pollution and carbon monoxide, can be made through a smart production system with automated machines. Biodiesel can be produced using an assortment of sources that can be both edible and inedible, but animal fat is a sensible alternative among inedible sources because of its affordable price and ease of availability. The model studies the smart biodiesel production system with energy utilization and less carbon emissions to produce pure biodiesel. The multi-objective mathematical model minimizes the total biodiesel supply chain cost followed by minimizing the total biodiesel supply chain environmental impact and enhancing its social impact. The smart production system with a variable production rate produces the biodiesel with less impurities, but still impurities in the biodiesel, that can be detected by a two-stage autonomated inspection system. The impure biodiesel is remanufactured in the biorefineries at the end of every natural production cycle. For the best utilization of energy, various energy costs, such as lighting and air handling costs are calculated. The improved augmented ϵ -constraint approach with lexicographic optimization is utilized to solve the model. The four mathematical examples are studied, and the repercussions of mathematical experiments reveal that the animal fat purchasing cost is 44.32% of the total cost, and the percentage of impurities in biodiesel can be decreased through minimum energy consumption. The managerial insights of the model, graphical representation, and sensitivity analysis of key parameters are provided in this research. The conclusions can be useful to investors in a sustainable smart production system and biofuel policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • MVAs mainly contain antibiotics belonging to TCs, FQs, and SAs. • MVAs generated a degradation selectivity along with adsorption competition. • MVAs possibly declined their removal during AD of animal wastes to approximately 60%. • Mixed antibiotics with TCs have worsened the impact on biogas production. • Reactor modification and introducing new microbial genes are suggested for removing MVAs. Veterinary antibiotics (VAs), extensively utilized in animal healthcare, are not present as a single compound in the environment and ultimately present as a mixtures. A significant research gap persists regarding the removal of mixed VAs (MVAs) and their influence on anaerobic digestion (AD) process. It is crucial to delve into the capabilities of AD in eliminating MVAs concern effectively. In this review, a state-of-art overview of MVAs removal and their impacts on AD process was provided for first time. Most of MVAs studies have concentrated on mixtures containing Tetracyclines (TCs), Fluoroquinolones (FQs), and Sulfonamides (SAs) with a leading interest by China. The collected data reveals that MVAs generated a competition on their biological degradation and their adsorption into sludge during AD process. These phenomena exhibited lower MVAs removal at approximately 60 ± 3.0 % compared to individual removal performances of antibiotics by AD. TCs tend to have a greater inhibitory impact on biogas production compared to other antibiotic groups, FQs could stimulate biogas production, while combining different antibiotic groups worsened the biogas production. The inoculum content appears to play a significant role in mitigating the effects of MVAs on biogas production. While MVAs effects on AD's microbial activity were found to be contradictory depends mainly on the antibiotics group. Nevertheless, the above influences are riddled with uncertainties that require more extensive investigation. This review aims to broaden our understanding of MVAs interaction within the AD process, examines antibiotic mixtures' impact on AD-driven removal efficiency, and outlines future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Visual pollution refers to the degradation of landscape aesthetics, manifesting as visible deterioration. On the Agadir coast in Morocco, factors such as urbanization, erosion, marine wracking, litter, sewage, beach driving, and animal waste contribute to this issue, which detracts from coastal scenery. This study employs the coastal scenery evaluation system (CSES) to conduct a scenic assessment of 40 coastal sites, aiming to describe the current state of visual pollution and inform management interventions. The CSES utilizes a checklist comprising 18 physical and 8 human parameters to calculate a scenic evaluation index (D value), which categorizes coastal sites into five classes. These range from Class I — typically undisturbed natural areas with pristine scenic qualities — to Class V — which are degraded natural areas significantly impacted by human activities. The scenic evaluation classified these sites into three classes. Four sites (10 %) were classified as Class III, fifteen (37.5 %) as Class IV, and twenty-one (52.5 %) as Class V. No sites were classified as Classes I or II. The assessments presented here offer a comprehensive overview of the Agadir coastal scenery and establish a baseline for developing strategies to address visual pollution. • Scenic quality of 40 sites along the Agadir coast on the Moroccan Atlantic Coast. • Prevalence of degraded scenic sites classified in lower categories. • Substantial impact of anthropogenic activities on scenic degradation. • Coastal scenery plays a core role in the economic landscape, especially in tourism. • The coastal scenery management plan aimed to reverse scenic degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid industrialization, urbanization, and population growth result in vast amounts of organic waste being produced, including agricultural waste, animal waste, industrial waste, sewage sludge, and municipal solid waste. Biochar production from solid waste has become a popular waste management method. However, in rural areas of developing nations, biomass is typically used for cooking without being charred. Urban biowaste-derived biochar may enhance soil fertility and overall soil health. However, large-scale biochar production from an electronic muffle furnace could be very expensive, and there is little information on the conversion of biowastes to biochar using traditional kilns or its effects on biochar characteristics, and farmers' biochar production methods are yet underdeveloped. Hence, this study provides biochar production from biowastes using two production methods: 1) a traditional kiln (a tin kiln) intended for use by small farmers and gardeners, and 2) a laboratory muffle furnace, with the aim of evaluating biochar characteristics. Biochar produced in a muffle furnace and tin kiln has found similar physicochemical and adsorption properties at the same pyrolysis conditions. They include high pH, EC, CEC, P ava , Ca, Mg, K, and carbon content. We expect these biochars to have larger long-term effects on agricultural characteristics and soil carbon sequestration. However, the present results might be utilized to drive cleaner biochar production for agricultural use in developing nations, which may multiply local producer benefits. [Display omitted] • Biochar from urban biowaste materials has fulfilled major criteria for heavy metal remediation. • Biochar produced by muffle furnace and tin kiln methods share similar physico-chemical properties. • Significant results are found in the adsorption properties of produced biochar. • Oxygen-rich active sites make both biochar methods adsorb equally. • Traditional kilns (tin kilns) have a negative potential environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Swine manure (SM) is one of the dominant livestock wastes in China. Pyrolysis is increasingly needed in valorizing SM into diverse products. However, little is known about the pyrolysis characteristics for SM. The results showed that the common-used solid-liquid separation in the SM management chain changed its physicochemical properties and pyrolysis characteristics. Specifically, the average activation energies (Ea) calculated by Flynn-Wall-Ozawa, Kissenger-Akahira-Sunose and Starink models for SM collected in pigsty (SM-A) were 184.70, 181.34 and 181.73 kJ/mol (R2 > 0.9) at conversion rate (a) = 0.2–0.7, respectively, which were increased by > 30 kJ/mol for solid-liquid separated SM (SM-B). Top pre-exponential values (A) for SM-A were also lower than these for SM-B. The ΔG and ΔS were decreased with the progressing of SM-A pyrolysis, while these for SM-B pyrolysis showed increases. Furthermore, SM-A pyrolysis produced more gas species than SM-B, which was more reactive during pyrolysis. Finally, this study suggested that although SM could be a potential energy source through the conversion by pyrolysis, attention should be paid on the impacts of manure management chain on SM pyrolysis. [Display omitted] • Swine manure (SM) from pigsty and after solid-liquid separation are compared. • Solid-liquid separated SM has distinct properties to SM excreted in pigsty. • SM from pigsty has a lower E a for pyrolysis than the solid-liquid separated SM. • More gaseous species are observed for the pyrolysis of SM from pigsty. • Manure management chain have impacts on pyrolysis characteristics of manure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long-term fertilization is considered as the most effective practice in organic C accrual in intensively managed paddy soils. However, the contribution and mechanism of microbial necromass C for soil organic C accrual, and the effective incremental component in paddy soils under the different fertilization remain unclear. To address the knowledge gap, we collected soils from a 31-year long-term fertilization paddy field including no fertilization (control), mineral fertilizers alone (NPK), mineral fertilizers plus rice straw incorporation (NPK + S), and mineral fertilizers plus manure incorporation (NPK + M). Living microbial biomass and their necromass were quantified by the biomarker analysis of phospholipid fatty acids and amino sugars, respectively. Results showed that the three fertilization treatments significantly increased the bacterial and fungal biomass in both 0–10 and 10–20 cm layers, which were universally greatest in NPK + M. The microbial necromass C was little affected by 31-year mineral fertilization; however, mineral combined organic fertilizers incorporation greatly stimulated microbial necromass C accumulation. Besides, soil treated with NPK + M showed 3.55 ± 0.12 g kg−1 higher accumulation of microbial necromass C than NPK + S, because manure application increased the abundance of Gram-positive r -strategy bacteria (mainly Firmicutes and Actinobacteria), and enriched filamentous fungi (Ascomycota). Compared to the control, the increase in the microbial necromass C contribution to SOC was lowest in NPK and highest in NPK + M, mainly derived from the variation in the contribution of bacterial necromass. Consequently, this study suggested long-term mineral combined manure application in subtropical paddy fields could effectively increase soil C sequestration by strengthening microbial necromass accumulation. Bacterial and fungal necromass C accrual was closely associated with living microbial biomass and their community structure. Given the C sequestration potential of manure in paddy soil, as the crucial resource of livestock and poultry waste in this region, it should be incorporated into subtropical agricultural ecosystems. Contribution of bacterial and fungal necromass to C accumulation in soil. [Display omitted] • Organic incorporation enlarged microbial necromass C accrual than NPK in paddy soil. • Manure incorporation increased more microbial necromass C than straw. • Compared to topsoil, organic incorporation increased fungal necromass C in subsoil. • Bacterial necromass C accrual was determined by Gram-positive r -strategy bacteria. • Fungal necromass C accrual was controlled by Ascomycota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Veterinary antibiotics and estrogens are excreted in livestock waste before being applied to agricultural lands as fertilizer, resulting in contamination of soil and adjacent waterways. The objectives of this study were to 1) investigate the degradation kinetics of the VAs sulfamethazine and lincomycin and the estrogens estrone and 17β-estradiol in soil mesocosms, and 2) assess the effect of the phytochemical DIBOA-Glu, secreted in eastern gamagrass (Tripsacum dactyloides) roots, on antibiotic degradation due to the ability of DIBOA-Glu to facilitate hydrolysis of atrazine in solution assays. Mesocosm soil was a silt loam representing a typical claypan soil in portions of Missouri and the Central United States. Mesocosms (n = 133) were treated with a single target compound (antibiotic concentrations at 125 ng g−1 dw, estrogen concentrations at 1250 ng g−1 dw); a subset of mesocosms treated with antibiotics were also treated with DIBOA-Glu (12,500 ng g−1 dw); all mesocosms were kept at 60% water-filled pore space and incubated at 25 °C in darkness. Randomly chosen mesocosms were destructively sampled in triplicate for up to 96 days. All targeted compounds followed pseudo first-order degradation kinetics in soil. The soil half-life (t 0.5) of sulfamethazine ranged between 17.8 and 30.1 d and ranged between 9.37 and 9.90 d for lincomycin. The antibiotics results showed no significant differences in degradation kinetics between treatments with or without DIBOA-Glu. For estrogens, degradation rates of estrone (t 0.5 = 4.71–6.08 d) and 17β-estradiol (t 0.5 = 5.59–6.03 d) were very similar; however, results showed that estrone was present as a metabolite in the 17β-estradiol treated mesocosms and vice-versa within 24 h. The antibiotics results suggest that sulfamethazine has a greater potential to persist in soil than lincomycin. The interconversion of 17β-estradiol and estrone in soil increased their overall persistence and sustained soil estrogenicity. This study demonstrates the persistence of these compounds in a typical claypan soil representing portions of the Central United States. [Display omitted] • All targeted compounds followed pseudo first-order degradation kinetics. • DBG driven hydrolysis did not play a significant role in affecting veterinary antibiotic half-lives. • Lincomycin degradation was 2–3 times faster in soil than sulfamethazine. • Degradation rates of estrone and 17β-estradiol in soil were comparatively similar. • Estrone and 17β-estradiol interconversion in soil increased their overall persistence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acid mine drainage (AMD), a common environmental problem around the world, is characterized by low pH, high concentrations of heavy metals and sulfate. AMD treatment technology based on stimulating in-situ microorganisms has received widespread attention, but lack of organic matter is a limiting factor that restricts the remediation by heterotrophic microorganisms such as sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB). In this study, a pilot scale reactor was set up next to an acid reservoir to evaluate the effect of livestock wastes on the in-situ bioremediation of AMD, focusing on performance assessment, heavy metal removal efficacy, and the evolution of the microbial community. Results indicated that the pH of AMD rises rapidly from 3.23 to 4.11, and metals (e.g., Fe, Cu, and Zn) rapidly got removed in Stage I. However, AMD experienced significant stratification in Stage Ⅱ (biogas slurry supplemented). The pH of surface layer (0.5 m below the surface) gradually dropped to 3.67, and the bottom layer (2.3 m below the surface) remained around 4.1, and the metal removal efficiencies further improved. Microbial communities were dominated by Fe-OB and Fe-RB in surface layer, while SRB dominated in bottom layer. The addition of biogas slurry significantly increased the relative abundance of functional microbe in bioremediation. The growth of SRB in the bottom of the reactor made an important contribution to heavy metal removal. Heavy metals were mainly removed through the formation of insoluble hydroxide and sulfide precipitation and co-precipitation. This study innovatively integrates low-cost, locally sourced livestock waste as nutrient supplements into AMD bioremediation processes, and demonstrated the potential for integrating AMD treatment with livestock waste management, addressing both the nutrient needs for AMD processing and the challenge of livestock waste disposal. The findings contribute to the development of cost-effective and eco-friendly strategies for AMD management while advancing the understanding of microbial mechanisms of in-situ bioremediation. [Display omitted] • Exogenous substrates have obvious effects on AMD bioremediation. • Biogas slurry resulted in stratification of iron oxidation and sulfur reduction. • SRB had a strong competitive advantage in the evolution of microbial communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Global food waste continues to increase despite efforts to reduce it. • Food waste upcycling to animal feed provides the greatest value among alternative uses. • Animals performed optimally in 75–77% of cases when fed diet containing food waste. • Prudent use of food waste can support optimal production and address sustainability issues. • Innovative policy and infrastructural support are essential for broader adoption and impact. Enormous amounts of food waste are generated that could potentially be used for livestock feeding to support sustainable food production and reduce climate and resource burdens. Many studies have documented animal productivity parameters (growth, yield, feed use efficiency) when fed food waste, but their findings remain fragmented. Our objective is to synthesize results from these studies to uncover collective evidence on how animal productivity is affected. A systematic literature review identified 102 studies, which originated from 31 countries and encompassed all major food-producing animal species fed food waste of various types and rates. The field-based primary data were normalized to discern patterns and trends. Animals in 75–77 % of all cases performed as optimally or increased productivity compared to those fed control diet; the remaining 23–25 % had decreased performance. Meta-analysis of a subset of data indicated that pig growth did not differ between control and treatment diets of varying food waste rates. Ultimately, balancing major nutrients from all feed ingredients are key for maintaining optimal productivity while pursuing sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Cattle manure is an ideal feedstock for caproate production. • A diverse population of known chain elongators were detected in the microbiome. • Oleogel was fabricated to effectively recover caproate from chain elongation broths. • Complete treatment train with both caproate production and recovery was established. Producing and recovering bioproducts from organic wastes is vital for building a circular economy. Livestock waste can serve as a feedstock for bioproduct production, such as medium chain carboxylic acids (MCCAs). This study aims to (1) optimize the conversion of organics in beef cattle manure to caproate and (2) develop an innovative oleogel-based extraction method for caproate recovery. With intrinsic chain elongation bacteria in cattle manure, we achieved a maximum caproate production rate of 8.59 g/L/d and the maximum concentration of 11.09 g/L with ethanol as the electron donor. Chain elongators such as Clostridium, Eubacterium, Caproiciproducens were detected. Oleogel beads were fabricated and enabled high mass transfer rates, achieving a cumulative caproate extraction efficiency of 87.39±0.96 % in 180 min. In subsequent desorption process, caproate accounted for 86.18±0.32 % of all carboxylic acids and alcohols desorbed from oleogel beads. This study demonstrates the technical feasibility of producing bioproducts from an abundant agricultural waste. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat germ is an agricultural but low-economic by-product for animal feed or waste due to its susceptibility of hydrolytic/oxidative rancidities. Here, we use controllable extrusion to treat wheat germ, and with assistance of exogenous starch as lipid protective factor at different ratios (0:10 2:8, 3:7, 4:6). Oxidation of optimized germ extrudate was slowed down during storage, with total lipid retention rate reach up to ∼88.3%. Extrusion dynamic analysis showed that relatively high screw speed (100–150 rpm) significantly shortened mean residence time, increased axial diffusion velocity and reduced the loss of free and bound lipid. Type Ⅱ starch-lipid complex was changed to type Ⅰ during extrusion, with thermal transition peak declined. Wheat germ lipid was most evenly distributed under 100 rpm extrusion. The hydrogen bonding interaction between exogenous starch and lipids in wheat germ was strengthened, with significant modification in water absorption, water solubility, expansion and textual indexes. • The controllable lipid retention of wheat germ was achieved by extrusion. • Lipid oxidation index of extruded wheat germ was greatly reduced during storage. • Lipid content was changed and clarified by chemical and RTD analyses. • Wheat germ-based complex was prepared with exogenous starch at 0–40%. • Lipid loss rate was decreased to 11.71% in wheat germ-starch extrudate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of pharmaceutical pollutants in water sources has become a growing concern due to its potential impacts on human health and other organisms. The physicochemical properties of pharmaceuticals based on their intended therapeutical application, which include antibiotics, hormones, analgesics, and antidepressants, is quite diverse. Their presence in wastewater, sewerage water, surface water, ground water and even in drinking water is reported by many researchers throughout the world. Human exposure to these pollutants through drinking water or consumption of aquatic and terrestrial organisms has raised concerns about potential adverse effects, such as endocrine disruption, antibiotic resistance, and developmental abnormalities. Once in the environment, they can persist, undergo transformation, or degrade, leading to a complex mixture of contaminants. Application of treated wastewater, compost, manures or biosolids in agricultural fields introduce pharmaceutical pollutants in the environment. As pharmaceuticals are diverse in nature, significant differences are observed during their uptake and accumulation in plants. While there have been extensive studies on aquatic ecosystems, the effect on agricultural land is more disparate. As of now, there are few reports available on the potential of plant uptake and transportation of pharmaceuticals within and between plant organs. This review summarizes the occurrence of pharmaceuticals in aquatic water bodies at a range of concentrations and their uptake, accumulation, and transport within plant tissues. Research gaps on pharmaceutical pollutants' specific effect on plant growth and future research scopes are highlighted. The factors affecting uptake of pharmaceuticals including hydrophobicity, ionization, physicochemical properties (pKa, logK ow , pH, Henry's law constant) are discussed. Finally, metabolism of pharmaceuticals within plant cells through metabolism phase enzymes and plant responses to pharmaceuticals are reviewed. [Display omitted] • Use of reclaimed water or livestock waste in agriculture introduces pharmaceuticals to the land surface. • Uptake of pharmaceuticals in plants primarily depends on the physicochemical properties. • Aquaporin and anion channels participate in the uptake of pharmaceuticals. • Plants utilize numerous phase I and phase II enzymes to metabolize pharmaceuticals. • Exposure to pharmaceuticals interrupt major physiological processes in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfonamide and quinolone antibiotics are widely used worldwide for disease prevention and treatment, which are ubiquitous in aquatic environments, soil, and animal waste because they are difficult to be removed in conventional wastewater treatment processes. Antibiotic residues in the environment can lead to the development of bacterial resistance, posing a potential hazard to humans and ecosystems. Ionizing radiation (γ-ray and high-energy electron beam), as an emerging advanced oxidation technology, has received increasing attention in antibiotics' treatment because of its reliable, safe operation and excellent degradation capability. This paper mainly summarized and analyzed the recent advances in the radiation-induced degradation of sulfonamide and quinolone antibiotics in aqueous solution, focusing on the influencing factors (such as absorbed dose, initial concentration of antibiotics, pH, inorganic anions and water matrices) and degradation pathways, which could provide references for the optimization of experimental conditions and mechanism studies on the treatment of these two types of antibiotics in actual wastewater and further practical application by ionizing irradiation. • Sulfonamide and quinolone antibiotics are ubiquitous in the environments. • Radiation-induced degradation of sulfonamide and quinolone antibiotics was reviewed. • The influencing factors and pathways of antibiotics degradation were discussed. • Radiation technology is effective for the degradation of antibiotics in aqueous solution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, it was aimed to utilize the wastes of wheat straw, goose down and wood industry and bring them into the economy. A sustainable insulation material was produced using environmentally friendly water-based PVA styrene acrylic copolymer as a binder with these wastes. In the study, mechanical properties, acoustic absorption and burning resistance were examined. Response Surface Method Box-Behnken Design (RSM-BBD) was used for experimental design and optimization. As a result of mechanical tests, it was seen that the binder ratio had a very high effect on mechanical strength. It was observed that the acoustic absorption coefficient increases with the increase of each of wheat straw, wood shaving, goose down and water-based copolymer resin. Styrene acrylic copolymer was found to be suitable binder for agricultural wastes. AL 2 O 3 , MgO, and Zn[B 3 O 4 (OH) 3 ] were used to increase fire resistance. The results revealed that these compounds can be used as fire retardants for materials consisting of cellulosic-based fillers and water-based polymer binders. The best combustion results for the material were achieved with Zn[B3O4(OH)3]. Flame retardants reduced cellulosyl and polymeric mass loss by up to 61.5 %. It was observed that the best fire resistance was F27 sample, which started to extinguish after two minutes despite the continuation of the fire and extinguished immediately after the fire was removed. The study revealed that such materials can rival conventional materials for green credentials, technical, economic, and environmental aspects. • Styrene acrylic copolymer was found to be suitable binder for agricultural wastes. • Flame retardants reduced cellulosyl and polymeric mass loss by up to 61.5 %. • The best combustion results for the material were achieved with Zn[B 3 O 4 (OH) 3 ]. • Al 2 O 3 , MgO and Zn[B 3 O 4 (OH) 3 ] were suitable fire retardants for sample materials. • Wheat straw, sawdust, goose down and polymer had a good effect on sound insulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic nitrogen (IN) wet deposition flux and emission sources have been intensively investigated over the past two decades with a primary focus in rural areas and large metropolitan cities. Smaller coastal cities are often overlooked in these studies despite a substantial portion of the earth's population inhabiting these regions. Ammonia and NO x emission source apportionment estimations in these studies can be misleading without proper inspection of intermittent source (e.g., biomass burning and lightning) impacts on the airmass of rain events. This study measured the chemical composition (NH 4 +, NO 3 −, Cl−, SO 4 2− and pH) and isotopic composition of ammonium and nitrate (δ15N–NH 4 +, δ15N–NO 3 -, and δ18O–NO 3 -) in rainwaters collected in a small coastal city (Corpus Christi, TX, USA) to aid in determining the emission source apportionments of NH 3 and NO x. A novel approach coupling lightning and fire/smoke mapping products along with airmass back trajectories was developed to help determine the influence of biomass burning and lightning on individual rain events before applying to isotope source apportionment models. The annual IN wet deposition was 3.9 kg N·ha−1·yr−1, in which NH 4 + and NO 3 − constituted 65% and 35%, respectively. Isotope mixing model results suggest vehicle emission contribution to NH 3 can rival agriculture sources (i.e., fertilizer and livestock waste) in urban areas. Vehicles, biomass burning and lightning were significant NO x sources, while soil "biogenic" emissions increased substantially in certain rain events occurring in warmer months. This work qualified IN wet deposition flux and estimated IN emission source apportionments in a coastal small-sized city, which will inform regional N emission regulations and watershed restoration practices. [Display omitted] • A novel approach coupling mapping products with airmass trajectories to quantify intermittent sources was developed. • Vehicles had the highest contribution to NH 3 emissions outcompeting agriculture emissions in the coastal city. • Vehicles had the highest contribution to NO x emissions followed by intermittent sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The methane production increased by 14-37% after the CHTP-AD process. • Chem-degradation & biotransformation pathways were simulated by Multiomics. • Carbohydrate-Protein-Lipid interaction has been revealed in CHTP. The dense structure and significant differences in the properties of agricultural and forestry wastes make it difficult to achieve anaerobic conversion. This study employed hydrothermal pretreatment (HTP) and combined hydrothermal pretreatment (CHTP) to enhance the anaerobic digestion (AD) performance of agricultural and forestry organic wastes. At a specific hydrothermal condition of 140℃ for 30 mins, the cumulative methane production of garden waste (GW), chicken manure (CM), duck manure (DM), and pig manure (PM) increased by 14.70%, 14.18%, 27.48%, and 21.81%, respectively. Under the same conditions, CHTP of garden waste with livestock and poultry manures showed noticeable synergistic effects, resulting in the methane production potential of garden waste mixed with chicken manure, duck manure, and pig manure increased by 28.82%, 36.59%, and 37.56%, respectively, compared with the untreated group. Metabolomic analysis showed that CHTP could significantly promote the decomposition of biomass carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, leading to increased levels of small molecular metabolites. Analysis of microbial community diversity showed that HTP and CHTP increase the abundance of specific functional microbial communities, such as hydrolysis bacteria and methanogens, thereby promoting the anaerobic production of methane from biomass waste. Energy balance analysis shows that HTP-AD and CHTP-AD have a positive net energy benefit. This study provides an efficient CHTP technology and theoretical support for the resource utilization and energy conversion of agricultural and forestry wastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Thermal insulation material was produced by using animal waste fiber from agricultural wastes. • The water absorption problem of agricultural wastes was eliminated. • Modeled with Ansys and compared with XPS, positive results were obtained. • Water-based resins as binders arefor the production of thermal and waterproofing materials. Decreased energy resources and subsequent increasing environmental pollution have increased the tendency towards the production of renewable and sustainable insulation materials. This study aimed to produce an innovative and sustainable insulation material using water-based resin from wastes such wood shavings, wheat straws, goose down, to bring the large amount of Kars regional waste into the economy. Response Surface Method Box-Behnken Design was used for process optimization. The result of the optimization optimum mixing ratio was determined as 125 gr binder, 80 gr wood shaving, and 30 gr wheat straw for 0,06 W/mK the thermal conductivity coefficient. It was observed that goose down added to the optimum mixture reduced the thermal conductivity coefficient. %5 Polydimethylsiloxane as hydrophobic agent was used to reduce water absorbency, which is one of the biggest disadvantages of materials produced from animal and agricultural wastes. As a result of this study, water absorbency was reduced from 175% to 20% and the thermal conductivity coefficient of the produced samples were determined between 0.055 W/mK − 0.0681 W/mK. The resulting samples were found to have thermal conductivity and waterproofing properties that make them suitable for building envelope insulation. Produced samples have the potential to be used as light and sustainable insulation materials produced from natural materials in future in building industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Throughout cattle manure composting, average airflow resistance decreased by 40.1%. • All research parameters had the greatest variation at the thermophilic phase. • With the aerobic reaction, the total pressure ought to be adjusted to a lower level. • Ranks affecting airflow resistance were bulk density, particle size, specific gravity. Composting is widely adopted in livestock waste management, and the ventilation system control is essential for composting efficiency. For ventilation system, the airflow resistance is a major factor influencing the ventilation intensity and oxygen supply capacity. This study explored the variation law of airflow resistance, bulk density, specific gravity, particle size and total pressure throughout composting with cattle manure. The airflow resistance was calculated with Ergun equation, and contribution coefficients of different components were analyzed with principal component analysis (PCA). Results showed that the viscous airflow resistance was dominant throughout cattle manure composting. The average airflow resistance was 0.146 Pa/m, and resistance of pile at lower layer was higher than that at the upper layer by 18.1 %. For contribution coefficient affecting airflow resistance, the ranks were bulk density, average particle size and specific gravity. During composting process, the average airflow resistance decreased by 40.1 % and the total pressure reduced by 3.47 %. All parameters had the greatest variation at thermophilic phase, which accounted for more than 60 % of the total variation amplitude. Meanwhile, less than 10 % of the total pressure was used to overcome the airflow resistance. Therefore, reducing bulk density of pile should be considered preferentially to decrease the airflow resistance. During cattle manure composting process, the total pressure of ventilation system ought to be adjusted with the aerobic reaction to a lower level, especially at thermophilic phase with the most rapid descent rate. This study can provide support for reducing the energy consumption required for ventilation of composting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Australian lupin seed coats are rich in dietary fibers and bioactive metabolites. • Functional properties of lupin seed coats related to cooking are promising. • Phenolic and flavonoids in lupin seed coats impart excellent antioxidant property. • Cultivars of L. angustifolius inhibit human pancreatic α-amylase and α-glucosidase. • Diverse health benefits may attain by inclusion of seed coats as "whole grain lupin". Lupins, and other legumes, have attained international interest due to their reported remarkable health benefits. Currently, the seed coats are discarded as waste or animal feed. The research presented here summarizes the potential for incorporating the seed coats into 'whole grain' foods. We aimed to identify metabolites found in the seed coats of nine commercial Australian cultivars of lupin (Lupinus angustifolius and L. albus species), and to evaluate and compare their functional, nutritional, antioxidant, and antidiabetic properties, along with in silico exploration of mechanisms of action for selected identified secondary metabolites. The seed coats were found to contain 79 to 90% dietary fibers and substantial quantity of essential macrometals. LC-QTOF MS-based, untargeted bioactive metabolite profiling explored a total of 673 chemical entities, and identified 63 bioactive secondary metabolites including: biophenols, unsaturated fatty acids, triterpenoids, alkaloids, and dietary prebiotics (insoluble fibers). The seed coats from these nine cultivars show substantial antioxidant activity. The cultivars of L. angustifolius inhibit α-amylase and α-glucosidase significantly in vitro. Moreover, in silico docking and dynamic simulation along with ADME/T analysis suggest that quercetin 3-methyl ether and 8-C-methylquercetin 3-methyl ether as molecules, novel in lupin seed coats, are responsible for the α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition. The findings indicated that lupin seed coats might be beneficial food components, rather than be discarded as 'mill waste' [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A biomass-driven integrated system comprising anaerobic digestion, gasification, proton exchange membrane electrolyzer (PEME), Sabatier reactor, solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC), a gas turbine, steam turbine and organic Rankine cycle (ORC) was proposed in this study. Biomass feedstocks in form of animal waste served as input in the digester and converted to biogas, and crop residue was converted to syngas in the gasifier. Upgraded syngas and methane from the bio-conversion process was fed to a SOFC-GT topping cycle, with heat recovery bottoming cycles of steam turbine and organic Rankine cycles. The proposed system was assessed from energy, exergy and economic viewpoints in Engineering Equation Solver (EES) software. Parametric analysis was performed to ascertain the effect of design parameters on the plant's performance. Lastly, a multi-criteria optimization was performed using multi-objective genetic algorithm (MOGA) in MATLAB to maximize exergy efficiency and minimize levelized cost of electricity, as well as selection of best ORC working fluid from six preselected candidates (MM, MDM, cyclopentane, cyclohexane, R1233zd(E), and R600a). According to the results, at optimum point the plant can attain energy and exergy efficiencies of 54.81 % and 44.87 %, respectively. The total power output is 9.05 MW, with levelized cost of electricity of 111.8 $/MWh. Hydrogen of 0.0023 kg/s with PEME efficiency of 73.73 % was obtained and further used in upgrading the syngas from LHV of 4.20–37.78 MJ/kg. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The excessive usage of veterinary antibiotics has raised significant concerns regarding their environmental hazard and agricultural impact when entering surface water and soil. Animal waste serves as a primary source of organic fertilizer for intensive large-scale agricultural cultivation, including the widely utilized medicinal and edible plant, Polygonatum cyrtonem. In this study, we employed a novel plant stress tissue culture technology to investigate the toxic effects of tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) and sulfadiazine (SDZ) on P. cyrtonema. TCH and SDZ exhibited varying degrees of influence on plant growth, photosynthesis, and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging system. Flavonoid levels increased following exposure to TCH and SDZ. The biosynthesis and signaling pathways of the growth hormones auxin and gibberellic acid were suppressed by both antibiotics, while the salicylic acid-mediated plant stress response was specifically induced in the case of SDZ. Overall, the study unveiled both common and unique responses at physiological, biochemical, and molecular levels in P. cyrtonema following exposure to two distinct types of antibiotics, providing a foundational framework for comprehensively elucidating the precise toxic effects of antibiotics and the versatile adaptive mechanisms in plants. [Display omitted] • The shared and distinctive toxicities of TCH and SDZ antibiotics on P. cyrtonema were characterized. • Both TCH and SDZ disturb redox homeostasis and alter the antioxidant system. • SDZ exerts a more pronounced impact on photosynthesis and plant growth compared to TCH. • SDZ triggers the salicylic acid-mediated regulation of stress response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Scale-up of anaerobic digestion (AD) with olive mill solid waste (OMSW) is reviewed. • The feasibility of pretreatment processes were compared at different operating scales. • Techno-economic challenges are associated with the scaling-up of mono-AD of OMSW. • CoAD with manure could improve year-round process stability in larger-scale plants. In this review, the main properties of olive mill solid waste, the primary by-product of olive oil production, and its feasibility as a feedstock for anaerobic digesters operating at laboratory-, pilot- and industrial-scales are discussed in detail. Nutrient addition and thermal pretreatments were found to have the potential to address the challenges arising from the high carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, the low pH, and the high concentration of phenolic compounds. Furthermore, anaerobic co-digestion with different organic feedstocks has been identified as one of the most promising options to solve the aforementioned problems and the seasonality nature of olive waste, while improving the efficiency of anaerobic treatment plants that operate throughout the whole year. The insights generated from this study show co-digestion with wastes from animal farming to be the most environmentally and economically sustainable method for improving anaerobic digestion processes with olive mill solid waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Norfloxacin (NFX), a widely used fluoroquinolone antibiotic, poses significant environmental concerns due to its persistence in ecosystems and its potential to foster antibiotic resistance. This study explores the degradation of NFX using a bio-electrochemical system (BES) facilitated by Bacillus subtilis isolated from animal waste sludge. Experimental parameters were optimized to maximize removal efficiency, with the optimal conditions determined as an NFX concentration of 200 mg/L, pH 7, and an applied potential of 1.2 V. The degradation pathway was elucidated through the identification of intermediate products, ultimately leading to the complete mineralization of NFX. To assess the environmental impact of BES-treated water, a series of eco-toxicity assays were conducted. Microbial diversity analysis revealed that soil exposed to BES-treated water maintained a balanced microbial community, contrasting with the disruptions observed in soils exposed to untreated NFX-contaminated water. Phytotoxicity tests, earthworm toxicity assay, and Artemia hatchability & lethality assays further confirmed the reduced toxicity of the BES-treated water. These findings highlight the efficacy of BES in the degradation of NFX, demonstrating its potential as a sustainable strategy for the remediation of antibiotic-contaminated environments and the mitigation of associated ecological risks. [Display omitted] • NFX was degraded with Bacillus subtilis (NB-2) in a bio-electrochemical system. • BES achieved almost 100% degradation of NFX. • Highest NFX degradation was achieved at 200 mg/L of NFX at pH 7 with 1.2 V as applied potential. • NFX degradation involved transformation through intermediate products to complete mineralization. • BES treatment showed significantly reduced toxicity and ecological risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research pioneers a sustainable approach to wound healing by developing a bio sheet for dressings. It ingeniously incorporates healing properties of reduced graphene oxide synthesized via an eco-friendly method, using phytoextracts to eliminate toxic chemicals. Collagen extracted from fish waste and fibrinogen from post-animal waste contribute to the bio sheet's green profile. The study emphasizes the global shift towards utilizing natural materials in therapeutic applications for efficient wound healing while minimizing toxic side effects. The formulation involves a simple muffle treatment for the conversion of carbon to graphene oxide, followed by a greener reduction technique to synthesize rGO. Characterization- by peaks that obtained at 255 nm, 240 nm, 280 nm, 360 nm using UV–Vis analysis were confirmed the presents of desired carbon and glycoproteins, In X-ray diffraction (2θ value) we found peaks at 24.37°, 27.84°, 17.43° which indicated the presents of rGO, Fibrinogen, and Collagen, and FT-IR methods confirms the functional groups like OH, CH2 , C C , CHO and N C in the derived materials and Zeta potential distribution were done for Compounds. To add up purity and efficiency analysis via GCMS were done for proteins. The resulting bio sheet, created in a controlled environment with a gelling agent, Undergoes morphological analysis through FESEM-EDX. Additional assessments, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hemocompatibility assays, illuminate the nature of the formulated bio sheet. To addition, biosheet is analyzed for physical and mechanical properties. Further insight is gained through the analysis of surface plots of the EDX images of both the composite and bio sheet using ImageJ software. This comprehensive approach underscores the potential of sustainable and naturally derived materials in advancing wound care technologies. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of gelatin-based hydrogel sheet which reduces oxygen tension. • High biocompatibility proteins from natural source. • Biosheet favours the scope of wound healing process. • Evaluated by wound contraction, wound healing percentage and by histological examination. • Surface Plot image processing in 3D-Thermal approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofuels, produced from organic materials such as plants, animal waste, and wood chips etc. offer a sustainable and renewable alternative to fossil fuels. The biofuel production in terms of thousand barrels of oil equivalent per day was 1914.00 in 2022 worldwide. The demand is set to expand 38 billion liters over 2023–28, nearly 30 per cent increase in the last five years with bioethanol & biodiesel accounting for about two third share. First-generation biofuels are derived from food crops, while second-generation biofuels are made from non-food crops like switchgrass, algae, and agricultural waste. Microbe-derived biofuels are ecologically sound on account of fewer greenhouse gas emissions and are more sustainable than conventional fossil fuels. However, there are challenges associated with producing biofuels, including land use competition, feedstock cost and availability, technical limitations, sustainability issues, and infrastructure and market constraints. Second-generation biofuels and third-generation algae-based biofuels have the potential to condense our dependence on fossil fuels and reassure sustainable agriculture and forestry practices. Fourth-generation biofuels use genetically modified microorganisms to convert sunlight and CO 2 into biofuels directly while as fifth-generation biofuels are still in the research and development stage and are expected to use synthetic biology to create completely synthetic biofuels. Advanced biofuels from non-food feedstocks like algae, agricultural byproducts, and municipal solid waste are ecologically more well-founded than first-generation biofuels. Biorefinery mediated biomass conversion to biofuels is more energy efficient more productive and ecologically all-encompassing than conventional refineries. Synthetic biology approaches such as genetic engineering, directed evolution, genome editing is used to expand the thruput and efficiency of microorganisms in the production course of biofuels. Overall, the production of biofuels from microorganisms has the potential to be an economically and environmentally sustainable method of generating renewable energy. With continued innovation and emphasis on sustainability, microbe-derived biofuels could become a substantial part of the evolution towards a more renewable and sustainable energy future. The concerns as a result of climate change have dictated a rethink in policy pertaining to transportation infrastructure. One possible alternative to existing setup of fossil fuels is the biofuels produced as result of efficient microflora that make the use of renewable carbon stocks. Advanced biofuels that could mimic the petroleum-based fuels pose a limited scope on account of the challenging costs. The computational biology in context to synthetic enzyme production could amplify the production process beyond doubt. In this review, we discuss the new insights into challenges and opportunities of the generation wise biofuels besides the advancements made in microflora in various biofuel generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beef cattle feedlots are major sources of criteria air pollutants in the United States. To aid stakeholders in air quality modeling, emissions factors for animal waste-producing facilities are under development by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). However, beef cattle feeding operations (feedlots) are not among facilities surveyed under the associated USEPA National Air Emissions Monitoring Study (NAEMS). Authors aim to supplement NAEMS through development and validation of particulate matter (PM 10 and PM 2.5) emission factors from a previous sampling campaign of five large feedlots in the Southern High Plains of North America via USEPA's CALPUFF dispersion model. PM concentrations were higher overall during the warm season (March–August; PM 10 = 692 ± 507, PM 2.5 = 114 ± 110 μg/m3) relative to cool season (November–January; PM10 = 102 ± 105, PM2.5 = 12.2 ± 8.6 μg/m3), and overall median PM 10 and PM 2.5 emission factors were 48.2 (day = 33.8, night = 72.4) and 5.22 (day = 8.4, night = 3.1) mg/m2/hr, respectively. Validated emissions factors were then used to model diurnal peaks and long-range transport (100 km maximum extent). Peak concentrations were most frequently observed between 2000 and 0600 h (93.9%; mean 1-hr peak ± SD = 1119 ± 1240 μg/m3) for PM 10 and 1600-0600 h (80.0%; mean 1-hr peak ± SD; 178 ± 174 μg/m3) for PM 2.5. Four of five feedlots exceeded ≥1 primary PM National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) at receptors (2-m height) over a 5-km spatial extent during the modeling period (November 2010–August 2011). Moreover, present estimates of feedlot-derived inhalable PM represent human and environmental exposure pathways currently exempt from Clean Air Act monitoring and reporting standards, and spatial interpolation of federal air quality monitors cannot adequately characterize inhalable PM concentrations in non-metropolitan municipalities and unincorporated rural communities. • Inhalable PM emissions from beef cattle feedlots impact surrounding air quality. • Feedlot PM emissions factors are a critical need for public impact characterization. • PM generation and long-range transport potential elevated in warmer months. • Diurnal peak PM concentrations are primarily predicted in the evening hours. • Four of five feedlots exceeded ≥1 NAAQS PM threshold over CALPUFF model period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the detailed life cycle assessment (LCA) of environmental impact potential for two-stage anaerobic biogas plants between commercial and pilot scales. It provides a comprehensive and systematic approach to evaluating the environmental impacts of producing biogas from livestock wastes in several phases: collecting, processing, and production. The commercial biogas plant (C-BP) system is located in Central Taiwan's pig farm, with 1500–2000 pigs a year. The Symnergy (symbiosis bioenergy model) biogas pilot plant (S-BP) is installed in Manado City, Indonesia. The Institute of Green Products, Feng Chia University, designed both C-BP and S-BP systems. The environmental impacts of both systems' gate-to-grave life cycles were assessed and compared using Simapro 9.0.0 software. The pilot-scale biogas plants produce bioenergy from the wastewater of the slaughterhouse. Therefore, 10,950 tonne/year of slurry feedstock flowing into the commercial biogas plant was considered a functional unit equal to 21 times larger than the pilot scale biogas plant. The LCA analyzes the impacts of three processes for feedstock collection, biogas production, and digestate production. It was found that Photochemical Ozone Creation Potential had the highest total impact on C-BP (33%), and Eutrophication had the highest impact on S-BP (33%). Both the biogas production systems of C-BP and S-BP showed very low environmental impacts, and the impacts of C-BP are lower than the S-BP. However, implementing digesters considerably reduced the potential environmental impacts of well manure feedstock handling and fertilizer applications. The LCA analysis among the three individual processes is developed to allow critical points and environmental impacts for local government. Consequently, the LCA report could help establish regional sustainability strategies for the management of livestock wastes by anaerobic two-stage biogas plant from manure. [Display omitted] • LCA of environmental impacts analysis for two-stage anaerobic biohythane plants. • Both C-BP and S-BP two-stage biohythan plant showed very low environmental impacts. • Implementing digesters considerably reduced the environmental impacts potential. • Developing a critical points and environmental impact factors for local government. • Establishing regional sustainability strategies for management of livestock wastes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Swine farm groundwater carried abundant antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). • Metagenome- and culture-based methods tracked the source of groundwater-borne ARGs. • Bacterial migration and horizontal gene transfer may promote ARG spread. • Pathogens were the important ARG hosts in groundwater. • Groundwater-borne ARGs might be transferred from groundwater to humans. Antibiotic resistant bacteria (ARB) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are prevalent in various environments on livestock farms, including livestock waste, soil, and groundwater. Contamination of groundwater by ARB and ARGs in livestock farms is a growing concern as it may have potentially huge risks to human health. However, the source of groundwater-borne ARB and ARGs in animal farms remains largely unknown. In this study, different types of samples including groundwater and its potential contamination sources from aboveground (pig feces, wastewater, and soil) from both working and abandoned swine feedlots in southern China were collected and subjected to metagenomic sequencing and ARB isolation. The source tracking based on metagenomic analysis revealed that 56–95 % of ARGs in groundwater was attributable to aboveground sources. Using metagenomic assembly, we found that 45 ARGs predominantly conferring resistance to aminoglycosides, sulfonamides, and tetracyclines could be transferred from the aboveground sources to groundwater, mostly through plasmid-mediated horizontal gene transfer. Furthermore, the full-length nucleotide sequences of sul1, tetA , and TEM-1 detected in ARB isolates exhibited the close evolutionary relationships between aboveground sources and groundwater. Some isolated strains of antibiotic-resistant Pseudomonas spp. from aboveground sources and groundwater had the high similarity (average nucleotide identity > 99 %). Notably, the groundwater-borne ARGs were identified as mainly carried by bacterial pathogens, potentially posing risks to human and animal health. Overall, this study underscores the dissemination of ARGs from aboveground sources to groundwater in animal farms and associated risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]