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• Sesamum indicum , a commercial oilseed crop shows less productivity during severe and recurrent drought exposure. But its wild relative S. radiatum is considered as a potential candidate for drought-resistance. • Upon exposure to drought (15 days), the wild taxa sustained cellular turgor, regulated lipid peroxidation through enhanced accumulation of osmolytes, and higher activity of antioxidants than the cultivar. • The wild taxa recovered at a faster rate upon rewatering, and can be used to improve the drought-tolerance of sesame, thereby to combat the forthcoming climate crisis. Drought is one of the most significant abiotic stresses that affect plant performance, lowers agricultural output, and, in extreme cases, results in crop loss. The major challenge faced by farmers is to ensure the production of crop varieties under extreme environmental conditions. Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is a traditionally important major cash crop for small and marginal farmers in some developing countries since it requires less intensive care and investment. Although sesame is considered as a resilient crop, it remains sensitive to severe drought. In this study, the morpho-physiological, biochemical, and antioxidant responses of wild and cultivar species of Sesamum viz., S. radiatum , and S. indicum subjected to different irrigation treatments such as mild (75 % Field capacity), moderate (50 % FC) and severe (25 % FC) drought and subsequent recovery (rewatered to 100 % FC) were evaluated in comparison with control groups. Present findings revealed that both species displayed differential responses to the drought stress and subsequent recovery. In particular, the wild taxa demonstrated better drought tolerance, probably due to their higher leaf-relative water content, decreased lipid peroxidation, enhanced accumulation of osmolytes, and increased activities of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. On the other hand, the cultivar presented reduced leaf-relative water content, increased lipid peroxidation, higher electrolyte leakage, and reduced antioxidant activities, mostly at 25 % FC. Present data suggests that the cultivar was strictly exacerbated, mostly during severe water deficits; however, the wild species could re-adjust to the water deficit circumstances and recover completely. The current study implies the potential of wild species that can be used to improve the drought tolerance of commercial sesame by utilizing the same in breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A. Shoots of Gladiolus hybridus on masal MS medium; B. Shoots of Rosa damascena multiplied on MS medium containing 2.5 µM BAP. Rotted shoots of C. Gladiolus hybridus and D. Rosa damascena on MS medium supplemented with 2.5 µM IBA. [Display omitted] • IBA and putrescine both induced rooting individually in miroshoots of rosa damascena and gladiolus hybridus, and their synergistic effect was also observed. • Inhibition of diamine oxidase by l -aminoguanidine inhibited rooting in microshoots, which suggests the role of putrescine oxidation products in root induction, or the observed inhibition of rooting could be due to the accumulation of free putrescine. • When the endogenous synthesis of spermidine and spermine was blocked by methylglyoxal(bis) guanylhydrazone; the exogenous spermine application only induced rooting in microshoots, indicating its essential role in root induction. The effect of indole-3-butyric (IBA) acid and polyamines was investigated on in vitro rooting of microshoots of Rosa damascena Mill. (difficult-to-root) and Gladiolus hybridus Hort. (easy-to-root) plants. Both IBA and putrescine (PUT) individually induced rooting and showed a synergistic effect in the rooting of microshoots of both plant species. Maximum rooting of microshoots (%) was observed on Murashige and Skoog medium (MS medium) supplemented with 2.5 μM IBA and 100 μM PUT. The incorporation of methylglyoxal(bis) guanylhydrazone (MGBG: a competitive inhibitor of s-adenosyl methionine decarboxylase and is known to block spermidine and spermine synthesis) completely inhibited the rooting of microshoots of both plant species. Similarly, the incorporation of l -aminoguanidine (AG: an inhibitor of diamine oxidase) also inhibited the adventitious rooting of microshoots of both species, indicating the role of the oxidation product of PUT in rooting. Rooting was not observed in either species when a medium containing MGBG was supplemented with spermidine. In contrast, when spermine was incorporated in a MS medium with MGBG, the rooting was achieved in both species, thus establishing spermine's clear role in the rooting of microshoots. An increase in peroxidase activity was observed during IBA and PUT-induced rooting. The performance of plants rooted on a medium containing 2.5 μM IBA was significantly better than those rooted on a medium containing 2.5 μM IBA and 100 μM PUT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of hydrogen from residual biomass represents a sustainable alternative to integrate the production of renewable hydrogen in coming years. This work shows the results obtained during an experimental campaign dedicated to analysing the performance of a downdraft gasifier of about 100 kW t fed with woody biomass and oxy-steam mixtures. With suitable oxygen-steam ratios it was possible to produce a syngas with a hydrogen content higher than 40%vol, with a cold gas efficiency of more than 80%. The experimental syngas composition is used as input of a numerical model, created in Aspen Plus® and dedicated to evaluating the performance of the plant section for the pure H 2 -production. The numerical analysis highlighted the possibility of obtaining approximately 5% by mass of hydrogen with respect to the biomass used, also evidencing how the correct use of thermal waste and residues makes the whole plant (gasifier plus hydrogenizer) independent on heat supply. • Woody biomass oxy-steam gasification has been analysed in a real-scale downdraft gasifier. • Oxy-steam gasification confirmed to be effective in increasing hydrogen yield in the syngas. • The optimum equivalence ratio and steam/biomass mass ratio have been determined. • A H 2 production plant has been conceived and analysed to exploit the produced syngas. • The study evidenced the possibility of obtaining a hydrogen/biomass mass ratio of 5%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant functional traits are considered indicators of whole-plant functioning but are often measured only at the organ level and at a single developmental stage. The way plants build shoot and root axes determines their ability to explore and acquire resources in space and time in interaction with environmental conditions. The 3D architecture of an individual plant at a given time reflects its ontogenetic stage and its environmental conditions, thus providing a powerful tool to disentangle the different sources of intraspecific trait variation. Plant architecture offers a hierarchical and modular framework for characterizing integrated plant phenotype and structuring plant trait networks. Plant architectural traits reflect key functional responses to abiotic and biotic conditions and should be considered when studying community assembly processes. Trait-based ecology has improved our understanding of the functioning of organisms, communities, ecosystems, and beyond. However, its predictive ability remains limited as long as phenotypic integration and temporal dynamics are not considered. We highlight how the morphogenetic processes that shape the 3D development of a plant during its lifetime affect its performance. We show that the diversity of architectural traits allows us to go beyond organ-level traits in capturing the temporal and spatial dimensions of ecological niches and informing community assembly processes. Overall, we argue that consideration of multilevel topological, geometrical, and ontogenetic features provides a dynamic view of the whole-plant phenotype and a relevant framework for investigating phenotypic integration, plant adaptation and performance, and community structure and dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the various technologies for hydrogen production, the renewable energy driven water electrolysis has emerged as a favorable method. In this respect, the present research proposes and analyses a novel and efficient medium-temperature driven geothermal system for green hydrogen production. An alkaline electrolyzer is deployed for hydrogen production which is powered by a double flash steam geothermal power cycle. To boost the power generation (and hence the hydrogen production amount) the double flash cycle is equipped with a self-superheating process, which superheats the saturated vapor at turbine inlet without using another external heat source. Thermodynamic evaluations, based on exergy concept, along with economic analysis are carried out to assess the hydrogen production amount, plant exergy efficiency and total cost rate, and the unit hydrogen price. In order to represent a comprehensive investigation of the plant performance, parametric analyses along with single- and multi-criteria optimizations were conducted. The results revealed that, for 1 kg / s of geothermal brine, the capacity of hydrogen production of the proposed plant is ∼ 1.5 − 3 kg / h under various operating conditions. It is found that, under multi-objective optimum operating conditions, the plant yields 12.63% exergy efficiency and its total cost rate is calculated to be 10.42 $/h. However, if the plant is to be optimized for maximum exergy efficiency, the value of 14.25 % is achievable which will result in increment of total cost rate to 11.97 $/h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of low-emissions hydrogen can improve the sustainability of certain hard-to-decarbonize sectors, like industrial and residential heating. Gasification of biomass has been identified as a promising production method for high-volume clean hydrogen, but uncertainty around its economic conditions have prevented it from being used in practice. This work evaluates the economics of three potential gasification facilities in the United States to identify the optimal conditions for a successful hydrogen plant. The locations were selected based on local policies that create a need for high volume clean hydrogen by regulating natural gas emissions. Local features, like biomass type, availability, and distance between the biomass and hydrogen market, are taken into account. A novel simulation is used to build upon previous models to determine the effects of biomass composition on hydrogen yield and utility usage. The environmental impact of each location is then assessed using GREET, Argonne's greenhouse gas emissions quantification tool, to determine the plant's qualifications for tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act. Ultimately, the cost of transported hydrogen in a 40 metric ton/day facility was calculated to be $3.47/kg H 2 in Klamath County, Oregon (which serves both the Oregon and California markets), $4.11/kg H 2 in Park County, Colorado, and $3.63/kg H 2 in Middlesex County, Massachusetts. A sensitivity analysis found transportation distance and biomass availability to be major factors in these costs. Variability in biomass composition had minimal effects on plant performance. • Identifies three potential US locations for H2 biomass gasification plants. • Novel simulation of gasification for different feedstock compositions. • Evaluates environmental impact to determine qualification for tax credits. • Hydrogen cost sensitive to biomass availability and hydrogen pipeline length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Performance of an ice plant is investigated with nano-refrigerant (R134a/MWCNTs). • Effect of varied mass of MWCNTs (0.05 g-0.25 g) and R134a (175 g-225 g) is studied. • Pull-down time and power consumption are reduced by 17.9%, 21.46%. • COP and cooling capacity improved by 40.09% and 11.29% respectively. • Economic analysis is also carried out, the operational cost is reduced by 7.12%. Ice plant is used for producing ice at a large scale from water filled in standard cans placed inside rectangular tanks filled with brine solution. Ice plant works on the vapour compression refrigeration (VCR) cycle, the researchers are focusing on minimizing compressor work and improving the cycle's performance by introducing nanoparticles with higher thermophysical properties. In this experimental investigation, the performance analysis of the test rig of an ice plant using varied masses of 0.05 g, 0.10 g, 0.15 g, 0.20 g, and 0.25 g of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), dispersed in 250 ml polyolester (POE) oil charged with masses 175 g, 200 g, and 225 g of tetrafluoro ethane (R134a) refrigerants is carried out separately. REFPROP 9.1 software is used to obtain the properties of refrigerants. The evaluated parameters are pull-down time, cooling capacity, coefficient of performance (COP), Compressor work input, economic analysis, pressure ratio, thermal conductivity, absolute viscosity, and density. It is observed that in comparison to the pure refrigerant, the refrigerator's pull-down time and compressor work are reduced by 17.9% and 21.46%, whereas, COP and cooling capacity improved by 40.09% and 11.29% for 225 g mass of R134a with 250 ml POE respectively. In addition, thermal conductivity, density, and absolute viscosity improved at both the suction side and discharge side of the compressor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant-associated microbiome plays a crucial role in improving plant health by increasing crop resilience to environmental stressors. Nanomaterials can be used to engineer plant microbiome composition and function in a more precise manner, thereby improving plant and soil health under diverse environmental conditions. Synergistic application of nano-agrochemicals and the plant-beneficial microbiome can help plants to counter biotic and abiotic stresses by triggering distinct morphophysiological and genetic mechanisms. Numerous knowledge gaps should be addressed to ensure the safety and efficacy of commercial application of nano-enabled plant-associated microbiome engineering. The plant-associated microbiome is known to be a critical component for crop growth, nutrient acquisition, resistance to pathogens, and abiotic stress tolerance. Conventional approaches have been attempted to manipulate the plant–soil microbiome to improve plant performance; however, several issues have arisen, such as collateral negative impacts on microbiota composition. The lack of reliability and robustness of conventional techniques warrants efforts to develop novel alternative strategies. Nano-enabled approaches have emerged as promising platforms for enhancing agricultural sustainability and global food security. Specifically, the use of engineered nanomaterials (ENMs) as nanoscale agrochemicals has great potential to modulate the plant-associated microbiome. We review the dynamic interplay between nano-agrochemicals and the plant-associated microbiome for the safe development and use of nano-enabled microbiome engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of hydrogen as energy vector implies the development of the necessary infrastructures for hydrogen handling. A two-stage metal hydride compressor was developed and integrated in a small-scale hydrogen refuelling station at prototype level. In this work, the compression on site of green hydrogen using metal hydrides is exhaustively presented taking into account all the necessary aspects to bridge the gap between the laboratory and the real application. In particular, all aspects for the setting up of a metal hydride compressor, i.e. selection and characterization of selected metal hydrides, sizing of the plant components, design and the tests aimed to optimize the working performances are presented and deeply discussed, including energy consumption and efficiency necessary to build up a commercial system. The compressor employs two commercial alloys, i.e. a La 0.9 Ce 0.1 Ni 5 from Labtech in the first stage and the Hydralloy-C5 from GfE in the second one. Working between room temperature for absorption and 150 °C for desorption, the hydrogen produced by the electrolyser at 28 bar is compressed up to 250 bar, resulting in a compression ratio of about 9. The metal hydride compressor has a final power consumption of 614 W, of which 85 W are linked to the hydrogen sorption reactions, while other contributions come from the pumps involved in the plant and the dissipations. The compressor presents an isentropic efficiency of about 11% for less than 1 kg of powder in each stage and an average H 2 flowrate of 104 Nl/min is observed. The performances of the plant were optimized and maintained for a working time of about 245 h. [Display omitted] • A prototype of metal hydride compressor was released based on commercial alloys. • The MHC compressed hydrogen from 28 bar to 250 bar between RT and 150 °C. • The MHC is integrated with an electrolyser driven by photovoltaic panels. • The optimized compression process results in an average H 2 flowrate of 104 Nl/min. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The amount of resources devoted to saltwater desalination is substantial and will only rise as the scarcity of water escalates globally. Desalination techniques for seawater, particularly thermal desalination techniques, require a lot of energy and utilize conventional energy sources. The goal of this article is to examine the integration of thermal desalination techniques with carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) power generation. This study utilizes an oxy-combustion-based zero-emission power plant and investigates the performance of a humidification-dehumidification (HDH) cycle integrated with the main cycle. The system constitutes two main cycles, namely (i) oxy-combustion power generation cycle (OPGC) and (ii) humidification-dehumidification (HDH) cycle. The performance of several bottoming cycles coupled with a closed-air-open-water water-heated (CAOW-WH) HDH system is studied to evaluate the thermodynamic feasibility of the system. The effect of top and bottom temperatures of the HDH system and mass flow rates are optimized for gain output ratio (GOR) and recovery rate (RR). A sensitivity analysis of the integrated system was also conducted, and the effect of oxy-combustion operating parameters on the net cycle efficiency was examined. This analysis offers crucial design considerations for such integrated systems to generate power with zero emissions and produces sweet water without additional energy costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DuPont has recently released a new and improved digital tool to help plant operators normalize their data. This tool replaces the popular Excel-based data normalization tool that has been in use for over two decades. The new tool is user-friendly and easy to navigate. For a proper system performance assessment and optimization, ultrafiltration (UF) and reverse osmosis (RO) operating data normalization is vital in all systems which treat feed water with variable salinity and/or temperature. FT-Norm PRO (FilmTec™ Normalization of Membrane Systems) is a free online tool that makes the data normalization process simple yet robust enough to allow for effective monitoring of UF and RO systems. This tool helps plant operators explore how variations in feedwater temperature, salinity, or pump pressure can influence a membrane system's apparent productivity and rejection, making it more obvious when a real change in membrane performance occurs. This paper makes the audience to highlight the purpose and importance of data normalization in UF and RO systems, present the recently launched DuPont WaterApp and introduce the key tools to boost desalination plant performance through digital apps. Online tools assist users in quantifying their savings when using membranes with increased durability. Additionally, these tools can calculate the carbon footprint reduction achieved by implementing FilmTec™ dry seawater reverse osmosis membranes. Users can receive recommendations regarding the most suitable pre-treatment technology or membrane type and estimate the savings obtained using the novel DuPont™ B-Free™ pre-treatment technology to reduce biofouling in reverse osmosis systems. A reference plant, Alicante II Seawater Desalination Plant, will be used as an example to showcase the value of the digital apps. Thanks to the durability of the membranes and to correct operation and maintenance, this plant has been operating since 2008 without replacements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Isolates TS4 and TS6 express efficient PGPR properties. • Both isolates effectively colonize tomato rhizosphere. • Nethouse studies on tomato also showed significant results. • Careful evaluation is necessary before developing PGPR isolates as bioinoculants. An acute and compelling need to replace chemical fertilizers has shifted our focus towards plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) that rapidly colonize the rhizosphere. In the present investigation, two isolates from tomato rhizosphere, TS4 and TS6, were screened for various PGPR properties. Both isolates expressed different properties such as enzyme production and hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) production. Production of Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA) was 13.33 μg mL−1 for both TS4 and TS6. Ammonia excretion was 75.0 μg mL−1 for TS4 and 82.5 μg mL−1 for TS6. Both isolates tolerated salt stress up to 10% sodium chloride (NaCl), drought stress tolerated by isolate TS4 was up to -0.30 MPa and TS6 survived up to -0.49 MPa osmotic pressure. To assess the colonization potential of the isolates, their biofilm potential and chemotactic behavior towards the tomato root exudates were studied. Colonization of the tomato rhizosphere by TS4 and TS6 was observed quantitatively and found that root tips were more profusely colonized as compared to the root base. Nethouse studies to test their influence on tomato revealed a positive influence in some plant aspects. All the results led to the conclusion that isolates TS6 identified as Micrococcus luteus and TS4 belonging to genera Lactobacillus were efficient PGPR. This paper highlights the efficacy of PGPR as a component of sustainable agriculture for improved productivity. However, the need of risk assessment and rigorous surveillance of bacteria before developing them as a bioformulation is also emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the impact of photovoltaic installations and the fact that their performance depends on the type of day, this paper presents a classifier that makes use of fuzzy logic to classify daily irradiance profiles as a human would do. To do this, the system must be linguistically interpretable, so the classifier must be simple enough, but without losing accuracy. This is why the article combines the use of data mining and supervised learning algorithms to obtain an initial system and then exploits simplification techniques such as the concept of fuzzy classifiers with incomplete rule bases, as well as fuzzy tabular simplification of rules to obtain a compact and simple final system. The classifier obtained handles the ambiguity presented by the daily irradiance profiles with precision. Once the system has been obtained, a large number of days in southern Spain are classified, analysing the performances of a photovoltaic plant obtained in each of the classes. Then, a neuro-fuzzy system is designed to predict the performance of the photovoltaic installation, considering the type of day, the maximum ambient temperature reached during the day, and the degradation of the installation over time, proving its usefulness in alerting about anomalous behaviour of the system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phosphor-converted light-emitting diodes (pc-LEDs) are commonly used to regulate the light environment to control the growth rates and improve the production efficiency of plant. Among them, the exploration of blue-emitting phosphors with high efficiency, low thermal quenching and excellent spectrum resemblance matching with the plant response spectrum is still challenging. Herein, a narrow-band blue-emitting Rb 2 Ba 3 (P 2 O 7) 2 :Eu2+ phosphor with high color purity of 93.4% has been developed. Under 345 nm excitation, it exhibits a blue emission band centered at 413 nm with a full width at half-maximum (FWHM) of 36 nm, and the emission spectrum of Rb 2 Ba 3 (P 2 O 7) 2 :0.060Eu2+ sample shows 85.7% spectrum resemblance with the absorption spectrum of chlorophyll-a in the blue region from 400 to 500 nm. In addition, the temperature-dependent emission spectra demonstrate that the Rb 2 Ba 3 (P 2 O 7) 2 :0.060Eu2+ phosphor has good thermal stability and small chromaticity shift, with the emission intensity dropping to 72.5% at 423 K of the initial intensity at 298 K and a chromaticity shift of 38 × 10-3 at 498 K. All results suggest that the blue-emitting Rb 2 Ba 3 (P 2 O 7) 2 :Eu2+ phosphor has potential application in plant growth LEDs. [Display omitted] • First report a blue-emitting phosphor Rb 2 Ba 3 (P 2 O 7) 2 :Eu2+. • The detailed crystal information from Rietveld refinement, Gaussian fitting and luminescence decay curve of Rb 2 Ba 3 (P 2 O 7) 2 :0.060Eu2+ have been discussed. • Rb 2 Ba 3 (P 2 O 7) 2 :0.060Eu2+ exhibits high color purity, good thermal stability, little chromaticity shift and a 85.7% spectral resemblance with chlorophyll-a in the blue section of 400 - 500 nm. • Rb 2 Ba 3 (P 2 O 7) 2 :Eu2+ is potential to improve the performance of plant growth LEDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total nitrogen (TN) concentration is one of important indications of wastewater quality and also a parameter important for wastewater treatment plant performance evaluation. Since the variability of total nitrogen in the effluent from the wastewater treatment plant is the result of the processes taking place in the bioreactor, the processes can be described by mechanistic models, for example, activated sludge models. However, calibration of many parameters is required in such models, and can leads to problems in identifying their proper numerical values. The paper proposes a novel way to deal with this problem by presenting a methodology for building a model for simulating TN, based on sequential structure. In the applied approach, regression models for simulation of TN are first created using Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and random forest (RF) methods. In the case of unsatisfactory predictive ability, a division of the dependent variable into a classifier form is made. In the next stage, classification models are created by RF and XGBoost methods and sensitivity analysis is performed by calculating Shapley indices. Two classification models were built that allow for the identification of TNeff variability ranges. The new approach using two models instead of one is preferable because it allows control and optimization of the bioreactor operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A method is presented to detect clear-sky periods for plane-of-array irradiance time-averaged data that is based on the algorithm originally described by Reno and Hansen. We show this new method improves the state-of-the-art by providing accurate detection at longer data averaging intervals. Moreover, our new method detects clear periods in plane-of-array data, which is novel. The new method is developed by applying a Design of Experiment approach to optimize the parameters used in the Reno method, and Monte Carlo simulations are used to understand the robustness of the found parameters. Clear-sky detection accuracy is compared among four methods: the Reno method, the default clear-sky filter in RdTools, the Ellis method, and the method outlined in this work, using a hand-labeled two-year data set of 1-min plane-of-array irradiance for a fixed tilt system. The RdTools clear-sky filter is marred by excessive false positives. The other methods all perform well at 1-min data intervals; the method developed here provides more accurate detection at longer data averaging intervals. We show that the parameters are directly linked to the data frequency in the hope that these input variables may not have to be optimized for every data frequency and location. However, only a single fixed system in one location was carefully examined. Finally, we illustrate how accurate determination of clear-sky conditions helps to eliminate data noise and bias in the assessment of long-term performance of PV plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Real-time optimization (RTO) is a valuable tool for economic optimization of chemical process systems. Incorporating plant dynamics and model predictive control (MPC) behavior into the RTO problem can improve its performance by accounting for plant transitions under the action of its control system, resulting in a closed-loop dynamic RTO (CL-DRTO) formulation. This paper extends the formulation for direct inclusion of uncertainty handling. A robust multi-scenario CL-DRTO scheme which models the dynamic behavior of the plant and its MPC system under uncertainty is introduced. The method is applied and its performance evaluated in two nonlinear case studies, where an input clipping approximation scheme is used to reduce the computation time. The effects of number of scenarios and multiple sources of uncertainty are also investigated. • Scenario based stochastic formulation for robust dynamic RTO (DRTO). • Dynamic RTO uses prediction of plant response under action of constrained MPC. • Input clipping approximation used to reduce computation time. • SISO and MIMO case studies, with single and multiple sources of uncertainty. • Robust DRTO shown to outperform DRTO that is based on a nominal model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growing organic waste in India is posing a challenge in its effective management. Open degradation of this organic waste pollutes environment, as well as causes a slew of diseases. Situation may be handled effectively using biogas plants employing anaerobic digestion process. However, performance of these plants is dependent upon various environmental factors and feed types. In this paper, the feasibility analysis of a biogas plant for the northern plains of India has been conducted. A new modified anaerobic digestion model (MAD1) has been designed for the analysis. It is evident from the analysis that the northern plains of India have a large potential for biogas production as they generate a large amount of organic waste. Furthermore, analysis reveals that, if the biogas plant is operated at a thermophilic temperature ranging from 44 °C to 55 °C, the profit can be maximised. However, if the biogas plant is operated at 37 °C, the significant profit will begin after 3–4 years, depending on the type of feedstock. Complete analysis has been conducted in MATLAB Simulink environment. • Conducted sensitivity analysis of the parameters of anaerobic digestion process • Conducted feasibility analysis of biogas plant for Northern Indian states. • Conducted economic analysis of biogas plant to maximize profit • Modelled a modified anaerobic digestion model (MAD1) for realistic output [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Performance data from a geothermal power plant that uses a dry-type working fluid (n-Pentane) was evaluated. The experimental working conditions of the geothermal power plant were recorded. By using these recorded data the structural and parametrical optimisation of the plant was applied. As a structural modification, the probable performance of the plant was scrutinised by considering the integration of a superheater into the plant. For both present and structurally optimised cases, parametric optimisations were made as an operational modification. During the analyses, the high and low pressure Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs) of the energy converter plant were optimised for varying turbine inlet temperatures and pressures. After comprehensive analyses, it was concluded that superheating the working fluid by structural modification (superheater integration) had a negative effect on the system performance. On the other hand, together with parametric analyses, a considerable improvement in system performance was obtained. For all cases and parametric values, the system was also evaluated in terms of environmental effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the growing population rate and increasing social activities, the content of municipal solid waste (MSW) production is increasing. Energy production from MSW is one of the promising ways to dispose of waste and reduce the limitations of fossil energies. However, this technology has a relatively low efficiency due to the high volume of moisture and inert materials in MSW and the lower heating value of waste. The integration of solar thermal collectors is one of the suggested solutions to increase the temperature of inlet steam to the power generation cycle in order to improve the power plant performance. In this regards, the present study develops a comprehensive thermodynamic-conceptual and exergoeconomic investigation of the performance of a MSW-incineration (MSWI) plant integrated with a parabolic trough collector (PTC)-based solar field. Accordingly, the temperature of the steam elevates by the solar field before entering the electric power generation cycle. Additionally, the solar unit is integrated with a phase change material (PCM)-based storage system. The use of storage tank at the delivery line of PTC can improve the power plant's reliability. A comprehensive comparison of the developed power plant with the conventional MSWI power plant is presented. In addition, the technical and economic behaviors of the considered power plant have been optimized under two different single and multi-objective optimization scenarios. The outcomes indicated that the developed power plant can provide 15.75% and 15.68% higher energetic and exergetic efficiencies compared to MSWI power plant. In addition, the rate of electric power obtained from S-MSWI power plant is almost 16.1% more compared to MSWI power plant. However, the total cost rate of MSWI plant is almost 24.13% lower compared to the developed power plant. But, the value of LCOE in the developed power plant is approximately 8.93% lower than MSWI power plant. It was also found that, the multi-objective optimization can provide better and optimal results to energy engineers and decision makers compared the single-optimization. The conceptual design of the implementation of the solar field is also developed in a specific geographical condition. Additionally, this research comes from the key technology of the National Key Laboratory of Environmental Protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is increasing interest in utility-scale solar power plants with storage which can flexibly dispatch renewable energy to the grid. However, plant design possesses many degrees of freedom and non-obvious trade-offs in performance. Software tools can estimate or optimize the performance of a specific plant configuration under market and weather conditions of interest; the associated cost parameters and operating assumptions strongly influence estimates of plant performance and decisions regarding optimal sizing. We employ the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's Hybrid Optimization and Performance Platform, which incorporates optimal dispatch when evaluating plant performance, and investigate the sensitivity to weather and market conditions, operating limitations, and the presence of a capacity-based incentive. We demonstrate changes in plant performance and optimal sizing with respect to these inputs and discuss implications. Results show that PV-with-battery designs are more profitable under our assumptions, but that designs including a concentrated solar power (CSP) system produce significantly greater annual energy; and that CSP-with-thermal energy storage designs maximizing the benefit-to-cost ratio have an input-dependent linear relationship between the CSP field solar multiple and the hours of storage as the project budget varies. • We employ the National Renewable Energy laboratory's Hybrid Optimization and Performance Platform. • We investigate the sensitivity to weather and market conditions and operating limitations. • Results show that PV-with-battery designs are more profitable under our assumptions. • Designs including a concentrated solar power system produce significantly greater annual energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Solar power prediction has been done by ensemble machine learning (EML) models. • Impact of meteorological parameters on solar power generation is investigated. • A comprehensive test-bed is designed for feature selection of training parameters. • Algorithm performance have been validated by a 10kW p solar power plant data. • Stacking and Voting EML algorithms demonstrates superior prediction accuracy. The challenges in applications of solar energy lies in its intermittency and dependency on meteorological parameters such as; solar radiation, ambient temperature, rainfall, wind-speed etc., and many other physical parameters like dust accumulation etc. Hence, it is important to estimate the amount of solar photovoltaic (PV) power generation for a specific geographical location. Machine learning (ML) models have gained importance and are widely used for prediction of solar power plant performance. In this paper, the impact of weather parameters on solar PV power generation is estimated by several Ensemble ML (EML) models like Bagging, Boosting, Stacking, and Voting for the first time. The performance of chosen ML algorithms is validated by field dataset of a 10kWp solar PV power plant in Eastern India region. Furthermore, a complete test-bed framework has been designed for data mining as well as to select appropriate learning models. It also supports feature selection and reduction for dataset to reduce space and time complexity of the learning models. The results demonstrate greater prediction accuracy of around 96% for Stacking and Voting EML models. The proposed work is a generalized one and can be very useful for predicting the performance of large-scale solar PV power plants also. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the tracking performance of multiple input multiple output (MIMO) networked control systems (NCSs) with multiple communication constraints is studied. The effects of network induced factors (packet loss and network delay) and basic communication constraints (bandwidth, encoding–decoding and different noise) are considered. By inner–outer factorization and Youla parameterization, the mathematical expressions of the performance of the one-degree of freedom (1DOF) controller and two-degree of freedom (2DOF) controller are obtained, respectively. It shows that internal characteristics and network constraints have different effects on the tracking performance of the plant, and the performance of the 2DOF controller is better than that of the 1DOF controller. Finally, several simulation examples are provided to verify the influence of each constraint. • The framework of MIMO and multi-communication constraint control system is designed reasonably, many practical constraints such as network induced factors and network inherent constraints are considered. • By means of mutual decomposition and Youla parameterization, the mathematical expression of MIMO NCSs tracking performance is obtained, and the quantitative relationship between pole instability characteristics, NMP zero and its direction and constraint parameters is shown. • The performance of the system is improved by the encoding-decoding and the 2DOF controller. In addition, our network design is closer to complex practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry is an economically important crop for sericulture in China. Mulberry plantations are shifting inland, where they face high salinity. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) reportedly enhance mulberry's tolerance to salinity. Here, we assessed if additional adaptive advantages against salinity are provided by sex differences beyond those provided by mycorrhizal symbiosis. In a pot experiment, male and monoecious plants were exposed to three salinity regimes (0, 50, and 200 mM NaCl) and two mycorrhiza-suppressed conditions (with or without benomyl application) for more than 16 months. We noticed that salinity alone significantly decreased the mycorrhizal colonization rate, salinity tolerance, K+ concentrations, and the ionic ratios of all plants. Mycorrhizal association mildly ameliorated the salt-induced detrimental effects, especially for monoecious plants, and sex-specific responses were observed. Meanwhile, both sexes had adopted different strategies to enhance their salinity resistance. Briefly, mycorrhizal monoecious plants exhibited a higher net photosynthetic rate and lower translocation of Na+ from root to shoot compared with mycorrhizal males under saline conditions. Their salt tolerance was probably due to the Ca2+/Na+ in roots. In comparison, male plants exhibited lower Na+ acquisition, more Na+ translocated from root to shoot, higher root biomass allocation, and higher N concentrations under harsh saline conditions, and their salt tolerance was mainly related to the K+/Na+ in their shoots. In conclusion, our results highlight that AMF could be a promising candidate for improving plant performance under highest salinity, especially for monoecious plants. Cultivators must be mindful of applying fungicides, such as benomyl, in saline areas. • There were sex-specific differences between mycorrhizal male and monoecious mulberry plants. • Both sexes of mulberry plants adopt different strategies to enhance salinity tolerance. • Monoecious plants benefited more from fungal symbiosis than males. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Both current and legacy community effects influence plant growth. • Aboveground herbivory on focal plants is caused by current neighborhood effects only and not by legacy effects. • Aboveground and belowground effects of the current neighborhood explain variance in herbivory equally well. Current and legacy effects can greatly affect the growth of a focal plant and its interactions with herbivores and such effects can be mediated by above- and belowground effects. However, determining the relative importance of current and legacy above- and belowground effects in natural conditions is a major challenge. In a long-term grassland experiment, we examined the relative importance of the current and legacy above- and belowground effects of plant communities on the growth and aboveground herbivore damage on a focal plant, Leucanthemum vulgare. Focal plants were planted into tubes with soil collected from different plant communities and placed back into the plant communities. Weekly, plant growth and damage were recorded and after 12 weeks plant biomass was measured. We analyzed how well aboveground and belowground characteristics of the current and legacy plots explained plant growth and herbivory. We found both current plant communities and legacy plant communities significantly affected plant growth (shoot biomass and the number of leaves) and herbivory. Root biomass of the focal plants was influenced by current plant communities only. Current and legacy above- and belowground characteristics explained 12% and 11% of the variation in shoot biomass. Root biomass was mainly explained by current above- and belowground characteristics with a total explained variation of 10%, while legacy effects explained 3%. Legacy effects explained most variation in the number of leaves during the first two weeks of measurements, and the effect remained present during the growth season. In contrast, characteristics of the current community explained most of the variation in herbivory throughout the growth period, with on average 6% explained variance aboveground vs. 5% belowground. Our grassland field study highlights that both current and legacy effects influence plant growth, but herbivory on focal plants is caused by current neighborhood effects only and not by legacy effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This numerical study aims at assessing the impact of the thermal energy storage (TES) operation strategy on the performance of a parabolic trough concentrated solar power plant (PT-CSP). This strategy consists of managing the TES charging process in order to minimize the plant's parasitic consumption. The study was conducted using a TRNSYS based dynamic simulation model of a 55 MW e PT-CSP plant similar to the ANDASOL plant located in the South of Spain. The simulation results were validated in comparison with the available experimental data in the literature. The results showed that the suggested operating strategy is efficient as the heat transfer fluid and the TES molten salt pumps' total parasitic consumption is reduced by 21% during a typical clear day of July. Consequently, the plant's net energy production was improved by 0.8%. The resulting improvement in the overall efficiency of the plant was found to be 2.4%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non-target organisms are globally exposed to herbicides. While many herbicides – for example, glyphosate – were initially considered safe, increasing evidence demonstrates that they have profound effects on ecosystem functions via altered microbial communities. We provide a comprehensive framework on how herbicide residues may modulate ecosystem-level outcomes via alteration of microbiomes. The changes in soil microbiome are likely to influence key nutrient cycling and plant–soil processes. Herbicide-altered microbiome affects plant and animal performance and can influence trophic interactions such as herbivory and pollination. These changes are expected to lead to ecosystem and even evolutionary consequences for both microbes and hosts. Tackling the threats caused by agrochemicals to ecosystem functions and services requires tools and solutions based on a comprehensive understanding of microbe-mediated risks. Microbes have driven ecoevolutionary adaptations since the origin of life and maintain the welfare of ecosystems today. Global contamination with herbicides, initially considered safe for non-target taxa, is shown to influence soil, plant, and animal microbiomes. Changes in microbiomes can have unforeseen effects on organismal and ecosystem functioning and have evolutionary consequences. A comprehensive understanding of the risks associated with agrochemical-altered microbiomes is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The single inoculation of R. clarus and C. etunicatum promoted the accumulation of nitrogen in the aerial part of both cultivars. • Inoculation with C. etunicatum resulted in higher phosphorus content in the shoot of the BRS Guariba cultivar. • Plants inoculated with C. etunicatum had similar or superior performance to plants fertilized with NPK or P. This study evaluated the efficiency of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and the effect of co-inoculation with Bradyrhizobium on mineral accumulation and growth of two cowpea cultivars. The experimental design was a 12 × 2 factorial arranged in a completely randomized design, with four replications. The first factor consisted of 12 nutrient treatments: one control, four with AMF (Rhizophagus clarus and Claroideoglomus etunicatum , inoculated individually and as a mixture, and AMF-based commercial inoculum) and four with AMF + rhizobia (Bradyrhizobium sp. BR 3262); the second factor included two cowpea cultivars (BRS Novaera and Guariba), totaling 96 plots. Morphophysiological traits of plants, nitrogen and phosphorus accumulation in the aerial part, and symbiotic efficiency of microorganisms were evaluated. Double inoculation with C. etunicatum and R. clarus and the co-inoculation with Bradyrhizobium had no effect on height, shoot dry mass and N contents in the shoot of cowpea when compared to single inoculation with AMF. Positive effects of co-inoculation with Bradyrhizobium were verified for root dry mass in the treatments CE+B.BR 3262 and RC+CE+B.BR 3262, and for chlorophyll index and phosphorus content of the cultivar BRS Novaera in the nutrient treatment RC+CE+B.BR 3262. The nutrient treatment with single inoculation of R. clarus and C. etunicatum promoted the accumulation of nitrogen in the shoot for both cultivars. For the BRS Guariba cultivar, inoculation with C. etunicatum also resulted in higher phosphorus content. Overall, plants inoculated with C. etunicatum had a performance similar or superior to plants fertilized with NPK or P, resulting in greater mycorrhizal efficiency, which may be an alternative to conventional fertilization for cowpea cultivars BRS Novaera and BRS Guariba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Standardized biomethane potential (BMP) tests are simple and cost-effective methods to evaluate the potential methane production from different organic materials. However, these methods are seldom reliable predictors for large-scale anaerobic digester (AD) performances due to scale-up effects from volume changes and different process conditions. Bench-scale BMP data was collected over 34 months from the feedstock for an industrial AD plant treating alcohol manufacturing wastewater to develop mathematical correlations for predictive purposes. The standardized BMP test data was converted into expected industrial plant performance using a dynamic model and an extrapolation method, and compared to actual plant data. Predictions of industrial plant performance using the dynamic model was more reliable using BMP input data, requiring a biogas production scaling factor of 0.92, as opposed to a 0.69 correction/scaling factor required for predictions using the extrapolation method. A combination of the dynamic model with the 0.92 scaling factor could, therefore, convert regular BMP measurements into expected industrial plant performance, based on variations in the daily organic feeds to the plant. Also, the sensitivity analysis performed based on model parameters was highly sensitive to changes, thus implies the model parameters impact the accuracy of predicting a full-scale industrial AD plant. • Biomethane Potential (BMP) as a proposed predictive tool for an industrial-scale AD plant. • A CSTR dynamic model (DM) and extrapolation method (EM) were used to predict scale. • The predicted biogas scaling factor's DM yield (0.92) was better than EM (0.69). • Using BMP data, the dynamic model predicts more accurate biogas plant performance. • The model parameters were highly sensitive, thus impacting full-scale AD prediction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the optimization issues of a Parabolic Trough (PT) power plant by retrofitting it with a photovoltaic (PV) plant to find the optimal configuration for already operational Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) plants. A simulation tool based on Modelica and OpenModelica has been developed to analyze and optimize the performance of CSP/PV hybrid plants under several grid limitation scenarios, one of which includes an electrical heater to utilize the PV surplus, considering the impact of hybridization on their overall performance and therefore also on their economic viability. The results obtained provide clear insights into how different configurations of CSP and PV plants interact and how certain variables, such as the PV ratio and thermal storage size, influence the overall performance of the hybrid plant. • Developed a dynamic open-source simulation tool for hybrid solar systems. • Evaluated the optimal size of PV plant and electrical heater for retrofitting Parabolic Trough plants. • Explored the incorporation of an electrical heater in Parabolic Trough TES systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates how the absence of trichomes and variations in stomatal properties affect the quantum efficiency of photosynthesis in Arabidopsis thaliana during drought stress. We analyzed three genotypes: Col-8 (with trichomes and lower stomatal density), epf1epf2 (with higher stomatal density), and tmm-1 (lacking trichomes and altered stomatal characteristics) to determine the influence of these anatomical traits on photosynthetic performance. Under well-watered conditions, epf1epf2 and tmm-1 exhibited higher photosynthetic efficiency (Fv´/Fm´) compared to Col-8. During drought stress, Col-8 maintained stable Fv´/Fm´, while epf1epf2 and tmm-1 experienced significant reductions. Our findings indicate that the presence of trichomes and higher stomatal density positively impacts photosynthetic efficiency under optimal watering while the presence of trichomes becomes less crucial under drought stress. Efficient adjustment of stomatal density and size under drought conditions plays a more significant role. These insights emphasize the importance of considering anatomical traits in breeding programs to enhance drought resistance and photosynthetic performance in plants. • Trichomes and stomatal density were studied in relation to drought stress in Arabidopsis. • Col-8 plants maintained photosynthetic efficiency by increasing stomatal density under drought. • epf1pef2 and t mm-1 , with higher stomta density than Col-8, showed reduced stomata density and photosynthesis efficiency. • Trichomes did not significantly contribute to photosynthesis effiecieny in Arabidopsis. • Variation in stomatal density, not merely the stomata density, influenced photosynthetic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attempts to control massive proliferations of invasive alien aquatic plants (IAAP) are often ineffective. A renewed interest for dye treatment is emerging aiming to control the submerged macrophyte Myriophyllum heterophyllum in France. We aimed to understand the effects of dye on this plant knowing about its adaptation to low light. In a 2 × 2 factorial design experiment, we assessed the effect of a dye mixture based on Brilliant Blue (E133) and Allura Red (E129) at high and low light intensities on light quantity and quality and how this might affect the plant's performance by measuring morphological and physiological traits. A multivariate analysis identified three groups – high light (HL) plants, plants in high light with dye (HLD) or low light (LL), and low light with dye (LLD) plants. HL plants performed well but showed stress signs, with a reduced main shoot length, a higher leaf dry matter content (LDMC) and a lower nitrogen content (N), not observed in plants grown in HLD or LL. HLD and LL plants exhibited a comparable total length growth rate to those in HL, but had lower LDMC and higher N contents. LLD plants performed poorly with the lowest growth and signs of physiological stress. Dye-induced changes in light quality only marginally affected the absorbance range of chlorophyll b , which apparently did not affect photosynthesis. Commercially available dyes currently used to control nuisance aquatic plants thus seem to have little or no effect on submerged macrophytes. The presence of dye may exacerbate negative effects of very low light intensities on the plant's growth. However, these very low intensities would only be reached during high-water levels or in winter, periods where the dye would rapidly be diluted. During summer, however, the application of dye may protect the plant from damaging light intensities and thus not be a good management strategy to control low light adapted invasive submerged macrophytes. • Dye treatments are used to control massive developments of aquatic alien plants. • Dye treatment had very different effects on plants at high or low light intensities. • Dye-induced changes in light quality only marginally affected plant performance. • M. heterophyllum benefited from dye application at high light. • Recommendation to avoid dye treatment of low-light adapted macrophytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review article explores the fascinating world of chitosan coating applied to seeds and its profound impacts on enhancing the germination process and growth performance of plants. Chitosan, a biodegradable and non-toxic polysaccharide derived from chitin, has shown remarkable potential in seed treatment due to its bioactive properties. The review discusses the mechanisms of chitosan's effect on plant germination including promoting water uptake, enhancing nutrient absorption, and protecting seeds from biotic and abiotic stresses. Moreover, it evaluates the effects of chitosan on plant growth parameters such as root development, shoot growth, chlorophyll content, and overall yield. The review also discusses the sustainable aspects of chitosan coatings in agriculture, emphasizing their eco-friendly nature and potential for reducing reliance on synthetic chemicals. Overall, the findings underscore the significant benefits of chitosan-coated seeds in improving the overall performance of plants, paving the way for a greener and more productive agricultural future. Finally, the article will conclude with a SWOT analysis discussing the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of this technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During early afforestation stages, biotic and abiotic soil characteristics change at different paces. However, the extent that each of these characteristics contribute to plant performance and subsequent herbivory remains unclear. This study aimed to study the effects of biotic and abiotic characteristics of forest soil on Alnus glutinosa performance and their subsequent impact on foliar herbivory during early afforestation. Soils were collected from a series of replicated forests of 10, 15 or 25 years old, planted in agricultural soils. Two experiments were conducted, focusing on the effect of soil microbiome (live vs. sterilized forest soil, and bulk sterilized soil vs. bulk inoculated with forest soil) and forest age on tree performance, root-associated microbial communities, and plant-herbivore interactions. In 10-year-old forest soil, A. glutinosa stems were thinner when grown in sterilized soil than when grown in live soil. In 15- and 25-year-old soil, trees exhibited lower fine root percentages and thicker stems in sterilized than in live soils, suggesting age-dependent responses possibly arising from plant and microbe nutrient competition. Overall root-associated microbial communities showed no significant differences in their composition based on forest ages. Streptomyces sp. and Rokubacteriales were differentially more abundant in the roots of trees growing in 15-year-old soils and their relative abundance was correlated positively with aboveground biomass, suggesting that effects of forest age on tree performance are contingent on the unique microbiome of each forest. The herbivory assay using Mamestra brassicae larvae revealed a positive correlation between leaf nitrogen content and leaf area consumption in the live vs. sterilized soil experiment, but not in the inoculated soil experiment. Trees in 10-year-old forest soils exhibited the highest herbivore performance, suggesting heightened herbivore susceptibility in early afforestation. Our findings underscore that intricate relationships between soil conditions, microbial communities, and plant-herbivore interactions affect tree performance and herbivory during early afforestation. • Alder growth depends on the soil microbiome but there is no effect of soil age. • Root nodule density in alder decreased with increasing age of the forest soil. • The effect of soil sterilization on tree growth depended on the age of the soil. • Streptomyces and Rokubacteriales enhanced tree performance in 15-year-old soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt stress poses a significant challenge to global food security by hindering crop growth and reducing yields. Nanotechnology holds significant promise for agriculture due to the unique properties of nanoparticles (NPs). Nanopriming, a method involving the soaking of seeds with NPs followed by drying, is gaining popularity for enhancing plant performance under salt stress. Nanopriming, in contrast to other NP application methods like foliar spray or soil application, demands less labor and smaller NP quantities, resulting in cost savings and reduced environmental impact. NPs utilize various mechanisms to penetrate seed coats, including diffusion through intercellular spaces, passage through aquaporins and plasmodesmata, and the formation of pores in cell walls. NPs exert their effects by modulating the level of various phytohormones and expression of genes associated with stress response pathways. NPs enhance seed water absorption, germination rates, production of compatible solutes, mineral uptake, antioxidant defense mechanisms, photosynthetic activity, and regulate ion balance in plants under salt stress. The efficacy of nanopriming is regulated by characteristics of NPs like concentration, size, type, stability, seed characteristics such as size, coat thickness, permeability, and composition, timing of NPs application and the specific plant species involved. Understanding the interaction between NPs and different plant species is essential for tailored nanopriming approaches against salt stress. While nanopriming offers promising solutions to mitigate salt stress and enhance agricultural yields, it is crucial to evaluate NPs characteristics not only for their agricultural efficacy but also for their potential impact on environment and human health. [Display omitted] • Nanopriming enhances plant salt stress resilience. • Effects of nanopriming vary with nanoparticle characteristics. • Size, concentration, and duration of NPs exposure impact efficacy. • Nanopriming modulates phytohormones level and gene expression. • Mechanisms of nanopriming induced salt resilience in plants are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A solar chimney is a one source used newly in power generation by converting solar energy to kinetic energy. One of the limitations of using a solar chimney is the availability of large areas for building the chimney system to obtain sufficient kinetic energy at the chimney entrance. Addressing spatial constraints in chimney systems, this study pioneers an innovative approach to augment energy generation within existing footprints. By integrating swirl guide blades into the collector, the air movement path is extended, resulting in an increase in energy at the chimney entrance. Rigorous examination of four swirl guide blade configurations is conducted through advanced numerical simulations, employing the CFDRC code with a structured grid. In addition, the study meticulously investigates the impact of collector diameter variations on overall system efficiency. Finally, the selected best configuration was studied at different numbers inside the collector. The results showed an increase in average velocity at the chimney entrance and system power of 115.1 % and 30.2 % using eight guide vanes, respectively. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most common problems observed in continuous operation of desalination plants, is the presence of biofouling in ultrafiltration (UF) modules and reverse osmosis membranes (ROMs), decreasing permeated water obtention and increasing energy consumption among other adverse effects. To solve this problem, desalination industry applied UF modules and ROMs cleaning procedures that aims to increase half-life operation time, however, many of the actual cleaning procedures are focused on the addition of chemical compounds that provokes secondary effects such as UF modules and ROMs disintegration leading to structural changes and a decrease in plant performance. Thus, new approaches to replace current cleaning compounds with new ecofriendly and less secondary effects technologies are necessary. In this study, we present a Vibrio neptunius strain ULV11 isolate, with a high capacity to remove fouling in RO systems. In detail, ULV11 cell-free supernatant (CFS) was used in replace of chemical agents as a cleaning solution according to standard operational protocol on 3-year-old membranes of continuous operation. The results showed that CFS can be used under operational conditions (such high pressure and flux) allowed us to recover permeate volumes similar to those observed in traditional chemical treatment with better conductivity. This recovery was accompanied by a reestablishment of membrane topology observed by atomic force microscopy and EPS remotion since concanavalin A signal trough confocal microscopy was decrease as compared with biofouling control. • Traditional cleaning agents reduce half-life of ROMs. • New approaches are necessary to cope chemical effects of cleaning solutions. • Bacterial supernatants can be a suitable alternative as an antifouling solution. • CFS-ULV11 is capable to be applied under operational conditions. • Performance of CFS-ULV11 is similar to those observed in traditional treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Mediterranean climates, drought is recognized as the main abiotic stress negatively affecting plant survival and growth after establishment. However, several factors besides water scarcity interact to affect plant performance, including stocktype, field establishment techniques, environmental variability, and the inherent ecological requirements of the target species. To fully comprehend the extent each of these factors influences plant performance, we analyzed plant survival, growth, and physiological performance of contrasting stocktypes of Nothofagus glauca seedlings, a shade-intolerant tree species from Mediterranean central Chile, established under different environmental conditions characterized by a shrubland versus a forest canopy cover. We hypothesize that nitrogen-loaded plants will have higher survival and growth during establishment, and that higher performance will be observed under the shrubland conditions, despite the presence of water constraints that are usually observed in more open canopies. Our experimental design induced contrasting environmental conditions in which the forest canopy was characterized by lower irradiance and water availability during summer versus the shrubland condition. As expected, bigger and nutrient-loaded N. glauca plants had better field performance in terms of survival and growth. After three years of assessment, we did not observe differences in survival between canopy conditions, but plants established under shrubland canopy presented significantly higher biomass accumulation and better water status. According to our relative importance analysis, we observed that soil water availability was the most relevant factor for plant survival, but plants showed more growth when established under a condition of increased irradiance. Considering that plant performance is explained by the combined response of survival and growth, we suggest that under Mediterranean conditions, each response could be independently affected by separate environmental factors as well as by target species biology (i.e., shade tolerant or shade-intolerant). • Soil water content is the main driver of N. glauca survival in a Mediterranean climate. • Irradiance is determinant for plant growth in the shade-intolerant N. glauca. • Plant field survival and growth are affected by different environmental factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to evaluate an aquaponic bioeconomic model integrating the cultivation of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) with coriander (Coriandrum sativum) at different densities of 32, 72, 128, and 512 cells m−2 for 19 days. The hydroponic bed was configured on a bench with a capacity of 100 L (1.62 m-long, 0.72 m-width, and 0.1 m-depth) and was coupled to a plastic tank with the fish. The coriander seeds were irrigated for four days until germination, when they were transferred to the hydroponic beds. Two hundred forty tambaqui juveniles (113.5 ± 0.15 g and 19.6 ± 0.20 cm) were distributed in 12 tanks (1000-L capacity) in aquaponic units, totaling 20 fish per unit. The fish were fed commercial feed (36% protein and 7% lipids), and water quality variables were monitored daily. At 5, 10, and 15 days after transplanting to the hydroponic bed, the leaf number (LN) and plant height (PH, in cm) of the coriander were determined. Additionally, total fresh mass (TFM, in g), leaf fresh mass (LFM, in g), root fresh mass (RFM, in g), total dry mass (TDM, in g), leaf dry mass (LDM, in g), root dry mass (RDM, in g), leaf length (LL, in cm), root length (RL, in cm), yield of total fresh mass (YTFM, in kg m−2), and the nutritional composition of macro and micronutrients were determined, as well as fish growth performance. A density of 512 cells m−2 reduced the electrical conductivity (0.097 ± 0.001 dS m−1) of the water. The pH, dissolved oxygen, and temperature did not differ significantly between the densities. The total ammonia nitrogen (28.81 ± 2.26 mg L−1) and nitrate (51.07 ± 0.81 mg L−1) concentrations were greater at a density of 32 cells m−2. At the end of the 19-day period, the fish growth indices did not significantly differ (p > 0.05) as a function of coriander cultivation density. Density significantly influenced coriander growth. All variables (PH with root, LL, RL, LFM, TFM, LDM, TDM, RFM, RDM, and YTFM) were significantly influenced (p < 0.05) as a function of cultivation density. YTFM (1.82 ± 0.45 kg m−2), PH (30.39 ± 0.61 cm), and LL (16.62 ± 0.53 cm) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) at a density of 512 cells m−2. RL was significantly higher (p < 0.05) at densities of 72 and 32 cells m−2, of the order of 15.98 ± 0.43 and 18.79 ± 1.01 cm, respectively. Boron was significantly greater at a density of 512 cells m−2 (39.70 ± 1.04 mg kg−1) than at 32 cells m−2 (29.93 ± 4.66 mg kg−1). Similarly, sodium was significantly more abundant at a density of 512 cells m−2 (5975.54 ± 783.82 mg kg−1) when compared to the densities of 128 and 72 cells m−2, which were 4179.97 ± 287.31 and 3760.60 ± 224.31 mg kg−1, respectively. Aquaponic production in the equatorial Amazon region accelerated, and the optimal density for coriander integrated with tambaqui without compromising plant growth performance was 128 cells m−2. [Display omitted] • First report on the integrated cultivation of tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) with coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). • Coriander significantly reduced the total ammonia in the water. • Coriander densities caused significant changes in the electrical conductivity. • Density impacts the nutritional composition of coriander. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationships of ornamental plants with soil microorganisms, which can either stimulate or suppress their performance and thereby impact the production process, remain largely unexplored. Therefore, we conducted a study on 10 common ornamental plant species available in large DIY stores to compare the microbiological and physicochemical properties of substrata used for their cultivation and assess their colonisation by root-inhabiting fungi, namely arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), dark septate endophytes (DSE), and Olpidium spp. The substrata exhibited significant variations in their microbiological and physicochemical properties, depending on both their origin from DIY stores and the ornamental plant species. Hyphae and spores of AMF were not found in any analysed roots and substrata, respectively, except for the low level of colonisation observed in Echinacea purpurea roots. However, 8 plant species were colonised by DSE and 8 by Olpidium spp. More acidic substrata with a high content of organic matter and the ability to hold water favoured the colonisation of Olpidium spp. in roots, and the opposite trend was found for DSE. The occurrence of both groups of endophytes, especially Olpidium spp., was limited in plants with higher biomass and vitality. In conclusion, commercially available ornamental plant species rarely form symbiotic associations with AMF in pot cultivation. Instead, they are often colonised by other root-inhabiting fungi, such as DSE, which are known to have either positive or negative effects on their hosts, and Olpidium spp., which can transfer plant viruses. Such results are most likely due to the high nutrient, organic matter, and water contents in the substrata. • Substrata varied greatly in microbiological and physicochemical properties. • Spores of AMF were not found in any of the studied substrata. • Low AMF colonisation was observed in roots of only one ornamental plant. • High frequency of DSE and Olpidium occurrence was found in ornamental plants. • Low pH, high organic matter content and WHC favoured Olpidium occurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Numerous green-synthesized nanoparticles are being evaluated for their potential application in soil, yet understanding their influence on plant performance and their rhizocompartments associated microbes is a gap that needs to be addressed. In this study, we investigated how applying iron oxide nanoparticles (control 0, low 25 and high 50 mg/kg) impacted the rhizocompartments associated microbial communities and plant secondary metabolites grown in natural soil microcosm. The transcriptional analysis showed that the majority of artemisinin and flavonoid biosynthetic pathway genes were significantly upregulated in plants with the application of low concentration of green-synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles (FeO.NPs) when compared with control plants, suggesting a fine collaboration between these metabolites' pathways, as indicated by a remarkable increase in artemisinin content (2-fold), ferulic acid (7.6-fold), luteolin (4.3-fold) and syringic acid (6.2-fold). The response of rhizocompartments microbial communities and associated soil enzymes was investigated using high-throughput sequencing and profiler test kits, respectively. The soil microbial community structure was altered upon FeO.NPs exposure in both low and high treated soils as indicated by multivariate analysis. For instance, bacterial phyla Bacteroidetes and Gemmatimonadetes and fungal phyla Ascomycota demonstrated a significant rise in relative abundance in both the rhizosphere and rhizoplane in low and high treatments relative to the control. Moreover, genera level analysis revealed that Cupriavidus , Vibrionimonas , and Burkholderia displayed higher relative abundance (p < 0.05) in low FeO.NPs concentration while Giaella and Nonomuraea didn't show any noticeable response to FeO.NPs. In terms of fungal genera, Oidiodendron and Cryptococcus showed high relative abundance under low treatment. The altered microbiome profile is possibly associated with soil enzymes, for instance, urease and catalase activities were increased by 1.76 and 1.71-fold, respectively in low FeO.NPs. Thus, this study demonstrates the effects of FeO.NPs gradients on plant secondary metabolites and soil enzyme activities, while contributing new insights into their specific impacts on the microbial community composition in the rhizocompartments of plant root system. [Display omitted] • Biogenic FeO.NPs were synthesized from a medicinal plant Catharanthus roseus. • FeO.NPs were characterized by standard material characterization techniques. • FeO.NPs enhanced secondary metabolites, particularly under low concentration. • FeO.NPs altered rhizocompartments' microbial community structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) is a hazardous heavy metal known for its detrimental effects on plants, human health, and the environment. This review article delves into the dynamics of Cd uptake, long-distance transport, and its impact on plant performance, with a specific focus on tomato plants. The process of Cd uptake by roots and its subsequent long-distance transport in the xylem and phloem are explored to understand how Cd influences plants operation. The toxic effects of Cd on tomato plants are discussed, highlighting on the challenges it poses to plant growth and development. Furthermore, the review investigates various Cd tolerance mechanisms in plants, including avoidance or exclusion by the root cell wall, root-to-shoot translocation, detoxification pathways, and antioxidative defence systems against Cd-induced stress. In addition, the transcriptomic analyses of tomato plants under Cd stress provide insights into the molecular responses and adaptations of plants to Cd toxicity. Overall, this comprehensive review enhances our understanding of Cd-plant interactions and reveal promising genes for tomato genetic improvement to increase its tolerance to cadmium. [Display omitted] • Cadmium is a major environmental pollutant that enters a food chain. • Numerous cell-specific mechanisms govern cadmium accumulation in plants. • Molecular and physiological basis of Cd uptake and accumulation is analysed. • Promising genes for improving crop tolerance to cadmium are revealed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open dry acidic habitats protected under the Natura 2000 Network (Council Directive 92/43/EEC) occur in Italian Continental lowlands with an either poor or bad conservation status. The LIFE Drylands project was designed with the aim of restoring these habitats in the western Po Plain. In the context of this project, we translocated plants typical of habitat 4030 "European dry heaths" and of the acidophilous subtype of habitat 6210 "Semi-natural dry grasslands and scrubland facies on calcareous substrates (Festuco-Brometalia) (* important orchid sites)" in two sites hosting them. We assessed the outcome of the translocations by monitoring survival, flowering, and fruiting rates of the translocated plants during either the first or the second year following the translocation. We compared plants' performances by a one-way analysis of variance and then cross-referenced them with literature data. Based on our results, we suggest that a mix of hemicryptophytes, such as Armeria arenaria , Betonica officinalis , Dianthus carthusianorum and Festuca filiformis , and geophytes, like Anthericum liliago and Limniris sibirca , with a density of about 34 plants/m2 could be used for other translocations in dry heathlands and dry grasslands in the European Continental biogeographical region, while the addition of therophytes needs further evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Italian waste incineration (WI) plants registered to EMAS have been analyzed. • The environmental performances were evaluated through 5 environmental aspects. • 23 key indicators based on the Environmental Statements were defined and assessed. • The compliance with BAT-AEL was achieved by all the considered WI installations. • The influence of technical features on the environmental performances was assessed. This study evaluated the environmental performances of 15 Italian waste incineration (WI) plants registered to EMAS. From the EMAS Environmental Statements, the validated data related to 5 environmental aspects (emissions to air, energy consumption/production, waste production and reagent consumption) and 24 key indicators were analyzed to describe and assess the environmental performances of the plants in 2017–2019 in relation to the best available techniques associated emission levels (BAT-AELs) and other sectorial reference values. All air pollutants' average concentrations resulted significantly below the upper BAT-AELs, the majority under the lower BAT-AELs, with an overall slightly decreasing trend (-4.6%). The specific productions of bottom and other ashes were steady over time and just above the lower characteristic values. The specific energy consumption was higher than the average European performance and stable over time, while the specific reagent consumption was harder to evaluate, with results varying for the different reagents. An evaluation of the influence of the WI plants' characteristics on the environmental performances was also performed considering 13 different parameters (e.g., flue gas cleaning technologies, waste treatment capacity, etc.). A correlation analysis highlighted the positive influence of the pre-dedusting stages on overall emissions, specific reagents consumption and specific waste production, and of the plant size on the specific energy production. This study demonstrated that EMAS can provide a tool to evaluate the environmental performances of WI plants and compare different installations using certified data. It also highlighted the excellent performances of the Italian WI plants registered to EMAS compared to the sectorial references. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a result of urbanization and population growth, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are experiencing increased influent flow rates, pollutant loads, and stricter standards for effluent quality. Therefore, implementing a control strategy is critical for improving the performance of WWTPs in response to highly variable effluent quality. In this study, different strategies for both water and sludge lines are deployed in WWTP model to control dissolved oxygen and biomass concentration in activated sludge system by manipulating aeration intensity and sludge flow rates. The efficiency of suggested control strategies is evaluated using different performance criteria, including effluent quality indicators, operational costs, and system reliability. The proposed method is applied in a real WWTP located in south of Tehran, the capital of Iran. According to the findings, controlling aeration system and sludge flow rate improve effluent quality and system reliability despite increasing operational costs. In the case of simultaneous control of water and sludge lines, the effluent quality index has improved by 9.3%, while the operational costs have increased by 1%. Moreover, the system reliability based on effluent ammonia, TSS, and COD concentration have increased by 33.4%, 9%, and 12.2%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climatic conditions can influence plant reproduction directly, but also via changes in plant traits, interactions with animals, and the surrounding environment. Such indirect effects can often be complex and involve multiple steps including climatic effects on interacting species, and on the context in which these interactions occur. The joint effects of climatic variation and indirect effects in terms of plant-animal interactions have sometimes been assessed at larger spatial scales. However, less is known about how microclimatic variation affects within-population variation in reproductive performance, in spite of that it is becoming increasingly clear that variation in climatic conditions can occur over very short distances. We studied the direct and indirect effects of microclimate on within-population variation in reproductive performance of the plant Gentiana pneumonanthe in presence of the myrmecophagous and seed predator butterfly Phengaris alcon. We found that microclimatic effects on plant performance were mainly indirect, and that effects of temperature and moisture were interactive. The number of seeds per flower of G. pneumonanthe decreased in cold and moist microsites, and these effects were mediated by an increased oviposition by P. alcon in these microsites. The effects of soil temperature and moisture on the incidence of oviposition and plant performance were mediated by effects on plant phenology, density and phenology of neighbouring host plants, and host ant abundance. Plants that flowered earlier and where host ants were more abundant, and especially plants surrounded by fewer and later-flowering neighbours, produced fewer seeds per flower because of a higher incidence of oviposition. Our results demonstrate that effects of microclimatic variation on plant reproductive performance can be mostly indirect and largely mediated by species interactions. These findings highlight that among individual variation in small-scale environmental conditions within populations can cause variation in individual plant performance through multiple pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To meet the increasing global demand for freshwater, seawater reverse osmosis (SWRO) has become a widely used technology to produce freshwater from seawater. A SWRO system consists of different components such as pumps, membranes, valves, and energy recovery devices. While it may be simple for process designers to understand the individual performance of each piece of equipment, the performance of an entire SWRO system can be complex and counter-intuitive. Furthermore, SWRO processes are energy-intensive; thus, to minimize the Specific Energy Consumption (SEC) of the process, it is of utmost importance that the performance of the system is monitored in real-time. Due to periodic changes in seawater quality and weather conditions, the operating parameters in a SWRO plant need continuous tweaking to minimize energy consumption and optimize the use of chemicals such that product water quality requirements are met. This calls for the need of a performance monitoring and optimization tool for SWRO. Since the advent of RO in 1950, such a system has never existed. Here, we present the first performance model for reverse osmosis (PMRO) for monitoring and optimizing the performance of SWRO assets;the developed model predicts the SEC of an operating SWRO plant with 93 % accuracy. [Display omitted] • The first full-scale simulation model for the performance of a SWRO plant. • Performance of SWRO plant with production capacity of 250,000 m3/day is simulated. • The developed model is capable of predicting the plant performance in real-time. • The average deviation of simulated results from the actual energy consumed is 7 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity stress is one of the major abiotic constraints that limit plant growth and yield, which thereby is a serious concern to world food security. It adversely affects crop production by inducing hyperosmotic stress and ionic toxicity as well as secondary stresses such as oxidative stress, all of which disturb optimum physiology and metabolism. Nonetheless, various strategies have been employed to improve salt tolerance in crop plants, among which the application of Melatonin (Mel) could also be used as it has demonstrated promising results. The ongoing experimental evidence revealed that Mel is a pleiotropic signaling molecule, which besides being involved in various growth and developmental processes also mediates environmental stress responses. The current review systematically discusses and summarizes how Mel mediates the response of plants under salt stress and could optimize the balance between plant growth performances and stress responses. Specifically, it covers the latest advances of Mel in fine-tuning the signaling in plants. Furthermore, it highlights plant-built tolerance of salt stress by manifesting the biosynthesis of Mel, its cross talks with nitric oxide (NO), and Mel as a multifaceted antioxidant molecule. • Salt stress is one of the major emerging environmental constraints around the globe. • Mel promoted salt tolerance by regulating physio-metabolic processes in plants. • Mel acts as a potent signaling molecule under salt stress. • Mel counteracted salt-induced toxicity by regulating redox homeostasis. • The application of Mel is a novel approach for conferring salt tolerance in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this research article, we derive an optimal control problem for the mosaic disease model by using the Caputo fractional derivatives. The natural microbial biostimulants (MBs) are very useful to improve the plant performance and protect plants from mosaic infection. In the proposed model, we apply two extra optimal controls; spraying and roguing to investigate their roles in the control of mosaic spread. We perform a number of experimental results by using the algorithm of forward–backward sweep method at various fractional order values. The main goal of this article is to explore the role of spraying and roguing in the aforementioned availability of MBs. From our study, we notice that in the presence of MBs, only roguing is the effective control which can be used to stop the spread of mosaic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]