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Copyright of Journal of Engineering (17264073) is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Phytoremediation is a sustainable technology for cleaning up heavy metal contamination at mining sites. However, degraded soils at these sites create a harsh environment for plants to survive and properly yield biomass. In this study, sewage sludge and poultry sludge were applied as soil amendments in bauxite mine subsoil to determine their impact on the growth and heavy metal uptake of Jatropha curcas L. Both sewage sludge and poultry sludge were applied at 25% and 50%. J. curcas was grown in the amended soils for 120 days under greenhouse conditions. Changes in soil physico-chemical properties, plant growth and heavy metal uptake of J. curcas were determined after that. An increase in EC, CEC, total C, total N, total available P and total extractable K was detected in the amended soils. These improvements enhanced the growth of J. curcas, particularly in the development of above-ground plant biomass. Increased plant biomass subsequently led to higher bioaccumulation and translocation efficiency of Al, Fe, Pb and Zn. As a result, higher heavy metal removal of up to 98.03% was detected in the amended treatments. The findings indicated that the application of sewage sludge and poultry sludge improves soil conditions for plant development.

Human activities such as mining, industrial operations and waste management can lead to soil pollution by heavy metals including chromium, cadmium, mercury, lead and arsenic. These contaminants cause harm both to humans and the ecosystems where they are found. Of all the previously used techniques, phytoremediation is the most promising one for cleaning up heavy metal-contaminated soils. Phytoremediation refers to a technique where plants use roots for absorbing, storing and immobilizing soil contaminants while also removing them. Bioleaching is a method which uses microorganisms to dissolve metals that have been shown to facilitate phytoextraction in increasing the availability of metals. It is anticipated that research advancements and technological innovations will make it more efficient and appropriate. Root absorption is increased by bioleaching through modification of rhizosphere thus making it more bioavailable for plant uptake. Plant-bacterial interactions are proven to speed up the remediation rates. Both processes can help clear off pollutants from the soil environment. However, further research is needed to find and improve the best strains of microorganisms, assess long-term soil impacts and control massive influxes of bacteria. The combination of bioleaching and phytoextraction offers a reliable and efficient system for removing metals from polluted soils.

This study aims to contribute to the characterization of Katangese Copperbelt's (DR Congo) mining wastes and soils polluted with trace metals, using pollution indices and direct concentration measurements. This study also evaluated the use of these indices in assessing the success of remediation projects. Data from previous studies and samples collected from six types of discharge and one polluted soil were used to address the first objective. Soil and plant samples were collected at Kipushi and Penga Penga for the second objective. The results reveal very high concentrations of As, Cd, Co, Cu, Mn, Pb, and Zn in all mine tailings and polluted soils, compared with local references. The degree of contamination (DC) values (from 72 to 5440) and potential ecological risk (RI) values (from 549 to 162,091) indicate very high-risk situations associated with polluted discharges and soils. Regarding revegetation trials, the results show lower concentrations and RIs in tree rhizospheres compared with unamended areas at both sites. However, trace metal concentrations are higher in tree rhizospheres compared with local references, and RI values are in the considerable risk range for Penga Penga (RI = 533) and in the very high range (>1500) for Kipushi. Bioconcentration factor values are below 1, indicating low accumulation in roots, wood, and leaves, and low risk of contamination of the trophic chain. In this context, it seems that the pollution indices used are suitable for characterizing pollution and prioritization for remediation. However, there seems unsuitable for assessing the effectiveness of phytotechnology processes based on metal stabilization. Direct plant performance measurements combined with direct measurements of metals in substrates and plants to assess transfer and efficiency are more appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Encapsulation and drying technologies allow the engineering of innovative raw materials from plant biodiversity, with potential applications in pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields. Lipid-based nanoencapsulation stands out for its efficiency, ease of production, and versatility in encapsulating substances, whether hydrophilic or lipophilic. This work aimed at encapsulating pequi oil in liposomes and freeze-dried liposomes to enhance its stability and functional benefits, such as skin hydration and anti-aging effects, for use in innovative cosmetic formulations. Pequi oil—extracted from the Caryocar brasiliense fruit pulp, a plant species from Brazilian plant biodiversity—is rich in secondary metabolites and fatty acids. Liposomes and dried liposomes offer controlled production processes and seamless integration into cosmetic formulations. The physicochemical analysis of the developed liposomes confirmed that the formulations are homogeneous and electrokinetically stable, as evidenced by consistent particle size distribution and zeta potential values, respectively. The gel-type formulations loaded with the dried liposomes exhibit enhanced skin hydration, improved barrier function, and refined microrelief, indicating improvements in skin conditions. These results highlight the potential of dried liposomes containing pequi oil for the development of innovative cosmeceutical products. This research contributes to the valorization of Brazilian biodiversity by presenting an innovative approach to leveraging the dermatological benefits of pequi oil in cosmetic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the large popularity of Salix miyabeana for various environmental applications in different parts of the world, most propagation techniques rely mainly on cuttings. However in vitro propagation seems a more reliable solution when selection of new commercial clones and varieties is the goal of propagating willows. The current study is the first attempt to propagate S. miyabeana via in vitro propagation, focusing on two specific aspects: different surface sterilization procedures (i.e. combinations of different sodium hypochlorite concentrations and soaking times) and different types of explants (apical vs. lateral). Our findings show that 3% sodium hypochlorite for 20 min represents the most effective sterilization procedure to ensure healthy plants. Additionally, the material obtained from apical explants showed higher survival rate, budding ability and lower microbiological contamination compared to lateral explants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trace elements pollution of soils became a global concern because of their persistence in the environment which can lead to accumulation in food chains up to toxic levels. At the same time, there is a shortage of arable land for growing food, fodder and industrial crops, which highlights the need for remediation/use of polluted land. Restoration of degraded lands has been included as a vital component of UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We summarize various sources of entry of important trace elements in the environment, available biological reclamation and management strategies and their limitations. Recent advances in phytomanagement approaches using aromatic crops to obtain economically valuable products such as essential oils and revalorize such polluted areas are reviewed. The worldwide application of this strategy in the last 10 years is illustrated through a choropleth map. Finally, the emerging concept of phytomanagement as a restorative and regenerative circular bio-economy is also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Encapsulation and drying technologies allow the engineering of innovative raw materials from plant biodiversity, with potential applications in pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields. Lipid-based nanoencapsulation stands out for its efficiency, ease of production, and versatility in encapsulating substances, whether hydrophilic or lipophilic. This work aimed at encapsulating pequi oil in liposomes and freeze-dried liposomes to enhance its stability and functional benefits, such as skin hydration and anti-aging effects, for use in innovative cosmetic formulations. Pequi oil—extracted from the Caryocar brasiliense fruit pulp, a plant species from Brazilian plant biodiversity—is rich in secondary metabolites and fatty acids. Liposomes and dried liposomes offer controlled production processes and seamless integration into cosmetic formulations. The physicochemical analysis of the developed liposomes confirmed that the formulations are homogeneous and electrokinetically stable, as evidenced by consistent particle size distribution and zeta potential values, respectively. The gel-type formulations loaded with the dried liposomes exhibit enhanced skin hydration, improved barrier function, and refined microrelief, indicating improvements in skin conditions. These results highlight the potential of dried liposomes containing pequi oil for the development of innovative cosmeceutical products. This research contributes to the valorization of Brazilian biodiversity by presenting an innovative approach to leveraging the dermatological benefits of pequi oil in cosmetic applications.

Mining activities are among the key sources of soil metal contamination in the Zambian Copperbelt, resulting in drastic landscape transformation. Plant species growing naturally on mine wastelands represent an asset for remediation on the disturbed ecosystems in the region. However, little is known about the suitability of Zambian native tree and shrub species for phytoremediation. The current study was carried to determine tree species richness and abundance on seven mine wastelands across the Zambian Copperbelt and evaluate their phytoremediation potential. Field inventory and post-hoc ecological analyses allowed identification of 32 native tree species, belonging to 13 different families, of which Fabaceae (34%) and Combretaceae (19%) predominated. Most of the identified tree species were found to be Cu, Co, Cr, Ni and Mo excluders. Among them, Rhus longipes (Anacardiaceae), Syzygium guineense (Myrtaceae), Senegalia polyacantha (Fabaceae) and Ficus craterostoma (Moraceae) were revealed as the most dominant tree species across the studied tailing dams (TDs) making them ideal candidates for metal phytostabilization. And coincidentally, their richness was positively correlated with high soil Cu concentration, a sought-after trait for phytoremediation of heavily polluted environment. Intriguingly, most identified tree species proved not suited for phytostabilization of Mn, Zn, B and Ba. On the other hand, species such as Annona senegalensis, Parinari curatellifolia, Dombeya rotundilifolia actively translocated these metals to leaves (TF > 1), indicating their potential for phytoextraction of Cu, Co, Cr, Ni, and Mo notably. Species richness and abundance significantly varied across the seven studied TDs. This was however barely influenced by soil metal contents, suggesting additional drivers dictating tree species-environment relationship in the context of studied TDs. The findings of this study provide crucial information in prospect of tree-based ecological restoration of mine wastelands, having revealed a diversified floristic composition of wastelands-native trees in the region, and clarified their respective phytoremediation attributes.

Constructed wetlands are novel systems distinguished by their economy, easy maintenance and operation, also characterized by their complex mechanism to remove a wide range of pollutants. Four artificial wetlands, two planted with Typha latofolia and two unplanted, were filled with wastewater obtained from the mixture of residual fuel from the service stations maintenance storage systems and clean water, at a 3% vfuel/vclean water ratio, a planted wetland and an unplanted one were biostimulated with fertilizer at a 100:10:1 ratio, and all wetlands were studied for 72 days, analyzing total petroleum hydrocarbons in the organic range of gasoline and diesel, pH, oxide reduction potential, phosphate and nitrate. The obtained results showed that facultative conditions prevailed in the wetlands when reporting data on the reduction oxide potential −100 to 300 mV, favoring the denitrification process and removal of total petroleum hydrocarbons with an efficiency greater than 84%. In conclusion, the phytotoxic effect was evidenced in the planted wetlands when the macrophages showed deterioration on the last sampling day; on the other hand, all wetlands showed good performance for total hydrocarbons removal, being the biostimulated and planted with Typha latifolia wetland the one that obtained the highest removal percentage, showing the potential of these systems for hydrocarbon-contaminated wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detergent waste is waste that comes from household activities such as washing, and others. detergent waste can kill soil biota in the waters, one method to deal with detergent waste is to use apu wood plants to reduce the levels of pollutants contained in the waste with the phytoremediation process. The way this research works is that plants are planted in a reactor with various variations in the number of plants and residence time (days), namely to reduce pollutant levels. The variables in this study are the independent variable and the dependent variable. The research was carried out in three stages such as acclimatization aimed at adapting plants to the environment, Range finding Test to determine the concentration of waste and main research. The results of the main study showed that the number of plants 4,5,6 in each reactor with a residence time of 3 days, 6 days, 9 days and 12 days showed that the removal always occurred on the first day to the last day with a percent removal; in 4 plants (14%, 16%, 19%, 58%), while in 5 plants; (20%,22%,33%,58%) and for 6 plants; (23%,30%,42%,64%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioaugmentation, the addition of cultured microorganisms to enhance the currently existing microbial community, is an option to remediate contaminated areas. Several studies reported the success of the bioaugmentation method in treating heavy metal contaminated soil, but concerns related to the applicability of this method in real-scale application were raised. A comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms of heavy metal treatment by microbes (especially bacteria) and the concerns related to the possible application in the real scale were juxtaposed to show the weakness of the claim. This review proposes the use of bioaugmentation-assisted phytoremediation in treating heavy metal contaminated soil. The performance of bioaugmentation-assisted phytoremediation in treating heavy metal contaminated soil as well as the mechanisms of removal and interactions between plants and microbes are also discussed in detail. Bioaugmentation-assisted phytoremediation shows greater efficiencies and performs complete metal removal from soil compared with only bioaugmentation. Research related to selection of hyperaccumulator species, potential microbial species, analysis of interaction mechanisms, and potential usage of treating plant biomass after treatment are suggested as future research directions to enhance this currently proposed topic.

Synthetic surfactants are essential components of commercial detergents. Organisms suffer from surfactant pollution; therefore, there is a need to estimate the resistance of macrophytes to these pollutants. New biological effects of detergent compositions (Frosch, Tide) on higher aquatic plants Ceratophyllum demersum, Elodea Canadensis, Chara fragilis, and Callitriche palustris were revealed. Frosch is claimed as an environmentally friendly detergent. In experiments, Frosch showed high toxicity to all macrophytes. The results obtained can be used in practice in the development of new biotechnologies in order to reduce the risk of pollution of the aquatic environment with surfactants present in synthetic detergents, which is one of the priorities of modern ecology. The conducted biotesting on macrophytes can serve as an example for certification of new synthetic surfactants. The obtained data can be useful in the selection of organisms for biotesting of pollutants for toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interest in Baccharis linearis has increased as an alternative for assisted phytostabilization due to its spontaneous colonization of tailings dumps. The search for a novel fast-vegetative propagation technique to accelerate its coverage on mine tailings is a promising research area for sustainable mine closure plans. In this study, we determined the optimal proportion of compost and tailings as growing media to promote fast B. linearis propagation through a compound layering technique. The assessed growing substrates were: 100% tailings, 70% tailings + 30% compost, and 50% tailings + 50% compost. After 84 days of growth, the change in number and height of layering branches, root and shoot dry mass, percentage of ground coverage, and substrate chemical properties were assessed. The main results showed that compound layering of B. linearis is possible with compost addition. The growth of new roots and layering branches was significantly improved by either 30% or 50% compost addition into tailings, due to chemical improvements of substrate (higher nutrients and pH and decreased copper bioavailability). The study confirms that the compound layering of B. linearis may be an effective and novel technique for speeding the reclamation of post-operative mine tailings, which is improved by the incorporation of compost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bench-scale and pilot-scale experiments were conducted in an outdoor environment to study the ability of some plant species in dewatering of sewage sludge collected from biological activated sludge treatment. In the bench-scale experiments, four types of plants were tested, including water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), common reed (Phragmites austuralis), Samar (Cyperus alopecuroides), and El Nesila (Panicum echinochloa). Sludge dewatering in the plant reactors was compared with that in the control reactors (no plants). The bench-scale experiments were conducted in reactors with capacities of 17 L. All plants showed a growth in the sewage sludge matrix. High dewatering efficiencies of sewage sludge were obtained with the use of each type of plant, as compared with those in the controls. Among other plants tested in the current study, water hyacinth proved to have the highest dewatering efficiency and was selected for further testing in a pilot-scale experiment. Two identical drying beds were constructed as a pilot-scale, each with its own multi-layered underdrainage system. The plants were added to one of the beds while the other bed served as a control. The pilot study showed that the use of water hyacinth in conventional sludge drying beds can triple the sludge dewatering capacity of these beds. In addition, the quality of the dewatered sludge was also improved compared with that found in conventional drying beds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the significant production of mangoes (Mangifera indica L.) for Brazilian agriculture and its dependence on irrigation which makes available its culture in semi-arid regions, current analysis identifies the adequate irrigation level for the Kent mango culture in the Brazilian semi-arid regions. Assay, conducted in open country of the Fazenda Special Fruit, in Petrolina, Brazil, featured randomized blocks with 4 treatments and 5 replications, with four plants per assay split, with two useful plants each. Treatments comprised irrigation levels at 60, 80, 100 and 120% of evapotranspiration of the recommended culture (ETc). Evaluated parameters comprised fruit production, quality (soluble solid rates, total titratable acidity, steadfastness, physiology (photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration and leaf temperature) and economic analysis (fixed costs, variable costs and income, with regard to treatments. Estimates of highest productivity rates for the mango Kent was 36.4 and 31,0 t ha-1, for the two cycles, under an irrigation level of approximately 82% of ETc. Highest stomatal conductance in Kent mango leaves was obtained by irrigation level at 79.28% of ETc. Decrease in irrigation level up to 60% of ETc provides greater efficiency in water use for Kent mango culture. However, the highest net income was retrieved from level 80% of ETc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Technosols are a major component of urban areas with little to no value, but many benefits can be gained by the use of native plants for their ecological reclamation. The aim of this study is to examine the capacity of North American native woody species to establish in and remediate a wood preservative‐contaminated technosol. Nine species are planted in mesocosms containing highly contaminated or non‐contaminated synthetic technosols. Remediation potential and plant physiology parameters (survival, photosynthesis and root growth) are monitored during one growing season. Results show an inverse relation between species performance ranking in the non‐contaminated technosol compared to ranking in contaminated soil. Overall, Salix bebbiana and Sambucus canadensis show good potential for phytomanagement of heterogenous contaminated technosols, offering the best compromise between performance in non‐contaminated and contaminated soils. Most species are able to phytoextract copper (Cu), with Rhus typhina, Alnus crispa, and S. bebbiana showing the highest Cu concentrations in stems. The use of multiple native species for technosol reclamation can be beneficial due to the heterogeneous nature of soil contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination of agricultural land and water by heavy metals due to rapid industrialization and urbanization including various natural processes have become one of the major constraints to crop growth and productivity. Several studies have reported that to counteract heavy metal stress, plants should be able to maneuver various physiological, biochemical and molecular processes to improve their growth and development under heavy metal stress. With the advent of modern biotechnological tools and techniques it is now possible to tailor legume and other plants overexpressing stress-induced genes, transcription factors, proteins, and metabolites that are directly involved in heavy metal stress tolerance. This review provides an in-depth overview of various biotechnological approaches and/or strategies that can be used for enhancing detoxification of the heavy metals by stimulating phytoremediation processes. Synthetic biology tools involved in the engineering of legume and other crop plants against heavy metal stress tolerance are also discussed herewith some pioneering examples where synthetic biology tools that have been used to modify plants for specific traits. Also, CRISPR based genetic engineering of plants, including their role in modulating the expression of several genes/ transcription factors in the improvement of abiotic stress tolerance and phytoremediation ability using knockdown and knockout strategies has also been critically discussed.

Cadmium (Cd) is a metal with high toxicity, released into the environment through anthropogenic activities, which has posed a growing challenge for environmental quality and food safety. In recent years, phytoremediation has been mainly analyzed as profitable and efficient biotechnology, used for the stabilization or remediation of soils contaminated with heavy metals. The objective is to provide a phytoremediation prospective analysis as a mechanism for the removal of heavy metals such as cadmium with plants. This study was identifying different heavy metals accumulating plants related in agricultural soil of the municipality of Mosquera Cundinamarca, Colombia, due to the impact of irrigation with wastewater from the middle basin of the Bogotá River through the Irrigation District "La Ramada.". This water presents high levels of contamination and is used by horticultural farms, causing the loss of food quality. This research presents a comparative table of 12 species of phytoremediation plants, identifying the Urtica dioica L., Taraxacum officinale Weber ex FH Wigg. Moreover, Sinapis alba L. as the most suitable species to treat the contamination of the agricultural land of Mosquera-Colombia by phytoremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytotechology was applied to assess the capacity of microphytes (algae) and macrophytes (duckweed) to remediate wastewater from the Tanjaro River to meet irrigation standards. The results showed clearly differences between the initial and treats wastewater. Physiochemical measurements include; temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, total dissolved salts, electrical conductivity, turbidity and chlorophyll a, NO3, PO43-, SO42-, HCO3-, CO32-, Cl-, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, Fe, Co, Cd, Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn and Mn. Wastewater treated by algae and duckweed declines in those values, except for dissolved oxygen and chlorophyll a. Nutrient removing efficiencies of the algae and duckweed indicate the ability to remove 100% of the Fe, Cd, Pb, Cr and As in the wastewater, although algae showed a higher efficiency to remove Co, Cu, Zn and Mn in comparison with duckweed; duckweed showed a efficiency to remove PO43-, Cl-, HCO3-, CO32-. The calculated value of irrigation water quality index (IWQI) 11 of the initial wastewater (low suitability for irrigation) improved after treatment with algae and duckweed to 14 and 15, respectively. Irrigation water quality index (IWQI) improved to suitability for irrigation 36.4 and 27.3%, by duckweed and algae, respectively. These findings indicate the potential of phytotechnology to be applied in environment remediation in an agriculturally important region in Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing aquaculture cultivation produces large quantities of wastewater. If not handled properly, it can have negative impacts on the environment. Constructed wetlands (CWs) are one of the phytoremediation methods that can be applied to treat aquaculture effluent. This research was aimed at determining the performance of Cyperus rotundus in removing COD, BOD, TSS, turbidity, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and phosphate from the batch CW system. Treatment was carried out for 30 days with variations in the number of plants (10, 15, and 20) and variations in media height (10, 12, and 14 cm). The result showed that aquaculture effluent contains high levels of organic compounds and nutrients, and C. rotundus can grow and thrive in 100% of aquaculture effluent. Besides that, the use of C. rotundus in CWs with the effect of numbers of plants and media height showed performance of COD, BOD, TSS, turbidity, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, and phosphate with 70, 79, 90, 96, 64, 82, 92, and 48% of removal efficacy, respectively. There was no negative impact observed on C. rotundus growth after exposure to aquaculture effluent, as indicated by the increase in wet weight, dry weight, and growth rate when compared to the control. Thus, adding aquaculture effluent to CWs planted with C. rotundus supports the growth and development of plants while also performing phytoremediation. [Display omitted] • Cyperus rotundus can withstand 100% aquaculture concentration. • The use of C. rotundus in CW increased the removal of COD, BOD, TSS, turbidity, and phosphate. • Number of plants and medium height variation did not affect the pollutants removal. • The 10 cm media height showed higher RGR as compared to control system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoremediation is a viable strategy to remove trace metal contaminants from sewage sludge but still is poorly investigated. The aim of this study was to quantify the trace metal removal of B. napus, B. juncea, H. annuus, Z. mays grown on pure sewage sludge. Each species was grown on six different sewage sludge for 8 weeks and sludge were analysed for trace metal content and physico-chemical characteristics. Our results confirmed that all the tested sludge supported plant growth. The tested sludge showed a plant vigorousness lower (46% of sludge) or similar/increased (54% of sludge) compared to control treatment. B. juncea and B. napus were the most efficient species in the bioaccumulation, of trace metals. The average percentage of metals removed by the selected species was 0.2% for As, 0.85% for Cd, 0.09% for Cr, 0.36% for Cu, 0.36% for Ni, 4.2% for Se, 1.2% for Zn. In conclusion, our results showed that phytoremediation can be applied to sewage sludge, despite the chosen species have low efficiency in trace element removal. Further studies using hyperaccumulator species are needed which may lead to a higher efficiency of the process opening up new possibilities for the management strategies of this waste.

The aim of the research is to determine the possibility of using bioplateau with higher aquatic vegetation in order to reduce the concentrations of iron in mine waters before releasing to the surface water body.Methods. The use of the results of theoretical and empirical studies determined during the analysis of literature data made it possible to evaluate the feasibility of using higher aquatic vegetation to accumulate iron ions depending on the water temperature, as well as the ability to form iron compounds in the aqueous system as well as their further precipitation.Results. The materials obtained during the research made it possible to determine the size and design of bioplate in order to purify the water from iron ions taking into account the use of higher aquatic vegetation and minimizing the area of land resources used for the device.Conclusions. A technological scheme for cleaning mine water from iron has been developed, including filters loaded with crushed stone for immobilization of iron bacteria and bioplateau. The bottom of the bioplateau is made of waterproof clay. At the bottom, hydrophytes are planted in the ground. According to the foregoing, it is advisable to plant narrowleaved cattail or reed. The facilities, on the basis of phytotechnology, work as a self-regulating system.

It is inevitable that the manufacturing process of palm oil is accompanied by the generation of a massive amount of high strength wastewater, namely palm oil mill effluent (POME), which could pose serious threat to the aquatic environment. POME which contains high organic compounds originating from biodegradable materials causes water pollution if not properly managed. Palm oil industries are facing the challenges to make ends meet in the aspects of natural assurance, financial reasonability and development sustainability. It is therefore crucial to seek a practical solution to achieve the goal of environmental protection while continuing the economic sustainability. Phytoremediation has been proven as a potential method for removal or degradation of various hazardous contaminants. However, research on phytoremediation of POME using Eichhornia crassipes (E. crassipes) is still limited. This study aims to determine the feasibility of applying phytoremediation technique using E. crassipes for POME treatment. The effects of pH, plant:POME ratio and retention time on the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total suspended solid (TSS) of POME were investigated. The highest BOD removal of 92.6% was achieved after 21 days retention time at pH 4 with plant:POME ratio of 1:20 kg/L. The highest COD removal of 20.7% was achieved after 14 days retention time at pH 6 with plant:POME ratio of 1:20 kg/L. Phytoremediation using E. crassipes was shown to be a promising eco-friendly technique for POME treatment, and is therefore recommended as a good alternative treatment solution for this industrial effluent.

Abstract The discharge from food production greenhouses (greenhouse effluent) contains high nutrient and salt concentrations, which, if directly released, can have adverse effects on the environment. Wood-chip bioreactors are increasingly popular passive water treatment systems favoured for their economical denitrification in treating agricultural field tile drainage. Microbial communities are central to denitrification; however little is known about the maturation of microbial communities in wood-chip bioreactors treating greenhouse effluents. In this study, multiple subsurface flow wood-chip bioreactors, each vegetated with a different plant species, together with an unplanted unit, received synthetic greenhouse effluent with elevated nitrate concentrations. The hybrid bioreactors were operated for over 2 years, during which time water samples were collected from the inlet, outlet and within the reactors. The increasing denitrification rate in the bioreactor planted with Typha angustifolia (narrowleaf cattail) correlated with increasing microbial activity and metabolic richness, measured by the carbon utilization patterns in Biolog® EcoPlates. Increased denitrifying gene (nirS) copies (determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, qPCR), and near-complete nitrate removal were observed in the T. angustifolia and unplanted reactors after 16 and 23 months of operation respectively. The findings suggested that an acclimation period of at least one year can be expected in unseeded bioreactors planted with T. angustifolia , while bioreactors without vegetation may require a longer time to maximize their denitrification capacity. These results are important for the design and operation of wood-chip bioreactors, which are expected to be more commonly applied in the future. Graphical abstract Unlabelled Image Highlights • Shortest acclimation period in bioreactor planted with Typha angustifolia. • Interstitial water samples used for microbial assessment. • Direct link between denitrification performance and increased microbial activity • Positive correlation between nitrate reduction and increased denitrifying genes • Longer acclimation period in unplanted reactor than the T. angustifolia reactor [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The semi-field research on using second-generation biofuel crop Miscanthus x giganteus for restoration of former military site in Kamenetz-Podilsky, Ukraine was carried out during two vegetation seasons. Despite high metal pollution of soil, in particular, by Fe, Mn, Ti, and Zr, no growth inhibition was observed. The concentrations followed pattern soil > roots > stems > leaves. Accumulation of particular metals in roots was different: Fe, Mn and Ti were accumulated rather palpably after the first vegetation season and less tangible after the second one. Cu, Pb and Zn were less accumulative in both vegetation seasons, and for As and Pb the accumulative concentrations were very small. Accumulations in the aboveground parts of the plant in comparison to roots were significantly lower in case of Fe, Ti, Mn, Cu, Zn, Sr and even statistically comparable to zero in case of As, Pb and Zr. Calculated translocation ratio of metals in the plant’s parts preferably indicated lack of metals’ hyper accumulation. Generally, no correlations were observed between concentrations of metals in the soil and in the upper plant’s parts. The research confirmed the ability of Miscanthus x giganteus to grow on the military soils predominantly contaminated by metals.

Applying phytotechnologies with energy crops on lands contaminated with trace elements provides cellulosic biomass and improves soil health. The process can be reflected in changes in the soil nematode community structure. This study assessed the nematode community composition of soil with Miscanthus grown with different agronomic practices. The research was conducted at Fort Riley, Kansas, USA, in soil with aged contamination by Pb at 1000 to 1500 mg/kg. The experimental design was a randomized complete block composed of four replications of five treatments: Control-undisturbed mixed plant cover and four conditions of Miscanthus growth, which consisted of No-till, Till (immediately before planting), Till + P, and Till + biosolids. Analysis of abundance, diversity, and community functional status indicators showed differential sensitivity of nematode taxa to agronomic treatments. Significant transformations in the nematode trophic group structure occurred under Miscanthus cultivation compared with the undisturbed mixed plant cover. Shannon and Pielou index response to agronomic treatments illustrated decreasing nematode community diversity with all Miscanthus agronomic conditions. However, agronomic practices led to increasing nematode community maturity, but those effects varied between spring and fall seasons. Increasing herbivores and omnivore-predators were the primary drivers of the observed changes in the nematode community due to planting Miscanthus. The nematode ecological structure indicators suggested that growth in Pb-contaminated land using different agronomical practices likely affects essential soil processes. More study is needed to define the effects of pre-plant tillage and amendments to soil nematode communities and Miscanthus yield over multiple growing seasons of this perennial crop.

The interaction between inorganic pollutants and higher aquatic plants was studied. Experimental data demonstrated toxic effects from a mixture of heavy metals (Cu, Fe3+, Ni, Fe2+, Zn, Cr6+, Pb, Cd) on Chara fragilis and Callitriche palustris macrophyte species. The experiments were carried out in freshwater microcosms at temperature 12–19°C. Phytotoxicity of the tested mixtures of heavy metals to the macrophytes was revealed. Shoots of C. fragilis and C. palustris plants showed some common signs of phytotoxicity. The new results contribute to the development of water purification phytotechnologies, as well as to elucidation of the range of conditions for applicability of the investigated species in phytoremediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract In the recent techno-scientific revolution, nanotechnology has gained popularity at a rapid pace in different sectors and disciplines, specifically environmental, sensing, bioenergy, and agricultural systems. Controlled, easy, economical, and safe synthesis of nanomaterials is desired for the development of new-age nanotechnology. In general, nanomaterial synthesis techniques, such as chemical synthesis, are not completely safe or environmentally friendly due to harmful chemicals used or to toxic by-products produced. Moreover, a few nanomaterials are present as by-product during washing process, which may accumulate in water, air, and soil system to pose serious threats to plants, animals, and microbes. In contrast, using plants for nanomaterial (especially nanoparticle) synthesis has proven to be environmentally safe and economical. The role of plants as a source of nanoparticles is also likely to expand the number of options for sustainable green renewable energy, especially in biorefineries. Despite several advantages of nanotechnology, the nano-revolution has aroused concerns in terms of the fate of nanoparticles in the environment because of the potential health impacts caused by nanotoxicity upon their release. In the present panoramic review, we discuss the possibility that a multitudinous array of nanoparticles may find applications convergent with human welfare based on the synthesis of diverse nanoparticles from plants and their extracts. The significance of plant–nanoparticle interactions has been elucidated further for nanoparticle synthesis, applications of nanoparticles, and the disadvantages of using plants for synthesizing nanoparticles. Finally, we discuss future prospects of plant–nanoparticle interactions in relation to the environment, energy, and agriculture with implications in nanotechnology. Highlights • The use of plants for nanomaterial synthesis has proven to be environmentally safe and economical. • Here, we discuss the knowledge gap that exists regarding the interactions between NPs and plant. • Such interactions are elucidated for their synthesis, applications, and the disadvantages. • Finally, we discuss prospects of plant–NP interactions with implications in nanotechnology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Botanical air filtration is a promising technology for reducing indoor air contaminants, but the underlying mechanisms need better understanding. Here, we made a set of chamber fumigation experiments of up to 16 weeks of duration, to study the filtration efficiencies for seven volatile organic compounds (VOCs; decane, toluene, 2‐ethylhexanol, α‐pinene, octane, benzene, and xylene) and to monitor microbial dynamics in simulated green wall systems. Biofiltration functioned on sub‐ppm VOC levels without concentration‐dependence. Airflow through the growth medium was needed for efficient removal of chemically diverse VOCs, and the use of optimized commercial growth medium further improved the efficiency compared with soil and Leca granules. Experimental green wall simulations using these components were immediately effective, indicating that initial VOC removal was largely abiotic. Golden pothos plants had a small additional positive impact on VOC filtration and bacterial diversity in the green wall system. Proteobacteria dominated the microbiota of rhizosphere and irrigation water. Airborne VOCs shaped the microbial communities, enriching potential VOC‐utilizing bacteria (especially Nevskiaceae and Patulibacteraceae) in the irrigation water, where much of the VOC degradation capacity of the biofiltration systems resided. These results clearly show the benefits of active air circulation and optimized growth media in modern green wall systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquatic bryophytes can accumulate extremely high levels of chemical elements because of their unique morphology and physiology which is markedly different from vascular plants. Four aquatic mosses— Fontinalis squamosa , Brachythecium rivulare, Platyhypnidium riparioides, Thamnobryum alopecurum —and a freshwater red alga Lemanea fluviatilis along with water samples from the streams of Góis mine region in Central Portugal were analyzed for 46 elements. Despite being below detection levels in the water samples, the elements Zr, V, Cr, Mo, Ru, Os, Rh, Ir, Pt, Ag, Ge and Bi were obtained in the plant samples. The moss T. alopecurum had the highest mean concentrations of 19 elements followed by B. rivulare (15 elements). Maximum accumulation of Rb, Ta and Au, however, was seen in the alga L. fluviatilis. Bioconcentration factors > 10 6 were obtained for a few metals. The investigation confirms that aquatic bryophytes can be suitable for water quality biomonitoring and biogeochemical prospecting in fresh water bodies owing to their high accumulative capacity of multi-elements from their aquatic ambient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, many scientists have focused their attention on the search for new plant species that can offer improved capacities to reclaim polluted soils and waters via phytoremediation. In this study, seed batches from three natural populations of Dittrichia viscosa, harvested in rural, urban, and industrial areas of central and southern Italy, were used to: (i) evaluate the genetic and morphological diversity of the populations; (ii) develop an efficient protocol for in-vitro propagation from seedling microcuttings; (iii) achieve optimal acclimatization of micropropagated plants to greenhouse conditions; (iv) test the response to arsenic (As) soil contamination of micropropagated plants. The genetic biodiversity study, based on Random Amplification of Polymorphic DNA (RAPD), as well as the morphometric analysis of 20 seedlings from each population revealed some degree of differentiation among populations. Based on these data, the most biodiverse plants from the three populations (10 lines each) were clonally multiplied by micropropagation using microcuttings of in-vitro grown seedlings. Three culture media were tested and Mureshige and Skoog medium was chosen for both seedling growth and micropropagation. The micropropagated plants responded well to greenhouse conditions and over 95% survived the acclimatization phase. Four clones were tested for their capacity to grow on soil spiked with NaAsO 2 and to absorb and accumulate the metalloid. All clones tolerated up to 1.0 mg As. At the end of the trial (five weeks), As was detectable only in leaves of As-treated plants and concentration varied significantly among clones. The amount of As present in plants (leaves) corresponded to ca . 0.10–1.7% of the amount supplied. However, As was no longer detectable in soil suggesting that the metalloid was taken up, translocated and probably phytovolatilized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethnobotany (the scientific study of traditional plant knowledge) has aided the discovery of important medicines. However, as single-molecule drugs or synergistic mixtures, these remedies have faced obstacles in production and analysis. Now, advances in bioreactor technology, metabolic engineering, and analytical instrumentation are improving the production, manipulation, and scientific understanding of such remedies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]