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The stable fly, Stomoxys calcitrans L. (Diptera: Muscidae), is a significant insect pest with global veterinary implications due to its capacity to both cause nuisance and transmit disease‐causing pathogens to livestock. This study aimed to determine the livestock bedding preferred for use as a development substrate by S. calcitrans larvae and field‐collected adults. The result showed that S. calcitrans larvae exhibited a preference (26.7%) for 7‐day‐old cow manure. Gravid females displayed a pronounced preference (55.0%) for fresh cow manure. As there were eight choices, indifference would result in 12.5% for each bedding substrate. Furthermore, the efficacy of four entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs), namely Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Poinar), Heterorhabditis indica Poinar, Karunakar & David (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae), Steinernema siamkayai Poinar, Karunakar & David and Steinernema carpocapsae (Weiser) (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae), against S. calcitrans larvae and the persistence after application to livestock bedding substrates were evaluated under laboratory conditions. In filter paper bioassays, all four EPNs caused 76.7%–100.0% mortality in the second instar larvae of S. calcitrans when applied at 50 and 100 infective juveniles (IJs)/cm2 within 5 days after exposure. For the third instar larvae of S. calcitrans, only H. indica induced high mortalities of 86.6% when applied at 100 IJs/cm2 within 5 days after exposure, while the other EPNs resulted in mortalities of less than 70%. The data further demonstrated that H. bacteriophora, H. indica and S. siamkayai remained present in the substrates linked to S. calcitrans larvae for as long as 7 days after the application of EPNs. This study demonstrates the potential of EPNs as a biologically based control agent against larvae of S. calcitrans, a serious pest and significant vector for various livestock animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern problems of pasture degradation caused by anthropogenic impact and climate change require the search for new, environmentally safe solutions. The proposed technology of creating cultivated annual pastures with the use of biostimulants is a promising approach to restore and increase the productivity of pasture ecosystems. The study conducted in the south of Kazakhstan demonstrates high efficiency of biostimulants, especially those that fermented cattle manure. In contrast with traditional mineral fertilizers (N20P20K20), biostimulants MERS and Bio-Bars contribute not only to the increase in yield of green mass, but also improve soil characteristics by stimulating the growth of beneficial microflora. This makes it possible to create self-regenerating pasture systems resistant to negative environmental impact. The novelty of the study lies in the integrated approach combining the use of biostimulants and fermentation of organic waste. This approach not only increases the efficiency of resource use, but also promotes a closed cycle of production, minimizing the negative impact on the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the most influential composting parameters (temperature, pH, humidity, C/N ratio, and CO2 emissions) on final compost quality. Composting bags (turned daily) containing prunings, lignocellulose material, cattle manure, and household organic waste were monitored for eight weeks across three batches. All the temperature data registered daily were statistically analyzed with one-way ANOVA to verify the consistency between batches. This study employs a first-order kinetic model to quantify the decomposition of organic matter in composting, revealing the influence of temperature on the decomposition rate. Principal component analysis was conducted for these factors and their interactions with respect to the final compost quality. Finished compost showed a significantly high nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium content compared with that in the feedstock of the initial compost mixture, while there was constant organic carbon content. In addition to the control of key parameters, a linear regression analysis allowed us to identify the factors that most influenced temperature. We identified two key models: one including pH, humidity, C/N ratio, and CO2 emissions, and another focusing only on CO2. This study emphasized the importance of monitoring and controlling the crucial parameters of the composting process in order to obtain quality compost suitable for application in soil use. Moreover, high temperatures possibly attained in the process of aerobic decomposition destroy the pathogens, making the end products safer for uses in agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cattle manure or its digestate, which often contains antibiotic residues, can be used as an organic fertilizer and copper (Cu) as a fungicide in agriculture. Consequently, both antibiotics and Cu are considered soil contaminants. In this work, microcosms were performed with soil amended with either manure or digestate with Cu and an antibiotic (sulfamethoxazole, SMX) co-presence and the planting of Lactuca sativa. After the addition of the organic amendments, a prompt increase in the microbial activity and at the same time of the sul1 and intI1 genes was observed, although ARGs generally decreased over time. In the amended and spiked microcosms, the microbial community was able to remove more than 99% of SMX in 36 days and the antibiotic did not bioaccumulate in the lettuce. Interestingly, where Cu and SMX were co-present, ARGs (particularly sul2) increased, showing how copper had a strong effect on resistance persistence in the soil. Copper also had a detrimental effect on the plant-microbiome system, affecting plant biomass and microbial activity in all conditions except in a digestate presence. When adding digestate microbial activity, biodiversity and lettuce biomass increased, with or without copper present. Not only did the microbial community favour plant growth, but lettuce also positively influenced its composition by increasing bacterial diversity and classes (e.g., Alphaproteobacteria) and genera (e.g., Bacillus), thus indicating a good-quality soil. Key points: • Cattle digestate promoted the highest microbial activity, diversity, and plant growth • Cattle digestate counteracted detrimental contaminant effects • Cu presence promoted antibiotic cross-resistance in soil [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peat is an unrenewable resource. Compost can partially replace peat in the growing seedling substrates due to its high electrical conductivity (EC), bulk density (BD), and pH. This study aimed to assess the potential of substituting peat for seedling substrate with compost made from a mixture of agricultural and agro-industrial wastes. Four compost piles (C1–C4) were constructed as follows: C1: a 1:1:1.5 weight ratio mixture of filter mud, mushroom waste, and date-palm fronds, while C2–C4: a 0.5:1 weight ratio mixture of either bagasse, cutting grassland, or date-palm fronds and cattle dung. After four months of decomposition, the compost's physical, chemical, and biological properties were estimated in comparison to commercial compost (CC), peatmoss (PM), and their ideal ranges (IR) for seed germination and seedling growth. Composts differed significantly in their physical and chemical properties. Some composts revealed property values within the IR. In comparison to PM, Composts have a lower C/N ratio and organic matter, along with higher BD, EC, and pH. Cattle manure enhanced organic matter and carbon, total nitrogen and potassium, and ammonium levels, and reduced ash levels in C2–C4 compared to filter mud in C1. In winter 2018 and 2019, C1–C4 substrates were compared with CC and PM substrates to determine their suitability for producing crisp lettuce 'Big Bell' seedlings under plastic-house conditions. Substrates had significant effects on lettuce seedling traits. Shoots of C2–C4 substrate seedlings grew more rapidly than those of other substrate seedlings due to the increased length and diameter of their stem and leaf area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The risk for transmission of highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1) virus from dairy cows to humans is currently low; however, personal protective equipment (PPE) use during work activities on dairy farms has not been well described. PPE use can protect farmworkers when they are working with highly pathogenic avian influenza A(H5N1)–infected cows. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) and the Colorado Department of Agriculture (CDA) offered PPE to all Colorado farms before or during an A(H5N1) outbreak in cows in 2024. CDPHE surveyed 83 dairy workers from three farms with a confirmed bovine A(H5N1) outbreak. Frequently reported farm worker activities included milking cows or working in the milking parlor (51%), cleaning cow manure (49%), and transporting cows (46%). Frequently reported PPE items available to workers before A(H5N1) outbreaks included gloves (88%), eye protection (e.g., safety glasses or goggles) (76%), rubber boots or boot covers (71%), and head covers (69%). N95 respirator use was low among workers who were exposed to ill cows after detection of A(H5N1) virus (26%). PPE use while working with ill cows increased a mean of 28% after detection of A(H5N1) virus on surveyed farms; use of eye protection while milking cows increased the most (40%). Public health PPE distribution, education, and collaboration with CDA might have increased PPE use on dairy farms with A(H5N1) virus–infected cows and mitigated risk for farmworkers acquiring A(H5N1) virus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

15N tracing was carried out on sandy loam soil amended with (i) mineral nitrogen-phosphorus-potassium fertilizer (NPK) alone, (ii) half mineral N and half N from chicken manure (HFC), or (iii) half mineral N and half N from cattle manure (HCM), for 8 years. Cumulative N2O emissions during incubation were 30.2 µg N kg− 1 in the NPK treatment, which increased to 37.8 and 51.3 µg N kg− 1 in the HFC and HCM treatments, respectively. The majority of N2O emissions in all the treatments were attributed to nitrification (81.0% in the NPK treatment, 83.0% in the HFC treatment, and 85.1% in the HCM treatment). Compared with NPK, HCM treatment caused a significant increase in the gross rate of nitrification, while HFC treatment slightly enhanced the rate of dissimilatory NO3− reduction to NH4+. Additionally, HFC treatment achieved higher gross rates of organic N mineralization, and both HFC and HCM treatments had higher NH4+ mineralization-immobilization turnover (MIAT) rates than NPK treatment. The results suggest that application of cattle or chicken manure increased soil NH4+ availability. The gross rate of NO3− adsorption in the HCM treatment was greater than that in the NPK treatment, while the release of adsorbed NO3− in the HFC treatment was slower than that in the NPK treatment, indicating that application of cattle or chicken manure lowered the potential for NO3− leaching in soil. Overall, combining cattle or chicken manure with mineral fertilizer decreased NO3− availability but increased NH4+ availability, leading to higher N2O emissions through nitrification. Our results suggest that organic manures should be applied with nitrification inhibitors in sandy loam soil containing low organic carbon to increase soil fertility and mitigate N2O emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on the sole and complementary effect of wood ash and animal manures on phosphorus (P) and maize growth in literature is scarce. Therefore, this study was carried out to determine the sole effect of animal manures, wood ash, and their combined effect on P uptake and maize performance, in some alfisols of southwest Nigeria. Treatments included control, poultry manure (PM), poultry manure + wood ash (PMWA), cattle manure (CM), cattle manure + wood ash (CMWA), and wood ash (WA). Sole manures were applied at a rate of 5 tha−1, wood ash at a rate of 90 kg P ha−1 while mixtures of animal manure and wood ash were applied at 90 kg P ha−1and 5 tha−1 to soils under screen house and field conditions after which maize seeds were sown. Agronomic parameters of maize were measured fortnightly. Data collected were analyzed, and significant treatments were separated using the Duncan multiple range test. Result indicated that Maize plant height increased by 35, 33, 32, 31, 26, and 22% respectively with the single application of CMWA, PMWA, CM, PM, and WA from the 2nd to 8th weeks after planting. Furthermore, an increase of 28%, 29%, 31%, 35% and 48%, 41%, 30%, 27%, respectively, was recorded in CM, CMWA, PM, and PMWA amended pots relative to the control and WA in the screen house experiment. At 8 weeks after planting (WAP), the amendment effect was significant across all the experimental soils; an increase of 35%, 7%, and 182% in stem girth was recorded with the application of CM, respectively, relative to the control soil from Alabata, Obada, and Owode. The increase in leaf area from the 2nd week to the 8th week was in the order control (54%) < WA (58%) < CMWA (85%) < CM (87%) < PM (88%) < PMWA (114%) in the screen house. Furthermore, leaf area observed in CM, CMWA, PM, and PMWA was 178, 142, 115, and 102% higher than the control treatment. The residual effect of amendments on maize height indicated that maize plant heights in CM, CMWA, PM, and PMWA amended pots were 92, 51, 82, and 67% higher than the control. The application of PMWA significantly increased the dry matter yield of maize by 66, 135, 663, and 59% when compared to the control CM, CMWA, and PM, respectively. Phosphorus uptake in amended pots was the highest in PMWA amended pots for all the soils except soil from Obada in the first cycle of the screen house experiment. However, in the second cycle of the screen house experiment, CM had a residual effect on dry matter and P uptake in comparison to all other amendments. The percent mean increases of maize plant height from 2 to 12WAP of the field trial in plots are CMWA (26%), WA (29%), CM (30%), PMWA (30%), and PM (31%). The percent mean increases of maize stem girth were CMWA (263%), WA (316%), CM (290%), PMWA (291%), and PM (368%), and the percent mean increases of maize leaf area were WA (46%), CM (47%), PM (52%), CMWA (53%), and PMWA (54%) over the 12 weeks of the field experiment. All amendments significantly increased cob + grain yield, grain yield, and shoot yield above the control in the first and second cycle of the field experiment. Shoot P uptake was similar for all amendments in the first cycle while significant increases of 270%, 127%, and 296% were recorded in CMWA and PMWA applied plots comparative to control, PM, and WA, respectively, in the second cycle. However, the application of CMWA significantly increased grain P uptake than the control. Animal manures, wood ash, and their mixtures can increase agronomic parameters of maize, yield, and P uptake in maize under screen house and field experiments. The sole and complementary application of wood ash and animal manures is therefore recommended for maize production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recovery of energy potential through anaerobic digestion is a widely used method for treating biodegradable waste. However, challenges related to operational issues, waste characterization, and process instability hinder its widespread application and result in low methane yields. This review aims to organize and analyze the static and dynamic parameters that influence biogas yield in order to optimize its production. Biogas typically consists of 50–70% methane (CH4) and 30–50% carbon dioxide (CO2) along with traces of other gases. The paper highlights various solutions to enhance CH4 production, including substrate pre-treatment, co-digestion, Fe0 powder addition, anaerobic fungi, multi-stage biodigester design, and controlling factors influencing anaerobic digestion. These factors primarily include methanogenic potential, C/N ratio, digestion temperature, pH, reactor tightness, and Pressure. However, the use of bioreactors faces technical, socio-economic, and environmental constraints that vary between developed and less developed countries, as discussed in the paper. Through an analysis of over 30 substrate types, the optimum ratios for certain substrates to achieve higher biogas yields were identified. For cow manure mixed with other materials, the yield increases within a C/N ratio of 20–30 and decreases at a ratio of 35. In the case of poultry droppings mixed with other substrates, the yield increases within a C/N ratio of 18–22. Food waste yield, on the other hand, varies significantly due to the differing characteristics of food waste sources. In summary, this study emphasizes the importance of optimizing biogas production through understanding and controlling the influencing factors. It provides insights into potential solutions and optimum substrate ratios for improved biogas yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because the earthworm tegument represents their first barrier against environmental aggressions, we hypothesised that substrate-induced changes in earthworm growth would also alter the morphology of this protective layer. Therefore, a histological and morphometric study was performed on Eisenia fetida specimens that have been grown in five different organic residues: cow manure, horse manure, grape marc, coffee grounds, and a mixture of coffee grounds and cooking oil. The results showed that, across all treatments, both cuticle and epidermis were significantly thicker in the pre-clitellar region than after the clitellum, attributed to the fact that the former region is responsible for breaking up the soil. Notably, the growing media significantly altered the thickness of these two integumentary layers, and the greatest thicknesses were measured in grape marc and in the mixture coffee grounds + cooking oil, which makes them suitable organic residues for vermicomposting. By contrary, a significant epidermal thinning was observed when growing on coffee grounds alone, clearly indicating that it is a hostile environment for earthworms. Overall, these results reveal that tegument thickness can be used not only as a trait indicator of substrate quality but also of earthworm welfare, and it should be integrated in future toxicity assessment and captive breeding guidelines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although maintaining/improving soil organic matter (SOM) quantity through utilizing organic amendments (OAs) is a productive practice, information on OA components contributing to long-term SOM accumulation in agricultural soils remains meager. Hence, we examined soil samples from a long-term experiment with different fertilizer managements, including no fertilizer (NF), chemical fertilizer (CF) only (CF), bark compost plus CF (BC + CF), coffee residue compost plus CF (CRC + CF), cattle manure compost plus CF (CMC + CF), and cattle manure compost (CMC) or sewage sludge compost (SSC) alone at a higher application rate. SOM in those samples was physically fractionated into free particulate form (fSOM), free form occluded in aggregates (oSOM), weakly bound form (wSOM), and strongly bound form (sSOM). Analysis of structural components in OAs and SOM fractions using thermally assisted hydrolysis and methylation combined with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (THM-GC/MS) revealed OA components that have contributed to long-term SOM accumulation in each treatment. The SSC was characterized by higher proportions of short-chain fatty acids (FAs; 50%) and other aliphatic compounds (22%). Correlation analysis suggested that these characteristics may be effective for greater C accumulation in the bulk soil and wSOM fraction. The proportion of lignin-derived phenols, e.g., 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde (Vh) and 1,2-dimethoxy-4-(1,2,3-trimethoxypropyl)benzene, was high in CMC (43%), presumably vital for promoting C accumulations in the oSOM, wSOM, and sSOM fractions in the CMC treatment. The short-chain FAs in CRC and aromatic components in BC are likely important for contributing fSOM accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbivore dung quality (physical and chemical parameters) varies between animal species and animal diet which is influenced by seasonal fluctuations and farm management practices. Subsequently, this influences the reproductive success of dung beetles. In Australian pasture systems, how the introduced dung beetle assemblage interacts in the field with cattle dung derived from different resources is unknown. This study quantifies the colonization by dung beetles (abundance, species richness and evenness) and removal of cattle dung derived from three common temperate pasture systems (improved native, forage oat and rye/clover pasture, henceforth dung type) over 24 h for 12 months. From the three dung types, 13 species of dung beetle were captured. Abundance and species richness were influenced by month and transect, with weak evidence for differences between dung types influencing overall abundance: Onthophagus binodis (49.7%), Aphodius fimetarius (24.4%) and Labarrus lividus (17.1%) were the most abundant species. Dung removal (organic matter) was influenced by month and dung type, with more dung buried in improved native (23.9 g) and rye/clover (24.7 g) derived dung compared with forage oat (12.3 g) dung. Dung beetle abundance was positively correlated with removal of all dung types, with O. binodis biomass significantly influencing dung removal. This study showed that diet of bovine animals weakly influences the abundance of a local dung beetle assemblage, warranting further investigation on the influence of other dung types in different regions. Improvements to reporting of pasture species and growth stage is recommended for comparisons between dung derived sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While several studies have focused on utilizing banana pseudostem waste (BPW) for wastewater treatment via bio-coagulation, this process still suffers from secondary pollution caused by the disposal of generated sludge. To avoid this pollution transfer issue, this study is the first to focus on the recyclability of post-coagulation sludge (PCS) to recover added-value products. For this purpose, BPW was used as a model bio-coagulant for the decontamination of laundry wastewater (LWW), followed by anaerobic digestion and pyrolysis schemes to recover biogas and biochar, respectively. In the first experiment, BPW succeeded in removing 55.44 ± 1.21%, 90.40 ± 3.09%, and 78.13 ± 2.44% of chemical oxygen demand (COD), turbidity, and surfactant, respectively, at the optimized condition (pH = 3.5, dosage = 2.34 g/L, stirring speed = 160.6 rpm, and settling time = 55.5 min). Inoculating the spent bio-coagulant with cattle manure (CM), with a mixing ratio of 1:1 (w:w), showed a biogas yield of 110.33 ± 6.02 mL/g COD. The synergetic effect of spent coagulant and microbes of CM was further validated by performing a COD mass balance, showing that about 31.52 ± 1.63% of CODfeed was converted to bio-CH4 (as COD). Further, the thermal treatment of digestate was successfully employed for biochar recovery at a yield of 0.58 ± 0.05 g biochar/g dry digestate. The study also revealed that the triple LWW treatment/biogas/biochar strategy could gain economic benefits with a payback period of 4.4 years. Hence, BPW could be used as a promising feedstock for pollution reduction, energy generation, and gaining profits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Weeds are a major concern in crop production, and their environmental plasticity hinders successful control. A phytosociological study assessed weed distribution patterns in smallholder maize (Zea mays L.) production under different climatic and soil factors in the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 cropping seasons. Thirty‐six maize fields from the Highveld (Mankayane) and the Middleveld (Luve) of Eswatini, were investigated with three fertiliser regimes applied (cattle manure only, cattle manure plus inorganic fertiliser and inorganic fertiliser only). Phytosociological attributes of weed species including density were collected using a 25 m transect placed horizontally at the centre of each field. Climatic factors and soil physiochemical properties considered included altitude, rainfall, temperature, soil texture, soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc and manganese. Fifty‐six weed species belonging to 16 families were recorded. Distance‐based multivariate multiple regression (DistLM) analysis was used to determine the relationship between weed species composition as the dependent variable from the fertiliser regimes and the environmental factors as the independent variable. Eight environmental variables explained 25% variation in species distribution namely; altitude, temperature, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, copper, magnesium and percentage silt. At Luve, temperature, copper and magnesium significantly explained weed distribution in all three fertiliser regimes, while phosphorus influenced weed distribution in the manure only regime. At Mankayane, nitrogen affected weed distribution in the manure plus inorganic fertiliser and inorganic fertiliser regimes whereas altitude, phosphorus, potassium, and %silt influenced weed distribution in the manure only and manure plus inorganic fertiliser regimes. The observations suggest that some weed species coexist between fertiliser regimes and study areas while others occur in specific environments only. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fertilization is an important cultural practice used to support plant growth and development. Fertilizers provide plants with the nutrients they need, which help them to photosynthesize, grow and develop. Fertilizers are divided into two groups: organic and synthetic. Organic fertilizers are derived from organic materials such as manure, compost and bat guano. Synthetic fertilizers are produced using chemical methods. Methods: This study was conducted to determine the effects of different synthetic and organic fertilizer applications on silage quality and some micromorphological characteristics in maize plants. The study was conducted using a randomized complete block design with three replications. The RX-9292 silage maize variety was used as the plant material. Six different organic and synthetic fertilizer types with different contents (Control, Synthetic Fertilizer-1 (20 kg N, 8 kg P and 8 kg K per decare), Synthetic Fertilizer-2 (20 kg N, 10 kg P and 10 kg K per decare), Poultry Manure, Cattle Manure and Vermicompost). were used in the study. The ADF (%) (Acid Detergent Insoluble Fiber), NDF (%) (Neutral Detergent Insoluble Fiber), ADL (%) (Acid Detergent Insoluble Lignin), SDMR (%); (Silage Dry Matter Content) properties of the silage obtained were then examined. Additionally, the thickness of the cuticle, number and size of stoma-epidermis cells and stoma index o0f the leaves were measured and observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy. Result: As a result of the measurements and observations, it was found that both synthetic and organic fertilizer applications increased the yield and quality values in silage maize, but synthetic fertilizer applications were more advantageous than organic fertilizers. However, considering the environmental damage of synthetic fertilizers and the importance of organic fertilizer applications for animal health, organic fertilization is thought to be more appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The biomethane potential of insect frass and leachates from waste (larvae feedstock) stockpile was evaluated. Frass was derived from a black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) operation that uses a fruit and vegetable waste diet. The two waste streams were characterized and the results of their compositional, proximate, and ultimate analysis were used in estimating methane yields from these materials. The estimated biomethane potential (BMP) of the frass ranged 149–275 L/kgVS depending on the calculation method used. This result compares well with that of empirical studies for cow manure whose BMP ranges 110–275 L/kgVS. Cow manure is the most popular biogas feedstock globally. Leachates reported an estimated BMP of 150 L/kgCOD. We conclude that it may be technically feasible to produce biogas from BSFL frass and from fruit and vegetable waste leachates. However, standard BMP experiments and semicontinuous pilot studies are still necessary before commercialization of these findings. These extra tests are executed to validate these findings and ascertain the life cycle attribute and long‐term process stability and hence determine the economics of using these potential substrates for biogas production as a strategy to implementing circularity in the fruit and vegetable industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ecological assessment of the contents of Cr, Pb, Cd, Hg, and As in arable soils and crops grown in the central chernozemic region of Russia was carried out by the example of Belgorod oblast. It was found that average bulk contents of Cr, Pb, As, Cd, and Hg in leached arable chernozem were 19.8, 10.0, 4.15, 0.22, and 0.021 mg/kg; in typical arable chernozems, 20.0, 10.3, 4.18, 0.23, and 0.022 mg/kg; and in ordinary chernozems 20.9, 11.2, 5.48, 0.35, and 0.023 mg/kg, respectively. The average contents of mobile forms of Pb, Cr, and Cd were 0.52, 0.14, and 0.06 mg/kg in leached arable chernozems; 0.46, 0.13, and 0.05 mg/ka in typical arable chernozems; and 0.55, 0.13, and 0.04 mg/kg in ordinary chernozems, respectively. These elements did not exceed the established maximum permissible concentrations (MPCs) and tentative permissible concentrations (TPCs) for the studied soils. Organic fertilizers were found to be the main source of heavy metals in the arable soils of Belgorod oblast. Average concentrations of Cr, Pb, As, Cd, and Hg in cattle manure were 0.90, 0.78, 0.277, 0.060, and 0.0084 mg/kg, respectively. Among studied crops, sunflower seeds had the highest concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Cr, while winter wheat grains had the highest concentrations of Hg and As. Soybeans contained the lowest average contents of Pb, Hg, and As, and the corn grain had the lowest average contents of Cr, Cd, and As. In the grains of winter wheat, corn, soybeans, and sunflower seeds, the contents of Pb, Cd, Hg, and As did not exceed MPCs established for products intended for food purposes, and the concentration of Cr did not exceed the MPC established for feed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Animal Production & Processing Technology / JurnalIlmu Produksi dan Teknologi Hasil Peternakan is the property of IPB University 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.)

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Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco 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.)

Considering that biochar is highly regarded as a soil conditioner, it is necessary to investigate its environmental effects and effects on soil properties, including clay dispersion. Dispersion of clay in arid and semi-arid regions, in addition to destroying soil resources, causes environmental pollution and increases soil erosion. For this reason, there is a need to overcome this problem with existing solutions. This study aimed to investigate the effect of the application of different levels (0, 1.5, and 3% wt) of cow manure biochar on the amount of spontaneously and mechanically dispersible clay and the mean weight diameter of aggregates (MWD) in two calcareous soils with different textures (clay loam and sandy loam) in periods of 40, 80, and 120 days after application. The results showed that the application of 3% biochar increased the spontaneously dispersible clay by 4.2%, as well as the levels of 1.5% and 3% of biochar increased mechanically dispersible clay compared to that of the control by 4.3% and 30.8%, respectively. The amount of mechanically and spontaneously dispersible clay increased over time. While the effect of soil texture on spontaneously dispersible clay was insignificant, the amount of mechanically dispersible clay in the clay loam soil was 61.2% more than that of the sandy loam soil. Results also indicated that addition of 1.5% and 3% of biochar decreased the MWD of aggregates by 24.2 and 20.6% in the sandy loam and 16.5 and 13.6% in the clay loam soils, respectively. The mentioned decrease in MWD caused an increase in dispersible clay. The results of this research can provide the necessary information regarding the effect of biochar on the amount of clay dispersion to recommend using biochar as a soil conditioner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Composting is a common method for managing organic waste and creating nutrient-rich soil amendments. Recently, biochar, a carbon-rich material from biomass pyrolysis, has been noted for potentially improving composting. This study examines the impact of adding biochar to compost made from cow manure and kitchen waste through a controlled lab experiment. The treatments were labeled as CMX (cow manure), KWX (kitchen waste), and CMKWX (both) with X being the percentage of CM, KW, and CMKW minus that of biochar in the mixture. Key parameters such as temperature (T), pH, and electric conductivity (EC) were tracked during the composting processes, and the final composts were analyzed for total nitrogen (N), available nitrogen (AN), total phosphorus (TP), available phosphorus (AP), total potassium (TK), organic carbon (OC), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), and organic matter (OM). The results showed that adding less than 10% biochar influenced composting positively. Specifically, 5% biochar amendment led to higher thermophilic temperatures (45–57 °C) and stable pH levels (6.3–8.7) compared to controls. However, biochar did not significantly enhance EC, which peaked at 1.78 dS/m in both the control and 5% biochar treatments. Nutrient analysis revealed that biochar increased Ca2+ (13.62 meq/g) and Mg2+ (5.73 meq/g) retention in CM composts (CM85 and CM100). The highest OM content was 16.84% in CM90, while the lowest was 3.81% in CM95. Higher OM negatively affected TN, with CM treatments having more OM and KW treatments having more TN. TP and TK were higher in control treatments without biochar. This study highlights the benefits of integrating biochar with organic waste for enhancing compost nutrient profiles and soil fertility. It was observed that the more diverse the compost feedstock, i.e., CMKW, the higher the nutrient content for treatments containing less than 10% biochar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal 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.)

Concentrations of specific secondary metabolites can be higher in organically grown crops. This may be linked to organic nitrogen (N) nutrition that provides a gradual supply of N to crops over the growing season. This study examined whether organic N nutrition influenced the concentration of glucosinolates in broccoli crops. Nitrogen release patterns were determined from three synthetic (Rustica, 12% N; calcium nitrate, 15.5% N; urea, 46% N) and two organic fertilizers in an incubation experiment. Broccoli seedlings were then grown in two N dose response pot trials with different N source or application timing treatments to investigate growth and glucosinolate responses. Synthetic fertilizers released 84 to 89% of total N after 28 days, while chicken manure pellets and composted cow manure had only released 52% and 13% of total N, respectively, after 91 days. Broccoli yield and N content were generally higher in synthetic fertilizer treatments. Glucosinolate concentrations were generally higher in the synthetic fertilizer treatments, and only sinigrin and glucoiberin concentrations in the 800 kg ha−1 N application rate of organic fertilizer matched those in the corresponding synthetic fertilizer treatment. Broccoli head weight was reduced when N was applied fortnightly compared to basal and weekly N applications, but glucosinolate concentrations were not significantly different. Overall, there was no evidence that organic (chicken manure) N nutrition, or the rate of N supply to broccoli plants, affect glucosinolate concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study explores the bioenergy potential of animal manure based on the physicochemical and thermogravimetric analysis. This study examines the thermal degradation behaviour of cattle manure using different model-free approaches. Further, the artificial neural network (ANN) was used to train the recorded TGA data. The average activation energy was 159.47, 158.08, 159.89, 158.66, 158.36, and 161.65 kJ/mol using FWO, KAS, Friedman, Starink, Tang, and Boswell methods. Further, Criado master plots were also used to determine the reaction mechanism, and the Coats–Redfern (CR) method was used for the multi-component modelling. The best fit of the model was R2 of 0.990 at a heating rate of 20 °C/min as compared to other heating rates. R2 was determined to be the most appropriate mechanism at all heating rates, and it represents the second-order random nucleation. The several mechanisms that best fit the experimental data at 20 °C /min are as follows: R2 > R1.5 > D5 > R2.5 > R1 > N1.5 > R3 > N2 > D3 > G2 > R3.25 > D4 > N3 > R0.5 > D2 > R4 > D1 > N4 > P2/3 > R0. Also, activation energies were calculated from six different iso-conversional methods to determine the effect on thermodynamic parameters, namely, enthalpy, Gibbs free energy, and entropy change during the pyrolysis of cattle manure. This study develops an ANN-predicted modelling for determining the thermal behaviour of cattle manure at unknown heating rates and overcomes the challenges related to the effects of network parameters on the model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The co-digestion of agri-food by-products, such as Olive Mill Waste (OMW) and Cattle Manure (CM), is an efficient method for waste management and biogas production. OMW, characterized by a high soluble organic content, low methane yield, and limited biodegradability, contrasts with the easily degradable properties of CM. The synergistic use of these wastes enhances the hydrolytic-acidogenic phase, increasing the availability of Volatile Fatty Acids (VFAs) and thereby boosting biogas production through bacterial fermentation of VFAs. This study introduces a novel mathematical model for mesophilic anaerobic co- digestion of OMW and CM in batch reactors. The uniqueness of the model lies in its ability to balance comprehensiveness with simplicity, implemented in MATLAB, for both precision and user-friendliness. Its focus on crucial factors, such as total VFA and methane generation, sets it apart in the field of anaerobic digestion modeling. The exceptional performance of the model is evidenced by its high accuracy in predicting experimental results, achieving impressive R2 values of 0.96469 and 0.99133 for 50:50 and 75:25 OMW to CM ratios, respectively. These results demonstrated the robustness of the model in simulating key co-digestion parameters across varying substrate compositions. By enhancing the feasibility of numerical computation while maintaining high predictive accuracy, this approach represents a significant advance in biogas production optimization. The practical applicability and accuracy of the model make it a valuable tool for optimizing real-world waste management and renewable energy production processes, potentially leading to improved methane yields and overall biogas production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Advances in New & Renewable Energy is the property of Editorial Office of Advances in New & Renewable Energy 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.)

Improving the energy performance of buildings is critical in the construction sector. This study investigates the effects of incorporating coconut mesocarp fibers (F = Fiber) and bovine manure (M = Manure) on the thermal conductivity and compressive strength of concrete blocks. Bovine manure and coconut fiber replaced the block sand at maximum concentrations of 10 and 1.5%, respectively. Thermal conductivities were measured according to the ASTM C177 (2013) standard, compression tests were performed using the ASTM C140 standard, and characterization assays such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were performed to determine the morphological properties of the final material and its constituents. The results showed a 50% reduction in the thermal conductivity coefficient of the blocks when 10 and 1.5% of the sand was replaced with manure and coconut fiber, respectively. Similarly, incorporating coconut fiber at percentages of 0.5, 1, and 1.5% improved compressive strength results. Blocks comprising 0.5, 1, and 1.5% fiber or a mix of 3% manure and 1.5% fiber attained the compressive strength requirements established by the standard. This study demonstrated the feasibility of using coconut fiber mixed with cattle manure as a substitute for up to 2.5% of the sand in non-structural wall elements manufacturing, attaining a decrease in thermal conductibility of around 10%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growing world population, food demand has also increased, resulting in increased agricultural waste and livestock manure production. Wheat straw and cow dung are rich nutrient sources and, if not utilized properly, may lead to environmental pollution. Keeping in view the cultivation of Agaricus bisporus on straw/manure-based substrate, the current study aimed to optimize the conventional manure preparation technique to reduce nutrient losses and keep the quality of manure at its best. The treatments were considered as traditional and optimized schemes for mushroom substrate preparation. The results achieved herein indicated that the nutrient losses were low in the optimum scheme. For carbon (C), the loss was 43.55% at the substrate stage in the traditional scheme and reduced to 37.75% in the optimum scheme. In the case of nitrogen (N), the loss was 22.01% in the traditional scheme and was lower (18.49%) in the optimum scheme. The nutrient concentration in Agaricus bisporus was higher with the optimum scheme compared with the traditional scheme. It was 1.74% for C, 7.17% for N, 3.58% for phosphorus (P), and 4.92% for potassium (K). The optimum scheme also improved the Agaricus bisporus yield per unit area (84.55%) and the total yield (28.92%). The net income of the optimum scheme was 102.95% higher compared to the traditional scheme. The economic analysis also revealed that the benefit–cost ratio of the optimum scheme was high (48.86%) compared with the traditional scheme. This study concludes that the use of the optimum scheme can better utilize the wheat straw and cow manure waste for substrate preparation and reducing nutrient losses. In addition, the final mushroom residue can also be used as a leftover substrate for further utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ukraine Abstract. The goal of the work is to increase the yield of methane in biogas plants due to the joint methane fermentation of cattle manure with apple pomace. To achieve this goal, the following tasks were solved: the yield of biogas from cattle manure was determined with the addition of apple pomace to the substrate and fermentation in psychrophilic and mesophilic temperature conditions of the biogas plant. Based on the obtained experimental data of fermentation at temperatures of 22±1°C and 36±1°C of the fermenter, the biogas yield was assessed and the rational temperature regime for the operation of the biogas plant was determined. The studies were carried out on a laboratory biogas plant, consisting of a fermenter and a wet-type gasholder. A glass container with a total volume of 3 dm3 was used as a fermenter. The novelty of the chosen topic lies in the fact that the maximum methane output rate was determined under periodic loading of the fermenter, which for the psychrophilic temperature regime is 0.0033 m3/(kg DOM∙day), and in the mesophilic temperature regime mode 4 times more - 0.012 m3/(kg DOM∙day). The significance of the results lies in the fact that based on the results of the dynamics of methane output during periodic loading of the fermenter, it is possible to predict a constant methane output in industrial biogas plants that operate in a quasi-continuous mode, which will be equal to the maximum methane output during periodic loading of the fermenter.

• The elevated HTC temperature reduced the DOM release from hydrochars. • Three fluorescent components were identified in hydrochar DOM by EEM-PARAFAC. • Feedstock type and HTC temperature significantly affected the DOM characteristics. • The elevated HTC temperature reduced the germination index value of hydrochar DOM. The dissolved organic matter (DOM) with high mobility and reactivity plays a crucial role in soil. In this study, the characteristics and phytotoxicity of DOM released from the hydrochars prepared from different feedstocks (cow manure, corn stalk and Myriophyllum aquaticum) under three hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) temperatures (180, 200 and 220°C) were evaluated. The results showed that the hydrochars had high dissolved organic carbon content (20.15 to 37.65 mg/g) and its content showed a gradual reduction as HTC temperature increased. Three fluorescent components including mixed substance of fulvic acid-like and humic acid-like substances (C1, 30.92%-58.32%), UVA humic acid-like substance (C2, 25.27%-29.94%) and protein-like substance (C3, 11.74%-41.92%) were identified in hydrochar DOM by excitation emission matrix spectra coupled with parallel factor analysis. High HTC temperature increased the relative proportion of aromatic substances (C1+C2) and humification degree of hydrochar DOM from cow manure, while it presented adverse effects on the hydrochar DOM from corn stalk and Myriophyllum. aquaticum. The principal component analysis suggested that feedstock type and HTC temperature posed significant effects on the characteristics of hydrochar DOM. Additionally, seed germination test of all hydrochar DOM demonstrated that the root length was reduced by 8.88%-26.43% in contrast with control, and the germination index values were 73.57%-91.12%. These findings provided new insights into the potential environmental effects for hydrochar application in soil. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Antibiotics (OTC, CIP) reduced manure carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus release rate. • OTC and CIP greatly altered microbial community structure during decomposition. • OTC and CIP decreased G-bacterial abundance and activity of digestive enzymes. • CIP had greater impact on microbial community structure than OTC. • G+ bacteria in cattle manure were OTC-tetracycline-resistant. The land application of livestock manure has been widely acknowledged as a beneficial approach for nutrient recycling and environmental protection. However, the impact of residual antibiotics, a common contaminant of manure, on the degradation of organic compounds and nutrient release in Eutric Regosol is not well understood. Here, we studied, how oxytetracycline (OTC) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) affect the decomposition, microbial community structure, extracellular enzyme activities and nutrient release from cattle and pig manure using litterbag incubation experiments. Results showed that OTC and CIP greatly inhibited livestock manure decomposition, causing a decreased rate of carbon (28%–87%), nitrogen (15%–44%) and phosphorus (26%–43%) release. The relative abundance of gram-negative (G-) bacteria was reduced by 4.0%–13% while fungi increased by 7.0%–71% during a 28-day incubation period. Co-occurrence network analysis showed that antibiotic exposure disrupted microbial interactions, particularly among G- bacteria, G+ bacteria, and actinomycetes. These changes in microbial community structure and function resulted in decreased activity of urease, β-1,4-N-acetyl-glucosaminidase, alkaline protease, chitinase, and catalase, causing reduced decomposition and nutrient release in cattle and pig manures. These findings advance our understanding of decomposition and nutrient recycling from manure-contaminated antibiotics, which will help facilitate sustainable agricultural production and soil carbon sequestration. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Penicillium oxalicum is an important fungal agent in the composting of cattle manure, but the changes that occur in the microbial community, physicochemical factors, and potential functions of microorganisms at different time points are still unclear. To this end, the dynamic changes occurring in the microbial community and physicochemical factors and their correlations during the composting of cattle manure with Penicillium oxalicum were analysed. Results The results showed that the main phyla observed throughout the study period were Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, Halanaerobiaeota, Apicomplexa and Ascomycota. Linear discriminant analysis effect size (LEfSe) illustrated that Chitinophagales and Eurotiomycetes were biomarker species of bacteria and eukaryote in samples from Days 40 and 35, respectively. Bacterial community composition was significantly correlated with temperature and pH, and eukaryotic microorganism community composition was significantly correlated with moisture content and NH4 +-N according to redundancy analysis (RDA). The diversity of the microbial communities changed significantly, especially that of the main pathogenic microorganisms, which showed a decreasing trend or even disappeared after composting. Conclusions In conclusion, a combination of high-throughput sequencing and physicochemical analysis was used to identify the drivers of microbial community succession and the composition of functional microbiota during cattle manure composting with Penicillium oxalicum. The results offer a theoretical framework for explaining microecological assembly during cattle manure composting with Penicillium oxalicum.

Lactic acid is used in various industrial processes, including the production of emulsifiers, polymers, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Fermentation of renewable biomass from natural sources has several advantages over costly chemical methods. Thermal and acidic pretreatments were used to improve the availability of sugars in the medium. Bacillus coagulans was isolated from the banana pseudostem; it was cultured with cattle manure-banana pseudostem for the improved production of lactic acid. Lactic acid production was high in the culture medium containing a 1:1 ratio of cow manure and banana pseudostem after 72 h of fermentation. After 24 h, lactic acid production was 19.4 ± 1.2 g/kg substrate, and it increased after 48 h (20.5 ± 0.1 g/kg substrate), and 72 h (26.3 ± 0.1 g/kg substrate). Lactic acid synthesized by B. coagulans was purified and used for the synthesis of polylactic acid. Polylactic acid was used for the fabrication of composite materials with cellulose and silver nanoparticles. The scanning electron microscopy image showed a smooth surface with uniform particle sizes. The fabricated nanoparticles showed antibacterial activity against food spoilage bacteria. The film was used to pack goat meat and chicken meat. The fabricated film reduced the bacterial load in the stored meat and improved food quality.

Fermentative volatile fatty acid (VFA) production is a sustainable approach for waste valorization. However, selective product recovery remains challenging due to the range of VFAs produced and their dilute concentrations, requiring energy‐intensive purification. Membrane‐based electrochemical separations comprise an energy‐efficient and continuous platform for small molecule separations. At the same time, there is a lack of suitable ion‐exchange membranes for separating between structurally similar organic acids. Here, bicontinuous polyelectrolyte complex (PEC)‐layered nanofiltration membranes are designed for the selective recovery of VFAs using redox‐mediated electrodialysis. Hydrophobic modification of polyelectrolytes via aza‐Michael addition precisely tunes the complexation‐induced phase separation behaviors and the assembled nanostructures. Surface‐confined layer‐by‐layer complexation generates a nanoscale bicontinuous PEC active layer with tailored surface properties that is inaccessible through bulk complexation. Redox‐mediated electrodialysis using the nanostructured membrane exhibits enhancement of both ion permeability and selectivity toward VFAs, with notable reduction of energy consumption by up to 80% compared to conventional electrodialysis. Treatment of synthetic and cow manure fermentation effluents showcases 2 to 4‐fold enrichment of VFAs and simultaneous removal of co‐existing organic acids, with an energy consumption as low as 1.5 kWh kg−1. These findings advance the understanding of interfacial complexation‐induced phase separation of polyelectrolytes and the development of next‐generation nanostructured membranes for multicomponent separations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe production of Moringa oleifera L. using sustainable and accessible regional inputs constitutes an alternative to boost its cultivation in tropical environments. This study aimed to evaluate the production of M. oleifera seedlings cultivated in substrate constituted of different proportions of organic compost and soils. The treatments consisted of substrates obtained from five proportions of organic compost from tree pruning and bovine manure (0:100; 20:80; 40:60; 60:40, and 80:20 v/v of organic compost and soil). After 120 days of sowing, the following evaluations were carried out: root length, plant height, stem diameter, aerial part dry matter mass, roots, total and their relationships, chlorophyll A, B and total, Dickson Quality Score and accumulations of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in the aerial part dry matter mass. The application of different proportions of organic compost for the formulation of the substrate stimulated the growth of M. oleifera seedlings for all the variables analyzed. The dose of organic compost that provided greater responses based on Dickson Quality Index was 73% of organic compost added to the soil to form the substrate and therefore recommended for the production of M. oleifera L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigated the production of compost from concentrated latex sludge as a conditioner and studied the properties of the compost in four different experiments using different ratios of composting ingredients: concentrated latex sludge, urea, and cow manure. The different ratios were used were: 3.0:0:0, 2.0:0.5:0.5, 2.0:1.0:0, and 2.0:0:1.0, respectively. All compost formulations were analyzed for their properties, specifically the average of: temperature, moisture content, pH, electrical conductivity, and organic matter. It was shown that a suitable compost fermentation period lasted for 50 days. The properties of the compost derived from concentrated latex sludge included an average temperature range of 29.80-38.06 °C, the percentage of moisture content ranged from 78.92% to 81.82%, pH was between 8.34 - 8.48, electrical conductivity (EC) was 3.18 - 6.13 decisiemens/meter, and quantity of organic matter ranged from 38.51%-42.71%. Among treatments, the compost in the second treatment with the ratio 2.0:0.5:0.5 was found to be the most suitable, showing the greatest economic value and investment return due to its superior N: P: K content which was the highest in the experiment. Specifically, the percentage contents of N, P, K were 4, 0.95%, and 0.39% respectively. In analysis of economical value, the compost yielded a return on investment 48.47% and a net profit of 1,537.80 Baht per production cycle. In conclusion, the production of compost from concentrated latex sludge contained primary micronutrients and had potential for promoting plant growth as a soil conditioner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Return of crop residues directly as straw, animal manure, or biochar are recommended management options for biowaste recycling and soil organic carbon (SOC) maintenance in agriculture. However, to address the soil health challenges associated with soil degradation and climate change, it is critical to determine if or which of these different forms of crop residues could deliver a synergic improvement in SOC storage, emission reduction, and crop productivity following field application. In this study, maize straw in the form of air‐dried biomass (CS), manure via cattle digestion (CM), and biochar via pyrolysis (CB) was respectively amended once at a dose of 10 t C ha−1, in comparison to no maize straw addition (CK), in a paddy field under rice‐wheat rotation. Changes in soil properties, SOC storage, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and rice/wheat yield were examined over two consecutive rice/wheat rotation cycles following soil amendment. The total rice grain yield considerably increased by 6% under CM and CB, while it reduced by 6% under CS compared to CK. Soil nutrient content persistently increased under CM and CB by 4.2% ~ 17% and 11% ~ 26% for total nitrogen, 26% ~ 61% and 20% ~ 53% for available P, and 2% ~ 82% and 30% ~ 115% for available K, respectively. Topsoil SOC storage increased considerably by 8% under CM and 20% under CB, while remained unchanged under CS, compared to CK. The total methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions were considerably increased by 7 folds and 15% under CS and 3.5 folds and 61% under CM, respectively, compared to CK. In contrast, these emissions considerably decreased under CB by 33% for CH4 and 29% for N2O. Consequently, the C emission efficiency considerably reduced under CS and CM but increased under CB over the two rotation cycles monitored. Moreover, the soil quality index (SQI) considerably improved under CM and CB but remained unchanged under CS compared to CK. Among the different forms of straw return, manure, and biochar, straw amendments differed considerably in their effects on C sequestration, GHG emissions, and crop productivity. Only biochar from crop residues synergistically improved these functions in the short‐term following application to paddy soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Azolla filiculoides is a tiny, free-floating aquatic fern and has a potential alternative protein and fibre source for ruminants, was investigated for its cultivation optimisation and feedstuff suitability. Study 1 was conducted to investigate the influence of different fertiliser types (control, broiler manure, sheep manure, cow manure) and concentrations (0.25 g/L-1.25 g/L) on the growth performance (fresh weight, doubling time, relative growth rate) and nutrient composition (dry matter, ash, crude protein, crude fibre, crude fat) of A. filiculoides. The optimised type of fertiliser and concentration in Study 1 were further adopted in Study 2 to evaluate the effect of different fertiliser processing methods on the growth performance, nutritive value and in vitro rumen digestibility of A. filiculoides upon cultivation. The findings in Study 1 showed that cultivation of A. filiculoides using sheep manure at the concentration of 1.00 g/L is the best resulted in the shortest doubling time (3 to 5 days) and produced fresh weight (FW), relative growth rate (RGR), crude protein (CP) and crude fibre (CF) at 132.2 g/m², 0.32 g/g/day, 21.2% DM-1 and 14.4% DM-1, respectively. Furthermore, unprocessed sheep manure (T3) exhibited superior (p < 0.05) fresh weight, relative growth rate, nutrient composition and fibre components compared to the burned manure treatment (T2). In vitro digestibility analysis discovered that T3 achieved a 24-hour accumulated gas production of 86.9 mL DM-1, with in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD), in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) and metabolisable energy (ME) of 82.9%, 43.7% and 5.8 MJ/kg DM, respectively. These findings suggest that Azolla filiculoides cultivation can be economically optimised using 1.00 g/L unprocessed sheep manure (fresh manure), potentially serving as a self-produced, nutritious feedstuff for ruminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study analyzed the effect of temperature, pH, pre-treatment and mixing ratio on the anaerobic digestion process. The parameters during the anaerobic co-digestion of cow manure and food waste were then optimized using the Taguchi experimental design method. ANOVA was carried out to find the significant parameters which influence biogas production. Experimental tests were carried out at laboratory-scale reactors kept at different temperatures (28 °C, 35 °C, and 50 °C). The specific methanogenic performance (SMP) during anaerobic digestion at higher temperatures was characterized with the analysis of acetate, propionate, butyrate, hydrogen, glucose, and formate, and was validated with the literature. The improvement of biogas production with different pre-treatments, i.e., ultrasonic, autoclave, and microwave techniques, was also analyzed. The results showed that the reactor that was maintained at 35 °C showed the highest biogas production, while the reactor that was maintained at a lower temperature (28 °C) produced the lower volume of biogas. As the retention time increases, the amount of biogas production increases. Methanogenic activities of microorganisms were reduced at higher temperature conditions (65 °C). Biogas production increased by 28.1%, 20.23%, and 13.27% when the substrates were treated with ultrasonic, autoclave, and microwave, respectively, compared to the untreated substrate. The optimized condition for the highest biogas production during anaerobic co-digestion of food waste and cow manure is a temperature of 35 °C, a pH of 7 and a mixing ratio (CM:FW = 1.5:0.5). ANOVA showed that temperature is the most important input parameter affecting biogas production, followed by mixing ratio. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shaanxi is a leading province in animal husbandry (AH) in China. However, the lack of provincial information on the characteristics and utilization potential of livestock manure (LM) hinders crucial management decisions. Therefore, we investigated the spatiotemporal distribution, availability and biogas potential of LM in Shaanxi, and examine the carbon emission reduction potential of AH. There has been a 1.26-fold increase in LM quantities in Shaanxi over the past 35 years, reaching 4635.6 x 104 t by 2021. LM was mainly concentrated in northern Shaanxi and the eastern part of Hanzhong. Cattle and pig manure were the primary sources of LM, with the average LM land-load of 14.57 t·ha-1 in 2021. While the overall AH in Shaanxi has not exceeded the environmental capacity, the actual scales of AH in Ankang and Hanzhong have already surpassed the respective environmental capacities, posing a higher risk of N and P pollutions. In 2021, the estimated biogas energy potential of LM was 1.2 x 1011 MJ. From 2012 to 2021, the average carbon emission reduction potential in Shaanxi was 22%, with an average potential scale of 10%. The results of this research provide valuable data and policy recommendations for promoting the intensive use of LM and reducing carbon emissions in Shaanxi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biochar is stable in soil and can have long-term effects on its physicochemical properties. Hence, a pot experiment was conducted with medium-fertility (MF) and low-fertility (LF) soils after 1 year of rice husk biochar and organic fertilizer application to determine biochar's residual effects on soil chemical properties, grain yield, and greenhouse gas emissions. In previous years, biochar alone (at application rates of 5 and 10 t ha−1) and biochar combined with chicken manure (CHM) or cow manure (at application rate of 5 t ha−1) were applied to the soil. In the present year, the soils were fertilized with only chemical fertilizers. Results indicated that application of 10 t ha−1 biochar combined with 5 t ha−1 CHM (B10:CHM) produced the highest grain yield and total global warming potential (GWPtotal) in both soils. Regarding grain yield, non-significant results were detected for B10:CHM, B5:CHM, and B10. This study revealed that biochar retains nutrients without annual reapplication and has long-term effects. Although biochar application can suppress N2O emissions effectively, the combined application of biochar 10 t ha−1 and organic manure significantly increased CH4 emissions. Overall, B5:CHM can be recommended for rice cultivation since it improves grain yield without increasing GWPtotal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of organic manure is an effective way to develop sustainable agriculture. However, the application of organic manure may be associated with a potential risk of heavy metal pollution for soil and crops. In this study, the effects of organic cow manure (T1) (as base fertilizer), organic pig manure (T2) (as base fertilizer) and chemical fertilizer (T3) on winter wheat grain yields, grain quality, heavy metal concentrations and heavy metal bioconcentration factors (BCFs) in a soil–wheat system were studied from November 2021 to June 2023. The results showed that the winter wheat grain yields in the T1 and T2 treatments were lower than those in the T3 treatment by 2.57–38.0% and 10.5–25%, respectively. There were no significant differences in quality indexes of winter wheat grain among different fertilizer treatments. The concentrations of heavy metals in topsoil and winter wheat were 0.12–76.11 μg/g and 0.01–43.25 μg/g, respectively. The BCFs of heavy mental in the soil–wheat grain system was 0–2.92. In general, there were no significant differences in heavy metals' concentrations in topsoil and wheat grain among different fertilizer treatments. In summary, compared with chemical fertilizer, the short-term application of organic manures had no significant effect on heavy metals concentrations in topsoil and wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Asian dung beetle (Catharsius molossus L.; Coleoptera: Scarabeidae) has been shown to positively affect soil bacterial diversity and the agronomic features of crop plants. In this study, we used bioinformatic tools to investigate the differences in bacterial functional phenotypes and ecological functions between control soil, cow dung-amended soil (CD), and cow dung-amended soil composted by dung beetles (DB). The soil bacterial metagenomes were sequenced and analyzed with the bioinformatic packages BugBase, PICRUSt2, Tax4Fun, and FAPROTAX to evaluate the effects of dung beetle-mediated composting on bacterial functions such as human and plant pathogenicity, trophic strategies, and soil nutrient transformation. BugBase proved useful for the determination of differences in major functional phenotypes, whereas FAPROTAX was effective at identifying differences in bacterial ecological functions between the treatments. Both tools suggested a relative decrease in human pathogens in the DB soil. This was corroborated by the pairwise comparison of abundances in bacterial species, which showed a significant reduction in the abundance of the broad-host-range pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa in the DB soil. In addition, FAPROTAX suggested a decrease in plant pathogens and an increase in chitinolytic bacteria, meaning that the DB treatment might be beneficial to the plant-growth-promoting bacteria involved in biological control. Finally, FAPROTAX revealed an array of ecological functions related to trophic strategies and macro- and micronutrient metabolism. According to these results, the activity of C. molossus beetles enhanced methanotrophy, ammonification, nitrification, sulfate reduction, and manganese oxidation, whereas iron respiration was decreased in the DB-treated soil. Our results represent a collection of general insights into the effects of C. molossus beetles on soil bacterial functions, which also reflect on the nutrient composition of dung beetle-composted soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]