Compost Research Articles

Mycorrhizal symbiosis and natural dye waste organic fertilizer: Enhancing growth and yield in indigofera tinctoria

Background: Indigofera tinctoria, commonly known as true indigo, is a plant widely used in the textile industry for its natural indigo dye, which produces a rich blue color for fabrics. Indigofera tinctoria, known for its natural bluish-purple dye, generates 10% dye and 90% waste during extraction, requiring effective waste management. This study aimed to optimize organic fertilizer and mycorrhiza doses from I. tinctoria waste for enhancing soil fertility in arid regions. Methods: The study was conducted from May to December 2020 in Puron Village, Bulu District, Sukoharjo Regency. A factorial Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD) with 2 factors was employed. The first factor consisted of 5 levels of I. tinctoria organic fertilizer treatments: 0, 100, 200, 300, and 400 g per plant. The second factor included 3 levels of mycorrhiza treatments: 0, 10, and 20 g per plant. Variables observed included mycorrhizal infection on roots, plant growth rate, and yield (fresh leaf and shoot weight of I. tinctoria). Data analysis utilized ANOVA at a 5% significance level followed by Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). Results: The results indicated that organic fertilizer from natural dye waste at a dosage of 200 g per plant increased the percentage of mycorrhizal-infected roots and boosted shoot weight by 63.27% at 8 weeks after planting (WAP). Mycorrhiza at 10 g per plant increased mycorrhizal infection percentage and enhanced shoot weight by 45.98% at 4 WAP. The combination of I. tinctoria extraction waste organic fertilizer at 200 g per plant and mycorrhiza at 10 g per plantshowed interaction, significantly increasing the growth of root nodules of Indigofera tinctoria by 84.04% at 12 WAP. Conclusion: The integration of organic fertilizer derived from indigo dye waste and mycorrhiza presents a promising strategy for enhancing I. tinctoria growth and productivity. Novelty/Originality of this Study: This study is distinctive in its demonstration of the effective use of I. tinctoria extraction waste as an organic fertilizer, aligning with zero-waste principles and contributing to improvements in plant growth and soil fertility. Furthermore, it investigates the synergistic effects of mycorrhizal associations on enhancing nutrient absorption and overall productivity of I. tinctoria, an aspect that has not been thoroughly explored in prior research.

The Growth Dynamics of King Grass (Pennisetum purpureophoides) in The Application of Beef Cattle Dung Enriched Azolla microphylla

Research on the cultivation of king grass (Pennisetum purpureophoides) was conducted to obtain information on growth, productivity, and continuity in providing forage for a sustainablee ruminant farming business. One of the cultivation factors is fertilization using beef cow manure as a renewable, inexhaustible natural resource or organic fertilizer. Improving the quality beef manure is important for better stimulation of plant growth and production. Fertilizer can be enriched with Azolla microphylla as a good nitrogen contributor. This study used beef cow dung fertilizer at doses of 10, 20, 30 tons per hectare per defoliation, and Azolla microphylla enrichment by 0%, 10%, and 20 % as treatments in a completely randomized design (CRD). The observed variables were plant growth (plant height, stem diameter, number of plants, and number of leaves as production), every 14 days until harvesting on day 42. The data obtained were analyzed descriptively based on the dynamics of plant growth. The result showed that the growth dynamics of the king grass were strongly influenced by fertilizer and plant’s age but no interaction each other. In conclusion fertilizer made of beef cattle dung enriched with Azolla microphylla is a feasible nitrogen source. The optimum results were obtained from using 30 tons beef cattle dung enriched with 20% Azolla microphylla to fertilize per hectare per defoliation soil.

The Overlooked Decomposers: Effects of Composting Materials and Duration on the Mesofauna Mediating Humification

Compost fauna act by releasing various enzymes that break down organic matter into a stable, agriculturally useful products. Mesofauna are the least studied compared to micro- and macrofauna, with the existing studies relying on classical methods such as morphological identification, essentially leaving out cryptic taxa. We sought to evaluate the ecological response of the mesofauna community to different composting materials and durations. Total mesofauna community 18S rRNA was purified in triplicate from lantana-based, tithonia-based, grass-based, and mixed (lantana + tithonia + grass)-based compost heaps after 21, 42, 63, and 84 days of composting and sequenced using the Illumina Miseq platform. Before performing statistical data analysis, we used the Divisive Amplicon Denoising Algorithm version 2 workflow for bioinformatic analyses. The composting duration, but not the composting materials, significantly influenced the total population and composition of the mesofauna communities. The composting materials and duration significantly affected the dispersion and uniqueness of the compost mesofauna communities. Canonical correspondence analysis of the compost’s physical–chemical and biological states showed a significant influence of the materials on the mesofauna community colonization capacity. The mesofauna communities had a significant response to the composting duration. This, therefore, presents them as valuable tools for understanding the temporal evolution of compost.

Assembly of root-associated bacterial community and soil health in cadmium-contaminated soil affected by nano/bulk-biochar compost associations

Biochar (BC) has been proven effective in promoting the production of safety food in cadmium (Cd)-polluted soil and the impact can be further enhanced through interaction with compost (CM). However, there existed unclear impacts of biochar with varying particle sizes in conjunction with compost on microbiome composition, rhizosphere functions, and soil health. Hence, in this study, two bulk-biochar derived from wood chips and pig manure were fabricated into nano-biochar using a ball-milling method. Subsequently, in a field experiment, the root-associated bacterial community and microbial functions of lettuce were evaluated in respond to Cd-contaminated soil remediated with nano/bulk-BCCM. The results showed that compared to bulk-BCCM, nano-BCCM significantly reduced the Cd concentration in the edible part of lettuce and the available Cd in the soil. Both nano-BCCM and bulk-BCCM strongly influenced the composition of bacterial communities in the four root-associated niches, and enhanced rhizosphere functions involved in nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon cycling, as well as the relative abundance and biodiversity of keystone modules in rhizosphere soil. Furthermore, soil quality index analysis indicated that nano-BCCM exhibited greater potential than bulk-BCCM in maintaining soil health. The data revealed that nano-BCCM could regulate the Cd concentration in lettuce shoot by promoting microbial biodiversity of keystone modules in soil-root continuum and rhizosphere bacterial functions. These findings suggest that nano-biochar compost associations can be a superior strategy for enhancing microbial functions, maintaining soil health, and ensuring crop production safety in the Cd-contaminated soil compared to the mix of bulk-biochar and compost.

Research Progress on Efficient Aerobic Composting Technology for Livestock and Poultry Manure

This paper systematically reviews the challenges faced by aerobic composting in pollution reduction and carbon emission mitigation, including the control of heavy metal contamination, antibiotic residue, estrogen, microplastics, and the reduction of environmentally impactful gases (including greenhouse gases). Based on the analysis of these points, technological advancements for emission reduction, pollution control, and efficiency enhancement are summarized, aiming to provide scientific references for the upgrading of aerobic composting technology for livestock and poultry manure. This research holds significant importance for promoting the green development transformation of agricultural aerobic composting technology and enhancing energy conservation, emission reduction, and pollution control in the agricultural sector.

New insight into bacterial communities of chicken manure composting under increased carbon to nitrogen ratios: Spatial heterogeneity in diversity, networks, and assembly processes

Ammonia is emitted from compost piles with inherent spatial heterogeneity, while adjusting carbon to nitrogen (C/N) ratios can mitigate ammonia emissions. However, the role of spatial heterogeneity in composting bacterial communities mediating nitrogen conversion remains unclear. This study explored bacterial spatial heterogeneity at different locations in piles and its links to ammonia emission during chicken manure composting under increased C/N ratios. Compared with manure-only composting (C/N ratio 7), composting under increased C/N ratios of 16 reduced ammonia emissions by 57.60 % and 22.62 % by adding pine wood and peanut shell, respectively. Meanwhile, significant spatial variations in Sobs, Shannon, and node numbers (P < 0.05) during manure-only composting became insignificant due to C/N ratio increases. Null model and neutral community model showed that stochasticity strongly drove community assembly in all treatments. Assembly process balancing became spatially consistent under increased C/N ratios, shaping the corresponding reduced spatial heterogeneity in alpha-diversity and networks. The variation patterns of spatial heterogeneity in Sobs, node numbers, and dispersal limitation ratios were similar to that of cumulative ammonia emission decreasing with increasing C/N ratio. Additionally, cumulative ammonia emission was positively associated with spatial heterogeneity in Sobs (R2 = 0.49, P < 0.05) and dispersal limitation ratios (R2 = 0.53, P < 0.05), while the heterogeneity explained 60.33 % of ammonia variations. This study demonstrated that reduced bacterial spatial heterogeneity was associated with ammonia emission reductions under increased C/N ratios. The improved understanding of bacterial spatial heterogeneity during composting will provide a new perspective for indicating and regulating ammonia emissions.

Biochar Co-Compost: A Promising Soil Amendment to Restrain Greenhouse Gases and Improve Rice Productivity and Soil Fertility

Agriculture is a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Biochar has been recommended as a potential strategy to mitigate GHG emissions and improve soil fertility and crop productivity. However, few studies have investigated the potential of biochar co-compost (BCC) in relation to soil properties, rice productivity, and GHG emissions. Therefore, we examined the potential of BC, compost (CP), and BCC in terms of environmental and agronomic benefits. The study comprised four different treatments: control, biochar, compost, and biochar co-compost. The application of all of the treatments increased the soil pH; however, BC and BCC remained the top performers. The addition of BC and BBC also limited the ammonium nitrogen (NH4+-N) availability and increased soil organic carbon (SOC), which limited the GHG emissions. Biochar co-compost resulted in fewer carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, while BC resulted in fewer methane (CH4) emissions, which was comparable with BCC. Moreover, BC caused a marked reduction in nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions that was comparable to BCC. This reduction was attributed to increased soil pH, nosZ, and nirK abundance and a reduction in ammonia-oxidizing archaea (AOA) and ammonia-oxidizing bacteria (AOB) abundance. The application of different amendments, particularly BCC, favored rice growth and productivity by increasing nutrient availability, soil carbon, and enzymatic activities. Lastly, BCC and BC also increased the abundance and diversity of soil bacteria, which favored plant growth and caused a reduction in GHG emissions. Our results suggest that BCC could be an important practice to recycle organic sources while optimizing climate change and crop productivity.

Integrated plant nutrient supply modules for enhancing crop growth, productivity and nutrient balance in maize - chickpea cropping sequence

A long-term field study was conducted to evaluate integrated plant nutrient supply (IPNS) system in maizechickpea cropping sequence. In this study, twelve IPNS modules of Soil Test Crop Response (STCR) based fertilizers, recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM), urban compost (UC), maize residue (MR) and Gliricidia loppings (GL) were investigated. Results indicated that plant height, dry biomass, yield parameters (cob length and girth, grains/cob and 1000-grains weight) and yields (grain and stover) of maize significantly (p=0.05) improved with IPNS module (75% NPK +5 t FYM) and increased 31.8 and 23.8% grain yield over the RDF and 100% NPK of STCR, respectively. In chickpea, the higher plant height, dry biomass, pods/ plant and yields (grain and straw) were obtained with the residual fertility of FYM @ 25 t/ha every year and followed by IPNS module (75%NPK +5 t FYM). However, residual fertility of PM and UC based IPNS modules also considerably improved the crop growth and yields of chickpea. Substantially higher system productivity was also noticed with 75% NPK +5 t FYM and followed 75% NPK +1 t PM based IPNS modules which was 1.86 and 0.99 t/ ha higher than RDF. A positive nutrient balance was recorded with addition of higher level FYM only (25 t/ha) Whereas, a negative nutrient balance was noticed for N and K in all plots excluding higher level of organic manures. However, there has been substantial build-up of N, P and K in plots receiving 25 t FYM every year. The additional supply of nutrients (organic + inorganic) is crucial for positive nutrients balance. Thus, STCR based fertilizers (75% NPK) along 25% nutrients through organic manures (FYM and PM) sustained the crop yield while the addition of FYM (25 t/ha) is essential for a positive balance of nutrients in the soil.

A comprehensive scenario of heavy metals pollution in the rivers of Bangladesh during the last two decades.

For decades, rivers have been used for transporting pollutants loaded with heavy metals (HMs) causing severe pollution in downstream.The current study aimed to review the levels and sources of 10 HMs, viz. As, Pb, Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, Cu, Co, Ni, and Zn in the surface water of the rivers in Bangladesh. The PRISMA criteria were used to conduct a systematic review of the available literature published between 2001 and 2020, and thus a total of 55 documents were finally selected for review. The mean concentration of each HM exceeding the threshold limits as per World Health Organization (WHO), the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and Department of Environment (DoE), Bangladesh standards were higher in the last decade (2011-2020) than in the previous one (2001-2010). Most HM concentrations in water were found above the threshold limits in three divisions (Dhaka, Rajshahi, and Chattogram). The Buriganga River in Dhaka has been the top polluted river in Bangladesh. Among the 10 HMs, six metals (As, Pb, Cd, Cr, Fe, and Mn) exceeded the limit set by WHO, USEPA, and DoE in all three seasons, where mean values of most of the HMs were found to be the highest in the summer season. Statistical analyses identified possible sources of HMs such as natural weathering, electroplating, fertilizers and pesticides, mining and manufacturing, textiles, coal mining and burning, batteries, and paint industries. Strong legislations and regulations, awareness programs, continuous monitoring, and comprehensive research are urgently needed to control riverine HMs pollutionin Bangladesh.

Political Economic Role in Natural Quality Management and its Impact on Plant Ecology: Why Arar-Juniper Plants Disappeared

Wadi-Arar is a unique region that has lost some of its most important natural features within 200 years, including plants, geographical lakes, and valleys. The study aimed to investigate the disappearance of the juniper plant, a vital species in Saudi Arabia, in recent decades. The research highlighted various factors influencing the quality of life for the juniper plant and its habitats. It sought to identify the primary factors causing changes in the natural conditions of the plant and those influencing its growth. The findings indicated a significant impact of the Suez Canal on the Arar region, the sole connection between Africa and Asia, and Europe. This influence extends beyond geopolitical factors in the surrounding area, as the existence of the Suez Canal disrupted the natural life cycle of many animal species over thousands of years of migrations and coexistence across Earth's continents. These animals previously provided natural organic fertilizer to the soil, supporting plant growth. However, due to low rainfall resulting in low natural nutrients and high salinity, the plants' viability has diminished, reflecting a history of administrative and geopolitical decisions.

Examining the factors of fertilizer pricing

AbstractA strong surge in fertilizer prices in 2021 led farmers and policymakers to question the factors that drive fertilizer pricing. This study examines the relationship among natural gas, corn, and fertilizer prices, finding five structural breaks from 1997 to 2022. The pass‐through rates of natural gas and corn price changes to fertilizer prices show significant shifts after the passage of the biofuel mandate, with those changes fading as the market matured. Meanwhile, natural gas price changes are the main contributing factor in the latest period. However, the linkage among these prices continues to evolve and is likely to diminish over time.

Valorizing Combustible and Compostable Fractions of Municipal Solid Waste to Biochar and Compost as an Alternative to Chemical Fertilizer for Improving Soil Health and Sunflower Yield

Reduced reliance on synthetic chemical fertilizers necessarily requires using renewable biomaterial-derived soil organic amendments (SOAs) in agriculture for sustained retention of nutrients through improvement in the soil organic matter (SOM). SOM replenishment through SOAs derived from wasted materials could help in its valorization by furthering the sustainability prospects of agronomic crop production systems. In the current study, compost (CP) and biochar (BC) were derived as SOAs from combustible and compostable fractions of municipal solid waste (MSW) for their potential valorization by adding SOAs as potential sustainable sources of nutrients as a replacement of chemical fertilizers (CF) for sunflower crops cultivated in potted soils. The experimental design included quadruplicated soil application of MSW-derived BC and CP in discrete and combined forms, each in three doses (% w:w), viz., low (L), medium (M), and high (H), i.e., BC-L, BC-M, BC-H; CP-L, CP-M, CP-H; and BC + CP-L, BC + CP-M, BC-CP-H. The results showed that, compared to the control (soil only), the sunflower growth and harvestable yield were significantly greater in BC + CF with a medium dose and were comparable to the growth and yield obtained in soils with CF. Sunflower growth in the discrete SOAs remained less than in the combined SOAs (BC + CP) and was attributed to the comprehensive soil health improvement rendered by the applied SOAs. The soil health improvement factors included SOM, CEC, and concentrations of total and available NPK. The dose-effect comparison of the SOAs showed highly variable trends, i.e., the sunflower growth did not correspond with the increase in dose of the SOAs. It is concluded that the combined application of BC + CP derived from MSW components at a medium dose could act as a potential alternative to CF. The developed approach resulted in MSW valorization, which improved soil health and yielded a better sunflower crop.

Endometriosis affects natural and ART fertility in different ways: let's look at the whole patient and not at the single lesion

When considering the typical lesions associated with endometriosis, such as endometriomas, and pelvic adherences involving the tubes, it is very clear how this pathology may impair both natural and assisted reproductive technology (ART) fertility. It may be more difficult for clinicians to recognize that endometriosis can reduce female fertility potential through other mechanisms which may be independent of direct damage to ovarian reserve and tubal function. The most recent clinical studies have shown that endometriosis is associated with increased risk of infertility, independent of the type of endometriosis (ovarian, peritoneal and deep endometriosis). In the IVF setting, the cumulative live birth rate in women with endometriosis has been reported to be significantly lower compared with women without endometriosis. Endometriosis is a complex, multifactorial condition that encompasses not only the presence of endometriotic lesions, but also involves women's sexuality, uterine and ovarian compartment. Endometriosis should always be considered a severe risk factor for infertility and ART failure.

P-372 Reproductive ability in survivors of childhood, adolescent, and young adult testicular tumors

Abstract Study question There is little comprehensive fertility evaluation in testicular tumors. Summary answer Our study provides evidence that sexual dysfunction and infertility represent the major persisting side effects with testicular tumor patients. What is known already Testicular cancer, although accounting for 1% of all cancers, is the most common cancer in men of reproductive potential with a peak incidence in men between the ages of 15-35, with more than 95% of the patients being cured.There are many researches on semen quality in testicular cancer. Study design, size, duration We performed a retrospective study by collecting 126 records of testicular cancer patients who attempted sperm banking in the Human Sperm Bank, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University between 2011 and 2022. Participants/materials, setting, methods Semen samples were collected by masturbation after 2–7 days of sexual abstinence. While a few of the patients had a longer period of sexual abstinence than one week, due to emergency treatment (data not shown). All samples were allowed to liquefy at 37 °C for 60 min and were then assessed according to World Health Organization protocols (WHO, 1999, 2010). Main results and the role of chance Semen quality and hormone levels before chemotherapy/radiotherapy In our study, we compare semen samples before and after orchiectomy, no differences in semen analysis were observed between pre-and post-orchiectomy groups. Semen quality after cancer treatment: type of treatment Total sperm number worsened significantly at T3(T6, 6 months after the end of treatment), T6 compared to baseline (T0, before beginning cancer treatment) and returned to near-baseline values at T24 in Carboplatin 2 cycles and EP/BEP 2-4 cycles groups. Moreover, Serum LH and FSH was increased at T3, T6 compared at T0. Sexual Functioning The BFSI (Brief Male Sexual Function Inventory) is a validated self-report measure of sexual functioning. We compared BSFI scores before and after orchiectomy, no differences were observed in sexual drive, sexual erection, sexual ejaculation, DEE (drive, erection, ejaculation) problems and sexual satisfaction between pre-and post-orchiectomy groups. Chemotherapy/radiation group significantly fewer sexual satisfaction problems compared with untreatment/surgery group. Fertility outcome Fertility data were available for 88 patients. 65 (73.9%) had no children, for various reasons (young age, financial reasons, marital status), 6 (6.8%) already had at least one child prior to their cancer diagnosis. Seventeen patients (19.3%) wanted children, but only 11 of these succeeded in achieving fatherhood, through natural fertility (8 patients) or ART (3 patients). Limitations, reasons for caution Small sample size, and the follow-up was not long enough. Wider implications of the findings We analyzed semen parameters, hormone levels, sexual functioning, fertility outcome for testicular cancer patient, both before diagnosis and after treatment, with the aim to provide practical recommendations. Trial registration number not applicable’

P-316 Fertility, pregnancy outcomes, and perinatal results related to experimental endometriosis in a murine model

Abstract Study question Does the transplantation of endometrial tissue fragments into the peritoneal wall of female mice reduce natural fertility and lead to compromised obstetric and perinatal outcomes? Summary answer Experimental murine endometriosis did not compromise fertility, but females with more ectopic endometria had litters with reduced birth weight and fewer offspring at weaning. What is known already It has been demonstrated that endometriosis is strongly associated with subfertility and is increasingly linked to late pregnancy complications, such as those caused by placental insufficiency. At the molecular level, the presence of ectopic endometrium may perturb the endometrial hormonal, cellular, and immunological milieu, negatively influencing the decidualization, placentation, and developmental programming of the embryo. However, it remains unclear if and how such early aberrant reproductive development relates to pregnancy outcomes in endometriosis. Thus, the use of animal models may be very useful in deepening our understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of infertility and compromised pregnancy outcomes related to endometriosis. Study design, size, duration C57BL/6J female mice were divided into three groups: Control (42 animals underwent sham surgery), Endometriosis1 (19 animals underwent surgery for transplantation of one fragment of endometrial tissue on each side of the peritoneal wall), and Endometriosis2 (23 animals received two fragments on each side). The maximum experiment duration was 15 weeks, including a 4-week rest period post-surgery, up to 4 weeks for mating, 3 weeks for delivery, and 4 weeks until weaning of the offspring. Participants/materials, setting, methods Reproductive-age female mice from the three groups had a 4-week rest period post-surgery. Then, they were paired for mating with proven fertile males and checked for the presence of a vaginal plug daily. Pregnant females were euthanized after weaning the litter at 4 weeks. Tissue from the implants was collected for histological analysis. The occurrence of pregnancy, gestation duration, litter size, pup weight at birth and weaning, and mating return were compared among the groups. Main results and the role of chance All females in the experimental groups were confirmed for the presence of ectopic endometrium through histology. No statistically significant differences were observed in pregnancy rates, gestation duration, litter size at birth, and the number of live pups at birth when comparing the three groups (C, E1, and E2). However, the litter weight at birth was significantly lower in group E2 (Medial (Md): 8g; Percentile (P)25: 6; P75: 10) than in groups C (Md: 10g; P25: 8; P75: 10) and E1 (Md: 10g; P25: 10; P75: 12), and significantly higher in E1 compared to C. The number of live pups at weaning was significantly lower in E2 (Md: 5; P25: 3.5; P75: 7) compared to groups C (Md: 7; P25: 5; P75: 7) and E1 (Md: 8; P25: 7; P75: 8), and significantly higher in E1 than in C. The litter weight at weaning was significantly lower in E2 (Md: 96g; P25: 67; P75: 109) than in both E1 (Md: 116g; P25: 110; P75: 128) and C (Md: 104g; P25: 96; P75: 112). The litter weight at weaning was higher in E1 compared to group C. There was no statistically significant difference in mating return rates among the three groups. Limitations, reasons for caution This study is limited by the use of an animal model that does not have spontaneous endometriosis. Wider implications of the findings Litters from the E2 group may have had impaired development during gestation, as indicated by lower birth weight and higher perinatal mortality. Although this is not an ideal translational model for studying endometriosis-related infertility, it may serve as a suitable model for evaluating gestational and perinatal outcomes associated with endometriosis. Trial registration number Not applicable

P-775 What is the potential of cervicovaginal mucus as a biomarker for identifying the fertile window and the effectiveness of AI-enhanced prediction for scalability and accessibility?

Abstract Study question What is the potential of cervicovaginal mucus as a biomarker for identifying the fertile window and the effectiveness of AI-enhanced prediction for scalability and accessibility? Summary answer Cervicovaginal mucus is a reliable biomarker for the fertile window. AI Foundation models show promise in enhancing this method’s scalability and predictability. What is known already The timing of ovulation corrosponds to the fertile window. Although modern methods of ovulation detections yield high accuracies, they often require the purchase of sensors/equipment which creates a barrier to those in low-resource settings. Natural fertility awareness based methods, such as CVM monitoring, eliminate this problem, but there are limited recent large-scale studies validating cyclical CVM changes. Digitising CVM monitoring could remove the subjectivity of the interpretation of symptoms. Despite the advances of AI in other FABM areas, limited work has been done on computer vision models for CVM evaluation, which could revolutionise accessibility and scalability, particularly in low-resource settings. Study design, size, duration The study involved analysis of self-reported CVM characteristics data from over 57,000 individuals; largest sample size used in any study investigating the use of CVM as a biomarker. Furthermore, a dataset of CVM images were collected from the public survey and labeled manually (n = 13). The study included retrospective and pilot components, employing statistical analyses like ANOVA, chi-squared, and Spearman correlation, and AI techniques like zero-shot learning for binary segmentation of CVM from smartphone-captured images Participants/materials, setting, methods Self-reported CVM data was obtained from a fertility tracking app and analysed using ANOVA and chi-squared tests to identify and validate findings of cyclical variations, and correlation with lifestyle data. Zero-shot learning was employed using foundation models. An ethically-reviewed survey was generated to collect images for subsequent model training Images from the survey were segmented using the Grounding DINO and the SAM. The surface area and elasticity extracted are used to determine the fertility score. Main results and the role of chance In individuals with 28-day cycles, CVM showed significantly higher quality during the ovulatory phase, marked by increased elasticity (p = 0.00001), amount (p = 0.00001)), and lubricative texture (p &amp;lt; 0.0001), when compared to both the follicular and luteal phases. However, variations in individuals with longer, irregular cycles of over 35 days length, were less pronounced. Age was found to significant positive correlation with overall CVM quality (r = 0.06, p &amp;lt; 0.0001), while no significant correlations were observed with smoking (r = 0.11, p = 0.23), alcohol consumption (r = 0.13, p = 0.17), or BMI (r = 0.006, p = 0.41)). Zero-shot learning for segmentation showed improved accuracy in detecting and extracting CVM from images, with precision of 0.867 and F1 score of 0.929, highlighting the model’s ability to correctly distinguish between CVM patterns corresponding to fertile and infertile status. The intersection over union score suggested consistent model performance. Overall, CVM emerged as a scalable fertility biomarker in typical menstrual cycles, with AI models showing potential for enhancing prediction accuracy and scalability. Limitations, reasons for caution The study’s limitations include its reliance on self-reported CVM data and the potential bias in the foundation models as there was no fine-tuning, due to a small dataset (n = 13). Additionally, the effectiveness of CVM as a biomarker in irregular menstrual cycles and subfertility requires further exploration. Wider implications of the findings Automated analysis of CVM can be a low-cost, scalable (potentially to millions, via mobile application), non-invasive method for fertility awareness. Our findings highlight the potential of AI in empowering fertility awareness, especially in low-resource settings with little access to reproductive healthcare, thus contributing to global health equity. Trial registration number n/a

Effect of Inorganic Fertilizers and Organic Manures on Growth and Yield Parameters under Wheat-Maize Cropping Sequence Grown on Normal and Saline-Sodic Inceptisol

The present study was conducted at PGI Research farm, Department of Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry, Post Graduate Institute, MPKV., Rahuri during Rabi-2021 and Summer-2022. The experiment consist of eight treatments in wheat crop viz., T1: RDN (50% N) + 50% N through FYM, T2: RDN (50% N) + 50% N through vermicompost, T3: RDN (50% N) + 50% N through poultry manure, T4: (50% N) + 50% N through press mud compost, T5: (50% N) + 50% N through goat manure, T6: (50% N) + 50% N through urban compost T7: GRDF (120:60:40 N:P2O5:K2O kg ha-1) + 10 t FYM ha-1 and T8: absolute control. Whereas, in maize crop treatment from T1 to T6 RDN (50% N) is applied with residual N applied to wheat through FYM, vermicompost, poultry manure, goat manure and urban compost, respectively and T7: GRDF (120:60:40 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1) + 5 t FYM ha-1 and T8: Absolute control. These treatments replicated thrice in Randomized Block Design. In wheat crop, the grain yield, straw yield, test weight, plant height and spike length recorded higher in treatment T7 (GRDF 120:60:40 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1 + 10 t FYM ha-1) under both normal and saline-sodic Inceptisol (27.87 q ha-1, 41.00 q ha-1, 43.72 g, 92 cm and 9.92 cm) and (34.43 q ha-1, 44.02 q ha-1, 42.40 g, 91 cm and 9.82 cm), respectively. Whereas, in succeeding maize crop, the treatment T7 (GRDF 120:60:40 N: P2O5:K2O kg ha-1 + 5 t FYM ha-1) recorded highest grain yield, stover yield, test weight, plant height, length of cob and no. of grains per cob in both normal and saline-sodic Inceptisol (64.11 q ha-1, 74.23 q ha-1, 40.34 g, 237.82 cm, 19.99 cm and 633.02 g) and (52.52 q ha-1, 61.82 q ha-1, 38.63 g, 226.24 cm, 18.74 cm and 579.48 g), respectively. In wheat crop application of treatment T7 (GRDF 120:60:40 N: P2O5: K2O kg ha-1 + 10 t ha-1 FYM) recorded highest total uptake of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium in both normal and saline-sodic Inceptisol (88.00, 16.00 and 100 N, P and K kg ha-1) and (99.36, 17.20 and 103 N, P and K kg ha-1), respectively. Whereas in succeeding maize crop, total uptake of nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium recorded highest in treatment T7 (GRDF (120:60:40 N: P2O5: K2O kg ha-1 + 5 t ha-1 FYM) in both normal and saline-sodic Inceptisol (107.69, 10.77 and 94.67 N, P and K kg ha-1) and (85.85, 8.58 and 75.47 N, P and K kg ha-1), respectively.

Soil fertility based on mineralogical properties to support sustainable agriculture management

&lt;p&gt;Detailed information on soil mineral composition has been crucial in providing the basis for designing sustainable agricultural practices, as this information offers long-term insights into natural soil fertility. This research aimed to further investigate the characteristics of soil mineral composition as a basis for managing soil fertility. Three soil profiles representing three different parent materials have been examined in the field, and soil samples have been collected for laboratory analysis. Profile 1 originates from the Raung Volcano Rock Formation (Qhvr). Profile 2 originates from the Sukamade Formation (Toms). Profile 3 originates from Puger Formation (Tmp). The presence of Mount Raung volcanic influence results in distinct soil characteristics in Profiles 2 and 3 compared to typical sedimentary and karst rock soils. The sand fraction minerals in all three profiles are predominantly composed of opaque minerals, followed by rock fragments, ferromagnesian mineral series (olivine, augite, hypersthene, and hornblende), plagioclase minerals (anorthite, biotite, and labradorite), iron concretions, epidote, and tourmaline. The clay fraction minerals in all three profiles consist of illite, kaolinite, and quartz. The minerals illite and ferromagnesian groups in all three profiles play a significant role in increasing the availability of potassium, calcium, and magnesium nutrients, thereby reducing the need for fertilizers for these elements. The soils in all three profiles naturally possess good fertility; however, designing a sustainable agricultural system requires consideration of the morphology, landform, and climate of all three profiles.&lt;/p&gt;

Application of Sensory Methods to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Solutions to Reduce the Exposure to Odour Nuisance and Ammonia Emissions from the Compost Heaps.

Exposure to high concentrations of odours can result in health effects associated with direct health risks and irritation from nuisance. This investigation aimed to correlate aspects of the waste composting process with the emission levels of malodourous compounds. An essential optimisation criterion is the reduction of negative environmental impacts, particularly odour emissions. This study characterises odour concentration variations across various technological variants over different weeks of the composting process. A secondary objective is evaluating the efficacy of these variants, which differ in inoculation substances and compost heap composition. Olfactometric analyses were conducted using portable field olfactometers, enabling precise dilutions by mixing contaminated and purified air. The primary aim was to examine the correlation between selected odour parameters, determined via sensory analysis, and ammonia concentration during different composting weeks. Ammonia levels were measured using an RAE electrochemical sensor. Research shows that odour concentration is a significant indicator of compost maturity. In situ, olfactometric testing can effectively monitor the aerobic stabilisation process alone or with other methods. The most effective technological solution was identified by combining olfactometric and ammonia measurements and monitoring composting parameters, ensuring minimal odour emissions and the safety of employees and nearby residents.

The Efficacy of Organic Amendments on Maize Productivity, Soil Properties and Active Fractions of Soil Carbon in Organic-Matter Deficient Soil

The decline in soil productivity due to intensive cultivation, unbalanced fertilization and climate change are key challenges to future food security. There is no significant research conducted on the effect of organic amendments on soil properties and active carbon fractions in organic-matter deficient soils under changing climate. Biochar (BC) is a stabilized organic amendment produced from organic materials and is increasingly recognized as being able to improve soil health and crop productivity. The present study was conducted to determine the efficacy of compost (CM) (0.5%, 1%) (w/w) and animal manure (AM) (0.5%, 1%) (w/w) alone and combined with 3% (w/w) biochar, on soil carbon fractions, soil properties, and crop growth in a low-fertile soil. The results revealed significant increased 46% plant height, 106% and 114% fresh and dry shoot weight respectively, and 1,000-grain weight increased up to 40% when 3% BC with 1% CM was applied, compared to a control. Similarly, substantial increases in 69% soil organic matter, and 70% carbon pool index were observed at 3% BC, and under 3% BC with 1% CM increased 11% microbial biomass carbon compared to the control. Overall, the results suggest that 3% BC addition along with 1% CM and AM (1%) had greater potential to improve the soil carbon pool, microbial biomass, and soil health, all of which will ultimately enhance maize yield when grown in low-fertility soil. The application of BC, CM, and AM are a viable green approach, that not only boosts crop yields and improves soil properties and but also contributes to a circular economy.