Nutrient Levels Research Articles

AI-driven monitoring systems for bioremediation: real-time data analysis and predictive modelling

Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are transforming the field of bioremediation by enabling real-time monitoring and optimization of environmental cleanup processes. This paper explores the integration of AI-driven monitoring systems with bioremediation techniques, focusing on how real-time data analysis and predictive modelling can enhance the effectiveness of pollutant degradation. These AI systems continuously collect data from contaminated sites, such as soil and water, and analyse variables like microbial activity, pollutant concentration, and environmental conditions. By processing this data, AI models can optimize the bioremediation environment, adjusting factors such as pH, temperature, and nutrient levels to maximize microbial efficiency. Predictive modelling plays a crucial role in forecasting remediation outcomes, allowing for proactive adjustments to improve the speed and success of the process. The study also highlights the potential of AI in reducing operational costs by automating data collection and analysis, minimizing the need for manual intervention. Furthermore, it discusses challenges related to data quality, system integration, and the scalability of AI applications in real-world bioremediation projects. By leveraging AI's capability to provide real-time insights and predictive analytics, this research demonstrates its potential to significantly enhance the precision and sustainability of bioremediation efforts, paving the way for smarter environmental management.

Application of Internet of Things (IoT) on Monitoring EC and pH Values for Fertigation System

This paper introduces a novel Internet of Things (IoT) based fertigation control system designed to enhance traditional agricultural practices in Malaysia, particularly in rural areas. The system integrates a fertigation approach, combining fertilization and irrigation, with smart devices and a NodeMCU ESP32 microcontroller to automate the tracking of data from liquid fertilizer mixtures. By utilizing EC and pH sensors, the system accurately monitors the nutrient concentration and pH levels of the fertilizer mix, with data displayed on an IoT platform for real-time observation and control. This approach mitigates common issues such as overfertilization and inefficient nutrient use, offering significant improvements over manual data collection methods. The system's performance was validated, showing successful monitoring and control of the fertilization process, leading to enhanced plant health and crop quality. Key findings indicate that the system's integration with IoT technology provides a more efficient, automated solution for managing fertilizer applications, reducing labor and time while ensuring optimal plant nutrient levels. The study also highlights the potential for future development, including the integration of additional sensors and advanced data analytics to optimize fertigation practices further. The implementation of this IoT-based system represents a significant advancement towards sustainable agriculture, offering practical benefits for Malaysian farmers and setting a foundation for further innovation in fertigation technology.

The Impact of Food Processing Flows and the Additive on The Nutritional Content and Values of Food

Food processing plays a pivotal role in influencing the nutritional content and value of food. Recent advancements in food processing techniques and the use of additives have led to substantial changes in nutrient levels and bioavailability, especially increasing the safety of food. This paper examines the dual impact of various food processing methods and additives on nutrient levels and bioavailability. Key processing methods such as thermal processing, cold processing, fermentation, drying are classified to primary and secondary processing and being explored for their effects on food nutrients. Furthermore, the role of additives, including natural substances like ascorbic acid, is also discussed in extending shelf life and improving flavor and appearance. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, this study finds that while food processing can enhance certain aspects like safety and convenience, it can also lead to the loss of essential nutrients and the nutritional value. Besides, the study found that the loss of nutrients may focused on the preparation stage, which also called primary food processing. However, the increase of nutritional value and content may increase in the secondary food processing through the effort and rich experiment of human, like fermentation. The findings highlight the importance to distinguish the function and impact of various food processing methods to the food nutrition. Furthermore, it also emphasizes the need for balanced food processing approaches to optimize nutritional value while mitigating adverse effects on health.

Drivers of greenhouse gas emissions in agricultural soils: the effect of residue management and soil type

Developing successful mitigation strategies for greenhouse gases (GHGs) from crop residue returned to the soil can be difficult due to an incomplete understanding of factors controlling their magnitude and direction. Therefore, this study investigates the effects of varying levels of wheat residue (WR) and nutrient management on GHGs emissions (CO2, N2O, and CH4) across three soil types: Alfisol, Vertisol, and Inceptisol. A combination of laboratory-based measurements and a variety of data analysis techniques was used to assess the GHG responses under four levels of WR inputs (0, 5, 10, and 15 Mg/ha; WR0, WR5, WR10, and WR15) and three levels of nutrient (NP0: no nutrient, NP1: nutrients (N and P) were added to balance the residue C/nutrient stoichiometry of C/N/P= 100: 8.3: 2.0 to achieve 30% stabilization of added residue C input at 5 Mg/ha (R5), and NP2: 3 × NP1). The results of this study clearly showed that averaged across residue and nutrient input, Inceptisol showed negative N2O flux, suggesting consumption which was supported by its high legacy phosphorus (19.7 mg kg⁻1), elevated pH (8.49), and lower clay content (13%), which reduced microbial activity, as indicated by lower microbial biomass carbon (MBC) and alkaline phosphatase (Alk-P) levels. N2O emissions were more responsive to nutrient inputs, particularly in Vertisol under high WR (15 Mg/ha) input, while CH4 fluxes were significantly reduced under high residue inputs, especially in Vertisol and Inceptisol. Alfisol exhibited the highest total carbon mineralization and GWP, with cumulative GWP being 1.2 times higher than Vertisol and 1.4 times higher than Inceptisol across residue and nutrient input. The partial least square (PLS) regression revealed that anthropogenic factors significantly influenced CO2 and N2O fluxes more than CH4. The anthropogenic drivers contributed 62% and 44% of the variance explained for N2O and CH4 responses. Our study proves that different biogeochemical mechanisms operate simultaneously depending on the stoichiometry of residue C and nutrients influencing soil GHG responses. Our findings provide insight into the relative contribution of anthropogenic and natural drivers to agricultural GHG emissions, which are relevant for developing process-based models and addressing the broader challenge of climate change mitigation through crop residue management.

Resource recycling of nitrogen and phosphorus from waste adsorbents: Implications for soil improvement and plant growth

The enrichment of nitrogen and phosphorus in sewage poses a significant risk of resource loss if not effectively recovered and utilized. This study investigates the sustainable management and conservation of these vital nutrients through the recycling of saturated Mg-loaded adsorbents as soil additives for mint (Mentha spicata) cultivation. The effects of recycled waste adsorbents were compared with new adsorbents, commercial compound fertilizers, and struvite, using a control check (CK) to assess their impact on soil nutrient content and plant growth parameters. Results showed that waste adsorbents significantly enhanced soil nutrient content compared to CK. Although nutrient levels in the first 30 days were lower than with commercial fertilizers, a reversal was noted between 30 and 60 days, indicating a slower nutrient release rate. Furthermore, the germination rate and leaf width of mint increased by 13.34 % and 25.38 %, respectively. Significant improvements in plant height, fresh weight, and dry weight demonstrated positive effects on growth. This study confirms the feasibility of recycling waste Mg-loaded adsorbents for the sustainable reutilization of nitrogen and phosphorus resources from wastewater, contributing to enhanced soil health and sustainable agricultural practices.

Seasonal and long-term variations of nutrients in Liaodong Bay, China: Influencing factors and ecological effects

Nutrients are essential for marine primary productivity and have a critical role in maintaining the structure and function of marginal. Variations in nutrient levels in sea ecosystems can influence ecological disturbances significantly. The Liaodong Bay (LDB) is a semi-enclosed marginal sea in northern China. It has experienced severe eutrophication since the 1990s, leading to considerable environmental challenges. Understanding of seasonal and long-term nutrient dynamics in the LDB is limited. We examined seasonal datasets collected in May (spring), August (summer), November (autumn), and March (winter) of 2019, and analyzed long-term trends through historical records spanning multiple decades. Nutrients accumulated during autumn/winter but were depleted during spring/summer. A low concentration of dissolved inorganic phosphate led to an increased nitrogen ratio exceeding the Redfield ratio (>16) during winter, spring, and summer, driven by phytoplankton growth. In late-autumn, nutrient concentrations increased, with ratios approaching the Redfield ratio. Phosphorus limitation prevailed in spring, summer, and winter, while silicon limitation dominated in autumn. Dissolved inorganic nitrogen and nitrogen ratios in the LDB increased sharply since the 1980s, peaking before declining after 2013. Dissolved silica and silicon ratios decreased steadily, stabilizing in recent years. These trends imply a shift from nitrogen-to-phosphorus limitation, influenced by riverine inputs and atmospheric deposition. These nutrient fluctuations may have significant ecological effects, including dinoflagellate abundance, algal blooms, and jellyfish blooms. Our analyses highlight the complexity of nutrient dynamics and positive impact of local nutrient-reduction policies implemented in recent years in improving the environmental quality of the LDB.

CORRELATION BETWEEN MATERNAL EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT STATUS WITH EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING HISTORY

Background: In 2022, the sole lactation coverage rate in Indonesia was recorded at 67.96%. According to the East Java Provincial Health Office, 67.54% of women in the province of East Java were exclusively nursing in 2022. This falls very short of the 80% goal set by the Republic of Indonesia's Ministry of Health in 2020. Infants require breast milk and adequate nutrition to increase their nutrient levels during growth. Exclusive breastfeeding cannot be optimally provided due to various factors such as maternal education history, which influences the mother's limited knowledge about the importance of exclusive breastfeeding maternal employment. These two factors affect the provision of exclusive breastfeeding to infants. Given the foregoing context, the study's goal was to discover how a mother's job description affected her history of exclusive breastfeeding. Method: The study employed a cross-sectional strategy and a quantitative, analytical observational design. Purposive sampling was used to choose 111 participants for the study, who were all mothers with infants between the ages of 6 and 12 months. The study will be carried out in Madiun City's Public health Service Tawangrejo East Java, Indonesia. operational region. This study was conducted from February to April 2024. Data collection utilizes questionnaires. The chi-square test was used to analyze the data. Result: The p-value is 0.03 or less than 0.05, showing that the history of exclusive breastfeeding was significantly correlated with the mother's employment position and educational attainment. Mothers with a history of exclusive breastfeeding have a poor association between their employment status and education, as indicated by their correlation coefficient (R) value of 0.362. Conclusion : there is a relationship between education, employment level, and history of exclusive breastfeeding at the Tawangrejo Community Health Center in Madiun, East Java, Indonesia.

Growing Media pH and Nutrient Concentrations for Fostering the Propagation and Production of Lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.)

The lingonberry (Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.), recognized for its nutritional value and adaptability to cold climates, faces cultivation challenges, particularly in soil pH and fertility optimization. In a greenhouse study, lingonberry transplants were grown in media with pH levels of 6.5 (3:1:1 PRO-MIX BX/peat moss/perlite) and 5.2 (2:1 peat moss/perlite). Seven months post-exposure to different media pH, various fertility treatments (NPK) were tested, including a control (0–0–0), a balanced 5–5–5 kg ha−1 rate, a standard 36–24–48 kg ha−1 rate, and both higher (up to 54–36–72 kg ha−1) and lower (down to 9–6–12 kg ha−1) rates, applied every three weeks for fifteen weeks across six replications with a standard micronutrient rate. Results showed that media pH significantly affected plant height and volume, with plants at pH 6.5 growing 27% taller and larger than plants at pH 5.2. Fertility levels influenced plant volume, peaking at a moderate fertility rate (18–12–24 kg ha−1) before declining at higher rates. Interactions between pH and fertility significantly impacted shoot biomass, where higher fertility rates (above 36–24–48 kg ha−1) had a more pronounced negative effect on shoot biomass at pH 6.5 compared to pH 5.2. Root dry biomass was consistently 1.2–2.3 times greater than shoot dry biomass and less influenced by the treatments. Shoot death rates increased sharply at fertility rates above 18–12–24 kg ha−1, peaking at 21–35%. Nitrogen concentration in shoots and roots increased with higher fertilizer rates, peaking at 1.74% in the 45–30–60 kg ha−1 treatment. Fertility treatments raised growing media’s electrical conductivity (EC, 1:20 ratio), with a maximum of 1.41 dS m−1 in the 54–36–72 kg ha−1 treatment, though pH remained unchanged. Growing media nitrate levels increased with higher N rates, while ammonium levels were unaffected. Shoot death rates rose significantly with higher nitrate concentrations, particularly above 17.5 mg L−1, but showed no link to ammonium levels. Lingonberries can survive and thrive across a wide range of pH levels. These results indicate that lingonberries are resilient and low maintenance, requiring modest nutrient levels, and excessive fertilization hampers their growth.

Linking fish bioturbation to life history in a eutrophic wetland: An analysis of fish contributions to internal nutrient loading

Abstract Bioturbation (sediment disturbance by animal actions) effects on nutrient cycling and nutrient levels in surface waters are difficult to quantify, in part because the diversity and magnitude of species‐specific influences are poorly understood. These influences may have consequences for the management of the trophic state of freshwater ecosystems. Fish cause bioturbation in freshwater and marine ecosystems by digging in benthic sediments, manipulating periphyton mats while searching for prey and scraping hard substrates while feeding. We used experimental enclosures (2.25 m2) to quantify bioturbation‐mediated phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) regeneration from sediment by three species of fish that differ in interactions with the benthos (largemouth bass, Micropterus salmoides; tilapia, Oreochromis spp.; and sailfin catfish, Pterogoplichthys spp.) in shallow eutrophic wetlands in Southern Florida. Tilapia are omnivores that include detritus in their diet (winnowing or ingesting sediments) and dig nests in soft sediments year round, sailfin catfish actively burrow into substrate and consume detritus (digging and ingesting sediments), and largemouth bass are piscivores that do not routinely interact with the benthos when feeding but may dig nests in soft sediment in spawning season (January–April). We quantified the amount of suspended flocculent organic matter and changes in water column nutrients (total phosphorus [TP] and total nitrogen [TN]) in 2‐week trials for each species and estimated the portion of nutrient increases relative to fishless controls that could be attributed to bioturbation‐mediated internal nutrient loading through suspension of organic matter (as opposed to excretion or other sources of nutrient loading). Water column nutrient concentrations increased with increasing biomass for all species, but the bioturbation contribution differed by species. Largemouth bass increased water column nutrient concentrations (TP: 86% and TN: 5% relative to controls) but did not influence water column suspended particulate matter through bioturbation of sediment. Tilapia increased water column nutrients a modest amount (TP: 8%; TN: 15%), of which a small portion was attributed to bioturbation (c. 18% of TP). Sailfin catfish raised water column nutrients substantially (TP: 105%; TN: 46%) and up to 100% of the increased TP was attributed to bioturbation. Sailfin catfish also suppressed algal growth and TP accumulation on the sides of the enclosures and reduced nutrient concentrations of the flocculent sediments. Our results were consistent with our hypothesis that behaviour and foraging traits affect bioturbation contributions to nutrient loading. The results also demonstrated that species with similar net effects like largemouth bass and sailfin catfish, added nutrients via different mechanisms (i.e. excretion vs. bioturbation). Considering the feeding strategies and interactions with the substrate of common fish species may assist managers in meeting nutrient reduction goals for eutrophic wetlands and managed freshwater systems.

Invasive Seaweed Rugulopteryx okamurae: A Potential Source of Bioactive Compounds with Antioxidant Activity

Rugulopteryx okamurae (RO) is a species of brown seaweed that has invaded several shorelines worldwide, including the Spanish Mediterranean and the Strait of Gibraltar coasts, causing serious environmental and economic problems. This work aimed to characterize the bioactive composition of RO. A high content of carbohydrates (58.7 ± 2.6 wt%), fats (17.1 ± 0.4 wt%), and ashes (14.3 ± 0.2 wt%) were found, together with lower protein content (5.5 ± 1.8 wt%). Holocellulose was the most abundant polysaccharide fraction (49.2 ± 1.3 wt%), showing 43.4 ± 2.0 wt% of cellulose and 5.8 ± 0.7 wt% of hemicellulose, followed by lignin (18.9 ± 2.5 wt%). The monosaccharides composition showed a high level of glucose (13.2 ± 1 wt%) and glucuronic acid (9.3 ± 0.5 wt%). RO contained high levels of essential nutrients (Ca, K, Na, S, Mg), trace minerals (Mn, Mo, Se, and Cu), and some toxic heavy metals (Ni, Cd, As). The main fatty acid present in RO was palmitic acid (C16:0, 30.8 ± 3.0 mg/100 g), followed by myristic acid (C14:0, 19.3 ± 2.4 mg/100 g) and eicosatetraenoic acid (C20:4, 19.2 ± 1.3 mg/100 g). The extract obtained by microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) presented significant contents of polyphenols (2.7 ± 0.2 mg GAE/g) and antioxidant activity (3.0 ± 0.4 mg TE/g DPPH, 4.5 ± 0.3 mg TE/g ABTS, 4.7 ± 0.3 mg TE/g FRAP). Six main polyphenols were identified by HPLC-MS/MS, showing higher contents of gallic acid (20.7 ± 1.5 mg/g) and chlorogenic acid (9.7 ± 0.5 mg/g). These results highlight the possibilities offered in the valorization of RO to obtain bioactive compounds with antioxidant performance in several applications.

Site of breast cancer metastasis is independent of single nutrient levels.

Cancer metastasis is a major contributor to patient morbidity and mortality 1 , yet the factors that determine the organs where cancers can metastasize are incompletely understood. In this study, we quantify the absolute levels of over 100 nutrients available across multiple tissues in mice and investigate how this relates to the ability of breast cancer cells to grow in different organs. We engineered breast cancer cells with broad metastatic potential to be auxotrophic for specific nutrients and assessed their ability to colonize different organs. We then asked how tumor growth in different tissues relates to nutrient availability and tumor biosynthetic activity. We find that single nutrients alone do not define the sites where breast cancer cells can grow as metastases. Additionally, we identify purine synthesis as a requirement for tumor growth and metastasis across many tissues and find that this phenotype is independent of tissue nucleotide availability or tumor de novo nucleotide synthesis activity. These data suggest that a complex interplay of multiple nutrients within the microenvironment dictates potential sites of metastatic cancer growth, and highlights the interdependence between extrinsic environmental factors and intrinsic cellular properties in influencing where breast cancer cells can grow as metastases.

Dietary effects of protected fat, soybean meal, and heat-treated soybean meal on performance, physiological parameters, and behavioral measurements of early-fattening Hanwoo steers under heat stress conditions.

This study evaluated the effects of increased levels of dietary total digestible nutrient (TDN) and crude protein (CP) using protected fat (PF), soybean meal (SB), and heat-treated soybean meal (HSB) on performance, physiological parameters, and behavioral measurements of early-fattening Hanwoo steers under heat stress conditions. Thirty-six steers (480.9 ± 58.6 kg, 15.9 ± 1.4 months) were assigned to 4 treatments: Control (TDN 75%, CP 15%, rumen degradable protein [RDP]:rumen undegradable protein [RUP]=62:48), PF (TDN 82.5%, CP 15%, RDP:RUP=62:48), PF+SB (TDN 82.5%, CP 16.5%, RDP:RUP=62:48), and PF+SB+HSB (TDN 82.5%, CP 16.5%, RDP:RUP=48:52) for a total of 16 weeks with division of 4 weeks. The average temperature-humidity index (THI) was 82.9 (1st; Moderate), 76.9 (2nd; Mild), 70.9 (3rd; Comfort), and 65.8 (4th period; Comfort). Dry matter intake during whole period did not differ among treatments but decreased by 34% and 19%, respectively during 1st and 2nd compared to 4th. Average daily gain (ADG) of PF+SB+HSB was higher (p<0.05) than that of Control during the 1st period, and those of both PF+SB and PF+SB+HSB were higher (p<0.05) than Control during the 2nd. The ADG during whole period was in the order of PF+SB+HSB (1.23), PF+SB (1.18), PF (1.11), Control (0.98 kg/d) (p<0.05). As THI increased, rectal temperature and all blood parameters increased, while blood glucose levels decreased (p<0.05). Behavioral changes during 1st period compared to 3rd included decreases in Lying (24%), Walking (48%), and Eating (40%), and increases in Total standing (50%) and Drinking (43%) (p<0.05). Rumination during standing was 38% higher, and Rumination during lying was 32% lower (p<0.05). This study demonstrates 10% of increased levels of dietary TDN using PF and CP considering RUP can prevent performance reduction in early-fattening of heat-stressed Hanwoo steers and have positive effects on performance recovery from post-heat stress.

Refining habitat selection for sulfate-reducing bacteria: Evaluating suitability and adaptability for sulfate-metal wastewater treatment during anaerobic-to-aerobic transitions

Inoculating sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) habitats offers an eco-friendly method for treating sulfate-metal laden wastewater, characterized by high sulfate levels, low pH, and elevated heavy metals. This study optimizes source habitat selection of SRB by evaluating groundwater, sewage sludge, and lake sediment, focusing on their suitability and adaptability to aerobic-anaerobic transitions in industrial settings. Sewage sludge, with its slightly acidic pH, reducing environment, and high nutrient levels (Total organic carbon: 207.53 g kg−1, Total nitrogen: 47.12 g kg−1), provides robust SRB potential, as supported by its highest diversity index. However, heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons pose application challenges. All habitats effectively reduced metal concentrations anaerobically, with Cu removal reaching 95%–99%, and groundwater achieved the highest chemical oxygen demand reduction (63.6%) aerobically. Sludge and sediment showed high biomass and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) accumulation, while groundwater's nucleic acid-rich EPS enhanced metal immobilization, resulting in stable residual metal forms but with potential remobilization under oxidative conditions. Microbial analysis revealed that Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were key players during transitions, with the highest SRB abundance in groundwater. SRB composition varied across habitats, with Sedimentibacter (13.04%), Desulfovibrio (6.33%), and Desulfomonile (8.1%) dominating in groundwater, sludge, and sediment, respectively, during the anaerobic stage. Functional analysis highlighted sludge's persistence in sulfate reduction under aerobic conditions, while groundwater's limited nitrogen cycle involvement indicated broader biogeochemical limitations. Collectively, these findings highlight strengths and limitations of each habitat as SRB inoculum source, emphasizing the importance of tailored anaerobic-to-aerobic strategies for effective wastewater management.

Multi-scale analysis of nutrient and environmental dynamics in Hongfeng Lake Southwest China

Traditional linear correlation analysis may not fully capture the true relationship between these variables. Therefore, multi-scale running correlation analysis, such as time-dependent intrinsic correlation (TDIC) and continuous wavelet transform based on Hilbert–Huang transform (HHT), provides valuable insights into local correlations and the evolving relationship between nutrients and environmental factors over time. In this study, we investigated seven environmental factors and four water quality nutrient indicators in deep lakes on the Yungui Plateau in southwestern China. The results revealed that there may be strong correlations between environmental factors and nutrient levels during certain periods, while opposite trends may emerge at other times. These variations in correlation could be attributed to uncertain physical processes, spatial heterogeneity, or the impact of different climatic factors on local hydrological processes. Wavelet analysis indicated that changes in environmental factors lag behind those in nutrient levels, particularly on a cycle of about 12 months. This suggests that changes in environmental factors align with natural patterns after the water body has been polluted. These conclusions underscore the complexity and dynamic nature of the relationship between environmental factors and nutrient levels in water bodies, highlighting the importance of employing advanced analysis techniques to capture this complexity.

Precision Agriculture using ML for Soil and Weather Prediction

Agriculture is the backbone of many economies and plays a critical role in global food security. However, with growing challenges posed by climate change, erratic weather patterns, and soil degradation, the need for precise and predictive techniques in agriculture has never been more urgent. This paper focuses on the application of machine learning (ML) techniques in soil fertility prediction and weather forecasting, two critical components that can significantly impact agricultural productivity. By analysing soil properties, such as moisture, pH, and nutrient levels, and combining them with accurate weather predictions, our system aims to help farmers make informed decisions regarding crop selection, irrigation scheduling, and pest control. Leveraging algorithms like Naive Bayes for soil classification and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks for weather prediction, we provide a comprehensive solution for precision agriculture. This system not only enhances productivity but also promotes sustainable agricultural practices by optimizing resource use and reducing wastage

Quantification and characterization of municipal solid waste at aler dumpsite, Lira City, Uganda: Assessing pollution levels and health risks

Managing municipal solid waste (MSW) in urban areas of developing countries is a significant challenge due to rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure. This study aims to quantify the MSW at Aler dumpsite in Lira City, Uganda, and assess the associated environmental and health risks. Our findings revealed a daily dumping rate of 7.38 tons, predominantly organic waste. Leachate from the site exceeded WHO limits for nutrients and heavy metals, with exceptionally high amounts of cadmium (Cd) found in soil (4.8 mg/kg) and vegetables. The water quality in nearby streams was poor, rendering it unfit for consumption due to elevated ion and nutrient levels. Health risk assessments indicated significant non-carcinogenic risks from heavy metal ingestion, with a hazard index (HI) of 4.6 for adults and 9.6 for children. While dermal exposure risks were generally low, children were at risk from stream 1 (HQderm = 1.165). Vegetable analysis revealed levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), zinc (Zn), and nickel (Ni) above safe doses, posing significant non-carcinogenic risks. To address these issues, we recommend increasing public awareness to avoid consuming water and vegetables from areas around the dump site. Additionally, we suggest that the responsible authorities improve MSW management by constructing sanitary landfills to minimize water, soil, and plant pollution from landfill leachate.

Effects of green seaweed (&lt;i&gt;Ulva onhoi&lt;/i&gt;) on the reproductive development of tomato (&lt;i&gt;Solanum lycopersicum)&lt;/i&gt; plants

Algae-derived products have great potential as crop biostimulants due to their multiple beneficial effects at different stages of plant development. Green seaweeds of the genus &lt;i&gt;Ulva&lt;/i&gt; are well suited for this purpose because they are widely distributed and grow rapidly in a wide range of conditions. In this study, a greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of dry seaweed powder (DSP) and liquid seaweed extract (LSE) of &lt;i&gt;Ulva ohnoi&lt;/i&gt; on the reproductive development of tomato plants. The experiment included three treatments: 1) plants treated with 5 g of DSP, 2) plants treated with 250 mL of LSE, and (3) control plants (without algae). The reproductive parameters, chlorophyll content, and mineral composition were measured during the flowering and early fruiting periods. The application of DSP was the most effective treatment in promoting early flowering and significantly increased the number of buds (103%), flower clusters (55%), flowers (61%), and fruits (45%) per plant. Furthermore, the DSP-treated plants exhibited an enhancement in the levels of chlorophyll and nutrients in the plants and fruits. The results of the current work show that the application of &lt;i&gt;U. ohnoi&lt;/i&gt; in its natural form (dry powder) stimulates the reproductive development of crop tomato. This represents a sustainable and natural alternative to synthetic inputs that growers can incorporate into horticultural production to improve yield attributes.

Fertilizer nitrogen rate effects on broiler litter–fertilized corn: Grain yield and nutrient composition

AbstractNitrogen (N) plays an important role in corn (Zea mays L.) production, but little is known of optimum fertilizer N rates for corn grain yield and nutrient composition when poultry manure such as broiler litter (BL) (Gallus gallus domesticus) is applied. Typically, farmers consider BL as a soil conditioner and often do not discount the N contribution from the BL application. Field experiments were conducted in 2020 and 2021 over three diverse environments across Alabama to determine the agronomic optimum nitrogen rate (AONR) for BL–fertilized dryland corn with five side dress fertilizer N rates (0, 84, 140, 196, and 252 kg N ha−1). The study utilized a yield response curve and evaluated the effect of fertilizer N rate on grain nutrient composition. BL (4.48 Mg ha−1 equivalent to 2‐ton acre−1) was applied to the study sites before planting each year. The AONRs for grain yield across these environments varied from 114 to 223 kg N ha−1 (0.013–0.027 kg of fertilizer N per kg of grain yield ha−1). The predicted grain yield at the AONRs ranged from 4.22 to 13.27 Mg ha−1. Grain N concentration increased with increasing fertilizer N rate. However, the weak to nonexistent correlation between fertilizer N and other grain nutrient elements suggests that raising the fertilizer N rate does not necessarily lead to higher nutrient levels in corn grain. Overall, these findings could be useful for developing N management guidelines for corn fields that receive BL in Alabama.

Soil acidification controls invasive plant species in the restoration of degraded Cerrado grasslands

The Cerrado, South America's largest savanna, has acidic, nutrient‐poor soils and its native plants thrive under these conditions. However, abandoned pastures historically undergo changes in chemical properties due to interventions like liming and fertilizer use. This favors invasive African grasses and hinders native plants, impacting restoration efforts. In a Cerrado grassland undergoing restoration study, we tested whether soil acidification could restore native soil conditions and control invasives using 56 plots across 14 blocks. We hypothesized that decreased soil pH and nutrient availability would reduce invasive biomass and enhance diversity. We show that acidification reduced invasive biomass by 71%, with acidification negatively affecting invasives while sparing natives. Maintaining nutrient‐poor soil conditions can help to control invasive grasses in restoration projects, as fertilizer application can favor invasive species establishment. Soil acidification effectiveness depends on local nutrient levels. Areas with high soil cation content may require larger amendment quantities. Restoration strategies in nutrient‐poor ecosystems should aim recovering historical soil conditions to control invasives growth and support slow‐growing native plants.

Nutrient content of tamarind seed hydroponic fodder due to different watering frequencies

Limited feed for pigs encourages using alternative feed such as tamarind seeds using hydroponic fodder technology. The research aimed to examine the nutrient content of tamarind seed hydroponic fodder due to different watering frequencies. The research was conducted in Kolhua Village, Kupang City from April-September 2023. The research used tamarind seeds originating from the Lembata city. The research used a Completely Randomized Design, with 3 watering frequency treatments, namely R0 = 1 watering (07.00 WIT), R1 = 2 times (07.00 and 19.00), R2 = 3 times (07.00, 15.00 and 23.00 Wita) and 8 repetitions. There were 100 seeds per container. Variables include tamarind seed fodder's nutrient content (organic matter, crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, and ash). Analysis used Analysis of Variance and Duncan's advanced test. The research results showed that watering frequency had a very significant effect (P&lt;0.01) on the nutrient levels of tamarind seed hydroponic fodder except for ash content and the watering frequency that produced the best nutrient levels was twice/day. In conclusion, the germination percentage and nutrient content of tamarind seed hydroponic fodder are influenced by watering frequency twice/day with 30 ml being the best frequency.