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Xian L, Lu D, Yang Y, Feng J, Fang J, Jacobs DF, Wu D, Zeng S. Effects of woodland slope on heavy metal migration via surface runoff, interflow, and sediments in sewage sludge application. Sci Rep 2024; 14:13468. [PMID: 38867064 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-64163-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Sewage sludge (SS) application to forest plantation soils as a fertilizer and/or soil amendment is increasingly adopted in plantation forest management. However, the potential risks of SS-derived heavy metals (HMs) remain a concern. Many factors, including woodland slope may affect the risks, but the understanding of this issue is limited. This research evaluated the HMs migration via surface runoff, interflow, and sediments when SS was applied in woodlands of varying slopes. We conducted indoor rainfall simulations and natural rainfall experiments to clarify the effect of slope on the migration of HMs via runoff (including surface and interflow) and sediments. In the simulated rainfall experiment, HMs lost via sediments increased by 9.79-27.28% when the slope increased from 5° to 25°. However, in the natural rainfall experiment, when the slope of forested land increased from 7° to 23°, HMs lost via surface runoff increased by 2.38% to 6.13%. These results indciate that the surface runoff water on a high slope (25°) posed high water quality pollution risks. The migration of HMs via surface runoff water or interflow increased as the steepness of the slope increased. The total migration of Cu, Zn, Pb, Ni, Cr and Cd via sediment greatly exceeded that via surface runoff and interflow. Particles ≤ 0.05 mm contributed the most to the ecological risks posed by sediments. Cd was the main source of potential ecological risks in sediments under both experimental conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Xian
- College of Forestry & Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dehao Lu
- College of Forestry & Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuantong Yang
- College of Forestry & Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiayi Feng
- Guangdong Eco-Engineering Polytechnic, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
| | - Jianbo Fang
- College of Forestry & Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Douglass F Jacobs
- Department of Forestry and Natural Resources, Purdue University, West Lafayette, USA
| | - Daoming Wu
- College of Forestry & Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Shucai Zeng
- College of Forestry & Landscape Architecture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, China.
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Bhagat MS, Mungray AK, Mungray AA. Performance improvement of the osmotic microbial fuel cell by the pre-treatment of anaerobic sewage sludge using solenoid magnetic field. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2024; 45:2809-2819. [PMID: 36892167 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2023.2190039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
This study explored the effect of a solenoid magnetic field (SOMF) as a pre-treatment on anaerobic sewage sludge (ASS) before using it in an osmotic microbial fuel cell (OMFC) as an inoculant. The ASS efficiency in terms of colony-forming unit (CFU) was improved ten times by applying SOMF compared to the control conditions. The obtained highest power density, current density, and water flux in the OMFC were 32.70 ± 5 mW·m-2, 135.13 ± 15 mA·m-2, and 4.24 ± 0.11 L·m-2h-1 respectively, for 72 h at 1 mT magnetic field. The coulombic efficiency (CE) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal efficiency were increased to 40-45% and 4-5% respectively, compared to un-treated ASS. Also, the start-up time of the ASS-OMFC system was almost reduced to 1-2 days based on open circuit voltage data. On the other hand, increasing the pre-treatment intensity of SOMF with time, it decreased the performance of OMFC. Also, the low intensity with increased pre-treatment time up to a specific limit enhanced the performance of OMFC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mandar S Bhagat
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SV NIT), Surat, India
| | - Arvind Kumar Mungray
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SV NIT), Surat, India
| | - Alka A Mungray
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Sardar Vallabhbhai National Institute of Technology (SV NIT), Surat, India
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3
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Wang X, Zhang D, Wang F, Zheng X, Yang X, Zeng J, Yi W. Effects of biogas slurry on hydrothermal carbonization of digestate: Synergistic valorization of hydrochars and aqueous phase. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 362:121317. [PMID: 38833919 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
In this study, livestock manure digestate (LMD) was used as feedstock for hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) at different temperature (180-260 °C) and residence time (0-4 h). Nutrient flow and distribution during the HTC process were evaluated by comparing the effects of livestock manure biogas slurry (LBS) and ultrapure water (UW) to determine the optimal reaction conditions for the synergistic production and application of hydrochars (HC) and aqueous phases (AP). Compared with UW, the HC yields derived from LBS as solvent were increased by 27.05-38.24% under the same conditions. The C content, high heating value (HHV), and energy densification of HC obtained from LMD and UW were higher than those obtained from LMD and LBS, and the ash content was lower. While, LBS circumstance improved the porosity, N content and some trace elements e.g. Ca, Fe and Mg in HC that showed excellent fertility potential. In addition, the recovery rate of K, TOC, NH4+-N, and TN concentrations in AP were significantly higher in the LBS circumstance than in UW. The results show that the addition of UW is more favorable for fuel generation, and the HC obtained from LMD and UW at 220 °C has the potential to be used as a fuel. Whereas, the addition of LBS enhanced the potential of HC and AP for agricultural applications simultaneously. It is recommended to use HC and AP obtained from LMD and LBS at 240 °C for using as fertilizer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xia Wang
- College of Agricultural Engineering and Food Science, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China; Shandong Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Clean Energy, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China
| | - Deli Zhang
- College of Agricultural Engineering and Food Science, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China; Shandong Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Clean Energy, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China
| | - Fang Wang
- College of Agricultural Engineering and Food Science, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China; Shandong Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Clean Energy, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China.
| | - Xiaojuan Zheng
- College of Agricultural Engineering and Food Science, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China; Shandong Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Clean Energy, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China
| | - Xizhen Yang
- College of Agricultural Engineering and Food Science, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China; Shandong Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Clean Energy, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China
| | - Jianfei Zeng
- Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China.
| | - Weiming Yi
- College of Agricultural Engineering and Food Science, Shandong University of Technology, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China; Shandong Research Center of Engineering and Technology for Clean Energy, Zibo, Shandong, 255049, China
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Zhao S, Zheng Q, Wang H, Fan X. Nitrogen in landfills: Sources, environmental impacts and novel treatment approaches. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171725. [PMID: 38492604 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Nitrogen (N) accumulation in landfills is a pressing environmental concern due to its diverse sources and significant environmental impacts. However, there is relatively limited attention and research focus on N in landfills as it is overshadowed by other more prominent pollutants. This study comprehensively examines the sources of N in landfills, including food waste contributing to 390 million tons of N annually, industrial discharges, and sewage treatment plant effluents. The environmental impacts of N in landfills are primarily manifested in N2O emissions and leachate with high N concentrations. To address these challenges, this study presents various mitigation and management strategies, including N2O reduction measures and novel NH4+ removal techniques, such as electrochemical technologies, membrane separation processes, algae-based process, and other advanced oxidation processes. However, a more in-depth understanding of the complexities of N cycling in landfills is required, due to the lack of long-term monitoring data and the presence of intricate interactions and feedback mechanisms. To ultimately achieve optimized N management and minimized adverse environmental impacts in landfill settings, future prospects should emphasize advancements in monitoring and modeling technologies, enhanced understanding of microbial ecology, implementation of circular economy principles, application of innovative treatment technologies, and comprehensive landfill design and planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan Zhao
- College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai 201306, China; College of Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Qiteng Zheng
- College of Civil Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Hao Wang
- College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai 201306, China
| | - Xinyao Fan
- College of Ocean Science and Engineering, Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai 201306, China
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Visca A, Di Gregorio L, Clagnan E, Bevivino A. Sustainable strategies: Nature-based solutions to tackle antibiotic resistance gene proliferation and improve agricultural productivity and soil quality. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 248:118395. [PMID: 38307185 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.118395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
The issue of antibiotic resistance is now recognized by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as one of the major problems in human health. Although its effects are evident in the healthcare settings, the root cause should be traced back to the One Health link, extending from animals to the environment. In fact, the use of organic fertilizers in agroecosystems represents one, if not the primary, cause of the introduction of antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria into the soil. Since the concentrations of antibiotics introduced into the soil are residual, the agroecosystem has become a perfect environment for the selection and proliferation of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). The continuous influx of these emerging contaminants (i.e., antibiotics) into the agroecosystem results in the selection and accumulation of ARGs in soil bacteria, occasionally giving rise to multi-resistant bacteria. These bacteria may harbour ARGs related to various antibiotics on their plasmids. In this context, these bacteria can potentially enter the human sphere when individuals consume food from contaminated agroecosystems, leading to the acquisition of multi-resistant bacteria. Once introduced into the nosocomial environment, these bacteria pose a significant threat to human health. In this review, we analyse how the use of digestate as an organic fertilizer can mitigate the spread of ARGs in agroecosystems. Furthermore, we highlight how, according to European guidelines, digestate can be considered a Nature-Based Solution (NBS). This NBS not only has the ability to mitigate the spread of ARGs in agroecosystems but also offers the opportunity to further improve Microbial-Based Solutions (MBS), with the aim of enhancing soil quality and productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Visca
- Department for Sustainability, Biotechnologies and Agroindustry Division, ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123, Rome, Italy.
| | - Luciana Di Gregorio
- Department for Sustainability, Biotechnologies and Agroindustry Division, ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Clagnan
- Department for Sustainability, Biotechnologies and Agroindustry Division, ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123, Rome, Italy
| | - Annamaria Bevivino
- Department for Sustainability, Biotechnologies and Agroindustry Division, ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123, Rome, Italy
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6
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Chane AD, Košnář Z, Hřebečková T, Jozífek M, Doležal P, Tlustoš P. Persistent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons removal from sewage sludge-amended soil through phytoremediation combined with solid-state ligninolytic fungal cultures. Fungal Biol 2024; 128:1675-1683. [PMID: 38575240 DOI: 10.1016/j.funbio.2024.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are widely present in the environment, causing increasing concern because of their impact on soil health, food safety and potential health risks. Four bioremediation strategies were examined to assess the dissipation of PAHs in agricultural soil amended with sewage sludge over a period of 120 days: soil-sludge natural attenuation (SS); phytoremediation using maize (Zea mays L.) (PSS); mycoremediation (MR) separately using three white-rot fungi (Pleurotus ostreatus, Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Irpex lacteus); and plant-assisted mycoremediation (PMR) using a combination of maize and fungi. In the time frame of the experiment, mycoremediation using P. chrysosporium (MR-PH) exhibited a significantly higher (P < 0.05) degradation of total PAHs compared to the SS and PSS treatments, achieving a degradation rate of 52 %. Both the SS and PSS treatments demonstrated a lower degradation rate of total PAHs, with removal rates of 18 % and 32 %, respectively. The PMR treatments showed the highest removal rates of total PAHs at the end of the study, with degradation rates of 48-60 %. In the shoots of maize, only low- and medium-molecular-weight PAHs were found in both the PSS and PMR treatments. The calculated translocation and bioconversion factors always showed values < 1. The analysed enzymatic activities were higher in the PMR treatments compared to other treatments, which can be positively related to the higher degradation of PAHs in the soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abraham Demelash Chane
- Department of Agro-Environmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00, Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Košnář
- Department of Agro-Environmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00, Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic.
| | - Tereza Hřebečková
- Department of Agro-Environmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00, Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Miroslav Jozífek
- Department of Horticulture, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00, Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Doležal
- Department of Agro-Environmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00, Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Tlustoš
- Department of Agro-Environmental Chemistry and Plant Nutrition, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcká 129, 165 00, Praha-Suchdol, Czech Republic
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Suchowska-Kisielewicz M, Greinert A, Winiwarter W, Kaltenegger K, Jędrczak A, Myszograj S, Płuciennik-Koropczuk E, Skiba M, Bazan-Krzywoszańska A. The fate of nitrogen in the urban area - The case of Zielona Góra, Poland. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:169930. [PMID: 38199352 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
The anthropogenic change of the nitrogen (N) cycle is strongly triggered by urban demand (such as food and meat consumption, energy demand and transport). As a consequence of high population density, impacts on human health through water and air pollution also concentrate on a city environment. Thus, an urban perspective on a predominantly rural pollution becomes relevant. Urban N budgets may be considered less intrinsically connected, so that separation of an agri-food chain and an industry-combustion chain is warranted. Results have been obtained for Zielona Góra, Poland, a city of 140,000 inhabitants characterized by domestic and transport sources and forest-dominated surroundings. In addition to food imports in Zielona Gora amounting to about 30 %, in the suburban area a significant share of N amounting to 41 % is related to fertilizer imports. The remaining imports are in fuel, electronics, textiles, plastics and paper. Most of the agri-food N (45 %) is denitrified in wastewater treatment. N associated with combustion (mainly NOx emissions from vehicles) represents a much smaller share than N entering via the agri-food system, amounting to 22 % of the total N imports. This overall picture is maintained also when specifically addressing the city center, with the exception of mineral fertilizer that plays a much smaller role, with just 7 % of N imports to the city.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrzej Greinert
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, University of Zielona Góra, Licealna 9, 65-417 Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Wilfried Winiwarter
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, University of Zielona Góra, Licealna 9, 65-417 Zielona Góra, Poland; International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), Schlossplatz 1, A-2361 Laxenburg, Austria
| | - Katrin Kaltenegger
- International Institute for Applied Systems Analysis (IIASA), Schlossplatz 1, A-2361 Laxenburg, Austria
| | - Andrzej Jędrczak
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, University of Zielona Góra, Licealna 9, 65-417 Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Sylwia Myszograj
- Institute of Environmental Engineering, University of Zielona Góra, Licealna 9, 65-417 Zielona Góra, Poland
| | | | - Marta Skiba
- Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Zielona Góra, Licealna 9, 65-417 Zielona Góra, Poland
| | - Anna Bazan-Krzywoszańska
- Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning, University of Zielona Góra, Licealna 9, 65-417 Zielona Góra, Poland
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Calzone A, Baldoni E, Cabassi G, Toscani G, Gasparini A, Casaletta E, Picchi V. Sewage sludge amendment of rice as a potential alternative to mineral fertilizer: Analyses of physiological, biochemical and molecular mechanisms of plant response. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2024; 208:108527. [PMID: 38484682 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Sewage sludge (SS) disposal poses environmental concerns, yet its organic matter, macro- and micronutrients, make it potentially beneficial for enhancing soil quality and crop yield. This study focuses on three types of SS: "R10" (SS1), which is commonly used in agricultural practices, and two environmentally friendlier options (SS2 and SS3), as alternatives to mineral fertilizer (urea) for rice cultivation. A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the ecophysiological, biochemical, and molecular responses of rice at three different growth stages. SS application led to a significant increase in biomass production (particularly SS3), along with increased nitrogen (N) levels. Enhanced chlorophyll content was observed in SS-treated plants, especially during inflorescence emergence (with the highest content in SS3 plants). At the ecophysiological and biochemical levels, SS treatments did not adversely affect plant health, as evidenced by unchanged values of maximal PSII photochemical efficiency and malondialdehyde by-products. At biochemical and gene expression levels, antioxidant enzyme activities showed transient variations, likely related to physiological adjustments rather than oxidative stress. Ascorbic acid and glutathione did not significantly vary. This study concludes that the use of SS in soil can be a viable alternative fertilizer for rice plants, with positive effects on biomass, chlorophyll content, and no adverse effects on plant health. Among the tested SSs, SS3 showed the most positive effect, even compared to commercial fertilizer. These results suggest that SS application could improve rice yield while addressing environmental concerns surrounding SS disposal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonella Calzone
- CREA Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing, via G. Venezian 26, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Elena Baldoni
- National Research Council (CNR), Institute of Agricultural Biology and Biotechnology (IBBA), via E. Bassini 15, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cabassi
- CREA Research Centre for Animal Production and Aquaculture, viale Piacenza 29, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Giada Toscani
- CREA Research Centre for Animal Production and Aquaculture, viale Piacenza 29, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Andrea Gasparini
- CREA Research Centre for Animal Production and Aquaculture, viale Piacenza 29, 26900, Lodi, Italy
| | - Elisa Casaletta
- Agromatrici Srl-Gruppo Fratelli Visconti, Strada Vicinale della Bellaria snc, 27020, Tromello (PV), Italy
| | - Valentina Picchi
- CREA Research Centre for Engineering and Agro-Food Processing, via G. Venezian 26, 20133, Milano, Italy.
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Mannina G, Cosenza A, Di Trapani D, Gulhan H, Mineo A, Bosco Mofatto PM. Reduction of sewage sludge and N 2O emissions by an Oxic Settling Anaerobic (OSA) process: The case study of Corleone (Italy) wastewater treatment plant. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167793. [PMID: 37838037 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/16/2023]
Abstract
Biosolid management is becoming one of the most crucial issues for wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) operators. The application of the Oxic Settling Anaerobic (OSA) process allows the minimisation of excess sludge production. This study compares conventional activated sludge (CAS) and OSA layouts in a full-scale WWTP (namely, Corleone - Italy). Extensive monitoring campaigns were conducted to assess treatment performances regarding carbon and nutrient removal, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, excess sludge production, and biomass activity (by means of respirometric analysis). Results showed that the effluent quality consistently met the Italian discharge limits. However, with the implementation of the OSA process, there was a decrease in ammonium removal efficiency, which could be attributed to reduced nitrifier activity related to reduced biomass production and extended anaerobic conditions affecting the nitrification process. On the other hand, the OSA configuration significantly increased phosphorus removal, indicating a high phosphorus content in the resulting waste sludge. A worsening of the sludge settling properties was observed with the OSA configuration likely due to decreased EPS concentrations. The sludge production in the OSA configuration decreased by 17.3 % compared to CAS. Nitrous-oxide measurements did not show a variation between CAS and OSA configurations, confirming that the OSA process can be a suitable solution for reducing WWTP's carbon footprint.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Mannina
- Engineering Department, Palermo University, Viale delle Scienze ed. 8, 90128 Palermo, Italy.
| | - Alida Cosenza
- Engineering Department, Palermo University, Viale delle Scienze ed. 8, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Daniele Di Trapani
- Engineering Department, Palermo University, Viale delle Scienze ed. 8, 90128 Palermo, Italy
| | - Hazal Gulhan
- Engineering Department, Palermo University, Viale delle Scienze ed. 8, 90128 Palermo, Italy; Environmental Engineering Department, Civil Engineering Faculty, Istanbul Technical University, Ayazaga Campus, Maslak, 34469 Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Antonio Mineo
- Engineering Department, Palermo University, Viale delle Scienze ed. 8, 90128 Palermo, Italy
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Clagnan E, Cucina M, De Nisi P, Dell'Orto M, D'Imporzano G, Kron-Morelli R, Llenas-Argelaguet L, Adani F. Effects of the application of microbiologically activated bio-based fertilizers derived from manures on tomato plants and their rhizospheric communities. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22478. [PMID: 38110487 PMCID: PMC10728056 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50166-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Bio-based fertilizers (BBFs) recovered from animal manure are promising products to optimise resources recovery and generate high agricultural yields. However, their fertilization value may be limited and it is necessary to enrich BBFs with microbial consortia to enhance their fertilization value. Three specific microbial consortia were developed according to the characteristics of three different BBFs produced from manure (bio-dried solid fraction, solid fraction of digestate and biochar) to enhance plant growth and product quality. A greenhouse pot experiment was carried out with tomato plants grown with microbiologically activated BBFs applied either as N-organic fertilizers or as an organic amendment. A next generation sequencing analysis was used to characterise the development of each rhizospheric community. All the activated BBFs gave enhanced tomato yields (fresh and dry weight) compared with the non-activated treatments and similar to, or higher than, chemical fertilization. Concerning the tomato fruits' organoleptic quality, lycopene and carotenoids concentrations were improved by biological activation. Metagenomic analysis points at Trichoderma as the main driver of the positive effects, with the effects of added bacteria being negligible or limited at the early stages after fertilization. In the context of the circular economy, the activated BBFs could be used to replace synthetic fertilisers, reducing costs and environmental burdens and increasing production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Clagnan
- Gruppo Ricicla Labs., Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali-Produzione, Territorio, Agroenergia (DiSAA), Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milano, Italy
- Department for Sustainability, Biotechnologies and Agroindustry Division, ENEA, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Casaccia Research Center, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123, Rome, Italy
| | - Mirko Cucina
- Gruppo Ricicla Labs., Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali-Produzione, Territorio, Agroenergia (DiSAA), Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milano, Italy
- National Research Council of Italy, Institute for Agriculture and Forestry Systems in the Mediterranean (ISAFOM-CNR), Via Della Madonna Alta 128, 06128, Perugia, Italy
| | - Patrizia De Nisi
- Gruppo Ricicla Labs., Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali-Produzione, Territorio, Agroenergia (DiSAA), Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Marta Dell'Orto
- Gruppo Ricicla Labs., Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali-Produzione, Territorio, Agroenergia (DiSAA), Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | - Giuliana D'Imporzano
- Gruppo Ricicla Labs., Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali-Produzione, Territorio, Agroenergia (DiSAA), Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Laia Llenas-Argelaguet
- BETA Tech Center, TECNIO Network, University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia, Ctra de Roda 70, 08500, Vic, Spain
| | - Fabrizio Adani
- Gruppo Ricicla Labs., Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie e Ambientali-Produzione, Territorio, Agroenergia (DiSAA), Università Degli Studi Di Milano, Via Celoria 2, 20133, Milano, Italy.
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11
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Phung LD, Ba CA, Pertiwi PAP, Ito A, Watanabe T. Unlocking fertilization potential of anaerobically digested sewage sludge centrate for protein-rich rice cultivation with composted sludge amendment. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116912. [PMID: 37619638 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
The use of composted sewage sludge (CSS) and centrate as alternatives to synthetic fertilizers in rice cultivation holds great promise. This study aims to determine the effects of varying doses and timings of centrate derived from anaerobically digested sewage sludge on rice yield, nutrient quality, and soil fertility when applied as a topdressing to rice fields fertilized with CSS. At the panicle initiation (PI) stage, 100, 300, and 500 kg N ha-1 of centrate topdressing (CT100, CT300, and CT500, respectively) was applied. In addition, different topdressing timings at a total dose of 500 kg N ha-1 were evaluated, including a two-split application (40% at active tillering (AT) and 60% at PI; CT500S2) and a three-split application (40% at AT + 40% at PI + 20% at heading; CT500S3). At a rate of 160 kg N ha-1, CSS was used as a base fertilizer in all treatments. A control treatment received synthetic fertilizers at a rate of 160 kg N ha-1 as a base application and 100 kg N ha-1 as a topdressing. Results showed that CSS-treated rice plants exhibited a lower N status and leaf chlorophyll content during the vegetative growth stage; however, the split application of centrate topdressing improved plant N status, resulting in an increase in biomass and grain yield. Centrate and CSS tended to increase the mineral content of rice; nevertheless, a significant accumulation of As in grains raised concerns about food safety. Combining CSS and centrate has the potential to increase rice production, improve grain nutritional value, and decrease reliance on synthetic fertilizers. However, it is essential to optimize this fertilization, mitigate environmental risks, and ensure food safety by employing appropriate fertilization dosing and timing as well as appropriate field management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luc Duc Phung
- Faculty of Agriculture, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-8555, Japan; Center for Foreign Languages and International Education, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Trau Quy, Gia Lam, Ha Noi, 12406, Viet Nam.
| | - Chiekh Adrame Ba
- Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-8555, Japan
| | - Putri Aditya Padma Pertiwi
- Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-8555, Japan
| | - Ayumi Ito
- Faculty of Engineering, Iwate University, 4-3-5 Ueda, Morioka, Iwate, 020-8551, Japan
| | - Toru Watanabe
- Faculty of Agriculture, Yamagata University, 1-23 Wakaba-machi, Tsuruoka, Yamagata, 997-8555, Japan.
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12
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Ersahin ME, Cicekalan B, Cengiz AI, Zhang X, Ozgun H. Nutrient recovery from municipal solid waste leachate in the scope of circular economy: Recent developments and future perspectives. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 335:117518. [PMID: 36841005 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.117518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Holistically considering the current situation of the commercial synthetic fertilizer (CSF) market, recent global developments, and future projection studies, dependency on CSFs in agricultural production born significant risks, especially to the food security of foreign-dependent countries. The foreign dependency of countries in terms of CSFs can be reduced by the concepts such as the circular economy and resource recovery. Recently, waste streams are considered as a source in order to produce recovery-based fertilizers (RBF). RBFs produced from different waste streams can be substituted with CSFs as input for agricultural applications. Municipal solid waste leachate (MSWL) is one of the waste streams that have a high potential for RBF production. Distribution of the published papers over the years shows that this potential was noticed by more researchers in the millennium. MSWL contains a remarkable amount of nitrogen and phosphorus which are the main nutrients required for agricultural production. These nutrients can be recovered with many different methods such as microalgae cultivation, chemical precipitation, ammonia stripping, membrane separation, etc. MSWL can be generated within the different phases of municipal solid waste (MSW) management. Although it is mainly composed of landfill leachate (LL), composting plant leachate (CPL), incineration plant leachate (IPL), and transfer station leachate (TSL) should be considered as potential sources to produce RBF. This study compiles studies conducted on MSWL from the perspective of nitrogen and phosphorus recovery. Moreover, recent developments and limitations of the subject were extensively discussed and future perspectives were introduced by considering the entire MSW management. Investigated studies in this review showed that the potential of MSWL to produce RBF is significant. The outcomes of this paper will serve the countries for ensuring their food security by implementing the resource recovery concept to produce RBF. Thus, the risks born with the recent global developments could be overcome in this way besides the positive environmental outcomes of resource recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Evren Ersahin
- Istanbul Technical University, Civil Engineering Faculty, Environmental Engineering Department, Ayazaga Campus, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey; National Research Center on Membrane Technologies, Istanbul Technical University, Ayazaga Campus, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Busra Cicekalan
- Istanbul Technical University, Civil Engineering Faculty, Environmental Engineering Department, Ayazaga Campus, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Izzet Cengiz
- Istanbul Technical University, Civil Engineering Faculty, Environmental Engineering Department, Ayazaga Campus, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Xuedong Zhang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Anaerobic Biotechnology, School of Environmental and Civil Engineering, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Hale Ozgun
- Istanbul Technical University, Civil Engineering Faculty, Environmental Engineering Department, Ayazaga Campus, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey; National Research Center on Membrane Technologies, Istanbul Technical University, Ayazaga Campus, Maslak, 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
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13
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Chang H, Zhao Y, Bisinella V, Damgaard A, Christensen TH. Climate change impacts of conventional sewage sludge treatment and disposal. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 240:120109. [PMID: 37244017 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 05/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Sewage sludge (SS) management remains a challenge across the world. We quantified the potential climate change impacts of eight conventional technology configurations (TCs) for SS treatment and disposal by considering four different energy exchanges and using a life cycle assessment (LCA) model that employed uncertainty distributions for 104 model parameters. All TCs showed large climate change loads and savings (net values ranging from 123 to 1148 kg CO2-eq/t TS) when the energy exchange was with a fossil-based energy system, whereas loads and savings were approximately three times lower when the energy exchange was with a renewable energy system. Uncertainty associated with the climate change results was more than 100% with fossil-energy exchange and low TS content of SS but was lower for renewable energy. Landfilling had the greatest climate change impact, while thermal drying with incineration had the highest probability of providing better climate change performance than other TCs. The global sensitivity analysis identified nine critical technological parameters. Many of them can be easily measured for relevant SS and technology levels to improve specific estimates of climate change impact. When all scenarios were optimized to the 20% best cases, thermal drying with incineration outperformed the other TCs. This paper contributes to better quantifying the climate change impacts of different technologies used for sludge treatment given changing energy systems and identifies crucial parameters for further technological development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huimin Chang
- School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China; School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China.
| | - Valentina Bisinella
- Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Anders Damgaard
- Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Thomas H Christensen
- Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby 2800, Denmark
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Kazimierowicz J, Dębowski M, Zieliński M. Technological, Ecological, and Energy-Economic Aspects of Using Solidified Carbon Dioxide for Aerobic Granular Sludge Pre-Treatment Prior to Anaerobic Digestion. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:4234. [PMID: 36901245 PMCID: PMC10002249 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20054234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The technology of aerobic granular sludge (AGS) seems prospective in wastewater bio-treatment. The characteristics as well as compactness and structure of AGS have been proved to significantly affect the effectiveness of thus far deployed methods for sewage sludge processing, including anaerobic digestion (AD). Therefore, it is deemed necessary to extend knowledge on the possibilities of efficient AGS management and to seek viable technological solutions for methane fermentation of sludge of this type, including by means of using the pre-treatment step. Little is known about the pre-treatment method with solidified carbon dioxide (SCO2), which can be recovered in processes of biogas upgrading and enrichment, leading to biomethane production. This study aimed to determine the impact of AGS pre-treatment with SCO2 on the efficiency of its AD. An energy balance and a simplified economic analysis of the process were also carried out. It was found that an increasing dose of SCO2 applied in the pre-treatment increased the concentrations of COD, N-NH4+, and P-PO43- in the supernatant in the range of the SCO2/AGS volume ratios from 0.0 to 0.3. No statistically significant differences were noted above the latter value. The highest unit yields of biogas and methane production, reaching 476 ± 20 cm3/gVS and 341 ± 13 cm3/gVS, respectively, were obtained in the variant with the SCO2/AGS ratio of 0.3. This experimental variant also produced the highest positive net energy gain, reaching 1047.85 ± 20 kWh/ton total solids (TS). The use of the higher than 0.3 SCO2 doses was proved to significantly reduce the pH of AGS (below 6.5), thereby directly diminishing the percentage of methanogenic bacteria in the anaerobic bacterial community, which in turn contributed to a reduced CH4 fraction in the biogas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kazimierowicz
- Department of Water Supply and Sewage Systems, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Environmental Sciences, Bialystok University of Technology, 15-351 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marcin Dębowski
- Department of Environment Engineering, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-720 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marcin Zieliński
- Department of Environment Engineering, Faculty of Geoengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-720 Olsztyn, Poland
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15
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Imbernón-Mulero A, Maestre-Valero JF, Martínez-Alvarez V, García-García FJ, Jódar-Conesa FJ, Gallego-Elvira B. Evaluation of an autonomous smart system for optimal management of fertigation with variable sources of irrigation water. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1149956. [PMID: 37123858 PMCID: PMC10130640 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1149956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Modern irrigation technologies and tools can help boost fertigation efficiency and sustainability, particularly when using irrigation water of varying quality. In this study, a high-tech irrigation head using a new fertigation optimization tool called NutriBalance, which is designed to manage feed waters of different qualities, has been evaluated from technical and economic perspectives. NutriBalance computes the optimal fertigation dose based on specific data about the equipment, the crop, the irrigation water, and the fertilizers available, in order to enable autonomous and accurate water and fertilizer supply. The system was trialed in a grapefruit orchard irrigated with fresh and desalinated water for several values of crop nutritional requirements and considering different fertilizer price scenarios. The results showed the good interoperability between the tool and the irrigation head and the nearly flawless ability (error below 7% for most ions) of the system to provide the prescribed fertigation with different combinations of irrigation water. Fertilizer savings of up to 40% were achieved, which, for the lifespan of the equipment, were estimated to correspond to around 500 EUR/ha/year. The results of this study can encourage the adoption of novel technologies and tools by farmers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Imbernón-Mulero
- Deparment of Agricultural Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Spain
- *Correspondence: Alberto Imbernón-Mulero,
| | - José F. Maestre-Valero
- Deparment of Agricultural Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Belén Gallego-Elvira
- Deparment of Agricultural Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Cartagena, Spain
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16
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Arnao MB, Hernández-Ruiz J, Cano A. Role of Melatonin and Nitrogen Metabolism in Plants: Implications under Nitrogen-Excess or Nitrogen-Low. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315217. [PMID: 36499543 PMCID: PMC9741234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a new plant hormone involved in multiple physiological functions in plants such as germination, photosynthesis, plant growth, flowering, fruiting, and senescence, among others. Its protective role in different stress situations, both biotic and abiotic, has been widely demonstrated. Melatonin regulates several routes in primary and secondary plant metabolism through the up/down-regulation of many enzyme/factor genes. Many of the steps of nitrogen metabolism in plants are also regulated by melatonin and are presented in this review. In addition, the ability of melatonin to enhance nitrogen uptake under nitrogen-excess or nitrogen-low conditions is analyzed. A model that summarizes the distribution of nitrogen compounds, and the osmoregulation and redox network responses mediated by melatonin, are presented. The possibilities of using melatonin in crops for more efficient uptake, the assimilation and metabolization of nitrogen from soil, and the implications for Nitrogen Use Efficiency strategies to improve crop yield are also discussed.
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