Chemical fertilizers are a source of soil degradation. In order to mitigate soil degradation and to face the negative impacts of climate change, the use of organic fertilizers, accessible to small farmers can maintain...Chemical fertilizers are a source of soil degradation. In order to mitigate soil degradation and to face the negative impacts of climate change, the use of organic fertilizers, accessible to small farmers can maintain the productivity of cereals including rice. The objective of this experiment is to study the effect of organo-mineral fertilizers on soil chemical properties, growth and physiology parameters and yield of rice. For this purpose, a completely randomized block design with three replications was adopted. Different organic (Fertinova, Organova and Fertinova + Organova) and mineral (NPK + Urea) fertilizers were applied to cultivate the NERICA L19 variety of rice. The soil chemical properties (pH), germination rate, growth, yield and physiological (chlorophyll content) parameters were assessed. The results revealed a germination rate of the grains varying between 87.5 and 100%. Fertinova and Fertinova + Organova had the highest germination rates. Soil pH decreased significantly from initial (6.71 ± 0.01) to final (5.73 ± 0.04) with the development cycle of the rice. Organo-mineral fertilizers influenced significantly (p = 5.36e−09) soil chemical properties by increasing pH (4%) compared to Control. Analysis of variance on growth and yield parameters, yield and chlorophyll content revealed a significant difference (p < 0.05) between fertilizers. Growth and yield parameters and yield were significantly higher in NPK and Fertinova + Organova than in Fertinova, Organova and Control. For the biomass the NPK + Urea recorded significantly highest biomass (488.28 ± 60.83 g). Leaves chlorophyll content varied significantly according to the daytime and the status of leaf development. The higher chlorophyll content was recorded at noon (27.96 ± 0.32 SPAD value) and with young leaves (30.21 ± 0.35 SPAD value). NPK + Urea (29.36 ± 0.45 SPAD value) and Fertinova (27.78 ± 0.40 SPAD value) favored more chlorophyll content in the rice leaves. Rice performed better in NPK + Urea and Fertinova + Organova fertilizers.展开更多
Ten physical and environmental variables collected from an on-the-go soil sensor at two field sites (MF3E and MF11S) in Mississippi, USA, were analyzed to assess soil variability and the interrelationships among the m...Ten physical and environmental variables collected from an on-the-go soil sensor at two field sites (MF3E and MF11S) in Mississippi, USA, were analyzed to assess soil variability and the interrelationships among the measurements. At MF3E, moderate variability was observed in apparent electrical conductivity shallow (ECas), slope, and ECa ratio measurements, with coefficients of variation ranging from 20% to 27%. In contrast, MF11S exhibited higher variability, particularly in ECas and ECad (deep) measurements, which exceeded 30% in their coefficient of variation values, indicating significant differences in soil composition and moisture content. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between the near-infrared-to-red ratio and red reflectance (r = 0.897***) soil values at MF3E. MF11S demonstrated a strong negative correlation between ECas and ECad readings with the x-coordinate (r ***). Scatter plots and fitted models illustrated the complexity of relationships, with many showing nonlinear trends. These findings emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and advanced modeling to understand the dynamic nature of soil properties and their implications for agricultural practices. Future research should explore the underlying mechanisms driving variability in the soil characteristics to enhance soil management strategies at the study sites.展开更多
Expansive soils, prone to being influenced by the environmental conditions, undergo expansion when water is introduced and shrinkage upon drying. This persistent volumetric fluctuation can induce differential movement...Expansive soils, prone to being influenced by the environmental conditions, undergo expansion when water is introduced and shrinkage upon drying. This persistent volumetric fluctuation can induce differential movements and result in cracking of structures erected upon them. The present research focuses on characterizing the behavior of pavements erected on expansive clays subjected to swelling and shrinkage cycles. Direct shear tests and oedometer tests were conducted in the laboratory on samples of expansive soils undergoing swelling-shrinkage cycles. The experimental data reveal a significant decrease in shear strength, evidenced by a reduction in shear parameters (internal friction angle, cohesion) and a decrease in the modulus of elasticity as the number of cycles increases. A numerical model based on the finite element method was developed to simulate the behavior of a pavement on an expansive clay substrate. The model results indicate an increase in total displacements with the increase in the number of shrinkage-swelling cycles, demonstrating a progressive degradation of the soil’s mechanical behavior. This study contributes to a better understanding of the complex phenomena governing the behavior of expansive soils and serves as a foundation for developing effective management and mitigation strategies for road infrastructures.展开更多
A new manufactured soil product (Turba) was produced using acidified bauxite residue into which 10% green waste compost had been incorporated. A laboratory/greenhouse experiment was carried out to determine if sand co...A new manufactured soil product (Turba) was produced using acidified bauxite residue into which 10% green waste compost had been incorporated. A laboratory/greenhouse experiment was carried out to determine if sand could be used as an ingredient or an amendment for Turba. Sand was added at rates of 0%, 5%, 10%, 25, 50% and 75% (w/w) in two different ways 1) by incorporating it into the Turba during its manufacture (IN) or 2) by mixing it with Turba aggregates after their manufacture (OUT). Incorporation of sand into Turba aggregates (IN) decreased the percentage of sample present as large aggregates (2 - 4 mm dia.) after crushing and sieving (<4 mm) and also reduced the stability of 2 - 4 mm dia. formed aggregates (to dry/wet sieving) and are therefore not recommended. In a 16-week greenhouse study, ryegrass shoot yields were greater in Turba than in sand [and decreased with increasing sand additions (OUT)] while root dry matter showed the opposite trend. The greater grass growth in Turba than sand was attributed to incipit water stress in plants grown in sand and this may have promoted greater allocation of assimilates to roots resulting in a greater root-to-top mass ratio. The much lower macroporosity in Turba coupled with the solid cemented nature of Turba aggregates resulted in production of thinner roots and therefore greater root length than in sand. Turba (manufactured from bauxite residue and compost added at 10% w/w) is a suitable medium for plant growth and there is no advantage in incorporating sand into, or with, the Turba aggregates.展开更多
As an important component of the global carbon cycle, forest soil organic carbon has a crucial impact on the stability of ecosystems and climate change. As one of the largest carbon pools in terrestrial ecosystems, th...As an important component of the global carbon cycle, forest soil organic carbon has a crucial impact on the stability of ecosystems and climate change. As one of the largest carbon pools in terrestrial ecosystems, the organic carbon stock in forest soils is of great significance for climate change and the health of forest ecosystems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of forest soil organic carbon, discussing its research progress, role, influencing factors, and future trends, with the aim of providing scientific evidence for forest soil carbon management to mitigate global climate change and promote the sustainable development of forest ecosystems.展开更多
Terrestrial invasive alien weed plants are known to infest cultivated land, potentially releasing allelochemicals into the rhizosphere during decomposition, negatively impacting crop growth. This study aimed to evalua...Terrestrial invasive alien weed plants are known to infest cultivated land, potentially releasing allelochemicals into the rhizosphere during decomposition, negatively impacting crop growth. This study aimed to evaluate: (1) the allelopathic activity of five invasive weed species (Ageratum conyzoides, Bidens pilosa, Cecropia peltata, Tithonia diversifolia, and Chromolaena odorata) on Lactuca sativa and Phaseolus vulgaris growth;and (2) the effects of A. conyzoides rhizospheric soil on P. vulgaris seed germination. Bioassays of aqueous and leachate extracts were prepared from fresh leaves of the invasive species at concentrations of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% to assess allelopathic effects on L. sativa and P. vulgaris seed germination. Additionally, rhizospheric soil from A. conyzoides stands was collected, processed, and applied at varied weights (0.5 - 7 kg) to P. vulgaris seeds, with germination observed over nine days. Polynomial regression analysis was applied to model the data. High-concentration extracts (75% and 100%) significantly inhibited germination, root, and shoot growth in both L. sativa and P. vulgaris (P 2 − 80.294922x3 + 41.541115x4 − 11.747532x5 + 1.8501702x6 − 0.1519795x7 + 0.0050631x8. Allelopathic effects were concentration-dependent, with roots more sensitive than shoots to the invasive extracts. L. sativa was the most susceptible, while P. vulgaris showed greater tolerance. Modelling the allelopathic impact of A. conyzoides rhizospheric soil offers valuable insight into the allelochemical dosage necessary to affect seed germination, informing potential agricultural management strategies for invasive plant control.展开更多
文摘Chemical fertilizers are a source of soil degradation. In order to mitigate soil degradation and to face the negative impacts of climate change, the use of organic fertilizers, accessible to small farmers can maintain the productivity of cereals including rice. The objective of this experiment is to study the effect of organo-mineral fertilizers on soil chemical properties, growth and physiology parameters and yield of rice. For this purpose, a completely randomized block design with three replications was adopted. Different organic (Fertinova, Organova and Fertinova + Organova) and mineral (NPK + Urea) fertilizers were applied to cultivate the NERICA L19 variety of rice. The soil chemical properties (pH), germination rate, growth, yield and physiological (chlorophyll content) parameters were assessed. The results revealed a germination rate of the grains varying between 87.5 and 100%. Fertinova and Fertinova + Organova had the highest germination rates. Soil pH decreased significantly from initial (6.71 ± 0.01) to final (5.73 ± 0.04) with the development cycle of the rice. Organo-mineral fertilizers influenced significantly (p = 5.36e−09) soil chemical properties by increasing pH (4%) compared to Control. Analysis of variance on growth and yield parameters, yield and chlorophyll content revealed a significant difference (p < 0.05) between fertilizers. Growth and yield parameters and yield were significantly higher in NPK and Fertinova + Organova than in Fertinova, Organova and Control. For the biomass the NPK + Urea recorded significantly highest biomass (488.28 ± 60.83 g). Leaves chlorophyll content varied significantly according to the daytime and the status of leaf development. The higher chlorophyll content was recorded at noon (27.96 ± 0.32 SPAD value) and with young leaves (30.21 ± 0.35 SPAD value). NPK + Urea (29.36 ± 0.45 SPAD value) and Fertinova (27.78 ± 0.40 SPAD value) favored more chlorophyll content in the rice leaves. Rice performed better in NPK + Urea and Fertinova + Organova fertilizers.
文摘Ten physical and environmental variables collected from an on-the-go soil sensor at two field sites (MF3E and MF11S) in Mississippi, USA, were analyzed to assess soil variability and the interrelationships among the measurements. At MF3E, moderate variability was observed in apparent electrical conductivity shallow (ECas), slope, and ECa ratio measurements, with coefficients of variation ranging from 20% to 27%. In contrast, MF11S exhibited higher variability, particularly in ECas and ECad (deep) measurements, which exceeded 30% in their coefficient of variation values, indicating significant differences in soil composition and moisture content. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive relationships between the near-infrared-to-red ratio and red reflectance (r = 0.897***) soil values at MF3E. MF11S demonstrated a strong negative correlation between ECas and ECad readings with the x-coordinate (r ***). Scatter plots and fitted models illustrated the complexity of relationships, with many showing nonlinear trends. These findings emphasize the need for continuous monitoring and advanced modeling to understand the dynamic nature of soil properties and their implications for agricultural practices. Future research should explore the underlying mechanisms driving variability in the soil characteristics to enhance soil management strategies at the study sites.
文摘Expansive soils, prone to being influenced by the environmental conditions, undergo expansion when water is introduced and shrinkage upon drying. This persistent volumetric fluctuation can induce differential movements and result in cracking of structures erected upon them. The present research focuses on characterizing the behavior of pavements erected on expansive clays subjected to swelling and shrinkage cycles. Direct shear tests and oedometer tests were conducted in the laboratory on samples of expansive soils undergoing swelling-shrinkage cycles. The experimental data reveal a significant decrease in shear strength, evidenced by a reduction in shear parameters (internal friction angle, cohesion) and a decrease in the modulus of elasticity as the number of cycles increases. A numerical model based on the finite element method was developed to simulate the behavior of a pavement on an expansive clay substrate. The model results indicate an increase in total displacements with the increase in the number of shrinkage-swelling cycles, demonstrating a progressive degradation of the soil’s mechanical behavior. This study contributes to a better understanding of the complex phenomena governing the behavior of expansive soils and serves as a foundation for developing effective management and mitigation strategies for road infrastructures.
文摘A new manufactured soil product (Turba) was produced using acidified bauxite residue into which 10% green waste compost had been incorporated. A laboratory/greenhouse experiment was carried out to determine if sand could be used as an ingredient or an amendment for Turba. Sand was added at rates of 0%, 5%, 10%, 25, 50% and 75% (w/w) in two different ways 1) by incorporating it into the Turba during its manufacture (IN) or 2) by mixing it with Turba aggregates after their manufacture (OUT). Incorporation of sand into Turba aggregates (IN) decreased the percentage of sample present as large aggregates (2 - 4 mm dia.) after crushing and sieving (<4 mm) and also reduced the stability of 2 - 4 mm dia. formed aggregates (to dry/wet sieving) and are therefore not recommended. In a 16-week greenhouse study, ryegrass shoot yields were greater in Turba than in sand [and decreased with increasing sand additions (OUT)] while root dry matter showed the opposite trend. The greater grass growth in Turba than sand was attributed to incipit water stress in plants grown in sand and this may have promoted greater allocation of assimilates to roots resulting in a greater root-to-top mass ratio. The much lower macroporosity in Turba coupled with the solid cemented nature of Turba aggregates resulted in production of thinner roots and therefore greater root length than in sand. Turba (manufactured from bauxite residue and compost added at 10% w/w) is a suitable medium for plant growth and there is no advantage in incorporating sand into, or with, the Turba aggregates.
文摘As an important component of the global carbon cycle, forest soil organic carbon has a crucial impact on the stability of ecosystems and climate change. As one of the largest carbon pools in terrestrial ecosystems, the organic carbon stock in forest soils is of great significance for climate change and the health of forest ecosystems. This paper provides a comprehensive review of forest soil organic carbon, discussing its research progress, role, influencing factors, and future trends, with the aim of providing scientific evidence for forest soil carbon management to mitigate global climate change and promote the sustainable development of forest ecosystems.
文摘Terrestrial invasive alien weed plants are known to infest cultivated land, potentially releasing allelochemicals into the rhizosphere during decomposition, negatively impacting crop growth. This study aimed to evaluate: (1) the allelopathic activity of five invasive weed species (Ageratum conyzoides, Bidens pilosa, Cecropia peltata, Tithonia diversifolia, and Chromolaena odorata) on Lactuca sativa and Phaseolus vulgaris growth;and (2) the effects of A. conyzoides rhizospheric soil on P. vulgaris seed germination. Bioassays of aqueous and leachate extracts were prepared from fresh leaves of the invasive species at concentrations of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% to assess allelopathic effects on L. sativa and P. vulgaris seed germination. Additionally, rhizospheric soil from A. conyzoides stands was collected, processed, and applied at varied weights (0.5 - 7 kg) to P. vulgaris seeds, with germination observed over nine days. Polynomial regression analysis was applied to model the data. High-concentration extracts (75% and 100%) significantly inhibited germination, root, and shoot growth in both L. sativa and P. vulgaris (P 2 − 80.294922x3 + 41.541115x4 − 11.747532x5 + 1.8501702x6 − 0.1519795x7 + 0.0050631x8. Allelopathic effects were concentration-dependent, with roots more sensitive than shoots to the invasive extracts. L. sativa was the most susceptible, while P. vulgaris showed greater tolerance. Modelling the allelopathic impact of A. conyzoides rhizospheric soil offers valuable insight into the allelochemical dosage necessary to affect seed germination, informing potential agricultural management strategies for invasive plant control.
