Article
Environmental Sciences
Juliana M. Saez, Samanta K. Gonzalez, Teresa A. L. Ocante, Ana L. Bigliardo, Gabriela E. Briceno, Claudia S. Benimeli
Summary: This study evaluated the removal of atrazine using biomixtures formulated with different sugarcane by-products and investigated the effect of bioaugmentation with Streptomyces sp. M7 on the purification capacity and microbial community of the biomixtures.
JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Rosa Marchetti, Ciro Vasmara, Anna Orsi
Summary: The specialized inoculum obtained from raw pig slurry showed higher performance in anaerobic digestion compared to commonly used digestates, with higher specific methanogenic activity and methane yield. The inoculum maintained its AD performance almost unchanged for a prolonged storage period. The residual liquid from inoculum production contains nutrients that can be reused as fertilizer.
SUSTAINABLE ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES AND ASSESSMENTS
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Haiping Gu, Jie Yan, Yuhao Liu, Xuewei Yu, Yan Feng, Xuanyi Yang, Su Shiung Lam, Mu. Naushad, Cheng Li, Christian Sonne
Summary: Bioaugmentation was used to obtain a microbiome capable of degrading polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The study found that acclimating microorganisms to soil supplemented with phenanthrene led to the enrichment of PAH-degrading bacteria, including Actinobacteriota and genera such as Streptomyces, Rhodococcus, Nocardioides, Sphingomonas, and Mycobacterium. The degradation efficiency of phenanthrene in aqueous and soil cultures inoculated with phenanthrene-acclimated soil was found to be high. This research provides theoretical and practical support for the bioremediation of PAHs in the environment.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH
(2023)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Harri Talvenmaki, Niina Saartama, Anna Haukka, Katri Lepikko, Virpi Pajunen, Milla Punkari, Guoyong Yan, Aki Sinkkonen, Tuomas Piepponen, Hannu Silvennoinen, Martin Romantschuk
Summary: A residential lot impacted by spills from a leaking light heating oil tank was successfully treated with a combination of chemical oxidation and bioremediation, resulting in a 98% reduction in oil concentration in the soil. This method, which involved Fenton's reaction-based chemical oxidation and biological treatment, achieved significant results through a series of steps.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Dawei Yu, Buhe Chulu, Min Yang, Yuansong Wei
Summary: This study investigated the bioaugmentation of ammonia inhibition and explored alternative sources of DIETer inoculum for treating brewery wastewater. The results showed that the unacclimated inoculum demonstrated feasible recovery in methane yield under ammonia stress compared with the acclimated inoculum. Functional analysis revealed that the unacclimated inoculum had higher relative abundances in key enzymes of hydrogenotrophic methanogenesis. These findings suggest that the inoculum treating brewery wastewater serves as a firm foundation for alternative DIETer inoculum source, broadening inoculums for mitigating ammonia stress.
BIOMASS CONVERSION AND BIOREFINERY
(2022)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
V. M. Castro-Gutierrez, L. Pickering, J. C. Cambronero-Heinrichs, B. Holden, J. Haley, P. Jarvis, B. Jefferson, T. Helgason, J. W. Moir, F. Hassard
Summary: This study demonstrates the successful removal of the adsorption-resistant pesticide metaldehyde from a real water matrix in upscaled systems through bioaugmentation. The strain Sphingobium CMET-H showed high removal efficiency and persistent activity, making bioaugmentation an efficient strategy to manage peak concentrations of metaldehyde in drinking water purification.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Judith Riedo, Aya Yokota, Barbara Walther, Nora Bartolome, Marcel G. A. van der Heijden, Thomas D. Bucheli, Florian Walder
Summary: Pesticides are essential in modern agriculture but can cause widespread contamination of the environment, including soils. It is important to assess the risk posed by pesticide contamination thoroughly. This study measured and compared the bioavailable and total concentrations of three fungicides in soils and evaluated their effects on microbial markers.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Francesca Tagliabue, Enrica Marini, Arianna De Bernardi, Costantino Vischetti, Cristiano Casucci
Summary: This paper examines the effectiveness of earthworm remediation, both alone and in combination with other bioremediation methods, in addressing soil pollution. Through a comprehensive analysis of literature, the study evaluates the role of earthworm activity in tackling soil pollution and identifies the most promising techniques for different types of pollutants (organic, inorganic, or both).
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
(2023)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Willian Garcia Birolli, Alef dos Santos, Eduardo Pilau, Edson Rodrigues-Filho
Summary: This study investigated the biodegradation of Cypermethrin using Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner, finding optimized conditions and proposing a degradation pathway. In soil experiments, the addition of this bacterial strain significantly increased Cyp degradation, while also exhibiting insecticidal and antifungal activities that could potentially enhance agricultural productivity.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Rajendiran Oviya, Gunasekaran Sobanbabu, Palaniappan Anbazhagan, Natarajan Revathy, Palani Mahalakshmi, Karunakaran Manonmani, Petchimuthu Mareeswari, Ayyathurai Vijayasamundeeswari, Vellasamy Shanmugaiah, Sayaji Mehetre, Vellaisamy Ramamoorthy
Summary: This study assessed the edaphic conditions of Phellorinia herculeana and identified a suitable culturing medium for maximum growth. The mushroom grows in saline coastal soil, barren land soil, and desert soil. Maize agar medium supported the best mycelial growth, and the addition of glucose hindered growth. Optimal mycelial growth was observed at temperatures between 34°C and 37°C, and at a pH between 7 and 8. Sand-maize medium in a ratio of 19:1 (sand:maize) supported maximum mycelial growth. These findings contribute to the development of protocols for artificial cultivation, mass multiplication, bioaugmentation, and biodegradation of Phellorinia herculeana in unfertile soil.
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Anchita Kalsi, S. Mary Celin, Pallvi Bhanot, Sandeep Sahai, Jai Gopal Sharma
Summary: The study showed that using poultry waste as a carrier for explosive degrading microbes is effective for in situ remediation of explosive contaminated soils, with better results seen under saturated conditions.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Son A. Hoang, Dane Lamb, Balaji Seshadri, Binoy Sarkar, Girish Choppala, M. B. Kirkham, Nanthi S. Bolan
Summary: Rhizoremediation is a green and sustainable alternative for remediating contaminated environments by utilizing the symbiotic relationship between plants and their associated soil microorganisms. Identification of suitable plant-microbe combinations and application of appropriate soil amendments can enhance overall efficiency.
JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
(2021)
Article
Agronomy
Claudio Lamilla, Heidi Schalchli, Gabriela Briceno, Barbara Leiva, Pamela Donoso-Pinol, Leticia Barrientos, Vanessa A. L. Rocha, Denise M. G. Freire, M. Cristina Diez
Summary: Biosurfactants, produced by microorganisms, are less toxic and more biodegradable compared to synthetic surfactants. Bacteria tolerant to pesticides in biopurification systems can efficiently produce biosurfactants, which can enhance pesticide degradation. Further studies on biosurfactants from biopurification systems could have important environmental biotechnology applications.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Gilberto Morales-Guzman, Ronald Ferrera-Cerrato, Maria del Carmen Rivera-Cruz, Luis Gilberto Torres-Bustillos, Ma Remedios Mendoza-Lopez, Rosalba Esquivel-Cote, Alejandro Alarcon
Summary: This study evaluated the effects of mineral fertilization, surfactant application, and bioaugmentation on the growth and petroleum hydrocarbon degradation of Clitoria ternatea in contaminated soil. Mineral fertilization promoted plant growth and biomass production, while surfactant application favored root biomass increase and hydrocarbon degradation. Reintroduction of hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria did not enhance plant growth but significantly contributed to the degradation of petroleum hydrocarbons. Combined application of biostimulation and bioaugmentation improved plant growth, hydrocarbonoclastic bacteria population, and hydrocarbon degradation.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOREMEDIATION
(2023)
Review
Environmental Sciences
Jerry Anae, Nafees Ahmad, Vinod Kumar, Vijay Kumar Thakur, Tony Gutierrez, Xiao Jin Yang, Chao Cai, Zhugen Yang, Frederic Coulon
Summary: Heavy metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in soil have adverse effects on the environment and living organisms, necessitating the development of effective remediation methods. Biochar is considered a promising strategy as a renewable adsorbent. The effectiveness of biochar adsorption depends on biomass material, carbonisation method, and pyrolysis conditions.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Gregor Claus, Matti Pisman, Pieter Spanoghe, Guy Smagghe, Maxime Eeraerts
Summary: This study validated a test protocol to assess the effects of pesticide exposure on larval development in two solitary bee species. It found that higher doses of the neonicotinoid insecticide thiacloprid led to increased developmental mortality, longer larval development time, reduced pollen provision consumption, and lighter cocoon weight in both bee species. The results demonstrated that the test protocol was valid and robust, and highlighted the need for further insights, such as testing positive controls and selecting male and female individuals at the egg level, in developing a standardized test protocol.
ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Olivier Wilmart, Anne Legreve, Marie-Louise Scippo, Wim Reybroeck, Bruno Urbain, Dirk C. de Graaf, Pieter Spanoghe, Philippe Delahaut, Claude Saegerman
Summary: The study evaluated the risk to honey bee health posed by residues of pesticides and veterinary drugs in beeswax in Europe. Provisional action limits were proposed, and beeswax exceeding these limits should not be put on the market.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Akram Sayed, Michael Chys, Jasmine De Rop, Liliane Goeteyn, Pieter Spanoghe, Imca Sampers
Summary: Pesticide residues were found in wastewater from vegetable and potato processing companies, with conventional treatment techniques proving to be insufficient in removing them. New removal techniques are essential to meet the European potable water limit. However, pesticide residues in processed products were mostly below the maximum residue limit.
Article
Environmental Sciences
T. Goessens, S. De Baere, A. Deknock, N. De Troyer, R. Van Leeuwenberg, A. Martel, F. Pasmans, P. Goethals, L. Lens, P. Spanoghe, L. Vanhaecke, S. Croubels
Summary: The study found that amphibian breeding ponds in Flanders, Belgium were frequently contaminated with various compounds from agrochemicals, with concentrations reaching the micrograms per liter level, and demonstrated temporal variation for heavy metals and pesticides.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Elena Feo, Sylvia Burssens, Hannes Mareen, Pieter Spanoghe
Summary: Providing readily accessible and user-friendly materials is a challenge for Horizon 2020 Thematic Networks (TNs) in promoting innovation in agriculture and forestry. This study investigates the most efficient communication and dissemination channels, types and formats of TN-produced data, and the involvement of TN actors. A proposed digital platform aims to collect TN outputs in a FAIR manner, overcoming challenges such as language barriers and limited Internet access. Results suggest that newsletters and visual materials are preferred by farmers and foresters, and face-to-face interaction is favored by researchers and practitioners. Further research will explore the varying needs of different user profiles, stimulating knowledge exchange among TN actors.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Abegail Fusilero, Jasmine De Rop, Pieter Spanoghe, Gertie H. P. Arts, Karel A. C. De Schamphelaere
Summary: Considering the importance of rooted macrophytes in the aquatic ecosystem, this study investigated the interactive effects of diflufenican and iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium at an environmentally relevant mixture ratio. The results showed that these compounds acted antagonistically for fresh weight and total shoot length, and slightly synergistically for the number of side shoots. The assessment of mixture toxicity interactions was found to be method- and endpoint-dependent.
ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND CHEMISTRY
(2022)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Bayeh Abera, Wout Van Echelpoel, Andree De Cock, Bjorn Tytgat, Mulugeta Kibret, Pieter Spanoghe, Daniel Mengistu, Enyew Adgo, Jan Nyssen, Peter L. M. Goethals, Elie Verleyen
Summary: Pesticide residues in Lake Tana Basin pose potential risks to aquatic life and human health, especially due to high concentrations of DDE and cypermethrin. However, there were no significant differences in residue concentrations between seasons and habitats in the lake and its surrounding areas.
Article
Plant Sciences
Richard Raj Singh, Maarten Ameye, Geert Haesaert, Melissa Deveux, Pieter Spanoghe, Kris Audenaert, Jean-Michel Rabasse, Tina Kyndt
Summary: beta-Aminobutyric acid (BABA) can induce resistance to stress in plants, but it can also be phytotoxic in some plant species. We studied the phytotoxicity of the RS BABA in tomato, finding that it is dose-dependent and stronger when applied on the leaves compared to soil application. We also found that the two enantiomers of BABA have different phytotoxic effects, with R BABA causing systemic phytotoxic symptoms.
PHYSIOLOGIA PLANTARUM
(2023)
Article
Biology
Berdien De Beer, Marilou Vandenhole, Christine Njiru, Pieter Spanoghe, Wannes Dermauw, Thomas Van Leeuwen
Summary: The resistance of two-spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae to bifenthrin is mediated by both target-site mutations and metabolic mechanisms. Increased expression of detoxification enzymes in resistant strains suggests a synergistic effect in conferring resistance.
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Xingchen Zhao, Marc Hendriks, Emily Deleu, Pieter Spanoghe, Monica Hofte, Leo van Overbeek, Mieke Uyttendaele
Summary: Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), commonly used as a biological control agent, can persist in tomato plants and reach the fruits until consumption. Nearly half of the tomato samples tested positive for presumptive B. cereus, with 98% of these isolates identified as Bt. Commercial Bt granule formulation showed stronger attachment and easier wash-off properties.
Article
Environmental Sciences
Andree De Cock, Marie Anne Eurie Forio, Siska Croubels, Luis Dominguez-Granda, Liesbeth Jacxsens, Carl Lachat, Heydi Roa-Lopez, Jenny Ruales, Victoria Scheyvaerts, Michelle Carolina Solis Hidalgo, Pieter Spanoghe, Filip M. G. Tack, Peter L. M. Goethals
Summary: Mangrove forests are endangered ecosystems that provide vital food resources. A risk-benefit assessment was conducted on the red mangrove crab to determine the potential health impacts of consumption and establish a safe intake recommendation. The results showed that the crab contains important nutrients and can be part of a balanced diet.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2023)
Article
Water Resources
Amber Baele, Fien Waegenaar, Katrien De Maeyer, Bart De Gusseme, Han Vervaeren, Pieter Spanoghe, Nico Boon
Summary: Providing safe and high-quality drinking water is increasingly important due to climate change and population growth. Water towers are commonly used for storage and distribution, but microbial regrowth and the presence of insects such as flies pose a challenge. A study in Belgium monitored ten water towers for fly species diversity, abundances, and activity. The results found three fly species present, and they entered the towers in autumn and sought shelter on the highest floors where the water tank is located. Prevention measures are crucial to avoid contact between flies and drinking water in water towers, and effective methods such as sealing ventilation and covering water tanks with insect screens are discussed.
FRONTIERS IN WATER
(2023)
Article
Agricultural Economics & Policy
Elena Feo, Pieter Spanoghe, Els Berckmoes, Elodie Pascal, Rosa Mosquera-Losada, Alexander Opdebeeck, Sylvia Burssens
Summary: This paper discusses the implementation of the Multi-Actor Approach in Horizon2020 Thematic-Networks, and proposes best practices for improvement based on research and expert input. It highlights the importance of involving all types of actors and the role of facilitators in fostering relationships and understanding among them. Additionally, it suggests the use of a user-friendly digital platform for knowledge sharing and peer-to-peer exchange to enhance the impact of agricultural and forestry innovation.
AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD ECONOMICS
(2022)
Article
Agriculture, Multidisciplinary
Edelbis Lopez-Davila, Michael Houbraken, Jasmine De Rop, Gijs Du Laing, Osvaldo Romero Romero, Pieter Spanoghe
Summary: A study conducted in the Sancti Spiritus province of Cuba between 2011 and 2014 aimed to quantify the toxicity and ecotoxicological pressure of pesticides. Findings showed that workers and residents were at the highest risk of exposure to toxic pesticides, while aquatic organisms and the environment faced significant ecotoxicological pressure from pesticide use. The use of POCER and Sigma Seq indicators provided a more accurate assessment of pesticide toxicity and ecotoxicity, suggesting that substituting highly toxic pesticides with less toxic alternatives could help reduce environmental and human health risks.
REVISTA CORPOICA-CIENCIA Y TECNOLOGIA AGROPECUARIA
(2021)
Article
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Edelbis Lopez Davila, Yenima Martinez Castro, Osvaldo Romero Romero, Gijs Du Laing, Pieter Spanoghe
Summary: The study identified that priority attention should be focused on Ni and Cd, as their concentrations in tomatoes and rice grown in the Sancti Spiritus territory of Cuba exceeded reference limits, posing risks to various age groups. Additionally, Cu also slightly contributes to cumulative risk. Furthermore, Cd and Ni in tobacco smoke present risks to both active and passive smokers, with concentrations high enough to pose hazards from these toxic elements.
ENVIRONMENT DEVELOPMENT AND SUSTAINABILITY
(2021)
