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The aim of the study was to investigate genotoxic and cytotoxic activities of Artemisia vulgaris L. and Artemisia alba Turra methanol extracts concerning their chemical composition, separately and in co-treatment with a known mutagen (mitomycin C, MMC). For these evaluations, the cytokinesis-block micronucleus (CBMN) assay as the method for measuring MN frequency in human peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) and MTT assay as the proliferation test in SW-480 human colon cancer cells and human periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) as normal control, were performed. The total phenol and flavonoid contents were determined using the spectrophotometric method, and identification and quantification of polyphenols were performed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-PDA). Cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay showed that both extracts significantly increased micronucleus (MN) frequency in the PBLs treated with all tested concentrations (10, 50, 100 and 250 μg/mL), except the lowest concentration (10 μg/mL) of A. vulgaris. All the concentrations of A. alba significantly influence the nuclear division index (NDI). In treatment against MMC, the extracts dose-dependently reduced MN frequencies and NDI values in comparison with the positive control. A. alba extract exhibits significant cytotoxic activity in SW-480 cells, while A. vulgaris induces cytotoxic activity only in co-treatment with MMC after long-term exposure. Both extracts did not significantly affect the viability of the PDLSCs. The phytochemical analysis showed that the extracts contained large amounts of total phenols and flavonoids. The most abundant polyphenolic compounds were chlorogenic acid and quercetin-3-O-glucopyranoside, while 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid present in higher amount and detected only in A. alba extract. High concentrations of certain polyphenolic compounds detected in A. vulgaris and A. alba extracts can be a significant factor for obtaining genotoxic, cytotoxic and protective activities.

Drought is one of the most important factors limiting the successful production of cultivated plants. One of the most sensitive stage to the water deficit in plants is seed germination. There are various methods of pre-sowing treatments that aim to reduce the negative impact of drought stress and improve seed germination. One of them is priming seeds. The aim of this experiment was to examine the effect of priming seeds in solutions - KNO3 (1%), ascorbic acid - AsA (100 mgl-1) and potassium chloride KCl (1%) on the reduction of the negative effect of drought stress. The effect of drought stress was simulated using different concentrations of PEG 6000 (0 (control), -0.30, -0.51, -0.80 MPa). The results of the research showed that with the increase of water deficiency, the effect of priming seeds is greater. At the water potential of the solution of -0.30 MPa, germination energy and seed germination increased on average by 6.77% and 5.08%, while at the water potential of the solution of -0.80 MPa, the increase was 19.28% and 16.75%, respectively. Also, priming seeds significantly reduced the intensity of lipid peroxidation and the content of free proline. From all the above, it can be concluded that priming of seeds is a method that can serve to improve the germination of soybean seeds in conditions of drought stress. Suša je jedan od najvažnijih faktora koji ograničava uspešnu proizvodnju kulturnih biljaka. Jedna od najosetljivijih faza na nedostatak vode kod biljaka je klijanje semena. Postoje razne metode odnosno predsetveni tretmani koj imaju cilj da smanje negativan uticaj nedostatka vode i poboljšaju klijanje semena. Jedan od njih je potapanje semena. Cilj ovog eksperimenta bio je da se ispita uticaj potapanja semena u rastvore - KNO3 (1%), askorbinsku kiselinu - AsA (100mgl-1) i kalijum hlorid KCl (1%) na smanjenje negativnog uticaja suše. Dejstvo suše simulirano je primenom različitih koncentracija PEG-a 6000 (0 (kontrola), -0,30, -0,51, -0,80 MPa). Rezultati istraživanja su pokazali da je sa povećanjem nedostatka vode efekat potapanja semena veći. Pri vodnom potencijalu rastvora od -0,30 MPa enerija klijanja i klijavost semena povećani su, u proseku, za 6,77% odnosno 5,08% dok je pri vodnom potencijalu rastvora od - 0,80 MPa povećanje iznosilo 19,28% odnosno 16,75%. Takođe, potapanje semena značajno je smanjilo intenzitet lipidne peroksiacije i sadržaj slobodnog prolina. Iz svega navedenog može se zaključiti da je potapanje semena metod koji može da poboljša klijanje semena soje u uslovima suše.

© 2019, Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature. This study investigates the impact of humic acid (HA) on the toxicity of selected herbicides and their binary mixtures to aquatic plants. The focus was on two auxin simulators (2,4-D and dicamba) and two photosynthetic inhibitors (atrazine and isoproturon). The results suggested that the addition of HA to the standard synthetic medium does not affect Lemna minor growth nor the toxicity of atrazine, but increases the toxicity of 2,4-D and the binary mixture of atrazine and 2,4-D. The addition of HA to the standard synthetic medium reversibly decreased the growth (biomass) of Myriophyllum aquaticum and enhanced the toxicity of individually tested herbicides (isoproturon and dicamba) as well as their binary mixture. The results showed delayed toxic effects of auxin simulators, especially 2,4-D in the Lemna test. The recovery after the exposure to individual photosystem II inhibitors (atrazine and isoproturon) is fast in both plant species, regardless of the presence of HA. In the case of selected mixtures (atrazine + 2,4-D and isoproturon + dicamba), recovery of both plant species was noted, while the efficiency depended on the herbicide concentration in the mixture rather than the presence or absence of HA.

De novo shoot organogenesis (DNSO) is a procedure commonly used for the in vitro regeneration of shoots from a variety of plant tissues. Shoot regeneration occurs on nutrient media supplemented with the plant hormones cytokinin (CK) and auxin, which play essential roles in this process, and genes involved in their signaling cascades act as master regulators of the different phases of shoot regeneration. In the last 20 years, the genetic regulation of DNSO has been characterized in detail. However, as of today, the CK and auxin signaling events associated with shoot regeneration are often interpreted as a consequence of these hormones simply being present in the regeneration media, whereas the roles for their prior uptake and transport into the cultivated plant tissues are generally overlooked. Additionally, sucrose, commonly added to the regeneration media as a carbon source, plays a signaling role and has been recently shown to interact with CK and auxin and to affect the efficiency of shoot regeneration. In this review, we provide an integrative interpretation of the roles for CK and auxin in the process of DNSO, adding emphasis on their uptake from the regeneration media and their interaction with sucrose present in the media to their complex signaling outputs that mediate shoot regeneration.

Shield bugs (species of the superfamily Pentatomoidea) are important insect pests in soybean production worldwide. They are also known as stink bugs because they have glands that excrete a strong odour. Two bugs have become more common in recent years in Europe: the southern green shield bug (Nezara viridula) and the brown marmorated shield bug (Halyomorpha halys). The southern green shield bug is a cosmopolitan species. It is polyphagous and damages a great number of field and vegetable crops among which soybean is a preferred crop. Legumes Translated Practice Note 13

High and stable soybean yields require the careful combination of practices. In practical terms, this means the right choices in selecting the land used, placing the soybean effectively in the cropping sequence, making the right decisions at sowing, followed by good husbandry practices throughout the growing season (from planting to harvest). The use of certified seed reduces the risk of genetic impurity, low seed viability, and the spread of weed seeds in this region. Here we address the decisions made in sowing using a pneumatic precision seeder. Legumes Translated Practice Note 9

High soybean yields and quality require the harmony of all production factors. Timely and efficient soybean harvest is one of the key challenges. Inappropriate harvesting can lead to harvest losses of up to 30%. The main factors that impact harvest losses are pre-harvest activities (seedbed preparation, crop canopy), harvest time and combine harvester settings. Successful soybean harvesting is about recovering the highest proportion of the grain with the best possible quality and purity at the optimal time. Legumes Translated Practice Note 23

Flower strips of French Marigold are commonly used pest repellents in potato fields. However, the effect of French Marigold volatiles on potato metabolism, physiology and induced defense is unknown. Thus, a microarray transcriptome analysis was performed to study the effects of French Marigold essential oil (EO) on laboratory-grown potato. After 8 h of exposure to EO, with gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS)-detected terpinolene and limonene as dominant compounds, 2796 transcripts were differentially expressed with fold change &gt, 2 compared to expression in controls. A slightly higher number of transcripts had suppressed expression (1493 down- vs. 1303 up-regulated). Since transcripts, annotated to different photosynthesis-related processes, were mostly down-regulated, we selected a set of 10 genes involved in the leaf starch metabolism pathway, and validated microarray patterns using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Except for decreased synthesis and induced decomposition of starch granule in leaves, 8 h long EO exposure slightly elevated the accumulation of sucrose compared to glucose and fructose in subjected potato plants. An in vitro feeding bioassay with Colorado potato beetle showed that EO-induced alternations on transcriptional level and in the sugars&rsquo, metabolism caused the enhancement of feeding behavior and overall development of the tested larvae. Results of comprehensive analysis of transcriptional responses in potato exposed to French Marigold EO provide a basis for further elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying eco-physiological interactions in companion planting cropping systems.

French marigold is an aromatic plant rich in polyphenolic secondary metabolites, which pesticidal potential was examined in this study. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) connected with OrbiTrap mass spectrometer (MS) identified 113 phenolics and revealed the most detailed phytochemistry of French marigold published so far. Depending on plant material (flowers or leaves) and solvents used for extraction (water, methanol, dichloromethane), the phenolic composition varied. Methanol extract of flowers, with 89 identified phenolics and high antioxidant activity statistically comparable with positive control Trolox, was chosen for testing of antifeedant potential against the 3rd and 4th instars of Colorado potato beetle (CPB). A significant reduction in final body mass of 4th larval stage fed with potato leaves coated with methanol extract of flowers in the concentration of 10 mg/mL was observed (157.67 mg vs. 182.26 mg of controls fed with non-treated leaves). This caused delayed molting since treated larvae reached the maximal mass a day after controls and this delay persisted during the entire larval development. Continuous feeding caused a 25% decline in digestive proteolytic activity of the 4th instar in comparison to controls. The results suggest that French marigold methanol extract of flowers could be proposed as a promising antifeedant for CPB management, with an impact on the reduction in the environmental footprint associated with synthetic pesticide application.

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of primers on seed quality parameters using different starting values of germination. For this purpose, ten soybean lines selected at the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops, Novi Sad were evaluated. The starting values of germination ranged between 48% and 89%. Seeds were surface sterilized with 3% sodium hypochlorite and immersed in different primers: 1% potassium nitrate, 1% potassium chloride and 1% hydrogen peroxide. Untreated seeds were used as the control. The obtained results revealed that the effects of priming depended on soybean line and treatment, whereas the efficiency of this pre-sowing treatment was not affected by the starting value of seed germination. Some lines responded favorably to immersion, while in others priming had an inhibitory effect, causing a significant decrease in germination. There was an increase in germination up to 12% or a decrease up to 11%, depending on line and treatment. Lines that were positively affected by this method also exhibited increased values for other germination parameters: mean germination time (MGT) and time to 50% germination (T50). Lower values of MGT and T50 were observed in lines which showed a negative response to priming and a decrease in germination, but also a more rapid radicle protrusion, as compared to the control. In conclusion, there is no universal applicability of one single primer as it might cause a negative response in some lines and thus reduce seed quality.

The objective of this study was to examine the effect of primers on seed quality parameters using different starting values of germination. For this purpose, ten soybean lines selected at the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops, Novi Sad were evaluated. The starting values of germination ranged between 48% and 89%. Seeds were surface sterilized with 3% sodium hypochlorite and immersed in different primers: 1% potassium nitrate, 1% potassium chloride and 1% hydrogen peroxide. Untreated seeds were used as the control. The obtained results revealed that the effects of priming depended on soybean line and treatment, whereas the efficiency of this pre-sowing treatment was not affected by the starting value of seed germination. Some lines responded favorably to immersion, while in others priming had an inhibitory effect, causing a significant decrease in germination. There was an increase in germination up to 12% or a decrease up to 11%, depending on line and treatment. Lines that were positively affected by this method also exhibited increased values for other germination parameters: mean germination time (MGT) and time to 50% germination (T50). Lower values of MGT and T50 were observed in lines which showed a negative response to priming and a decrease in germination, but also a more rapid radicle protrusion, as compared to the control. In conclusion, there is no universal applicability of one single primer as it might cause a negative response in some lines and thus reduce seed quality.

The aim of the research was to test the effect of pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) on soybean seed germination and yield depending on specific field conditions, years of study, exposure duration and frequency. Field trial was conducted on an experimental field of Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops in Novi Sad, Serbia in 2010-2013. Seeds of the soybean (Glycine hispida (Moench)) medium-early cultivar. Valjevka 'were exposed to the PEMF therapy using the impulse generator and strip. Low-frequency (16, 24, 30 and 72 Hz) PEMF was used in the duration of 0, 30, 60 and 90 minutes. Research results indicate that this method can increase seed germination up to 8.00% and yield by 960.5 kg, or 21% in field conditions, which is a significant increase and a solid basis to introduce this practice, primarily in organic production with a very limited use of seed treatment preparations. However, the practice can have an inhibitory effect under an unfavourable combination of exposure duration and frequency. The obtained data were processed using the analysis of variance of three-factorial trials considering all years of study. Due to different meteorological conditions in the study years, analysis of variance was conducted for each year of study and correlations between the tested traits were examined.

Young soybean crops are vulnerable to weed competition, especially if spring weather is cool. Inter-row cultivation is one of the practices used to tip the balance in the competition between the crop and weed flora in favour of the soybean. Inter-row cultivation suppresses weeds between rows and loosens the soil surface. This improves soil aeration, reduces water evaporation, and breaks soil crusts. This has a positive effect on the microorganisms, as well as on the number and activity of nitrogen-fixing bacteria that are found on soybean roots leading to increased biological nitrogen fixation. The overall result is an increase in crop yield and quality. Legumes Translated Practice Note 2

Background Drought is one of the most adverse abiotic factors that affects crop yield. Crop production in a water-limited environment can be improved by inoculating plants with selected bacterial strains. Objectives The aim of this research was to examine the modulation of several antioxidant parameters in soybean plants inoculated with Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Bacillus megaterium under drought stress. Methods Bacterial strains were selected based on osmotic stress tolerance (36% PEG 6000) in liqiud culture. The effect of soybean inoculation was evaluated in a soil pot experiment under drought stress (7 days withholding water). The effects of drought stress and inoculation were examined in soybean roots and nodules through guaiacol peroxidase (POX) and ionically cell-wall bound peroxidase (POD) activity and ABTS˙+ radical cation scavenging capacity. Results The obtained results showed a significant influence of inoculation to constitutive and drought-induced antioxidative parametres in nodules, while this effect in root was evident only during the water deficit. In the inoculated plants, POX activity increased by 145% in nodules and by 91% in roots, POD activity was elevated by 86% in nodules and by 54% in roots, while antioxidant capacity was elevated by 75% in nodules and by 60% in roots in respect to well – watered plants. Significant increase in all tested parameters was not recorded in non-inoculated plants under drought stress. Selection and application of bacterial strains with genetic potential for increased tolerance to stresses is useful in developing inoculants which would result in enhanced crop production under adverse environmental conditions

Bacillus spp. produce a variety of compounds involved in the biocontrol of plant pathogens and promotion of plant growth, which makes them potential candidates for most agricultural and biotechnological applications. Bacilli exhibit antagonistic activity by excreting extracellular metabolites such as antibiotics, cell wall hydrolases, and siderophores. Additionally, Bacillus spp. improve plant response to pathogen attack by triggering induced systemic resistance (ISR). Besides being the most promising biocontrol agents, Bacillus spp. promote plant growth via nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilization, and phytohormone production. Antagonistic and plant growth-promoting strains of Bacillus spp. might be useful in formulating new preparations. Numerous studies of a wide range of plant species revealed a steady increase in the number of Bacillus spp. identified as potential biocontrol agents and plant growth promoters. Among different mechanisms of action, it remains unclear which individual or combined traits could be used as predictors in the selection of the best strains for crop productivity improvement. Due to numerous factors that influence the successful application of Bacillus spp., it is necessary to understand how different strains function in biological control and plant growth promotion, and distinctly define the factors that contribute to their more efficient use in the field.

The aim of this study was to isolate and identify Bradyrhizobium japonicum strains on the basis of molecular characteristics. From root nodules of different soybean cultivars were obtained 56 isolates, characterized according to morphological, cultural, and biochemical properties. Among these isolates, 33 isolates showing resemblance with Bradyrhizobium sp. were further subjected to molecular identification. Following DNA extraction, a partial 16S rDNA gene sequence from the isolates was amplified by PCR using universal primers fD1 (27F) and rP3 (1492R). Purification and sequencing of the amplified fragments were done in the biotechnology company Macrogen, Seoul, South Korea. Sequences were analyzed using the program FinchTV and BLAST (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool) and compared to sequences in GenBank and the Bradyrhizobium ID-database for identification. Comparison of the sequences with the Bradyrhizobium ID- database showed that all tested isolates were identified as Bradyrhizobium japonicum. Each isolate was deposited in the NCBI GenBank database under a unique accession number. Identification of Bradyrhizobium species from root nodules of soybean is of great importance because the symbiosis between rhizobia and legumes are a cheaper and usually more effective agronomic practice for ensuring an adequate supply of nitrogen for legumes, while preserving and improving fertility and productivity of soils. Cilj ovog rada je izolacija i molekularna identifikacija sojeva Bradyrhizobium japonicum. Na osnovu morfološke i biohemijske karakterizacije, od 56 izolata iz korenskih kvržica različitih sorti soje, 33 izolata za koje je utvrđena sličnost s Bradyrhizobium sp. bili su predmet dalje identifikacije. Nakon ekstrakcije DNK, parcijalna 16S rDNA genska sekvenca iz izolata je umnožena PCR metodom upotrebom univerzalnih prajmera fD1 (27F) i rP3 (1492R). Prečišćavanje i sekvencioniranje umnoženih fragmenata urađeno je u kompaniji Macrogen Ltd. (Seul , Južna Koreja). Pomoću programa FinchTV i BLAST (Basic Local Alignment Search Tool) analize, izvršeno je višestruko poređenje dobijenih sekvenci s GenBank bazom podataka. Poređenjem dobijenih sekvenci s Bradyrhizobium ID-bazom podataka svi ispitivani izolati identifikovani su kao Bradyrhizobium japonicum. Sekvence su deponovane u svetsku NCBI bazu uz dobijanje pristupnog broja (NCBI Acc. number). Identifikacija vrsta Bradyrhizobium-a poreklom iz korenskih kvržica soje od velikog je značaja jer je simbioza između rizobiuma i leguminoza isplativiji i obično efikasniji način snabdevanja biljaka azotom, a važno je i zbog očuvanja i unapređenja plodnosti i produktivnosti zemljišta.

The performance of rhizobia in soybean nodules under drought stress conditions was analyzed using five Bradyrhizobium strains selected according to the osmotic stress tolerance in liquid medium. The effect of selected rhizobial strains on root and nodule antioxidant response and symbiotic performance was evaluated in a soil pot experiment under different levels of drought stress (0, 3, 5, 7 days withholding water). Drought stress increased the guaiacol peroxidase (POX) and ionically cell wall-bound peroxidase (POD) activity, antioxidant capacity, soluble protein content in roots and nodules, reduced the shoot dry weight (SDW), and increased the nitrogen content in the roots. Under water deficit conditions the highest increase of antioxidative parameters was recorded in the nodules of strain 216, and the lowest in roots and nodules of the plants inoculated with strain 511. Inoculation with strain 511 resulted in significantly lower SDW, root dry weight (RDW) and plant nitrogen content, while application of strain 216 resulted in the highest shoot attributes. Rep-PCR characterization and 16S-23S rDNA intergenic region sequencing emphasized the differences in strains genomic organization, especially for the 216 strain showing the higher tolerance to osmotic stress. The results implicate similarity between strain performance under osmotic stress in liquid medium and in symbiotic association under drought stress. The results also suggested important contribution of rhizobial strains in enhancing antioxidative response under drought stress and in symbiotic effectiveness, indicating more sensitive and tolerant symbioses.

© 2019, Springer Nature B.V. Broomrape (Orobanche cumana) is a parasitic weed that causes substantial yield losses in sunflower. In this study, four biparental genetic populations comprised of between 96 and 150 F 3 families were phenotyped for resistance to broomrape race G. Bulk segregant analyses (BSA) combined with genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) technology was used to verify previously identified genes and map new resistance QTLs. Resistance had a polygenic basis, and numerous QTLs were found in all mapping populations. Contributing components to resistance that were common to all populations mapped to two major QTLs on chromosome 3, which were designated or3.1 and or3.2. QTL or3.1 was positioned in a genomic region where a previous broomrape resistance gene Or5 has been mapped, while QTL or3.2 was identified for the first time in the lower region of the same chromosome. Following the identification of major QTLs for resistance using the BSA-seq approach, all plants from three F 2 populations were genotyped using newly developed CAPS markers nearest to the QTL peak for or3.2, which confirmed the association of these markers with broomrape race G resistance. The results of this study will bring us a step closer to understanding the mechanisms underlying resistance of sunflower to highly virulent broomrape races, and the molecular markers developed herein will be highly useful for sunflower breeding programs.

Brassica oleracea var. acephala is an important leafy vegetable that has been widely consumed as a high-nutrient, low-calorie food. Because of the plant’s biennial and self-incompatibility nature, biotechnological approaches are alternative way for propagation and breeding improvements. Since tissue culture studies have been focused in other B. oleracea representatives, the aim of the present study was to achieve effective regeneration protocol distinctive for collard greens, and evaluate the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity of regenerants. The effect of 3 cytokinins [thidiazuron (TDZ), 6-benzyladenine (BA) and 6-furfuryladenine (kinetin, KIN)] at increasing concentrations (0, 5, 7.5, 10, 20 or 30 µM) in combination with tenfold lower concentration of 1-naphtaleneacetic acid (NAA) (0, 0.5, 0.75, 1, 2 or 3 µM, respectively) on the regeneration from hypocotyl slices was studied. Histological analysis revealed the two regeneration pathways, somatic embryogenesis and shoot organogenesis, simultaneously occurred in the same explant, regardless of the cytokinin/NAA combinations used. The regeneration frequency of 95.9%, with 7.5 morphogenic structures regenerated per explant, and the healthy appearance of regenerated plants indicated the optimal combination 20 µM TDZ + 2 µM NAA. TDZ at 5 µM provided the high somatic embryo proliferation rate by generation of secondary embryos (7.79) along with the lowest rate of their abnormalities. Embryo-developed plants were successfully acclimatised (above 90%). The plants regenerated and proliferated on TDZ-containing media had higher total phenolic content that correlated with the highest free radical scavenging activity (IC50 = 19.09 µg ml− 1). Somatic embryogenesis and shoot organogenesis from hypocotyl slices of the collard greens were established. The combination 20 µM TDZ + 2 µM NAA was optimal for regeneration providing higher total phenolic content.

A large number of species belonging to the genus Teucrium are used in pharmacy and traditional medicine for the treatment of different diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the polyphenolic composition as well as genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of methanolic extracts from T. arduini and T. flavum, two native species found in Montenegro. We determined the total phenolic and flavonoid contents of these plants using spectrophotometric methods; the qualitative content of polyphenolic compounds was investigated by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Genotoxicity in cultured human lymphocytes was measured in the cytokinesis-block micronucleus assay (CBMN) and comet assay in the range between 125 and 1000 μg/mL. Cytotoxicity was assessed by the MTT viability assay in normal human MRC-5 fibroblasts and MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cells. The content of total phenolics and flavonoids in T. arduini extract was higher than in T. flavum (200.35 mg GA/g vs. 171.08 mg GA/g; 96.32 mg RU/g vs. 78.14 mg RU/g). The polyphenolic composition of both extracts was qualitatively similar and eight phenol compounds were identified. The most commonly present phenol was caffeic acid and among four flavonoids, the most common was quercetin. Both plant extracts were genotoxic in both the CBMN and comet assays at concentrations of 250, 500 and 1000 μg/mL. After 72 h of exposure, the extracts of T. arduini and T. flavum were found to induce cytotoxicity in MRC-5 fibroblasts but not in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. The results suggest that the constituents of both plant species are genotoxic and cytotoxic, therefore these extracts warrant additional evaluation to be safely applied in humans.

Sediment represents a sink for toxic and persistent chemicals such as hexachlorobenzene (HCB) and lindane (γ-HCH). This paper investigates the possibility of reducing the risks associated with the presence of these pollutants in sediments by amending the sediment with carbon-rich materials (activated carbon (AC) and humus (HC)) to sequester the contaminants and render them biologically unavailable. The effects of the dose and contact time between the sediment and the carbon-rich amendments on the effectiveness of the detoxification are estimated. Four doses of carbon-rich amendments (0.5-10%) and four equilibration contact times (14-180 days) were investigated. Results have shown that the bioavailable fraction of γ-HCH and HCB decreased significantly in comparison to the unamended sediment. Regarding the AC amendments, almost 100% for both compounds; and for HC amendments around 95% for γ-HCH, and 75% for HCB. Aging caused further reductions in the bioavailable fraction, compared to the untreated sediment. Phytotoxicity tests showed that Zea mays accumulated significantly higher amount of γ-HCH and HCB from unamended sediment, comparing to Cucurbita pepo and Lactuca sativa. Toxicity of HC and AC amended sediment assessed by Vibrio fischeri luminescence inhibition test and by measuring Zea mays germination and biomass yield was significantly reduced in the amended sediment samples. γ-HCH and HCB accumulation in the Zea mays biomass in the unamended sediment were a significantly higher than in the all HC and AC amended sediment. Both sorbents show potential to be used as remediation agents for organically contaminated sediment, but AC exhibited the better performance.

Unlike garlic and onion, the regeneration of chive (Allium schoenoprasum L.), cultivated both for culinary and ornamental purposes, has not been intensively studied. The effects of the eight cytokinins and the plant basal section thickness on regeneration efficiency and subsequent plant growth were studied. Representatives of all cytokinin structural groups: isoprenoide side chain (trans-zeatin) and aromatic side chain (benziladenine, kinetin, meta-topolin) adenine derivatives, and phenylurea derivatives (thidiazuron and N-(2-chloro-4-pyridyl)-N′-phenylurea) at 0, 1, 5 or 10 μM were used. Histological analysis revealed adventitious buds formation from the leaf sheaths’ bases and the basal plate. The highest regeneration frequency (100 %) and the mean bud number per explant (20.0) were achieved with 10 μM thidiazuron (TDZ), and 5 mm-thick basal sections were the most responsive explants. Inferior shoot and root growth characteristics of plants regenerated by this treatment was avoided by exclusion or replacement of 10 μM TDZ with 5 μM kinetin (Kin) after a 4-week bud induction period, without consequences on the regeneration efficiency. In addition, a positive correlation between peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase activity and the regeneration capacity was observed. All antioxidative enzymes activity changed much faster with 10 μM TDZ than with 1 μM Kin, which provoked the weakest regeneration response. Moreover, a unique peroxidase isoform was observed only in TDZ-treated explants after 3rd day of treatment. This work is useful for genetic engineering and virus-free plant production advancement, and for the knowledge expansion regarding the role of antioxidative enzymes in plant organogenesis.

In the technology production, various seed enhancement procedures are often applied to improve the quality of the seed, in particular germination and other properties of the seed after the treatment. Seed priming is the method used by the Old Greeks. Today it is a cheap and simple presowing measure that is primarily used in developing countries. However, the biggest problem in applying this measure is the length of storage of the primed seed. Storage possibility of the primed soybean seed was determined by a temperature of 25 °C during the period of 90 days. Th e soybean seed was primed with KNO3 (1%), ASA (100mgl-1) and KCl (1%) solutions, and then stored in paper bags, and its quality is tested every 15 days. The results showed that the reduction in the quality of the primed seed is considerably faster than the no-primed. Primed soybean seed can be stored at a temperature of 25 °C during 60 days after immersion, and after that period the significant reduction in its quality can occurs. After 75 days of immersion germination energy was reduced by 60.33% and germination by 9.33%, while after 90 days the germination energy reduction was 68.33% and germination by 65%. One of the causes for reducing seed quality is an increase in MDA content, especially after 75 and 90 days of storage. Also, the free proline concentration has been reduced while the content of vitamin C increased after 15 days primarily in seeds immersed in ASA and KCl solutions, and after 45 days its content was reduced.

Seed decay is one of the most important diseases of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) that has a negative impact on the market grade of soybeans. The disease is mainly caused by Diaporthe longicolla, along with other Diaporthe species. Screening of soybean seeds health status in Vojvodina Province, Serbia, showed cultural and morphological variability among isolates identified as D. longicolla. With the use of DNA sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) region and partial translation elongation factor 1-alpha (EF1-α), the new species was determined. BLAST analysis showed 100% identity with D. pseudolongicolla (syn. D. novem) that was described in this study and its taxonomic revision is discussed. Pathogenicity trial showed that both species, D. longicolla and D. pseudolongicolla, are highly pathogenic on soybean stem and seed, causing 100% of stem wilting and more than 82% of seed decay. Trulež semena je jedna od najvažnijih bolesti soje (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), koja negativno utiče na vrednost soje na tržištu. Najčešće je uzrokuje Diaporthe longicolla, zajedno sa drugim Diaporthe vrstama. Pregledom zdravstvenog stanja semena soje u Vojvodini (Srbija) uočena je morfološka varijabilnost između izolata identifikovanih kao D. longicolla. Upotrebom sekvenci DNK iz ITS regiona (ITS1-5.8S-ITS2) i elongacionog faktora 1-alfa (EF1-α) potvrđeno je prisustvo nove vrste na semenu soje. BLAST analizom je dokazana identičnost od 100% sa D. pseudolongicolla (sin. D. novem) koja je opisana u ovom radu i čija taksonomska revizija se razmatra. Ispitivanja patogenosti su pokazala da su obe vrste, D. longicolla i D. pseudolongicolla, visoko patogene na stablu i semenu soje uzrokujući 100% uvenuće biljaka kao i trulež više od 82% semena.

Certified seed is produced from the seed of known genetic origin and genetic purity with controlled and tested production, processed and declared in accordance with the Law on Seeds. Production of certified seed is carried out under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection, by seed producers formally listed in the Seed Register. Seed is processed in registered seed processing centres and quality is tested in laboratories accredited for seed testing. The organization authorized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environmental Protection issues labels for packaging of certified seed. The utilization of the genetic potential of varieties for quality and yield is achieved using certified seed. High quality seed is a prerequisite for farmers seeking to achieve higher yields, and therefore higher profits.

Soybean breeding and selection is a continual process designed to increase yield levels and improve resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. Soybean breeders have been successful in producing a large number of varieties using conventional breeding methods, the Single Seed Descent method in particular. In recent decades, with the increased use of genetic transformations, backcrossing is more frequent though the only trait that has been commercialized is glyphosate tolerance. Physiological breeding poses a particular challenge, as well as phenotyping and development of useful criteria and techniques suitable for plant breeding. Using modern remote sensing techniques provides great opportunity for collecting a large amount of physiological data in real environment, which is necessary for physiological breeding. Molecular based plant breeding methods and techniques are a conceptual part of any serious breeding program. Among those methods, the most extensively used is marker-assisted selection, as a supplement to conventional breeding methods. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR-31022]

The trial was carried out in the period 2007-2010 at the experimental field of the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops in Novi Sad, Serbia. Study was based on applied different fertilizer doses (mineral fertilizers and harvest residues of the previous crop). Trial variants were arranged in a randomized block design and they included: 0 kg N ha-1 without ploughing under crop residues; 0 kg N ha-1 + crop residues; 50 kg N ha-1 + crop residues; 150 kg N ha-1 + crop residues; 250 kg N ha-1 + crop residues. There were two trial sub-variants with and without soybean seed inoculation within each variant. Seed of soybean cultivar Proteinka (maturity group 0) was inoculated directly before planting, using microbial fertilizer NS-Nitragin containing a mixture of selected highly effective Bradyrhizobium japonicum strains. Seed inoculation produced statistically highly significant yield increases in all four trial years, while the variants with higher doses of nitrogen applied under a preceding crop showed increases in mineral nitrogen uptake from the soil without adequate increases in soybean yield. The application of microbial fertilizers and ploughing under crop residues evidently ensured high yields of soybean, even with reduced doses of nitrogen fertilizer applied to a preceding crop. Eksperiment je izveden u periodu 2007-2010. godine na oglednom polju Instituta za ratarstvo i povrtarstvo, Novi Sad. Studija je zasnovana na primenjenim različitim varijantama đubriva (mineralna đubriva i biljni ostaci prethodnog useva). Varijante ogleda su raspoređene po slučajnom blok sistemu: 0 kg N ha-1 bez zaoravanja žetvenih ostataka; 0 kg N ha-1 + žetveni ostaci; 50 kg N ha-1 + žetveni ostaci; 150 kg N ha-1 + žetveni ostaci; 250 kg N ha-1 + žetveni ostaci. U okviru svake varijante postojale su dve pod-varijante sa i bez inokulacije semena soje. Seme soje sorte Proteinka (0 grupa zrenja) je neposredno pre setve inokulisano mikrobiološkim đubrivom NS-Nitragin koje sadrži mešavinu odabranih visoko efikasnih sojeva bakterija Bradyrhizobium japonicum. Inokulacija semena dovela je do statistički veoma značajnog povećanja prinosa u sve četiri godine istraživanja, dok su varijante sa visokim dozama azota primenjene pod predusev dovele do povećanja usvajanja mineralnog azota iz zemljišta bez odgovarajućeg povećanja prinosa soje. Primena mikrobioloških đubriva i zaoravanje biljnih ostataka može da obezbedi visoke prinose soje, čak i pri smanjenim dozama azotnih đubriva koje su primenjene u prethodnom usevu.

The osmotic stress tolerance of B. japonicum strains assessed according to their persistence in PEG solution. The lowest tolerance to osmotic stress was observed in strain 511 (43.3%), and the highest tolerance was observed for strain D216 (3.3% growth reduction in presence of PEG). PGP traits of B. japonicum strains were tested. None of five B. japonicum strains produced siderophore, strains 511 and 518 had the urease ability, and only B. japonicum 518 strain showed the ability to solubilize insoluble tricalcium phosphate. RAPD analysis, using AP10, BC318, AF14 and SPH1 primers, indicated genetic differences between Bradyrhizobium strains. The first group (strains 3, 6 and 518) showed more than 80% similarity. Strains 511 and D216 formed separate clusters. Difference between strains D216 and the other strains were more than 60%, with maximum value of 72% in comparison with strain 511. Plant-growth promoting (PGP) traits, osmotic stress tolerance and RAPD analysis highlighted strain D216 as useful for further investigation of B. japonicum impact on drought reduction in symbiosis with soybean. Tolerantnost sojeva B. japonicum prema osmotskom stresu ispitana je na osnovu preživljavanja sojeva u rastvoru PEG-a. Najmanju tolerantnost prema osmotskom stresu pokazao je soj 511 (43.3%), dok je najtolerantniji bio soj D216 (sa 3.3% smanjenja rasta u prisustvu PEG-a). Ispitane su PGP osobine sojeva B. japonicum. Nijedan od pet sojeva B. japonicum nije produkovao siderofore, ureaznu aktivnost pokazali su sojevi 511 i 518, a sposobnost solubilizacije neorganskog tri-kalcijum fosfata imao je samo soj B. japonicum 518. RAPD analiza, prajmerima AP10, BC318, AF14 i SPH1, ukazala je na genetske razlike između sojeva Bradyrhizobium. Prva grupa (sojevi 3, 6 i 518) pokazala je više od 80% sličnosti. Sojevi 511 i D216 formiraju zasebne klastere. Razlika između soja D216 i ostalih sojeva bila je veća od 60%, a maksimalna divergentnost od 72% zabeležena je u poređenju sa sojem 511. PGP osobine, tolerantnost prema osmotskom stresu i RAPD analiza izdvojili su soj D216 kao veoma značajan za dalja istraživanja B. japonicum u smanjenju negativnih posledica suše na simbioznu zajednicu sa sojom.

Seed aging and deterioration affect seed vigor and viability. The characteristics of the chemical composition of oil crops seed are related to specific processes occurring in the seed during storage. This study was performed to examine the changes in seed vigor of different sunflower and soybean genotypes under controlled and conventional (uncontrolled) conditions of natural aging for six and twelve months. Obtained results show that the degree of seed damage and the ability of seed to resist the negative effects of aging were influenced by duration and type of storage, as well as seed characteristics of the tested genotypes. The most valuable vigor test for both sunflower and soybean was cold test.

This three-year study examines the effect of previous crop fertilization with nitrogen and seed treatment with micronutrients cobalt and molybdenum on the morphological characteristics of soybean. Data were processed using analysis of variance by two factorial split-plot experiment with influence of year, where examination factors were: year, different doses of nitrogen fertiliser (main plot) and seed treatment (subplot). Significance of differences between treatments was tested by LSD test. Examined morphological characteristics were significantly dependent upon the year, which had a statistically significant effect. Other examined factors and interactions were not significant, except for the interaction of year x fertilization x seed treatment (AxBxC) that was statistically significant for plant height up to the first fertile node. U trogodišnjem istraživanju ispitivan je uticaj đubrenja preduseva azotom i tretmana semena sa mikroelementima kobaltom i molibdenom na morfološke osobine soje. Podaci su obrađeni analizom varijanse po metodi dvofaktorijalnog split-plot ogleda sa uticajem godine, gde su faktori ispitivanja: godina, različite doze N-đubriva (velika parcela) i tretman semena (potparcela). Značajnost razlike između tretmana testirane su LSD testom. Ispitivane morfološke osobine značajno su zavisile samo od godine, koja je imala statistički vrlo značajan uticaj. Ostali ispitivani faktori i interakcije nisu bile značajne, izuzev interakcije godine x đubrenje x tretman semena (AxBxC) koja je bila statistički značajna kod visine biljke do prvog plodnog nodija.

At the time of soybean seed sowing in the field, a high soil moisture, low soil and air temperatures, and crasts formation may occur, which can lead to slow germination, poor seedling establishment, and in some cases to loss of seed vigor. Due to the importance and prevalence of soybean the aim of this study was to determine the quality and seed viability of different genotypes produced at three locations in Vojvodina during 2009 and 2010. Eight soybean varieties (Afrodita, Valjevka, Balkan, Novosadjanka, Ravnica, Ana, Vojvodjanka and Venera) produced in Vrbas, Senta and Inđija during 2009 and 2010 were tested. Seed germination was determined using Standard laboratory test, and vigor tests (cold test, and accelerated aging test). Studied genotypes baheved differently in different years and at different localities. Genotype Venera achieved high germination values in all applied tests in 2009, while genotype Afrodita had high values of the tested parameter when conventional laboratory test was applied, and the lowest values were recorded when vigor tests were applied. Values obtained in 2010 when all tests were applied were above the prescribed minimum. Locality of Vrbas proved to be more favorable for seed production in relation to localities of Indjija and Senta due to better rainfall distribution. U vreme setve soje, u polju, može da se javi visoka vlažnost zemljišta, niska temperatura zemljišta i vazduha i pokorica, što može da dovede do usporavanja nicanja, formiranja slabog ponika, a u nekim slučajevima do gubitka životne sposobnosti semena. Zbog značaja i rasprostranjenosti soje cilj rada je bio da se utvrdi kvalitet i životna sposobnost semena, različitih genotipova, proizvedenih na tri lokaliteta Vojvodine u toku 2009 i 2010. godine. Ispitivanja su izvršena na 8 sorata soje (Afrodita, Valjevka, Balkan, Novosadjanka, Ravnica, Ana, Vojvodjanka i Venera) proizvedenih u Vrbasu, Senti i Inđiji u 2009 i 2010. godini. Kod svih uzoraka utvrđena je klijavost semena primenom standardnog laboratorijskog metoda i vigor testova (hladni test i test ubrzanog starenja). Ispitivani genotipovi su se različito ponašali u pojedinim godinama i lokalitetima. Genotip Venera se izdvojio po visokim vrednostima klijavosti semena dobijenim u 2009. godini kod svih primenjenih testova, dok je genotip Afrodita imao visoke vrednosti ispitivanog parametra primenom standardnog laboratorijskog testa, a primenom vigor testova su konstatovane najniže vrednosti. U 2010. godini dobijene vrednosti, primenom svih testova, su bile iznad propisanog minimuma. Lokalitet Vrbas se pokazao kao povoljniji za semensku proizvodnju u odnosu na lokalitet Senta i Indjija, zbog boljeg rasporeda padavina.

DNA polymorphism in accessions of Helianthus mollis, Helianthus rigidus and Helianthus tuberosus differing in level of resistance to stem white rot caused by Sclerotinia was evaluated in reactions with two RAPD primers, C04 and C15, selected for their potential linkage with resistance to Sclerotinia. In total, 36 fragments using both primers were generated. All fragments generated by C04 were polymorphic, while 5 fragments out of 11 generated by C15 were monomorphic. Two major clusters were identified on the phenogram generated by UPGMA analysis, one comprising plants of H. mollis 1298, and the other where all other accessions were grouped. In order to check and statistically confirm any significant association of specific fragments either with resistance or susceptibility, contingency coefficient test was done. Out of 36 fragments generated, 26 were significantly associated with resistance/susceptibility. Fragment C04-950 bp was found to be significantly associated to susceptibility, as it was generated only in susceptible accessions, while fragment C04- 1200 bp was found to be associated with the resistance, as it only occurred in H. mollis accessions. The selected markers should be checked and results verified in further studies including higher number of wild sunflower accessions differing in their reaction to stem white rot caused by Sclerotinia. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. TR 31025]

A three-year experiment was conducted to study the effect of different doses of nitrogen fertilizer applied under previous crop and seed inoculation with a microbial preparation NS Nitragin on soybean yield and protein content in grain. The experiment was set up in four replications at Rimski Šančevi experiment field of Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops, Novi Sad. Presowing seed inoculation contributed to a statistically significant increase in yield and protein content in all three research years, while the highest nitrogen dose had a positive impact on soybean yield only in 2007 and on protein content in 2006 and 2007. U trogodišnjem ogledu proučavan je uticaj različitih doza azotnih đubriva primenjenih pod predusev i inokulacije semena mikrobiološkim preparatom NS-Nitragin na prinos i sadržaj proteina u zrnu soje. Ogled je postavljen u četiri ponavljanja, na parceli Instituta za ratarstvo i povrtarstvo, Novi Sad na Rimskim Šančevima. Inokulacija semena pre setve doprinela je statistički veoma značajnom povećanju prinosa i sadržaja proteina u sve tri godine istraživanja, dok su najveće doze azota imale pozitivan uticaj na prinos soje samo 2007. odnosno na sadržaj proteina 2006. i 2007.

Grain protein content in five soybean cultivars was determined in a two-year field experiment. The soybean cultivars belong to different maturity groups (O, I and II) and they represent the current cultivars in our country. Significant differences were found in protein content depending on cultivar and year. It seems that this is a cultivar property, but is also under a very strong environmental influence. The results show that there are significant differences between cultivars, while the average protein content ranged from 36.52% (Venera) to 39.76% (Proteinka). The year 2008 was significantly more favourable than 2009 for protein synthesis. Considerable variability in protein content among cultivars (CV=3.04%) indicates the possibility of further increase of the analyzed property. U dvogodišnjem poljskom ogledu utvrđen je sadržaj proteina u zrnu pet sorti soje različite dužine vegetacije (0, I i II grupe zrenja), koje trenutno čine aktuelni sortiment u našoj zemlji. Utvrđene su znatne razlike u sadržaju proteina u zavisnosti od sorte i godine. Proizilazi da je ovo svojstvo sortna osobina, ali da je takođe pod vrlo jakim uticajem ekoloških faktora. Rezultati pokazuju da postoje značajne razlike između genotipova, pri čemu se sadržaj proteina u proseku kretao od 36,52 % (Venera) do 39,76 % (Proteinka). Za sintezu proteina znatno povoljnija bila je 2008. u odnosu na 2009. Varijabilnost u sadržaju proteina između genotipova (CV=3,04 %) ukazuje na dalju mogućnost povećanja analiziranog svojstva.

The Vojvodina province is the most important agricultural area of the Republic of Serbia and is its largest soybean producer. Serbian low forbids the introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMO) into the environment and demands labeling of food containing more than 0.9% GMO. This aim of this study is to monitor the Roundup Ready (RR) soybean in fields and in food products using PCR and immunoassays. A duplex PCR reaction was performed to analyze the lectin gene and 35S promoter using DNA isolated from soybean leaf and seed sample. Specific detection of RR markers was performed using nested PCR and verified by immunoassay. RR soybeans were found in 68 fields in samples from 2003 and 28 fields in 2004. The presence of the RR soybean was confirmed in 44 seed samples out of 7142 samples examined in 2006 and in 108 out of 7171 samples examined in 2007. The data presented here are the first to demonstrate the presence of RR soybean in the Serbia fields.

The three-year study was conducted on a calcareous chernozem experimental plot of the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops. The experimental field trial was designed as corn soybean wheat crop rotation and performed in four replications. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of soybean seed inoculation with microbiological fertilizer, seed treatment with cobalt and molybdenum, as well as the effect of preceding maize crop fertilization with different dosages of nitrogen, on soybean yield and its protein and oil contents. This would allow defining optimal seed treatment that would enable production of high and stable yield of quality soybeans with the rationalization of the use of mineral nitrogen fertilizers. The application of the largest dose of 250 kg N ha(-1) was responsible for significantly (by 12.11%) higher yields compared with the control. Grain yield was not affected by the application of cobalt and molybdenum. No significant yield increase was found when seed that was treated only with Nitragin. The contents of protein and oil were statistically very significantly different between the three experimental years because the investigated qualitative properties of grain are highly dependent on hydrothermal conditions. The protein content in the soybean increased very significantly following the increasing amounts of nitrogen. Very significant effect of seed treatment on protein and oil content was found. The two-field system of maize and wheat cultivation should be upgraded to the three-field system: maize - soybean - wheat. The use of cobalt and molybdenum in slightly alkaline and alkaline soils did not contribute to the increase of grain yield or protein content in the grain. However, it caused very significant increase in soybean oil content on slightly alkaline soils. The effect of the increase was 1.77%.

The aim of the experiment was to investigate the effect of strains Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Bacillus sp. on length and dry weight of soybean plants. Moreover, the strains were tested for their ability to produce indole-3-acetic acid and perform phosphate solubilization. The trial was established under semi-controlled conditions. Inoculation of soybean with Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Bacillus sp. increased height and dry weight of the aboveground parts and root of soybean plants. Most variants in which a mixture of Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Bacillus sp. was applied, resulted in significant increase in plant length and higher dry weight of the aboveground parts, compared to variants in which these bacterial strains were applied as single-component inoculants. Results for length and dry weight of the aboveground parts were lowest in uninoculated plants.

Sunflower seed aging during storage affects seed vigor and content of fatty acids. In order to reveal severity of their influence, the following vigor tests were applied: standard laboratory germination test, cold test and Hiltner test. Five sunflower lines submitted to natural aging process for six and 12 months were tested under conventional storage and controlled conditions. The obtained results revealed that seed aging damaged the seed, which adversely affected seed vigor; most reliable results were obtained by the cold test and content of linoleic acids.

The pollen morphology of aromatic Tanacetum vulgare L. (Asteraceae), which has wide horticultural and medicinal uses, was examined using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The investigation revealed that pollen grains are radially symmetrical, isopolar, spheroidal, tricolporate, and echinate–perforate. Average pollen length was 21.32 ± 1.12 μm, whereas average pollen width was 20.04 ± 0.98 μm (length:width ratio 0.94). Spine length was 2.72 ± 0.29 μm. Average distance from the spines was 7.15 ± 0.31 μm. Pollen exine consisted of 1–3 pores. Pori are elongated and also with a distinct margin. The porus latitude is smaller than the colpus latitude. One to three perforations were noticed on 1 μm2 of exine. Fluorescein diacetate was used to assess the viability of T. vulgare pollen. The effect of sucrose (1%, 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30%, w/v) on pollen germination and tube growth was evaluated. Overall, the inclusion of sucrose in the medium improved both pollen germination and tube growth. Also, pollen nucleus status was determined. Binucleate and trinucleate mature pollens were observed. Overall, the palynological features of this species may be helpful for further taxonomical and pharmaceutical investigations.

A molecular screening method based on multiplex PCR that involves amplification of specific soybean or maize sequences from plant DNA (lectin or zein) and the amplification of 35S promoter and NOS terminator for the detection of genetically modified soybean and maize was developed. The new method is proposed for the simultaneous detection of tree genetic elements in the same run as reliable method for rapid detection of genetically modified plants with sensitivity of 0.1%.

The characteristics of soybean seed chemical composition are related to specific processes occurring in seed during storage. These changes lead to seed aging during storage and affect seed vigour and content of fatty acids. In order to reveal severity of their influence, the following vigour tests were applied: Standard laboratory germination test, cold test, Hiltner test as well as accelerated aging test for three and five days. Six soybean varieties submitted to natural aging process for six and 12 months were tested under conventional storage and controlled storage conditions. Different periods of seed storage, as well as storage conditions adversely affected the seed vigour and fatty acids content, especially linoleic acid. The most reliable results were obtained by cold test and the symptoms observed during accelerated aging test can be used to characterize the degree of aging and storability of soybean seed. Key words: Aging, fatty acids, lipid peroxidation, soybean seed, vigour.

Pollen morphology of the endemic species Tulipa hungarica Borb was investigated with the goal of diversity protection and conservation. Morphology of pollen was evaluated using a scanning electron microscopy. Pollen grain was monosulcate with perforate striate exine surface. Also, pollen of T. hungarica showed differences in size, shape, and staining intensity after aceto-orceine treatment. The smallest aceto-orcein treated microspore had a diameter of 13.65 μm, while the largest had a diameter of 60.15 μm. 4,6-Diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) staining showed that fifty percent of investigated microspores had one nucleus, and the other half had two nuclei. A rapid method with fluorescein diacetate – FDA was used to determine pollen viability. Up to (80%) of analyzed microspores showed high viability.Key words: Microspore size, pollen grain, pollen viability, staining intensity, Tulipa.

Newly developed soybean varieties differ from each other in morphological characteristics, requirements for growing conditions and technological quality of seed. The mentioned differences affect quality of seed and its viability. The aim of this paper was to determine seed quality of new soybean varieties differing in protein and oil content, and in maturity groups. Testing of seed quality was carried out on new soybean varieties developed in the Institute of field and vegetable crops in Novi Sad (NS Zenit, NS Virtus, Galina, Valjevka, Diva, NS Maximus, Sava, Balkan, Idila, Rubin, Trijumf and Vojvođanka) in the Laboratory of agricultural expert service in Novi Sad. The following seed quality traits were determined: seed moisture content, bulk density and germination of seed. Seed moisture content determined immediately after harvest ranged from 8.5% to 12.5%, and hectoliter weight from 65.5 kg/hl to 71.3 kg/hl. Statistically significant differences were found among studied varieties. The lowest values of germination were obtained in Sava (78%) and Vojvođanka (79%), and the highest in Rubin (96%) variety, while the seed germination determined by applied cold test was slightly lower. .

SUMMARY Sunflower is a plant species with a prominent period of seed dormancy. Physiological maturation period can be accelerated under laboratory conditions using methods for breaking seed dormancy such as: previous cooling at 5-10°C, previous heating at 30-35°C, gibberellic acid treatment, KNO3, ethrel, etc. The aim of this study was to determine the duration of seed dormancy period of different sunflower hybrids and parent lines produced in Serbia, and to determine which of the methods for breaking seed dormancy gives the best results. Studies were carried out on five commercial sunflower hybrids and their parental components. Seed germination was determined after harvesting using standard laboratory methods and tetrazolium tests. The following methods were used for seed dormancy breaking: low temperature treatment of 510°C, high temperature treatment of 30-35°C, and treatment with gibberellic acid. The tests were performed in the period of 30, 50, and 90 days after harvesting. The application of gibberellic acid method gave the lowest values of seed germination, while statistical significant differences between the control and method of low and high temperatures were not found. Sunflower hybrids Sremac, Dusko, NS-H-111, Velja and Branko, as well as the female lines of hybrid NS-H-111, and male lines of hybrids Sremac and Velja had no prominent seed dormancy 30 days after harvesting. Seed dormancy in female lines of hybrids Sremac, Dusko, Velja and Branko and male lines of hybrids Dusko, NS-H-111 and Branko was decreased 90 days after storage, but it was not completely removed.

Changes in enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems in soybean (cv. Becejka) and maize (hybrid NS 640) seedlings were studied after inoculation with Rhizoctonia solani AG 2-2 IIIB. Enzymes such as plant peroxidases and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase were induced in the analyzed organs of both plant species. Nevertheless, increase in superoxide dismutase activity was recorded only in infected maize roots. After inoculation, lipid peroxidation was enhanced only in soybean plants. Seedlings showed ability to accumulate phenolic compounds, some of which correlated with disease intensity. A significant decrease in total carotenoid amounts was recorded in infected soybean and maize plants. After R. solani infection, the enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidant systems were more efficient in maize than in soybean seedlings.

The elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying the leaf development can be facilitated by the detailed anatomical study of leaf development mutants. We present an analysis of leaf anatomy and morphogenesis during early developmental stages in has mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana. The recessive has mutation affects a number of aspects in plant development, including the shape and size of both cotyledons and leaves. The earliest developmental observations suggest almost synchronous growth of the first two leaf primordia of has mutant. No significant disruption of the cell division pattern in the internal tissue is observed at the earliest stages of development, with the major anatomical difference compared to wild type primordia being the untimely maturation of mesophyll tissue cells in has mutant. At the stage of leaf blade formation, structure disruption becomes clearly evident, by irregular arrangement of the cell layers and the lack of polarity in juvenile has leaves. One distinguishing feature of the mutant leaf anatomy is the absence of mesophyll tissue differentiation. Altered has mutant leaf morphology could be at least partially accounted for by the ectopic STM activity that was found at the base of leaf primordia during early stages of leaf development in has plants.

Effect of environmental conditions (temperatures and precipitation) on soybean yield and seed quality was examined during two years. Trials with four replications were located at experimental fields of Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops at Rimski Šančevi. Environmental conditions had significant influence on examined traits, and higher yield and seed quality was achieved during beneficial year. There was a moderate positive relationship between yield and seed germination. U dvogodišnjem istraživanju ispitivan je uticaj agrometeoroloških činilaca (temperatura i padavina) na prinos i semenske kvalitete zrna soje. Ogled je postavljen u četiri ponavljanja na oglednim parcelama Instituta za ratarstvo i povrtarstvo na Rimskim Šančevima u 2009. i 2010. Vremenski uslovi značajno su uticali na ispitivana svojstva, odnosno u godini sa povoljnim meteorološkim uslovima (2010) ostvaren je veći prinos i kvalitet semena ispitivanih sorti soje. Uočena je umerena pozitivna korelacija između prinosa i klijavosti semena.

The elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying the leaf development can be facilitated by the detailed anatomical study of leaf development mutants. We present an analysis of leaf anatomy and morphogenesis during early developmental stages in has mutant of Arabidopsis thaliana. The recessive has mutation affects a number of aspects in plant development, including the shape and size of both cotyledons and leaves. The earliest developmental observations suggest almost synchronous growth of the first two leaf primordia of has mutant. No significant disruption of the cell division pattern in the internal tissue is observed at the earliest stages of development, with the major anatomical difference compared to wild type primordia being the untimely maturation of mesophyll tissue cells in has mutant. At the stage of leaf blade formation, structure disruption becomes clearly evident, by irregular arrangement of the cell layers and the lack of polarity in juvenile has leaves. One distinguishing feature of the mutant leaf anatomy is the absence of mesophyll tissue differentiation. Altered has mutant leaf morphology could be at least partially accounted for by the ectopic STM activity that was found at the base of leaf primordia during early stages of leaf development in has plants. Ministry of Science and Technological Development of Serbia [173015]

Changes occurring in seed during aging are significant as far as seed quality and longevity are concerned and are a consequence of the effects of different storage conditions. The chemical composition of seed with high oil content is related to specific processes occurring in seed during storage. In this trial, sunflower and soybean genotypes developed in Novi Sad were submitted to accelerated aging for three and five days, and natural aging for six and twelve months, under controlled and conventional (non-controlled) conditions. The obtained results showed that preservation of seed viability depended on storage condition and duration, as well as plant species. Accelerated aging test can be used to predict the length of storage life of sunflower and soybean seed. In comparison to sunflower seed, soybean seed is more sensitive to damage and reduced germination during storage.

In a three-year trial the influence of the applied nitrogen under previous crop and the inoculation of seeds by Nitragin (microbiological agent) on the yield and thousand grain weight of soybean was studied. Inoculation of seeds contributed to a statistically highly significant yield increase in three years, while the mass of a thousand seeds was statistically very significantly higher in the two years of research. Nitrogen rate of 100 kgha-1 lead to increased yield, and nitrogen applied in quantities of 200 kgha-1 reduced soybean seed yield. . U trogodišnjem ogledu proučavan je uticaj azota primenjenog pod predusev i inokulacije semena mikrobiološkim preparatom Nitragin na prinos i masu hiljadu zrna soje. Inokulacija semena doprinela je statistički veoma značajnom povećanju prinosa u sve tri godine, dok je masa hiljadu semena bila statistički veoma značajno veća u dve godine istraživanja. Doze azota od 100 kg ha-1 dovode do povećanja prinosa, dok azot primenjen u količini od 200 kg ha-1 smanjuje prinos semena soje. .