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Black, brown, and white mustards are important spice and oil crops cultivated worldwide. In this study, the effect of mustard lines in terms of growth and yield under spring sown conditions during 2 years (2020 and 2021) was investigated under semi-arid climatic conditions in Ankara, Turkey. Fifteen lines and one standard were used in this study. The experiment was carried out according to the randomized block trial design with four replications. The results demonstrated statistically significant lines × years interaction for plant height, number of branches, number of capsules, number of seeds, thousand-seed weight, seed yield and crude oil yield of black, brown, and white mustard lines. The days to emergence, 4–6 leaves rosette stages, 50% flowering, 50% encapsulation, and harvest varied according to species and years. The better production year was 2021, when the highest seed yield (3080 kg ha−1) and oil yield (612 kg ha−1) were determined from the Brassica juncea-Bj3 line, while the lower production year was 2020, when the lowest seed yield (572 kg ha−1) and oil yield (133 kg ha−1) were detected for the B. nigra-Bn5 line. The B. juncea-Bj3 line for crude oil yield (612 kg ha−1) and the Sinapis alba-Sa5 line for seed yield (2282 kg ha−1) appeared to be superior in performance compared to the other lines and standards. The lines can be further exploited for breeding programs through selection and hybridization. Considering the yield data of the lines, it was detected that the lines of Brassica juncea, Sinapis alba and Brassica nigra have an important potential as a raw material resource for different industries. HIGHLIGHTS: The experimental results showed the agronomic potential of growing Brassica species under spring conditions. The yield characteristics of 15 Brassica lines were significantly affected by the environmental situation. The Brassica juncea-Bj3 and Sinapis alba-Sa2 lines were the superior lines and had a high potential for breeding new Brassica cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sinapis alba genome has been utilized as a donor for abiotic and biotic stress tolerance, yet there seems to be a gap in exploring its potential contribution to yield-related traits. The greater number of lateral branches in Brassica plants provides new sites for bearing siliquae and emphasizes their profound impact on yield potential. The present investigation involves the morphological characterization of 94 backcross introgression lines (BCILs) over two consecutive crop seasons, coupled with genotyping by 277 S. alba genome-specific monoallelic microsatellite markers to decipher the genetic loci contributing to higher branching number traits. The results revealed significant QTLs governing primary (PB) and secondary branching (SB). In CS-I, two QTLs linked to PB collectively explained 46.50% of the phenotypic variance (PVE), exhibiting positive additive effects, signifying their contribution to increased branch numbers in BCILs. Two QTLs associated with SB were also identified, with LODs of 5.07 and 4.21 contributing 22.55 and 17.90%, respectively, to the PVE. During the CS-II, one QTL was identified for PB, explaining 28.04% of the PVE at a 20.97 LOD value, and one major QTL for SB was identified (27.52% of the PVE). Moreover, we also identified 40 potential genes within the QTL regions, with sixteen genes homologous to the ANT, MAX2, PNH, RAX2, SEU, CRE1, and RAMOSUS1 of Arabidopsis and pea, and a total of nine unknown genes with a role in branching that were introgressed from S. alba to B. juncea. This is the first study to identify introgressed candidate genes involved in Brassica branching. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addressing the time-consuming and labor-intensive issues inherent in traditional marker selection mode including systematic isolation, structural elucidation, and activity screening of indicator components for a single traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the aim of this study was to develop a method for quick simultaneous identification of multiple medicinal drugs by using high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) technique featuring the advantages of being intuitive, easy to operate, and offering multi-dimensional information. Taking three TCMs originating from five closely related different species from Cruciferae family as an example, the study conducted parallel comparisons of optimized TLC chromatograms of seeds from the five species Lepidium apetalum, Descurainia sophia, Raphanus sativus, Sinapis alba, and Brassica juncea under different detection wavelength lights; eight characteristic components were distinctly discovered, and among them one known common constituent identified as sinapine. Subsequently, seven characteristic components were isolated on a small scale and within a short-time, and elucidated structurally. Lastly, for each seed, a combination of the common constituent and most of one of its characteristic components were chosen as identification markers for the respective seed. To sum up, a unified HPTLC method with different detection wavelengths and different marker combinations was established for the simultaneous identification of five seed-originated medicines. This research approach, characterized by simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and rapidity, presents a highly efficient alternative for establishing identification methods for chemically similar multiple TCMs from closely related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyurethanes (PUs) are a special class of polymeric materials that differ significantly from most other types of plastic in many aspects. They can be utilized in a wide range of products, including paints, coatings, elastomers, insulators, elastic fibers, and foams. PU foams are especially important as part of various convenience products. PU products often end up in landfills when they are no longer useful and can release toxic compounds when damaged by humans or microbes. Therefore, the ecotoxicological assessment of PU foams is essential. In this paper, five PU foam samples were prepared with different NCO indices (NCO-0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, and 1.2) and together with the Control sample (a previously tested non-toxic foam sample) were applied to develop toxicity tests procedure, while intentionally prepared Toxic foam has been used to verify the accuracy of the developed testing procedure. Two test organisms were successfully applied, Sinapis alba (white mustard) seeds and Escherichia coli (non-pathogenic) bacterial model organisms, and toxicity tests were adapted for the examination of PU-derived substances. Regarding Sinapis alba test, the highest NCO index (NCO-1.2) significantly reduced root length by 9.8 % compared to the Control sample. In the bacterial test, it was observed that the samples containing NCO-1.1 and NCO-1.2 had lower colony numbers (5.0 × 108 and 4.9 × 108 CFU/mL respectively) in comparison to the Control plate (9.6 × 108 CFU/mL). All in all, two toxicity tests were successfully adapted for PU foams, and both are applicable in their ecotoxicological assessment.

Traffic-related particulate matter emissions have been considerably reduced due to stringent regulations in Europe. However, emission of diesel-powered vehicles still poses a significant environmental threat, affecting rural ecosystems and agriculture. Several studies have reported that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a group of potentially toxic organic compounds, can accumulate in crops and vegetables. In our study, white mustard (Sinapis alba L.) plants were experimentally treated with an extract of diesel exhaust. PAH concentrations were measured in the different plant compartments (stems, leaves and seeds), bioconcentration factors (BCFs) were also calculated. Significant accumulation was measured in the leaves and seeds, stems showed lower accumulation potential. All plant matrices showed high tendency to accumulate higher molecular weight PAHs, BCF was the highest in the 6-ring group. The fact that considerable accumulation was experienced in the seeds might show the risk of cultivating crops nearby roads highly impacted by traffic-related emissions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Improving crop resistance to insect herbivores is a major research objective in breeding programs. Although genomic technologies have increased the speed at which large populations can be genotyped, breeding programs still suffer from phenotyping constraints. The pollen beetle (Brassicogethes aeneus) is a major pest of oilseed rape for which no resistant cultivar is available to date, but previous studies have highlighted the potential of white mustard as a source of resistance and introgression of this resistance appears to be a promising strategy. Here we present a phenotyping protocol allowing mid‐throughput (i.e., increased throughput compared to current methods) acquisition of resistance data, which could then be used for genetic mapping of QTLs. RESULTS: Contrasted white mustard genotypes were selected from an initial field screening and then evaluated for their resistance under controlled conditions using a standard phenotyping method on entire plants. We then upgraded this protocol for mid‐throughput phenotyping, by testing two alternative methods. We found that phenotyping on detached buds did not provide the same resistance contrasts as observed with the standard protocol, in contrast to the phenotyping protocol with miniaturized plants. This protocol was then tested on a large panel composed of hundreds of plants. A significant variation in resistance among genotypes was observed, which validates the large‐scale application of this new phenotyping protocol. CONCLUSION: The combination of this mid‐throughput phenotyping protocol and white mustard as a source of resistance against the pollen beetle offers a promising avenue for breeding programs aiming to improve oilseed rape resistance. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Iron oxide mineral–humic complexes serve as a reservoir of bioavailable Fe for plants, releasing metal ligands and providing Fe–humic complexes directly usable by plant Fe-uptake mechanisms. In this study, we synthesized and characterized goethite α-FeOOH (G) nanoparticles (NPs) intercalated in coal (GC) to estimate the bioactivity effect of humic acids (HA). The synthesized GC NPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Mössbauer spectroscopy, N2 adsorption–desorption Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) specific surface area, zeta potential, hydrodynamic particle diameter, iron ions release, and a phytoassay method of root elongation using the higher plant Sinapis alba. Results X-ray diffraction revealed that G was the primary phase in both GC and GC–HA complexes. Mössbauer spectroscopy analysis identified a goethite-doped Fe2+-in the GC samples. The intercalation of G into the coal matrix increased the specific surface area of GC, enhancing its HA sorption capacity. In addition, GC–HA demonstrated superior plant growth stimulation compared to HA and GC alone, indicating its role in colloidal stability. In contrast to GC, GC–HA exhibited a more consistent and time-dependent release of Fe3+ and Fe2+. This sustained Fe release from GC–HA, coupled with the formation of Fe3+ and more bioavailable (soluble) Fe2+ humic complexes is a promising result in terms of iron nanofertilizers production. Conclusions The use of goethite nanoparticles intercalated within a coal matrix and subsequently complexed with HA contributes to prolonged phytoactivity by employing slowly released nutrient additives within the coal mesoporous matrix. Graphical Abstract

Alternaria blight is a devastating disease that causes significant crop losses in oilseed Brassicas every year. Adoption of conventional breeding to generate disease-resistant varieties has so far been unsuccessful due to the lack of suitable resistant source germplasms of cultivated Brassica spp. A thorough understanding of the molecular basis of resistance, as well as the identification of defense-related genes involved in resistance responses in closely related wild germplasms, would substantially aid in disease management. In the current study, a comparative transcriptome profiling was performed using Illumina based RNA-seq to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs) specifically modulated in response to Alternaria brassicicola infection in resistant Sinapis alba, a close relative of Brassicas, and the highly susceptible Brassica rapa. The analysis revealed that, at 48 hpi (hours post inoculation), 3396 genes were upregulated and 23239 were downregulated, whereas at 72 hpi, 4023 genes were upregulated and 21116 were downregulated. Furthermore, a large number of defense response genes were detected to be specifically regulated as a result of Alternaria infection. The transcriptome data was validated using qPCR-based expression profiling for selected defense-related DEGs, that revealed significantly higher fold change in gene expression in S. alba when compared to B. rapa. Expression of most of the selected genes was elevated across all the time points under study with significantly higher expression towards the later time point of 72 hpi in the resistant germplasm. S. alba activates a stronger defense response reaction against the disease by deploying an array of genes and transcription factors involved in a wide range of biological processes such as pathogen recognition, signal transduction, cell wall modification, antioxidation, transcription regulation, etc. Overall, the study provides new insights on resistance of S. alba against A. brassicicola, which will aid in devising strategies for breeding resistant varieties of oilseed Brassica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alternaria blight is a devastating disease that causes significant crop losses in oilseed Brassicas every year. Adoption of conventional breeding to generate disease-resistant varieties has so far been unsuccessful due to the lack of suitable resistant source germplasms of cultivated Brassica spp. A thorough understanding of the molecular basis of resistance, as well as the identification of defense-related genes involved in resistance responses in closely related wild germplasms, would substantially aid in disease management. In the current study, a comparative transcriptome profiling was performed using Illumina based RNA-seq to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs) specifically modulated in response to Alternaria brassicicola infection in resistant Sinapis alba, a close relative of Brassicas, and the highly susceptible Brassica rapa. The analysis revealed that, at 48 hpi (hours post inoculation), 3396 genes were upregulated and 23239 were downregulated, whereas at 72 hpi, 4023 genes were upregulated and 21116 were downregulated. Furthermore, a large number of defense response genes were detected to be specifically regulated as a result of Alternaria infection. The transcriptome data was validated using qPCR-based expression profiling for selected defense-related DEGs, that revealed significantly higher fold change in gene expression in S. alba when compared to B. rapa. Expression of most of the selected genes was elevated across all the time points under study with significantly higher expression towards the later time point of 72 hpi in the resistant germplasm. S. alba activates a stronger defense response reaction against the disease by deploying an array of genes and transcription factors involved in a wide range of biological processes such as pathogen recognition, signal transduction, cell wall modification, antioxidation, transcription regulation, etc. Overall, the study provides new insights on resistance of S. alba against A. brassicicola, which will aid in devising strategies for breeding resistant varieties of oilseed Brassica.

Recently, pollution caused by the heavy metal Cd has seriously affected the environment and agricultural crops. While Sinapis alba is known for its edible and medicinal value, its tolerance to Cd and molecular response mechanism remain unknown. This study aimed to analyze the tolerance of S. alba to Cd and investigate its molecular response mechanism through transcriptomic and physiological indicators. To achieve this, S. alba seedlings were treated with different concentrations of CdCl2 (0.25 mmol/L, 0.5 mmol/L, and 1.0 mmol/L) for three days. Based on seedling performance, S. alba exhibited some tolerance to a low concentration of Cd stress (0.25 mmol/L CdCl2) and a strong Cd accumulation ability in its roots. The activities and contents of several antioxidant enzymes generally exhibited an increase under the treatment of 0.25 mmol/L CdCl2 but decreased under the treatment of higher CdCl2 concentrations. In particular, the proline (Pro) content was extremely elevated under the 0.25 and 0.5 mmol/L CdCl2 treatments but sharply declined under the 1.0 mmol/L CdCl2 treatment, suggesting that Pro is involved in the tolerance of S. alba to low concentration of Cd stress. In addition, RNA sequencing was utilized to analyze the gene expression profiles of S. alba exposed to Cd (under the treatment of 0.25 mmol/L CdCl2). The results indicate that roots were more susceptible to disturbance from Cd stress, as evidenced by the detection of 542 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in roots compared to only 37 DEGs in leaves. GO and KEGG analyses found that the DEGs induced by Cd stress were primarily enriched in metabolic pathways, plant hormone signal transduction, and the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. The key pathway hub genes were mainly associated with intracellular ion transport and cell wall synthesis. These findings suggest that S. alba is tolerant to a degree of Cd stress, but is also susceptible to the toxic effects of Cd. Furthermore, these results provide a theoretical basis for understanding Cd tolerance in S. alba. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cadmium contamination of soil and water as a result of industrialization and inappropriate agricultural practices is a global problem. As Cd is a toxic and carcinogenic element, its uptake into crops and transfer to the food chain poses serious health risks. Nanoparticles (NPs) are considered as promising materials for agriculture, which can be used as fertilizers, growth promoters, or to reduce negative environmental impacts. Therefore, the effect of Ag, Fe3O4, MnO2, TiO2, and ZnO NPs on the root elongation and Cd accumulation in germinating white mustard under cadmium stress was investigated in this study. The efficiency of NPs was compared with the effect of Ag+, Fe2+, Mn2+, and Zn2+ ions. Amelioration of Cd stress (Cd reduced root length to 46.9% of the control) was provided by ZnO NPs (root length restored to 76.5% of the control) and Zn2+ ions (56.7% of the control) at pH 8, while at pH 6 mainly ionic Zn2+ was toxic. Ag NPs (root length 107.7 and 129.6% of the control at pH 8 and pH 6, respectively) and Ag+ ions (157.5% and 137.6% of the control at pH 8 and pH 6, respectively) increased root elongation of seedlings unexposed to Cd and to some extent (insignificantly) under Cd stress as well. The reduction of Cd uptake into the seedlings in the presence of ZnO NPs and Zn2+ ions from 28.30 to 19.57 and to 23.04 µg/g DW at pH 8, respectively, and from 33.29 to 28.30 and to 25.90 µg/g DW at pH 6, respectively, was probably responsible for the protective effect of these substances. Other materials tested did not significantly affect the root growth under Cd stress, nor did they reduce Cd accumulation in the seedlings as well. The role of the chemical species was more decisive than the role of its form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a need to identify new renewable, sustainable and clean energy sources in the world. This study was conducted to determine the genotypes of different Brassica species suitable for the energy sector. A total of 21 genotypes, consisting of 19 lines (B. juncea, B. nigra, Sinapis alba and B. rapa ssp. oleifera) and two standards (ISCI-99 and Excalibur used as control) were evaluated in the study. The research was carried out during 2019–20 and 2020–21 growing seasons at Tokat, Turkey. The parameters related to yield and yield components (days to emergence, days to rosette formation, winter survival percentage, days to 50% flowering, days to 50% capsule formation, days to maturation, plant height, number of lateral branches per plant, number of capsules per plant, number of seeds per capsule, thousand seed weight, seed yield), crude oil percentage, crude oil yield, fatty acid components, biodiesel production and their technical properties for appropriateness to bioenergy production were investigated. The results showed that the yield, yield components, oil content, fatty acid components and biodiesel technical properties of lines were significantly dissimilar. Seed yields varied between 37 and 1195 kg ha−1 and the maximum seed yield was obtained in the second year of the study from the line 5. Oleic acid (C18:1; 17.12–26.8%), linoleic acid (C18:2; 13.15–24.60%), and erucic acid (C22:1; 12.13–42.76%) were the predominant fatty acids of the lines. The excess of monounsaturated fatty acids in the oils indicated that the fatty acid components are suitable for biodiesel production. Water content, cold filter plugging point, ester percentage, flash point, acid number, iodine number, and glyceride values of oils in all lines are within acceptable limits for biodiesel production according to TS EN 14214 standards. The yield and quality data of the species revealed that B. juncea and B. rapa lines have higher potential as a raw material source for biodiesel production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recycling organic wastes on agricultural soils improves the soil quality, but the environmental and health impact of these organic amendments closely depends on their origins, their bio-physicochemical characteristics and the considered organisms potentially affected. The aim of this study was to assess the potential chronic ecotoxicity of spreading organic amendments on agricultural soils. To do this, we characterized three different organic amendments: sewage sludge from an urban wastewater treatment plant, cow manure and liquid dairy manure. Their chronic ecotoxicity was studied through assays exposing earthworms of the species Eisenia fetida and two plants: Medicago sativa and Sinapis alba. Of the three amendments, the sewage sludge presented the highest concentrations of micropollutants and a considerable fraction of available and biodegradable organic matter. The cow manure and liquid dairy manure had lower chemical contamination and similar characteristics with lower biodegradable fractions of their organic matter. No chronic phytotoxicity was evidenced: on the contrary, particularly with sewage sludge, the germination rate and aerial and root biomass of the two plants increased. Considering earthworms, their biomass increased considerably during the reproduction assays in soil amended with sewage sludge, which contained the more bioavailable organic matter. Nonetheless, the earthworms presented an inhibition close to 78% of the production of juveniles when exposed to sewage sludge exceeding 20 g.kg-1 DW (that means 2 times the agronomic dose). This reprotoxic effect was also observed in the presence of liquid dairy manure, but not with cow manure. At the end of the assays, the glycogen and protein reserves in earthworms exposed to sewage sludge were inferior to that of control earthworms, respectively around 50% and 30%. For the earthworms exposed to liquid dairy manure, protein and lipid reserves increased. In the case of liquid dairy manure, this reprotoxic effect did not appear to be linked to the presence of micropollutants. In conclusion, our results confirm the need to use several ecotoxicity assays at different biological levels and with different biological models to assess the ecotoxic impacts of soil amendments. Indeed, although certain organic wastes present a strong nutritional potential for both plants and earthworms, a not inconsiderable risk was apparent for the reproduction of the latter. An integrated ecotoxicity criterion that takes into account a weighted sum of the different results would guide the utilization of organic amendments while ensuring the good health of agricultural ecosystems.

The elaboration of new fungicidal protectants is an urgent issue due to the ability of pathogens to develop resistance. This fact contributes to the constant production of new protectants, so it carries an additional environmental impact. The main problem of development of new fungicides is choice of methods for identifying of optimal combinations and concentrations of fungicides. The optimization of the composition of fungicides is aimed to reduce the amount of active substances due to the synergistic effect. The use of fungicidal preparations with a reduced amount of active substances carries a lower environmental impact and gives a greater economic effect. One of the main problems in the application of fungicides is the phytotoxicity of the fungicides in relation to the protected plants. Phytotoxicity in general is the ability of pesticides or other substances to have a depressing (toxic) effect on plants. This problem is solved through researches of the germination of seedlings during the development of protectants. Researches of the germination power of seeds of soft winter wheat and white mustard after treatment with tebuconazole, рrothioconazole, and fludioxonyl were considered in the article. The main traits of the influence of the named substances on the germination of wheat grains and white mustard seeds, and morphological features of wheat seedlings, such as the length of their roots and shoots are revealed. In accordance to the results of the research, combinations of active substances (a.s.) that provide high effectiveness against the causative agents of diseases, and also do not have a phytotoxic effect on the protected culture have been determined. The aim of the work was the identification of traits of the phytotoxic effect of tebuconazole, рrothioconazole, fludioxonyl in the combination of seed protectants which are used to protect seedlings from plant diseases. Materials and methods. An assessment of the effect of three active substances of fungicides on wheat of the Grom cultivar and white mustard was given. The analysis was carried out in two replications for 48 possible combinations of tebuconazole, рrothioconazole, and fludioxonyl as well as fot two control variants. The ratio of normal, infected, abnormal and non-germinated seeds was analyzed. Results. According to the realized studies, tebuconazole has the greatest suppressive effect on germination and growth of shoots. Prothioconazole had no effect on germination, but it had a stimulating effect on the development and growth of wheat’s roots and shoots. With the combined action of prothioconazole and fludioxonyl, the greatest decrease in germination of wheat was observed. Conclusion. The possible phytotoxic effect, which depends on the dose of the protectant, should be taken into account when choosing a protectant and developing combined products. So the results of research demonstrated that the following combinations had no phytotoxic effect on protected plants: tebuconazole with рrothioconazole 5:10 and 5:15, tebuconazole with fludioxonyl 5:10, рrothioconazole with fludioxonyl 5:10.

Erysiphe cruciferarum, a causative agent of powdery mildew disease, has emerged as a serious threat in Brassica juncea and its closely related species. To date, no resistant cultivars have been identified in Brassica species against powdery mildew. Here, we used histopathological, biochemical, and molecular approaches to elucidate the powdery mildew disease progression and host responses in three Brassica cenospecies, namely B. juncea, Camelina sativa, and Sinapis alba. Based on the results of disease progression, S. alba was found to be extremely resistant to powdery mildew infection, whereas B. juncea and C. sativa were highly vulnerable. In addition, the disease spread rate to uninfected parts was comparatively higher in B. juncea and C. sativa. Histopathological results revealed more pathogen-induced cell death in B. juncea and C. sativa compared to S. alba. We also examined the role of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) in B. juncea, C. sativa, and S. alba after powdery mildew infection. Based on our findings, the enzyme activity of SOD, POD, and CAT was relatively higher in S. alba then that of B. juncea and C. sativa after powdery mildew infection. Furthermore, we evaluated the expression levels of salicylic acid (SA) signature genes, including pathogenesis-related protein viz., PR1, PR2, and PR5 in B. juncea, C. sativa, and S. alba after E. cruciferarum infection. Based on our findings, the expression levels of SA marker genes PR1, PR2, and PR5 increased in all three species after infection. However, the fold change was relatively higher in S. alba than in B. juncea and C. sativa. In future, further studies are required to identify the potential candidates in S. alba that are involved in powdery mildew disease resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cerium oxide nanoparticles (nCeO2) are interesting nanomaterials due to their redox properties. Their wide application could result in unexpected consequences to environmental safety. Unlike acute toxicity, the trans-generational effects of carbohydrate-coated nCeO2 in the environment are still unknown. The main aim of this study was to investigate the effect of treating maternal plants of Chenopodium rubrum L. (red goosefoot) and Sinapis alba L. (white mustard) with uncoated (CeO2) and glucose-, levan-, or pullulan-coated nCeO2 (G-, L-, or P-CeO2) during seed germination on morphological and physiological characteristics of produced seeds in two subsequent generations. The plant response was studied by measuring germination percentage (Ger), total protein content (TPC), total phenolic content (TPhC), total antioxidative activity (TAA), and catalase (CAT) activity. Results showed that maternal effects of the different nCeO2 treatments persist to at least the second generation in seeds. Generally, C. rubrum was more sensitive to nCeO2 treatments than S. alba. The coated nCeO2 were more effective than uncoated ones in both plant species; L- and P-CeO2 were the most effective in S. alba , while CeO2 and G-CeO2 had a dominant impact in C. rubrum. Enhanced germination in all tested generations of S. alba seeds recommends nCeO2 for seed priming. This is the first report on the trans-generational effects of carbohydrate-coated nCeO2 on any plant seeds. We showed that maternal effects of the different nCeO2 treatments persist to at least the second generation in seeds and that enhanced germination in all tested generations of Sinapis alba L. (white mustard) seeds recommends nCeO2 for seed priming. The investigation of trans-generational effects should be included in any risk assessment addressing the release of nCeO2 (uncoated or coated) to the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The B3 DNA-binding superfamily is a group of gene families that contain a B3 domain in their proteins. Members of this superfamily are involved in responses to stresses including salt, drought, and cold stress. The B3 DNA-binding superfamily has not been fully studied in Camelina sativa. A total of eighty-seven members of this superfamily were identified in C. sativa. The identified genes were placed into five groups based on a phylogenetic analysis. All the proteins were predicted to be nuclear. The RAV and ARF gene family had the most conserved motifs, with nine out of ten motifs being preserved, while the REM gene family was discovered to have the fewest, with just one conserved motif being present. The RAV and REM gene families showed the least protein–protein interactions. The CsARF5 and CsARF7 genes showed the highest potent interaction score with multiple auxin-responsive proteins. A qPCR analysis was carried out on six genes that showed stress-induced expression changes. CsREM17, CsREM5, and CsRAVL5 were discovered to be considerably increased in response to drought stress, while CsARF10, CsARF4, and CsREM34 were found to be downregulated to a large extent. The B3 DNA-binding superfamily regulates abscisic acid signaling, which in turn influences plant growth and stress resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European tarnished plant bug, Lygus rugulipennis Poppius, is considered a major pest in chrysanthemum nurseries in The Netherlands. Adults puncture plant's apical meristem, after which the growing point splits and growth is inhibited. Flower buds and flowers can also be severely damaged. Both types of damage result in economic losses for growers. Despite the importance of this pest for chrysanthemum nurseries, there is only very limited information about L. rugulipennis development on chrysanthemum plants, Chrysanthemum × morifolium Ramat., and whether L. rugulipennis can be controlled using trap plants is not known. We investigated whether: (1) L. rugulipennis could develop from egg to adult on the vegetative and flowering stages of chrysanthemum; (2) their performance was enhanced when a supplemental prey source (Ephestia kuehniella Zeller eggs) or another common pest (the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae Sulzer) was present; and (3) there were alternative plant species more attractive than chrysanthemum for use as trap plants for local pest control or monitoring of L. rugulipennis. L. rugulipennis developed on both vegetative and flowering chrysanthemum stages without any additional food source. Nonetheless, when chrysanthemum was supplemented with E. kuehniella eggs, L. rugulipennis achieved the best performance in terms of the number of adults developed and faster developmental time. Interestingly, L. rugulipennis developed faster on chrysanthemum infested with the aphid M. persicae compared to non‐infested plants, however, there was no difference in the number of adults developed. In a trap plant experiment with 16 plant species in the vegetative stage, we found that white mustard, Sinapis alba L., was significantly more attractive than chrysanthemum to both adult and nymph L. rugulipennis. Further research is needed to evaluate the potential of S. alba as a trap plant for monitoring L. rugulipennis and how the presence of prey in the crop influences L. rugulipennis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining and improving soil health is one of the top priorities in organic agriculture to ensure crop production sustainability. Mustard seed meal extracts are promising organic soil amendments that can reduce pesticide pressure and improve crop yields. In this study, we investigated the potential of mustard seed meal extract developed in our laboratory, to improve soil health in organic potato systems. Field trials were conducted on two certified organic farms in Northern Idaho to 1) assess the changes in soil chemical indicators after mustard seed meal extract application; 2) evaluate the effect of mustard seed meal extract on microbial biomass carbon; and 3) measure plant-available nutrients levels in soil after mustard seed meal extract application. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report studying the effect of mustard seed meal extract on soil quality in organic potato systems. Out of 27 soil chemical and biological indicators measured, 19 indicators were sensitive to the addition of mustard seed meal extract. The data obtained for organic and inorganic soil constituents indicate a positive impact of mustard seed meal extract on soil quality. Addition of mustard seed meal extract to soil increases Haney soil health score up to 1.5 times demonstrating the benefit of application for improving soil quality in organic production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Sinapis alba and Sinapis arvensis are mustard crops within the Brassiceae tribe of the Brassicaceae family, and represent an important genetic resource for crop improvement. We performed the de novo assembly of Brassica nigra, S. alba, and S. arvensis, and conducted comparative genomics to investigate the pattern of genomic evolution since an ancient whole‐genome triplication event. Both Sinapis species retained evidence of the Brassiceae whole‐genome triplication approximately 20.5 million years ago (Mya), with subgenome dominance observed in gene density, gene expression, and selective constraint. While S. alba diverged from the ancestor of Brassica and Raphanus at approximately 12.5 Mya, the divergence time of S. arvensis and B. nigra was approximately 6.5 Mya. S. arvensis and B. nigra had greater collinearity compared with their relationship to either Brassica rapa or Brassica oleracea. Two chromosomes of S. alba (Sal03 and Sal08) were completely collinear with two ancestral chromosomes proposed in the Ancestral Crucifer Karyotype (ACK) genomic block model, the first time this has been observed in the Brassiceae. These results are consistent with S. alba representing a relatively ancient lineage of the species evolved from the common ancestor of tribe Brassiceae, and suggest that the phylogeny of the Brassica and Sinapis genera requires some revision. Our study provides new insights into the genome evolution and phylogenetic relationships of Brassiceae and provides genomic information for genetic improvement of these plants. Significance Statement: The genomes of Brassica and Sinapis share evidence of the ancestral whole‐genome triplication event that distinguishes tribe Brassiceae from other lineages within the family Brassicaceae. This is validated through high‐quality genome assemblies of Brassica nigra, Sinapis alba and Sinapis arvensis that also reveal that Sinapis may represent the more ancient lineage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sinapis alba L. (white mustard), an annual member of Brassicaceae, is an important oilseed crop with significant agronomic traits including tolerance to abiotic stress. The present study was aimed to assess the changes in biochemical attributes of S. alba, mainly the composition of lipids and fatty acids, in response to osmotic stress. Seedlings were subjected to stress condition by growing them on media supplemented with three different concentrations of polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) solutions, respectively with -0.04, -0.16 and -0.64 MPa osmotic potential. Compatible solute content, lipid content, and lipid peroxidation of the seedlings were measured. Total fatty acid composition was analysed by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Overall negative impact of PEG-mediated osmotic stress was apparent from seedling morphology. Total lipid content decreased in stressed plants together with increased level of triacylglycerol. Increase of lipid peroxidation in stressed condition indicated suppression of membrane integrity. The key outcome was the significant increase of unsaturation level of fatty acids due to higher accumulation of linoleic acid, α-linolenic acid and erucic acid in the seedlings exposed to higher osmotic stress. The results indicate that, in white mustard, the biochemical changes induced by osmotic stress mainly depend on changes in lipid composition and fatty acid unsaturation level, which maintain membrane stability during the early stage of seedling development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The indigenous oilseed crops are facing the problems of insects, diseases attack with poor yield potential. Canola needs high water requirement and also > 50 % shattering losses. Therefore, farmers are compelled to cultivate alternative crops. Sinapis alba is the best replacement of winter rapeseed due to superior phenotypic plasticity for dry temperate climate like Pakistan Pertinent sowing time augments the soil and climatic resources efficiency in a specific ecological zone to expose various phenological stages for appropriate growth and development to achieve potential yield. Methods: Field experiments were performed to appraise the suitable sowing date at three locations (NARC, SAWCRI and Talagang) in Pothwar plateau of Pakistan. Six sowing dates from 1st October up to 15th December with fifteen days interval were quart replicated in RCBD during two 2017–18 and 2018–19. Explicated environment of various locations prudently influenced Sinapis alba performance and yield attributes to accomplish potential yield during both years. Among sowing dates, 15th October enormously promoted morphological development to attained maximum mean values of pods plant−1, 1000-seed weight, biological yield and seed yield. Among locations, SAWCRI nurtured highest number of plants−2, plant height, primary and secondary branches, pods plant−1, seed pod-1, 1000-seed weight, biological yield and seed yield. Variability in Agro-meteorological indices of three locations significantly influenced the interactive effect of year × location × sowing dates for growth and yield attributes of Sinapis alba. It was observed that 15th October sowing at SAWCRI attained 2.25 t ha−1 seed yield that was 10.9 % and 24.4 % higher from the optimal dates at NARC and Talagang that accomplished 84.43 %. 91.12 % and 95.76 % more yield from the delayed (15th Dec) sowing at three locations. Conclusion: Better coordination of soil and climatic conditions with 15th October sowing for growth and development signified the monumental importance of optimal sowing date as the benchmark of superior crop productivity to improve the livelihood of the farmers.

White mustard (Sinapis alba L.) is one of the two important species in Turkey in the Sinapis genus belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It is a weed found in agricultural areas in weed surveys conducted in our country in recent years. This study was carried out with the seeds of White mustard (S. alba L.) randomly collected from the fields of Manisa province in 2019, and the minimum, optimum and maximum germination temperatures of the seeds of this weed species were determined. The experiment was carried out in Malatya Turgut Özal University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Plant Protection, Herbology laboratory in 2022. In laboratory studies, temperatures of 2, 5. 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35 and 40 °C were used to determine the appropriate germination temperatures of White mustard seeds. Experiments were set up with 4 replications and repeated 2 times. As a result of the study, it was determined that the minimum, optimum and maximum germination temperatures of White mustard seeds were 5 °C, 20-25 °C and 35 °C, respectively. Since the results were parallel to each other, the average of the two trials was taken into consideration. As a result, due to global warming, White mustard weed species cause problems in cultivated plants and can increase population density in important cultivated plants if they are not controlled. Seed biology is important in the control of the White mustard species, and the findings revealed the germination abilities of the White mustard species at appropriate temperatures. In addition, it is thought that this study will shed light on other studies to be done with White mustard in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollution of the soils with toxic elements is a serious problem all over the world. One of environmentally friendly techniques of their removal is phytoremediation. This paper is a summary of literature data and the results of own studies about the potential of Sinapis alba for bioaccumulation of Tl, As and PGEs, and its usefulness in remediation of polluted environment. S. alba is characterized with low living requirements, BFs ≫ 1 and high TFs, especially for Tl (up to 3). The influence of different forms of studied elements on plants was discussed based on biomass production, morphological changes and the impact on photosynthesis activity. The plants were cultivated in hydroponics and solid media of various composition, for example, in soil supplemented with MnO2, which resulted in BFs lower 6–7 times for leaves, and about 3–4 times for stems, as well as twice lower leaf development. Application of advanced analytical techniques was presented in studies of the detoxification mechanisms, identification of particular chemical forms of the elements and the presence of phytochelatins and their complexes with the investigated elements. Novelty Statement The paper summarizes both literature and original data on Sinapis alba exposed to such elements as thallium, arsenic and platinum group metals. The influence of different forms of studied elements on white mustard was discussed based on biomass production and morphological changes, as well as the impact on photosynthesis activity. The study covers such aspects as bioaccumulation, phytotoxicity as well as the usefulness of white mustard in remediation of polluted environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The non-turning or only superficial turning of soil is considered to be a gentle tillage method. Nevertheless, conventional ploughs are widely used in organic farming for crop production reasons. For the further development of reduced tillage, and up to no tillage, the effects of three cover crop species and their incorporation with different tillage intensities on nitrogen (N) dynamics, weed emergence and the yield of the subsequent main crop, oats, were examined in a repeated organic one-year trial. Sinapis alba, Trifolium resupinatum, Vicia sativa and bare fallow were tested and incorporated using (1) a plough (PL), (2) reduced tillage (RT), (3) mulching + drilling (MD) and (4) direct drilling (DD). V. sativa was the most promising cover crop in combination with RT, MD and DD. In Trial 1, the soil mineral N content and oat yields after the introduction of V. sativa were on a similar level as those in the PL treatments, and weeds were not yield-limiting there. In Trial 2, the biomass production of V. sativa was only about half of that of Trial 1 and did not offer sufficient weed control, but V. sativa was still successful in the RT treatments. In both trials, the yield differences were more pronounced between the cover crop treatments after RT than after PL. RT, therefore, was more dependent on an adequate cover crop species than PL. The no-till method was not only dependent on an adequate cover crop species but also on its proper biomass production for sufficient weed control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing innovative agricultural practices that enhance the nutritional quality of staple foods such as potatoes provides farmers with tools to successfully meet the challenges of feeding a rising global population while sustaining organic food production. In the present study, we have demonstrated the potential of white mustard (Sinapis alba) seed meal extract to improve potato nutritional properties. Sinapis alba extract is a low-cost by-product of mustard oil extraction that contains a relatively high concentration of biologically active compounds. When applied to soil, S. alba extract had a positive impact on nutritional quality of potatoes. For example, total phenolic content in potatoes treated with S. alba extract increased by ~1.5 times, and potato nitrogen content increased from 1.52% to 1.73% with one application of S. alba extract. At the same time, application of S. alba extract had limited impact on the accumulation of anti-nutrients such as glycoalkaloids in potato tubers. The ability to boost the phenolics content of potatoes by applying an organic amendment is a valuable tool in organic farming as it creates more nutritional crop. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the effect of S. alba extract on the nutritional quality of potatoes, or indeed of any food crop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents a laboratory study concerning the Pb effects on seeds germination and bioaccumulation in the white mustard plants (Sinapis alba). The garden soil rich in nutritive elements was watered with Pb solutions until the concentration of 45 mg·kg-1 and 85 mg·kg-1. After 60 days of exposure, the contents of Pb in soil and plant organs were evaluated. The Pb transfer (TC) and translocation (TF) indices were calculated. In addition, the effect of Pb pollution to assimilation of essential metallic elements (Zn, Ca, Mg, Cu, Ni, Fe, Mn) in plants was investigated. Pb (85 mg·kg-1) can cause negative effects on seed germination (40 % inhibition). The Pb was immobilized by plant at root level, both in the control and in the exposed samples (TC and TF < 1). The absorption and translocation processes of the essential metals are influenced by the increasing of Pb concentrations. Their presence decreases the toxicity of Pb to both tested concentrations. Competitive processes were observed between Pb (45 mg·kg-1) and Ca, Mg, Zn, Cu and Mn. Antagonistic processes of Pb were observed in case of Fe, Cu and Ni in the plant. At 85 mg·kg-1 Pb inhibition or stagnation of accumulation compared to the control was notice. The photosynthesis process measured through chlorophyll detection reveled not significantly influences of Pb. Phytotoxic effects are reduced. The results reveled that Sinapis alba have the capacity to adapt to Pb contamination having a great phytostabilization potential.

Abandoned agricultural land present in most European countries constitutes a resource of land that can be restored to agricultural production. Fallow colonization by invasive plant species contributes to changes in the course of natural secondary succession. This may modify the possibilities of returning fallow lands to agriculture, which constitutes an issue that needs to be investigated. In this study, the phytotoxic effect of invasive black cherry (Prunus serotina Ehrh.) on two crop plants commonly used for fallow land utilization, white mustard (Sinapis alba L.) and common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench), was assessed. The influence of water extracts from P. serotina litter and the soil collected under the individuals of this species was investigated. Sinapis alba was found to be more sensitive to allelochemicals released by P. serotina than F. esculentum. Litter extracts and soil with residues of P. serotina significantly inhibited both germination and growth of S. alba seedlings, estimated with length and mass of the above-ground and underground parts. In the case of F. esculentum, a negative effect of the tested extracts and soil on root mass reduction was observed. Preliminary results of our laboratory tests suggest that cultivation of white mustard should be avoided in the reclamation of fallows with black cherry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

RNA polymerases (RNAPs) are found in all living organisms. In the chloroplasts, the plastid-encoded RNA polymerase (PEP) is a prokaryotic-type multimeric RNAP involved in the selective transcription of the plastid genome. One of its active states requires the assembly of nuclear-encoded PEP-Associated Proteins (PAPs) on the catalytic core, producing a complex of more than 900 kDa, regarded as essential for chloroplast biogenesis. In this study, sequence alignments of the catalytic core subunits across various chloroplasts of the green lineage and prokaryotes combined with structural data show that variations are observed at the surface of the core, whereas internal amino acids associated with the catalytic activity are conserved. A purification procedure compatible with a structural analysis was used to enrich the native PEP from Sinapis alba chloroplasts. A mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomic analysis revealed the core components, the PAPs and additional proteins, such as FLN2 and pTAC18. MS coupled with crosslinking (XL-MS) provided the initial structural information in the form of protein clusters, highlighting the relative position of some subunits with the surfaces of their interactions. Using negative stain electron microscopy, the PEP three-dimensional envelope was calculated. Particles classification shows that the protrusions are very well-conserved, offering a framework for the future positioning of all the PAPs. Overall, the results show that PEP-associated proteins are firmly and specifically associated with the catalytic core, giving to the plastid transcriptional complex a singular structure compared to other RNAPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates novel ternary polymer blends based on polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as the matrix in combination with lignosulfonate and synthetic zeolite. The blends were prepared by the casting method, and their properties were analysed by various techniques, i.e. FTIR analysis, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis, including tests for water solubility and uptake, and determination of adhesion and hardness. The biodegradation of the blends in soil was also evaluated, and an experiment was conducted on plant growth (Sinapis alba). Optical microscopy showed that particles of the synthetic zeolite were relatively evenly distributed in the polymer matrix, forming random networks therein. The FTIR spectra for the blends proved that hydrogen bonding interactions had occurred between the PVP/synthetic zeolite and PVP/lignosulfonate. DSC analysis confirmed the good miscibility of the PVP and lignosulfonate. TGA results indicated that the thermal stability of the PVP was maintained. Lignosulfonate had the effect of reducing the adhesion of the blends. However, it was revealed that effect depends greatly on the presence of zeolite and the concentration of lignosulfonate. The obtained results showed that the optimal composition of the blend is 2.5 wt% of zeolite and 5 wt% of lignosulfonate into the PVP. Its water solubility and uptake was satisfactory from the perspective of handling and further utilization. A respirometric biodegradation test confirmed that the ternary blend was environmentally friendly, in addition to which a germination experiment evidenced that the lignosulfonate and synthetic zeolite promoted the root growth and development of S. alba. From these findings it was concluded that the novel ternary polymer blend was applicable as either as seed carriers (in the form of seed tapes) or as a biocompatible coating to protect seeds. • Novel polymer blends are prepared, based on lignosulfonate, synthetic zeolite and PVP. • Interactions between PVP/LiS/Z arise through hydrogen bonding. • The combination of LiS and Z make the processing and mechanical properties of the blends acceptable. • A respirometric biodegradation test confirms the blends are environmentally friendly. • Observing the plant growth of Sinapis alba reveals that the blends are applicable as a biocompatible seed coating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was made into polymeric films based on polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as the matrix, in combination with synthetic zeolite and dried or pyrolyzed biocarbon (biochar). The films were prepared by the casting method, and their properties were variously analysed (optical microscopy, FTIR analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, mechanical properties, water solubility, water uptake). Evaluation also encompassed the biological decomposition of the films in the soil environment and their influence on the growth of Sinapis alba. Optical microscopy indicated the particles of the fillers were almost completely evenly distributed in the polymer matrix, therein forming networks randomly. Since the space between the particles decreased as particle content increased, raising the content of the fillers brought about more compact networks. The IR spectra for the films proved the occurrence of hydrogen bonding between the PVP and synthetic zeolite. The processing and mechanical properties of the prepared polymeric films were acceptable. Water solubility and the water uptake of the films were satisfactory regarding handling and further use. Respirometric tests indicated a positive effect by the biocarbon on the biodegradation of the tested films. The proposed combination of synthetic zeolite and biocarbon fillers positively influenced the germination rate of Sinapis alba, while the polymer matrix (PVP) did not hinder further growth. Observations and testing led to the conclusion that the materials based on PVP with fillers (synthetic zeolite/biocarbon) have the potential for agricultural utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main purpose of this paper was to outline a novel approach for the use of industrial by-products generated in coal mines and coal-fired power plants as the components for artificial soils. Several coal combustion by-products, coal mine waste and organic waste materials were tested at laboratory scale for use in the reclamation of areas degraded by coal mining activity. The role of artificial soils was the land rehabilitation of the high acidic waste heap. The results revealed that the amounts of organic matter (14.87–25.01%) and nutrients in the soil substitutes were sufficient to support plant growth, i.e., N (0.37–0.51%), P (0.23–0.47%), K (1.78–3.17%), Ca (4.93–8.39%) and Mg (1.16–1.71%). A phytotoxicity test using white mustard (Sinapis alba) seeds under laboratory conditions showed good germination results (56–66%) for three soil substitutes that did not contain fly ash from biomass combustion, compared to the reference soil (84%). The relationships established for the aqueous leachate parameters of soil substitutes vs. the Sinapis alba germination revealed negative correlations with electrical conductivity (r = −0.88), SO42− (r = −0.91) and Cl− (r = −0.70) ions; the two latter ones were responsible for the salinity which hampered the germination process of the soil substitutes. Moreover, quite similar correlations were obtained between the germination of Sinapis alba and the trace elements of the soil substitutes: Fe (r = −0.69), Cd (r = −0.72), Cu (r = −0.80), Pb (r = −0.78) and Zn (r = −0.74). However, negative and significant correlations in aqueous leachates were shown only with Ni concentration (r = −0.73). The relevance of these results for the effect of salinity on germination and the early growth of S. alba was discussed in detail and was confirmed with the Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The study proved that the physicochemical characteristic of recycled wastes exhibited their potential usefulness for the reclamation of affected areas such as mine waste heaps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water is the most widely used fire extinguishing agent. It is used to eliminate a wide range of fires, often occurring in ecologically sensitive areas. There is little information on the toxicity of the fire-fighting substances in connection with aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Toxic substances often present in fire waters slow down life processes. As a result, some organisms die. This study deals with the extinguishing of burning solids (fiberboard, cannabis, straw, cork) with extinguishing water and assessment of its effects on the aquatic and terrestrial environment. The following test organisms were selected to test the effects of the extinguishing water: Daphnia magna – consumer; and Sinapis alba and Lemna minor – producers. A preliminary test was carried out on all the samples to evaluate the (positive / negative) effects of the fire water on the test organisms. Specific conductivity, pH, and chemical oxygen demand were also determined. The results of this study call attention to negative impacts of extinguishing water on the environment. It is necessary to pay attention to prevention and thus eliminate potential risks. If environmental contamination can no longer be prevented, the spread of contaminated water must at least be reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in environmental conditions are likely to have a complex effect on the growth of plants, their phenology, plant-pollinator interactions, and reproductive success. The current world is facing an ongoing climate change along with other humaninduced environmental changes. Most research has focused on the impact of increasing temperature as a major driving force for climate change, but other factors may have important impacts on plant traits and pollination too and these effects may vary from season to season. In addition, it is likely that the effects of multiple environmental factors, such as increasing temperature, water availability, and nitrogen enrichment are not independent. Therefore, we tested the impact of two key factors-water, and nitrogen supply-on plant traits, pollination, and seed production in Sinapis alba (Brassicaceae) in three seasons defined as three temperature conditions with two levels of water and nitrogen supply in a factorial design. We collected data on multiple vegetative and floral traits and assessed the response of pollinators in the field. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of growing conditions on seed set in plants exposed to pollinators and in hand-pollinated plants. Our results show that water stress impaired vegetative growth, decreased flower production, and reduced visitation by pollinators and seed set, while high amount of nitrogen increased nectar production under low water availability in plants grown in the spring. Temperature modulated the effect of water and nitrogen availability on vegetative and floral traits and strongly affected flowering phenology and flower production. We demonstrated that changes in water and nitrogen availability alter plant vegetative and floral traits, which impacts flower visitation and consequently plant reproduction. We conclude that ongoing environmental changes such as increasing temperature, altered precipitation regimes and nitrogen enrichment may thus affect plant-pollinator interactions with negative consequences for the reproduction of wild plants and insect-pollinated crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in environmental conditions are likely to have a complex effect on the growth of plants, their phenology, plant-pollinator interactions, and reproductive success. The current world is facing an ongoing climate change along with other human-induced environmental changes. Most research has focused on the impact of increasing temperature as a major driving force for climate change, but other factors may have important impacts on plant traits and pollination too and these effects may vary from season to season. In addition, it is likely that the effects of multiple environmental factors, such as increasing temperature, water availability, and nitrogen enrichment are not independent. Therefore, we tested the impact of two key factors—water, and nitrogen supply—on plant traits, pollination, and seed production in Sinapis alba (Brassicaceae) in three seasons defined as three temperature conditions with two levels of water and nitrogen supply in a factorial design. We collected data on multiple vegetative and floral traits and assessed the response of pollinators in the field. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of growing conditions on seed set in plants exposed to pollinators and in hand-pollinated plants. Our results show that water stress impaired vegetative growth, decreased flower production, and reduced visitation by pollinators and seed set, while high amount of nitrogen increased nectar production under low water availability in plants grown in the spring. Temperature modulated the effect of water and nitrogen availability on vegetative and floral traits and strongly affected flowering phenology and flower production. We demonstrated that changes in water and nitrogen availability alter plant vegetative and floral traits, which impacts flower visitation and consequently plant reproduction. We conclude that ongoing environmental changes such as increasing temperature, altered precipitation regimes and nitrogen enrichment may thus affect plant-pollinator interactions with negative consequences for the reproduction of wild plants and insect-pollinated crops.

A large number of soil microorganisms are characterized as plant growth promoting, but there seems to be a lack of comprehensive knowledge regarding plant growth promoting soil yeasts. The aim of the experiment was to analyse the properties of three yeast species: Schwanniomyces occidentalis BK0302D, Cyberlindnera saturnus CK2404I and Candida tropicalis 2TD2912B, important for plant growth (ammonium sulphate transformation, phosphorus, potassium and zinc dissolution), and to evaluate the effect of yeast on the growth of common wheat and white mustard seedlings after seeds' inoculation. Common wheat and white mustard seeds were inoculated with the selected yeasts. The final measurements showed that the highest amount of nitrate (10.40 μg mL-1 NO3-) was produced by C. saturnus CK2404I, while S. occidentalis BK0302D solubilized the largest amount of phosphorus (63.70 μg mL-1 P). All three strains are marked as potassium and zinc solubilizers with both acid and alkaline phosphatase activity. This is the first report on S. occidentalis and C. tropicalis ability to solubilize insoluble potassium and zinc, and C. saturnus ability to solubilize insoluble phosphorus, potassium and zinc. Also, C. tropicalis 2TD2912B exhibited high antagonistic activity (66% growth inhibition) toward Botrytis cinerea. In vivo trial was conducted in a low-nutrient substrate, and S. occidentalis BK0302D was found to have the most considerable influence on common wheat biomass production (34% increase). White mustard inoculation with C. saturnus CK2404I resulted in a 4-fold higher biomass production, while S. occidentalis BK0302D induced a 2-fold increase. The presented results confirmed the multi-functional plant growth promoting characteristics of the tested yeasts and their potential for broad application from conventional agriculture on low-nutrient soils to revegetation of disturbed substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because many plants ensure their reproductive success using some level of self‐fertilization, it is predicted that the balance between pollinator‐mediated pollen transfer and autonomous selfing will be correlated with habitat harshness and pollinator activity. To study these correlations, we used three annual species that differ in their self‐incompatibility and compared their reproductive success in the form of fruit production and seed viability, with and without pollinators, along a rainfall gradient and in relation to pollinator activity. We found that pollinator activity decreased with increasing aridity. Although the reproductive success in the absence of pollinators fitted the species' level of self‐incompatibility, no clear trend was detected between pollinator visits or site harshness and relative reproductive success. Only one of the species, Sinapis alba, showed a consistent increase in autonomous selfing with both increased aridity and decreased pollinator visits, a finding that was supported by an increase in the viability of seeds produced in the absence of pollinators. Nevertheless, unlike our prediction, the absolute number of seeds produced per S. alba flower increased with aridity. Our overall findings suggest that despite decreasing pollinator abundance and diversity with increasing aridity, the reproductive success of annual species, even of those with high self‐incompatibility, remains relatively high. Although there may be several mechanisms governing these results, the overall constant seed production despite environmental uncertainties may be part of the mechanism by which plants in arid ecosystems buffer environmental variations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated some biological peculiarities and the quality of fresh and ensiled biomass from white mustard, Sinapis alba, which was cultivated on the experimental land in the National Botanical Garden (Institute), Chisinau. The fresh mass was mowed in the flowering stage, some assessments of the main biochemical parameters: crude protein (CP), ash (CA), acid detergent fibre (ADF), neutral detergent fibre (NDF), acid detergent lignin (ADL), total soluble sugars (TSS) have been determined by near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) technique PERTEN DA 7200, the concentration of hemicellulose (HC), cellulose (Cel), digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME), net energy for lactation (NEl) and relative feed value (RFV) were calculated according to standard procedures, the sensorial and chemical characteristics of the prepared silage were determined in accordance with the laboratory standard SM 108. It has been determined that the white mustard fresh mass contained 183-208 g/kg dry matter with 18.3-22.9% CP, 9.2-10.9% CA, 43.9-51.8% NDF, 28.3-34.7% ADF, 4.8-5.6% ADL, 23.5-29.1% Cel, 15.6-17.1% HC, 6.3-8.7% TSS, 63.3-75.9% DMD, 57.3-66.1% DOM, RFV=111-142, 12.22-13.08 MJ/kg DE, 10.03-10.74 MJ/kg ME and 6.04-6.77 MJ/kg NEl. this fact indicates a good quality of the natural feed for ruminants. The white mustard silage was distinguished by homogeneous olive colour, pleasant smell specific of pickled cucumbers with pH = 4.12, it contained 7.4 g/kg acetic acid, 41.8/kg lactic acid, 24.6% CP, 14.1% CA, 41.1% NDF, 28.2% ADF, 2.9% ADL, 25.3 % Cel, 12.9 % HC, 5.3% TSS, 81.7% DMD, 71.3% DOM, RFV=151, 13.11 MJ/kg DE, 10.76 MJ/kg ME and 6.78 MJ/kg NEl. The biochemical methane potential of Sinapis alba substrates reached 295-330 L/kg organic matter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mustard is a commonly used condiment including in production of other food products. As mustard is an allergen, it is necessary to control its presence. The development of PCR test-systems for its detection is complicated by the fact that this condiment can be made from seeds of various plant species (Brassica juncea, Brassica nigra, Sinapis alba) of the family Brassicaceae that are not closely related. This family includes other plant species such as white cabbage (Brassica oleracea) and rapeseed (Brassica napus), which can cause the allergic reaction, although seldom. In this connection, many authors use primers specific to many species of this family, including to allergens, to detect mustard. In this work, we used the similar strategy. To increase sensitivity, primers for the mitochondrial COX gene were selected. To increase PCR stability in analysis of deeply processed products, primers were selected for a region with a length of 61 base pair. In the work, the specificity and sensitivity of the developed PCR method was confirmed. Analyses of different products, including those that underwent deep technological processing, were carried out with these primers. Also, primers were selected to detect white mustard (S. alba). When analyzing products on the presence of white mustard, charac‑ teristic regional preferences were demonstrated: this species is used in manufacturing products mainly in the UK and USA.

Abstract Background It is well known that legume and other crops such as pea, faba bean, lentil, chick pea, and several other crops are susceptible to Orobanche crenata (broomrape) infestation. There is a direct relationship between O. crenata infestation and yield losses depending on the severity of infestation, the crop sensitivity, the planting date, and the different prevailing environmental factors. So, the present investigation aims to evaluate the allelopathic potentiality of the seed powder of the Brassicaceae plants (Eruca sativa and Sinapis alba) in controlling O. crenata infesting Pisum sativum plants. Materials/methods Two greenhouse experiments were held during two consecutive winter seasons to study the allelopathic effect of Eruca sativa (Essp) and Sinapis alba (Sasp) seed powder and compare it with recommended Basamid (Dazomet) herbicide treatment in controlling O. crenata infesting Pisum sativum as well as their effect on P. sativum growth, yield, and yield attributes. The treatments were conducted by mixing the seed powder of E. sativa (Essp) or S. alba (Sasp) to the soil at 12.5, 25.0, 37.5, and 50 g/kg soil as well as Basamid herbicide at 0.2 g/pot. Results The recorded results show that both Essp and Sasp at successive rates as well as Basamid treatment scored a great inhibition in dry weight of O. crenata tubercles infesting P. sativum plants at 55 days after sowing (DAS) and at harvest. The highest rate (50 g/kg) of both applied seed powder achieved the highest level of controlling O. crenata investigated weed. Growth as well as yield and yield attributes of P. sativum increased by the application of Essp and Sasp especially at the lowest rates in comparison with infected control. Conclusion The lowest rates (12.5 and 25 g/kg soil) of both Essp and Sasp were the optimum applied treatments that suppressed O. crenata weed with the highest yield of P. sativum as compared with the healthy control. Glucosinolates and phenolic compounds in both seed powder may be the main active allelochemical which could be considered as a natural bioherbicide for controlling the O. crenata parasitic weed that infests P. sativum and reflected in turn on the plant yield by increase.

Erysiphe cruciferarum, a causative agent of powdery mildew disease, has emerged as a serious threat in Brassica juncea and its closely related species. To date, no resistant cultivars have been identified in Brassica species against powdery mildew. Here, we used histopathological, biochemical, and molecular approaches to elucidate the powdery mildew disease progression and host responses in three Brassica cenospecies, namely B. juncea, Camelina sativa, and Sinapis alba. Based on the results of disease progression, S. alba was found to be extremely resistant to powdery mildew infection, whereas B. juncea and C. sativa were highly vulnerable. In addition, the disease spread rate to uninfected parts was comparatively higher in B. juncea and C. sativa. Histopathological results revealed more pathogen-induced cell death in B. juncea and C. sativa compared to S. alba. We also examined the role of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) in B. juncea, C. sativa, and S. alba after powdery mildew infection. Based on our findings, the enzyme activity of SOD, POD, and CAT was relatively higher in S. alba then that of B. juncea and C. sativa after powdery mildew infection. Furthermore, we evaluated the expression levels of salicylic acid (SA) signature genes, including pathogenesis-related protein viz., PR1, PR2, and PR5 in B. juncea, C. sativa, and S. alba after E. cruciferarum infection. Based on our findings, the expression levels of SA marker genes PR1, PR2, and PR5 increased in all three species after infection. However, the fold change was relatively higher in S. alba than in B. juncea and C. sativa. In future, further studies are required to identify the potential candidates in S. alba that are involved in powdery mildew disease resistance.

The B3 DNA-binding superfamily is a group of gene families that contain a B3 domain in their proteins. Members of this superfamily are involved in responses to stresses including salt, drought, and cold stress. The B3 DNA-binding superfamily has not been fully studied in Camelina sativa. A total of eighty-seven members of this superfamily were identified in C. sativa. The identified genes were placed into five groups based on a phylogenetic analysis. All the proteins were predicted to be nuclear. The RAV and ARF gene family had the most conserved motifs, with nine out of ten motifs being preserved, while the REM gene family was discovered to have the fewest, with just one conserved motif being present. The RAV and REM gene families showed the least protein–protein interactions. The CsARF5 and CsARF7 genes showed the highest potent interaction score with multiple auxin-responsive proteins. A qPCR analysis was carried out on six genes that showed stress-induced expression changes. CsREM17, CsREM5, and CsRAVL5 were discovered to be considerably increased in response to drought stress, while CsARF10, CsARF4, and CsREM34 were found to be downregulated to a large extent. The B3 DNA-binding superfamily regulates abscisic acid signaling, which in turn influences plant growth and stress resistance.

Polyurethanes (PUs) are a special class of polymeric materials that differ significantly from most other types of plastic in many aspects. They can be utilized in a wide range of products, including paints, coatings, elastomers, insulators, elastic fibers, and foams. PU foams are especially important as part of various convenience products. PU products often end up in landfills when they are no longer useful and can release toxic compounds when damaged by humans or microbes. Therefore, the ecotoxicological assessment of PU foams is essential. In this paper, five PU foam samples were prepared with different NCO indices (NCO-0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, and 1.2) and together with the Control sample (a previously tested non-toxic foam sample) were applied to develop toxicity tests procedure, while intentionally prepared Toxic foam has been used to verify the accuracy of the developed testing procedure. Two test organisms were successfully applied, Sinapis alba (white mustard) seeds and Escherichia coli (non-pathogenic) bacterial model organisms, and toxicity tests were adapted for the examination of PU-derived substances. Regarding Sinapis alba test, the highest NCO index (NCO-1.2) significantly reduced root length by 9.8 % compared to the Control sample. In the bacterial test, it was observed that the samples containing NCO-1.1 and NCO-1.2 had lower colony numbers (5.0 × 10 8 and 4.9 × 10 8  CFU/mL respectively) in comparison to the Control plate (9.6 × 10 8  CFU/mL). All in all, two toxicity tests were successfully adapted for PU foams, and both are applicable in their ecotoxicological assessment., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Tuta absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is considered one of the main pests threatening tomato production worldwide. In the Mediterranean, the use of predatory mirids is widespread, and although several larval parasitoid species have been recorded in the area, their contribution to the biological control of the pest is often neglected. With the general objective of improving the biological control of T. absoluta, our field study aimed to determine the relative abundance of natural enemies associated with T. absoluta in tomato fields and to assess whether insectary plants placed in the vicinity of vegetable crops would help to improve functional biodiversity in the farms. The study was conducted during two years in six commercial tomato fields in Northeast Spain that were managed using an integrated pest management program based on predatory mirid conservation. Our results indicated that Necremnus tutae Ribes & Bernardo (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) was by far the main natural enemy responsible for larval parasitism of T. absoluta. The flowering plants used in the present study were attractive to several natural enemies that are of interest not only for tomato but also for other vegetable crops coexisting at the farm level, including parasitoid wasps, hoverflies, and other important beneficials, such as Orius spp., ladybeetles and predatory thrips. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Utilizing innovative agricultural practices that enhance the nutritional quality of staple foods such as potatoes provides farmers with tools to successfully meet the challenges of feeding a rising global population while sustaining organic food production. In the present study, we have demonstrated the potential of white mustard (Sinapis alba) seed meal extract to improve potato nutritional properties. Sinapis alba extract is a low-cost by-product of mustard oil extraction that contains a relatively high concentration of biologically active compounds. When applied to soil, S. alba extract had a positive impact on nutritional quality of potatoes. For example, total phenolic content in potatoes treated with S. alba extract increased by ~1.5 times, and potato nitrogen content increased from 1.52% to 1.73% with one application of S. alba extract. At the same time, application of S. alba extract had limited impact on the accumulation of anti-nutrients such as glycoalkaloids in potato tubers. The ability to boost the phenolics content of potatoes by applying an organic amendment is a valuable tool in organic farming as it creates more nutritional crop. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to examine the effect of S. alba extract on the nutritional quality of potatoes, or indeed of any food crop.

The increase in the cultivation area of cruciferous oilseed crops and the use of short crop rotation has resulted in the enhanced spread of several major pests in Northern latitudes. There is currently limited information about incidence and severity of Alternaria black spot disease (Alternaria brassicae) on the main oilseed crop, spring oilseed rape (Brassica napus), in the Northern Baltics. Thus, spring oilseed rape and five alternative cruciferous oilseed crops were selected and their resistance to black spot disease was evaluated in field conditions during two growing seasons. We hypothesized that spring oilseed rape is more susceptible to Alternaria black spot disease than other alternative cruciferous oilseed crops. Both growing seasons were warmer and drier compared to the long-term average, and were thus suitable for A. brassicae development and assessments. In both years, incidence of Alternaria black spot infection was recorded on all cruciferous species, yet the disease development differed considerably among the crops. During both growing seasons, black mustard (B. nigra) plants were the most infected. Based on our observations during warm growing seasons we conclude that alternative oilseed crops such as Sinapis alba, Eruca sativa and Raphanus sativus are more resistant to the Alternaria black spot infection than the traditional oilseed crops and thus, possess a great potential to grow with limited chemical disease control in Northern Baltic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Orobanche ramosa (Broomrape) is an obligate root parasite belonging to Orobanchaceae. It causes a great damage to tomato plants. Several attempts have been done in order to control this parasitic weed. So, the aim of this work is to study the allelopathic efficiency of Eruca sativa (Essp) and Sinapis alba (Sasp) seed powder in comparison to the herbicidal effect of Basamid (Dazomet) treatment in controlling Orobanche ramosa (O. ramosa) infesting Lycopersicon esculentum (tomato) as well as their effect on Lycopersicon esculentum plant growth and yield. Materials/methods Two pot experiments were performed in the greenhouse of the National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, Egypt, during two successive winter seasons of 2016/2017 and 2017/2018. Treatments were applied by incorporating E. sativa (Essp) and S. alba (Sasp) seed powder to the soil at (5, 10, 15, 30, and 45 g/kg soil) concentration and Basamid treatment at 0.2 g/pot. Results The results indicated that no O. ramosa infestation on Lycopersicon esculentum appeared with all Essp and Sasp concentrations except with the lowest concentration (5 g/kg soil) that reduced O. ramosa tubercles dry weight at 100 days from transplanting (DFT) to about 48.4 and 42.0%, respectively, as compared to the infected control. Lycopersicon esculentum growth as well as its yield and yield components were significantly increased with Basamid treatment at 0.2 g/pot and all Essp and Sasp concentrations (5–45 g/kg soil) except some parameters with the lowest concentration (5 g/kg soil) of both materials used when compared with their corresponding infected control. The highest yield, which exceeds the yield of the healthy control, was obtained by using both Essp and Sasp at concentrations 45 followed by 30 g/kg. Conclusion The allelopathic efficiency of Essp and Sasp is due to the presence of allelochemicals, mainly glucosinolates and phenolic compounds which could play an important role, as a natural selective bioherbicide.