Search

Soil acidity is one of the major problems affecting crop productivity in the highlands of Ethiopia, particularly in Banja district, northwestern Ethiopia. The amendment of these soils has a key role in enhancing their productivity. This study was conducted in the 2020 cropping season to evaluate the response of soil properties and yield of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) to lime and compost application on acidic soil. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with three replications. The treatments were factorial combinations in compost (0, 5, and 10t ha−1) and lime (0, 0.79, 1.58, and 3.17t ha−1). Soil properties and agronomic data were collected based on standard procedures. At 5t ha−1 compost and 3.17t ha−1 lime, soil pH increased from 4.74 to 5.54, while exchangeable acidity and Al3+ were reduced to initial values by 1.91cmol (+) kg−1 and 1.83cmol (+) kg−1, respectively. Plots amended with 3.17t ha−1 lime and 10t ha−1 compost provided the highest biomass (8.15t ha−1) and grain yield (3.33t ha−1). Conversely, the lowest biomass (2.92t ha−1) and grain yield (0.91t ha−1) were obtained from the control. The highest yield was obtained from the combined application of 3.17t ha−1 lime and 10t ha−1 compost, the cost of this treatment 18559birr ha−1, while the cost of 10t ha−1 compost was 10,000birr ha−1. Hence, compost application is economically feasible and affordable for small-scale farmers, providing a net benefit of 70,330.7birr ha−1 which implies that combined application of lime and compost improved soil properties and yields in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fundamental agricultural input that increases crop productivity and output is seed. However, a lot of issues limit the bread wheat seed yield and quality, and one of the most significant ones is using the incorrect seed rate for early generation seed production. In the Mecha district, field tests were carried out to determine how seed rate could improve the Ogolcho bread wheat variety's performance in terms of seed quality, yield, and seed multiplication ratio during the 2021 and 2022 irrigation seasons. Five seed rates (50, 75, 100, 125, and 150 kg ha−1 and two seed classes (breeder and basic seeds) were contrasted. Three replications and a randomized complete block factorial layout constituted the experimental design. The results of the analysis of variance indicated that for the parameters of days to maturity, plant height, spike length, seed yield, seed multiplication ratio, and thousand seed weight, the interaction impact of seed rate and seed class was not significant (P > 0.05). The study's findings showed that the seed rate significantly impacted the bread wheat's seed output, multiplication ratio, and 1000 seed weight. The districts' seed multiplication ratio improved with decreased seed rates, according to the results. With lower production costs and greater benefits, the seed rate of 125 kg ha−1 produced the most economically desirable yield of early generation bread wheat seed production in the research area. Thus, it was profitable and advised to plant bread wheat at a rate of 125 kg ha−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil pH and salinity significantly affect plant biogeochemical safety, ionome, and nutritional balance. Under such conditions, we established local compositional nutrient diagnosis standards using the centered log ratio (CNDclr*) means and standard deviations of the ionome from high-yield and nutritionally balanced 'Sirvan' wheat specimens (Triticum aestivum L. var. 'Sirvan'). Critical nutrient indices (I2X) and the critical yield of the wheat fields were determined based on the Cate-Nelson method. The Cate-Nelson model indicates that for yields above 6974.9 kg/ha, the CNDr2 index value must be below 17.645. According to clr indices the most critical leaf nutritional indices influencing the performance of low-yield 'Sirvan' wheat fields on calcareous and saline soils were identified. Among the leaf nutrient indices in low-yield populations of 'Sirvan' wheat fields, increasing leaf Ca, P, Mn, Cu, N, and Zn, while decreasing Mg, B, and K, and bringing them closer to zero within the range of nutritional balance, can have significant effects on yield under saline and calcareous soil conditions, countering the negative impact of high pH due to alkaline salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective was to assess a range of stress indices to discern wheat genotypes resilient to drought stress, so forty-nine genotypes underwent scrutiny in both drought stress in rainfed conditions and non-stress settings (with supplementary irrigation), employing a 7 x 7 lattice layout with two replicates across years 2019 and 2020. The evaluation incorporated twenty stress indices anchored in yield under water stress (YS) and potential (YP) circumstances. Primary analysis indicated that eight indices (RDI, YSI, YI, K2STI, MRP, REI, RR and SSPI) did not give any new information, so they were eliminated in further analysis. Genotypes G33 (4234 kg ha-1) and G9 (2227 kg ha-1) were the best genotypes based on YP in 2019 and 2020, respectively. A positive association was observed between ATI and YP and between YS with DI and K1STI in the year 2019, while in the second year, such positive associations were not seen. We found some wheat genotypes G6, G9, G10 and G11 demonstrated high performance in both potential and rainfed conditions across two years, showing yield higher than 1,800 and 2,700 kg ha-1 for YS and YP, respectively, across both years. These genotypes were detected as the most tolerant genotypes by mean-based indices (TOL, HM, GMP, and MP) as well as SSI and ATI indices, so it can be concluded that these indices are more useful than other indices for identifying the most tolerant as well as the high yielding genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Plant Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Water stress causes large agricultural losses worldwide and deteriorates its quality. Drought tolerance in plants is a complex trait governed by multigenes and infleunce of various environmental factors affecting the expression of these genes. Thus this complexity necessitates the application of new molecular methods to identify and develop drought tolerant genotypes. The present study was conducted to investigate the genetic diversity of 45 Azerbaijani wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) core collection genotypes utilizing simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers associated with drought tolerance. Our results showed that nine primers out of twelve showed polymorphism. Maximum number of alleles were detected for WMC177 marker (on chromosome 2A), WMC 264 (on chromosome 3A) and WMC219 (on chromosome 4A) with 5, 5 and 4 alleles, respectively. The lowest alleles were determined for WMC219 marker (chromosome 4A) with only one allele. The total number of the detected alleles on A and D genome was 18 and 11 respectively. The maximum number of unique bands (3) was scored with pimer WMC 177. Seven genotypes (cv Gobustan, and Gizil bugda, landrace 6262, and research materials 6170, 6286, 6296 and 6293) possessed unique bands. Based on polymorphism analysis of the wheat genotypes by SSR markers, drought tolerant genotypes for utilization in breeding programs were selected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought is a critical factor limiting the productivity of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), one of the key agricultural crops. Wheat adaptation to water deficit is ensured by complex molecular genetic mechanisms, including the coordinated work of multiple genes regulated by transcription factors and signaling non-coding RNAs, particularly microRNAs (miRNAs). miRNA-mediated regulation of gene expression is considered one of the main mechanisms of plant resistance to abiotic stresses. Studying these mechanisms necessitates computational systems biology methods. This work aims to reconstruct and analyze the gene network associated with miRNA regulation of wheat adaptation to drought. Using the ANDSystem software and the specialized Smart crop knowledge base adapted for wheat genetics and breeding, we reconstructed a wheat gene network responding to water deficit, comprising 144 genes, 1,017 proteins, and 21 wheat miRNAs. Analysis revealed that miRNAs primarily regulate genes controlling the morphogenesis of shoots and roots, crucial for morphological adaptation to drought. The key network components regulated by miRNAs are the MYBa and WRKY41 family transcription factors, heat-shock protein HSP90, and the RPM1 protein. These proteins are associated with phytohormone signaling pathways and calcium-dependent protein kinases significant in plant water deficit adaptation. Several miRNAs (MIR7757, MIR9653a, MIR9671 and MIR9672b) were identified that had not been previously discussed in wheat drought adaptation. These miRNAs regulate many network nodes and are promising candidates for experimental studies to enhance wheat resistance to water deficiency. The results obtained can find application in breeding for the development of new wheat varieties with increased resistance to water deficit, which is of substantial importance for agriculture in the context of climate change.

Wheat Fusarium head blight (FHB) leads to losses of grain yield and quality. Ingestion of diseased grain is detrimental to human health due to the mycotoxins present in the grain. Developing resistant cultivars for environments where FHB is prevalent is therefore an important breeding objective. One of the most effective wheat genes conferring type II resistance to FHB is Fhb1, originally discovered in the Chinese cultivar (cv) Sumai 3. Another excellent FHB resistance gene is Fhb7 located on the long arm of Lophopyrum elongatum chromosome 7E. Several alleles of Fhb7 have been identified. Allele Fhb7The2 was found in disomic substitution lines 7E(7A), 7E(7B) and 7E(7D) derived from amphiploid AgCS. The amphiploid was produced from a hybrid Triticum aestivum cv Chinese Spring × L. elongatum. To find if combining Fhb7The2 with Fhb1 confers higher resistance in wheat than single genes, an introgression line derived from AgCS and possessing Fhb7The2 was recurrently backcrossed to bread wheat cv Rollag and MN-Washburn possessing Fhb1. Experimental lines possessing both Fhb7The2 and Fhb1 were developed and validated cytogenetically and with the L. elongatum genome-wide Sequenom SNP MassARRAY. Spikes of these lines, parental cv Rollag and MN-Washburn, and those of disomic addition line 7E possessing Fhb7The2 plus controls were inoculated with Fusarium in a twice-replicated trial in controlled greenhouse environmental conditions. FHB infection rates were significantly lower in lines combining Fhb7The2 with Fhb1 than in materials with Fhb7The2 or Fhb1 alone.

Detection of genotypic variation in response to water stress at the seedling stage provides important contributions to plant breeders in the rapid and effective selection of drought-resistant genotypes. The study was conducted in 2021 under in vivo conditions using soil samples taken from the trial area of Namık Kemal University Faculty of Agriculture Department of Field Crops and 45 genotypes, including 39 bread wheat, 1 rye, 1 Spella, 2 Kavlıca, and 2 Einkorn populations. Seedling survivability, stomata density, stomata width and length, seedling development score, canopy temperature, and chlorophyll content were examined to determine the early drought resistance in the experiment. When 45 genotypes in different maturing groups were examined for seedling survivability after drought application, the highest seedling survivability was found in Esperia, Rumeli, Krasunia O’deska, Almeria, Falado, and Rebelde varieties with 5 score values. Adelaide, President, Selimiye, Hakan, Quality, Hamza, LG 59, Golia, Siyez 1, and Siyez 2 genotypes showed the lowest seedling survivability. Esperia, Rumelia, Krasunia O’deska, Almeria, Falado, and Rebelde varieties, which have a high seedling survival rate, have low canopy temperature and high chlorophyll content. The data obtained show that early seedling survivability can be used in the selection of genotypes for drought resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Cadmium (Cd) contamination poses significant risks to agricultural productivity and human health, particularly through its accumulation in staple crops such as bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). This study evaluated Cd accumulation and tolerance among six bread wheat cultivars exposed to six Cd concentrations (0, 2.5, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 mg kg−1 soil). Phenotypic assessments and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) were conducted to analyze the expression patterns of TaNRAMP and TaZIP genes in various tissues and developmental stages of wheat, which play crucial roles in Cd uptake and transport. Results demonstrated significant variability in Cd accumulation. The Barat cultivar exhibited the lowest accumulation in grain (ranging from 0.21 to 8.8 mg kg−1) and the highest tolerance. In contrast, Kavir and Pishtaz displayed elevated Cd levels in both grain and straw, while Parsi accumulated more Cd in straw at lower concentrations (56.9 mg kg−1 in Cd concentration of 10 mg kg−1 soil). The gene expression analysis revealed that most cultivars showed increased expression of TaNRAMP genes, particularly TaNRAMP2 in Cd concentration of 10 mg kg−1 soil, which facilitates Cd uptake from the soil, and TaZIP genes, such as TaZIP4 and TaZIP7, involved in transporting Cd within the plant. Notably, the expression of TaZIP1 was significantly lower in cultivars with high Cd accumulation, suggesting a potential regulatory mechanism for Cd tolerance. Furthermore, cultivars exhibiting higher Cd levels correlated with increased expression of stress-responsive genes, indicating a broader response to Cd stress. These findings highlight Barat’s potential for bread-making applications due to its low Cd accumulation, while Morvarid and Pishtaz which show reduced Cd content in the straw even under high Cd exposure are better suited for animal feed. This research underscores the genetic variability of wheat cultivars in response to Cd stress and provides essential insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying Cd accumulation, offering valuable information for breeding programs aimed at developing Cd-tolerant varieties to ensure food security in contaminated regions.

Wheat is an essential staple food, and its production and grain quality are affected by extreme temperature events. These effects are even more relevant considering the increasing food demand for a growing world population and the predicted augmented frequency of heat waves. This study investigated the impact of simulated heat wave (HW) conditions imposed during grain filling on starch granule characteristics, endosperm ultrastructure, and transcriptomic modulation of genes involved in starch synthesis and degradation. All these evaluations were performed with four different genotypes, two commercial wheat varieties (Antequera and Bancal), and two traditional landraces (Ardito and Magueija). Starch granule size distribution and shape were significantly altered by HW treatment, revealing an increase of A-type granules in Ardito and an opposite effect in Magueija and Bancal, while Antequera remained stable. Analysis of the largest (LD) and smallest (SD) granule diameters also revealed genotype-specific changes, with Magueija showing a shift toward more spherical A-type granules after the HW treatment. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed alterations in endosperm morphology, including increased vitreousness in Bancal and substantial increase of endosperm cavities and grain size reduction in Magueija under HW stress. The transcriptomic analysis confirmed the stability of Antequera under HW, in contrast with the other genotypes where differential gene expression related to starch metabolism was detected. These effects were particularly severe in Magueija with the downregulation of genes encoding for enzymes involved in amylopectin synthesis (both starch synthases and starch-branching enzyme) and upregulation of α-amylase-encoding genes. These findings contribute to the understanding of heat stress effects on wheat grain quality, emphasize the importance of genetic diversity in HW responses, and suggest potential avenues for breeding climate-resilient wheat varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kernel hardness (KH) is a significant factor that influences wheat quality. In order to gain a better understanding of KH profiles and the effects of its associated genes in Chinese wheat cultivars growing under normal and latest stage drought stress conditions, 206 wheat cultivars were examined. The kernel hardness index (KHI) was measured by utilizing a single kernel hardness tester, and allelic variations of the puroindoline genes regulating KH were detected using KASP markers. The hardness test indicated that 121 (58.7%) were classified as hard wheat, 39 (18.9%) as soft wheat, and 46 (22.3%) as mixed wheat. Genotypic analysis revealed that 10 cultivars (4.9%) carried the superior Pina-D1b allele, 143 cultivars (69.4%) possessed the Pinb-D1b allele, representing the main allele for hard wheat, and 45 cultivars (21.8%) contained the Pinb-B2b allele. An analysis of the cumulative effect across five gene loci indicated that among the tested materials, none contained all five excellent gene loci simultaneously. However, materials with combinations of two, three, or four excellent gene loci exhibited significantly higher KHI values compared to those with zero or only one excellent locus. This finding suggests that the accumulation of excellent gene loci can enhance KH. Among various allelic combinations, Pina-D1 + M0159 displayed remarkably higher KH values than the others. Conversely, Pinb-D1 + M0380 exhibited significantly lower KH values. Drought stress during the late growth stage of wheat could enhance KH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cadmium (Cd) contamination poses significant risks to agricultural productivity and human health, particularly through its accumulation in staple crops such as bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). This study evaluated Cd accumulation and tolerance among six bread wheat cultivars exposed to six Cd concentrations (0, 2.5, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 mg kg−1 soil). Phenotypic assessments and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) were conducted to analyze the expression patterns of TaNRAMP and TaZIP genes in various tissues and developmental stages of wheat, which play crucial roles in Cd uptake and transport. Results demonstrated significant variability in Cd accumulation. The Barat cultivar exhibited the lowest accumulation in grain (ranging from 0.21 to 8.8 mg kg−1) and the highest tolerance. In contrast, Kavir and Pishtaz displayed elevated Cd levels in both grain and straw, while Parsi accumulated more Cd in straw at lower concentrations (56.9 mg kg−1 in Cd concentration of 10 mg kg−1 soil). The gene expression analysis revealed that most cultivars showed increased expression of TaNRAMP genes, particularly TaNRAMP2 in Cd concentration of 10 mg kg−1 soil, which facilitates Cd uptake from the soil, and TaZIP genes, such as TaZIP4 and TaZIP7, involved in transporting Cd within the plant. Notably, the expression of TaZIP1 was significantly lower in cultivars with high Cd accumulation, suggesting a potential regulatory mechanism for Cd tolerance. Furthermore, cultivars exhibiting higher Cd levels correlated with increased expression of stress-responsive genes, indicating a broader response to Cd stress. These findings highlight Barat's potential for bread-making applications due to its low Cd accumulation, while Morvarid and Pishtaz which show reduced Cd content in the straw even under high Cd exposure are better suited for animal feed. This research underscores the genetic variability of wheat cultivars in response to Cd stress and provides essential insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying Cd accumulation, offering valuable information for breeding programs aimed at developing Cd-tolerant varieties to ensure food security in contaminated regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, approximately 4.5 billion people in developing countries consider bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) as a staple food crop, as it is a key source of daily calories. Wheat is, therefore, ranked the second most important grain crop in the developing world. Climate change associated with severe drought conditions and rising global mean temperatures has resulted in sporadic soil water shortage causing severe yield loss in wheat. While drought responses in wheat crosscut all omics levels, our understanding of water‐deficit response mechanisms, particularly in the context of wheat, remains incomplete. This understanding can be significantly advanced with the aid of computational intelligence, more often referred to as artificial intelligence (AI) models, especially those leveraging machine learning and deep learning tools. However, there is an imminent and continuous need for omics and AI integration. Yet, a foundational step to this integration is the clear contextualization of drought—a task that has long posed challenges for the scientific community, including plant breeders. Nonetheless, literature indicates significant progress in all omics fields, with large amounts of potentially informative omics data being produced daily. Despite this, it remains questionable whether the reported big datasets have met food security expectations, as translating omics data into pre‐breeding initiatives remains a challenge, which is likely due to data accessibility or reproducibility issues, as interpreting omics data poses big challenges to plant breeders. This review, therefore, focuses on these omics perspectives and explores how AI might act as an interface to make this data more insightful. We examine this in the context of drought stress, with a focus on wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to analyze the combined impact of CO2 and drought stress at the flowering stage on carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and CN ratios in leaves, stem, and grains of bread wheat. Six diverse bread wheat genotypes, comprised of two commercial checks, two landraces, and two synthetics derivatives, were grown at two levels of CO2, i.e., 400 ppm and 800 ppm, and drought stress was imposed at the flowering stage through progressive soil drying. Stem, leaf, and grain samples were taken at maturity and concentrations of C and N were determined. Our results indicate that the threshold value of fraction of transpirable soil water (CFTSW) at which it diverges towards closure of stomata was different among genotypes and a higher range of values was estimated under elevated CO2. Drought significantly increased C levels in leaves and N levels in grains but decreased N levels in leaves, which increased CN ratios in leaves. In contrast, drought significantly reduced CN ratios in grains. Genotypes differed significantly in N content in grains, where the landrace derivative L2 maintained the highest N content. Moreover, pronounced changes in leaf N and CN ratios were induced by the combination of elevated CO2 and drought stress. Additionally, combined correlation and biplot analyses indicate a strong positive association of grain CN (GCN) with grain number, weight, and grain yield. These effects possibly interact with drought to strongly interfere with the impact of elevated CO2. The differential performance of the tested genotypes shows that selection of appropriate germplasm is essential to maintain agricultural production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In response to the escalating challenges posed by unpredictable environmental conditions, the pursuit of early maturation in bread wheat has emerged as a paramount research endeavor. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted landscape of strategies and implications surrounding the unlocking of early maturation in bread wheat varieties. Drawing upon a synthesis of cutting-edge research in genetics, physiology, and environmental science, this review elucidates the intricate mechanisms underlying early maturation and its potential ramifications for wheat cultivation in dynamic environments. By meticulously analyzing the genetic determinants, physiological processes, and environmental interactions shaping early maturation, this review offers valuable insights into the complexities of this trait and its relevance in contemporary wheat breeding programs. Furthermore, this review critically evaluates the trade-offs inherent in pursuing early maturation, navigating the delicate balance between accelerated development and optimal yield potential. Through a meticulous examination of both challenges and opportunities, this review provides a comprehensive framework for researchers, breeders, and agricultural stakeholders to advance our understanding and utilization of early maturation in bread wheat cultivars, ultimately fostering resilience and sustainability in wheat production systems worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current context of climate change, marked by severe drought and heat stresses, we hypothesized that the trait plasticity, opposite of stability, could be an important mechanism of reaching adaptability and therefore enhancing resilience. To assess this, we tested 10 promising genotypes under three environments (E1, E2, and E3) for yield and its components: Number of Spikes per m2 (NS/m2), Number of Spikelets per Spike (NSpk/S), Number of Grains per Spikelet (NG/Spk), Number of Grains per Spike (NG/S), Number of Grains per m2 (NG/m2); and Thousand Grain Weight (TGW). A highly significant effect (p < 0.01) of the environment (E) was observed for all traits. Additionally, a significant effect (p < 0.05) of genotype (G) was identified in all traits except TGW. While a significant effect (p < 0.05) of genotype by environment interaction (G×E) was noted for NSpk/S and TGW. The stability and plasticity criteria were reported as a positive way to achieve adaptability when they reflect a high yielding potential of stable or plastic traits. As depicted by GGE- analysis, the best stable genotypes with high performance were Kharouba for NS/m2, NG/S, and NG/m2, Amal for NG/S, 15/42, Malika, and 90-55-17 for NSpk/S, Achtar for NG/Spk, and 15/49 for TGW. While the plastic genotypes with high performance were 15/42 for NS/m2, Achtar for NG/S and NG/m2, Amal for NSpk/S and NG/Spk, and 90–55-17 for TGW. These genotypes that combine stability or plasticity criteria with high yielding performances hold promise as potential genetic resources in breeding programs aiming to achieve desirable yield component structure for better adaptability and resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought is increasingly becoming a production constraint in wheat world-wide. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF)-bread wheat symbiosis has been shown to improve the tolerance under drought stress. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of AMF inoculation on yield attributes (spike number per plant, spike weight per plant, number of grains per spike, grain weight per spike and 1000 grain weight) and protein quantity and quality in two bread wheat cultivars (PAN3497 and SST806) grown under drought stress. Plant growth was significantly reduced due to drought stress in both cultivars. Shoot dry weight was significantly increased (23%) due to AMF inoculation in SST806. AMF inoculation caused a further significant increase of protein content in both cultivars (10.70% and 13.42% in PAN3497 and SST806, respectively). Low molecular weight (LMW) glutenin was significantly decreased in PAN3497 under drought stress. However, the monomeric proteins were significantly increased by drought and/or a combination of drought and AMF inoculation in both cultivars. In cultivar SST806, significant reduction of polymeric protein was observed due to application of both AMF (6%) and a combination of AMF with drought stress (4%). Regarding the two-dimensional separation of the gluten proteins, drought had the largest effect on protein spots, with AMF causing up-regulation of only some spots. SST806 was generally more drought tolerant than PAN3497. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation protocol based on the dual selection approach (fluorescent protein and herbicide resistance) has been applied here to produce transgenic plants of two cereal species, emmer wheat and bread wheat, with the goal of activating the synthesis of the stress hormone jasmonates by overexpressing ALLENE OXIDE SYNTHASE from Arabidopsis thaliana (AtAOS) and bread wheat (TaAOS) and OXOPHYTODIENOATE REDUCTASE 3 from A. thaliana (AtOPR3) under the strong constitutive promoter (ZmUbi1), either individually or both genes simultaneously. The delivery of the expression cassette encoding AOS was found to affect morphogenesis in both wheat species negatively. The effect of transgene expression on the accumulation of individual jasmonates in hexaploid and tetraploid wheat was observed. Among the introduced genes, overexpression of TaAOS was the most successful in increasing stress-inducible phytohormone levels in transgenic plants, resulting in higher accumulations of JA and JA-Ile in emmer wheat and 12-OPDA in bread wheat. In general, overexpression of AOS, alone or together with AtOPR3, negatively affected leaf lamina length and grain numbers per spike in both wheat species. Double (AtAOS + AtOPR3) transgenic wheat plants were characterized by significantly reduced plant height and seed numbers, especially in emmer wheat, where several primary plants failed to produce seeds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arsenic (As) contamination poses a major threat to the sustainable production of wheat by disrupting its cellular structure, ionome, and antioxidant defense mechanisms. Therefore, it is important to identify As-tolerant wheat cultivars with a better ability to thrive in As-contaminated soil. For this purpose, two cultivars (SKD-1 and Borlaug-16) were exposed to As treatment (25 mg/L) for 21 days in a pot experiment and studied for morpho-physiological variations and ionomic profiling (using ICP-OES). The study revealed that Borlaug-16 accumulated more As in roots (0.21 µg/mL) than SKD-1 (0.15 µg/mL) and showed higher root-to-leaf translocation under As stress. The concentrations of trace elements (Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Mn, and Zn) in Borlaug-16 increased by 143%, 853%, 75%, 300%, 200%, and 168%, respectively, whereas those of mineral elements (Fe, K, Mg, and P) increased by 160%, 729%, 274%, and 397%, respectively, compared to SKD-1 under As stress. In addition, SKD-1 leaves showed higher cellular thickness in the upper and lower epidermis (Ep), whereas roots showed lower cellular thickness in Ep. SKD-1 showed a 23.69% decrease in root H2O2, whereas Borlaug-16 showed a 12.1% increase. Additionally, the Borlaug-16 leaf H2O2 content exhibited a significant increase of 68.94%. SKD-1 exhibited increased antioxidant activity in both roots (SOD, Ascorbate, Glutathione) and leaves (Ascorbate Proline, TAC). Thus, the SKD-1 cultivar was found to be tolerant to As toxicity by restricting As translocation and stimulating defense mechanisms. Such cultivars have the potential to provide safer grains for consumption and ensure sustainable production of wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agriculturae Slovenica is the property of Biotechnical Faculty of the University of Ljubljana and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background & Objective: Investigating the stability and compatibility of a genotype in different environmental conditions in order to introduce it for planting in specific and known environmental conditions in multi-breeding programs is one of the basic needs and to achieve sustainable production in order to achieve sustainable self-sufficiency in It is necessary to produce strategic products, especially wheat. Methods & Materials: In the present study, in order to investigate the stability and identify high-yielding and compatible genotypes, the yield of 32 lines of recombinant inbred from the crossing of two cultivars Roshan and Superhead in the form of a randomized complete block design with three replications in six The region (Tabriz, Ahar, Ardabil, Faghan, Shabestar and Urmia) were investigated for two years. Results: The results of the present study showed that there was a significant difference between the locations in terms of performance. Also, the difference between genotypes, as well as the interaction effect of genotype × year, genotype × location, and the interaction effect of genotype × year × location were significant, which indicated the difference between the performance of genotypes in different environments, which indicated the necessity of stability analysis. Conclusion: The results of analysis of simple and compound variances showed a significant difference between the lines in terms of grain yield. Comparing the average of all the lines, lines No. 3, 12, 38, 42, 47, 95 and Roshan had the highest yield and the lowest average seed yield was related to line 51 with 3.023 tons per hectare. Line 90 showed good general compatibility compared to other lines. Lines No. 3, 38, 42, 95, their regression coefficient was less than one and the deviation from their regression line was higher. One of the practical aspects of this research is the identification of promising lines for carrying out further breeding studies in order to release the variety and introduce it to farmers. According to the relative alignment of the results obtained from different methods, it can be stated that in this research, lines 10, 12, 31 and the Roshan variety were recognized as the most stable genotypes and line 51 as the most unstable line and It was recognized as special for unfavorable areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present studywas conducted in Rabi 2021-2022 at Instructional Farm, of the Rajasthan College of Agriculture, MPUAT, Udaipur to determine the association among yield components and their direct and indirect influence on grain yield of bread wheat. The genotypes showed highly significant differences for all the traits under study showing that there is enough variability among genotypes for different traits. Association study revealed that the grain yield per plant had a positive and significant correlation with number of effective tillers per plant, spike length, number of spikelets per plant, length of awns, number of grains per spike, flag leaf area, 1000-grain weight, biological yield per plant, total protein content in grains and total chlorophyll content estimation at both genotypic and phenotypic level. The path coefficient analysis showed that the maximum positive direct effect on grain yield per plant was exerted by biological yield per plant, the number of grains per spike, number of spikelets per plant and flag leaf area. So these characters can be considered as selection criteria in improving the grain yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Participatory plant breeding (PPB) is aimed at developing varieties adapted to agroecologically-based systems. In PPB, selection is decentralized in the target environments, and relies on collaboration between farmers, farmers' organisations and researchers. By doing so, evaluation of new genotypes takes genotype x environment (GxE) interactions into account to select for specific adaptation. In many cases, there is little overlap among genotypes assessed from farm to farm because the farmers participating in a PPB project choose which ones to assess on their farm. In addition, on-farm trials can often generate more extreme observations than trials carried out on research stations. These features make the estimation of genotype, environment and interaction effects more difficult. This challenge is not unique to PPB, as many breeding programs use sparse testing or incomplete block designs to evaluate more genotypes, however in PPB genotypes are not always assigned randomly to environments. To explore methods of overcoming these challenges, this article tests various data analysis scenarios using a Bayesian approach with different models and a real wheat PPB dataset over 11 years. Four morpho-agronomic traits were studied, representing over 1000 GxE combinations from 189 on-farm trials. This dataset was severely unbalanced with more than 90% of GxE combinations missing. We compared various Bayesian Finlay-Wilkinson models and found that placing hierarchical distributions on model parameters and modelling residuals using a Student's t distribution jointly improved the estimates of main effects and interactions. Environment effects were the most important and explained more than 50% of the variance of observations. This statistical framework allowed us to estimate two indicators of genotype stability (one static and one dynamic) despite the high disequilibrium of the data. We found differences in mean and stability between genotype categories, with registred varieties consistently shorter (-30 cm) and containing less protein (-0.3%) than other types of varieties. The methods developed could be used for evaluation and/or selection within networks of various stakeholders such as farmers, gardeners, plant breeders or managers of genetic resource centres.

ABSTRACT Currently in wheat breeding, genome wide association studies (GWAS) have successfully revealed the genetic basis of complex traits such as nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and its biological processes. In the GWAS model, thresholding is common strategy to indicate deviation of expected range of p‐value(s), and it can be used to find the distribution of true positive associations under or over of test statistics. Therefore, the threshold plays a critical role to identify reliable and significant associations in wide genome, while the proportion of false positive results is relatively low. The problem of multiple comparisons arises when a statistical analysis involves multiple simultaneous statistical tests, each of them has the potential to be a discovery. There are several ways to address this problem, including the family‐wise error rate and false discovery rate (FDR), raw and adjusted p‐value(s), consideration of threshold coherence and consonance, and the properties of proportional hypothesis tests in the threshold definition. We encountered some limitations in the definition of FDR threshold, particularly in the upper bounds of linear and nonlinear approaches. We emphasize that empirical null distributions based on permutation test can be useful when the assumption of linear or parametric FDR approaches do not hold. Nevertheless, we believe that it is necessary to utilize modern statistical optimization techniques to evaluate the stability and performance of our results and to select significant FDR threshold. By incorporating the neural network algorithm, it is possible to improve the reliability of FDR threshold and increase the probability of identifying true genetic associations while minimizing the risk of false positives in GWAS results.

Extended Abstract Background: In arid and semi-arid regions, biotic and abiotic stresses can directly or indirectly lead to restrictions and decreased growth of different plants. In these areas, salinity stress is one of the major challenges facing agriculture and crop production that causes huge damage to crop yields annually. The amount of salinity in the soil results in plant growth limitation, and increased soil salinity disrupts water and essential nutrient absorption for the plant and reduces plant growth, which can then lead to plant death. Reduced root growth and development, decreased nutrient absorption, increased likelihood of allergies to diseases and pests, decreased yield, and final product quality (e.g., nutrient deficiency), and increased toxic elements, are among the negative effects of salinity on plants. Various factors are involved in the creation of salinity, the most important of which can be climate change, source rock weathering, improper irrigation, drought, excessive consumption of fertilizers, and reduced seawater levels. Following climate change, these damages are on the rise every year. Due to the increase in population growth, demand for food production is increasing day by day. Wheat is known as the major grain in the supply of nutritional needs in the world, hence its sustainable production is of paramount importance. Salinity is recognized as an important factor in reducing wheat yield, and it may increase the accumulation of harmful salts in the plant tissue, which can lead to physiological damage and decreased plant growth. The effects of soil salinity vary depending on the amount of salinity, the type of salinity, and the type of wheat. One way to prevent the negative effects of salinity is to use salinity-resistant wheat cultivars. The range of diversity in relation to salt stress tolerance in different plants, especially the wheat plant, depends on various factors such as plant genotype, duration of stress, and plant growth stage. The seedling stage in wheat is one of the important stages regarding tolerance to salt stress. This study aims to investigate the response of spring wheat cultivars in the seedling stage to salinity stress. Methods: In the present study, the reaction of 64 Iranian spring wheat genotypes at the seedling stage under normal conditions and 12 dS/m salinity stress was investigated in two replications in a simple lattice design at the research greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Urmia University in 2021-2022. In this study, in the four-leaf stage, salinity stress was applied gradually for two days. The measured traits were chlorophyll (SPAD), canopy temperature, shoot length (SL), root length (RL), seedling length (PL), shoot potassium content (KS) ), root potassium content (KR), shoot sodium content (NaS), root sodium content (NaR), shoot potassium to sodium ratio (KNaS), root potassium to sodium ratio (KNaR), root volume (RV), leaf area index (LAI), radicle fresh weight (FWR), radicle dry weight (DWR), relative leaf water content (RWC), shoot fresh weight (FWS), shoot dry weight (DWS), seedling fresh weight (FWP), weight dry matter of seedlings (DWP). The data of the studied traits were obtained in a random complete block design. PROC GLM was used for the analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SAS 9.4 software. The correlation was examined using PROC CORR and decomposition into factors using PROC FACTOR. The figures were grouped using the gplots software package and the biplot diagram was drawn with the factoextra software package in the R 4.1 environment. The MANOVA statement in PROC GLM was used in SAS 9.4 software for multivariate variance analysis. Results: Based on the results of ANOVA, statistically significant differences were observed between the tested cultivars based on the traits studied in the seedling stage, including FWP, DWP, FWR, DWR, FWS, RWS, and (PL). In both normal and salt stress conditions, DWP showed the most significant correlation with FWP, DWS, and DWR. Under the salinity stress conditions, FWS was significantly correlated with DWS, FWP, and DWP. Based on factor analysis, the studied traits in both normal and salinity stress conditions were grouped into seven factors, which explained 77.93% and 76.44% of the total changes in normal and salinity stress conditions, respectively. Using cluster analysis, cultivars under both normal and salt stress conditions were grouped into three clusters. Conclusion: Based on the biplot results of factor analysis and cluster analysis, Maron, Darya, Shiroodi, Moghan 3, Darab 2, Roshan, Pishgam, and Pishtaz cultivars are introduced as favorable cultivars. Chamran, Bam, Alborz, and Maroodasht cultivars are categorized as unfavorable cultivars that can be used in further wheat breeding programs.

Extended abstract Background: Bread Wheat is the most extensively cultivated wheat and one of the four major crops in the world that constitutes the principal food of more than 30% of the world population. Biotic and abiotic environmental stressors are major factors limiting plant growth and productivity, which play a significant role in determining the yield and production potential of plants by affecting morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular processes. Among the abiotic stresses, the deficiency of micronutrients in the soil is important. Micronutrients regulate food metabolism in humans, and their deficiency endangers human health. Iron and zinc are essential micronutrients for human health and cofactors of many vital enzymes involved in many human metabolic processes. In plants, iron is the most required element among all micronutrients. It is a part of the catalytic group of many oxidation and reduction enzymes and is required for chlorophyll synthesis. To facilitate the adequate uptake and prevent excessive absorption of iron, plants have developed a balanced network to regulate the uptake, use, and storage of ions. In fact, such adjustment processes depend on genes that regulate ion homeostasis in plants. Due to the existence of a large allohexaploid genome and technical challenges in wheat transformation, few genes involved in iron and zinc uptake, transfer, and storage have been characterized functionally. Considering the important role of ZIP proteins in iron uptake efficiency, investigating the expression of the ZIP genes in Fe-efficient and -inefficient bread wheat cultivars can be effective in improving Fe-efficient cultivars in this valuable crop. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the expression of ZIP3, ZIP6, and ZIP7 genes in the leaves and roots of two Fe-efficient and -inefficient bread wheat cultivars at different growth stages under iron deficiency stress. Methods: This research was carried out in a completely randomized design (CRD) based on a factorial experiment with three replications in the research greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Urmia University. The first factor was two Fe-efficient (Pishtaz) and -inefficient (Flat) bread wheat cultivars, the second factor was two soil iron levels (iron deficiency and sufficiency, respectively, 1.4 and 10 mg/kg of soil), and the third factor was two sampling stages (vegetative and reproductive, respectively, one month after planting and 30% heading). To evaluate the expression of genes, the roots and leaves of the plants were sampled at each growth stage. The seeds were obtained from the Iranian Seed and Plant Improvement Institute, disinfected with 1% hydrogen peroxide, and planted at a depth of 4 cm in the soil. The plants were irrigated using distilled water to the extent of field capacity during the growing period. Results: The results of variance analysis of the relative expression of all three studied genes showed that the interaction effect of cultivar × organ × sampling stage was significant at the probability level of 1%. The comparison of the means for the cultivar × organ × sampling stage interaction effect revealed the highest ZIP3 expression in the roots of the Fe-efficient cultivar (Pishtaz) in the vegetative and reproductive stages. The relative expression of this gene was higher in the roots of the Fe-inefficient cultivar (Falat) than that of the Fe-efficient cultivar (Pishtaz). However, the Fe-inefficient cultivar (Falat) showed the highest relative expression increase in the leaf in both reproductive and vegetative stages, but the difference in the gene expression level in the leaf between the two growth stages was not statistically significant. The lowest gene expression level in the leaf belonged to the Pishtaz cultivar. The comparison of the means of cultivar × organ × sampling stage for the ZIP6 gene indicated an increase in the relative expression of this gene in the roots of the Fe-efficient (Pishtaz) and -inefficient (Falat) varieties in the vegetative and reproductive stages, respectively. The comparison of the means of cultivar × organ × sampling stage for the ZIP7 gene indicated the highest relative expression of this gene in the roots of the Fe-efficient cultivar (Pishtaz) at the vegetative stage. The relative expression level of this gene in the root of the Fe-efficient variety in the vegetative stage was significantly higher than that in the reproductive stage. In both vegetative and reproductive stages in the leaf, the increase in gene expression was higher in the Fe-inefficient cultivar. Conclusion: The increased ZIP3 expression in iron deficiency conditions in the roots of the Fe-efficient cultivar at the vegetative stage demonstrates the possible role of this gene in Fe uptake from the soil and its transfer to the aerial parts of the plant in the early growth phase. The ZIP6 gene `was expressed in both roots and leaves throughout the entire growth period of the plant. However, the expression level of this gene increased with the age of the plant. Therefore, the ZIP6 gene is probably responsible for Fe uptake and transport to different organs throughout the entire growth period of the plant and plays an important role in preserving iron in iron deficiency conditions. The ZIP7 gene is expressed in both leaves and roots in iron deficiency conditions, but the level of expression is higher in the roots of the Fe-efficient variety during the vegetative stage. This gene may be involved in iron uptake from the soil and its transfer to aerial organs.

Abstract Background CINNAMYL ALCOHOL DEHYDROGENASE (CAD) catalyzes the NADPH-dependent reduction of cinnamaldehydes into cinnamyl alcohols and is a key enzyme found at the final step of the monolignol pathway. Cinnamyl alcohols and their conjugates are subsequently polymerized in the secondary cell wall to form lignin. CAD genes are typically encoded by multi-gene families and thus traditionally organized into general classifications of functional relevance. Results In silico analysis of the hexaploid Triticum aestivum genome revealed 47 high confidence TaCAD copies, of which three were determined to be the most significant isoforms (class I) considered bone fide CADs. Class I CADs were expressed throughout development both in RNAseq data sets as well as via qRT-PCR analysis. Of the 37 class II TaCADs identified, two groups were observed to be significantly co-expressed with class I TaCADs in developing tissue and under chitin elicitation in RNAseq data sets. These co-expressed class II TaCADs were also found to be phylogenetically unrelated to a separate clade of class II TaCADs previously reported to be an influential resistance factor to pathogenic fungal infection. Lastly, two groups were phylogenetically identified as class III TaCADs, which possess distinct conserved gene structures. However, the lack of data supporting their catalytic activity for cinnamaldehydes and their bereft transcriptional presence in lignifying tissues challenges their designation and function as CADs. Conclusions Taken together, our comprehensive transcriptomic analyses suggest that TaCAD genes contribute to overlapping but nonredundant functions during T. aestivum growth and development across a wide variety of agroecosystems and provide tolerance to various stressors.

This study evaluated 290 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) of the nested association mapping (NAM) population from the UK. The population derived from 24 families, where a common parent was "Paragon," one of the UK's spring wheat cultivar standards. All genotypes were tested in two regions of Kazakhstan at the Kazakh Research Institute of Agriculture and Plant Industry (KRIAPI, Almaty region, Southeast Kazakhstan, 2019–2022 years) and Alexandr Barayev Scientific-Production Center for Grain Farming (SPCGF, Shortandy, Akmola region, Northern Kazakhstan, 2019–2022 years). The studied traits consisted of plant adaptation-related traits, including heading date (HD, days), seed maturation date (SMD, days), plant height (PH, cm), and peduncle length (PL, cm). In addition, the yield per m2 was analyzed in both regions. Based on a field evaluation of the population in northern and southeastern Kazakhstan and using 10,448 polymorphic SNP (single-nucleotide polymorphism) markers, the genome-wide association study (GWAS) allowed for detecting 74 QTLs in four studied agronomic traits (HD, SMD, PH, and PL). The literature survey suggested that 16 of the 74 QTLs identified in our study had also been detected in previous QTL mapping studies and GWASs for all studied traits. The results will be used for further studies related to the adaptation and productivity of wheat in breeding projects for higher grain productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic and environmental factors influence wheat grain quality, including vitreousness, protein, and starch content. Yellow berry (YB), a physiological condition, adversely affects wheat quality, particularly in irrigated fields with limited nitrogen application, leading to starch‐rich, low‐protein grains. This study examines common wheat, used in baking industries, and durum wheat, primarily employs for pasta production. The focus is on investigating how the physicochemical properties of these wheat types change with the presence of YB, that impacts protein content negatively, increasing total starch content. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy reveals structural changes in YB‐affected grains, while X‐ray diffraction indicates varying crystallinity. In determination of amylose, an increase of 6% in bread wheat with YB and 3% in durum wheat with YB is observed. In the case of RVA (Rapid Visco Analyzer) analysis, a notable increase in viscosity is evident in the treatments that included the yellow berry. This finding suggests that YB is associated with substantial modifications in starch properties, such as amylose‐to‐amylopectin ratio, chain length, and degree of branching, among several other components, which may have important implications for the texture and quality of food products. This study calls for further research to mitigate YB's impact and enhances the quality of wheat‐derived foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laboratory studies, which field trial was conducted in the 2020-2021 growing season at the Eastern Mediterranean Agricultural Research Institute, were conducted at Gümüşhane University. In this study, the findings showed that urea was used as the top fertilizer in different growth stages of the 'Yakamoz' bread wheat cultivar used as material, and the effects of urea application periods and flour type, on the quality traits, such as dry matter, ash, protein, acidity, fresh and dry gluten, gluten index, sedimentation, and falling number were investigated. For this purpose, in addition to the control application, tillering, stem elongation, milky and dough stages were chosen as urea application periods. Laboratory studies were carried out in randomized plots using the split-plot design with three replications. In the present study, all quality traits showed statistically significant differences for urea application periods; these values were ranged as follows: Dry matter: 90.20-90.77%, ash: 1.037-1.213%, protein: 14.01-15.15%, acidity: 0.037- 0.056%, wet gluten: 41.49-43.67%, dry gluten: 14.75%-15.46, gluten index: 69.28-80.38%, sedimentation: 20.0-21.0 mL, late sedimentation: 23.5-29.8 mL and falling number: 753.8-881.7 s. In addition, other quality parameters except dry matter, protein and sedimentation changed statistically for flour type. Accordingly, whole wheat flour for ash (1.443%), acidity (0.051%) and gluten index (82.53%); white flour showed high values for wet (44.90%) and dry (15.96%) gluten, late sedimentation (35.60 mL) and falling number (836.4 s). As a result, while applying urea as a top fertilizer, it is recommended to choose the stem elongation stage for high gluten index, delayed sedimentation and protein, and the dough maturity stage for high dry matter. It would be appropriate to represent more genotypes and different nitrogen sources in further studies to be more inclusive. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stripe (yellow) rust, caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst), is one of the most important diseases of wheat in many parts of the world. The annual and indiscriminate use of fungicides not only increases pollution but can also lead to the resistance of pathogenic fungi to these chemicals. Therefore, creating genetic resistance is the best way to deal with this disease. Due to the challenges in quickly replacing susceptible wheat cultivars, breeding cultivars with suitable levels of genetic resistance is the most efficient method to control stripe rust as a long-term strategy. In this study, the Yr18 and Yr29 genes, which are among the most effective resistance genes in adult plants, were transferred to the Iranian cultivars Baharan, Rakhshan, Parsi, and Amin using the marker-assisted backcrossing method. For each cultivar, in four separate breeding projects, crosses were made with the donor parents Pavon/Lalbahadur and Opata85. The progeny of this generation (F1), containing 50% of the genetic material of their recurrent parent, were backcrossed with the Iranian cultivars (recurrent parent) to obtain BC1F1 progeny in each population. By genotyping 30 random plants in each project, the heterozygous genotypes carrying the resistance genes were identified using specific markers, and the second backcrossing was performed. In each population, a line resistant to yellow rust can be created by repeating several generations of backcrossing and one generation of selfing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of gibberellic acid (GA3) doses (1.0 g/da, 0.8 g/da, 0.6 g/da, and control) on the agricultural and quality characteristics of Halis bread wheat variety, widely grown in various regions of our country, was investigated. The experiment was conducted in the 2022- 2023 growing season according to the randomized block trial design with four replications in Sakarya ecological conditions. The study examined agricultural characteristics such as plant height, grain yield, number of grains per spike, number of spikes per m², grain weight per spike, thousand-grain weight, and hectoliter weight, as well as quality properties including protein content, wet gluten, gluten index, moisture, zeleny sedimentation, alveograph energy value, alveograph P/L ratio, farinograph water absorption, farinograph development time, farinograph stability value, and farinograph softening value. Variance analysis revealed statistically significant effects of GA3 applications on grain yield, number of grains per spike, number of spikes per m², grain weight per spike, and hectoliter weight. Correlation analysis revealed statistically significant positive relationships among traits. According to Principal component analysis, the first four principal components explained 73.81% of the variation. As a results, it was determined that the application of 1.0 g/da GA3 significantly increases wheat yield but has no effect on quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bread Wheat is the most extensively cultivated wheat and one of the four major crops in the world that constitutes the principal food of more than 30% of the world population. Biotic and abiotic environmental stressors are major factors limiting plant growth and productivity, which play a significant role in determining the yield and production potential of plants by affecting morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular processes. Among the abiotic stresses, the deficiency of micronutrients in the soil is important. Micronutrients regulate food metabolism in humans, and their deficiency endangers human health. Iron and zinc are essential micronutrients for human health and cofactors of many vital enzymes involved in many human metabolic processes. In plants, iron is the most required element among all micronutrients. It is a part of the catalytic group of many oxidation and reduction enzymes and is required for chlorophyll synthesis. To facilitate the adequate uptake and prevent excessive absorption of iron, plants have developed a balanced network to regulate the uptake, use, and storage of ions. In fact, such adjustment processes depend on genes that regulate ion homeostasis in plants. Due to the existence of a large allohexaploid genome and technical challenges in wheat transformation, few genes involved in iron and zinc uptake, transfer, and storage have been characterized functionally. Considering the important role of ZIP proteins in iron uptake efficiency, investigating the expression of the ZIP genes in Fe-efficient and - inefficient bread wheat cultivars can be effective in improving Fe-efficient cultivars in this valuable crop. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate the expression of ZIP3, ZIP6, and ZIP7 genes in the leaves and roots of two Fe-efficient and -inefficient bread wheat cultivars at different growth stages under iron deficiency stress. Methods: This research was carried out in a completely randomized design (CRD) based on a factorial experiment with three replications in the research greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Urmia University. The first factor was two Fe-efficient (Pishtaz) and -inefficient (Flat) bread wheat cultivars, the second factor was two soil iron levels (iron deficiency and sufficiency, respectively, 1.4 and 10 mg/kg of soil), and the third factor was two sampling stages (vegetative and reproductive, respectively, one month after planting and 30% heading). To evaluate the expression of genes, the roots and leaves of the plants were sampled at each growth stage. The seeds were obtained from the Iranian Seed and Plant Improvement Institute, disinfected with 1% hydrogen peroxide, and planted at a depth of 4 cm in the soil. The plants were irrigated using distilled water to the extent of field capacity during the growing period. Results: The results of variance analysis of the relative expression of all three studied genes showed that the interaction effect of cultivar × organ × sampling stage was significant at the probability level of 1%. The comparison of the means for the cultivar × organ × sampling stage interaction effect revealed the highest ZIP3 expression in the roots of the Fe-efficient cultivar (Pishtaz) in the vegetative and reproductive stages. The relative expression of this gene was higher in the roots of the Fe-inefficient cultivar (Falat) than that of the Fe-efficient cultivar (Pishtaz). However, the Fe-inefficient cultivar (Falat) showed the highest relative expression increase in the leaf in both reproductive and vegetative stages, but the difference in the gene expression level in the leaf between the two growth stages was not statistically significant. The lowest gene expression level in the leaf belonged to the Pishtaz cultivar. The comparison of the means of cultivar × organ × sampling stage for the ZIP6 gene indicated an increase in the relative expression of this gene in the roots of the Fe-efficient (Pishtaz) and -inefficient (Falat) varieties in the vegetative and reproductive stages, respectively. The comparison of the means of cultivar × organ × sampling stage for the ZIP7 gene indicated the highest relative expression of this gene in the roots of the Fe-efficient cultivar (Pishtaz) at the vegetative stage. The relative expression level of this gene in the root of the Fe-efficient variety in the vegetative stage was significantly higher than that in the reproductive stage. In both vegetative and reproductive stages in the leaf, the increase in gene expression was higher in the Fe-inefficient cultivar. Conclusion: The increased ZIP3 expression in iron deficiency conditions in the roots of the Feefficient cultivar at the vegetative stage demonstrates the possible role of this gene in Fe uptake from the soil and its transfer to the aerial parts of the plant in the early growth phase. The ZIP6 gene was expressed in both roots and leaves throughout the entire growth period of the plant. However, the expression level of this gene increased with the age of the plant. Therefore, the ZIP6 gene is probably responsible for Fe uptake and transport to different organs throughout the entire growth period of the plant and plays an important role in preserving iron in iron deficiency conditions. The ZIP7 gene is expressed in both leaves and roots in iron deficiency conditions, but the level of expression is higher in the roots of the Fe-efficient variety during the vegetative stage. This gene may be involved in iron uptake from the soil and its transfer to aerial organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In arid and semi-arid regions, biotic and abiotic stresses can directly or indirectly lead to restrictions and decreased growth of different plants. In these areas, salinity stress is one of the major challenges facing agriculture and crop production that causes huge damage to crop yields annually. The amount of salinity in the soil results in plant growth limitation, and increased soil salinity disrupts water and essential nutrient absorption for the plant and reduces plant growth, which can then lead to plant death. Reduced root growth and development, decreased nutrient absorption, increased likelihood of allergies to diseases and pests, decreased yield, and final product quality (e.g., nutrient deficiency), and increased toxic elements, are among the negative effects of salinity on plants. Various factors are involved in the creation of salinity, the most important of which can be climate change, source rock weathering, improper irrigation, drought, excessive consumption of fertilizers, and reduced seawater levels. Following climate change, these damages are on the rise every year. Due to the increase in population growth, demand for food production is increasing day by day. Wheat is known as the major grain in the supply of nutritional needs in the world, hence its sustainable production is of paramount importance. Salinity is recognized as an important factor in reducing wheat yield, and it may increase the accumulation of harmful salts in the plant tissue, which can lead to physiological damage and decreased plant growth. The effects of soil salinity vary depending on the amount of salinity, the type of salinity, and the type of wheat. One way to prevent the negative effects of salinity is to use salinity-resistant wheat cultivars. The range of diversity in relation to salt stress tolerance in different plants, especially the wheat plant, depends on various factors such as plant genotype, duration of stress, and plant growth stage. The seedling stage in wheat is one of the important stages regarding tolerance to salt stress. This study aims to investigate the response of spring wheat cultivars in the seedling stage to salinity stress. Methods: In the present study, the reaction of 64 Iranian spring wheat genotypes at the seedling stage under normal conditions and 12 dS/m salinity stress was investigated in two replications in a simple lattice design at the research greenhouse of the Faculty of Agriculture, Urmia University in 2021-2022. In this study, in the four-leaf stage, salinity stress was applied gradually for two days. The measured traits were chlorophyll (SPAD), canopy temperature, shoot length (SL), root length (RL), seedling length (PL), shoot potassium content (KS)), root potassium content (KR), shoot sodium content (NaS), root sodium content (NaR), shoot potassium to sodium ratio (KNaS), root potassium to sodium ratio (KNaR), root volume (RV), leaf area index (LAI), radicle fresh weight (FWR), radicle dry weight (DWR), relative leaf water content (RWC), shoot fresh weight (FWS), shoot dry weight (DWS), seedling fresh weight (FWP), weight dry matter of seedlings (DWP). The data of the studied traits were obtained in a random complete block design. PROC GLM was used for the analysis of variance (ANOVA) in SAS 9.4 software. The correlation was examined using PROC CORR and decomposition into factors using PROC FACTOR. The figures were grouped using the gplots software package and the biplot diagram was drawn with the factoextra software package in the R 4.1 environment. The MANOVA statement in PROC GLM was used in SAS 9.4 software for multivariate variance analysis. Results: Based on the results of ANOVA, statistically significant differences were observed between the tested cultivars based on the traits studied in the seedling stage, including FWP, DWP, FWR, DWR, FWS, RWS, and (PL). In both normal and salt stress conditions, DWP showed the most significant correlation with FWP, DWS, and DWR. Under the salinity stress conditions, FWS was significantly correlated with DWS, FWP, and DWP. Based on factor analysis, the studied traits in both normal and salinity stress conditions were grouped into seven factors, which explained 77.93% and 76.44% of the total changes in normal and salinity stress conditions, respectively. Using cluster analysis, cultivars under both normal and salt stress conditions were grouped into three clusters. Conclusion: Based on the biplot results of factor analysis and cluster analysis, Maron, Darya, Shiroodi, Moghan 3, Darab 2, Roshan, Pishgam, and Pishtaz cultivars are introduced as favorable cultivars. Chamran, Bam, Alborz, and Maroodasht cultivars are categorized as unfavorable cultivars that can be used in further wheat breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combined application of biochar and fertilizer has become increasingly popular for improving soil quality and crop productivity. However, the reported research results regarding the effects of biochar on soil properties and crop productivity have contradictory findings, indicating the requirement for further scientific research. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of a combined application of water hyacinth biochar (WHB) and NPS fertilizer on soil physicochemical properties and wheat yield under deficit irrigation conditions in acidic silty loam soil in Ethiopia. Four different biochar rates (0, 5, 10, and 20 t ha−1), three fertilizer rates (0, 100, and 200 kg NPS ha−1), and two irrigation regimes (50 and 100% of crop requirement) were evaluated to assess soil properties and wheat yields. The results showed that biochar amendment significantly reduced soil bulk density by 15.1–16.7%, and improved soil porosity by 6.8–8.6% and moisture content by 10.3–20.2%. Additionally, the combined application of biochar and fertilizer improved soil pH (0.26–0.87 units), NH4+–N (73.7–144%), NO3−–N (131–637%), and available phosphorus (85.8–427%), compared to the application of fertilizer alone. As a result, wheat dry biomass and grain yield increased by 260 and 173%, respectively. Furthermore, the combined application of WHB and fertilizer resulted in a comparable wheat dry biomass and grain yield even with a 50% reduction of irrigation water. Therefore, WHB has a significant potential to improve soil physicochemical properties and wheat yield when it is applied in combination with fertilizer, and it can reduce the water requirement for wheat production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop production is largely limited by water availability in arid and semi-arid regions of Ethiopia. Changing climate conditions and declining water resources demand appropriate approaches to improve crop yield and water use efficiency through a reduced and more reliable water supply. A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of limited irrigation water use on bread wheat production and water use efficiency under the semi-arid climate conditions of Awash basin of Ethiopia. Five irrigation levels, that is, full irrigation (100% ETc/control), 85% ETc, 70% ETc, 55% ETc, and 40% ETc, were evaluated using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replicates. Statistical analysis has shown a significant effect of irrigation levels on wheat grain yield, water use efficiency, economic profit, wheat grain quality, and aboveground biomass. The highest grain yield (5,085 kg ha−1) was obtained from 100% ETc irrigation application (i.e. 417.2 mm of water), and the lowest grain yield was obtained from 40% ETc (i.e. 223.7 mm of water) application. A deficit level of 85% ETc resulted in a yield that was comparable to that of full irrigation. Compared to other treatments, the 70% ETc application produced the highest water use efficiency (1.42 kg m−3). Using the saved water obtained from 70% ETc deficit irrigation application, 23.4% more wheat could be produced on 1.38 ha of land, resulting in the highest profit (US$2,563.9) and higher MRR (137%). The yield response factor and crop-water production function indicated that maintaining irrigation at optimal levels can prevent potential yield reductions. Consequently, a 70% ETc deficit irrigation application was found to be optimal for increasing wheat grain yield, water use efficiency, and economic benefits from irrigated wheat production. These results suggest that deficit irrigation for wheat under semi-arid climatic conditions is a viable irrigation management option for enhancing water use efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]