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Phyllosilicates provide a primary source of minerals used by microorganisms and plants, particularly clay minerals, i.e., phyllosilicates of very small particle size. Fungi can actively break down (or "weather") minerals to extract nutrients, but whether they use identical mechanisms when accessing different clay minerals is unclear. In addition, it is yet to be understood whether starvation stresses due to the limited availability of a mineral-nutrient would result in different weathering behaviours of microbes. Here, we performed a microcosm experiment to address these questions. We used the ectomycorrhizal basidiomycete Paxillus involutus and the phyllosilicates K-vermiculite, muscovite and phlogopite. These silicates have different degrees of recalcitrance to the removal of K cations from the mineral, and each was provided in the microscosm experiment as the sole potassium (K) source. The type of potassium "extraction-assimilation" was tested against a potassium-availability gradient, with a situation of maximum starvation stress (no potassium availability) and one of maximum availability (potassium provided as a solute in the culture medium). Our study revealed that different phyllosilicate minerals stimulated different patterns of fungal gene expression, which indicated bespoke weathering mechanisms for different phyllosilicates. The potassium uptake capacity of the fungus was highest with K-vermiculite compared to phlogopite and muscovite. Interestingly, the assimilation of phosphorus by the fungus was reduced in K-depleted conditions. Moreover, the potassium deprivation condition prompted the fungus to assimilate sodium instead. Also, in the presence of the minerals, the fungus showed significant differences in gene expression compared with the negative and positive control conditions, suggesting that the mineral environment modulates the starvation stress levels. The nutrients assimilated by the mycelium from both the minerals and the culture medium also varied according to the type of silicate added and the K starvation level to which the fungus was subjected. Based on what has been observed here, many geochemical processes could depend on fungi's genetic and functional plasticity, which would have considerable environmental consequences with a direct link between the evolution of fungi and that of the Earth's crust. [Display omitted] • P. involutus modulated gene expression according to K accessibility. • P. involutus upregulated genes in K-depleted conditions. • P. involutus lowered cellular activity in the presence of available K. • Phosphorus assimilation in P. involutus was reduced in K-depleted conditions. • Na in K-depleted mycelium was seven times that grown with available K. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Screening the edible parts of low-cadmium (Cd) and high-nutrient crop cultivars is an effective method for reducing Cd intake and enhancing the absorption of beneficial elements for humans. In a hydroponic experiment with Cd toxicity treatment (5 μmol/L CdCl2), we analyzed the differences in the absorption and transport characteristics of Cd and mineral nutrients in 30 rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) cultivars during the seedling stage, as well as the correlations between various elements. Firstly, Pearson correlation analysis indicated that Cd content in the shoot parts of 30 rapeseed cultivars was not correlated with the Cd uptake ability of the roots and was obviously positively correlated with the Cd translocation coefficient from root to shoot (r = 0.452 *, p < 0.05). Hierarchical clustering selected 26 cultivars with lower Cd content in the shoots, and correlation analysis of Cd and other nutrient element contents in the shoots of the 26 cultivars revealed significant negative correlations (r = −0.40 *, p < 0.05; r = −0.45 *, p < 0.05) between iron (Fe) and magnesium (Mg) content and Cd content, while potassium (K), calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) content had no correlation with Cd content. Then, hierarchical clustering screened 19 cultivars with higher dry weight, 4 cultivars with higher K content, 1 cultivar with higher Ca content, 8 cultivars with higher Mn content, and 3 cultivars with higher Zn content. Finally, a Venn diagram identified four superior rapeseed cultivars with lower Cd and higher nutrients in the shoots, namely, OJ114 (lower Cd, higher Mn and K content), BN365 (lower Cd, higher Mn, Fe, and Zn content), BN275 (lower Cd, higher Ca, Zn, Mn, and Fe content), and BN112 (lower Cd, higher K, Mg, Fe, and Mn content). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Rhamnolipids are biosurfactants that have their main application in bioremediation processes. They are able to increase the biodegradation and detoxification rates from industrial effluents. The north of Peru and Iquitos have been not only major oil producers but also have been responsible for oil spills. This study therefore focused on the optimization of mineral nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, calcium and iron to improve rhamnolipids production by Pseudomonas aeruginosa 6 K‐11, which was isolated from oil soil in Peru. RESULTS: Pseudomonas aeruginosa 6 K‐11 was reactivated in Trypticase Soy Broth by scaling from 5 to 200 mL of culture medium for 8 h at each stage. The culture was centrifuged and placed in 100 mL Siegmund–Wagner medium for 36 h in a 500 mL Erlenmeyer flask. First, it was determined that sodium nitrate, monopotassium phosphate, calcium chloride and iron sulfate were the best sources of mineral nutrients. Then, by using corn oil as carbon source, the ratios obtained for carbon‐to‐nitrogen and carbon‐to‐phosphorous were 21.172 and 16.279, respectively. In addition, it was found that the optimal concentration for calcium was 0.046 g L−1 and for iron was 0.003 g L−1. The most influential variables were carbon‐to‐nitrogen and carbon‐to‐phosphorus ratio. Finally, 35.124 g L−1 rhamnolipids was produced after 168 h of fermentation with the optimal parameters. CONCLUSION: The optimization of mineral nutrients was an important achieved goal for rhamnolipid production. In addition, this optimization can be used for modifying the culture medium to grow the biosurfactant producer strain. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium on the ornamental characters ( caudex diameter and biomass, plant height, number of branches and flowers) of Begonia dregei var. macbethii were investigated via a pot experiment in the greenhouse. The results showed that compared with the standard concentration NPK treatment, the growth and ornamental traits of Begonia dregei var. macbethii were significantly decreased under nitrogen and phosphorus deficiency treatment. Increasing N and P levels could promote the caudex diameter and biomass of caudex and above-ground part, plant height, branch number, and flowering number of Begonia dregei var. macbethii to varying degrees. The growth indexes of caudex diameter, caudex biomass, and flowering number of Begonia dregei var. macbethii under 2NPK treatment were higher than those under other treatments. In conclusion, different nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium levels significantly affected the ornamental traits of Begonia dregei var. macbethii. To maintain the healthy growth and good ornamental morphology of Begonia dregei var. macbethii, higher nitrogen and essential phosphorus were needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) are a fruit vegetable with great culinary versatility and present important nutritional properties for human health. Water deficit negatively affects the nutritional quality of green peppers' fruits. This study aimed to investigate the influence of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), associated with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), on the post-harvest nutritional quality of green peppers subjected to water deficit. In an open-field experiment, two irrigation levels (50 and 100% of crop evapotranspiration (Etc)), four treatments composed of a combination of ZnONPs, zinc sulfate (ZnSO4), and PGPB (T1 = ZnSO4 via leaves, T2 = ZnONPs via leaves, T3 = ZnONPs via leaves + PGPB via soil, T4 = ZnSO4 via soil + PGPB via soil), and a control treatment (Control) were tested. Water deficit or water deficit mitigation treatments did not interfere with the physical–chemical parameters (except vitamin C content) and physical color parameters (except the lightness) of green peppers. On average, the water deficit reduced the levels of Ca (−13.2%), Mg (−8.5%), P (−8.5%), K (−8.6%), Mn (−10.5%), Fe (−12.2%), B (−12.0%), and Zn (−11.5%) in the fruits. Under the water deficit condition, ZnONPs or ZnSO4 via foliar, associated or not with PGPB, increased the levels of Ca (+57% in the T2 and +69.0% in the T2), P, Mg, and Fe in the fruits. At 50% Etc, the foliar application of ZnONPs in association with PGPB increases vitamin C and mineral nutrients' contents and nutritional quality index (+12.0%) of green peppers. Applying Zn via foliar as ZnONPs or ZnSO4 mitigated the negative effects of water deficit on the quality of pepper fruits that were enhanced by the Bacillus subtilis and B. amyloliquefaciens inoculation. The ZnONPs source was more efficient than the ZnSO4 source. The water deficit alleviating effect of both zinc sources was enhanced by the PGPB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress is one of the major impediments to plant growth. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can mitigate moisture stress in plants by increasing the ability of plant nutrient uptake and transport. In this study, we investigated the root phenotype, mineral nutrients (in leaves, roots, and soil), soil pH, water saturation deficit (WSD), free water content (FWC), and bound water content (BWC) of leaves of two alfalfa varieties, 'Galalxie Max' (drought-tolerant) and 'Saidi 7' (drought-sensitive), in the presence or absence of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 under drought stress conditions. The results showed that water stress negatively affected both cultivar root morphology (total root length, average diameter, total surface area, and volume) and the contents of K and Fe in leaves, roots, and soil. It also reduced the Mn and Zn contents in the soil while increasing the content of Na in the leaves and soil. Additionally, alfalfa plants under drought stress exhibited higher levels of soil pH, WSD, and BWC but lower contents of FWC and ratios of BWC/FWC in the leaves of both cultivars. However, QST713 application significantly enhanced the total root length, average root diameter, and the contents of K and Fe in alfalfa leaves, roots, and soil, as well as the BWC/FWC ratio in leaves under drought stress conditions. A significant reduction in the Na content was detected in QST713-treated alfalfa leaves and soil under drought stress. Furthermore, QST713 application noticeably decreased soil pH and WSD. The current findings showed that QST713 enhanced the water stress tolerance of alfalfa plants by ameliorating root morphology, reducing soil pH, and improving the BWC/FWC ratio, consequently promoting the accumulation of mineral nutrients (mainly K and Fe). Overall, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 can serve as a potential green fertilizer in sustainable agriculture to improve soil nutrients and enhance plant production under increasing drought conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contextualization: The malt house’s sludge is an organic matter which contains nutrients for plants. Therefore, its utilization as organic fertilizer is an alternative to landfilling, because during the handling the sludge does not have contact with pathogenic organisms and trace metals. Knowledge gap: There are only a few studies to appraise the malt house’s sludge as an organic fertilizer. In contrast, most of the studies are conducted with sewage sludge generated by the urban wastewater treatment system. Purpose: To appraise the corn’s productivity and the fertility of the soil fertilized with sludge’s portions in comparison with mineral fertilization. Methodology: The study was conducted based on randomized blocks design with five ways of treatment (T1 = no fertilization; T2 = mineral fertilization; T3 = 24 Mg ha-1 of sludge; T4 = 48 Mg ha-1 of sludge and T5 = 72 Mg ha-1 of sludge) and four repetitions. During the sowing were distributed nine seeds per linear meter at a spacing of 0,80 cm between rows. After one hundred days from sowing, the cobs of ten plants located in the useful portion plot were collected in order to remove the grains. The grains were placed in an oven at 65 °C, until they reached constant weight to determine the dry mass. The productivity was estimated by extrapolating the grain dry mass data of the useful plot to one hectare. Soil samples were collected to assess soil fertility. The results were submitted to variance analysis and the differences between the averages to the Tukey test at 5%. Results and conclusions: The grain productions obtained with 24, 48 and 72 Mg ha-1 of sludge were 18,67, 28,00 and 40,66% higher than that observed with mineral fertilization. The results of grain yields with the doses of sludge were in the average of productivity observed in Brazil. The dosages of sludge increased the availability of phosphorus from 26,7 mg dm-3 in the soil with mineral fertilization to 94,0 mg dm-1 with 72 Mg ha-1 of sludge, respectively. According to these results it can be concluded that the sludge has agronomic quality, and the dose of 24 Mg ha-1 optimized the productivity of maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruit and seed of date (Phoenix dactylifera L.) have primary and special metabolites which result in therapeutic effects in preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes, blood pressure, liver diseases and cancer. Date seeds have fatty acids and can be used in food, cosmetic health and pharmaceutical industries. Considering the effect of the cultivar on the type and contents of biochemical compounds, seeds of 7 date cultivars ('Ashrasi', 'Barhi', 'Bream', 'Khastawi', 'Khyara', 'Mekawi' and 'Zahdi') originated from Iraq, were investigated in terms of the amount and type of fatty acids and mineral nutrients. The seed percentage was different from 4% in 'Barhi' to 6.3% in 'Khyara'. The type and amount of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids were affected by the cultivar. The highest amount of saturated fatty acids, capric acid (0.34%) and lauric acid (26.06%), was observed in 'Mekawi' and the highest caprylic acid (0.35%) content was observed in 'Barhi'. The highest content of myristic acid (12.60%) and margaric acid (0.28%) was observed in 'Khastawi' and the highest content of palmitic acid (11.99%) and stearic acid (3.76%) was observed in 'Zahdi'. The type of cultivar had no effect on the oleic acid content, while the content of linoleic acid in 'Khastawi' was significantly higher than 'Zahdi'. The content of mineral elements was also affected by the type of cultivar. The highest phosphorus content is in 'Khyara' (0.35%) and 'Bream' (0.32%), the highest amount of potassium is in 'Mekawi' (0.44%) and 'Khastawi' (0.43), the highest calcium content was observed in 'Khastawi' (403 mg/kg) and the highest content of iron was observed in 'Ashrasi' (21.4 mg/kg) cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

【Objective】The present paper aimed to study the annual dynamic changes and correlations of mineral nutrients in three ‘Tarocco’ blood orange varieties, namely ‘Tarocco blood orange new series’, ‘Tarocco blood orange No.8’ and ‘Tarocco blood orange No.9’, to understand their nutrient absorption patterns and provide theoretical basis for scientific fertilization of blood orange.【Method】The leaves of three blood orange varieties collected in different months throughout the year were used as materials to determine the dry matter rate, total N, total P, total K, Ca, Mg, total B, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mn contents. The contents of each nutrient element in fruits were determined during the fruit ripening period, to analyze the absorption pattern and correlation between the content of nutrient elements in leaves and fruits.【Result】In the leaves, dry matter rate overall showed ‘Tarocco blood orange No.8’ ＞ ‘Tarocco blood orange No.9’ ＞‘Tarocco blood orange new series’. The changes patterns of total B, Fe and Cu were similar. The time when the Fe content of ‘Tarocco blood orange No.9’ reached its maximum value (78.30 mg/kg) was 60 days earlier than the other two varieties. The changes of total K content was opposite to that of total B and Cu, which was manifested as low at maturity stage and young fruit stage, and high at fruit enlargement period and color changing period. There were differences in the variation rules of total N, total P, Ca, Mg, Zn and Mn among the three varieties. In fruits, ‘Tarocco blood orange No.8’ had the highest dry matter rate, total N, total P, total K, Ca, Mg, total B, Cu and Mn content, while ‘Tarocco blood orange No.9’ was the lowest. Correlation analysis showed that the total N content was extremely significantly correlated with Ca, B, and Cu content in leaves (P＜0.01, the same as below), while the correlation between total P and the content of each element was not significant (P＞0.05). The dry matter rate was extremely positively correlated with the content of total P, total K, Ca, Mg, B, Cu, and Mn in fruits, while Zn content was extremely negatively correlated with dry matter rate, the contents of total P, total K, Cu, Ca, Mg, total B, and Mn. The contents of total K, Fe, Zn, and Mn in leaves were significantly or extremely negatively correlated with the contents of total P, total K, Ca, Mg, total B, Cu, and Mn content in fruits.【Conclusion】In the early stages of fruit development (flowering period to young fruit period), N, P, K compound fertilizers and Ca, B, Fe, Mn fertilizers should be mainly applied. In the late stages of fruit development (from fruit enlargement period to maturity period), attention should be paid to supplementing P and K fertilizers, as well as micro fertilizers such as Ca, Mg, Cu, Zn, and balancing the application of N fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Carica papaya is an economically important fruit crop belonging to the family Caricaceae. In this study, we assessed the antioxidant potential and mineral element composition of mature and young fruits, as well as leaves, of the ‘Red Lady’ cultivar of C. papaya. Materials and methods: The DPPH free radical scavenging assay and the FRAP assay were used to evaluate the antioxidant activity of the crude methanolic extract and its butanolic fraction from the mature and young fruit parts and leaf of the C. papaya. The mineral elemental composition was analyzed through ICP-MS analysis. Results: DPPH assay showed that butanolic fraction of young leaves (97±1.155%) and seeds (96.33± 0.8819%) exhibited superior antioxidant potential, followed by mature leaves (81.33 ± 1.856%), mature seeds (72.67± 0.8819%), mature pulp (51±1.155%), young pulp (43.67±2.028%), young peel (34.33±1.202%), and mature peel (30±2.309%). Assessment of metal reducing activity using FRAP assay revealed a similar pattern of antioxidant potential as demonstrated by the DPPH assay. The IC-PMS analysis identified eleven elements in both mature and young fruit parts and leaves of the plant. These elements include potassium (K), sodium (Na), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), calcium (Ca), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr), and cobalt (Co). In both mature and young parts of the fruit, as well as in young leaves, potassium (33,874.68 ± 0.0013 mg kg-1 to 8365.31 ± 0.00049 mg kg-1) was the most abundant element. It was followed by magnesium (14,255.82 ± 0.000282 mg kg-1 to 474.92 ± 0.00125 mg kg-1) and then calcium (9857.51 ± 0.00049 mg kg-1 to 366.84 ± 0.00088 mg kg-1). However, in mature leaves, magnesium (14,255.82 ± 0.000282 mg kg-1) was the most prevalent, followed by calcium (9857.51 ± 0.00049 mg kg-1). Conclusion: This research revealed the antioxidant and metal-reducing properties of both mature and young C. papaya fruit and leaves. These findings underscore the nutraceutical potential of C. papaya in combating diseases related to oxidative stress. Furthermore, the presence of essential mineral nutrients in both the young and mature fruit and leaves enhances their health benefits.

Phytochemicals or plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) are known to counteract mineral nutrients (MNs) utilisation in herbivorous wildlife, yet studies on the interactions between PSMs and MNs in relation to herbivory, particularly for kobs (Kobus kob) are scarce. Composite samples of each of five major forage plants of kobs’ (Grewia mollis, Afzelia africana, Gardenia aqualla, Maranthes polyandra and Andropogon gayanus) were randomly collected in and around feeding sites of kobs in both dry and wet season. Using standard procedures, samples were analysed for PSMs (alkaloids, phenols, saponins and tannins) and MNs [copper (Cu2+), iron (Fe2+), manganese (Mn2+), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), zinc (Zn2+), sulphur (S2-), sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+)]. With appropriate statistical tools, data obtained were analysed, compared and correlated. Almost all plants were significantly higher in all the tested MNs and PMSs in the wet season, except for Maranthes polyandra which showed the inverse trend for Cu2+, Mn2+, S2-, Na+ and K+. Apart from tannins that were absent, the concentration of other PSMs (in Grewia mollis) and Ca2+ (in Gardenia aqualla and Andropogon gayanus) were significantly higher in the dry season. In conclusion, the concentration of Na+, K+, S2-, Fe2+ and Zn2+ in selected forage plants of kobs were highly influenced by the presence of PSMs.

Drought stress is one of the major threats to food security in the climate change scenario. Reducing the deleterious impacts of drought stress on the productivity of cereal crops is crucial. Hence, limited information has been available about the effect of the combined use of plant growth regulators and mineral fertilisers on promoting drought tolerance in maize seedlings. In this study, a pot experiment was carried out to evaluate the potential of sole or combined application of silicon (Si) and putrescine (Put) to mitigate the detrimental effects of drought on maize. The experimental treatments were, i.e. control (CK), water spray, 4.0 mmol Si, 0.5 mmol Put, and 4.0 mmol Si + 0.5 mmol Put on maize crop grown at two different water-holding capacity levels (80% well-water condition and 40% drought stress). The experiment was arranged in a complete randomised design with factorial arrangements having three replications. Exposure of maize plants to drought stress at the reproductive phase (VT-tasseling) reduced the photosynthetic pigments, including chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and chlorophyll a + b, relative water contents, leaf area, yield and yield attributes. However, foliar application of Si and Put individually and Si + Put dramatically reduced these negative effects by improving photosynthetic pigments, relative water contents, and activities of enzymatic antioxidant defence. Drought stress-induced lipid peroxidation in the form of more production of malondialdehyde content, hydrogen peroxide and electrolyte leakage significantly declined due to the combined application of Si and Put compared to the respective control. Drought stress boosted the activities of key enzymatic antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase) irrespective of the treatment application. Moreover, it was noted that the accumulation of osmolytes (proline and soluble protein) contents was increased by the combined application of Si and Put. Under drought stress conditions, combined foliar application of Si and Put considerably improved 22.70% cob length, 12.77% number of grains per cob, and 18.30% 100-grain weight, which ultimately enhanced maize's 10.29% grain yield. From the current study's findings, it was concluded that a combined foliar spray of silicon and putrescine at the reproductive phase is an effective strategy to enhance the maize yield in drought-prone areas.

This study investigated the interactive effects of drought stress with biochar on plant growth, the physiological and biochemical attributes of soybean seedlings. A pot trial tested the effect of amending a loamy sandy soil with biochar at three doses: 0%, 3% and 6% in the alleviation of drought stress, imposed by adjusting soil moisture content at three levels (in terms of soil field capacity, FC): 100% FC, 75% FC and 50% FC. Water deficit negatively influenced the growth of soybean seedlings and chlorophyll content of leaves, particularly in non-amended plants whereas biochar amendment boosted the growth and chlorophyll content, particularly under drought stress. Drought stress elevated malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), proline, sucrose and abscisic acid (ABA) contents as well as the antioxidant enzyme activity [peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)] of soybean leaves but reduced the contents of indole acetic acid (IAA) and gibberellic acid (GA); biochar amendment counteracted the impact of drought. The findings of the study indicate that biochar amendment can enhance soybean growth by modulating the plant physiology and biochemistry under drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnologies can improve plant growth, protect it from pathogens, and enrich it with bioactive and mineral substances. In order to fill the lack of knowledge about the combined environmental effects of lighting and nanoparticles (NPs) on plants, this study is designed to investigate how different HPS and LED lighting combined with CuO and ZnO NPs influence the elemental composition of ice plants (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum L.). Plants were grown in hydroponic systems with LED and HPS lighting at 250 ± 5 μmol m−2 s−1 intensity, sprayed with aqueous suspensions of CuO (40 nm, 30 ppm) and ZnO (35–45 nm, 800 ppm) NPs; their elemental composition was measured using an ICP–OES spectrometer and hazard quotients were calculated. LED lighting combined with the application of ZnO NPs significantly affected Zn accumulation in plant leaves. Cu accumulation was higher when plants were treated with CuO NPs and HPS illumination combined. The calculated hazard quotients showed that the limits are not exceeded when applying our selected concentrations and growth conditions on ice plants. In conclusion, ice plants had a more significant positive effect on the accumulation of macro- and microelements under LED lighting than HPS. NPs had the strongest effect on the increase in their respective microelements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under paddy soil conditions, rice plants are vulnerable to arsenic (As) accumulation, thus causing potential threat to human health. Here we investigated the influence of foliar-applied phosphorus (P: 10 and 20 mg L−1), silicon (Si: 0.6 and 1.5 g L−1) and selenium (Se: 5 and 10 mg L−1) on As accumulation, morphological and physiological attributes of two contrasting rice genotypes (KSK-133 and Super Basmati) under As stress (25 mg kg−1 as arsenate). Silicon foliar dressing significantly (p < 0.05) reduced grain As uptake (up to 67%) and improved rice growth and chlorophyll content (28–66%) in both rice genotypes over their controls. Phosphorus foliar application resulted in a notable decrease (17%) in grain As uptake of coarse rice genotype (KSK-133), while it slightly increased grain As uptake in the fine one (Super Basmati; 6%) compared to controls. However, foliar-applied Se did not show significant effects on rice plants growth attributes and As uptake in both genotypes. Similarly, biochemical and enzymatic attributes (i.e., lipid peroxidation, electrolyte leakage, peroxidase and catalase) were improved with Si application in rice plants, except for P treatment that was only effective for coarse one. Foliar-applied Si also resulted in reduced cancer risk and hazard quotient (< 0.10) for both rice genotypes. This study advances our understanding on critical role of different foliar-applied nutrients and rice genotypes, which is imperative to develop effective As remediation and management strategies in coarse and fine rice genotypes and protect human health. This study provided new insights on the significance of foliar-applied phosphorus, silicon and selenium for the management and remediation of arsenic in fine (Super Basmati) and coarse (KSK-133) rice genotypes. Foliar-applied silicon was the most promising strategy to mitigate arsenic uptake and minimizing health risk in rice grain of both genotypes, while phosphorus was effective only for coarse one, thus showing a genotype dependent response. Interestingly, selenium foliar application had no significant effect on arsenic accumulation in both rice genotypes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kiwifruit, a nutrient-dense fruit, has become increasingly popular with consumers in recent decades. However, kiwifruit trees are prone to stunted growth after a few years of planting, called early tree decline. In this study, melatonin (MT), pollen polysaccharide (SF), 14-hydroxyed brassinosteroid (14-HBR) were applied alone or in combination to investigate their influence on plant growth, nutrition absorption and rhizosphere bacterial abundance in kiwifruit seedlings. The results revealed that MT, SF and 14-HBR alone treatments significantly increased leaf chlorophyll content, photosynthetic capacity and activities of dismutase and catalase compared with the control. Among them, MT treatment significantly increased the dry root biomass by 35.7%, while MT +14-HBR treatment significant enhanced the dry shoot biomass by 36.9%. Furthermore, both MT and MT+14-HBR treatments markedly improved the activities of invertase, urease, protease and phosphatase in soil, as well as the abundance of Proteobacteria and Acidobacteria in rhizosphere microorganisms based on 16S rDNA sequencing. In addition, MT treatment improved the content of available K and organic matter in soil, and increased the uptake of P, K and Fe by seedlings. In summary, 14-HBR and MT combined had the best effect on promoting rhizosphere bacterial distribution, nutrient absorption and plant growth. These findings may provide valuable guidance for solving growth weakness problem in kiwifruit cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low temperatures during the grain-filling phase have a detrimental effect on both the yield and quality of rice grains. However, the specific repercussions of low temperatures during this critical growth stage on grain quality and mineral nutrient composition in high-quality hybrid indica rice varieties have remained largely unexplored. The present study address this knowledge gap by subjecting eight high-quality indica rice varieties to two distinct temperature regimes: low temperature (19°C/15°C, day/night) and control temperature (28°C/22°C) during their grain-filling phase, and a comprehensive analysis of various quality traits, with a particular focus on mineral nutrients and their interrelationships were explored. Exposure of rice plants to low temperatures during early grain filling significantly impacts the physicochemical and nutritional properties. Specifically, low temperature increases the chalkiness rate and chalkiness degree, while decreases starch and amylopectin content, with varying effects on amylose, protein, and gelatinization temperature among rice varieties. Furthermore, crucial parameters like gelatinization enthalpy (ΔH), gelatinization temperature range (R), and peak height index (PHI) all significantly declined in response to low temperature. These detrimental effects extend to rice flour pasting properties, resulting in reduced breakdown, peak, trough, and final viscosities, along with increased setback. Notably, low temperature also had a significant impact on the mineral nutrient contents of brown rice, although the extent of this impact varied among different elements and rice varieties. A positive correlation is observed between brown rice mineral nutrient content and factors such as chalkiness, gelatinization temperature, peak viscosity, and breakdown, while a negative correlation is established with amylose content and setback. Moreover, positive correlations emerge among the mineral nutrient contents themselves, and these relationships are further accentuated in the context of lowtemperature conditions. Therefore, enhancing mineral nutrient content and increasing rice plant resistance to chilling stress should be the focus of breeding efforts to improve rice quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the high-level physiological functions and nutrient concentrations of bark that cover the entire trunks of huge trees, research into bark nutrient traits and the development of models that estimate the bark biomass of tropical trees is essential when it is sought to understand forest nutrient cycling and tree ecological traits. This study investigated the concentrations of six bark nutrients (nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sodium (Na)) by individual tree size and the soil nutrient concentrations for two major pioneer species (Macaranga gigantea and M. hosei) of Malaysia. To estimate bark biomass, allometric equations using tree diameter, height, and crown diameter were developed by combining previous data from adjacent forests with the present data. We found no significant relationship between tree size and most bark nutrient concentrations, though all nutrient concentrations of the two pioneer trees were significantly higher than those of primary forest tree species. Surprisingly, no relationship was found between the soil and bark nutrient concentrations for either species. All the size parameters used in the allometric equations accurately estimated bark biomass. There were no differences in equations between the two species when diameter served as an explanatory variable, but differences were apparent when height and crown diameter were so used. A comparison of allometric equations that yielded the bark biomasses of different types of forest showed that the bark biomass of the tropical secondary forest trees was less than half of that of tropical dry forest trees of the same diameter. Thus, the use of inappropriate equations and nutrient concentrations increases the possibility of serious errors in estimating bark biomass and forest nutrient cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress is one of the major threats to food security in the climate change scenario. Reducing the deleterious impacts of drought stress on the productivity of cereal crops is crucial. Hence, limited information has been available about the effect of the combined use of plant growth regulators and mineral fertilisers on promoting drought tolerance in maize seedlings. In this study, a pot experiment was carried out to evaluate the potential of sole or combined application of silicon (Si) and putrescine (Put) to mitigate the detrimental effects of drought on maize. The experimental treatments were, i.e. control (CK), water spray, 4.0 mmol Si, 0.5 mmol Put, and 4.0 mmol Si + 0.5 mmol Put on maize crop grown at two different water-holding capacity levels (80% well-water condition and 40% drought stress). The experiment was arranged in a complete randomised design with factorial arrangements having three replications. Exposure of maize plants to drought stress at the reproductive phase (VT-tasseling) reduced the photosynthetic pigments, including chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and chlorophyll a + b, relative water contents, leaf area, yield and yield attributes. However, foliar application of Si and Put individually and Si + Put dramatically reduced these negative effects by improving photosynthetic pigments, relative water contents, and activities of enzymatic antioxidant defence. Drought stress-induced lipid peroxidation in the form of more production of malondialdehyde content, hydrogen peroxide and electrolyte leakage significantly declined due to the combined application of Si and Put compared to the respective control. Drought stress boosted the activities of key enzymatic antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and ascorbate peroxidase) irrespective of the treatment application. Moreover, it was noted that the accumulation of osmolytes (proline and soluble protein) contents was increased by the combined application of Si and Put. Under drought stress conditions, combined foliar application of Si and Put considerably improved 22.70% cob length, 12.77% number of grains per cob, and 18.30% 100-grain weight, which ultimately enhanced maize's 10.29% grain yield. From the current study's findings, it was concluded that a combined foliar spray of silicon and putrescine at the reproductive phase is an effective strategy to enhance the maize yield in drought-prone areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ethiopia is the largest teff (Eragrostis teff Zucc) producer in the world. This research was intended to determine the levels of mineral nutrients and non-essential metals in the teff samples. After optimization, the samples were wet-digested using reagents (5 mL HNO3 and 1 mL HClO4), at a temperature of 230 °C for 2:30 h. Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry was used for the analysis of mineral nutrients and toxic metals in the teff samples. Under the optimum procedure, the coefficients of determination (R2) ranged between 0.9980 and 0.9999. The limits of detections (LODs) and limits of quantifications (LOQs) were in the range of 0.036–14.49 mg/kg and 0.111–43.93 mg/kg, respectively. The recovery ranged from 80.72 % to 107.79 %. The overall mean concentration in the three types of teff samples determined (mg/kg) was in the range of P (3890–4853), K (3040–3784), Ca (1906–1959), Mg (1402–1698), Fe (128–305), Mn (64–127.8), Na (50–136.5), Zn (19.8–27.3), B (1.8–21.9), Cu (4.17–6.9), Ni (2.6–4.05), Hg (1.8–4.0), Pb (0.048–3.7), Cd (0.012–2.09), As (0.02–0.24), with% RSD ranging between 0.017 and 11.1 %. The results obtained revealed that teff grain is a good source of minerals and contains a significant amount of toxic elements like Cd, Hg, As, and Pb.

PurposeSpecific nutrients found in food, such as minerals, antioxidants, and macronutrients, have a significant impact on immune function and human health. However, there is currently limited research exploring the relationship between specific nutrients, immune system function, and thyroid dysfunction commonly observed in autoimmune thyroid diseases, which manifest predominantly as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the connections between dietary traits and thyroid dysfunction, as well as the potential mediating role of immune cells, using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.MethodsThe two-step MR analysis used single-nucleotide polymorphisms as instruments, with a threshold of p < 5e−08 for nutrients and thyroid dysfunction, and p < 5e−06 for immune cells. Data from different GWAS databases and UK Biobank were combined to analyze 8 antioxidants and 7 minerals, while the data for 4 macronutrients came from a cohort of 235,000 individuals of European. The outcome data (hypothyroidism, N = 3340; hyperthyroidism, N = 1840; free thyroxin [FT4], N = 49,269; thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH], N = 54,288) were source from the ThyroidOmics consortium. Immune trait data, including 731 immune phenotypes, were collected from the GWAS catalog.ResultsThe results revealed that nutrient changes, such as lycopene, toenail and blood selenium, and α-tocopherol, impacted the immune system. Immune cells also affected thyroid function, with cDC cells promoting hypothyroidism and median fluorescence intensity (MFI) phenotypes correlating strongly with FT4 levels. Toenail and blood selenium reduce the relative cell counts (RCC) phenotypes of immune cells (CD62L− plasmacytoid DC %DC and transitional B cells %Lymphocyte), thereby diminishing its promoting effect on hypothyroidis. Furthermore, toenail and blood selenium mainly impacted phenotypes in three types of T cells (CD25 + ⁣ + CD8br, CD3 on CD45RA− CD4+, and CD45RA on Terminally Differentiated CD8br), reinforcing the negative regulation of FT4 levels.ConclusionThe role of immune cells as mediators in the relationship between nutrients and thyroid dysfunction highlights their potential as diagnostic or therapeutic markers. Toenail and blood selenium levels can indirectly impact hypothyroidism by influencing the RCC levels of two types of immune cells, and can indirectly affect FT4 levels by influencing three types of T cells.

Abstract Background γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), as a regulator of many aspects of plant growth, has a pivotal role in improving plant stress resistance. However, few studies have focused on the use of GABA in increasing plants’ resistance to interactional stresses, such as drought-salinity. Therefore, the focus of this study was to examine the effect of foliar application of GABA (0, 10, 20, and 40 mM) on growth indices and physio-biochemical parameters in plants of two pomegranate cultivars, ‘Rabab’ and ‘Atabaki’ exposed to drought, salinity, and drought-salinity. Results Under stress conditions, the photosynthetic capacity of two pomegranate cultivars, including transpiration rate, net photosynthetic rate, intercellular carbon dioxide concentration, stomatal conductance of water vapour, and mesophyll conductance, was significantly reduced. This resulted in a decrease in root morphological traits such as fresh and dry weight, diameter, and volume, as well as the fresh and dry weight of the aerial part of the plants. However, the application of GABA reversed the negative effects caused by stress treatments on growth parameters and maintained the photosynthetic capacity. GABA application has induced the accumulation of compatible osmolytes, including total soluble carbohydrate, starch, glucose, fructose, and sucrose, in charge of providing energy for cellular defense response against abiotic stresses. Analysis of mineral nutrients has shown that GABA application increases the absorption of potassium, potassium/sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, and iron. As concentration increased up to 40 mM, GABA prevented the uptake of toxic ions, sodium and chloride. Conclusions These findings highlight the potential of GABA as a biostimulant strategy to enhance plant stress tolerance.

Screening the edible parts of low-cadmium (Cd) and high-nutrient crop cultivars is an effective method for reducing Cd intake and enhancing the absorption of beneficial elements for humans. In a hydroponic experiment with Cd toxicity treatment (5 μmol/L CdCl2), we analyzed the differences in the absorption and transport characteristics of Cd and mineral nutrients in 30 rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) cultivars during the seedling stage, as well as the correlations between various elements. Firstly, Pearson correlation analysis indicated that Cd content in the shoot parts of 30 rapeseed cultivars was not correlated with the Cd uptake ability of the roots and was obviously positively correlated with the Cd translocation coefficient from root to shoot (r = 0.452 *, p < 0.05). Hierarchical clustering selected 26 cultivars with lower Cd content in the shoots, and correlation analysis of Cd and other nutrient element contents in the shoots of the 26 cultivars revealed significant negative correlations (r = −0.40 *, p < 0.05; r = −0.45 *, p < 0.05) between iron (Fe) and magnesium (Mg) content and Cd content, while potassium (K), calcium (Ca), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn) content had no correlation with Cd content. Then, hierarchical clustering screened 19 cultivars with higher dry weight, 4 cultivars with higher K content, 1 cultivar with higher Ca content, 8 cultivars with higher Mn content, and 3 cultivars with higher Zn content. Finally, a Venn diagram identified four superior rapeseed cultivars with lower Cd and higher nutrients in the shoots, namely, OJ114 (lower Cd, higher Mn and K content), BN365 (lower Cd, higher Mn, Fe, and Zn content), BN275 (lower Cd, higher Ca, Zn, Mn, and Fe content), and BN112 (lower Cd, higher K, Mg, Fe, and Mn content).

Green peppers (Capsicum annuum L.) are a fruit vegetable with great culinary versatility and present important nutritional properties for human health. Water deficit negatively affects the nutritional quality of green peppers’ fruits. This study aimed to investigate the influence of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs), associated with plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), on the post-harvest nutritional quality of green peppers subjected to water deficit. In an open-field experiment, two irrigation levels (50 and 100% of crop evapotranspiration (Etc)), four treatments composed of a combination of ZnONPs, zinc sulfate (ZnSO4), and PGPB (T1 = ZnSO4 via leaves, T2 = ZnONPs via leaves, T3 = ZnONPs via leaves + PGPB via soil, T4 = ZnSO4 via soil + PGPB via soil), and a control treatment (Control) were tested. Water deficit or water deficit mitigation treatments did not interfere with the physical–chemical parameters (except vitamin C content) and physical color parameters (except the lightness) of green peppers. On average, the water deficit reduced the levels of Ca (−13.2%), Mg (−8.5%), P (−8.5%), K (−8.6%), Mn (−10.5%), Fe (−12.2%), B (−12.0%), and Zn (−11.5%) in the fruits. Under the water deficit condition, ZnONPs or ZnSO4 via foliar, associated or not with PGPB, increased the levels of Ca (+57% in the T2 and +69.0% in the T2), P, Mg, and Fe in the fruits. At 50% Etc, the foliar application of ZnONPs in association with PGPB increases vitamin C and mineral nutrients’ contents and nutritional quality index (+12.0%) of green peppers. Applying Zn via foliar as ZnONPs or ZnSO4 mitigated the negative effects of water deficit on the quality of pepper fruits that were enhanced by the Bacillus subtilis and B. amyloliquefaciens inoculation. The ZnONPs source was more efficient than the ZnSO4 source. The water deficit alleviating effect of both zinc sources was enhanced by the PGPB.

Drought stress is one of the major impediments to plant growth. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) can mitigate moisture stress in plants by increasing the ability of plant nutrient uptake and transport. In this study, we investigated the root phenotype, mineral nutrients (in leaves, roots, and soil), soil pH, water saturation deficit (WSD), free water content (FWC), and bound water content (BWC) of leaves of two alfalfa varieties, ‘Galalxie Max’ (drought-tolerant) and ‘Saidi 7’ (drought-sensitive), in the presence or absence of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 under drought stress conditions. The results showed that water stress negatively affected both cultivar root morphology (total root length, average diameter, total surface area, and volume) and the contents of K and Fe in leaves, roots, and soil. It also reduced the Mn and Zn contents in the soil while increasing the content of Na in the leaves and soil. Additionally, alfalfa plants under drought stress exhibited higher levels of soil pH, WSD, and BWC but lower contents of FWC and ratios of BWC/FWC in the leaves of both cultivars. However, QST713 application significantly enhanced the total root length, average root diameter, and the contents of K and Fe in alfalfa leaves, roots, and soil, as well as the BWC/FWC ratio in leaves under drought stress conditions. A significant reduction in the Na content was detected in QST713-treated alfalfa leaves and soil under drought stress. Furthermore, QST713 application noticeably decreased soil pH and WSD. The current findings showed that QST713 enhanced the water stress tolerance of alfalfa plants by ameliorating root morphology, reducing soil pH, and improving the BWC/FWC ratio, consequently promoting the accumulation of mineral nutrients (mainly K and Fe). Overall, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens QST713 can serve as a potential green fertilizer in sustainable agriculture to improve soil nutrients and enhance plant production under increasing drought conditions.

The amino acid profile in rice serves as an indicator of its nutritional worth, playing a significant role in evaluating its overall nutritional quality. However, there has been limited research on how nanoparticles (NPs) and various irrigation regimes affect the nutritional value and overall quality of rice. In the present study, the effects of different irrigation regimes and foliar spray of NPs on the yield, nutrient concentration, and amino acid profile of milled rice in two rice cultivars were evaluated. The results showed that the Shirodi cultivar had a higher yield and nutrients compared to the Hashemi cultivar. Reducing irrigation significantly lowered the grain yield, nutrient elements, and some amino acids (asparagine, glutamic acid, serine, alanine, histidine, and arginine) in milled rice while increasing other amino acids. However, NPs treatments, especially ZnONPs + SiO2NPs treatment, increased grain yield and amino acids in milled rice. Regarding mineral nutrients, SiO2NPs and ZnONPs + SiO2NPs treatments decreased mineral nutrients in milled rice, while ZnONPs treatment increased Ca, Fe, Mg, and N and decreased the content of other elements in milled rice. Therefore, our findings showed that SiO2NPs and ZnONPs are promising NPs that can improve the yield and nutritional quality of milled rice, especially in water-deficient conditions. HIGHLIGHTS Reduction of irrigation decreased the yield and nutritional value of milled rice.; Different irrigation regimes caused changes in essential and non-essential amino acid profiles.; The use of NPs improved the yield and nutritional quality of milled rice in both rice cultivars.;

Salt stress is a major factor that contributes to reduced lettuce productivity. Seed priming has emerged as a promising technique to improve crop stress tolerance. In this study, Romaine lettuce seeds were primed with calcium chloride (CaCl2), distilled water (hydro), and potassium nitrate (KNO3) to test their effectiveness in improving salt stress tolerance. Lettuce seeds treated with hydro, 50 mM CaCl2, and 0.5% KNO3 were exposed to 0 or 100 mM sodium chloride (NaCl). Priming treatments significantly increased lettuce's fresh mass by 22%–61% under salt stress. Hydro-primed lettuce showed the most significant increase in root mass (109%), a 38% higher root length, a 35% increase in surface area, and a 25%–40% increase in volume, tips, forks, and crossings of roots. The hydro-primed lettuce had higher gas exchange rates than the non-primed control, followed by the KNO3- and the CaCl2-primed lettuce. Furthermore, hydro-primed seedlings exhibited the highest proline accumulation (105%) under salt stress. The accumulation of sugars (up to 50%) in hydro- and CaCl2-primed lettuce led to a 56% decrease in electrolyte leakage and membrane damage. The correlation network analysis of the traits revealed that hydro-primed seedlings exhibited a higher + ve/-ve edge ratio, which indicates their greater resilience to salt stress than other priming techniques. Priming of seeds before planting offers the potential for improving resilience to stress.

Salt lakes are significant components of global inland waters. Salt lake (SL) water can provide precious mineral resource for microbial growth. The prospect of utilizing diluted SL water for cultivation of a terrestrial oil-producing microalga Vischeria sp. WL1 was evaluated under laboratory conditions. Based on the detected mineral element composition, the water from Gouchi Salt Lake was diluted 2, 4, 6 and 8 folds and used with supplementation of additional nitrogen, phosphorus and iron (SL+ water). It was found that 4 folds diluted SL+ water was most favorable for biomass and oil production. When cultivated in this condition, Vischeria sp. WL1 gained a biomass yield of 0.82 g L−1 and an oil yield of 0.56 g L−1 after 24 days of cultivation, which is comparable to the optimum productivity we previously established. In addition, total monounsaturated fatty acid contents (64.4∼68.1 %) of the oils resulted from cultures in diluted SL+waters were higher than that in the control (55.5 %). It was also noteworthy that in all these cultures the oil contents (652.0∼681.0 mg g−1) accounted for the most of the biomass, which are far more than the protein and starch contents. This study demonstrates the feasibility of using SL water as a cost-effective mineral resource to cultivate microalgae for biomass and oil production.

Despite the growing interest in high tunnel organic vegetable production, limited information is available regarding optimizing nutrient management for organic leafy greens. This 3-year study examined the impacts of cowpea cover crop as well as different organic fertilizers and composts on yield, leaf mineral nutrient content, and phytochemical properties of organic leafy greens produced in high tunnels under Florida sandy soil conditions. The experiment was arranged in a split-split-plot design with three replications. The whole plots consisted of a cowpea (Vigna unguiculata 'Iron & Clay') cover crop and a weedy fallow control, with fertilization treatments in the subplots, including preplant application of granular fertilizer vs. weekly injection of liquid fish fertilizer at the same seasonal rates of nitrogen (112 kg/ha), phosphorus (9.8 kg/ha), and potassium (74.4 kg/ha). The sub-subplots included yard waste-based compost (22.4 Mt/ha), cow manure-based compost (22.4 Mt/ha), vermicompost (5.6 Mt/ha), and no compost control. Cowpea was broadcasted (112 kg/ha) in early July or mid-August and terminated 51 to 53 days after seeding. Pac choi (Brassica rapa var. chinensis 'Mei Qing Choi') was transplanted inmid-Sep. ormid-Oct. and harvested after 33 to 36 days. Baby spinach (Spinacia oleracea 'Corvair') or baby leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa 'Outredgeous') was direct seeded subsequently as a catch crop. Each experimental unit remained in the same location across the 3 years of the study. Cover cropping had little influence on yields, leafmineral nutrients, ascorbic acid content, total phenolics, and total antioxidant capacity of pac choi and baby spinach/lettuce. Compared with preplant application of the granular organic fertilizer, weekly liquid organic fertigation improved pac choimarketable yield and dryweight by 16.8%and 5.4%on average, respectively, and enhanced leaf nitrogen and phosphorus contents on a dry weight basis. Relative to the no compost control, yard waste compost consistently improved marketable yields of pac choi by 11.6%on average and led to higher yields of the baby spinach/lettuce catch crop in years 1 and 3, suggesting that compost applications may enhance seasonal nutrient availability to better meet crop demand. However, compost application exhibited inconsistent effects on crop mineral nutrient and phytochemical contents across the years, which could be attributed to the different nutrient compositions of the composts applied in each season, as well as the legacy effects from the previous season. Furthermore, the compost benefits may be influenced by the fertilization programas indicated by their interaction effects observed in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effects of different inclusion levels of cactus pear (Opuntia stricta) (at 0%, 15%, 30% or 45% on fresh matter basis) ensiled with shoots of cassava (Manihot esculenta) on the mineral nutrients, carbohydrates fractionation, nitrogen compounds and in vitro gas production, using a completely randomised design consisting of four treatments and five replicates per treatment, totalling 20 experimental units. There were significant increases (p < 0.05) in the concentrations of Mg, B, Fe, total carbohydrates and fraction A+B1 (non-fibre carbohydrates) with increased cactus pear inclusion, whereas nitrogen and fractions B2 (available fibre) and C (insoluble protein, indigestible in rumen and intestine) significantly decreased (p < 0.05) with the inclusion. The inclusion of cactus pear significantly (p < 0.05) reduced crude protein content and the fractions A (non-protein nitrogen) and B3 (insoluble protein with a slow degradation rate in the rumen) in the silages. Fraction B1+B2 (rapidly degraded true protein + insoluble protein with an intermediate degradation rate in the rumen) significantly increased (p < 0.05) with increasing levels of cactus pear inclusion. Gas production parameters showed a quadratic effect for Ca, Mn, observed gas volume, estimated gas volume by the bicompartmental model, rate of degradation of fibre carbohydrates, and rate of degradation of non-fibre carbohydrates (p < 0.05). The use of cactus pear increased the content of soluble sugars in mixed silages made with the aerial part of cassava plants. However, gas production was low with the inclusion of 45% cactus pear. Based on the overall results, the combination of 45% cactus pear with 55% of the aerial part of cassava in mixed silages is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar radiation and the incorporation of compost into soil is a practice for disinfecting soil that could have some other effects on spinach cultivation. The quality of spinach leaves after two types of soil disinfection, non-amended soil (NAS) and compost-amended soil (CAS), was compared in order to find biomarkers of both types of disinfection. These practices did not show significant differences in nutrient composition (N-P-K) compared to the control soil (CS). However, the amount of harmful nutrients such as NO2− was significantly lower in CAS (65.74 mg kg−1 FW) and NAS (49.99 mg kg−1 FW) than in CS (114.39 mg kg−1 FW). In addition, NO3− levels did not exceed the EU-recommended limit (<3500 mg kg−1 FW). Both types of disinfected soils produced higher concentrations of total phenols and more individual flavonoids in spinach leaves than the control. Combined chemometric analysis of the HRAMS data showed different clustering depending on the type of disinfection (NAS and CAS). Fifteen metabolite compounds could be identified, seven of which are beneficial for health and were more abundant in spinach grown in CAS compared to that grown in NAS or CS. Such beneficial metabolites measured with non-target analysis as markers of CAS-grown spinach. However, more studies are necessary in order to determine the differences between the metabolites of spinach grown in NAS or CAS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), as a regulator of many aspects of plant growth, has a pivotal role in improving plant stress resistance. However, few studies have focused on the use of GABA in increasing plants' resistance to interactional stresses, such as drought-salinity. Therefore, the focus of this study was to examine the effect of foliar application of GABA (0, 10, 20, and 40 mM) on growth indices and physio-biochemical parameters in plants of two pomegranate cultivars, 'Rabab' and 'Atabaki' exposed to drought, salinity, and drought-salinity. Results: Under stress conditions, the photosynthetic capacity of two pomegranate cultivars, including transpiration rate, net photosynthetic rate, intercellular carbon dioxide concentration, stomatal conductance of water vapour, and mesophyll conductance, was significantly reduced. This resulted in a decrease in root morphological traits such as fresh and dry weight, diameter, and volume, as well as the fresh and dry weight of the aerial part of the plants. However, the application of GABA reversed the negative effects caused by stress treatments on growth parameters and maintained the photosynthetic capacity. GABA application has induced the accumulation of compatible osmolytes, including total soluble carbohydrate, starch, glucose, fructose, and sucrose, in charge of providing energy for cellular defense response against abiotic stresses. Analysis of mineral nutrients has shown that GABA application increases the absorption of potassium, potassium/sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, and iron. As concentration increased up to 40 mM, GABA prevented the uptake of toxic ions, sodium and chloride. Conclusions: These findings highlight the potential of GABA as a biostimulant strategy to enhance plant stress tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aims: One of the most promising strategies for sustainable intensification of crop production involves the utilization of beneficial root-associated microorganisms, such as plant growth-promoting bacteria and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The aim of this study was to investigate whether a seed-applied biostimulant, based on the bacterial strain Bacillus amyloliquefaciens IT-45 and a plant polysaccharide extract, and crop enhancement tools, such as hybrids with contrasting early vigor and nitrogen (N) plus phosphorus (P) starter fertilization, and their interactions, shape the communities of native root-colonizing AMF symbionts in maize. Methods: A factorial growth chamber experiment was set up with two maize genotypes in natural soil. Mycorrhizal colonization was evaluated after root staining. The diversity and composition of AMF communities were assessed by PCR-DGGE of the 18S rRNA gene and amplicon sequencing. Results: N and P fertilization determined a consistent reduction of AMF root colonization and, in combination of biostimulant, a reduction of AMF richness. The biostimulant alone generally did not affect AMF colonization or the community biodiversity. In addition the effect of the two factors were modulated by maize genotype. In all treatments, predominant AMF were represented by Glomus sp. and Funneliformis mosseae, while populations of the genus Rhizoglomus were rarely detected in biostimulant and NP fertilization treatments. Conclusion: The results of this study increase our understanding of how the biostimulant seed treatment may affect native AMF communities, depending on NP fertilization and maize genotype and may improve the implementation of innovative tools in sustainable and resilient agroecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluoride toxicity is a leading cause of environmental pollution and is particularly considered as a phytotoxic element for cereal crops. Accumulation of high amount of fluoride in the soil alters the metabolism of plants and reduces their growth. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to understand the effects of sodium fluoride (NaF) on the plant growth and the amelioration of its toxic effects by the application of citric acid on the two cultivars of maize, Pak Afgoi (salt tolerant) and Pearl (salt sensitive). NaF in a concentration of 100ppm and 200ppm was applied to one week old seedlings. Citric acid (100 mgL-1 and 150 mgL-1) was applied as a foliar spray after two weeks of application of NaF salinity stress. The data regarding shoot length, shoot, root fresh and dry weight, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, carotenoids, ions and ash contents were collected after fifteen days of citric acid application. Our results showed that citric acid 150 mgL-1had a positive effect on the growth of maize plants and had reduced the toxic effects of sodium fluoride. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in the concentration and content of macro- and micronutrients in leaves of Coffea canephorain response to different nitrogen rates. The experiment was carried out in Colatina-ES, Brazil in conilon coffee plantations of the clonal variety Emcapa 8111, genotype 02. Six nitrogen rates (0, 110, 220, 440, 880 and 1320 kg N ha-1) were evaluated in periodic assessments of growth and yield characteristics. The nutrient concentrations and contents were determined by chemical laboratory analyses. The effects of the N rates on the cumulative levels of N, P, K, Ca and S as well as Fe, Zn, Mn, Cu and B in the coffee leaves depended on the nutrient and the evaluated period. The macronutrient concentrations in the coffee leaves were highest in June. Indirect measurements of the chlorophyll content may be an important tool to diagnose the N status of conilon coffee. For this measurement, the diagnostic leaf is recommended, due to the easy physical access to it on the plant, ensuring a faster field measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The need for underutilized leafy vegetables as food has been greatly emphasized owing to the increase in knowledge of the value of the essential nutrients they can provide. In this study, an assessment of the nutritional value of underutilized leafy vegetables collected in Southwestern Nigeria, and their content for mineral nutrients (K, Na, P, Ca, and Mg), essential vitamins (A, C, and E), and proximate composition was carried out on ten vegetables: Jatropha tanjorensis, Solanum nigrum, Talinum triangulare, Solanecio biafrae, Vernonia amygdalina, Crassocephalum crepidoides, Telfairea occidentalis, Amaranthus hydridus, Launaea taraxacifolia and Solanum macrocarpon. From this study, it was observed that the ten vegetables provide mineral concentrations exceeding 0.01%, essential vitamins exceeding 0.5%, ash exceeding 5%, moisture exceeding 5% of plant dry matter, crude fiber exceeding 10%, protein, crude fat exceeding 5%, and carbohydrate exceeding 30%. High levels of potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, crude fat, and carbohydrates were noticed in Jatropha tanjorensis. High levels of both sodium and calcium were noticed in Solanecio biafrae. Amaranthus hydridus, Vernonia amygdalina, and Solanum nigrum were noted to be good sources of protein. The range of values of mineral nutrients, essential vitamins, proximate composition, and recommended dietary allowances of the studied leafy vegetables are very similar to those obtained in typical conventional edible leafy vegetables. The results therefore provide evidence that these underutilized leafy vegetables are well endowed with essential nutrients and could be important contributors to improving the nutritional content of humans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based soft drinks are a relatively new product category. Germinated, or sprouted, buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.) can be used as a raw material in functional beverages. It has a good potential for expanding the range of this category. The research objective was to study the effect of formulation on the production technology and nutritional value of non-alcoholic beverages from germinated buckwheat. The study featured water-grain and water-fruit-grain mixes, as well as model samples of buckwheat drinks fortified with various fruit components, e.g., sea buckthorn, black currant, apple, etc. Standard research methods were supported by high performance liquid chromatography and atomic emission spectrometry. Buckwheat was soaked in water at 20 ± 2°C for 46 h. This germination method resulted in a high level of microbial contamination. To ensure food safety, the water-grain suspension was brought up to 65°C for 3 min. The fruit components increased the viscosity of the dispersion medium, as well as the settling time of solid particles. The mix had to be homogenized in order to reduce the particle size and destroy the colloidal system after heating (98 ± 2°C, 1 min). The final product had a harmonious taste and contained sugars (6.72–8.04 g/100 cm3), organic acids (338.91–446.93 mg/100 cm3), minerals (0.07–0.08%), and amino acids (leucine, lysine, cystine, and tyrosine). Buckwheat homogenization preserved the beneficial substances in the raw material. The samples fortified with sea buckthorn or blackcurrant puree had the best sensory profile and nutritional value.

The hermetic condition is the least studied factor associated with the spaceflights. Phalaenopsis pulcherrima is promising for space farming as it can be cultivated in small substrate blocks, and its photosynthetic apparatus is well adapted to elevated CO2 concentrations and temperatures. Three-year-old meristematic P. pulcherrima plants were planted into plastic (acrylic) vessels filled with fibrous substrate. In control, vessels had an open top. The hermetic conditions were reached by sealing the vessels’ covers with a parafilm. Both control and hermetic vessels were placed in a plant growth chamber where test plants were cultivated under controlled conditions of air temperature, illumination, air humidity, and soil moisture. After 6 and 24 months of cultivation, the CO2 concentration in the hermetic and control vessels was measured, and the physiological characteristics of each test plant, such as the content of macro- and micronutrients, photosynthetic pigments, free amino acids, and content of labile carbohydrates (%) in the leaves of the test-plants were determined. It was revealed that cultivation of P. pulcherrima in hermetic conditions affected its basic physiological processes such as photosynthesis, mineral nutrition, carbohydrates, and amino acid metabolisms. The effect size of this stress factor depended on the duration of exposition period. Long-term cultivation of P. pulcherrima under hermetic conditions promoted the accumulation of nonenzymatic antioxidants (viz. chlorophyll b, carotenoids, and amino acids), which contributed to the adaptation of this orchid species to oxidative stress caused by hermetic environment.

The need for underutilized leafy vegetables as food has been greatly emphasized owing to the increase in knowledge of the value of the essential nutrients they can provide. In this study, an assessment of the nutritional value of underutilized leafy vegetables collected in Southwestern Nigeria, and their content for mineral nutrients (K, Na, P, Ca, and Mg), essential vitamins (A, C, and E), and proximate composition was carried out on ten vegetables: Jatropha tanjorensis, Solanum nigrum, Talinum triangulare, Solanecio biafrae, Vernonia amygdalina, Crassocephalum crepidoides, Telfairea occidentalis, Amaranthus hydridus, Launaea taraxacifolia and Solanum macrocarpon. From this study, it was observed that the ten vegetables provide mineral concentrations exceeding 0.01%, essential vitamins exceeding 0.5%, ash exceeding 5%, moisture exceeding 5% of plant dry matter, crude fiber exceeding 10%, protein, crude fat exceeding 5%, and carbohydrate exceeding 30%. High levels of potassium, vitamin A, vitamin C, crude fat, and carbohydrates were noticed in Jatropha tanjorensis. High levels of both sodium and calcium were noticed in Solanecio biafrae. Amaranthus hydridus, Vernonia amygdalina, and Solanum nigrum were noted to be good sources of protein. The range of values of mineral nutrients, essential vitamins, proximate composition, and recommended dietary allowances of the studied leafy vegetables are very similar to those obtained in typical conventional edible leafy vegetables. The results therefore provide evidence that these underutilized leafy vegetables are well endowed with essential nutrients and could be important contributors to improving the nutritional content of humans.

Under the changing climate due to global warming, various abiotic stresses including drought (D) and salinity (S) are expected to further trigger their devastating effects on the already vulnerable crop production systems. This experiment was designed to unravel and quantify the potential role of exogenous application of salicylic acid (SA) in mitigating both D and S stresses and their combination (D+S), with three replications using CRD (Completely Randomized Design). The obtained results of the current study demonstrated significant effects of all three types of stresses (D, S, and D+S) on various parameters in Brassica napus plants. Quantifying these parameters provides a more informative and precise understanding of the findings. Current results revealed that all three stress types (D, S, and D+S) resulted in a reduction in leaf area (13.65 to 21.87%), chlorophyll levels (30 to 50%), gaseous exchange rate (30 to 54%) and the concentration of mineral ions compared to non-stressed plants. However, application of SA helped in mitigating these stresses by ameliorating the negative effects of these stresses. Moreover, Malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, an indicator of lipid per-oxidation and oxidative stress, the levels of antioxidants, proline content, an osmolyte associated with stress tolerance, and sugar content in the leaves were elevated in response to all stress conditions. In addition, the ultra-structures within the leaves were negatively affected by the stresses, while an application of SA considerably minimized the deterioration of these structures thus providing protection to the brassica plants against the stresses. In a nutshell, the findings of this study suggest that SA application in S, D and S+ D stresses provides evasion to the plants by improving different physiological and growth indices. The application of Salicylic Acid (SA) mitigated the negative effects of the stresses on all the above parameters, reducing MDA contents (47%), antioxdants (11 to 20%), proline (28%), sugar contents (20.50%), and minimizing the deterioration of ultra-structures. The findings emphasize the potential mitigatory role of SA in mitigating D and S stresses and highlight the need for further research to understand the underlying mechanisms in detail and explore its practical application in farming practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]