Search

Objective: To explore physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviors (SB) in individuals with lower limb (LL) Osteoarthritis (OA) and the influence of age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) on these behaviors. Design: Systematic review search: PubMed, Cochrane Library, ScienceDirect, and CINAHL databases were searched from inception until July 2023. Study criteria: Studies that reported quantifiable device-based or self-reported data for PA and SB variables in adults clinically diagnosed with LL OA were included. Data synthesis: A synthesis of PA and SB levels for those diagnosed with LL OA and the influence age, sex, and BMI have on these behaviors. Results: From the 1930 studies identified through the electronic search process, 48 met the inclusion criteria. PA guidelines were met by 33% of the sample population that measured moderate and moderate to vigorous PA. No studies reported 75 minutes per week or more of vigorous PA. Additionally, 58% of the population reporting SB were sedentary for 8 hours per day or more. Also, increasing age, BMI, and the female sex were identified as negative influences on PA levels. There were numerous methodological inconsistencies in how data were collected and reported, such as various activity monitor cut points for PA and SB bout duration. Conclusion: Adults with LL OA may be at an increased risk of noncommunicable diseases due to low PA and high SB levels. It is important to consider age, sex, and BMI when investigating behavior patterns in those with LL OA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The leaves of Tartary buckwheat stress-tolerant variety Chuanqiao No.1 and stress-sensitive variety Chuanqiao No.2 were sprayed with 0.2, 0.4, 0.6 and 0.8 mg/kg ozonated water, and the physiological indexes such as fresh weight, chlorophyll and nitrogen content, plasma membrane permeability, and SOD activity of seedlings were measured. The results showed that spraying ozonated water with appropriate concentration was beneficial to improve the physiological characteristics and stress resistance of Tartary buckwheat. The appropriate concentrations of ozonated water for Chuanqiao No.1 and Chuanqiao No.2 were 0.6 mg/kg and 0.4 mg/kg. The expression of chlorophyll synthesis-related gene FtDCL, nitrogen transport-related gene FtAMT1-1 and stress resistance-related genes (FtSOD, FtNHX1, FtSOS1) in Tartary buckwheat could be significantly promoted by spraying ozonated water with appropriate concentration. The maximum expression level of FtDCL, FtSOD and FtSOS1 genes in Chuanqiao No.1 and Chuanqiao No.2 was at 12 h, while that of FtAMT1-1 and FtNHX1 genes in Chuanqiao No.2 was at 24 h and 6 h. The growth rate and stress resistance of Tartary buckwheat may be improved by ozonated water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A potted water control experiment was conduct to study the changes in chlorophyll relative content, antioxidant enzyme activity, and osmotic adjustment substance content of three tea varieties under drought stress, and comprehensively evaluated the drought resistance of three tea varieties by membership function method. The results showed that compared with CK, drought stress significantly increased the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) and the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), soluble protein, soluble sugar and proline in the seedlings leaves of three tea varieties, while significantly reduced the relative content of chlorophyll. With the extension of drought stress time to 15 days, chlorophyll relative content in the leaves of three tea varieties showed a decreased trend, and the malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased and then decreased; the activities of SOD, POD, and CAT increased rapidly, and tend to stable after 11 days of stress; the contents of soluble protein, soluble sugar, and proline showed a significant increased trend. In addition, the results of membership function method showed that the drought resistance of three tea varieties was ranked as follows: Bantang C＞Zhongcha 108＞Wangfengrui-6. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Heat and drought stresses usually occur together in nature, and both are expected to increase in frequency and intensity as a result of climate change. The synergistic impacts of these compound climate extremes on potatoes are far from the effects of individual stresses. However, the dynamics of the effects of combined heat and drought stresses on potato physiology and biochemistry have yet to be thoroughly assessed. To elucidate this point, we set up a pot experiment using 'Atlantic' potato seedlings as test material. A total of six treatments were set up: CK (normal growth conditions: 21 ℃, 0 PEG), A1B1 (31 ℃, 20% PEG), A1B2 (31 ℃, 10% PEG), A1B3 (31 ℃, 0 PEG), A2B1 (21 ℃, 20% PEG), and A2B2 (21 ℃, 10% PEG), and 15 physiological indices were determined with the stress time of 0, 6, 12 and 18 days. Results: After 18 days of stress, the phenotype of potato seedlings was significantly different. Compared with CK, the thickness of potato leaves and palisade tissue increased under heat and drought stress, and the combined stress reduced the photosynthetic efficiency of potato leaves. In all treatments except CK, the chlorophyll content decreased significantly, the antioxidant enzyme activity increased first and then decreased, and the relative conductivity and malondialdehyde content increased significantly. The heat and combined treatment made the content of the osmotic regulator first increase and then decrease, while the treatment of 21 ℃ had no significant change. According to the correlation, principal component and interaction analysis, both heat and drought treatment had significant effects on each index, and the longer the stress time, the greater the effect, and the effect of combined stress was greater than that of single stress. However, after 6 days of stress, the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the content of transparent regulatory substances increased. Conclusions: In conclusion, potato can cope with heat, drought and combined stress by adjusting leaf tissue structure, antioxidant enzyme activity and osmotic regulatory substances in a short time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We aimed to gain insight into the response mechanism of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) to drought stress by recognizing and analyzing drought-responsive genes in the roots of different root types of alfalfa. The rhizomatous-rooted M. sativa cv.'Qingshui' (QS), tap-rooted M. sativa cv.'Longdong' (LD), and creeping-rooted M. varia cv. 'Gongnong No. 4' (GN) were used to analyze the transcriptome information and physiological characteristics of the root systems of the cultivars under simulated drought stress using PEG-6000. Results: It was found that aridity caused a significant increase in the content of osmotic stress substances and antioxidant enzyme activity. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in QS was lower than that in LD and GN under moisture stress, indicating a stronger accumulation capacity of osmotic regulatory substances. Based on sequencing results, 14,475, 9336, and 9243 upregulated DEGs from QS, LD, and GN were annotated into 26, 29, and 28 transcription factor families, respectively. QS showed more DEGs than LD and GN. KEGG enrichment analysis identified that DEGs were significantly enriched in metabolic pathways such as amino acid biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, plant hormone signaling transduction, and MAPK pathways. This suggests a strong correlation between these pathways and drought stress. The results also show that genes associated with ABA hormone signaling (MS. gene93372, MS. gene072046, and MS. gene012975) are crucial for plant's adaptation to drought stress. Conclusions: These genes, such as serine/threonine protein kinases and abscisic acid receptors, play a crucial role in plant hormone signaling and MAPK pathways. They could serve as potential candidate genes for drought resistance research in alfalfa, providing a molecular foundation for studying drought resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fengdan (Paeonia × suffruticosa Andrews), a woody oil crop abundant in unsaturated fatty acids, notably linolenic acid, holds promise in agriculture. However, selenium deficiency in Chinese soil poses a challenge to its growth. This study investigated the impact of Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) on Fengdan's physiological traits and selenium enrichment. Employing a randomized complete block design, five SeNPs spraying levels were tested on Fengdan cultivar Feng Dan. Results showed substantial enhancements in photosynthetic parameters with Se application, particularly at 6.00 g/ha (S3) and 8.25 g/ha (S4). Moreover, Se application improved protein, soluble sugar, and proline solubility, along with increased activities of SOD and POD, while decreased MDA content. Se content in Fengdan organs notably increased with SeNPs concentration, especially in the testa, leaf, and kernel. In conclusion, comprehensive SeNPs fertilizer application positively affected Fengdan's growth, photosynthesis, and selenium enrichment. The most effective treatments were observed at 6.00 g/ha (S3) and 8.25 g/ha (S4). This study offers valuable insights into selenium enrichment strategies for oil crops, stressing the significance of Se application dosage and organ specificity in biological Se enrichment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought stress is one of the main factors affecting the growth and secondary metabolism of plants. Iris domestica, rich in isoflavones, is a common herbal medicine in China. In this study, the effects of drought stress and rehydration on resistance physiological characteristics and the secondary metabolism of two-year-old I. domestica during the vegetative and reproductive growth period were investigated. The results showed that the dry weight and fresh weight of rhizomes and roots under severe drought stress were significantly decreased, while those under moderate drought stress were not significantly changed. Meanwhile, the SOD activities, POD activities, MDA content and Pro content increased to resist drought at D1 and D2. In the vegetative growth period, the changes in isoflavone concentration and the expression levels of genes in isoflavone synthesis were more dramatic. Isoflavone accumulation was promoted, to some extent, in the reproductive growth period under the D1 drought treatment. In the actual production process, different measures, namely short-term stress regulation in the vegetative growth period and moderate drought stress (13.44% < soil water content ≤ 16.8%) in the reproductive growth period, need to be adopted to regulate isoflavone biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effects of Pseudomonas monteilii SX001 on various parameters of cucumber plants under salt stress, the salt-sensitive cucumber variety "Jinyou No. 4" was used as the test material, and coconut bran was used to simulate salt stress by applying NaCl solution. The results indicated that salt stress significantly reduced the morphological structure, relative growth rate, root morphology, and photosynthetic parameters of the cucumber plants. Leaf starch, soluble sugar, and sucrose contents significantly increased, whereas their levels in roots decreased. Cell membrane damage leads to the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde, with notable increases in the activities of major antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, CAT, and POD. Nitrogen metabolism was disrupted, as evidenced by a significant decrease in nitrate nitrogen content and an increase in ammonium nitrogen content, as well as a significant reduction in the activity of NR enzymes involved in nitrogen metabolism. The enzyme activity in the cucumber rhizosphere soil decreased. However, Pseudomonas monteilii SX001 significantly enhanced the growth of cucumber seedlings under salt stress, improved photosynthetic efficiency, and facilitated sugar transformation and transport via glucose metabolism. Additionally, Pseudomonas monteilii SX001 reduced the reactive oxygen content and increased antioxidant enzyme activity. It also increased the activity of substrate enzymes and decreased the diversity of rhizosphere soil microorganisms but also increased the abundance of Asticcacaulis, Acinetobacter, Brevundimonas, Pseudomonas, and Enterobacter. These findings demonstrate that Pseudomonas monteilii SX001 is a promising bioinoculant for alleviating salt stress in cucumber production and improving soil health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The human lip vermilion, also known as the red lip, is important to the quality of life and has long attracted the attention of cosmetic researchers. However, there is limited existing literature on the physiological characteristics and age‐related alterations in the human vermilion. Objective: We aim to provide an overview of the physiological characteristics and age‐related alterations in the human vermilion. Methods: This article is a result of previous research. We conducted a literature search using various academic databases such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed. Our findings provided a comprehensive understanding of the physiological characteristics and age‐related changes of the human lip vermilion. Results: The human lip vermilion has a unique structure and physiological characteristics, and during the aging process, a few changes may occur in the human lip vermilion. Conclusion: Understanding the human lip vermilion's physiological characteristics and age‐related changes can provide key information for the future innovation of lip vermilion care products. Further investigations are necessary to reach a consensus on the physiological characteristics and age‐related alterations in the human vermilion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agronomica Sinica is the property of Crop Science Society of China 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.)

Soil salinization has become one of the major problems that threaten the ecological environment. The aim of this study is to explore the mechanism of salt tolerance of hybrid walnuts (Juglans major × Juglans regia) under long-term salt stress through the dynamic changes of growth, physiological and biochemical characteristics, and anatomical structure. Our findings indicate that (1) salt stress inhibited seedling height and ground diameter increase, and (2) with increasing salt concentration, relative water content (RWC) decreased, and proline (Pro) and soluble sugar (SS) content increased. The Pro content reached a maximum of 549.64 μg/g on the 42nd day. The increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity (46.80–117.16%), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) activity, total flavonoid content (TFC), and total phenol content (TPC) under salt stress reduced the accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA). (3) Increasing salt concentration led to increases and subsequent decreases in the thickness of palisade tissues, spongy tissues, leaves, and leaf vascular bundle diameter. Upper and lower skin thickness, root periderm thickness, root diameter, root cortex thickness, and root vascular bundle diameter showed different patterns of change at varying stress concentrations and durations. Overall, the study concluded that salt stress enhanced the antireactive oxygen system, increased levels of osmotic regulators, and low salt concentrations promoted leaf and root anatomy, but that under long-term exposure to high salt levels, leaf anatomy was severely damaged. For the first time, this study combined the anatomical structure of the vegetative organ of hybrid walnut with physiology and biochemistry, which is of great significance for addressing the challenge of walnut salt stress and expanding the planting area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Bulletin of Botanical Research is the property of Bulletin of Botanical Research Editorial Department 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.)

Abstract Background Heat and drought stresses usually occur together in nature, and both are expected to increase in frequency and intensity as a result of climate change. The synergistic impacts of these compound climate extremes on potatoes are far from the effects of individual stresses. However, the dynamics of the effects of combined heat and drought stresses on potato physiology and biochemistry have yet to be thoroughly assessed. To elucidate this point, we set up a pot experiment using ‘Atlantic’ potato seedlings as test material. A total of six treatments were set up: CK (normal growth conditions: 21 ℃, 0 PEG), A1B1 (31 ℃, 20% PEG), A1B2 (31 ℃, 10% PEG), A1B3 (31 ℃, 0 PEG), A2B1 (21 ℃, 20% PEG), and A2B2 (21 ℃, 10% PEG), and 15 physiological indices were determined with the stress time of 0, 6, 12 and 18 days. Results After 18 days of stress, the phenotype of potato seedlings was significantly different. Compared with CK, the thickness of potato leaves and palisade tissue increased under heat and drought stress, and the combined stress reduced the photosynthetic efficiency of potato leaves. In all treatments except CK, the chlorophyll content decreased significantly, the antioxidant enzyme activity increased first and then decreased, and the relative conductivity and malondialdehyde content increased significantly. The heat and combined treatment made the content of the osmotic regulator first increase and then decrease, while the treatment of 21 ℃ had no significant change. According to the correlation, principal component and interaction analysis, both heat and drought treatment had significant effects on each index, and the longer the stress time, the greater the effect, and the effect of combined stress was greater than that of single stress. However, after 6 days of stress, the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the content of transparent regulatory substances increased. Conclusions In conclusion, potato can cope with heat, drought and combined stress by adjusting leaf tissue structure, antioxidant enzyme activity and osmotic regulatory substances in a short time. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Background We aimed to gain insight into the response mechanism of alfalfa (Medicago sativa) to drought stress by recognizing and analyzing drought-responsive genes in the roots of different root types of alfalfa. The rhizomatous-rooted M. sativa cv.‘Qingshui’ (QS), tap-rooted M. sativa cv.‘Longdong’ (LD), and creeping-rooted M. varia cv. ‘Gongnong No. 4’ (GN) were used to analyze the transcriptome information and physiological characteristics of the root systems of the cultivars under simulated drought stress using PEG-6000. Results It was found that aridity caused a significant increase in the content of osmotic stress substances and antioxidant enzyme activity. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in QS was lower than that in LD and GN under moisture stress, indicating a stronger accumulation capacity of osmotic regulatory substances. Based on sequencing results, 14,475, 9336, and 9243 upregulated DEGs from QS, LD, and GN were annotated into 26, 29, and 28 transcription factor families, respectively. QS showed more DEGs than LD and GN. KEGG enrichment analysis identified that DEGs were significantly enriched in metabolic pathways such as amino acid biosynthesis, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, plant hormone signaling transduction, and MAPK pathways. This suggests a strong correlation between these pathways and drought stress. The results also show that genes associated with ABA hormone signaling (MS. gene93372, MS. gene072046, and MS. gene012975) are crucial for plant’s adaptation to drought stress. Conclusions These genes, such as serine/threonine protein kinases and abscisic acid receptors, play a crucial role in plant hormone signaling and MAPK pathways. They could serve as potential candidate genes for drought resistance research in alfalfa, providing a molecular foundation for studying drought resistance. Graphical Abstract

This study investigated the effect of carvacrol stress on the physiological characteristics and transcriptome of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, a common spoilage yeast in fruit and vegetable products. The results showed that the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of carvacrol on S. cerevisiae was 160 mg/mL. With the increase in temperature (20–40 ℃), the inhibitory effect of carvacrol (160 mg/mL) on yeast growth gradually increased. Environmental pH (3–4.5) had no significant impact on the inhibitory effect of carvacrol. However, the addition of fructose (20–80 g/L) significantly reduced the antifungal activity. Carvacrol treatment damaged the structure of the cell envelope of S. cerevisiae, increased the plasma membrane permeability and caused plasma membrane depolarization, resulting in leakage of intracellular substances, a decrease in mitochondrial membrane potential, an imbalance in intracellular Ca2＋ homeostasis, and a decrease in intracellular ATP content. The transcriptomic analysis revealed that carvacrol stress inhibited the biosynthesis of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes, ATP synthase and mitochondrial ribosome (MR) proteins, which could block electron transport along the respiratory chain and interfere with life activities related to MR.

Pinus yunnanensis is an important component of China's economic development and forest ecosystems. The growth of P. yunnanensis seedlings experienced a slow growth phase, which led to a long seedling cultivation period. However, asexual reproduction can ensure the stable inheritance of the superior traits of the mother tree and also shorten the breeding cycle. The quantity and quality of branching significantly impact the cutting reproduction of P. yunnanensis, and a shaded environment affects lateral branching growth, development, and photosynthesis. Nonetheless, the physiological characteristics and the level of the transcriptome that underlie the growth of lateral branches of P. yunnanensis under shade conditions are still unclear. In our experiment, we subjected annual P. yunnanensis seedlings to varying shade intensities (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%) and studied the effects of shading on growth, physiological and biochemical changes, and gene expression in branching. Results from this study show that shading reduces biomass production by inhibiting the branching ability of P. yunnanensis seedlings. Due to the regulatory and protective roles of osmotically active substances against environmental stress, the contents of soluble sugars, soluble proteins, photosynthetic pigments, and enzyme activities exhibit varying responses to different shading treatments. Under shading treatment, the contents of phytohormones were altered. Additionally, genes associated with phytohormone signaling and photosynthetic pathways exhibited differential expression. This study established a theoretical foundation for shading regulation of P. yunnanensis lateral branch growth and provides scientific evidence for the management of cutting orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing soil contamination with nickel (Ni) and copper (Cu) is a growing environmental concern, adversely affecting ecosystems and the survival of both plants and animals. This study investigated the morphological and physiological responses of Euphorbia marginata Pursh seedlings to varying concentrations of Ni and Cu over a 45-day period. The findings revealed that low concentrations of Ni and Cu enhanced morphological indexes, root indexes, biomass, and photosynthetic pigment content of E. marginata, while high concentrations inhibited these parameters. Compared to the control, Ni and Cu stresses induced membrane peroxidation, increased cell membrane permeability, and inhibited the synthesis of soluble proteins and proline in the leaves. The seedlings demonstrated an ability to mitigate Ni and Cu toxicity by increasing soluble sugar content and enhancing the activities of peroxidase (POD), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Notably, E. marginata exhibited a higher capacity for Cu2+ enrichment and translocation compared to Ni2+. Combined Ni and Cu treatments reduced the maximum enrichment and translocation levels of both metals in E. marginata. This study highlights the superior tolerance of E. marginata to Ni and Cu stresses and elucidates the mechanisms underlying its response, providing a theoretical basis for the use of landscape plants in the remediation of heavy-metal-contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sufficient soil moisture is required to ensure the successful transplantation of sweet potato seedlings. Thus, reasonable water management is essential for achieving high quality and yield in sweet potato production. We conducted field experiments in northern China, planted on 18 May and harvested on 18 October 2021, at the Nancun Experimental Base of Qingdao Agricultural University. Three water management treatments were tested for sweet potato seedlings after transplanting: hole irrigation (W1), optimized drip irrigation (W2), and traditional drip irrigation (W3). The variation characteristics of soil volumetric water content, soil temperature, and soil CO2 concentration in the root zone were monitored in situ for 0–50 days. The agronomy, root morphology, photosynthetic parameters, 13C accumulation, yield, and yield components of sweet potato were determined. The results showed that soil VWC was maintained at 22–25% and 27–32% in the hole irrigation and combined drip irrigation treatments, respectively, from 0 to 30 days after transplanting. However, there was no significant difference between the traditional (W3) and optimized (W2) drip irrigation systems. From 30 to 50 days after transplanting, the VWC decreased significantly in all treatments, with significant differences among all treatments. Soil CO2 concentrations were positively correlated with VWC from 0 to 30 days after transplanting but gradually increased from 30 to 50 days, with significant differences among treatments. Soil temperature varied with fluctuations in air temperature, with no significant differences among treatments. Sweet potato survival rates were significantly lower in the hole irrigation treatments than in the drip irrigation treatments, with no significant difference between W2 and W3. The aboveground biomass, photosynthetic parameters, and leaf area index were significantly higher under drip irrigation than under hole irrigation, and values were higher in W3 than in W2. However, the total root length, root volume, and 13C partitioning rate were higher in W2 than in W3. These findings suggest that excessive drip irrigation can lead to an imbalance in sweet potato reservoir sources. Compared with W1, the W2 and W3 treatments exhibited significant yield increases of 42.98% and 36.49%, respectively. The W2 treatment had the lowest sweet potato deformity rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi (SBG) is a Chinese medicine. This paper studies the combined effect of initial soil water content and progressive drought on physiological traits and quality of SBG. [Method] The pot experiment was conducted in a mobile water shelter. The initial soil water content in the pots were controlled at 40%, 60% and 80% of the field capacity (FC) to represent severe, moderate, and mild drought, respectively. In each treatment, we measured the biomass, photosynthetic characteristics, osmotic substances, activities of antioxidant enzymes and active ingredients of the plants. [Result] ① No significant difference in biomass accumulation was found between the treatments. ② During the stress period, baicalin content was significantly higher in the 80%FC treatment, baicalein content was significantly higher in the 40%FC treatment and the baicalin content decreased with initial soil water treatment in the order of 40%FC>60%FC>80%FC. When the soil water content was 40%FC and 60%FC, the baicalin content was 17.3% and 11.3% higher than that when soil water content was 80%FC. Change in soil water contents did not have a significant impact on baicalein content. ③ Net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance and intercellular carbon dioxide concentration all decreased as the plants grew, regardless of the soil water treatments. 8-10 d after the onset of water stress, the net photosynthetic rate did not show significant differences between the 60%FC and 80%FC treatments. ④ Under water stress, the content of malondialdehyde and proline in all treatments increased as the plants grew. The proline content was the highest in the 80%FC treatment, reaching 121.66 µg/g. ⑤ The activities of POD and CAT responded to water stress similarly, both increasing gradually as water stress persisted. The impact of soil water on activity of SOD was ranked in the order of 40%FC>60%FC>80%FC. ⑥ The active ingredients were higher in the 40%FC and 60%FC treatments. [Conclusion] Severe progressive drought with the soil water content kept at 40%FC reduced photosynthesis and increased baicalein content, osmolytes and activity of antioxidant enzymes. Mild and severe droughts by keeping the soil water content at 40%FC and 60%FC can improve accumulation of active ingredients in SBG. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology (1008-0864) is the property of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology 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.)

The gross composition of milk may affect the textural, compositional and microbiological properties of yoghurt. Sahiwal, Holstein Friesian milk procured from Dairy Animal Training and Research Center, B-block University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pattoki and Nili Ravi buffalo milk procured from Nili Ravi buffalo Research Institute (BRI), Pattoki. All other ingredients purchased from Sigma Aldrich Germany through local suppliers. Milk was standardized to 15% total solids with 3.5% fat. Skim Milk Powder (SMP) was used for the standardization of the yogurt. Milk was pasteurized at 82oC for 5 minutes and cool down to 43℃ and at this temperature starter culture was added. Yogurt batch incubated at 43℃ for 3 to 3.5 h. During this period pH was monitored regularly and as the pH drops to 4.6, the batch was shifted to blast chilling at 1-2℃ and then stored at 4℃. Sensory evaluation of all yogurt samples was carried out on a 9-point hedonic scale. All the tests were carried out on day 0, 7, 14 and 21. The collected data was investigated through ANOVA technique under complete randomized design (CRD) using SAS 9.1 software. The results showed that yoghurt made from Nili Ravi buffalo milk (To) showed a significant (p= 0.5) overall acceptability as compared to other treatments. Yoghurt made from Nili Ravi buffalo milk (To) were followed by T3, T4, T1 and T5 respectively. The Nili Ravi buffalo milk showed higher acceptability to the consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exogenous selenium application could effectively improve the selenium absorption of crops affected by different climatic conditions due to changes in the planting environment and planting conditions. We planted maize at planting densities of 67,500 plants ha−1 (D1) and 75,000 plants ha−1 (D2). Five selenium fertilizer gradients of 0 mg m−2 (Se0), 7.5 mg m−2 (Se1), 15.0 mg m−2 (Se2), 22.5 mg m−2 (Se3), and 30.0 mg m−2 (Se4) were applied to investigate the response of the plants to selenium fertilizer application in terms of the gradient selenium absorption and substance accumulation. With the increase in the amount of selenium fertilizer applied, more of the selenium fertilizer will be absorbed and transported from the leaves to the grains, and the selenium content of the grains will gradually increase and exceed the selenium content of leaves. Under the D2 density in 2022, the selenium content of the grains under Se1, Se2, Se3, and Se4 treatments increased by 65.67%, 72.71%, and 250.53%, respectively, compared with that of Se0. A total of 260.55% of the plants showed a gradient of grain > leaf > cob > stalk from the Se2 treatment, and the overall selenium content of the plants increased first and then decreased. Under the D1 density, compared with the Se0, the dry matter mass of the Se1, Se2, Se3, and Se4 treatments significantly improved by 5.84%, 1.49%, and 14.26% in 2021, and significantly improved by 4.84%, 3.50%, and 2.85% in 2022. The 1000-grain weight under Se2, Se3, and Se4 treatments improved by 8.57%, 9.06%, and 15.56% compared to that under the Se0 treatment, and the yield per ha under the Se2, Se3, and Se4 treatments was 18.58%, 9.09%, and 21.42% higher than that under Se0 treatment, respectively. In addition, a reasonable combination of selenium application rate and density could improve the chlorophyll content and stem growth of dryland maize. This lays a foundation for the efficient application of selenium fertilizer and provides an important reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To address residual plastic film in fields in which mulched drip irrigation technology is applied, a sprayable degradable film (consisting of 1–5% clay, 5–20% humic acid, 0.5–5% crosslinker, and 0.5–5% auxiliary and water) can be used as a superior alternative to the plastic film applied in drip-irrigated fields. A field experiment was conducted in Xinjiang, Northwest China, to test the impacts of five different mulching treatments (SF1, sprayable degradable film applied at 1900 kg ha−1; SF2, sprayable degradable film applied at 1900 kg ha−1; SF3, sprayable degradable film applied at 2500 kg ha−1; PF, plastic film; and NF, no film mulching) on cotton growth and development, yield, and water use efficiency. The results showed that, compared to the NF treatment, sprayable degradable film mulching (SF1, SF2, and SF3) positively impacted the soil hydrothermal environment, promoted root growth, significantly increased plant height and leaf area, and enhanced physiological characteristics, which, in turn, increased yield and water use efficiency by 11.79–15.00% and 21.88–30.21%, respectively. The maximum yield and water use efficiency were observed in the PF treatment, amounting to 5345 kg ha−1 and 1.28 kg m−3, respectively, and they had no significant differences from those in the SF3 treatment. In general, applying moderate amounts of sprayable degradable film at a rate of 2500 kg ha−1 represents an effective agronomic strategy for managing residual film contamination while maintaining stable cotton yields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potted Ziziphus acidojujuba Mill. seedlings were treated with normal (control) and waterlogging, to investigate the effects of waterlogging stress on physiological characteristics of jujube seedlings. The differences of physiological index of leaves and roots of jujube seedlings during growth between the groups of waterlogging and control were compared and analyzed. The results showed that compared with the control, the contents of chlorophyll and soluble protein in leaves at middle and late stages were significantly reduced by waterlogging stress, and the decreases were 22. 82% and 32. 88%, respectively, on the 12th day of treatment, while the carotenoid content had no significant effect. The relative conductivity and H2O2 content of leaves treated with waterlogging were increased by 3. 16 percentage point and 18. 89% at 3th day, respectively, in comparison with control. The contents of malondialdehyde and proline of leaves treated with waterlogging were increased by 22. 74% and 88. 99%, respectively, at the 9th day, compared with control. The CAT and POD activities of jujube seedlings after waterlogging were significantly decreased, whereas SOD activity was increased at 12th day. The activity and plasma membrane permeability of roots under waterlogging stress were significantly decreased, and the decreases were 37. 18% and 24. 81 percentage point at the 9th day, compared with the control. In conclusion, jujube seedlings showed good adaptability to waterlogging stress by adjusting physiological metabolism of leaves and roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• CCBS, HEPES, and PBS were investigated for improving the performance of anammox sludge. • Anammox activity and reactor start-up speed were improved with CO 2 /NaHCO 3 buffer. • Dominant anammox bacteria was Candidatus Kuenenia with the relative abundance of 71.8%. • Reactors could be started and enriched with anammox bacteria within microaerobic conditions. Anammox bacteria grow slowly and can be affected by large pH fluctuations. Using suitable buffers could make the start-up of anammox reactors easy and rapid. In this study, the effects of three kinds of buffers on the nitrogen removal and growth characteristics of anammox sludge were investigated. Reactors with CO 2 /NaHCO 3 buffer solution (CCBS) performed the best in nitrogen removal, while 4-(2-hydroxyerhyl)piperazine-1-ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES) and phosphate buffer solution (PBS) inhibited the anammox activity. Reactors with 50 mmol/L CCBS could start up in 20 days, showing the specific anammox activity and anammox activity of 1.01±0.10 gN/(gVSS·day) and 0.83±0.06 kgN/(m3·day), respectively. Candidatus Kuenenia was the dominant anammox bacteria, with a relative abundance of 71.8%. Notably, anammox reactors could also start quickly by using 50 mmol/L CCBS under non-strict anaerobic conditions. These findings are meaningful for the quick start-up of engineered anammox reactors and prompt enrichment of anammox bacteria. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought and salt stress are important limiting factors that affect crop growth and yield. As a newly recognized plant hormone, melatonin can participate in the regulation of plant stress tolerance and enhance the tolerance of plants to adversity. In this study, the effects of melatonin (150 µmol·L−1) on agronomic traits, osmotic adjustment substances, antioxidant enzyme activities, and reactive oxygen species content in C. esculentus under different salt (0 and 200 mmol·L−1 NaCl), drought (70% field capacity, 50% field capacity), and salt–drought (200 mmol·L−1 NaCl + 50% field capacity) stress conditions were determined using a pot experiment. Spraying with 150 µmol·L−1 of melatonin effectively improved the plant height, number of blades, biomass, and root growth of C. esculentus seedlings under salt, drought, and combined stress. In addition, this treatment also increased the relative water content, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase activities, and soluble sugar content of the blades and decreased the relative electroconductivity conductivity and proline, malondialdehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and superoxide anion contents. A comprehensive analysis showed that spraying the plants with exogenous melatonin could increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the accumulation of osmotic adjustment substances in C. esculentus blades under salt and drought stress, effectively remove excessive reactive oxygen species, alleviate oxidative damage, and enhance the ability of C. esculentus to resist salt and drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department 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.)

Uneven rainfall, in the context of global warming, can cause soil moisture fluctuations (SMFs) that harm crop growth, and it is not yet known whether nitrogen (N) can mitigate the harm caused by a strong SMF. This paper uses okra as a test subject and sets three SMFs of 45–55% FC (W1), 35–65% FC (W2), and 25–75% FC (W3) and three N applications of 0 kg hm−2 (N0), 110 kg hm−2 (N1), and 330 kg hm−2 (N2) to investigate the effects of SMF and N application on the physiological and biochemical aspects of okra. The results demonstrated that okra exhibited the highest values in stem diameter, number of leaves, photosynthesis characteristics, antioxidant enzyme activity, and yield under the N1 treatment. The average yield in the N1 treatment was 149.8 g, significantly surpassing the average yields of the N0 (129.8 g) and N3 (84.0 g) treatments. Stomatal density, antioxidant enzyme activity, malondialdehyde content, and proline content in okra leaves were highest in the W3 treatment, indicating that plants experienced stress in the W3 treatment. However, the agronomic traits and yields of okra in the N1 treatment were higher than those in the N0 and N1 treatments, indicating that the crop damage caused by W3 could be mitigated by an appropriate amount of N application. The N1W1 treatment emerged as the most suitable combination for okra growth in this study, exhibiting the highest stem diameter, leaf count, photosynthetic characteristics, and yield (201.3 g). Notably, this yield was 67.8% higher than the lowest treatment (N2W3), signifying a significant improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences is the property of Editorial Board of Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences 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.)

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Oil Crop Sciences is the property of Oil Crops Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences 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.)

Soil contamination with chromium (Cr) is posing a severe threat to global food security and safety. Conventional strategies being used to combat Cr toxicity are costly, destructive and environmentally problematic. The present study aimed to evaluate silicon (Si) nutrition for ameliorating Cr toxicity in maize (Zea mays L). Experimental plan comprised of four Cr levels, i.e. control (Cr0), 5 mg kg−1 (Cr5), 10 mg kg−1 (Cr10) and 25 mg kg−1 (Cr25), and three Si levels including control (Si0), 15 mg kg−1 (Si15) and 30 mg kg−1 (Si30) with three replications. Maize cultivar Hycorn-339 was used. Each pot was filled with 25 kg soil. Harvesting was done 30, 60 and 120 days after sowing. Cr contamination significantly (p ≤ 0.05) increased Cr concentration in plant tissues with a decrease in plant growth, yield and physiological characteristics, highest reduction with Cr25. The said treatment decreased photosynthetic rate (Pn) by 42%, transpiration rate (Tr) 35%, stomatal conductance (Gs) 31%, relative water content (RWC) 32% and membrane stability index (MSI) 30% compared with Cr0. Si nutrition alleviated the deleterious effects of Cr on maize growth and yield by decreasing its absorption while increasing retention in roots and subsequently restricting its translocation from roots to aerial plant parts. Si30 improved Pn by 16%, Tr 19%, Gs 14%, RWC 12%, MSI 15% and grain yield 19% at Cr25 compared to Cr25 without Si. It was concluded that Si could ameliorate Cr toxicity in maize by restricting its absorption and translocation from roots to aerial plant tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to compare the regulatory effects of different oligosaccharides on the growth and yield of greenhouse cucumber, the chitosan oligosaccharide(GT) and mixed-oligosaccharide(KP) were selected as the preparation treatments, while the conventional control(CG) and clear water control(CK) were compared as controls. The relative leaf chlorophyll content(SPAD), chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, leaf cell structure, root morphologies and root vigor(RV), antioxidant enzyme activity and endogenous hormone contents were all tested in this study. The results showed that KP treatment could effectively promote the growth and development of cucumber leaves and roots. Compared with the other treatments, the SPAD, maximum photochemical quantum yield(Fv/Fm), photochemical quenching coefficient(qP), non-photochemical quenching coefficient(NPQ) and RV of the KP treatment were all significantly increased by 4.15%-15.63%, 6.49%-20.03%, 33.33%-152.63%, 10.37%-71.62% and 8.51%-171.43%. Meanwhile, the superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT) activities were significantly increased by 6.75%-91.49%, 3.85%-97.62% and 3.00%-28.15%; the IAA content of cucumber leaves were enhanced larger than 5.43% in the late growth stage, and the abscisic acid (ABA) content decreased by 4.35%-18.63%. The yield and soluble sugar content of the KP treatment were increased by 13.72% and 11.52%, respectively. For the GT treatment, unstable effects were obtained, including the root and crown growth, endogenous hormones and antioxidant enzyme activity. The photosynthetic physiological characteristics of leaves, such as SPAD, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and leaf ultrastructure, and RV in the fruit set stage were improved slightly. Compared with GT, KP showed a clear advantage in promoting coordinated root and crown growth, regulating antioxidant enzyme activity, and balancing the cucumber's endogenous hormones. The correlation analysis results showed that the yield of cucumber was significantly positively correlated with NPQ, RV, SOD and POD activity(P<0.01), and positively correlated with Fv/Fm(P<0.05). While SOD and POD were negatively correlated with ABA content(P<0.05). In conclusion, exogenous mixed-oligosaccharides mainly promoted the coordinated growth of root and shoot, especially maintained the high photosynthesis efficiency, root vitality and the stability of leaf functional structure in the late growth period, regulated the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the balance between growth promoting hormone and growth inhibiting hormone, which lead to the stability of cell membrane function in the late growth period, delay natural aging of leaves, and the improvement of yield and quality of cucumber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the sixth largest plant hormone, brassinolide(EBR) has the effect of alleviating plant stress resistance. To investigate the alleviating effect of EBR on plant physiological characteristics under Pb stress, in this experiment, Arachis hypogaea L. was used as materials and soil pot cultivation method was applied to measure the germination and morphological indicators of Arachis hypogaea L. seeds under different mass concentrations of Pb stress. The optimal mass concentration of Pb stress was selected, and the effects of exogenous application of(0, 0.01, 0.05, 0.10, 0.50, and 1.00 mg/L) EBR at this mass concentration on Arachis hypogaea L. seed germination, seedling morphological indicators, and physiological indicators were studied. The results showed that under single Pb(NO3)2 stress, the germination potential, germination rate, embryonic root length, plant height, and root length of Arachis hypogaea L. were significantly reduced when the mass concentration was greater than 300 mg/L. Compared with the single 300 mg/L of Pb(NO3)2 stress treatment, the exogenous addition of 0.1 mg/L of EBR increased the germination potential, germination rate, embryonic root length, plant height, and root length of Arachis hypogaea L. by 28.95%, 11.76%, 27.96%, 6.18%, and 15.96%, respectively. The total chlorophyll increased by 67.34%, and the content of soluble protein and soluble sugar increased by 19.48% and 13.33%, respectively. The activity of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD) increased by 51.98% and 58.62%, while the content of malondialdehyde and free proline decreased by 1.67% and 20.73%, respectively. The accumulation of superoxide anion free radicals(O2·- ) decreased, indicating that exogenous EBR at 0.1mg/L had an alleviating effect on Arachis hypogaea L. seedlings under Pb stress, could reduce the damage of Pb stress to Arachis hypogaea L. seedlings and improve their stress resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board 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.)

Shallot contains secondary metabolites and antioxidants that can be used as raw materials for traditional medicine. However, shallot has the disadvantage of being intolerant to drought. Drought can affect the quality of the compounds in shallot at a certain level. Therefore, this study investigates the protective role of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) inoculation in conferring drought tolerance to shallot during different growth stages. Two factors and three replications were considered in this study. The first factor was the timing of drought stress, comprising four treatments (vegetative phase, bulb initiation, bulb development, and maturation), with one treatment as a control without drought stress. The second factor was the type of bacteria, consisting of two treatments (Bacillus subtilis Pb03 and Pseudomonas fluorescens Pb04), with one treatment as a control without PGPR inoculation. The research results indicate that oxidative stress triggered by drought stress is evidenced by an increase in hydrogen peroxide production, lipid peroxidation, and secondary metabolites at almost all stages of growth. Treatment Bacillus subtilis Pb03 inoculation was more effective than Pseudomonas fluorescens Pb04 in mitigating drought stress in shallots. Bacillus subtilis Pb03 inoculation inhibited oxidative stress by enhancing the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, this application suppressed the production of secondary metabolites, thereby maintaining osmotic balance in the plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract [Objective] This study aims to investigate the impact of Streptomyces pactum Act12 broth on growth and physiological characteristics of Medicago sativa seedlings under petroleum stress. [Methods] The effects of different concentrations (0, 1%, 10%, and 100%) of Act12 broth under a petroleum stress level of 3% (W/W ) were examined by determining seedling growth, root morphology, photosynthetic characteristics, osmoregulatory substance content, and antioxidant capacity in M . sativa. [Results] The 3% petroleum significantly hindered photosynthesis and biomass accumulation of M . sativa seedlings, compared to the control group (CK). Moreover, it resulted in elevation in malondialdehyde level, decrease in soluble sugar and soluble protein content, as well as alteration in the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD). Compared to the absence of Act12 broth, solutions with low and medium concentrations (1% and 10%) effectively mitigated the toxic effects of petroleum, with 10% Act12 broth exhibiting the most significant effect. The seedlings treated with Act12 broth exhibited significant enhancements in plant height, above-ground dry mass, underground dry mass, stem tolerance index, root tolerance index, total root length, root surface area, root volume, and number of root tips. Additionally, the level of MDA was decreased by 42.49% and 56.45%, soluble sugar was increased by 79.25% and 89.83%, while soluble protein was increased by 167.63% and 256.15% in the above-ground and underground parts, respectively. Moreover, SOD and POD activity were increased by 35.81% and 57.33%, respectively. [Conclusion] The fermented liquid with low/medium concentration effectively modulates antioxidant enzyme activity and osmotic regulation ability of seedlings, resulting in reduced MDA content, enhanced photosynthesis ability, increased biomass, and eventually alleviates the inhibition effects of petroleum stress on seedling growth.

Rice is the major food crop and a significant source of foreign exchange of Pakistan. In order to meet food demands, high quality varieties of rice, including early and late maturing varieties, as well as hybrid and conventional rice varieties must be developed with the adoptability and suitability of different hybrid rice varieties in local soil. The hybrid varieties revealed supremacy regarding the growth characters over the inbred rice. The study results pretended that the highest plant height was recorded in hybrid variety ennpova-55 (106.5 cm) while inbred IRRI-9 produced the shortest height (65.5 cm) at reproduction stage. Whereas highest number of tillers was observed in Winner-55, Tahafuz-121, and Ashoka (24 m-2) and have highest seedling number and lowest number of tillers were recorded in Komal 21 m-2. Highest plant dry matter per hill was found in Ennova-55 (95.9/cm and lowest observed in IRRI-9 (69.8 cm) as compared to all other rice verities studied in this study. In chlorophyll studies, highest chlorophyll parameter was observed in Ennova-08 and Pukhraj and lowest was observed only in inbred varieties. Shoot and root length showed significant variation among the different rice varieties. The tallest shoot was found in Ennova-55 (82.3 cm) which was statistically identical with Thafuz-121 (78.1 cm), while shortest was found in IRRI-9 (54.1 cm) at harvest. However, the maximum Leaf area index was recorded from Komal (4.50) at the heading stage followed by Ennova-55 (4.20), but significantly lower in Shakar (2.70). Compared with inbred, hybrid rice produced a higher yield with BCR of 12.03. However, further research studies are obligatory to perform for adoptability of hybrid rice locally for sustainable rice production.

The purpose of this experiment was to clarify the effects of different salt concentrations on the colony morphology of endophytic fungi in Hordeum bogdanii. Six strains of endophytic fungi with different morphology were screened from Hordeum bogdanii from different regions of Xinjiang, and their growth on PDA medium with different salt concentrations of sodium chloride and sodium sulfate was studied. The results showed that the tested strains could grow in the medium with eight concentrations of sodium chloride (0, 100, 200, 400, 600, 800, 900, 1 000 mmol/L) and five concentrations of sodium sulfate (0, 100, 200, 400, 600 mmol/L). Under the same salt concentration treatment, the salt tolerance of the strain in sodium chloride medium was higher than that in sodium sulfate medium. The endophytic fungus strain of strain A was extremely intolerant in sodium sulfate salt, and its hyphae were browned. Strain F had the worst growth and strain D had the best growth. Under 100 mmol/L sodium chloride treatment, the diameter of endophytic fungi colony of strain B was larger than that of the control group without salt. The study indicates that the results are helpful to understand systematically the salt tolerance of endophytic fungi in Hordeum bogdanii, and provide a reference for breeding plants for soil desertification control in saline-alkali areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Young Intellectuals / Genç Mütefekkirler Dergisi is the property of Journal of Young Intellectuals 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.)

As a multifunctional flower with both ornamental and nutritional value, the chrysanthemum has been cherished worldwide. To explore the effects on growth, yield, and quality of Chrysanthemum morifolium x 'Yanshan Jinhuang' under different agroforestry intercropping models, the growth status, photosynthesis, antioxidant leaf substances, and nutrient content of chrysanthemum flowers under nine Acer buergerianum - Chrysanthemum morifolium x 'Yanshan Jinhuang' intercropping modes, and three chrysanthemum monoculture modes with different planting densities were investigated. The results revealed that the canopy closure of Acer buergerianum had significant impacts on the growth of chrysanthemum flowers, and the accumulation of nutrients in major petals. The stomatal conductance and superoxide dismutase activities of leaves were the primary factors that affected the accumulation of secondary metabolites in petals. When the canopy closure ranged from 0.2-0.39 and the chrysanthemum planting density was 40 x 40 cm, the flower yield of chrysanthemum reached 10137 kg·ha-1. This was 34.29% - 38.14% higher than under a single planting mode and the nutrient content was also higher. This study showed that moderate shading improved the flower yield and quality of chrysanthemums in eastern China. Thus, we recommend that growing edible chrysanthemums under forests with proper shade can reduce the investments required for cultivation facilities, while obtaining good quality high-yielding chrysanthemum products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metal (HM) contamination poses a serious threat to safe crop production and human health, and different maize inbred lines respond differently to cadmium (Cd) stress. However, the morphological and physiological characteristics of maize inbred lines seedlings are not clear under Cd stress. In this study, we analyzed the agronomic traits and physiological and biochemical indices of inbred maize seedlings under Cd stress in the seedling stage using the inbred lines Kui3, CML118, Mo17, B73, and B77 as the materials. These five inbred maizes were treated with five different concentrations of Cd (0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 mg L−1, respectively) were applied and the indices of the maize seedlings determined on day 15. The aboveground and belowground biomass of five maize inbred lines seedlings showed a decreasing trend under Cd stress. Leaf relative water content and SPAD values also decreased, but the overall decrease in relative water content was small, and the differences were not significant. Surprisingly, Cd stress affected the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), leading to enhanced mem-brane lipid peroxidation. The cadmium content varied greatly between varieties under Cd stress, but all of them had lower Cd content above ground than below ground, and the varieties with the highest and lowest transfer coefficients were Mo17 (0.33–0.83) and B73 (0.06–0.44), respectively. Kui3 had the greatest difference in soluble protein content under Cd stress, which showed a de-creasing trend, and the soluble sugar content was significantly decreased in general compared to that of CK. The soluble sugar content was higher than CK under Cd treatment, and the proline content of the maize seedlings of all of the inbred lines showed an increasing trend compared to CK. Overall, there were significant genotypic differences in the Cd stress response to Cd toxicity in the maize inbred lines seedlings, and, in general, this study helps us to understand the mechanism of maize inbred lines seedlings response to Cd stress. It provides a theoretical basis for the se-lection and breeding of varieties, and food safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to analyze the impact of mixing different tree species and Pinus massoniana on the physiological characteristics of Pinus massoniana seedlings, and reveal the physiological mechanism of mixing Pinus massoniana with different tree species, indoor simulation experiments were conducted to select 6 local tree species[Robinia pseudoacacia L., Alnus cremastogyne Burk., Liquidambar formosana Hance, Cinnamomum camphora ( Linn) Presl, Schima superba Gardn. et Champ., Cunninghamia lanceolata ( Lamb. ) Hook. ]and Pinus massoniana for mixed planting in a 1∶ 1 ratio, denoted as CH-M, QM-M, FX-M, XZ-M, MH-M, SM-M, and Pinus massoniana separately planted as the control, denoted as M ( CK). The chlorophyll ( chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and total chlorophyll), antioxidant enzyme activity [ superoxide dismutase ( SOD), peroxidase (POD)], osmoregulation substances ( soluble protein and proline content ) changes in plant invertase activity [ nitrate reductase ( NR), acid phosphatase ( ACP )], and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were analyzed, and the short-term comprehensive physiological effects after mixing were also analyzed using Fuzzy comprehensive evaluation method. The results show that the chlorophyll content ( except CH-M), antioxidant enzyme activity ( SOD, POD) and soluble protein content of Pinus massoniana seedlings under different treatments are higher than in the control, and the effect of FX-M and MH-M treatments are obvious. The proline content in FX-M treatment is the highest, and that in SM-M and MH-M treatment is lower than in the control. The NR and ACP activities under MH-M treatment are higher than in the control. The MDA content in FX-M and QM-M treatments is significantly higher than in control and other treatments, and the MDA content in MH-M treatment is the lowest. Using Fuzzy membership function to comprehensively evaluate the physiological effects, it is concluded that the comprehensive physiological effects of Pinus massoniana seedlings under different treatments are MH-M > FX-M > QM-M > XZ-M > CH-M > SM-M > M(CK). The comprehensive physiological effect of Pinus massoniana mixed with other tree species is higher than in the control, and the comprehensive evaluation value of mixed needle and broadleaf is higher than that of mixed needle and leaf (SM-M). In terms of comprehensive physiological effects, the mixed effect of MH-M treatment is the best, the next is FX-M and QM-M treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auricularia cornea is an important edible mushroom crop in China but the occurrence of cobweb disease has cause significance economic loss in its production. The rate of disease occurrence is 16.65% all over the country. In the present study, a new pathogen Hypomyces cornea sp. nov. was found to cause the cobweb disease. In July 2021, three strains of fungal pathogen were isolated from infected fruiting bodies and identified as H. cornea based on morphological studies and molecular phylogenetic analysis of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of nuclear ribosomal DNA, mitochondrial large subunit (LSU) of rRNA and the partial translation elongation factor 1-alpha genes. The representative isolates of the pathogenic Hypomyces species used to perform pathogenicity test with spore suspension that caused similar symptoms as those observed in the cultivated field, and same pathogens could be re-isolated, which fulfill Koch's postulates. The typical biological characterization was examined of the serious pathogen to determine its favorable growth conditions, including suitable temperature, pH, carbon, nitrogen sources and light conditions. The findings revealed an optimum temperature of 25 °C, pH of 6, and soluble starch and peptone as the preferred carbon and nitrogen sources, respectively. The hyphal growth inhibition method was used for primary in vitro screening test of seven common fungicides, and the most suitable fungicide is Prochloraz manganese chloride complex, the EC 50 values of cobweb pathogen and mushrooms were 0.085 μg/mL and 2.452 μg/mL, respectively. The results of our research provide an evidence-based basis for the effective prevention and treatment of A. cornea cobweb disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrites are universally acknowledged natural toxic substances that frequently lead to poisoning in humans and animals. During fermentation, certain microorganisms utilize a portion of the nitrogen element and reduce nitrates to nitrites through specific metabolic pathways. In this study, a highly effective lactic acid bacterial strain, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum A50, was isolated and screened from alfalfa silage for its remarkable ability to degrade nitrites. L. plantarum A50 exhibits exceptional nitrite removal capacity, with a degradation rate of 99.06% within 24 h. Furthermore, L. plantarum A50 demonstrates normal growth under pH values ranging from 4 to 9 and salt concentrations of 5%, displaying excellent tolerance to acidity, alkalinity, and salinity. Additionally, it undergoes fermentation using various carbon sources. Within the first 6–12 h of culture, L. plantarum A50 primarily achieves nitrite degradation through non-acidic processes, resulting in a degradation rate of 82.67% by the 12th hour. Moreover, the metabolites produced by L. plantarum A50 exhibit a synergistic interaction with acidity, leading to a nitrite degradation rate of 98.48% within 24 h. Notably, both L. plantarum A50 and MRS broth were found to degrade nitrites. Consequently, a non-targeted metabolomic analysis using LC-MS was conducted to identify 342 significantly different metabolites between L. plantarum A50 and MRS broth. Among these, lipids and lipid-like molecules, organic acids and derivatives, organic oxygen compounds, and organoheterocyclic compounds emerged as the main constituents. Lipids and lipid-like molecules, derivatives of glucose and galactose, amino acids and their derivatives, as well as organoheterocyclic compounds, are likely to play a role in nitrite elimination. Through the enrichment analysis of differential metabolic pathways using KEGG, nine distinct pathways were identified. These pathways provide essential nutrients, maintain cellular structure and function, participate in substance transport, regulate metabolic activities, and enhance resistance against pathogenic microorganisms in L. plantarum A50. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Ecology & Rural Environment is the property of Journal of Ecology & Rural Environment Editorial Office 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.)

Copyright of Storage & Process is the property of Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences 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.)

In this paper, the effect of isosteviol on the physiological metabolism of Brassica napus seedlings under salt stress is explored. Brassica napus seeds (Qinyou 2) were used as materials, and the seeds were soaked in different concentrations of isosteviol under salt stress. The fresh weight, dry weight, osmotic substance, absorption and distribution of Na+, K+, Cl−, and the content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured, and these results were combined with the changes shown by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The results showed that isosteviol at an appropriate concentration could effectively increase the biomass and soluble protein content of Brassica napus seedlings and reduce the contents of proline, glycine betaine, and ROS in the seedlings. Isosteviol reduces the oxidative damage to Brassica napus seedlings caused by salt stress by regulating the production of osmotic substances and ROS. In addition, after seed soaking in isosteviol, the Na+ content in the shoots of the Brassica napus seedlings was always lower than that in the roots, while the opposite was true for the K+ content. This indicated that under salt stress the Na+ absorbed by the Brassica napus seedlings was mainly accumulated in the roots and that less Na+ was transported to the shoots, while more of the K+ absorbed by the Brassica napus seedlings was retained in the leaves. It is speculated that this may be an important mechanism for Brassica napus seedlings to relieve Na+ toxicity. The spectroscopy analysis showed that, compared with the control group (T1), salt stress increased the absorbance values of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, nucleic acids, etc., indicating structural damage to the plasma membrane and cell wall. The spectra of the isosteviol seed soaking treatment group were nearly the same as those of the control group (T1). The correlation analysis shows that under salt stress the Brassica napus seedling tissues could absorb large amounts of Na+ and Cl− to induce oxidative stress and inhibit the growth of the plants. After the seed soaking treatment, isosteviol could significantly reduce the absorption of Na+ by the seedling tissues, increase the K+ content, and reduce the salt stress damage to the plant seedlings. Therefore, under salt stress, seed soaking with isosteviol at an appropriate concentration (10−9~10−8 M) can increase the salt resistance of Brassica napus seedlings by regulating their physiological and metabolic functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taking “Jijiang No. 5” as the test material, three kinds of water-soluble fertilizers including high nitrogen type (T1, N-P-K= 30- 10-20), high potassium type (T2, N-P-K= 15-6-30) and high phosphorus type (T3, N-P-K= 10-30-20) were applied during the period from earthing to rhizome expansion to study the effects of different water-soluble fertilizers on the growth, photosynthetic physiological characteristics and yield of ginger. The results showed that T2 treatment had the highest stem diameter, branch number and leaf area, and had no significant difference in plant height compared with other treatments. Compared with conventional fertilization (CK), T2 treatment significantly improved the chlorophyll content, net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate of ginger leaves, the activities of sucrose synthease, glutamine synthetase and nitrate reductase in leaves of T2 treatment were improved, the fresh weight and yield of rhizome of T2 treatment were increased significantly. Compared with CK, T1 treatment significantly increased ginger plant height, significantly decreased stem diameter. The net photosynthetic rate of T1 treatment was significantly increased, and there had no significant difference in yield with CK. The growth indexes and photosynthetic physiological indexes of T3 treatment had no significant difference with CK, the yield in T3 treatment was significantly lower than T2 and T1 treatments, but no significant difference with CK. Therefore, it is recommended to apply high potassium watersoluble fertilizer (N-P-K= 15-6-30) during the period from earthing to rhizome expansion, which can effectively promote ginger growth, improve leaf chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiency and carbon and nitrogen metabolism related enzyme activities, and is conductive to ginger yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple growth and development can be adversely affected by saline-alkali stress, which has become a significant factor restricting the high yield of the apple industry. In recent years, nanomaterials have become a potential source for plant growth and development. Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs) play an important role in multiple plant development processes, including mitigating environmental stress. In this study, one-year-old apple rootstock B9 stem cuttings were used as research objects. Different concentrations of TiO2NPs were applied to the roots before saline-alkali treatment. Principal component analysis showed that 1 g kg-1 TiO2NPs treatment had the best effect in alleviating the stress for B9. It significantly reduced the damage to B9 under salt-alkali stress, increased the content of photosynthetic pigment, enhanced the performance of Photosystem II, and promoted photosynthesis. At the same time, the content of K+ was increased, and the ion toxicity was alleviated. In addition, TiO2NPs have also been shown to reduce B9 cell damage and lipid peroxidation, increase antioxidant enzyme activity, and regulate the accumulation of solutes. Overall, this study provides a theoretical basis for TiO2NPs to mitigate the adverse effects of plants under saline-alkali stress and provides useful insights for managing other plants affected by global salinity and alkalinity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]