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Salinity is a major abiotic stress that inhibits seed germination, plant growth, and consequently the productivity of many important crops such as barley. Expansins are a major group of cell wall-loosening proteins, which play important roles in plant growth and development, and in response to different environmental stresses. In this study, salinity tolerance and changes in the expression of expansin genes in barley were tested. The germination percentage of Yarmouk was 72.3% of the control after 48 hours of salt stress, and that of Rum was 27.4%. Reserve mobilization was 61.6% and 43.6% of the control in Yarmouk and Rum, respectively. The decrease in the total soluble sugars was 0.3, and 0.54 mg. ml−1. g−1 FW in Yarmouk and Rum, respectively. Yarmouk has a higher number of induced expansin genes under salt stress compared to Rum. This indicates a significant role for expansins in the improvement of salinity tolerance of barley. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four plum cultivars commonly grown in Romania, 'Angeleno', 'Anna Späth', 'Silvia' and 'Stanley', were analyzed with regard to several parameters, including water content, juice pH, phenolic compounds (total and some major classes), carotenoids, ascorbic acid and soluble sugars. Among the four studied cultivars, 'Silvia' ranked the highest in terms of total phenolic content (82,345 mg/kg DW), flavonoids (43,171 mg/kg) and anthocyanins (1991 mg/kg). Hydroxybenzoic acids were found to be an important phenolic component; up to 33,971 mg/kg was found in 'Angeleno'. The hydroxycinnamic acid content was highest in 'Stanley', and stilbenes were most prevalent in 'Anna Späth'. Tannins were found in significant amounts only in fruit peel and were only present in some of the cultivars. Carotenoids were mostly present in the epicarp, with the maximum amount identified in 'Anna Späth' (313 mg/kg). The main compounds were β-carotene (of which the highest amount was identified in 'Silvia'), lutein (with the highest amount found in 'Silvia') and lycopene (with the highest amount detected in 'Stanley'). 'Silvia' also contained the highest amounts of ascorbic acid (7895 mg/kg in pulp and 12,229 mg/kg in peel). The highest soluble sugar content was found in the pulp of 'Stanley' (142,120 mg/kg), while 'Anna Späth' contained the lowest amount of soluble sugar. 'Stanley' also had less acidic pulp juice. Among the four cultivars, 'Silvia' ranked the highest in most classes of bioactive compounds, including total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins, tannins (peel only), β-carotene, lutein and ascorbic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trifoliate orange (Citrus trifoliata (L.) Raf.) is a cold-hardy citrus species that contributes to citrus production by frequently serving as a rootstock. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying cold tolerance in citrus, particularly post-transcriptional regulation, remain largely unidentified. In this study, we constructed a transcriptome map of trifoliate orange subjected to cold stress by integrating full-length single-molecule sequencing and Illumina short-read sequencing. The hybrid sequencing approach yielded a more comprehensive set of full-length transcripts than was previously available from the reference genome. In particular, the high-quality transcripts enabled the detection of extensive alternative splicing (AS), with intron retention (IR) identified as the predominant AS event in trifoliate orange. Transcriptome analysis revealed that genes associated with starch and sucrose metabolism were significantly enriched among the cold-responsive genes. Consistent with these data, soluble sugar content was elevated by the cold treatments. Additionally, the expression of multiple genes encoding enzymes with antioxidant activity, including PODs and SODs, was induced, which plays a pivotal role in the mitigation of continuous ROS production. Furthermore, we observed that AS and transcriptional regulation modulate distinct pathways. We also found that the expression of genes encoding key transcription factors (TFs) was highly induced by cold stress and that some of the mRNAs encoding these key TFs were differentially spliced. This dataset provides comprehensive transcriptional and post-transcriptional profiles of the response to cold stress in trifoliate orange that may help to identify genes that contribute to cold tolerance in citrus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common centaury (Centaurium eryhtraea Rafn) is a medicinal plant species with vigorous morphogenic potential in vitro. The process of spontaneous shoot regeneration in a solid root culture is characteristic for this plant species. In this context, the aim of this work was to investigate the dynamic changes of endogenous phytohormones and carbohydrates content in root explants at different time points (0, 2, 4, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 60 days) during spontaneous centaury morphogenesis in vitro. Detailed analysis of cytokinins (CKs) showed that trans -zeatin (tZ) was the major bioactive CK at all time points. The corresponding riboside, t Z9R, was also determined in the majority of the identified transport forms, at all time-points. Further analysis of endogenous auxin revealed a significant increase in endogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) after 21 days, when a huge jump in the ratio of IAA/bioactive CKs was also observed. The maximum total soluble sugar content was measured after 14 days, while a significant decrease was determined after 21 days, when the first regenerated adventitious shoots appeared. This undoubtedly indicates an increased energy requirement prior to the actual regeneration of the shoots. The obtained results indicate that the period from day 14 to day 21 involves the most dramatic disturbances in endogenous bioactive CKs, IAA and carbohydrate balance, which are very important and valuable factors for the onset of shoot regeneration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: The expected concomitant increase in multiple stressors such as herbivory and drought may threaten peatland ecosystems. How Sphagnum, the ecological engineers of peatlands, responds to combined stressors remains largely unexplored. Here we aimed to clarify resource allocations in Sphagnum during concomitant herbivory and drought. Methods: S. magellanicum and S. fuscum were exposed to drought and herbivory together or separately in laboratory experiments and analyzed for growth (biomass production and net photosynthetic rate), defense (phenolics in leachates and phenolics in extraction) and nonstructural carbohydrates (soluble sugar and starch) in relation to untreated controls. Results: Herbivory and drought had significant interactive effects on Sphagnum growth and defense. In both species, drought without herbivory reduced the phenolics in leachate, but with herbivory increased phenolics, indicating a synergistic effect between herbivory and drought on Sphagnum defense. Both stressors significantly decreased biomass production, with the combined stress having a more negative effect. Interestingly, a growth–defense trade‐off was found in the drought treatment of both Sphagnum species, but disappeared in the wet treatment. Conversely, a trade‐off between soluble sugars and phenolics was found in the wet but not in the drought treatment, suggesting that soluble sugars may play a role in inducing the defense and hence mask the growth–defense trade‐off in peat mosses. Conclusions: Our results emphasize that predicting the impact of combined stressors on peat moss traits is complex and challenging. Future models should account for the effects of multiple environmental stressors to guide peatland conservation under climate warming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The main goal of this study was to investigate the effect of lead (Pb) at various concentrations, as an abiotic factor, and the cross-talk between Pb and pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris)) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), as a biotic factor, on the defence responses of pea seedlings (Pisum sativum L. cv. Cysterski). The analysis of growth parameters for pea seedlings demonstrated that Pb at a low concentration, i.e., 0.025–0.0625 mM Pb(NO3)2, caused a hormesis effect, i.e., stimulation of seedling growth, whereas Pb at higher concentrations, i.e., 0.01–0.325 mM Pb(NO3)2, inhibited growth, which manifested as the inhibition of length and fresh biomass. The differences in the level of the main defence-related phytohormones, such as abscisic acid (ABA), jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA), and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)—an auxin stimulating plant cell growth—depended on the dose of Pb, aphid infestation and direct contact of the stress factor with the organ. A high accumulation of soluble sugars in the organs of pea seedlings both at sublethal doses and hormetic doses at early experimental time points was observed. At 0 h and 24 h of the experiment, the hormetic doses of Pb significantly stimulated invertase activities, especially in the roots. Moreover, an increase was observed in the pisatin concentration in pea seedlings growing in the presence of different concentrations of Pb and in the case of cross-talk between Pb and A. pisum in relation to the control. Additionally, a significant induction of the expressions of isoflavone synthase (IFS) and 6α-hydroxymaackiain 3-O-methyltransferase (HMM) genes, which participate in the regulation of the pisatin biosynthesis pathway, in pea seedlings growing under the influence of sublethal 0.5 mM Pb(NO3)2 and hormetic 0.075 mM Pb(NO3)2 doses of Pb was noted. The obtained results showed that the response of P. sativum seedlings depends on the Pb dose applied, direct contact of the stress factor with the organ and the duration of contact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given that water availability plays a central role in seed germination and is a limiting resource in arid and semi-arid environments, a series of experiments were performed to characterize hydration kinetics and reserve mobilization under continuous and discontinuous hydration in the seeds of Cenostigma pyramidale, a tree legume native to the Brazilian dry forest known as Caatinga. Germination tests were carried out using the paper roll technique, and the contents of water, reserves, and metabolites were assessed during seed hydration until radicle protrusion. Hydration kinetics during germination revealed a biphasic pattern, although imbibition began slowly and became fast during phase I. Since water uptake by the testa and cotyledons was slower than that by the embryonic axis during phase I, both testa and cotyledons seem to be involved in the regulation of seed imbibition. In seeds germinated under continuous hydration, oils were mobilized in the cotyledons during phase I and radicle protrusion, and non-reducing sugars in the embryonic axis supported phase II. Seeds exposed to a hydration-dehydration cycle took up water faster than seeds that had not previously been exposed to water. Also, seeds germinated under discontinuous hydration retained oils but mobilized carbohydrates in the cotyledons. These findings can contribute to understanding the mechanisms used by C. pyramidale seeds to respond to discontinuous hydration and can be applied to protocols for seedling production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of improving the state of hardwood meadows using two methods of overseeding: strip-till and disc seeding (Vredo), with mixtures of grass and legume seeds under diverse pluvial and thermal conditions in eastern and central Poland. The field experiments were conducted in three farms: Zimna Woda (experiment I), Racibory (experiment II), and Ranna (experiment III). The measures to improve permanent grassland (PG) were carried out after the second cut in 2016 and in spring 2017. The effectiveness of both methods was evaluated based on changes in the botanical composition of the sward and the yield of total protein and soluble sugars (Preś and Rogalski, 1997). Positive effects of both methods on the floristic composition were achieved in 2017 in all meadow habitats on mineral soils: brown soils formed from loamy sand (Zimna Woda), proper brown soils (Racibory) on light and medium loam, and alluvial soils on light loam (Ranna). Despite adverse pluvial and thermal conditions, both methods improved the utility value of the sward, increasing the yields of dry matter, protein, and soluble sugars in subsequent years. The study showed that improving the state of PG by overseeding with diploid and tetraploid grass varieties and legume plants is effective, with its level of effectiveness depending on the pluvial and thermal conditions after treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An open-field study evaluated the effects of four biostimulants (Asahi, Optysil, Optycal, and Tytanit) on the yield and chemical composition of two white cabbage cultivars ('Caraflex' and 'Alfredo'). Although the biostimulants did not significantly impact the marketable yield, all treatments led to a significant increase in ascorbic acid content. The influence on dry matter, sugars, phenols, and antioxidant activity varied by cultivar but generally did not result in inferior outcomes compared to the control. The effect on nitrate levels also varied, with Optysil and Asahi showing some adverse effects depending on the cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Boron deficiency is a prevalent challenge for plant nutrition supply in many alkaline/calcareous soils. The current research aimed to examine the effects of boron supply to bell pepper plants through fertigation and foliar application. The experiment had seven treatments, comprising a control group, boric acid as fertigation (0.5, 1, and 2 g L-1), and foliar application (0.5, 1, and 2 g L-1) with three replications in controlled greenhouse conditions. The treatments were applied on Lorca bell peppers in a completely randomized design. The results showed that fertigation and foliar application increased all measured characteristics compared to the control group. Increasing the boric acid concentration in foliar application caused a decrease in fruit count per plant, fruit fresh weight, fruit yield per plant, and fruit width. Both fertigation and foliar boric acid applications at a low level (0.5 g L-1) and as separate treatments caused the highest fruit weight, length, width, and fruit count per plant. Higher boric acid concentrations increased chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll, leaf carotenoid content, soluble sugars, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, total phenols, and fruit ascorbic acid content. The highest chlorophyll a, b, total chlorophyll, leaf carotenoid content, and fruit ascorbic acid were observed in response to the high concentration of boric acid foliar application (2 g L-1). Overall, the boron supplement as a foliar application (0.5 to 1 g L-1) or fertigation (0.5 to 1 g L-1) improved quantitative and qualitative performance in bell peppers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change, through increased aridity, threatens ecosystems, including Morocco's endemic Argania Spinosa L. Skeels. This study assesses the impact of aridity on argan trees by analyzing morphological, ecophysiological, and biochemical parameters across various regions and comparing them with historical data. Significant variations were observed in leaf area, leaf length, chlorophyll content, relative water content, polyphenols, flavonoids, soluble sugars, and antioxidant activity, while leaf width ratio and chlorophyll ratio remained stable. Tioughza exhibited the largest leaf area (136.07 mm2), the highest chlorophyll content (436.76 mg/m2), and superior water retention (52.27%). Conversely, Ezzaouite showed the smallest leaf area (85.76 mm2) and lowest water content (37.68%). Increased aridity has intensified these differences, revealing the argan tree's vulnerability to climate change. The findings underscore the need for targeted conservation efforts, including reforestation, strengthened legislation, and enhanced genetic research, to sustain this vital species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) ranks fifth in importance among vegetable crops of the Solanaceae family, in part due to the high antioxidant properties and polyphenol content of the fruit. Along with the popular purplefruited varieties of S. melongena, there are cultivars, the fruits of which are rich in phenolic compounds, but are whitecolored due to the lack of anthocyanin biosynthesis. Determination of the amount of anthocyanins and other phenolic compounds, as well as carotenoids and sugars, is included in the assessment of the quality of eggplant fruits of commercial (technical) ripeness. In addition to antioxidant and taste properties, these metabolites are associated with fruit resistance to various stress factors. In this study, a comparative analysis of the content of anthocyanins, carotenoids and soluble sugars (sucrose, glucose, fructose) in the peel and pulp of the fruit of both technical and biological ripeness was carried out in purple-fruited (cv. Vlas) and white-fruited (cv. Snezhny) eggplant accessions of domestic selection. The peel and pulp of biologically ripe fruits of the cvs Vlas and Snezhny were used for comparative transcriptomic analysis. The key genes of the flavonoid and carotenoid metabolism, sucrose hydrolysis, and soluble sugar transport were shown to be differentially expressed between fruit tissues, both within each cultivar and between them. It has been confirmed that the purple color of the peel of the cv. Vlas fruit is due to substantial amounts of anthocyanins. Flavonoid biosynthesis genes showed a significantly lower expression level in the ripe fruit of the cv. Vlas in comparison with the cv. Snezhny. However, in both cultivars, transcripts of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes (DFR, ANS, UFGT) were not detected. Additionally, the purple fruit of the cv. Vlas accumulated more carotenoids and sucrose and less glucose and fructose than the white fruit of the cv. Snezhny. Biochemical data corresponded to the differential expression pattern of the key genes encoding the structural proteins of metabolism and transport of the compounds analyzed.

Introduction Intercropping reduces the application of chemical pesticides to control pests and weeds, reducing the environmental risks associated with chemical pesticide application (Himmelstein et al., 2017). Biochar is a soil amendment because of its potential to retain water and nutrients, prevent nitrogen leaching, increase soil fertility, and improve plant growth (Fang et al., 2018; Munoz et al., 2016). Other benefits of vermicompost are increased stability of soil resources, maintenance of production, reduction of environmental pollution, and increased soil biological activity too (Demir, 2019). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate the quality of forage turnip (Brassica rapa var. rapa) leaves in different intercropping ratios of forage turnip and basil (Ocimum basilicum) using biochar as soil amendment and vermicompost. Materials and Methods A biennial study was conducted on the quality performance of forage turnip (Brassica rapa var. Rapa) in the form of split-plot factorial in a randomized complete block design with three replications in the research farm of Islamic Azad University of Karaj in two years (2018-2019). The treatments of this study include: intercropping in four ratio (100% forage turnip (monoculture), 90% forage turnip + 10% basil, 80% forage turnip + 20% basil, 70% forage turnip + 30% basil), in main plots, and vermicompost in two levels (15, 18.5 ton.ha-1) and biochar in two levels (No consumption and 5 ton.ha-1) which was placed in subplots. The forage turnip cultivar was PacFB05. In this study, Photosynthetic pigments were measured by the Arnon (1967) method, membrane permeability (Ferrat and Loval, 1999), relative moisture content (Bertin et al., 1996), soluble leaf sugars (Sheligl, 1986), catalase (Dazy et al., 2008) and soil respiration (Isermeyer, 1952). Using SAS software (Ver.9) for data analysis of a two-year experiment and analysis of means was done with Duncan’s test in significance at 5% probability level. Excel software was used to plot the graphs. Results and Discussion The results of this study indicated that by increasing the ratio of basil in intercropping, the quality traits of forage turnip leaves increased. Consumption of biochar and application of vermicompost at the level of 18.5 ton.ha-1 increased the quality of forage turnip leaves. The highest chlorophyll a ((17.52 mg.g-1Fw), chlorophyll b (8.76 mg.g-1Fw) total chlorophyll (26.38 mg.g-1Fw), carotenoids (6.91 mg.g-1Fw), relative water content (59.54%), of soluble sugars (69.43%), catalase (0.018 micromole Fresh weight/min) were due to the interaction of (70% forage turnip + 30% basil) × vermicompost 18.5 ton ha-1 × application of biochar. The highest value of membrane stability index was related to 100% forage turnip × vermicompost 15 ton ha-1 (4.85 (mol.ml-1.s-1)). The highest amount of soil respiration is associated with the interaction of vermicompost 18.5 ton.ha-1 × 70% forage turnip + 30% basil with value of 0.28 (micromole.gsoil-1.hour-1)), interaction of biochar ×70% forage turnip + 30% basil (0.32 (micromole.gsoil-1.hour-1)), and interaction of vermicompost of 18.5 ton.ha-1 × biochar 0.31 (micromole. g soil-1.hour-1). Due to the potential of biochar (water and food retention and prevent of nitrogen leaching) it can increase the availability of water and nutrients for the plant, which leads to increased photosynthesis of the plant and thus the quality of forage turnip leaves (Akhtar et al., 2015; Hammer et al., 2015). Vermicompost increases soil organic matter and the uptake of zinc, copper, iron, phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen in soil. The presence of these elements in the soil and their absorption by the roots increases vegetative growth and leaf production in the plant, which causes the level of light absorption, photosynthetic level, the formation of hydrocarbons in the leaves, and the resulting growth also increases leaf quality (Theunissen et al., 2010). Conclusion The results of this study indicated that the application of vermicompost ​​18.5 ton ha-1 and biochar increased forage turnip quality, which is due to the availability of water and nutrients for forage turnip. The best intercropping ratio was related to 70% forage turnip + 30% basil, which can be said to be due to the increase in the percentage of basil and the competition of plants for better use of intercropping components of growth sources such as light, water, and food.

IntroductionDrought stress is one of the most common limiting factors for crop production. Due to its detrimental effects on numerous physiological and biochemical processes, this stress restricts the growth and development of plants. In this regard, the application of stress modulators (methanol, silicon and humic acid) has been found to enhance plant growth and grain yield while also increasing its resistance to abiotic stresses. On the other hand, stress modulators can lessen the effects of stress toxic by reducing malondialdehyde and hydrogen ‎peroxide accumulation and keeping the effectiveness of the photosynthetic apparatus‎. Therefore, measurement of traits of such as antioxidant enzymes activity, chlorophyll content, proline and soluble sugars content, malondialdehyde content, electrical conductivity are as indicators of plant response to environmental stress. Although, several strategies have been developed to decrease the effects caused by drought stress on plant growth. But, among them, the application of stress modulators (methanol, nano silicon, and humic acid) plays a very important role in yield improvement. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of foliar application of stress modulators (methanol, nano silicon and humic acid) on the activity of antioxidant enzymes, compatible osmolytes, photosynthetic pigments content and grain yield of wheat in different irrigation regimes.Materials and Methodsan experiment as factorial was conducted based on randomized complete block design with three replications in Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Station of Ardabil, Ardabil, Iran, in 2022-2023 growth season. The treatments were different irrigation regimes (normal irrigation as control; irrigation withholding at 50% of booting and heading stages) and foliar spraying of stress modulators (foliar spraying with water, foliar spraying of methanol (25% volume), nano silicon (50 mg.L-1), humic acid (300 mg.L-1), foliar spraying of methanol and silicon, methanol and humic acid, nano silicon and humic, methanol with nano silicon and humic acid). In each plot, there were six rows with two m long. In this experiment, the wheat cultivar ‘Hiran’ was employed. For this cultivar, 400 seeds.m-2 is the optimum density. The used nano silicon had an average particle size of less than 30 nm and the special surface of particles was more than 30 m2.g-1. They were product of Nanomaterial US Research which was provided by Pishgaman Nanomaterials Company of Iran. For a better solution, deionized water was mixed with nano Si powder and placed on a shaker with ultrasonic equipment (100 W and 40 kHz). Two phases of period growth, BBCH 21 and 30 were used for the foliar application of nano silicon. In this study, the activity of antioxidant enzymes (Catalase, peroxidase, and Polyphenol oxidase), compatible osmolytes (Proline and soluble sugars), photosynthetic pigments content (Chlorophyll a, Chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid), H2O2, MDA, protein content and grain yield of wheat were investigated.Results and DiscussionThe result indicated that both application stress modulators (methanol, silicon and humic acid) at irrigation withholding in booting stage decreased malondialdehyde content (39.79%) and electrical conductivity (31.25%), but increased activity of peroxidase (4.89%), polyphenol oxidase (7.73%) enzymes, soluble sugars (22.15%), chlorophyll a (33.48%), chlorophyll b (24.96%), leaf protein content (25.09%) and grain yield (36.21%) in compared to the no application of stress modulators under irrigation withholding in booting stage.ConclusionAccording to our findings, applying stress modulators (methanol, silicon and humic acid) under water limitation often reduced this damage by strengthening the defensive mechanisms, particularly antioxidant enzymes and compatible osmolytes (Proline and soluble sugars). In summary, our results indicated that application of stress modulators upgrade plant physiology and trigger the cellular defense of wheat plants against severe water limitation. Therefore, in can be suggested that applying stress modulators as individual and integrated could enhance grain yield of wheat under water limitation conditions due to improving of physiological and biochemical characteristics.

Choerospondias axillaries (CA) is an important fast-growing afforestation tree species in southern China, and its fruit has medicinal and edible value. High performance liquid chromatography was used to determine the composition and content of sugar and acid in CA fruits from different provenances, and cluster analysis was conducted on different provenances. The results showed that the total sugar content of CA fruit ranged from 49.31 to 139.41 mg/g, with sucrose accounting for the highest proportion of total sugar, followed by glucose, and fructose was the lowest. The total acid content of CA fruit ranged from 47.97 to 82.81 mg/g, with citric acid accounting for 67.09% of the total acid, followed by ascorbic acid, quinic acid, tartaric acid, and malic acid. Cluster analysis was conducted on 20 CA fruits, which were divided into 4 categories. It was recommended to develop N19 fruit had the highest content of sucrose and glucose, and the highest sweetness value, sugar-acid ratio and sweet-acid ratio. It can be suggested to be developed as a high-sugar fresh food source. N02 fruit with high sugar and high acid content can be used as a raw material for fruit cake processing. This result provides an important reference for the quality evaluation and rational development and utilization of CA.

Three types of hydrangea, Hydrangea areborescense ‘Annabelle’ (A), Hydrangea paniculata ‘Vanilla Strawberry’(B), and Hydrangea macrophylla ‘Endless Summer’ (C) were used as experimental materials, during the natural cooling process in the open field of Beijing, the differences in cold tolerance of Hydrangea were studied by measuring the survival rate of the following year, the relative conductance of leaves, soluble sugar, soluble protein, and relative water content under three cold resistant covering conditions. The results showed that during the natural cooling process, overwintering survival rate, soluble sugar and soluble protein content in leaves were ranked with C>A>B, the relative conductance of leaves was ranked with C>A>B, relative water content ranked with C>B>A. The conductance of the three types of Hydrangea increased with the decrease of temperature;there was a partial correlation between soluble sugar, soluble protein, and relative water content and temperature changes. The comprehensive evaluation results showed that almost all three types of Hydrangea could achieve outdoor overwintering in the Beijing area, but there were certain differences in cold resistance. The cold resistance was ranked with ‘Endless Summer’ ‘Annabelle’ and ‘Vanilla Strawberry’. The use of covering could have a certain cold resistance effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research assesses the aboveground matter accumulation and Fv/Fm ratios (maximum quantum efficiency of PSII) in young plants (5 months old) of Agave mapisaga and Agave salmiana grown under greenhouse conditions. This study also evaluated changes in the relative abundance of several different metabolites (sugars, free amino acids, and soluble phenols) during the major daily phases (I, III, and IV) of Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM). These two species were also investigated to determine if differences in these parameters were evident with respect to their geographical origins (i.e. Metepec, Tlajomulco, and Tlaxiaca, in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico). Differences in shoot mass (0.51−0.82 g plant−1), water content (75−93%), fructose (4−27 μmol g−1), glucose (57−73 μmol g−1), sucrose (10−30 μmol g−1), free amino acids (5−25 μmol g−1), soluble phenolics (0.7−3.5 μmol g−1), and Fv/Fm ratios (0.75−0.80) were evident between plants with different origins. Specifically, at the end of Phase I compared to Phase IV, the results showed significant reductions in dry matter (up to 3.3%) and also reductions in fructose/sucrose. Relative amino acid concentrations were lowest in Phase III (8.8 μmol g−1) compared to Phase I (16 μmol g−1). These are novel observations, since all these changes and the biochemical and physiological performance in the CAM phases have not been previously determined in Agave plants differing in their geographical origins. The morphological and physiological adaptations of Agave species, including the Classulacean acid metabolism (CAM), allow plants to develop in arid and semi-arid environments. Four diel phases have been described in CAM plants that regulate carbon metabolism, growth and yield. The hypothesis is that in early-development plants from seeds, growing under greenhouse conditions, of each genotype's physiological responses, including growth and metabolites concentrations, vary among CAM phases because of the species of Agave and the seed provenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Lumichrome is a growth promoting substance, its mechanism of action is unknown. • Proteomic analysis indicated that lumichrome promotes Arabidopsis thaliana growth through enhancing multiple aspects of the photosynthetic process. • Lumichrome alters carbon partitioning away from starch synthesis to favour sucrose and reducing sugars. Lumichrome, a novel bacterial molecule derived from Sinorhizobium meliloti, plays a crucial role in enhancing plant growth, particularly by increasing photosynthesis and influencing carbon metabolism. Through its impact on gene expression, it has been found to promote turgor-driven growth and ethylene-related delay leaf senescence. In line with previous studies, the current study revealed that treating Arabidopsis thaliana with lumichrome suggested the activation of jasmonate-related signals that delayed leaf senescence. Decreased AOC2 levels, together with the high levels of ABR protein, suggested delayed light and dark-induced leaf senescence. This, along with an increase in chlorophyll content, may possibly be attributed to the enhancement of optimal light absorption, energy conversion, and electron transfer capacity of active PSII reactions. In addition, the increased expression of MPH2 and ATPD subunits might have contributed to a better PSII repair, maintenance of proper photosynthetic function under changing light, and increased ATP synthase activity, ultimately resulting in higher photosynthesis efficiency. Moreover, the increased expression of TRX-M1, TRX-M4, plastid PRX-IIE, and cytosolic APX1 proteins could have improved the ability of treated plants to counteract ROS at PSII and PSI, leading to a better CO 2 assimilation rate and plant growth. Subsequently, increased FBA8 could have directed the fixed carbon partitioning into the cytosolic glycolysis pathway. Altogether, these changes may have contributed to increased growth through higher levels of sucrose and reducing sugars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drought, one of the major ecological limiting factors, has a significant effect on the growth and secondary metabolic process of medicinal plants. Water stress reduces the size, density, leaf surface of the plant and reduces the biomass, and not only changes the plant structurally, but also leads to fluctuations in their secondary chemical compounds. The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of using brassinolides and surfactant on drought stress tolerance on Sarkhargol medicinal plant at Islamic Azad University of Mahabad during 2017 - 2018. The studied factors include dryness at three irrigation levels of 70, 120 and 170 mm, evaporation from class A pan as the main factor, surfactant consumption at two levels (0 and 0.5 lit/ha) and 24-epibrassinolide at three levels (0, 0.01 and 0.1 μmol) were as secondary factors. According to the results of the present study, drought stress had a decisive role in reducing soluble sugars, relative water content, phosphorus element, plant height, amchlorid and yield components of Echinacea medicinal plant, as well as the main effects of brassinolide, surfactant solution and drought stress according to the content of soluble sugars, proline, glycine betaine, amino acids, lysine and methionine. They had due to the limitation of water resources, irrigation after 120 mm, use of brassinolide and surfactant can have a positive role in removing the damages of drought stress. In addition, brassinolide and surfactant led to increased tolerance to drought stress in Sarhargol medicinal plant, which led to relative resistance to drought and stability of the yield of dry matter of the plant and its essential oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity is a major environmental constraint on plant growth in arid regions. Soluble sugars and amino acids are essential osmolytes for plants to cope with osmotic stresses. Sweet sorghum is an important bioenergy crop and forage with strong adaptabilities to adverse environments; however, the accumulation pattern and biosynthesis basis of soluble sugars and amino acids in this species under osmotic stresses remain elusive. Here, we investigated the physiological responses of a sweet sorghum cultivar to PEG-induced osmotic stresses, analyzed differentially accumulated soluble sugars and amino acids after 20% PEG treatment using metabolome profiling, and identified key genes involved in the biosynthesis pathways of soluble sugars and amino acids using transcriptome sequencing. The results showed that the growth and photosynthesis of sweet sorghum seedlings were significantly inhibited by more than 20% PEG. After PEG treatments, the leaf osmotic adjustment ability was strengthened, while the contents of major inorganic osmolytes, including K+ and NO3−, remained stable. After 20% PEG treatment, a total of 119 and 188 differentially accumulated metabolites were identified in the stems and leaves, respectively, and the accumulations of soluble sugars such as raffinose, trehalose, glucose, sucrose, and melibiose, as well as amino acids such as proline, leucine, valine, serine, and arginine were significantly increased, suggesting that these metabolites should play key roles in osmotic adjustment of sweet sorghum. The transcriptome sequencing identified 1711 and 4978 DEGs in the stems, as well as 2061 and 6596 DEGs in the leaves after 20% PEG treatment for 6 and 48 h, respectively, among which the expressions of genes involved in biosynthesis pathways of sucrose (such as SUS1, SUS2, etc.), trehalose (including TPS6), raffinose (such as RAFS2 and GOLS2, etc.), proline (such as P5CS2 and P5CR), leucine and valine (including BCAT2), and arginine (such as ASS and ASL) were significantly upregulated. These genes should be responsible for the large accumulation of soluble sugars and amino acids under osmotic stresses. This study deepens our understanding of the important roles of individual soluble sugars and amino acids in the adaptation of sweet sorghum to water scarcity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Message: Leaves of seedlings from five oak species (Quercus robur L.; Q. pubescens L.; Q. suber L.; Q. afares Pomel; Q. ilex L.) displayed large, mainly inter-specific, differences in leaf mass-to-area ratio (LMA) and lignin content, as well as in the 13C composition of bulk leaf biomass. The variation in leaf lignin content and LMA did not impact the offset between the 13C composition measured in bulk leaf material versus soluble sugars. This observation, as well as the similar correlations between intrinsic leaf water use efficiency and the 13C compositions of bulk material or soluble sugars extracted from leaves, confirms their reliable use as a proxy for the former even when there is a large variation in LMA or lignin among samples. Context: Carbon isotope composition (δ13C) of bulk leaf biomass is frequently used as a proxy for intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE) in large-scale intra- and inter-specific comparisons. However, post-photosynthetic 13C discrimination during the synthesis of lignin combined with differences in leaf mass-to-area ratio (LMA) may bias the relationship between δ13C of bulk leaf matter and iWUE and thus its use as a proxy of iWUE. Aims: To quantify the impact of differences in lignin content and LMA on the relationship between δ13C of bulk leaf biomass and iWUE over a large gradient of lignin contents across five oak species (deciduous: Quercus robur, Q. pubescens, Q. afares and evergreen: Q. ilex and Q. suber). Methods: We measured lignin content, LMA, and δ13C of bulk leaf biomass and of soluble sugars extracted from the leaves, as well as intrinsic water use efficiency (derived from leaf gas exchange) in seedlings of the five oak species grown under common conditions in a greenhouse and measured in a climate chamber. Results: There was a large range (mainly across species) in lignin content (4 to 33%) and LMA (60–180 g m−2). δ13C of bulk leaf biomass and soluble sugars were tightly correlated, showing a significant mean offset of − 0.4‰. This offset was stable across species and not correlated to the lignin content of the leaves. A very loose correlation was found between the offset and LMA, mainly due to one species. Conclusion: Our results are a demonstration that potential variations in leaf lignin content or LMA have no or only a little effect on the δ13C of bulk leaf biomass. They are unlikely to cause a bias when using bulk leaf δ13C as a proxy for variations in intrinsic water use efficiency among Mediterranean and temperate broad-leaf forest tree species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soluble sugars, including glucose, fructose and sucrose, are the most important determinants that affect the flavor and quality of red pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) fruit. Vacuolar invertase (VIN), which catalyzes sucrose hydrolysis into glucose and fructose, is a key type of enzyme responsible for soluble sugar metabolism in plant growth and development. Herein, we conducted genome-wide identification, gene expression analysis, subcellular localization and an enzymatic properties assay for the VIN-encoding genes from red pitaya. During red pitaya fruit development towards ripening, the enzymatic activities of VIN showed an up-regulated trend towards ripening. In total, four isoforms (HpVIN1–4) of the VIN-encoding gene were identified from the pitaya genome. Sequence alignment results revealed that the HpVIN1, HpVIN3 and HpVIN4 proteins contained essential motifs for targeting the vacuole and conserved motifs or residues responsible for sucrose binding and hydrolysis. Gene expression pattern analyses revealed that the level of HpVIN4 was obviously increasing during fruit development and acted as the most abundant VIN isoform towards ripening. Subcellular localization detection via transient expression in Arabidopsis thaliana mesophyll protoplasts revealed that the HpVIN4 protein was localized in the vacuole. Growth complementation tests of heterologous expression in the invertase-deficient baker's yeast strain suggested that the HpVIN4 protein had a sucrose hydrolysis activity and could restore the yeast growth in vivo. The identification of enzymatic properties in vitro demonstrated that the HpVIN4 protein could degrade sucrose into glucose and fructose with an optimum pH of 4.0. Specifically, the HpVIN4 protein had an estimated Km value of 5.15 ± 1.03 mmol·L−1 for sucrose hydrolysis. Ultimately, this study provides a comprehensive understanding of the potential roles of VINs during fruit development and towards ripening and provides functional gene resources for regulating soluble sugar accumulation in red pitaya fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant cell cultures are precious tools for investigating the response of plants to altered gravity at the cellular level. In the present study, the effects of clinorotation on the growth and cell cycle progression of cultured Nicotiana tabacum cells were investigated. Exposure to 2D-clinostat for 12 h increased the percentage of the cells in the G1 phase from 80 to 83.2%, while significantly reduced the percentage of those cells at the G2/M transition, compared to their corresponding control cells. When the duration of exposure was extended, the rate of cells transition to the M phase increased, ultimately promoted the exponential growth phase after 168 h. During the first 24 h of clinorotation, a significant rise in the levels of simple sugars within the cells was observed. The ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) of tobacco cells exhibited a downward trajectory that continued until 48 h. This research showed the influence of clinorotation on plant cells dependent on the exposure duration. The cells exhibited signs of stress after a short exposure, possibly due to high levels of soluble sugars that could impede cell advancement in the G1 phase by negatively affecting radical scavenging capacity (RSC). Upon extending the exposure duration to 168 h, the cells were adapted to the altered gravity conditions and improved their growth, probably due to a rise in auxin and gibberellin production. The results suggest cultured cells are a viable candidate, for examining plants in long-term space missions.Key message: The improvement of growth of plant cultured cells after longer treatment with altered gravity suggests them suitable candidates for investigation on plant response mechanisms to gravity in long-term space missions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity is one of the most severe environmental stresses that negatively affects field crops' development and biochemical properties on a widespread global scale. Consequently, aiming to reduce the negative impact of salinity on plants, the objective of the current work was to study the effect of foliar spraying with two doses of yeast extract (2 and 4 g/L) on improving the growth of Vicia faba plants under NaCl stress (100 mM). The recorded results indicated that 100 mM NaCl level significantly decreased all investigated growth metrics (shoot height, root length, number of leaves, leaf area, fresh and dry weights of shoot and roots). Likewise, concentration of chloroplast pigments and the contents of total soluble protein and sugars were reduced in salt stressed faba bean leaves. Nevertheless, data revealed that V. faba plants grown under NaCl stress and sprayed with yeast extract had better growth behavior than those unsprayed. It was found that yeast extract treatment had the ability to induce significant recovery for the reduction occurred in vegetative growth of V. faba plants which exposed to salinity stress by more enhancement of pigment, total soluble protein and sugars contents. Among the yeast extract doses, 2 g/L significantly improved plant growth, biochemical traits and exposed high Mg, K, P content and K/Na ratio in V. faba plants grown under saline stress. It was found that treating V. faba plants with yeast extract can significantly restore the loss of vegetative growth caused by salt stress. NaCl stress (100 mM) significantly decreased all investigated growth parameters and pigment fractions of Vicia faba plants. Yeast extract treatment recovering the reduction occurred in vegetative growth of V. faba plants which exposed to salinity stress. The physiological parameters and ions content of V. faba plants were enhanced as a result of yeast extract application at 2 g/L under 100mM NaCl stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bee pollen's nutritional and beneficial health properties depend on the botanical origin and storage conditions. Palynological analysis determines the botanical composition of the multiflora and colour fractions. This study aimed to characterize the phytochemical profile and antioxidant activity of Tuscan bee pollen stored at freezing temperature for 2 years to verify the preservation of nutraceutical properties of the multiflora and colour fractions. Polyphenols, flavonoids content, antioxidant activity and volatile compounds profiles were measured. Non-terpene derivatives (acids and aldehydes) represented the main class of volatile compounds in most analysed samples. Among the colour fractions, coral showed significant differences in the antioxidant compounds. In the multiflora were also determined the soluble sugar content (128.33 mg/g of fresh weight) and mineral content, with the prevalence of K, organic N and Ca. The results suggest that the freezing storage of bee pollen for a long period can be still used as food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Environmental stresses, especially damage caused by frost, often have a significant effect on plant growth and development. In order to adapt to the cold, plants show specific physiological and biochemical responses that lead to an increase in their duirability and survival during exposure to low temperature. The use of ultraviolet (UV) rays to increase cold tolerance and physiological and biochemical changes related to it has been less researched. This is while UV-B is not necessarily a source of stress, but moderate, non-harmful levels of UV-B act as an environmental signal in higher plants and able to induce several key reactions in order to adapt to cold in the plant. Materials and Methods This experiment was carried out on rooted seedlings of Vitis vinifera L. cv. Yaghooti in a factorially (3×3) based on a completely randomized design with three replications in the research greenhouse of Malayer University in the spring and summer of 2022. In the 15-leaf stage, the vines (except for the control) were exposed to two doses of UV-B radiation in the following order: first dose (control): natural light, second dose (moderate): 5.98 kJ m-2 d-1 (equal to 0.55 W/m2 for 3 hours) and the third dose (severe): 9.66 kJ m-2 d-1 (equal to 0.55 W/m2 for 4.5 hours) was applied to the plants under the natural photoperiod in the greenhouse in June. After applying UV-B radiation treatments, one group of pots was kept in the greenhouse (temperature 24±1 ºC) and another group of pots (control vines and treated with UV-B rays to apply cold stress to the cooling chamber) transferred and placed under the temperature of 4ºC and -4ºC (for 6 hours at each temperature). Results and Discussion According to the results, the highest and lowest total chlorophyll content was related to the treatment without irradiation and temperature of 24°C and the treatment of severe irradiation and temperature of -4°C, respectively. The highest and lowest carotenoid content was related to the severe UV-B irradiation treatment and 24°C temperature and the treatment without irradiation and 24°C temperature, respectively. The relative water content was the highest in the treatments without radiation and temperature of 24°C, and the lowest in the treatment of moderate irradiation and temperature of -4°C. The highest and lowest percentages of electrolyte leakage were observed in treatments without irradiation and temperature of -4°C and treatment without irradiation and temperature of 24°C, respectively. The content of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide was the highest in the vines under severe UV-B irradiation along with (-4°C) and was the lowest in treatment without irradiation along with 24°C. The highest content of soluble sugar and soluble protein was observed in plants treated with severe irradiation along with (-4°C), and the lowest amount of these compounds was observed in the treatment without UV-B irradiation along with (24°C). The content of proline was the highest in the treatments with severe irradiation along with (4°C), and the lowest in the treatment without radiation and temperature of 24°C. The highest and lowest activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) enzyme was observed in the treatments of sever irradiation along with (4°C) and moderate irradiation along with (-4°C), respectively. The activities of guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) and catalase enzymes (CAT) were the highest in plants under moderate irradiation along with (4°C), and the lowest activity of these enzymes observed under non-irradiation condition along with (-4°C). The highest and lowest total phenol and flavonoid contents were related to those vines that were treated with sever irradiation along with (4°C) and without UV-B irradiation along with 24°C, respectively. Conclusion Totally, it can be concluded that moderate radiation treatment through the stimulation of antioxidant systems, the accumulation of UV-B absorbing compounds and acclimate osmolytes in the plant led to an increase in their tolerance to chilling temperatures (+4°C), but there was no effect on frost tolerance (-4°C). However, sever UV-B irradiation treatment both at normal and low temperatures caused damage to cell membranes and leaf necrosis. Based on the results of application of moderate dose of UV-B rays, it can be used as an elicitor to improve plant antioxidant system and cell membrane stability under chilling temperature (4°C). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the applications of lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) have substantially increased due to its versatility in different areas of study and interest. Therefore, it is evident that the delignification pretreatment of LCB is fundamental to assure the viability and commercial quality of the final product for different industrial uses. The efficiency of delignification, the obtainment of the desired products, and the required quality depend mainly on the type of pretreatment and the method used. This paper presents a state-of-the-art overview of physical, chemical, organic, biological, hybrid (combination of two or more pretreatments), and other novel pretreatments for the delignification of different lignocellulosic biomass. Additionally, the conditions necessary for the application of the pretreatments, the effect of the variables involved, and the advantages and disadvantages of each method are discussed. Finally, advances in the development of sustainable methods are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trehalose (Tre) is an osmoprotectant known to be an important player in regulating response to salinity. In this research, the effect of Tre foliar application on the growth rate, the content of photosynthetic pigments, accumulation of metabolites, and activity of antioxidant enzymes of basil seedlings under salt stress has been investigated. Basil seedlings were factorially treated twice a week with levels of 0, 25, 50, 100, and 150 mM NaCl and weekly with concentrations of 0 and 5 mM Tre for 4 weeks. Growth characteristics, the content of photosynthetic pigments including chlorophyll and carotenoid, and starch content decreased in response to salt stress, while the activity of antioxidant enzymes and the accumulation of metabolites including soluble sugars, proteins, amino acids, and proline increased. Tre treatment caused severe inhibition of plant growth, further reduction of photosynthetic pigments, and amount of soluble proteins during salinity stress. Also, starch, total protein, amino acids, and proline were hyperaccumulated in response to Tre. These results indicate that Tre not only does not reduce the detrimental effects of salinity in basil seedlings but also inhibits plant growth possibly by diverting carbon to other metabolic pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We carried out a circadian characterization of non-structural carbohydrate dynamics in the different organs of Erythrina velutina seedlings at late establishment. Seeds were incubated under controlled conditions for 9 days and then seedlings were hydroponically grown in a greenhouse for 8 days. Carbon dioxide uptake was measured in the cordiform leaves every 2 h during the daytime (12 h) and every 4 h during the night-time (12 h); seedlings were harvested every 4 h during the day-night cycle (24 h) to assess the contents of non-structural carbohydrates and the activities of amylases and invertases. Diel patterns of non-structural carbohydrate content were identified in the photosynthetic organs, in which the turnover of starch operated far from its depletion at dawn. In the heterotrophic organs, however, changes in the starch content over 24 h may have maintained the supply of soluble sugars, buffering transient fluctuations in carbon availability. Although it seems that amylase activity was not influenced by the circadian rhythm in the different seedling organs, diel patterns of invertase activity were recognized in the photosynthetic organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nickel is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. However, in excessive amounts caused by accidental pollution of soils, this heavy metal is toxic to plants. Although silicon is a non-essential nutrient, it accumulates in most monocots, particularly the vital crop maize (corn, Zea mays). In fact, this metalloid mineral can alleviate the toxicity of heavy metals, though the mechanism is not entirely clear yet. Herein, we measured proteome, gene expression, enzyme activities, and selected sugars to investigate such effect thoroughly. Deep proteomic analysis revealed a minor impact of 100 µM Ni, 2.5 mM Si, or their combination on roots in 12-day-old hydroponically grown maize seedlings upon 9 days of exposure. Nonetheless, we suggested plausible mechanisms of Si mitigation of excessive Ni: Chelation by metallothioneins and phytochelatins, detoxification by glycine betaine pathway, and restructuring of plasma membrane transporters. Higher activity of glutathione S-transferase confirmed its plausible involvement in reducing Ni toxicity in combined treatment. Accumulation of sucrose synthase and corresponding soluble sugars in Ni and combined treatment implied high energy requirements both during heavy metal stress and its mitigation. Expression analysis of genes coding a few differentially accumulated proteins failed to reveal concordant changes, indicating posttranscriptional regulation. Proposed mitigation mechanisms should be functionally validated in follow-up studies.

Salinity is a major abiotic stress that inhibits seed germination, plant growth, and consequently the productivity of many important crops such as barley. Expansins are a major group of cell wall-loosening proteins, which play important roles in plant growth and development, and in response to different environmental stresses. In this study, salinity tolerance and changes in the expression of expansin genes in barley were tested. The germination percentage of Yarmouk was 72.3% of the control after 48 hours of salt stress, and that of Rum was 27.4%. Reserve mobilization was 61.6% and 43.6% of the control in Yarmouk and Rum, respectively. The decrease in the total soluble sugars was 0.3, and 0.54 mg. ml−1. g−1 FW in Yarmouk and Rum, respectively. Yarmouk has a higher number of induced expansin genes under salt stress compared to Rum. This indicates a significant role for expansins in the improvement of salinity tolerance of barley.

Trifoliate orange (Citrus trifoliata (L.) Raf.) is a cold-hardy citrus species that contributes to citrus production by frequently serving as a rootstock. Nevertheless, the molecular mechanisms underlying cold tolerance in citrus, particularly post-transcriptional regulation, remain largely unidentified. In this study, we constructed a transcriptome map of trifoliate orange subjected to cold stress by integrating full-length single-molecule sequencing and Illumina short-read sequencing. The hybrid sequencing approach yielded a more comprehensive set of full-length transcripts than was previously available from the reference genome. In particular, the high-quality transcripts enabled the detection of extensive alternative splicing (AS), with intron retention (IR) identified as the predominant AS event in trifoliate orange. Transcriptome analysis revealed that genes associated with starch and sucrose metabolism were significantly enriched among the cold-responsive genes. Consistent with these data, soluble sugar content was elevated by the cold treatments. Additionally, the expression of multiple genes encoding enzymes with antioxidant activity, including PODs and SODs, was induced, which plays a pivotal role in the mitigation of continuous ROS production. Furthermore, we observed that AS and transcriptional regulation modulate distinct pathways. We also found that the expression of genes encoding key transcription factors (TFs) was highly induced by cold stress and that some of the mRNAs encoding these key TFs were differentially spliced. This dataset provides comprehensive transcriptional and post-transcriptional profiles of the response to cold stress in trifoliate orange that may help to identify genes that contribute to cold tolerance in citrus.

Common centaury (Centaurium eryhtraea Rafn) is a medicinal plant species with vigorous morphogenic potential in vitro. The process of spontaneous shoot regeneration in a solid root culture is characteristic for this plant species. In this context, the aim of this work was to investigate the dynamic changes of endogenous phytohormones and carbohydrates content in root explants at different time points (0, 2, 4, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 60 days) during spontaneous centaury morphogenesis in vitro. Detailed analysis of cytokinins (CKs) showed that trans-zeatin (tZ) was the major bioactive CK at all time points. The corresponding riboside, tZ9R, was also determined in the majority of the identified transport forms, at all time-points. Further analysis of endogenous auxin revealed a significant increase in endogenous indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) after 21 days, when a huge jump in the ratio of IAA/bioactive CKs was also observed. The maximum total soluble sugar content was measured after 14 days, while a significant decrease was determined after 21 days, when the first regenerated adventitious shoots appeared. This undoubtedly indicates an increased energy requirement prior to the actual regeneration of the shoots. The obtained results indicate that the period from day 14 to day 21 involves the most dramatic disturbances in endogenous bioactive CKs, IAA and carbohydrate balance, which are very important and valuable factors for the onset of shoot regeneration.

The increasing use of photoselective nets (PNs) raises the question of their influence on pollen traits. We aimed to evaluate the effect of PNs (yellow, pearl, and grey) on the pollen of 'Matua' and 'Tomuri' Actinidia deliciosa cultivars. The pollen size and the exine were studied with a light microscopy and a scanning electron microscopy, and the fertility was analysed by a viability assay and in vitro germination. The total soluble proteins (TSPs) and sugars (TSSs) were quantified by colorimetric assays. The molecular structure of the pollen grain's wall was analysed by a Raman spectroscopy. The pollen from the plants under the PNs had a larger width and area and a lower germination rate. No significant changes were observed in the exine's microperforations. The TSP and TSS contents were influenced by the cultivar and PNs (particularly the pearl PN). The Raman spectra of the pollen from the plants grown under the nets presented some bands that significantly shifted from their original position, indicating differences in the vibration modes of the molecules, but no overall changes at their structural or organisation level were found. Our study showed that the PNs could influence several pollen traits, with the pearl PN inducing greater modifications. Our results also support the idea that cultivars affect the outcome of some characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity stress impairs growth and physiological performance in tomato, which is one of the most economically important vegetables and is widely cultivated in arid and semi-arid areas of the world. Plant landraces, which are heterogeneous, local adaptations of domesticated species, offer a unique opportunity to valorize available germplasm, underpinning the productivity, resilience, and adaptive capacity of staple crops in vulnerable environments. Here, we investigated the response of fully mature tomato plants from a commercial variety, an ancestral wild relative, and a landrace under short-term salinity exposure, as well as their ability to recover upon cessation of stress. The heterogeneous panel evaluated in this study revealed different adaptative strategies to cope the stress. Our data highlighted the ability of the tomato clade to handle low and intermediate salinity stress for short-term exposure time, as well as its capacity to recover after the cessation of stress, although inter- and intraspecific variations in morphological and physiological responses to salinity were observed. Overall, the landrace and the wild type performed similarly to control conditions under low salinity, demonstrating an improved ability to maintain ionic balance. In contrast, the commercial genotype showed susceptibility and severe symptoms even under low salinity, with pronounced reductions in K+/Na+ ratio, PSII photochemical efficiency, and photosynthetic pigments. This research confirmed that improved salt tolerant genotypes can lead to substantial, positive impacts on horticultural production. While the salt tolerance mechanism of domesticated tomato was efficient under mild stress conditions, it failed at higher salinity levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Finding methods, which may improve wheat (Triticumaestivum L.) growth and tolerance under drought stress, are of significance. The hypothesis was plant growth regulators (PGRs) are able to alter wheat physiology in a way so that the plant would be able to resist the stress. Accordingly, PGRs affecting wheat response in drought stress was investigated in greater details. Different PGRs, at different drought levels (80 (S1), 100- (S2) and 120-mm (S3) evaporation from pan class A) affecting wheat biochemical and nutritional properties including nutrient uptake (N, P, K) were tested. Experimental treatments including control (water, T1), and PGRs of gibberellic acid (GA3, 110 mgL−1, T2), salicylic acid (SA, 1.5 mM, T3), and benzyl adenine (60 mgL−1, T4), GA3 + SA (T5), as well as superoxide dismutase (SOD, 5 gL−1, T6) were tested in two different locations. Wheat biochemical and nutritional parameters including grain protein, chlorophyll a and b, leaf relative water at flowering and ripening, wet and dry gluten index, soluble sugars, and grain nutrient uptake were significantly enhanced by PGRs. The grain protein was in the range of 9.90 (S3T1) and 15.01% (S1T5); however, T5 treatment significantly enhanced it at the second (14.47%) and third (13.96%) level of drought. Although the single use of PGR was effective on the alleviation of stress, the combined use of GA3 + SA followed by the single use of SOD, were the most effective ones. Treating wheat plants with the tested PGRs is recommendable to improve wheat biochemical and nutritional properties in the arid and semi-arid areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In arid and semi-arid areas salinity reduces agricultural productivity. Biostimulants based on amino acids promote plant growth and yield while significantly reducing abiotic stresses-related injuries. As a result, current study assessed the effect of biostimulants based on free amino acids on Moldavian balm under salinity stress. A factorial experiment using a randomized complete block design with three replications was done. The plants were imposed with four levels of salinity (0, 20, 40 and 60 mM NaCl) and were treated using four formulations of amino acids (Kadostim, Fosnutren, Humiforte and Aminolforte). The results revealed that increasing the salinity level significantly reduced growth parameters such as fresh and dry weight of biomass, root length, shoot length, secondary branch length, crown diameter, internode number, internode length, secondary branch number, leaf number and biochemical parameters such as RWC, chlorophyll a, b, total and carotenoids while increased some osmolytes such as soluble sugar and proline in root and shoot. Leaf spraying of the bio-stimulates based on amino acids, significantly improved the negative effects of salinity stress on growth and biochemical parameters in Moldavian balm, and among them Kadostim had the most significantly positive effects on morphological and biochemical parameters and followed by Aminolforte. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, recurrent droughts have significantly affected spring barley production, reducing the quantity and quality of grain. This study aims to identify genotype-specific traits and the drought resilience of six different Hordeum vulgare L. (spring barley) genotypes, while also examining the potential of potassium application and fungal endophyte Serendipita indica inoculation to mitigate the negative effects of dry periods during the growing season. Field experiments were conducted over a three-year period from 2020 to 2022, measuring physiological, growth, and yield parameters. To get insight into the physiological state of the plants, we measured the soluble sugars content and the ratio of stable carbon isotopes in the flag leaf tissue, which reflects conditions during its formation. The dominant factors that influenced the measured parameters were the genotypes and seasons, as well as their interaction, rather than other experimental factors. The results showed that the Spitfire and Accordine varieties were the best performing in both the 2020 and 2021 seasons, as indicated by their yield. However, in the drier 2022 season, the yield of these two varieties decreased significantly (to 55% for Spitfire and to 69% for Accordine of their yield in 2021), while for the arid-region genotypes, it remained at the same level as the previous year. This study sheds light on the potential of various genotypes to withstand periods of drought and the effectiveness of using potassium application and S. indica inoculation as mitigation approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomatoes are low in calories, however, they provide the precious content of vitamins, minerals, organic acids, carbohydrates, and, especially, carotenoids (β-carotene and lycopene), as essential requirements for the normal functioning of the human body. The latest study aimed to quantify the various compounds that exhibit antioxidant activities in different tomato cultivars. Tomato landraces with the supreme content of individual chemicals and complex of varied traits can serve as genetic sources in breeding for obtaining the tomato genotypes with the highest content of carotenoids, ascorbic acid, phenols, dry matter, and soluble sugars. Comparative analysis of tomato cultivars showed that to obtain genetic material with an enhanced content of secondary metabolites, the following tomato cultivars are recommendable for the desired hybridization to make possible cross combinations, i.e., Black Jack, Shirley, Bosare blue, and Christmas Blueberry and can suggest more precisely for high carotenoids content. Tomato cultivars VS169-19 and Paul Robeson can benefit as sources of soluble sugars and antioxidants, such as ascorbic acid and polyphenols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese plum (Prunus salicina) cv. Wushancuili has a green coloration, high fruit quality, and is economically important in eliminating poverty and protecting ecology in the Yangtze River Three Gorges Reservoir. However, large-scale production and synchronous ripening times present a huge postharvest storage challenge. This study investigated the effect of different postharvest storage temperatures on the 'Wushancuili' plum fruit flavor. The dynamics of soluble sugars, organic acids, and aroma substances were investigated at four temperatures mimicking large-scale commercial storage applications: 0–2 °C, 4–6 °C, 8–10 °C, and 20 °C, for 0, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15, and 20 days. Storage under the 0–2 °C regime was the best at preserving fruit flavor and reducing decay compared to the other settings. At 0–2 °C, fruit maintained a stable level of soluble sugars and organic acids during storage. Moreover, this storage temperature facilitated the formation of aroma compounds such as alcohols, aldehydes, ketones, and acids, which contributed to the distinct fruit aromatic characteristics. Taken together, our findings indicate that 0–2 °C is the most favorable temperature for commercial storage and maintenance of the 'Wushancuili' plum flavor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In vitro flowering can greatly shorten the nutritive growth years of plants, and it is an effective model system to study flower formation, development and senescence. Under this condition, the physiological and biochemical characteristics of the flower development process can be investigated, which can provide a theoretical basis for analyzing the intrinsic mechanism of flower formation. This study took Rose ‘Yametsu-Hime’ as the research subject, and measured the contents of endogenous hormones, soluble sugars and soluble proteins in four stages of its flower development, respectively, to explore the correlation between the development process of rose and the contents of endogenous hormones, carbohydrates and nutrients. On this basis, suitable hormones, carbohydrates and nutrients were selected to explore the effects of external factors on in vitro flowering of rose. The results showed that (1) cytokinin (CTK), abscisic acid (ABA) and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) all had positive effects on floral bud formation during flower development in Rose ‘Yametsu-Hime’, and the effects of CTK and ABA were stronger. High concentrations of brassinosteroid (BR) had a negative effect on flower development. High ratios of CTK/IAA and ABA/IAA accelerated the decay of the rose; high ratios of CTK/ABA favored the formation of floral buds, and low ratios favored the formation of floral organs. High ratios of ABA/BR favored the formation of floral buds as well as the formation of floral organs. The content of soluble sugars and soluble proteins reached the maximum value at the full blooming stage, which had a certain effect on the isolated flowering. (2) Adding hormones, sugars and nutrients to the culture medium all had a positive effect on in vitro flowering of rose, but the addition of cytokinin BA had the strongest effect. When the concentration of BA was 1.5 mg L− 1, the floral bud induction rate and flowering rate could reach 91.11% and 79.73%, respectively.Key Message: In this study, with the advantage of in vitro flowering, through the interaction of internal and external factors, the physiological and biochemical characteristics during flowering of Rosa ‘Yametsu-Hime’ were explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chitosan is a derivative of chitin that is one of the most abundant biopolymers in nature, found in crustacean shells as well as in fungi cell walls. Most of the commercially available chitosans are produced from the exoskeletons of crustaceans. The extraction process involves harsh chemicals, has limited potential due to the seasonal and limited supply and could cause allergic reactions. However, chitosan has been shown to alleviate the negative effect of environmental stressors in plants, but there is sparse evidence of how chitosan source affects this bioactivity. The aim of this study was to investigate the ability of chitosan from mushroom in comparison to crustacean chitosan in enhancing drought stress tolerance in tomato plants (cv. MicroTom). Chitosan treatment was applied through foliar application and plants were exposed to two 14-day drought stress periods at vegetative and fruit set growth stages. Phenotypic (e.g., fruit number and weight), physiological (RWC) and biochemical-stress-related markers (osmolytes, photosynthetic pigments and malondialdehyde) were analyzed at different time points during the crop growth cycle. Our hypothesis was that this drought stress model will negatively impact tomato plants while the foliar application of chitosan extracted from either crustacean or mushroom will alleviate this effect. Our findings indicate that drought stress markedly decreased the leaf relative water content (RWC) and chlorophyll content, increased lipid peroxidation, and significantly reduced the average fruit number. Chitosan application, regardless of the source, improved these parameters and enhanced plant tolerance to drought stress. It provides a comparative study of the biostimulant activity of chitosan from diverse sources and suggests that chitosan sourced from fungi could serve as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to the current chitosan from crustaceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Drought stress is the most influential factors affecting crop yield particularly in irrigated agriculture in arid and semiarid regions. This stress induces various biochemical and physiological responses in plants as a survival mechanism (Tas and Tas, 2007). Drought stress have a direct impact on the photosynthetic apparatus, essentially by disrupting all major components of photosynthesis including the thylakoid electron transport, the carbon reduction cycle and the stomatal control of the CO2 supply, together with an increased accumulation of carbohydrates, peroxidative destruction of lipids and disturbance of water balance (Allen and Ort, 2001). It breaks down the balance between the productions of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the antioxidant defense system causing the accumulation of ROS which induces oxidative stress to protein, membrane lipids and disruption of DNA strands (El Tayeb, 2006). Several strategies have been developed in order to decrease the toxic effects caused by severe water limitation on plant growth. Among them the use of vermicompost and nano silicon play a key role in yield improvement. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of vermicompost and nano silicon application on yield and some physiological and biochemical traits of safflower under irrigation withholding conditon. Materials and methods: In order to study the effect of vermicompost and nano silicon on yield and some physiological and biochemical traits of safflower (Carthamus tinctories L.) under irrigation withholding conditon, an experiment was conducted as factorial based on randomized complete block design with three replications in research farm of University of Mohaghegh Ardabili during 2019-2020. Factors experiment were included irrigation levels (full irrigation as control, irrigation withholding in 50% of heading bud and flowering stages as severe and moderate water limitation respectively) according with 55 and 65 BBCH code, foliar application nano silicon (foliar application with water as control, application of 25 and 50 mg.l-1 nano silicon) and application of vermicompost (no application of vermicompost as control, application of 4 and 8 t.ha-1). Vermicompost was purchased from the Gilda corporation. The safflower cultivar "Padideh" was used in the experiment with plant density of 40 seeds m-2. Chlorophyll and carotenoids were obtained based on method of Arnon (1967). The quantum yield was measured by the uppermost fool expanded leaf using a fluorometer (chlorophyll fluorometer; Optic Science-OS-30 USA). For this purpose, the plants adapted to darkness for 20 minutes by using one special clamp then the fluorescence amounts were measured in 1000 (µM photon m2s), and calculation was performed using following formula (Arnon, 1967): ØPSII = (Fm-F0)/Fm ØPSII; quantum yield amount of photosystem II, Fm or maximum fluorescence after a saturated light pulse on plants adapted to darkness and F0, the minimal fluorescence in the light adapted, which was determined by illumination with far-red light. To measure the enzyme activity, 0.2 g of fresh tissue was crushed by using liquid nitrogen and then one ml of buffer Tris-HCl (0.05 M, pH=7.5) was added. Obtained mixture centrifuged for 20 min (13000 rpm and 4 ºC), then supernatant was used for enzyme activity measurements. Catalase, Peroxidase and Polyphenol Oxidase activity was assayed according to Karo and Mishra (1976). Also, the evaluation of protein carried out by Bradford (1976) method, 0.2 g of plant tissue was squashed with 0.6 ml extraction buffer and was centrifuged at 11500 rpm for 20 minutes at 4 °C. The supernatant was transferred to the new tubes and centrifuged for 20 minutes at 4000 rpm. To measure the protein amount, 10 µl of obtained extract was added to 5 µl Bradford solution and 290 µl extraction buffer and the absorbance rate was read at 595 nm. Statistical analysis: Analysis of variance and mean comparisons were performed using SAS ver 9.1 computer software packages. The main effects and interactions were tested using the least significant difference (LSD) test at the 0.05 probability level. Results and discussion: The results showed that application of the highest nano silicon level under full irrigation increased chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b (74 and 145% respectively) in comparison with no application of nano silicon under irrigation withholding in heading bud stage. Means comparison showed that irrigation withholding in booting bud at the highest vermicompost level increased proline and soluble sugars content (149 and 99% respectively) and antioxidant enzymes activity such as catalase, peroxidase and polyphenol Oxidase (103, 82 and 94% respectively) in comparison with no application of vermicompost under full irrigation. Also, the highest vermicompost level under full irrigation increased chlorophyll a, quantum yield and grain yield (61, 62 and 119% respectively) in comparison with no application of vemicompost under irrigation withholding in heading bud stage. Conclusion: It seems that the application of vermicompost and nano silicon can increase grain yield of safflower under water limitation conditions due to improving physiological and biochemical traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gladiolus is a well-known bulbous plant producing impressive cut spikes. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO) are vital signaling molecules required for the proper functioning of plant metabolism. Preharvest applications of these molecules to crops have gained attention in recent years due to their positive role in tackling abiotic stresses, although, their role in geophytes is comparatively less studied. We assessed the effects of preharvest H2S and NO treatments on development, flowering, harvest and postharvest performance of gladiolus inflorescences. NO and H2S + NO treatments increased preharvest performance of plants associated with corm production, inflorescences length and harvest time. Individual and combined treatments improved postharvest vase life (VL) up to 3.4 days. Total soluble proteins (TSP) were increased in response to H2S, NO and H2S + NO treatments by 39%, 43%, and 55%, respectively compared to the controls. Soluble sugars (SS) were increased after NO and H2S + NO treatments by up to 25% and 42%, respectively. Postharvest catalase (CAT) activity was higher by 65%, 68%, and 76% after H2S, NO and H2S + NO treatments, respectively. Malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased by all preharvest treatments by up to 88%, although, only the combined H2S + NO treatment reduced H2O2 and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity. The results confirm that preharvest treatments with H2S, NO and H2S + NO may positively affect growth, floral traits and postharvest performance of cut gladiolus inflorescences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In many countries, potato (Solanum tuberosum) is a crucial carbohydrate-rich crop and staple food. However, sprouting during storage can adversely affect the quality of the harvested tubers. To maintain the postharvest quality, this study assessed the potential of apple fruit as one of the biological suppressants for potato tuber sprouting at ambient storage. Potato tubers were obtained from four commercial farms. Thereafter, they were stored in a brown paper alone (control) or with apple fruit at ±23 °C for 30-day period. Potato tubers were evaluated for their weight loss, sprouting percentage, decay and soluble sugars during storage duration. Tubers stored with apple fruit had significantly (P

Abstract Background Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) have been reported to have contrasting effects on plant physiology, while their effects on sugar, protein, and amino acid metabolism are poorly understood. In this work, we evaluated the effects of TiO2 NPs on physiological and agronomical traits of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedlings. Tomato seeds were treated with TiO2 NPs (1000 and 2000 mg L− 1), TiO2 microparticles (µPs, 2000 mg L− 1) as the size control, and ultrapure water as negative control. Results The dry matter of stems (DMs), leaves (DMl) and total dry matter (DMt) decreased as particle concentration increased. This trend was also observed in the maximum quantum yield of light-adapted photosystem II (PSII) (Fv´/Fm´), the effective quantum yield of PSII (ΦPSII), and net photosynthesis (Pn). The concentrations of sugars, total soluble proteins, and total free amino acids were unaffected, but there were differences in the daily dynamics of these compounds among the treatments. Conclusion Our results suggest that treating tomato seeds with TiO2 might affect PSII performance, net photosynthesis and decrease biomass production, associated with a concentration- and size-related effect of TiO2 particles.

Four plum cultivars commonly grown in Romania, ‘Angeleno’, ‘Anna Späth’, ‘Silvia’ and ‘Stanley’, were analyzed with regard to several parameters, including water content, juice pH, phenolic compounds (total and some major classes), carotenoids, ascorbic acid and soluble sugars. Among the four studied cultivars, ‘Silvia’ ranked the highest in terms of total phenolic content (82,345 mg/kg DW), flavonoids (43,171 mg/kg) and anthocyanins (1991 mg/kg). Hydroxybenzoic acids were found to be an important phenolic component; up to 33,971 mg/kg was found in ‘Angeleno’. The hydroxycinnamic acid content was highest in ‘Stanley’, and stilbenes were most prevalent in ‘Anna Späth’. Tannins were found in significant amounts only in fruit peel and were only present in some of the cultivars. Carotenoids were mostly present in the epicarp, with the maximum amount identified in ‘Anna Späth’ (313 mg/kg). The main compounds were β-carotene (of which the highest amount was identified in ‘Silvia’), lutein (with the highest amount found in ‘Silvia’) and lycopene (with the highest amount detected in ‘Stanley’). ‘Silvia’ also contained the highest amounts of ascorbic acid (7895 mg/kg in pulp and 12,229 mg/kg in peel). The highest soluble sugar content was found in the pulp of ‘Stanley’ (142,120 mg/kg), while ‘Anna Späth’ contained the lowest amount of soluble sugar. ‘Stanley’ also had less acidic pulp juice. Among the four cultivars, ‘Silvia’ ranked the highest in most classes of bioactive compounds, including total phenolic compounds, flavonoids, anthocyanins, tannins (peel only), β-carotene, lutein and ascorbic acid.