Helianthus Annuus Research Articles

Effect of different nutrient management practices on growth and yield of hybrid sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Effect of different nutrient management practices on growth and yield of hybrid sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Effect of Foliar Nutrition by Humic and Fulvic Acid and the Interaction between them on Productivity of Sun Flower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Effect of Foliar Nutrition by Humic and Fulvic Acid and the Interaction between them on Productivity of Sun Flower (Helianthus annuus L.)

The Effect of Wheat Residue Management and Organic and Nitrogen Fertilization on the Growth and Yield of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

The Effect of Wheat Residue Management and Organic and Nitrogen Fertilization on the Growth and Yield of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

Exploring selection signatures in the divergence and evolution of lipid droplet (LD) associated genes in major oilseed crops

BackgroundOil bodies or lipid droplets (LDs) in the cytosol are the subcellular storage compartments of seeds and the sites of lipid metabolism providing energy to the germinating seeds. Major LD-associated proteins are lipoxygenases, phospholipaseD, oleosins, TAG-lipases, steroleosins, caleosins and SEIPINs; involved in facilitating germination and enhancing peroxidation resulting in off-flavours. However, how natural selection is balancing contradictory processes in lipid-rich seeds remains evasive. The present study was aimed at the prediction of selection signatures among orthologous clades in major oilseeds and the correlation of selection effect with gene expression.ResultsThe LD-associated genes from the major oil-bearing crops were analyzed to predict natural selection signatures in phylogenetically close-knit ortholog clusters to understand adaptive evolution. Positive selection was the major force driving the evolution and diversification of orthologs in a lineage-specific manner. Significant positive selection effects were found in 94 genes particularly in oleosin and TAG-lipases, purifying with excess of non-synonymous substitution in 44 genes while 35 genes were neutral to selection effects. No significant selection impact was noticed in Brassicaceae as against LOX genes of oil palm. A heavy load of deleterious mutations affecting selection signatures was detected in T-lineage oleosins and LOX genes of Arachis hypogaea. The T-lineage oleosin genes were involved in mainly anther, tapetum and anther wall morphogenesis. In Ricinus communis and Sesamum indicum > 85% of PLD genes were under selection whereas selection pressures were low in Brassica juncea and Helianthus annuus. Steroleosin, caleosin and SEIPINs with large roles in lipid droplet organization expressed mostly in seeds and were under considerable positive selection pressures. Expression divergence was evident among paralogs and homeologs with one gene attaining functional superiority compared to the other. The LOX gene Glyma.13g347500 associated with off-flavor was not expressed during germination, rather its paralog Glyma.13g347600 showed expression in Glycine max. PLD-α genes were expressed on all the tissues except the seed,δ genes in seed and meristem while β and γ genes expressed in the leaf.ConclusionsThe genes involved in seed germination and lipid metabolism were under strong positive selection, although species differences were discernable. The present study identifies suitable candidate genes enhancing seed oil content and germination wherein directional selection can become more fruitful.

From waste to soil: Can we create functioning manufactured soils by recycling rock processing waste?

AbstractRock mining industries do not only exploit and transform extensive areas of land, but also produce vast amounts of rock waste material that lacks an adequate utilization. Some of these rock wastes have the potential to provide nutrients to plants and can therefore have positive impacts on soil properties. Consequently, we tested their potential for valorization as components of manufactured soils for use in urban areas. We conducted a 10‐week incubation experiment of soil mesocosms with sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.) to evaluate the performance of manufactured soils with respect to plant growth and soil properties. We used three common rock materials (augite‐porphyry, greywacke‐hornfels, basalt), ground to powder and mixed into natural soils of either clayey or sandy texture. In order to test the performance under challenging environmental conditions, we applied a drought treatment in addition to a regular watering treatment. All manufactured soils were able to maintain plant growth, although the yield of aboveground biomass was significantly lower compared to the original soils. However, the effects of the water regime and the original soils on the overall plant growth were stronger than the effect of the rock powders, indicating that the manufactured soils were not hampering plant development more than challenging environmental conditions. The preparation of the manufactured soils altered the grain size distribution of the originally sandy and clayey soils. Since the rock powders contributed mainly to the silt‐sized particles, their addition to soils may improve the physical properties of the soil, especially the plant's available water content. We used wet‐sieving to isolate aggregate size fractions and thus analyse the formation of soil aggregates. The manufactured soils had a higher mass contribution of microaggregate‐sized particles, although this was mostly attributed to the presence of silt‐sized rock powder particles instead of aggregate formation. The total organic carbon (OC) content of the original soils was diluted in the manufactured soils, as the rock powders did not contain OC. However, the manufactured soils may have the potential for future OC storage due to the abundance of OC‐free mineral surfaces, which can retain organic matter as well as capture CO2 through enhanced weathering of primary minerals. Based on this work, the tested rock materials have the potential to be utilized as components in manufactured soils in the urban context that provide soil‐like functions, particularly in terms of sustaining plant growth. For improved results, additional measures to initiate a rapid development of soil structure are highly recommended, for example, by adding an easily decomposable source of organic matter.

A Review of Medicinal Plants and Phytochemicals for the Management of Gout.

Gout, characterized by elevated uric acid levels, is a common inflammatory joint disease associated with pain, joint swelling, and bone erosion. Existing treatments for gout often result in undesirable side effects, highlighting the need for new, safe, and cost-effective anti-gout drugs. Natural products, including medicinal plants and phytochemicals, have gained attention as potential sources of anti-gout compounds. In this review, we examined articles from 2000 to 2020 using PubMed and Google Scholar, focusing on the effectiveness of medicinal plants and phyto-chemicals in managing gout. Our findings identified 14 plants and nine phytochemicals with anti-gout properties. Notably, Teucrium polium, Prunus avium, Smilax riparia, Rhus coriaria, Foenic-ulum vulgare, Allium cepa, Camellia japonica, and Helianthus annuus exhibited the highest xa-thine oxidase inhibitory activity, attributed to their unique natural bioactive compounds such as phenolics, tannins, coumarins, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Herbal plants and their phytochemicals have demonstrated promising effects in reducing serum urate and inhibiting xanthine. This review aims to report recent studies on plants/phytochemicals derived from herbs beneficial in gout and their different mechanisms.

Isolation and characterization of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) from rhizosphere of Helianthus annuus L.

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) support plant growth through direct and indirect mechanisms. To investigate PGPR strains that support plant growth, 21 bacterial isolates, mostly Bacillus ssp. and Pseudomonas ssp., were isolated from different rhizospheric soils of sunflowers in Kırşehir districts in 2020. All isolates were characterized morphologically, biochemically by screening under in vitro conditions for plant growth-promoting properties such as nitrogen fixation, IAA (indoleacetic acid) production, siderophore production, HCN (hydrogen cyanide) production, inorganic phosphate solubility. It was also screened for extracellular enzyme production and antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum. Among the 21 isolates, 3 isolates (MH-35-4, MH-49-4, MH-64-3) fixed nitrogen, 2 isolates (MH-59-6, MH-64-3), produced siderophores, 8 isolates (MH-35-4, MH-35-6, MH-54-3, MH-54-4, MH-59-1, MH-59-2, MH-59-4, MH-59-8) produced HCN, 6 isolates (MH-35-6, MH-54-4, MH-59-1, MH-59-2, MH-59-4, MH-59-8) produced IAA, and 7 isolates (MH-35-4, MH-35-6, MH-59-1, MH-59-2, MH-59-4, MH-59-8, MH-64-3) solubilized inorganic phosphate. Additionally, only 2 isolates (MH-54-3, MH-54-4) were positive amylase tests, 8 isolates (MH-35-6, MH-54-4, MH-59-1, MH-59-2, MH-59-4, MH-59-6, MH-59-7, MH-59-8) were positive citrate tests, 8 isolates (MH-35-1, MH-35-4, MH-35-7, MH-49-4, MH-54-4, MH-59-6, MH-59-7, MH-64-3) were positive protease tests, and 6 isolates (MH-35-1, MH-35-3, MH-35-7, MH-54-3, MH-54-4, MH-59-7) were positive gelatin hydrolysis tests. Among 21 isolates, 38% were determined as hydrogen cyanide producers, 10% as siderophore producers, 29% IAA producers, 33% as phosphate solubilizers and 14% as nitrogen fixers. Isolate MH-35-6 showed the highest antifungal activity against Fusarium oxysporum with an inhibition rate of 53.57%. This was followed by isolates MH-54-1 (51.19%), MH-54-3 (47.61%) and MH-59-2 (38.09%), respectively. Therefore, our study reveals that bacteria that promote plant growth in sunflowers can be used to increase crop yield and as a biocontrol agent.

Quest for malaria management using natural remedies.

Malaria, transmitted through the bite of a Plasmodium-infected Anopheles mosquito, remains a significant global health concern. This review examines the complex life cycle of Plasmodium, emphasizing the role of humans and mosquitoes in its transmission and proliferation. Malarial parasites are transmitted as sporozoites to the human body by biting an infected female Anopheles mosquito. These sporozoites then invade liver cells, multiply, and release merozoites, which infect red blood cells, perpetuating the cycle. As this cycle continues, the affected person starts experiencing the clinical symptoms of the disease. The current treatments for malaria, including chloroquine, artemisinin-based combination therapy, and quinine, are discussed alongside the challenges of drug resistance and misdiagnosis. Although efforts have been made to develop a malarial vaccine, they have so far been unsuccessful. Additionally, the review explores the potential of medicinal plants as remedies for malaria, highlighting the efficacy of compounds derived from Artemisia annua, Cinchona species, and Helianthus annuus L., as well as exploration of plants and phytocompounds like cryptolepine, and isoliquiritigenin against drug-resistant Plasmodium species. Moreover, studies from Pakistan further highlight the diverse vegetal resources utilized in malaria treatment, emphasizing the need for further research into natural remedies. Despite the advantages of herbal medicines, including cost-effectiveness, and fewer side effects; their limitations must be taken into account, including variations in potency and potential drug interactions. The review concludes by advocating for a balanced approach to malaria treatment and prevention, emphasizing the importance of early detection, accurate diagnosis, and integrated efforts to combat the disease in the endemic regions.

Winter cover crop suppression methods influence on sunflower growth and rhizosphere communities.

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), a vital crop for global vegetable oil production, encounters sustainability challenges in its cultivation. This study assesses the effects of incorporating a winter cover crop (CC), Avena sativa (L.), on the subsequent growth of sunflower crops and the vitality of their rhizosphere microbial communities over a two-year period. It examines the impact of two methods for suppressing winter CC-chemical suppression using glyphosate and mechanical suppression via rolling-both with and without the addition of phosphorus (P) starter fertilizer. These approaches are evaluated in comparison to the regional best management practices for sunflower cultivation, which involve a preparatory chemical fallow period and the subsequent application of starter P fertilizer. The methodology utilized Illumina sequencing for the analysis of rhizosphere bacterial 16S rRNA genes and fungal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) amplicons. Findings indicate a significant improvement (9-37%) in sunflower growth parameters (plant height, stem diameter, head diameter, and head dry weight) when cultivated after glyphosate-suppressed winter CC compared to the chemical fallows. Conversely, rolling of winter CC generally negatively affected sunflower growth. Rhizosphere bacterial communities following chemical suppression of winter CC showed greater Pielou's evenness, indicating a uniform distribution of species. In general, this treatment had more detrimental effects on beneficial sunflower rhizosphere bacteria such as Hymenobacter and Pseudarthrobacter than rolling of the winter CC, suggesting that the overall effect on sunflower growth may be mitigated by the redundancy within the bacterial community. As for fungal diversity, measured by the Chao-1 index, it increased in sunflowers planted after winter CC and receiving P fertilization, underscoring nutrient management's role in microbial community structure. Significant positive correlations between fungal diversity and sunflower growth parameters at the reproductive stage were observed (r = 0.41-0.72; p < 0.05), highlighting the role of fungal communities in plant fitness. The study underscores the positive effects of winter CC inclusion and management for enhancing sunflower cultivation while promoting beneficial microbes in the crop's rhizosphere. We advocate for strategic winter CC species selection, optimization of mechanical suppression techniques, and tailored phosphorus fertilization of sunflower to foster sustainable agriculture.

The Effect of Different Phosphorous Levels on Growth, Yield, and Quality of Autumn Planted Sunflower (Helianthus Annuus L.)

Phosphorus is one of the most crucial nutrients after nitrogen, for plant growth Phosphorus is required for higher and sustained productivity of oil from sunflower. An experiment was set up in RCBD to determine the influence of different phosphorus levels on sunflower growth and seed yield. The experimentconsists of six treatments of P levels repeated three times. The variety HO-1 was treated with different P levels: P1 = 00 kg ha-1, P2 = 30 kg ha-1, P3 = 45 kg ha-1, P4 = 60 kg ha-1, P5 = 75 kg ha-1, P6 = 100 kg ha-1. highest plant population (9.9 m-2), tallest plant (253.0 cm), highest stem girth (11.7 cm), highest head diameter (50.0 cm), highest seeds head-1 (2015.0), highest seed weight head-1 (71.2 g), seed index (35.0 g) and highest seed yield (2760.3 kg ha-1) were recorded in treatment 6 where a rate of phosphorus 100 kg ha-1 P, followed by P5 = (phosphorus 75 kg ha-1) with (9.6 m-2) plant population, with (247.7 cm) plant height, with (11.6 cm) stem girth, with (48.0 cm) head diameter, with (1971.3) seeds head-1, with (69.5 g) seed weight head-1, with (34.0 g) seed index and seed yield (2725.7 kg ha-1) however show that the lowest was P1 = control (no fertilizer) lowest plant population (6.2m-2), lowest plant (190.0 cm), lowest stem girth (7.4cm), lowest head diameter (22.7 cm), lowest seeds head-1 (1363), lowest seed weight head-1 (33.2 g), seed index (22.0 g) and lowest seed yield (2070 kg ha-1). It was also observed that sunflower performance was at par with T6 and T5. From the present study it is determined that sunflowers achieved equally better at T5 and T6. Hence, for economic yield T5 is recommended.

Mitigation of drought-induced stress in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) via foliar application of Jasmonic acid through the augmentation of growth, physiological, and biochemical attributes

Drought stress poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity, especially in areas susceptible to water scarcity. Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) is a widely cultivated oilseed crop with considerable potential globally. Jasmonic acid, a plant growth regulator, plays a crucial role in alleviating the adverse impacts of drought stress on the morphological, biochemical, and physiological characteristics of crops. Experimental detail includes sunflower varieties (Armani Gold, KQS-HSF-1, Parsun, and ESFH-3391), four drought stress levels (0, 25%, 50%, and 75% drought stress), and three levels (0, 40ppm, 80ppm) of jasmonic acid. The 0% drought stress and 0ppm jasmonic acid were considered as control treatments. The experimental design was a completely randomized design with three replicates. Drought stress significantly reduced the growth in all varieties. However, the exogenous application of jasmonic acid at concentrations of 40ppm and 80ppm enhanced growth parameters, shoot and root length (1.93%, 19%), shoot and root fresh weight (18.5%, 25%), chlorophyll content (36%), photosynthetic rate (22%), transpiration rate (40%), WUE (20%), MDA (6.5%), Phenolics (19%), hydrogen peroxide (7%) proline (28%) and glycine betaine (15–30%) under water-stressed conditions, which was closely linked to the increase in stomatal activity stimulated by jasmonic acid. Furthermore, JA 80 ppm was found to be the most appropriate dose to reduce the effect of water stress in all sunflower varieties. It was concluded that the foliar application of JA has the potential to enhance drought tolerance by improving the morphological, biochemical, and physiological of sunflower.

Elucidating the role of rice straw biochar in modulating Helianthus annuus L. antioxidants, secondary metabolites and soil post-harvest characteristics in different types of microplastics

The emergence of microplastics (MPs) as pollutants in agricultural soils is increasingly alarming, presenting significant threats to soil ecosystems. Given the widespread contamination of ecosystems by various types of MPs, including polystyrene (PS), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyethylene (PE), it is crucial to understand their effects on agricultural productivity. The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of different types of MPs (PS, PVC, and PE) on various aspects of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) growth with the addition of rice straw biochar (RSB). This study aimed to examine plant growth and biomass, photosynthetic pigments and gas exchange characteristics, oxidative stress indicators, and the response of various antioxidants (enzymatic and non-enzymatic) and their specific gene expression, proline metabolism, the AsA–GSH cycle, cellular fractionation in the plants and post-harvest soil properties. The research outcomes indicated that elevated levels of different types of MPs in the soil notably reduced plant growth and biomass, photosynthetic pigments, and gas exchange attributes. Different types of MPs also induced oxidative stress, which caused an increase in various enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant compounds, gene expression and sugar content; notably, a significant increase in proline metabolism, AsA–GSH cycle, and pigmentation of cellular components was also observed. Favorably, the addition of RSB significantly increased plant growth and biomass, gas exchange characteristics, enzymatic and non-enzymatic compounds, and relevant gene expression while decreasing oxidative stress. In addition, RSB amendment decreased proline metabolism and AsA-GSH cycle in H. annuus plants, thereby enhancing cellular fractionation and improving post-harvest soil properties. These results open new avenues for sustainable agriculture practices and show great potential for resolving the urgent issues caused by microplastic contamination in agricultural soils.

An Integrated ANN-PRA/DP4+ Tandem Computational Approach Contributing to the Ordering of the Heliannuol Family.

Heliannuols are a unique class of sesquiterpenes isolated mostly from Helianthus annuus, commonly known as sunflower. The interesting allelopathic properties, combined with their unprecedented carbon skeletons, have drawn wide attention to phytochemistry and synthetic groups. So far, 14 heliannuols (heliannuols A-N) have been described in the literature, although some of them have not yet been validated by total synthesis. Moreover, the structural proposal of some compounds was based on the similarity of NMR data reported for previously isolated analogues (which in many instances turned out to be incorrect), coupled with little or no stereochemical analysis. Consequently, the structural reassignment is a recurring theme in heliannuol's family. Through a rigorous and comprehensive quantum chemical simulation of NMR parameters, encompassing an integrated ANN-PRA/DP4+ tandem approach, we intended to advance unexplored directions regarding the structure of the entire heliannuol family. Furthermore, we found that the size of the fused ring significantly influences the signals corresponding to the aromatic ring, making this discovery an excellent diagnostic tool for quickly determining the core structure of these compounds.

The impact of planting dates and hybrid selection on sunflower seed yield and oil content

Suitable planting dates and hybrid selection are crucial in optimising yield, component traits and oil production in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). In South Africa, there is limited information on the effects of planting dates on currently available sunflower hybrids in the marketplace. This study aimed to investigate the impact of planting dates on sunflower seed yield, oil content and oil yield, and to discern optimal planting dates for selected sunflower hybrids. Nineteen commercial sunflower hybrids were evaluated at three planting dates and three consecutive seasons in Potchefstroom, South Africa. The study used a complete block design with three replicates, and the standard analysis of variance was conducted. Significant differences were detected among seasons, planting dates, hybrids, and their interactions. The mean seed yield varied from 1.86 (LG 5678 CLP) to 2.50 tonnes ha−1 (PAN 7160 CLP). The oil content varied from 37.23 (P 65LP 54) to 53.16% (SY 3970 CLP), and the oil yield ranged from 0.74 (AGSUN 5101 CLP) to 1.25 tonnes ha−1 (LG 5710). Planting sunflowers in November and December resulted in the highest seed yield, oil content and oil yield, while planting in January and early February showed linear declines. January planting reduced 1 to 20%, 2 to 10%, and 3 to 26% in seed yield, oil content and oil yield, respectively. February planting significantly reduced seed yield by 72%, oil content by 20% and oil yield by 77%. The study recommended November and December as optimal sunflower planting dates in South Africa.

Neighbour‐detection causes shifts in allocation across multiple organs to prepare plants for light competition

Abstract To maximize their fitness, plants have to adjust their allocation strategy according to their abiotic and biotic environments. Plants can use the ratio of red to far‐red light (R:FR) to sense neighbours, allowing them to modify their growth in response to aboveground competition. In this study, we used supplemental FR light to artificially lower the R:FR of the lower leaves of common sunflowers (Helianthus annuus) to examine how plants change their growth in response to the threat of neighbours. We combined this treatment with a nitrogen fertilization treatment to investigate how responses to neighbour‐detection interact with nitrogen limitation. Plants grown in low R:FR increased in height at the expense of root growth, resulting in nitrogen limitation that restricted leaf growth. However, we found that plants reduced their nitrogen investment into leaves in low R:FR. By weakening the nitrogen sink strength of these lower leaves before they experienced low photosynthetically active radiation, plants were able to preemptively allocate nitrogen to leaves higher in the canopy. Plants responded to the perception of neighbours by simultaneously diverting resources from root growth to stem elongation and from leaves threatened by neighbours to leaves that would pose a threat to neighbours. This whole‐plant response to neighbour‐detection enables plants to change their allocation in a way that simultaneously manages their limited nitrogen and prepares them for future light competition. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.

Genomic and transcriptomic analyses highlight evolutionary and functional characteristics of WRKY genes in Asterids

WRKY transcription factors regulate development, dormancy, germination, senescence, and reactions to abiotic and biotic stress. Asterids, a major group of eudicots, are commercially and pharmacologically important. However, large-scale WRKY gene family analyses in Asterids are lacking. We performed genome-wide re-annotation and downstream analyses of WRKY genes in nine Asterid species in addition to Arabidopsis thaliana and Beta vulgaris. We identified a total of 1,013 WRKY genes, 91 of which were newly annotated in our analysis. These were divided into six subgroups based on domain structure, phylogeny, and motif composition. Duplication analysis revealed increased copy numbers of WRKY genes belonging to specific subgroups in Helianthus annuus (sunflower), Actinidia chinensis (kiwifruit), and Olea europaea var. sylvestris (wild olive). Both H. annuus and A. chinensis displayed recent duplications of the WRKY gene after their divergence, whereas O. europaea var. sylvestris showed ancient duplication of WRKY genes. Transcriptome analyses suggested the potential function of WRKY genes in responses to abiotic and biotic stresses in H. annuus and A. chinensis, respectively. Our data shed light on the evolutionary and functional characteristics of WRKY genes, especially among Asterid plant species.

Staphylococcus arlettae mediated defense mechanisms and metabolite modulation against arsenic stress in Helianthus annuus.

Arsenate, a metalloid, acting as an analog to phosphate, has a tendency to accumulate more readily in plant species, leading to adverse effects. In the current study, sunflower seedlings were exposed to 25, 50 and 100 ppm of the arsenic. Likewise, a notable reduction (p<0.05) was observed in the relative growth rate (RGR) by 4-folds and net assimilation rate (NAR) by 75% of Helianthus annuus when subjected to arsenic (As) stress. Nevertheless, the presence of Staphylococcus arlettae, a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterium with As tolerance, yielded an escalation in the growth of H. annuus within As-contaminated media. S. arlettae facilitated the conversion of As into a form accessible to plants, thereby, increasing its uptake and subsequent accumulation in plant tissues. S. arlettae encouraged the enzymatic antioxidant systems (Superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT)) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (flavonoids, phenolics, and glutathione) in H. annuus seedlings following substantial As accumulation. The strain also induced the host plant to produce osmolytes like proline and sugars, mitigating water loss and maintaining cellular osmotic balance under As-induced stress. S. arlettae rectified imbalances in lignin content, reduced high malonaldehyde (MDA) levels, and minimized electrolyte leakage, thus counteracting the toxic impacts of the metal. The strain exhibited the capability to concurrently encourage plant growth and remediate Ascontaminated growth media through 2-folds rate of biotransformation and bio-mobilization.

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) stigmas as a potential natural additive to improve oxidative stability attributes of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) oil stored under different conditions

The aim of our study was to explore the antioxidant potential of Moroccan saffron stigmas (SS) and examine their performance as a natural antioxidant in enhancing the stability and quality properties of edible sunflower oil (SO), with a focus on understanding the critical importance of edible oil stability for predicting quality deterioration during storage. Bearing this in mind, our research was designed to compare the efficacy of three concentrations of dried SS (at 0.2%, 0.3%, and 0.6%) against tocobiol (a synthetic antioxidant) as a positive control (at 0.3% concentration). This comparison was conducted under three distinct storage conditions namely accelerated ageing (60 °C), exposure to light at ambient temperature, and darkness, to evaluate their impact on preventing severe oxidation and extending oil shelf-life. Oxidation state evolution was evaluated through peroxide value (PV), free fatty acid (FFA), anisidine value (p-AV), K270 value (conjugated trienes), total oxidation index (TOTOX), iodine value (IV), and fatty acid composition (FA). Our results revealed notable differences in stability tracking parameters. Specifically, these parameters were higher in samples stored under accelerated conditions, followed by the samples stored in ambient light, while those stored in darkness showed the highest stability among the three storage conditions. Supplementation of sunflower oil with SS and tocobiol significantly enhanced its oxidation stability. Notably, SS exhibited exceptional effectiveness in stabilizing sunflower oil regardless of SS dose, with the highest efficacy observed at 0.6%. This was evidenced by the slower rate of oxidation parameters under various storage conditions, highlighting a superior antioxidant activity compared to both the non-enriched oil and tocobiol-enriched oil. Furthermore, saffron stigmas, used as a natural supplement, contributed to the preservation of polyunsaturated fatty acids, indicating its potential as a robust source of natural antioxidants in sunflower oil. These attributes position SS as a promising alternative to synthetic antioxidants, offering opportunities to enhance the nutritional quality and extend edible oil shelf-life.

Advances in the Use of Four Synthetic Antioxidants as Food Additives for Enhancing the Oxidative Stability of Refined Sunflower Oil (Helianthus annuus L.)

The present investigation was performed to evaluate the effects of various synthetic antioxidants (vitamin A, vitamin E, β-carotene, and BHT) on the oxidation of sunflower oil subjected to accelerated thermal storage at 60 °C for three months (12 weeks). The performance of the antioxidants studied was evaluated using several quality parameters: the free fatty acid value (FFA), primary oxidation (via the peroxide value (PV) and K232 value), secondary oxidation products (via the anisidine value (p-AV) and K270 value), and the total oxidation value (TOTOX). The fatty acid composition (FAC), oxidizability value (COX), iodine value (IV), and pigment content (chlorophyll and carotenoid) were also evaluated. The results revealed that the control sample of sunflower oil exhibited higher susceptibility to oxidative deterioration. Antioxidants at 200 ppm were more effective in preserving the oxidative stability of sunflower oil subjected to accelerated storage compared to the control oil. The smallest increases in all stability parameter indexes were recorded for antioxidant-supplemented sunflower oil. However, the IV and chlorophyll and carotenoid contents were reduced. At 200 ppm, vitamin E and β-carotene showed the greatest stability in sunflower oil, while their combination with vitamin A at 100 ppm of each showed the lowest stability. In addition, synthetic antioxidants provided greater protection against the degradation of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The highest level of PUFA degradation was recorded in the control oil, followed by the oil containing vitamin A. In conclusion, adding synthetic antioxidants to sunflower oil improves its stability during storage. However, some authors associated these molecules with a health risk due to carcinogenic effects as these molecules have been listed as “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS).

Estimation of the crop water stress index (CWSI) of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) using sensor-based irrigation scheduling for different irrigation levels

ABSTRACT The crop water stress index (CWSI) is an important technique for determining stress levels in the plant and directing irrigation management techniques. To determine the CWSI for sunflower, a pot-based research trial was carried out in the research field of the Department of Soil and Water Engineering, PAU, Ludhiana (India) during the summer of 2023. The sensor-based irrigation scheduling was carried out on the basis of the depletion of total available soil moisture (TASM). The drip irrigation treatments consist of I1 (full irrigation), I2 (20% depletion of TASM), and I3 (40% depletion of TASM). The results revealed that the highest amount of water applied under I1 was recorded at 484.4 mm, while I2 (387.5 mm) and I3 (290.7 mm) during the growing season of sunflower. The results revealed that for kernel diameter and seed weight, I1 and I2 were statistically non-significant to each other while I1 and I3 were statistically significant to each other. The highest water productivity recorded for I2, followed by I3. The overall findings revealed that an average CWSI value of 0.85 for the sunflower crop falls within the range of lower and upper baselines. The response of physico-chemical properties of sunflower seeds showed a high correlation with the draught condition.