Highest Shoot Research Articles

A Study on the Allelopathic Effects of Wild Barley (Hordeum spontaneum) Residue Incorporated with Soil on Growth of Some Plant species

This study examines the allelopathic effects of wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum) on the growth and yield of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum), barley (Hordeum vulgare), and wild barley (Hordeum spontaneum). The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse at Shamamar-Hawler/ Kurdistan Region of Iraq using a complete randomized factorial design (CRD) within 3 replications. The roots, shoots, and seeds of wild barley were dried, powdered, and added to the soil at different concentrations (0%, 10%, 20%, 30%, and 40%) in 500 g pots. Each pot was planted with 5 seeds, which were later reduced to 3 seedlings. Growth parameters such as shoot and root lengths, dry weights, number of tillers, weight of spikes, seeds number per plant, and biological yield was measured. The results indicated significant effects of wild barley residues on the studied crops. Wheat showed the highest roots, shoots and total lengths were (29.56 cm, 17.05 cm and 46.58 cm, respectively) and the highest shoots and roots dry weights were (0.24 g and 0.30 g). Barley showed the highest number of stems (1.96) but the lowest shoots and dry weights of roots were (0.11 g and 0.23 g). Wild barley had the highest biological weight and harvest index (HI). Among the plant parts, seed extracts significantly enhanced growth parameters, while roots and shoots extract had the greatest inhibitory effects as wild barley residue concentrations increased. Nevertheless, the HI showed a decline as the concentrations increased, suggesting a detrimental effect on growth efficiency. The study shows the potential of wild barley as a bio-herbicide, emphasizing its allelopathic effects. This suggests that agricultural practices should be carefully considered to maximize the efficiency of crops. Incorporating these results into precision agriculture can greatly improve crop management and increase yield.

Comparative Transcriptome Analysis of Non-Organogenic and Organogenic Tissues of Gaillardia pulchella Revealing Genes Regulating De Novo Shoot Organogenesis

Gaillardia pulchella is an important plant species with pharmacological and ornamental applications. It contains a wide array of phytocompounds which play roles against diseases. In vitro propagation requires callogenesis and differentiation of plant organs, which offers a sustainable, alternative synthesis of compounds. The morphogenetic processes and the underlying mechanisms are, however, known to be under genetic regulation and are little understood. The present study investigated these events by generating transcriptome data, with de novo assembly of sequences to describe shoot morphogenesis molecularly in G. pulchella. The RNA was extracted from the callus of pre- and post-shoot organogenesis time. The callus induction was optimal using leaf segments cultured onto MS medium containing α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA; 2.0 mg/L) and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP; 0.5 mg/L) and further exhibited a high shoot regeneration/caulogenesis ability. A total of 68,366 coding sequences were obtained using Illumina150bpPE sequencing and transcriptome assembly. Differences in gene expression patterns were noted in the studied samples, showing opposite morphogenetic responses. Out of 10,108 genes, 5374 (53%) were downregulated, and there were 4734 upregulated genes, representing 47% of the total genes. Through the heatmap, the top 100 up- and downregulating genes’ names were identified and presented. The up- and downregulated genes were identified using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway. Important pathways, operative during G. pulchella shoot organogenesis, were signal transduction (13.55%), carbohydrate metabolism (8.68%), amino acid metabolism (5.11%), lipid metabolism (3.75%), and energy metabolism (3.39%). The synthesized proteins displayed phosphorylation, defense response, translation, regulation of DNA-templated transcription, carbohydrate metabolic processes, and methylation activities. The genes’ product also exhibited ATP binding, DNA binding, metal ion binding, protein serine/threonine kinase -, ATP hydrolysis activity, RNA binding, protein kinase, heme and GTP binding, and DNA binding transcription factor activity. The most abundant proteins were located in the membrane, nucleus, cytoplasm, ribosome, ribonucleoprotein complex, chloroplast, endoplasmic reticulum membrane, mitochondrion, nucleosome, Golgi membrane, and other organellar membranes. These findings provide information for the concept of molecular triggers, regulating programming, differentiation and reprogramming of cells, and their uses.

Chemical composition of city wastewater and its effect on germination of some vegetable seeds

Due to increasing shortage of fresh water, the use of city wastewater in agricultural purpose has become more popular day by day. This experiment was conducted to analyze the physico-chemical parameters of the city wastewater and its effect on seed germination and seedling growth of Abelmoschus esculentus (Lady’s Finger), Vigna unguiculata (Yard Long Bean) and Cucumis sativus (Cucumber) plants during the period of January, March and May, 2023 with the application of five treatments i.e. T0 (control), T1 (3ml), T2 (5ml), T3 (7ml) and T4 (10ml). The experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. Analyses included pH, EC, hardness, cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, Zn2+, Cu2+, Mn2+ and Fe3+), anions (CO32-, HCO3-, SO42-, PO43- and Cl-) and TDS (total dissolved solids), SAR (sodium adsorption ratio). The pH (6.9 ~ 7.23) was neutral to alkaline and could be suitable for agricultural uses. According to TDS and SAR values, all samples of wastewater were classified as ‘Freshwater’ and ‘excellent’ categories. T0 (control) and T3 (7ml) were showed the highest germination percentage (100%) for every month and T4 (10ml) was showed the lowest germination percentage (80%). The speed of germination, relative germination ratio and germination index were also highest at T0 (control) and lowest was in T1 (3ml) condition and again the shoot and root length of the vegetables were gradually enhanced with increasing concentration and highest shoot and root length found in T4 (10 ml) treatment and lowest shoot and root length observed in T0 (control) treatment. Thus, the city wastewater, after proper dilutions can be used as a promising source of water in agricultural practice.

Nitrogen and zinc supplements can enhance morphology and physiology traits of maize at early growth stages

Several studies emphasized the importance of zinc for better morpho-physiology in plants. The co-application of Zn can reduce N loss by increasing its uptake rates, but whether N level can affect Zn accumulation in different plant organs is not well studied. This experiment aimed to examine the impact of different levels of nitrogen and zinc on the morphology, physiology and nutrient uptake of maize, and whether different N levels would affect Zn accumulation. Two maize genotypes were grown hydroponically. Nitrogen was supplemented in two different concentrations, combined with two Zn concentrations. Zn level did not affect the shoot or the root dry weight of either genotype under optimal N level, but did under reduced N level. Reduced N level resulted in significantly higher root dry weight under both Zn concentrations in both genotypes. Significantly higher nitrogen remobilization rate was found at reduced N level in both genotypes. Optimal N level resulted in higher shoot and root N and Zn contents in both genotypes. The uptake of Zn was enhanced by optimal N compared to reduced N level, where the impact of genotypes was also observable. Reduced N level decreased both optimal and actual photochemical efficiency of photosystem II, and pigment contents of both genotypes. It could be concluded that N and Zn use efficiency is highly dependent on the genetic characteristics of maize genotypes, but optimal N supply is required for better incorporation of Zn into shoot and root tissues.

Suzhi 5: A New Hybrid Zoysiagrass Cultivar with High Shoot Density and Fine Leaf Texture

Suzhi 5: A New Hybrid Zoysiagrass Cultivar with High Shoot Density and Fine Leaf Texture

Screening Cover Crops for Utilization in Irrigated Vineyards: A Greenhouse Study on Species' Nitrogen Uptake and Carbon Sequestration Potential.

This study examines the potential of 23 plant species, comprising 10 legumes, 9 grasses, and 4 forbs, as cover crops to enhance carbon (C) sequestration and soil nitrogen (N) in vineyards. After a 120-day evaluation period, cover crop biomass was incorporated into the soil, and grapevine seedlings were planted in its place. Among the established cover crops, the C input potential ranged from 0.267 to 1.69 Mg ha-1, and the N input potential ranged from 12.3 to 114 kg ha-1. Legume species exhibited up to threefold greater shoot dry weight (SDW) compared to grass species. Ladino white clover, Dutch white clover, and Clover blend were superior in SDW, total dry weight (TDW), total C content, and total N content. Legumes exhibited slightly higher root dry weight (RDW) than grasses, with the exception of Fall rye leading at 15 g pot-1, followed by Ladino white clover and Dutch white clover at an average of 12 g pot-1. Legumes, particularly clover blend and Alsike clover, displayed high shoot N concentration at an average of 2.95%. Root N concentration in Legumes (Fabaceae) were significantly higher at 1.82% compared to other plant families at 0.89%, while their root C/N ratio was lower at 18.3, contrasting with others at 27.7, resulting in a faster turnover. Biomass production exhibited a negative relationship (R2 = 0.51) with soil residual NO3-. Fall rye, Winfred brassica, and buckwheat had the highest N utilization efficiency (NUtE) values (ava. 121 g g-1). Alsike clover, Ladino white clover, and clover blend showed the highest N uptake efficiency (NUpE) values (ava. 75%). The Readily Available N (RAN) Reliance Index (RANRI) is introduced as a novel indicator for quantifying the extent to which a plant relies on RAN for its total N requirement. The RANRI value represents the percentage of the plant's total N sourced from RAN, ranging from 11% for legumes to 86% for grasses. This implies a substantial influx of nitrogen through a pathway independent of RAN in legumes. Grape shoot N concentration positively correlated with soil NO3- (R2 = 0.31) and cover crop C/N ratio (R2 = 0.17) but negatively correlated with cover crop TDW (R2 = 0.31). This study highlights legume plants as more effective in C and N assimilation during establishment but cautions about potential soil mineral N depletion before reaching their full biological N fixation capacity.

Phytoremediation of metals in oil sands process affected water by native wetland species

Process affected water and other industrial wastewaters are a major environmental concern. During oil sands mining, large amounts of oil sands process affected water (OSPW) are generated and stored in ponds until reclaimed and ready for surface water discharge. While much research has focused on organics in process waters, trace metals at high concentrations may also pose environmental risks. Phytoremediation is a cost effective and sustainable approach that employs plants to extract and reduce contaminants in water. The research was undertaken in mesocosm scale constructed wetlands with plants exposed to OSPW for 60 days. The objective was to screen seven native emergent wetland species for their ability to tolerate high metal concentrations (arsenic, cadmium, copper, chromium, copper, nickel, selenium, zinc), and then to evaluate the best performing species for OSPW phytoremediation. All native plant species, except Glyceria grandis, tolerated and grew in OSPW. Carex aquatilis (water sedge), Juncus balticus (baltic rush), and Typha latifolia (cattail) had highest survival and growth, and had high metal removal efficiencies for arsenic (81–87 %), chromium (78–86 %), and cadmium (74–84 %), relative to other metals; and greater than 91 % of the dissolved portions were removed. The native plant species were efficient accumulators of all metals, as demonstrated by high root and shoot bioaccumulation factors; root accumulation was greater than shoot accumulation. Translocation factor values were greater than one for Juncus balticus (chromium, zinc) and Carex aquatilis (cadmium, chromium, cobalt, nickel). The results demonstrate the potential suitability of these species for phytoremediation of a number of metals of concern and could provide an effective and environmentally sound remediation approach for wastewaters.

Case analysis: Application of the Terrorist Radicalization Assessment Protocol–18 to the perpetrator of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school shooting in Parkland, Florida.

Case analysis: Application of the Terrorist Radicalization Assessment Protocol–18 to the perpetrator of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas high school shooting in Parkland, Florida.

The GH3 Protein from the Clubroot Pathogen Plasmodiophora brassicae Causes Hormone-Related Phenotypes in Arabidopsis thaliana

In the genome of the obligate biotrophic protist Plasmodiophora brassicae, which causes clubroot disease in the Brassicaceae family, a single gene was identified with homology to the group of GH3 proteins synthesizing amino acid conjugates with carboxylic acids. In comparison to plant members the P. brassicae GH3 protein seems to be very promiscuous with respect to the substrates converted. In vitro assays showed conversion of three different auxins (indole-3-acetic, IAA; indole-propionic, IPA; and indole-3-butyric acids, IBA), jasmonic acid (JA) and also 12-oxo-phytodienoic acid (OPDA). Auxin and Methyl-JA responsive elements were found in the promoter sequence of PbGH3. For further analysis Arabidopsis thaliana was transformed with PbGH3. Seedlings with confirmed constitutive PbGH3 protein production were grown to adult plants that were shown to produce fewer inflorescences per plant. Growth on 10 µM IAA or JA levels also altered the phenotype of the seedlings, but not so much between wild types and transgenic lines. The hormone profiles in seedlings and adult plants were examined for IAA, JA, OPDA, and respective conjugates. Transgenic seedlings displayed changes that could be partially attributed to the overexpression of a GH3 gene like lower levels of free IAA and the JA precursor cis-OPDA under control conditions, and higher levels of some auxin conjugates accumulated after IAA treatment compared to the corresponding wild types. However, the hormone patterns in adult plants were more complex and varied based on different tissue types analyzed. After inoculation with P. brassicae the transgenic plants did not show any changes in infection rate and disease index, but had higher shoot and lower root weight in infected plants compared to controls. Based on the above findings we discuss a role for PbGH3 during pathogenesis.

Phosphate solubilizing Pseudomonas and Bacillus combined with rock phosphates promoting tomato growth and reducing bacterial canker disease.

Nowadays, sustainable agriculture approaches are based on the use of biofertilizers and biopesticides. Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) rhizosphere could provide rhizobacteria with biofertilizing and biopesticide properties. In this study, bacteria from the rhizosphere of tomato were evaluated in vitro for plant growth promotion (PGP) properties. Five Pseudomonas isolates (PsT-04c, PsT-94s, PsT-116, PsT-124, and PsT-130) and one Bacillus isolate (BaT-68s), with the highest ability to solubilize tricalcium phosphate (TCP) were selected for further molecular identification and characterization. Isolates showed phosphate solubilization up to 195.42 μg mL-1. All isolates showed phosphate solubilization by organic acid production. The six isolates improved seed germination and showed effective root colonization when tomato seeds were coated with isolates at 106 cfu g-1 in axenic soil conditions. Furthermore, the selected isolates were tested for beneficial effects on tomato growth and nutrient status in greenhouse experiments with natural rock phosphate (RP). The results showed that inoculated tomato plants in the presence of RP have a higher shoot and root lengths and weights compared with the control. After 60 days, significant increases in plant Ca, Na, P, protein, and sugar contents were also observed in inoculated seedlings. In addition, inoculated tomato seedlings showed an increase in foliar chlorophyll a and b and total chlorophyll, while no significant changes were observed in chlorophyll fluorescence. In greenhouse, two Pseudomonas isolates, PsT-04c and PsT-130, showed ability to trigger induced systemic resistance in inoculated tomato seedlings when subsequently challenged by Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis, the causal agent of tomato bacterial canker. High protection rate (75%) was concomitant to an increase in the resistance indicators: total soluble phenolic compounds, phenylalanine-ammonia lyase, and H2O2. The results strongly demonstrated the effectiveness of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria adapted to rhizosphere as biofertilizers for tomato crops and biopesticides by inducing systemic resistance to the causal agent of tomato bacterial canker disease.

Establishment of genome-editing system and assembly of a near-complete genome in broomcorn millet.

The ancient crop broomcorn millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) is an indispensable orphan crop in semi-arid regions due to its short life cycle and excellent abiotic stress tolerance. These advantages make it an important alternative crop to increase food security and achieve the goal of zero hunger, particularly in light of the uncertainty of global climate change. However, functional genomic and biotechnological research in broomcorn millet has been hampered due to a lack of genetic tools such as transformation and genome-editing techniques. Here, we successfully performed genome editing of broomcorn millet. We identified an elite variety, Hongmi, that produces embryogenic callus and has high shoot regeneration ability in in vitro culture. We established an Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated genetic transformation protocol and a clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9-mediated genome-editing system for Hongmi. Using these techniques, we produced herbicide-resistant transgenic plants and edited phytoene desaturase (PmPDS), which is involved in chlorophyll biosynthesis. To facilitate the rapid adoption of Hongmi as a model line for broomcorn millet research, we assembled a near-complete genome sequence of Hongmi and comprehensively annotated its genome. Together, our results open the door to improving broomcorn millet using biotechnology.

A hybrid beachgrass (Ammophila arenaria × A. breviligulata) is more productive and outcompetes its non-native parent species.

The ability of non-native species to successfully invade new ecosystems sometimes involves evolutionary processes such as hybridization. Hybridization can produce individuals with superior traits that give them a competitive advantage over their parent species, allowing for rapid spread. Here we assess growth, functional morphology, and species interactions between two non-native beachgrass species (Ammophila arenaria and A. breviligulata) and their recently discovered hybrid (A. arenaria × A. breviligulata) on the U.S. Pacific Northwest coast. We asked whether the hybrid beachgrass differs from its parent species in morphology and growth, whether it competes with its parent species, and, if so, what are the potential mechanisms of competition. Plant taxa were grown in low- and high-density monocultures and in two-way interactions in a common garden environment. We show that the hybrid grew taller and more densely, with greater total biomass, than either parent species. The hybrid was also the better competitor, resulting in the model prediction of competitive exclusion against A. breviligulata and, depending on its relative abundance, A. arenaria. The hybrid displays a mixed 'guerilla-phalanx' growth form that allows it to spread laterally and achieve high shoot densities, giving it a competitive advantage. Given the current dominance of A. breviligulata compared to A. arenaria in most of the region where these taxa co-occur, we suggest that the hybrid will grow, compete, and spread quickly with potentially widespread consequences for the two non-native Ammophila congeners and the dunes they build.

Assessment of Green Manure Crops and their Impacts on Mineralizable Nitrogen and Changes of Nutrient Contents in the Soil

To evaluate the green manure crops those can promote soil properties and the ability of nitrogen (N) mineralization in paddy soil, a pot experiment was conducted at the Department of Agronomy, Yezin Agricultural University, Naypyidaw, Myanmar from April to August 2022. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with three replications. Ten green manure crops were sown as treatments: soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr), green gram (Vigna radiata L. Wildzek.), black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper.), cowpea (Vigna catjang), cowpea white (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), lab lab bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet.), mayflower bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), rice bean (Vigna umbellata), sunn hemp (Crotalaria juncea L.), and dhaincha (Sesbania bispinosa (Jacq.)). At the flowering stage, various green manures were incorporated into the soil, and their growth characters were measured along with the mineralizable N, total N, phosphorus (P2O5), and potassium (K2O) contents of the soil. The results indicated that rice bean, sunn hemp, and dhaincha had higher shoot and root length, shoot and root fresh weight, and dry weight compared to other varieties. In addition, they contain a higher percentage of total N content and total P2O5, and consequently, its C:N ratio was lower. After incorporating green manures into the soil, the mineralizable N increased gradually from 0 weeks to 10 weeks and then, the nutrient values decreased. Among green manures, sunn hemp, dhaincha, and rice bean were found to have higher mineralizable N (%) and applicable mineralized N than others. In conclusion, the incorporation of green manures into the soil improves the N, P2O5, and K2O contents of the soil, along with the mineralizable N content. Among green manure crops, dhaincha, rice bean, and sunn hemp were superior to other varieties due to higher biomass yield, mineralizable N (%), and chemical compositions, especially total N content.

Effect of foliar application of trace elements and growth regulators on plant biomass and symbiotic efficiency of Lens culinaris M.

The present study was conducted to assess the impact of foliar application of plant growth regulators (IAA and GA3) and trace elements (ZnSO4 and boric acid) on shoot and root length and nodulation efficiency in Lentil (Lens culinaris). Results indicated that significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher shoot and root length, nodule numbers plant−1 (77.0 ± 1.93 cm, 25.0 ± 1.10 cm and 31.0 ± 1.82, respectively) were recorded with foliar application of IAA @50 ppm concentration followed by IAA @ 25 ppm as compared to IAA@100 ppm and control treatment at fruiting stage of lentil. Similar trends have been seen with the application of GA3. At fruiting stage of lentil, significant (p ≤ 0.05) enhanced shoot length (21.35%), root length (11.76%) and nodule number plant−1 (180%) was observed with the foliar application of GA3 @50 ppm over the control treatment of lentil. Present study demonstrated that shoot and root length, nodule numbers plant−1 was markedly reduced at higher concentration. In the case of zinc sulphate and boric acid, significantly (p ≤ 0.05) higher shoot and root length, nodulation efficiency was recorded with zinc sulphate (ZnSO4) @ 50 ppm and boric acid @ 50 ppm in contrast to ZnSO4 @100 ppm and control treatment. Current study reported first time, results indicate that impact of plant growth regulators, and trace elements on nodulation and growth in lentil are totally concentration-dependent. Further, research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms and the optimum application concentrations for an improved crop performance under field conditions.

Efficient protocol for micropropagation of medicinal forest tree Shyonak (Oroxylum indicum) by silver nitrate promoted high frequency shoot proliferation

Oroxylum indicum, a significant medicinal plant in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), faces ecological and economic challenges due to high demand for its traditional herbal remedies, leading to overexploitation. To combat this, the authors have developed an in vitro propagation protocol aimed at achieving robust shoot proliferation. Using nodal segments from in vitro germinated seedlings, the best results were obtained with a medium containing only benzyladenine (BA) at 22.2 µM. Despite basal callus formation and reduced shoot numbers, the addition of silver nitrate improved shoot proliferation and overall plant health. For in vitro root induction and proliferation, a medium enriched with Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) at 2.85 µM proved the most effective. Successful transplantation of acclimatized plantlets to field conditions was achieved. This protocol not only aids O. indicum conservation but also holds socio-economic potential for Himalayan communities, as its bark is valuable in commercial Ayurvedic preparations, including Dashamoolarishta.

PHYTOCHEMICAL PROFILING of VOLATILE COMPONENTS of Echinacea purpurea (L.) MOENCH MULTIPLIED by MICROPROPAGATION TECHNIQUE

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench is a substantial herbaceous perennial species of ornamental and medicinal flowering plant that grows to 120 cm in maturity from the Asteraceae family and the Echinacea genus. The development of in vitro protocols for this plant can have a significant impact on the global deployment of this beneficial germplasm. It will also facilitate the rapid multiplication, biotransformation, and genetic transformation of improved phytochemical production, particularly secondary metabolites. All stages of E. purpurea micropropagation in vitro and acclimatization to in vivo conditions were investigated in this study. Furthermore, the obtained volatile components of the plants were determined in this study. The research findings revealed that the best seed sterilization was observed with 15% commercial bleach for 5 minutes. MS plant tissue culture medium including 1.25 mg L-1 6-benzyl amino purine was suitable for regeneration and the high shoot regeneration was %75 and MS medium containing 1.00 mg L-1 indole 3 butyric acid was appropriate for rooting. Furthermore, the findings show that peat is an appropriate substance for acclimation of rooted plantlets. Germacrene D, caryophyllene, Borneol, Caryophyllene oxide, and Myrtenal were identified as the main volatile components of E. purpurea by GC/MS and GC/FID analysis.

Effect of Biochar, Potting Mixture and their Blends to Improve Ocimum basilicum Growth in Sandy Soil

Biochar has received significant interest as a soil amendment but its relative performance to addition of high-quality soil is not well assessed. This study compared different loadings of cabbage-waste biochar produced at 360 °C against potting mixture (PM) as amendments to enhance basil (Ocimum basilicum) growth in sandy soil. Pot tests for six conditions of biochar, PM or their blend were tested at both 2% or 6% loading, plus a control, with soil and plant characteristics monitored. The combination of 6% biochar and 6% PM increased seed germination by 85% compared to the control, while 6% biochar applied in sandy soil reduced seed germination by 29%. However, significant benefits were realized later in the growing stage in comparison to the control and most other tested conditions. The 6% application of biochar to the soil enhanced leaf chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, membrane stability index, and leaf relative water content by 198%, 150%, 15%, and 5% over the control, respectively. The highest shoot and total biomass were achieved with the combined application of 6% biochar and PM, followed by 6% biochar only. When comparing only application of biochar or PM, biochar was the more favorable soil amendment at both 2% and 6% loadings. Biochar was also effective at enhancing plant uptake of beneficial nutrients, while immobilizing Al, which is detrimental, in the soil. Overall, biochar is a better soil amendment for sandy soil than equivalent quantities of PM, but mild benefits occur through their combined application.

Rage: Stephen King’s Strange Fiction becomes a Grim Reality

In this study, a critical analysis of one of Stephen King’s most well-known novels, Rage, is taken into consideration. A psychological thriller is what you will find in Rage. There is a school shooting depicted in the novel that is based on actual incidents that took place in secondary schools throughout the late 1980s and early 1990s. The psychology of school children and the conditions in which they find themselves are also discussed in this essay. The plot revolves around a troubled high school student who struggles with issues of authority and who commits murder against one of his teachers while also holding the majority of his classmates captive. While Charlie Decker is in the midst of a protracted, stressful, and exhausting warm evening, he discusses what led him to this dramatic series of acts. At the same time, he is examining the identities of his peers and asking each of them to defend their own lives. Surprisingly, this book is linked to a number of incidents involving shootings at top universities. There was one such incident that resulted in the deaths of three classmates and the injuries of five more. A teenager named Michael Carneal’s closet serves as the setting for the tale. In this particular instance, Rage was responsible for the sixth high school shooting. As a result, the purpose of this research is to investigate the causes and consequences of the novel as well as the shootings that occurred in real life that are linked to it.

Knockout of a rice K5.2 gene increases Ca accumulation in the grain.

Rice is a staple food for half of the world's population, but it is a poor dietary source of calcium (Ca) due to the low concentration. It is an important issue to boost Ca concentration in this grain to improve Ca deficiency risk, but the mechanisms underlying Ca accumulation are poorly understood. Here, we obtained a rice (Oryza sativa) mutant with high shoot Ca accumulation. The mutant exhibited 26%-53% higher Ca in shoots than did wild-type rice (WT) at different Ca supplies. Ca concentration in the xylem sap was 36% higher in the mutant than in the WT. There was no difference in agronomic traits between the WT and mutant, but the mutant showed 25% higher Ca in the polished grain compared with the WT. Map-based cloning combined with a complementation test revealed that the mutant phenotype was caused by an 18-bp deletion of a gene, OsK5.2, belonging to the Shaker-like K+ channel family. OsK5.2 was highly expressed in the mature region of the roots and its expression in the roots was not affected by Ca levels, but upregulated by low K. Immunostaining showed that OsK5.2 was mainly expressed in the pericycle of the roots. Taken together, our results revealed a novel role for OsK5.2 in Ca translocation in rice, and will be a good target for Ca biofortification in rice.

Genotypic variations in phosphorus accumulation in wild cowpea relatives (Vigna vexillata) grown under phosphorus deficiency

ABSTRACT Vigna vexillata is a wild cowpea relative inhabiting tropical and subtropical regions. Because phosphorous (P) deficient soils are widely found in these regions, such wild relatives may have an ability to efficiently capture and utilize P in soils and thus can be potential materials of green manure to improve soil-plant nutrient cycles and subsequent crop production. Genotypic variations in shoot P content were evaluated in P-deficient (−P) and P-fertilized (+P) conditions of the pot experiment to clarify the ability of P accumulation in V. vexillata. Among the 14 accessions, five with a high shoot P content under P deficiency were identified. The high shoot P contents were attributed to large shoot biomass rather than high shoot P concentrations. The larger biomass of these accessions was consistent under the -P and +P conditions, indicating that potential growth characteristics without P restriction were a major driving factor of P accumulation even under P deficiency. In contrast, accessions with low shoot P content had small shoot biomass with high P concentrations. These accessions exhibited superior drought tolerance than those with large shoot biomass, presumably because of the small water consumption due to the small shoot biomass. The trade-offs between the shoot P accumulation and drought tolerance should be considered for genotype selection under the conditions where P deficiency and drought risks are often complex.