Total Chlorophyll Levels Research Articles

Antiviral properties and molecular docking studies of eco-friendly biosynthesized copper oxide nanoparticles against alfalfa mosaic virus

BackgroundNanotechnology has been recognized as a viable technology for enhancing agriculture, particularly in the plant pathogen management area. Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV) is a global pathogen that affects many plant species, especially economically valuable crops. Currently, there is less data on the interaction of nanoparticles with phytopathogens, particularly viruses. The current study looked into how copper oxide nanoparticles (CuO-NPs)-mediated Haloxylon salicornicum aqueous extract can fight AMV infections on tobacco plants.ResultsScanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses showed that CuO-NPs have a spherical and hexagonal structure ranging from 20 to 70 nm in size. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis showed that the produced CuO-NPs have many functional groups and a lot of secondary plant metabolites. Under greenhouse conditions, the foliar application of CuO-NPs (100 ppm) enhanced tobacco growth and decreased viral symptoms. Treatment with CuO-NPs 48 h before (protective treatment) or 48 h after (curative treatment) AMV infection significantly reduced AMV accumulation levels by 97%. Additionally, the levels of total chlorophyll, phenolic, and flavonoid contents, as well as DPPH, exhibited a significant increase in tobacco leaves 30 days after inoculation in comparison to untreated plants. Moreover, considerable differences in levels of different antioxidant enzymes, including SOD, PPO, POX, and CAT, were also observed. On the other hand, the oxidative stress markers (MDA and H2O2) were significantly reduced in CuO-NPs-treated plants compared with non-treated plants. It was also found that the protective treatment increased the expression levels of genes involved in the jasmonic pathway (JERF3 and WRKY1). On the other hand, the curative treatment increased the expression levels of polyphenolic pathway acid (CHI and HQT) and the SA-signaling pathway genes (PR-2 and POD). The study of molecular docking interactions with four AMV target proteins showed that CuO-NPs had high binding energy with the viral replication protein 1a, measured at -3.2 kcal/mol. The binding with these proteins can suppress AMV replication and spread, potentially clarifying the mechanism behind the antiviral effect.ConclusionsThe overall analysis results indicate that the curative treatment is more influential and successful than the protective treatment in combating AMV infection. Consequentially, CuO-NPs could potentially be employed in foliar sprays for the effective and environmentally friendly management of plant virus infections.

Exploring the growth and phytoremediation efficacy of Suaeda fruticosa in agricultural soil contaminated by shrimp aquaculture

Plants face numerous environmental challenges from biotic and abiotic stressors, with soil salinization emerging as a significant global concern. The coastal regions of Tamil Nadu, face severe environmental challenges due to discharge of saline water from shrimp farms exacerbates this issue, compromising the viability of paddy and other crops in the vicinity. This study explores the phytoremediation potential of Suaeda fruticosa in addressing soil salinity resulting from shrimp farming activities under field conditions over a 120-day period to restore soil health in salt affected soil. This research demonstrates Suaeda fruticosa’s exceptional salt tolerance and bioaccumulation potential in facilitating soil restoration. Significant enhancements were observed in various growth parameters, including 466% increase in plant height, 338% in fresh weight and 387% in dry weight. Biochemical parameters also showed substantial enhancements with total chlorophyll, protein, proline, phenol, and glycinebetaine levels increasing by 655%, 588%, 690%, 153%, and 531%, respectively. Enzymatic activities exhibited notable elevations as well, with catalase, peroxidase, and polyphenol oxidase activities escalating by 258%, 587%, and 121% respectively, indicating robust adaptation to saline environments. Moreover, Suaeda fruticosa exhibited remarkable bioaccumulation capabilities, accumulating 461 kg NaCl ha−1. This led to substantial improvements in soil characteristics, including a reduction in pH from 8.8 to 6.49, electrical conductivity from 5.7 to 1.53 dSm−1, and sodium adsorption ratio from 16.1 to 4.4 mmol L−1. The successive cultivation of Suaeda fruticosa in this study, has proven to be a viable strategy for reclaiming salt-affected lands, thereby alleviating a significant constraint on crop productivity.

Unveiling Salt Tolerance Mechanisms and Hub Genes in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) Through Transcriptomic and WGCNA Analysis.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), an important forage crop with high nutritional value and good palatability, plays a vital role in the development of animal husbandry in China. In Northeast China, there are vast areas of saline-alkali land that remain undeveloped. Given that alfalfa is a highly adaptable forage crop, exploring its salt tolerance at the molecular transcriptional level and identifying salt-tolerant genes has great significance for breeding salt-resistant alfalfa varieties. This also provides valuable genetic resources for better utilization of saline-alkali land. In this study, we conducted two rounds of screening on 41 alfalfa varieties and identified WL168 as a salt-sensitive variety and Longmu801 as a salt-tolerant variety. After 7 days of 300 mM salt stress, both varieties showed a decreasing trend in plant height, fresh weight, and dry weight over time, but Longmu801 demonstrated better water retention ability compared to WL168. Chlorophyll content also declined, but chlorophyll a and total chlorophyll levels in Longmu801 were higher than in WL168. Hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde levels increased overall, but Longmu801 had significantly lower levels than WL168 under prolonged stress. Both varieties showed increasing trends in soluble sugars, proline, and antioxidant enzymes (SOD, POD, CAT), with Longmu801 significantly outperforming WL168. This suggests that the two varieties share similar growth and physiological response mechanisms, with their differences primarily arising from variations in indicator levels. In the above, comparisons between varieties were conducted based on the relative values of the indicators in relation to their controls. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that under salt stress, Longmu801 had 16,485 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) relative to its control, while WL168 had 18,726 DEGs compared to its control. Among these, 2164 DEGs shared the same expression trend, with GO functions enriched in response to oxidative stress, nucleus, plasma membrane, and others. The KEGG pathways were enriched in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, starch and sucrose metabolism, and others. This suggests that alfalfa's transcriptional response mechanism to salt stress involves these pathways. Additionally, the variety-specific DEGs were also enriched in the same KEGG pathways and GO functions, indicating that the differences between the two varieties stem from their unique stress-responsive DEGs, while their overall mechanisms for coping with stress remain similar. To further identify salt stress-related genes, this study conducted WGCNA analysis using 32,683 genes and physiological indicators. Six modules closely related to physiological traits were identified, and the top five genes ranked by degree in each module were selected as hub genes. Further analysis of these hub genes identified five genes directly related to salt stress: Msa085011, Msa0605650, Msa0397400, Msa1258740, and Msa0958830. Mantel test analysis revealed that these genes showed strong correlations with physiological indicators. This study will provide important insights for breeding salt-tolerant alfalfa varieties.

Carvacrol maintains antioxidant capacity in goji fruit by increasing the content of bioactive compounds

Fresh goji berries are prone to decay and spoilage, resulting in economic losses. We investigated the effects of carvacrol (CVR) on the natural disease incidence and quality of goji berries by fumigating with varying CVR concentrations (0.06, 0.12, and 0.24 μL/mL). The results showed that CVR treatment inhibited the natural decay of goji berries by enhancing their quality, color, and total soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio. Moreover, 0.12 μL/mL CVR was determined to be the optimal concentration, as it maintained the sensory quality (except for aroma) and inhibited the disease incidence and preliminary disease expansion of goji fruit inoculated with Alternaria alternata. The treated berries exhibited elevated total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, ascorbic acid, glutathione, melatonin, total chlorophyll, and carotenoid levels. Higher hydrophilic and lipophilic total antioxidant activities and free radical scavenging capacities were also observed in the treated berries. Targeted metabolomics showed that treatment with 0.12 μL/mL CVR increased the levels of four phenolic acids (caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid, and protocatechuic acid) and two flavonoids (naringenin and quercetin) in goji berries, thereby activating the gene expression of the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway. In summary, CVR treatment delayed fruit senescence and the decline in fruit quality, promoted the accumulation of bioactive compounds, and improved antioxidant capacity and disease resistance by activating the phenylpropanoid metabolic pathway.

Impact of iron sulfate (FeSO4) foliar application on growth, metabolites and antioxidative defense of Luffa cylindrica (Sponge gourd) under salt stress

Salt stress is becoming a major issue for the world’s environment and agriculture economy. Different iron [Fe] sources can give an environmentally friendly alternative for salt-affected soil remediation. In this study the effects of Iron sulfate on Luffa cylindrica (Sponge gourd) cultivated in normal and saline water irrigated soil were examined. When FeSO4 (0.01, 0.025, 0.05, 0.1 ppm) were applied to salt affected soil, the length, fresh and dry biomass of sponge gourd plant roots and shoots inclined by an average of 33, 28, 11, 21, 18 and 22%, respectively. In plants irrigated with saline water, leaf count was raised successively (23–115%) with increasing concentration of FeSO4 (0.025-0.1 ppm) compared to stress only plants. The use of FeSO4 boosted sponge gourd growth characteristics in both normal and salt-affected soils compared to respective controls. The application of Iron sulfate under salt stress boosted photosynthetic indices such as chlorophyll a (22%), chlorophyll b (34%), carotenoids (16%), and total chlorophyll levels (22%). Iron sulfate application also exhibited incline in primary (total free amino acids, 50%; total soluble proteins, 46%) and secondary (total phenolics, 9%; flavonoid content, 51%) metabolites in salt-affected soils. Oxidative enzymatic activities such as catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and DPPH scavenging activity (36%) were also increased by foliar spray of FeSO4 in control and salt stressed L. cylindrica plants. FeSO4 had a considerable impact on the growth and development of Luffa cylindrica in normal and salt-affected soils. It is concluded that FeSO4 application can effectively remediate salt affected soil and improve the production of crop plants.

Sweet sorghum as alternative carbon sources for Chlorella sp. valued-added compounds production: A mechanistic insight using transcriptomics

Substituting agricultural by-products for glucose as a carbon source is an effective strategy for reducing the cultivation cost of Chlorella sp. However, the response mechanism of Chlorella sp. to variations in carbon sources remains unclear, and the potential of microalgal biomass for food development warrants further exploration. This study used hydrolysate of sweet sorghum stem juice (HSJ) for the mixotrophic cultivation of Chlorella sp. And transcriptomic analysis was performed to investigate the physiological and metabolic mechanisms as well as the biosynthesis of value-added compounds (e.g., pigments and proteins) of Chlorella sp. in response to changes in carbon sources. The HSJ + NM group (HSJ supplemented with nitrogen and minerals) significantly increased total chlorophyll, carotenoids, lutein, and protein levels by 18.02 %, 13.34 %, 35.95 %, and 20.36 %, respectively, compared to the control (adjusted BG-11 medium supplemented with 10 g/L glucose). Notably, transcript levels of genes for multiple key enzymes involved in glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, TCA cycle, oxidative phosphorylation pathway, and photosynthesis pathways were significantly up-regulated. The activity of these pathways promoted the pigments and proteins synthesis in Chlorella sp. Encouragingly, the cost of cultivating Chlorella sp. with HSJ + NM (0.495 USD/kg) was 43.35 % of glucose (1.142 USD/kg). Further, by fermenting Chlorella sp. cultures with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and further homogenizing and blending the fermentation broth, we developed a nutritious and palatable Chlorella sp. fermented beverage, addressing the common issue of algal odor in such products. This study provides theoretical and practical foundations for the mixotrophic cultivation of microalgae and the application of microalgal biomass in food innovation.

The transcription factor TaNF-YB4 overexpression in wheat increases plant vigor and yield

Addressing food security is a priority in developing countries. This study aimed to improve wheat yield by overexpressing the TaNF-YB4 transcription factor, which is involved in carbon assimilation and stress tolerance. An expression cassette for TaNF-YB4 was developed in a modified wheat transformation vector (pSB219) and examined through transient expression in Nicotiana tabacum, followed by Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of wheat variety FSD-2008. T0 transgenic plants were propagated to obtain T3 generation PCR-positive plants. Transgene expression was assessed in PCR-verified T2 plants using RT-PCR and qRT-PCR at six weeks post-germination. qRT-PCR analysis using the ΔΔCT method indicated higher TaNF-YB4 expression in transgenic lines than in the wild-type control plants. Improved agronomic and phenotypic traits were observed with a 6–36 % increase in 1000-grain weight in the selected transgenic lines. Root architecture assessments demonstrated enhanced root length, surface area, and projected area in transgenic lines compared with wild-type plants. Additionally, notable variances in total chlorophyll, protein, and sugar content levels were observed between the transgenic lines and control plants, demonstrating statistical significance with a p-value ≤ 0.05. This study indicates that low-level constitutive expression of TaNF-YB4 can enhance wheat yield, presenting a viable strategy for improving wheat productivity.

WITHDRAWN: Enhancing Maize Growth Under Drought and Lead Stress with Deashed Biochar and Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria

The agricultural sector faces significant challenges due to water scarcity and increasing lead (Pb) contamination, adversely affecting crop productivity by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) during Pb stress and drought. Biochar and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are emerging as effective tools to manage oxidative stress, yet the combined use of deashed biochar (BC) and PGPR remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of BC and Agrobacterium fabrum on maize growth and biochemical attributes. Two levels of BC (control and 0.5%) were applied with and without A. fabrum under no Pb stress (0 mg Pb/kg soil) and 400 mg Pb/kg soil stress conditions. Additionally, seeds inoculated with A. fabrum were subjected to no drought stress (65% field capacity w/v) and drought stress (40% field capacity w/v). Conducted with three replicates in a randomized design within controlled greenhouse conditions, the study demonstrated that BC+A. fabrum treatment significantly improved maize germination (53.33%), shoot length (69.32%), root length (11.76%), and total soluble protein content (32.36%) under 400 mg Pb/kg soil stress compared to controls. Furthermore, BC+A. fabrum effectively mitigated drought stress, enhancing chlorophyll a (55.02%), chlorophyll b (50.61%), and total chlorophyll (53.37%) levels compared to controls. Analysis of key antioxidants (peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase) revealed BC+A. fabrum ability to modulate antioxidant defenses in maize, underscoring its potential as a sustainable strategy to enhance maize growth resilience under combined Pb and drought stress conditions. Future studies should explore the long-term effects and field applicability of BC+A. fabrum treatments to optimize agricultural sustainability and productivity in Pb-contaminated and drought-prone environments.

Physiological Basis of Plant Growth Promotion in Rice by Rhizosphere and Endosphere Associated Streptomyces Isolates from India

This study demonstrated the plant growth-promoting capabilities of native actinobacterial strains obtained from different regions of the rice plant, including the rhizosphere (FT1, FTSA2, FB2, and FH7) and endosphere (EB6). We delved into the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of these plant-microbe interactions by conducting a transcriptional analysis of a select group of key genes involved in phytohormone pathways. Through in vitro screening for various plant growth-promoting (PGP) traits, all tested isolates exhibited positive traits for indole-3-acetic acid synthesis and siderophore production, with FT1 being the sole producer of hydrogen cyanide (HCN). All isolates were identified as members of the Streptomyces genus through 16S rRNA amplification. In pot culture experiments, rice seeds inoculated with strains FB2 and FTSA2 exhibited significant increases in shoot dry mass by 7% and 34%, respectively, and total biomass by 8% and 30%, respectively. All strains led to increased leaf nitrogen levels, with FTSA2 demonstrating the highest increase (4.3%). On the contrary, strains FB2 and FT1 increased root length, root weight ratio, root volume, and root surface area, leading to higher root nitrogen content. All isolates, except for FB2, enhanced total chlorophyll and carotenoid levels. Additionally, qRT-PCR analysis supported these findings, revealing differential gene expression in auxin (OsAUX1, OsIAA1, OsYUCCA1, OsYUCCA3), gibberellin (OsGID1, OsGA20ox-1), and cytokinin (OsIPT3, OsIPT5) pathways in response to specific actinobacterial treatments. These actinobacterial strains, which enhance both aboveground and belowground crop characteristics, warrant further evaluation in field trials, either as individual strains or in consortia. This could lead to the development of commercial bioinoculants for use in integrated nutrient management practices.

Ecotoxicological effects of triclosan on Lemna minor: bioconcentration, growth inhibition and oxidative stress.

Triclosan (TCS), an emerging pollutant, is a notable contributor to adverse impacts on aquatic organisms due to its widespread use during COVID-19 and hydrophobic properties. There is extensive documented literature on TCS toxicity in commercially important fish species; however, studies on aquatic plants remain limited. In this prelude, the present study aims to evaluate the effect of TCS on Lemna minor, a commercially important aquatic plant species for 7days. The results showed dose-dependent significant alterations in growth, pigments and stress enzymes of L. minor at varied concentrations of TCS (1 to 8mg L-1). Median inhibitory concentration (IC50) was found to be 4.813mg L-1. Total chlorophyll and carotenoid levels decreased 73.11 and 81.83%, respectively after 7days of TCS exposure. A significant increase in catalase and superoxide dismutase activity was observed in TCS exposed groups as compared to the control. Bioconcentration factor was found to be in the range of 5.855 to 37.129 signifying TCS ability to accumulate and transfer through the food chain. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis showed deformation in the cell surface and alteration of stroma morphology of TCS exposed groups. Furthermore, the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) study also revealed that higher concentrations of TCS could cause alteration in the functional groups in the plant. This study demonstrates that TCS negatively impacts the growth and metabolism of primary producers, offering crucial insights into its interactions with aquatic plants and establishing baseline information essential for crafting effective mitigation strategies for TCS contamination in aquatic environments.

Studies on the Impact of Microplastics in Freshwater Systems: Biota Could Be Vital Indicators in Delta State, Nigeria

Microplastics have impacted freshwater system globally. Despite the global concern about microplastic pollution, only a little is evidenced in research on the occurrence and intensity of pollution in research. This study determined the effects of microplastics on aquatic water bodies was determined using plants as bio-indicator. The study was conducted bimonthly (June- August) to examine the occurrence of microplastics. Physicochemical parameters and biochemical parameters of plants were analyzed using standard methods. Hydrogen ion concentrations of the water sources were mildly acidic (5.6±0.15 and 5.49±0.19), and turbidity levels were notably high (71.00±4.20 NTU and 92.70 ±4.32 NTU) in lotic and lentic water bodies respectively. Dissolved oxygen and biological oxygen demand were significantly compared within aquatic systems (p<0.05). Water hyacinth- Pontederia crassipes Mart (former Eichhornia crassipes) exhibited higher levels of soluble sugar at 110.34±3.32 mg/L in lotic water body compared to water leaf- Talinum triangulare (Jacq.) Willd, 70.44±4.78 mg/L in lentic water. Total chlorophyll levels and water retention capacity were lower in lotic water at 37.90±2.35 and 2.08±0.21 respectively. Ascorbic acid levels were higher in lotic water (308.00±12.34 mg/100g). Chironomus sp. and Nais sp. were commonly encountered. The vital role of Chironomus sp. and Nais sp. should not be underestimated as bioindicators in freshwater systems. Hence, they should be further investigated in different freshwater ecosystems.

Assessing the Air Pollution Tolerance Index of Urban Plantation: A Case Study Conducted along High-Traffic Roadways

Road transport and traffic congestion significantly contribute to dust pollution, which negatively impacts the growth of roadside plants in urban areas. This study aims to quantify the air pollution tolerance index (APTI) and analyze the impacts of dust deposition on different plant species and trees planted along a busy urban roadside in Lahore, Pakistan by considering seasonal variations. The APTI of each species is determined based on inputs of various biochemical parameters (leaf extract pH, ascorbic acid content, relative water content, and total chlorophyll levels), including dust deposition. In this study, laboratory analysis techniques are employed to assess these factors in selected plant species such as Mangifera indica, Saraca asoca, Cassia fistula, and Syzygium cumini. A statistical analysis is conducted to understand the pairwise correlation between various parameters and the APTI at significant and non-significant levels. Additionally, uncertainties in the inputs and APTI are addressed through a probabilistic analysis using the Monte Carlo simulation method. This study unveils seasonal variations in key parameters among selected plant species. Almost all biochemical parameters exhibit higher averages during the rainy season, followed by the summer and winter. Conversely, dust deposition on plants follows an inverse trend, with values ranging from 0.19 to 4.8 g/cm2, peaking during winter, notably in Mangifera indica. APTI values, ranging from 9.39 to 14.75, indicate varying sensitivity levels across species, from sensitive (Syzygium cumini) to intermediate tolerance (Mangifera indica). Interestingly, plants display increased tolerance during regular traffic hours, reflecting a 0.9 to 5% difference between the APTI at peak and regular traffic hours. Moreover, a significant negative correlation (−0.86 at p < 0.05 level) between APTI values and dust deposition suggests a heightened sensitivity to pollutants during the winter. These insights into the relationship between dust pollution and plant susceptibility will help decision makers in the selection of resilient plants for urban areas and improve air quality.

Investigates the ability of plant extracts from Lens culinaris to protect zucchini from the Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV)

Evaluate the impact of extracts from the Lens culinaris plant on a number of physiological and biochemical parameters in squash leaves infected with ZYMV in this work. Compared to the untreated leaves, ZYMV infected leaves showed a range of symptoms, such as severe mosaic, size reduction, stunting, and deformation. Analysis of physiological data revealed that L. culinaris extract lectin therapies and viral infections had an impact on metabolism. Protein, carbohydrate, and pigment levels were all lowered by viral infection. However, phenolic compounds, total protein, total carbohydrates, total amino acids, proline, total chlorophyll and peroxidases levels are considerably elevated with all extract therapies. The other biochemical parameters also displayed a variety of changes. Moreover shoot length, number of leaves and number of flowers was significantly increased compared to viral control in all treatments. The L. culinaris extract treatment increases the plant’s ZYMV resistance. This is detectable through reduction of the plants treated with lentil lectin pre and post virus inoculation, reduction in disease severity and viral concentration, and percentage of the infected plants has a virus. All findings demonstrate significant metabolic alterations brought by viral infections or L. culinaris extract treatments, and they also suggest that exogenous extract treatments is essential for activating the body’s defences against ZYMV infection.

Variation in Nutritional Components and Antioxidant Capacity of Different Cultivars and Organs of Basella alba

Basella alba is a frequently consumed leafy vegetable. However, research on its nutritional components is limited. This study aimed to explore the variation in the nutritional components and antioxidant capacity of different cultivars and organs of Basella alba. Here, we primarily chose classical spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) to characterize the variation in nutritional components and antioxidant capacity among different organs (inflorescences, green fruits, black fruits, leaves, and stems) of eight typical cultivars of Basella alba. The determination indices (and methods) included the total soluble sugar (anthrone colorimetry), total soluble protein (the Bradford method), total chlorophyll (the ethanol-extracting method), total carotenoids (the ethanol-extracting method), total ascorbic acid (the HPLC method), total proanthocyanidins (the p-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde method), total flavonoids (AlCl3 colorimetry), total phenolics (the Folin method), and antioxidant capacity (the FRAP and ABTS methods). The results indicated that M5 and M6 exhibited advantages in their nutrient contents and antioxidant capacities. Additionally, the inflorescences demonstrated the highest total ascorbic acid and total phenolic contents, while the green and black fruits exhibited relatively high levels of total proanthocyanidins and antioxidant capacity. In a comparison between the green and black fruits, the green fruits showed higher levels of total chlorophyll (0.77–1.85 mg g−1 DW), total proanthocyanidins (0.62–2.34 mg g−1 DW), total phenolics (15.28–27.35 mg g−1 DW), and ABTS (43.39–59.16%), while the black fruits exhibited higher levels of total soluble protein (65.45–89.48 mg g−1 DW) and total soluble sugar (56.40–207.62 mg g−1 DW) in most cultivars. Chlorophyll, carotenoids, and flavonoids were predominantly found in the leaves of most cultivars, whereas the total soluble sugar contents were highest in the stems of most cultivars. Overall, our findings underscore the significant influence of the cultivars on the nutritional composition of Basella alba. Moreover, we observed notable variations in the nutrient contents among the different organs of the eight cultivars, and proanthocyanidins may contribute significantly to the antioxidant activity of the fruits. On the whole, this study provides a theoretical basis for the genetic breeding of Basella alba and dietary nutrition and serves as a reference for the comprehensive utilization of this vegetable.

Impact of ZnO nanopriming on physiological and biochemical traits of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedling

To ascertain the ideal dosage of ZnO NPs (Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles), we conducted an investigation on the priming effects of varying concentrations of ZnO NPs on germination and physio-biochemical parameters of wheat. In this study, ZnO NPs were synthesized and characterized for their physico-chemical properties followed by confirmation of the formation of ZnO NPs. Throughout this study, wheat seeds were subjected to ZnO NPs at various concentrations of 5, 50, 100, 250, and 500 ppm for a period of 4 h via continuous aeration. The primed seeds were sowed in plastic bags, allowed to grow for 21 days, following which comprehensive evaluations of physio-biochemical attributes were conducted. At 250 ppm, an impressive 100% of seeds successfully germinated compared to the control group. The examined physiological factors such as shoot length, root length, and fresh as well as dry weights of leaf and root tissues all exhibited notable increases with the ascending concentrations of ZnO NP up to 250 ppm. However, beyond this threshold, at 500 ppm, these parameters experienced a decline. Inductively coupled plasma atomic absorption spectrophotometer (ICP-AAS) measurements validated the progressive increase in Zinc content in the nanoprimed seedlings, further affirming the dose-dependent trend. Zinc oxide nanoparticles notably improved key biochemical features, including elevated levels of total chlorophyll, malondialdehyde (MDA), total protein, and the accumulation of osmolytes such as proline and glycine-betaine. Additionally, the presence of ZnO NPs led to increased activity of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase in a dose-dependent mananer. Collectively, the amassed data underscores the efficacy of the 250 ppm ZnO NPs treatment, which emerged as superior in comparison to both the control group and other administered treatments. These findings underscore the potential of ZnO NPs at a concentration of 250 ppm as a valuable seed nanopriming agent, effectively enhanced germination and robust early-stage growth in young plants.

Pengaruh Infeksi Virus Kerupuk terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Tanaman Tembakau Payakumbuh

Limapuluh Kota Regency and Payakumbuh City, West Sumatra Province are the centers for the cultivation of Payakumbuh tobacco plants. The average Payakumbuh tobacco production is still low, namely 0.701 tonnes/ha. One of the causes of low productivity is disease caused by the cracker virus. This research aims to see the effect of naturally infected cracker virus infection on the growth and production of tobacco plants. This research is an observational study, carried out from June to September 2023, at the Payakumbuh State Agricultural Polytechnic experimental garden. The data obtained were processed using the T test at the 5%, level using the Statistical Program for Social Science (SPSS) Version 23 software. From observation and data processing it was found that cracker virus infection caused low levels of chlorophyll A, high levels of chlorophyll B and total leaf chlorophyll levels. plant, leaf length, petiole length, leaf length, leaf width, leaf fresh weight, and root fresh weight, but had no effect on the number of leaves and leaf thickness compared to uninfected plants. From this it can be concluded that cracker virus infection can reduce the growth and yield of Payakumbuh tobacco.

The Crucial Role of SlGSNOR in Regulating Postharvest Tomato Fruit Ripening.

S-nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) is a well-known regulator in controlling protein S-nitrosylation modification and nitric oxide (NO) homeostasis. Here, a GSNOR inhibitor N6022 and SlGSNOR silencing were applied to investigate the roles of SlGSNOR in tomato fruit postharvest ripening. We found that the application of N6022 and S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO, a NO donor), and SlGSNOR silencing delayed the transition of fruit skin color by improving total chlorophyll level by 88.57%, 44.78%, and 91.03%, respectively. Meanwhile, total carotenoid and lycopene contents were reduced by these treatments. Concurrently, the activity of chlorophyll biosynthesis enzymes and the expression of related genes were upregulated, and the transcript abundances of total carotenoid bioproduction genes were downregulated, by N6022 and GSNO treatments and SlGSNOR silencing. In addition, fruit softening was postponed by N6022, GSNO, and SlGSNOR silencing, through delaying the decrease of firmness and declining cell wall composition; structure-related enzyme activity; and gene expression levels. Furthermore, N6022, GSNO, and SlGSNOR silencing enhanced the accumulation of titratable acid; ascorbic acid; total phenol; and total flavonoid, but repressed the content of soluble sugar and soluble protein accompanied with the expression pattern changes of nutrition-related genes. In addition, the endogenous NO contents were elevated by 197.55%; 404.59%; and 713.46%, and the endogenous SNOs contents were enhanced by 74.65%; 93.49%; and 94.85%; by N6022 and GSNO treatments and SlGSNOR silencing, respectively. Altogether, these results indicate that SlGSNOR positively promotes tomato postharvest fruit ripening, which may be largely on account of its negative roles in the endogenous NO level.

Assessment of Plants Sensitivity to Air Pollution using Physiological and Biochemical Parameters

Plants act as a main green belt enhancement component. Green plants create a surface that may absorb air pollutants and act as a sink for them, making greenbelts an efficient method of controlling air pollution. Thus attention is needed to promote and develop green belt zones in polluted areas. The current study is focused on evaluating the air pollution tolerance levels of Mangifera indica, Ficus religiosa, Psidium guajava, Annona squamosa already grown in polluted and unpolluted sites. By taking into account biochemical markers such as total chlorophyll level, ascorbic acid level, pH, water content, the Air pollution tolerance index (APTI) was calculated. APTI is an empirical relationship that assesses the degree to which different plant species can tolerate air pollution .Plants that possess APTI value less than or equal to 11 are known as sensitive, between 12 and 16 are moderately tolerant and greater than 17 are tolerant. The results obtained from the study showed that M. indica is more tolerant in nature. The rest of the plants used in the study are found to be intermittently tolerant. From this study, it can be concluded that planting Mangifera indica, Psidium guajava ,Annona squamosa, Ficus religosa in urban areas can reduce air pollution. This study also concludes that use of the APTI evaluation for the identification of air pollution tolerant plants is a suitable method.

Effect of irrigation levels on the physiological responses of petunia cultivars for selection

The selection of drought-tolerant varieties is essential to address the anticipated water stress in plants. This study assessed the drought tolerance of two petunia cultivars (Petunia Grandiflora and Falcon F1 (white). A pot experiment was conducted with the four irrigation levels, which included the irrigation interval of one day (control, T0), three days (T1), five days (T2), and seven days (T3). Under T1, the Grandiflora cultivar produced the tallest plants (43.0 cm). The plant height gradually decreased as the irrigation interval grew longer. Overall, the size of the Grandiflora was observed to be higher than the Falcon F1 cultivar. The Grandiflora cultivar produced the longest roots (6.2 cm) in T0, followed by the Falcon, which had roots with a length of 5.6 cm. The root length of Grandiflora was found to be 5.5 cm and 5.0 cm in T1 and T2, while Falcon F1 produced 5.2 and 4.6 cm roots, respectively. Petunia Grandiflora surpassed Falcon F1 (white) regarding root dry weight for all treatments. In addition, when water was provided after a 3-day gap (T1), the Petunia Grandiflora cultivar produced the highest root-shoot ratio (3.52) using fresh weight. Petunia Grandiflora had the highest chlorophyll concentration of 2.68 mg g−1, followed by the Falcon F1 (white) cultivar in T1. The Grandiflora produced the highest total chlorophyll levels (4.04 mg g−1) when water was added after a one-day break, followed by Falcon F1 (white), which had total chlorophyll values of 3.42 mg g−1 under control compared to other irrigation treatments. Hence, Grandiflora performed the best; therefore, this study will help the cultivators adapt to drought environments using drought-resistant cultivars. Due to this fact, most people buy these flowers as seedlings rather than starting them from seeds, and this research is significant for flower nurseries.

STUDY AND ASSESSMENT OF THE OF THE TAEGRO WP APPLICATION ON STRAWBERRIES BIOLOGICAL EFFECTIVENESS IN THE CONDITIONS OF THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR AND PRIVATE FARMS

Today, throughout the world, the use of chemicals is the main method of combating plant diseases both before and after harvest. To date, there are certain problems with each fungicidal drug against "gray rot" in Ukraine. The solution to these problems can be the use of biopesticides, such as the researched drug Taegro, WP. Materials and methods. To achieve and evaluate the tasks, such scientific research methods were used as: the method of analysis, synthesis, induction, deduction and systematization, natural experiment, physico-chemical, organoleptic, sanitary-microbiological, methods of statistical analysis and mathematical modeling. Research results and their discussion. The technical efficiency of the fungicide Taegro WP in suppressing the damage of strawberry berries by gray rot in plantations, with the rate of its use of 0.18 and 0.37 kg/ha, was 70.60 and 81.05%, respectively. The use of the Taegro WP with a application rate of 0.18 and 0.37 kg/ha helped to increase the yield of strawberries to 10.05, 10.34 t/ha, while the yield in the control variant was 8.65 t/ha. It was noted that after the application of the fungicide Taegro WP with a rate of 3.7 g/ 5 l of water / 1 acre, an increase in the level of total chlorophyll in the leaves of strawberries of the garden variety Alina was observed, which was 457.5-667.5 units, which is 68.5 % higher compared to the control. Conclusion. In a number of field experiments, it was established that the fungicide Taegro WP with application rates of 0.18 and 0.37 kg/ha in the conditions of industrial production and with a consumption rate of 3.7 g/ 5 l of water / 1 acre in the conditions of private auxiliary farms has a high technical efficiency against strawberry damage.