Untreated Seeds Research Articles

Rastni učinki kombiniranega in enovrstnega tretiranja semen krušne pšenice (Triticum aestivum L.) z ozmotiki

Osmopriming has been shown to improve the germination and growth of bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). This study explores the impact of various priming agent NaCl (3g l-1), proline (1 mM), ZnSO4 (1 mM), and their combination on wheat performance during the summer season (Jul-Aug 2022) at the greenhouse of Payame Noor University, Tabriz. Wheat seeds treated with a combination of priming agent demonstrated significantly enhanced performance compared to untreated seeds. Chlorophyll fluorescence measurements taken 35 days post-cultivation revealed a higher Photosystem Performance Index (PIabs) in osmoprimed seeds, particularly those treated with combined priming agent. Furthermore, primed plants demonstrated elevated concentrations of chlorophyll a, b, and carotenoids. Osmopriming also modulated the oxidative status of enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Genetic analysis showed that osmopriming could influence the expression of NHX2, a gene linked to improving plant growth, water uptake, and yield in stress conditions.

The effect of different roasting techniques on bioactive compounds, fatty acids and element profiles of mahaleb seeds used as vanilla substitute in bakery products

SummaryIn this study, the effects of different roasting techniques on the oil content, bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, phenolic components, fatty acid and mineral contents of mahaleb seeds, which can be used instead of vanilla, were investigated spectrophotometric and chromatographic systems. The oil quantities of the mahaleb seeds were assessed to be between 30.34% (control) to 34.08% (conventional oven). The total phenolic and flavonoid quantities were assigned to be between 34.37 (control) and 46.61 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE/)/100 g (microwave) to 82.62 (conventional oven) and 94.21 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/100 g (microwave), respectively. Antioxidant capacity values of untreated and roasted mahaleb seeds were assessed to be between 1.89 (control) and 2.03 mmol Trolox equivalent (TE) kg−1 (conventional oven). L* values of mahaleb seeds were established to be between 53.04 and 83.40, and a decrease was observed in L* values after heat treatment. Caffeic acid and rutin values of the mahaleb seeds were established between 344.84 (oven) and 641.86 (control) to 18.53 (control) and 146.52 mg/100 g (oven), respectively. The dominant fatty acids of the mahaleb oils were oleic, linoleic and palmitic acids. Phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) quantities of the mahaleb seeds were established to be between 4988.11 (control) and 5280.93 mg kg−1 (oven) to 8025.94 (oven) and 8462.66 mg kg−1 (microwave), respectively. The roasting process had an effect on the bioactive components, fatty acids and element contents of mahaleb seeds.

Upholding Seed Quality with Mid-storage Invigoration Treatments in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

The groundbreaking research investigated the impact of mid-storage invigoration treatments on seed quality parameters in rice. The experimental design used in the study was Completely Randomized Design with three replications. The experiment was conducted at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pattambi, Kerala Agricultural University. The objective of the study was to understand the effect of mid-storage invigoration treatments on seed storage under ambient conditions. An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of ten different treatments on the quality of seeds, specifically the germination percentage, seed vigour index I, electrical conductivity, and mean germination time. The treatments tested were control- untreated seeds, hydration and dehydration treatment 1l/kg, ascorbic acid 10g/kg, calcium chloride 10g/kg, albizzia leaf powder 2g/kg, neem cake 5g/kg, neem leaf powder 2g/kg, neem oil 2ml/kg, red chilli powder 1g/kg and vayambu leaf powder 2g/kg. The rice variety Jyothi was used. Results showed that all the mid-storage invigoration treatments significantly improved the germination rate of the treated seeds when compared to the control under ambient storage conditions. Neem oil when used showed the highest germination percentage after five months of storage. In the last month of storage, neem oil showed a significantly higher vigour index which was comparable to hydration dehydration treatment and red chilli powder. Germination percentage and seedling vigour index I are positively associated with seed quality. Electrical conductivity and mean germination time are negatively correlated with seed quality. The least electrical conductivity was recorded in hydration dehydration treatment. Neem oil and hydration dehydration treatment had low mean germination time. Based on the research conducted, neem oil, hydration-dehydration, and red chili powder are the most effective treatments for improving the longevity of seeds. These eco-friendly and cost-effective mid-storage invigoration seed treatments can help farmers enhance the quality of their seeds and extend their storage life.

Application of green synthesized Ag and Cu nanoparticles for the control of bruchids and their impact on seed quality and yield in greengram

Storage pests, particularly bruchids, are major biotic constraints causing significant storage losses in pulses. Conventional control methods relying on insecticides and fumigants often lead to food contamination due to toxic pesticide residues and a rapid decline in seed germination. In this investigation, through green nano-technological application, a promising and sustainable alternative for pest management is developed. Silver and copper nanoparticles were synthesized through ocimum leaf extract. The characterization of silver and copper nanoparticles was carried out by UV-spectroscopy, particle size analyzer, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared. Both the nanoparticles were spherical and crystalline in nature. Greengram seeds were primed with standardized silver and copper nanoparticles at different concentrations (1000, 1500, and 2000 ppm) and compared with castor-treated, deltamethrin-treated, and untreated control seeds for seed quality, growth, and yield. After one month of storage, all the pulse beetles released in different treatments exhibited 100 % mortality, whereas in control, the insects multiplied. At the end of nine months, the control seeds had shown 72 % damage and 39.67 % germination. In contrast, silver nanoparticles at 1000 ppm showed no seed damage and achieved 81.67 % germination, which was on par with copper nanoparticles at 1000 ppm with 79.33 % germination. Seed priming of silver and copper nanoparticles at 1000 ppm also demonstrated superior performance in all the seed quality and biochemical parameters (alpha amylase and catalase) throughout the storage period. Whereas, in the greenhouse experiment, enhanced growth (35.96 cm, 46.48 cm, and 53.00 cm at 30, 60 DAS, and at harvest, respectively) and yield per plant (3.75 g) were significantly higher in plants that were given foliar application with silver nanoparticles at 1000 ppm. Furthermore, foliar application of these nanoparticles at all concentrations (1000, 1500, and 2000 ppm) did not exhibit any adverse effects on soil microbial organisms, as assessed by dehydrogenase enzyme activity. Hence, this research highlights the potential use of silver and copper nanoparticles at 1000 ppm as effective tools for storage pest management and contributing to improved agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Disentangling the effects of liquid nitrogen on impermeable seed coated species

Nelumbo nucifera, commonly known as the sacred lotus, is a plant of deep cultural, nutritional, and environmental importance, especially in Asian countries. It is widely used for its edible seeds and roots, and it also has ceremonial significance in many cultural traditions. In addition to its use in cuisine and rituals, Nelumbo nucifera plays a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems, oxygenating the water and providing habitat for various species of wildlife. However, the wider use of Nelumbo nucifera in nature management and agriculture is hindered by the physical dormancy of its seeds. This dormant trait prevents seeds from germinating under normal conditions, thereby limiting their natural dispersal and use in controlled cultivation and recovery projects. Liquid nitrogen (LN) treatment is investigated to disturb the dormancy of impermeable Nelumbo nucifera seeds by physically damaging the seed shell and facilitating water and oxygen penetration. Extremely low temperatures during LN treatment can weaken the seed coat, improving water absorption and promoting germination. This research investigates how LN treatment affects seed germination and seedling growth compared to untreated seeds. Various factors, such as seed quality, treatment duration, and germination conditions, are considered when evaluating the effectiveness of LN treatment. Conduct thorough experiments and optimize LN treatment protocols to maximize the benefits of Nelumbo nucifera seed germination.

Interactive effect of ambient and elevated levels of tropospheric ozone, nutrition and PGPR on growth and yield of chickpea (Cicer arietinum)

An experiment was conducted during 2020 and 2021 at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, to study the interactive effect of nutrient and PGPR (Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria) on growth and yield of chickpea (Cicer aeritinum L.) cv. Pusa 3043 under ambient and elevated levels of ozone in FAOE (Free air ozone enrichment). A loss of 15–16% in dry matter production was observed under elevated ozone (EO3) when compared to ambient ozone (AO3) conditions. Seed treatment with PGPR was found to compensate for this loss as an increase in seed yield 18–19% was observed over untreated seeds. In terms of seed yield, the PGPR treatments with 75% nitrogen showed significant improvement compared to the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) application. A yield increase of 12% and 14% was observed with PGPR like RPAN8 (Anabena laxa) and An-Rh (Anabena torulosa with Mesorhizobium ciceri) (chickpea rhizobium) respectively, suggesting an advantage of an–Rh over RPAN8 under EO3. A combination of both PGPRs outperformed the individual PGPR, showing a 19% yield increase over RDF. This proves the potential of seed treatment with PGPR (RPAN8 and An-Rh) in ameliorating tropospheric ozone-induced stress in chickpea plants.

Transcriptome Analysis of Seed in Dormancy and Dormancy Release State of Epimedium koreanum Nakai

Epimedium koreanum is a perennial herb of the Berberidaceae family, which is a traditional tonic in Chinese medicine. Seed germination of E. koreanum is difficult. Dormancy is an intrinsic factor that affects seed germination. Elucidating the molecular mechanism of seed dormancy and the lifting process of E. koreanum is of great significance for the breeding, conservation, and utilization of E. koreanum. Previous studies have concluded that E. koreanum seed dormancy breakage requires warm-temperature stratification followed by low-temperature stratification treatments. Therefore, we performed transcriptome sequencing using freshly harvested, untreated seeds (NS), seeds that developed a cotyledonary embryo after 90 d of constant-temperature stratification at 15 °C (CS), and seeds that broke dormancy by 90 d of stratification at 15 °C and 60 d of stratification at 5 °C (ND) in order to find the responsive genes and regulatory genes that regulate dormancy. A total of 92,867 genes with differential expression were identified. GO enrichment analysis highlighted redox processes, as well as structural components of the nucleus and ribosomes. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed a significant enrichment of phytohormone signaling pathways, which play a crucial role in seed dormancy release. Additionally, protein–protein interactions (PPIs) were predicted with starch and sucrose metabolic pathways. This study introduces a novel concept for a more profound comprehension of the molecular regulatory mechanism of E. koreanum and lays a theoretical foundation for the screening of E. koreanum candidate genes.

The effect of temperature and exposure time on redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus) and yellow foxtail (Setaria pumila) seed mortality in the natural soil seedbank

Abstract Heat disinfection of soil can be used to reduce the content of the soil seedbank. However, species differ in the lethal temperature needed for seed destruction and mortality. Laboratory research was conducted on the seeds of two weed species, redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus L.) and yellow foxtail [Setaria pumila (Poir.) Roem. & Schult]. The soil samples were collected at the experimental station Šašinovečki Lug, Zagreb, Croatia (45.850289°N, 16.180465°E), and exposed to linearly increasing constant temperatures of 40, 50, 60, 80, 100, and 120 C and exposure times of 30, 60, and 90 min in a laboratory oven. Weed seeds were then extracted from the soil using the sieve separation method and survival was measured by germinating seeds on filter paper. Germination counts were converted into percentages of mortality compared with untreated seeds. The results show that both temperature and exposure time significantly affected seed mortality of both weed species. Amaranthus retroflexus shows a greater susceptibility to high temperatures than S. pumila. A fitted three-parameter sigmoid model was used to define the relationship between temperature and exposure time needed for 50% (LT50) and 90% (LT90) seed mortality. The estimated LT50 values for A. retroflexus are 58.89 to 46.08 C over the 30- to 90-min exposure times; the estimated LT90 values were 113.36 to 65.72 C for the same durations. The estimated LT50 values for S. pumila over the 30- to 90-min exposure times ranged from 91.33 to 75.15 C; the estimated LT90 ranged from 98.79 to 90.32 C over the same durations. The research results contribute to the knowledge about the thermal sensitivity of seeds. Estimating efficacy of soil-heating treatments is essential when comparing the environmental, economic, and social costs of alternatives to conventional weed control methods.

Antifungal efficacy of garlic (Allium sativum L.) on selected crop seed-borne fungi

This study aimed to assess the inhibitory effectiveness of garlic products on fungi associated with cowpea, sorghum, maize, and groundnut seeds. The in-vivo evaluation involved a seed culture bioassay treated with garlic aqueous extract, while the in vitro antifungal activity of the extract on the radial growth of isolated fungi was determined using the agar well diffusion method. The treatments included garlic powder, garlic paste, garlic powder + molasses, garlic aqueous extracts at 100%, garlic aqueous extracts + adjuvant, and Thiram® (a synthetic fungicide). On untreated cowpea seeds, Aspergillus niger was the most frequently isolated fungal species, with an incidence of 61.5%. Cowpea seeds treated with 100% garlic extracts showed zero incidence of fungal colonies, whereas sorghum seeds + garlic aqueous extract displayed only A. niger. The in vitro study revealed that the inhibitory effect of 100% garlic aqueous extracts + adjuvant on the radial growth inhibition of A. niger, A. flavus, and P. chrysogenum was 78.86%, 70.40%, and 67.36%, respectively. In contrast, the inhibition by garlic powder + molasses and the control was significantly lower (p≤0.05) than other treatments. In conclusion, this study suggests that garlic extracts could be a potential source of organically-based natural fungicides for safeguarding crop seeds.

Real and statistical processing of barley yield data naturally contaminated with fusariotoxin

Fumonisins are produced by fungi of the genus Fusarium spp., which are widely spread out in the nature. They are produced during grain growth, ripening and harvesting and are known as “field mycotoxins“. Fusarium species can produce compounds that are toxic to animals and humans. In this study, the development of Fusarium toxins was determined in healthy and mechanically damaged barley grains treated and untreated with fungicide, respectively, under natural contamination. It was found that healthy kernels treated with fungicide had the highest yield of 6700 kg.ha-1 followed by the yield of damaged kernels treated with fungicide. The lowest yield of 4850 kg.ha-1 was reported for the damaged and untreated barley grains. The two treatments whose plants were treated with fungicide had a higher yield than their counterparts, i.e. the plants not treated with fungicide. In confirmation of this by mycotoxicological analysis was established the presence of fumonisin 0.234 mg.kg-1 in healthy seeds untreated with fungicide and 0.274 mg.kg-1 in mechanically damaged untreated seeds. Fumonisin concentrations were measured by using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) method. The used approach in this study shows that fungicide treatments effectively reduce mycotoxin levels in barley and increase grain yield. The use of fungicides should be combined with other infection mitigation strategies, such as avoiding mechanically damaged grains, which are a suitable substrate for mycotoxins production. These measures will help to improve food and feed safety.

Non-Thermal Plasma (NTP) Treatment of Alfalfa Seeds in Different Voltage Conditions Leads to Both Positive and Inhibitory Outcomes Related to Sprout Growth and Nutraceutical Properties.

Non-thermal plasma (NTP) has proven to be a green method in the agricultural field for the stimulation of germination, growth, and production of nutraceutical compounds in some cases. However, the process is far from being fully understood and depends on the targeted plant species and the NTP used. In this work, we focus on the production of alfalfa sprouts from NTP-treated seeds under different voltage conditions. A flexible electrode configuration was used to produce the NTP, which can also be placed on packages for in-package treatments. The surface of the seeds was analyzed, indicating that the microstructure was strongly affected by NTP treatment. Biometric measurements evidenced the possibility of stimulating the sprout growth in some conditions by up to 50% compared to the sprouts obtained from untreated seeds. Biochemical traits for the sprouts obtained in different processing conditions were also studied, such as the concentrations of chlorophyll pigments, flavonoids and polyphenols, and antioxidant activity. Most NTP treatments led to inhibitory effects, proving the strong dependence between NTP treatment and targeted plant species.

Purification and Characterization of Desferrioxamine B of Pseudomonas fluorescens and Its Application to Improve Oil Content, Nutrient Uptake, and Plant Growth in Peanuts

Microorganisms produce siderophores, which are low-molecular-weight iron chelators when iron availability is limited. The present analyzed the role of LNPF1 as multifarious PGPR for improving growth parameters and nutrient content in peanut and soil nutrients. Such multifarious PGPR strains can be used as effective bioinoculants for peanut farming. In this work, rhizosphere bacteria from Zea mays and Arachis hypogaea plants in the Salem area of Tamil Nadu, India, were isolated and tested for biochemical attributes and characteristics that stimulate plant growth, such as the production of hydrogen cyanide, ammonia (6 µg/mL), indole acetic acid (76.35 µg/mL), and solubilizing phosphate (520 µg/mL). The 16S rRNA gene sequences identified the isolate LNPF1 as Pseudomonas fluorescens with a similarity percentage of 99% with Pseudomonas sp. Isolate LNPF1 was evaluated for the production of siderophore. Siderophore-rich supernatant using a Sep Pack C18 column and Amberlite-400 Resin Column (λmax 264) produced 298 mg/L and 50 mg/L of siderophore, respectively. The characterization of purified siderophore by TLC, HPLC, FTIR, and 2D-NMR analysis identified the compound as desferrioxamine, a hydroxamate siderophore. A pot culture experiment determined the potential of LNPF1 to improve iron and oil content and photosynthetic pigments in Arachis hypogaea L. and improve soil nutrient content. Inoculation of A. hypogea seeds with LNPF1 improved plant growth parameters such as leaf length (60%), shoot length (22%), root length (54.68%), fresh weight (47.28%), dry weight (37%), and number of nuts (66.66) compared to the control (untreated seeds). This inoculation also improved leaf iron content (43.42), short iron content (38.38%), seed iron (46.72%), seed oil (31.68%), carotenoid (64.40%), and total chlorophyll content (98.%) compared to control (untreated seeds). Bacterized seeds showed a substantial increase in nodulation (61.65%) and weight of individual nodules (95.97) vis-à-vis control. The results of the present study indicated that P. fluorescens might be utilized as a potential bioinoculant to improve growth, iron content, oil content, number of nuts and nodules of Arachishypogaea L., and enrich soil nutrients.

The effects of seed enhancements on plant establishment in native grasses: A meta‐analysis

AbstractQuestionsNative grasses are widespread with high commercial value and demand across the restoration sector, though their uptake is often hampered by seed‐use challenges. Seed enhancement technologies (SETs) provide a valuable tool for improving plant establishment outcomes for species (such as native grasses) where seed‐based approaches are essential to achieve large‐scale targets. However, due to the increased investment in resources and time associated with application of SETs, their adoption is dependent on the ability of these treatments to consistently provide benefits to one or more demographic life stages, particularly under field conditions. This meta‐analysis addresses the following research question: what are the overall effects of SETs on plant establishment outcomes compared to untreated florets or seeds in native grasses globally?LocationGlobal.MethodsThe effects of six major SET categories (acid treatment, coating, pelleting, flash flaming, priming, and treatment combinations) on germination, emergence, and shoot and root length and biomass were explored. Furthermore, the consistency of the effects of SETs across study types (i.e., laboratory, glasshouse, and field) was investigated.ResultsThe overall effects of SETs on native grasses in this meta‐analysis were positive for germination (16% improvement), emergence (22% improvement), and growth (6.42–8.86 cm and 2.26–2.77 g increase in seedling length and biomass, respectively). However, effects ranged from neutral to positive when data were grouped by SET type, with coating, pelleting and priming delivering consistent benefits across multiple life stages, and acid treatments, flash flaming, and combination treatments having mixed effects. This analysis also provided evidence that benefits observed from SET application in laboratory and glasshouse studies are not translating to field environments.ConclusionsOverall, SETs generally had positive effects and can therefore provide a relatively low‐risk approach to improving seed‐based restoration outcomes in native grasses. Continued SET research focussed on long‐term plant establishment outcomes in field environments is needed to further advance SET uptake.

Investigating the Effects of Various Soil Amendments on Forages Production in the Field

An initial investigation into the utilization of recycled plant and animal residues as soil amendments (SAs), including compost, biochar, and soil conditioner, was conducted using alfalfa crops. This study evaluated the impact of SAs on alfalfa seed germination, resulting in an 87% germination rate for biochar, 82% for soil conditioner, and 82% for compost. In comparison, untreated seeds displayed a 78% germination rate. After successful germination, the SAs were employed to enhance soil health, with a focus on water conservation and increased forage yield. The study used sandy-textured soil with moderate alkalinity, very slight salinity, slight calcareousness, and high permeability. The germination trial confirmed that SAs usage did not hinder seed germination, even for salt-sensitive crops like alfalfa. Two field experiments were carried out in Al-Wafra, using different application rates of compost, biochar, and soil conditioner at 5, 7.5, and 10 tons per hectare. The results highlighted the positive impact of SAs application on increasing forage production, with varying degrees of enhancement, and confirmed a 40% reduction in water usage compared to treatment without SAs but under 100% irrigation (100% ETc). In conclusion, SAs show promising potential for local forages intensification and water conservation.

Effectiveness of nano dust enhanced with pirimiphos-methyl in controlling Sitophilus oryzae on wheat grain

The bioefficacy of several inert materials, such as Diatomaceous earth (DE), bentonite, and biochar enhanced with pirimiphos-methyl against Sitophilus oryzae, was used to evaluate the insecticidal activity of three new formulations using the technique of mixing with grain. DE was the most effective material (LC50 3.198 g/kg), followed by biochar LC50 3.709 g/kg, whereas bentonite was the least effective (LC50 3. 979 g/kg). The three materials were loaded with pirimiphos-methyl (0.5%). The formula of Pirimiphos-methyl with DE reported the highest significant effect compared to the other two formulations, with an LC50 value of 0.082 g/kg. DE formula had a co-toxicity coefficient value that was 6.46 times greater than pirimiphos-methyl, followed by the biochar formula, which was 1.74 times more effective, and the bentonite formula, which had a 0.69-fold increase in activity. In the laboratory examination of the wheat’s free and compact bulk densities after being treated with LC50s of each dust material, DE slightly affected wheat-free bulk density. Still, both bentonite and biochar reduced the free bulk density. However, all the tested materials decreased in compact bulk density. The germination percentages of wheat treated with LC50 values of DE and bentonite and biochar after 10 days of storage revealed no significant difference between treated and untreated seeds after 7 days of germination.

Seed priming by cold scarification and Moringa-based bio-stimulant on the germination of Artemisia afra

Artemisia afra is a frequently utilized medicinal plant in diverse cultural traditions for the management of various health conditions. Despite its natural habitat, limited efforts have been dedicated to its systematic cultivation, resulting in a paucity of documented information concerning its seed biology and germination characteristics. This study aimed to determine the effect of different temperatures, scarification, light conditions and priming with biostimulant on the seed germination of Artemisia afra. The seeds were exposed to different scarification methods including rubbing (sandpaper), hot and cold-water soaking, acid (H2SO4) and fermentation (EM) and compared with untreated seeds (control). Photoperiods included constant light, alternating light (16/8 hours) and continuous darkness at 15 °C, 25 °C and 35 °C. Results revealed that 25 °C temperature significantly improved germination while no germination was obtained at 15°C and 35°C. Hot and cold-water scarification resulted in improved germination. There was no germination observed for fermented seeds in all the experiments. In photoperiod, the highest germination percentage of 70 % was observed under alternating light. Using Moringa based biostimulant under alternating light conditions at 25 °C resulted in improved MGT. The information generated from this study will contribute to bridging the scientific gap by generating information on optimum requirements for propagating A. afra through seeds.

White mustard (Sinapis alba L.) seeds: the role of oven and microwave roasting on their bioactive components, antioxidant potential, fatty acids and mineral contents

The oil amounts of raw and roasted mustard seeds were reported between 12.05 (control) and 16.30% (oven). Total phenolic and flavonoid amounts of untreated (control) and roasted mustard seeds were recorded to be between 473.90 (control) and 569.96 mgGAE/100 g (oven) to 345.48 (control) and 479.76 mg/100 g (microwave), respectively. Antioxidant capacity results of untreated and roasted mustard seeds were determined to be between 6.71 (oven) and 6.97 mmol/kg (control). Total phenolic and flavonoid amounts of oven-roasted seeds were higher than those of control and microwave-roasted seeds. L* values of mustard seeds varied between 35.04 and 65.52. Heat treatment caused a decrease in L* values. The lowest L* value was observed in the sample dried in conventional oven. The quantitative values of gallic and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acids of mustard seeds were recorded to be between 8.47 (control) and 117.31 mg/100 g (microwave) to 2.16 (control) and 11.79 mg/100 g (microwave), respectively. Erucic acid values of the oils extracted from raw and roasted mustard seeds were reported between 41.38 (control) and 42.81% (microwave). Oleic and linoleic acid amounts of mustard oils differed between 26.06 (microwave) and 26.90% (control) and between 13.08 (oven) and 13.98% (control), respectively. The oven roasting system had the most effect on the element and protein contents of the seeds, followed by the microwave in decreasing order. As with the bioactive components of the seeds, the amounts of phenolic constituents of roasted mustard seeds increased significantly compared to the control.Graphical abstract

Particle Size Effect of Piper guineense in the Control of the ‘Sitophilus zeamais Motchulski’ on Maize

Sitophilus zeamais is perhaps the most important storage insect pest of maize. The negative health implication of synthetic pesticides necessitates research into botanicals. We investigated the efficacy of ground Piper guineense (particles sizes 150, 300, 600, 1180, and 2360 µm) in controlling S. zeamais. The botanicals were compared with pirimorphos methyl and control (untreated seeds). Completely Randomized Design was used with three replications. Each treatment was infested with 20 adult weevils. Weevils were withdrawn after 14 days and the experiment was observed for another 38 days to count emerged adult weevils, numbers of damaged grains and exit holes on seeds, and determine loss in seed weight. Progressive efficacy and significant differences were observed among the botanicals and Pirimorphos methyl from four days after treatment application (DAT) to 14 DAT (90%, 100%, 100%, and 46.67%for Pirimorphos methyl, 150, 300, and 2360 µm of Piper respectively) as the particle size decreases. Piper of 150 and 300 µm particle sizes produced no new adult weevil and no seed weight loss at 52 DAW compared to others. The efficacy of piper at different particle sizes from 4 DAT showed that graduating piper particle size has significant effects on its insecticidal activity. It was concluded that ground piper of particle size 150µm is the most effective and is therefore recommended for effective control of maize weevils in storage.

BamFx Induced Resistance by Seed Priming Method against Fusarium sp. in Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill sp.

Background: Pigeon pea [Cajanus cajan (L.) Mill sp.] enriches the soil through symbiotic nitrogen fixation. The pigeon pea plants are susceptible to a number of pathogenic fungi including Aspergillus sp. and Fusarium sp. Bam-FX® is a micromineral formulation that directly affects the physiological mechanisms and innate immune system of plants to help them overcome both abiotic and biotic stresses without the need for any form of genetic modification. Methods: In this study, we have tested different dilutions to soak the pigeon pea seeds. On 21th day, optimum germination (94%) was found in seeds treated with BamFX (1:1000) compared to 75% germination in untreated seeds. Result: The fungi were isolated from the soil and identified using 18s rRNA gene sequencing. The seedlings in BamFx treated groups were found resistant to pathogenic fungi, whereas, more than 97% in the untreated groups were found infected or diseased. The increased germination efficiency and resistance to fungal infections in BamFx treated seedlings proved a priming effect due to BamFx in pigeon pea seeds.

A Comprehensive Study from Cradle-to-Grave on the Environmental Profile of Malted Legumes.

Three representative pulses from the Latium region of Italy (namely, Solco Dritto chickpeas, SDC, Gradoli Purgatory beans, GPB, and Onano lentils, OL) underwent malting to reduce their anti-nutrient content, such as phytic acid and flatulence-inducing oligosaccharides. This initiative targets the current low per capita consumption of pulses. Employing Life Cycle Analysis, their environmental impact was assessed, revealing an overall carbon footprint of 2.8 or 3.0 kg CO2e per kg of malted (M) and decorticated (D) SDCs or GPBs and OLs, respectively. The Overall Weighted Sustainability scores (OWSS) complying with the Product Environmental Footprint method ranged from 298 ± 30 to 410 ± 40 or 731 ± 113 µPt/kg for malted and decorticated SDCs, OLs, or GPBs, indicating an increase from 13% to 17% compared to untreated dry seeds. Land use impact (LU) was a dominant factor, contributing 31% or 42% to the OWSS for MDSDCs or MDOLs, respectively. In MDGPBs, LU constituted 18% of the OWSS, but it was overshadowed by the impact of water use arising from bean irrigation, accounting for approximately 52% of the OWSS. This underscores the agricultural phase's pivotal role in evaluating environmental impact. The climate change impact category (CC) was the second-largest contributor, ranging from 28% (MDSDCs) to 22% (MDOLs), and ranking as the third contributor with 12% of the OWSS for MDGPBs. Mitigation should prioritize the primary impact from the agricultural phase, emphasizing land and water utilization. Selecting drought-tolerant bean varieties could significantly reduce OWSSs. To mitigate climate change impact, actions include optimizing electricity consumption during malting, transitioning to photovoltaic electricity, upgrading transport vehicles, and optimizing pulse cooking with energy-efficient appliances. These efforts, aligning with sustainability goals, may encourage the use of malted and decorticated pulses in gluten-free, low fat, α-oligosaccharide, and phytate-specific food products for celiac, diabetic, and hyperlipidemic patients. Overall, this comprehensive approach addresses environmental concerns, supports sustainable practices, and fosters innovation in pulse utilization for improved dietary choices.