Yellow Varieties Research Articles

An integrated analysis of the Passifloraceae virome using public-domain data.

Passifloraceae is a plant family that includes several species of interest in the food, medicinal, and ornamental industries. The most relevant species are the purple and yellow varieties of P. edulis, which are among the most highly prized tropical fruits in the international markets. Unfortunately, the rapid expansion of this crop worldwide has resulted in the emergence of several viral diseases that endangered the productivity of this crop. In this work, we performed an integrated analysis of the Passifloraceae virome using public data. We investigated Pubmed and Genbank records and analyzed all the transcriptome data available for members of this plant family. This analysis resulted in the identification of six novel virus associations and six putative new viral species. We also used RNAseq to inspect virus accumulation levels and mixed infections. Using network analysis, we also examined the global distribution of Passiflora viruses and their associations with alternative hosts, which is valuable information in implementing viral disease management strategies. Our data suggest that a large diversity of viruses remains to be discovered. Finally, we used the information gathered in this work to estimate the cross-transmission risk of viruses in Colombian Passiflora fields.

Antimicrobial potency of red and yellow varieties of grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi Macfad) grown in Jordan

Antimicrobial potency of red and yellow varieties of grapefruit (Citrus Paradisi Macfad) grown in Jordan

Exergy and Energy Analysis of Forced Convective Thin-layer Solar Drying of Tiger Nuts (Cyperus esculantus L.)

Aims: To study the exergy and energy analysis for thin-layer solar drying of tiger nuts; and also to determine the drying kinetics for the thin-layer solar drying of tiger nuts. Study Design: Yellow variety of tiger nuts were dried in a forced convection solar dryer to determine the exergy and energy indices. Place and Duration of Study: Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria between October, 2022 to March, 2023. Methodology: The experiment was conducted at three different air velocities of 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5 m s-1 and two different loads of 70 and 140 g. The tiger nuts were dried from average initial moisture content of 52% (wb) to final moisture content of 10.2% (wb), at an average temperature range of 50.5 to 51.2 ºC. Energy utilization, exergy loss rate, exergy efficiency, improvement potential, and sustainability index were determined. Results: The results of energy utilization, exergy loss rate and improvement potential ranged from 2.1 to 5.09 W, 0.25 to 0.93 W and 0.08 to 0.54 W respectively; however, these values increased with increasing air velocities and loads. The results of exergy efficiency and sustainability index ranged from 41.8 to 68.49% and 1.72 to 3.17 respectively; these values increased with decreasing air velocities and loads. Graphical plots of moisture content with drying time showed that the moisture content of the tiger nuts decreased with increasing drying time. The characteristic nature of the curve is indicative of the fact that there was an initial higher rate of drying, which gradually declined with drying time. The results also showed that the drying rates of the tiger nuts ranged from 6.03 to 8.44 %MC/hr; and these values varied with the different air velocities and loads. Conclusion: The results from this research will serve as a guide in reduction of energy costs for the optimum design of convective dryers.

Influence of Tea Polyphenols, Chitosan, and Melatonin as the Eco-Friendly Post-Harvest Treatments on the Vase Life of the Cut Chrysanthemum ‘Pingpong’ Group

Vase life is a decisive measure of the marketability of post-harvest physiology in cut flowers. In the process of petal senescence, the cut chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum × morifolium) ‘Pingpong’ group develops severe capitulum collapse which manifests as wilting and browning, leading to shorter vase life. Melatonin (MT), tea polyphenols (TPs), and chitosan (CT) are natural alternatives to chemical compounds with proven preservation effects. In this study, the possibility of mitigating capitulum collapse using the preservation solutions of these three eco-friendly ingredients was investigated on four varieties from the ‘Pingpong’ group, aiming to delay the senescence process. The effects on vase life of 0.02/0.04 mmol·L−1 MT, 200/400 mg·L−1 TPs, and 0.10/0.20 g·L−1 CT were, respectively, assessed with the basis of 20 g·L−1 sucrose and 250 mg·L−1 citric acid. The yellow and white varieties tend to have a longer vase life compared with the green and pink varieties. Compared to the control with only base ingredients, the greatest delay in capitulum collapse was observed with 0.04 mmol·L−1 MT in the yellow variety, maximizing the vase life to 13.4 days. MT maintained the best ornamental quality of the capitulum by decelerating fresh weight and flower diameter loss in terms of all varieties. TPs significantly increased flower diameter to improve vase life up to four more days. However, CT caused significant negative effects on vase life, with severe loss of both flower diameter and fresh weight. Therefore, the application of 0.04 mmol·L−1 MT and 200 mg·L−1 TPs was suggested to enhance the marketability of cut ‘Pingpong’, which highlighted the eco-friendly potential of post-harvest treatments.

Unveiling the nutrient-wealth of black soybean: A holistic review of its bioactive compounds and health implications.

Legumes, an essential component of staple diets, hold a prominent place in global cuisines. Soybean stands out as a widely cultivated legume and is valued for its high protein content, dietary fiber, and rich micronutrients. Several varieties of soybean are available, of which black and yellow varieties show dominance in varied countries and cultures. Over time, the cultivation and consumption of black soybeans have markedly reduced compared to the yellow variety. Despite its rich nutritional and therapeutic indices, it has lost its usage over time. Traditionally, it was utilized in oriental medicine for detoxification and anti-inflammatory potential. However, the antinutrients present in black soybean limit its utilization in the food sector due to their interference with overall nutrient absorption. Several studies in the last few decades have focused on reducing the content of antinutritional factors. However, the information on the use of different processing techniques, both singly and in blends, to reduce antinutrients and enhance the bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of bioactive compounds and varied nutrients is limited and fragmented. Furthermore, studies have highlighted black soybeans' protective effects against various degenerative diseases. However, the studies on the effect of processing to enhance its antioxidative properties to make them a sought-after food commodity with nutraceutical potential and therapeutic efficacy are limited and widely scattered. The review aims to consolidate knowledge of diverse processing methods to improve their nutritional and bioactive profile for wider applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Further, it has also highlighted its nutraceutical properties for developing varied functional foods against degenerative diseases to have better therapeutic efficacy.

Exploring Allelochemical Compositions in The Roots of Two Varieties of Anacardium occidentale (Cashew)

Allelochemicals are chemicals released by plants that affect other plants and pests. The chemicals are provided by different parts of the plant or released through the natural decomposition of the associated plants. Anacardium occidentale has been reported to exhibit allelopathy. The bark and inner parts of the roots of the two varieties (red and yellow) of Anacardium occidental (Linn) were qualitatively and quantitatively analysed for the presence of allelochemicals. The samples were also subjected to Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis. The qualitative results showed that flavonoids, tannins, and phenols were present in both the bark and inner parts of the roots, whereas alkaloids, saponins, and terpenoids were present only in the bark of the roots. The quantitative results showed that while the root bark of the red variety had the highest saponin content, that of the yellow variety had the highest phenol content. The GC/MS results for both samples showed the presence of different compounds, and one of the compound peaks observed in the inner root was not identified; 9,12– octadecadienoic acid (fatty acid) was the compound with the highest composition identified in the yellow variety. Similar compounds were identified in the root bark of the red and yellow varieties, which include 3-Tridecyl phenol with molecular formula C19H32O and molecular weight 276, which occurred at a retention time range of 41.703–41.712 min and had the lowest percentage compositions of 2.816 and 4.732% in red and yellow varieties, respectively. The compounds with the highest percentage compositions of 32.389 and 41.944% in red and yellow, respectively, were identified as (Z)-3-(Heptadec-10-en-1-yl) phenol (molecular formula C23H38O with molecular weight 330), occurring within the retention time range of 48.246 – 48.263 min. Other compounds with higher percentage compositions were identified in the samples, including (Z)-3-(pentadec-8-en-1-yl) phenol and 3-((4Z,7Z)-Heptadeca-4,7-dien-1-yl) phenol. However, 1,2,4,-Benzenetriol (molecular formula C6H6O with molecular weight 252) was only identified in the red variety, with a percentage composition of 8.883%, which occurred at a retention time of 22.040 min. The compounds identified in the bark were mostly phenols, whereas those in the inner roots were more fatty acids.

Pisum sativum L. ‘Eso’: Metabolic Profiling of Yellow Seeds to Define the Optimal Harvest Time

The yellow pea (Pisum sativum L. ‘Eso’, sin. Lathyrus oleracaeus Lam.(YP)) is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. Peas, along with other legumes, are an excellent source of proteins and essential amino acids; the yellow variety is known for maintaining a good protein profile even if subjected to industrial processing. However, the presence of antinutrients, such as phytates and oligosaccharides, limits its consumption as a fresh legume to its use as a source of isolated proteins or for animal feed. The aim of the study is to evaluate the changes in the entire phytochemical profile of YP seeds as a function of the harvest time. YPs harvested at about 40, 50, 60, and 70 days from sowing were examined by high-resolution NMR spectroscopy employing 1H-NMR, 1H-1H TOCSY, and 1H-13C HSQC. In total, 40 molecular species were identified and quantified; it was observed that there was a monotonous decrease in amino acids, carbohydrates, and secondary metabolites as a function of time. Antinutrient levels increased, but only in later sampling times. This study identified the optimal harvest time for yellow peas “Eso” in the fortieth day from sowing, adding new information about the best nutritional outcome for humans.

MdSGR2 Negatively Regulates Chlorophyll Degradation in Apple

The color of an apple is an important index of its appearance quality, which affects the fruit’s marketability and value. The green variety “Granny Smith” remains green when ripe, and the pigment in the peel is mainly chlorophyll. The chlorophyll in the peel of the yellow variety “Golden Delicious” degrades as the fruit ripens. To explore the different mechanisms of chlorophyll degradation in the “Golden Delicious” and “Granny Smith” varieties, transcriptomic analysis was performed on the mature peels of both cultivars. High-quality sequences totaling 48,206,940 and 48,796,646 raw bases, as well as 9632 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), were identified. A total of 1206 DEGs were classified in 118 KEGG metabolic pathways. Additionally, 3258 transcription factors from 428 gene families were predicted, and DEGs associated with chlorophyll degradation, including MdSGR2, MdNYC1 and MdHCAR, were identified. Subsequently, the MdSGR2 gene was isolated from the mature peel of “Granny Smith” apples. Subsequent subcellular localization analysis confirmed that MdSGR2 specifically targets chloroplasts. The transient overexpression of MdSGR2 was found to negatively regulate chlorophyll degradation, leading to the inhibition or deceleration of chlorophyll breakdown, thereby maintaining green coloration in the leaves and peel. Conversely, silencing MdSGR2 positively regulated chlorophyll degradation, resulting in chlorosis in the leaves and peel. These findings offer valuable insights into the regulatory mechanism governing apple fruit coloration and lays a solid foundation for further investigation in this field.

ОЦЕНКА СОРТИМЕНТА КАЛЕНДУЛЫ ЛЕКАРСТВЕННОЙ КАК КУЛЬТУРЫ ДЛЯ ОЗЕЛЕНЕНИЯ

Calendula officinalis L. is one of the most common pharmaceutical crops cultivated not only in the Krasnodar region, but also in the south of the Russian Federation as a whole. In addition to its medicinal qualities, a high content of essential oils, as well as phenols and flavonoids, the crop is an excellent alternative to annual floral and ornamental plants in landscaping. In this regard, the purpose of the research was to evaluate seven varieties of Calendula officinalis L. in terms of duration,intensity and timing of the beginning of flowering, the activity of growth processes, size, color, inflorescence structure and the identification of the most adapted to growing conditions varieties that have high decorative qualities. Proposals were made on the directions of using the studied varieties in ornamental gardening and landscaping of the territory. The studies were carried out in 2022-2023 at the experimental site of private household plots in the central zone of the Krasnodar region. As a result of the research, it was found that the studied varieties of calendula had significant differences in a number of morpho-biometric indicators, but turned out to be highly adapted to the growing conditions in the south of the Russian Federation. According to the combination of ornamental qualities, three varieties of calendula officinalis were identified for cultivation in the central zone of the Krasnodar region. The Tutti-Frutti yellow variety is recommended for planting in flower beds due to the bright flowers of the inflorescence and the low growth of the plants. It is advisable to use the Geisha variety for the design of plots in landscape design and for cutting flowers. In garden and park landscaping, attention should be paid to the King's Cup variety, which stands out for a complex of decorative qualities and a long flowering period. Key words: CALENDULA, LANDSCAPING, ASSORTMENT, PHENOLOGY, GROWTH, FLOWERING, ORNAMENTAL TRAITS

The influence of different fertilizer standards on the quality of agricultural products in short rotation crop rotation

Goal. Study of the influence of different rates of fertilization of agricultural crops in short-rotational crop rotation on the quality of agricultural products and their yield on radioactively contaminated lands.
 Methods. Scientifically recommended agricultural crops for this region were selected for research in grain-row crop rotation: Oats — variety Chernihivskyi 27; Triticale — Aist Kharkiv variety; Corn — variety Kharkivska 195 MV; Fodder beets — Eckendorf yellow variety; Lupine is an Industrial variety. The chemical composition of feed was determined according to generally accepted methods. In plant products, the following were determined: crude protein — by total nitrogen using the classic Kjeldahl method; raw fiber — by acid-alkaline hydrolysis; raw ash — by burning samples in a muffle furnace at a temperature of 500—600°C; raw fat — by the Ruzhkosky method in a Soxhlet apparatus.
 Results. As a result of research in 2015—2017, it was established that the studied agricultural products in 2, 3 versions of fertilizer have a higher content of crude protein, crude fat, and crude fiber. The content of crude protein in lupine seeds was in the range of 25.54—31.01%, in oat grain — 10.37—12.21%, in triticale grain — 10.08—12.25%, in corn grain — 9.40—11.78%, in fodder beets — 2.03—2.65%. The raw ash content varied over the years of research from 2.68 to 2.86% in oat grain; from 2.74 to 3.01% in lupine seeds; from 2.19 to 2.41% in triticale grain; from 1.37 to 1.68% in beets and from 1.57 to 1.72% in corn grains. The crude fat content for the studied period was from 3.72 to 3.97% in oat grains; from 4.46 to 5.55% in lupine seeds; from 1.40 to 1.74% in triticale grain; from 0.12 to 0.16% in fodder beet and from 4.40 to 4.81% in corn grain. The content of crude fiber during the years of research was from 10.21 to 10.60% in oat grain; from 13.29 to 14.38% in lupine seeds; from 1.69 to 2.74% in triticale grain; from 0.93 to 1.05% in fodder beets and from 2.20 to 2.75% in corn grain. The average yield of oats over the years of research on fertilizer options was 27.12—35.01 t/ha, while it is monitored increase in yield by fertilizer options compared to the control by 15—46%. The yield of triticale was in the range of 39.75—48.97 t/ha, subject to an increase in yield in 2 and 3 fertilizer options by 3—7%. The yield of lupine over the years of research was 17.80—26.69 c/ha, while the yield of lupine in 2 and 3 fertilizer options was 4.8—17.2 higher than in the control. The grain yield of corn and fodder beet in 2 and 3 fertilizer variants also exceeded the control index. The yield of fodder beet was 297.09—394.74 t/ha. The yield of corn was in the range of 48.85—87.15 c/ha.
 Conclusions. It was established that the studied agricultural products in 2, 3 versions of fertilizer have a higher content of crude protein, crude fat, and crude fiber. The average yield of oats over the years of research on fertilizer options was 27.12—35.01 t/ha, the yield of triticale was in the range of 39.75—48.97 t/ha, the yield of lupine over the years of research was 17.80—26.69 t/ha, fodder beet yield was 297.09—394.74 t/ha, and corn yield was 48.85—87.15 t/ha.

Extraction Characterization of Oils Extracted from different Parts of Red and Yellow Varieties of Anacardium occidentale (Lin)

The objective of this study was to extract and characterized the oils from different parts of red and yellow varieties of Anacardium occidentale after extractions using Soxhlet extractor and steam distillation techniques and characterization of the bioactive components using GC/MS analysis. Physicochemical parameters of the extracted oils were analyzed, and the bioactive compositions were also examined. The results showed that the oils extracted were within 0 and 0.5% moisture content and pH values ranged from 3.7 to 4.7. The average relative densities of the extracted oils by Soxhlet extraction and steam distillation at temperature 25oC were 0.887 and 0.8745 g/cm3 respectively, with average saponification value of 132.45 mgKOH/g for Soxhlet extraction and 127.98 mgKOH/g for steam distillation. The iodine values of all the oils were between 35 and 19.00 mg iodine/100g; while the refractive index was between 1.7 and 1.9. The acid values were within the range of 10.00 and 13.00 mgKOH/g, and peroxide value of 1.67 and 1.20 mmol/l. The oils had low viscosity which were within 28 and 32 mpa.s. The compounds identified from the GC-MS results showed that cashew nut shell oil contained cardol, anacardic acid, cardanol, 2-methyl cardol, triacconten and β-sitosterol. The main bioactive components of the extracted oil identified from the stem bark, root bark, and leaf were alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, terpenoids, and saponins. This study, therefore, showed that Soxhlet extraction could be a better extraction method for extraction of oil from cashew nut shell which had higher relative density; while cashew stem bark, root bark and the leaf which had lower density were selective based on the target products.

Unveiling the aesthetic secrets: exploring connections between genetic makeup, chemical, and environmental factors for enhancing/improving the color and fragrance/aroma of Chimonanthus praecox.

Floral color and scent profiles vary across species, geographical locations, and developmental stages. The exclusive floral color and fragrance of Chimonanthus praecox is contributed by a range of endogenous chemicals that distinguish it from other flowers and present amazing ornamental value. This comprehensive review explores the intricate interplay of environmental factors, chemicals and genes shaping the flower color and fragrance of Chimonanthus praecox. Genetic and physiological factors control morpho-anatomical attributes as well as pigment synthesis, while environmental factors such as temperature, light intensity, and soil composition influence flower characteristics. Specific genes control pigment synthesis, and environmental factors such as temperature, light intensity, and soil composition influence flower characteristics. Physiological processes including plant hormone contribute to flower color and fragrance. Hormones, notably ethylene, exert a profound influence on varioustraits. Pigment investigations have spotlighted specific flavonoids, including kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside, quercetin, and rutin. Red tepals exhibit unique composition with cyanidin-3-O-rutinoside and cyanidin-3-O-glucoside being distinctive components. Elucidating the molecular basis of tepal color variation, particularly in red and yellow varieties, involves the identification of crucial regulatory genes. In conclusion, this review unravels the mysteries of Chimonanthus praecox, providing a holistic understanding of its flower color and fragrance for landscape applications. This comprehensive review uniquely explores the genetic intricacies, chemical and environmental influences that govern the mesmerizing flower color and fragrance of Chimonanthus praecox, providing valuable insights for its landscape applications. This review article is designed for a diverse audience, including plant geneticists, horticulturists, environmental scientists, urban planners, and students, offering understandings into the genetic intricacies, ecological significance, and practical applications of Chimonanthus praecox across various disciplines. Its appeal extends to professionals and enthusiasts interested in plant biology, conservation, and industries dependent on unique floral characteristics.

Turmeric; The Cutting Edge of India’s Merchandise and Global Medicine

Turmeric has served as a potential chemotherapeutic and chemo-preventive drug in Asia for about four to five thousand years of human civilization. It occupies a significant place in religious rituals, kitchens as food additives, and many ethno-phyto-pharmaceutical safe drugs in Asia and worldwide. India is the top producer (about 80%), and a leading exporter of turmeric, rich in containing curcumin and turmerone oil in the world. The demand for turmeric and its marketing strategy of turmeric has reached its peak as a naturopathic drug of choice during the SARS-02 pandemic from 2020 onwards. The Indian yellow saffron grows as an organic spice to augment the economic, societal, and environmental conditions of tribal in hilly areas in India adding to the value chain.
 The existing study envisages the evaluation of the levels of all chemical constituents including heavy/radioactive metals present in turmeric, so that the widely used turmeric may have some refinement to enhance food safety and its standards. MITUTOYO microscope and X-ray fluorescence Spectrometer (XRF) were used for both yellow and black varieties of turmeric specimens from various places like Kandhamal, Koraput, and Khordha districts to examine and compare the chemical contents.
 Turmeric, the both black and yellow variety is the rhizome of the Zingiberaceae (ginger) family, mostly grown by using the organic methodology in hilly terrains of India. Iron and few metals and rare earth metals are present in small proportions but zinc which is the potential immune developer in the human body is almost absent in turmeric. The volatile oil, colouring materials, culinary flavoured spices, or common cosmetics extracted from turmeric. They have wide applications in Ayurveda including cardio-protective, Anti-septic, blood level depressant, anti-cancer, antioxidant, antifertility, antidepressant, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, neuro/ nephron-protective, immune-modulatory, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer, etc. Despite well-proven drug of choice in naturopathy and Ayurveda, turmeric is not a widely accepted ingredient in pharmacy, the modern allopathic drug structure, which needs attention.

Seeding rate and sulfur drive field pea yields in the Maritime region of Canada

The inclusion of pulse crops in Canadian rotations has the potential to improve cropping system efficiencies, reduce the overall amount of applied nitrogen, provide economic opportunities for producers, and reduce the overall carbon footprint of the cropping system. Although primarily grown in western Canada, many pulse species—field pea in particular, are well suited to temperate growing conditions in the Maritime region of Canada. A study was conducted over 2 years at Harrington, Prince Edward Island, and consisted of four field pea varieties including two yellow varieties (AAC Lacombe and CDC Saffron) and two green varieties (CDC Limerick and CDC Raezer) planted at three plant population densities: 75, 100, and 125 plants m−2. The study also measured the effects of nitrogen fertilizer applied pre-plant (0 kg ha−1 vs. 15 kg ha−1) and applied plant available sulfur (0 kg ha−1 vs. 25 kg ha−1). Overall, yellow pea varieties were higher yielding than green pea varieties, and there was a linear increase in yield with increased seeding rate. There were no significant effects of pre-plant nitrogen fertilizer on yield, although it did slightly increase seed protein. Applied sulfur had a positive effect on yield and a slightly negative effect on thousand seed weight. This experiment provides a recommendation for the optimal seeding rate (100 plants m−2) and fertility recommendations to achieve profitable yields growing field pea in the Maritime region of Canada.

Effect of Calcium Chloride and Gibberellic Acid on the Vegetative Growth of Two Cultivars of Gladiolus Gladiolus hybrid L.

This study was conducted inside the wooden canopy of the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Engineering / College of Agriculture and Forestry / University of Mosul during the agricultural season 2022-2023. To study the effect of spraying with different concentrations of calcium chloride (0, 500, 1000) mg. L-1 and spraying with gibberellic acid at concentrations of (0, 100, 200) mg. L-1 and the interaction between them in vegetative of two cultivars of Gladiolus Gladiolus hybrid. L. They are Nova lux with yellow flowers and Trader Lux with red flowers. The corms were planted on 17/3/2022, then sprayed 30 days after planting the corms with three sprays and three concentrations of calcium chloride (0,500, 1000) mg.L-1 The plants were also sprayed with gibberellic acid, with three sprays and three concentrations (0, 100, 200), The period between one spray and another was two weeks. The spraying was done with gibberellic acid after 35 days of planting the corms. The study was carried out using a factorial experiment in the design of completed randomized sectors R.C.B.D within split plots with three replications, each experimental unit included (7) cormat for each replicate. The research results of were analyzed statistically with the (SAS) program and tested statistically using Duncan’s multinomial test at the probability level of 0.05. It was found that the red cultivar recorded the largest plant height, which reached 129.905 cm, the largest leaf length, which reached 102.584 cm, and the largest number of leaves, which reached 9,980 leaves. Plant-1, and the largest leaf area of the plant, amounting to 401.656 cm2. plant-1, and the largest dry weight of the leaves, amounting to 12.567 g. The yellow variety plants also recorded the largest values for the percentage of total chlorophyll in the plant, which amounted to 0.984%. The treatment with gibberellic acid at a concentration of 200 mg also resulted. L-1 led to a significant increase in all studied traits.

Native bacteria from the caatinga biome mitigate the effects of drought on melon (Cucumis melo L.)

Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) from drylands are promising biological resources to mitigate thenegative effects induced by water deficit. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of bacteria nativefrom the Caatinga biome on the initial growth of melon plants subjected to water deficit. Nine bacteria (M1.1,T11.2, PH5.2, T11.1, T2.1, T1.1, M7.1, XX6.9 and XX6.6) isolated from Caatinga soils were tested in two varietiesof melons (Cantaloupe and Yellow) cultivated under two water availability scenarios (50% irrigation and 100%irrigation of the crop evapotranspiration - ETc). In the control treatment, no inoculation was performed. Theeffects of the treatments on shoot length (SL), shoot dry mass (SDM), root length (RL) and root dry mass (RDM)were evaluated. In the scenario without water deficit (100% ETc replacement), the isolates PH5.2, T2.2, M7.1,XX6.9 promoted (p<0.05) the root and shoot biomasses in the Cantaloupe variety, while in the Yellow variety,growth promotion was sporadic, with three isolates (M1.1, M7.1 and XX6.9) promoting at least one parameterevaluated. In the scenario with a water deficit (50% ETc replacement), isolates T1.1 and XX6.9 promoted thetotal biomasses (SDM and RDM) of the Cantaloupe and Yellow varieties, respectively. All isolates stimulated RL inthe Cantaloupe variety. Bacteria isolated from the Caatinga promote growth and reduce the effects of waterdeficit in melon and thus are potential inoculants to enhance production in the early stages of melon cultivationin semiarid regions.

Maracuyá (Passiflora edulis): Composición nutricional, compuestos bioactivos, aprovechamiento de subproductos, biocontrol y fertilización orgánica en el cultivo

Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) is a tropical fruit appreciated for its attractiveness and nutritional value. The yellow variety (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) and the purple variety (Passiflora edulis f. edulis) are the best-known species, both rich in carbohydrates, proteins, lipids and bioactive compounds. Despite their potential, passion fruit by-products, such as seeds and peel, are underutilized, despite being sources of phenolic compounds and carotenoids. The leaves are considered insignificant, yet they contain nutrients and medicinal effects beneficial to health. Nevertheless, these by-products have diverse uses and applications. In this sense, this work seeks to document research on passion fruit and its by-products, emphasizing their composition and possible uses in agroindustrial products. In addition to propose pest biocontrol strategies to preserve the quality of the crop and the implementation of organic fertilizers in crops, promoting sustainable agricultural practices. In this sense, it is urgent not only to diversify the agroindustry and develop new products, but also to contribute to the reduction of environmental impact and promote sustainable agricultural practices. The integrated use of passion fruit emerges as a key strategy for moving towards more efficient and sustainable production.

Fodder beet productivity on irrigated chestnut soils in the Zavolzhye region during foliar treatments with fertilizers based on humic acids

There was studied the effect of fertilizers based on humic acids on fodder beet crops cultivated on irrigated dark chestnut soils of the Engels district of the Saratov region in 2018-2020. The object of research was the Eckendorfskaya yellow variety of fodder beet released in Povolzhye. Fertilizers based on humic acids produced by Life Force Group LLC were used for foliar treatments. On average, over three years, three-time spraying of fodder beet crops with a solution of Reasil micro Amino B (1.0 l/ha per each plant) increased the yield of root crops by 7.2 t/ha (13% of the control). The maximum increase in yields (21 t/ha or 37% of the control) was obtained annually on the option of joint use of Reasil micro Hydro Mix (1.0 l/ha) and Reasil Carb-N-Humik (2.0 l/ha per each plant). Foliar treatments with fertilizers based on humic acids increased the viability of plants for harvesting and increased the average weight of one root crop. At the same time, the content of vitamin C significantly increased in root crops (11% to control) and insignificantly the amount of sugars (3% to control). By increasing the yield, fertilizers based on humic acids significantly increased the removal from the soil of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium by 89.44 and 138 kg/ha, respectively compared to the control.

ETHNO MEDICINAL SURVEY AND HEAVY METAL ANALYSIS ON MUD DAUBER NEST IN ZARIA, KADUNA STATE NIGERIA.

The emergence of pathogenic bacteria that are resistant to several antibiotics has recently presented a significant challenge to the healthcare system. Therefore, an alternative source of antimicrobial agents is needed. The study aimed to compare the antibacterial activities of aqueous and ethanol extracts of ripe and unripe fruits of red and yellow varieties of Anacardium occidentale against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Cold maceration method of extraction was used using water and ethanol. Antibacterial activities of the extracts against the isolates were evaluated by agar diffusion method while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined using broth dilution method. In the determination of the antibacterial activities of all the extracts, the highest zones of inhibition were shown by ethanolic extracts of both ripe red cashew (25 mm) and yellow cashew (26 mm) against Escherichia coli. Both the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of unripe red and yellow cashew had no antibacterial effect against Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. As well, both aqueous and ethanol extracts of ripe red and yellow cashew and ethanolic extract of ripe yellow cashew inhibited all the test organisms. Minimum inhibitory concentration ranged from 50 to 150 mg/ml. At 100 mg/ml, both ethanolic extracts of ripe red and yellow cashew were bactericidal to Escherichia coli while aqueous extract of ripe red cashew was bactericidal to Escherichia coli at 150 mg/ml. The antibacterial activities of A. occidentale apple (fruit) extracts underscore the credence to the efficacy of their use as traditional remedy against some human ailments.

Phytochemicals, Nutrient Levels and Antioxidants of Various Types of Sweet Potatoes (Ipomoea batatas L.)

This study aims to identify the phytochemical compounds, including flavonoids, tannins, phenols, beta-carotene, anthocyanins, and fiber, as well as the antioxidant capacity of various types of sweet potatoes. Method: The research followed a descriptive observational design with laboratory-based testing. The identification of phytochemical compounds utilized specific reagents. One Way ANOVA was employed to assess the differences in average levels of phytochemicals, nutrients, and antioxidant capacity (IC50) among the different types of sweet potatoes with normally distributed data. The determination of flavonoid, tannin, phenol, beta-carotene, and anthocyanin levels was carried out using UV/Vis Spectrophotometry at specific wavelengths. Crude fiber content was determined using the gravimetric method, while the antioxidant capacity was measured using the DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl) method. Results: The findings indicated that all types of sweet potatoes contain alkaloids, while some lack steroids. Purple sweet potatoes showed the highest levels of flavonoids, tannins, and phenols at 627.27, 1727.27, and 1507.14 mg/100 g, significantly differing from other types of sweet potatoes (p = 0.00). Besides, purple sweet potatoes exhibited the highest anthocyanin content (18.35 mg/100 g) compared to other types, showing a significant difference (p = 0.00). Orange sweet potatoes exhibited the highest levels of beta-carotene and fiber, at 15.49 and 5.63 mg/100 g, respectively, although the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.83). The antioxidant capacity (IC50) of purple, orange, white, and yellow sweet potatoes were 45.13, 266.59, 190.01, and 210.73 ppm, respectively. Conclusion: Different varieties of sweet potatoes exhibit variations in phytochemical composition and antioxidant capacity. Purple sweet potatoes are rich in flavonoids, tannins, phenols, and anthocyanins, with significant antioxidant potential. Orange sweet potatoes show high levels of beta-carotene and fiber but have comparable antioxidant activity to white and yellow varieties