Search Results (161)

Maize is a key staple cereal, with its cultivation improved through genetics, denser planting, and greater fertilizer use. However, little is known about the effects of nanomaterials on maize’s grain quality. This study evaluated the effect of the foliar application of orange carbon dots (o-CDs) on maize’s growth, grain yield, and quality under typical field conditions. Two ZP maize hybrids and their inbred lines were tested. The results showed a gradual increase in grain yield for the hybrids, particularly ZP 4567, which responded significantly to a 5 mg/L treatment. Increased starch content was observed in both the hybrid ZP 4567 and the inbred line L56 L026 following treatment with o-CDs at concentrations of 1 mg/L and 5 mg/L. The significant increase in oil content was observed in inbred line L56 L026. Photosynthetic parameters and pigments were elevated in both hybrids after treatments, although the antioxidative capacity remained unchanged. The findings suggest that o-CDs positively influence grain yield and quality by enhancing photosynthesis and increasing the accumulation of key biochemical compounds. This study provides novel insights into the application of carbon nanoparticles in sustainable crop production. Full article

Stenocereus fruits are appreciated for their flavor and color, and their cultivation is highly sustainable, as they grow in arid zones without the need for fertilizers or agrochemicals. However, their nutritional and bioactive composition remains underexplored. This study evaluated the physicochemical and nutritional properties, bioactive compound content, and antioxidant capacity (AOX) of Stenocereus thurberi (red, white, purple, and orange), Stenocereus martinezzi (red), and Stenocereus gummosus (red). All fruits exhibited low total soluble solids (12.6 ± 0.2–14.7 ± 0.3 °Brix), acidity (0.81 ± 0.03–1.12 ± 0.03%), and moderate dietary fiber content (3.71 ± 0.05–4.86 ± 0.09%). S. martinezzi stood out for its high levels of betalains (33.7 ± 0.65 mg/100 g_fw), vitamin E (84.7 ± 0.2 µg/100 g_fw), and vitamin C (147.6 ± 11.4 mg/100 g_fw). At the same time, potassium, magnesium, and calcium were the predominant minerals in all samples. S. gummosus showed the highest total soluble phenols (120.6 ± 2.2 mg/100 g_fw) and was also notable for its flavonoid content. Flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic, and hydroxybenzoic acids were detected in all fruits. Red fruits had the highest AOX levels, followed by white, orange, and purple varieties. In conclusion, these fruits are nutritious, low in sugars, and rich in bioactive compounds, suggesting their potential as functional foods, particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic degenerative diseases. Full article

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) is increasingly recognized as a functional crop due to its rich content of health-promoting phytochemicals. This study compared the phenolic compound profiles of four sweet potato varieties differing in flesh colour (purple, orange, white, and pale yellow) cultivated in three distinct regions of Hungary. The objective was to evaluate the relative effects of pigmentation and growing location on antioxidant capacity. Tubers were collected in triplicate and analyzed spectrophotometrically (UV–Vis) for vitamin C, total flavonoids, and total polyphenols. Statistical analysis using two-way ANOVA and Tukey’s HSD revealed that flesh colour had a significant effect on all antioxidant parameters (p < 0.05), whereas geographic origin did not. Purple-fleshed tubers exhibited markedly higher levels of vitamin C (21.6 mg/100 mL), flavonoids (378.7 mg/100 mL), and polyphenols (37.0 mg/100 mL) compared with the other colour groups. These findings indicate that pigmentation is a stronger determinant of antioxidant potential than cultivation region. The results highlight the promising nutritional value of Hungarian purple-fleshed sweet potato varieties, supporting their use in functional food development and sustainable agricultural diversification strategies. Full article

This work focuses on research into innovative lead-free perovskite materials to be employed as a sensitive layer for a new generation of solar cells, exploiting their potential applications in covering greenhouses to move toward an eco-friendly environment. Two types of lead-free perovskites—yellow and orange double-cation Cs₂AgBiBr₆, synthesized with an innovative method without chemical thinners—have been used, for the first time, as a cover for greenhouses in indoor experiments by analyzing the incident electromagnetic radiation. Two plant species, Solanum lycopersicum L. and Artemisia annua L., were cultivated indoors under controlled light, temperature, and humidity, covering the greenhouses with yellow (PY+) and orange (PO+) panels for comparison with control plants (P−) roofed by a glass panel. The growth and development parameters of all plants were investigated, referring to the aerial and root parts. Significant differences were found in terms of the plant growth parameters and photosynthetic pigments of both PY+ and PO+ compared to P− and also between them, with the yellow panel being less invasive. These results, dealing with two different plant species, confirm the feasibility of using perovskite-based panels for indoor cultivation and pave the way for outdoor application in greenhouses under sunlight. Full article

‘Pera’ sweet orange is a key variety for the Brazilian citrus industry, but orchards rely on a limited number of clonal selections, which restricts adaptability and productivity across diverse environments. This study assessed the agronomic performance of 13 ‘Pera’ selections grafted on Rangpur lime, cultivated under rainfed conditions in subtropical Brazil. From 2002 to 2010, trees were assessed for vegetative growth, cumulative yield, alternate bearing, and fruit quality. Market-specific performance indices were calculated to determine suitability for fresh fruit or juice processing. Substantial genotypic variation was observed across traits, particularly during early orchard stage. Selections such as ‘Morretes’, ‘Seleção 11’, ‘Seleção 27’, ‘Seleção 37’, and ‘IPR 153’ demonstrated high cumulative yield, stable productivity, and favorable canopy traits, supporting their use in both conventional and high-density systems. ‘IPR 153’ combined compact growth with high yield efficiency and excellent fruit quality, while ‘Morretes’ had the highest juice content and broad market adaptability. In contrast, ‘IPR 159’ showed low vigor and yield under rainfed conditions. The results emphasize the value of regionally targeted clonal selection to improve orchard performance and market alignment. The identification of dual-purpose genotypes offers a pathway to diversify citrus production and improve profitability under subtropical growing conditions. Full article

Corky split vein (CSV) is a common physiological disease in citrus that can result from multiple types of stresses. Preliminary field investigation found that more severe CSV in citrus cultivated in orchards lacking both boron (B) and other photosynthesis-related nutrients, including manganese (Mn). In this study, two-year-old ‘Newhall’ navel orange seedlings were treated with control (CK), B deficiency (BD), Mn deficiency (MnD), and combined B and Mn deficiency (BD + MnD). After 31 weeks, typical CSV symptoms appeared on old leaves (OLs) and secondary new leaves (SLs) in BD, while BD + MnD symptoms were more severe. BD and BD + MnD significantly reduced B concentrations in all leaf types, but there were no significant differences between them. Except for OLs in MnD, the net photosynthetic rate (P_n) of all leaf types significantly decreased in all treatments, with BD + MnD showing significantly lower P_n values than BD. Compared with BD, BD + MnD significantly increased minimal fluorescence (F_o) of all leaves at the later stage and significantly decreased Y(II) of new leaves. BD significantly increased sucrose and starch contents in all type leaves, while the OL starch content was significantly higher in BD + MnD than that in BD. BD + MnD significantly decreased the enzyme activities of Rubisco, TK, and FBA in OLs, FBPase and NI in PLs, and Rubisco in SLs compared with BD, while the activities of NI and AI in OLs and SS in SLs were significantly increased. BD + MnD significantly enhanced lignin concentrations and the expression of key lignin synthesis genes in leaves compared with BD. In conclusion, Mn deficiency exacerbates B-deficiency-induced CSV not only by intensifying photosynthetic dysfunction and carbohydrate accumulation but also by promoting lignin biosynthesis. These findings highlight the synergistic nature of B and Mn deficiencies in impairing leaf function and structure, providing new insights into the physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying CSV development. Full article

The global citrus industry faces unprecedented challenges due to Huanglongbing (HLB), which is associated with the bacterial pathogen Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas). This study evaluates the field performance of 11 rootstocks, grafted with ‘Valencia’ orange (Citrus sinensis), under Florida’s HLB-endemic production conditions, while also examining the impact of systemic applications of oxytetracycline (OTC) via trunk injection. Mature trees received annual OTC injections and were assessed over two production seasons. In year 1, OTC-treated trees exhibited significant improvements regardless of the rootstock, including a 36% increase in yield, an 11% increase in juice TSS, and reduced leaf bacterial titers. During year 2, the positive effects of OTC were sustained, or even enhanced. CLas titers were reduced in both leaves and roots; yield increased by 70%; and fruit weight, juice color, and TSS also improved significantly. Moreover, OTC-injected trees exhibited a larger percentage of finer roots compared to non-injected trees. US-1688 and US-1672, both hybrids of C. maxima ‘Hirado’ and C. reticulata ‘Cleopatra’, emerged as the most productive rootstocks. These results demonstrate the importance of rootstock selection for sustainable citrus cultivation while highlighting the benefits of integrating the systemic delivery of OTC to manage HLB and maximize the resilience of citrus. Full article

Canthaxanthin is a significant carotenoid that is synthesized by specific microorganisms. It has multiple functions and has been utilized in food and feed supply chains. This research focused on improving canthaxanthin production by Paracoccus bogoriensis PH1, an orange-pigmented bacterium isolated from hot springs. Canthaxanthin production was optimized in flask-scale cultures by varying the pH, temperature, nutritional sources, aeration rates, and agitation techniques. Flask culture cultivation indicated that canthaxanthin production by this strain was influenced by pH stress mechanisms, resulting in the establishment of a two-stage pH control (pH-shift) technique to enhance cell mass and pigment production. The optimum flask conditions were refined for application in a 1 L bioreactor. An optimized cultivation procedure was established utilizing a Polypeptone Sucrose Yeast Extract (PPSYE) medium, with a pH transition from 7 to 11, incubation at 40 °C, agitation at 250 rpm, and aeration at 2 vvm for 48 h. This process resulted in a 3.12-fold increase in total carotenoid content and a 1.61-fold increase in canthaxanthin production, achieving 0.84 ± 0.06 mg/L compared to pre-optimized flask cultures in TSYEB medium (pH 7 at 37 °C, 72 h). Purified canthaxanthin from P. bogoriensis PH1 exhibited antioxidant activity in the ABTS assay. Full article

Southern Chile has become a prominent region for sweet cherry production. However, environmental constraints and low P availability can adversely affect fruit quality and conditions in southern Chile. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of foliar phosphorus (P) on fruit quality, condition, and antioxidant content at harvest and postharvest storage in sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) cv. Regina was cultivated under a plastic cover in Southern Chile. For this, sweet cherry trees were subjected to three treatments: control (no P), 1.5 L ha⁻¹, and 2.2 L ha⁻¹ foliar P. In our study, no significant effects were observed on average fruit weight, size, or total soluble solids among P treatments. However, P applications increased the proportion of large fruit (>32 mm), enhanced dark mahogany coloration, and pulp antioxidant content (total phenols and anthocyanins). Interestingly, the 2.2 L ha⁻¹ treatment reduced postharvest disorders, including pitting (70%), dehydration (31%), orange peel (56%), and internal browning (29%) compared to the control trees. These results suggest that foliar P application could be an agronomic tool to improve fruit quality and condition in sweet cherry production under plastic covers cultivated in soils with low P availability. Full article

Fertilization strategies are pivotal in sustainable agriculture, affecting both soil health and crop quality. This study investigated the impact of a circular fertilization approach based on agro-industrial residues—specifically, a blend of sulfur bentonite and orange processing waste (RecOrgFert PLUS)—on soil physicochemical and biological properties, as well as the nutritional and nutraceutical quality of broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) grown in Mediterranean conditions (Condofuri, Southern Italy). The effects of RecOrgFert PLUS were compared with those of a synthetic NPK fertilizer, an organic fertilizer (horse manure), and an unfertilized control. Results demonstrated that RecOrgFert PLUS significantly improved soil organic carbon (3.37%), microbial biomass carbon (791 μg C g⁻¹), and key enzymatic activities, indicating enhanced soil biological functioning. Broccoli cultivated under RecOrgFert PLUS also exhibited the highest concentrations of health-promoting compounds, including total phenols (48.87 mg GAE g⁻¹), vitamin C (51.93 mg ASA 100 g⁻¹), and total proteins (82.45 mg BSA g⁻¹). This work provides novel evidence that combining elemental sulphur with orange processing waste not only restores soil fertility but also boosts the nutraceutical and nutritional value of food crops. Unlike previous studies focusing on soil or plant yield alone, this study uniquely integrates soil health indicators with bioactive compound accumulation in broccoli, highlighting the potential of circular bio-based fertilization in functional food production and Mediterranean agroecosystem sustainability. Full article

Background: This paper deals with the detection of amino acid composition of Iraqi Ocimum basilicum (basil) leaves and evaluation of the cytotoxic effects of the plant leaf extract on human colorectal cancer cells. Methods: Leaves of Ocimum basilicum were collected from Iraq in November 2024. After drying and powdering, the plant material went through cold methanol extraction. Initial phytochemical screening was conducted to identify the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, and terpenoids. Amino acid analysis was completed by an amino acid analyzer with fluorescence detection. The cytotoxic effect was evaluated via the MTT assay on HRT-18 cell lines. Morphological changes were further tested using dual Propidium Iodide/Acridine Orange assay fluorescent staining. Results: Seventeen amino acids were detected in the plant extract. The extract showed dose-dependent cytotoxic effects on HRT-18 cells, with significant reduction in cell viability at concentrations of more than 25 µg/mL. Morphological alterations of membrane blebbing and cell shrinkage were observed, suggesting apoptotic activity. The IC₅₀ value confirmed strong cytotoxic potential. Conclusions: The extract of Ocimum basilicum leaf cultivated in Iraq shows a rich amino acid profile and significant cytotoxic activity against colorectal cancer cells that highlights its potential effect as a natural source of anticancer compounds. Full article

This study aimed to determine the effects of LED applications and application periods on seedling development. To this end, four different LED applications (blue 100%, red 100%, green 100%, and full-spectrum 100% (control)) were applied to different star flower varieties (Figaro Violet shades—flower color: purple, Figaro Orange shades—flower color: orange, Figaro White shades—flower color: white, and Figaro Red shades—flower color: red) for 15 and 30 days. These applications were repeated over two years (two vegetation periods). The results revealed that the red-flowered and white-flowered varieties exhibited higher values in terms of root length, root number, stem diameter, 2nd and 4th leaf petiole length, 2nd and 4th leaf width, and leaf number under full-spectrum and red LED applications. We also observed that red LED application for 30 days is suitable for seedling height development in the Figaro Orange shades variety. Conversely, the results showed that the effects of LED application durations on root length and stem diameter did not show a statistically significant difference, while the 15-day application yielded the best results for root number. In the Figaro Red shades and Figaro White shades varieties, the use of red LED applications for 30 days yielded results similar to those of full-spectrum applications, indicating that both applications can be used for seedling cultivation. Full article

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) is crucial for sweetener production but is highly susceptible to diseases such as orange rust, caused by Puccinia kuehnii. In the northwestern Colombian Amazon, sugarcane is increasingly cultivated, mainly for panela production, a traditional sweetener. However, the introduction of sugarcane has occurred without systematic planning, resulting in limited knowledge about cultivars’ characteristics and disease susceptibility. This study aimed to characterize sugarcane cultivars in the region and assess the occurrence and field-level impact of orange rust, while also confirming the identity of the pathogen using molecular and morphological analysis. We identified five sugarcane cultivars, with only CP 57-603 having an official designation, while the others were known by local names: Regional Without Fuzz, Hairy Purple, and two unnamed genotypes (Cultivar-1 and -2). CP 57-603 and Regional Without Fuzz were the most commonly cultivated (by 49.2% and 74.5% of farms, respectively), while Cultivar-1 (11.8%), Cultivar-2 (7.8%), and Hairy Purple (1.96%) were less frequent. Orange rust was detected in 72% of farms with CP 57-603, 66% with Regional Without Fuzz, and 50% with Cultivar-1, but was absent in farms growing Cultivar-2 and Hairy Purple. Molecular analysis of the ITS1/2 region revealed a single haplotype within the P. kuehnii population, indicating low diversity at this locus in the region. Phylogenetic analysis grouped our ITS1/2 haplotype within a clade alongside isolates from the Americas. Morphological characterization of the pathogen showed no significant trait variation among samples. These findings confirm the presence of P. kuehnii in the region and highlight the urgent need for cultivar diversification and improved disease management to safeguard sugarcane production. Full article

According to several reports, 10–50% of buildings in Europe and worldwide suffer from moisture problems, which can lead to microbial growth in building materials. Unrepaired moisture and microbial damage can lead to the degradation of building structures and reduce visual appeal, resulting in economic losses; they can also result in adverse health effects for the building’s occupants. Consequently, robust and reliable methods for the detection of abnormal microbiological conditions in buildings are needed, alongside skilled technical investigations, to plan appropriate renovation actions. In this work, 964 building material samples, which were obtained as part of routine building investigations in two countries, were analyzed for their fungal content using the qPCR method. Cultivation analysis was performed using the same samples, according to corresponding national guidelines. In a sample subset, the total cell counts after staining with acridine orange were determined. The microbial concentrations obtained with all three methods correlated well. Threshold values for the qPCR results were determined using cultivation as a reference method for both countries separately, with similar values obtained for both datasets. Hence, qPCR has great potential to become a standard method of detecting microbes in indoor environments. Full article

Calendula (Calendula officinalis L.), an edible and medicinal flower, faces challenges in yield uniformity and quality stability under open-field cultivation. Plant factories with artificial lighting (PFALs) are highly controlled systems that enable year-round production, efficient resource use, and consistent crop quality, making them promising for the cultivation for calendula. To optimize calendula cultivation in PFALs, this study investigates the effects of far-red (FR) light and nutrient solution modification on calendula growth, flowering, and nutrient use efficiency (NUE). The experiment was conducted using a dwarf calendula cultivar, ‘Orange Gem’. After transplanting, seedlings were subjected to a 2 × 3 factorial design comprising white (W) and end-of-day far-red (EOD-FR) lighting, in combination with three ammonium (NH₄⁺) levels (1/3×, 1×, and 3× of the Enshi formula). The EOD-FR lighting and the increase in the NH₄⁺ level resulted in taller plants and earlier first flower appearance. The shoot fresh and dry weight, the number of flowers, and the flower yield also increased under the higher NH₄⁺ concentration, regardless of the light treatment. The 3× NH₄⁺ treatment tended to enhance the nutrient absorption, leading to the highest nutrient use efficiency (NUE) based on the flower yield. These findings suggest that the application of EOD-FR lighting and high NH₄⁺ in nutrient solution can improve calendula productivity and resource-use efficiency in PFALs. Full article