Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca
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Comparison of polyphenols, anthocyanins and color analysis in pigmented maize from northeast Mexico
Full text linkThis work aims to evaluate and compare the chromatic characteristics, mineral concentration, and phenolic compound content (total phenols, total flavonoids, anthocyanins, and condensed tannins), as well as antioxidant capacity levels (DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP) in maize genotypes with white, yellow, orange, and blue/purple grain pigmentations. The results showed that the lightness, colour saturation, and hue angle (L*, C*, and h°) values ranged from 25.33 to 69.15, 1.51 to 32.22, and 32.38 to 92.07, respectively. All the maize varieties studied showed a high concentration of N, P, K and Mg. In the case of Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu, lower values were obtained with ranges of 2.18 to 3.01, 0.43 to 0.79, 1.61 to 2.43 and 0.08 to 0.42, respectively. The content of total phenols and flavonoids (free + bound) was in a range of 236.11 to 1296.16 mg GAE/100 g, and 29.20 to 221.22 mg CE/100 g, respectively, showing that the bound fractions were higher than the free fractions. Condensed tannins were only found in pigmented maize varieties in the free fraction, with values ranging between 46.58 and 411.87 mg CE/100 g, while the concentration of total anthocyanins ranged between 1.15 and 265.61 mg C3GE/100 g. Finally, the antioxidant capacity (free + bound) expressed in μmol TE/100 g was from 870.37 to 10763.34 for DPPH, from 1396.10 to 10895.26 for ABTS, and from 634.95 to 2185.92 for FRAP, with mean values of 6.5 mg/mL for the IC50 in DPPH and ABTS. A negative correlation was found between the total phenol content and the color parameters L*, C* and h°, indicating that red and purple maize grains presented the highest levels of antioxidant compounds
Occurrence and diversity of insect species in a jujube orchard in Southern Oltenia, Romania
Full text linkThis study aimed to address the lack of comprehensive research on the occurrence and diversity of insect species in jujube orchards. The research focused on identifying key insect species and assessing their potential impacts on the orchard ecosystem. Insect species were sampled from 2022 to 2024 using field surveys with direct observation, and their diversity was analysed based on occurrence. 12 orders, 42 families, and 57 species were identified over the three-year study period. Primary pollinators were found to belong to the Hymenoptera, Coleoptera, and Diptera orders, while most identified pests were from the Hemiptera, Coleoptera, and Lepidoptera orders. Predators were part of Coleoptera and Araneae, while occasional visitors were part of Coleoptera, Diptera, and Odonata orders. The analysed diversity indices suggest high species diversity and evenness (Shannon-Weiner = 3.593; Simpson’s = 0.461; and Pielou’s Evenness Index = 0.889). The major jujube pests identified were Phaneroptera nana, Halyomorpha halys, Nezara viridula, and Stictocephala bisonia. The study emphasizes the significance of understanding insect biodiversity in agroecosystems, demonstrating that the Chinese jujube is highly attractive to entomofauna. These findings provide valuable insights for future pest management and sustainable farming practices in jujube orchards
Macronutrient deficiencies in tomato plants: impacts on symptomatology, growth, physiology, fruit yield, and quality
Full text linkPlant growth and crop yield depend on the availability of essential nutrients in sufficient and balanced proportions. However, plants frequently encounter nutrient deficiencies throughout their life cycle. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of individual macronutrient deficiencies on visual symptoms, vegetative growth, physiological traits, fruit yield, and quality in tomato plants cultivated in a substrate medium under greenhouse conditions. The experiment, consisting of seven treatments in total, was conducted using a completely randomized design with three replications. The treatments included a complete nutrient solution (control) and six nutrient solutions, each deficient in a single macronutrient (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, or S). Deficiency treatments induced distinct visual symptoms and impaired leaf morphology and physiological processes. Vegetative growth was severely inhibited by N and P deficiencies, while Mg and S deficiencies caused moderate reductions. N deficiency led to the most significant decrease in chlorophyll and carotenoid contents. Leaf nutrient levels declined under their respective deficiency treatments. Fruit yield followed the order N > P > K > Mg > Ca > S, whereas K deficiency had the greatest adverse impact on fruit quality, reducing lycopene, titratable acidity, total soluble solids, dry matter content, and fruit size, along with pronounced color changes. Ca and N deficiencies negatively affected fruit firmness and vitamin C content, respectively. Overall, the results emphasize the importance of adequate macronutrient supply for sustaining plant performance, yield, and fruit quality in tomato cultivation
Characterization of the complete chloroplast genome seedless jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus var. seedless) and its relatives
Full text linkJackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is a perennial fruit tree extensively cultivated in Vietnam, where it plays a crucial role in economic development, especially in rural, disadvantaged regions. Recently, a seedless variety has emerged, attracting significant demand due to its superior fruit quality. Remarkably, the edible portion of this variety can comprise more than 90% of the fruit’s total weight, increasing its market appeal. As a result, the demand for seedlings of this variety has risen sharply. However, current identification methods for distinguishing seedless jackfruit from other varieties primarily rely on morphological traits, which are often ineffective due to high similarity. To overcome this limitation, the present study aimed to sequence and analyze the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of the seedless jackfruit variety. The cp genome was determined to be 160,385 base pairs in length, consisting of 128 genes, including 84 protein-coding genes, 36 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Comparative analysis revealed differences in simple sequence repeat (SSR) patterns between this seedless variety and other jackfruit cp genomes. These findings underscore the value of chloroplast genome characterization as a tool for the precise identification and classification of this novel seedless jackfruit variety
Enhancing phytochemical content and bioactive aspects in somatic embryogenesis developed from callus of Phoenix dactylifera L.
Full text linkThis research aims to investigate the chemical profile of methanolic (MeOH) extracts of callus and somatic embryogenesis (SE) induced from date palm ‘Barhi’ cv. (Phoenix dactylifera L.) by total polyphenols estimation and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. In addition, some biological aspects as antiradical and anti-enzymes inhibitory effects were evaluated by in vitro examinations. Results demonstrated that, total phenol content (TPC) and total tannin content (TTC) were significantly increased by 14.95% and by 16.83%, respectively, in callus than that estimated in SE. Whereas total flavonoid content (TFC) in SE recorded a very high increase rate of 564.4% above that found in callus. GC-MS chromatogram of SE extract had more phytochemicals about 35 molecules were identified, including five specific bioactive compounds with considered ratios ranging between 2.265% and 12.76%. Overall, the determined biological aspects were significantly improved (p < 0.05) in SE, particularly anti-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) by 48%, 92.31%, and 54.35% sequentially as antiradical/antioxidant potentials in terms of IC50 values. Furthermore, anti-α-amylase and anti-α-glucosidase effects were enhanced by 2,750% and 224.16%, respectively, in SE compared to callus results. In summary, MeOH extract of SE was richer in phytochemicals with greater bioactive properties than callus; this evaluated superiority could be attributed to the developmental and morphological differentiation occurring for SE tissues, which may be a prerequisite for greater content production and accumulation of many types of bioactive secondary metabolites. Further prospective pharmacological studies are required to recommend SE of ‘Barhi’ cv. as a natural nutritional and therapeutic source
Impact of varied nitrogen levels on agronomic performance and efficiency of nitrogen utilization by different wheat cultivars under salt-affected soil conditions
Full text linkOptimizing nitrogen fertilization is vital for enhancing wheat productivity and ensuring sustainable agriculture in salt-affected soils. This study aimed to identify optimal nitrogen level for improving agronomic performance of diverse wheat cultivars (Sakha 95, Giza 171, and Misr 3) in salt-affected soil (9.18 dS/m). Four nitrogen levels (0, 96, 192, and 288 kg N per ha) were assessed. The results revealed significant differences among nitrogen levels and assessed cultivars in chlorophyll content, days to heading, flag leaf area, yield and its components, nutrient content (N, P, K), protein content, N uptake, nitrogen utilization efficiency (NUtE) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). Most traits improved with increasing nitrogen levels up to 288 kg N/ha, except for canopy temperature depression (CTD) and NUE, which decreased. Sakha 95 surpassed the other cultivars in several traits, including earliness, number of spikes, plant height, number of grains per spike, grain yield, straw yield, biological yield, nutrient content (N, P, K), grain N-uptake and total N-uptake. It also demonstrated the highest efficiencies in agronomic efficiency (AE), physiological efficiency (PE), apparent recovery efficiency (ARE), NUtE, and NUE. Otherwise, Misr 3 exhibited superior agro-physiological efficiency (APE). The interaction effects showed that Sakha 95 had the best earliness at 0 and 96 kg N/ha. Misr 3 achieved the highest grain phosphorus (P) content and PE at 288 kg N/ha. Giza 171 showed the highest chlorophyll content, CTD, flag leaf area, and several nutrient contents at 288 kg N/ha. The highest grain yield, biological yield, and nutrient uptake at 288 kg N/ha were recorded for Sakha 95. The tallest plants, with the uppermost number of grains per spike, AE, ARE, and NUtE, were found at 192 kg N/ha for Sakha 95. The uppermost NUtE and NUE at N0 were also noted for Sakha 95. Based on nitrogen sensitivity measurements, Misr 3 was the most tolerant to nitrogen deficiency stress, followed by Giza 171. These findings highlighted the importance of cultivar selection and nitrogen management in optimizing wheat production in salt-affected soils
Influence of fertilization schemes on bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity and volatile profile in Pinto Centauro bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)
Full text linkBeans are a nutritional staple food in many countries. Its high content of bioactive compounds provides antioxidant activity. Additionally, it contains volatile compounds that affect their sensory quality. This work aimed to study the effect of fertilization on the bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, and volatiles in Pinto Centauro beans. An experimental design was used in randomized blocks with four fertilization treatments and four replications. The fertilization treatments were: Control (T0): N 41, P 46, and K 22 kg ha-1; Treatment 1 (T1): N 41, P 46, K 22, S 12, and Zn 1 kg ha-1; Treatment 2 (T2): N 45, P 60, K 22, S 22, and Zn 1.5 kg ha-1; Treatment 3 (T3): N 50, P 66, K 25, S 25, and Zn 2 kg ha-1. The concentration of bioactive compounds (total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and tannins) and antioxidant activity were measured in the testa, cotyledon, and the seed. The abundance of volatile compounds was determined in the seed. Results indicated that the testa showed a higher (p > 0.05) concentration of bioactive compounds (total phenols 78.40 (T2), flavonoids 6.22 (T2), anthocyanins 6.95 (T1), and tannins 3.12 (T1) mg g-1) compared to the cotyledon and seed. This was reflected in the higher antioxidant activity that presented the testa (p > 0.05). About fertilization, T1 and T2 presented the highest values of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity. Additionally, a positive and significant correlation was found between phenolic content and antioxidant activity. In addition, T2 favors the profile and abundance of volatile compounds, respectively. Finally, it is concluded that fertilization with T2 and the lowest concentrations of N 45, P 60, K 22, S 22, and Zn 1.5 kg ha-1 is the most suitable, as it favored the accumulation of bioactive compounds in the Pinto Centauro bean
Influence of Trichoderma harzianum on growth, yield and quality of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) grown under a hydroponic system
Full text linkLettuce is a valuable source of iron, vitamins, fiber, and phenolic compounds with health benefits. Enhancing its yield while preserving these compounds is essential for improving its nutritional value. The objectives of this study were to: (1) determine the optimal stage for Trichoderma harzianum inoculation (germination vs. seedling) and (2) evaluate its impact on growth, yield, and quality traits of lettuce cultivars grown under a Nutrient Film Technique (NFT) hydroponic system. Two greenhouse experiments were conducted using one Romane cultivar (‘Nebrase’) and two Iceberg cultivars (‘Lolo-Rossa’ and ‘Lolo-Bionda’). The results showed that the three inoculation approaches of T. harzianum; at the seed stage, transplant stage (by adding T. harzianum solution to the root system) or directly adding T. harzianum spores to the nutrient solution produced comparable effects on shoot and root growth. In the NFT system, results from the winter cycle (16-24 oC), showed no significant differences, as the conditions were non-stressful. However, during the summer cycle (28-35°C), which imposed heat stress, all cultivars inoculated at the seed stage exhibited significantly higher chlorophyll content (192 vs. 162 µmol m-2), shoot fresh weight (134 vs. 91 g), leaf area (1170 vs. 840 cm2), root fresh weight (25 vs. 12 g), and leaf number (30 vs. 24) compared to the non-inoculated control. These findings suggest that Trichoderma enhances lettuce resilience under heat stress conditions. In terms of cultivars, the Iceberg type ‘Lolo-Rossa’ consistently showed higher or comparable concentrations of total phenols (112-208 mg 100 g-1), flavonoids (251-505 mg 100 g-1), and antioxidant activity (38-46%) compared to the Romaine type ’Nebras’. Conversely, the Romaine type exhibited higher shoot and root biomass and larger leaf area. These findings highlight that T. harzianum inoculation, particularly at the seed stage, enhances heat stress tolerance and improves both yield and quality traits in hydroponically grown lettuce
Population structure and dynamic characteristics of Cercidiphyllum japonicum in Houhe National Nature Reserve, Hubei Province
Full text linkCercidiphyllum japonicum is a tertiary relict species that was once widespread across the Northern Hemisphere but is now a rare and endangered plant in China, valued for its ornamental, medicinal, and scientific importance. Understanding the structure and dynamics of its wild populations is essential for forecasting their future and informing conservation strategies. This study, conducted in the Houhe National Nature Reserve, Hubei Province, analyzed a population of 62 individuals across 23 sampling plots. Based on detailed field measurements of diameter at breast height (DBH), a static life table was compiled and population dynamics were projected using age class dynamics indices and time series analysis. Results showed the population inhabits sandy, organic-rich, weakly acidic yellow-brown soils. The age structure approximated an irregular, spindle-shaped pyramid, characterized by a complete absence of germinated seedlings and a reliance on sprouting for regeneration. The population dynamic indices (Vpi > V′pi > 0) indicated a marginally growing but stable population that is highly sensitive to environmental and anthropogenic disturbances. The survival curve conformed to the Deevey-III type, indicating high mortality in early life stages. Time-series forecasting suggested that the current abundance of middle-aged individuals could maintain the population in the short term. We conclude that recruitment failure, intense environmental filtering, and historical logging are the primary drivers of its endangered status. Conservation efforts must therefore prioritize artificial regeneration to supplement seedlings, active management of existing sprouts, and the establishment of a long-term monitoring program for this vulnerable population
Interaction between climatic conditions and sowing density on yield performance of maize genotypes
Full text linkMaize production is increasingly challenged by climate variability, making the optimization of genotype choice and sowing density essential for stable yields. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of sowing density (SD I, SD II, SD III), genotype (ZP 434, NS 4023, ZP 555, NS 5051, ZP 666, NS 6030), and climatic conditions on maize grain yield and its main components (number of grain rows per cob, thousand kernel weight, number of plants at harvest) over four consecutive years (2014-2017). The AMMI model was used to quantify the contribution of genotype (G), environment (E), and their interaction (G×E) to yield variability. Results showed that the highest yields were recorded in 2016 under favorable climatic conditions, with hybrids ZP 555 (15.07 t ha-1) and NS 5051 (14.68 t ha-1), while the lowest yields occurred in 2015 due to drought and high summer temperatures, particularly at higher sowing density (SD I), with NS 5051 yielding only 5.73 t ha-1. The environment accounted for 83.56% of yield variability, whereas the G×E interaction explained 12.26%. Hybrids ZP 555 and NS 5051 exhibited the greatest yield stability. Lower sowing density (SD III) proved advantageous under dry conditions, whereas higher density (SD I) was optimal in favorable years. Grain yield was strongly correlated with the number of grain rows (r = 0.75**) and thousand kernel weight (r = 0.73**). These findings provide valuable insights into hybrid performance under variable climates and offer practical recommendations for optimizing hybrid selection and sowing density to improve maize adaptation to climate change