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AbstractStem rust of barley and wheat is caused by the obligate pathogen Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) and stem rust of oat is caused by P. graminis f. sp. avenae (Pga). Stem rust can be a very destructive disease of cereal crops and, until the development of resistant host varieties, was responsible for millions of dollars of losses to producers. Genetic host resistance is the most common and effective method to control stem rust on cereals. Knowledge of the virulence genes and races present in the pathogen population is important to identify effective host resistance genes for use by cereal plant breeders. The objectives of this study were to determine the incidence and severity of P. graminis in wheat, barley and oat in Manitoba, Canada, and assess the virulence frequencies and races of isolates collected from Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario, Canada during 2020 to 2022. Stem rust incidence and severity was very light in Manitoba in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Virulence was not observed on resistance genes Sr30, Sr24 and Sr31 from Canadian collections of Pgt isolates made during 2020 to 2022. Race QFCSC was the most common race of Pgt in Canada, and races MCCFC and TPMKC were also common in Manitoba in 2022. Virulence to resistance genes Pg6, Pg10 and Pg16 was not observed among Pga isolates. The most common race of Pga from Manitoba and Saskatchewan was TGN, followed by SGB and TJS. The most frequent Pga races were TDJ, TDD and TGN in Ontario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the nutritional status of soybean and wheat and the relationship with grain yield and biometric components after lime and phosphogypsum (GY) reapplication. Treatments consisted of two lime application methods, surface liming and incorporated liming, to different levels of base saturation (BS) (44, 70, and 90%), in addition to surface liming to 70% BS associated with a standard dose (70GY1) or double dose (70GY2) of GY. Treatments were applied in 2012 and reapplied in 2016. The results refer to the 2018/2019 soybean season and the 2019 wheat season. Lime + GY treatment increased leaf area, plant height, leaf dry matter, and stem dry matter in soybean but had no effect on specific leaf area (235.4 cm2 g−1), stem diameter (6.08 mm), number of pods per plant (71.7), grain number per plant (165), or thousand grain weight (117 g). Liming to 90% BS reduced leaf manganese contents in both crops and leaf iron content in soybean. GY application improved the calcium status of both crops and the sulfur status of soybean. However, 70GY2 reduced leaf magnesium contents in soybean and wheat. Soil tillage without lime reduced wheat yield by 12% compared with no-till. Soybean yield correlated positively with leaf nitrogen (0.79), leaf phosphorus (0.91), leaf area (0.62), and thousand grain weight (0.65), whereas wheat yield correlated with leaf phosphorus (0.83), calcium (0.75), and sulfur (0.74). For improved soybean and wheat performance, it is preferable to apply lime and GY to the soil surface (70GY1), permanently maintaining no-till practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe number of food safety issues linked to wheat milled products have increased in the past decade. These incidents were mainly caused by the contamination of wheat-based products by enteric pathogens. This manuscript is the first of a two-part review on the status of the food safety of wheat-based products. This manuscript focused on reviewing the available information on the potential pre-harvest and post-harvest sources of microbial contamination, and potential foodborne pathogens present in wheat-based products. Potential pre-harvest sources of microbial contamination in wheat included animal activity, water, soil, and manure. Improper grain storage practices, pest activity, and improperly cleaned and sanitized equipment are potential sources of post-harvest microbial contamination for wheat-based foods. Raw wheat flour products and flour-based products are potentially contaminated with enteric pathogens such as Shiga toxin-producing E. coli (STECs), and Salmonella at low concentrations. Wheat grains and their derived products (i.e., flours) are potential vehicles for foodborne illness in humans due to the presence of enteric pathogens. A more holistic approach is needed for assuring the food safety of wheat-based products in the farm-to-table continuum. Future developments in the wheat supply chain should also be aimed at addressing this emerging food safety threat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop residues are the main organic source of nutrients in agricultural soils. The active pool of soil organic carbon plays a dominant role in crop production and soil health. Rice and wheat residues were used in 90 days incubation study under controlled conditions (25°C temperature and maximum water-holding capacity) to estimate the release of carbon dioxide and water-soluble carbon in an Indo-Gangetic alluvial soil (Inceptisols) of Varanasi. The experiment was laid out in a factorial completely randomized design with three replications. The rice and wheat residues showed a wide variation in the content of their total carbon (TC), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP) and total sulfur (TS). Out of the two crop residues added to the soil, rice residue had higher carbon dioxide-carbon (CO2-C) release than that of the wheat residue over control. Results revealed that conjunctive application of rice residue along with urea (20 kg N ha−1) and Trichoderma viride (10 kg ha−1) had resulted in a higher content of CO2-C (7.44 mg per 100 g per day) at 90 days of the incubation period. The amount of CO2 (mg) released, increases with a combination of crop residues with urea (20 kg N ha−1) and Trichoderma viride (10 kg ha−1) up to 90 days over control. The highest release of CO2 (204.70 mg) was recorded with rice residue treated with urea (20 kg N ha−1) and Trichoderma viride (10 kg ha−1). The study also revealed that the release of water-soluble carbon decreases with an increase in the incubation period irrespective of treatment. At 90 days of the incubation period, the control without any crop residue addition has the highest water-soluble carbon content (459.75 µg/g). The present study indicates that the incorporation of rice and wheat residues along with urea and supplemental decomposers (Trichoderma viride) has the potential to release adequately active organic carbon pool parameters such as CO2 and water-soluble carbon in an Inceptisols of Varanasi region of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ear count serves as a crucial parameter for estimating wheat yield, holding great significance in crop phenotypic parameter calculations, yield predictions and wheat ear density management. To accurately determine the number of wheat ears, this study utilized the Global Wheat Head Detection 2021 dataset, and introduced a wheat ear counting method based on the improved YOLOX model. An attention mechanism was integrated into the feature extraction network to bolster the semantic information of the feature map. This enhancement aimed to improve the capability of effectively detecting wheat ears. By using GIoU loss to optimize the loss function, the positioning accuracy of bounding box was improved. Experimental results show that, compared with other models, the improved YOLOX model has significantly improved the detection effect of different targets. Among them, the precision of the improved YOLOX model is 97.24%, the average precision is 94.15%, the accuracy is 99.76%, and the log average miss detection rate is 0.25. This study provides a reliable method for precision wheat ear identification, offering valuable applications in high-throughput investigation of wheat ear traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is primarily caused by Fusarium graminearum and is the most destructive wheat disease in western Canada. The trichothecene toxin deoxynivalenol (DON) and its derivatives 3-ADON and 15-ADON, which are produced by Fusarium, are toxic to humans and livestock. This study aimed to evaluate the Fusarium species and trichothecene-producing genotypes present in producer wheat fields of western Canada in 2019 and 2020. The grain analysis for DON showed that samples collected from both years experienced mild levels of FHB toxin contamination. In spring wheat, the highest mean DON content was recorded from Saskatchewan samples (0.9 ppm) in 2019 and Manitoba samples (0.3 ppm) in 2020. Winter wheat samples had lesser mean DON levels (<0.2 ppm) for all three provinces in both years. The chaff collected from the same spring wheat heads showed a significantly higher DON content than the grain in both years (P < 0.1 for 2019 and P < 0.001 for 2020), suggesting that chaff should be tested for DON before use as livestock feed. Most samples collected were infected by F. graminearum, with the highest F. graminearum percentage observed in the spring wheat from Manitoba. Further, F. avenaceum, F. sporotrichoides, F. culmorum, F. poae and F. acuminatum were found in infected samples. Most of the F. graminearum isolates were of the 3ADON genotype, which is the dominant genotype in FHB disease in western Canada. The study indicated that 3ADON-producing F. graminearum is becoming more frequent in western Canadian fields than the 15ADON genotype. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable wheat production and higher genetic gains can be realized by broadening the genetic base and improving the well adapted varieties. In the present study, a multi-year experiment involving induced mutagenesis was conducted to create genetic variation, assess trait associations and genetic divergence in four wheat varieties with differential grain texture treated with six doses of gamma rays and ethyl methane sulfonate using ten agro-morphological traits. Healthy selfed seeds of four bread wheat varieties with differential texture were irradiated using six doses ranging from 175 Gy-300 Gy of gamma rays (Co60: BARC, Mumbai) and six concentrations of ethyl methanesulfonate (0.3–1.3%) (Sigma-Aldrich, Bangalore, India) to evaluate variability, character association and degree of genetic diversity induced among the mutagenic treatments of wheat varieties with differential grain texture. Significant inter-population differences were observed for almost all the traits. The sample mean of twelve mutant populations in each of the cultivar exhibited superior quantitative phenotypic traits and increased values of the genetic parameters. Based on association and variability studies, plant height, spike length, grain filling period, biological yield per plant and harvest index can be used as early generation criteria for maximum genetic improvement. Multivariate studies indicated the contribution of various traits towards divergence and indicated the efficiency of mutagens in generating variability. Gamma-irradiation dosages between 200–250 Gy and 0.5–1.1% EMS for soft-textured varieties, whereas doses between 225–275 Gy and 0.5–0.9% EMS were found to be most potent for semi-hard-textured varieties. Assessment of mutagen sensitivity showed that semi-hard wheat varieties were responsive to both mutagens, particularly EMS and generated higher variability and divergence than the soft textured varieties. Hence, gamma rays were proved to be more effective in generating higher variability than ethyl methanesulfonate. A total of 117 putative mutants were identified with desirable agro-morphological attributes. Among these, mutants with higher inter-cluster distance can be used as parents in hybridization programs and serve as important genetic resources in future wheat improvement programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study (pot experiment) investigated and compared the effectiveness of Se(VI) and Se(IV) application at a rate of 1.25 mg Se kg−1 soil on growth, physiology, yield and As uptake by spring wheat on an uncontaminated and As-contaminated (1.5 mg kg−1) soil. Selenate improved wheat grain yield, relative water contents, membrane stability index, total chlorophylls, and antioxidant activities up to 43%, 18.6%, 9.5%, 16.4% and 15–46%, respectively, compared to control under As-contaminated soil. As compared to Se(IV), in accordance with above results, Se(VI) application resulted in 5-fold higher grain Se concentration and 4.4-fold higher grain Se uptake, which are partially explained by 1.3-fold higher root to grain Se translocation factor in Se(VI)-fed plants under As-contaminated soil. Concomitantly, Se(VI) offered a stronger competitive effect on As uptake thereby reducing its concentration in grains by 11% and in shoots by 44%. Translocation factor of As from root to shoots and to grains was 33% and 14.2%, respectively lesser in Se(VI)-fed plants. Thus, it is concluded that Se(VI) application, through its beneficial effects on root morphological traits, improvement in antioxidant activity and physiological behavior, is highly effective in reducing As toxicity on yield and As accumulation in wheat grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Un-integrated fertilization and decreasing soil fertility are some of the challenges to achieving an increase in crop productivity and food security in a sustainable way. Keeping balanced fertilization and soil fertile is vital. To overcome these problems, a field experiment was conducted at Dar-Ramad experimental farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Egypt, during the two winter seasons of 2016/17 and 2017/18 to evaluate the complementary effect of compost (without, 2 and 3 ton feddan−1, feddan = 4200 m2) and mineral nitrogen fertilizer (N) rates (30, 45 and 60 kg feddan−1) on yield, its components and nitrogen, phosphorus as well as potassium (NPK) uptake in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Miser-1). Generally, in most cases, the highest significant values of wheat yield and its components along with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (NPK) uptake in grain, straw and biological yields were recorded by applying compost compared to without addition. Highest significant values of the former above traits were achieved by individual application of compost at a rate of 2 or 3 ton feddan−1 and also mineral nitrogen fertilizer (N) rate of 45 or 60 kg feddan−1. Exogenous application of compost with a rate of 2 or 3 ton feddan−1 along with mineral nitrogen (N) rate of 45 and 60 kg feddan−1 improved almost all the studied traits. Findings suggested that application of 3 ton compost feddan−1 with 45 or 60 kg N feddan−1 was more effective combination in maximizing wheat productivity, grain protein and NPK uptake under Mediterranean climatic conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the essential role of nano-fertilizers in crop production, studies have yet to be conducted to evaluate nano-molybdenum (Mo) application on winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The present study assessed the efficacy of nano-Mo on the Mo-uptake, plant growth, and winter wheat yield. Wheat was grown in the pot experiment using four experimental groups (deionized water: C, nano potassium molybdate: NMoK, potassium molybdate: MoK, and ammonium molybdate: MoA), each with six replicate samples applied-foliar three times in a 30-day interval. The results revealed that NMoK improved Mo accumulation in grains, stomatal conductance, root dry weight, yield, and the number of spikes per pot of wheat compared with MoK. Additionally, NMoK treatment significantly increased wheat grain yield by 46.29%, 13.94%, and 17.70% compared with C, MoK, and MoA treatments, respectively. These results demonstrated that the nano-Mo application may enhance Mo-inefficient wheat growth, thus, increasing its productivity under acidic soil conditions. The principal component analysis (PCA) elucidates that all variables reside within the positively correlated variable domain. This encompasses parameters related to yield, photosynthetic machinery, and Mo uptake by various plant organs. Through cluster analysis, the nano-Mo group exhibited a more pronounced influence on the variables than the without-Mo and non-nano-Mo groups. Based on our findings, nano-Mo could be a suitable alternative to non-nano molybdenum fertilizers. This recommendation is particularly relevant for enhancing the growth of winter wheat crops cultivated in acidic soil conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Isotope source tracing enables to accurately determine the fate of nutrients that are applied with fertilizers to soils. While this approach is well established for major nutrients such as nitrogen, it is not yet established for trace metals. Here, we aimed to determine the fate of the micronutrient zinc (Zn) and the contaminant cadmium (Cd) that were applied with an organic fertilizer to a soil–wheat system. A pot study was conducted in which wheat was grown on an alkaline soil. The soils received green manure and/or soluble Zn fertilizer and were compared with non-fertilized control treatments (n = 4 experimental replicates). The green manure was labelled with the stable isotopes 67Zn and 111Cd. For an efficient sample throughput, a method was provided and validated to determine enriched stable isotope ratios (67Zn:66Zn and 111Cd:110Cd) and the Zn and Cd concentrations in one analytical run. To this end, single collector ICP-MS analyses and stable isotope mass balances calculations were combined. Applying this method revealed that the addition of green manure increased neither Zn nor Cd concentrations in wheat grains due to biomass dilution effects. Isotope source tracing showed that the largest fraction of these metals in the wheat shoots derived from the soil in all treatments (Zn 87–99 %, Cd 94–98 %). Moreover, the addition of green manure increased the transfer of Zn and Cd from soil to wheat by a factor 1.9 for both elements. This increased transfer was likely related to a nitrogen fertilization effect that increased root and shoot biomass and thereby the soil exploration of the wheat. This study demonstrated how the fate and dynamics of multiple trace metals can be efficiently determined in soil–fertilizer–crop systems using isotope source tracing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yields realized under rice-wheat rotation are generally low in the geographical regions prone to B deficiency and a sound B application schedule recommendation is required for the sustainable yields and enhanced soil fertility. The effect of different B application schedules involving different dosages and frequency of B application was investigated on yields and B nutrition of rice-wheat rotation and changes in the chemical fractions of B in soil in six years field study carried out on a sandy loam (Typic hapludoll). Based on the average grain yields of rice and wheat during the period of experimentation, application of 1.5 kg B as borax ha−1 to rice crop on alternate years was the profitable practice for mollisols as it gave an average yearly production of 5.51 t of rice grain and 4.28 t of wheat grain ha−1. The average concentration of B in flag leaves and grains of rice was much lower compared to wheat crop. The recommended schedule of B application to rice-wheat rotation resulted in a Benefit: Cost ratio of 11: 1 and also maintained the optimum level of B in soil. Most of the added B markedly increased specifically bound (0.05 M KH2PO4 extractable), ammonium oxalate (pH 3.3) extractable fractions followed by residual and organically bound fraction in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Implementing compost can assist in improving soil structure and enable nutrient mobilization to plants that initiate an appropriate soil balance. In a greenhouse experiment, the influence of hazelnut husk compost (HHC), both in single and in combination with the phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) on the wheat yield, yield parameters, and soil biological properties were investigated. A significant increase in yield and its quality parameters was recorded when the soil was treated with different doses of compost and bacteria. It was observed copious improvements in the soil biological properties with these applications. The microbial biomass carbon and total organic carbon ratios (Cmic:Corg) ranged from 1.51 to 2.09, were also remarkable in the organic amended soils. However, in all the treatments, the co-inoculation of bacteria with compost enhanced all the parameters significantly more than their individual applications. The highest yield increase over control (22.12%) was recorded from the integrated application of organic source and bio-fertilizer. This reflects a synergistic relationship between the compost and bacteria that eventually enhanced wheat production. It is therefore concluded that using HHC and PSB in soil can unfold promising possibilities for better soil health, which in the long run can contribute to sustainable food production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rice-wheat cropping system is the largest cereal-based agricultural production system in India. It provides considerable significance to national food, nutrition, and livelihood security. However, the extensive use of resources under rice-wheat system has resulted in significant issues, including a decline in groundwater levels, indiscriminate use of fertilizers, the burning of rice residues, increased emissions of greenhouse gases, and the development of herbicide-resistant weeds which led to stagnant crop productivity and reduced profitability. This study was conducted at the research farm of ICAR-IIWBR, Karnal, India, to evaluate the combined effects of conventional and nano urea on productivity, profitability, and efficient nitrogen management strategy in wheat under rice-wheat system. The study evaluated eight treatment combinations of nitrogen application through conventionally applied urea (46% N) and foliar applied nano urea (4% N). The results of the study showed that the application of 150 kg N/ha in three equal splits as basal and just before 1st and 2nd irrigation, either alone (T2) or along with a spray of nano urea (T5), resulted in the highest grain yield and profitability. Top dressing of urea just before irrigation with a dose of nitrogen 150 kg/ha applied in three equal splits (T2) resulted in 420 kg/ha additional grain yield over top dressing at 7-10 days after irrigation with same dose (T3). Treatment T5 recorded the highest gross and net returns with 2492.5 and 1804.0 US $/ha. The study's findings suggest that efficient nitrogen management is essential for sustainable wheat production in India. The application of 150 kg N/ha in three equal splits, either alone or along with a spray of nano urea, is a promising strategy for improving wheat productivity and profitability in India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving nutrient use efficiency and system productivity with a positive nutrient balance in rice-wheat cropping system (RWCS) is vital for long-term food security. Two-year field trials were conducted with the objective of computing the effect of different rates, time, method, and source of potassium (K) fertilization on nutrient recovery efficiency, nutrient balance, and system productivity in a dry direct-seeded RWCS with eight treatments. The two-split (half basal and half at panicle initiation) application of 60 kg K2O/ha resulted in 37.5% and 19.2% increase in recovery efficiency of K in rice and wheat, respectively over basal application of 60 kg K2O/ha. Besides, the split-application of K increased the nitrogen recovery efficiency in rice and wheat by 11.2% and 10.8%, respectively. Similarly, the phosphorus recovery efficiency was increased by 3.6% and 7.4% in rice and wheat, respectively. The split application of 60 kg K2O/ha also increased the K harvest index (% of the total K absorbed is transferred to grain) by 0.7% and 2.7% in rice and wheat, respectively over applying entire K at basal. Similarly, the system productivity (11.26 t/ha) was increased by 8% over applying entire K at basal. In the absence of top-dressing of K (30 kg/ha), two foliar-sprays of 2.5% K provide equal benefits of top dressing. Application of 90 kg K2O/ha lowered the K negative balance (−99 kg/ha/year) considerably compared to two-split application of 60 kg K2O/ha (−152.5 kg/ha/year). Thus, optimization of K fertilization in RWCS will increase the system productivity, nutrient use efficiency, and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfoxaflor is a systemic sulfoximine insecticide, used to control sucking pests in different agricultural crops including wheat. However, the information regarding its residual fate in wheat agroecosystem under tropical environment and the associated dietary risk are still obscure. Therefore, a supervised field experiment was conducted in wheat comprising the application of sulfoxaflor 12% (w/v) SC at 30 and 60 g a.i. ha−1 in two consecutive seasons. An optimised method for estimation of sulfoxaflor residues using modified QuEChERS technique was developed and validated. The extracting solvent ethyl acetate + cyclohexane (9 + 1 v/v) along with the clean-up combinations viz. 75 mg PSA+25 mg GCB+150 mg magnesium sulphate for wheat plant and straw and 75 mg PSA+75 mg C18 + 150 mg magnesium sulphate for grain produced satisfactory recovery, minimum matrix interference and optimum peak shape. The average recovery, repeatability and within-laboratory reproducibility of sulfoxaflor in wheat substrates ranged between 90.66% and 103.55%, 2.67–5.17% and 3.05–8.15%, respectively, and the limit of quantification was estimated 0.01 mg kg−1. Sulfoxaflor was stable up to 60 days in wheat matrices under storage (−20°C). The dissipation of sulfoxaflor in wheat plants followed first-order kinetics and the overall shorter persistence in Season I and II ranged between 1.05–1.14 and 2.44–2.47 days (T1 – T2), respectively. The deviation in the persistence of the compound between two seasons due to variation in climatic parameters was observed to be statistically significant. The estimated pre-harvest interval of sulfoxaflor ranged between 4.95–5.34 (Season I) and 11.37–11.55 days (Season II). Besides, the terminal residues of sulfoxaflor were below quantification limit in the harvested wheat products, and the estimated long-term dietary risk of sulfoxaflor was observed to be negligible. Therefore, it was expected that the application of this insecticide in wheat cultivation should pose no residual toxicity and the harvested wheat products can be considered safe for human consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thiamethoxam, a systemic neonicotinoid insecticide, is widely accepted for use against various chewing and sucking insect pests. In this particular study, the authors examined the dissipation kinetics and metabolism of thiamethoxam in wheat using quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged and safe (QuEChERS) methodology combined with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) over two years during the same cropping season. Residues of thiamethoxam and its metabolites in wheat plants were investigated following foliar spray of thiamethoxam at recommended dose (12.5 g a.i. ha−1) and four times the recommended dose (50.0 g a.i. ha−1) at earhead formation stage. Total residues of thiamethoxam and its metabolites in leaves at 0 day (2 h after spray) ranged from 3.69 to 14.36 mg kg−1 for the two doses over the two years. Clothianidin was the only metabolite detected in leaves at 0 day (2 h after spray); however at 7 days after spray nitroguanidine, N-desmethyl-thiamethoxam and 1-methyl-3-nitroguanidine were also detected. Total residues of thiamethoxam and its metabolites in soil at 0 day (2 h after spray) ranged from 0.23 to 0.84 mg kg−1. Thiamethoxam residue in leaves and soil followed first order kinetics with half-life ranging from 9.04 to 15.50 days for the two doses over the two study years. Residues of thiamethoxam and its metabolites in leaves, straw and grain at harvest time for both the doses were below their limit of quantification (0.01 mg kg−1). This information could be helpful for evaluating both regulatory and food safety decisions regarding use of neonicotinoids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effects of the potential application of digestate as an agricultural fertiliser obtained from anaerobically digested microalgae treated by three pretreatment methods, namely alkaline hydrogen peroxide (AHP), high temperature and pressure (HTP), and hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) on some properties of soil, and wheat growth and yield were investigated. For this purpose, pretreated and anaerobically digested microalgae digestates alone or together with diammonium phosphate (DAP) as a chemical fertiliser were applied to soil for wheat growth. The highest dosage of AHP pretreated digestate combined with a half dose of DAP applied to soil was rich in nutrients as 0.25%N and 7.19 mg kg−1 compared to all groups. The properties of the soils were enhanced by applying the highest dosage (0.06 g kg−1) of microalgae digestate combined with a half dose of DAP. 0.02 g kg−1 dosage of HC pretreated digestate combined with a half dose of DAP also greatly improved nitrogen use efficiency indices by up to 104%. The soils' enzyme activities increased in wheat growth experiments by applying either raw or pretreated microalgae digestates. The soils' β-glycosidase, alkaline phosphatase, and urease enzyme activities increased to 1.38 mg pNP g−1 soil, 4.91 mg pNP g−1 soil, and 2.27 mg NH4-N 100 g−1 soil respectively by the application of highest dosage of HC pretreated digestate. The digestates did not have a toxic effect on wheat growth, it was determined that applied pretreatment processes did not cause significant changes in wheat plant height or wet and dry weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bread wheat is one of the key food grains in Ethiopia. However, its production and productivity are affected by stripe rust. The objective of this study was to investigate and develop integrated management options for stripe rust using varieties and fungicide application frequency in the study area. A field experiment was conducted at Enarj Enawuga district in the Metaya Kebele farmer training center during the 2022 main cropping season. There were sixteen total treatment combinations [four bread wheat varieties (Ogolcho, Lemu, Hidase, and Local as check), and four Tilt 250 EC fungicide application frequencies (nil, 1, 2, and 3 times)]. The design of the experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with factorial arrangements within three replications. Both disease and yield-related data were collected and analyzed using SAS 9.4 software. The disease and yield parameters showed a significant (p < 0.01) difference, and all treated plots had higher yield and lower disease severity than untreated plots. On the untreated plots, the final mean stripe rust severity was 18.53%, 22.57%, 36.73%, and 57.63% on Ogolcho, Lemu, Hidase, and local varieties, respectively. The maximum disease control was recorded from Ogolcho variety (61.31%) with a three-time application of Tilt 250EC. Grain yield and thousand kernel weight increment were obtained at 79.72% and 17.37% from Ogolcho, 100% and 23.44% from Lemu, 94.85% and 34.54% from Hidase, and 102.85% and 49.56% from local varieties treated by three times of Tilt 250EC, respectively. A higher yield reduction and AUDPC (114 DAS) were recorded from untreated plots of local (50.70%, 2,031.49% days−1), and Hidase (48.68%, 1,020.6% days−1) varieties, receptively. The 15-day interval application frequency of Propiconazole increased the grain yield of all tested varieties and reduced stripe rust severity. The Ogolcho variety treated three times yielded the maximum net benefit (216,750 Birr/ha) with an accepted marginal rate of return (22,810%). Therefore, based on the results obtained, producers use the Ogolcho variety with three-time application of propiconazole fungicide for optimum wheat production and could be recommended to manage stripe rust in the study area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc (Zn) is an imperative micro-nutrient for plant growth and development. Zinc is deficient all over the world, particularly in the developing countries and Zn sulfate is supplied as a source of Zn fertilizer. However, maximum part of the applied Zn sulfate become fixed in the soil and unavailable to plant. Plant growth promoting bacteria improving the crop growth and yield on sustainable basis. Inoculation of bacterial strains used is an effective technology, but limited research is available under field conditions. Therefore, field experiment was conducted under irrigated and rainfed conditions to evaluate the inoculation effect of indigenous beneficial microbes (BM) on wheat growth, yield and Zn accumulation. Different treatment combinations (0, 4, 8, 12, 16, and 20 kg Zn ha−1 without and with BM) were used on two wheat varieties (Wadaan-17 and Zincol-16). Results revealed that inoculating BM with chemical Zn fertilizer significantly (P ≤.05) boosted yield and Zn accumulation in grain and straw. In irrigated conditions, yield increased by 33%, Zn accumulation in grain by 141% and in straw by 98.2%, but in rainfed conditions, yield increased by 38.9% Zn accumulation in grain by 130% and in straw by 123%. Compared to Zincol-16, Wadaan-17 performed better in terms of yield and Zn accumulation under both irrigated and rainfed conditions. The study concluded that inoculation of certain BM might reduce the rate at which chemical Zn fertilizer was used in both irrigated and rainfed conditions and could be employed as potential bio-inoculants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The North-western Himalayan region requires unique varietal traits for the cultivation and quality of grain produced. Wheat varieties released for this zone in the past remained very popular among the farmers. However, with the passage of time certain traits such as the appearance of pathogenic rust races and grain softness have become threat to the fecundity of these genotypes and needs immediate improvement in this region. Mutation breeding facilitates improving one or two traits of a popular cultivar and to generate variability for most of plant traits upon which selection can be imposed. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the mutagenic sensitivity, effectiveness and efficiency of physical and chemical mutagens in four bread wheat varieties with differential grain texture. Four bread wheat varieties; HS 490, HPW 89, HPW 360 and HPW 251 were irradiated using six doses of gamma rays (γ-rays) ranging from 175 to 300 Gy; Co60 source (BARC, Mumbai, India) and six doses of ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) ranging from 0.3 to 1.3%; EMS (Sigma-Aldrich, Bangalore, India) to assess their mutation sensitivity, effectiveness, efficiency and spectrum of induced macro-mutations in M1 and M2 generation. Based on mutagen sensitivity tests, both gamma rays and ethyl methane sulfonate had similar effects as the doses/concentrations increased in all four varieties. Ethyl methane sulfonate had a discernible effect on seed germination and growth parameters as compared to gamma irradiated treatments. Pollens viability studies confirmed the differential effects of both mutagens on germination and plant survivability. The LD50 and LC50 values varied between 290–315 Gy for gamma rays and 0.90–1.35% for EMS under controlled laboratory conditions, however, the range substantially differs for gamma rays (240–290 Gy) and for EMS (0.50–1.1%) under field conditions, irrespective of the variety treated. The frequency of chlorophyll mutations was low and showed a linear correlation with the doses/concentrations of the mutagen. A total of 117 putative mutants with desirable agro-morphological characteristics were also isolated. Mutagenic effectiveness and efficiency results showed that gamma irradiation doses of 250–300 Gy and ethyl methane sulfonate of 0.7–1.3% were most potent for an effective mutation breeding programme in wheat crop. It was found that semi-hard textured varieties showed higher sensitivity to chemical mutagens as compared to soft-textured varieties. Gamma irradiation dose of 250–300 Gy and ethyl methane sulfonate concentration of 0.7–1.3% were found to be most effective and efficient across four bread wheat varieties and can be used in large scale mutagenesis programmes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a growing interest in developing agricultural practices that can improve crop performance while preserving natural resources. Plant biostimulants are thought to play a role in reaching this goal, in particular by increasing the nitrogen use efficiency. However, a notable research gap exists concerning the effects of foliar applications of natural zeolites as plant biostimulants on crop performance. To address this knowledge gap, a greenhouse experiment was set up in order to study the response of maize and wheat traits, specifically the biomass productivity and nitrogen uptake, as well as the response of soil extracellular enzymes to the foliar applications of a natural zeolite in combination with different levels of nitrogen fertilization, that is, 100%, 75%, and 50% of the optimal dose. Foliar application of zeolite in wheat and maize plants led to an increase in root nitrogen concentration of about 10%, particularly at the lowest nitrogen fertilization rate. This response was accompanied by an increase in aboveground to belowground uptake nitrogen ratio. Furthermore, there was a significant reduction of about 20% in root biomass in both crops with zeolite application across the entire nitrogen fertilization gradient. These plant-level responses were associated with a significant increase in the activity of carbon-degrading and nitrogen-degrading enzymes at the soil level in response to zeolite applications. Our findings provide a compelling proof-of-concept for the beneficial effects of foliar-applied zeolite as a biostimulant for crops, emphasizing the critical need for additional field research to validate our greenhouse results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Crop rotations with residue incorporation can be beneficial to the sustainability of agriculture, however as long-term studies are required to determine effects on soil properties, farmers usually don't practice crop rotations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of crop rotations with residue incorporation (0%, 50%, 100%, and 200%) on soil chemical properties of a volcanic soil after 4 years of cultivation. The evaluated rotations were canola (Brassica napus L.)-bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), canola-durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L.), canola-corn (Zea mays L.), bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)-bread wheat, bean-durum wheat, and bean-corn. The experiment consisted of six crop rotations, four levels of residue incorporation, and four replicates, analyzed as split-plot design. Samples were taken from the topsoil, and the following soil chemical properties were evaluated: pH, organic matter, electrical conductivity, nitrogen (N), phosphorous (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), sodium (Na), aluminum (Al), and sulfur (S). The results showed that crop rotations affected all the chemical properties evaluated, whereas the level of residue incorporation only affected the concentrations of exchangeable Mg and K. Most of the evaluated crops rotations had beneficial effects on the soil properties. The canola-durum wheat crop rotation recorded the lowest values in OM, available N and the exchangeable Ca, Mg, and Na. Exchangeable Mg and K had a directly proportional relationship with the level of residue incorporation. In conclusion, the incorporation of residues in different doses during 4 years of crop rotation in this volcanic soil had little effect on its chemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Knowledge of the characteristics of zinc (Zn) uptake by plant roots may help in understanding the reasons for variations in the Zn deficiency tolerance of plant cultivars. We investigated the apoplastic and symplastic Zn uptake and proton secretion by roots of three bread wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum cvs. Rushan, Kavir, and Falat) and a durum wheat genotype (Triticum durum cv. Yavarus) under influence of histidine addition in a nutrient solution. Seedlings of wheat genotypes were planted in a nutrient solution containing 10 mM Zn with or without added 50 mM histidine (His). A control with no added Zn or histidine was also used. A significant variation was found among wheat genotypes in shoot Zn content and the characteristics of Zn uptake by roots. The addition of Zn enhanced shoot Zn content compared to the control while the effect of His was genotypedependent. His addition in combination with Zn enhanced shoot Zn content in Rushan and Falat but not in Kavir and Yavarus compared with the only Zn supply treatment. For all wheat genotypes, the addition of Zn enhanced the total, apoplastic, and symplastic root Zn concentration compared to the control. The highest and lowest amounts of proton (H+) were secreted from the roots of Rushan and Yavarus genotypes, respectively. In all wheat genotypes except Falat, the combined addition of zinc and histidine enhanced root H+ secretion compared with the only supply of Zn. Higher plant Zn uptake was associated with a higher ability to secretion of H+ from roots and higher proportion of symplastic to apoplastic Zn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In rhizosphere, root exudates act as food and chemo-attractants for the microbes, whereas microbes help in plant growth. The present study investigated the chemical changes in the rhizosphere of 10 contrasting wheat genotypes each for heat and drought stress at two stages of plant growth under stress conditions, and their root exudates profiles under semi-hydroponic conditions. The heat-tolerant genotypes exhibited significantly higher content of P by 1.59 fold, while drought-tolerant genotypes exhibited Mg and P by 1.22 and 1.24 fold, respectively compared to sensitive genotypes. Further, the heat stress tolerant genotypes exhibited significantly higher contents of Fe, Cu and Zn at anthesis by 1.53, 1.31 and 1.44 fold, respectively than at the booting stage, while the drought stress tolerant genotypes exhibited higher contents of Na, K, Mg and P at booting by 1.27, 3.05, 1.32 and 2.45 fold, respectively than at anthesis stage. Both heat and drought-tolerant genotypes exuded higher concentrations of most of the studied root exudates, and it ranged between 1.34 fold higher for succinic acid to 12.96 fold for sucrose in drought-tolerant genotypes. Similarly, in heat-tolerant genotypes, it varied from 1.01 fold for D-galactose to 10.39 fold for malic acid. Overall, the study revealed that the tolerant genotypes modulated their rhizosphere composition with respect to higher contents of Na, K, Mg, Fe, Cu, Zn and P, and exuding higher quantities of sugars and organic acids than the sensitive genotypes, which could contribute to their survival under abiotic stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat is one of the three major staple foods in the world. Although wheat is highly nutritional, it has a variety of allergenic components that are potentially fatal to humans and pose a significant hazard to the growth and consumption of wheat. Wheat allergy is a serious health problem, which is becoming more and more prevalent all over the world. To address and prevent related health risks, it is crucial to establish precise and sensitive detection and analytical methods as well as an understanding of the structure and sensitization mechanism of wheat allergens. Among various analytical tools, mass spectrometry (MS) is known to have high specificity and sensitivity. It is a promising non immune method to evaluate and quantify wheat allergens. In this article, the current research on the detection of wheat allergens based on mass spectrometry is reviewed. This review provides guidance for the further research on wheat allergen detection using mass spectrometry, and speeds up the development of wheat allergen research in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe wettability of chemical pesticides on the surfaces of crop leaves is crucial for enhancing the efficiency of chemical solutions. This work examined the wetting behavior of 28-Epimotabrassinolide (28-HB) combined with various surfactants on the adaxial and abaxial leaves at the jointing and boot stages of wheat. The microstructure of the leaf surface was characterized by ultra-depth microscopy, and the surface free energy (SFE) of the leaf was calculated by the Owens–Wendt–Rabel–Kaelble (OWRK) method. The surface tension of the 28-HB solution with different surfactants added and the contact angle on the leaf surface at the jointing and boot stages were measured. Compared with the boot stage, the wettability of the adaxial and abaxial wheat leaves was superior to that of the jointing stage. The addition of surfactants to the 28-HB improved the spreading behavior of droplets on the surface of leaves. Specifically, when fatty lcohol polyoxyethylene ether (AEO9) was added to 28-HB, the wettability of the droplets on the jointing wheat leaf surface was greatly enhanced. Additionally, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) and sodium lauryl sulfate (SDS) improve the wettability of 28-HB on wheat leaves at the boot stage. When the surface tension of the solution is lower than the free energy of the solid surface, the dispersion component in the free energy of the leaf surface aligns with the dispersion component in the surface tension of the solution, facilitating maximum wettability of the solution on the leaf surface. This work offers a fresh perspective on enhancing the efficiency of surfactants in achieving superhydrophobic leaf wetting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Septoria tritici blotch or Septoria leaf blotch has been used for long time, but leaf blotch is a correct disease name. Moreover, Lb resistant gene is the correct name, but, not Stb gene. It has sexual and asexual parts on the mycelia, known as heterothallic fungi. Its pathogenic diversity ranged from 40% to 93% and has produced a wide variety of AvrLb6 haplotypes. M. graminicola has a plasmogamy and karyogamy sexual process. The pathogen can use macropycnidiospores, micropycnidiospores, and pycnidia vegetative growths for infection and overwintering. Synthetic M3, Kavkaz-K4500, Synthetic 6×, and TE9111 wheat genotypes have horizontal resistance. Avirulence (Avr) genes in Z. tritici and their matching wheat (R) genes indicate gene for gene mechanisms of resistance. Twenty-two R genes (vertical resistance) have been identified. In both horizontal and vertical resistance, different Lb genes have been broken down due to new Z.tritici virulent gene and currently Lb19 resistant gene is being recommended. Mixing of resistant and susceptible cultivars is also the most effective management strategy. Moreover, different cultural practices and biological control have been proposed. Lastly, different fungicides are also available. However, in developing countries cultivar mixture, isolates diversity, biological control, and epidemic studies have been greatly missed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the impact of training on the use of modern agricultural inputs in comparison to the recommended amount for wheat and maize production in Gozamin and Machakil Woredas in Northwest Ethiopia. The study employs a mixed-methods research design. The propensity score matching and thematic methods of analysis were used to analyze the quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. The study finds that trainees reduced the excess application of wheat seed by 11.66% to 15% ha-1. In Machakil, they tended to reduce excess NPSB application by 21% and increase urea by 52.17% for wheat. But, the NPSB rate was found to increase by 100.4% above the recommended rate in Gozamin. For maize, the trainees increased urea by 12.42% ha-1 in both Woredas. The study recommends the provision of consecutive practical training and demonstrations till farmers get convinced that applying the recommended rates of inputs significantly enhances crop productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The allelopathic effect of Callistemon viminalis's leaf extracts on seed germination and growth of Triticum aestivum and Cicer arietinum, as well as associated weeds (Anagallis arvensis, Poa annua, Lepidium didymium, and Vicia sativa), was studied. Different concentrations (2–10%) of aqueous extracts were used, and physiological parameters were measured. Higher concentrations (6–10%) significantly inhibited the germination and growth of wheat and chickpea. In pot assay, the extract did not affect shoot length, dry plant mass, chlorophyll, carotenoid, proline, protein content, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic and transpiration rate, and antioxidant enzymes in crop and various parameters of soil properties in comparison to the control. Both crops grew significantly at lower concentrations. This study suggests that extract of C. viminalis can inhibit the growth of A. arvensis and V. sativa without affecting germination, photosynthetic and biochemical properties of C. arietinum and T. aestivum, and soil properties, making it a potential candidate for bioherbicide development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant genotype and agroecology influence the composition and functionality of seed endophytic bacterial communities. Taxonomic analysis of 123 wheat seeds endophytic bacteria classified these into 23 genera predominantly under Firmicutes followed by Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. Genus Bacillus was most abundant (30.7%) followed by Streptomyces (18.4%) with other representative genera such as Stenotrophomonas, Paenibacillus, Mixta, Enterobacter, Micrococcus, Pantoea, Alkalihalobacillus, Cortiobacterium, and more. Across agroecologies, the core microbiota of seeds consists of Bacillus, Streptomyces, Paenibacillus, and Stenotrophomonas, with maximum diversity and abundance observed in seeds of the North Western Plain Zone of India. Seed endophytic bacteria had PGP traits; nitrogen fixation (n = 101), production of IAA (n = 65), siderophores (n = 43), ammonia (n = 82) and solubilization of phosphate (n = 47), potassium (n = 37), and zinc (n = 8). The isolates produced HCN and hydrolytic enzymes and displayed antagonism against fungal pathogens. Overall, the information generated on wheat seeds' endophytic bacterial taxonomy and beneficial traits may pave the path for the development of novel bioinoculants. Key message Wheat seeds from various agro-ecologies of India harbor diverse endophytic bacteria. Firmicutes were dominant followed by Actinobacteria and Proteobacteria. Genus Bacillus, Stenotrophomonas, Streptomyces, and Paenibacillus were core endophytic bacteria in different agro-ecologies. The endophytic bacterial strains were displaying diverse functional traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decreased availability of phosphorus (P) in Indian soils including the soils of Bihar can be attributed to its affinity to the formation of complex compounds. This study is undertaken to investigate the interactive effect of mineral P, nano P and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSBs) for different inorganic and organic P fractions in an alluvial soil with seven treatments in triplicates viz. control (T1); 100% RDF (120:60:40 N:P:K) (T2); 100% recommended dose of P (RDP) through nano P as soil application (T3); 50% nano-P soil application + 50% nano P as foliar application at flowering stage (T4); 50% RDP + 25% P (nano P) soil application + PSB at the rate of 0.335 µl kg−1 soil (T5); 50% RDP + 25% P (nano P) foliar spray + PSB at the rate of 0.335 µl kg−1 soil (T6) and application of 100% P through FYM at the rate of 10.71 g kg−1 + PSB at the rate of 0.335 µl kg−1 soil (T7). The application of treatment T7 yielded highest soluble P, Al-P and Fe 2 P while Fe 1 P, Ca-P and residual P were found to be greatest in case of treatment T5. Soluble P fraction had established significant positive correlation with Fe1-P (p ≤.836), Ca-P (p ≤.842) and Fe2-P (p ≤.822). Hence, the application of mineral P in combination with nano P as soil application and conjugative application of FYM along with PSB could be very helpful in increasing the availability of soluble P by increasing its release and availability under naturally P-deficient conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study we investigated the efficacy of a novel material parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus L.) biochar (PBC), iron doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (nFe-ZnO), and biochar modified with nFe-ZnO (Fe-ZnO@BC) to adsorb heavy metals (HMs) and reduce their uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in a highly chromite mining contaminated soil. The co-application of the applied soil conditioners exhibited a positive effect on the immobilization and restricted the HMs uptake below their threshold levels in shoot content of wheat. The maximum adsorption capacity was because of large surface area, cation exchange capacity, surface precipitation, and complexation of the soil conditioners. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) showed porous smooth structure of parthenium weed derived biochar that helped in HMs adsorption, increase the efficiency of soil fertilizers and nutrients retention which help in the enhancement soil condition. Under different application rates the highest translocation factor (TFHMs) was obtained at 2 g nFe-ZnO rate followed the descending order: Mn > Cr > Cu > Ni > Pb. The overall TFHMs was found <1.0 indicating that low content of HMs accumulation in roots from soil slight transferred to shoot, thus satisfying the remediation requirements. Wheat is considered as an important staple food which is grown in a chromite mining contaminated soil containing toxic HMs releasing from weathering of mafic and ultramafic rocks in the study area. The present research work is significantly beneficial in identifying the efficiency of treatment technologies to immobilize toxic HMs in soil. Parthenium weed derived biochar and biochar modified with nFe-ZnO (Fe-ZnO@BC) reduce the HMs uptake by wheat plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water footprint (WF), water productivity of wheat (WWP) and interrelationships among water footprint components under conservation (CST) and conventional (CT) tillage were evaluated for two cropping years in this study. Results revealed that WF in CST was lower than that in CT one. While, WWP in CST was higher than that acquired from CT. The total, green, blue and gray WF in conservation (vs. conventional) tillage averaged 1319 (vs. 1629), 108 (vs. 152), 621 (vs. 737) and 590 (vs. 740) m3 t−1. The gray WF had the highest total and direct effects on total WF. Also, higher grain yield (3857 kg ha−1), straw yield (5065 kg ha−1) and WWP (1.01 kg m−3) acquired from CST. The findings revealed that CST is the appropriate tillage practice to reduce total WF (19%) compared to CT, to enhance crop yield and productivity in wheat production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bread is one of the most important processed foods of wheat flour worldwide. Breadmaking quality is determined by grain protein content and its composition and is highly influenced by fertilization management. This study investigated the effects of spraying different combinations of exogenous regulators on breadmaking quality of the flour. Three spraying schemes including Potassium glutamate+Zinc+Urea (G), Methionine+ Zinc+Urea (M), Cysteine+ Zinc+Urea (C) were screened out to improve the yield and total protein contents in the flour. In addition to protein, the amounts of gliadin, glutenin, glutenin subunits, and gluten were elevated in the treatments listed above. Exogenous regulators, on the other hand, increased bread volume by 14% to 17%. In comparison to G and C, M treatment more efficiently increased the protein quality of inner endosperm rather than aleurone, resulting in superior gluten quality and breadmaking quality of the flour. Our results provide an optimizing combination for improving the quality of bread wheat and demonstrate the varied modulations of exogenous regulators on the spatial distribution of protein in wheat grain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrous oxide (N2O) emission is mainly associated with aerobic crop culture, which is influenced by nitrogen (N) fertilizer sources, rates, placement methods, and water management systems. The influence of N fertilizers on greenhouse gas (GHG) emission patterns are not well documented in Asian region. The present investigation was undertaken to identify GHG emission patterns, net carbon budget, net global warming potential (GWP) and GHG intensity. N fertilizer from prilled urea (PU), urea super granule (USG) and N-phosphorus (P)-potassium (K) briquette (NPKB) were used and compared with control (no fertilizer). Equal nutrient doses were maintained for all the treatments irrespective of fertilizer sources. Static close chamber technique was used for measuring GHG emission. Depending on treatments, total methane (CH4), nitrous oxide and carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes were 8.16–10.85, 0.57-0.49-0.59 and 1739–2309 kg ha−1 season−1, respectively and net GWPs varied from −1292 to −2438 kg CO2 eq. ha−1 season−1. Wheat grain yields significantly varied from 3.2 to 3.9 t ha−1 because of N sources and rates. Use of USG for wheat cultivation can increase CO2 removal about 22–88% from the atmosphere along with about 2–14% grain yield and 26–48% soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration improvements compared to other N sources in Bangladesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil moisture estimation is a key component in hydrological processes and irrigation amounts' estimation. The synergetic use of optical and radar data has been proven to retrieve the surface soil moisture at a field scale using the Water Cloud Model (WCM). In this work, we evaluate the impact of staellite-derived vegetation descriptors to estimate the surface soil moisture. Therefore, we used the Sentinel-1 data to test the polarization ratio (${\rm{\sigma }}_{{\rm{VH}}}^0/{\rm{\sigma }}_{{\rm{VV}}}^0$ σ V H 0 / σ V V 0 ) and the normalized polarization ratio (IN) and the frequently used optical Normalized Difference vegetation Index (NDVI) as vegetation descriptors. Synchronous with Sentinel-1 acquisitions, in situ soil moisture were collected over wheat fields in the Kairouan plain in the center of Tunisia. To avoid the bare soil roughness effect and the radar signal saturation in dense vegetation context, we considered the data where the NDVI values vary between 0.25 and 0.7. The soil moisture inversion using the WCM and NDVI as a vegetation descriptor was characterized by an RMSE value of 5.6 vol.%. A relatively close performance was obtained using IN and (${\rm{\sigma }}_{{\rm{VH}}}^0/{\rm{\sigma }}_{{\rm{VV}}}^0$ σ V H 0 / σ V V 0 ) with RMSE under 7. 5 vol.%. The results revealed the consistency of the radar-derived data in describing the vegetation for the retrieval of soil moisture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to elucidate the mechanism of substituting organic fertilizer for mineral fertilizer to increase calcareous fluvisol soil organic carbon. Four years of soil culture experiments were conducted, wheat yield, soil nutrients, soil organic carbon (SOC) and SOC fractions were measured and the compositional changes of SOC was analyzed by attenuated total reflectance-fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. Treatments included applying no fertilizer (CK), mineral N and P fertilizers (CF) and organic fertilizers to replace 6% (OF6), 12% (OF12), 18% (OF18) and 24% (OF24) of N and P under the same nutrient conditions. The results showed that the OF24 treatment was the best among the treatments employed. Compared with CF, wheat yield, SOC, microbial biomass carbon (MBC), labile fraction 1 (LOC1) and recalcitrant fraction (ROC) of OF24 increased by 10.4%, 24.4%, 66.3%, 43.2% and 30.7%, however, the labile fraction 2 (LOC2) decreased by 16.8%. ATR-FTIR results showed that the relative absorption intensity of OF24 treatment at 1,000 cm−1 band is lower than CK and CF treatment, other bands are higher than CK and CF treatment. Overall, OF24 treatment not only significantly increased wheat yield, but also increased the content of LOC1 and MBC. The increase of MBC can improve the soil microbial environment and promote the decomposition of LOC2, while also accelerate the turnover rate of soil carbon and then show the increase of ROC content and improve the proportion of the recalcitrant carbon pool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The experiment was studied to evaluate the fourteen different fungicides against M. oryzae pv. triticum in laboratory and pot experiment from August 2016 to October 2017. The result of the in-vitro evaluation showed that a 100% reduction of radial mycelial growth was obtained in Amiscore 32.5 SC, Bavistin DF, Cabrio Top, Xtracare 300 EC, Nativo 75 WG, Provax 200 WP and Trooper 75 WP. Nativo 75 WG (0.2%) revealed the highest (85.38%) reduction of disease incidence over control while Provax 200 WP (0.3%) showed an efficacy of 82.14% in reducing disease incidence in the pot experiment. The lowest (3.70%) disease severity was found in Nativo 75 WG, and Provax 200 WP also exhibited 4.40% disease severity. A maximum number of healthy grain/ear (16.40) was observed in Nativo 75 WG, and Provax 200 WP was demonstrated with healthy grain (15.00), which was close to Nativo 75 WG. In grain weight/ear, Nativo 75 WG (0.2%) led to an impressive increase of 160.47% over control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increase in population and decrease in agricultural land per capita requires intelligent management to increase production per unit area and higher productivity of land use to ensure food security. In this regard, evaluation of soil fertility and productivity is a prerequisite for sustainable agricultural development. The present study sought to investigate the soil fertility status of GIS-based Fuzzy-AHP(FAHP) techniques to assess the soil fertility status of wheat crops in Shadkam plain of Fars province. For this purpose 210 study samples from topsoil were collected and the most important chemical parameters affecting soil fertility were analyzed. According to the results, the most important limiting characteristics were OC, available phosphorus and soil pH. The application of FAHP method determined 4130.01 ha, 10.82% of land very high fertility class, 7615.30 ha, 19.95% high fertility class, 23942.30 ha, 62.77% moderately fertility class, and 2452.10 ha, 6.42% low fertility class. Thus, the fuzzy-AHP model is found to be of high accuracy for predicting soil fertility in the study area. Overall, it can be concluded that the preparation of a soil fertility map separately can be an effective tool and first step in soil fertility studies and the optimal use of fertilizers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of nanomaterials in agriculture has considerable advantages, but its impact on the dynamic change of soil nutrients is still unclear. In the two-year experiment, the effects of nanocarbon (NC) and nano calcium carbonate (NCC) on the dynamic changes of soil nutrients in the wheat field were studied by setting the ratio of different nanomaterials and fertilizers. All treatments with NC and NCC applications positively affected soil nutrient effectiveness at 0–35 d after wheat anthesis, and the effect of NC+NCC was more significant. At 35 days after anthesis, soil available phosphorus (P), available potassium (K), organic matter (OM), and alkaline hydrolysis nitrogen (N) were elevated by 77.9%, 21.9%, 11.7%, and 7.0%, respectively, in the first year and 44.3%, 10.2%, 9.0%, and 7.6%, respectively, in the second year of treatment with 100% CF (complex fertilizer) + 50% NC + 50% NCC compared with control. The treatment with reduced fertilizer application also demonstrated a greater advantage. At 35 d after anthesis, 70% CF + 35% NC + 35% NCC had 54.3%, 11.5%, 8.4%, and 5.8% higher soil available P, available K, OM, and alkaline hydrolysis N, respectively, compared with the control, and 41.05%, 6.4%, 7.8%, and 5.4% higher the following year, respectively. In acidic soils, positively charged NC and NCC have a lasting effect on maintaining soil nutrients by adsorbing acid ions. Therefore, NC and NCC with compound fertilizer have favorable effects in maintaining soil nutrient content and improving fertilizer utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of this experiment showed the effect of hybrid nanostructures (HNS) based on amino acid derivatives of fullerene C60 and derivatives of vitamin B12 (T1, T2) on the growth of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seeds in laboratory. Seeds treated with distilled water were used as the control (T0). Seeds treated by complexes T1–T3 pump spraying at the concentration of 10−5 M increased germination to 10–14%, while shoots height increased to 21–34% compared to the control. Treatment with these complexes enabled plants to survive water stress. The relative water content RWC in these samples was 11–21% higher than in the control. The results obtained demonstrate the possibility of using these hybrid compounds to achieve better seedlings and increase the drought resistance of wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heavy metals are one of the most concerning pollutants in the environment that can enter the food chain. This study aimed to evaluate metals pollution and their bioaccumulation in the farmed wheat around an Industrial Park and to assess the health risk of these metals. Sampling of soil and farmed wheat irrigated by both groundwater and treated wastewater was performed. The heavy metal concentration in the soil and framed wheat samples were measured by atomic absorption spectrometry. The mean concentrations of Cd, As, Cr, and Pb in wheat were 0.171, 0.003, 6.437 (mg/kg), and 1.052 (mg/kg) and this metals for soil were 1.884, 8.924, 36.848, 16.283 (mg/kg) for irrigated farms with groundwater and 0.149, 0.315, 4.638 (mg/kg), and 2.066 (mg/kg) for wheat farms irrigated farms with treated wastewater, and 0.939, 4.643, 24, 692, 14.135 for soil with treated wastewater respectively. The Cd, Cr and Pb content of wheat were higher than the standards limit set by the U.S. EPA. Non-carcinogenic risk was not observed through all 4 exposure routes for the studied population. However, the carcinogenic risk of Cd, As and Pb through oral route for wheat and ingestion of soil was considerable in the studied population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is an environment-friendly super absorbent polymer that can be used as a soil conditioner, which is promising to improve crop productivity and cope with soil degradation. The objectives of this study are to study the effects of γ-PGA on soil physicochemical properties and winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Xinong 975) production in arid region of Northwest China. According to the mass ratio of γ-PGA and soil, experiment treatments consisted of four different γ-PGA application rates, which were designated as 0 (CK), 0.05% (P0.05), 0.1% (P0.1), and 0.15% (P0.15), respectively. The mixed soil samples were uniformly filled into identical plastic pots. Each treatment had three replicates randomly distributed within 12 pots. The results indicated that γ-PGA significantly increased saturated water content by 6.3-11.5%, field capacity by 8.4-15.3%, and plant available water by 5.1-12.5% compared with the CK. γ-PGA increased soil NO3−-N content and residue, and enhanced the proportions of soil macro-aggregates compared with the CK. γ-PGA increased winter wheat yield by 29.3-34.7%, and WUE by 21.2-33.3% compared with the CK. The main conclusion γ-PGA application amount of 0.05-0.1% can be used to improve soil physicochemical properties and winter wheat production in degraded soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice straw (RS), biochar (BC) and lime (LM) have proved to be effective immobilizing agents in acidic contaminated soil. Up-to-date scientific data is lacking regarding residual effects of these amendments in acidic soils and wheat/rice cropping system. The objective was to analyze the efficacy of amendments to improve grain yields, nutritional quality, and reduce Ni bioavailability of wheat/rice rotation system. A pot experiment was conducted to examine the efficacy of RS, BC 10 and 20 g kg−1 and LM 10 g kg−1 application rates on plant growth, nutritional quality and Ni contents in wheat and rice tissues and grain. Amendments enhanced Ni immobilization, declined their uptake by plants and accumulation in the grains of both crops. Rice straw biochar reduced several factors like health risk assessment, Ni uptake and bioconcentration factor. BC 20 g kg−1 increased shoot, root and grain yields, while enhanced essential nutrients in the wheat/rice cropping system compared to untreated soil. Soil amendments significantly decreased toxicity characteristics leaching procedure (TCLP) extractable Ni by 42.25% and 42.62% and simple bioaccessibility extraction test (SBET) by 42.1% and 45.25% in post- wheat/rice crops. This process enhanced the safety of wheat/rice rotation cropping system to be consumed and mitigated security risks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ground rolling delays spikelet initiation and thus would be expected to reduce frost injury in earlysown spring wheat. To characterize the relationship between the timing of rolling and the delay of spikelet initiation, we investigated apical development of early-sown spring wheat plants (Triticum aestivum L. cv. ‘Ayahikari’) rolled at the 1-, 2-, 3-, or 4-leaf stage in three years. All rollings delayed apical development. The delay was largest in plants treated at the 1- or 2-leaf stage: spikelet initiation by 5.0 days, the start of internode elongation by 5.5 days, and jointing by 3.5 days relative to the control. Our results and recent meteorological data suggest that in early cropping of spring wheat in the Tokai region of Japan, the earliest sowing date to avoid frost injury can be advanced by 3 days by rolling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Celiac disease (CD) is an autoimmune intestinal disease caused by intolerance of genetically susceptible individuals after intake of gluten-containing grains (including wheat, barley, etc.) and their products. Currently, CD, with “iceberg” characteristics, affects a large population and is distributed over a wide range of individuals. This present review summarizes the latest research progress on the relationship between CD and gluten. Furthermore, the structure and function of gluten peptides related to CD, gluten detection methods, the effects of processing on gluten and gluten-free diets are emphatically reviewed. In addition, the current limitations in CD research are also discussed. The present work facilitates a comprehensive understanding of CD as well as gluten, which can provide a theoretical reference for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salinity stress poses a significant threat to agriculture, as it directly impacts crop growth and yield. The current study aimed at examining the role of foliar nano-silicate (nSiO2) and nano-zinc (nZnO) applications in increasing wheat productivity and nitrogen (N) use efficiency under salt stress conditions. A two-season field experiment was carried out on sandy soils irrigated with water from high-saline wells (4352 and 7040 mg L−1). The study was conducted in a split-plot design, with main plots assigned to three treatments of foliar application of nSiO2, nZnO, and control (nZero), and sub-plots assigned to six N fertilizer rates (0–300 kg N ha−1). The use of nSiO2 and nZnO increased wheat grain yield by 67 and 48% on average over nZero, respectively. When average wheat grain yields were plotted against increasing N fertilizer rates, a quadratic response curve was observed. Derivative solutions of the quadratic functions indicated that grain yield plateaued at 4641, 4560, and 3182 kg ha−1 for nSiO2, nZnO, and nZero treatments, respectively. The optimal N fertilizer rates for these yield levels were calculated to be 290, 353, and 386 kg N ha−1. When the net returns to N fertilizer and nano-material use were considered, nSiO2 had the highest net returns and the lowest optimal N fertilizer rate (229 kg N ha−1), followed by nZnO (272 kg N ha−1). The findings of the field experiment demonstrated that foliar spraying wheat with nSiO2 and nZnO under salt stress conditions enhances productivity as well as responsiveness to N fertilizer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on mitigation of arsenic (As) in As-contaminated soils with wheat (variety – HD 2967) as the test crop. Soil inbulk was collected from Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bihar,India farm with physicochemicalproperties to conduct a pot experiment using three doses of As (5, 10, 20 mg L−1) and application of Glomus mossaea inoculation (no inoculated, 5 g/pot, and 10 g/pot). Result indicated that the treatment spiked with As 5 ppm and Glomus mossaea @1 g kg−1 showedthe lowest available As (21.80 µg kg−1 soil) and lowest total As (2.533 mg kg−1soil) as compared to all othertreatments. The As content in different parts of plants are found in the orderof roots > shoots> leaves > grain parts in wheat crop. As uptake in grain was found to be positively correlated with available (r = 0.883, p <.001) and total As content in soil (r = 0.869, p <.001) as well. The application of AM fungi @10.0 g kg−1 soil significantly (p <.005) reduced the As content in grain under all the applied treatments. As content ingrain was found to be negatively correlated with total glomalin content of soil(r = –0.430, p <.005), colonization by AM fungi (r = –0.261) and available phosphorus (P) content of soil (r = –0.864, p <.001). The study noticeably indicated that the mycorrhizal inoculation can reduce the As content in the various parts of the wheat in As-contaminated soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]