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This research examined the impact of heavy metals, including Cd, Pb, and Zn, on chlorophyll content and lamina cell structure in Bryum coronatum. After exposure to varying metal concentrations (0.015, 0.065, 0.250, 1, and 4 mg/L), chlorophyll content, chloroplast numbers, lamina cell change, and metal accumulation were investigated. Chlorophyll content was assessed using spectrophotometry, whereas chloroplast numbers and lamina cell changes were examined under a light microscope. Metal accumulation was quantified through ICP-MS. The findings revealed that Cd notably reduced chlorophyll a content, while Pb and Zn showed minimal influence. Cd and Pb exposure decreased the number of chloroplasts in lamina cells, with no impact from Zn. The moss's capacity to absorb metals increased with higher exposure levels, indicating its potential as a biomonitor for heavy metal pollution. Cell mortality occurred in response to Cd and Pb, primarily in the median and apical lamina regions, while Zn had no effect. This study sheds light on heavy metal toxicity in B. coronatum, underscoring its significance for environmental monitoring. Further research on the mechanisms and consequences of heavy metal toxicity in bryophytes is essential for a comprehensive understanding of this critical issue. The capacity of moss B. coronatum to absorb metals increased with higher exposure levels, providing quantitative data on heavy metal pollution around it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corn is the second most cultivated crop in Brazil, the number-one country in pesticide consumption. Chemical control of weeds is performed using herbicides such as S-metolachlor with pre- and post-emergence action and thus the toxicity of herbicides constitutes a matter of great concern. The present investigation aimed to examine the effects of an S-metolachlor-based herbicide on Lactuca sativa L. (lettuce) and Zea mays L. (maize) utilizing various bioassays. The test solutions were prepared from commercial products containing the active ingredient. Seeds from the plant models were exposed in petri dishes and maintained under biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) at 24°C. Distilled water was negative and aluminium positive control. Macroscopic analyses (germination and growth) were conducted for both plant species, and microscopic analysis (cell cycle and chromosomal alterations) were performed for L. sativa root tip cells. Detrimental interference of S-metolachlor-based herbicide was noted with lettuce for all parameters tested reducing plant germination by over 50% and the germination speed by over 45% and showing a significant decrease in mitotic index, from 16.25% to 9,28% even on the lowest concentration tested. In maize, there was no significant interference in plant germination; however, speed of germination was significantly hampered, reaching a 51.22% reduction for the highest concentration tested. Data demonstrated that the herbicide was toxic as evidenced by its phyto- and cytotoxicity in L. sativa L. and Z. mays L. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The decolourisation of Bismarck Brown dye by the newly isolated bacterial strain, Pseudomonas aeruginosa (JKAK), was studied at various parameters. Additionally, decolourisation of Bismarck Brown was studied using previously isolated strains; Bacillus sp. (AK1), Lysinibacillus sp. (AK2) and Kerstersia sp. (VKY1). The studies were carried out at temperature (35–50°C), dye concentration (200–800 mg/L), pH (5.5–10.5), metal ions (200–1000 mg/L) and NaCl (5–30 g/L). The optimum pH and temperature were 8.5 and 40°C, respectively. The strains decolourised over 53.75% of 800 mg/L Bismarck Brown after 24 h of incubation. The JKAK strain showed significant halotolerance and decolourised over 90% of the dye in the presence of 30 g/L NaCl. Further, JKAK decolourised over 86.4% of the dye in the presence of 1000 mg/L of Pb2+ and Zn2+ ions. The products of decolourisation were identified as aromatic amines and showed decreased phytotoxicity when compared to the untreated dye. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field trial was conducted to investigate the ‘Phytotoxicity of pendimethalin on the emergence of seedlings in direct seeded rice (DSR) across different concentrations’ during the Kharif season of 2022 at the experimental farm of the School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with five treatments using different doses of pendimethalin (1600, 1800, 2000, and 2200 gram active ingredient per hectare (g ai per ha), and control (untreated)). Application of pendimethalin at 1600 g ai per ha resulted in a significantly higher number of seedlings than other treatment groups. The lowest number of seedlings was observed in the 2200 g ai per ha treatment group. The number of microbes present was optimal during the treatment with 1600 g ai per ha pendimethalin. With an increase in the dosage of pendimethalin, a decrease in the count of soil microbes was observed, with the lowest microbial count observed with the highest dose of pendimethalin, i.e., 2200 g ai per ha. No phytotoxic effect was observed in the DSR treated with pendimethalin at 1600 g ai per ha. Therefore the present study has to be obtain the appropriate use of dosage to inhibit the toxicity of herbicide as well as maintain the soil fertility and microbial growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The employment of versatile bacterial strains for the efficient degradation of carcinogenic textile dyes is a sustainable technology of bioremediation for a neat, clean, and evergreen globe. The present study has explored the eco-friendly degradation of complex Reactive Green 12 azo dye to its non-toxic metabolites for safe disposal in an open environment. The bacterial degradation was performed with the variable concentrations (50, 100, 200, 400, and 500 mg/L) of Reactive Green 12 dye. The degradation and toxicity of the dye were validated by high-performance liquid chromatography, Fourier infrared spectroscopy analysis, and phytotoxicity and genotoxicity assay, respectively. The highest 97.8% decolorization was achieved within 12 h. Alternations in the peaks and retentions, thus, along with modifications in the functional groups and chemical bonds, confirmed the degradation of Reactive Green 12. The disappearance of a major peak at 1450 cm−1 corresponding to the –N=N– azo link validated the breaking of azo bonds and degradation of the parent dye. The 100% germination of Triticum aestivum seed and healthy growth of plants verified the lost toxicity of degraded dye. Moreover, the chromosomal aberration of Allium cepa root cell treatment also validated the removal of toxicity through bacterial degradation. Thereafter, for efficient degradation of textile dye, the bacterium is recommended for adaptation to the sustainable degradation of dye and wastewater for further application of degraded metabolites in crop irrigation for sustainable agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, heterostructures of hydroxyapatite (HAp) and Nb 2 O 5 (NO) were obtained to study their photocatalytic activity under sunlight. The samples were synthesized by the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, and the calcium precursor used to obtain HAp was obtained from an eggshell. The influence of adding NO at 10, 30 and 50% by mass on the heterostructures was evaluated. The XRD results and the functional groups present in the FTIR spectrum confirmed the presence of the two phases in the heterostructures. UV–vis spectroscopy revealed that activation was promoted by sunlight, while PL and electrochemical analyses indicated minimized recombination of the electron/hole pairs of heterostructures due to improved charge transfer. The TEM micrographs indicated interfacial contact between the two materials. The photocatalytic efficiency of the materials was studied for the degradation of methylene blue (MB), crystal violet (CV) and tetracycline (TC) under sunlight irradiation. The heterostructure with 50% NO showed better efficiency than the other combinations and was also tested for degrading the mixture (MIX) of MB, CV and TC, for which the efficiencies were 100, 98.66 and 67.33%, respectively. Furthermore, the effects of the photocalytic dosage, concentration and pH of the solution were investigated through the MIX degradation efficiency. It was possible to propose the mechanism for the photocatalytic activity of the HAp/NO heterostructure as a direct Z-schema. The reusability of the photocatalyst and the germination tests with treated water indicated that the HAp/NO heterostructure has potential application as an efficient and nontoxic alternative for the degradation of contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius), and leafhopper, Amrasca biguttulla biguttulla, Ishida, are the major biotic constraints in cultivation of okra, causing considerable economic damage. The present study aims to evaluate the laboratory and field efficacy of butenolide insecticide, flupyradifurone 200 SL against these key sucking pests, its phytotoxicity, safety to natural enemies as well as pollinators and cost-efficiency in okra. Dose probit mortality assays indicated flupyradifurone to be the most toxic and thiamethoxam least toxic to leafhopper and whitefly. Based on the LC50 values for whitefly and leafhopper, flupyradifurone exhibited 11.07 and 2.98-fold difference, respectively, when compared to thiamethoxam. Laboratory bioassays confirmed that the maximum dose of flupyradifurone (250 g a.i. ha−1) had a high level of toxicity to whitefly adults and leafhopper nymphs. Of the three field rates (150, 200, 250 g a.i. ha−1) of flupyradifurone evaluated under open field conditions, application at 250 g a.i. ha−1 was most effective for the control of whitefly and leafhopper population with a high marketable fruit yield in okra. Flupyradifurone reduced the population of whitefly by 71.80 & 76.68 per cent and leafhopper by 82.19 and 80.21 per cent during first and second season, respectively, as compared to untreated control. Furthermore, it was superior and more economical, giving the highest benefit: cost ratio (2.77) than other test insecticides included for comparison. Flupyradifurone application showed no phytotoxic symptoms on the okra crop. Additionally, it was found to be safer to natural enemies i.e. spiders and rove beetles that are prevalent in the okra ecosystem. The Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that flupyradifurone was apparently less toxic to honey bees in short-term and long-term exposure assays. These findings will aid in utilizing the flupyradifurone in insecticide window spray schedules and IPM programs for the management of sucking pests in okra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although addition of pyrolyzed organic materials (biochars) to soil generally results in increased growth and physiological performance of plants, neutral and negative responses have also commonly been detected. Toxicity of organic compounds generated during pyrolysis, sorbed by biochars, and then released into the soil solution, has been implicated as a possible mechanism for such negative effects. Conversely, water-soluble biochar constituents have also been suggested to have "hormetic" effects (positive effects on plants at low concentrations); however, no specific compounds responsible have been identified. We investigated the relative phytotoxicity—and possible hormetic effects—of 14 organic compounds common in aqueous extracts of freshly produced lignocellulosic biochars, using seed germination bioassays. Of the compounds examined, volatile fatty acids (VFAs: acetic, propionic, butyric, valeric, caproic, and 2-ethylbutyric acids) and phenol, showed acute phytotoxicity, with germination-based ED50 values of 1–30 mmol L−1, and 2-ethylbutyric acid showed ED50 values of 0.1–1.0 mmol L−1. Other compounds (benzene, benzoic acid, butanone, methyl salicylate, toluene, and 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol) showed toxic effects only at high concentrations close to solubility limits. Although phytotoxic at high concentrations, valeric and caproic acid also showed detectable hormetic effects on seedlings, increasing radicle extension by 5–15% at concentrations of ~ 0.01–0.1 mmol L−1. These data support the hypothesis that VFAs are the main agents responsible for phytotoxic effects of lignocellulosic biochar leachates, but that certain VFAs also have hormetic effects at low concentrations and may contribute to positive effects of biochar leachates on early plant development in some cases. Highlights: 151 compounds were identified in leachates from 13 biochars. Among common compounds, volatile fatty acids (VFAs) and phenol showed the most pronounced phytotoxic effects. Some VFAs also had hormetic effects, enhancing radicle extension growth at low concentrations. Effects were consistent among test plant species but the smallest-seeded species showed the highest sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Soil salinity is one of the major menaces to food security, particularly in dealing with the food demand of the ever-increasing global population. Production of cereal crops such as wheat is severely affected by soil salinity and improper fertilization. The present study aimed to examine the effect of selected microbes and poultry manure (PM) on seedling emergence, physiology, nutrient uptake, and growth of wheat in saline soil. A pot experiment was carried out in research area of Institute of Soil and Environmental Sciences, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan. Saline soil (12 dS m− 1 w/w) was developed by spiking using sodium chloride, and used in experiment along with two microbial strains (i.e., Alcaligenes faecalis MH-2 and Achromobacter denitrificans MH-6) and PM. Finally, wheat seeds (variety Akbar-2019) were sown in amended and unamended soil, and pots were placed following a completely randomized design. The wheat crop was harvested after 140 days of sowing. Results: The results showed a 10–39% increase (compared to non-saline control) in agronomic, physiological, and nutritive attributes of wheat plants when augmented with PM and microbes. Microbes together with PM significantly enhanced seedling emergence (up to 38%), agronomic (up to 36%), and physiological (up to 33%) in saline soil as compared to their respective unamended control. Moreover, the co-use of microbes and PM also improved soil's physicochemical attributes and enhanced N (i.e., 21.7%-17.1%), P (i.e., 24.1-29.3%), and K (i.e., 28.7%-25.3%) availability to the plant (roots and shoots, respectively). Similarly, the co-use of amendments also lowered the Na+ contents in soil (i.e., up to 62%) as compared to unamended saline control. This is the first study reporting the effects of the co-addition of newly identified salt-tolerant bacterial strains and PM on seedling emergence, physiology, nutrient uptake, and growth of wheat in highly saline soil. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that co-using a multi-trait bacterial culture and PM could be an appropriate option for sustainable crop production in salt-affected soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research on new compounds against plant pathogens is still socially and economically important. It results from the increasing resistance of pests to plant protection products and the need to maintain high yields of crops, particularly oilseed crops used to manufacture edible and industrial oils and biofuels. We tested thirty-five semi-synthetic hydrazide–hydrazones with aromatic fragments of natural origin against phytopathogenic laccase-producing fungi such as Botrytis cinerea, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and Cerrena unicolor. Among the investigated molecules previously identified as potent laccase inhibitors were also strong antifungal agents against the fungal species tested. The highest antifungal activity showed derivatives of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and salicylic aldehydes with 3-tert-butyl, phenyl, or isopropyl substituents. S. sclerotiorum appeared to be the most susceptible to the tested compounds, with the lowest IC50 values between 0.5 and 1.8 µg/mL. We applied two variants of phytotoxicity tests for representative crop seeds and selected hydrazide–hydrazones. Most tested molecules show no or low phytotoxic effect for flax and sunflower seeds. Moreover, a positive impact on seed germination infected with fungi was observed. With the potential for application, the cytotoxicity of the hydrazide–hydrazones of choice toward MCF-10A and BALB/3T3 cell lines was lower than that of the azoxystrobin fungicide tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Naphthalene, a common member of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) found in various industrial applications, has garnered attention due to its genotoxic, mutagenic, and potentially carcinogenic effects on living organisms. Concerns have escalated regarding the widespread presence of naphthalene in the environment, its resistance to biodegradation, capacity for bioaccumulation, and associated adverse impacts. In response, numerous pilot treatment approaches have been explored to mitigate the economic consequences and prevent the degradation of soil and water quality resulting from naphthalene pollution. This study investigates the degradation of naphthalene using Kocuria rosea, a microorganism previously isolated from sawdust samples collected from a Sawmill in Ikenne, Ogun State, Southwestern Nigeria. Kocuria rosea was cultivated in nutrient broth (NB) for 24 h, and its growth was quantified through UV–Visible spectrophotometric analysis. The phytotoxicity of both untreated and treated naphthalene solutions was assessed by measuring their impact on the germination of Zea mays (corn) seeds. Furthermore, biodegradation of naphthalene was confirmed by analyzing FT-IR spectra. The results indicate that naphthalene exhibits phytotoxic effects on Z. mays germination, whereas treatment with the Kocuria rosea solution substantially increased the germination rate from 13.3 % to 46.67 %. FT-IR analysis reveals that Kocuria rosea effectively degrades naphthalene, as evidenced by the disappearance of characteristic peaks at 3049.56, 1593.25, 958.65, and 781.2. In conclusion, Kocuria rosea, isolated from a Sawmill in Ikenne, demonstrates significant potential for the bioremediation of naphthalene, offering promise as an environmentally friendly and cost-effective approach for mitigating naphthalene pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis, is a serious pest of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. The waxy coating on its body may hinder pesticide penetration, and the extensive use of pesticides is risky to humans and the environment. Considering these drawbacks, fermented plant extracts (FPEs) were explored for their potential use in controlling this pest in a more user and environmentally-friendly manner. FPEs derived from eleven plant materials were evaluated against P. solenopsis for their insecticidal activity, mealybug wax removal potential and phytotoxicity effect on H. rosa-sinensis. Five concentrations of FPE [5, 10, 15, 20, and 25% (w/v)] were prepared. Among the 11 FPEs, FPE derived from ficus, kaffir lime, and turmeric were effective in suppressing P. solenopsis with lethal concentration at 50% (LC50 value) less than 20% concentration. Although ficus FPE was the top performer in the insecticidal assay, it induced medium to very high levels of leaf damage after being treated with 15–25% concentration at 24 and 72 hr post-treatment. A low level of leaf damage was observed in treatment with turmeric and kaffir lime FPEs at 72 hr post-treatment. FPEs could remove wax from the body of P. solenopsis with no significant difference among them. In conclusion, the FPE of ficus, kaffir lime, and turmeric showed promising insecticidal effects against P. solenopsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the efficacy of the salts sodium metabisulfite (SMB), ammonium bicarbonate, sodium bicarbonate, and potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate first in vitro against the main postharvest fruit rot fungi, Alternaria alternata, Botrytis cinerea, Penicillium italicum, and Penicillium digitatum. Results showed that 0.2% SMB completely inhibited the mycelium growth of the fungal species. Ammonium bicarbonate and sodium bicarbonate were less effective at 0.2% in inhibiting mycelial growth, ranging from 57.6% to 77.6%. The least effective was potassium dihydrogen orthophosphate. Experiments were also performed in vivo on wounded apples inoculated with the most pathogenic fungus, B. cinerea, and treated with SMB at concentrations of 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, and 3%, both preventively and curatively. Results based on the decay size showed that SMB, when used as a preventive treatment, had a reduced efficacy, even with the highest concentration. However, this salt proved to be very effective at 0.5% in curative treatment since the decay was completely blocked. Our results suggest that the appropriate concentration of SMB for post-harvest treatment is 0.5% as a curative treatment. On the other hand, the 1% dose induced the onset of phytotoxicity around the wound. To assess the extent of the phytotoxicity reaction, higher concentrations of 1–4% SMB were applied to wounded fruit. Apples and oranges were inoculated or not with B. cinerea and P. digitatum, respectively. Doses of 1–4% induced phytotoxicity in the form of a discolored ring surrounding the wound on the epidermis of the fruit; this phytotoxicity enlarged as the concentration of SMB increased. The phytotoxic features were similar on apples and oranges. The methodological procedure made it possible to carry out a quantitative assessment of SMB phytotoxicity. This method is proposed as an easy-to-use technique for quantitatively estimating the phytotoxicity of antifungal compounds on post-harvest fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The premixtures flufenacet plus diflufenican and flufenacet plus diflufenican plus metribuzin are two herbicides recently registered in Greece for weed control in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) with application early post-emergence to the crop (1st–3rd leaf growth stage). To evaluate the selectivity of these new herbicides, pot experiments were conducted by applying flufenacet plus diflufenican at 240 + 120 g ai ha−1 and flufenacet plus diflufenican plus metribuzin at 119.7 + 119.7 + 44.8 g ai ha−1 to bread wheat and barley, at 1st (BBCH-11), 2nd (BBCH-12) and 3rd (BBCH-13) leaf growth stage. The efficacy of the herbicides at the above-mentioned rates in pre-emergence application was also tested on three ALS/ACCase herbicide-resistant populations of Lolium rigidum Gaudin in comparison with the pre-emergence herbicides prosulfocarb and chlorotoluron plus diflufenican at 3200 g ai ha−1 and 1380 + 92 g ai ha−1, respectively. The results revealed decreased selectivity of both premixtures when applied at BBCH-11 for both winter cereals, with flufenacet plus diflufenican being less selective compared to flufenacet plus diflufenican plus metribuzin. Both herbicides highly controlled the three herbicide-resistant L. rigidum populations. The results indicated that both premixtures are effective chemical options for the management of herbicide resistant L. rigidum. To ensure crop safety and optimize efficacy, application at BBCH-12 is recommended. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aminopyralid (2-pyridine carboxylic acid, 4-amino-3, 6-dichloro-2-pyridine carboxylic acid) is an auxin herbicide that has been used widely to control broadleaf weeds in pasture and hay fields. With no post-application withdrawal time, aminopyralid absorbed into forage material can contaminate compost feed stocks such as hay, grass bedding material, and manure. Composts derived from such feed stocks raises concerns about after-effect injuries to sensitive crops by residual aminopyralids. Biochar (BC) additive may affect the composting process and immobilizes organic pollutants. This study examined the effect of composting dairy manure/sawdust 1:1 mixture containing 10 ppb (wet) of aminopyralid with 0%, 2%, 4%, and 10% (w/w) BC levels on chemical and biological characteristics of compost, residual aminopyralid concentration, and intensity of plant injury to tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) plants after composting in 140 L plastic rotary drum reactors for two 6-month cycles. Biochar addition decreased organic matter degradation and intensified reduction in residual aminopyralid levels in a dose-dependent manner. Composting with BC concentrated more N, P, and K, caused mild plant injuries, and increased the above ground biomass compared to the no BC incorporation. Addition of BC for composting aminopyralid-contaminated dairy manure can increase the phyto safety level of compost while enhancing the key fertilizer values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cinmethylin is a potential pre-emergence herbicide that could be used to control grass weeds in winter cereals. To determine the herbicidal activity of cinmethylin against common gramineous weeds in wheat fields in China and its level of safety on wheat, we conducted the following experiments: (i) assessing the efficacy of cinmethylin against 11 grass weeds and (ii) determining its safety against 19 wheat varieties. The results showed that cinmethylin had good herbicidal efficacy against annual bluegrass (Poa annua L.), shortawn foxtail (Alopecurus aequalis Sobol.), slender meadow foxtail (Alopecurus myosuroides Huds.), Japanese foxtail (Alopecurus japonicus Steud.), Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.), British timothy (Phleum paniculatum Huds.), Asia Minor bluegrass (Polypogon fugax Nees ex Steud.), Helictotrichon tibeticum (Roshev.) Holub., and wild oat (Avena fatua L.), with a GR50 (the herbicide dose resulting in 50% growth inhibition) value of 4.50–99.21 g a.i. ha−1 in plant height and 1.43–70.34 g a.i. ha−1 in fresh weight. However, cinmethylin cannot control Japanese brome (Bromus japonicus L.) or Tausch's goatgrass (Aegilops tauschii Coss.) at a dose of 200 g a.i. ha−1. Different wheat varieties varied in their phytotoxicity to cinmethylin. Overall, there is a phytotoxicity risk when using cinmethylin on wheat, mainly to wheat roots, with a reduction in root length of 40.81–64.09% at a dose of 400 g a.i. ha−1. These findings indicate that the pre-emergence herbicide cinmethylin provides good efficacy against most grass weeds and may possess potential for weed management in wheat fields. However, attention should be given to the application dosage and the sensitivity of wheat varieties when using cinmethylin in wheat fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice straw, a byproduct of harvesting rice, must be disposed of by farmers in a variety of ways, including burning, which is hazardous for the environment. To address this issue, the straw needs to be utilized and turned into valuable products. One such product is nano-silica (SNPs), which will be synthesized and investigated in our study as a safe alternative to chemical insecticides. Rice straw-derived SNPs were synthesized using the Sol–Gel method. The contact toxicity of SNPs on Callosobruchus maculatus, a major pest of cowpea seeds, has been assessed. The size of synthesized SNPs was determined by transmission electron microscopy to be ~ 4 nm. The SNPs estimated LC50 on C. maculatus adults was 88.170 ppm after 48h exposure. By raising the tested concentration, SNPs treatment increased the mortality%, which reached 100% at 200 ppm exposures. Additionally, SNPs at LC50 treatment decreased adult longevity and the average number of emerged adults. The findings also verified that SNPs had no phytotoxic effects on the cowpea seeds germination. Rather, their application improved seed germination efficacy. This study proposed that rice straw can be utilized to manufacture highly efficient SNPs which can be efficiently employed to preserve stored grains from C. maculatus infestation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was the characterization and evaluation of applicability as a soil amendment of biochar derived from rose pruning waste at different pyrolysis temperatures (200–500 °C) and process durations (20–60 min). The biochar properties were compared to the raw material. The biochars produced at 300 °C for 40 and 60 min demonstrated the best fuel properties. These variants showed high energy gain rates (77.6 ± 1.5% and 74.8 ± 1.5%, respectively), energy densification ratios (1.35 ± 0.00 and 1.37 ± 0.00, respectively), high heating values (24,720 ± 267 J × g−1 and 25,113 ± 731 J × g−1, respectively), and relative low ash contents (5.9 ± 0.5% and 7.1 ± 0.3%, respectively). Regarding fertilizer properties, such as pH value, ash content, heavy metal content, and pollutant elution, the biochars showed better qualities than the raw material. All tested biochar did not exceed the permissible values for heavy metals, including Cr, Cd, Ni, and Pb. The most optimal properties for soil amendments were noted for biochar variants of 400 °C for 40 min, 450 °C for 20 min, and 500 °C for 20 min. Generally, biochars produced at temperatures ≥400 °C did not inhibit root elongation, except for the material produced at 450 °C for 60 min (4.08 ± 23.34%). Biochars obtained at ≥300 °C showed a positive impact on seed germination (86.67 ± 18.48–100 ± 24.14%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest species are characterized by their wealth of essential oils (EOs), which play key requested for alternative control methods against weeds, fungi and pests. This study reports the chemical composition and highlight the antioxidant, antifungal and phytotoxic properties of the EOs obtained from Eucalyptus populifolia Desf, Eucalyptus woollsiana and Eucalyptus exserta. The EOs were analyzed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Their antioxidant, antifungal and phytotoxic properties were investigated. All EOs displayed a specific richness in eucalyptol (75.94-7.01%), camphene (6.97-0.4%) globulol (5.20-5.83%) and α-pinene (0.71-12.82 %). EOs isolated from E. populifolia exhibited significant antioxidant activity. Furthermore, all investigated EOs displayed significant antifungal properties against four phytopathogenic fungi belonging to Fusarium genus. The phytotoxic activity against five weeds showed varying effectiveness on seed germination and seedling growth, which exhibited greater effectiveness compared to glyphosate. Eucalyptus EOs have the potential to be used in the formulation of biopesticides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACTSSeed germination and early seedling growth are crucial characteristics for determining a plant species ability to survive in stressed soil including mine soil (MS). In the present study, four genotypes of castor bean (Ricinus communis L.) an industrially important bioenergy crop, were grown in iron MS with different treatments of garden soil (GS) (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) to examine germination, growth indices (tolerance index (TI), seedling vigor index (SVI)) and metal accumulation potential. The study recorded significantly high germination, growth and biomass in 75% GS treatments and for the cultivar MSC-55. The TI was highest in 75% GS treatments for all genotypes, with no significant difference. The metal accumulation potential of castor was evaluated for Fe, Pb, Cu and Ni, all of which were detected in high concentration in iron MS. The translocation factors (TF) for Fe and Ni were recorded <1 for all genotypes which imply metals are stabilized in the castor roots, although for Cu and Pb it was found >1. The bioaccumulation factor was recorded highest for Fe (1.224–7.433) and Pb (0.846–9.056) for all genotypes. Furthermore, the root accumulation of Fe, Pb and Ni was observed highest with 8039.20, 177.70 and 88.10 mg kg−1, respectively. The metal extraction ratio (MER) for Fe and Pb showed the highest. Overall, the highest MER was recorded in order of MSC-55 > Leetos > Swati-1515 > Sai-33. The finding of the study indicates that the genotypes MSC-55 followed by Leetos can grow in MS and accumulate multiple metals in their root and shoots and can be employed as phytostabilizers and phytoextractors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silicon (Si) as silicic acid, Si(OH) 4 offers several benefits to the growth of plants, especially under adverse environmental conditions. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess the role of exogenous Si treatments (0.5 and 1.0 mM) in the tolerance of Fagopyrum esculentum Moench to Al stress applied at two different concentrations (0.2 and 0.4 mM). A set of agrophysiological, biochemical and antioxidant parameters were evaluated during the investigation. The exogenous Si application to Fagopyrum esculentum plants exposed to Al treatments significantly modulated the physiological and antioxidant responses to overcome the Al phytotoxicity and provide beneficial effects. The results indicated that the application of different doses of Al significantly affected the physiological parameters viz., plant growth, tolerance index, biomass accumulation (BA), relative water content (RWC), lipid peroxidation (LP), membrane stability index (MSI) and reduced glutathione (GSH) content. Likewise, aluminum-treated leaves also displayed increased hydrogen peroxide accumulation signifying the extent of the damage in F. esculentum. However, the individual and combined doses of silicon (Si) yielded beneficial effects on the physiological and antioxidant attributes. Multivariate analysis also suggested that individual and combined doses of Si improved physiological (root length (RL), shoot length (SL), root and shoot tolerance index (TI), BA, RWC, MSI and osmolytes) and modulates antioxidant defense enzymes (SOD, APX, GPX, CAT, GR and GST). The study reveals that exogenous Si application acts as a potent stress-modulating agent either via the formation of aluminum-silicate complexes or by improving the efficiency of antioxidant enzymatic activities in Al-contaminated soils. Graphical abstract of the proposed mechanism of Si-mediated Al detoxification in Fagopyrum esculentum plants [Display omitted] • Hydroxyl aluminum-silicate (HAS) complex formation in the rhizosphere is the key factor in reducing plant heavy metals (HM) uptake. • Al-treated leaves exhibit increased hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) accumulation vs. silicon (Si) treated leaves. • Exogenous Si treatment modulates osmolytes and antioxidant defense mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic chemical herbicides available to farmers and foresters are known to be hazardous, and their overuse, without possible alternatives, have resulted in some weed species developing resistance. Therefore, seaweed species were explored due to their known bioactive capability to see if they would potentially be effective as an alternative, novel bioherbicide. From a phytotoxic screen against Lactuca sativa (lettuce) seeds, the ethyl acetate extract of two Rhodophyta species, Mastocarpus stellatus (MEE) and Porphyra dioica (PEE) were found to be most active in reducing lettuce seedling growth. Through conducting pre- and post-plant emergence assays in lab trials, the phytotoxicities of both extracts were further evaluated against weed species: broad-leaf weed, Trifolium repens (white clover) and grass, Lolium multiflorum (Italian ryegrass). At 5 mg mL−1, MEE produced stronger pre-emergence phytotoxicities than PEE, significantly inhibiting seed germination and seedling growth of white clover by 77.3% and 97.2%, respectively, compared to the solvent control. For ryegrass seeds, comparing the phytotoxicities of both extracts to the solvent control, MEE inhibited germination and seedling growth by 30.2% and 66.8%, respectively, whereas PEE inhibited seedling growth by 21.1%, but had no inhibitory effect on germination. On the other hand, the post-emergence assay revealed stronger phytotoxic activities for PEE at the same concentration (5 mg mL−1). The overall growth of ryegrass and white clover plants, respectively, were reduced by 42.7% and 35.6%, due to PEE treatment, and 13.5% and 30.0%, due to MEE treatment, in comparison to the solvent control. MEE and PEE were found to contain significantly higher quantities of flavonoids compared to the more polar extracts of the same seaweeds, but it is unlikely that these mostly water-insoluble flavonoids played a major role in the observed phytotoxic effects. These findings are indicative of the presence of phytotoxins in MEE and PEE, and could possibly lead to the development of novel, greener and sustainable bioherbicide sources, to replace or augment synthetic herbicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microcystins (MCs), natural hepatotoxic compounds produced by cyanobacteria, pose significant risks to water quality, ecosystem stability, and the well-being of animals, plants, and humans when present in elevated concentrations. The escalating contamination of irrigation water with MCs presents a growing threat to terrestrial plants. The customary practice of irrigating crops from local water sources, including lakes and ponds hosting cyanobacterial blooms, serves as a primary conduit for transferring these toxins. Due to their high chemical stability and low molecular weight, MCs have the potential to accumulate in various parts of plants, thereby increasing health hazards for consumers of agricultural products, which serve as the foundation of the Earth's food chain. MCs can bioaccumulate, migrate, potentially biodegrade, and pose health hazards to humans within terrestrial food systems. This study highlights that MCs from irrigation water reservoirs can bioaccumulate and come into contact with plants, transferring into the food chain. Additionally, it investigates the natural mechanisms that organisms employ for conjugation and the microbial processes involved in MC degradation. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the role of MCs in the terrestrial food chain and to elucidate the specific health risks associated with consuming crops irrigated with water contaminated with these toxins, further research is necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytotoxic activity of essential oil emulsions (EOEs) of aromatic plants such as Mentha piperita, Pelargonium graveolens, Matricaria chamomilla, Chrysopogon zizanioides, Pogostemon patchouli, Mentha arvensis, and aqueous extracts of Andrographis paniculata were evaluated for problematic weeds like Avena fatua and Phalaris minor, along with wheat (Triticum aestivum) as a test crop through laboratory bioassay studies during 2020–2021. The chemical composition of essential oils was analyzed through GC/GC–MS. Results of the laboratory bioassay revealed that EOEs of M. piperita, C. zizanioides, M. arvensis, and an aqueous extract of A. paniculata as pre-emergence bioherbicides strongly inhibited germination and seedling growth of the tested weed species in a dose dependent manner, with P. minor and A. fatua being selectively more sensitive than T. aestivum. Percent seed germination varied between treatments, ranging from 3.45–48.28%, 3.45–100%, and 4.55–90.91% among T. aestivum, A. fatua, and P. minor, respectively. Based on these results, these four treatments showing the highest phytotoxic activity were further evaluated through a pot culture study. The results showed that treatments with essential oil emulsions and aqueous extracts had a negative impact on seedling Vigor Index I and Vigor Index II. Comparing physiological processes in P. minor, like relative electrolyte leakages, essential oil of M. arvensis at concentration 1% + 8% (pre emergence + early post emergence) had the highest levels of 47.16%, followed by the value of 38.86% which was recorded in C. zizanioides at concentration 1% + 8% (pre emergence + early post emergence) and 22.80% reported in M. piperita at concentration 1% + 8% (pre emergence + early post emergence) treated plants. These levels were higher than those in the untreated control (10.13%). Indeed, at higher concentrations of each treatment, grain yield per plant decreased in the range of 7–29% with respect to the untreated control. The data on phytotoxicity rating showed that visible injury symptoms in T. aestivum plants were less severe as compared to the symptoms recorded in A. fatua and P. minor weeds. This is the first in-depth study to show that emulsions of essential oils from P. graveolens, C. zizanioides, and P. patchouli are phytotoxic. It is also the first time that M. arvensis and C. zizanioides have been shown to be pre-emergence bioherbicides in wheat. Hence, our study presents these EOEs as novel candidates of biological origin that can be used in sustainable weed management, especially in organic farming systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to evaluate management of Meloidogyne incognita in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) using a rotation with castor bean (Ricinus communis L.), a potential cash crop. Reproduction of the nematode on castor bean in the greenhouse and effect of its planting on nematode populations on cotton in the field were tested. The effect of castor bean cake on nematode populations and its direct effect on cotton yield were also evaluated. Castor bean was a non-host to M. incognita in the trials. In addition, a preliminary field study showed that castor bean produced 1.2 t seed/ha when used in M. incognita infested areas, reduced populations of the nematode, and improved cotton productivity in the following season. Castor bean cake also reduced M. incognita populations. However, castor bean cake cannot be applied at doses above 100 kg/ha in the cotton planting furrow due to a phytotoxic effect on the crop. The most appropriate rate was 60 kg/ha applied to the furrow, decreasing in the nematode population at 80 days after planting and gall index as well as increasing cotton yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition and some biological activities of the essential oils (EOs) from needles of Pinus canariensis, P. jeffreyi, and P. taeda cultivated in Tunisia. The chemical composition of the EOs revealed the presence of 119 components, with monoterpene hydrocarbons (in EOs of P. canariensis and P. taeda) and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (in P. jeffreyi EO) being the main chemical classes. The EOs showed significant inhibitory effects on the germination and seedling and radical growth of the weeds, Sinapis arvensis, Lolium rigidum, and Trifolium campestre. The EO of P. jeffreyi exhibited the highest phytotoxicity, while T. campestre was the most tolerant seed. The EOs showed antibiofilm activity against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes) and Gram-negative (Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli) pathogenic bacterial strains, depending on the EO, and the concentration tested. Overall, the EOs displayed efficacy against mature biofilms and were effective also against the metabolism of the sessile cells in the biofilm. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential applications of these EOs in phytotoxic and antibiofilm strategies, for agriculture, food and pharmaceutical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Essential oils (EOs) from inflorescences (EO-i), stems (EO-s) and leaves (EO-l) of Anethum graveolens are analyzed by GC and GC-MS. The main components are α-phellandrene (51.44%) and p-cymene (22.65%) in the EO-i, p-cymene (50.75%) and α-phellandrene (35.73%) in EO-s and p-cymene (40.01%) and α-phellandrene (36.38%) in EO-l. The phytotoxic activity was tested against germination and growth of aerial parts and roots of dicotyledones (Sinapis arvensis and Trifolium campestre) and monocotyledone (Lolium multiflorum) weeds. The EOs proved to be particularly active against S. arvensis and T. campestre, causing total inhibition of germination and growth at the highest doses (2.0 and 1.5 μL/mL) with IC50 values included between 0.3 and 1.6 mg/mL. The antibacterial and antibiofilm activity was tested against Gram positive (Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus and Listeria monocytogenes) and Gram negative (Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) pathogenic bacterial strains. EOs presented MICs lower than those of Tetracycline (20-24 mg/mL) against most bacterial strains (from 4 to 6 mg/mL). EOs were found to be active in inhibiting bacterial biofilm formation with IC50 values between 1.47 and 3.85 mg/mL. The activity against bacterial metabolism occurred for EO-i and EO-s against A. baumannii and E. coli with IC50 between 0.99 and 5.39 mg/mL. This investigation provides data about the chemical variation among different parts of A. graveolens and encourages the use of its EOs as natural phytotoxic and antibacterial agents in agriculture, food and pharmaceutical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The valorization of date palm wastes as bioresources has received little attention. In this context, the feasibility of date palm waste valorization through composting and the application effects on barley plants production under control condition was investigated. The principal requirements for compost to be safely used are stability and maturity that refer, respectively, to the microbial biomass activity's level, germination tests, and plant growth bioassays or phytotoxicity. Indeed, the phytotoxicity of composted date palm waste used for seed germination and seedling growth bioassays was researched. The finished compost values of the C/N ratio were 15.36 and 18.58%, 1.21%, 0.54%, and 0.95% for total organic carbon, N, P, and K contents, respectively. The concentration of heavy metals and microelements were lower and met the requirement established by national standards. Moreover, the end product was free from harmful pathogens like Salmonella, Escherichia coli, total coliforms, and fecal coliform bacteria. Application of compost extract (especially 25%, 50%, and 75%) did not affect barley seed germination, stimulated hypocotyl and radicle growth and is characterized by a GI exceeding 90%, demonstrating its stability and lack of phytotoxic effect. Moreover, compost promotes plant growth, improved physiological parameters, photosynthetic pigments, and plant biomass. According to the results, the prepared compost especially at the dose T3 (soil amended with 30 t/ha) increased the nutrients availability and uptake which may be the reason for an increase in photosynthetic activity, chlorophyll synthesis, and dry matter accumulation. Composting may well represent an acceptable solution for disposing of date palm waste and be of great interest to sustainable agriculture in Tunisia oasis ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural products are usually considered harmless; however, these substances need to be consumed with caution. Biological assays with plant models are a suitable alternative for prospective studies to assess natural product-initiated toxicity. The aim of this study was to examine the toxic potential of leaf and flower extracts derived from Tropaeolum majus L. a widely used plant in traditional medicine. Seeds of Lactuca sativa L. were exposed to T. majus extracts and based upon the seedling growth curve values, the 50% Inhibition Concentration (IC50) was calculated and applied for cell cycle analysis exposure. Both extracts contained organic acids, proteins, amino acids, and terpene steroids. Sesquiterpene lactones and depside were detected in leaf extracts. The higher concentration tested exhibited a marked phytotoxic effect. The extracts induced clastogenic, aneugenic cytotoxic, and potential mutagenic effects. The possible relationships between the classes of compounds found in the extracts and effects on cells and DNA were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zinc oxide (ZnO-NP) and copper (CuO-NP) nanoparticles have been proposed for crop fertilization, but studies demonstrating their efficiencies and evaluating their phytotoxicities compared to bulk sources are still scarce. Here, we assessed the dissolution of Zn and Cu oxides of nanoparticulate and bulk sources and their effects on cowpea's biomass, nutritional status, and photosynthetic apparatus. The results showed that Zn and Cu dissolution rate and release from nanoparticulate oxides were higher than bulk oxides. Regardless of the source, the addition of Zn and Cu concentrations to the solution increased the root, stem, and leaf tissue concentrations of these micronutrients and reduced the contents of nutrients and pigments, with consequent inhibition of photosynthesis as indicated by the parameters of chlorophyll fluorescence. Except for the lowest rate of the sources tested, biomass was reduced due to metal toxicity. However, biomass decreasing was not related to the source itself but to the nanoparticle source higher solubility, which promoted higher phytotoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From the aerial parts of Salvia carranzae Zamudio and Bedolla, three new icetexane-type diterpenoids were isolated. Their structures were established through spectroscopic methods and named the following: salvicarranzanolide (1), 19-deoxo-salvicarranzanolide (2) and 19-deoxo-20-deoxy-salvicarranzanolide (3). In addition, the known icetexane-type diterpenoids, 6,7,11,14-tetrahydro-7-oxo-icetexone (4), iso-icetexone (5), 19-deoxo-iso-icetexone (6), icetexone (7), 19-deoxo-icetexone (8) and 7α-acetoxy-6,7-dihydroicetexone (9), were also isolated, along with the abietanes sessein (10) and ferruginol (11). α-Tocopherol was also identified. Compounds 5, 6 and 8 were tested for their antiproliferative activity using the sulforhodamine B assay on six cancer and one normal human cell lines. Diterpenoids 5 and 6 showed noteworthy antiproliferative activity, exhibiting an IC50 (μM) = 0.43 ± 0.01 and 1.34 ± 0.04, respectively, for U251 (glioblastoma), an IC50 (μM) = 0.45 ± 0.01 and 1.29 ± 0.06 for K5621 (myelogenous leukemia), 0.84 ± 0.07 and 1.03 ± 0.10 for HCT-15 (colon cancer), and 0.73 ± 0.06 and 0.95 ± 0.09 for SKLU-1 (lung adenocarcinoma) cell lines. On the other hand, the phytotoxicity of compounds 5–7 and 9–10 was evaluated on seed germination and root growth in some weeds such as Medicago sativa, Panicum miliaceum, Amaranthus hypochondriacus and Trifolium pratense as models. While compounds 5 and 10 exhibited a moderate inhibitory effect on the root growth of A. hypochondriacus and T. pratense at 100 ppm, the diterpenoids 6, 7 and 9 were ineffective in all the plant models. Taxonomic positions based on the chemical profiles found are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six surface-active ionic liquids (SAILs) with herbicidal anions were synthetized (with a yield of ≥ 88 %) and their structure was confirmed by NMR spectra. Subsequently, their surface properties, phytotoxicity and bulk aggregation behavior in aqueous solution investigated. The compounds studied have an amphiphilic structure and, due to the presence of two long alkyl chains in the cation, they displayed surface activity (CMC values, ranging from 0.13 mmol L−1 to 1.36 mmol L−1). Our results provide explanations for the role of counterions in the physical and chemical properties of SAILs. Indeed, the aromatic anion affects the hydrophilic charge of the surface-active compounds. The SAILs containing the [MCPA]− and [MCPP]− anions were the most phytotoxic to representatives of dicotyledonous plants compared to the other compounds. By analysis of the structure of SAILs, we demonstrate that counterions play an important role in self-assembly and adsorption processes in aqueous solutions, and therefore, in the potential biological application of these compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Used biofilter bed media after biological treatment of MSW are characterized. • Properties of used biofilter media depend on type of biological treatment method. • Bed media from biodrying pose little threat to the environment. • Bed media from aerobic biostabilization exhibit high phytotoxicity. • Aerobic biostabilization has impact on microbiological contamination of bed media. Biofilters are commonly used in municipal solid waste treatment (MSW) facilities to remove odors and pollutants from process gases. However, the effectiveness of biofilter bed media decreases over time, necessitating periodic replacement. The type of the treatment process may affect the lifespan of the bed and the way it should be utilized after replacement. This study aimed to analyze the physical, chemical, calorific, microbiological, and phytotoxic parameters of bed media in biofilters operated at an industrial scale in MSW treatment plants. The experiments included three full cycles of biofiltering gases from biodrying, composting, and aerobic biostabilization in two variations. Physicochemical properties (moisture, organic matter, carbon, nitrogen, sulfur, heavy metal contents), respiration activity (AT4), phytotoxicity, and microorganism abundance were determined for initial materials and samples from two biofilter layers collected after each cycle. Results revealed a substantial reduction in AT4 (by 63%-87% compared to initial material), significant moisture content increase in the bottom layers (by 61% or more, depending on the process), and a considerable decrease in microorganism abundance. Biofilter bed media from biodrying and composting exhibited low environmental risk (low heavy metal concentrations, negligible phytotoxicity, and microbiological stability). However, bed packings from aerobic biostabilization processes showed significant inhibition of indicator plants and incomplete sanitization (presence of pathogens like E. coli and Salmonella spp.). Therefore, these bed packings can be utilized for energy recovery, such as incineration after drying. This research provides significant insights into the effectiveness and safety of biofilter bed media in MSW treatment plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil contamination by uranium presents a burgeoning global environmental concern, exerting detrimental effects on both agricultural production and soil health. Biochar, a carbonaceous material derived from biomass pyrolysis, exhibits considerable potential for remediating uranium-contaminated soils. However, a comprehensive review of the effects of biochar on the fate and accumulation of uranium in soil–plant systems remains conspicuously absent. In this paper, uranium sources and contamination are reviewed, and the impact of biochar on uranium immobilization and detoxification in soil–plant systems is analyzed. We reviewed the status of uranium contamination in soils globally and found that mining activities are currently the main sources. Further meta-analysis revealed that biochar addition significantly reduced the soil uranium bioavailability and shoot uranium accumulation, and their effect value is 58.9% (40.8–76.8%) and 39.7% (15.7–63.8%), respectively. Additionally, biochar enhances the soil microenvironment, providing favourable conditions for promoting plant growth and reducing uranium mobility. We focused on the mechanisms governing the interaction between biochar and uranium, emphasising the considerable roles played by surface complexation, reduction, ion exchange, and physical adsorption. The modification of biochar by intensifying these mechanisms can promote uranium immobilisation in soils. Finally, biochar alleviates oxidative stress and reduces uranium accumulation in plant tissues, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of uranium on plant growth and development. Overall, our review highlights the capacity of biochar to remediate uranium contamination in soil–plant systems through diverse mechanisms, providing valuable insights for sustainable environmental remediation. Highlights Biochar reduces uranium mobility through a variety of mechanisms, including surface complexation, reduction, ion exchange, and physical adsorption. Biochar significantly reduces uranium bioavailability in soil and limits its accumulation in plants. Modified biochar has been shown to enhance its effectiveness in immobilising uranium. Biochar application to soil not only promotes uranium remediation but also improves soil quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

White lupine (Lupinus albus L.) is a well-known green manure crop in Hungary, but the production of seeds can be badly impacted by weeds. The sweet white lupine 'Nelly' was grown on acidic sandy soil, and experimental plots were treated with different herbicides. Flumioxazin (0.06 kg ha−1), pendimethalin (5 L ha−1), dimethenamid-P (1.4 L ha−1), pethoxamid (2 L ha−1), clomazone (0.2 L ha−1), metobromuron (3 L ha−1), and metribuzin (0.55 L ha−1) were applied pre-emergence (1–2 days after sowing). Imazamox was also tested and applied post-emergence (1 L ha−1) when some basal leaves were clearly distinct (BBCH 2.3). In this paper, the weed control efficiency and the phytotoxicity of herbicides applied to lupine are examined. Vegetation index datasets were collected 12 times using a manual device and 2 times using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The phytotoxicity caused by herbicides was visually assessed on several occasions throughout the breeding season. The frequency of weed occurrence per treatment was assessed. The harvested seed yields, in kg ha−1, were analyzed after the seeds were cleaned. The herbicides metribuzin and imazamox caused extensive damage to white lupine. While pendimethalin, dimethenamid-P, pethoxamid, and clomazone were outstanding in several measured indicators, the final ranking which summarizes all the variables showed that only the pethoxamid and clomazone treatments performed better than the control. Metribuzin and imazamox were highly phytotoxic to white lupine. In the future, it would be appropriate to integrate more post-emergence active substances into trials, and the pre-emergence herbicides involved in this study should be further tested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safflower is a multipurpose crop with several uses that can offer benefits to rainfed cereal-based cropping systems due to its tolerance to cold, drought, salinity, and its reduced need for agricultural inputs. Safflower requires good weed control for optimum yields because it is a very poor competitor with weeds, especially at the early growth stage, but registered pre-emergence herbicides are not available. This research investigated the effects of several pre-emergence herbicides on weed control and the yield of safflower in central Italy, through two field experiments in 2019 and 2020. Aclonifen, metazachlor, s-metolachlor, propyzamide, and metribuzin were applied as pre-emergence herbicides. The main weeds were the following: Papaver rhoeas L., Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronq., and Ammi majus L. in experiment 1, and wild sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) in experiment 2. Metazachlor and metribuzin gave the highest phytotoxicity on safflower in both experiments, with values ranging from 48% to 75% and from 30% to 75% (in a scale of 0–100%), respectively, and seem to be not advisable as pre-emergence herbicides. Aclonifen, s-metolachlor, and propyzamide can be considered selective and safe to the safflower, showing the lowest values of phytotoxicity that ranged from 0 to 10%. Metazachlor and s-metolachlor gave the highest total weed control with values of 92% and 97%, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous and organic solvent extracts of stem bark, leaves and pods of Cassia fistula L. and their residues were tested for their phytotoxic effects on seed germination and seedling growth of Raphanus sativus L. Bioassay with different solvents extracts revealed that inhibition by ethyl acetate extract of stem bark, leaves and pods was more than other extracts. Epiafzelechin and epicatechin (tannins or the building blocks of the proanthocyanidins) were present in the ethyl acetate extract of pods, kaempferol was obtained from the stem bark, while 1,8-dihydroxy-3-methyl anthraquinone (chrysophenol) and 1,8-dihydroxy-3-methyl-6-methoxy acetophenone (physcion) were found in the leaves of Cassia fistula L. The chemical studies revealed that epiafzelechin and epicatechin (tannins) most inhibited the plumule and radicle growth of Raphanus sativus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the allelopathic effects of methanol and chloroform extracts from two invasive plant species, (Lantana camara and Broussonetia papyrifera), on radish seed germination and lettuce seedling development. The experiments employed radish seed germination assays, seedling growth measurements and the sandwich technique to evaluate the phytotoxicity of the extracts. The results revealed a concentration-dependent inhibitory impact on radish seed germination, with L. camara methanol extract exhibiting the highest suppression (72.85 ± 2.69 %) at 10,000 ppm. Comparative analyses between L. camara and B. papyrifera extracts demonstrated variations in their effects on root and hypocotyl development. Furthermore, the study explored the impact of these extracts on the germination index of radish seeds, indicating a progressive decline in seed germination rates with increasing extract concentrations. B. papyrifera methanol extract at 10,000 ppm showed the highest germination inhibition (60.48 ± 1.77 %). The sandwich technique, applied to lettuce seedlings, highlighted significant root and hypocotyl inhibition with increasing concentrations of L. camara and B. papyrifera extracts. Phytochemical analyses identified various compounds, including alkaloids, tannins, glycosides, flavonoids and phenols in both methanol and chloroform extracts. The presence of these compounds, especially phenolic chemicals, alkaloids and saponins is implicated in the observed phytotoxic effects. The study concludes that extracts from these invasive plants possess potent allelopathic properties, with implications for agricultural and environmental management. The findings emphasize the importance of understanding allelopathic interactions in developing sustainable strategies for crop protection and invasive species control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A proper formulation is crucial to improve the herbicidal effects of essential oils and their selectivity. In this study, we investigated the physicochemical properties of bio-based nanoemulsions (CNs) containing several concentrations of caraway (Carum carvi) essential oil stabilized with Eco Tween 80, as a surfactant, maintaining 1:1 proportions. Detailed physicochemical characteristics of the CNs revealed that their properties were most desired at 2% of the oil and surfactant, i.e., the smallest droplet size, polydispersity index, and viscosity. The CNs caused biochemical changes in maize and barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus-galli) seedlings, however, to a different extent. Barnyard grass has overall metabolism (measured as a thermal power) decreased by 39–82% when exposed to the CNs. The CNs triggered changes in the content and composition of carbohydrates in the endosperm of both species' seedlings in a dose–response manner. The foliar application of CNs caused significant damage to tissues of young maize and barnyard grass plants. The effective dose of the CN (ED50, causing a 50% damage) was 5% and 17.5% oil in CN for barnyard grass and maize tissues, respectively. Spraying CNs also decreased relative water content in leaves and affected the efficiency of photosynthesis by disturbing the electron transport chain. We found that barnyard grass was significantly more susceptible to the foliar application of CNs than maize, which could be used to selectively control this species in maize crops. However, further studies are needed to verify this hypothesis under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was carried out to explore the impact of petroleum hydrocarbons (PHs)-degrading microbial consortium (MC) on phytoremediation ability and growth of water hyacinth (WH) plants in water contaminated with lead (Pb) and PHs. Buckets (12-L capacity) were filled with water and WH plants, PHs (2,400 mg L−1) and Pb (10 mg L−1) in respective buckets. Plants were harvested after 30 days of transplanting and results showed that PHs and Pb substantially reduced the agronomic (up to 62%) and physiological (up to 49%) attributes of WH plants. However, the application of MC resulted in a substantial increase in growth (38%) and physiology (22%) of WH plants over uninoculated contaminated control. The WH + MC were able to accumulate 93% Pb and degrade/accumulate 72% of PHs as compared to initial concentration. Furthermore, combined use of WH plants and MC in co-contamination of PHs and Pb, reduced Pb and PHs contents in water by 74% and 68%, respectively, than that of initially applied concentration. Our findings suggest that the WH in combination with PHs-degrading MC could be a suitable nature-based water remediation technology for organic and inorganic contaminants and in future it can be used for decontamination of mix pollutants from water bodies. Phytoremediation by aquatic macrophytes is a promising technique for the cleanup of environmental toxins from wastewater. To our knowledge, this is the first study reporting the integrated use of water hyacinth (WH) plants and a newly developed multi-trait microbial consortium for the simultaneous remediation of organic (i.e., petroleum hydrocarbons) and inorganic (i.e., lead) pollutants from the contaminated water. Findings of this study provide the basic but important information on the combined use of WH and microbes for remediation of mix pollution from water bodies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cadmium is a noxious heavy metal that is commonly found in the soil while its concentration is increasing in soil because of industrialization at the global level. It does not only reduce the yield of crops but also adulterates food and underground drinkable water. The availability of Cd beyond the threshold level may cause many problems in human beings. Exposure to Cd for a short period causes inhalation, muscle pain and lung damage while for a longer time, it may cause bone and kidney-related issues. The present study aimed to study the phytotoxic effect of Cadmium-induced stress on morphological changes and their impact on the yield of rice plants. Methods: Present piece of research work was carried out on the Research Farm of Lovely Professional University, Department of Agronomy, School of Agriculture, in 2019-20. A range of five different concentrations of CdCl2 was comprised with statistical design CRD. The range of 100 to 300 ppm CdCl2 was considered to induce Cd-based stress. The standard procedures were followed to measure the growth parameters at regular intervals while the SPSS software was used to analyze the significance of the data. Result: Cadmium-induced stress was created artificially in an experiment to analyze the detrimental effect on the growth and yield of rice plants. As the externally imposed cadmium stress increased from the control set (T0), all the growth parameters along with grain yield, Biological yield hill-1 (g) and harvest index (%) started to decline till the maximum concentrations of CdCl2, i.e. 300 ppm. As per the DAT is concerned, % reduction of each parameter was also calculated to the known intensity of toxicity where the maximum % reduction was recorded at 50 DAT in the leaf area and LAI (38.47% and 38.38%) while the maximum % reduction of CGR was recorded at 50-75 DAT (35%). However, the % reduction in grain yield, biological yield hill-1 (g) and harvest index % were recorded at the highest concentration of CdCl2 (31.87, 28.70 g and 11.1%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Synthetic pyrethroid contamination in water is a serious environmental concern as this pesticide is highly toxic to aquatic animals. Phytoremediation using aquatic plants that can tolerate and accumulate pyrethroid pesticides is an interesting alternative. In this study, the phytotoxicity of cypermethrin and deltamethrin, alone or in combination, to three aquatic plants, Azolla microphylla, Salvinia cucullata, and Spirodela polyrrhiza were tested. The results show that S. cucullata was the most sensitive species because the pigment content in the fronds significantly decreased when exposed to pyrethroid in water. Azolla microphylla was the most tolerant species because the pigment content in their fronds significantly increased when exposed to pyrethroid and cypermethrin, which could also significantly increase the plant fresh weight of A. microphylla. Both species could accumulate synthetic pyrethroid pesticides in their tissue. The bioconcentration factors of cypermethrin and deltamethrin in A. microphylla were 3,508.8 and 2,323.5, respectively, while the bioconcentration factors of cypermethrin and deltamethrin in S. cucullata were 453.0 and 381.7, respectively. Azolla microphylla is appropriate for use in pyrethroid phytoremediation in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work deals with simple hydrothermal preparation of magnetically separable BiVO4/N-rGO/CuFe2O4 Z-scheme hybrid photocatalyst for efficient detoxification of p-bromophenol (p-BP). BiVO4 is one of the most efficient visible light catalyst, however, suffers with photo-corrosion and high recombination of charge carriers that restricts its applications. Addition of graphene oxide doped with nitrogen are believed to overcome these issues. Further addition of CuFe2O4 enhances the catalytic degradation and helps in separating the catalyst. With these merits BiVO4/N-rGO/CuFe2O4 could be a promising photocatalyst for detoxification of p-BP. After 60 min of irradiation 94.1 ± 1.2% degradation was achieved by the BiVO4/N-rGO/CuFe2O4 (k = 0.01749 min−1) while only 53.8 ± 2.3% was observed in BiVO4 (k = 0.00674 min−1). The catalyst could be able to recover using external magnet and showed 86.4% of degradation efficiency even after five recycles, which suggested its good stability. The degradation products identification and pathway were proposed based on LC-ESI/MS analysis. Moreover, phytotoxicity assessment of the degradation products was investigated on Phaseolus vulgaris in which the germination index (GI) was about 11.4% for pure p-BP, while it was about 83.03% for degradation products. Thus, the results suggested that more efficient p-BP detoxification was achieved during this photodegradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on different chemo-types of Tunisian Eucalyptus essential oils (EOs) and their potential for controlling aphids, phytopathogenic fungi, weed germination and seedling growth. The EOs, obtained from Eucalyptus astringens (Maiden) Maiden and Eucalyptus lehmannii (Schauer) Benth. leaves through hydrodistillation, were analyzed using GC-MS. The chemical analysis revealed a significant presence of oxygenated monoterpenes (ranging from 41.0% to 83.0%), primarily 1,8-cineole (ranging from 30.5% to 58.5%), and oxygenated sesquiterpenes, mainly globulol (19.0%) for E. astringens. In contrast, α-pinene (7.0%) was the second most abundant chemical class for E. lehmannii. Statistical analysis demonstrated that both EOs were effective against aphids, fungi, and weeds based on their composition. E. lehmannii showed high efficacy against aphids, causing complete mortality in Aphis fabae Scopoli and an 87.28 ± 0.65% mortality rate in Aphis nerii Fonscolombe at a concentration of 0.6 mg/mL. E. astringens exhibited antifungal activity with consistent inhibitory effects exceeding 50.59 ± 0.87% against Fusarium oxysporum Schltdl., and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary displayed even higher susceptibility with an inhibition rate of 83.33 ± 1.10%. Similarly, E. lehmannii inhibited fungal growth by nearly 50%, with Fusarium culmorum Schltdl. exhibiting a minimum inhibition rate of 45.59 ± 0.71%. Both EOs also displayed significant herbicidal potential by impeding weed germination and seedling growth. Sinapis arvensis L. was particularly susceptible, with complete inhibition observed at a concentration of 2 mg/mL. Overall, these findings highlight the potential application of these Eucalyptus EOs for bio-control, underscoring their diverse characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flowers of Paulownia spp. wither and fall on a large scale after blooming in spring and have potential allelopathic effects on surrounding plants, including crops and weeds. In this study, the phytotoxic effects of water extracts of Paulownia tomentosa flower litter (EPF) on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), green bristlegrass (Setaria viridis L.) and purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) were evaluated in the laboratory. The mode of action of the phytotoxicity of EPF on lettuce seedlings was studied and the secondary metabolites in EPF were analyzed by liquid chromatography high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). The results show that EPF significantly inhibited the seed germination and seedling growth of four target plants in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, EPF could induce the excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) flowing with oxidative damage of the lipid bilayer of the biofilm, resulting in reduced cell viability and even apoptosis in lettuce. There were 66 secondary metabolites identified by LC-HRMS in P. tomentosa flowers. Among them, 10 compounds, including salicylic acid, caffeic acid, parthenolide, 7-hydroxycoumarin and abscisic acid (ABA), were all known allelochemicals. In summary, P. tomentosa flower litter displayed significant allelopathic effects, which were related to the accumulation of ROS in target plants. Phenolic acids, flavonoids as well as ABA are probably the main allelochemicals of P. tomentosa flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Storage pests and the food spoilage they cause are problems of great concern. Using essential oil obtained from different plants as an insecticide against these storage pests can be considered an environmentally friendly pest management option. Lantana camara Linn. (family Verbenaceae) is a flowering species, and is also a noxious weed that can proliferate well in nearly all geographical habitats. A biopesticide derived from the essential oil extracted from this plant can offer an effective solution for controlling storage pests. The goal of this study is to extract and analyse the chemical composition of essential oil obtained from L. camara leaves, and assess its effectiveness as a bioactive substance against three storage pests: Tribolium castaneum, Lasioderma serricorne, and Callosobruchus chinensis. The yield of essential oil extracted from L. camara leaves was about 0.24 ± 0.014%. By employing the GC-MS technique, the major phytochemicals contained in L. camara leaf essential oil were identified as caryophyllene (69.96%), isoledene (12%), and ɑ-copaene (4.11%). The essential oil exhibited excellent fumigant toxicity (LC50 of 16.70 mg/L air for T. castaneum, 4.141 mg/L air for L. serricorne and 6.245 mg/L air for C. chinensis at 24 h), contact toxicity (LC50 of 8.93 mg/cm2 for T. castaneum, 4.82 mg/cm2 for L. serricorne and 6.24 mg/cm2 for C. chinensis after 24 h) along with effective repellent activity towards the test insects. In addition, the oil showed no significant phytotoxicity on the germination of paddy seeds. This presents the potential to utilize a weed in developing a biopesticide for effectively managing stored product insects because of its strong bioactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Environmental pollutants act as stressors for plants, inducing different stresses like physiological changes, variation in nutritional value, biochemical stress and photosynthetic blockage, and food loss. Phthalate esters are one of the environmental pollutants most commonly used as plasticizers in packaging materials. They leach out into the soil and accumulate in plants via root take-up. The present research work was carried out to check the phytotoxic effect of dibutyl phthalate, dimethyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, and di-n-octyl phthalate, their exposure to Malondialdehyde contents, and the consequent impact on the total phenolic content of edible parts of plants. The edible plants tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), lettuce (Lactuca sativa), radish (Raphanus sativus), turnip (Brassica rapa subsp. rapa), spinach (Spinacia oleracea), coriander (Coriandrum sativum), cabbage (Brassica oleracea), cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis), and carrot (Daucus carota subsp. sativus) were exposed to 0, 10, and 20pbb of all four phthalate esters. After 10 days of exposure, TPC and MDA contents were analyzed spectrophotometrically. The exposure of phthalate esters significantly increased TPC in leaves, and MDA in the root and leaves of plants, except that of DnOP which decreased MDA content in radish leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sheath blight is one of the most important rice diseases and its control is generally achieved by the use of fungicides, but the economic and environmental costs involved have led to a search for alternative management approaches. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of eight defence inducers against the rice sheath blight pathogen, Rhizoctonia solani AG1‐IA. The results showed that 10 mM p‐aminobenzoic acid (PABA) and 3 mM vitamin B9 (VB9)‐treated plants had significantly lower disease indices, at 2.56 and 3.49, respectively, compared to the control at 5.36 in growth room conditions. The direct effect studies showed that PABA significantly suppressed fungal mycelial growth, sclerotial formation and hyphal regeneration ability. However, VB9 showed no effect on mycelial growth but promoted sclerotial formation and hyphal regeneration. Histological observation showed a decreased lesion size and lower amount of hyphal DNA in inducer‐treated leaves. Reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR revealed that OsPR1b was significantly induced by VB9 and the expression of OsPR5 was potentiated by PABA, which indicates that the salicylic acid pathway is possibly involved in VB9‐induced resistance, and the antifungal protein OsPR5 probably contributes partially to PABA protection against R. solani. Immediate control effects of PABA and VB9 were also found after disease establishment. Under greenhouse conditions, the control effects of PABA and VB9 were 29.8% and 40.5%, respectively. These findings reveal that the application of PABA and VB9 to complement plant resistance to sheath blight appears to be an effective strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the Ca-alleviating effect on sodium salt-induced phytotoxicity, wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) cultivar Xihan 3 seedlings were treated with 150 mM NaCl, CaCl2 (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mM), Ca2+-channel blocker LaCl3, and/or Ca2+ chelator, ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA) alone or in combination, to investigate seedling growth and photosynthetic characteristics. NaCl (150 mM) exposure alone suppressed a growth of seedling, weakened photosynthetic efficiency and chlorophyll (Chl) fluorescence parameters, reduced photosynthetic pigments, Ca2+ and calmodulin (CaM) contents, and downregulated TaCaM expression in wheat leaves. The opposite changes of these parameters were caused by 0.5 or 1 mM CaCl2 treatments alone. Moreover, 0.5 or 1 mM CaCl2 application effectively alleviated sodium salt-induced changes of these parameters, which was blocked by LaCl3 or EGTA. Therefore, exogenous Ca presence effectively promoted the growth of NaCl-stressed wheat seedlings through the enhancement of photosynthesis and Chl synthesis mediated by the Ca-CaM signal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The major area under black gram are cultivated as rice fallow crop to harness the available soil moisture and other resources without application of any inputs as that of other input intensive crops. Weeds are one of the important biotic factors which affect the growth and yield of black gram. The weeds can be effectively managed in black gram by the herbicide applied in the previous crop viz., transplanted rice. Since, the black gram has quick ground cover, hence initial weed management is very much important. In order to manage the weeds in rice fallow black gram crop evaluation of Triafamone herbicide applied to the transplanted rice crop was carried out in succeeding black gram crop in terms of the growth and yield of black gram. Methods: Field experiments were conducted during Kharif, 2019 (July to August) and Rabi 2019-20 (November to January) at Wetland farm of Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to study the residual effect of herbicides applied in transplanted rice on succeeding black gram growth and productivity. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The treatments consisted of four doses (30, 40, 50 and 100 g/ha) of new rice herbicide Triafamone 20% SC each as pre emergence and early post emergence, along with check herbicides Pretilachlor 50% EC 750 ml/ha and Pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10% WP 15 ml/ha as early post-emergence along with farmers practice (two hand weedings), weed free and weedy checks. Result: The weed flora of the experimental field consisted of weed complex including grasses, sedges and broad leaved weeds. Among the different dose of herbicides applied, Triafamone 20% SC at 100 g/ha markedly suppressed the weeds growth. There were no phytotoxic effects of herbicides on succeeding black gram. Different doses and time herbicides applied in transplanted rice did not affect the germination of succeeding black gram. Higher weed control efficiency, growth and yield component and yield of black gram were recorded with the Triafamone at 40 g/ha as pre emergence and early post emergence application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]