Search

Ionic interactions affect the mineral composition of plants, which can cause nutritional disorders with reflections on yield, post-harvest quality, and food safety. Thus, this study evaluated the interaction between nitrogen (N) and sulfur (S) and its effects on onion production and post-harvest quality. The study was conducted in a completely randomized design, with a 3 × 5 factorial scheme and four replications. The treatments consisted of a combination of three S rates (0, 20, and 40 mg dm−3) and five N rates (0, 40, 60, 80, and 100 mg dm−3), applied in the form of calcium sulfate (CaSO4·2H2O) and urea, respectively. It was observed that the interaction between N and S negatively affected onion production, reducing the gain of both fresh and dry mass of the bulb. The N/S ratio ranged from 16.5 to 26.2 and was not influenced by the interaction between N and S. Onion pungency was classified as intermediate. The higher pungency value was obtained with the application of 100 mg dm−3 of N, and 40 mg dm−3 of S. The application of N when combined with 20 mg dm−3 of S contributed to increasing titratable acidity and soluble solids content of onion cv. Diamantina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onions (Allium cepa L.) are nutritious vegetables; however, variations in processing methods can influence their chemical composition and functional properties. Raw processing and cooking are the two main food-processing methods for onions, but it is not clear what kind of changes these two methods cause. In the present study, ultrahigh-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS) was utilized to observe the changes in onion composition during cooking and to investigate the protective effects of raw and cooked onion extracts against lead damage in vitro and at the cellular level. Many compounds were identified, including amino acids, nucleosides, flavonoids, and organosulfur compounds. Cooking causes changes in the content of numerous amino acids (e.g., DL-glutamine) in onions and increases nucleoside content (e.g., 5'-S-methyl-5'-thioadenosine, adenine). Both raw and cooked onion extracts can reduce neuronal cell damage caused by lead exposure, but cooking increased the free radical scavenging (e.g., DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl radicals) and chelating of lead ions (up to about 25%) of the onion extracts. In conclusion, cooking can cause changes in the chemical composition of onions and increase their antioxidant and lead chelating capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of long-term storage of onions up to the ninth month, grown under an optimal and reduced water regime, of three cultivar types: with white, red and yellow envelope flakes was studied. The influence of a reduced irrigation regime of 50% on the weight and yield of bulbs was established. The total yield was below 1000 kg/da for the three samples, with 967 kg/da being the highest reported yield for the Asenovgradska kaba 5 variety. At the end of the third, sixth and ninth months, weight loss (fira) was reported. With the reduced irrigation, the highest evaporation values were measured for the Konkurent bial variety 30% after six months of storage. At the end of the ninth month, the values of the losses decreased and were in the range of 16-23%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Relevance. Onion (Allium cepa L.) is a valuable and demanded vegetable crop, which occupies one of the leading places in terms of sown areas and gross yields among other vegetable crops of the genus Allium L. Onion is popular in folk and evidence-based medicine, widely used for the prevention and treatment of many diseases due to its rich biochemical composition and useful properties. As part of import substitution and achieving food security of the country, scientists of the Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution «Federal Scientific Vegetable Center» (FSBSI FSVC) are working intensively to create new generation varieties and hybrids.Methodology. Various resources on the topic were selected, publications in scientific and industry journals and databases were studied, a review of works on onion selection (yield, species diversity in shape and color, maturity, shelf life, biochemical parameters, commercial and seed productivity, resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses), as well as useful properties for humans and use in medicine was made.Results. The analysis of works shows that the wide distribution in the Russian Federation have such varieties of selection of FSBSI FSVC, such as Myachkovskij 300, Cherni prince, Al'ba, Atas, Ampeks and others. In recent years, created a medium-maturing hybrid onion onion F1 Drakon with brown dry scales and a maximum yield of 391.0 c/ha, as well as transferred to the State variety trial winter variety Novator with brown dry scales. Propagation of demanded varieties and hybrids for both production cultivation and for use in household farms is underway.Conclusion. In order to conveyor onion production, it is necessary to create varieties and hybrids of different maturity groups, as well as to work on improving marketability, seed productivity and resistance to various stresses.

Abstract The growth of industrialization growth the risk of vanadium (V) contamination. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of 200 µg L− 1 VCI3 -induced toxicity as well as the potential protective effect of 187.5 mg L− 1 and 375 mg L− 1 Hypericum perforatum (H. perforatum) extracts against this toxicity on the Allium cepa (A. cepa) model organism. For this purpose, a series of investigations were conducted on the growth physiology alterations (germination percentage, root elongation, weight gain), cytogenetic alterations (mitotic index, micronucleus, chromosomal aberrations), biochemical alterations (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, catalase) and defects in meristematic tissue in A. cepa. In addition, the phenolic compound content of H. perforatum extract was determined by the LC/MS-MS method. V application negatively affected all the investigated parameters and caused a serious phytotoxic and genotoxic effect as well as oxidative stress in A. cepa. Conversely, no statistical difference was observed between the parameters of the groups treated with H. perforatum extract and those of the control group. The administration of H. perforatum extract combined with V resulted in a notable enhancement in germination percentage, root elongation, weight gain, mitotic index value, chlorophyll a level and chlorophyll b level. Additionally, it led to a reduction in micronucleus and chromosomal aberrations frequencies, as well as meristematic tissue defects. Furthermore, LC/MS-MS analysis demonstrated that H. perforatum extract contains phenolic compounds, including catechin, epicatechin, quercetin, oleuropein and rutin, which confer antioxidant properties to the extract. The study provided clear evidence that H. perforatum extract attenuates the toxic effects of V in A. cepa, which can be attributed to its high content of bioactive phenols. The findings of the study indicate that H. perforatum extract may serve as a protective natural agent for daily use against heavy metal toxicity.

Abstract Background Exploring the adaptive responses of onions (Allium cepa L.) to salinity reveals a critical challenge for this salt-sensitive crop. While previous studies have concentrated on the effects of sodium (Na+), this research highlights the substantial yet less-explored impact of chloride (Cl−) accumulation. Two onion varieties were subjected to treatments with different sodium and chloride containing salts to observe early metabolic responses without causing toxicity. Results The initial effects of salinity on onions showed increased concentrations of both ions, with Cl− having a more pronounced impact on metabolic profiles than Na+. Onions initially adapt to salinity by first altering their organic acid concentrations, which are critical for essential functions such as energy production and stress response. The landrace Birnförmige exhibited more effective regulation of its Na+/K+ balance and a milder response to Cl− compared to the hybrid Hytech. Metabolic alterations were analyzed using advanced techniques, revealing specific responses in leaves and bulbs to Cl− accumulation, with significant changes observed in organic acids involved in the TCA cycle, such as fumaric acid, and succinic acid, in both varieties. Additionally, there was a variety-specific increase in ethanolamine in Birnförmige and lysine in Hytech in response to Cl− accumulation. Conclusion This comprehensive study offers new insights into onion ion regulation and stress adaptation during the initial stages of salinity exposure, emphasizing the importance of considering both Na+ and Cl− when assessing plant responses to salinity.

Abstract Trifloxystrobin (TFS) is a widely used strobilurin class fungicide. Ginkgo biloba L. has gained popularity due to its recognized medicinal and antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to determine whether Ginkgo biloba L. extract (Gbex) has a protective role against TFS-induced phytotoxicity, genotoxicity and oxidative damage in A. cepa. Different groups were formed from Allium cepa L. bulbs subjected to tap water (control), 200 mg/L Gbex (Gbex1), 400 mg/L Gbex (Gbex2), 0.8 g/L TFS solution (TFS), 200 mg/L Gbex + 0.8 g/L TFS (TFS + Gbex1) and 400 mg/L Gbex + 0.8 g/L TFS (TFS + Gbex2), respectively. The phenolic composition of Gbex and alterations in the morphological, physiological, biochemical, genotoxicity and anatomical parameters were evaluated. Rutin, protocatechuic acid, catechin, gallic acid, taxifolin, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, epicatechin, syringic acid and quercetin were the most prevalent phenolic substances in Gbex. Rooting percentage, root elongation, weight gain, chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b decreased by approximately 50%, 85%, 77%, 55% and 70%, respectively, as a result of TFS treatment compared to the control. In the TFS group, the mitotic index fell by 28% compared to the control group, but chromosomal abnormalities, micronuclei frequency and tail DNA percentage increased. Fragment, vagrant chromosome, sticky chromosome, uneven chromatin distribution, bridge, vacuole-containing nucleus, reverse polarization and irregular mitosis were the chromosomal abnormalities observed in the TFS group. The levels of proline (2.17-fold) and malondialdehyde (2.71-fold), as well as the activities of catalase (2.75-fold) and superoxide dismutase (2.03-fold) were increased by TFS in comparison to the control. TFS-provoked meristematic disorders were damaged epidermis and cortex cells, flattened cell nucleus and thickened cortex cell wall. Gbex combined with TFS relieved all these TFS-induced stress signs in a dose-dependent manner. This investigation showed that Gbex can play protective role in A. cepa against the phytotoxicity, genotoxicity and oxidative damage caused by TFS. The results demonstrated that Gbex had this antioxidant and antigenotoxic potential owing to its high phenolic content.

Heavy metals can accumulate and migrate in soil environments and can negatively affect crops and consumers. Because an increased incidence of chronic diseases can be observed, food security has become a high-priority concern. In the present work, we evaluate the impact of heavy metals on bioactive compounds and elemental content from onions. Plants were grown in the absence and presence of various concentrations of heavy metal salts (Pb, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ni and Cd). The influence of heavy metal salts on onions was evaluated by analyzing the content of bioactive compounds, antioxidant capacity, and elemental content. The variation of assimilatory pigments, total polyphenols content, and antioxidant capacity increased or decreased depending on the heavy metal added to the soil as well as on the amount added. Regarding the amount of bioactive compounds, it increased between 6.79 and 34.39% or decreased between 4.68 and 62.42%. The content of ten elements in plants was reported, as well as elemental mutual correlation and correlation of element content with biologically active compounds and antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IMPROVING qualitative and quantitative traits of the onion (Allium cepa L.) plant, a strategic crop, is essential to meet increasing agricultural demands and enhance crop quality. The current study, conducted over two successive growing seasons (2022/23 and 2023/24), aimed to investigate the synergistic effects of elemental sulfur, various potassium supplements and methionine amino acid on the growth, yield and quality of onion plants. The experiment was arranged in a split-split plot design, as the main factor was the application of elemental sulfur (applied at a rate of 360 kg ha-1 or non-application). The sub-main factor involved different forms of potassium supplements applied as foliar sprays at rate of 750 mg K2O L-1 [Control (no potassium), potassium silicate (K2SiO3), potassium citrate (K3C6H5O7), potassium nitrate(KNO3)], while the sub-sub main factor included methionine amino acid, either sprayed at 100 mg L-1 or not sprayed. The results show that the application of elemental sulfur significantly improved onion performance regarding growth, quantitative and qualitative traits (e.g., fresh and dry weights, leaf area, chlorophyll a & b contents, bulb weight and diameter, marketable yield, total dissolved solids, dry matter, vitamin C and anthocyanin pigment) across measured parameters. Potassium silicate emerged as the most effective potassium supplement, followed by potassium citrate then potassium nitrate, and lately the control. Additionally, methionine application enhanced both the growth, yield and quality traits of onions. The combined application of elemental sulfur, potassium silicate, and methionine produced the highest values for growth, yield and quality attributes. Finally, it can be concluded that the usage of elemental sulfur, potassium supplements, particularly potassium silicate, and methionine is so beneficial to enhance the performance of onions. This integrated approach not only maximizes crop yield but also improves the quality of onions, offering a sustainable pathway to augment onion production. Future research should explore the long-term effects of these treatments and their interactions with other agronomic practices to further optimize onion cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the toxicity of the trace element zinc (Zn) in Allium cepa L. test material was examined. Toxicity was investigated in terms of physiological, cytogenetic, biochemical, and anatomical aspects. Germination percentage, root length, weight gain, mitotic index (MI), micronucleus (MN) frequency, chromosomal abnormalities (CAs), malondialdehyde (MDA), proline and chlorophyll levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) enzyme activities, and meristematic cell damage were used as indicators of toxicity. Additionally, the comet test was used to measure the degree of DNA damage. Four groups of A. cepa bulbs—one for control and three for applications—were created. While the bulbs in the treatment groups were germinated with Zn at concentrations of 35, 70, and 140 mg/L, the bulbs in the control group were germinated with tap water. Germination was carried out at room temperature for 72 h and 144 h. When the allotted time was over, the root tips and leaf samples were collected and prepared for spectrophotometric measurements and macroscopic-microscopic examinations. Consequently, Zn treatment led to significant reductions in physiological indicators such as weight gain, root length, and germination percentage. Zn exposure caused genotoxicity by decreasing the MI ratios and increasing the frequency of MN and CAs (p < 0.05). Zn promoted various types of CAs in root tip cells. The most observed of CAs was the sticky chromosome. Depending on the dose, Zn was found to cause an increase in tail lengths in comet analyses, which led to DNA damage. Exposure to Zn led to a significant decrease in chlorophyll levels and an increase in MDA and proline levels. It also promoted significant increases in SOD and CAT enzyme activities up to 70 mg/L dose and statistically significant decreases at 140 mg/L dose. Additionally, Zn exposure caused different types of anatomical damage. The most severe ones are epidermis and cortex cell damage. Besides, it was found that the Zn dose directly relates to all of the increases and decreases in physiological, cytogenetic, biochemical, and anatomical parameters that were seen as a result of Zn exposure. As a result, it has been determined that the Zn element, which is absolutely necessary in trace amounts for the continuation of the metabolic activities of the organisms, can cause toxicity if it reaches excessive levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under long days, onions form spherical bulbs and accumulate nutrients such as fructose-based oligosaccharides (FOS) in their bulbs. 1-Kestose and nystose, inulin-type FOS, have been identified as endogenous stimulants of bulb formation. According to the structure-activity-relationship study, the inulobiose moiety in 1-kestose is required for the bulb formation. Inulin-type FOS is well known as a prebiotic, which is beneficial to people's health, and does not show toxicity. FOS has not been linked to any negative crop growth effects. Thus, it could be a potential eco-friendly growth promoter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to extract essential oil from Indian onion bulbs (Allium Cepa L. var. aggregatum) using the microwave hydrodiffusion-gravity (MHG) method. The operating parameters considered include drying pre-treatment, material size (1-3 cm), microwave power (300-600 W), and extraction time (15-75 min). Optimal extraction conditions were identified through a two-stage process: initially screening data using a full factorial design, followed by process optimization using a face-centred central composite design (FCCD). The oil yield increased with extraction time up to a certain point, after which it plateaued, indicating no further yield improvements. The size of the material had an impact on how well microwave energy transferred; smaller particles provided larger surface areas, which improved extraction efficiency. Furthermore, the reduction in moisture content due to drying directly affected essential oil production, leading to higher yields. Sudden temperature increases could negatively impact oil quality, making temperature control during extraction critical. The microwave power level also played a significant role in the extraction process. The highest oil yield, 2.78%, was obtained with an extraction time of 75 min, a microwave power of 600 W, and a material size of 1 cm. Additionally, the extracted onion oil contained cyclohexanol, 5-methyl-2-(1-methylethenyl), and Z-citral.

Onions are known not only for their culinary importance but also for their nutritional and health-promoting properties. Both properties are closely linked to their content of organosulfur compounds, which account for up to 5% of the dry weight of an onion. Given the importance of these compounds, suitable analytical methods are required for their study. Two techniques should be highlighted in this context: gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS). In this study, eight different onion varieties were analyzed using two distinct analytical techniques: direct thermal desorption–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (DTD-GC-MS) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) on an LC-ESI-QqTOF instrument. Each method identified different organosulfur compounds, with LC-HRMS targeting 15 non-volatile compounds, such as cysteine sulfoxides, and GC-MS targeting 18 volatiles, such as disulfides and trisulfides. The results obtained were studied using Pearson correlations and principal component analysis. No precise correlation was found between the initial organosulfur compounds in onions and their hydrolysates. Consequently, although GC is one of the most employed techniques in the scientific literature, the use of LC-HRMS or a combination of both techniques may offer a more comprehensive and accurate description of the metabolomic profile of onions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, 12 Fusarium strains, previously described as F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae (Foc), were examined via multi-locus sequencing of calmodulin (cmdA), RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1), to verify the taxonomic position of Foc in the newly established epitype of F. oxysporum. The strains in this study were divided into two clades: F. nirenbergiae and Fusarium sp. To further determine the host specifications of the strains, inoculation tests were performed on onion bulbs and Welsh onion seedlings as potential hosts. Four strains (AC145, AP117, Ru-13, and TA) isolated from diseased onions commonly possessed the secreted in xylem (SIX)-3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, and 14 genes and were pathogenic and highly aggressive to onion bulbs, whereas all strains except for one strain (AF97) caused significant inhibition of Welsh onion growth. The inoculation test also revealed that the strains harboring the SIX9 gene were highly aggressive to both onion and Welsh onion and the gene was expressed during infection of both onions and Welsh onions, suggesting the important role of the SIX9 gene in pathogenicity. This study provides insights into the evolutionary pathogenicity differentiation of Fusarium strains causing Fusarium basal rot and wilt diseases in Allium species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis, a prevalent chronic health issue among the elderly, is a global bone metabolic disease. Flavonoids, natural active compounds widely present in vegetables, fruits, beans, and cereals, have been reported for their anti-osteoporotic properties. Onion is a commonly consumed vegetable rich in flavonoids with diverse pharmacological activities. In this study, the trabecular structure was enhanced and bone mineral density (BMD) exhibited a twofold increase following oral administration of onion flavonoid extract (OFE). The levels of estradiol (E2), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) in serum were significantly increased in ovariectomized (OVX) rats, with effects equal to alendronate sodium (ALN). Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) levels in rat serum were reduced by 35.7% and 36.9%, respectively, compared to the OVX group. In addition, the effects of OFE on bone health were assessed using human osteoblast-like cells MG-63 and osteoclast precursor RAW 264.7 cells in vitro as well. Proliferation and mineralization of MG-63 cells were promoted by OFE treatment, along with increased ALP activity and mRNA expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG)/receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB ligand (RANKL). Additionally, RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis and osteoclast activity were inhibited by OFE treatment through decreased TRAP activity and down-regulation of mRNA expression-related enzymes in RAW 264.7 cells. Overall findings suggest that OFE holds promise as a natural functional component for alleviating osteoporosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil quality (SQ) has been described as the ability of a particular type of soil to function, based on natural or managed ecosystem boundaries, to ensure animal and plant productivity, promote air and water quality, and contribute to the habitation and human's health. Aim of this study was to assessment SQ by using the integrated Soil Quality Index (SQI) model on onion cultivated soils in Polatlı district of Ankara province of the Continental Region of Turkey. The SQI was determined by giving weight with Analytic Hierarchy Process to scoring indicators with standard scoring functions. The soil samples were taken from 30 different onion cultivation areas. A total of 22 SQ parameters were included in the Soil Quality Index modeling, grouped into four classes. The parameters defined in the minimum data set are soil physical, chemical indicators, macro and micronutrient elements. 83% of the total samples in the study area were mostly medium quality soils, and 17% of the soil samples for onion cultivation were weak in terms of SQ. The soil organic matter (SOM) index had the highest weight (0.431), suggesting that SOM could be considered as the first restriction limiting the working potential of soils. It can be concluded that soil quality of the onion cultivation areas plays an important role for high onion production. It can be, therefore, suggested that the assessment of the soil quality of the onion cultivation field could play an important role in determining the high onion productivity in agricultural practices and sustainable soil management systems in arid as well as semi-arid regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this research was to explore the role of glutamine (Gln) on plant germination and growth under salinity [0, 50, 100, 150, 200 mM sodium chloride (NaCl)], and on the activation of some stress-related genes [CuZn-Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Mn-SOD, L-ascorbate oxidase (AO), DNA Polymerase Delta 1 (POLD)-1, Chaperon (CHAPE) and Heat Shock Protein (HSP)-21], genetic template stability and photosynthetic pigment activation. Under salt stress, 2 mM Gln application reduced the mean germination time (MGT) (4.51 days), increased the coefficient of velocity of germination (CVG) (75.85), germination index (GI) (1.46) and germination percentage (GP) (82%), indicating that it was the best application for germination under stress. Gln promoted the development of aboveground plant organs. 3 mM Gln increased the number of leaves from 5.3 to 13.7 and 4.3 to 6.6 under unstress and stress conditions, respectively. Under salt stress, Gln increased photosynthetic pigments and genomic template stability (GTS) (80%). At 2 mM Gln, total chlorophyll and carotenoid content increased from 1.59 mg · g-1 TA to 2.23 mg · g-1 TA and from 0.28 mg · g-1 TA to 0.37 mg · g-1 TA, respectively. The effect on gene expression levels varied with the concentration. The application of 2 mM Gln, which enhanced germination and vegetative parameters under stress, caused a raise in CuZn-SOD gene expression and a 43% decrease in the transcriptional expression of the HSP-21 gene as an indicator of the functionality of the repair mechanism. The improved growth of Gln-treated plants under stress suggests that Gln is involved in bridging the energy deficit of the plant by acting as an alternative fuel for metabolic activities under stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of nitrogen (N), sulfur (S), and iron (Fe) fertilization on secondary metabolites, particularly quercetin and its forms, in onion bulbs (Allium cepa L.). Field experiments over two years examined four onion varieties with red, yellow, and white colors of bulbs: Kamal, Robin, Pueblo, and Mundo. The parameters investigated included the yield, dry matter content, and average onion weight. The phenolic and flavonoid contents were also analyzed. The free quercetin, bound quercetin, and total quercetin contents were determined using the HPLC method. The results demonstrated notable increases in yield following the application of nitrogen (NH4+) and sulfur (SO42−) fertilizers. Incorporating iron (Fe2+) alongside these fertilizers did not yield a significant impact compared to N+S variant. The phenolic and flavonoid content varied with fertilization, while the quercetin content did not yield statistically significant results. Overall, the study highlights the complex relationship between fertilization practices and secondary metabolite production in onions, emphasizing the need for sustainable intensification in modern agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium basal rot of onions causes large losses during storage of commercial production of onion bulbs, which in turn adversely affects the food market situation in the off-season period. There are no data on the composition of Fusarium spp., which causes onion basal rot in the Russian Federation. Therefore, our research was aimed at Fusarium spp. causing onion basal rot in the Moscow Region of the Russian Federation and studying the pathogenicity of these species for the host plant. We studied 20 isolates of Fusarium spp. collected from affected mature bulbs and seed bulbs. Species identification of the isolates was carried out using analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the three genetic loci ITS, tef1 and rpb2, as well as was based on the macro- and micromorphological characteristics of these isolates. As a result, the species F. annulatum (F. fujikuroi species complex), F. oxysporum (F. oxysporum species complex), F. acuminatum (F. tricinctum species complex) and F. solani (F. solani species complex) were identified to involve in the pathogenesis of Fusarium basal rot. We have shown for the first time that the species F. annulatum and F. acuminatum are highly aggressive and capable of causing onion basal rot. The predominant species were F. annulatum and F. oxysporum. The proportion of these species in the total number of analyzed isolates was 60% and 25%, respectively. The largest proportion (33%) of highly aggressive on mature bulbs isolates was found in the species F. annulatum. The data obtained provide practical insights for developing strategies to manage Fusarium fungi responsible for onion basal rot Moscow Region of the Russian Federation. In addition, data about species composition and aggressive isolates may be used in onion breeding for resistance to Fusarium basal rot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cytoplasmic male-sterility (CMS) is the primary source for the production of commercially viable onion F1 hybrids. The molecular interplay of the cytoplasmic-nuclear genes propels the restoration of fertility in the CMS system, making it cost-effective and stable. The use of the molecular markers that can determine the cytoplasm type and nuclear genotype reduces the amount of time and labour required. This study characterized the morphology of male sterile and fertile plants based on anther colour and pollen viability. Additionally, the molecular characterization of the organellar DNA differentiating cytoplasm and nuclear genotypes in 35 commercially grown open-pollinated varieties of Indian short-day onion was attempted. Our results revealed that morphological and microscopic observations for the identification of male sterile and fertile plants were not 100% corroborative. Markers located in the chloroplast (accD) and mitochondrial DNA (MKFR) revealed that Indian cultivars exhibited a greater frequency of N (normal) cytoplasm, lower frequency of S (sterile) cytoplasm and no occurrence of T (sterile) cytoplasm. All three markers viz., AcPMS1, AcSKP1, and jnurf13 revealed that 93 to 99% of the plants of all the varieties had homozygous recessive (msms) alleles at the Ms locus. The OPT marker classified the plants as having 38% msms, 39% Msms and 21% MsMs genotypes and needs further investigation. This underscores the pressing need for additional markers to precisely discern the Ms locus, facilitating the identification of male sterile and maintainer plants within open-pollinated populations of Indian short-day onions. Notably, male sterile cytoplasm was identified in eight commercial varieties, marking a pioneering revelation in Indian onion cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open-pollinated onion cultivars predominate in the southern region of Brazil, due to their higher adaptability to local climatic conditions, unlike commercial hybrids, which have shown a lower adaptability. Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) systems are employed to develop hybrid onion cultivars. Two molecular markers, 5’cob and orfA501, were used to differentiate the cytoplasm type, and the AcSKP1 marker to identify the nuclear male fertility-restoring locus (Ms). A total of 1,126 plants from the most common onion cultivars grown in southern Brazil, including Bola Precoce®, Crioula®, Valessul®, Mega®, Joia® and Princesa do Sul®, were analyzed using all the three markers. An extremely rare occurrence of the S cytoplasm was observed among the cultivars, being detected in only 1.8 % of the samples, while the T cytoplasm was the most prevalent, accounting for 56.3 % of the samples. Among the 1,126 plants analyzed, only three exhibited the S cytoplasm and were recessive for the Ms-locus (Smsms). Additionally, 49 plants with the N-cytoplasm (as per the Engelke’s classification) and recessive for the nuclear genotype (Nmsms) were identified, 45 of which were pollen producers. The male-fertility restoration occurred in 22.2 % of the crosses between Tmsms male-sterile plants and male-fertile N cytoplasmic-msms plants (as per the Engelke’s classification).

Производство удвоенных гаплоидов (DH) – эффективный инструмент создания гомозиготных линий репчатого лука, которые трудно получить путем самоопыления из-за их двухлетнего цикла размножения, высокой гетерозиготности и сильной инбредной депрессии. Успешное производство и использование DH-линий в селекции все еще значительно отстает от ожиданий селекционеров из-за низкой эффективности гиногенеза у этого вида. К основным ограничениям относятся значимые различия в отзывчивости донорских материалов на индукцию гиногенеза, трудности, возникающие в процессе удвоения хромосом, и низкая выживаемость дигаплоидных линий по причине экспрессии у них летальных генов. Целью работы ста- ла характеристика гибридов репчатого лука, полученных на основе удвоенных гибридов, по основным хозяйственно ценным признакам: форма и масса луковицы, окраска, толщина и сцепление сухих чешуй, содержание сахаров, урожайность, степень сохранности, поражение фузариозной гнилью. Удвоенные гаплоиды репчатого лука получены методом гиногенеза в лаборатории биотехнологии селекционного центра «Гавриш» на основе методических рекомендаций С.Г. Монахоса и коллег (2014). Гибриды, созданные на основе DH-линий репчатого лука, высажены в открытый грунт и выращены по общепринятой для зоны технологии на участке селекционного центра «Гавриш» (Крымск, Краснодарский край). С целью подбора высокоэффективных гибридных комбинаций и создания гибридов F1 полученные и отобранные DH-линии включали в гибридизацию с лучшими стерильными линиями. Далее полученные гибридные комбинации сравнивали с общепринятым для зоны стандартом. Установлено, что гибриды на основе DH-линий по урожайности и размеру луковиц не могут конкурировать со стандартом, урожайность всех гибридов достоверно не превышала стандарт, а масса луковицы была более чем в 1.5 раза ниже. Однако гибридные комбинации на основе DH-линий имеют более выровненные массу и форму луковицы.

Onions (Allium cepa L.) are nutritious vegetables; however, variations in processing methods can influence their chemical composition and functional properties. Raw processing and cooking are the two main food-processing methods for onions, but it is not clear what kind of changes these two methods cause. In the present study, ultrahigh-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UHPLC–MS) was utilized to observe the changes in onion composition during cooking and to investigate the protective effects of raw and cooked onion extracts against lead damage in vitro and at the cellular level. Many compounds were identified, including amino acids, nucleosides, flavonoids, and organosulfur compounds. Cooking causes changes in the content of numerous amino acids (e.g., DL-glutamine) in onions and increases nucleoside content (e.g., 5’-S-methyl-5’-thioadenosine, adenine). Both raw and cooked onion extracts can reduce neuronal cell damage caused by lead exposure, but cooking increased the free radical scavenging (e.g., DPPH, ABTS, hydroxyl radicals) and chelating of lead ions (up to about 25%) of the onion extracts. In conclusion, cooking can cause changes in the chemical composition of onions and increase their antioxidant and lead chelating capacity.

Heavy metals can accumulate and migrate in soil environments and can negatively affect crops and consumers. Because an increased incidence of chronic diseases can be observed, food security has become a high-priority concern. In the present work, we evaluate the impact of heavy metals on bioactive compounds and elemental content from onions. Plants were grown in the absence and presence of various concentrations of heavy metal salts (Pb, Mn, Cu, Zn, Ni and Cd). The influence of heavy metal salts on onions was evaluated by analyzing the content of bioactive compounds, antioxidant capacity, and elemental content. The variation of assimilatory pigments, total polyphenols content, and antioxidant capacity increased or decreased depending on the heavy metal added to the soil as well as on the amount added. Regarding the amount of bioactive compounds, it increased between 6.79 and 34.39% or decreased between 4.68 and 62.42%. The content of ten elements in plants was reported, as well as elemental mutual correlation and correlation of element content with biologically active compounds and antioxidant capacity.

In Senegal, onions (Allium cepa L.) are an important and widely consumed crop. Several varieties and speculations are cultivated, with yields and bulbs qualities depending on technical itineraries and cultivation areas. The aim of this study is to evaluate the quality of onion bulbs produced at the Kalassane and Nguéthioro sites, using morphological and physicochemical parameters. To this end, an optimized treatment based on the “Société Nationale d’Aménagement et d’Exploitation des terres du Delta” (SAED) technical data sheet, requiring water and fertilizer inputs to be controlled (4455.4 m3 of water/ha, 9 kg/9 m2 of organic matter applied before sowing and 224 g/m2 of N- P-K applied in 4 inputs), another based on the farmers' method using excessive quantities of water and fertilizers (6526.1 m3 water/ha, 12 kg/9 m2 organic matter applied after sowing and 748 g/m2 N-P-K applied in 5 applications), and their combinations were applied on Kalassane. Next, the best method for ensuring quality bulbs at Kalassane was also tested at Nguéthioro. The results show that at Kalassane, onion bulbs from the optimized method are small (67.96 ± 14.40 g) and less waterlogged (Wc 85.44 % ± 0.71, aw 0.83 ± 0.01), with a high total polyphenol content (7.01 mg/100 g ± 0.01), in contrast to those from the farmers’ method, which are 100.80 g ± 14.22; 87.14 % ± 0.69; 0.91 ± 0.01 and 2.11 mg/100 g ± 0.01 respectively. In short, this study leads to the conclusion that optimized practice is the best treatment guaranteeing better quality. In addition, the optimized method showed a difference between the results for the two sites. In the future, repeating this experiment coupled with edaphic characteristics will enable us to determine the influence of soil on the physicochemical and nutritional quality of onions.

Synthesis of nanoparticles through the green approach using plant and vegetable extracts has gained popularity since they are thought to be efficient and cost-effective materials. This study is designed to synthesize zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) from onion waste peel extract (Allium cepa L.) via the green synthesis approach. The synthesized ZnO-NPs were characterized by utilizing the UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) and X-ray Powder Diffraction (XRD)techniques. The nanoparticles formation was confirmed by the UV–Vis sharp absorption spectra at 318 and 322 nm. The synthesized ZnO-NPs size and shape was revealed by the XRD and SEM respectively. Smallest nanoparticle average crystallite size was found 57.38 nm with hexagonal shape. The bioactive functional groups that are in charge of capping and stabilizing the ZnO-NPs was assured by the FTIR data. Further, prepared ZnO-NPs were used to assess their possible antioxidant and antibacterial properties. DPPH test for free radical scavenging showed potential antioxidant properties of the synthesized ZnO-NPs. The antibacterial activity were studied against three clinical strains: P. aeruginosa, E. coli, and S. aureus with the maximum zone of inhibition 13.17 mm, 22.00 mm and 12.35 mm respectively at 100 μg/mL subsequently minimum inhibitory concentration was found 50 μg/mL for P. aeruginosa, and S. aureus whereas 100 μg/mL for E. coli. Antioxidant and antibacterial activity tests appear bio-resource based ZnO-NPs from Allium cepa L. extract have effects on free radical and growth of microorganisms.Therefore, it could be a promising candidates for agricultural and food safety applications as an effective antimicrobial agent against pathogenic microorganisms and also can address future biomedical applications after complete in vivo study.

Onions has high nutritional and nutraceutical value. In the last decade the bulbs have gained increasing relevance due their compounds linked to anti-cancer effects. The fertilization managment is relevant to this crop because the mineral's influence beyond productivity, interfering in several aspects of quality. Organic sources despite available, adoption is still cautious and seen as an expense, rather than investment in soil quality. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the use of organomineral fertilizer on the development and productivity of Akamaru hybrid. The experiment was carried out in Cristalina-GO, in a randomized block design, with 4 replications and 5 treatments: organomineral fertilizer (NPK) with the formula 02-20-05. The rates were adjusted to approximately the same amounts, where 3,680 kg ha-1 was considered the 100% rate, 2,944 kg ha-1 as 80%, 2,208 kg ha-1 as 60% and 1,472 kg ha-1 as 40% of the rate established. The rate of 2,300 kg ha-1 of the formulated 03-35-06 referred to 100% of the mineral source. The total yield of onion was not affected when the organomineral source was used, therefore, it is a viable source for use in onion culture. A rate reduction of up to 20% of the recommended mineral rate allows good performance (85.5 t ha-1), with 7.5 t ha-1 higher than the 60% reduction of the recommended rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of changes in aquaporin expression on the growth of onion (Allium cepa L.) plants when subjected to dual applications of microorganism-based soil amendments and foliar nanoencapsulated mineral nutrients. Multiple physiological parameters related to water, gas exchange, and nutrient content in leaf, root, and bulb tissues were determined. Additionally, the gene expression of aquaporins, specifically PIP1, PIP2 (aquaporin subfamily plasma membrane intrinsic protein), and TIP2 (aquaporin subfamily tonoplast intrinsic protein), was analyzed. The findings revealed that the foliar application of nutrients in a nanoencapsulated form significantly enhanced nutrient penetration, mobilization, and overall plant growth to a greater extent than free-form fertilizers. Amendments with microorganisms alone did not promote growth but influenced the production of secondary metabolites in the bulbs. The combination of microorganisms and nanoencapsulated mineral nutrients demonstrated synergistic effects, increasing dry matter, mineral content, and aquaporin gene expression. This suggests that aquaporins play a pivotal role in the transport of nutrients from leaves to storage organs, resulting in the overexpression of PIP2 aquaporins in bulbs, improved water uptake, and enhanced cell growth. Therefore, the combined treatment with microorganisms and nanoencapsulated mineral nutrients may be an optimal approach for enhancing onion productivity by regulating aquaporins under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On a worldwide scale, A. cepa is among the most commonly consumed vegetables. In Europe, the leading onion producers are Russia, the Netherlands, Spain, Poland and Germany. In this study, the bioaccumulation of heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, Fe, Mn, Co, Sr, Cd and Pb) by Allium cepa L. plants was followed under hydroponic conditions. The heavy metals were applied at six concentrations (0, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 400 mg L−1) over three weeks. The quantitative analysis of selected heavy metals in plant tissues (bulbs, roots and assimilation leaves) was performed using atomic absorption spectrometry with flame atomization (F-AAS). The accumulation of metal ions was strongly dependent on their concentrations in the solution and the analyzed parts of plants. The highest accumulation of metal ions was confirmed for the roots and ranged from 8.48 to 5912.34 µg g−1 DW (dry weight). All parts of A. cepa were characterized by the high accumulation of Mn2+. The lowest accumulation was confirmed for Co2+ in the roots, Pb2+ in the assimilation leaves and Cu2+ in the bulbs of onion. Moreover, the study showed that the highest concentrations of heavy metals decreased the growth of bulbs and even caused them to die off. In contrast, lower concentrations of some elements stimulated plant development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allium plants (especially garlic and onions) are useful condiments in most kitchens for the preparation of delicacies and in the preparation of decoctions in traditional medicine for the treatment of some emanating ailments, have its shoots sprouted for vegetables while the bulbs are usually discarded. The commonly discarded bulbs may have improved the antioxidant potentials. These improved properties could be utilized to treat or manage some degenerative and non-communicable diseases. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of sprouting on the antioxidant potentials of garlic (Allium sativum) and onions (Allium cepa). The samples of garlic and bulbs were sprouted for 0 to 10 days. The phytochemicals, phenols, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid; and the antioxidant activities such as 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical-scavenging activity were investigated on the garlic and bulbs using standard methods. A significantly (P<0.05) higher total flavonoid content was observed in methanol extract of onions sprouted for eight days (7.84 mg/g RE) and in methanol extract of garlic sprouted for 10 days (20.16 mg/g RE). The onions extracts expressed higher phenolic content on day eight of sprouting, while that of garlic revealed a significant (P<0.05) increase till day 10. The DPPH scavenging activity of sprouted garlic and onions recorded the minimum activity on day eight. Garlic highest ascorbic acid content of 8.820 mg/g was recorded on the 10th day, while that of onions was 6.29 mg/g on the 6th day. The results from this study revealed that sprouting of onions and garlic vegetables may be an effective means of improving the antioxidant potential of some Allium plants. The results from this study revealed that sprouting of onions and garlic vegetables might be an excellent means of improving the antioxidant potential of Allium plants. This study conclude that sprouting should be between four to six days for onions and up to 10 days for garlic before processing for consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TO EXPLORE the influence of varied nitrogen rates and foliar spraying of natural stimulants on vegetative growth, yield, and onion quality. This experiment was carried out over the two seasons 2019-2020 and 2020-2021 to investigate nitrogen fertilizer at rates: 144, 216, and 288 kg N ha-1 and natural stimulant treatments (yeast extract, fulvic acid, amino acids, and seaweed extract). The results clearly demonstrated that raising the nitrogen rate from 144 to 288 kg N ha-1 significantly enhanced the leaves number of plant-1, fresh weight of plant, average weight of bulb, marketable bulb yield, double bulbs, bulbs diameter, TSS, dry matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, carbohydrate, and protein content. Foliar spraying with natural stimulators (yeast extract, fulvic acid, amino acids, seaweed extract) significantly increased plant height, leaves number/plant, fresh weight of plant, neck, and bulbs diameter, bulbing ratio, average bulb weight, marketable bulb yield, culls bulb yield, double bulbs, bulb diameter, TSS, dry matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, carbohydrate, and protein, during both seasons. The nitrogen at rate of 288 kg N ha-1 combined with amino acids spraying appeared the highest mean values of average bulb weight during the 1st season and marketable yield during the two seasons. The highest value of dry matter was achieved by fertilizing by 216 kg N ha-1 when spraying with fulvic acids during both seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the expansion of urban areas, the amount of sludge produced by sewage treatment plants is increasing, raising big problems regarding the reintroduction of this sludge into nature in order to fully solve the wastewater problem. The application of sludge to agricultural surfaces or degraded land is a controversial solution since, despite the well-known benefits, sludge can, in certain cases, represent a real threat to both human health and the environment, with long-term harmful effects. The present study evaluates the potential genotoxicity of sludge using the Comet Test and three cellular bioindicators (lymphocytes, coelomocytes, and Allium cepa L.) for its quantification. To perform the tests, the soluble fraction of the sludge was used at concentrations of 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%, as well as a negative control (H2O) and a positive control (H2O2). The Comet test indicated an increase in DNA damage among cells exposed for 4 h in the following order: coelomocytes, lymphocytes, and Allium cepa L. cells. Our results indicate that Allium cepa L. nuclei are more sensitive, with genotoxic effects being evident at concentrations as low as 25%. In coelomocytes, we recorded nuclear damage starting at a concentration of 75%. These results indicate the necessity of using multiple genotoxicity tests, combined in a test battery, to achieve a greater level of relevance. The concentration of the soluble fraction of the sludge has an inverse relationship with the auxin content in leaves and roots, suggesting varying levels of stress. The results of this study can contribute to the creation of a genotoxic profile of sewage sludge, facilitating decisions related to reducing its negative impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Agricultural Research in the Tropics / Pesquisa Agropecuária Tropical is the property of Pesquisa Agropecuaria Tropical and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Onion has been historically valued for its various health promoting activities. It has been traditionally used to treat various infectious diseases and alleviate the symptoms of several respiratory ailments. However, the therapeutic potential of the plant against respiratory viruses remains meager. This study aimed to investigate the metabolic profiles of bulb extracts of four onion cultivars (red, copper-yellow, golden yellow and white onions) using UPLC-MS/MS combined to chemometrics. Further, the extracts were assessed for their potential anti-COVID-19 activity against the omicron sub-variant BA.5 of SARS-CoV-2. A total of 81 metabolites of diverse chemical classes were identified including amino acids and peptides, flavonoids, phenolic acids, saponins and fatty acids. The four cultivars displayed significant variations in their chemical composition, with copper-yellow onion exhibiting the richest metabolic profile which distinguished it from the others. Except for white onion, the tested cultivars displayed promising anti-COVID-19 activities (IC 50 9.78–16.39 μg/mL) and effectively downregulated viral RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and envelope (E) genes. Multivariate analysis revealed potential anti-COVID-19 bioactive metabolites. Among them, chlorogenic, caffeic acids, and kaempferol effectively inhibited viral RdRp and E genes in vitro , with a % downregulation of (86 %, 79 %), (80 %, 73 %), and (82 %, 70 %), respectively, at 30 μg/mL. The results from in vitro testing were corroborated by molecular docking and dynamics studies as the compounds showed significant interactions with the viral target proteins forming stable protein-ligand complexes. This study increments the value of metabolomics as a promising tool for cultivar differentiation. Conjointly, it lays the groundwork for future research into the anti-COVID-19 potential of onion as a valuable source of bioactive compounds. [Display omitted] • UPLC-MS analysis combined to chemometrics allowed efficient metabolic profiling of bulb extracts of four onion cultivars (red, copper-yellow, golden yellow and white onions). • The tested cultivars exhibited significant variations in their chemical profiles, with copper-yellow onion displaying the richest metabolic profile which distinguished it from others. • Red, copper-yellow, and golden yellow onions displayed promising anti-COVID-19 potentials against the omicron subvariant BA.5. • The coefficient plot revealed potential anti-COVID-19 bioactive metabolites among which caffeic, chlorogenic acids and kaempferol efficiently inhibited viral RdRp and E genes in vitro. • Molecular docking and dynamics studies on the biomarkers corroborated the findings of in vitro testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to assess the recovery effect of pomegranate seed extract (PSEx) against nickel (Ni)-induced damage in Allium cepa. Except for the control group treated with tap water, five experimental groups were exposed to 265 mg L−1 PSEx, 530 mg L−1 PSEx, 1 mg L−1 NiCI2, 265 mg L−1 PSEx + 1 mg L−1 NiCI2, and 530 mg L−1 PSEx + 1 mg L−1 NiCI2, respectively. The toxicity of Ni was examined through the analysis of physiological (germination percentage, weight gain, and root length), cytotoxicity (mitotic index), genotoxicity (micronucleus, chromosomal anomalies, and Comet test), and biochemical (malondialdehyde, proline, chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b contents, the activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase) parameters. Meristematic cell defects were also investigated. The NiCl2-DNA interaction was evaluated through spectral shift analysis. Values of all physiological parameters, mitotic index scores, and chlorophyll contents decreased while micronucleus frequency, DNA tail percentage, chromosomal anomalies, proline, MDA, and enzyme activities increased following Ni administration. According to the tail DNA percentage scale, Ni application caused "high damage" to DNA. Ni-induced chromosomal anomalies were fragment, sticky chromosome, vagrant chromosome, bridge, unbalanced chromatin distribution, reverse polarization, and nucleus with bud. NiCl2-DNA interaction caused a hyperchromic shift in the UV/Vis spectrum of DNA by spectral profile analysis. Ni exposure impaired root meristems as evidenced by the formation of epidermis cell damage, flattened cell nucleus, thickened cortex cell wall, and blurry vascular tissue. Substantial recovery was seen in all parameters with the co-administration of PSEx and Ni. Recovery effects in the parameters were 18–51% and 41–84% in the 265 mg L−1 PSEx + 1 mg L−1 NiCI2 and 530 mg L−1 PSEx + 1 mg L−1 NiCI2 groups, respectively. The Comet scale showed that PSEx applied with Ni reduced DNA damage from "high" to "moderate." Ni-induced thickened cortex cell wall and blurry vascular tissue damage disappeared completely when 530 mg L−1 PSEx was mixed with Ni. PSEx successfully reduced the negative effects of Ni, which can be attributed to its content of antioxidants and bioactive ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allium cepa L., known as a wild onion in Iran with different high antioxidant and antimicrobial activities in internal and outer layers. The aim of this study was to assess phenolic and flavonoid contents as well as antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of the internal and outer layers of ten Iranian onions (Allium cepa L.) landrace and compare them with three hybrid onions. Results showed that the total phenolic, flavonoid contents and the antioxidant capacity of the onions ranged 18.76–65.25 (mg GAE/g DW), 0.06–1.92 (mg/g DW) and 10.34–40.54%, respectively. The results showed higher total phenolic and flavonoid content as well as antioxidant activity and protection of pBR322 DNA in the outer layer in compare to internal ones due to higher hydroxyl radicals. Based on the results, the present study showed that red onions such as landraces originated from Azarshahr and Nowshahr included the highest quantities of phenolic and flavonoid contents as well as antioxidant activity and DNA protection values. Inhibition zone and minimum inhibitory and minimum microbicidal concentration of internal layer of onion from Kahrizak were significantly different from others (p

Bu çalışmada, test materyali olarak Allium cepa L. kullanılarak çeşitli fizyolojik, sitogenetik, anatomik ve biyokimyasal parametreler üzerine dışsal 4-metil umbelliferonun (4-MU) doza bağlı etkileri araştırıldı. İncelenen fizyolojik parametreler: çimlenme yüzdesi, kök uzunluğu, kökçük sayısı ve taze ağırlık; sitogenetik parametreler: mikronükleus (MN) sıklığı, kromozom anormalliği (KA) ve mitotik indeks (Mİ); biyokimyasal parametreler: serbest prolin içeriği, malondialdehit (MDA) düzeyi, katalaz (KAT) ve süperoksit dismutaz (SOD) aktiviteleridir. Soğan kök ucu hücrelerinde meydana gelen yapısal değişimler anatomik kesitler alınarak incelendi. Bu amaçlar için, soğanlar bir kontrol ve üç uygulama olmak üzere dört gruba ayrıldı. 7 gün süresince kontrol grubundaki soğanlar distile su ile muamele edilirken; uygulama gruplarındaki soğanlar 4-MU’nun 125 µM, 250 µM ve 500 µM dozları ile muamele edildi. 4-MU uygulaması kontrol grubuyla kıyaslandığında fizyolojik parametrelerde bir azalmaya neden oldu. Bu uygulama, KA ve MN sıklığında bir artış ile Mİ'de bir azalma meydana getirdi. Ayrıca, 4-MU muamelesi kontrol grubuyla karşılaştırıldığında KAT ve SOD aktiviteleri ile MDA ve serbest prolin içeriklerinde de doza bağlı olarak bir artışa neden oldu. Ayrıca, tüm 4-MU uygulamaları sonrasında, epidermis hücrelerinde MN oluşumu, epidermis ile korteks hücre deformasyonları, kortekste bazı kimyasal bileşiklerin birikmesi, belirgin olmayan iletim dokusu ve nekroz gibi kök anatomik değişimleri tespit edildi ve bu anatomik değişimlerin 500 µM 4-MU'da maksimum seviyelere ulaştığı bulundu. Sonuç olarak, 4-MU incelenen tüm parametreler üzerinde olumsuz bir etki gösterdi ve bu etkilerin izlenmesi için Allium test materyalinin yararlı bir biyoindikatör olabileceği tespit edildi.

Onions are known not only for their culinary importance but also for their nutritional and health-promoting properties. Both properties are closely linked to their content of organosulfur compounds, which account for up to 5% of the dry weight of an onion. Given the importance of these compounds, suitable analytical methods are required for their study. Two techniques should be highlighted in this context: gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS). In this study, eight different onion varieties were analyzed using two distinct analytical techniques: direct thermal desorption–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (DTD-GC-MS) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) on an LC-ESI-QqTOF instrument. Each method identified different organosulfur compounds, with LC-HRMS targeting 15 non-volatile compounds, such as cysteine sulfoxides, and GC-MS targeting 18 volatiles, such as disulfides and trisulfides. The results obtained were studied using Pearson correlations and principal component analysis. No precise correlation was found between the initial organosulfur compounds in onions and their hydrolysates. Consequently, although GC is one of the most employed techniques in the scientific literature, the use of LC-HRMS or a combination of both techniques may offer a more comprehensive and accurate description of the metabolomic profile of onions.

Here, 12 Fusarium strains, previously described as F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae (Foc), were examined via multi-locus sequencing of calmodulin (cmdA), RNA polymerase II second largest subunit (rpb2), and translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1), to verify the taxonomic position of Foc in the newly established epitype of F. oxysporum. The strains in this study were divided into two clades: F. nirenbergiae and Fusarium sp. To further determine the host specifications of the strains, inoculation tests were performed on onion bulbs and Welsh onion seedlings as potential hosts. Four strains (AC145, AP117, Ru-13, and TA) isolated from diseased onions commonly possessed the secreted in xylem (SIX)-3, 5, 7, 9, 10, 12, and 14 genes and were pathogenic and highly aggressive to onion bulbs, whereas all strains except for one strain (AF97) caused significant inhibition of Welsh onion growth. The inoculation test also revealed that the strains harboring the SIX9 gene were highly aggressive to both onion and Welsh onion and the gene was expressed during infection of both onions and Welsh onions, suggesting the important role of the SIX9 gene in pathogenicity. This study provides insights into the evolutionary pathogenicity differentiation of Fusarium strains causing Fusarium basal rot and wilt diseases in Allium species.

Fusarium basal rot of onions causes large losses during storage of commercial production of onion bulbs, which in turn adversely affects the food market situation in the off-season period. There are no data on the composition of Fusarium spp., which causes onion basal rot in the Russian Federation. Therefore, our research was aimed at Fusarium spp. causing onion basal rot in the Moscow Region of the Russian Federation and studying the pathogenicity of these species for the host plant. We studied 20 isolates of Fusarium spp. collected from affected mature bulbs and seed bulbs. Species identification of the isolates was carried out using analysis of the nucleotide sequences of the three genetic loci ITS, tef1 and rpb2, as well as was based on the macro- and micromorphological characteristics of these isolates. As a result, the species F. annulatum (F. fujikuroi species complex), F. oxysporum (F. oxysporum species complex), F. acuminatum (F. tricinctum species complex) and F. solani (F. solani species complex) were identified to involve in the pathogenesis of Fusarium basal rot. We have shown for the first time that the species F. annulatum and F. acuminatum are highly aggressive and capable of causing onion basal rot. The predominant species were F. annulatum and F. oxysporum. The proportion of these species in the total number of analyzed isolates was 60% and 25%, respectively. The largest proportion (33%) of highly aggressive on mature bulbs isolates was found in the species F. annulatum. The data obtained provide practical insights for developing strategies to manage Fusarium fungi responsible for onion basal rot Moscow Region of the Russian Federation. In addition, data about species composition and aggressive isolates may be used in onion breeding for resistance to Fusarium basal rot.

Onion (Allium cepa L) varieties grow at different latitudes. Onions need cool temperatures in the early stages of growth, and high temperatures and long days during bulbing. Sowing of seed in autumn, winter, and early spring results in more leaf growth and subsequently higher bulb yield than sowing in late-spring and summer. Onion varieties show different reactions to temperature and day length. Short-day varieties need shorter day lengths and low temperatures for bulb induction compared to long-day varieties. As the required minimum day length of an onion variety is met with increasing temperatures, bulbs will be initiated. Short-day varieties reached the bulbing phase at day lengths of 11–12 h. Cultivation of short-day varieties originating from low and equatorial latitudes in areas with higher latitudes resulted in early maturity. All onion varieties, regardless of photoperiod requirements, require low temperatures in the early growing season and seedling stage. Cultivars with similar photoperiod requirements in terms of morphological and genetic traits are located in different groups. Carbohydrates are transferred from leaves to bulbs over long days and during the bulbing stage. There is a close relationship between sugar and flowering genes like AcFT2. Region, variety, and genetics of varieties influence onion bulbing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Agriculture & Wildlife Science is the property of International Journal of Agriculture & Wildlife Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of the dose and source of nitrogen (N) fertilizers on plant vegetative growth, productivity, and quality of onion bulbs in the conditions of the Brazilian Cerrado. For this purpose, the experimental design included three doses of N (50, 100 and 150 kg N ha-1, corresponding to 50, 100 and 150% of the recommended dose, respectively), and two N sources (urea, 45% of N; and and ammonium sulfate, 20 % of N). It was verified that the increment of N doses resulted in more vigorous plants and, consequently, in greater productive gains. In addition, it was found that the use of ammonium sulfate provided a 37.2% increase in bulb weight and total productivity and a 59.6% increase in the productivity of Class III marketable bulbs compared to urea. In addition, it was concluded that, for onion cultivation under tropical conditions, like in the present study, the use of a dose equivalent to 150% of the recommendation for onion provides better productive performance of the crop, especially when associated with the use of sulfate ammonium as N source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Onion stemphiliosis is a relatively new disease in Ukraine, so a deeper study of Stemphylium, the species composition of the pathocenosis, and isolation and determination of the species belonging of pathogens of the disease are relevant. The purpose of the study was to examine the species composition of pathocenosis, the biofenology of the causative agent of stemphiliosis, and determine the effectiveness of fungicides for further control of stemphiliosis in onion crops. The main research methods were: field – to determine the spread, development, and harmfulness of stemphiliosis; laboratory – to examine pathogens of onion diseases; visual and mathematical – statistical. The method of mycological crops on potato-dextrose agar (PDA) was used in the work. Field surveys in 2019-2021 established the spread and development of stemphiliosis in onion plantings in the Odesa District of the Odesa region. It was identified that the growing season of 2021 was the most favourable for stemphiliosis, when against the background of high humidity and air temperatures, the spread of the disease was 100%, and the development of the disease reached 79%. In onion crops, the disease developed unevenly, its spread was low in June, with rapid growth in July. At the beginning of August, the percentage of the disease reached 80%. Eight types of fungi were identified, of which Stemphylium vesicarium (Wallr.) Simm, Stemphylium botryosum Wallr, Stemphylium herbarum Simm. – are pathogens of onion stemphiliosis. Laboratory studies established the frequency of their distribution in samples. It is proved that five-time spraying with fungicides helps to reduce the further development of stemphiliosis in onion plantings. The high effectiveness of spraying plants with appropriate fungicides with the active substance fluopyram (200 g/l) + tebuconazole (200 g/l) and fluoxastrobin (100 g/l) + prothioconazole (100 g/l) to suppress the development of spores of pathogens is proven. The provisions and conclusions on the phytosanitary condition of onion plantations in the Odesa region are further developed. The results of the research can serve to develop recommendations for production on the implementation of measures to protect onions from stemphiliosis