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Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a globally important oil and food crop frequently grown in arid, semi-arid, or dryland environments. Improving drought tolerance is a key goal for peanut crop improvement efforts. Here, we present the genome assembly and gene model annotation for "Line8," a peanut genotype bred from drought-tolerant cultivars. Our assembly and annotation are the most contiguous and complete peanut genome resources currently available. The high contiguity of the Line8 assembly allowed us to explore structural variation both between peanut genotypes and subgenomes. We detect several large inversions between Line8 and other peanut genome assemblies, and there is a trend for the inversions between more genetically diverged genotypes to have higher gene content. We also relate patterns of subgenome exchange to structural variation between Line8 homeologous chromosomes. Unexpectedly, we discover that Line8 harbors an introgression from A.cardenasii , a diploid peanut relative and important donor of disease resistance alleles to peanut breeding populations. The fully resolved sequences of both haplotypes in this introgression provide the first in situ characterization of A.cardenasii candidate alleles that can be leveraged for future targeted improvement efforts. The completeness of our genome will support peanut biotechnology and broader research into the evolution of hybridization and polyploidy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Late leaf spot (LLS), caused by the fungus Nothopassalora personata, is an important foliar disease in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) production. The present study used previously reported three single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers to screen a set of groundnut germplasm and compared them with phenotypic values of three hotspot locations. The results indicated that marker-identified genotypes had LLS-resistant or moderately resistant phenotypes. About 56% of the phenotypically confirmed genotypes were confirmed with the SNP genotype. Some of the phenotypically resistant genotypes were not confirmed with marker genotypes, indicating some other quantitative trait locus (QTL) responsible for the LLS resistance might have been involved. The findings in this study are relevant to future LLS resistance breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, bacterial inoculant technology focuses on improving long-term storage conditions to ensure adequate rhizobia numbers and their effectiveness as plant growth promoters. This study aimed to investigate whether storage at 4 °C for four years of alginate beads immobilizing Bradyrhizobium sp. SEMIA6144 maintains bacterial vitality, efficacy in growth promotion, and ability to establish early interactions with Arachis hypogaea L. The recovery of viable SEMIA6144 cells decreased over time (10% at six months, 1% at one year, and 0.01% at four years), while cell vitality remained high at 94.1%, 90.2%, and 93.4%, respectively. The unsaturated/saturated fatty acid ratio declined during storage, reducing membrane fluidity and metabolic activity. Mobility and root adhesion of SEMIA6144 decreased after one and four years. However, growth promotion in peanuts inoculated with SEMIA6144 beads was observed through increased biomass, total chlorophyll, leaf number, leaf area, and decreased chlorophyll fluorescence compared to non-inoculated plants. Although nodulation was low in plants inoculated with four-year-old beads, leghemoglobin levels were maintained. These results demonstrate that Bradyrhizobium sp. SEMIA6144 can be stored for four years in alginate beads at 4 °C, maintaining its vitality and ability to establish a symbiosis that stimulates early peanut growth. Understanding these physiological changes could be valuable for the future improvement of long-lasting inoculants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut web blotch is an important leaf disease caused by Phoma arachidicola, which seriously affects the quality and yield of peanuts. However, the molecular mechanisms of peanut resistance to peanut web blotch are not well understood. In this study, a transcriptome analysis of the interaction between peanut (Arachis hypogaea) and P. arachidicola revealed that total 2989 (779 up- and 2210 down-regulated) genes were all differentially expressed in peanut leaves infected by P. arachidicola at 7, 14, 21 days post inoculation. The pathways that were strongly differentially expressed were the flavone or isoflavone biosynthesis pathways. In addition, two 2-hydroxy isoflavanone synthase genes, IFS1 and IFS2, were strongly induced by P. arachidicola infection. Overexpression of the two genes enhanced resistance to Phytophthora parasitica in Nicotiana benthamiana. Knockout of AhIFS genes in peanut reduced disease resistance to P. arachidicola. These findings demonstrated that AhIFS genes play key roles in peanut resistance to P. arachidicola infection. Promoter analysis of the two AhIFS genes showed several defense-related cis-elements distributed in the promoter region. This study improves our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind resistance of peanut infection by P. arachidicola, and provides important information that could be used to undertake greater detailed characterization of web blotch resistance genes in peanut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) holds significant commercial and dietary importance as a major source of edible oil and protein in Turkey. Stem, collar or root rot, caused by several fungal disease agent, are serious soil-borne diseases of peanut. Accurate and precise identification of the disease agent provides fundamental and precise information for integrated plant management. During the period from June to September 2021, symptoms consistent with collar rot disease, including dark-brown stem rot, chlorotic leaves, wilting, and eventual whole plant death, were observed on peanut plants cultivated in the different districts of Osmaniye Province of Turkey. The disease incidence ranged from 8.0 to 45.0% in the inspected fields with an average of 3.4% overall. Twenty-four single-spore representative isolates were obtained from surface-disinfected symptomatic tissues. Morphological characteristics of fungal mycelium, conidial and pycnidial structures on potato sucrose agar (PSA) and water agar (WA) closely resembled those described for Lasiodiplodia spp. All isolates caused typical collar rot symptoms upon artificial inoculation of peanut seedlings. Morphological identification of Lasiodiplodia spp. isolates was corroborated by MALDI-TOF and molecular analyses utilizing sequences from the internal transcribed spacer (ITS), β-tubulin 2 (tub2) and translation elongation factor-1 alpha (TEF1-α) loci. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed that the representative fungal isolates (MKUBK-B1 and MKUBK-K22) belong to Lasiodiplodia pseudotheobromae. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of L. pseudotheobromae infecting peanut plants in Turkey. This work is expected to contribute to previously limited knowledge regarding the host range, incidence and prevalence of L. pseudotheobromae as a soilborne pathogen of peanuts. Due to the potential destructiveness and broad host range of this pathogen, it is essential to develop new strategies to establish more reliable, environmentally sustainable, and cost-effective management approaches for this disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Menoufia Journal of Plant Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental 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.)

This study aimed to assess the growth and development of 42 kDa chitinase-transgenic peanut lines in the T1 progeny and their phytopathogenic fungus resistance. Line S1A-12 contains the syncodChi42-1 gene, line S2A-11 contains the syncodChi42-2 gene, and lines WTA-3 and WTA-5 contain the Chi42 gene. The Chi42 gene is derived from Trichoderma asperellum SH16. SyncodChi42-1 and syncodChi42-2 are sequences of the Chi42 gene optimized for codon usage in plant expression. The study results showed that all four transgenic peanut lines maintained fungal resistance in T1 progeny. However, only three lines, S1A-12, WTA-3, and WTA-5, were segregated in the Mendelian ratio (3:1). T1 transgenic peanut lines grew more vigorously and produced higher numbers of mature pods, 100-pod weight, and 100-seed weight than the non-transgenic control. In which the S2A-11 line exhibited the strongest growth and development ability. The four transgenic lines had a higher protein content than the control, but their lipid and reducing sugar contents were similar. These findings suggest that transgenic peanuts containing one of two optimized chitinase genes may be promising candidates for the production of peanut cultivars resistant to phytopathogenic fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) are of significant agricultural importance due to their versatile uses, providing a valuable source of edible oil and protein-rich food products and serving in industrial applications. Peanuts are susceptible to various diseases, one of them being net syndrome, a poorly understood threat triggered by an undefined causal agent, with symptoms including black coloring and lesions of the peanut pod that affect product quality. In this study, amplicon sequencing was harnessed to explore the fungal and bacterial populations associated with the syndrome. Using this approach, we identified a specific Fusarium sp. amplicon sequence variant that demonstrated a significant correlation with the presence of net syndrome symptoms in both young and mature peanuts. This finding was further validated by Koch's postulates testing, including isolation, cultivation, and application of this strain to corroborate its involvement in net syndrome in peanuts. Our findings contribute to a better understanding of the interactions between peanuts and their microbial communities and to identification of the previously undetermined agent involved in net syndrome and the etiology of the disease.

In the present study, the thermal conversion of Arachis hypogaea (groundnut) husk into biochar and its subsequent application in the adsorptive removal of Cr(VI) from an aqueous solution has been studied. The SEM–EDX and LIBS analyses showed that the adsorbent material incorporates both magnesium (Mg) and chromium (Cr) on its surface. The FTIR spectra revealed the involvement of several functional groups in the Cr(VI) adsorption, including –OH, Mg–O–Mg, –CH, –NH, and –COO. Specific surface area (SSA) is determined using BET (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller) analysis and the SSA of adsorbent material was 35.83 m2 g−1. Data from batch adsorption experiments demonstrated that magnesium-supported biochar increased the binding capacity of the adsorbent to the Cr(VI) ions. Adsorption experiment data at equilibrium conditions showed that the Langmuir model provided a best suited to the nMgO@GHBC than the Freundlich and Temkin models with a maximum adsorption capacity of 93.86 mg g−1. The kinetic-second-order model with the highest R2 value of 0.993 and the lowest values for root mean square error and chi-square (χ2) can reasonably explain the hexavalent chromium adsorption data. This study suggested that the mechanism of Cr(VI) adsorption onto both adsorbents might be chemisorption or ion exchange processes as adsorption data effectively fitted the PSO model. The outcomes of thermodynamic parameters like ΔG° indicated that Cr(VI) adsorption on pGHBC and nMgO@GHBC was spontaneous. Fixed-bed-column studies were conducted at different experimental conditions, such as inlet flow rate and bed height. The outcomes of the experimental data showed that the adsorption capacity of adsorbent for Cr(VI) adsorption in a fixed bed continuous flow was 50 mg g−1. The adsorbent was recycled ten times using NaOH, HNO3, H2SO4, and EDTA. The continuous adsorption and desorption of Cr ions for up to 10 cycles showed the reusability of spent biochar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insoluble phosphorous compounds solubilization by soil bacteria is of great relevance since it puts available the phosphorus to be used by plants. The production of organic acids is the main microbiological mechanism by which insoluble inorganic phosphorus compounds are solubilized. In Gram negative bacteria, gluconic acid is synthesized by the activity of the holoenzyme glucose dehydrogenase-pyrroloquinoline quinine named GDH-PQQ. The use of marker genes is a very useful tool to evaluate the persistence of the introduced bacteria and allow to follow-up the effect of biotic and abiotic factors on these beneficial microorganisms in the soil. In previous studies we detected the presence of the pqqE gene in a great percentage of both non-culturable and culturable native soil bacteria. The objective of this study was to analyze the phylogeny of the sequence of pqqE gene and its potential for the study of phosphate solubilizing bacteria from pure and mixed bacterial cultures and rhizospheric soil samples. For this, the presence of the pqqE gene in the genome of phosphate solubilizing bacteria that belong to several bacteria was determined by PCR. Also, this gene was analyzed from mixed bacterial cultures and rhizospheric soil associated to peanut plants inoculated or not with phosphate solubilizing bacteria. For this, degenerate primers designed from several bacterial genera and specific primers for the genus Pseudomonas spp., designed in this study, were used. DNA template used from simple or mixed bacterial cultures and from rhizospheric soil samples was obtained using two different DNA extraction techniques. Results indicated that pqqE gene amplification product was found in the genome of all Gram negative phosphate solubilizing bacteria analyzed. It was possible to detect this gene in the DNA obtained from mixed cultures where these bacteria grew in interaction with other microorganisms and in that obtained from rhizospheric soil samples inoculated or not with these bacteria. The phylogenetic analysis indicated that pqqE gene is a conserved gene within related genera. In conclusion, pqqE gene could be a potential marker for the study of phosphate solubilizing bacterial populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem rot of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) caused by Scelrotium rolfsii is the main threat to groundnut production, causing significant economic losses. The present study aims to provide an overview of the potentiality of Trichoderma viride (Tv), Trichoderma harzianum (Th), Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pf), and Bacillus subtilis (Bs), applied either individually or in mixed combination, against Sclerotium rolfsii (isolate SrBKN). The treatment with T. harzianum and P. fluorescens resulted in the highest mycelial growth inhibition (79.61, 83.51, and 86.77%), followed by T. viride and P. fluorescens (75.74, 79.63, and 83.14%). Under in vitro conditions, the combination of bio-agents at 5% culture filtrate proved to be superior against the test pathogen. Seed treatment and soil application of T. harzianum and Pf at 10 (5 + 5) g kg−1 + 10 (5 + 5) kg ha−1, followed by seed treatment and soil application of T. viride and Pf at 10 (5 + 5) g kg−1 + 10 (5 + 5) kg ha−1, resulted in the lowest disease incidence (7.40 and 8.0%), highest disease control (69.37 and 66.88%), maximum dry weight (151 and 147 g plant−1), highest increase in dry weight (75.58 and 70.93), highest pod yield (2665 and 2498 kg ha−1), and highest increase in pod yield (96.38 and 84.08%) under in vivo conditions. We present an effective bio-control-based management module from the lab to the field for the successful control of groundnut stem rot caused by S. rolfsii. Based on the results, it is concluded that the dual formulation of T. harzianum and P. fluorescens, followed by T. viride and P. fluorescens, were the most effective BCAs in suppressing the S. rolfsii. Therefore, an integrated disease management module with these BCAs needs to be developed and validated with a farmers' participatory mode under field conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhizobia are bacteria that symbiosis with host plant, as shown in the root nodules formation, and provide nitrogen that can be absorbed by plants in greater quantities than rhizobacteria. Available Nitrogen, which absorbed by plants, is the essential requirement for plant growth because its role in increasing yield and quality, hence it is needed in greater quantities than other nutrients. The study aimed to determine the macroscopic and microscopic diversity of rhizobia isolates from the groundnut nodules and their potential as PGPRs, and to identify 16S rRNA isolates with the best potential as PGPRs molecularly. The methods used were isolation from root nodules, screening of PGPR potential, molecular identification based on the 16S rRNA gene, and phylogenetic analysis to determine their kinship. Based on the isolation results, 17 Gram-negative isolates were obtained white to pink or orange color on AG media with various colony characteristics in terms of shape, margin, elevation, and texture. KT 20, which was selected as rhizobia isolate with the best potential as PGPR, has ammonium concentration of 23.12 ppm, synthesizes IAA with a concentration of 10.36 ppm, and phosphates solubilization activity, although its ability to synthesize proteases is low. The results of molecular identification of 16S rRNA showed that KT 20 belongs to the Rhizobium genus with a similarity of 99.48 % and bootstrap value of 96 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut stem rot disease, caused by the necrotrophic soil-borne fungus Sclerotium rolfsii, has a significant negative impact on crop yields. Chemical fungicides can mitigate the loss incurred by fungus, however, their usage raises environmental and human health concern. Seaweeds extracts are getting importance as bio-stimulant for improving growth and disease resistance in different plants. In the present study, we investigated the potential of Sargassum tenerrimum extract (S-extract) in controlling stem rot disease in peanuts. The foliar application of S-extract was applied at vegetative and reproductive stages on peanut plants to study plant growth and reduction of S. rolfsii-induced disease. Plant height, number of branches and branch length increased in S-extract treated plants (S) as compared to S-extract + S. rolfsii treated plants (S + F). Similarly, the activity of anti-oxidative enzymes such as catalase (CAT), guaiacol peroxidase (GPOX), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased by application of S-extract. Pigments such as chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids showed higher accumulation in S-extract treated plants. The increased membrane stability index and reduced electrolyte leakage in S and S + F plants, positively affected the health and biotic stress tolerance of the plants. S-extract reduced the reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as O2•− and H2O2. Total phenol, soluble sugars and total amino acid accumulation were higher in S and S + F plants compared to C and F at vegetative stage. The mitigation of disease can be attributed to the application of S-extract leading to the elevated activity of antioxidant enzymes and the accumulation of non-enzymatic antioxidants, osmolytes, and pigments. Therefore, S-extract represents an environmentally friendly resource that can be employed in sustainable agriculture practices to boost plant growth and enhance disease tolerance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilisation of leguminous groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) has been recognised for its advantageous effects, including nitrogen (N) fixation, which consequently enhances the soil N availability. The objective of this study was to analyse the impact of a mixed intercropping system involving pepper (Piper nigrum) and groundnut on soil total N. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the influence of N on various parameters, including the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), chlorophyll content, and gas exchange rate of black pepper. The study employed a randomized complete block design in a field experiment, with two treatments that were reproduced 15 times. The treatments consisted of the control group (M0), which involved a pepper plot without groundnut intercropping, and the mixed intercropping system (M1), which involved a pepper plot with groundnut intercropping. The soil total N content exhibited a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05) in the context of a mixed intercropping system. The intercropping treatment resulted in considerably higher values (p < 0.05) for pepper NDVI, foliar chlorophyll concentration, photosynthetic rates (A), stomatal conductance (gs), and transpiration (E) compared to the control treatment. Moreover, a positive correlation has been seen between the chlorophyll content of pepper leaves and the total N content in the soil. Similarly, a positive association has been established between the A of pepper plants and the total N content in the soil. As a result, the observed elevation in A under high N circumstances was ascribed to an augmentation in chlorophyll concentration. Consequently, the integration of groundnut within pepper cultivation systems over an extended period has the potential to enhance crop productivity through the amelioration of soil conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut production is threatened by climate change. Damage to seedlings from low temperatures in early spring can limit yield. Plant adaptations to chilling stress remain unclear in peanut seedlings. It is essential to understand how peanut acquires chilling tolerance.We evaluated effects of chilling stress on growth and recovery of peanut seedlings. We compared and analysed biological characteristics, antioxidants, photosynthesis, biochemical and physiological responses, and nutrient absorption at varying levels of chilling.Compared with chilling‐sensitive FH18, the reduced impact of chilling stress on chilling‐tolerant NH5 was associated with reduced ROS accumulation, higher ascorbate peroxidase activity and soluble sugar content, lower soluble protein content, and smaller reductions in nutrient content during stress. After removal of chilling stress, FH18 had significant accumulation of O2•− and H2O2, which decreased photosynthesis, nutrient absorption, and transport. ROS‐scavenging reduced damage from chilling stress, allowed remobilization of nutrients, improved chilling tolerance, and restored plant functioning after chilling stress removal.These findings provide a reference for targeted research on peanut seedling tolerance to chilling and lay the foundation for bioinformatics‐based research on peanut chilling tolerance mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low plant density and weed infestation are major challenges for groundnut production in northern Ghana. A two‐year on‐farm study was conducted to determine the effect of plant density and variety on grain and fodder yields, incidence of leaf spot disease, weed species diversity and biomass. A factorial treatment combination of 6 varieties and 4 plant densities laid in strip plot design with 4 replications was used. The varieties were (early maturity type: Chinese, Yenyewoso, Samnut 23 and late maturity type: Azivivi, Manipinta, Samnut 22). The plants density included 9, 11, 15 and 22 plants/m2. The late maturity varieties recorded higher (p <.05) canopy cover, grain and fodder yields relative to that of the early maturity varieties. The late maturity varieties also recorded the least sedge weed species frequency, density and incidence of leaf spot disease compared with that of the early maturity varieties. The canopy cover, grain and fodder yields increased with increasing plant density. Broadleaf weed species frequency and density, weed biomass, richness, and diversity declined with increasing plant density. Grain yield showed negative and significant correlation with broadleaf weed species frequency, density and weed biomass. The results suggest that both early and late maturity groundnut varieties can be planted at a density of 22 plants/m2 to increase grain and fodder yields and reduce weed species richness, diversity and growth in northern Ghana and similar agro‐ecology in West Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ratio of oleic acid to linoleic acid (O/L) is crucial for determining the shelf life of peanut oil. In peanuts, the expression of the Fatty Acid Desaturase 2 (FAD2) enzyme, which converts oleic acid to linoleic acid, is regulated by two homeologous genes called AhFAD2A and AhFAD2B. It has been observed that the Indian peanut cultivar GG20 does not possess natural mutations in the AhFAD2B gene. We successfully introduced a construct called CRISPR_GG20_AhFAD2B into the de-embryonated cotyledon of the GG20 plant. The purpose of this construct was to utilize the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to modify the AhFAD2B gene. Genotyping analysis of the plants that were potentially transformed with the construct confirmed that the target-specific editing had occurred in the AhFAD2B gene. Subsequently, the edited GG20 plants were phenotypically evaluated to assess the fatty acid composition in the peanut kernels. The results showed a notable increase in the O/L ratio, which rose from 3.1 in the control to 7.3 in the edited GG20 plants. This implies that the gene editing technique successfully enhanced the oleic acid to linoleic acid ratio in the peanuts, potentially improving the shelf life of the resulting peanut oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

DBV712 250 µg (also referred to as Viaskin Peanut or peanut patch; Viaskin is a trademark of DBV Technologies) is an innovative approach to epicutaneous immunotherapy (EPIT). The patch-based technology system facilitates peanut protein (allergen) absorption into the intact non-vascularized epidermis to promote desensitization to peanut while limiting systemic allergen exposure. Efficacy and safety in children have been evaluated in four completed phase 3 studies. Overall, the results from these studies have demonstrated the peanut patch to be superior in desensitization compared with placebo and safe for daily use over multiple years. These findings, as well as supportive evidence from phase 2 studies, confirm the potential for an effective treatment of peanut allergy in children. The purpose of this review is to summarize the safety and efficacy of the peanut patch in the treatment of peanut allergy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxins, produced by aflatoxigenic Aspergillus section Flavi fungi, commonly occur in groundnut and maize grown in Mozambique and have long been associated with high prevalence of liver cancer, stunting, and restricted access to lucrative international markets. Effective aflatoxin control options in the country are limited and not adequately explored. Biocontrol products based on atoxigenic strains of A. flavus provide viable aflatoxin mitigation measures but require development for Mozambique. Four hundred and sixty-eight (468) and 558 groundnut and maize farmers, respectively, voluntarily evaluated the effectiveness of two biocontrol products (Aflasafe MWMZ01 and Aflasafe MZ02), each containing as active ingredients four distinct atoxigenic isolates of A. flavus belonging to native vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs), at preventing aflatoxin contamination and displacement of aflatoxigenic fungi for 2 years in various agro-ecologies. Most groundnut and maize treated with the biocontrol products were below maximum levels for food in the European Union (EU; 85%; p < 0.01) and the United States (US; 99%; p < 0.01). In contrast, most non-treated maize and groundnut (ranging from 38 to 70%; p = 0.05) were above the EU and US maximum allowable levels for food. Aflatoxin reductions ranged from 78 to 98% (p < 0.01) in treated groundnut, and from 61 to 93% (p < 0.01) in treated maize. Toxigenic fungi were almost completely displaced from soils and crops by the applied atoxigenic active ingredients. This study revealed that the atoxigenic based biocontrol technology is effective in Mozambique at displacing aflatoxigenic fungi and reducing aflatoxin accumulation in both groundnut and maize but a combination with other management tools is encouraged for better retention of crop quality along the value chain.

Peanuts (Arachis hypogaea L.) are a crop from tropical and subtropical regions. Argentina is a significant producer and exporter, with the province of Córdoba concentrating ca. 84% of the peanut-cultivated area in the country. Thrips pose a threat to the crop by causing direct damage through feeding and indirect damage as vectors of orthotospovirus. Despite the importance of these insects and the crop, little is known about the diversity of thrips in the vegetation surrounding peanut crops in Córdoba province. The aim of this study was to expand knowledge on thrips diversity in the plant environment around peanut crops in fields located in Río primero, Río Segundo and General Roca counties (Córdoba, Argentina). Sampling was conducted during the 2021-2022 growing season. The adult trips were collected from spontaneous plants and crops neighboring the peanut, and they were prepared and identified using special keys. In 14 plant species, specimens of Frankliniella schultzei (Trybom), Frankliniella gemina Bagnall, Caliothrips phaseoli (Hood), Frankliniella occidentalis (Pergande), Thrips tabaci (Lindeman), Frankliniella frumenti Moulton, Arorathrips mexicanus (Crawford), and individuals from the genera Heterothrips and Hoplandrothrips were collected. Frankliniella schultzei was the most frequent and abundant species. Spontaneous plants and soybean crops contained thrips species able to transmit orthotospovirus. This study reports for the first time the presence of F. schultzei in Gomphrena pulchella, as well as the first documentation of thrips diversity and their association with spontaneous vegetation in peanut fields in the province of Córdoba.

This article discusses the use of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology to silence the 2S albumin genes in peanuts, which are known to be potent allergens. The researchers successfully edited the genes using a multiplex gene editing strategy and confirmed the elimination of the allergenic proteins through protein analysis. However, further testing is needed to determine if the edited peanuts have reduced allergenicity. The study was supported by Ukko, Inc. and the data supporting the findings are available in the supplementary material of the article. [Extracted from the article]

Effect of processing on the nutritional composition of groundnut seeds were carried out using standard analytical methods. Raw, boiled and fried groundnut seeds were analyzed for proximate composition, mineral contents, and phytochemical screening. The result reported that the raw, boiled, and fried contains (5.357±0.190%, 4.545±0.050% and 3.896±0.015%, moisture contents), (2.401±0.011%, 3.225±0.004% and 2.816±0.001%, ash contents), (46.591±0.001%, 25.333±0.003% and 48.012±0.953%, crude fat), (4.126±0.887%, 15.001±0.030% and 7.692±0.002%, crude fibre), (19.520±0.040%, 21.580±0.040% and 23.540±0.000%, crude protein), (22.005±0.587%, 30.316±0.056% and 14.044±0.939%, carbohydrate) respectively. A significant difference was observed. Processing has significant effects on the mineral components of the seeds. The results revealed that raw, boiled and fried contains (56.900mg/100g, 48.400mg/100g and 35.00mg/100g Sodium), (0.215mg/100g, 0.185mg/100g and 0.540mg/100g Zinc), (65.500mg/100g, 42.700mg/100g and 25.500mg/100g Magnesium), (0.218mg/100g, 0.230mg/100g and 0.230mg/100g Iron), (0.250mg/100g, 0.110mg/100g and 0.100mg/100g Manganese). The phytochemical screening shows the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates and proteins in all the samples and the result reveals that processing does not really have effect on phytochemical constituents. The investigation shows that fresh groundnut is a good source of mineral content, while raw and processed groundnut is a good source of some phytochemical constituents and processed groundnut is a good source of protein, fat, and carbohydrate with high nutritional value.

Abstract The effects of inhibitor concentration on the corrosion rate and inhibition efficiency of AISI 1020 steel in an acidic and alkaline environment were investigated by means of weight loss measurement at an interval of 7 days and 14 days. To carry out this investigation, the Arachis hypogaea hull was extracted and concentrated in various weight percentages. The inhibition efficiency increased with the increased concentrations of AISI 1020 steel that were immersed in acidic and alkaline solution in the absence and presence of varying inhibitor concentrations of Arachis hypogaea hull extracts. The corrosion behavior, including the corrosion rate, is meticulously characterized through the corrosion rate analysis. The results showed that there is an increase in inhibition efficiency with an increase in inhibitor concentration and that there is a decrease in inhibition efficiency with an increase in immersion time. The organic inhibitor (Arachis hypogaea hull) produced the best inhibition efficiency of 96.4% at a 30% concentration. From the result obtained, Arachis hypogaea hull extracts revealed that it is best suited for inhibition of corrosion of mild steel in both acidic and alkaline environments. The goal of this research paper is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the corrosion inhibition and adsorption mechanisms associated with the implementation of the Arachis hypogaea hull as a natural corrosion inhibitor.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is one of the most important oil crops worldwide. Cadmium (Cd), a heavy metal that is nonessential and toxic, has the potential to significantly impacted the quality and safety of peanut. Despite the known importance of Pleiotropic Drug Resistance (PDR) genes in heavy metal accumulation and transport in plants, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the systematic identification and functional characterization of AhPDRs in peanut. In this study, a total of 38 AhPDR genes were discovered within the peanut genome. Among these, AhPDR24, AhPDR30, and AhPDR33 displayed notable variations in expression levels in response to Cd stress. Particularly noteworthy was the observation that AhPDR33, localized in the plasma membrane, exhibited a significant increase in expression (approximately 3.8-fold) and heightened promoter activity (approximately 4.1-fold) following exposure to Cd (75 μM CdCl2). Furthermore, the study found that the overexpression of AhPDR33 in Arabidopsis resulted in increased root elongation and decreased Cd accumulation (approximately 0.42-fold) compared to wild-type plants. This suggests that AhPDR33 may have a beneficial role in facilitating Cd efflux and tolerance in plants. Additionally, transient silencing of AhPDR33 in peanut demonstrated its positive regulation of Cd tolerance through the promotion of reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and membrane permeability reduction. These findings contribute to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in AhPDR33-mediated Cd tolerance and detoxification in peanut. Furthermore, this study provides comprehensive information to understand the AhPDR gene family, its features, and its expression, which will hold a promising utility as an excellent candidate in the genetic improvement of peanut Cd stress tolerance.

The potential production and productivity of groundnuts are limited due to severe drought stress associated with climate change. The current study aimed to identify genomic regions and candidate genes associated with drought tolerance and component traits for gene introgression and to guide marker-assisted breeding of groundnut varieties. Ninety-nine genetically diverse groundnut genotypes were phenotyped under drought-stressed and non-stressed field conditions in 2018/19 and 2019/20, and using the LeasyScan platform under non-stressed conditions in 2019/20 at the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT)/India. The samples were genotyped using 48 K single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) markers at the University of Georgia/USA. Phenotypic data was collected on 17 agronomic traits and subjected to statistical analyses. The SNP data were computed, and population structure was inferred using a Bayesian clustering method in Structure version 2.3.4, while linkage disequilibrium was calculated using the GAPIT program in R software. Marker-trait associations were deduced using Tassel 5.2.86. Significant phenotypic variations were recorded for drought tolerance and the assessed agronomic traits. GWAS analysis using PCA+K and Q+K models identified significant SNPs associated with leaf area (1 SNP), leaf area Index (1 SNP), specific leaf area (1 SNP), leaf relative water content (43 SNPs), number of primary branches (1 SNP) and hundred seed weight (1 SNP). Forty-seven and one marker-trait associations were detected under drought-stressed and non-stressed conditions, respectively. The candidate genes and markers identified in the current study are useful for accelerated groundnut breeding targeting drought tolerance and market-preferred traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium deficiency is a leading cause of reduced peanut (Arachis hypogaea) seed quality and has been linked to increased disease susceptibility, specifically to soilborne fungal pathogens. Sufficient calcium at flowering time is critical to ensure proper pod development. Calcite-dissolving bacteria (CDB) isolated from farming fields can dissolve calcite (CaCO3) on plates and increase soluble calcium levels in soil. However, the phylogenetic diversity and geographic distribution of CDB is unclear. Here, we surveyed soil samples from 15 peanut-producing fields in three regions in southern Georgia, representing distinct soil compositions. We isolated CDB through differentiating media and identified 52 CDB strains. CDB abundance was not associated with any of the soil characteristics we evaluated. Three core genera, represented by 43 strains, were found in all three regions. Paenibacillus was the most common CDB found in all regions, making up 30 of the 52 identified strains. Six genera, represented by eight strains, are unique to one region. Members of the core and unique communities showed comparable solubilization indexes on plates. We conclude that a diversified phylogenetic population of CDB is present in Georgia peanut fields. Despite the phylogenetic diversity, as a population, they exhibit comparable functions in solubilizing calcite on plates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut is a leguminous crop with an indeterminate growth habit that will continuously flower during the entire reproductive development stage. Flowering redundancy adversely affects the yield and quality of peanut. In this study, eight flowering and five yield-related traits were collected and comprehensively evaluated from a diverse germplasm panel consisting of 232 peanut accessions, aiming to provide a theoretical basis for improving the flowering habit and yield for future peanut breeding efforts. As a result, large phenotypic diversity was observed in 13 traits. Most of the traits suggested high heritability, except high effective flowering duration (HEFD), days to 100% flower cessation (DTC100), and yield per plant (YPP). Days to 90% flower cessation (DTC90), days to DTC100, flowering duration (FD), and low effective flowering duration (LEFD) showed significant negative correlations with 100-seed weight, 100-pod weight, YPP, average weight per pod, and shelling percentage. Principal component analysis (PCA) suggested that flowering redundancy traits as well as yield-related traits contributed more to the first three PCs when compared to other traits. This study addresses the lack of peanut flowering phenotypic and genetic diversity and lays the foundation for in-depth research on redundancy-related genes in peanut flowering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: As peanuts are prone to fungal attack, techniques like ozonation and heat treatment hold enormous potential. Peanut oil, being health‐healthy, was extracted from O1: control, O2: roasted (166 °C for 7 min), O3: ozonated (6 mg L−1 for 30 min), and O4: ozonated + roasted peanuts and analysed for chemical, colour, phenolic, fatty acids and rheological properties. Roasting significantly affected peroxide, iodine, acid, p‐anisidine values and stability of oils as compared to other treatments. The results indicated a decline in colour attributes of all oils except hue angle which were strongly correlated to increased levels of functional compounds expressed by third‐degree polynomial. O4 oil indicated best quality in terms of high atherogenic, thrombogenic, calculated oxidisability value and low hypocholesterolaemic: hypercholesterolaemic indices of fatty acid. Oils exhibited pseudoplasticity postulated by Ostwald‐de Waele and Herschel–Bulkley models. Arrhenius equation and oscillatory rheology predicted temperature dependency and crystal matrix behaviour. Overall, the O4 oils followed by O3 from ozonated peanuts individually and along with roasting are pivotal to cater the rising demands of oils due to their better appearance, fatty acids and rheology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The effects of inhibitor concentration on the corrosion rate and inhibition efficiency of AISI 1020 steel in an acidic and alkaline environment were investigated by means of weight loss measurement at an interval of 7 days and 14 days. To carry out this investigation, the Arachis hypogaea hull was extracted and concentrated in various weight percentages. The inhibition efficiency increased with the increased concentrations of AISI 1020 steel that were immersed in acidic and alkaline solution in the absence and presence of varying inhibitor concentrations of Arachis hypogaea hull extracts. The corrosion behavior, including the corrosion rate, is meticulously characterized through the corrosion rate analysis. The results showed that there is an increase in inhibition efficiency with an increase in inhibitor concentration and that there is a decrease in inhibition efficiency with an increase in immersion time. The organic inhibitor (Arachis hypogaea hull) produced the best inhibition efficiency of 96.4% at a 30% concentration. From the result obtained, Arachis hypogaea hull extracts revealed that it is best suited for inhibition of corrosion of mild steel in both acidic and alkaline environments. The goal of this research paper is to develop a comprehensive understanding of the corrosion inhibition and adsorption mechanisms associated with the implementation of the Arachis hypogaea hull as a natural corrosion inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As there was no maximum permissible limit prescription for aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in Ethiopia, this study has been conducted to generate data on AFB1 levels in Ethiopian groundnut accessions/landraces. Besides, an attempt was made to find out if there is any relationship between AFB1 and other parameters such as altitude of cultivation, individual seed weight, kernel colonization by Aspergillus flavus, total carbohydrates, protein and total free amino acids. Out of the 28 accessions studied, merely six accessions registered ≤2 ppb AFB1 and thus, they comply with maximum permissible limit set by European Union. Altitude of cultivation had no relationship with AFB1 levels. Interestingly, total carbohydrates in the seeds as well as kernel colonization by A. flavus showed statistically significant (p

ABSTRACT The success of intercropping depends on the spatial arrangement between crops, aiming at the best use of the planting area and greater profitability for the farmer. Here, we evaluated the effect of cassava-peanut intercropping on several agronomic parameters. The research was carried out in the APTA experimental area, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. The experimental design was randomized blocks with four treatments (peanut in monoculture - P; cassava in monoculture - C, cassava intercropped with peanuts planted between rows - CPb, and intercropping in alternating double rows - CPd) and eight replications. The variables analyzed were vegetative growth of cassava plants, soil vegetation cover and weed control, incidence of the main cassava and peanut pests, productivity, and the land equivalent ratio (LER). Only CPb inhibited cassava vegetative growth, significantly affecting its final height. Greater vegetation coverage and, consequently, lower occurrence of weeds, was obtained in CPb in addition to lower incidence of whiteflies in cassava. The intercropping system, regardless of the spatial arrangement used, increased the incidence of the lace bug in cassava and reduced the incidence of peanut pests. Crop productivity was lower in CPd due to the lower planting density of intercrops. However, both intercropping arrangements increased LER. Thus, despite the spatial arrangement of the intercropping system having implied different agronomic responses of the crops, planting peanuts between the cassava rows brought the best agronomic results.

El mercado de hongos comestibles es muy grande, siendo una alternativa alimenticia para reemplazar la carne, sumado a sus propiedades nutracéuticas y con la posibilidad de cultivarlos aprovechando desechos orgánicos de origen agrícola. Se recolectaron y prepararon semillas de almendra (Terminalia catappa) y cáscaras de achiote (Biza orellana), cacahuate (Arachis hypogaea) y arroz (Oriza sativa) e inocularon con micelio de Pleurotus pulmonarius. Se evaluaron los tiempos de crecimiento del hongo, la eficiencia biológica y relación entre minerales del sustrato y producto. En achiote y maní hubo mayor acumulación de proteína (12,4%±1,6 y 10,9%±0,6 respectivamente). La cáscara de maní fue el único sustrato donde fructificó el P. pulmonarius con relación entre la concentración de nitrógeno vs. diámetro del sombrero, del pie y longitud del pie (p

Members of bZIP gene family play crucial roles in various biological processes, including plant growth and development, stress response, and light signal transduction. Despite their significance, there is limited information on the function of the bZIP gene family in peanuts. In this investigation, we identified a total of 99 bZIP gene family members in the peanut genome, distributed across 20 chromosomes. Phylogenetic tree analysis categorized the peanut bZIP gene family into 10 groups, with groups I, D, A and S being the most widely distributed. Transcriptome analysis of peanut pods revealed that 10 bZIP family genes exhibited significant induction in response to light, suggesting their potential involvement in light signal transduction in peanuts. Within the peanut bZIP family, group H comprises six genes AhbZIP13, AhbZIP63, AhbZIP39, AhbZIP44, AhbZIP91 and AhbZIP96. Particularly, the expression of the AhbZIP63 (AhHYH) gene significantly increased under light induction, indicating a pivotal role in light signal transduction. DAP-seq analysis of AhbZIP63 (AhHYH) demonstrated its direct regulation of genes associated with UV response and cellular response to nutrient levels.

Abstract Background Calmodulins (CaMs)/CaM-like proteins (CMLs) are crucial Ca2+-binding sensors that can decode and transduce Ca2+ signals during plant development and in response to various stimuli. The CaM/CML gene family has been characterized in many plant species, but this family has not yet been characterized and analyzed in peanut, especially for its functions in response to Ralstonia solanacearum. In this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis to analyze the CaM/CML genes and their functions in resistance to R. solanacearum. Results Here, 67, 72, and 214 CaM/CML genes were identified from Arachis duranensis, Arachis ipaensis, and Arachis hypogaea, respectively. The genes were divided into nine subgroups (Groups I-IX) with relatively conserved exon‒intron structures and motif compositions. Gene duplication, which included whole-genome duplication, tandem repeats, scattered repeats, and unconnected repeats, produced approximately 81 pairs of homologous genes in the AhCaM/CML gene family. Allopolyploidization was the main reason for the greater number of AhCaM/CML members. The nonsynonymous (Ka) versus synonymous (Ks) substitution rates (less than 1.0) suggested that all homologous pairs underwent intensive purifying selection pressure during evolution. AhCML69 was constitutively expressed in different tissues of peanut plants and was involved in the response to R. solanacearum infection. The AhCML69 protein was localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Transient overexpression of AhCML69 in tobacco leaves increased resistance to R. solanacearum infection and induced the expression of defense-related genes, suggesting that AhCML69 is a positive regulator of disease resistance. Conclusions This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of the AhCaM/CML gene family and potential genetic resources for the molecular design and breeding of peanut bacterial wilt resistance.

Peanut web blotch is an important leaf disease caused by Phoma arachidicola, which seriously affects the quality and yield of peanuts. However, the molecular mechanisms of peanut resistance to peanut web blotch are not well understood. In this study, a transcriptome analysis of the interaction between peanut (Arachis hypogaea) and P. arachidicola revealed that total 2989 (779 up- and 2210 down-regulated) genes were all differentially expressed in peanut leaves infected by P. arachidicola at 7, 14, 21 days post inoculation. The pathways that were strongly differentially expressed were the flavone or isoflavone biosynthesis pathways. In addition, two 2-hydroxy isoflavanone synthase genes, IFS1 and IFS2, were strongly induced by P. arachidicola infection. Overexpression of the two genes enhanced resistance to Phytophthora parasitica in Nicotiana benthamiana. Knockout of AhIFS genes in peanut reduced disease resistance to P. arachidicola. These findings demonstrated that AhIFS genes play key roles in peanut resistance to P. arachidicola infection. Promoter analysis of the two AhIFS genes showed several defense-related cis-elements distributed in the promoter region. This study improves our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind resistance of peanut infection by P. arachidicola, and provides important information that could be used to undertake greater detailed characterization of web blotch resistance genes in peanut.

Currently, bacterial inoculant technology focuses on improving long-term storage conditions to ensure adequate rhizobia numbers and their effectiveness as plant growth promoters. This study aimed to investigate whether storage at 4 °C for four years of alginate beads immobilizing Bradyrhizobium sp. SEMIA6144 maintains bacterial vitality, efficacy in growth promotion, and ability to establish early interactions with Arachis hypogaea L. The recovery of viable SEMIA6144 cells decreased over time (10% at six months, 1% at one year, and 0.01% at four years), while cell vitality remained high at 94.1%, 90.2%, and 93.4%, respectively. The unsaturated/saturated fatty acid ratio declined during storage, reducing membrane fluidity and metabolic activity. Mobility and root adhesion of SEMIA6144 decreased after one and four years. However, growth promotion in peanuts inoculated with SEMIA6144 beads was observed through increased biomass, total chlorophyll, leaf number, leaf area, and decreased chlorophyll fluorescence compared to non-inoculated plants. Although nodulation was low in plants inoculated with four-year-old beads, leghemoglobin levels were maintained. These results demonstrate that Bradyrhizobium sp. SEMIA6144 can be stored for four years in alginate beads at 4 °C, maintaining its vitality and ability to establish a symbiosis that stimulates early peanut growth. Understanding these physiological changes could be valuable for the future improvement of long-lasting inoculants.

Background: Calmodulins (CaMs)/CaM-like proteins (CMLs) are crucial Ca2+-binding sensors that can decode and transduce Ca2+ signals during plant development and in response to various stimuli. The CaM/CML gene family has been characterized in many plant species, but this family has not yet been characterized and analyzed in peanut, especially for its functions in response to Ralstonia solanacearum. In this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis to analyze the CaM/CML genes and their functions in resistance to R. solanacearum. Results: Here, 67, 72, and 214 CaM/CML genes were identified from Arachis duranensis, Arachis ipaensis, and Arachis hypogaea, respectively. The genes were divided into nine subgroups (Groups I-IX) with relatively conserved exon‒intron structures and motif compositions. Gene duplication, which included whole-genome duplication, tandem repeats, scattered repeats, and unconnected repeats, produced approximately 81 pairs of homologous genes in the AhCaM/CML gene family. Allopolyploidization was the main reason for the greater number of AhCaM/CML members. The nonsynonymous (Ka) versus synonymous (Ks) substitution rates (less than 1.0) suggested that all homologous pairs underwent intensive purifying selection pressure during evolution. AhCML69 was constitutively expressed in different tissues of peanut plants and was involved in the response to R. solanacearum infection. The AhCML69 protein was localized in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Transient overexpression of AhCML69 in tobacco leaves increased resistance to R. solanacearum infection and induced the expression of defense-related genes, suggesting that AhCML69 is a positive regulator of disease resistance. Conclusions: This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of the AhCaM/CML gene family and potential genetic resources for the molecular design and breeding of peanut bacterial wilt resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of dicamba and 2,4-D resistant crops may result in the widespread use of these herbicides in agricultural areas, potentially affecting nearby susceptible crops. This study aimed to evaluate the sensitivity of bean, peanut, and cotton to different doses of Dicamba and 2,4-D. To do so, separate experiments were conducted for each crop and herbicide in a greenhouse, using a completely randomized design with four replications. Both herbicides were applied at different doses to plants with the second pair of true leaves. Phytotoxicity and dry biomass were evaluated. For cotton, 2,4-D showed high phytotoxicity at doses of up to 83.75 g ai ha-1, with a reduction in suppressive effect observed at 20.93 g ai ha-1. Dicamba exhibited a pronounced reduction in crop biomass up to a dose of 70 g ai ha-1, with 94 % phytotoxicity. For beans, the evolution of symptoms using 2,4-D occurred more slowly, but the highest doses resulted in phytotoxicity of up to 95 % and a 30 % reduction in biomass at 167.5 g ai ha-1, indicating a significant impact on the crop. Dicamba also had a high negative impact, with a 100 % reduction in biomass at 70 g ai ha-1. The peanut crop was more tolerant to herbicides, with 2,4-D doses of 670, 335, and 167.5 g ai ha-1 resulting in phytotoxicities of 69.5, 37.49, and 14.37 %, respectively. Dicamba significantly reduced dry biomass at doses of up to 70 g ai ha-1. The results show that, despite the differences in sensitivity of cotton, bean, and peanut to 2,4-D and Dicamba, even low doses of these herbicides applied early in development had a significant negative impact on these crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peanut smut (causal agent Thecaphora frezzii) and seasonal drought are the two main factors reducing peanut yields in Argentina. There are no previous studies about the effect of drought on peanut smut occurrence. We evaluated the effect of soil water limitation on smut symptoms in greenhouse and field assays. Additionally, we analysed the biochemical responses of plants to the combined stress caused by water limitation and smut infection in greenhouse experiments. We found that a moderate water deficit (30% of soil water‐holding capacity) increased smut symptoms and differentially increased proline and reduced chlorophylls in the host. Subsequently, we studied the correlation between field precipitation data and smut damage from 2015 to 2020 in naturally infected fields with a high T. frezzii spore load in the soils. Strong correlations between precipitation and severely affected pods, severity disease index and incidence were found from January to March (susceptibility window for T. frezzii infections). We suggest a strategy of irrigation in a specific time frame to mitigate smut damage when there is a water deficit in the growing season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quantity and quality of spray deposition are fundamental for improving pesticide performance in plant pests. This study evaluated how spray droplet size (1) and spray nozzle type (2) affect the quantity and quality of spray deposition on peanut plants at the vegetative and reproductive growth stages. Two greenhouse experiments were performed on peanut plants at the V1 and R1 growth stages. Experiment 1 treatments included three droplet sizes: medium (flat fan XR 11002), very coarse (TT 11002), and extremely coarse (AIXR 11002). Experiment 2 treatments were five spray nozzles: hollow cone (TXA 8002 VK), twin flat fan (TTJ60 11002), air induction flat fan (AIXR 110025), drift guard twin flat fan (DGTJ60 11002), and extended range flat fan (XR 11003). Spray deposition values were determined using a solution of brilliant blue dye sprayed by a CO2-pressurized backpack sprayer. The medium droplet size provided higher spray deposition on peanut plants at the V1 and R1 growth stages. Increasing the droplet size from medium to extremely coarse reduces spray deposition at the V1 growth stage. Spray deposition uniformity increased as droplet size increased at the V1 growth stage. The spray uniformity decreased at the R1 growth stage as the droplet size increased. The flat fan XR 11003 (medium droplet) and hollow cone nozzle TXA 8002 VK (fine droplet) provided a higher spray deposition on peanut plants at both growth stages. The spray nozzles that provide a higher spray deposition did not perform well on spray uniformity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ferric chelate reductase (FRO) family plays a vital role in metal ion homeostasis in a variety of locations in the plants. However, little is known about this family in peanut (Arachis hypogaea). This study aimed to identify FRO genes from the genomes of peanut and the two diploid progenitors (A. duranensis and A. ipaensis) and to analyze their gene/protein structures and evolution. In addition, transcriptional responses of AhFRO genes to Fe deficiency and/or Cu exposure were investigated in two peanut cultivars with different Fe deficiency tolerance (Silihong and Fenghua 1). A total of nine, four, and three FRO genes were identified in peanut, A. duranensis, and A. ipaensis, respectively, which were divided into three groups. Most AhFRO genes underwent WGD/segmental duplication, leading to the expansion of the AhFRO gene family. In general, clustered members share similar gene/protein structures. However, significant divergences occurred in AhFRO2 genes. Three out of five AhFRO2 genes were lowly expressed in all tissues under normal conditions, which may be beneficial for avoiding gene loss. Transcription analysis revealed that AhFRO2 and AhFRO7 genes might be involved in the reduction of Fe/Cu in plasma membranes and plastids, respectively. AhFRO8 genes appear to confer Fe reduction in the mitochondria. Moreover, Fe deficiency induced an increase of Cu accumulation in peanut plants in which AhFRO2.2/2.4/2.5 and FRO7.1/7.2 might be involved. Our findings provided new clues for further understanding the roles of AhFRO genes in the Fe/Cu interaction in peanut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pentatricopeptide repeat (PPR) proteins, with tandem 30–40 amino acids, were characterized as one kind of nucleus coding protein. They have been demonstrated to play important roles in RNA editing, plant growth and development, and plant immunity. Although the PPR gene family has been characterized in some plant species, less is known about this family in peanut, especially their functions in response to Ralstonia solanacearum. In this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis to identify PPR genes and their functions in resistance to R. solanacearum. Here, 389, 481, and 1079 PPR genes were identified from Arachis duranensis, Arachis ipaensis, and Arachis hypogaea, respectively. Allopolyploidization was the main reason for the increased number of the AhPPR members. Gene duplication brought about 367 pairs of homologous genes of PPRs in A. hypogaea. Whole-genome replication, tandem repeats, scattered repeats, and unconnected repeats constituted the replication types. The substitution rates of nonsynonymous (Ka) versus synonymous (Ks) of all homologous pairs were less than 1.0, suggesting that the homologous AhPPRs underwent intense purifying selection pressure and remained conserved in both structure and function. RNA-seq and RT-qPCR analyses showed that AhPPR598 gene was highly expressed in the aerial part of peanut and involved in response to R. solanacearum. The transient expression of AhPPR598 in Nicotiana benthamiana induced the HR-mediated cell death, up-regulated expression of resistant marker genes, and enhanced the resistance to R. solanacearum, suggesting AhPPR598 was a positive regulator of immunity by regulating the JA and SA pathways. These results provide a new understanding of the origin, distribution, and evolution of the AhPPR gene family and potential gene resources for peanut-resistant breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large seed mutant, TG 89 having a 76.7% increment in hundred kernel weight in comparison to its parent TG 26, was isolated from an electron beam-induced mutagenized population. Studies based on environmental scanning electron microscopy of both parent and mutant revealed that the mutant seed cotyledon had significantly bigger cell size than parent. A mapping population with 122 F2 plants derived from the mutant and a distant normal seed genotype (ICGV 15007) was utilized to map the QTL associated with higher HKW. Bulk segregant analysis revealed putative association of three markers with this mutant large seed trait. Further, genotyping of F2 individuals with polymorphic markers detected 14 linkage groups with a map distance of 1053 cM. QTL analysis revealed a significant additive major QTL for the mutant large seed trait on linkage group A05 explaining 12.7% phenotypic variation for the seed size. This QTL was located between flanking markers AhTE333 and AhTE810 having a map interval of 4.7 cM which corresponds to 90.65 to 107.24 Mbp in A05 chromosome, respectively. Within this genomic fragment, an ortholog of the BIG SEEDS 1 gene was found at 102,476,137 bp. Real-time PCR revealed down-regulation of this BIG SEEDS 1 gene in the mutant indicating a loss of function mutation giving rise to a large seed phenotype. This QTL was validated in 11 advanced breeding lines having large seed size from this mutant but with varied genetic backgrounds. This validation showcased a highly promising selection accuracy of 90.9% for the marker-assisted selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the utilization of raw agricultural biowaste groundnut shell (GS) as a potential immobilization matrix for an isolated bacterial consortium as a sustainable means to remove 4-nitrophenol (4-NP). Optimization of five parameters such as immobilization matrix size, matrix dosage, pH, temperature, and agitation and their three levels was done through Taguchi Orthogonal Array approach by Qualitek-4 software. Taguchi methodology indicated the optimum reaction conditions to be (in order of their significance) agitation speed (100 rpm), immobilization matrix dosage (4 g), matrix size (800 µm), pH (9), and temperature (32 °C), resulting in an overall enhancement of 57.30% 4-NP removal efficiency under the optimized conditions. GS-immobilized cells exhibited an improved substrate removal efficiency and high substrate tolerance over free cells, indicating the synergistic effects of adsorption and biodegradation on the removal process. The GS immobilized cells could remove 1000 mg l−1 of 4-NP as opposed to only 700 mg l−1 by the free cells. Biodegradation kinetics were analyzed using various substrate inhibition models, and Haldane model fitted the experimental data reasonably well. GS immobilized cells retained a stable activity of 85.5 ± 3.48% for 45 days when stored at 4 °C and could be efficiently reused for 4 consecutive cycles. Thus, utilizing untreated agricultural wastes like GS will be a cost-effective alternative to conventional immobilization matrices in small-scale industries and can be a step towards sustainable agro-waste management and contaminated wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]