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Soybean cultivation in tropical regions relies on symbioses with nitrogen-fixing Bradyrhizobium and plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPBs), reducing environmental impacts of N fertilizers and pesticides. We evaluate the effects of soybean inoculation with different bacterial consortia combined with PGPBs or microbial secondary metabolites (MSMs) on rhizosoil chemistry, plant physiology, plant nutrition, grain yield, and rhizosphere microbial functions under field conditions over three growing seasons with four treatments: standard inoculation of Bradyrhizobium japonicum and Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens consortium (SI); SI plus foliar spraying with Bacillus subtilis (SI + Bs); SI plus foliar spraying with Azospirillum brasilense (SI + Az); and SI plus seed application of MSMs enriched in lipo-chitooligosaccharides extracted from B. diazoefficiens and Rhizobium tropici (SI + MSM). Rhizosphere microbial composition, diversity, and function was assessed by metagenomics. The relationships between rhizosoil chemistry, plant nutrition, grain yield, and the abundance of microbial taxa and functions were determined by generalized joint attribute modeling. The bacterial consortia had the most significant impact on rhizosphere soil fertility, which in turn affected the bacterial community, plant physiology, nutrient availability, and production. Cluster analysis identified microbial groups and functions correlated with shifts in rhizosoil chemistry and plant nutrition. Bacterial consortia positively modulated specific genera and functional pathways involved in biosynthesis of plant secondary metabolites, amino acids, lipopolysaccharides, photosynthesis, bacterial secretion systems, and sulfur metabolism. The effects of the bacterial consortia on the soybean holobiont, particularly the rhizomicrobiome and rhizosoil fertility, highlight the importance of selecting appropriate consortia for desired outcomes. These findings have implications for microbial-based agricultural practices that enhance crop productivity, quality, and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has emerged as a challenge for soybean cultivation around the world, stimulating the development of technological alternatives that aim to mitigate the damage caused by water deficit. From this perspective, algae extract-based biostimulants have been tested to reduce water stress in several crops, but little is known about their effects on soybean. Thus, we hypothesize that a commercial biostimulant based on Ascophyllum nodosum can improve the physiological performance and water relations of Glycine max plants subjected to water deficit. To test this hypothesis, we set up an experiment in controlled conditions in a greenhouse, considering five treatments (control; application of biostimulant; water deficit (WD); WD + application of biostimulant; and WD + split application of biostimulant). The experiment was designed in completely randomized blocks with four replications per treatment and conducted in polyethylene pots containing 10 L of soil and three plants per pot. The irrigation was carried out daily; the water deficit was 50% soil moisture at field capacity, starting at the R1 stage (beginning of flowering, where there is at least one flower open at any node on the plant) and maintained for ten days. The biostimulant was applied concurrently with the onset of water deficit. We confirmed the hypothesis that foliar application of 1.0 L ha−1 of the biostimulant reduces the deleterious effects of the common water deficit at the beginning of the reproductive stage of soybean through the reduction of damage from oxidative stress (reduction of malondialdehyde synthesis by 31.2% in relation to the WD plants), maintenance of water potential and cellular homeostasis (10.2% increase in relative water content when compared with WD plants), and conservation of the contents of chlorophyll in leaves and stimulation of photosynthesis and carboxylation (68% increase in net photosynthetic rate and 49.3% increase in carboxylation efficiency in relation to WD plants). However, when applied in installments, the biostimulant was not efficient in reducing soybean water stress. Therefore, we conclude that the application of a biostimulant based on A. nodosum can help reduce the harmful effects of water deficit on soybean plants, opening up perspectives for the mass use of this extract in agricultural crops produced on a large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant lectin, a heterogeneous group of carbohydratebinding proteins, is a direct defensive mechanism in plants against the attacking insects. Lectins from the leguminous plants Glycine max (GML) and Phaseoulus vulgaries (PhVL) were tested for their entomotoxic and growth inhibitory effects against the spiny bollworm (SBW), Earias insulana Boisd. The impact of the examined lectins on the two digestive enzymes of SBW, α-amylase and total proteases, was also investigated. Bioassay studies conducted on second-instar larvae over five and six days showed that GML (LC50 values of 72.22 and 33.45 µg/gm diet) was more hazardous than PhVL (LC50 = 299.05 and 182.91 µg/gm diet). GML and PhVL at LC25 equivalent concentrations (8.97 and 34.43 µg/gm diet) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the larval weight to 24.9 and 27.4 mg / larva compared with 55.3 mg / larva in control after 9 days of treatment. The average time for SBW larvae to pupate increased when GML and PhVL were added at LC10 and LC25 in comparison to the control. In addition, the tested lectins significantly (p < 0.05) reduced pupal mean weight, pupation, adult emergence, fecundity and fertility. Tested lectins demonstrated significant inhibition of α-amylase and total protease enzyme activity in larvae of SBWs fed on diets containing concentrations comparable to LC10 and LC25. These findings imply that GML and PhVL are appropriate proteins to add to the cotton plant's DNA in order to control SBW. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study examines the economics of groundnut processing, comparing oil processing units and decorticating units. The analysis revealed that the total cost per quintal was notably higher in oil processing units (Rs 17,289.33/q) than in decorticating units (Rs 8.273.57/q). Similarly, net return was more favourable in oil processing units (Rs 161.55/q) compared to decorticating units (Rs 130.59/q). To maintain profitability without loss, an average processing of 342.81 quintals of groundnut kernels or 81310 quintals of groundnut oil was necessary for decorticating and oil processing units respectively. The research identified key challenges, including scarcity and costly skilled labour during peak seasons, high machinery expenses, inconsistent power supply, difficulties in obtaining repairs and spare parts, intricate bank financing procedures, expensive raw materials and elevated transportation costs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This article explores the relationship between weather conditions and the population dynamics of the tobacco leaf eating caterpillar, Spodoptera litura, which is known to infest groundnut crops. The study was conducted in Anand, India during the kharif season of 2021. The researchers observed that the infestation of S. litura on groundnut crops occurred from July to October, with the number of larvae and the percentage of damaged plants decreasing as the crop matured. The study found that rainfall, relative humidity, and vapor pressure were positively correlated with the larval population of S. litura. This research provides valuable insights into the seasonal occurrence of this pest and its relationship with weather factors, which can help in developing strategies to mitigate its impact on groundnut production. [Extracted from the article]

In previous years, the serological and genetic diversities of soybean nodule bacteria in agrocenoses of Ukraine have been researched. Less attention was paid to the study of their survival in the soil. Taking into account the natural heterogeneity of bacteria of the genus Bradyrhizobium, the aim of this work was to evaluate the diversity of bradyrhizobia in local populations of different soils after a long-term period without leguminous plants, to obtain new isolates of nodule bacteria and to study their properties. Methods. Microbiological (isolation of bradyrhizobia from the nodules of trap plants, study of the properties of strains), serological (study of the diversity of rhizobia in nodule populations, study of the serological affiliation of strains), vegetation and field experiments (study of plant infecting with bradyrhizobia). Results. Local populations of bradyrhizobia in sod-podzolic soil and leached chornozem were studied using trap plants of the genera Glycine, Vigna, and Lupinus. It was established that after a 7 to 8-year period without leguminous plants, active nodule bacteria remained in both types of soil, which nodulated cultivated and wild soybeans, cowpeas, mung beans, adzuki beans, and lupine. The main microsymbionts of plants of the genera Glycine and Vigna on different types of soil were soybean bradyrhizobia belonging to 6 serological groups: 46, M8, КВ11, 634b, HR, and B1. The representatives of 4 serogroups corresponded to the inoculant strains of Bradyrhizobium japonicum 46, M8, 634b, and КВ11, which were periodically used in the studied areas. In addition to B. japonicum, cowpea plants trapped microsymbionts of B. lupini serogroup 367a (4.2%) from the soil. Bradyrhizobia of serogroup B1 were detected both in nodules of cowpea (6.3%) and wild soybean (12.5%). 45.8% of lupine nodules were formed by bacteria B. lupini of serogroup 367a. The appearance in populations of representatives of serogroups HR and B1 along with a group of unidentified microsymbionts requires further research. Cultivation of trap plants of wild soybeans and various types of cowpea made it possible to identify saprophytic strain B. japonicum M8 (formed 25.0% to 83.4% of nodules) in the sod-podzolic soil, which did not infect the roots of cultivated soybeans. 70 isolates of bradyrhizobia were obtained from nodules of trap plants, which were preliminarily identified as B. japonicum, B. lupini, and Bradyrhizobium sp. Conclusions. The results confirm the importance of using different leguminous trap plants for a more complete characterization of the local rhizobial community. Cultivation of plants of the genera Glycine, Vigna, and Lupinus, capable of cross-infection, made it possible to detect bacteria B. japonicum (serogroups 46, M8, КВ11, 634b, HR), B. lupini (serogroup 367a), and Bradyrhizobium sp. (serogroup B1), which exist for a long-term period as saprophytes in sod-podzolic soil and leached chornozem. 70 isolates of bradyrhizobia were obtained, 35 of which were serologically related to the inoculant strains of B. japonicum introduced into the agrocenosis at the beginning of the research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drying is one of the oldest method of preserving food. Drying implies the removal of water from a product to an acceptance level for marketing, storage or for further processing. The numerous ways of usage of groundnut and its products has led to increase in its demand. However, the traditional method of drying involving exposing the groundnut seeds to sunlight and constantly spreading it to enhance uniform drying is associated with drudgery, unhygienic, time consuming, ineffective and results into high percentage seed losses. A tray dryer was constructed with the aim of improving on the traditional methods commonly used in Nigeria. The dryer can be used to measure drying rates of different varieties of groundnut at different init ial moisture contents, drying air temperatures, drying air velocities of grain beds. The effects of different drying temperature, air velocity, can be investigated with the dryer. The dryer shows drying efficiency ranging from 77.54% to 79.32%. Also, the dryer is capable of reducing the moisture content of groundnut seeds of different varieties from 20% to average moisture content of 9% within average time of 7hrs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Scaly-breasted Munia Lonchura punctulata, Tricolored Munia Lonchura malacca, Whiterumped Munia Lonchura striata, and Indian Silverbill Euodice malabarica are members of the Estrildidae family and are native to both India and Sri Lanka, however the Chestnut Munia Lonchura atricapilla and Red Avadavat Amandava amandava are only found in India. They typically congregate in groups of several birds and occasionally sit alongside other munia species in plains near water sources, marshy grasslands, or even high altitude grasslands. By using the point-count approach, the diversity and seasonal activities of Munias with preferent wild grasses were identified from August 2021 to July 2022 in Rajarhat, West Bengal, a marshy grassland area. The findings showed that the Scaly-breasted Munia (3164), Tricolored Munia (773), Red Avadavat (548), Chestnut Munia (107), and Indian Silverbill (100) were the most prevalent species. Only two White-rumped Munia were found at the site during the study period. In the research location, munias were seen gathering for nesting and foraging from 13 different types of grasses and most usable grasses were Saccharum spontaneum and Echinochloa colona. January had the most Munias (3540), followed by December (624), while April had the fewest (23). For bird watching, Rajarhat's grasslands, especially Munia, are well-known. But in the past ten years, Rajarhat's land-use pattern has altered significantly, and the amount of grassland is disappearing at a startling rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An antifungal agent can either kill or inhibit the growth of fungi by interfering with the formation of fungal cell membrane, weakening it and hindering cell division. Antifungal agents of amphotericin B, ketoconazole, fluconazole and voriconazole of Thermo Fisher Scientific limited were used for this study. Cultural analysis of stored grains and legumes (rice, maize, wheat, groundnut and beans) from Imo State was done using streak plate method. Sabouraud dextrose agar was used for the culture while Mueller Hinton agar was used for Antifungal sensitivity test. Moulds were further identified using 18s rRNA gene sequencing method. The antifungal sensitivity profile of isolated and identified moulds was evaluated using the clinical laboratory and standard institute approved methods for testing of moulds, the disk diffusion and tetrazolium chloride test. The results showed that Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus tamarii, Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus brunneoviolaceus and Penicillium chrysogenum were the moulds isolated and identified using both cultural and 18S rRNA sequence. The fungal isolates were susceptible to ketoconazole and voriconazole. Amphotericin B was both resistant and susceptible to different moulds. The fungal isolates were resistant to fluconazole. Inhibition effects were more with the antifungal disc than with tetrazolium salts. All the isolates were resistant to tetrazolium chloride and gave no zone of inhibition. Combination of antifungal agent and tetrazolium chloride showed sensitivity only to ketoconazole. Antifungal disc alone gave a better zone of inhibition than the combination of antifungal agents with tetrazolium salts. This study showed that ketoconazole has greater inhibitory potential than other antifungal agents. Ketoconazole remains the best drug of choice among the studied antifungal agents for fungal infections. Therefore antifungal drugs can be used against moulds of economic importance in the country. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to test the ability of some plant growth-promoting bacteria to adverse the effects of salinity on soybean growth. The effect of Bacillus MAP3 and Enterobacter Delta PSK, along with Bradyrhizobium japonicum was studied on soybean at two levels of NaCl salinization (50 and 100 mM). The physical growth parameters of bacterized soybean (21 days old), particularly plants co-inoculated with Bradyrhizobium japonicum + Enterobacter Delta PSK, were significantly enhanced compared to control plants. The shoot length, leaf area, root length, and chlorophyll a content increased by 49.58%, 78.58%, 20.19%, and 57.35%, respectively, indicating the promoting activity of this bacterial combination. After 19 days following the onset of salinity stress, the retarded growth parameters in controls improved significantly due to bacterial treatments, especially by Bradyrhizobium japonicum + Enterobacter DeltaPSK, which increased the values of all growth parameters significantly regardless of the salinity level. Additionally, electrolyte leakage, the amounts of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide decreased considerably due to this combined bacterial treatment. Overall, the combination treatment of Enterobacter Delta PSK and the original symbiont B. japonicum enhanced soybean growth under salt stress, indicating the ability of Enterobacter Delta PSK to mitigate osmotic stress. The effect of this strain on soybean yield should be further evaluated to pave the way for its use as a biofertilizer along with B. japonicum, especially under salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two field experiments were conducted in the main seasons of 2021/22 at the farmers' farm in two districts of southwest Ethiopia to investigate the effects of lime and phosphorus on groundnut yield and yield components, employing four levels of lime (0, 2, 4, and 6 t CaCO3 ha-1) and phosphorus (0, 46, 69, and 92 kg P2O5 ha-1) arranged in factorial RCBD design with three replications. Data on the yield and its components were collected and subjected to an ANOVA using SAS software. The result demonstrated that plant height, number of branches, canopy spread, and shelling percentage were affected significantly by liming while effective nodule number, total peg, matured pod, and pod yield of groundnut significantly influenced by the main factors and their interactions. The combined application of 4 t lime and 46 kg P2O5 ha-1 resulted in the highest number of effective nodules (147.23 plant-1), total pod (72.6 plant-1), mature pod (62.4 plant-1), pod yield (4.49 t ha-1), oil content (50.6%) and protein content (33.1%) whereas the lowest values of these parameters were seen in plots where neither lime nor phosphorus was applied. Therefore, it is advised that groundnut growers in the study areas, and similar agroecologies, apply the combination of 4 t lime and 46 kg P2O5 ha-1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil is a complex and dynamic mixture of organic and inorganic materials that supports the growth of plants and sustains life on Earth. This study seeks to collect soil samples from groundnut agricultural fields in Kalvakurthy Mandal, Nagarkurnool District, Telangana state and analyze their physico-chemical parameters. The phyico-chemical parameters like pH, electrical conductivity, soil organic Carbon, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sulfur, Copper, Zinc and Manganese were analyzed from the collected soil samples. The analysis of the physico-chemical parameters reveals a soil environment conducive to groundnut cultivation in agricultural fields of Kalwakurthy. The moderate to good levels of available Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium, along with satisfactory levels of other essential nutrients, suggest that the soil can support healthy growth of groundnut crop. The results highlight the importance of balanced nutrient management practices to optimize the yield and quality of groundnut. However, it is important to note that while these results provide crucial insights, localized factors, such as irrigation practices and crop rotations, should also be considered for comprehensive soil health management. Continuous monitoring, precise nutrient application, and prudent soil management will be pivotal in maximizing groundnut yield and quality, ensuring long-term agricultural sustainability in the region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of intercropping on weed dry matter, soil C and N, sugar quality and sugarcane productivity were investigated at Badeggi, Nigeria in 2016 and 2017. The results revealed that application of Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping produced lower weed dry matter comparable to Sugarcane + Soybean intercropping which significantly increased growth and yield attributes of sugarcane. Application of Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping, resulted in a comparable germination count, Tiller count, plant and stalk height to Soybean intercropping. Similarly, Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping and Soybean intercropping produced comparable stalk height and brix content. Also, Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping generated more millable canes and stools per plot. Application of Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping proved equally effective as Soybean intercropping in contributing the highest soil C and N and cane yield. In the same way, Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping and Soybean intercropping produced comparable sucrose and glucose content. Lower weed dry matter was found in Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping, and taller plant and stalks, girth, brix content, millable cane, stools, sucrose, glucose content. and cane yield were observed in Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping. In conclusion, application of Sugarcane + Groundnut intercropping or Soybean intercropping effectively controlled weeds, increased Soil C and N, plant and stalk height, girth, brix content, millable cane, stools and cane yield of sugarcane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The highest Fv/Fo was obtained in R LED light under foliar glycine exposure to 80 mg.l−1. • Glycine-exposed plants under light treatments exhibited higher fluorescence yield at F0, Fm, and Fv compared to normal light conditions. • Plants exposed to control light under foliar glycine treatment at 80 mg. l−1 resulted in higher Vj and Vi than those of different lighting conditions. • Under B LED light conditions, ∆b*, ∆E*, ∆C* and ∆h* were increased in comparison with normal light conditions. • Plants under B LED light upon exposure to glycine treatment at 40 mg. l−1 revealed the highest stomatal conductance. Light quality plays an important role in all growth and development stages particularly in photosynthesis properties of plant species. The light-emitting diodes (LEDs) present maximum efficiency on biological processes among artificial lighting systems. The current study was aimed to investigate different LED light color (Blue, Red and White) and glycine concentrations (0, 40 and 80 mg L−1) on photosynthetic efficiency of black henbane (Hyoscyamus niger L.) plant in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three to five replications. Results showed that the maxiumu quantum yield of PSII (0.839) was obtained in R LED light spectrum exposed plants upon glycine treatment at 80 mg. L−1, howevre, the lowest Fv/Fm (0.659) was detected in plants subjected to W LED spectrum. The highest Fv/Fo was obtained in plants grown under R LED lighting with glycine treatment at 80 mg. L−1; however, C (normal light conditions) showed the lowest Fv/Fo among the light treatments. Under B LED light conditions, ∆b*, ∆E*, ∆C* and ∆h* were increased in comparison with normal light condition. Results showed that changing trends of these traits were consistent with those of chlorophylls and carotenoids contents under different LED-based light regimes. Moreover, compared with chlorophylls content under B LED light spectrum with glycine, the carotenoids content under W LED light source was found to be a dominant pigment in black henbane plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted during 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 seasons to investigate the impact of different concentrations of foliar application of glycine (200 and 400 ppm) and/or Zn (100 and 200 ppm) in addition to the control, and different planting lines (wide and narrow lines) on the growth, yield, chemical content as well as volatile oil and its active components of cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.). The recorded data showed that that wide planting lines (terrace) significantly increased the vegetative (plant height, branch number/plant and fresh & dry weights of herb), yield (number of umbels/plant, weight of thousand seed and fruit yield per plant and per feddan), biochemical constituents (total phenolics, total flavonoids and antioxidant activity) and essential oil parameters (oil percentage, oil yield per plant and per feddan). Spraying cumin plants with glycine (200 and 400 ppm), chelated-zinc (100 and 200 ppm) and their combinations significantly reflected on most recorded parameters. The highest concentration of each substance was superior compared to lower concentration and control. Glycine at 400 ppm plus chelated-Zn at 200 ppm in combination with wide planting lines was the superior treatment and significantly increased all studied parameters compared with other combinations. So, we can recommend applying this treatment to produce clear, safe, and healthy cumin plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The continuous increases of atmospheric temperature and CO2 concentration will impact global photosynthesis. However, there are few studies considering the interaction of elevated temperature (eT) and elevated CO2 (eCO2) on dynamic photosynthesis, particularly for C4 species. We examine dynamic photosynthesis under four different temperature and [CO2] treatments: (1) 400 ppm × 28°C (CT); (2) 400 ppm × 33°C (CT+); (3) 800 ppm × 28°C (C+T); and (4) 800 ppm × 33°C (C+T+). In Glycine max L., the time required to reach 50% (T 50%A) and 90% (T 90%A) of full photosynthetic induction was smaller under the CT+, C+T, and C+T+ treatments than those under the CT treatment. In Amaranthus tricolor L., however, neither T 50%A nor T 90%A was not significantly affected by eT or eCO2. In comparison with the CT treatment, the achieved carbon gain was increased by 58.3% (CT+), 112% (C+T), and 136.6% (C+T+) in G. max and was increased by 17.1% (CT+), 2.6% (C+T) and 56.9% (C+T+) in A. tricolor. The increases of achieved carbon gain in G. max were attributable to both improved photosynthetic induction efficiency (IE) and enhanced steady-state photosynthesis, whereas those in A. tricolor were attributable to enhanced steady-state photosynthesis. There are few studies considering the interaction of elevated temperature and elevated CO2 on dynamic photosynthesis, particularly for C4 species. By examining dynamic photosynthesis under four different temperature and [CO2] treatments, this study showed that short-term elevated temperature and CO2 promote photosynthetic induction in the C3 plant Glycine max L. but not in the C4 plant Amaranthus tricolor L. This study suggests that greater enhancement of photosynthesis in fluctuating light for C3 plants than for C4 plants in a warming and CO2-enriched future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean is a plant known as Glycine max that due to its essential amino acids and isoflavones which are amongst the most important types of phytoestrogens is widely used. The function of ovary is directly affected by serum levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. The objective was to evaluate the morphometric characteristics of the ovaries followed by consumption of soybean through the precise and non-convergent technique of stereology, in immature animals. Thirty adult NMRI female mice at the age of 3 weeks were divided into three groups including the control, the experimental 1, and the experimental 2. The animals were fed a diet prepared by a nutritionist for 3 months. The control group received a soy-free diet and the experimental groups 1 and 2 received a diet that provided 15 and 35% of soybean as the protein content, respectively. Serum levels of the hormones estrogen, progesterone, FSH, and LH were measured and the right ovaries were used for stereological studies. The results showed a significant increase in the volume of pre-antral and antral follicles, the ratio of cortical volume to total ovarian volume, the ratio of corpus luteum volume to total ovarian volume, the ratio of the total volume of follicles to the total volume of ovaries, and also the volume of oocytes in follicles (P < 0.05). Also in treatment groups, between serum levels of estrogen and progesterone, a significant increase was observed. The present study showed that soybean meal consumption affects the morphometric characteristics of the ovaries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soybean (Glycine max L.) is host to an array of foliar- and root-infecting pathogens that can cause significant yield losses. To provide insights into the roles of microorganisms in disease development, we evaluated the bacterial and fungal communities associated with the soybean rhizosphere and phyllosphere. For this, leaf and soil samples of healthy, Phytophthora sojae -infected and Septoria glycines -infected plants were sampled at three stages during the production cycle, and then subjected to 16S and Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) amplicon sequencing. The results indicated that biotic stresses did not have a significant impact on species richness and evenness regardless of growth stage. However, the structure and composition of soybean microbial communities were dramatically altered by biotic stresses, particularly for the fungal phyllosphere. Additionally, we cataloged a variety of microbial genera that were altered by biotic stresses and their associations with other genera, which could serve as biological indicators for disease development. In terms of soybean development, the rhizosphere and phyllosphere had distinct microbial communities, with the fungal phyllosphere most influenced by growth stage. Overall, this study characterized the phyllosphere and rhizosphere microbial communities of soybean, and described the impact of pathogen infection and plant development in shaping these bacterial and fungal communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sustainable development of agriculture can be stimulated by the great market availability of bio-inputs, including phosphate-solubilizing microbial strains. However, these strains are currently selected using imprecise and questionable solubilization methodologies in solid or liquid media. We hypothesized that the hydroponic system could be a more efficient methodology for selecting phosphate-solubilizing strains as plant growth promoters. This methodology was tested using the plant Glycine max as a model. The growth-promoting potential of the strains was compared with that of the Biomaphos® commercial microbial mixture. The obtained calcium phosphate (CaHPO4) solubilization results using the hydroponic system were inconsistent with those observed in solid and liquid media. However, the tests in liquid medium demonstrated poor performances of Codinaeopsis sp. (328EF) and Hamigera insecticola (33EF) in reducing pH and solubilizing CaHPO4, which corroborates with the effects of biotic stress observed in G. max plants inoculated with these strains. Nevertheless, the hydroponic system allowed the characterization of Paenibacillus alvei (PA12), which is also efficient in solubilization in a liquid medium. The bacterium Lysinibacillus fusiformis (PA26) was the most effective in CaHPO4 solubilization owing to the higher phosphorus (P) absorption, growth promotion, and physiological performance observed in plants inoculated with this bacterium. The hydroponic method proved to be superior in selecting solubilizing strains, allowing the assessment of multiple patterns, such as nutritional level, growth, photosynthetic performance, and anatomical variation in plants, and even the detection of biotic stress responses to inoculation, obtaining strains with higher growth promotion potential than Biomaphos®. This study proposed a new approach to confirm the solubilizing activity of microorganisms previously selected in vitro and potentially intended for the bio-input market that are useful in P availability for important crops, such as soybeans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Progressiveness is characterized as the steady improvement in an individual. Farmer being a central element in development programmes need to have character of progressiveness for reaping the benefits from the programmes. In this regard a study was conducted to measure farmer progressiveness in Chittoor district of Andhrapradesh by considering 30 paddy and 30 groundnut farmers. The results of the study revealed that paddy and groundnut farmers have a progressiveness mean scores of 63.31 and 65.98. The progressiveness level of paddy (40.00 %) and groundnut (36.67 %) farmers were noticed to be in high category indicating that agricultural programmes have brought sufficient improvement in their knowledge levels. Further dimension wise comparison had shown that agricultural and economic components were contributing more to the progressiveness whereas social, individual, household and environmental progressiveness were not contributing much, which indicates that agricultural development programmes need to be comprehensive by including all the factors for all round improvement of the farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

experiment was conducted to evaluate the nutrients digestibility and nitrogen utilization of growing Yankasa rams fed ensiled crushed groundnut shell (GNS), African locust bean pulp (ALBP) and poultry litter with various supplementations. The experiment was conducted at Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Teaching and Research Farm, Bauchi. Twenty (20) growing Yankasa rams were used. Five diets plus a basal diet were formulated. The experiment lasted for eighty (80) days in a complete randomized design (CRD) of five treatments with four replications. Data were collected on faecal sample to determine dry matter, crude protein, crude fibre, ether extracts and ash digestibility. Urine sample was collected to evaluate urine nitrogen, total nitrogen output, nitrogen retained and percentage of nitrogen retained. The results showed that, dry matter and crude fibre digestibility were not affected statistically. Crude protein, ether extracts and ash digestibility were significantly (P<0.05) influenced by dietary treatments. All the parameters in nitrogen utilization were significantly (P<0.05) different across the treatment means except that of faecal nitrogen. The Experiment concluded that, ensiled crushed groundnut shell and locust bean pulp with poultry litter fed to Yankasa rams did not affect the nutrients digestibility and nitrogen utilization of the experimental animals. It is recommended that 50% GNS and 30% ALBP should be ensiled with 20% poultry litter waste and fed to Yankasa rams for optimum production especially in dry season feeding. The experiment also recommend further studies using groundnut shell and African locust bean pulp to expand their potentials as feedstuffs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groundnut rust caused by Puccinia arachidis Speg. is a major cause of yield and quality losses in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) in the warm-humid tropics including Tanzania. Breeding and deployment of rust resistant cultivars with farmer-preferred attributes will bolster groundnut production and productivity. The objective of this study was to determine the combining ability effects and gene action controlling rust resistance in groundnut genotypes for breeding. Twelve selected and complementary parental lines were crossed in a diallel design, to develop F1 progenies, which were advanced to the F2 for individual plant selection. Thirty-three successful partial crosses and the 12 parents were field evaluated using a 5 × 9 alpha lattice designs with two replications over two seasons in Tanzania. The tested genotypes exhibited significant (P < 0.05) variation for rust resistance, yield and yield-related traits. There existed significant (P < 0.05) difference on the general combining ability (GCA) effect of parents and the specific combining ability (SCA) effect of progeny for the assessed traits indicating that both additive and non-additive gene effects conditioned trait inheritance. The Bakers' ratios indicated that the non-additive gene effects predominantly controlling rust resistance and yield components. This suggested that transgressive segregants could be selected for improved rust resistance and yield gains in the advanced pure line generations. Genotypes ICGV-SM 05570 and ICGV-SM 15567 were the best general combiners for rust resistance and grain yield. The crosses ICGV-SM 16589 × Narinut and ICGV-SM 15557 × ICGV-SM 15559 were identified as the best specific combiners for rust resistance with moderate yield levels and medium maturity. Genotypes with desirable GCA or SCA effects were selected for further breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-organization, physicochemical properties (specific electrical conductivity, surface tension), UV absorption, and fluorescence of aqueous herbicide compositions based on N-(phosphonomethyl)glycine and plant growth regulator succinic acid (SA) were studied in a range of herbicide concentrations of 1·10−19−1·10−1 g L−1 at the constant concentrations of SA 1·10−3 g L−1 (series 1) and 1·10−13 g L−1 (series 2). Such compositions are used in agriculture for decreasing toxic effects on cultural plants and environment. A comparison of the nonmonotonic concentration dependences of the size and ξ-potential of the disperse phase, properties, and bioeffects of systems 1 and 2 revealed significant distinctions in these compositions in the ability of self-organization and surfactant properties, which can cause, as a whole, their substantial difference in the degree of harmful influence on aquatic life and higher plants. The influence of the compositions of series 1 is accompanied by a decrease in the harmful effect on the chosen biological test objects compared to the herbicide, and that of series 2 results in an almost complete elimination of the harmful effect against multicellular organisms (cladocerans and wheat roots) and an insignificant effect on unicellular aquatic life (infusoria and algae). The influence of the compositions of series 2 on aquatic life is related to the formation of a negatively charged disperse phase accompanied by an increase in the fluorescence intensity in a range of 300–360 nm (λexc = 225 nm). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stem rot disease caused by fungal pathogen, Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc., is potential threat to groundnut production in warm and humid condition. After host-pathogen interaction, a multitude of plant resistance associated reactions are initiated. In the present investigation we studied the role of polyamines and ethylene during host-pathogen interaction in stem rot tolerant (CS319, GG17 and GG31) and susceptible (TG37A) groundnut genotypes at 24, 48 and 72 h after infection. Stem rot tolerant genotypes showed higher expression of polyamine biosynthesis genes ornithine decarboxylase (Ordec), spermine synthase (Sms) and lipoxygenase1 (LOX1) gene at 72 h after infection than that of susceptible genotype TG37A. The expression analysis of ethylene biosynthesis genes (1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate oxidase: ACCO and (ACCS) showed up regulation in stem rot susceptible genotype TG37A than that of tolerant genotypes after infection at all stages (24, 48 and 72 h after infection). The expression of amine oxidase (AMO) gene was observed highest in stem rot susceptible genotype TG37A while minimum in GJG31. Expression of this gene was remarkably induced in TG37A which may leads to higher accumulation of H2O2. Higher content of a polyamine, putrescine was found in the leaves of stem rot tolerant genotypes at 48 and 72 h after infection. These results implied that tolerant genotypes induced higher polyamine biosynthesis which may involve in plant defense and impart tolerance/resistance. While, susceptible genotype (TG37A), utilized higher flux of S-Adenosyl methionine (SAM) for ethylene biosynthesis which may leads to necrosis of plants. Thus, stem rot resistant genotypes may be developed through genetic manipulation of polyamine biosynthesis pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proximate and compositional analysis of fifteen agricultural biomass was done to evaluate their biotechnological potential. The analysis of ash, moisture, carbohydrate, crude protein and crude fibre along with cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin content of selected local agro-lignocellulosic wastes was performed by using standard procedures. The ash content was found to be highest in rice husk (20.2 ± 0.02 %) and lowest in corn cob (2.52 ± 0.04 %). Moisture content was maximum in pea pod waste (8.67 ± 0.05 %) and minimum in groundnut shell (1.67 ± 0.05 %). The carbohydrate content was found maximum in the cotton stalk (58.12 ± 0.06 %) and minimum in soybean husk (1.12 ± 0.02 %). The maximum crude protein content was found in the green gram shell (12.64 ± 0.06 %) and the minimum in coconut coir (0.98 ± 0.02 %). Sugarcane bagasse (57.5 ± 0.80 %) showed the highest crude fibre whereas the lowest was reported in soybean stalk (7 ± 0.23 %). All the agro-residues showed a good amount of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. The highest cellulose and hemicellulose were seen in sugarcane bagasse (57.28 ± 1.2 %) and wheat straw (24.8 ± 0.01 %), respectively while both are reported as lowest in rice husk. The maximum lignin content was noted in rice husk (41.0 ± 0.09 %) and minimum in soybean husk (2.8 ± 0.08 %). Further, five agro-residues (banana peel, corn cob, groundnut shell, sugarcane bagasse and pigeon pea stalk) were used as substrates to produce cellulase by Trichoderma harzianum and T. viride under SSF. The results demonstrated that the assessed agro-residues can serve as an inexpensive feedstock for cellulase production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The process of oil extraction can be enhanced by dehulling, oil produced from groundnut seeds serve as a good source of protein, vitamin, fat, oil, and crude fibers. A groundnut dehulling machine was developed, having two dehulling rollers, rubber beaters, screen, blower unit, seed and chaff outlet. The separator unit has a centrifugal blower, screen and collecting tray. It’s powered by 3 hp electric motor, which transmits constant speed of 3636 rpm to the blower and 1000 rpm to rubber beaters. Groundnut used was at 7.32% moisture content (w.b). Dehulling was achieved through the compression and shearing action of the rotating dehulling roller against the stationary dehulling roller. The effect of dehulling roller clearance (6.5 mm,7.0 mm, 7.35 mm and 7.5 mm) and speed (700 rpm and 750 rpm) was evaluated on dehulling efficiency, machine capacity, mechanical damage and separation efficiency. The result obtained after testing the machine shows that 7.35 mm clearance and 700 rpm of the dehulling roller gave optimum average dehulling efficiency 95.80%, separation efficiency 81.40% and the least mechanical damage 11.01%. Machine capacity of 97.98 kg h-1. was obtained at 750 rpm and 7 mm dehulling roller clearance. The results obtained during evaluation was statistically analyzed, multiple linear model equations which are capable of predicting the effect of dehulling roller clearance and speed on dehulling efficiency, machine capacity, mechanical damage and separation efficiency was developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was done to assess the influence of compression loading rate and kernel size on the rupture resistance of groundnut (cv. SAMNUT 22) kernel. These groundnut kernel mechanical parameters (rupture force, deformation at rupture, rupture power, firmness and toughness) were evaluated under three loading rates (15 mm min-1, 20 mm min-1 and 25 mm min-1), and three size categories (small, medium and large). The groundnut kernels were harvested at peak maturity stage, and tested in accordance to ASTM International standards. Results obtained from the tests showed that the rupture resistance of SAMNUT 22 kernel was highly dependent on its size and the loading rate. Generally, as the loading rate increases, the mechanical parameters values declined significantly (p ≤ 0.05). Rupture force, deformation at rupture point, rupture power and the firmness increased as the kernel size increases; but in contrast, the kernel toughness decreases as its size increased. An average force of 57.96 N ruptured the large kernel, while a lower force of 27.35 N ruptured the small kernel. Moreover, the large kernel recorded the highest firmness (59.03 N mm-1), when compared to the medium (51.69 N mm-1) and small (44.98 N mm-1) size kernel. In terms of rupture power, the small kernel power ranged from 0.1002 W (15 mm min-1) to 0.084 W (25 mm min-1); medium size kernel ranged from 0.115 W (15 mm min-1) to 0.074 W (25 mm min1); while the large size kernel ranged from 0.135 W (15 mm min-1) to 0.104 W (25 mm min-1). These results portrayed importance of sorting of the groundnut kernels before processing unit operation, as it will help to conserve power and energy during the processing operation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pre-harvest aflatoxin contamination (PAC) in groundnut is a serious quality concern globally, and drought stress before harvest further exacerbate its intensity, leading to the deterioration of produce quality. Understanding the host–pathogen interaction and identifying the candidate genes responsible for resistance to PAC will provide insights into the defense mechanism of the groundnut. In this context, about 971.63 million reads have been generated from 16 RNA samples under controlled and Aspergillus flavus infected conditions, from one susceptible and seven resistant genotypes. The RNA-seq analysis identified 45,336 genome-wide transcripts under control and infected conditions. This study identified 57 transcription factor (TF) families with major contributions from 6570 genes coding for bHLH (719), MYB-related (479), NAC (437), FAR1 family protein (320), and a few other families. In the host (groundnut), defense-related genes such as senescenceassociated proteins, resveratrol synthase, seed linoleate, pathogenesis-related proteins, peroxidases, glutathione-S-transferases, chalcone synthase, ABA-responsive gene, and chitinases were found to be differentially expressed among resistant genotypes as compared to susceptible genotypes. This study also indicated the vital role of ABA-responsive ABR17, which co-regulates the genes of ABA responsive elements during drought stress, while providing resistance against A. flavus infection. It belongs to the PR-10 class and is also present in several plant–pathogen interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An ultrasensitive electrochemical MIP sensor for GB was developed. • Polydopamine was formed on the carboxylated MWCNT by spontaneous polymerization. • The sensor shows wide detection range of 1 fmol/L to 10 mmol/L. • The sensor shows a low detection limit of 0.707 fmol/L. • The sensor was used to in vivo detect of GB in the leaves of cucumber seedlings. Glycine betaine (GB) is a bioactive molecule protecting plants from abiotic stress. This study fabricated an ultrasensitive molecular imprinted polymer (MIP) electrochemical sensor to perform in vivo measurements of GB. Polydopamine (PDA) was formed on the carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (COOH-MWCNTs) by spontaneous polymerisation of dopamine (DA). Then MIP-coated MWCNTs were fabricated on a Au nanoparticles (NP) and thionine (Thi) modified screen-printed electrode (SPE). The MIP-COOH-MWCNTs/pThi/AuNPs/SPE exhibited an ultrasensitive GB detection response between 1 fmol/L and 10 mmol/L (R2 = 0.996) with a low detection limit (0.707 fmol/L, S/N = 3). In vivo measurement of GB in cucumber seedling leaves under different salinity stress conditions confirmed the practical applicability of the MIP sensor. Thus, this study proposed a novel and promising fabrication method for an electrochemical MIP sensor that has broad application prospects in precision agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of sugarcane plants is greatly reduced due to the occurrence of drought stress, which ultimately affects production. Therefore, different strategies have been used to attenuate stress conditions, such as the exogenous application of glycine betaine. The objective of this work was to evaluate the growth rate and dry mass of sugarcane that received a glycine betaine application and was submitted to drought stress and rehydration. The experiment was carried out in a greenhouse with six treatments: G0I - plants without glycine betaine with adequate irrigation, G0E - plants without glycine betaine and drought stress, G1I - plants with an application of glycine betaine and adequate irrigation, G1E - plants with an application of glycine betaine and drought stress, G2I - plants with two applications of glycine betaine and adequate irrigation, G2E - plants with two applications of glycine betaine and drought stress. Six days after the stress, the plants were rehydrated. The relative growth rates of sugarcane plants decreased with the drought stress. However, these reductions were partially minimized with the foliar application of glycine betaine, mainly with the rehydration, with the relative growth rate decreasing by only 19% and 18.4%, respectively, in G1 and G2, while the reduction was 37.2% in G0. Glycine betaine also minimized reductions in total dry mass production under drought stress, with decreases of 5.8% and 5.9% in G1 and G2, respectively, while it was 15.1% in G0. The leaf application of glycine betaine improves the relative growth rate of sugarcane plants under drought stress, especially after rehydration, which decreases the negative effects of stress on dry mass production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present studies were undertaken to investigate the cultural, morphological and pathogenicity characters of Sclerotium rolfsii. Maximum per cent disease incidence was recorded in Nadiyappattu followed by Sivapuri, Kammapuram, Killai, Kurinjipadi, Parangipettai, Chathiram and Puthuchathiram in the decreasing order of merit of Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu. The native isolates of S. rolfsii were isolated from the respective locations and designated as (SR1 to SR9). All the isolated showed variations with respect to colony character, mycelial growth, no of sclerotia, colour of sclerotia, shape and arrangement of sclerotia. Among the nine isolates of S. rolfsii collected from different groundnut growing areas of Cuddalore district, the isolate (SR5) collected from Nadiyappattu was found to be more virulent and recorded the maximum incidence followed by SR8 collected from Sivapuri. Maximum susceptibility was recorded when the plants are about 45 days showing disease incidence of up to 79.86 per cent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of groundnut (Apios americana Medik) extract on osteoblast differentiation were examined using MC3T3-E1 cells. MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with the crude extract along with other differentiating reagents. The alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity of cells cultured in a differentiation medium supplemented with 0.01% crude groundnut extract was 1.5-1.6 times higher than that of cells cultured in a differentiation medium without the extract. Crude groundnut extract was further separated into aqueous and methanol fractions. The methanol fraction enhanced ALP activity, osteocalcin, integrin-binding sialoprotein, and type I collagen expression, and calcium mineralization. Conversely, the aqueous fraction did not show such effects. Groundnut extract may enhance osteoblast differentiation, and this effect is likely conferred by water insoluble substance(s). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytophthora genomes encode a myriad of Crinkler (CRN) effectors, some of which contain putative kinase domains. Little is known about the host targets of these kinase-domain-containing CRNs and their infection-promoting mechanisms. Here, we report the host target and functional mechanism of a conserved kinase CRN effector named CRN78 in a notorious oomycete pathogen, Phytophthora sojae. CRN78 promotes Phytophthora capsici infection in Nicotiana benthamiana and enhances P. sojae virulence on the host plant Glycine max by inhibiting plant H2O2 accumulation and immunity-related gene expression. Further investigation reveals that CRN78 interacts with PIP2-family aquaporin proteins including NbPIP2;2 from N. benthamiana and GmPIP2-13 from soybean on the plant plasma membrane, and membrane localization is necessary for virulence of CRN78. Next, CRN78 promotes phosphorylation of NbPIP2;2 or GmPIP2-13 using its kinase domain in vivo, leading to their subsequent protein degradation in a 26S-dependent pathway. Our data also demonstrates that NbPIP2;2 acts as a H2O2 transporter to positively regulate plant immunity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation. Phylogenetic analysis suggests that the phosphorylation sites of PIP2 proteins and the kinase domains of CRN78 homologs are highly conserved among higher plants and oomycete pathogens, respectively. Therefore, this study elucidates a conserved and novel pathway used by effector proteins to inhibit host cellular defenses by targeting and hijacking phosphorylation of plant aquaporin proteins. Author summary: CRN effectors are conserved in diverse pathogens of plants, animals, and insects, and highly expanded in Phytophthora species. Nevertheless, little is known about their functions, targets, and action mechanisms. Here, we characterized a kinase-domain-containing CRN effector (CRN78) in a notorious oomycete pathogen, P. sojae. CRN78 is a virulence-essential effector of P. sojae infection, and acts via suppression of plant H2O2 accumulation and defense gene expressions. We demonstrated that CRN78 might interact with plant PIP2-family aquaporin proteins, including N. benthamiana NbPIP2;2 and soybean GmPIP2-13, and regulate their phosphorylation, resulting in subsequent 26S-dependent protein degradation. Furthermore, we revealed that NbPIP2;2 was an apoplast-to-cytoplast H2O2 transporter and positively regulated plant immunity and ROS accumulation. Importantly, this phosphorylation may be highly conserved in many plant aquaporin proteins. Thus, this study identifies a virulence-related effector from P. sojae and a novel plant immunity-related gene, and reveals a detailed mechanism of effector-mediated phosphorylation and degradation of plant aquaporin proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Productivity of cropland soils, especially in arid and semi-arid tropics of India rigorously declined due to increasing losses of soil organic carbon (SOC) over the past decades. In the present study, we examined a 16-years long term experiment with continuous mono cropping rainfed groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) to quantify the influence of fertilization and manuring on yield sustainability and C sequestration potential on rainfed Vertisols of Western India. The treatments include, i) T1 = control; ii) T2 = 100% recommended dose of fertilizer [RDF-20:40:40 kg ha−1 of N:P2O5: K2O]; iii) T3 = integrated nutrient management [INM- 50% RDF + compost 6 Mg ha−1 + biofertilizers (BF)]; iv) T4 = organic nutrient source [compost 6 Mg ha−1 + vermicompost (VC) 2 Mg ha−1 + castor neem cake (CNC) 250 kg ha−1 + BF + mulching]. Maximum mean groundnut pod yield (1.17 Mg ha−1) was recorded in T2 which was statistically similar to T4 (1.16 Mg ha−1). However, Mann-Kendall test for yield trend suggests the consistency in yield increase under T3 treatment during the last 16 years. The rate of pod yield enhancement was 27 kg ha−1 for every Mg increase in profile SOC stock. The mean SOC concentration (g kg−1) of 1-m soil depth increased from 4.0 to 5.6 (40%) in T4 over control and the mean SOC sequestration rate was 0.63 Mg C ha−1 yr−1. A minimum of 1.22 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 input was needed to maintain SOC stock at its antecedent level (zero change). We conclude that combined use of chemical fertilizers along with locally available organic resources is essential for enhancing SOC storage while achieving sustainable crop productivity in semi-arid agro-ecosystem. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Agriculture being one of the major practices in the world has contributed to environmental pollution, especially in developing countries where there were no equipment to recycle the agricultural wastes. Considering the high level of infestation of paddy by Sitotroga cerealella and the high level of pollution caused by agricultural wastes, this research investigated the chemical composition and toxicity of agro wastes (rice husk, maize cob, groundnut and cowpea pods) as eco-friendly protectants of paddy against Sitotroga cerealella. Parameters assessed include adult mortality, oviposition, adult emergence and egg hatchability. Gas chromatography and mass spectrophotometry were used to isolate and characterize the active compounds present in the most effective crude extract. Results: The results of the study revealed that all agricultural wastes showed high mortality effect on S. cerealella. Cowpea pod powder was the most toxic to adult paddy moth that caused 33.33%, 36.67%, 46.67%, 50% and 60% mortality of S. cerealella at concentrations 0.1 g, 0.2 g, 0.3 g, 0.4 g and 0.5 g/20 g of paddy grains after 24 h of exposure, respectively. The Cowpea pod, groundnut pod and maize cob extracts caused 100% mortality of S. cerealella at concentration 0.5 ml/20 g of paddy grains after 96 h of exposure, respectively. The lethal concentrations LC50 and LC90 of cowpea pod after 24 h were 0.16 and 0.64 ml which were the lowest of all agro waste extract tested. GC–MS analysis revealed that 19 chemical compounds were present in cowpea pod extract, 9, 12-Octadecadienoic acid (a methyl ester) has the highest percentage total of 39.57% and 4-Pentenal, 2-methylene (0.12%) has the least percentage total. Conclusion: All the observations revealed that cowpea pod was the most effective. The findings also suggested that the selected agricultural wastes have a promising insecticidal potential and can be used as alternatives to synthetic chemical insecticides for the control of stored product insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The low yield in groundnut which can be partly attributed to poor land preparation methods necessitated the need for alternative strategy of land preparation that will promote higher productivity in groundnut farming. Methods: A field experiment was carried out in two separate locations between May and August in 2016 to assess the effect of planting methods on growth and yield of groundnut cultivars. Result: The results revealed that groundnut crop sown on modified ridges and furrow with narrow furrow planting recorded significantly higher plant height, number of leaves, 50% flowering, yield attributes and yield when compared to other methods of planting All the groundnut cultivars responded positively to all planting methods except those grown on flat surface without beds. However, modified ridges and furrow with narrow furrow planting proved to be the best method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to examine the effects of Salicylic acid (SA) and Potassium nitrate (KNO3) on plant height and flowering time of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under induced stresses of salinity, drought and combined salinity and drought. Three watering regimes namely; normal, moderate and severe were used. For salinity stress, 50 mM NaCl, 100 mM NaCl, 150 mM NaCl and combination of water and salinity regimes were used. 50 µm KNO3 and 50 µm SA were separately applied to plants under water, salinity and combined water and salinity stresses. The mean plant height at 100 mM salt concentration were 42.29 cm for KNO3, 42.27 cm for SA, compared with 40.98 cm for control (F = 2.73; P = 0.008). In combined severe watering and 150 mM NaCl treatment, flowering time was 57 DAP (days after planting) compared to 34 DAP in control plants. When KNO3 and SA were applied to severe watering and 150 mM NaCl combined stress induced plants, flowering time was 51 DAP and 53 DAP for KNO3 and SA treated plants respectively. In conclusion, the exogenous application of plant growth regulators such as SA and KNO3 reduce impact of water stress on groundnut and effectively improve yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amino acids are important components of the soil organic nitrogen pool. There is, however, a current lack of knowledge concerning how exogenous C and N regulate amino acid uptake in the soil microorganism/plant system. We used a 13C,15N-glycine injection method to examine glycine-derived 13C and 15N partitioning in a planted or unplanted spring wheat pot experiment. Four treatments were used: control (CK), ammonium sulfate (N), glucose (C), and ammonium sulfate with glucose (NC). The results showed that amino acids were absorbed intact by soil microorganisms and plants at 4 h. An exogenous excess of C, rather than N, resulted in a reduced uptake of intact glycine by soil microorganisms, indicating that glycine was taken up primarily to fulfill their C requirement. Wheat was more effective in competing for glycine-C and N at 24 h. 13C and 15N partitioning in wheat was significantly influenced by exogenous C and N availability; uptake of 13C and 15N by wheat increased with increasing C and N availability. We concluded that amino acids are important not only for N but also for C to soil microorganisms and plants, which are able to respond quickly to exogenous C and N source application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Naronut 2T' (Reg. no. CV‐142, PI 693986) is a high‐yielding, spanish‐type groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L. subsp. fastigiata var. vulgaris) cultivar with two seeds per pod. Naronut 2T was released in 2019 by the National Semi‐Arid Resources Research Institute, Serere, Uganda. The cultivar was selected from a cross between ICRISAT advanced lines ICGV‐SM 86715 and ICGV‐SM 90704. Naronut 2T was developed by combined pedigree and single seed descent for groundnut rosette disease resistance, early maturity, and high yields. Replicated trials were conducted in Uganda during 2014–2017 during a total of 11 rainfed growing seasons. Naronut 2T matures in 75–85 d, earlier than the widely grown cultivar Serenut 4T (matures in 90–100 d). Naronut 2T has significantly higher pod yields (1418.0 kg/ha) than Serenut 4T (571.9 kg/ha). The seed testa color is tan, with an average 100‐seed weight of 29.7 g compared with 27.9 g for Serenut 4T. The shelling percentage for Naronut 2T is 50.1% compared with 58.4% for Serenut 4T. Naronut 2T contains a higher protein content than Serenut 4T, 25.7 versus 23.6%, respectively, but has a lower oil concentration, 39.6 versus 42.9%, respectively. The cultivar is not a high‐oleic line. Compared with Serenut 4T, Naronut 2T is a higher yielding cultivar with resistance to groundnut rosette disease and late leaf spot disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]