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Iron (Fe) plays a fundamental role in the nutrition of plants, yet its role in oil palm remains understudied. This study aims to unlock the role of Fe by analyzing its cycling and export different stages of oil palm tree growth. The experiment was conducted in Thailand, Pará State (Brazil), in a dystrophic Yellow Ferralsol, in a split-block, with four replications and seven treatments (plant age; 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8). The concentration, accumulation, recycling, immobilization, and export of Fe were evaluated, in addition to Fe use efficiency, in all plant organs. Analysis of variance (p < 0.05) was carried out on the results and regression model adjustments. The concentration and accumulation of Fe in the stem was greatest at the eighth year of the plants, and the fruit had higher Fe export values in the eighth year of the oil palm as well. As plants aged, the Fe concentration, accumulation, export, and use efficiency increased. Oil palm accumulates and immobilizes more Fe in its organs than it exports, a fact that contributes to the cycling and nutrition of the Fe in the plant. This research paves the way for future studies to explore how Fe can be optimized in oil palm trees to unlock their full potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objectives: Salinity is one of the most important environmental abiotic stresses that limit the growth and production of plants. On the other hand, silicon (Si) is the second most abundant element in soil and reduces biotic and abiotic stresses in plants. By penetrating the stem and leaves, silicon strengthens the plant antioxidant system, while strengthening the physical organs and improving the plant physiological processes, which results in strengthening the antioxidant system of the plant and increasing its efficiency against environmental stresses. According to the recent findings of researchers, a small amount of silicon can affects the ability of plants to withstand salt stress. Oil seeds are important sources of vegetable oils. Safflower seed with an oil content of 25 to 45% is one of the most valuable oilseeds. The aim of this research was to evaluate the effect of silicon foliar application on some quantitative and qualitative characteristics of safflower under salt stress. Materials and Methods: This experiment was conducted as a factorial based on a completely randomized design with three replications in greenhouse research of Nahavand Higher Education Complex during 2023. Experimental factors included salinity stress at three levels (0, 40 and 80 mM) and silicon foliar application at three levels (0, 2 and 4 g/L). The height of the plant, the stem diameter, the head diameter and weight, the 1000-grain weight, the percentage of the oil, and the amount and type of fatty acids were measured traits. Results: The results of the experiment showed the positive effect of silicon application on most of the studied traits, so that the largest head diameter (14.70 mm) was created in the treatment of 4 g/L of silicon and without salt, which was not statistically different compared with the treatment of 4 g/L of silicon and 40 mM salinity. The highest amount of plant height, stem diameter, head weight and 1000-grain weight was obtained by applying 4 g/L silicon and 40 mM salinity stress. The increase percentage of these traits, compared to the non-application of silicon at the same salinity level (40 mM) was 18.11%, 15.19%, 14.78% and 17.35%, respectively. The highest percentage of oil (27.31%) was obtained by applying the highest level of silicon and salinity. The increase in the oil percentage in this treatment was 80.74% compared to the absence of silicone application at the same salinity level. The highest amount of linoleic acid (77.02%) was obtained in the treatment of 2 g/L silicon and 40 mM salinity. The increase percentage of linoleic acid in this treatment was 11.60% compared to the absence of silicon application at the same salinity level. The highest amount of oleic acid (18.90%) was produced using the highest level of silicon and no salinity. The highest level of stearic acid (2.80%) and linolenic acid (0.2%) was obtained in the control treatment. Conclusion: The results of this research showed the positive effect of silicon application on most of the investigated traits. Also, with the application of silicon, the adverse effects of salt stress in some traits such as plant height, stem diameter, head weight, 1000-grain weight and oil percentage were reduced. Therefore, the use of silicon can be suggested as an effective method to reduce the destructive effects of salinity stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Contamination of sunflower seeds with soil Cd is an important issue for food and feed because this species strongly accumulates this metal. The present work reports that seeds from three sunflower varieties (ES Biba, Extrasol, Vellox) cultivated in the field in a calcareous agricultural soil having a moderately high Cd content (1 mg Cd/kg) had Cd contents of 0.84, 0.88 and 0.76 mg Cd/kg, respectively, all exceeding the regulation limit of 0.5 mg Cd/kg seeds for human food. On average, for the three varieties, washing seeds did not affect their total Cd contents but slightly increased the Cd in the kernels at the expense of that in hulls. Despite the Cd content of the whole seeds not differing between the varieties, the Cd fraction in the edible kernel differed significantly between varieties from 78 to 87% of the total seed Cd. The results of this study suggest that (i) the size of the kernel, relative to that of the hull, may affect the dilution of Cd in kernel tissues and (ii) there might be genetic variability for the capacity of transfer of Cd from the hull to the kernel. This opens the perspective to increase food safety by selecting sunflower genotypes that retain more Cd into the hull and transfer less of it to the edible kernel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Non-synchronized pods shattering in the Brassicaceae family bring upon huge yield losses around the world. The shattering process was validated to be controlled by eight genes in Arabidopsis, including SHP1, SHP2, FUL, IND, ALC, NAC, RPL, and PG. We performed genome-wide identification, characterization, and expression analysis of shattering genes in B.napus and B. juncea to gain understanding into this gene family and to explain their expression patterns in fresh and mature siliques. Results A comprehensive genome investigation of B.napus and B.juncea revealed 32 shattering genes, which were identified and categorized using protein motif structure, exon-intron organization, and phylogeny. The phylogenetic study revealed that these shattering genes contain little duplications, determined with a distinct chromosome number. Motifs of 32 shattering proteins were observed where motifs1 and 2 were found to be more conserved. A single motif was observed for other genes like Br-nS7, Br-nS9, Br-nS10, Br-jS21, Br-jS23, Br-jS24, Br-jS25, and Br-jS26. Synteny analysis was performed that validated a conserved pattern of blocks among these cultivars. RT-PCR based expressions profiles showed higher expression of shattering genes in B. juncea as compared to B.napus. SHP1, SHP2, and FUL gene were expressed more in mature silique. ALC gene was upregulated in fresh silique of B. napus but downregulation of ALC were observed in fresh silique of B. juncea. Conclusion This study authenticates the presence of shattering genes in the local cultivars of Brassica. It has been validated that the expression of shattering genes were more in B. juncea as compared to B.napus. The outcomes of this study contribute to the screening of more candidate genes for further investigation.

In order to study the effect of brassinosteroids on yield and physiological characteristics of rapeseed genotypes under late-season drought stress, a factorial split-plot test is conducted in a randomized complete blocks design with three replicates for two cultivation years (2017-2019) in the research farm of Islamic Azad University, Karai (Mahdasht). Experimental treatments include two levels of brassinosteroid (0 (the control) and 0.1 ol) and two levels of irrigation (full irrigation (the control) and withholding irrigation from 50% flowering stage) as factorial in the main plots, with rapeseed genotypes (Nafis, Ahmadi, Okapi, Nima, and Niloofar) being considered as subplots. Foliar application of brassinosteroid under both full irrigation and withholding irrigation from the flowering stage increase seed yield, chlorophyll, and relative water content, compared to the control. The highest amount of soluble carbohydrates, leaf proline, and oil percentage have been obtained under drought stress and brassinosteroid application, i.e. 24.8%, 16.5%, and 2.5%, respectively, compared to the control conditions. However, Okapi genotype has had the highest stomatal resistance (24.59 s/cm), the lowest chlorophyll (1.49 0lg-1FW), and seed yield (1960.5 kg/ha) in the conditions of withholding irrigation. Niloufar genotype has had the lowest stomatal resistance, the highest chlorophyll, oil percentage, and seed yield in both irrigation conditions. In general, in both irrigation treatments, the use of brassinosteroids improve physiological traits of rapeseed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: This research was conducted to determine the effect of sulfur and cattle manure on yield and amino acids of two Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) varieties. Materials and Methods: The experiment was done by a factorial experiment in randomized block design with 3 replications in 2016 and 2017 at Kerman Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center. The treatments consisted of powdered sulfur at four levels (0, 2, 4 and 8 ton.ha-1), Cow manure at two levels (0 and 20 ton.ha-1) and Jiroft-13 and Jiroft local varieties. Results: The results showed that the number of capsules per plant in the second year was higher than the first year and the number of seeds per capsule in the second year was lower. Also, the leaf phosphorus content in the second year was higher than the first year. The number of branches, number of capsules per plant, 1000-grain weight, grain yield and Methionine in 20 ton.ha-1treatment of cow manure was higher than the control. The effect of sulfur treatment on yield, yield components, seed oil, Leaf phosphorus, Methionine and Cysteine were significant and according to the significance of the interaction between cow manure and sulfur, the highest grain yield (1353.28 Kg.ha-1) was obtained from of 20 Ton.ha-1 treatment of cow manure and 8 ton.ha-1of sulfur. The Jiroft-13 variety had higher oil seed, grain and biological yield than Jiroft local variety.Conclusion: According to the experiment conditions, more desirable results can be obtained using 20 ton.ha-1 manure, with lower rates of sulfur.

Iran has been facing shortage of edible oil and a rapid growing population, and the country has to supplement the needs by importing. To investigate the effect of planting densities and different amounts of some traits of sunflower, an experiment was conducted as a split plot in the form of randomized complete blocks design with three replicates in the research farm of the Agricultural and Natural Resources Research and Education Centre of Semnan province (Shahrood). Plant density in four levels (4, 6, 8 and 10 plant.m−2) as a main plot and the amount of nitrogen levels (0.50, 100, 150 and 200 kg N ha−1) as sub-plot were considered. Leaf greenness index, plant height, 100-seed weight, seed nitrogen content and seed oil content were significantly affected by the simple effect of planting density and decreased with increasing plan density. Also, the nitrogen levels significantly affected the studied traits, so that by increasing the amount of nitrogen application, from control to 200 kg N ha−1, the leaf greenness index increased by 15.3%. At a density of four plant.m−2 and an increase in nitrogen levels, water use efficiency increased along with an increase height and leaf area index, but higher levels of plant density led to smaller plant yield, less plant biomass and lower water efficiency. The highest nitrogen use efficiency was obtained at a density of 8 plant.m−2 and no application of nitrogen fertilizer. Finally, maximum seed yield (4016 kg.ha−1) and oil yield (1827 kg.ha−1) were obtained by applying 150 kg N ha−1 and density of 8 plants.m−2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This field experiment was carried out in order to investigate the effects of humic acid on the growth and yield of sunflower in a saline soil, using a complete block design with three replications in Kashan, central Iran, in 2014. Treatments consisted of 3 levels of humic acid (1, 3 and 6 liters per ha), no humic acid in soil with sufficient nitrogen, three liters of humic acid per ha in soil without sufficient nitrogen, control of humic acid in soil without sufficient nitrogen. The results showed that the use of humic acid left significant effect on all measured traits. The greatest increase in oil content, 1000 seed weight, head weight, seed yield, head diameter, stem diameter and number of leaves were obtained by use of 3 liters of humic acid in soil with sufficient nitrogen. Maximum increase in plant height and plant weight were obtained‎ by using 6 liters humic acid in soil with sufficient nitrogen and the highest protein content was ‎ achieved‎ by using 1 liter of humic acid per ha in soil with adequate nitrogen. The results of this experiment showed that the application of humic acid in a saline soil improves the growth ‎and yield of sunflower plants.‎

Sesame is ranked among the top ten traditional oil seed crops of Pakistan. The present study is aimed to compare the effectiveness of native honey bees and solitary bees for better seed production of sesame and future conservation of effective insect pollinators. The sesame crop was grown during two years (2019 & 2020) at the research farm of MNS-University of Agriculture Multan, Pakistan. Abundance and diversity of native insect pollinators, their foraging behavior in terms of visit duration and visitation rate (number of flowers visited per minute) along with their pollination effectiveness in terms of single visit seed set efficacy were assessed. Pollinator community was composed of seven solitary bees species (Nomia oxybeloides, Amegilla sp., Lasioglossum sp., Megachile sp., Xylocopa sp.), two honeybee species (Apis dorsata, A. florea) and two syrphid fly species (Eristalinus aeneus, Ischiodon scutellaris). In both the years, honey bees were more abundant than the solitary bees while the syrphid flies were least abundant. However, visitation rate of solitary bee, Amegilla sp. was the highest (6.4 ± 0.41) followed by N. oxybeloides (3.4 ± 0.32) and A. dorsata (3.1 ± 0.90). Based on single visit seed set parameters i.e., capsule length (cm), capsule weight (gm), number of seed per capsule and seed weight per capsule (gm), solitary bee Amegilla sp. was the most efficient followed by A. dorsata and N. oxybeloides. Conserving the most efficient native solitary bee (Amegilla sp.) and honey bee (A. dorsata) can lead to higher seed production. Moreover, the effectiveness of Amegilla sp. should also be evaluated for other oil seed crops in Punjab, Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-synchronized pods shattering in the Brassicaceae family bring upon huge yield losses around the world. The shattering process was validated to be controlled by eight genes in Arabidopsis, including SHP1, SHP2, FUL, IND, ALC, NAC, RPL, and PG. We performed genome-wide identification, characterization, and expression analysis of shattering genes in B.napus and B. juncea to gain understanding into this gene family and to explain their expression patterns in fresh and mature siliques. Results: A comprehensive genome investigation of B.napus and B.juncea revealed 32 shattering genes, which were identified and categorized using protein motif structure, exon-intron organization, and phylogeny. The phylogenetic study revealed that these shattering genes contain little duplications, determined with a distinct chromosome number. Motifs of 32 shattering proteins were observed where motifs1 and 2 were found to be more conserved. A single motif was observed for other genes like Br-nS7, Br-nS9, Br-nS10, Br-jS21, Br-jS23, Br-jS24, Br-jS25, and Br-jS26. Synteny analysis was performed that validated a conserved pattern of blocks among these cultivars. RT-PCR based expressions profiles showed higher expression of shattering genes in B. juncea as compared to B.napus. SHP1, SHP2, and FUL gene were expressed more in mature silique. ALC gene was upregulated in fresh silique of B. napus but downregulation of ALC were observed in fresh silique of B. juncea. Conclusion: This study authenticates the presence of shattering genes in the local cultivars of Brassica. It has been validated that the expression of shattering genes were more in B. juncea as compared to B.napus. The outcomes of this study contribute to the screening of more candidate genes for further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effect of tillage systems and the combination of chemical fertilizer and livestock manure on some characteristics of sunflower, an experiment has been conducted as split plots in a randomized complete block design with three replications at the research farm of University of Zabol during 2019. The main factor has been tillage levels (1. moldboard plow and disc, 2. sweep and disc, and 3. disc). The sub-factor include fertilizer levels (no fertilizer application, 100 kg/ha of diammonium phosphate, 25 tons/ha of livestock manure+ 100 kg/ha of diamonium phosphate, 50 tons/ha of livestock manure + 100 kg/ha of diamonium phosphate, 25 tons/ha of livestock manure, and 50 tons/ha of livestock manure). Results show that the highest values belong to the 50 tons/ha of livestock manure in tillage with disk for grain yield (5072 kg/ha), and oil percentage (44.44%), 50 tons/ha of livestock manure in tillage with disc for oleic acid content (51.61%), and 50 tons/ha of livestock manure for linoleic acid content (31.1%). The highest amount of chlorophyll a, b and carotenoids (1.253, 0.45, and 1.04 mg/g, respectively) has been obtained from the application of 100 kg/ha of diamonium phosphate in tillage with disc. In general, in order to increase and improve the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of sunflower, the application of 50 tons/ha of livestock manure is suitable in disc tillage conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sesamum indicum L. is an important oil seed in Iran which is cultivated as summer crop in alternation with cereals and cucurbits, playing an important role in sustainable agriculture. Sesame wilt disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. sesami is one of the limiting factors in its cultivation. Application of genetic improvement of disease resistance is one of the effective strategies to solve the disease problems in sesame. In this project, the partial resistance of 24 genotypes including, some commercial cultivars and promising lines were tested against Fusarium wilt disease. The experiments were conducted in three different conditions (greenhouse, micro plot and field). In greenhouse and micro plot experiments, artificial inoculation was used while in field experiment, no artificial inoculum was used. For evaluating results, the infection percentage (wilted plants) was recorded on a scale of 1-6 scoring system. The results showed that in artificial inoculation conditions, none of sesame genotypes were immune. Infection mean percentages of sesame genotypes were calculated to be 58.34, 28.6 and 15.96, in greenhouse, micro-plot and field, respectively. Total results of the three experiments showed that 29.1% of the sesame genotypes (JL1, Jl14, JL10, JL11, JL13, Jl18 and Darab1) fell in resistant (R) category and 37.5% of the genotypes (JL2, Varamin37, Local, Yekta, JL29, JL16, JL6, JL14-1 and Darab2) fell in moderately resistant (MR) group. The resistant and moderately resistant genotypes can be used for breeding programs and development of resistant varieties, however further efforts are needed to identify highly resistant genotypes from among more native germplasms via screening program.

The rapid growth of the world's population and industrial revolution has led to an increase in the need for energy. However, the scarcity of fossil fuels and serious environmental pollution problems have attracted researchers on developing alternative or renewable energy sources. Among these energy sources, biodiesel has been the most popular energy source for decades. Energy crops that are cultivated as oil feedstock such as soybean, cottonseed, rapeseed, and camelina for biodiesel production in Turkey. Due to different physicochemical properties of these oilseeds, fuel quality, engine performance characteristics and emission results of biodiesel are the significant criteria that have been changing. Therefore, these criteria were evaluated by using multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) techniques for the selection of the most suitable energy crop. For this purpose, AHP has been applied for evaluating the significance of each criterion and ranks of investigated alternatives have been calculated by using TOPSIS. The results identified rapeseed as the most suitable oilseed as an energy crop for cultivation in Turkey whereas cottonseed was an unsuitable choice for biodiesel production. This integrated analysis method here can be utilized by policymakers as a pre-investment tool in developing new business models for the goal of reducing exhaust emissions as well as decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.

This field experiment was carried out in order to investigate the effects of humic acid on the growth and yield of sunflower in a saline soil, using a complete block design with three replications in Kashan, central Iran, in 2014. Treatments consisted of 3 levels of humic acid (1, 3 and 6 liters per ha), no humic acid in soil with sufficient nitrogen, three liters of humic acid per ha in soil without sufficient nitrogen, control of humic acid in soil without sufficient nitrogen. The results showed that the use of humic acid left significant effect on all measured traits. The greatest increase in oil content, 1000 seed weight, head weight, seed yield, head diameter, stem diameter and number of leaves were obtained by use of 3 liters of humic acid in soil with sufficient nitrogen. Maximum increase in plant height and plant weight were obtained by using 6 liters humic acid in soil with sufficient nitrogen and the highest protein content was achieved by using 1 liter of humic acid per ha in soil with adequate nitrogen. The results of this experiment showed that the application of humic acid in a saline soil improves the growth and yield of sunflower plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years the discourse regarding the effective use of dwindling agricultural spaces for food, fiber, or fuel production has grown and it is becoming increasingly important to manage non-agricultural or marginal spaces that make them suitable for crop production. Highly eroded, highly compacted, low nutrient soils, similar to those found along highway rights-of-way (ROWs) offer unique field characteristics that can be used to study crop production potentials and land use decisions. This work evaluated the feasibility of maintaining a canola crop production system on the non-agricultural soils of highway ROWs across the humid subtropical climate within North Carolina, USA as a bioenergy feedstock for renewable fuels. Specific objectives included examination of (1) three different North Carolina geoclimatic conditions and (2) three levels of tillage (conventional (CT), minimum (MT), and no-till (NT)) on canola (Brassica napus L.) grain yields cultivated on ROW soils. Field experiments were conducted for two growing seasons in the Inner Coastal Plain, Piedmont, and Mountains regions and assessed main and interaction effects among tillage, site, and year of cultivation on crop productivity. After season 1, CT produced the highest average yield (1.24 Mg ha−1) followed by MT (0.93 Mg ha−1) and NT (0.86 Mg ha−1), respectively. In the second year, the comparative intensity of productive effects from CT was lower, and plots cultivated under MT resulted in the highest average yields (2.70 Mg ha−1), followed by CT (2.69 Mg ha−1) and NT (1.96 Mg ha−1), respectively. Yields observed were comparable to regional canola grain yields, and no significant difference was observed between yields under CT versus MT. These findings suggest that reduced levels of tillage on ROW soils in North Carolina hold the potential to produce yields comparable to those realized in traditional agricultural soils, and targeted tillage practices can support improved suitability of marginal crop production spaces.

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A systematic review of literature on value-addition and food fortification of cereals using neglected legume and oil seed crops among smallholder farming communities was done. There is scanty and very limited empirical evidence on the use of legumes in food fortification of cereals at the household level. This is largely because of a neglect of local micronutrient provision initiatives at the household level, with much attention being done at policy and industrial scale food fortification levels. Besides, the current policies do not provide for the fortification of most food crops commonly grown in smallholder farming communities and there are very few initiatives that are in place to promote localised fortification options among rural communities. The paper consolidated existing knowledge on food fortification in general, value addition of small grains and neglected legume and oil seed crops. It explored fortification potential of sesame, cow pea and groundnuts and mapped existing gaps and missing links hampering the enhancement of food security and nutrition. This study recommends the promotion of groundnuts and sesame production, their value addition, and their use in the fortification of cereal food products to complement protein, Vitamins, Fe, K, Na, Mg, Zn, and Ca provision. This will significantly contribute to the alleviation of malnutrition among rural communities particularly in developing countries where agriculture is the mainstay of economies.

The Kenaf seed has narrow applications despite the relatively high oil content. This study therefore aims to identify the fatty acid content and chemical characteristics of kenaf seed oil derived from five superior varieties released by Balittas. These include Karangploso (KR) 6, 9, 11, 12, and 14, estimated to have oil content between the range 22.71–32.-32%. Furthermore, the quality is determined by testing several parameters, encompassing the acid number, free fatty acid level, iodine, saponification and peroxide number. The result show an acid rate range of 2.21 mg KOH/g (KR 12) - 3.28 mg KOH/g (KR 11) in kenaf seed oil. Meanwhile, the free fatty acids varied from 1.10–1.64%, with saponification (194.97–243.91 mg KOH/g) iodine rate (54.72– 71.44 g Iod/100 g) and peroxide rate (33.97 mec/kg (KR 14) - 56.23 mec/kg (KR 6)). The kenaf seed oil was concluded to contain numerous essential fatty acids, and oleic acid (44.73% KR 9; 43.01% KR 14), as well as linoleic acid (42.19% KR 12) exhibited the highest amounts.

Abstract: Seed vigor tests are used to estimate their quality. One of the most commonly used is the accelerated aging test (AA). The aim of the present study was to study the biochemical changes caused in the seeds and to determine their germination status after the AA. Six safflower genotypes were tested at 43 °C and 45 °C for 0, 48, 72, 96 and 120 h, and germination percentage (GP), mean germination time (MGT) and normal seedling percentage (NSP) were evaluated to determine the aging reactions of the genotypes. During the AA at 45 °C, the seeds quickly lost their germination ability after 48 h; after 120 h, the seeds lost their viability, remaining, however, still viable at 43 °C. Two genotypes that aged more (Linas and Olas) and less (Bayer-6 and Bayer-12) were chosen to examine the biochemical changes during the AA at 43 °C. Eleven biochemical analysis were performed to understand physiological changes associated with the test. Total caratone, xanthophyll, phenolics, flavonoid, soluble protein, soluble sugars, oil and malondialdehyde contents were lower after 120 h, compared to 0 h. Reducing sugars and free fatty acids contents increased in the least and most aging genotypes. However, the total tocopherol content increased in the least aging genotypes and decreased in the most aging genotypes after 120 h, compared to 0 h. The results showed that the AA at 43 °C was suitable to study the aging process in the safflower seeds. Besides, understanding the chemical changes was useful to elucidate the physiological basis of seed aging.

In order to evaluate the mutant lines derived from irradiation of oilseed rape cultivar RGS003 using gamma-ray, this study was carried out during two growing seasons from 2011 to 2013, at the experimental fields in the Nuclear Agricultural Research School. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with three replications. Significant differences were observed between mutant genotypes and cultivars for grain yield during two years of the experiment. Interaction of year × genotype (GE) showed a significant difference. Identification and selection of mutant lines, especially in the quantitative traits due to the interaction of genotype and environmental effects, is very important and complicated. The biplot method is an effective approach for the selection of mutant lines, based on the traits and yield stability over the time. The aim of this research was selection of the superior mutant lines from of 32 mutants, using the GGE biplot method. The mutant lines RG16, RG14 and RG31 showed high and stable grain yields compare to other mutant lines and cultivars. According to our results, mutation breeding can be used effectively in oil seed rape improvement.

In order to evaluate the quantitative and qualitative traits of safflower and chickpea in additive and replacement intercropping series, an experiment was conducted as randomized complete blocks design with 11 treatments and 3 replications at research field of Kurdistan University during 2015-2016 growing season. Experimental treatments included sole cropping of safflower, sole cropping of chickpea, replacement series consisted of 4:4, 2:2, 1:1, 3:1, 1:3 and additive series consisted of 20% and 40% chickpea (in two situations: I, between and II, around of safflower rows). Results showed that the highest and lowest seed, biological and oil yields of safflower obtained from 40% I and 4:4 intercropping patterns, respectively. The highest seed and biological yields of chickpea obtained from its sole cropping, but the minimum number and weight of chickpea root nodules were achieved from this treatment. The highest value of LER obtained from 40% I additive series. It seems that the mentioned treatment improved yield and quality of safflower; therefore choosing the suitable cropping pattern has positive effect on quantitative and qualitative yield of plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To study the effect of different organic and chemical fertilizers on weed biomass and some characteristics of safflower, a factorial experiment based on randomized complete block design with three replications was done at the Urmia University Reaearch Farm in 2013. Treatments consisted of growing of cover crops (red clover, grass pea, hairy, bitter vetch) along with the safflower rows and two weed control treatments (with and without weed) as a first factor and application of organic manure (cattle manure+biofertilizer) and the different nitrogen and phosphuros fertilizer levels (100 % of recommended chemical fertilizer, 67 and 63 % of recommended N and P, 50 and 40 % of recommended N and P) as second factor. Results showed that the biomass yield of broad and narrow leaf weeds affected by the combined treatments of cover crops and use of fertilizers. The biomass yield of broad and narrow leaf weeds were redused by 74.78, 82.22% under vetch cover crop when 50 and 40% of recommended N and P fertilizers were used, in comparison with sole culture of safflower and use of 100% of recommended chemical fertilizers. The maximum of seed yield (3431 kg.ha-1) and biological yield (8239 kg.ha-1) of safflower obtained from using 100% of recommended chemical fertilizers and without growing cover crops. Results, as a whole, showed that at higher levels of chemical fertilizers the competitive effects of weeds on safflower were higher than lower levels of fertilizers.

Copyright of Journal of Seed Science is the property of Associacao Brasileira de Tecnologia de Sementes 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.)

Drought stress limits the oilseed crops productivity in semi-arid areas. To alleviate drought stress effects during seed-filling stage, the effect of foliar application of different Zn concentration (0, 0.6 and 1.2 kg ha−1) on five safflower genotypes was investigated in a 2-year (2015–2016 and 2016–2017) field experiments. The results showed that supplemental Zn (1.2 kg ha−1) significantly increased drought resistance by enhancement in proline (20%) and carbohydrate accumulation (4.3%), relative water content (2.4%) and chlorophyll content (3.8%) in all studied safflower genotypes. The induced improve in safflower's physiological traits achieved in the Zn supplemented treatment resulted in a significant increase in genotypes yield and its components. Moreover, Zn foliar application significantly reduced the drought adverse effect on oil yield and improved the unsaturated fatty acids content. Finally, Zn foliar application can represent an effective means to mitigate the adverse effects of drought stress on growth and the yield of safflower genotypes in water shortage condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of sunflower is well adapted to the conditions of all region types, it ranks the first in terms of vegetable oil production in our country. The content of fatty acids that determine the quality of sunflower oil is affected by factors such as genotype and environment, especially climate and soil structure. This research examines the oil and fatty acid ratios of sunflower grains grown on a producer basis and presented to the market in 2015 in Samsun (Bafra, Vezirköprü and Havza), Amasya (Merzifon), çorum (Center) and Tokat (Turhal) in the Middle Black Sea Region selected according to the density of oil sunflower to determine the quality of oil. According to the results of the research, average fat ratio was found to be between 41.57% and 45.67%, palmitic and stearic acids, which are basic saturated fatty acids, between 5.65% and 6.44% and from 3.84% and 4.81 % linoleic acid (omega 6), linolenic acid (omega 3) and oleic acids (omega 9), which are unsaturated fatty acids, were found between 50.33 and 63.42%, 0.24 and 0.29% and 25.32 and 37.50%, respectively. These results indicate that the sunflower seeds cultivated in the Amasya-Merzifon region are at the forefront due to their oil quality characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The majority of hazelnut plantings in the Upper Midwest of the United States are planted with seedlings from crosses between American hazelnuts (Corylus americana) and European hazelnuts (C. avellana) that were initially made in the 1930's. To evaluate the potential of this material to support a commercial industry, we have populated replicated field trials at five locations with clonal material of high performing accessions selected from these plantings. The hybrid plants in these trials were found to have high levels of genetic diversity when assessed at 10 microsatellite loci. Principal component analysis shows these Midwestern hybrids group genetically with American hazelnuts from the Upper Midwest region, but separately from European hazelnuts and hybrid hazelnuts developed elsewhere. We conclude that this pool of hybrids has sufficient genetic diversity for a breeding program to support a regional hazelnut industry. The average yield of the eight highest yielding of these genotypes, at ages six to 8 years, was 180 g m−2 of canopy area at the most productive site, which in a production system with 50% of the land covered by the crop canopy would translate to 895 kg of kernel ha−1. This compares favorably with expected yields of similarly aged European tree hazelnuts in Oregon. Though smaller than nuts from European cultivars, kernel quality of the top eight selections was deemed to be adequate for the processed nut market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nyjer oil seed cake supports high levels of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) production. AFB1 is a secondary metabolite of Aspergillus flavus and A. parasiticus , classified as a Class 1A carcinogen. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of temperature (20, 27, and 35 °C) and water activity (0.82, 0.86, 0.90, 0.94, and 0.98 a w) on fungal growth and AFB1 production of A. flavus and A. parasiticus on ground Nyjer seeds over a 30-day incubation period. Linear regression models indicated that both fungal growth and AFB1 production were significantly influenced by water activity of Nyjer seeds and incubation temperature. The two fungi did not grow on Nyjer seeds at 0.82 a w at the three incubation temperatures. The most favorable growth conditions for both fungi were 0.90–0.98 a w at 27 °C or 0.90–0.94 a w at 35 °C. The optimum temperature for AFB1 production was 27 °C for both A. flavus and A. parasiticus (with regression coefficients of 6.01 and 9.11, respectively). Both fungi were likely to produce high levels of AFB1 at 0.90 a w (with regression coefficients of 3.56 for A. flavus and 7.17 for A. parasiticus). Aspergillus flavus only produced AFB1 on seeds with 0.90–0.98 a w at 27 °C (in the range of 203–282 μg/kg) and on seeds with 0.90 a w at 35 °C (212 μg/kg). No detectable AFB1 was produced by this fungus in any other culture conditions that were studied. Aspergillus parasiticus , in contrast, was able to produce AFB1 under all of the growth conditions. At 20 °C, this fungus produced the highest level of AFB1 (212 μg/kg) at high water activity (0.98 a w). At 27 °C, A. parasiticus produced high levels of AFB1 (in the range of 209–265 μg/kg) at a wide range of water activities (0.86–0.98 a w). In the entire study, the highest AFB1 concertation for A. parasiticus was detected on seeds incubated at high temperature (35 °C) and low water activity (0.86 a w). The findings of this study could help optimize the storage conditions of Nyjer oil seeds to reduce aflatoxin contamination. Highlights • Ground Nyjer seeds support A. flavus and A. parasiticus growth and the production of AFB1 by the two fungi. • The most favorable growth conditions for both fungi were 0.90-0.98 a w at 27 °C or 0.90-0.94 a w at 35 °C. • The two fungi did not grow on ground Nyjer seeds at 0.82 a w at 20, 27 and 35 °C. • Aspergillus parasiticus produced AFB1 under all of growth conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Oil seeds, such as J. curcas, are more prone to deterioration and consequently to loss of quality during storage. In this context, adequate technics for its preservation are of great importance. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different environments and packaging for the conservation of J. curcas seeds during twelve months of storage. The seeds were placed in three different types of packaging: a multiwall paper bag (or Kraft paper bag); a cloth bag; and a high-density plastic bag. After this, the seeds were stored in three different conditions: a laboratory (23 ± 3 ºC; 64 ± 11% of RH); a refrigerated room (20 ± 2 oC; 55 ± 5% of RH) and a cold chamber (10 ± 2 oC; 55 ± 5% of RH). Initially and thereafter every three months, the physiological qualities (germination and vigor) of the seeds were evaluated. J. curcas seeds packed in the plastic bags and stored in a cold chamber maintained their germination potential during twelve months. There was a decline in the physiological quality of the seeds stored in the laboratory conditions, independent of the packaging used. It was concluded that the most suitable condition for the storage of J. curcas seeds was packing them in plastic bags, placed in a cold chamber (10 ± 2 oC; 55 ± 5% of RH).

This study was carried out to determine the effect of whole cottonseed (WCS) supplementation on finishing performance and blood parameters of Awassi lambs under heat stress. The compositions of diets for the various treatments were i) control: concentrate without WCS plus 15% wheat straw; ii) 8.5% WCS, 76.5% concentrate and 15% wheat straw; and iii) 17% WCS, 68% concentrate plus 15% wheat straw. Twenty seven male Awassi lambs (4 - 5 months old) were allotted to three dietary treatments in equal numbers for each diet in a completely randomized design. Following 15 days of diet adaptation, lambs were fed the experimental diets ad libitum for 56 days. According to the finishing trial, average daily gain (ADG), feed intake (FI), dry matter intake (DMI), feed efficiency and water consumption were not affected by the inclusion of WCS. Only numerical increment of daily gain, FI and DMI was observed in the 8.5% WCS group. Supplementation of WCS did not affect blood glucose, urea, total protein, albumin and potassium levels, but blood cholesterol level was increased. Changes in scrotal circumference were observed with supplementation of 17% WCS. As a result, WCS can replace concentrate up to 8.5% of diet without negative effects on finishing performance of Awassi lambs under heat stress conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Combining ability × environment interaction is considerable to identify the effect of environment on the combining ability and gene action of the traits to select appropriate parents for safflower hybrid production. The 36 genotype (28 F2 progenies of eight-parent half-diallel crosses across 8 parental genotypes) of safflower were studied to investigate the mentioned parameters across different geographical regions of Iran. The results indicated significant differences among parents for general and specific combining ability, except for seeds per capitulum across three environments. The overall results indicated that K21 and Mex.22-191 were excellent parents with greater general combining ability for the improvement of seed yield in safflower. The K21 × Mex.22-191 hybrid could be, therefore, employed for the production of high seed yield in safflower breeding. The estimates of genetic variance components recommended the importance of additive- dominance genetic effects that contributed to variation in yield per plant. Such gene action expression for seed yield needs auxiliary methods based on hybridization and selection for seed yield advancement in safflower.

In Iran, more than 90% of raw materials including oils and oil seeds are provided through import. Camelina sativa L. as an oilseed crop, belongs to Brassicaceae family, has been shown in several experiments that need very little water and resistant to chilling injury than other plant oils, especially canola. This Experiment was conducted at research station of Campus of Agriculture and Natural Resources in growing season 2013-2014. Seeds of C. sativa, DH1025 line, were cultivated in two sowing dates (6 November and 16November), with a row spacing of 20 cm and 3 cm between plants in a 3-square-meter plots in three replicates at each date. The results of the analysis of variance showed that two different treatments were significant difference for all the traits measured apart from the number of seeds per pod, number of branches, number of pods per plant, number of pods per branch, number of seeds per pod and plant height. The highest yield and biomass was observed in first planting date (6 November) with 217.667 and 514.33 g/m2, respectively. Feasibility cultivation of C. sativa as a new medicinal-oil plant in rainfed conditions in Kermanshah was the major purpose of this investigation.

Three commonly cultivated oilseed crops viz., soybean, sunflower and Indian mustard were sampled to compare density and diversity of spider at different developmental stages. This study was conducted at Ayub Agriculture Research Institute, Faisalabad, Pakistan. A total of 1210 spider individuals, 68 species and 5 families were sampled throughout the study period. The families showed different levels of association with the crops, like Lycosidae and Clubionidae were found commonly spread and highly abundant, whereas Philodromidae was only restricted to sunflower and locally rare. The Evippa sohani, Pardosa fletcheri, Evippa shivajii and Pardosa oakleyi were recorded most dominant and commonly spread spider species. Indian mustard constituted highest diversity of spider species followed by soybean and sunflower. Spider species diversity on the Indian mustard was significantly different from the sunflower. These predator species can play a major role to suppress devastating agricultural pests of oilseed crops, thereby enhance the crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ecological benefits associated with plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) inoculants offer a promising integrated nutrient management option to counteract plant nitrogen (N) deficiency. We performed field experiments to evaluate the effect of integrated N fertilizer regime involving chemical N fertilizer (CNF) and N-enriched compost (NEC), either alone or combined with selected PGPR ( Pseudomonas aeruginosa) on sunflower seed quality, N use efficiency (NUE) and soil fertility during 2014-2015. We found that integrated N biofertilizer application resulted in significantly higher seed oil concentration, fatty acid composition, and harvest index in both cropping years. Greater effects on N yield efficiency (NYE), N use efficiency (NUE), N physiological efficiency (NPE), and photosynthetic N use efficiency (PNUE) were recorded in nitrogen-enriched compost+PGPR inoculant (NECPI) treatment followed by chemical N fertilizer+PGPR inoculant (CNFPI) treatment. Statistically significant differences were observed in linoleic and linolenic acid, NYE, and NUE for treatment × year interaction, thus, suggesting that the integrated N biofertilizer approach facilitates the efficient N use by sunflower for improving yield and seed quality. Moreover, we also found considerable enhancement of soil N fertility after two consecutive cropping years of sunflower. The enhancement of seed quality, N use efficiencies, and soil N fertility through integrated N biofertilizer application emphasizes the importance of balanced crop N nutrition, ensuring sufficient N supply to sunflower with adequate N balance in soil for the next crop. Overall, combination of PGPR with NEC amendment may optimize N uptake efficiency and reduce N fertilizer losses, which is necessarily required for the sustainable sunflower production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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