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This study, investigated the concentrations of cadmium, lead and arsenic in vegetables grown with irrigation and sold in Sabon gari and Samaru markets in Zaria, Nigeria. Cadmium was absent in amaranthus, pepper and tomatoes purchased from Samaru market. Nevertheless, amaranthus and lettuce had higher concentrations of these toxic metals than pepper. Total arsenic concentrations in the investigated vegetables were higher than the maximum levels set by the World Health Organization. Total daily intake of the metals was higher than the maximum levels for consuming vegetables from these markets. Therefore, individuals who consume these foods may be at risk. These results indicate the possibility of toxic metal contamination in vegetables purchased from Zaria markets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbicide-resistant weeds pose a threat to food production in modern agriculture, causing US$32 billion in crop production losses worldwide. In Michigan, highly troublesome and widespread weeds include waterhemp, Palmer amaranth, common ragweed, and horseweed, with accessions that are resistant to glyphosate (Group 9) and ALS-inhibitors (Group 2), major herbicide sites of action utilized in soybean and corn cropping systems. Molecular assays for rapid resistance diagnostics to confirm the in-field status of herbicide resistance can assist with more effective, timely, and proactive management. In this research, we developed and tested PCR-based assays to identify target site resistance mechanisms to both herbicide groups through Sanger sequencing and EPSPS copy number variation. Nine different SNPs were identified in five ALS positions known to confer herbicide resistance among all species surveyed. Pro197Ser was the most frequent in horseweed and common ragweed accessions, whereas Trp574Leu was the predominant mutation in Palmer amaranth and waterhemp. Four horseweed accessions contained the Pro106Ser mutation in the EPSPS gene, which confers resistance to glyphosate. Additionally, waterhemp and Palmer amaranth had 2–7 and 20–160 copies of EPSPS, respectively. The assays were validated by comparing genotyping of several field-collected accessions of unknown resistance status with known resistant and susceptible accessions. The efficacy of genotyping assays was >98% and required only two days, confirming that molecular assays are a robust tool for rapid resistance diagnostics. These assays can help growers evaluate herbicide resistance status in weed populations within the same growing season, allowing them to adopt effective management practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus, Sesamum indicum, and Linum usitatissimum are the most popular oilseed grains worldwide. Protein-rich Amaranthus contains bioactive peptides, is nutritious, and exhibits anti-allergic properties. Sesamum indicum is a primary trigger of anaphylaxis. Linum usitatissimum also displays allergenic properties. A DNA marker assessable using quantitative real-time PCR was developed to detect S. indicum and L. usitatissimum as allergenic contaminants of anti-allergenic Amaranthus. The efficiency of each primer set ranged from 90–98%, and high linear correlation (R2 > 0.99) was obtained between crossover values and the log DNA concentration. We established a Ct value of 0.1% of the binary as a cutoff. The practical application of the designed marker was confirmed by analyzing 20 commercial products. The qPCR system developed for detecting flaxseed and sesame can be applied for regulatory monitoring of allergenic substances in commercial amaranth-containing foods, thus contributing to protecting public health and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sub-Saharan Africa falls among the developing countries with poor standards of living contributing to the high prevalence of malnutrition. Interventions have been conducted, but malnutrition continues to linger, with devastating impacts on vulnerable groups. In Africa, 90% of its children cannot access the minimum balanced diet. Also, 60% of the people in this region do not access daily meals for dietary needs. Traditional vegetables like Amaranthus are identified to have great potential to combat malnutrition; however, Amaranthus is underutilized due to limited awareness of its potential and poor post-harvest practices along the value chain. This study evaluates the dynamics of Amaranthus along its value chain in the urban and rural communities of KwaZulu-Natal. South Africa. Mixed-design research and a purposive convenient random sampling approach were explored. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data for the survey, and this was strengthened by a series of five n = (30) face-to-face interviews with six key informants from urban and rural formal and informal markets. The findings revealed that eleven species of Amaranthus have been identified in South Africa such as Amaranthus spinosus varieties, including A. dubius, and A. cruentus, which are the most sold and consumed, mostly being sold by street vendors. Thus, poor perception and attitudes along with limited access to Amaranthus in some upper-class markets contribute to underutilization. Promoting Amaranthus at all levels of markets might create better awareness of its utilization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranth is a promising staple food that produces seeds with excellent nutritional quality. Although cultivated species intended for grain production have interesting agronomic traits, relatively little is known about wild species, which can prosper in diverse environments and could be a rich genetic source for crop improvement. This work focuses on the proteomic comparison between the seeds of wild and cultivated amaranth species using polarity-based protein extraction and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) showed changes in granule-bound starch synthases and a wide range of 11S globulin isoforms. The electrophoretic profile of these proteins suggests that they may contain significant phosphorylation as post-translational modifications (PTMs), which were confirmed via immunodetection. These PTMs may impact the physicochemical functionality of storage proteins, with potential implications for seed agronomic traits and food system applications. Low-abundant DAPs with highly variable accumulation patterns are also discussed; these were involved in diverse molecular processes, such as genic regulation, lipid storage, and stress response. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For invasion biologists, the key question as to why only some alien species emerge as successful invaders as against a majority of other alien introduced species is still unclear. One of the best ways to resolve this question is to compare phylogenetically related alien invasive vs alien non-invasive species. Here we compared the allelopathic potential and phytochemical profiling of two congeneric species of Amaranthus (Amaranthus caudatus—invasive alien and non-invasive alien Amaranthus blitum. Petri dish bioassay followed by a pot experiment was used to evaluate the allelopathic effects of aqueous leaf and root extracts (1:10 w/v) of the said alien congeners on the germination and shoot length of Raphanus sativus. Petri dish bioassay results revealed that both species exhibited comparable levels of allelopathic activity; however, leaf extracts of both species showed significantly stronger inhibitory effects than root extracts, a trend corroborated by phenolic content assessments. However, no allelopathic effects on seed germination were observed in the pot culture bioassay. Comparative phytochemical profiling of these Amaranthus species, utilizing Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC–MS) and High-resolution liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HR-LC-MS) identified diverse array of compounds including methyl 8,9-octadecadienoate, n-hexadecanoic acid, phytol, loliolide, stigmasta-7,16-dien-3-ol, catechol borane, ellagic acid etc. which are known for their role in allelopathic interactions and invasiveness of the alien plants. Phytochemical analysis unveiled comparable levels of phytochemicals in both the invasive alien and non-invasive alien species of Amaranthus. In conclusion, our study revealed that while allelopathy may contribute to the invasiveness of the Amaranthus species, it does not seem to be a unique characteristic feature for the invasiveness of invasive alien species (Amaranthus caudatus) in comparison with its non-invasive alien congener. The present study recommends that more congeneric comparisons are needed to understand the role of high chemical diversity in alien plant invasions, and whether it is linked to the origin of the plant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus (Amaranthus spp.) is one of the crops considered superfoods, given that this grain is enriched for minerals, protein, and vitamins. Most cultivars of this species exhibit seed-shattering, resulting in a reduction in seed yield, but it is expected that this undesirable trait can be improved by further breeding. However, the genetic mechanism of seed-shattering in this organism remains largely unknown. In the present study, we compared two amaranthus isolates, the A. cruentus grain cultivar 'New Aztec' (NA) (which exhibits seed-shattering) and Amaranthus spp. Accession DB9350 (DB) (which lacks seed-shattering). In initial experiments, we conducted morphological observations of the spikelets and utricles in these two strains. NA, and not DB, showed a horizontal dehiscence line on the utricle, resulting in easy detachment of the upper part of the pericarp and seed release. Next, we investigated the presence or absence of seed-shattering in the F1 and F2 progeny of an NA×DB cross. Notably, all F1 plants (n=10) showed shattering traits. In contrast, F2 plants (n = 106) exhibited segregation, yielding 82 and 24 plants showing shattering and non-shattering traits (respectively), consistent with the segregation ratio expected for Mendelian inheritance (3:1, χ2 = 0.314, p = 0.575). To elucidate the genetics of this trait, we performed bulked segregant analysis and linkage analysis in the F2 progeny. This analysis identified a locus, designated Acsh, in the 15.2–16.0 Mbp range of Chromosome 2B; the genotype at this locus co-segregated with the seed-shattering phenotype. Together, these data demonstrated that the seed-shattering trait in A. cruentus is a dominant, single-gene, qualitative trait regulated by Acsh. These results are expected to facilitate the breeding of non-shattering cultivars in grain amaranthus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to compare the analysis of phytochemicals, nutrition, cytotoxicity, and antioxidant activity of A. viridis and A. spinosus leaves because they are commonly used as wild leafy vegetables worldwide and valuable for traditional medicinal purposes. To achieve these goals, the standard protocol was followed in each experiment. Comparative analysis revealed that the A. spinosus leaf had more phytochemicals, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, carbohydrates, glycosides, cardiac glycosides, amino acids, xanthoproteins, phenols, saponins, steroids, and coumarins, than A. viridis. Aqueous solvents were more effective in identifying the presence of phytochemicals than methanol and ethanol. A. viridis leaves contain higher amounts of carbohydrates (49 ± 2 mg gluc./g), protein (53 ± 3 mg BSA/g), calcium (2.67 ± 0.03 mg/kg), amino acids (7 essential and 5 non-essential), total phenol (21 ± 1 mg GAE/g), and high antioxidant activity (IC50 = 109.0 ± 0.2 μg/cm3) than A. spinosus. On the other hand, A. spinosus leaves contain higher ash (17.1 ± 0.2 %), total flavonoid (16 ± 1 mg QE/g), and total antioxidant capacity (50 ± 1 mg AA/g) than A. viridis. The findings of the heavy metals analysis revealed that the concentrations of zinc, manganese, iron, and chromium were below the recommended limits of FAO/WHO, whereas copper (in both species) and cadmium (in A. viridis) were over the acceptable levels. The leaves of both species showed significant cytotoxic activity (LC50

Amaranthus is considered a superfood with high nutraceutical value. It is a functional food composed of bioactive compounds crucial for sports nutrition including secondary metabolites, tocopherols, sterols, squalene, trace elements, polyphenols, peptides, polyunsaturated fatty acids, antioxidants, proteins, fat, carbohydrates, fibers, minerals, and vitamins making it a versatile supplement source. Notably, it is rich in amino acids, including branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), natural enhancer of nitric oxide levels for improved circulation, endurance, strength, and stamina in athletes. It has been found to improve aerobic capacity, muscle recovery, and improved body composition. It is rich in fiber making it a beneficial prebiotic for athletes to maintain gastrointestinal health after intense training. Being rich in antioxidants and gluten-free, it’s ideal for special diets to reduce fat and increase muscle mass. A comprehensive overview of the ergogenic potential of Amaranthus and further research promises insights into developing Amaranthus-based dietary supplements for enhancing sports performance..

Abattoir waste constitutes a significant environmental concern in Nigeria's peri-urban and urban areas as they often end up in rivers, groundwater and canals, contaminating the environment and increasing human health risks. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to assess the dry biomass, proximate composition and heavy metal accumulation in the Tropical vegetable, Amaranthus hybridus, irrigated with fresh untreated abattoir effluent in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria using standard methods. The results showed that the abattoir effluent increased the vegetable’s dry biomass from 7.79 to 23.66 g. Similarly, there was a general increase in the carbohydrate, fibre and moisture contents of the vegetable with increasing concentration of the abattoir effluent, reaching up to 20.42%, 30.42% and 16.41% respectively. However, the protein, fat and ash contents generally decreased in the abattoir effluent irrigated treatments, from 25.38% to 18.23%, 11.38% to 6.70% and 9.63% to 7.34% respectively. This is probably due to the plant variety or metabolic activities of pathogens carried over from the effluent. The four heavy metals analysed (Cadmium, Cd; Lead, Pb; Zinc, Zn; Iron, Fe) were all accumulated in the tissues of the vegetable in amounts well-above the WHO limits, with Fe showing the highest bioaccumulation from 0.22 to 17.20 mg/L. In conclusion, although fresh untreated abattoir effluent can serve as organic fertilizer, it poses huge human health risks due to heavy metal bioaccumulation. Therefore, pre-treating before use to eliminate heavy metals and pathogens is highly recommended, as it would be a relatively cheaper means of growing Tropical vegetables.

Environmental threats most times occur due to indiscriminate disposal of swine wastes into the environment however effective disposal of these waste materials into the soil as an amendment for vegetable production remains a vital solution for the challenge. This research investigated different application rates of swine wastes on selected soil physical properties and cultivation of Amaranthus in Awka. The research was conducted at the Soil Science and Land Resources Management Research and Teaching Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka- Nigeria. The field experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design. Soil samples were taken from each plot with core samplers undisturbed and randomly and was taken to the laboratory for soil physical analysis prior to the application of treatment. The treatment used was swine wastes at rates of 0 kg/plot (zero application), 4.5 kg/plot, 9.0 kg/plot and 13.5 kg/plot. The test crop used was Amaranthus hybridus. The results obtained from the laboratory were subjected to statistical analysis and the treatment means were separated using Turkey test at 5% probability level. The results showed that the soils of the studied area was sandy loam. There was a significant difference in bulk density when the soil treated with 9.0 kg/plot was compared with 0 kg/plot (zero application) and it ranged from 1.75-1.97 g/cm3 , the total porosity of soil in the studied area was significant when the soils treated with 9.0 kg/plot was compared with 0 kg/plot (zero application) and this ranged from 23.5 - 29.59 %, the moisture content of soil in the studied area was significantly different when soils treated with 9.0 kg/plot was compared with 0 kg/plot (zero application) and it ranged from 1.95- 3.22 %. The aggregate stability of soils in the area studied ranged from 0.37- 0.44 %, hydraulic conductivity of soils in the studied area was in the range of 0.01- 0.05 cm/hr. From this research, it was observed that 13.5 kg/plot of swine wastes applied improved the yield of Amaranthus when compared to other treatment rates

Seasonal incidence of leaf webber, Spoladea recurvalis F. and Spodoptera litura F. on amaranthus (Amaranthussp. L) was studied during 2017-18 in Tamil Nadu, India. The incidence of leaf webber was recorded throughout the season, the infestation was observed from the first week of observation (1st SMW) but a considerable larval population was recorded from the 05th SMW to the 10* SMW with the range of 1.22 to 2.31 larvae/ plant. The infestation of leaf caterpillars was observed from the 1st SMW and the incidence increased from the 5* SMW (0.15 larvae/plant) and reached a peak during the 10* SMW (1.14 larvae/plant). The fluctuation in the incidence of leaf caterpillars occurred throughout the survey. The correlation between the leaf webber incidence and weather parameters revealed that leaf webber incidence had a strong negative correlation with rainfall (-0.445") and minimum temperature (-0.286*) and had a non-significant negative correlation with minimum temperature (-0.238NS) whereas leaf webber non-significantly positively correlated with relative humidity (-0.175NS). The leaf caterpillar had a significant negative correlation with maximum temperature (-0.346"), minimum temperature (-0.487"), and rainfall (-0.303*) whereas significantly positively correlated with relative humidity (0.348**). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An increase in the level of nitric oxide (NO) plays a key role in regulating the human cardiovascular system (lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow), glycemic control in type 2 diabetes, and may help enhance exercise capacity in healthy individuals (including athletes). This molecule is formed by endogenous enzymatic synthesis and the intake of inorganic nitrate (NO3−) from dietary sources. Although one of the most well-known natural sources of NO3− in the daily diet is beetroot (Beta vulgaris), this review also explores other plant sources of NO3− with comparable concentrations that could serve as ergogenic aids, supporting exercise performance or recovery in healthy individuals. The results of the analysis demonstrate that red spinach (Amaranthus spp.) and green spinach (Spinacia oleracea) are alternative natural sources rich in dietary NO3−. The outcomes of the collected studies showed that consumption of selected alternative sources of inorganic NO3− could support physical condition. Red spinach and green spinach have been shown to improve exercise performance or accelerate recovery after physical exertion in healthy subjects (including athletes). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Amaranthus is the most popular and commercially cultivated leafy vegetable in the Southern part of India, especially Tamil Nadu and Kerala which is susceptible to a number of diseases. Among the different diseases affecting amaranth, foliar blight caused by Rhizoctonia solani Kuhn, is considered as the most serious disease in Kerala. Methods: A field experiment was taken up at Onattukara Regional Agricultural Research Station (O.R.A.R.S), Kayamkulam, Alappuzha, Kerala during December 2019 to February 2020 to assess the influence of dust and liquid formulations of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) mix I on growth, yield and disease incidence (Rhizoctonia leaf blight) in amaranthus. Result: The results of the study reveal that maximum number of leaves, number of branches per plant and yield were produced by the plants that were subjected to seedling root dip with 5% talc formulation followed by drenching with 5% talc solution at 30 DAT and 45 DAT. Regardless of talc or liquid formulation of PGPR mix I (2%) seedling dip followed by drenching at 15, 30 and 45 DAT provided the least disease incidence and disease severity in amaranthus at Onattukara condition. Hence use of PGPR mix I is a prerequisite for effective growth, yield and management of leaf blight of amaranthus at Onattukara. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranth is used as a medicinal plant with antioxidant, hemostatic, and wound-healing properties. The aim of the research is the quantitative determination of polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids in ethanolic extracts of amaranth seeds of the "Lera" and "Ultra" varieties and leaves Amaranthus retroflexus. Methods. Extracts were obtained by infusion for 7 days in 70% and 80% ethanol. Quantitative determination of secondary metabolites was conducted by spectrophotometric methods. Results. The largest amount of polyphenolic compounds was found in the ethanolic extract of Amaranthus retroflexus leaves - 0.228 mg/ml. More polyphenols were found in the ethanolic extract of amaranth seeds of the "Lera" variety than in the extract of amaranth seeds of the "Ultra" variety. In the extract of leaves of Amaranthus retroflexus, 2.1 x 10-4 mg/ml of flavonoids were found, in extracts of amaranth seeds were found from 0.7 x 10-5 mg/ml to 1.55 x 10-5 mg/ml of flavonoids. Conclusion. The ethanolic extract of the leaves of Amaranthus retroflexus contains a greater number of investigated secondary metabolites than the extracts of amaranth seeds of the "Lera" and "Ultra" varieties. The ethanol extract of amaranth seeds of the "Lera" variety contains more polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids than the ethanol extract of amaranth seeds of the "Ultra" variety.

Sub-Saharan Africa falls among the developing countries with poor standards of living contributing to the high prevalence of malnutrition. Interventions have been conducted, but malnutrition continues to linger, with devastating impacts on vulnerable groups. In Africa, 90% of its children cannot access the minimum balanced diet. Also, 60% of the people in this region do not access daily meals for dietary needs. Traditional vegetables like Amaranthus are identified to have great potential to combat malnutrition; however, Amaranthus is underutilized due to limited awareness of its potential and poor post-harvest practices along the value chain. This study evaluates the dynamics of Amaranthus along its value chain in the urban and rural communities of KwaZulu-Natal. South Africa. Mixed-design research and a purposive convenient random sampling approach were explored. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data for the survey, and this was strengthened by a series of five n = (30) face-to-face interviews with six key informants from urban and rural formal and informal markets. The findings revealed that eleven species of Amaranthus have been identified in South Africa such as Amaranthus spinosus varieties, including A. dubius, and A. cruentus, which are the most sold and consumed, mostly being sold by street vendors. Thus, poor perception and attitudes along with limited access to Amaranthus in some upper-class markets contribute to underutilization. Promoting Amaranthus at all levels of markets might create better awareness of its utilization.

Bioinformatics is a novel method to investigate evolutionary relationships and genetic diversity among species. This study assessed the evolutionary patterns and genetic diversity of Amaranthus species using ribulose-1.5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (rbcL gene). A total of 20 full FASTA-format rbcL gene sequences for accessions of Amaranthus tricolor, A. dubius, A. cruentus, A. viridis, and A. spinosus from different regions were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Multiple sequence alignment was used to determine genetic variations. A phylogenetic tree was constructed using neighbor-joining clustering method while a distant matrix was created using Tamura-Nei genetic distance model. From position 1 to 22 in nucleotide alignment, only accession KX082771.1 from USA, aligns. The exclusive alignment in this region suggests an exceptionally conserved sequence among species, implying a common genetic origin. However, from position 23 to 50, nine different accessions namely MN192576.1, MN204800.1, EF590496.1, GQ248546.1, OQ737000.1, MG246937.1, MN104855.1, MN104858.1, and MN04859.1 align. The phylogenetic tree representing the evolutionary relationships offers insights into the genetic diversity and relatedness of these species within specific regions. The genetic distance matrix shows that sequences within the same region share relatively high similarity scores, indicating a genetic connection likely influenced by their geographic proximity. However, sequences from different regions, exhibit moderate genetic differences, emphasizing the genetic diversity across geographically distinct regions. The observed genetic diversity and evolutionary relationships among accessions of Amaranthus revealed by rbcL genes highlight the unique genetic features of these species in different regions, and therefore should be explored for their genetic improvement and conservation purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus emarginatus belongs to the Amaranthus blitum complex, a critical taxonomic group. Within the variability of A. emarginatus, two taxa are often accepted, 'emarginatus' and 'pseudogracilis', which differ by habitus, synflorescence structure, and leaf size. However, their taxonomic value is debated, and A. emarginatus itself is sometimes included in A. blitum as subspecies. In this paper, molecular, morphological, phytogeographical, and ecological data are discussed to assess the most correct rank of these taxa. We conclude that A. emarginatus deserves specific distinctness from A. blitum, and A. pseudogracilis can be regarded as a subspecies of the former. This choice reflects both the molecular data and geographical distributions of A. blitum and A. emarginatus, i.e., Mediterranean area, Europe, and North Africa for the former vs. neotropics for the latter). Within A. emarginatus, in addition, to the different morphology, A. emarginatus var. pseudogracilis differs also on account of its ecological preferences, because it occurs in warm and humid areas, whereas A. emarginatus var. emarginatus is better adapted to cold and dry habitats. However, since molecular analyses cannot clearly separate the two taxa, we consider the subspecific rank as the most appropriate. We also found a further morphological difference in seed coat ornamentation, hitherto not pointed out: the shape of the peripheral cells is tetragonal in A. emarginatus subsp. pseudogracilis, but polygonal (cells with = 5 sides) in subsp. emarginatus. Distributional maps and status assessment at regional level for the two taxa are provided. According to this revision, A. emarginatus subsp. emarginatus is to be regared as naturalized in central and southern Italy (Latium and Campania, respectively). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus emarginatus belongs to the Amaranthus blitum complex, a critical taxonomic group. Within the variability of A. emarginatus, two taxa are often accepted, ‘emarginatus’ and ‘pseudogracilis’, which differ by habitus, synflorescence structure, and leaf size. However, their taxonomic value is debated, and A. emarginatus itself is sometimes included in A. blitum as subspecies. In this paper, molecular, morphological, phytogeographical, and ecological data are discussed to assess the most correct rank of these taxa. We conclude that A. emarginatus deserves specific distinctness from A. blitum, and A. pseudogracilis can be regarded as a subspecies of the former. This choice reflects both the molecular data and geographical distributions of A. blitum and A. emarginatus, i.e., Mediterranean area, Europe, and North Africa for the former vs. neotropics for the latter). Within A. emarginatus, in addition, to the different morphology, A. emarginatus var. pseudogracilis differs also on account of its ecological preferences, because it occurs in warm and humid areas, whereas A. emarginatus var. emarginatus is better adapted to cold and dry habitats. However, since molecular analyses cannot clearly separate the two taxa, we consider the subspecific rank as the most appropriate. We also found a further morphological difference in seed coat ornamentation, hitherto not pointed out: the shape of the peripheral cells is tetragonal in A. emarginatus subsp. pseudogracilis, but polygonal (cells with ≥ 5 sides) in subsp. emarginatus. Distributional maps and status assessment at regional level for the two taxa are provided. According to this revision, A. emarginatus subsp. emarginatus is to be regared as naturalized in central and southern Italy (Latium and Campania, respectively).

Abstract Background The Amaranthus genus contains at least 20 weedy and invasive species, including Amaranthus palmeri (palmer’s amaranth) and Amaranthus tuberculatus (tall waterhemp), two species of regulatory concern in North America, impacting production and yield in crops like corn, soybean and cotton. Amaranthus tuberculatus is regulated in Canada with limited establishment, while current climate models predict a range expansion of A. palmeri impacting crop growing areas in Ontario, Quebec and Manitoba. Since many Amaranthus species are similar in their morphology, especially at the seed stage, this demands the development of additional methods that can efficiently aid in the detection and identification of these species. Protein biotyping using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) has been traditionally used to identify microorganism species, races and pathotypes. Major protein fractions extracted from an organism, ionized and run through a biotyper using mass spectrometry, result in protein spectra that represent a fingerprint at the species or lower taxonomic rank, providing an efficient molecular diagnostics method. Here we use a modified protein biotyping protocol to extract major protein fractions from seeds of the family Brassicaceae to test our protocol, and then implemented the standardized approach in seeds from Amaranthus species. We then created a database of Amaranthus protein spectra that can be used to test blind samples for a quick identification of species of concern. Results We generated a protein spectra database with 16 Amaranthus species and several accessions per species, spanning target species of regulatory concern and species which are phylogenetically related or easily confused at the seed stage due to phenotypic plasticity. Testing of two Amaranthus blind sample seed sets against this database showed accuracies of 100% and 87%, respectively. Conclusions Our method is highly efficient in identifying Amaranthus species of regulatory concern. The mismatches between our protein biotyping approach and phenotypic identification of seeds are due to absence of the species in the database or close phylogenetic relationship between the species. While A. palmeri cannot be distinguished from A. watsonii, there is evidence these two species have the same native range and are closely related.

Amaranth is a promising staple food that produces seeds with excellent nutritional quality. Although cultivated species intended for grain production have interesting agronomic traits, relatively little is known about wild species, which can prosper in diverse environments and could be a rich genetic source for crop improvement. This work focuses on the proteomic comparison between the seeds of wild and cultivated amaranth species using polarity-based protein extraction and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Differentially accumulated proteins (DAPs) showed changes in granule-bound starch synthases and a wide range of 11S globulin isoforms. The electrophoretic profile of these proteins suggests that they may contain significant phosphorylation as post-translational modifications (PTMs), which were confirmed via immunodetection. These PTMs may impact the physicochemical functionality of storage proteins, with potential implications for seed agronomic traits and food system applications. Low-abundant DAPs with highly variable accumulation patterns are also discussed; these were involved in diverse molecular processes, such as genic regulation, lipid storage, and stress response.

Purpose Aquaponics combine aquaculture with crop production in a mutual system. In this experiment, the growth of Amaranthus in aquaponics with tilapia fish was investigated. Method 500-liter water tanks containing tilapia fish at four initial stocking densities of 100, 150, 200, and 250 fish/m3 were used in triplicates, with a view to evaluate vegetable yields as influenced by fish biomass to water ratio. 1 g of Amaranthus seeds were sown in a 1 m2 planting trough, which contained gravel with a top layer of sandy soil. The pots were flooded with water from fish holdings by an aquarium pump. Results The germination rate of Amaranthus was not significantly different across the experimental setup (Pâ>â0.05). The growth rate of Amaranthus was significantly higher with increasing fish density (Pâ

Background: The Amaranthus genus contains at least 20 weedy and invasive species, including Amaranthus palmeri (palmer's amaranth) and Amaranthus tuberculatus (tall waterhemp), two species of regulatory concern in North America, impacting production and yield in crops like corn, soybean and cotton. Amaranthus tuberculatus is regulated in Canada with limited establishment, while current climate models predict a range expansion of A. palmeri impacting crop growing areas in Ontario, Quebec and Manitoba. Since many Amaranthus species are similar in their morphology, especially at the seed stage, this demands the development of additional methods that can efficiently aid in the detection and identification of these species. Protein biotyping using Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) has been traditionally used to identify microorganism species, races and pathotypes. Major protein fractions extracted from an organism, ionized and run through a biotyper using mass spectrometry, result in protein spectra that represent a fingerprint at the species or lower taxonomic rank, providing an efficient molecular diagnostics method. Here we use a modified protein biotyping protocol to extract major protein fractions from seeds of the family Brassicaceae to test our protocol, and then implemented the standardized approach in seeds from Amaranthus species. We then created a database of Amaranthus protein spectra that can be used to test blind samples for a quick identification of species of concern. Results: We generated a protein spectra database with 16 Amaranthus species and several accessions per species, spanning target species of regulatory concern and species which are phylogenetically related or easily confused at the seed stage due to phenotypic plasticity. Testing of two Amaranthus blind sample seed sets against this database showed accuracies of 100% and 87%, respectively. Conclusions: Our method is highly efficient in identifying Amaranthus species of regulatory concern. The mismatches between our protein biotyping approach and phenotypic identification of seeds are due to absence of the species in the database or close phylogenetic relationship between the species. While A. palmeri cannot be distinguished from A. watsonii, there is evidence these two species have the same native range and are closely related. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Amaranthus cabbage, Bidens dumpling, and fish pea (cowpeas) dishes were developed. • Sensory evaluation suggest that all three dishes were acceptable and liked by children. • The three dishes were accepted for attributes of colour, taste, and smell. • Amaranthus cabbage was the most highly acceptable. • The findings emphasizes the importance of culinary services. • Innovation and diffusion of indigenous food recipes is still in a development phase. The study aimed to develop innovative vegetable dishes using three indigenous crops to enhance consumption by children. A quantitative approach using traditional preservation, experimental and laboratory-based methodologies for development of recipes and the nutrient analysis was used. This involved developing the dishes Amaranthus cabbage, Bidens dumpling, and Fishpea. Nutrient analysis was done at the Aspirata food and nutrient analysis laboratory in Cape town. Sensory evaluation results suggest that all three dishes were acceptable and liked by children for all three attributes of colour, taste, and smell, with Amaranthus cabbage as the most highly acceptable. The results on the palatability of the three dishes using open-ended questions affirm that more children had positive comments on the dishes – which concurs with the quantitative data. The findings emphasize the importance of culinary services where innovation, imitation, and diffusion are still in a development phase especially for indigenous foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco 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.)

About one-third of the earth's land area consists of acidic soils. The rhizotoxic Al3+ is one of the primary constraints associated with low soil pH. Various Amaranthus species are important components of the weed flora in tea plantations on acid soils in north Iran. In this study, four Amaranthus species (A. blitoides, A. retroflexus, A. cruentus, and A. tricolor) were grown under hydroponic conditions with total Al concentrations of 0, 20, 50, 200, and 400 µM corresponding to free Al3+ activity of 0, 3.75, 11.97, 60.34, and 125 µM, respectively. Low Al concentrations (20, 50, or 200 µM) stimulated plant growth; A. tricolor demonstrated the highest improvement in shoot growth (93%), whereas A. retroflexus exhibited the greatest improvement in root biomass (367%), total root length (173%), and taproot length (32%). Although the response of shoot biomass to 400 µM Al varied among species, all species were able to accumulate Al in the leaves above the critical level for Al hyperaccumulation (1 mg g-1 DW). Our findings revealed Al accumulation in Amaranthus species for the first time at the genus and family levels, suggesting that these species are suitable for the restoration and revegetation of acid-eroded soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusionPhenological isolation can potentially reduce seed output and may be exploited as a novel tool for ecological management of dioecious weeds. Dioecious plants may benefit from a maximized outcrossing and optimal sex-specific resource allocation; however, this breeding system may also be exploited for weed management. Seed production in dioecious species is contingent upon the co-occurrence and co-flowering of the two genders and can be further disturbed by flowering asynchrony. We explored dimorphism in secondary sex characters in Amaranthus palmeri, and tested if reproductive synchrony can be affected by water stress. We have used seeds of A. palmeri from California, Kansas and Texas, and studied secondary sex characters under natural conditions and in response to water stress. Seeds of A. palmeri from California (CA) and Kansas (KS) were cordially provided by Dr. Anil Shrestha (California State University, Fresno, California) and Dr. Dallas E. Peterson (Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas), respectively. Seeds of a third population were collected from mature plants (about 30 plants) from a set-aside field in College Station, Texas. A. palmeri showed no sexual dimorphism with regard to the timing of emergence, plant height, and relative growth rate. While the initiation of flowering occurred earlier in males than females, females preceded males in timing of anthesis. Water stress delayed anthesis in males to a greater extent than females increasing the anthesis mismatch between the two sexes by seven days. Our data provide the first evidence of environment-controlled flowering asynchrony in A. palmeri. From a practical point of view, phenological isolation can potentially reduce seed output and may be exploited as a novel tool for ecological management of dioecious weeds.

Aim. To study the Amaranthus seeds of the “Lera” and “Ultra” varieties ethanolic extracts, Amaranthus retroflexus leaf ethanolic extract for the content of general phenols and flavonoids for the purpose of further use in medicine. Methods. Extracts were obtained by infusing for 7 days in 70% and 80% ethanol. Quantitative determination of polyphenols was conducted by the spectrophotometric method with the FolinChecolteau reagent, the result is expressed in the form of gallic acid equivalent (HA) [4]. Quantitative determination of flavonoids was conducted by the spectrophotometric method, using aluminum chloride, the result was expressed in the form of rutin equivalent [5]. Results and Discussion. As a result of the conducted researc h, ethanolic extracts of Amaranthus retroflexus leaf were obtained in 70% ethanol (EАL70), Amaranthus seeds of the “Lera” variety (ЕSL70, ESL80), Amaranthus seeds of the “Ultra” variety (ЕSU70, ESU80). It was determined that EАL70 contains a significant amount of total polyphenolic compounds. More polyphenolic compounds were detected in ЕSL than in ESU. The concentration of the extractant did not significantly affect the amount of total phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The amount of total polyphenolic compounds in ESL80 is almost twice as large as in ESL70 (Table 1). Determination of correspondence of optical density and concentration of polyphenolic compounds was conducted according to the calibration curve of gallic acid. The content of flavonoids in terms of rutin was calculated according to the formula. A small amount of flavonoids was detected in the extracts. The largest amount of flavonoids were found in Amaranthus retroflexus leaf ethanolic extract (Table 2). Conclusions. Thus, Amaranthus retroflexus leaf ethanolic extract contained the largest number of studied secondary metabolites, Amaranthus seeds of the “Lera“ variety ethanolic extract contains more polyphenolic compounds than Amaranthus seeds of the “Ultra” variety ethanolic extract. It was found that when using 80% alcohol as an extractant, there are more polyphenols in the Amaranthus seeds of the “Lera” variety ethanolic extract, and the concentration of the extractant did not affect the content of flavonoids. It was found that the Amaranthus seeds of the “Ultra” variety ethanolic extract (70% ethanol) contained a larger amount of flavonoids. In the future, it is worth investigating the Amaranthus retroflexus leaf ethanolic extract for its wound healing effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of medicinal plants in the management of diabetes mellitus (DM) is extensively reported. However, there is still very limited information on the role of these plants as markers of oxidative stress in DM. This current review evaluated the effect of Amaranthus spinosus, Amaranthus hybridus, and Abelmoschus esculentus on markers of oxidative stress in rodent models of DM. Current findings indicate that these plants have the potential to reduce prominent markers of oxidative stress, such as serum malondialdehyde and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances, while increasing enzymes that act as antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione, and glutathione peroxidase. This may reduce reactive oxygen species and further ameliorate oxidative stress in DM. Although the potential benefits of these plants are acknowledged in rodent models, there is still a lack of evidence showing their efficacy against oxidative stress in diabetic patients. Therefore, we recommend future clinical studies in DM populations, particularly in Africa, to evaluate the potential effects of these plants. Such studies would contribute to enhancing our understanding of the significance of incorporating these plants into dietary practices for the prevention and management of DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Sigmae is the property of Universidade Federal de Alfenas (UNIFAL-MG) 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.)

Currently, there is worldwide interest in taking advantage of the agronomic and nutritional characteristics of superfoods such as amaranth, in Mexico it is consumed popped so it is important to elucidate the factors that influence this capacity for its better use. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the popping capacity of 12 amaranth genotypes, genetic variability, heritability and the association of industrial quality variables with the popping volume. The experiment was conducted in the localities of Santa Lucía de Prías and Boyeros, State of Mexico and Cuapiaxtla, Tlaxcala in the years 2019 and 2020. The most outstanding genotype in popping volume was Tlahuicole, followed by AGIM, both had the largest increase (6 and 5.93), respectively. It was observed that the variation due to environmental effects was the main source in 4 of the 5 variables studied, such variation is not capitalizable in selection schemes; on the other hand, weight of one thousand grains was the variable that showed the highest variation due to genetic effects (65.96%), which is capitalizable in a selection scheme. The variables seed diameter, popping volume and volume increase presented a variation due to genetic effects between 4.46 and 6.5%, if there is intention to start a selection scheme, germplasm with greater variability in these traits must be included. The significant association between seed diameter and weight of non-popped seed indicates that these traits can be used as selection criteria for popping volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Arid Zone Research / Ganhanqu Yanjiu is the property of Arid Zone Research Editorial Office 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.)

Introduction: The different species of Amaranthus species are among the most important damaging weeds in the world. Due to the importance of studying the effect of management factors on seed dynamics of different weed species, this experiment aimed to investigate the effect of burial depth and high temperatures on the seed dynamic of different species of Amaranthus in Golestan province including white pigweed (A. albus), prostrate pigweed (A. belitoides), hybrid Amaranthus (A. chlorostachys), redroot pigweed (A. retrofelexus) and green Amaranthus (A. viridis) were performed. Materials and Methods: This research was conducted on five amaranthus species of white pigweed, prostrate pigweed, hybrid Amaranthus, redroot pigweed and green Amaranthus at the seed laboratory and greenhouse of Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources. In the first experiment, seed emergence of different species of Amaranthus was studied in eight burial depths including 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 10 cm. In the second experiment, seeds were exposed to 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, and 110 °C temperatures for 5, 10, and 15 minutes Results: All seeds of A. blitoides and A. viridis germinated in the topsoil (zero depth); But, in A. albus, A. retroflexus, A. chlorostachys, 93%, 83%, and 3% of the seeds were emergence at the soil surface, respectively. By increasing the burial depth to one centimeter, the percentage of seeds emergence in different species of Amaranthus decreased significantly and was negligible at ≥ 2 cm depth. Germination test performed on retrieved seeds showed that zero to 16% of the seeds were able to germinate in petri dishes, and most of the non-germinated seeds were viable. In all species except for A. chlorostachys high temperatures reduced the germination percentage. Conclusion: Due to the reduction of seed germination percentage of different species of Amaranthus from a depth of more than one centimeter of soil, it seems that the use of conservation and conventional tillage methods has a good potential to reduce infestation of fields by these weeds. Also, although high temperatures reduce weed infestation in fields, they do not have a significant effect on depleting the seed bank of these species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dioecy, the separation of reproductive organs on different individuals, has evolved repeatedly in different plant families. Several evolutionary paths to dioecy have been suggested, but the mechanisms behind sex determination is not well understood. The diploid dioecious Amaranthus palmeri represents a well-suited model system to study sex determination in plants. Despite the agricultural importance of the species, the genetic control and evolutionary state of dioecy in A. palmeri is currently unknown. Early cytogenetic experiments did not identify heteromorphic chromosomes. Here, we used whole-genome sequencing of male and female pools from 2 independent populations to elucidate the genetic control of dioecy in A. palmeri. Read alignment to a close monoecious relative and allele frequency comparisons between male and female pools did not reveal significant sex-linked genes. Consequently, we employed an alignment-free k-mer comparison which enabled us to identify a large number of male-specific k-mers. We assembled male-specific contigs comprising a total of almost 2 Mb sequence, proposing a XY sex-determination system in the species. We were able to identify the potential Y chromosome in the A. palmeri draft genome sequence as 90% of our male-specific sequence aligned to a single scaffold. Based on our findings, we suggest an intermediate evolutionary state of dioecy with a young Y chromosome in A. palmeri. Our findings give insight into the evolution of sex chromosomes in plants and may help to develop sustainable strategies for weed management.

Amaranthus spp occupies a strategic position in combating food and nutrition insecurity, as it is widely consumed in sub-Saharan Africa. It is drought tolerant and can grow on marginal soils, however, with adequate management; it can produce about 40 tons/ha of fresh leaves. The leaves are rich in nutrients that can combat malnutrition and support healthy eating. Despite the huge benefits offered by amaranth, it has been underutilized in South Africa. Its consumption is concentrated in rural areas, where it is harvested from the wild during the rains. There are no large-scale productions of amaranth, hence the lack of data on its production. Inadequate knowledge of its uses, agronomic requirement, low research efforts and the absence of an organized market are part of the reasons why amaranth is still underutilized in South Africa. This paper argues that with increased awareness of the benefits of amaranth and research geared towards agronomic improvement, social and economic acceptance, amaranth will be utilized nationwide with time. It recommends that conscious effort should be aimed at introducing amaranth into mainstream agricultural value chains through increased research attention and awareness of its nutritional benefits. This will ensure sustainable production to match the anticipated increase in consumption.

This study aimed to determine the variability properties of four major types of Amaranthus species in protein and amino acids content in leaves and flowers. Obtained results by ion exchange chromatography in our study have shown high values for the content of essential amino acids lysine and methionine. In the leaf, the lysine content ranged from 3.9 (A. caudatus) to 7.0 (A. cruentus; A. moleros), and in the flowers from 4.2 (A. caudatus) to 6.7 (A. molleros). The methionine content ranged from 3.1 (A. caudatus) to 7.4 (A. mantegazzianus) in the leaf and in the flower from 2.9 (A. caudatus) to 6.7 (A. mantegazzianus). Besides lysine and methionine, significant values of other essential amino acids were recorded, respectively. Significant concentrations of total proteins were recorded in all examined genotypes. The heritability of the studied characters as protein and mineral content of seeds and leaves, and oil contents of seed were significantly high. The maximum values of the protein content of seeds were 16.55% (A. cruentus), in leaves 20.10% (A. caudatus), and the minerals in seeds 2.73% (A. moleros), and leaves 18.76% (A. mantegazzianus). The oil content of seeds was 6.16% (A. moleros). The oil content of the seed’s proportion of genetic variance to total phenotypic variance was 72%, and it has a significant impact on ecological factors. Tested divergent Amaranthus genotypes may serve as parents for further crossing. Amaranth seeds is gluten-free and is important in the diet of celiac patients and contains amino acids, especially lysine, which acts against the herpes virus. Amaranth from amaranth leaves biologically active substance that prevents heart muscle damage during ischemic processes. Amaranth seed oil has hypolipemic, anti-atherosclerotic, hypotensive and antioxidant activity.

The adverse impact of climate change on crop yield has accelerated the need for identification of crop cultivars resistant to abiotic stress. In the present study, a cultivar assortment index (CAI) was generated for the evaluation of forty Amaranthus hypochondriacus cultivars response to elevated ozone (EO) concentrations (AO + 30 ppb) in Free Air Ozone Enrichment (FAOE) facility using the parameters viz. foliar injury, gaseous exchange attributes, namely, net photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance, transpiration rate, intercellular carbon dioxide, and water use efficiency along with above ground biomass and grain yield attributes. The dataset was used to identify key indicator parameters responsive to EO through principal component analysis (PCA) and further transformed to obtain linear score and weighted score. The CAI varied from 70.49 to 193.43. Cultivars having CAI value less than 151 were ozone tolerant (OT) whereas cultivars with CAI values between 150 and 170 were moderately tolerant (MOT). The cultivars exhibiting CAI values above 170 were ozone sensitive (OS). The cultivars exhibited differential sensitivity to EO with IC-5994 (CAI = 187.26) being the most affected cultivar whereas IC-5576 (CAI = 83.38) and IC-5916 (CAI = 70.49) being the least affected ones. The CAI, based on linear score and weighted score, offers easy identification of ozone sensitive (OS) and ozone tolerant (OT) cultivars. This index could help researchers to define a clear and strong basis for identification of OT cultivars which will reduce the time required for preliminary screening and further evaluation of crop cultivars for the development of climate smart crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amaranthus is a genus taxonomically complex because of its high morphological variability, which led to nomenclatural disorders, misapplication of names, and misidentifications. Floristic and taxonomic studies on this genus are still incomplete, and many questions remain open. Seed micromorphology has been shown to play an important role in the taxonomy of plants. Regarding Amaranthaceae and Amaranthus, investigations are rare, and they refer to one or a few species. With the primary aim to test if seed features are helpful in the taxonomy of Amaranthus, we here present a detailed SEM study on seed micromorphology in 25 Amaranthus taxa using morphometric methods. Seeds were collected from field surveys and herbarium specimens; 14 seed coat features (7 qualitative and 7 quantitative) were measured on 111 samples (up to 5 seeds per sample). The results obtained revealed that seeds micromorphology provides interesting new taxonomic data concerning some taxa (species and below ranks). In fact, we were able to distinguish a few seed types, including one or more taxa, i.e., blitum-type, crassipes-type, deflexus-type, tuberculatus-type, and viridis-type. On the other hand, seed features are not useful for other species, for example, those included in the deflexus-type (A. deflexus, A. vulgatissimus, A. cacciatoi, A. spinosus, A. dubius, and A. stadleyanus). A diagnostic key of the studied taxa is proposed. Subgenera cannot be distinguished using seed features, thus confirming the published molecular data. All these facts reveal, once again, the taxonomic complexity of the genus Amaranthus since, e.g., just a few seed types can be defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]