Emerging technology applications for improving seed germination

Moderate electric field-stimulated brown rice germination: Insights into membrane permeability modulation and antioxidant system activation

This study investigated the effects of moderate electric fields (MEF) on the germination of brown rice (BR) and the underlying mechanisms, focusing on membrane permeability and the antioxidant system. The results revealed a significant increase in germination rate, from 62 % to 84 %, at the 12th hour after exposure to a 100-V MEF. This enhancement was attributed to an increase in cell membrane permeability, a crucial factor in MEF-induced germination. The MEF may induce the formation of reversible electrical pores, thereby increasing cell membrane permeability. Concurrently, MEF treatment triggered the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress, which has sustained membrane permeability during germination. Furthermore, MEF was found to enhance the antioxidant system, aiding in the elimination of excessive ROS and ensuring normal metabolic activities. These findings underscore the role of MEF in modulating BR germination and highlight its potential for practical applications in agricultural seed technology.

Analysis of germination and vigor of cashew seeds for germplasm conservation by NMR and uPLC-qTOF-MS/MS based metabolomics

The effective preservation of cashew germplasm faces significant challenges due to the loss of germination vigor over medium and long periods. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the biometric and chemical parameters that determine the germination and vigor of cashew seed. Seeds from seven cashew genotypes stored under refrigeration (18 ± 2 °C) were evaluated for biometric characteristics and post-emergence development analyzed by NMR, UPLC-QTOF-MSE and GC-MS methods for profiling primary and secondary metabolites along with fatty acids. The evaluated materials revealed significant variability in emergence percentage (0 % to 91.43 %), exhibiting a negative correlation with biometric characteristics. The emergence speed index (ESI) and emergence speed (ES) ranged from 1.20 to 3.61 and 16.58 to 22.84 days, respectively. The oleic acid is the major fatty acid (60 %) and the correlation of the fatty acid content with emergency remain unclear. The NMR and UPLC-QTOF-MSE analysis highlighted the compositional variability among the genotypes. In this regard, NMR and statistical modeling shows positive correlation which seeds with higher stachyose and acetic acid and lower sucrose contents exhibited greater germination. Additionally, seeds with enhanced germination parameters positively correlated with greater phenolic lipids content, such as anacardic acids. Therefore, this study indicates that seeds with reduced biometric parameters that presented increased content of stachyose, acetic acid, and anacardic acids were correlated higher emergence capacity making those seeds more suitable to cashew germplasm cryopreservation banks.

Waste-To-Energy: Sustainable Triboelectric Stimulating System Constructed by Bone Gelatin Based Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Crop Growth

The misuse of synthetic chemicals such as pesticides and fertilizers harms the environment and human health. Abandoning them risks global food shortages. Urgent eco-friendly alternatives are needed for food production without excessive synthetic chemicals. To respond to this challenge, an innovative approach uses POSS polymer (PA) to modify waste bone gelatin (BG), constructinging a biodegradable triboelectric nanogenerator (PAG-TENG) tailored for the triboelectric stimulating system for seed germination (PTSS). Amide groups of PA improve the electron supplying capacity of BG and 3D cage structure captures and transfers charges of BG, thereby improving the output performance of PAG-TENG. The spatial electrostatic field formed by PAG-TENG promotes seed germination when subjected to pressure changes in the environment. Hence output performance of PAG-TENG is improved from 52.34 V and 40.25 nA to 247.15 V and 482.12 nA, the sensitivity is 14.4957 V*kPa-1. It maintains initial stable performance after the 6000 cycles of testing. Besides, the prepared PAG-TENG has good toughness, translucency, and degradability. Treated by the high voltage electrostatic field of PTSS, peas' germination rate remarkably increased by ≈27%. This work realizes the high-value utilization of waste resource BG, and provides a novel direction for the development of intelligent agriculture.

Disruption of the OsWRKY71 transcription factor gene results in early rice seed germination under normal and cold stress conditions

BACKGROUND

Early seed germination in crops can confer a competitive advantage against weeds and reduce the time to maturation and harvest. WRKY transcription factors regulate many aspects of plant development including seed dormancy and germination. Both positive and negative regulators of seed germination have been reported in many plants such as rice and Arabidopsis. Using a transient expression system, we previously demonstrated that OsWRKY71 is a negative regulator of gibberellin (GA) signaling in aleurone cells and likely forms a "repressosome" complex with other transcriptional repressors. Hence, it has the potential to impact seed germination properties.

RESULTS

In this study, we demonstrate that OsWRKY71, a Group IIa WRKY gene, appeared at the same time as seed-bearing plants. Rice mutants lacking OsWRKY71 have seeds and embryos that germinate earlier than wildtype controls. In oswrky71 aleurone layers, α-amylase activity was hypersensitive to stimulation by GA3 and hyposensitive to inhibition by abscisic acid (ABA). Early germination in oswrky71 intact seeds was also hyposensitive to ABA. Transcriptomic profiling during embryo germination and early post-germination growth demonstrates that OsWRKY71 influences the expression of 9-17% of genes in dry and imbibing embryos. Compared to wildtype embryos, the mutant transcriptomes have large temporal shifts at 4, 8 and 12 h after imbibition (HAI). Importantly, many genes involved in the ABA-dependent inhibition of seed germination were downregulated in oswrky71-1. This mutant also displayed altered expression of multiple ABA receptors (OsPYLs/RCARs) that control ABA signaling and the VP1-SDR4-DOG1L branch of ABA signaling that promotes seed dormancy. Association studies reveal an OsWRKY71-containing quantitative trait locus involved in low-temperature seed germinability, qLTG-2. Indeed, oswrky71 seeds germinated early at 15 °C.

CONCLUSIONS

Rice Group-IIa WRKY transcription factor OsWRKY71 is a master regulator of germination that influences the expression of 9-17% of genes in dry and imbibing embryos. It is also most likely the primary candidate of low-temperature seed germinability QTL, qLTG-2. We propose that knockouts of OsWRKY71 can generate rice varieties with improved germination properties under normal or low-temperature conditions.

Optimizing beet seed germination via dielectric barrier discharge plasma parameters

This study explores the synergistic effects of gas composition and electric field modulation on beetroot seed germination using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma. The investigation initially focuses on the impact of air plasma exposure on germination parameters, varying both voltage and treatment duration. Subsequently, the study examines how different gas compositions (argon, nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) affect germination outcomes under optimal air plasma conditions. Results indicate that plasma treatment significantly enhances germination rates and seedling growth relative to untreated controls. Notably, plasma exposure alters seed surface morphology and chemistry, increasing roughness, porosity, and hydrophilicity due to the formation of new polar functional groups. The highest germination rate (a 54.84 % increase) and germination index (a 40.11 % increase) were observed at the lowest voltage and shortest duration, whereas higher voltages and prolonged exposure reduced germination, likely due to oxidative stress. Among the tested gas environments, air plasma was most effective in enhancing water uptake and electrical conductivity, while oxygen plasma resulted in the highest germination index and marked improvements in root and shoot length. Conversely, carbon dioxide plasma treatment exhibited inhibitory effects on both germination and subsequent growth metrics. The results highlight the potential of DBD plasma technology to enhance agricultural productivity by optimizing seed germination and early growth. The study emphasizes the importance of precise parameter tuning, particularly gas composition and plasma exposure conditions, to maximize benefits while minimizing adverse effects, offering a refined approach to seed priming in agricultural practices.

Investigating plasma activated water as a sustainable treatment for improving growth and nutrient uptake in maize and pea plant

In this study, an atmospheric pressure air plasma jet (APAPJ) was employed to generate plasma-activated water (PAW), which was applied to treat maize (monocot) and pea (dicot) seeds for evaluating its influence. This research explored APAPJ diagnostics by varying the air feed rate as 1, 2, and 3 liter per minute (Lpm) through current-voltage characterization, optical emission spectroscopy, electron temperature and density, nitrogen metastable state density, and rotational and vibrational temperature of the plasma. Additionally, various reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) formed and physicochemical properties of PAW were analyzed by varying plasma treatment time from 0 to 8 min. Furthermore, the water uptake of maize (Zea mays) and pea (Pisum sativum) seeds were examined by the measurement of the contact angle. Results indicated that APAPJ has the capacity of fostering germination, growth, chlorophyll, phosphorus, nitrite, nitrate, ammonium ion and leaf area in plants significantly with an optimized 6 min treated PAW for maize and 2 min treated PAW for peas. Among various categories, seeds soaked in PAW and irrigated with PAW exhibited the most outstanding result in germination and plant growth. Non-thermal plasma showed promising green methods for enhancing plant growth and boosting nutrient content.

Comparative sensitivity of A-type and B-type starch crystals to ultrahigh magnetic fields

In this study, maize starch (A-type) and potato starch (B-type) were treated with ultrahigh magnetic fields (UMF) of different intensities (5 T and 15 T) to investigate their sensitivity to UMF by measuring changes in their structure and rheological properties. The results indicate that the crystallinity of A-type starch significantly decreases, reaching a minimum of 20.01 % at 5 T. In contrast, the crystallinity of B-type starch significantly increases, peaking at 21.17 % at 15 T, accompanied by a brighter polarized cross and a more perfect crystal structure. Additionally, B-type starch exhibited a significant increase in double helix content (from 32.67 % to 42.07 %), branching degree (from 1.96 % to 3.84 %), and R1022/995 (from 0.803 to 0.519), compared to A-type starch. B-type starch also showed a greater propensity for cross-linking reactions forming OCOR groups (from 0 % to 6.81 %), and its enthalpy change (∆H) increased substantially (from 19.28 J/g to 31.70 J/g), indicating a marked enhancement in thermal stability. Furthermore, the average hydrodynamic radius (Rh) decreased more for B-type starch, reflecting an increase in gel strength. These findings demonstrate that B-type starch is more sensitive to UMF than A-type starch. This study provides foundational data on the effects of UMF treatment on different crystalline starches, aiming to explore its potential applications in food and industrial fields.

Combined physicochemical and transcriptomic analyses reveal the effect of the OsGA20ox1 gene on the starch properties of germinated brown rice

Genes play a pivotal role in regulating the germination of cereal grains; however, there is limited research on the impact of germination genes on the physicochemical properties of germinated cereal starch. We investigated the effects of the OsGA20ox1 gene on the multiscale structural features and adhesion behavior of germinated brown rice starch. Compared to the knockout lines group, the wild type exhibited a decrease in double-helix content (62.74 %), relative crystallinity (47.39 %), and short-range molecular ordering (2.47 %), accompanied by enhanced erosion on the surface of starch granules. The damage to glycosidic bonds at the double-helix level and the heightened structural amorphization (90.95 %) led to reduced entanglement and interaction among starch molecules, ultimately resulting in reduced characteristic viscosity. Further transcriptomic analysis revealed that OsGA20ox1 could regulate the expression of starch-related enzyme genes in the starch metabolism pathway during germination of brown rice. This study contributes to understanding the role of germination genes in promoting the physicochemical properties of starch in germinated grains, thereby opening up new avenues for the improvement of plant-based starch, and paving the way for further research in this field.

Stabilization of dimeric PYR/PYL/RCAR family members relieves abscisic acid-induced inhibition of seed germination

Abscisic acid (ABA) is the primary preventing factor of seed germination, which is crucial to plant survival and propagation. ABA-induced seed germination inhibition is mainly mediated by the dimeric PYR/PYL/RCAR (PYLs) family members. However, little is known about the relevance between dimeric stability of PYLs and seed germination. Here, we reveal that stabilization of PYL dimer can relieve ABA-induced inhibition of seed germination using chemical genetic approaches. Di-nitrobensulfamide (DBSA), a computationally designed chemical probe, yields around ten-fold improvement in receptor affinity relative to ABA. DBSA reverses ABA-induced inhibition of seed germination mainly through dimeric receptors and recovers the expression of ABA-responsive genes. DBSA maintains PYR1 in dimeric state during protein oligomeric state experiment. X-ray crystallography shows that DBSA targets a pocket in PYL dimer interface and may stabilize PYL dimer by forming hydrogen networks. Our results illustrate the potential of PYL dimer stabilization in preventing ABA-induced seed germination inhibition.

Ultrasonic treatment can improve maize seed germination and abiotic stress resistance

Constant-frequency ultrasonic treatment helped to improve seed germination. However, variable-frequency ultrasonic treatment on maize seed germination were rarely reported. In this study, maize seeds were exposed to 20-40 kHz ultrasonic for 40 s. The germination percentage and radicle length of maize seeds increased by 10.4% and 230.5%. Ultrasonic treatment also significantly increased the acid protease, α-amylase, and β-amylase contents by 96.4%, 73.8%, and 49.1%, respectively. Transcriptome analysis showed that 11,475 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found in the ultrasonic treatment and control groups, including 5,695 upregulated and 5,780 downregulated. Metabolic pathways and transcription factors (TFs) were significantly enriched among DEGs after ultrasonic treatment. This included metabolism and genetic information processing, that is, ribosome, proteasome, and pyruvate metabolism, sesquiterpenoid, triterpenoid, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and oxidative phosphorylation, as well as transcription factors in the NAC, MYB, bHLH, WRKY, AP2, bZIP, and ARF families. Variable-frequency ultrasonic treatment increased auxin, gibberellin, and salicylic acid by 5.5%, 37.3%, and 28.9%, respectively. Abscisic acid significantly decreased by 33.2%. The related DEGs were upregulated and downregulated to varying degrees. Seed germination under the abiotic stress conditions of salt stress (NaCl solution), drought (PEG solution), and waterlogging (water-saturated sand bed) under ultrasonic treatment were promoted, radicle length was significantly increased by 30.2%, 30.5%, and 27.3%, respectively; and germination percentage by 14.8%, 20.1%, and 21.6%, respectively. These findings provide new insight into the mechanisms through ultrasonic to promote maize seed germination.

Mitigating fungal contamination of cereals: The efficacy of microplasma-based far-UVC lamps against Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium graminearum

Fungal contaminations of cereal grains are a profound food-safety and food-security concern worldwide, threatening consumers' and animals' health and causing enormous economic burdens. Because far-ultraviolet C (far-UVC) light at 222 nm has recently been shown to be human-safe, we investigated its efficacy as an alternative to thermal, chemical, and conventional 254 nm UVC anti-fungal treatments. Our microplasma-based far-UVC lamp system achieved a 5.21-log reduction in the conidia of Aspergillus flavus suspended in buffer with a dose of 1032.0 mJ/cm2, and a 5.11-log reduction of Fusarium graminearum conidia in suspension with a dose of 619.2 mJ/cm2. We further observed that far-UVC treatments could induce fungal-cell apoptosis, alter mitochondrial membrane potential, lead to the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species, cause lipid peroxidation, and result in cell-membrane damage. The lamp system also exhibited a potent ability to inhibit the mycelial growth of both A. flavus and F. graminearum. On potato dextrose agar plates, such growth was completely inhibited after doses of 576.0 mJ/cm2 and 460.8 mJ/cm2, respectively. To test our approach's efficacy at decontaminating actual cereal grains, we designed a cubical 3D treatment chamber fitted with six lamps. At a dose of 780.0 mJ/cm2 on each side, the chamber achieved a 1.88-log reduction of A. flavus on dried yellow corn kernels and a 1.11-log reduction of F. graminearum on wheat grains, without significant moisture loss to either cereal type (p > 0.05). The treatment did not cause significant changes in the propensity of wheat grains to germinate in the week following treatment (p > 0.05). However, it increased the germination propensity of corn kernels by more than 71% in the same timeframe (p < 0.05). Collectively, our results demonstrate that 222 nm far-UVC radiation can effectively inactivate fungal growth in liquid, on solid surfaces, and on cereal grains. If scalable, its emergence as a safe, cost-effective alternative tool for reducing fungi-related post-harvest cereal losses could have important positive implications for the fight against world hunger and food insecurity.

Microgreens and novel non-thermal seed germination techniques for sustainable food systems: a review

There are a number of cutting-edge techniques implemented in the germination process, including high pressure processing, ultrasonic, ultraviolet, light, non-thermal plasma, magnetic field, microwave radiation, electrolyzed oxidizing water, and plasma activated water. The influence of these technological advances on seed germination procedure is addressed in this review. The use of these technologies has several benefits, including the enhancement of plant growth rate and the modulation of bioactive chemicals like ABA, protein, and peroxidase concentrations, as well as the suppression of microbial development. Microgreens' positive health effects, such as their antioxidant, anticancer, antiproliferative/pro-oxidant, anti-obesity, and anti-inflammatory properties are extensively reviewed. The phytochemical and bioactive components of microgreens were investigated, including the concentrations of vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, micro and macro nutrients, pro-vitamin A, polyphenols, and glucosinolates. Furthermore, the potential commercial uses of microgreens, as well as the current market transformation and prospects for the future are explored.

Effect of Germination on Seed Protein Quality and Secondary Metabolites and Potential Modulation by Pulsed Electric Field Treatment

Plant-based foods are being increasingly favored to feed the ever-growing population, but these need to exhibit improved nutritional value in terms of protein quality and digestibility to be considered a useful alternative to animal-based foods. Germination is essential for plant growth and represents a viable method through which the protein quality of plants can be further improved. However, it will be a challenge to maintain efficient rates of germination in a changing climate when seeds are sown. In the context of the indoor germination of seeds for food, consumption, or processing purposes, a more efficient and sustainable process is desired. Therefore, novel techniques to facilitate seed germination are required. Pulsed electric fields (PEF) treatment of seeds results in the permeabilization of the cell membrane, allowing water to be taken up more quickly and triggering biochemical changes to the macromolecules in the seed during germination. Therefore, PEF could be a chemical-free approach to induce a stress response in seeds, leading to the production of secondary metabolites known to exert beneficial effects on human health. However, this application of PEF, though promising, requires further research to optimize its impact on the protein and bioactive compounds in germinating seeds.

The effect of germinated black lentils on cookie quality by applying ultraviolet radiation and ultrasound technology

Black lentils contain protein, carbohydrates, dietary fiber, minerals, and vitamins, as well as phytochemicals and various bioactive compounds. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation and ultrasound (US) methods are innovative technologies that can be used to increase the efficiency of the germination process in grains and legumes. To improve the nutritional value and bioactive compounds of the cookies, black lentils germinated by applying UV radiation and US technology were used in the cookie formulation. Before the germination process, UV, US, and their combination (UV+US) were applied, and pretreated and unpretreated germinated black lentil flours were used at a level of 20% in the cookie formulation. The results revealed that pretreatment application increased the total phenolic content and antioxidant activity more than the lentil sample germinated without any treatment. In addition, the pretreatments applied further reduced the amount of phytic acid in black lentils and the lowest phytic acid content was obtained with the UV-US combination. Compared to cookies containing unpretreated germinated black lentil flour, higher L* values and lower a* values were obtained in the cookie samples containing pretreated germinated black lentil flour. Cookies containing all pretreated germinated lentils generally exhibited higher Ca and K content. This study demonstrated that UV radiation and US improved the nutritional value and bioactive components of the germinated black lentil flour and the cookies in which it was used, compared to the black lentils germinated without any treatment. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Pretreatment of black lentils with UV/US application before germination resulted in a greater increase in total phenolic content and antioxidant activity compared to the control sample. The applied pretreatments caused a further decrease in the amount of phytic acid in black lentil samples. Black lentils germinated with the UV+US combination revealed higher Ca, Fe, K, and Mg content compared to the sample germinated without any treatment.

Evaluation of techniques to break seed dormancy in Redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus)

By identifying the factors that initiate seed dormancy release, we can reliably predict whether a seed will remain dormant within or exit the seed bank and become a seedling. With regard to annual weed species, assessing which factors efficiently break seed dormancy is critical for estimating the number of weed seeds that will develop into problematic weeds. To better understand dormancy breaking in Redroot pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus), dormant seeds were treated with cold stratification (4°C for 30 days), application of gibberellic acid (at 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 parts per million), ultrasound (for 10, 20, 30, and 40 min), soaking in hot water (90°C for 3, 5, 7, and 10 min), and 98% sulfuric acid (for 1, 2, and 3 min). The results showed that Redroot pigweed seed dormancy was effectively broken by cold stratification, gibberellic acid, and ultrasound. Short treatments with hot water had minimal effect while longer times or treatment with sulfuric acid stopped seed germination. In addition to germination percentage, germination rate, plumule length, radicle length, seedling length, seedling dry weight, and seed vigor index were also measured; similarly, application of gibberellic acid had the most significant effect on these parameters. The results of this study add to our knowledge of what processes effectively or ineffectively break Redroot pigweed seed dormancy and promote growth.

Inactivation of E. coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica, and L. monocytogenes through semi-continuous superheated steam treatment with additional effects of enhancing initial germination rate and salinity tolerance

Superheated steam (SHS) is a powerful technology used to reduce bacteria on food surfaces while causing less damage to the underlying sublayer of food compared to conventional heating treatments. In this study, a semi-continuous SHS system was developed to inactivate foodborne pathogens within 1 s (Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes) on radish seed surfaces and to enhance the seeds' salinity tolerance, which is vital for adapting to arid and semi-arid regions. The temperature of the SHS was set to 200 °C and 300 °C, with flow rates of 5 m/s and 7 m/s, and treatments were cycled either once or three times. As a result, increased temperature (200 °C-300 °C) and number of treatments (1 time to 3 times) led to a significantly larger microbial reduction on the surface of radish seeds. E. coli O157:H7, S. enterica, and L. monocytogenes were reduced by 4.42, 4.73, and 3.95 log CFU/g (P < 0.05), respectively, after three SHS treatments at 300 °C and 7 m/s. However, due to the ongoing potential for recovery of residual microorganisms, further research involving combinations is essential to enhance the microbicidal effect. Water imbibition showed significantly higher values in the SHS-treated group up to 30 min, indicating faster germination rates in the SHS-treated group (71.3-81.3%) compared to the control group (52.7%) on the second day, indicating a significant enhancement in germination rate. In addition, the salinity resistance of the radish seeds increased after SHS treatment. When moisturized with 0.5% NaCl solution, more radish seeds germinated after treatment with SHS (40%) than controls (22.7%) (P < 0.05). The results of this study, the first to apply semi-continuous SHS to seeds, are expected to serve as a cornerstone for future pilot-scale investigations aiming to implement the system within the seed industry.

Seed germination and seedling development assisted by ultrasound: gaps and future research directions

Since the early 1930s, when the first corn hybrids were grown commercially, innovations in the agriculture industry have had an unprecedent impact worldwide, helping to meet the demands for food of an exponentially growing population. In particular, seed technology research has contributed substantially to the improvement of crop performance over the years. Ultrasonic treatment of seeds is a green technology that promises to have an impact on the food industry, enhancing germination and seedling development in different species through the stimulation of water and oxygen uptake and seed metabolism. The increase in starch degradation has been associated with the stimulation of the α-amylases of the endosperm, but relatively few reports focus on how ultrasound affects seed germination at the biochemical and molecular levels. For instance, the picture is still unclear regarding the impact of ultrasound on transcriptional reprogramming in seeds. The purpose of this review is to assess the literature on ultrasound seed treatment accurately and critically, ultimately aiming to encourage new scientific and technological breakthroughs with a real impact on worldwide agricultural production while promoting sustainable practices on biological systems. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Seed priming with light quality and Cyperus rotundus L. extract modulate the germination and initial growth of Moringa oleifera Lam. seedlings

Abstract Improving plant germination is essential to guarantee better quality seedlings. Thus, this research aimed to evaluate whether the seed priming with light quality (LIQ) and the aqueous extract of Cyperus rotundus (AEC) tuber could modulate the germination and initial growth of Moringa oleifera L. seedlings. The experimental design was a completely randomized in the 4x4 factorial scheme, composed of four LIQ conditions (white, blue, red, and distant red light) and four AEC concentrations (0, 25, 50 and 100%). Seed priming with red light reduced the average emergence time, while blue, red, and extreme red lights associated with 50% of aqueous extract of C. rotundus increased shoot initial length and photosynthetic pigment accumulation. Seed priming with blue light resulted in seedlings with a shorter final shoot length. However, application of 100% of aqueous extract of C. rotundus reversed this. The white light in combination with concentrations of 50 and 100% of AEC promoted a higher relative shoot growth rate of seedlings. The research revealed that seed priming with light quality and aqueous extracts of C. rotundus tubers modulates the germination and initial growth of M. oleifera seedlings. More work needs to be done to determine the responsible compounds in AEC that is responsible for priming growth as phytohormones.

The Nephroprotective Potential of Brassica nigra Sprout Hydroalcoholic Extract against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Renal Toxicity in Rats

The nephroprotective potential of the Brassica nigra sprout (BNS) hydroalcoholic extract against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced renal toxicity in rats was the object of this study. B. nigra sprouts were prepared in the lab to monitor the bio-changes in bioactive compounds during the sprouting for up to 7 days at 17 ± 1 °C and 90% relative humidity. Subsequently, 6-day sprouts of B. nigra were selected according to their phenolics and antioxidant activity, extracted, and examined for their nephroprotective and antioxidative stress potential at 250 and 500 mg sprout extracts kg-1 bw, in vivo. Weight gain, organ weight, lipid profile, atherogenic index, kidney functions, and oxidative stress biomarkers were assessed. The results indicated that the most proficient treatment for weight gain improvement was BNS extract at 500 mg kg-1. BNS at 250 mg kg-1 was remarked as the lowest weight gain enhancer compared to the NR group. A significant increase in TG, TC, LDL-c, and VLDL-c levels in the rats with CCl4-induced renal toxicity, and a significant decrease in HDL level, was noted. The administration of the BNS extract at 250 and 500 mg kg-1 considerably attenuated TG, TC, LDL-c, and VLDL-c levels, compared to the NR group. The most efficient treatment for improving the lipid profile was the BNS extract at 500 mg kg-1, even better than 250 mg kg-1. Administrating the BNS extract substantially attenuated the alterations in the creatinine, urea, and BUN caused by the CCl4 injection. The most efficient improvement was markedly recorded with the BNS extract at 500 mg kg-1, compared to the NR group. The rats treated with the BNS extract showed significant enhancement in GSH, CAT, and SOD activities and a considerable reduction in MDA levels. Administering the BNS extract at 250 and 500 mg kg-1 can efficiently reverse CCl4 inhibition of antioxidant enzyme activities, significantly increase GSH, CAT, and SOD, and decrease the MDA levels dose-dependently. The BNS extract at 250 and 500 mg kg-1 exhibits nephroprotection and antioxidative stress in a dose-dependent matter. The total nephroprotection % was recorded at 65.18% and 99.21% for rats treated with 250 and 500 mg kg-1, respectively. These findings could prove and potentiate the nephroprotective activities of the BNS extract in the range of the given doses. Further clinical studies are highly recommended for confirming the nephroprotection efficiency of the B. nigra sprout.

Recent developments in applications of physical fields for microbial decontamination and enhancing nutritional properties of germinated edible seeds and sprouts: a review

Germinated edible seeds and sprouts have attracted consumers because of their nutritional values and health benefits. To ensure the microbial safety of the seed and sprout, emerging processing methods involving physical fields (PFs), having the characteristics of high efficiency and environmental safety, are increasingly proposed as effective decontamination processing technologies. This review summarizes recent progress on the application of PFs to germinating edible seeds, including their impact on microbial decontamination and nutritional quality and the associated influencing mechanisms in germination. The effectiveness, application scope, and limitation of the various physical techniques, including ultrasound, microwave, radio frequency, infrared heating, irradiation, pulsed light, plasma, and high-pressure processing, are symmetrically reviewed. Good application potential for improving seed germination and sprout growth is also described for promoting the accumulation of bioactive compounds in sprouts, and subsequently enhancing the antioxidant capacity under favorable PFs processing conditions. Moreover, the challenges and future directions of PFs in the application to germinated edible seeds are finally proposed. This review also attempts to provide an in-depth understanding of the effects of PFs on microbial safety and changes in nutritional properties of germinating edible seeds and a theoretical reference for the future development of PFs in processing safe sprouted seeds.

A review: The nutrition components, active substances and flavonoid accumulation of Tartary buckwheat sprouts and innovative physical technology for seeds germinating

Compared with the common grain, Tartary buckwheat enjoys higher nutritional value. Some distinctive nutrition associated with physiological activity of Tartary buckwheat is valuable in medicine. In addition, it's a good feed crop. In the paper, the main components (starch, protein, amino acid, fatty acid and mineral) and polyphenol bioactive components in Tartary buckwheat and its sprouts were reviewed, and the accumulation of flavonoids in sprouts during germination, especially the methods, synthetic pathways and mechanisms of flavonoid accumulation was summarized. The research on bioactive components and health benefits of Tartary buckwheat also were reviewed. Besides, the applications of innovative physical technology including microwave, magnetic, electromagnetic, ultrasonic, and light were also mentioned and highlighted, which could promote the enrichment of some active substances during seeds germination and growth of Tartary buckwheat sprouts. It would give a good support and benefit for the research and processing of Tartary buckwheat and its sprouts in next day.

Ultrasound treatments improve germinability of soybean seeds: The key role of working frequency

In this paper, the effects of ultrasound with different frequency modes on the sprouting rate, sprouting vigor, metabolism-related enzyme activity and late nutrient accumulation in soybean were investigated, and the mechanism of dual-frequency ultrasound promoting bean sprout development was explored. The results showed that, compared with control, the sprouting time was shortened by 24 h after dual-frequency ultrasound treatment (20/60 kHz), and the longest shoot was 7.82 cm at 96 h. Meanwhile, ultrasonic treatment significantly enhanced the activities of protease, amylase, lipase and peroxidase (p < 0.05), particularly the phenylalanine ammonia-lyase increased by 20.50%, which not only accelerated the seed metabolism, but also led to the accumulation of phenolics (p < 0.05), as well as more potent antioxidant activity at later stages of sprouting. In addition, the seed coat exhibited remarkable cracks and holes after ultrasonication, resulting in accelerated water absorption. Moreover, the immobilized water in seeds increased significantly, which was beneficial to seed metabolism and later sprouting. These findings confirmed that dual-frequency ultrasound pretreatment has a great potential to be used for seed sprouting and promoting the accumulation of nutrients in bean sprouts by accelerating water absorption and increasing enzyme activity.

Combined ultrasound and germination treatment on the fine structure of highland barley starch

Highland barley is a grain crop grown in Tibet, China. This study investigated the structure of highland barley starch using ultrasound (40 kHz, 40 min, 165.5 W) and germination treatments (30℃ with 80% relative humidity). The macroscopic morphology and the barley's fine and molecular structure were evaluated. After sequential ultrasound pretreatment and germination, a significant difference in moisture content and surface roughness was noted between highland barley and the other groups. All test groups showed an increased particle size distribution range with increasing germination time. FTIR results also indicated that after sequential ultrasound pretreatment and germination, the absorption intensity of the intramolecular hydroxyl (-OH) group of starch increased, and hydrogen bonding was stronger compared to the untreated germinated sample. In addition, XRD analysis revealed that starch crystallinity increased following sequential ultrasound treatment and germination, but a-type of crystallinity remained after sonication. Further, the Mw of sequential ultrasound pretreatment and germination at any time is higher than that of sequential germination and ultrasound. As a result of sequential ultrasound pretreatment and germination, changes in the content of chain length of barley starch were consistent with germination alone. At the same time, the average degree of polymerisation (DP) fluctuated slightly. Lastly, the starch was modified during the sonication process, either prior to or following sonication. Pretreatment with ultrasound illustrated a more profound effect on barley starch than sequential germination and ultrasound treatment. In conclusion, these results indicate that sequential ultrasound pretreatment and germination improve the fine structure of highland barley starch.

Can the use of magnetized water affect the seedling development and the metabolite profiles of two different species: Lentil and durum wheat?

Seedlings of durum wheat and lentil were utilized to investigate the efficiency of magnetic water on growth and metabolic epicotyl profile. Tap water was passed through a magnetic device with a flow rate of max. 12900 - 13200 Gauss (G). Seeds and plantlets were grown on sand-free paper soaked by magnetized water, with unmagnetized tap water used in a control group. The growth parameters were collected at three time points (48, 96, and 144 hours after treatment), the same times at which metabolomic analysis was conducted on seeds, roots, and epicotyls. Although the effects varied with the species, tissues, and time point considered, compared with tap water (TW), the use of magnetized water treatment (MWT) led to higher root elongation in both genotypes. On the contrary, epicotyl length was not affected by treatment both in durum wheat and lentil. The results indicate that the use of magnetized water in agriculture can be considered a sustainable technology to promote plant development and quality with reduced and more efficient water usage, leading to cost-saving and environmental protection.

Advanced mycotoxin control and decontamination techniques in view of an increased aflatoxin risk in Europe due to climate change

Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp. found in staple food and feed commodities worldwide. Aflatoxins are carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic, and pose a serious threat to the health of both humans and animals. The global economy and trade are significantly affected as well. Various models and datasets related to aflatoxins in maize have been developed and used but have not yet been linked. The prevention of crop loss due to aflatoxin contamination is complex and challenging. Hence, the set-up of advanced decontamination is crucial to cope with the challenge of climate change, growing population, unstable political scenarios, and food security problems also in European countries. After harvest, decontamination methods can be applied during transport, storage, or processing, but their application for aflatoxin reduction is still limited. Therefore, this review aims to investigate the effects of environmental factors on aflatoxin production because of climate change and to critically discuss the present-day and novel decontamination techniques to unravel gaps and limitations to propose them as a tool to tackle an increased aflatoxin risk in Europe.

A critical review on the bio-mediated green synthesis and multiple applications of magnesium oxide nanoparticles

Nowadays, advancements in nanotechnology have efficiently solved many global problems, such as environmental pollution, climate change, and infectious diseases. Nano-scaled materials have played a central role in this evolution. Chemical synthesis of nanomaterials, however, required hazardous chemicals, unsafe, eco-unfriendly, and cost-ineffective, calling for green synthesis methods. Here, we review the green synthesis of MgO nanoparticles and their applications in biochemical, environmental remediation, catalysis, and energy production. Green MgO nanoparticles can be safely produced using biomolecules extracted from plants, fungus, bacteria, algae, and lichens. They exhibited fascinating and unique properties in morphology, surface area, particle size, and stabilization. Green MgO nanoparticles served as excellent antimicrobial agents, adsorbents, colorimetric sensors, and had enormous potential in biomedical therapies against cancers, oxidants, diseases, and the sensing detection of dopamine. In addition, green MgO nanoparticles are of great interests in plant pathogens, phytoremediation, plant cell and organ culture, and seed germination in the agricultural sector. This review also highlighted recent advances in using green MgO nanoparticles as nanocatalysts, nano-fertilizers, and nano-pesticides. Thanks to many emerging applications, green MgO nanoparticles can become a promising platform for future studies.

The stimulatory effect of Thuricin 17, a PGPR-produced bacteriocin, on canola (Brassica, napus L.) germination and vegetative growth under stressful temperatures

Exposure to unfavorable conditions is becoming more frequent for plants due to climate change, posing a threat to global food security. Stressful temperature, as a major environmental factor, adversely affects plant growth and development, and consequently agricultural production. Hence, development of sustainable approaches to assist plants in dealing with environmental challenges is of great importance. Compatible plant-microbe interactions and signal molecules produced within these interactions, such as bacteriocins, could be promising approaches to managing the impacts of abiotic stresses on crops. Although the use of bacteriocins in food preservation is widespread, only a small number of studies have examined their potential in agriculture. Therefore, we studied the effect of three concentrations of Thuricin17 (Th17), a plant growth-promoting rhizobacterial signal molecule produced by Bacillus thuringiensis, on germination and vegetative growth of canola (Brassica napus L.) under stressful temperatures. Canola responded positively to treatment with the bacterial signal molecule under stressful temperatures. Treatment with 10 ^-9 M Th17 (Thu2) was found to significantly enhance germination rate, seed vigor index, radical and shoot length and seedling fresh weight under low temperature, and this treatment reduced germination time which would be an asset for higher latitude, short growing season climates. Likewise, Thu2 was able to alleviate the adverse effects of high temperature on germination and seed vigor. Regarding vegetative growth, interestingly, moderate high temperature with the assistance of the compound caused more growth and development than the control conditions. Conversely, low temperature negatively affected plant growth, and Th17 did not help overcome this effect. Specifically, the application of 10 ^-9 (Thu2) and 10 ^-11 M (Thu3) Th17 had a stimulatory effect on height, leaf area and biomass accumulation under above-optimal conditions, which could be attributed to modifications of below-ground structures, including root length, root surface, root volume and root diameter, as well as photosynthetic rate. However, no significant effects were observed under optimal conditions for almost all measured variables. Therefore, the signal compound tends to have a stimulatory impact at stressful temperatures but not under optimal conditions. Hence, supplementation with Th17 would have the potential as a plant growth promoter under stressed circumstances.

Nutrient Composition of Germinated Foxtail Millet Flour Treated with Mixed Salt Solution and Slightly Acidic Electrolyzed Water

Germination of millet can improve its consumption quality, optimize its nutritional composition, and promote the accumulation of functional components such as γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA). In the present study, foxtail millet was germinated with tap water, a mixed salt solution of 7.5 mmol/L NaCl and 15 mmol/L CaCl₂, and slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) with three available chlorine concentrations (ACCs; 10.92, 20.25, and 30.35 mg/L). The effects of the salt solution and SAEW on the germination of foxtail millet and the GABA, crude protein, and amino acid composition of the germinated millet flour were analyzed. The results showed that the salt solution and SAEW treatments promoted the growth of millet sprouts, contributed to the accumulation of GABA in germinated millet flour, and optimized the protein and amino acid composition. The GABA content of germinated foxtail millet flour treated with salt solution for 60 h (336.52 mg/100 g) was 29.5 times higher than that of ungerminated millet flour. In conclusion, the highest GABA content and amino acid scores of germinated millet flour obtained by germination treatment with salt solution at 25 °C and 86% humidity for 60 h were more acceptable for human nutritional requirements.

Combined transcriptome and metabolome analyses reveal the mechanisms of ultrasonication improvement of brown rice germination

This study investigated the effects of ultrasonication treatment on the germination rate of brown rice. Brown rice grains were subjected to ultrasound (40 kHz/30 min) and then incubated for 36 h at 37 °C to germinate the seeds. Ultrasonic treatment increased the germination rate of brown rice by up to ∼28 % at 30 h. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were performed to explore the mechanisms underlying the effect of ultrasonic treatment on the brown rice germination rate. Comparing the treated and control check samples, 867 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified, including 638 upregulated and 229 downregulated), as well as 498 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), including 422 up accumulated and 76 down accumulated. Multi-omics analysis revealed that the germination rate of brown rice was promoted by increased concentrations of low-molecular metabolites (carbohydrates and carbohydrate conjugates, fatty acids, amino acids, peptides, and analogues), and transcription factors (ARR-B, NAC, bHLH and AP2/EREBP families) as well as increased carbon metabolism. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms of action of ultrasound in improving the brown rice germination rate and candidate DEGs and DAMs responsible for germination have been identified.

The efficiency of arbuscular mycorrhiza in increasing tolerance of Triticum aestivum L. to alkaline stress

BACKGROUND

Evaluation of native soil microbes is a realistic way to develop bio-agents for ecological restoration. Soil alkalinity, which has a high pH, is one of the most common concerns in dry and semi-arid climates. Alkaline soils face problems due to poor physical properties, which affect plant growth and crop production. A pot experiment was carried out to investigate the impact of native mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on the wheat plant (Triticum aestivum L.) under two levels of alkalinity stress -T1 (37 mM NaHCO3), T2 (74 mM NaHCO3) - at two developmental stages (the vegetative and productive stages).

RESULTS

Alkalinity stress significantly inhibited the germination percentage, plant biomass, photosynthetic pigments, and some nutrients (K, N, and P). Mycorrhizal inoculation improved growth parameters and productivity of wheat-stressed plants. However, lipid peroxidation was significantly lowered in mycorrhizal-inoculated plants compared to non-inoculated plants. Catalase and peroxidase were inhibited in wheat leaves and roots by alkalinity, while mycorrhiza promoted the activity of these enzymes.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study demonstrated that alkalinity stress had highly negative effects on some growth parameters of the wheat plant, while AMF inoculation attenuated these detrimental effects of alkalinity stress at two stages by reducing the pH and Na concentration and increasing the availability of P and the productivity of wheat in particular crop yield parameters.

Recent developments in physical invigoration techniques to develop sprouts of edible seeds as functional foods

For nutritional security, the availability of nutrients from food sources is a crucial factor. Global consumption of edible seeds including cereals, pulses, and legumes makes it a valuable source of nutrients particularly vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The presence of anti-nutritional factors forms complexes with nutrients, this complexity of the nutritional profile and the presence of anti-nutritional factors in edible seeds lead to reduced bioavailability of nutrients. By overcoming these issues, the germination process may help improve the nutrient profile and make them more bioavailable. Physical, physiological, and biological methods of seed invigoration can be used to reduce germination restraints, promote germination, enhance early crop development, to increase yields and nutrient levels through sprouting. During sprouting early start of metabolic activities through hydrolytic enzymes and resource mobilization causes a reduction in emergence time which leads to a better nutritional profile. The use of physical stimulating methods to increase the sprouting rate gives several advantages compared to conventional chemical-based methods. The advantages of physical seed treatments include environment-friendly, high germination rate, early seedling emergence, uniform seedling vigor, protection from chemical hazards, and improved yield. Different physical methods are available for seed invigoration viz. gamma irradiation, laser irradiation, microwaves, magnetic field, plasma, sound waves, and ultrasonic waves. Still, further research is needed to apply each technique to different seeds to identify the best physical method and factors for seed species along with different environmental parameters. The present review will describe the use and effects of physical processing techniques for seed invigoration.

Seed germination studies on Chickpeas, Barley, Mung beans and Wheat with natural biomass and plastic waste derived C-dots

Agronomical providence of nanoparticles in enhancing food productivity has brought new revolution in agricultural sector. However, the comprehensive ingenuity of their synergetic impact on environment and living flora and fauna is still poorly explored. The current study endeavours to tackle this apprehension by systematically exploring the agronomical paradigm of six different types of C-dots derived from natural biomass and plastic waste on the four different types of seeds viz. black chick peas (Cicer arietinum), barley (Hordeum vulgare), mung beans (Vigna radiata) and wheat (Triticum aestivum) at room temperature. C-dots have displayed a dose responsive effect (250 to 5000 mg/L) on the growth of chosen seeds, including the elongation of root length and coleoptile length. The development of seedlings under atmospheric conditions exhibited excellent physiological stability in presence of synthesized C-dots for all types of seeds with concentrations as high as 3000 mg/L for dry seed. The direct exposure of C-dots resulted in enhanced growth as compared to the water exposure and considered as the most important novel aspect of present work. The developed C-dots provide more nutrient content and easy penetration to the seeds due to their enhanced surface area and very small size. The germination and Vigor index have also been augmented in presence of C-dots after 7 days of exposure. C-dots have affected the chlorophyll content in mung beans as a function of time and concentration. The developed C-dots possess excellent biocompatible behaviour and help in the complete growth of the different types of seeds which suggest their enhanced utilization in the agronomical field. This is one of the detailed studies, which explore the impact of C-dots on widely used food crops with the non-toxic and biocompatible C-dots. The information achieved herein will allow the usage of C-dots as a capable nanopriming agent for the natural germination of seeds.

Effect of static magnetic field treatment on the germination of brown rice: Changes in α-amylase activity and structural and functional properties in starch

The study aimed to explore the stimulating effect of static magnetic field (SMF) treatment on germinated brown rice (GBR) by monitoring changes in α-amylase activity and structural and functional properties of starch. Brown rice was exposed to SMF (10 mT, 60 min, 25 °C) and then germinated for 0 h -72 h at 30 °C. Compared with the control, SMF treatment improved α-amylase activity (15.2%), leading to the hydrolysis of starch into reducing sugar (8.2%) and increasing the germination rate (9.7% -158.8%), shoot length (9.1% -87.3%), root length (19.2% -110.0%), and fresh weight (0.9% -16.5%). In view of the properties of starch, SMF treatment also altered the surface microstructure, induced partial losses of birefringence, exerted no significant effect on the crystalline type, slightly increased the gelatinization temperatures, and significantly decreased the peak viscosity. This study suggested that SMF could serve as a prospective technique for GBR products processing.

Seed Priming with Carbon Nanomaterials Improves the Bioactive Compounds of Tomato Plants under Saline Stress

The consumption of food with a high content of bioactive compounds is correlated with the prevention of chronic degenerative diseases. Tomato is a food with exceptional nutraceutical value; however, saline stress severely affects the yield, the quality of fruits, and the agricultural productivity of this crop. Recent studies have shown that seed priming can mitigate or alleviate the negative effects caused by this type of stress. However, the use of carbon nanomaterials (CNMs) in this technique has not been tested for this purpose. In the present study, the effects of tomato seed priming with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene (GP) (50, 250, and 500 mg L−1) and two controls (not sonicated and sonicated) were evaluated based on the content of photosynthetic pigments in the leaves; the physicochemical parameters of the fruits; and the presence of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant compounds, carotenoids, and stress biomarkers such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the leaves and fruits of tomato plants without saline stress and with saline stress (50 mM NaCl). The results show that saline stress in combination with CNTs and GP increased the content of chlorophylls (9.1–21.7%), ascorbic acid (19.5%), glutathione (≈13%), proteins (9.9–11.9%), and phenols (14.2%) on the leaves. The addition of CNTs and GP increased the activity of enzymes (CAT, APX, GPX, and PAL). Likewise, there was also a slight increase in the content of H2O2 (by 20.5%) and MDA (3.7%) in the leaves. Salinity affected the quality of tomato fruits. The physico-chemical parameters and bioactive compounds in both the stressed and non-stressed tomato plants were modified with the addition of CNTs and GP. Higher contents of total soluble solids (25.9%), phenols (up to 144.85%), flavonoids (up to 37.63%), ascorbic acid (≈28%), and lycopene (12.4–36.2%) were observed. The addition of carbon nanomaterials by seed priming in tomato plants subjected to saline stress modifies the content of bioactive compounds in tomato fruits and improves the antioxidant defense system, suggesting possible protection of the plant from the negative impacts of stress by salinity. However, analysis of the mechanism of action of CNMs through seed priming, in greater depth is suggested, perhaps with the use of omics sciences.

Effects of Microwave Treatment on Structure, Functional Properties and Antioxidant Activities of Germinated Tartary Buckwheat Protein

Tartary buckwheat protein (TBP) has promise as a potential source of novel natural nutrient plant protein ingredients. The modulating effects of microwave pretreatment at varying powers and times on the structure, functional properties, and antioxidant activities of germinated TBP were investigated. Compared with native germinated TBP, after microwave pretreatment, the content of free sulfhydryl groups in the germinated TBP increased, and the secondary structure changes showed a significant decrease in α-helix and an increase in random coil contents, and the intensity of the ultraviolet absorption peak increased (p < 0.05). In addition, microwave pretreatment significantly improved the solubility (24.37%), water-holding capacity (38.95%), emulsifying activity index (17.21%), emulsifying stability index (11.22%), foaming capacity (71.43%), and foaming stability (33.60%) of germinated TBP (p < 0.05), and the in vitro protein digestibility (5.56%) and antioxidant activities (DPPH (32.35%), ABTS (41.95%), and FRAP (41.46%)) of germinated TBP have also been improved. Among different treatment levels, a microwave level of 300 W/50 s gave the best results for the studied parameters. Specifically, microwave pretreatment could be a promising approach for modulating other germinated plant protein resources, as well as expanding the application of TBP.

Clean-label techno-functional ingredients for baking products - a review

The increased awareness of consumers regarding unfamiliar labels speeded up the ongoing clean label trend. As baking products are widely consumed worldwide, the reduction of non-natural baking aids and improvers is of great interest for consumer's health but also representing a big challenge for food industries. Thus, this paper aims at describing new techno-functional clean label ingredients for baked products and their production processes conditions. Firstly, it includes ingredients such as sustainable protein sources, fat replacers and leavening alternatives. Then, it addresses new process alternatives for producing baking ingredients with natural claim as well as current concepts as the natural fermentation. In particular, molecular and functional modifications of the flour are discussed regarding malting and dry heat treatments. By being considered as green and emerging technologies that improve flour functionality, the resulting ingredients can replace additives. Changes in quality and technological attributes of breads and cakes will be discussed as a consequence of the partial to total replacement of conventional ingredients. This paper provides new alternatives for the baking industry to meet the demand of a growing health-concerned population. In addition, it focused on opening up new possibilities for the food industry to go in line with the consumers' expectations.

Cell-Free Supernatant Obtained From a Salt Tolerant Bacillus amyloliquefaciens Strain Enhances Germination and Radicle Length Under NaCl Stressed and Optimal Conditions

Seed germination and early plant growth are key stages in plant development that are, susceptible to salinity stress. Plant growth promoting microorganisms (PGPMs) produce substances, in their growth media, that could enhance plant growth under more optimal conditions, and or mitigate abiotic stresses, such as salinity. This study was carried out to elucidate the ability of a NaCl tolerant Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain's cell-free supernatant to enhance germination and radicle length of corn and soybean, under optimal and NaCl stressed growth conditions. Three NaCl levels (0, 50, and 75 mM) and four cell-free supernatant concentrations (1.0, 0.2, 0.13, and 0.1% v/v) were used to formulate treatments that were used in the study. There were observed variations in the effect of treatments on mean radicle length and mean percentage germination of corn and soybean. Overall, the study showed that Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (BA) EB2003 cell-free supernatant could enhance mean percentage germination and or mean radicle length of corn and soybean. At optimal conditions (0 mM NaCl), 0.2% BA, 0.13% BA, and 0.1% BA concentrations resulted in 36.4, 39.70, and 39.91%, increase in mean radicle length of soybean, respectively. No significant observations were observed in mean radicle length of corn, and mean percentage germination of both corn and soybean. At 50 mM NaCl, 1.0% BA resulted in 48.65% increase in mean percentage germination of soybean, at 24 h. There was no observed effect of the cell-free supernatant on mean radicle length and mean percentage germination, at 72 and 48 h, in soybean. In corn however, at 50 mM NaCl, treatment with 0.2% BA and 0.13% BA enhanced mean radicle length by 23.73 and 37.5%, respectively. The resulting radicle lengths (43.675 and 49.7125 cm) were not significantly different from that of the 0 mM control. There was no observed significant effect of the cell-free supernatant on mean germination percentage of corn, at 50 mM NaCl. At 75 mM NaCl, none of the treatments enhanced mean radicle length or mean percentage germination to levels significantly higher than the 75 mM NaCl. Treatment with 1.0% BA, however, enhanced mean percentage germination to a level not significantly different from that of the 0 mM control, at 72 h. Likewise, in corn, none of the treatments enhanced radicle length to lengths significantly higher than the 75 mM control, although treatment with 1.0% BA, 0.13% BA, and 0.1% BA elongated radicles to lengths not significantly different from the 0 mM NaCl control. Treatment with 0.2% BA, 0.13% BA, and 0.1% BA resulted in mean percentage germination significantly higher than the 75 mM NaCl by 25.3% (in all 3), not significantly different from that of the 0 mM NaCl. In conclusion, concentration of cell-free supernatant and NaCl level influence the effect of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens strain EB2003A cell-free supernatant on mean percentage germination and mean radicle length of corn and soybean.

Impact of Plasma-Activated Water (PAW) on Seed Germination of Soybean

The present study reports the generation of plasma-activated water (PAW) using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD), its physicochemical properties, and its potential impact on the seed germination and seedling growth of soybean. The results revealed significant changes in physical parameters, such as pH, total dissolved solids, total suspended solids, turbidity, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and chemical parameters, such as calcium, chromium, sodium, manganese, nitrate, nitrites, phosphorus, and sulfur and biological parameter such as E. coli in water after plasma treatment. The concentration of dissolved oxygen, conductivity, nitrate, nitrite, and sulfur was increased with an increase in water treatment time, and the amounts of the other analyzed parameters decreased with the increase in water treatment time. The effects of untreated water and plasma-activated water treated for 20 minutes on soybean germination and growth were studied. The germination rate was found to be higher with plasma-treated water. Shoot lengths, seedlings length, vigor index, and germination rates were increased as compared to those germinated by normal water irrigation. The seedlings irrigated with PAW responded to the abundance of nitrogen by producing intensely green leaves because of their increased chlorophyll a as compared to seedlings irrigated with normal water. However, the content of chlorophyll b and carotenoids was found to decrease in the case of seedlings irrigated with PAW. Based on this report, we conclude that PAW could be used to substantially enhance seed germination and seedling growth.

Causal theory on acceleration of seed germination in the vicinity of high voltage direct current transmission line

Seed germination is the primary stage of growth in a seed. A wealth of experiments exist in literature to support the existence of correlation between seed germination to the electric and magnetic fields. This becomes more important as researchers have suggested to develop technologies to build ecologically clean and environment-friendly solutions to agricultural practices. Although the literature supports the existence of seed germination acceleration, the lack of a definite causal theory has been observed by numerous researchers over decades. After considering all the existing experimental data, we have formulated a causal theory to explain the factors influencing seed germination around high voltage DC transmission lines. This work opens new avenues of research in this field.

Hybrid Treatment via MHz Acoustic Waves and Plasma to Enhance Seed Germination in Mung Bean

We investigate a hybrid treatment-consisting of an atmospheric pressure plasma pretreatment, followed by an MHz surface acoustic waves (SAWs) treatment with either de-ionized (DI) water or plasma activated water (PAW)-on mung beans to accelerate the germination process, as mung bean sprout is one of the important food staples. For the early growth rate (after 320 min), we observe that the hybrid treatment with PAW can lead to approximately 217% higher moisture content for the treated beans when compared with that without hybrid treatment. Additionally, the hybrid-treated beans germinate in around 120 min, while the untreated beans germinate only in around 420 min, that is, 3.5-fold faster for treated beans. This can be attributed to the dominant effect of SAW that accelerates stage 1 water absorption process and the effect of direct plasma and PAW that promote stage 2 metabolism process, leading to the enhancement in stage 3 germination process in early growth rate. For the post growth rate (after 24 h), we observe that the hybrid treatment with DI water can lead to an approximately 44.20% in higher moisture and 71.17% in radicle length when compared with untreated beans. Interestingly, the hybrid treatment with PAW, on the other hand, is observed to have an adverse effect on germination after 24 h, that is, approximately 14.51% lower in moisture content and 43.49% lower in radicle length for the hybrid-treated beans with PAW when compared with that with DI water.

An Application of Cold Atmospheric Plasma to Enhance Physiological and Biochemical Traits of Basil

This study aimed to investigate the effects of dielectric barrier discharge cold atmospheric plasma on the performance of basil (Ocimum basilicum L. cv. Genovese Gigante). Evaluations were carried out on several physiological and biochemical traits, including ion leakage, water relative content, proline and protein accumulation, chlorophyll and carotenoid contents, and antioxidant activity. Before planting, basil seeds were treated by cold atmospheric plasma under voltages of 10, 15, and 20 kV for 10, 20, and 30 min. The ion leakage rate in plants was significantly affected by the interaction between plasma and radiation time. In most treatments, the application of plasma significantly reduced the ion leakage rate. The application of plasma (10 and 20 kV) for 10 min significantly increased the relative water content of basil leaves. The maximum amount of total chlorophyll and carotenoid content occurred after applying plasma for 20 min with 15 kV. Furthermore, 10 and 15 kV treatments of atmospheric cold plasma for 10 min caused a significant increase in antioxidant activity. The highest total flavonoids were obtained after applying 15 kV treatments for 20 min and 20 kV for 30 min, respectively. Cold atmospheric plasma significantly increased the activity of peroxidase as an antioxidant enzyme. Moreover, the minimum and maximum values of microbial load based on logarithm ten were reached after applying 10 kV for 30 min and in the control group, respectively. In general, the results showed that dielectric barrier discharge cold atmospheric plasma could significantly improve basil plants’ physiological and biochemical traits.