Production of lower quality coffee (Coffea arabica L.) beans as a by-product with potential antioxidant, antifulgal and antibacterial activities
Maria Beatriz Pereira Rosa, Luís Roberto Batista, Cassia Duarte Oliveira, Marcus Vinícius Prado Alves, Antonia Isadora Fernandes, Eduardo Alves, David Lee Nelson, Maria das Graças Cardoso*
Departamento de Ciência dos Alimentos, Universidade Federal de Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brasil
Departamento de Química, Universidade Federal de Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brasil
Departamento de Fitopatologia, Universidade Federal de Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Minas Gerais, Brasil
Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biocombustíveis, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brasil
Abstract
This work sought to evaluate the antioxidant, antifungal and antibacterial potential of ethanolic extracts obtained from inferior quality coffee beans. Extracts were prepared from green and roasted coffee beans using the solid-liquid reflux extraction technique. The antioxidant potential was evaluated by the DPPH radical-scavenging method. The antifungal activity was evaluated by analyzing the mycelial growth of the fungi Aspergillus westerdijkiae and Aspergillus carbonarius, and the effect of the extracts on the fungi was visualized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The antibacterial potential against Salmonella enterica Choleraesuis and Listeria monocytogenes was evaluated by microdilution, and the effects were observed by SEM. The green coffee extract was the most efficient in inhibiting DPPH radicals and more efficient in inhibiting mycelial growth. A. carbonarius was more sensitive to the extracts than A. westerdijkiae, being completely inhibited by 20000 ppm of the green coffee extract. Neither of the coffee extracts exhibited bactericidal activity, and no bacteriostatic effect was observed for the roasted coffee extract. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of green coffee extract for L. monocytogenes and S. Choleraesuis was 5000 ppm. Therefore, the ethanolic extract of green coffee had a great potential as a by-product of the industry.
Submitted: 06/05/2025 | Revised: 05/12/2025 | Accepted: 01/01/2026
Pages 1-7 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p30x
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Comparative analysis of electromagnetic field effects on root structure and starch accumulation in cassava cultivars Kasetsart 50 and Rayong 72
Taweesab Chaiyarak*, Naris Sinsiri, Teerawong Laosuwan, Phirayot Khaengkhan
Department of Agricultural Technology, Faculty of Technology, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
Programme in Agriculture, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Rajabhat Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44000, Thailand
Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Mahasarakham University, Maha Sarakham 44150, Thailand
Abstract
This research investigated the effects of electromagnetic fields on the structure and starch content of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) roots, varieties Kasetsart 50 and Rayong 72. The internal root structure of both unstimulated (control) and stimulated (treated) roots was examined using microscopy, and the quantity of starch accumulation in these roots was measured. The objective was to study the impact of electromagnetic fields on the internal structure and starch accumulation in cassava roots. Microscopic examination of root internal structures revealed the presence of druse crystals and exarch protoxylem in both cassava varieties. The storage roots exhibited food storage in various layers, with parenchyma displaying large intercellular spaces. As the roots aged, sclerenchyma accumulated starch grains. Stimulation of roots with electromagnetic fields increased the formation of storage parenchyma and starch grains, consistent with reports of fibrous roots developing into storage roots. This observation was made in the treated plants, as opposed to the control (unstimulated) plants. The mechanism of action of electromagnetic fields is hypothesized to involve alterations in ion dynamics and molecular movement within plant cells, potentially accelerating various chemical reactions. The results provide fundamental information on the effects of electromagnetic fields on cassava roots, which will be beneficial for developing technologies to enhance cassava yield and quality.
Submitted: 19/05/2025 | Revised: 08/04/2025 | Accepted: 08/09/2025
Pages 8-13 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p38
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Genotype-by-environment interaction, adaptability and stability analysis of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L. race latifolium H.) in northern Mozambique
Manuel P. Maleia*, Joaquim João, Sudanaily A. M. Salé, Celestino M. Domingos, Jaime O. Teca, Afonso Raimundo, Jorge Ussene, Banu Irénio, Vidigal Kimeles, Amisse Chicola, Talibo Perar, Hélder F. De Sousa, Dércia B. Guedes, Edson C. Jamal, Osman Carimo, Dreutse E. Muhala, Paulo Tebulo, Celso André
Instituto de Investigação Agrária de Moçambique, Av. das FPLM, 2698. C.P. 2698, Maputo, Mozambique.
Instituto de Algodão e Oleaginosas de Moçambique, Av. Eduardo Mondlane, 2221, Maputo, Mozambique.
Universidade Católica de Moçambique, Faculdade de Ciências Agronómicas, Rua do Aeroporto - C.P.22, Cuamba, Mozambique.
Sociedade Algodoeira do Niassa, R. Eduardo Mondlane, Cuamba, Mozambique.
ORCID ID: 0009-0004-0329-4670
Abstract
Cotton, the "white gold", is one of the most important crops in the world. In Mozambique, cotton is a cash and foreign exchange crop and is regularly on the list of agricultural exports. Cotton cultivation in the country is performed mainly by small-scale farmers, who face many challenges, characterized by low yields (< 500 kg. ha-1), due to the use of seeds from unimproved varieties that are poorly adapted to local cultivation conditions and the systematic use of recycled and noncertified seeds. Research has introduced new varieties in addition to the genotypes developed in the country. The objective of this study was to evaluate the adaptability and stability of 2 cotton varieties and 2 inbred lines for cottonseed and fiber yield. The trials were conducted under rainfed conditions in three consecutive seasons, 2021, 2022 and 2023, in Namialo, Namapa, Montepuez, and Ribáuè and two seasons, 2001 and 2023, in Cuamba, resulting in a total of 14 environments. The treatments, consisting of 9 cotton varieties/genotypes, were established in an RCBD with 4 replications. Individual and combined ANOVA for seed cotton and fiber yields was carried out, and adaptability and stability were applied via the GGE methodology. There was a significant genotype-by-environment interaction. The PL-164/2 genotype was the most stable, with greater predictability, followed by Flash and MP2020. The MP2020 genotype presented greater fiber maturity, whereas PL-164/2 presented a standard fiber length in relation to the minimum required length. PL-164/2, Flash and MP2020 are recommended for registration and release for production in the country.
Submitted: 04/05/2025 | Revised: 12/09/2025 | Accepted: 12/09/2025
Pages 14-20 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p55
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Assessment of controlled lactofermentation by Pediococcus acidilactici, a probiotic strain, on the bioactive compounds of two neglected edible plants used in diabetes treatment
Hadja Djeneba Ouattara*, Konan Jean-Noel Yao, Antoine Allah Assamoi, Serges Sia, Patricia Oulai, Regina Krabi, Mariame Cissé, Solange Tiebré, Jean-David N’guessan, Sébastien Niamké
Biotechnology, Agriculture and Valorization of Biological Resources Laboratory, UFR Biosciences, Félix Houphouët Boigny University, Côte d’Ivoire (Abidjan)
Biotechnology and development of agricultural resources and natural substances laboratory, UFR Biological Sciences, Péléforo Gon Coulibaly University, Côte d’Ivoire (Korhogo)
Systematics, Herbarium and Botanical Museum Laboratory, UFR Biosciences, Félix Houphouët Boigny University, Côte d’Ivoire (Abidjan)
Biology and Health Laboratory, UFR Biosciences, Félix Houphouët-Boigny University, Côte d’Ivoire (Abidjan)
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-6668-1458
Abstract
This study investigates the effect of controlled lactofermentation using Pediococcus acidilactici, a potential probiotic strain, on Picralima nitida seeds and Moringa oleifera leaves, two edible plants traditionally used to manage diabetes in Côte d'Ivoire. The study aims to demonstrate how controlled lactofermentation using Pediococcus acidilactici can enhance the bioactive properties and antidiabetic potential activity of these neglected plants. The results revealed that fermentation improved phytochemical contents of these wild fruits and vegetables. Fermented Picralima nitida seeds contained over five times more polyphenols than unfermented seeds (0.82 ± 0.01 mg/ml vs. 0.14 ± 0.01 mg/ml), while fermented Moringa oleifera leaves contained 0.92 ± 0.00 mg/ml. DPPH radical inhibition increased by 42.1% in Picralima nitida seeds and by 5% in Moringa oleifera leaves after fermentation. Anti-inflammatory activity increased by 61.1% in fermented Picralima nitida seeds and by 25.5% in Moringa oleifera leaves. These results encourage the use of fermented foods in diabetes treatment, which could lead to new products being developed for this condition.
Submitted: 29/05/2025 | Revised: 20/09/2025 | Accepted: 14/10/2025
Pages 21-27 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p67
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Enhancement of nitrogen use efficiency using Tithonia diversifolia green manure in lime-amended Ultisol: A ¹⁵N isotope tracing study for sustainable chili production
Oksana*, A.Haitami, Syukria Ikhsan Zam
Departement of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Universitas Islam Negeri Sultan Syarif Kasim Riau. Indonesia
Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Islam Kuantan Singingi. Riau, Indonesia
Departement of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Universitas Islam Negeri Sultan Syarif Kasim Riau, Indonesia
Abstract
This research investigated the potential of Tithonia diversifolia as a sustainable nitrogen source for chili (Capsicum annuum L.) production in lime-amended Ultisol using ¹⁵N isotope tracing technology. A factorial pot experiment was conducted with two factors: lime application (0 and 2 ton ha⁻¹) and nitrogen substitution levels (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% replacement of synthetic N fertilizer with fresh Tithonia biomass). A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the potential of Tithonia diversifolia green manure as a partial substitute for synthetic nitrogen fertilizer in chili (Capsicum annuum L.) production on acidic Ultisol soil. The study employed a factorial design with varying N substitution levels (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) and lime treatments (with and without lime application). Tithonia biomass was incorporated into the soil and incubated for 21 days before chili transplantation. Soil chemical properties, plant growth parameters, yield components, nutrient uptake, and ¹⁵N isotope analysis were measured throughout the 12-week growing period. The Ultisol soil exhibited typical constraints with pH 5.27, high Al saturation (36.85%), and low fertility status. Results demonstrated that Tithonia application significantly improved soil chemical properties by reducing exchangeable Al from 2.00 to 0.53 cmol kg⁻¹ and Al saturation from 36.85% to 7.48% without lime treatment. Soil organic carbon increased linearly with Tithonia application, reaching 2.47% at the highest substitution level with lime. Lime application enhanced soil pH and further reduced Al toxicity, creating synergistic effects with Tithonia amendments. Optimal chili performance was achieved with 25-30% N substitution, producing maximum straw dry mass (74.95 g pot⁻¹), fruit fresh weight (397.53 g pot⁻¹), and nutrient uptake efficiency. The ¹⁵N isotope analysis revealed that Tithonia contributed 1.78% to 28.40% of total plant nitrogen uptake, with higher substitution levels showing increased N contribution but reduced overall plant performance. Complete substitution (100%) significantly reduced plant growth and yield, indicating incomplete nutrient mineralization within the 21-day incubation period. The study concludes that Tithonia diversifolia can effectively substitute up to 50% of synthetic nitrogen fertilizer in chili production systems while maintaining optimal growth and yield parameters. This integrated approach offers a sustainable solution for reducing synthetic fertilizer dependency in tropical agriculture, particularly in acidic soils where lime application enhances the effectiveness of organic amendments.
Submitted: 15/05/2025 | Revised: 08/11/2025 | Accepted: 08/11/2025
Pages 28-36 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p74
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Effect of rhizospheric biological products on eggs and juveniles of Meloidogyne incognita in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) under greenhouse conditions
Sergio Ayvar Serna, José Luis Arispe Vázquez*, Gabriel Salmerón Porrón, José Terrones Salgado, Maricela Apáez Barrios, José Francisco Díaz Nájera*, Daniel Alejandro Cadena Zamudio, Ligia Catalina Muñoz-Arenas, Omar Jiménez-Pérez
Colegio Superior Agropecuario del Estado de Guerrero, Iguala de la Independencia, Guerrero, México. C.P. 40000.
Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Campo Experimental Iguala, Carretera Iguala - Tuxpan, km. 2.5., C.P. 40000, Iguala de la Independencia, Guerrero, México.
Decanato de Ciencias de la Vida y la Salud, Escuela de Ingeniería en Agronomía, Centro de Investigación en Horticultura y Plantas Nativas, UPAEP University, 21 sur No. 1103, Puebla, Puebla C.P. 72410, México.
Interdisciplinary Research Group of Sechium edule in México (GISeM), Agustín Melgar 10, Texcoco, Estado de México, C.P. 56153, Mexico.
Facultad de Ingeniería Ambiental-Universidad UPAEP, Puebla, México.
Agricultura Sustentable y Protegida, Universidad Tecnológica de Escuinapa, Camino al Guasimal S/N, Colonia Centro, Escuinapa de Hidalgo 82400, México.
ORCID ID:
José Luis Arispe Vázquez https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1357-2238
José Francisco Díaz Nájera https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7181-9425
Abstract
Meloidogyne incognita, known as the root-knot nematode, is one of the main pests affecting tomato crops worldwide, so its effective management is crucial to minimize economic losses and ensure crop quality. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the effectiveness of commercial biological products to estimate the root extraction and control the population of Meloidogyne sp. in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), variety Rio Grande under greenhouse conditions. The following biological treatments were used: Stimplex®, Serenade®, PHC Condor®, Labrador®, PHC Lilatron®, a mix of all products (full doses) and a control (water). The treatments were applied in an experimental design of blocks completely in random with five repetitions, using 70 experimental units, each with a tomato plant inoculated with 1,227 J2 juveniles within 2 days after planting (DAP) in tomato nurseries. Three applications of the treatments were carried out every 7 days, and the experiment concluded in 86 days after the transplant (DAT). The results showed that the treatments significantly reduced the population of Meloidogyne incognita and improved root development. The evaluated treatments significantly reduced the gall index caused by M. incognita. Lilatron® (T5) achieved a 73.33% reduction in Experiment 1, while Stimplex®, Serenade®, and PHC Condor® (T1–T3) reached 83.64% in Experiment 2. No galls were observed in the non-inoculated blocks, confirming the reliability of experiment.
Submitted: 20/07/2025 | Revised: 30/09/2025 | Accepted: 31/10/2025
Pages 37-44 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p81
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Aluminum toxicity mitigation in acidic drylands via PSB-enriched organic fertilizer on upland rice
Neni Marlina*, Gusmiatun, Maria Lusia, Dali, Fitri Yetty Zairani, Joni Phillep Rompas, Ida Aryani
Departement of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Muhammadiyah Palembang. Palembang, Indonesia
Department of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Palembang University. Palembang, Indonesia
Department of Agrotechnology, STIPER Sriwigama Palembang. Indonesia
Abstract
Aluminum (Al) toxicity represents a major constraint limiting upland rice productivity in acidic dryland ecosystems, where low soil pH enhances Al³⁺ solubility and bioavailability. This study investigated the efficacy of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB)-enriched organic fertilizer in mitigating Al toxicity and improving upland rice growth under acidic soil conditions. A field experiment was conducted on Ultisol with pH 4.2 and exchangeable Al content of 3.8 cmol(+) kg⁻¹, using a split-plot design arranged in randomized complete block design with three replications. The main plot factor consisted of fertilizer types: control (no fertilizer), conventional NPK fertilizer, organic fertilizer alone, and PSB-enriched organic fertilizer. The subplot factor comprised of three application rates: 5, 7.5, and 10 t ha⁻¹. The PSB consortium, dominated by Bacillus and Pseudomonas species, demonstrated high phosphate solubilization capacity (>150 mg L⁻¹) and acid phosphatase activity. Soil chemical properties (pH, exchangeable Al, available P), plant tissue Al and P concentrations, root morphological traits, shoot biomass, and grain yield were measured at harvest. Results showed that PSB-enriched organic fertilizer application significantly increased soil pH from 4.2 to 5.1, reduced exchangeable Al by 45%, and enhanced available phosphorus content by 78% compared to control. Plant analysis revealed decreased Al concentration in root tissues (62% reduction) and leaves (48% reduction), while phosphorus uptake increased by 135%. Upland rice treated with PSB-enriched organic fertilizer exhibited improved root morphology, enhanced shoot biomass (42% increase), and superior grain yield (38% increase) compared to conventional fertilization. The treatment also improved soil microbial diversity and enzymatic activities related to nutrient cycling. Interaction effects between fertilizer type and application rate were significant for most parameters, with PSB-enriched organic fertilizer at 7.5 t ha⁻¹ showing optimal performance in terms of Al toxicity mitigation and crop productivity. These findings demonstrate that PSB-enriched organic fertilizer effectively ameliorates Al toxicity through multiple mechanisms including pH buffering, Al chelation, enhanced P availability, and improved rhizosphere conditions, offering a sustainable approach for upland rice cultivation in acidic dryland systems.
Submitted: 28/07/2025 | Revised: 07/11/2025 | Accepted: 08/11/2025
Pages 45-56 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p87
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Utilization of gypsum from tin smelting waste and organic fertilizers for mung bean and edamame productivity in Ultisol
Deni Pratama, Tri Lestari, Kartika1, Dini, Nurul Hilaliyah, Fahri Setiawan, Debora D. M. Ambarita*
Departement of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Fisheries and Marine Science, Universitas Bangka Belitung, Indonesia
Department of Regional and Urban Planning, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Universitas Bangka Belitung, Indonesia
ORCID 0009-0006-6680-3799
Abstract
Mung beans and edamame are important cash crops with significant global potential. However, their production in Indonesia has declined, primarily due to nutrient deficiencies caused by soil acidity, especially in Ultisols. In Bangka Belitung, gypsum waste from tin mining activities offers an opportunity to improve soil quality when combined with organic fertilizers, potentially serving as an alternative to commercial calcite sources. This study evaluates the effects of gypsum waste and organic fertilizers on the productivity of mung beans and edamame in Ultisols. A split-plot randomized block design was used, with calcite sources as the first treatment: no calcite (P1), commercial agricultural calcite (P2), and gypsum waste (P3). The second treatment involved organic fertilizers: commercial compost (K1), chicken manure (K2), and cow manure (K3). Growth parameters (plant height and number of leaves) and productivity (flower-to-pod and filled-pod percentages) were measured. Data were analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at a 95% significance level. The combination of commercial agricultural calcite and chicken manure was most effective for mung bean growth and productivity. For edamame, the combination of gypsum waste and cow manure enhanced growth and productivity. This study demonstrates the potential of gypsum waste as a sustainable alternative to commercial agricultural lime in improving soil fertility in Ultisols, thereby increasing the productivity of these globally significant crops.
Submitted: 04/04/2025 | Revised: 17/10/2025 | Accepted: 10/11/2025
Pages 57-62 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p93
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Phytochemical characterization of lime (Citrus aurantifolia Christm Swingle) and orange (Citrus × sinensis (L.) Osbeck) rind at Guerrero, Mexico
José Luis Arispe-Vazquez*, Karla Vanessa De Lira-Ramos, Moisés Felipe-Victoriano, José Francisco Díaz-Nájera, Luis Antonio Flores-Hernández*, Sergio Arvar-Serna, José Terrones-Salgado, Agustín Hernández-Juárez, Juan Mayo-Hernández, Daniel Alejandro Cadena-Zamudio, Rocío Toledo-Aguilar, David Heriberto Noriega-Cantú
Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Campo Experimental Iguala. CP. 40000, Guerrero, México
Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Campo Experimental Pabellón, CP. 20660, Aguascalientes, México
Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias, Campo Experimental Las Huastecas, CP. 89700, Tamaulipas, México
Colegio Superior Agropecuario del Estado de Guerrero, CP. 40000, Guerrero, México.
Decanato de Ciencias de la Vida y la Salud, Escuela de Ingeniería en Agronomía, Centro de Investigación en Horticultura y Plantas Nativas, UPAEP University, CP. 72410, Puebla, México
Departamento de Parasitología, Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, CP. 25315, Coahuila, México
Interdisciplinary Research Group of Sechium edule in México (GISeM), CP. 56153, Estado de México, México
Abstract
Phytochemicals, that include both primary and secondary metabolites (SMs) of the plants, are of great interest in a variety of sectors, such as agriculture, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Recently, it has been recognized that SMs could be used as a basis to develop biopesticides. Lime and orange peels were collected and dried at room temperature from Guerrero, México. They were ground until obtaining a fine powder in a blender and then the extraction of the compounds was conducted. Characterization of plant extracts was done through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The outstanding compounds in the extracts were d-limonene and citric acid. d-Limonene stood out as one of the predominant ones with a concentration of 95.66 %. The ethanolic extracts presented a higher number of compounds than aqueous extracts. This study represents a significant advance in the characterization and comprehension of orange and lime peel extracts, providing a solid base for future studies and practical applications in various scientific and commercial fields.
Submitted: 20/08/2025 | Revised: 13/11/2025 | Accepted: 14/11/2025
Pages 63-68 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p108
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Treatments with magnetic pulse fields elevated gene expressions in Citrus aurantium L.
Ali Onur Kaya, Mert Can Emre*, Özer Çalış, İlhami Tozlu, İbrahim Halil Mutlu
Akdeniz University, Health Services Vocational School, Radiotherapy Department, 07058, Antalya, Türkiye
Yozgat Bozok University, Sorgun Vocational School, Motor Vehicles Department, 66700, Yozgat, Türkiye
Akdeniz University, Faculty of Agriculture, Plant Protection Department, 07059 Konyaaltı, Antalya, Türkiye
Akdeniz University, Faculty of Agriculture, Horticulture Department, 07059 Konyaaltı, Antalya, Türkiye
Akdeniz University, Faculty of Engineering, Material Science and Engineering Department, 07058, Antalya, Türkiye
Abstract
Plant plasticity allows for remarkable adaptability to environmental changes, and recent evidence suggests that magnetic fields may play a regulatory role in this process by modulating gene expression. In this study, we investigated the molecular responses of Citrus aurantium L. seeds exposed to magnetic pulse fields (MPFs) of 0 μT (control), 17 and 34 µT from seed planting to seedling development 8 hours in 24 hours daily cycles. Prior to experiment, working genes in Citrus spp were searched in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) database and a total of 30 genes have been identified. Further, analyses revealed that 9 genes out of 30 may have been involved in Citrus seed germination and seedling development. These 9 genes were used in quantitative PCR (qPCR) analyses and their 34 μT MPFs applications down regulated the expressions of 3 genes, auxin transporter protein 1 (AUX), nitrate transporter (NRT) and calmadulin touch 3 (TCH3) were increased, resulted in early germination, better rooted and healthier looking plants. These genes are central to plant growth, development and signaling, indicating that moderate-intensity MPFs can stimulate early developmental and physiological processes. Conversely, 17 µT MPFs delayed seed germination, possibly due to reduced expression in other tested genes. This study provides novel insights into the transcriptional shifts associated with MPFs exposure during early plant development and highlights the potential of controlled magnetic fields as an abiotic modulator in plant biotechnology.
Submitted: 06/08/2025 | Revised: 17/11/2025 | Accepted: 28/11/2025
Pages 69-74 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p114
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Enhancing shallot growth and yield performance through peat-derived humic acid amelioration in tidal swampland: A sustainable approach to marginal land utilization
A. Haitami*, Wahyudi, Nariman Hadi
Study program of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Islam Kuantan Singingi. Riau, Indonesia
Study program of Agribusiness, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Islam Kuantan Singingi. Riau, Indonesia
Abstract
Tidal swamplands represent one of Indonesia's most extensive yet underutilized agricultural resources, covering approximately 20.1 million hectares. These marginal lands possess significant potential for horticultural crop production, particularly for high-value crops such as shallots (Allium cepa L. Aggregatum). However, inherent challenges including soil acidity, aluminum toxicity, nutrient deficiency, and periodic waterlogging severely limit crop productivity. This study investigated the effectiveness of peat-derived humic acid amelioration on shallot cultivation in tidal swampland conditions of Riau Province, Indonesia. A split-plot field experiment evaluated three high-yielding varieties (Tajuk, Bima, and Manjung) and five humic acid application rates (0, 0.08, 0.16, 0.24, and 0.32 g plant⁻¹) in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Initial soil analysis revealed highly acidic conditions with pH 4.20 and elevated aluminum concentration of 5.36 cmol(+) kg⁻¹. Results demonstrated that the Bima variety consistently outperformed other varieties, achieving maximum plant height of 36.42 cm and total plant weight of 4.57 g. Humic acid application at 0.32 g plant⁻¹ produced optimal results, generating maximum fresh weight productivity of 10.5 tons hectare⁻¹, representing a 275% increase over control treatments (2.8 tons hectare⁻¹). Significant interactions between varietal selection and humic acid application demonstrated synergistic effects in overcoming soil constraints, indicating that integrated management strategies combining appropriate varietal selection with targeted soil amelioration offer a viable sustainable approach for improving shallot cultivation in marginal tidal swampland environments.
Submitted: 14/09/2025 | Revised: 06/11/2025 | Accepted: 08/11/2025
Pages 75-83 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p130
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Genetic diversity and relationships among sweet grain sorghum genotypes across agroclimatic zones revealed by SNP markers
Wendmanegda Hermann TONDÉ*, Salif BERTHÉ, Patrice BALMA, Jacques OUÉDRAOGO, Tégawendé Odette BONKOUNGOU, Nerbéwendé SAWADOGO
Genetics and Plant Breeding Team/ Biosciences Laboratory, Doctoral School of Science and Technology/ Joseph KI-ZERBO University, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
Institute of Environment and Agricultural Research (INERA) / Plant Production Department/ Plant Genetics and Biotechnology Laboratory, 04 BP 8645 Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
University Center of Ziniaré / Joseph KI-ZERBO University, 03 BP 7021, Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6841-0653
Abstract
Sweet grain sorghum is exploited in Burkina Faso through the consumption of fresh grains early at the doughy stage. To identify, valorise and conserve the genetic diversity of this agricultural resource, SNPs markers are essential tools. The aim of the present study is to assess the genetic diversity of sweet grain sorghum expressed in a linear DNA sequence, and to identify SNPs. To this effect, 50 sweet grain sorghum genotypes were sequenced using DArTseq genotyping platform. The results identified 4610 polymorphic loci with a major allele frequency ≤ 95%. The SNPs identified are made up of 55.23% transitions and 44.77% transversions with an average polymorphism information content of 0.26. The expected heterozygosity value He of 0.18 shows moderate genetic diversity in sweet sorghum in Burkina Faso. The results of the PCoA and AMOVA analyses revealed that genetic diversity is more closely linked to botanical race than to the area of origin of the genotypes. In addition, analysis of the population structure identified two homogeneous subpopulations and one admixture subpopulation. Subpopulation 1 contains 13 genotypes of the Caudatum-Guinea race, sub-population 2 contains 32 genotypes of the Caudatum race and the admixture sub-population contains 5 genotypes that could belong to the Guinea-Bicolor race. Genetic differentiation index was higher between subpopulation 2 and the admixture subpopulation (Fst = 0.26) and lower (Fst = 0.13) between subpopulations 1 and 2. The results of this study revealed the first SNP linkage map that can be used to identify QTLs for a marker-assisted breeding program in sweet grain sorghum.
Submitted: 16/09/2025 | Revised: 24/11/2025 | Accepted: 29/11/2025
Pages: 84-91 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p132
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Interrelationships of morphological, productive and biotic attributes in flaxseed crops
Maria Eduarda Schmidt, Vitor Henrique Boff Wielens, Gabriel Arthur Schneider, João Vitor Ruschel Lorenzon, Larissa Bortolini Pomarenke, Cristhian Milbradt Babeski, Jaqueline Piesanti Sangiovo, José Antonio Gonzalez Da Silva, Ivan Ricardo Carvalho, Deivid Araújo Magano
Department of Agronomy, Center for Agricultural Sciences, Regional University of the Northwest of Rio Grande do Sul (Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul – UNIJUÍ), Ijuí, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Doctoral students in the Graduate Program in Agronomy, Department of Crop Science, Federal University of Santa Maria (Universidade Federal de Santa Maria – UFSM), Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Doctoral Professors, Center for Agricultural Sciences, Regional University of the Northwest of Rio Grande do Sul (Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul – UNIJUÍ), Ijuí, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Doctoral Professor, Department of Agronomy, Federal Institute of Education, Science and Technology of Rio Grande do Sul (Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Rio Grande do Sul – IFRS), Sertão Campus, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.
Abstract: The cultivation of flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) has gained prominence because of its agronomic potential and nutritional benefits. In Brazil, its cultivation is expanding, particularly in the southern region, where it serves as an alternative crop during colder seasons. However, even with its increased production, information on crop management remains scarce, especially regarding the use of biological products in its cultivation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the morphological, productive and biotic characteristics of the flaxseed crop in response to the application of biological inputs. The experiment was conducted in the municipality of Augusto Pestana, RS, Brazil, using a randomized block design, with two experiments: one in an area with application of combined chemical + biological inputs and another with only chemical inputs. Each experiment had 10 sampling grids, and variables such as plant stand, plant height, number of branches, soil cover, compaction, productivity and presence of insect pests, diseases and weeds were evaluated. The data were subjected to the Kruskal-Wallis test at 5% probability and Pearson's linear correlation analysis. The results indicated that the combined application of chemical + biological inputs improved variables related to crop growth and development compared to chemical inputs alone. The correlations highlighted the interaction between morphological and productive factors, demonstrating that the use of biologicals can be a sustainable alternative in crop management.
Submitted: 27/06/2025 | Revised: 10/11/2025 | Accepted: 11/11/2025
Pages 92-98 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.26.20.01.p64