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Motrescu I, Lungoci C, Calistru AE, Luchian CE, Gocan TM, Rimbu CM, Bulgariu E, Ciolan MA, Jitareanu G. Non-Thermal Plasma (NTP) Treatment of Alfalfa Seeds in Different Voltage Conditions Leads to Both Positive and Inhibitory Outcomes Related to Sprout Growth and Nutraceutical Properties. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1140. [PMID: 38674549 PMCID: PMC11054222 DOI: 10.3390/plants13081140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Non-thermal plasma (NTP) has proven to be a green method in the agricultural field for the stimulation of germination, growth, and production of nutraceutical compounds in some cases. However, the process is far from being fully understood and depends on the targeted plant species and the NTP used. In this work, we focus on the production of alfalfa sprouts from NTP-treated seeds under different voltage conditions. A flexible electrode configuration was used to produce the NTP, which can also be placed on packages for in-package treatments. The surface of the seeds was analyzed, indicating that the microstructure was strongly affected by NTP treatment. Biometric measurements evidenced the possibility of stimulating the sprout growth in some conditions by up to 50% compared to the sprouts obtained from untreated seeds. Biochemical traits for the sprouts obtained in different processing conditions were also studied, such as the concentrations of chlorophyll pigments, flavonoids and polyphenols, and antioxidant activity. Most NTP treatments led to inhibitory effects, proving the strong dependence between NTP treatment and targeted plant species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iuliana Motrescu
- Department of Exact Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania; (C.E.L.); (E.B.)
- Research Institute for Agriculture and Environment, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania; (A.E.C.); (G.J.)
| | - Constantin Lungoci
- Department of Plant Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Anca Elena Calistru
- Research Institute for Agriculture and Environment, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania; (A.E.C.); (G.J.)
- Department of Pedotechnics, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania
| | - Camelia Elena Luchian
- Department of Exact Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania; (C.E.L.); (E.B.)
| | - Tincuta Marta Gocan
- Faculty of Horticulture and Business in Rural Development, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, 400372 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Cristina Mihaela Rimbu
- Department of Public Health, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Emilian Bulgariu
- Department of Exact Sciences, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania; (C.E.L.); (E.B.)
| | - Mihai Alexandru Ciolan
- Research Center on Advanced Materials and Technologies, Department of Exact and Natural Science, Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Gerard Jitareanu
- Research Institute for Agriculture and Environment, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania; (A.E.C.); (G.J.)
- Department of Pedotechnics, “Ion Ionescu de la Brad” Iasi University of Life Sciences, 700490 Iasi, Romania
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2
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Wang Q, Shi J, Liu J, Zhang P, Li L, Xie H, Li H, Wang H, Liu C, Qin P. Integration of transcriptome and metabolome reveals the accumulation of related metabolites and gene regulation networks during quinoa seed development. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2024; 114:10. [PMID: 38319430 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-023-01402-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Quinoa seeds are gluten- and cholesterol-free, contain all amino acids required by the human body, have a high protein content, provide endocrine regulation, protein supplementation, and cardiovascular protection effects. However, metabolite accumulation and transcriptional regulatory networks in quinoa seed development are not well understood. Four key stages of seed development in Dianli-3260 and Dianli-557 were thus analyzed and 849 metabolites were identified, among which sugars, amino acids, and lipids were key for developmental processes, and their accumulation showed a gradual decrease. Transcriptome analysis identified 40,345 genes, of which 20,917 were differential between the M and F phases, including 8279 and 12,638 up- and down-regulated genes, respectively. Grain development processes were mainly enriched in galactose metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversions, the biosynthesis of amino acids, and carbon metabolism pathways, in which raffinose, phosphoenolpyruvate, series and other metabolites are significantly enriched, gene-LOC110689372, Gene-LOC110710556 and gene-LOC110714584 are significantly expressed, and these metabolites and genes play an important role in carbohydrate metabolism, lipid and Amino acid synthesis of quinoa. This study provides a theoretical basis to expand our understanding of the molecular and metabolic development of quinoa grains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianchao Wang
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Jirong Shi
- Food Crop Research Institute, Zhaotong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Zhaotong, 657000, China
| | - Junna Liu
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Ping Zhang
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Li Li
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Heng Xie
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Hanxue Li
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Hongxin Wang
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China
| | - Chenghong Liu
- Biotech Research Institute, Shanghai Academy of Agricultural Sciences/Shanghai Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetics and Breeding, Shanghai, 201106, China
| | - Peng Qin
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China.
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3
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Motrescu I, Lungoci C, Ciolan MA, Jităreanu G. Non-thermal plasma (NTP) treatment of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. seeds stimulates the sprout growth and the production of nutraceutical compounds. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 24:33. [PMID: 38183006 PMCID: PMC10770889 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-023-04710-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
The possibility to stimulate the production of some nutraceutical properties of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) sprouts by non-thermal plasma (NTP) processing of the seeds in different conditions was studied. The non-thermal plasma used in this work was a surface dielectric barrier discharge. Two types of processing were performed: direct NTP treatment and NTP with a cover treatment, to simulate the processing of packaged seeds. For all treatments, the effect of pre-soaking of the seeds was studied as well. The analyses of the seeds after processing indicated an increase of the hydrophilicity of their surface for NTP direct treatment as resulted from the water contact angle measurements, which could be due to the strong etching evidenced by scanning electron microscopy imaging. A significant (p < 0.05) increase of the seedling growth, by up to 50%, was found especially for the pre-soaked seeds. These results were correlated with the increase of chlorophyll pigments concentrations, with higher concentrations in the case of NTP direct treatment than for the NTP with cover treatments. Direct NTP treatment for 30 s of dry seeds led to the highest increase of the flavonoid concentration of about three times compared to that obtained for untreated seeds. For the polyphenols and antioxidant activity, NTP with cover treatments proved to be better, with a significant increase, especially for 90 s treatment of the pre-soaked seeds. All the results indicate the possibility of tuning the nutraceutical properties of fenugreek sprouts by NTP treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iuliana Motrescu
- Ion Ionescu de la Brad Iasi University of Life Sciences, 3 Sadoveanu Alley, Iasi, 700490, Romania.
- Research Institute for Agriculture and Environment, 14 Sadoveanu Alley, Iasi, 700490, Romania.
| | - Constantin Lungoci
- Ion Ionescu de la Brad Iasi University of Life Sciences, 3 Sadoveanu Alley, Iasi, 700490, Romania
| | - Mihai Alexandru Ciolan
- Research Center on Advanced Materials and Technologies, Department of Exact and Natural Science, Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Carol I Blvd., No. 11, Iasi, 700506, Romania
| | - Gerard Jităreanu
- Ion Ionescu de la Brad Iasi University of Life Sciences, 3 Sadoveanu Alley, Iasi, 700490, Romania
- Research Institute for Agriculture and Environment, 14 Sadoveanu Alley, Iasi, 700490, Romania
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4
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Perea-Brenes A, Garcia JL, Cantos M, Cotrino J, Gonzalez-Elipe AR, Gomez-Ramirez A, Lopez-Santos C. Germination and First Stages of Growth in Drought, Salinity, and Cold Stress Conditions of Plasma-Treated Barley Seeds. ACS AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 3:760-770. [PMID: 37766795 PMCID: PMC10520973 DOI: 10.1021/acsagscitech.3c00121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Numerous works have demonstrated that cold plasma treatments constitute an effective procedure to accelerate seed germination under nonstress conditions. Evidence also exists about a positive effect of plasmas for germination under environmental stress conditions. For barley seeds, this work studies the influence of cold plasma treatments on the germination rate and initial stages of plant growth in common stress environments, such as drought, salinity, and low-temperature conditions. As a general result, it has been found that the germination rate was higher for plasma-treated than for untreated seeds. Plasma also induced favorable changes in plant and radicle dimensions, which depended on the environment. The obtained results demonstrate that plasma affects the biochemical metabolic chains of seeds and plants, resulting in changes in the concentration of biochemical growing factors, a faster germination, and an initially more robust plant growth, even under stress conditions. These changes in phenotype are accompanied by differences in the concentration of biomarkers such as photosynthetic pigments (chlorophylls a and b and carotenoids), reactive oxygen species, and, particularly, the amino acid proline in the leaves of young plants, with changes that depend on environmental conditions and the application of a plasma treatment. This supports the idea that, rather than an increase in seed water imbibition capacity, there are clear beneficial effects on seedling of plasma treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Perea-Brenes
- Nanotechnology
on Surfaces and Plasma Laboratory, Institute of Materials Science
of Seville, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas-Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41092, Spain
- Department
of Plant Biotechnology, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology
of Seville, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Jose Luis Garcia
- Department
of Plant Biotechnology, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology
of Seville, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Manuel Cantos
- Department
of Plant Biotechnology, Institute of Natural Resources and Agrobiology
of Seville, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Jose Cotrino
- Nanotechnology
on Surfaces and Plasma Laboratory, Institute of Materials Science
of Seville, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas-Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41092, Spain
- Departamento
de Física Atómica, Molecular y Nuclear, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Agustín R. Gonzalez-Elipe
- Nanotechnology
on Surfaces and Plasma Laboratory, Institute of Materials Science
of Seville, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas-Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41092, Spain
| | - Ana Gomez-Ramirez
- Nanotechnology
on Surfaces and Plasma Laboratory, Institute of Materials Science
of Seville, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas-Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41092, Spain
- Departamento
de Física Atómica, Molecular y Nuclear, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41012, Spain
| | - Carmen Lopez-Santos
- Nanotechnology
on Surfaces and Plasma Laboratory, Institute of Materials Science
of Seville, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones
Científicas-Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41092, Spain
- Departamento
de Física Aplicada I, Escuela Politécnica Superior, Universidad de Sevilla, Seville 41011, Spain
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Starič P, Kolmanič A, Junkar I, Vogel-Mikuš K. Chemical alterations of grain surface by cold plasma technology: Comparison of buckwheat and wheat grain responses to oxygen low-pressure plasma. Heliyon 2023; 9:e20215. [PMID: 37809366 PMCID: PMC10559984 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e20215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Cold plasma (CP) has a great potential for decontamination or improvement of grain germination. However, disputing results have been reported, as plasma treatment can affect species and varieties of grains in different ways. The differences may be due to the chemical composition of grain pericarps, the structure of the grains and metabolic response mechanisms. CP treatment decreased grain germination rate, speed and activity of α-amylase of buckwheat grains. Such effects on both varieties of wheat grains were present after longer exposure to plasma. Lipid peroxidation was highest in buckwheat grains, whereas wheat grains were less affected. Plasma-treated Gorolka variety exhibited a low level of lipid peroxidation, no different to untreated grains, compared to Primorka grains, where longer treatment triggered higher levels of lipid peroxidation. The response of grains to CP treatment depends on the chemical and structural properties of grains pericarp, as well as plant tolerance to certain abiotic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Starič
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva ulica 101, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Institute Jožef Stefan, Jamova cesta 39, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Aleš Kolmanič
- Agricultural Institute of Slovenia, Hacquetova ulica 17, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ita Junkar
- Institute Jožef Stefan, Jamova cesta 39, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Katarina Vogel-Mikuš
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva ulica 101, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Institute Jožef Stefan, Jamova cesta 39, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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6
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Starič P, Remic L, Vogel-Mikuš K, Junkar I, Vavpetič P, Kelemen M, Pongrac P. Exploring the potential of cold plasma treatment followed by zinc-priming for biofortification of buckwheat sprouts. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1151101. [PMID: 37215205 PMCID: PMC10196170 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1151101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Increasing the concentration of an element in edible produce (i.e., biofortification) can mitigate the element deficiency in humans. Sprouts are small but popular part of healthy diets providing vitamins and essential elements throughout the year. Element composition of sprouts can easily be amended, e.g., by soaking the grains in element-rich solution before germination (grain-priming). In addition, pre-treatment of grains to improve element translocation from the solution into the grain may further enhance the element concentration in the sprout. Cold plasma technique could provide such solution, as it increases wettability and water uptake of grains. Grains of common buckwheat (Fogopyrum esculentum Moench) were pre-treated/ untreated with cold plasma and soaked in ZnCl2 solution/pure water. Germination tests, α-amylase activity, grain hydrophilic properties and water uptake were assessed. Element composition of grain tissues and of sprouts was assessed by micro-particle-induced-X-ray emission and X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, respectively. Grain-priming increased Zn concentration in shoots of common buckwheat sprouts more than five-times, namely from 79 to 423 mg Zn kg-1 dry weight. Cold plasma treatment increased grain wettability and water uptake into the grain. However, cold plasma pre-treatment followed by grain-priming with ZnCl2 did not increase Zn concentration in different grain tissues or in the sprouts more than the priming alone, but rather decreased the Zn concentration in sprout shoots (average ± standard error: 216 ± 6.13 and 174 ± 7.57 mg Zn kg-1 dry weight, respectively). When the fresh weight portion of whole sprouts (i.e., of roots and shoots) was considered, comparable average requirements of Zn, namely 24.5 % and 35 % for adult men and women would be satisfied by consuming cold plasma pre-treated and not pre-treated grains. Potential advantages of cold plasma pre-treatment need to be tested further, mainly to optimize the duration of soaking required to produce Zn-enriched sprouts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Starič
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Lucija Remic
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Katarina Vogel-Mikuš
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Ita Junkar
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | | | - Paula Pongrac
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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7
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A study to examine the ageing behaviour of cold plasma-treated agricultural seeds. Sci Rep 2023; 13:1675. [PMID: 36717647 PMCID: PMC9886913 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-28811-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Cold plasma (low pressure) technology has been effectively used to boost the germination and growth of various crops in recent decades. The durability of these plasma-treated seeds is essential because of the need to store and distribute the seeds at different locations. However, these ageing effects are often not ascertained and reported because germination and related tests are carried out within a short time after the plasma-treatment. This research aims to fill that knowledge gap by subjecting three different types of seeds (and precursors): Bambara groundnuts (water), chilli (oxygen), and papaya (oxygen) to cold plasma-treatment. Common mechanisms found for these diverse seed types and treatment conditions were the physical and chemical changes induced by the physical etching and the cold plasma on the seeds and subsequent oxidation, which promoted germination and growth. The high glass transition temperature of the lignin-cellulose prevented any physical restructuring of the surfaces while maintaining the chemical changes to continue to promote the seeds germination and growth. These changes were monitored over 60 days of ageing using water contact angle (WCA), water uptake, electrical conductivity, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The vacuum effect was also investigated to separate its effect from cold plasma (low pressure). This finding offers a framework for determining how long agricultural seeds that have received plasma treatment can be used. Additionally, there is a need to transfer this research from the lab to the field. Once the impact of plasma treatment on seeds has been estimated, it will be simple to do so.
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8
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Ghodsimaab SP, Makarian H, Ghasimi Hagh Z, Gholipoor M. Scanning electron microscopy, biochemical and enzymatic studies to evaluate hydro-priming and cold plasma treatment effects on the germination of Salvia leriifolia Benth. seeds. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 13:1035296. [PMID: 36743554 PMCID: PMC9895828 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1035296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Finding a suitable method to increase seed germination rates of medicinal plants is critical to saving them from extinction. The effects of cold plasma (CP) treatments (using surface power densities of 80 and 100 W, with exposure times of 0, 120, 180, and 240 s) and incorporating hydropriming (carried out for 24 and 2 h on normal and uncovered seeds, respectively) to enhance the seed germination of Salvia leriifolia Benth a native endangered Iranian medicinal plant, were evaluated in this study. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images identified more destroyed mesh-like structures in hydro-primed and uncovered seeds than in normal and dry seeds. In comparison to the control, and other treatments, employing 100 W of CP for 240 s produced the maximum germination percentage and rate, as well as a seedling vigor of I and II in hydro-primed and uncovered seeds. The levels of α-amylase activity increased when the power and exposure times of CP were increased. The uncovering and hydropriming of S. leriifolia seeds resulted in increased enzyme activity. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) contents were enhanced by increasing the power and exposure time of CP, especially in uncovered and hydro-primed seeds. The activity of antioxidant enzymes, including catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), was correlated to changes in MDA and H2O2 levels. Finally, direct contact of CP with uncovered seeds in a short exposure time can improve the germination of S. leriifolia seeds via microscopic etching and activation of enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seyedeh Parisa Ghodsimaab
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Iran
| | - Hassan Makarian
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Iran
| | - Ziba Ghasimi Hagh
- Department of Horticulture Science and Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Iran
| | - Manoochehr Gholipoor
- Department of Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Shahrood University of Technology, Shahrood, Iran
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9
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The Application of Cold Plasma Technology in Low-Moisture Foods. FOOD ENGINEERING REVIEWS 2023. [DOI: 10.1007/s12393-022-09329-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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10
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Starič P, Mravlje J, Mozetič M, Zaplotnik R, Šetina Batič B, Junkar I, Vogel Mikuš K. The Influence of Glow and Afterglow Cold Plasma Treatment on Biochemistry, Morphology, and Physiology of Wheat Seeds. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23137369. [PMID: 35806379 PMCID: PMC9266853 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23137369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 06/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Cold plasma (CP) technology is a technique used to change chemical and morphological characteristics of the surface of various materials. It is a newly emerging technology in agriculture used for seed treatment with the potential of improving seed germination and yield of crops. Wheat seeds were treated with glow (direct) or afterglow (indirect) low-pressure radio-frequency oxygen plasma. Chemical characteristics of the seed surface were evaluated by XPS and FTIR analysis, changes in the morphology of the seed pericarp were analysed by SEM and AFM, and physiological characteristics of the seedlings were determined by germination tests, growth studies, and the evaluation of α-amylase activity. Changes in seed wettability were also studied, mainly in correlation with functionalization of the seed surface and oxidation of lipid molecules. Only prolonged direct CP treatment resulted in altered morphology of the seed pericarp and increased its roughness. The degree of functionalization is more evident in direct compared to indirect CP treatment. CP treatment slowed the germination of seedlings, decreased the activity of α-amylase in seeds after imbibition, and affected the root system of seedlings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Starič
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.M.); (R.Z.); (I.J.); (K.V.M.)
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva ulica 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Jure Mravlje
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva ulica 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Miran Mozetič
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.M.); (R.Z.); (I.J.); (K.V.M.)
| | - Rok Zaplotnik
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.M.); (R.Z.); (I.J.); (K.V.M.)
| | | | - Ita Junkar
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.M.); (R.Z.); (I.J.); (K.V.M.)
| | - Katarina Vogel Mikuš
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.M.); (R.Z.); (I.J.); (K.V.M.)
- Biotechnical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Jamnikarjeva ulica 101, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
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11
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Wang Q, Guo Y, Huang T, Zhang X, Zhang P, Xie H, Liu J, Li L, Kong Z, Qin P. Transcriptome and Metabolome Analyses Revealed the Response Mechanism of Quinoa Seedlings to Different Phosphorus Stresses. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23094704. [PMID: 35563095 PMCID: PMC9105174 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Revised: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a dicotyledonous annual herb of Family Amaranthaceae and Subfamily Chenopodiaceae. It has high nutritional and economic value. Phosphorus (P) is an essential plant macronutrient, a component of many biomolecules, and vital to growth, development, and metabolism. We analyzed the transcriptomes and metabolomes of Dianli–1299 and Dianli–71 quinoa seedlings, compared their phenotypes, and elucidated the mechanisms of their responses to the phosphorus treatments. Phenotypes significantly varied with phosphorus level. The plants responded to changes in available phosphorus by modulating metabolites and genes implicated in glycerophospholipid, glycerolipid and glycolysis, and glyconeogenesis metabolism. We detected 1057 metabolites, of which 149 were differentially expressed (DEMs) and common to the control (CK) vs. the low-phosphorus (LP) treatment samples, while two DEMs were common to CK vs. the high-phosphorus (HP) treatment samples. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) annotated 29,232 genes, of which 231 were differentially expressed (DEGs) and common to CK vs. LP, while one was common to CK vs. HP. A total of 15 DEMs and 11 DEGs might account for the observed differences in the responses of the quinoa seedlings to the various phosphorus levels. The foregoing results may provide a theoretical basis for improving the phosphorus utilization efficiency in quinoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianchao Wang
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
| | - Yirui Guo
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
| | - Tingzhi Huang
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
| | - Xuesong Zhang
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
| | - Ping Zhang
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
| | - Heng Xie
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
| | - Junna Liu
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
| | - Li Li
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
| | - Zhiyou Kong
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Baoshan University, Baoshan 678000, China
- Correspondence: (Z.K.); (P.Q.); Tel.: +86-130-9967-6866 (Z.K.); +86-135-0880-6942 (P.Q.)
| | - Peng Qin
- College of Agronomy and Biotechnology, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; (Q.W.); (Y.G.); (T.H.); (X.Z.); (P.Z.); (H.X.); (J.L.); (L.L.)
- Correspondence: (Z.K.); (P.Q.); Tel.: +86-130-9967-6866 (Z.K.); +86-135-0880-6942 (P.Q.)
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12
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Priatama RA, Pervitasari AN, Park S, Park SJ, Lee YK. Current Advancements in the Molecular Mechanism of Plasma Treatment for Seed Germination and Plant Growth. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:4609. [PMID: 35562997 PMCID: PMC9105374 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23094609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 04/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Low-temperature atmospheric pressure plasma has been used in various fields such as plasma medicine, agriculture, food safety and storage, and food manufacturing. In the field of plasma agriculture, plasma treatment improves seed germination, plant growth, and resistance to abiotic and biotic stresses, allows pesticide removal, and enhances biomass and yield. Currently, the complex molecular mechanisms of plasma treatment in plasma agriculture are fully unexplored, especially those related to seed germination and plant growth. Therefore, in this review, we have summarized the current progress in the application of the plasma treatment technique in plants, including plasma treatment methods, physical and chemical effects, and the molecular mechanism underlying the effects of low-temperature plasma treatment. Additionally, we have discussed the interactions between plasma and seed germination that occur through seed coat modification, reactive species, seed sterilization, heat, and UV radiation in correlation with molecular phenomena, including transcriptional and epigenetic regulation. This review aims to present the mechanisms underlying the effects of plasma treatment and to discuss the potential applications of plasma as a powerful tool, priming agent, elicitor or inducer, and disinfectant in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryza A. Priatama
- Institute of Plasma Technology, Korea Institute of Fusion Energy, 37 Dongjangsan-ro, Gunsan 54004, Korea; (R.A.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Aditya N. Pervitasari
- Department of Plant Science and Technology, Chung-Ang University, Anseong 17546, Korea;
| | - Seungil Park
- Institute of Plasma Technology, Korea Institute of Fusion Energy, 37 Dongjangsan-ro, Gunsan 54004, Korea; (R.A.P.); (S.P.)
| | - Soon Ju Park
- Division of Biological Sciences, Wonkwang University, Iksan 54538, Korea
| | - Young Koung Lee
- Institute of Plasma Technology, Korea Institute of Fusion Energy, 37 Dongjangsan-ro, Gunsan 54004, Korea; (R.A.P.); (S.P.)
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13
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Characterization and Optimization of a Conical Corona Reactor for Seed Treatment of Rapeseed. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/app12073292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Plasma agriculture is a growing field that combines interdisciplinary areas with the aim of researching alternative solutions for increasing food production. In this field, plasma sources are used for the treatment of different agricultural goods in pre- and post-harvest. With the big variety of possible treatment targets, studied reactors must be carefully investigated and characterized for specific goals. Therefore, in the present study, a cone-shaped corona reactor working with argon was adapted for the treatment of small seeds, and its basic properties were investigated. The treatment of rapeseed using different voltage duty cycles led to an increase in surface wettability, possibly contributing to the accelerated germination (27% for 90% duty cycle). The discharge produced by the conical reactor was able to provide an environment abundant with reactive oxygen species that makes the process suitable for seeds treatment. However, operating in direct treatment configuration, large numbers of seeds placed in the reactor start impairing the discharge homogeneity.
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14
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Mildaziene V, Ivankov A, Sera B, Baniulis D. Biochemical and Physiological Plant Processes Affected by Seed Treatment with Non-Thermal Plasma. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:856. [PMID: 35406836 PMCID: PMC9003542 DOI: 10.3390/plants11070856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Among the innovative technologies being elaborated for sustainable agriculture, one of the most rapidly developing fields relies on the positive effects of non-thermal plasma (NTP) treatment on the agronomic performance of plants. A large number of recent publications have indicated that NTP effects are far more persistent and complex than it was supposed before. Knowledge of the molecular basis and the resulting outcomes of seed treatment with NTP is rapidly accumulating and requires to be analyzed and presented in a systematic way. This review focuses on the biochemical and physiological processes in seeds and plants affected by seed treatment with NTP and the resulting impact on plant metabolism, growth, adaptability and productivity. Wide-scale changes evolving at the epigenomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolic levels are triggered by seed irradiation with NTP and contribute to changes in germination, early seedling growth, phytohormone amounts, metabolic and defense enzyme activity, secondary metabolism, photosynthesis, adaptability to biotic and abiotic stress, microbiome composition, and increased plant fitness, productivity and growth on a longer time scale. This review highlights the importance of these novel findings, as well as unresolved issues that remain to be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vida Mildaziene
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Anatolii Ivankov
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, Vytautas Magnus University, LT-44404 Kaunas, Lithuania;
| | - Bozena Sera
- Department of Environmental Ecology and Landscape Management, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University in Bratislava, 84215 Bratislava, Slovakia;
| | - Danas Baniulis
- Institute of Horticulture, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry, LT-54333 Babtai, Lithuania;
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15
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Abstract
Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a tunable source of reactive species and other physical factors. It exerts luxuriant biochemical effects on diverse cells, including bacterial cells, mammalian cells, and plant cells. Over the past decade, CAP has shown promising application in modern agriculture. Here, we focused on the state of the art of plasma agriculture, particularly the improvement of seed germination rates. Typical plasma sources, underlying physical principles, and the chemical and cellular mechanism of plasma’s effect on plants seeds have been discussed in depth.
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16
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Singh R, Kishor R, Singh V, Singh V, Prasad P, Aulakh NS, Tiwari UK, Kumar B. Radio-frequency (RF) room temperature plasma treatment of sweet basil seeds ( Ocimum basilicum L.) for germination potential enhancement by immaculation. JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH ON MEDICINAL AND AROMATIC PLANTS 2022; 26:100350. [PMID: 36568438 PMCID: PMC9764344 DOI: 10.1016/j.jarmap.2021.100350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Ocimum basilicum L. is an antiviral and immunity boosting medicinal plant and culinary herb. Potential use of sweet basils in COVID 19 prevention and management is making its demand rise. This study is aimed at germination potential enhancement of sweet basil seeds. Reported study is evidenced with scientific data of radio-frequency cold plasma treatment using Ar + O2 feed gas. O. basilicum seeds, placed inside the rotating glass bottle, were directly exposed to RF (13.56 MHz) plasma produced in Ar + O2 feed gas. Seed treatment was done using RF source power (60 W, 150 W, 240 W), process pressure (0.2 mbar, 0.4 mbar, 0.6 mbar), and treatment time (5 min, 10 min, 15 min) at different combinations. Results show that, the most efficient treatment provide up to ∼89 % of the germination percentage which is an enhancement by 32.3 % from the control. SEM images revealed slight shrinkage in the seed size with eroded appearance over the seed. Enhancement of lipid peroxidation, show that oxidation of seed coat may propagate internally. Water imbibition analysis, of the treated seeds, was carried out for 2-12 hours. Further analysis of seed weight, on every one hour, after soaking shows enhanced water absorption capability except the treatment at 240 W, 0.6 mbar and 15 min. Plasma treatment enhanced carbohydrate content and protein content which is reported to be due to increased primary metabolism. Whereas, increased activity of secondary metabolism results in the enhancement of enzymatic (catalase) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (proline). Vital growth parameters, such as SVI I and SVI II, got amplified by 37 % and 133 % respectively after treatment. Ameliorative effects of plasma treatment are found highly significant with a positive and significant correlation value (p < 0.01) between germination percentages, SVI I, SVI II, carbohydrate, protein and proline show their interrelationship. Ar + O2 plasma treatment is found to bring forth significant changes in the O. basilicum seeds which eventually enhanced the germination potential and it could be a very promising technology for the medicinal crop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rajesh Singh
- Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Central Scientific Instruments Organization (CSIO), Chandigarh, 160030, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Ram Kishor
- Seed Quality Lab on MAPs, Genetics & Plant Breeding Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Vivek Singh
- Seed Quality Lab on MAPs, Genetics & Plant Breeding Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
| | - Vagmi Singh
- Seed Quality Lab on MAPs, Genetics & Plant Breeding Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Priyanka Prasad
- Seed Quality Lab on MAPs, Genetics & Plant Breeding Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Navneet Singh Aulakh
- Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Central Scientific Instruments Organization (CSIO), Chandigarh, 160030, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Umesh Kumar Tiwari
- Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Central Scientific Instruments Organization (CSIO), Chandigarh, 160030, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Birendra Kumar
- Seed Quality Lab on MAPs, Genetics & Plant Breeding Division, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CIMAP), Lucknow, 226015, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
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17
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Dawood N. Effects of air plasma treatment on water uptake of wheat and barley seeds. JOURNAL OF TAIBAH UNIVERSITY FOR SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/16583655.2021.2021014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nagia Dawood
- Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Taibah University, Al Madena Al Monawara, Saudi Arabia
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18
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Causal theory on acceleration of seed germination in the vicinity of high voltage direct current transmission line. J Theor Biol 2021; 531:110899. [PMID: 34509491 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2021.110899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
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.
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19
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Bafoil M, Yousfi M, Dunand C, Merbahi N. Effects of Dielectric Barrier Ambient Air Plasma on Two Brassicaceae Seeds: Arabidopsis thaliana and Camelina sativa. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:9923. [PMID: 34576106 PMCID: PMC8465651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We investigated low-temperature plasma effects on two Brassicaceae seeds (A. thaliana and C. sativa) using dielectric barrier discharge in air. Comparisons of plasma treatments on seeds showed distinct responses on germination rate and speed. Optimal treatment time giving optimal germination is 15 min for A. thaliana with 85% increase compared to control after 48 h of germination and 1 min for C. sativa with 75% increase compared to control after 32 h of germination. Such germination increases are associated with morphological changes shown by SEM of seed surface. For better understanding at the biochemical level, seed surfaces were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry which underlined changes of lipidic composition. For both treated seeds, there is a decrease of saturated (palmitic and stearic) fatty acids while treated C. sativa showed a decrease of unsaturated (oleic and linoleic) acids and treated A. thaliana an increase of unsaturated ones. Such lipid changes, specifically a decrease of hydrophobic saturated fatty acids, are coherent with the other analyses (SEM, water uptake and contact angle). Moreover, an increase in A. thaliana of unsaturated acids (very reactive) probably neutralizes plasma RONS effects thus needing longer plasma exposure time (15 min) to reach optimal germination. For C. sativa, 1 min is enough because unsaturated linoleic acid becomes lower in treated C. sativa (1.2 × 107) compared to treated A. thaliana (3.7 × 107).
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Bafoil
- Laboratoire Plasma et Conversion d’Energie (LAPLACE), Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, UMR CNRS 5213, 31062 Toulouse, France; (M.B.); (N.M.)
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Sciences Végétales, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse INP, 31326 Auzeville-Tolosane, France
| | - Mohammed Yousfi
- Laboratoire Plasma et Conversion d’Energie (LAPLACE), Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, UMR CNRS 5213, 31062 Toulouse, France; (M.B.); (N.M.)
| | - Christophe Dunand
- Laboratoire de Recherche en Sciences Végétales, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, UPS, Toulouse INP, 31326 Auzeville-Tolosane, France
| | - Nofel Merbahi
- Laboratoire Plasma et Conversion d’Energie (LAPLACE), Université Toulouse III Paul Sabatier, UMR CNRS 5213, 31062 Toulouse, France; (M.B.); (N.M.)
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20
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Starič P, Grobelnik Mlakar S, Junkar I. Response of Two Different Wheat Varieties to Glow and Afterglow Oxygen Plasma. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:plants10081728. [PMID: 34451772 PMCID: PMC8398593 DOI: 10.3390/plants10081728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cold plasma technology has received significant attention in agriculture due to its effect on the seeds and plants of important cultivars, such as wheat. Due to climate change, wherein increasing temperatures and droughts are frequent, it is important to consider novel approaches to agricultural production. As increased dormancy levels in wheat are correlated with high temperatures and drought, improving the germination and root growth of wheat seeds could offer new possibilities for seed sowing. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of direct (glow) and indirect (afterglow) radio-frequency (RF) oxygen plasma treatments on the germination of two winter wheat varieties: Apache and Bezostaya 1. The influence of plasma treatment on seed surface morphology was studied using scanning electron microscopy, and it was observed that direct plasma treatment resulted in a high etching and nanostructuring of the seed surface. The effect of plasma treatment on germination was evaluated by measuring the germination rate, counting the number of roots and the length of the root system, and the fresh weight of seedlings. The results of this study indicate that the response of seeds to direct and indirect plasma treatment may be variety-dependent, as differences between the two wheat varieties were observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pia Starič
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Silva Grobelnik Mlakar
- Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences, University of Maribor, Pivola 10, 2311 Hoče, Slovenia;
| | - Ita Junkar
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova Cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
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21
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Development of Cold Plasma Technologies for Surface Decontamination of Seed Fungal Pathogens: Present Status and Perspectives. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7080650. [PMID: 34436189 PMCID: PMC8401644 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
In view of the ever-growing human population and global environmental crisis, new technologies are emerging in all fields of our life. In the last two decades, the development of cold plasma (CP) technology has offered a promising and environmentally friendly solution for addressing global food security problems. Besides many positive effects, such as promoting seed germination, plant growth, and development, CP can also serve as a surface sterilizing agent. It can be considered a method for decontamination of microorganisms on the seed surface alternative to the traditional use of fungicides. This review covers basics of CP technology and its application in seed decontamination. As this is a relatively young field of research, the data are scarce and hard to compare due to various plasma setups and parameters. On the other hand, the rapidly growing research field offers opportunities for novel findings and applications.
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22
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Recek N, Holc M, Vesel A, Zaplotnik R, Gselman P, Mozetič M, Primc G. Germination of Phaseolus vulgaris L. Seeds after a Short Treatment with a Powerful RF Plasma. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136672. [PMID: 34206400 PMCID: PMC8268350 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Seeds of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), of the Etna variety, were treated with low-pressure oxygen plasma sustained by an inductively coupled radiofrequency discharge in the H-mode for a few seconds. The high-intensity treatment improved seed health in regard to fungal contamination. Additionally, it increased the wettability of the bean seeds by altering surface chemistry, as established by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and increasing surface roughness, as seen with a scanning electron microscope. The water contact angle at the seed surface dropped to immeasurably low values after a second of plasma treatment. Hydrophobic recovery within a month returned those values to no more than half of the original water contact angle, even for beans treated for the shortest time (0.5 s). Increased wettability resulted in accelerated water uptake. The treatment increased the bean radicle length, which is useful for seedling establishment in the field. These findings confirm that even a brief plasma treatment is a useful technique for the disinfection and stimulation of radicle growth. The technique is scalable to large systems due to the short treatment times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Recek
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.H.); (A.V.); (R.Z.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Matej Holc
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.H.); (A.V.); (R.Z.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Alenka Vesel
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.H.); (A.V.); (R.Z.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Rok Zaplotnik
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.H.); (A.V.); (R.Z.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Peter Gselman
- Interkorn Ltd., Gančani 94, 9231 Beltinci, Slovenia;
| | - Miran Mozetič
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.H.); (A.V.); (R.Z.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
| | - Gregor Primc
- Jožef Stefan Institute, Jamova cesta 39, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; (M.H.); (A.V.); (R.Z.); (M.M.); (G.P.)
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23
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Chitosan Plasma Chemical Processing in Beam-Plasma Reactors as a Way of Environmentally Friendly Phytostimulants Production. Processes (Basel) 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/pr9010103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A novel technique of phytoactive water-soluble chitooligosaccharide (COS) production in low-temperature plasma is described. Design, operation, and control of plasma chemical reactors used to produce COS from the powder of high molecular weight chitosan are presented. The electron beam plasma is strongly non-equilibrium and chemically active; plasma was excited by injecting the scanning electron beam into reaction volume filled with aerosol, containing oxygen and chitosan powder. Plasma chemical processes, responsible for the raw chitosan destruction and techniques of these processes to obtain control of products of optimal molecular weight, are considered. COS, in amounts sufficient for laboratory tests with some plants, were produced. Tests showed that the addition of COS into the liquid growing medium at 0.25 and 1 mg/mL stimulates root growth in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings (Col-0) by up to 40%, with respect to control plants. Foliar application of these COS formulations at 0.25 mg/mL on tomato plants (cv. Micro-Tom) also resulted in increases between 11.9% and 36% in two important plant productivity indicators (flower and fruit numbers) compared to the control plants. Being environmentally friendly (and resource saving) the electron beam plasma technology of renewable natural biopolymer processing can be considered as a competitive way to produce biostimulants for commercial agriculture.
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Effects of Nonthermal Plasma on Morphology, Genetics and Physiology of Seeds: A Review. PLANTS 2020; 9:plants9121736. [PMID: 33316909 PMCID: PMC7764006 DOI: 10.3390/plants9121736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Nonthermal plasma (NTP), or cold plasma, has shown many advantages in the agriculture sector as it enables removal of pesticides and contaminants from the seed surface, increases shelf life of crops, improves germination and resistance to abiotic stress. Recent studies show that plasma treatment indeed offers unique and environmentally friendly processing of different seeds, such as wheat, beans, corn, soybeans, barley, peanuts, rice and Arabidopsis thaliana, which could reduce the use of agricultural chemicals and has a high potential in ecological farming. This review covers the main concepts and underlying principles of plasma treatment techniques and their interaction with seeds. Different plasma generation methods and setups are presented and the influence of plasma treatment on DNA damage, gene expression, enzymatic activity, morphological and chemical changes, germination and resistance to stress, is explained. Important plasma treatment parameters and interactions of plasma species with the seed surface are presented and critically discussed in correlation with recent advances in this field. Although plasma agriculture is a relatively new field of research, and the complex mechanisms of interactions are not fully understood, it holds great promise for the future. This overview aims to present the advantages and limitations of different nonthermal plasma setups and discuss their possible future applications.
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25
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Changes in Growth and Production of Non-Psychotropic Cannabinoids Induced by Pre-Sowing Treatment of Hemp Seeds with Cold Plasma, Vacuum and Electromagnetic Field. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10238519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the effects of seed treatments with different stressors, such as cold plasma (CP), a vacuum and an electromagnetic field (EMF), on the in vitro germination of industrial hemp cv. Futura 75 were compared with the effects on germination in the field, plant growth, and the amount of major cannabinoids in the leaves and inflorescences of female plants. CP and EMF (but not vacuum) treatments improved in vitro seed germination, but had no impact on germination in the field. EMF treatment increased the weight of the above-ground part of male and female plants grown for 4 months by 65–70% and the number of female inflorescences by 70%. CP stimulated the growth of male plants (weight increased 1.4 times) but reduced the growth of female plants. Vacuum treatment did not induce changes in the growth of female and male plants. Vacuum and EMF treatments did not change the amount of cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), but CP decreased the CBDA content in hemp leaves by 41%. Vacuum treatment increased the amount of CBDA in female plant inflorescences by 26%. Thus, hemp seed treatment with EMF has a potential application for increasing the biomass of female plants. CP treatment can be used to increase male plant production while vacuum treatment can stimulate CBD production.
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26
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A Coaxial Dielectric Barrier Discharge Reactor for Treatment of Winter Wheat Seeds. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10207133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasmas have been recently explored for their potential usage in agricultural applications as an interesting alternative solution for a potential increase in food production with a minor impact on the ecosystem. However, the adjustment and optimization of plasma sources for agricultural applications in general is an important study that is commonly overlooked. Thus, in the present work, a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) reactor with coaxial geometry designed for the direct treatment of seeds is presented and investigated. To ensure reproducible and homogeneous treatment results, the reactor mechanically shakes the seeds during treatment, and ambient air is admixed while the discharge runs. The DBD, operating with argon and helium, produces two different chemically active states of the system for seed modification. The temperature evolution was monitored to guarantee a safe manipulation of seeds, whereas a physiological temperature was assured by controlling the exposure time. Both treatments led to a remarkable increase in wettability and acceleration in germination. The present study showed faster germination acceleration (60% faster after 24 h) and a lower water contact angle (WCA) (82% reduction) for winter wheat seeds by using the described argon discharge (with air impurities). Furthermore, the treatment can be easily optimized by adjusting the electrical parameters.
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The Effects of Plasma on Plant Growth, Development, and Sustainability. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10176045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Cold atmospheric or low pressure plasma has activation effects on seed germination, plant growth and development, and plant sustainability, and prior experimental studies showing these effects are summarized in this review. The accumulated data indicate that the reactive species generated by cold plasma at atmospheric or low pressure may be involved in changing and activating the physical and chemical properties, physiology, and biochemical and molecular processes in plants, which enhances germination, growth, and sustainability. Although laboratory and field experiments are still required, plasma may represent a tool for efficient adaptation to changes in the climate and agricultural environments.
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Mujahid Z, Tounekti T, Khemira H. Cold plasma treatment to release dormancy and improve growth in grape buds: a promising alternative to natural chilling and rest breaking chemicals. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2667. [PMID: 32060299 PMCID: PMC7021807 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59097-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Winter dormancy of temperate zone perennial plant species is commonly released by chilling temperature. If the duration of the cold weather is not adequate, plant growth becomes disorganized leading to reduced growth, spread out flowering and fruit maturation and often reduced yield. In mild-winter regions, growers commonly resort to spraying their trees with chemicals such as hydrogen cyanamide to compensate for the lack of chilling to ensure good growth and yield. Although effective, most of these chemicals are highly toxic; unfortunately, there is no effective and environmentally friendly alternative which can be used to release dormancy. In this work, we present a cold plasma treatment-based method which can effectively release the dormancy of grape buds. We have found that exposing grape buds to plasma provides improvement of several growth parameters including higher, faster and more synchronous budbreak and more vigorous vegetative growth, comparatively similar to or better than natural chilling. Biochemical analyses of bud tissue suggest that the plasma treatment triggered a marked transient oxidative stress as indicated by the increase in the concentrations of free proline, malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Proline appears to have played a key role; as a compatible osmolyte, it may have protected cellular structures against free radicals and as a signaling molecule, it may have induced the events leading to dormancy release. We anticipate that our work will provide a starting point for the development of novel plasma-based tools and methods to treat dormant plants. The plasma treatment method may allow higher agricultural production in several regions of the world at risk of becoming marginal for the cultivation of certain crops due to global warming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Mujahid
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - T Tounekti
- Centre for Environmental Research & Studies, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia
| | - H Khemira
- Centre for Environmental Research & Studies, Jazan University, Jazan, 45142, Saudi Arabia.
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Effect of Oxygen Plasma on Sprout and Root Growth, Surface Morphology and Yield of Garlic. PLANTS 2019; 8:plants8110462. [PMID: 31671537 PMCID: PMC6918151 DOI: 10.3390/plants8110462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Depending on the climate, garlic can be planted either in the fall or spring for a harvest in the summer, but spring planting might require the strengthening of the plant by external techniques. We have used low pressure, inductively coupled, radio frequency oxygen plasma for the treatment of peeled garlic cloves of a spring-planted Slovenian autochthonous cultivar. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of plasma treatment on garlic clove shoot and root growth and, ultimately, the yield. The roles of surface chemistry, surface morphology, and water uptake in these effects were also evaluated. The plasma treatment of cloves induced increases in water uptake. The increases were explained by changes in surface morphology that were determined by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Nanostructured epicuticular wax structures appeared at the cuticle surface. The optimal treatment parameters accelerated root growth, but not shoot growth, in a laboratory setting. After growth in the field, the trends indicated that plant height and dried bulb mass increase, but the improvements were not statistically significant.
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Gao X, Zhang A, Héroux P, Sand W, Sun Z, Zhan J, Wang C, Hao S, Li Z, Li Z, Guo Y, Liu Y. Effect of Dielectric Barrier Discharge Cold Plasma on Pea Seed Growth. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2019; 67:10813-10822. [PMID: 31490069 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.9b03099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Traditional seed pretreatment methods cause secondary pollution for the application of various chemicals. This study investigated the effect of dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) cold plasma on seedling growth. Effects of plasma-activated tap water (PATW) and plasma-activated seeds (PAS) were compared for germination rates, seedling height, dry weight, and chlorophyll content. Results show that compared with controls these growth parameters were all increased by more than 50%. The yields and contributions of hydrogen peroxide, nitrate, nitrite, and ammonium were quantified. Hydrogen peroxide and nitrate have an important role in seedling growth. By etching, the seed epidermis free radicals can reduce the apparent contact angle and increase the water absorption of the seeds. In addition to the low cost of PATW and PAS compared with commercial fertilizers, DBD does not involve any chemical addition. Thus, both PATW and PAS can be an alternative for improvement of agricultural production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoting Gao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security , Shanghai 200092 , China
| | - Ai Zhang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Paul Héroux
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health , McGill University , Montreal H3A 0G4 , Canada
| | - Wolfgang Sand
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Zhuyu Sun
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Jiaxun Zhan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Cihao Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Siyu Hao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Zhenyu Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Zhenying Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Ying Guo
- Department of Applied Physics, College of Science , Donghua University , Shanghai 201620 , China
| | - Yanan Liu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering , Donghua University , 2999 North Renmin Road , Shanghai 201620 , China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security , Shanghai 200092 , China
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Cui D, Yin Y, Wang J, Wang Z, Ding H, Ma R, Jiao Z. Research on the Physio-Biochemical Mechanism of Non-Thermal Plasma-Regulated Seed Germination and Early Seedling Development in Arabidopsis. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2019; 10:1322. [PMID: 31781132 PMCID: PMC6857620 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2019.01322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Non-thermal plasma holds great potentials as an efficient, economical, and eco-friendly seed pretreatment method for improving the seed germination and seedling growth, but the mechanisms are still unclear. Therefore, a plant model organism Arabidopsis thaliana was used to investigate the physio-biochemical responses of seeds to non-thermal plasma at different treatment times by measuring the plant growth parameters, redox-related parameters, calcium (Ca2+) level and physicochemical modification of seed surface. The results showed that short-time plasma treatment (0.5, 1, and 3 min) promoted seed germination and seedling growth, whereas long-time plasma treatment (5 and 10 min) exhibited inhibitory effects. The level of superoxide anion (O2 •-) and nitric oxide (NO) and the intensity of infrared absorption of the hydroxyl group were significantly higher in short-time plasma treated Arabidopsis seeds, and the level of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was remarkably increased in long-time plasma treated seeds, indicating that O2 •-, ·OH, and NO induced by plasma may contribute to breaking seed dormancy and advancing seed germination in Arabidopsis, while plasma-induced H2O2 may inhibit the seed germination. The intensity of hydroxyl group and the contents of H2O2, malondialdehyde, and Ca2+ in Arabidopsis seedlings were obviously increased with the plasma treatment time. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, and peroxidase activities as well as proline level in short-time treated seedlings were apparently higher than in control. The etching effects of plasma on seed surface were dose-dependent, spanning from slight shrinkages to detached epidermis, which also significantly increased the oxidation degree of seed surface. Therefore, the improved activities of antioxidant systems, moderate ·OH, H2O2, and Ca2+ accumulation and seed surface modification induced by plasma all contribute to the enhanced seedling growth of Arabidopsis after short-time plasma treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongjie Cui
- Henan Key Laboratory of Ion-Beam Bioengineering, College of Agricultural, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yue Yin
- Henan Key Laboratory of Ion-Beam Bioengineering, College of Agricultural, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiaqi Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Ion-Beam Bioengineering, College of Agricultural, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhiwei Wang
- School of Physics, Key Laboratory of Materials Modification by Laser, Ion and Electron Beams, Ministry of Education, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Hongbin Ding
- School of Physics, Key Laboratory of Materials Modification by Laser, Ion and Electron Beams, Ministry of Education, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Ruonan Ma
- Henan Key Laboratory of Ion-Beam Bioengineering, College of Agricultural, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ruonan Ma, ; Zhen Jiao,
| | - Zhen Jiao
- Henan Key Laboratory of Ion-Beam Bioengineering, College of Agricultural, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Ruonan Ma, ; Zhen Jiao,
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Influence of irrigation conditions in the germination of plasma treated Nasturtium seeds. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16442. [PMID: 30401893 PMCID: PMC6219603 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-34801-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasma treatments had emerged as a useful technique to improve seed germination. In this work we investigate the influence of different irrigation conditions and plasma treatments on the germination of nasturtium seeds. During plasma treatment, seeds experience a progressive weight loss as a function of treatment time that has been associated to water release, a process that is more pronounced after longer plasma treatment times. Seeds treated for short times (<30 s) are able to germinate more efficiently than untreated specimen under hydric stress (drought conditions), while plasma treatments for longer times (up to 300 s) impaired germination independently on irrigation conditions. Characterization analysis of plasma treated seeds by FTIR-ATR, SEM/EDX and XPS showed that plasma treatment affected the chemical state of pericarp while, simultaneously, induced a considerable increase in the seeds water uptake capacity. The decrease in germination efficiency found after plasma treatment for long times, or for short times under optimum irrigation conditions, has been attributed to that the excess of water accumulated in the pericarp hampers the diffusion up to the embryo of other agents like oxygen which are deemed essential for germination.
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Saberi M, Modarres-Sanavy SAM, Zare R, Ghomi H. Amelioration of Photosynthesis and Quality of Wheat under Non-thermal Radio Frequency Plasma Treatment. Sci Rep 2018; 8:11655. [PMID: 30076394 PMCID: PMC6076249 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-30200-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Plasma treatment is recognized as a suitable technology to improve germination efficiency of numerous seeds. The objective of this paper is to demonstrate whether cold air plasma can change the quality and quantity of wheat yield. Effects of cold plasma treatment on wheat (Pishgam variety) yield were studied by a randomized complete block design experiment at the Faculty of Agriculture of Tarbiat Modarres University, Iran, during 2015–17. Seeds were pre-treated with 80 W of cold plasma at four levels of time, 60, 120, 180 and 240 seconds. Plasma effects on yield and quality of wheat were determined by measuring plant photosynthesis, grain yield, biological yield, 1000-grain weight, total chlorophyll, carotenoid, anthocyanin, protein and starch content. Results showed that plasma treatments had positive effects on wheat characteristics, and treatment of 180 s had the highest stimulatory effect. In both years, cold plasma increased grain yield at 180 s, but decreased it at 240 s compared with control. The rate of plant photosynthesis, grain yield, 1000-grain weight, carotenoid and anthocyanin were enhanced at 180 s. The starch content and grain protein were enhanced at 120 s cold plasma application compared with control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahin Saberi
- Depatment of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | | | - Rasoul Zare
- Iranian Research Institute of Plant Protection, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Ghomi
- Laser and Plasma Research Institute, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran
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Vanraes P, Nikiforov A, Bogaerts A, Leys C. Study of an AC dielectric barrier single micro-discharge filament over a water film. Sci Rep 2018; 8:10919. [PMID: 30026600 PMCID: PMC6053385 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-29189-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
In the last decades, AC powered atmospheric dielectric barrier discharges (DBDs) in air with a liquid electrode have been proposed as a promising plasma technology with versatile applicability in medicine, agriculture and water treatment. The fundamental features of the micro-discharge filaments that make up this type of plasma have, however, not been studied yet in sufficient detail. In order to address this need, we investigated a single DBD micro-discharge filament over a water film in a sphere-to-sphere electrode configuration, by means of ICCD imaging and optical emission spectroscopy. When the water film temporarily acts as the cathode, the plasma duration is remarkably long and shows a clear similarity with a resistive barrier discharge, which we attribute to the resistive nature of the water film and the formation of a cathode fall. As another striking difference to DBD with solid electrodes, a constant glow-like plasma is observed at the water surface during the entire duration of the applied voltage cycle, indicating continuous plasma treatment of the liquid. We propose several elementary mechanisms that might underlie the observed unique behavior, based on the specific features of a water electrode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Vanraes
- PLASMANT, Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp Campus Drie Eiken, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium. .,RUPT, Department of Applied Physics, Ghent University, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 41 B4, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Anton Nikiforov
- RUPT, Department of Applied Physics, Ghent University, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 41 B4, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annemie Bogaerts
- PLASMANT, Department of Chemistry, University of Antwerp Campus Drie Eiken, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610, Wilrijk-Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Christophe Leys
- RUPT, Department of Applied Physics, Ghent University, Sint-Pietersnieuwstraat 41 B4, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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