Showing papers on "Rapeseed published in 2017"

Rapeseed research and production in China

Abstract: Rapeseed ( Brassica napus L.) is the largest oilseed crop in China and accounts for about 20% of world production. For the last 10 years, the production, planting area, and yield of rapeseed have been stable, with improvement of seed quality and especially seed oil content. China is among the leading countries in rapeseed genomic research internationally, having jointly with other countries accomplished the whole genome sequencing of rapeseed and its two parental species, Brassica oleracea and Brassica rapa . Progress on functional genomics including the identification of QTL governing important agronomic traits such as yield, seed oil content, fertility regulation, disease and insect resistance, abiotic stress, nutrition use efficiency, and pod shattering resistance has been achieved. As a consequence, molecular markers have been developed and used in breeding programs. During 2005–2014, 215 rapeseed varieties were registered nationally, including 210 winter- and 5 spring-type varieties. Mechanization across the whole process of rapeseed production was investigated and operating instructions for all relevant techniques were published. Modern techniques for rapeseed field management such as high-density planting, controlled-release fertilizer, and biocontrol of disease and pests combined with precision tools such as drones have been developed and are being adopted in China. With the application of advanced breeding and production technologies, in the near future, the oil yield and quality of rapeseed varieties will be greatly increased, and more varieties with desirable traits, especially early maturation, high yield, high resistance to biotic and abiotic stress, and suitability for mechanized harvesting will be developed. Application of modern technologies on the mechanized management of rapeseed will greatly increase grower profit.

Effect of pulsed electric field on functional and structural properties of canola protein by pretreating seeds to elevate oil yield

Abstract: Pulsed electric field (PEF) was applied to moisture-preconditioned canola seeds to evaluate the effect on oil yield The effect of PEF on functional and structural properties of canola protein left over after oil extraction were also examined in albumin and globulin fractions obtained at optimal conditions for oil yield Generally, PEF pretreatment significantly improved (P

Genome-Wide Association Study Reveals the Genetic Architecture Underlying Salt Tolerance-Related Traits in Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)

Abstract: Soil salinity is a serious threat to agriculture sustainability worldwide. Salt tolerance at the seedling stage is a crucial prerequisite for plant establishment and high yield in saline soils; however, little information is available on rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) salt tolerance. We evaluated salt tolerance in different rapeseed accession and conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify salt tolerance-related quantitative trait loci (QTLs). A natural population comprising 368 B. napus cultivars and inbred lines was genotyped with a Brassica 60K Illumina Infinium SNP array ; 75 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) distributed across 14 chromosomes were associated with four salt tolerance-related traits. These SNPs integrated into 25 QTLs that explained 4.21–9.23% of the phenotypic variation in the cultivars. Additionally, 38 possible candidate genes were identified in genomic regions associated with the salt tolerance indexes; these fell into several functional groups including transcription factors, aquaporins, transporters, and enzymes, all play a role in salt tolerance in A. thaliana, rice, and other crops. Thus, salt tolerance in rapeseed involves complex molecular mechanisms. Our results provide valuable information for studying the genetic control of salt tolerance in B. napus seedlings and may facilitate marker-based breeding for rapeseed salt tolerance.

Integration of omics approaches to understand oil/protein content during seed development in oilseed crops

Abstract: Oilseed crops, especially soybean (Glycine max) and canola/rapeseed (Brassica napus), produce seeds that are rich in both proteins and oils and that are major sources of energy and nutrition worldwide Most of the nutritional content in the seed is accumulated in the embryo during the seed filling stages of seed development Understanding the metabolic pathways that are active during seed filling and how they are regulated are essential prerequisites to crop improvement In this review, we summarize various omics studies of soybean and canola/rapeseed during seed filling, with emphasis on oil and protein traits, to gain a systems-level understanding of seed development Currently, most (80–85%) of the soybean and rapeseed reference genomes have been sequenced (950 and 850 megabases, respectively) Parallel to these efforts, extensive omics datasets from different seed filling stages have become available Transcriptome and proteome studies have detected preponderance of starch metabolism and glycolysis enzymes to be the possible cause of higher oil in B napus compared to other crops Small RNAome studies performed during the seed filling stages have revealed miRNA-mediated regulation of transcription factors, with the suggestion that this interaction could be responsible for transitioning the seeds from embryogenesis to maturation In addition, progress made in dissecting the regulation of de novo fatty acid synthesis and protein storage pathways is described Advances in high-throughput omics and comprehensive tissue-specific analyses make this an exciting time to attempt knowledge-driven investigation of complex regulatory pathways

Suppression of Soilborne Diseases of Soybean With Cover Crops

Abstract: Field trials were conducted from 2010 to 2013 at four locations in Illinois to evaluate the impact of cover crops (cereal rye [Secale cereal], brown mustard [Brassica juncea], winter canola [B. napus], and winter rapeseed [B. napus]) on soybean [Glycine max] stands and yield, diseases, pathogen populations, and soil microbial communities. Cover crops were established in the fall each year and terminated the following spring either by using an herbicide (no-till farms), by incorporation (organic farm), or by an herbicide followed by incorporation (research farm). Although shifts in soilborne pathogen populations and microbial community structure were not detected, cover crops were found to induce general soil suppressiveness in some circumstances. Cereal rye and rapeseed improved soybean stands in plots inoculated with Rhizoctonia solani and decreased levels of soybean cyst nematode in the soil. Cereal rye increased soil suppressiveness to R. solani and Fusarium virguliforme, as measured in greenhouse bioassays. Cereal rye significantly improved yield when Rhizoctonia root rot was a problem.

Suitability of Wild Oat (Avena fatua), False Cleavers (Galium spurium), and Volunteer Canola (Brassica napus) for Harvest Weed Seed Control in Western Canada

Abstract: As chemical management options for weeds become increasingly limited due to selection for herbicide resistance, investigation of additional nonchemical tools becomes necessary. Harvest weed seed control (HWSC) is a methodology of weed management that targets and destroys weed seeds that are otherwise dispersed by harvesters following threshing. It is not known whether problem weeds in western Canada retain their seeds in sufficient quantities until harvest at a height suitable for collection. A study was conducted at three sites over 2 yr to determine whether retention and height criteria were met by wild oat, false cleavers, and volunteer canola. Wild oat consistently shed seeds early, but seed retention was variable, averaging 56% at the time of wheat swathing, with continued losses until direct harvest of wheat and fababean. The majority of retained seeds were >45 cm above ground level, suitable for collection. Cleavers seed retention was highly variable by site-year, but generally greater than wild oat. The majority of seed was retained >15 cm above ground level and would be considered collectable. Canola seed typically had >95% retention, with the majority of seed retained >15 cm above ground level. The suitability ranking of the species for management with HWSC was canola > cleavers > wild oat. Efficacy of HWSC systems in western Canada will depend on the target species and site- and year-specific environmental conditions.Nomenclature: False cleavers, Galium spurium L. GALSP; volunteer canola, Brassica napus L. BRSNN; wild oat, Avena fatua L. AVEFA; fababean, Vicia faba L.; wheat, Triticum aestivum L.

Genotype by environment interaction for oil content in winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) using additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model

Abstract: The objective of this study was to assess genotype by environment interaction for oil content in winter rapeseed cultivars grown in West Poland by the additive main effects and multiplicative interaction model. The study comprised of 25 winter rapeseed genotypes (15 F1 CMS ogura hybrids, parental lines and two European cultivars: open pollinated Californium and F1 hybrid Hercules), evaluated at five locations in a randomized complete block design, with four replicates. Oil content of the tested genotypes ranged from 35.2 to 48.8%, with an average of 44.55%. AMMI analyses revealed significant genotype by environmental interaction with respect to oil content. The hybrid PN66×PN18 is recommended for further inclusion in the breeding program due to its high oil content, CMS ogura line PN66 and hybrid PN68×PN18 are recommended because of its stability and high oil content.

Analysis of QTL for seed oil content in Brassica napus by association mapping and QTL mapping

Abstract: Increasing seed oil content is one of the most important breeding targets for rapeseed (Brassica napus). In this study, we combined quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and marker-trait association analysis to dissect the genetic basis of seed oil content in rapeseed. A doubled haploid (DH) population with 261 lines was grown in two highly contrasting macro-environments, Germany with winter ecotype environment and China with semi-winter ecotype environment, to explore the effect of environment effect of on seed oil content. Notable macro-environment effect was found for seed oil content. 19 QTL for seed oil content were identified across the two macro-environments. For association analysis, a total of 142 rapeseed breeding lines with diverse oil contents were grow in China macro-environment. We identified 23 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers that were significantly associated with the seed oil content. Comparative analysis revealed that five QTL identified in the DH population, located on chromosomes A03, A09, A10 and C09, were co-localized with 11 significantly associated SSR markers that were identified from the association mapping population. Of which, the QTL on chromosome A10 was found to be homeologous with the QTL on chromosome C09 by aligning QTL confidence intervals with the reference genomes B. napus. Those QTL associated with specific macro-environments provides valuable insight into the genetic regulation of seed oil content and will facilitate marker-assisted breeding of B. napus.

Quality of Wood-Pressed Rapeseed Oil

Abstract: This study is the first report on the quality indices of Chinese wood-pressed rapeseed oil. Nineteen representative wood-pressed rapeseed oil samples (representing 80% of the factories that produce this oil in China) were collected and investigated for their physicochemical properties (acid value, peroxide value, color value, and oxidative stability index), fatty acid composition, as well as contents of tocopherols, phytosterols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), aflatoxin B1, arsenic, and lead. Significant differences were observed in the quality results of 19 wood-pressed rapeseed oil samples. The acid value, peroxide value, and color values, as well as the oxidative stability index were found in the ranges of 1.10–3.04 mg KOH/g, 0.84–9.34 mequiv O2/kg, 3.50–5.30 (Y = 35, R), and 4.43–10.34 h (120 °C), respectively. Sixteen of the analyzed oil samples had greater than 2% erucic acid. Tocopherols content ranged from 50.93 to 97.54 mg/100 g and phytosterols content ranged from 453.86 to 735.65 mg/100 g. Meanwhile, benzo[a]pyrene and PAH4 were 1.00–13.57 and 7.47–33.55 μg/kg, respectively. Fourteen samples exceeded the maximum allowable limit of benzo[a]pyrene and PAH4 (chrysene, benz[a]anthracene, benzo[b]fluroranthene, and benzo[a]pyrene) according to the European Union (EU) standards. However, the contents of aflatoxin B1, arsenic, and lead of the tested oil samples were all in conformance with the EU, Codex Alimentarius, and China national standards. Results showed that more attention should be paid to the problem of high PAH4 contents in wood-pressed rapeseed oil. The inspection and monitoring of raw materials and processing equipment, as well as the establishment of quality standards for the production of high-quality wood-pressed rapeseed oil are necessary.

Increase of protein extraction yield from rapeseed meal through a pretreatment with phytase.

Abstract: Rapeseed meal is a good source of high-quality vegetal protein but contains antinutritional compounds that limit its use for human and animal feed. The aim of this study was to develop a methodology to enhance alkaline protein extraction of rapeseed meal and to produce protein-rich products with low levels of phytic acid. Different phytase dosages and operating conditions were used for rapeseed meal pretreatment followed by alkaline extraction at different temperatures, time, pH and solid/liquid ratios (S/L).; Results: The highest protein extraction yield attained was 72.1%, for 2 h at 55 °C, with a phytase dosage of 0.8 U g-1 when the alkaline extraction was performed at 75 °C, pH 12.5 and 60 min for an S/L ratio of 10 g 100 mL-1 water. The extraction yields were higher than those previously obtained without enzymatic pretreatment.; Conclusion: Phytase pretreatment enhanced alkaline extraction yield of proteins from rapeseed meal. This procedure allowed also the production of rapeseed protein concentrates with very low levels of phytic acid, ∼1 g kg-1 , improving their nutritional properties and commercial value. Moreover, after the pretreatment, the amount of phytic acid in the remaining rapeseed meal decreases about 25%. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.; © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry.

Sinapinic and protocatechuic acids found in rapeseed: isolation, characterisation and potential benefits for human health as functional food ingredients

Abstract: Rapeseed is one of the world’s major oilseeds, and rapeseed oil is produced by pressing of the seeds. This process results in the production of a low-economic-value by-product, rapeseed meal, which is commonly used as animal feed. Rapeseed meal is rich in bioactive phenolic compounds, including sinapinic acid (SA) and protocatechuic acid (PCA). Isolation of these bioactive compounds from a by-product of rapeseed oil production is largely in agreement with the current concept of the circular economy and total utilisation of crop harvest using a biorefinery approach. In this review, current information concerning traditional and novel methods to isolate phenolic compounds – including SA and PCA – from rapeseed meal, along with in vitro and in vivo studies concerning the bioactivity of SA and PCA and their associated health effects, is collated. These health effects include anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetes activities, along with histone deacetylase inhibition and protective cardiovascular, neurological and hepatic effects. The traditional extraction methods include use of solvents and/or enzymes. However, a need for simpler, more efficient methodologies has led to the development of novel extraction processes, including microwave-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, pulsed electric field and high-voltage electrical discharge extraction processes.

Variabilty of oil and protein content in rapeseed cultivars affected by seeding date

Abstract: R E G U L A R A R T I C L E *Corresponding author: Igor Balalić, Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops, Oil Crops Department, Novi Sad, Serbia. E-mail: igor.balalic@ifvcns.ns.ac.rs Received: 30 January 2017; Revised: 21 April 2017; Accepted: 30 April 2017; Published Online: 13 May 2017 Balalic, et al.: Oil and protein content in rapeseed Emir. J. Food Agric ● Vol 29 ● Issue 6 ● 2017 405 field free of weeds. These characteristics make rapeseed a preferred component of crop rotation (MarjanovićJeromela et al., 2006). The length of the vegetation period is affected by planting date, and then it has an impact on yield and yield components. Since seeding date has an influence on the physiological characteristics of the plant, it is important to determine proper seeding date in order to have optimum coordination between the plant growth and climatic conditions (Khajat et al., 2014). The delay in sowing leads to a decrease in the period from planting time to flowering and maturity. With optimal seeding date, the degree of development can be regulated in which the plants will best overwinter. Considering that in Southeast Europe the information on the impact of seeding date on quality characteristics in rapeseed is scarce, the objective of this investigation was to assess the variability of oil and protein content in winter rapeseed cultivars during two cropping seasons affected by seeding date. MATERIALS AND METHODS Plant materials and experimental conditions The field trial was carried out to study the response of oil and protein content of four rapeseed cultivars, two originating from Serbia (Banaćanka, Slavica), and two from Germany (Express, Valesca), to six seeding dates (SD1-21 August, SD2-31 August, SD3-10 September, SD4-21 September, SD5-1 October, SD6-9 October). The two-year trial was carried out from 2009 to 2011 at Rimski šančevi (45°19 ́51 ́ ́N; 19°50 ́59 ́ ́E; 84 m altitude), on the experimental field of the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops, Novi Sad, Serbia. Sowing was done on 6 m2 plots for each cultivar and seeding date in four replications on August 25, 2009, and on August 26, 2010. The distance between rows was 25 cm and within rows 5 cm. Harvest date was on June 30, 2009, and on June 23, 2010. Rapeseed plants were harvested at the time of the second technical maturity level (Harper and Berkenkamp 1975). In both investigated seasons optimal agricultural practices were carried out. Climatic data on precipitations and temperatures were taken from the Hydrometeorological Service of the Republic of Serbia (http://www.hidmet.sr.gov.rs). Chemical analyses Magnetic resonance analyzer (Newport 4000 NMR analyzer), using the NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) method by Granlund and Zimmerman (1975), was applied for the determination of oil content. It was expressed as a percentage of seed. The content of total protein was determined using standard Kjeldahl (1883) procedure after harvest. The analyses were carried out in the chemical laboratory of the Institute of Field and Vegetable Crops, Oil Crops Department, Novi Sad, Serbia. Statistical analyses Randomized complete block design with four replications was applied. Collected data were analyzed using threeway analysis of variance, and correlation analysis in the STATISTICA 12.0 package computer program (StatSoft). LSD test at 5% and 1% level of probability was used. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Oil content Oil content, except seed yield, is one of the very important criteria in creating rapeseed cultivars (Marinković et al., 2003; Si and Walton, 2004; Marjanović-Jeromela et al., 2007). High seed yield together with high oil content will result in high oil yield (Pospišil et al., 2014). Oil content and oil quality depend on the genetic potential of the cultivar, respectively by its expression in specific agro-ecological conditions. Highly significant differences were stated for all main sources of variation (year, cultivar, seeding date) for oil content. Only year × seeding date interaction was highly significant. Oil content in rapeseed was mostly under the influence of the cultivar (50.7%). Year of growing amounted to 34.4% of the variability of oil content and seeding date to 4.2% (Table 1). Our results have a close similarity with the reports of Fanaei et al. (2007). These authors also stated that year was the main source of variation for oil content and equal significant contribution gave cultivar and seeding date. On the basis of 19 hybrids and cultivars, Pospišil et al. (2008) concluded that in rapeseed oil content, seed yield and oil yield were significantly caused by genotype and by the conditions of production (year, site). Ma et al. (2016) amounted that oil content in rapeseed was significantly Table 1: ANOVA for oil content in rapeseed cultivars (2009/2010 and 2010/2011) Source of variation df SS (%) MS P Replication 3 1.1 3.50 0.162 Year (Y) 1 34.4 162.70 0.000** Cultivar (C) 3 50.7 161.00 0.000** Seeding date (SD) 5 4.2 7.80 0.002** Y×C 3 1.2 3.90 0.124 Y×SD 5 3.9 7.30 0.004** C×SD 15 3.3 2.10 0.409 Y.× C×SD 15 1.2 0.70 0.984

LMI1-like genes involved in leaf margin development of Brassica napus.

Abstract: In rapeseed (Brassica napus L.), leaf margins are variable and can be entire, serrate, or lobed. In our previous study, the lobed-leaf gene (LOBED-LEAF 1, BnLL1) was mapped to a 32.1 kb section of B. napus A10. Two LMI1-like genes, BnaA10g26320D and BnaA10g26330D, were considered the potential genes that controlled the lobed-leaf trait in rapeseed. In the present study, these two genes and another homologous gene (BnaC04g00850D) were transformed into Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. plants to identify their functions. All three LMI1-like genes of B. napus produced serrate leaf margins. The expression analysis indicated that the expression level of BnaA10g26320D determined the difference between lobed- and entire-leaved lines in rapeseed. Therefore, it is likely that BnaA10g26320D corresponds to BnLL1.

Characterization and comparison of UK, Irish, and French cold pressed rapeseed oils with refined rapeseed oils and extra virgin olive oils

Abstract: Various chemical parameters were used to characterize a wide range of cold pressed rapeseed oils and to contrast the findings with refined rapeseed and extra virgin olive oil. There were significant differences between cold pressed rapeseed oils regarding almost all measured parameters. Volatile composition analysis showed that hexanal, 3-methyl pentane and 1-butene, 4-isothiocyanato were the most abundant compounds. There was no correlation between volatile compounds and geographical region of cold pressed rapeseed oils. French cold pressed rapeseed oils were found in exhibit significantly higher antioxidant activity levels than cold pressed rapeseed oils from other regions. Refined rapeseed oil was found to have a higher antioxidant activity but have significantly lower levels of phenolic acids (0.008 mg/kg oil) than cold pressed rapeseed oil (0.46 mg/kg oil). These phenolic acids appear to be important for oxidative stability as cold pressed rapeseed oil was more stable under heat stress than refined rapeseed oil. Olive oil was the most stable under heat stress, largely due to its comparatively high saturated fat content. Antioxidant potential, phenolic acids and peroxide values were found to be the main factors differentiating cold pressed rapeseed oil from refined rapeseed oil. Practical applications: Cold pressed rapeseed oil is a relatively new oil to the market and this study is the first to examine oils available to the British, Irish and French consumers. It shows the compositional variation of oils on the market by analyzing many parameters important for oil quality and consumer palatability. Antioxidant behavior and phenolic acid identification indicate potential health benefiting properties. This research also compares cold pressed rapeseed oils with market competitors which allows for clear comparison of these widely used edible oils. Cold pressed rapeseed oil is made by mechanically crushing rapeseeds at a low temperature, followed by filtering and bottling the oil. This work investigates the chemical composition of cold pressed rapeseed oil, along with its antioxidant capacity and stability under heat stress. Cold pressed rapeseed oil is also compared to market competitors; refined rapeseed oil and extra virgin olive oil.

Enteric methane production and ruminal fermentation of forage brassica diets fed in continuous culture.

Abstract: The aim of the current study was to determine nutrient digestibility, VFA production, N metabolism, and CH4 production of canola (Brassica napus L.), rapeseed (B. napus L.), turnip (Brassica rapa L.), and annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) fed with orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) in continuous culture. Diets were randomly assigned to fermentors in a 4 × 4 Latin square design using 7 d for adaptation and 3 d for collection. Diets were: 1) 50% orchardgrass + 50% annual ryegrass (ARG); 2) 50% orchardgrass + 50% canola (CAN); 3) 50% orchardgrass + 50% rapeseed (RAP); and 4) 50% orchardgrass + 50% turnip (TUR). Feedings (82 g DM/d) occurred four times daily throughout 4, 10-d periods at 730, 1030, 1400, and 1900 h. Methane samples were collected every 10 min using a photoacoustic gas analyzer (LumaSense Technologies, Inc.; Santa Clara, CA) during the last 3 d of the experiment. Effluent samples were collected on d 8, 9, and 10, composited by fermentor, and analyzed for VFA and pH as well as DM, OM, CP, and fiber fractions for determination of nutrient digestibility. Forage samples were analyzed for CP, NDF, ADF, minerals, and glucosinolate (GLS) concentrations. Data were analyzed using the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS. Apparent DM, OM, and NDF digestibilities and true DM and OM digestibilities were similar (P > 0.28) among diets (45.1, 63.2, 44.1, 67.1, and 87.2%, respectively). Total VFA (87.2 mol/100 mol), pH (6.47), and acetate (A: 44.6 mol/100 mol) were also not different (P > 0.20) among diets. The A:P (P = propionate) ratio was greater (P 0.18) among brassica diets. A significant negative correlation was observed between total GLS and CH4 production. However, when multiple regression analysis on CH4 production was completed, neither total GLS nor individual GLS were a significant component of the model. Addition of brassicas provided similar nutrient digestibility to ARG while reducing daily CH4 production, potentially making brassicas an alternative for ARG in pasture-based ruminant diets.

How nitrogen and zinc levels affect seed yield, quality, and nutrient uptake of canola irrigated with saline and ultra-saline water.

Abstract: In order to investigate the effects of nitrogen (N) and zinc (Zn) fertilizers on seed yield, oil percentage, glucosinolate content, and nutrient uptake of canola (Brassica napus L. cv. Okapi), irrigated with saline and ultra-saline water, field experiments were conducted in Agriculture Research Centre of East Azarbaijan, Iran, during three consecutive years: 2011, 2012, and 2013. The experiments were carried out based on randomized complete block design arranged in factorial with three replications. The experimental treatments included N rates at three levels (0, 50, and 100 kg ha−1), Zn rates at three levels (0, 5, and 10 kg ha−1), and saline water at two levels (8 and 16 dS m−1 as saline and ultra-saline water). According to the results, N and Zn application had a significant effect on the plant height, pod number per plant, and seed yield. However, the value of these traits decreased as a result of the higher salinity level (from 8 to 16 dS m−1). From the results, the glucosinolate content was ...

Modeling allometric relationships in leaves of young rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) grown at different temperature treatments.

Abstract: Functional-structural plant modelling (FSPM) is a fast and dynamic method to predict plant growth under varying environmental conditions. Temperature is a primary factor affecting the rate of plant development. In the present study we used three different temperature treatments (10/14°C, 18/22°C and 26/30°C) to test the effect of temperature on growth and development of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) seedlings. Plants were sampled at regular intervals (every three days) to obtain growth data during the length of the experiment (one month in total). Total leaf dry mass, leaf area, leaf mass per area (LMA), width-length ratio (WLR) and the ratio of petiole length to leaf blade length (PBR), were determined and statistically analyzed, and contributed to a morphometric database. LMA under high temperature was significantly smaller than LMA under medium and low temperature, while leaves at high temperature were significantly broader. An FSPM of rapeseed seedlings featuring a growth function used for leaf extension and biomass accumulation was implemented by combining measurement with literature data. The model delivered new insights into growth and development dynamics of winter oilseed rape seedlings. The present version of the model mainly focuses on the growth of plant leaves. However, future extensions of the model could be used in practice to better predict plant growth in spring and potential cold damage of the crop.

Long-term yield trends of insect-pollinated crops vary regionally and are linked to neonicotinoid use, landscape complexity, and availability of pollinators

Abstract: Time series data on crop yields for two main wind-pollinated crops (barley and wheat) and for three crops benefitting from insect pollination (turnip rapeseed, caraway, and black currant), were compiled from official agricultural statistics. In Finland, these statistics are available at aggregate national level, and at the level of each of the 15 provinces of the country. Yields of wind-pollinated crops have steadily increased in Finland, while yields of insect-pollinated crops have been highly variable. The largest crop benefitting from insect pollination is turnip rapeseed, which shows first a clear tendency to increased yields from 1980 to 1993, after which there has been a continuous decline in yields at the national average level. Regionally, the trends in turnip rapeseed yield show large variation, so that in six provinces of Finland, the trend has been significantly decreasing; in five provinces, there has been no significant trend; and in two provinces, there has been a significant linear increase in yields. Yield trends in the two other insect-pollinated crops, caraway and black currants, show similar trend variations. However, at the national average level, caraway yields show no significant trend, while black currant yields have increased during the past 6 years. The possible impact on the trends of insect-pollinated crops of three explanatory variables was analyzed. Significant linear correlation was found between the yield trends (slope of the trends) in rapeseed, and the extent of using neonicotinoid seed dressing in the provinces; the magnitude of yield decline in turnip rapeseed increased, as the use of neonicotinoid seed dressing increased. Similar significant linear correlation was found for the magnitude of yield decline in turnip rapeseed and the complexity of the agricultural landscape in each province; yield trend changed from negative to positive as the proportion of agricultural land of the total terrestrial land area declined from 28% to below 10%. The availability of honey bee colonies with respect to the growing area of crops benefitting from insect pollination also had a linear, significant impact on turnip rapeseed yield trends: yields tended to decline in provinces, where the supply of managed pollinators with respect to demand was low, but tended to increase in provinces, where the number of honey bee colonies were over 30% of the estimated demand. As neither the landscape complexity (proportion of arable land of total terrestrial land area), nor the number of honey bee colonies for pollination have changed significantly over the past 10–20 years, these factors cannot explain the observed differences in the yield trends of the examined insect-pollinated crops. It appears that only the uptake of neonicotinoid insecticide seed dressing about 15 years ago can explain the crop yield declines in several provinces, and at the national level for turnip rapeseed, most likely via disruption of pollination services by wild pollinators.

Natural compounds and vegetable powders improve the stability and antioxidant properties of Brassica napus L. var. oleifera (rapeseed) oil

Abstract: This work evaluated the strategies to increase the oxidative stability and the potential health benefits of Brassica napus L. var. oleifera (rapeseed) oil enriched with natural compounds. The effect of storage, light, and heating on the oxidative stability of rapeseed oil was compared with olive oil. Oxidative stability was assessed by using Rancimat and thiobarbituric acid reactive-substances assay (TBARS) production. Different concentrations of individual phenol compounds, extracts, and vegetable powders were added to the cold-pressed rapeseed oil. The most positive effects were observed with addition of freeze dried powders. The rapeseed oil chemical profile was analyzed by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and the antioxidant effects of rapeseed oil fortified with vegetable powders were investigated with different in vitro assays. Results suggested that beetroot, carrot, tomato, and swede can offer effective alternatives or adjuncts to synthetic antioxidants during frying and storage of rapeseed oil. Practical applications: Brassica napus L. var. oleifera (rapeseed) oil is one of the most consumed oil. In this study, we evaluated the possible approaches to increase rapeseed oil oxidative stability and potential health benefits by using different natural products (beetroot, broccoli, carrot, celery, green pea, onion, red pepper, spinach, swede, tomato, and yellow pea). Results clearly showed that natural products may increase the stability of rapeseed oil, particularly when within a matrix rather than as an extract or pure compound. These evidences are significant for both consumers and oil industry. Rapeseed oil oxidative stability is investigated. Rapeseed oil composition is determined by GC-MS. Increased antioxidant activity of rapeseed oil with powders supplementation is evidenced. Vegetable powders can offer effective alternative to synthetic antioxidants during frying and storage of rapeseed oil. Rapeseed oil oxidative stability is investigated. Rapeseed oil composition is determined by GC-MS. Increased antioxidant activity of rapeseed oil with powders supplementation is evidenced. Vegetable powders can offer effective alternative to synthetic antioxidants during frying and storage of rapeseed oil.

Exploring genotypic variations for improved oil content and healthy fatty acids composition in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.).

Abstract: Background Development of new genotypes having high oil content and desirable level of fatty acid compositions is major objective of rapeseed breeding programs. In the current study combining ability was determined for oil, protein, glucosinolates and various fatty acids content using 8 × 8 full diallel in rapeseed (Brassica napus). Results Highly significant genotypic differences were observed for oil, protein, glucosinolates, oleic acid, linolenic acid and erucic acid content. Mean squares due to general combining ability (GCA), specific combining ability (SCA) and reciprocal combining ability (RCA) were highly significant (P ≤ 0.01) for biochemical traits. Parental line AUP-17 for high oil content and low glucosinolates, genotype AUP-2 for high protein and oleic acids and AUP-18 for low lenolenic and erucic acid were best general combiners. Based on desirable SCA effects, F1 hybrids AUP-17 × AUP-20; AUP-2×AUP-8; AUP-7 × AUP-14; AUP-2 × AUP-9; AUP-7 × AUP-14 and AUP-2 × AUP-9 were found superior involving at least one best general combiner. Conclusion F1 hybrids AUP-17 × AUP-20 (for oil content); AUP-2 × AUP-8 (for protein content); AUP-7 × AUP-14 (for glucosinolates); AUP-2 × AUP-9 (for oleic acid); AUP-7 × AUP-14 (for linolenic acid) and AUP-2 × AUP-9 (for erucic acid) were found superior involving at least one best general combiner. As reciprocal crosses of AUP-14 with AUP-7 and AUP-8 were superior had low × low and low × high GCA effects for glucosinolates and oleic acid, respectively therefore, these could be exploited in future rapeseed breeding programs to develop new lines with good quality.

Low-Boron Tolerance Strategies Involving Pectin-Mediated Cell Wall Mechanical Properties in Brassica napus.

Abstract: Boron (B) is an essential micronutrient for the growth and development of plants. Oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) is a staple oleaginous crop, which is greatly susceptible to B deficiency. Significant differences in tolerance of low-B stresses are observed in rapeseed genotypes, but the underlying mechanism remains unclear, particularly at the single-cell level. Here we provide novel insights into pectin-mediated cell wall (CW) mechanical properties implicated in the differential tolerance of low B in rapeseed genotypes. Under B deficiency, suspension cells of the low-B-sensitive genotype 'W10' showed more severely deformed morphology, lower viabilities and a more easily ruptured CW than those of the low-B-tolerant genotype 'QY10'. Cell rupture was attributed to the weakened CW mechanical strength detected by atomic force microscopy; the CW mechanical strength of 'QY10' was reduced by 13.6 and 17.4%, whereas that of 'W10' was reduced by 29.0 and 30.4% under 0.25 and 0.10 μM B conditions, respectively. The mechanical strength differences between 'QY10' and 'W10' were diminished after the removal of pectin. Further, 'W10' exhibited significantly higher pectin concentrations with much more rhamnogalacturonan II (RG-II) monomer, and also presented obviously higher mRNA abundances of pectin biosynthesis-related genes than 'QY10' under B deficiency. CW regeneration was more difficult for protoplasts of 'W10' than for those of 'QY10'. Taking the results together, we conclude that the variations in pectin-endowed CW mechanical properties play key roles in modulating the differential genotypic tolerance of rapeseed to low-B stresses at both the single-cell and the plant level, and this can potentially be used as a selection trait for low-B-tolerant rapeseed breeding.

Sulphur nutrition and its effect on yield and oil content of oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.).

Abstract: The aim of the experiment was to study the importance of sulphur in oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) nutrition as well as the effect of rising doses of sulphur in combination with nitrogen on yield, oiliness, oil production, nutrients content in seed and nutrients uptake by rapeseed. The plot-scale experiment was established in years 2013/14 and 2014/15 within the agricultural cooperative in Mojmirovce. There were four fertilization treatments on 600 m2 experimental plots in three replications in this experiment. The first treatment was unfertilized control. Other three treatments were fertilized by the same nitrogen dose of 160 kg.ha-1 and by increasing doses of sulphur. The second treatment was fertilized by a dose of 15 kg.ha-1 S, the third by a dose of 40 kg.ha-1 and a dose of 65 kg.ha-1 S was applied at the fourth treatment. The highest average yield 3.96 t.ha-1 was found when a dose of 40 kg.ha-1 S was applied. The application of sulphur in a dose of 65 kg.ha-1 was accompanied by a yield decrease by 11.4 % as compared to the treatment where a sulphur dose of 40 kg.ha-1 was used. An average oil content of 45.1, 45.5, and 44.0 % was found in treatments in which the doses of sulphur of 15, 40 and 65 kg.ha-1 were applied. No significant difference among the treatments fertilized by sulphur was found. The average oil production reached 1809, 1802 and 1595 kg.ha-1 in cases of treatments fertilized by sulphur doses of 15, 40 and 65 kg.ha-1.