1. This study aimed to verify the applicability of the critical nitrogen concentration dilution curve of wheat under different nitrogen application rates in the field and discuss the feasibility of using the nitrogen nutrition index (NNI) to optimize nitrogen fertilizer application.
2. Experiments with different wheat varieties were carried out in Xinxiang (Henan Province, China) for two consecutive years, using four nitrogen application rates: 0, 165, 247.5, and 288.75 kg ha−1.
3. The NNI model was established which can be used to objectively and quantitatively diagnose nitrogen status and provide new ideas for timely and accurate fertilization.
The article is generally reliable as it provides a detailed description of the experiments conducted to develop a critical nitrogen concentration dilution model for wheat under different nitrogen application rates in the field. The authors have provided evidence from two consecutive years of experiments with different wheat varieties to support their findings. Furthermore, they have discussed the feasibility of using the nitrogen nutrition index (NNI) to optimize nitrogen fertilizer application which could provide new ideas for timely and accurate fertilization.
However, there are some potential biases that should be noted when considering this article's trustworthiness and reliability. Firstly, there is no discussion on possible risks associated with applying excessive amounts of nitrogen fertilizer or how this could affect crop yield or quality. Secondly, there is no mention of any counterarguments or alternative methods that could be used to optimize fertilizer application which could limit its applicability in certain contexts or environments. Finally, there is a lack of detail regarding how exactly the NNI model works which could make it difficult for readers to understand its implications or use it effectively in practice.