Search

Foxtail millet is an important cereal crop in the North China Plain. However, excessive nitrogen fertilizer application over the years has led to declining yield and soil quality. This study investigated nutrient management strategies for foxtail millet based on crop yield levels and soil nutrient availability. In a field where targeted fertilization was conducted over six seasons, nitrogen fertilization effects and the dynamics of soil-available nitrogen were monitored continuously for two consecutive years (2022–2023) across five different foxtail millet varieties with varying yield levels. The study aimed to determine the optimal nitrogen application rate for achieving a high yield of foxtail millet, the minimum soil nitrate threshold required to maintain soil fertility, and the effective nitrogen application rate range for sustaining soil-available nitrate levels. Results showed that fertilization significantly affected dry matter weight during flowering, while variety affected dry matter weight at maturity. The average nitrogen application rate for achieving high yield across all five millet varieties was 141.3 kg·ha−1. Specifically, the average nitrogen application rate of nitrogen-efficient varieties achieving high yield (5607.32–5637.19 kg·ha−1) was 151.5 kg·ha−1, while the average nitrogen application rate of nitrogen-inefficient varieties achieving high yield (4749.77–4847.74 kg·ha−1) was 134.5 kg·ha−1. Soil NH4+-N and NO3−-N content increased when nitrogen application rate exceeded 360 kg·ha−1, posing environmental risks. To achieve high yield, soil nitrate levels would be maintained at an average of 17.23 mg·kg−1 (before sowing) and 9.75 mg·kg−1 (at maturity). A relationship between soil nitrate and nitrogen application rate was established: y = 867.5 − 50z (where y represents the optimal nitrogen application rate for high yield (kg·ha−1), and z represents soil NO3−-N content in the 0–20 cm layer before sowing, ranging from 10.0 to 17.35 mg·kg−1), which provided a practical method for nitrogen fertilization to achieve high yield of foxtail millet. In this study, the fertilization strategy was optimized according to soil nutrient level and yield targets, and the nitrogen application rate was controlled within 360 kg·ha−1 based on the soil nitrate nitrogen content, which will be instructive for reducing fertilizer use, maximizing fertilizer efficiency, and increasing yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the efficient conversion of castor oil to sebacic acid utilizing iron oxide (Fe2O3) loaded on activated carbons as catalysts. Through a combination of saponification, acidification, and catalytic cracking, sebacic acid was produced with a notable yield improvement. The process involved using liquid paraffin as a thinning agent, overcoming the limitations of traditional toxic agents. The catalysts were prepared via adsorption-precipitation-calcination methods, with ultrasonication pretreatment to enhance iron adsorption on activated carbons. The chemical composition, structure, and morphology properties were investigated by different characterizations; such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG). Systematic investigations into the adsorption capacity, catalytic activity, and operational parameters like temperature, reaction time, and catalyst recycling were conducted. The optimized method achieved a sebacic acid yield of 83.4%, significantly higher than traditional methods (60.2%), with improved safety and environmental impact. The study provides valuable insights into sustainable and efficient sebacic acid production which is crucial for industrial applications in processing of castor oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was carried out to evaluate the level of heterosis and combining ability in cotton. Thirty five interspecific hybrids were generated by crossing five lines viz., GMS 14, GMS 17, GMS 19, GMS 21 and GMS 27 with seven testers namely CCB26, CCB51, DB1901, CCB2, CCB6, CO18 and Suvin in line x tester mating fashion. Twelve parents along with 35 hybrids and a standard check (DCH 32) were raised in a randomized block design with two replications to evaluate the combining ability and heterosis to identify good combiners and the best hybrids with high yield and fibre quality. The lines viz., GMS 14 and GMS 17 and the testers viz., CO 18 and Suvin were found to record significant gca effects for yield and fibre quality traits. Out of the 35 hybrids, GMS 14 x CO18, GMS 27 x Suvin and GMS 17 x CO18 recorded highly positive significant sca effects for most of the traits. The ratio between additive and dominant genetic variance was less than one for all the traits, indicating the preponderance of dominant gene action or non-additive gene action. The above three crosses also exhibited high heterosis over mid parent, better parent and standard check. Hence, these hybrids could be harnessed after analyzing their performance in yield trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a broadly utilized natural nanofiber produced by microbial fermentation, but its high-cost and low-yield production and limited function still hinder its application. Here, we used the spraying-assisted biosynthesis method to introduce biomass nanofibers along with the nutrient media to the fermenting BC. Biomass nanofibers could be cellulose, chitosan, and others. They entangled with BC nanofibers via intermolecular interactions, including hydrogen binding and electrostatic adsorption, to form uniform BC composites. The BC composites achieved an enhanced yield of ~140 wt% compared with pure BC and displayed similar excellent mechanical properties (Young's moduli = 0.9–1.4 MPa for wet films and =~6500 MPa for dried films). BC composites also had similar high crystallinity and thermal stability to pure BC. The functional groups of biomasses endowed BC composite additional functions such as antibacterial and dye-adsorption capabilities. Moreover, a high yield and functionalization could be realized simultaneously by feeding functional cellulose nanofibers. This method provides a facile way to produce BC composites with low cost, high yield, and multiple functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was carried out to evaluate the level of heterosis and combining ability in cotton. Thirty five interspecific hybrids were generated by crossing five lines viz., GMS 14, GMS 17, GMS 19, GMS 21 and GMS 27 with seven testers namely CCB26, CCB51, DB1901, CCB2, CCB6, CO18 and Suvin in line x tester mating fashion. Twelve parents along with 35 hybrids and a standard check (DCH 32) were raised in a randomized block design with two replications to evaluate the combining ability and heterosis to identify good combiners and the best hybrids with high yield and fibre quality. The lines viz., GMS 14 and GMS 17 and the testers viz., CO 18 and Suvin were found to record significant gca effects for yield and fibre quality traits. Out of the 35 hybrids, GMS 14 x CO18, GMS 27 x Suvin and GMS 17 x CO18 recorded highly positive significant sca effects for most of the traits. The ratio between additive and dominant genetic variance was less than one for all the traits, indicating the preponderance of dominant gene action or non-additive gene action. The above three crosses also exhibited high heterosis over mid parent, better parent and standard check. Hence, these hybrids could be harnessed after analyzing their performance in yield trials.

Objectives: Developing a simplified flask fermentation strategy utilizing magnetotactic bacterium AMB-1 and optimized iron supplementation for high-yield magnetosome production to address the challenges associated with magnetosome acquisition. Results: A reliable processing for the pure culture of AMB-1 was established using standard laboratory consumables and equipment. Subsequently, the medium and iron supplementation were optimized to enhance the yield of AMB-1 magnetosomes. The mSLM supported higher biomass accumulation in flask fermentation, reaching an OD565 of ~ 0.7. The premixed solution of ferric quinate and EDTA-Fe (at a ratio of 0.5:0.5 and a concentration of 0.4 mmol/L) stabilized Fe3+ and significantly increased the reductase activity of AMB-1. Flask fermentations with an initial volume of 15 L were then conducted employing the optimized fermentation strategy. After two rounds of iron and nutrient supplementation, the magnetosome yield reached 185.7 ± 9.5 mg/batch (approximately 12 mg/L), representing the highest AMB-1 flask fermentation yield to our knowledge. Conclusion: A flask fermentation strategy for high-yield magnetsome production was developed, eliminating the need for bioreactors and greatly simplifying the process of magnetosome acquisition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For sustainable breeding in potato, a better understanding of genetic diversity within germplasm banks for sustainable breeding is needed. This study comprehensively characterised the molecular and phenotypic traits of 62 potato accessions, including advanced clones and indigenous potato varieties from Advanced Chemical Industries Limited (ACI Ltd.), Bangladesh, and 8 varieties from the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI). By using 9 SSR markers and 13 morphological traits, including both quantitative and qualitative traits, we observed correlation coefficients ranging from -0.3 to 0.7 for 8 quantitative traits, and Pearson's chi-square (χ2 value) ranging from 24.3 to 135.4 for 5 qualitative characteristics. Molecular analyses identified 46 unique alleles, with 93.5% polymorphism. The markers STM0031 and STM1016 had the highest PIC value of 0.9. Genetic parameters for SSR markers included effective number of alleles per locus (Ne) = 5.6, unbiased expected heterozygosity (uh) = 0.8, diversity (h) = 0.8 and Shannon's information index (I) = 1.8. Jaccard's similarity coefficients ranged from 0.2 to 0.8, representing significant diversity. Cluster analysis, using unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic average (UPGMA), grouped the accessions into five clusters based on SSR profiles. An association was foud between the marker STM0031 and two traits: the number of tubers per hill and the content of reducing sugars in the tubers. This study provides information on genetic diversity and marker efficacy. It will guide future breeding programmes towards the development of high-yielding and industrially valuable potato varieties.

For sustainable breeding in potato, a better understanding of genetic diversity within germplasm banks for sustainable breeding is needed. This study comprehensively characterised the molecular and phenotypic traits of 62 potato accessions, including advanced clones and indigenous potato varieties from Advanced Chemical Industries Limited (ACI Ltd.), Bangladesh, and 8 varieties from the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI). By using 9 SSR markers and 13 morphological traits, including both quantitative and qualitative traits, we observed correlation coefficients ranging from -0.3 to 0.7 for 8 quantitative traits, and Pearson's chi-square (χ2 value) ranging from 24.3 to 135.4 for 5 qualitative characteristics. Molecular analyses identified 46 unique alleles, with 93.5% polymorphism. The markers STM0031 and STM1016 had the highest PIC value of 0.9. Genetic parameters for SSR markers included effective number of alleles per locus (Ne) = 5.6, unbiased expected heterozygosity (uh) = 0.8, diversity (h) = 0.8 and Shannon's information index (I) = 1.8. Jaccard's similarity coefficients ranged from 0.2 to 0.8, representing significant diversity. Cluster analysis, using unweighted pair-group method with arithmetic average (UPGMA), grouped the accessions into five clusters based on SSR profiles. An association was foud between the marker STM0031 and two traits: the number of tubers per hill and the content of reducing sugars in the tubers. This study provides information on genetic diversity and marker efficacy. It will guide future breeding programmes towards the development of high-yielding and industrially valuable potato varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of economic traits of germplasms, which are associated with genetic variation, is vital for mung improvement. Therefore, by wielding the randomized complete block design with 3 replications, a probe analysis using multiple trait stability indexing and analysis of variance with Duncan's test at p ≤ 0.05 is performed to compare the means of yield attributes. Moreover, simultaneous application of GA3 and NAA (50 mg/L each) was carried out at 30 DAS and at mid-flowering. Pondering not only factorial analysis but also correlation and path studies revealed that flower shedding before and 12 h after spraying is nearly detrimental to yield. In addition, yield/plant was positively (p

How to balance rice resistance and yield is an important issue in rice breeding. Plants with mutated necrotic lesion genes often have persistent broad-spectrum resistance, but this broad-spectrum resistance usually comes at the expense of yield. Currently, many necrotic lesion mutants in rice have been identified, and these genes are involved in disease resistance pathways. This review provides a detailed introduction to the characteristics, classification, and molecular mechanisms of necrotic lesion formation. Additionally, we review the molecular regulatory pathways of genes involved in rice disease resistance. Concurrently, we summarize the relationship between resistance and yield in rice using newly developed gene editing methods. We discuss a rational and precise breeding strategy to better utilize molecular design technology for breeding disease-resistant and high-yield rice varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chinese Journal of Oil Crop Sciences is the property of Oil Crops Research Institute of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades act as crucial signaling modules that regulate plant growth and development, response to biotic/abiotic stresses, and plant immunity. MAP3Ks can be activated through MAP4K phosphorylation in non-plant systems, but this has not been reported in plants to date. Here, we identified a total of 234 putative TaMAPK family members in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). They included 48 MAPKs, 17 MAP2Ks, 144 MAP3Ks, and 25 MAP4Ks. We conducted systematic analyses of the evolution, domain conservation, interaction networks, and expression profiles of these TaMAPK–TaMAP4K (representing TaMAPK, TaMAP2K, TaMAP3K, and TaMAP4K) kinase family members. The 234 TaMAPK–TaMAP4Ks are distributed on 21 chromosomes and one unknown linkage group (Un). Notably, 25 of these TaMAP4K family members possessed the conserved motifs of MAP4K genes, including glycine-rich motif, invariant lysine (K) motif, HRD motif, DFG motif, and signature motif. TaMAPK3 and 6, and TaMAP4K10/24 were shown to be strongly expressed not only throughout the growth and development stages but also in response to drought or heat stress. The bioinformatics analyses and qRT-PCR results suggested that wheat may activate the MAP4K10–MEKK7–MAP2K11–MAPK6 pathway to increase drought resistance in wheat, and the MAP4K10–MAP3K8–MAP2K1/11-MAPK3 pathway may be involved in plant growth. In general, our work identified members of the MAPK–MAP4K cascade in wheat and profiled their potential roles during their response to abiotic stresses and plant growth based on their expression pattern. The characterized cascades might be good candidates for future crop improvement and molecular breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassica napus, commonly known as rapeseed or canola, is a major oil crop contributing over 13% to the stable supply of edible vegetable oil worldwide. Identification and understanding the gene functions in the B. napus genome is crucial for genomic breeding. A group of genes controlling agronomic traits have been successfully cloned through functional genomics studies in B. napus. In this review, we present an overview of the progress made in the functional genomics of B. napus, including the availability of germplasm resources, omics databases and cloned functional genes. Based on the current progress, we also highlight the main challenges and perspectives in this field. The advances in the functional genomics of B. napus contribute to a better understanding of the genetic basis underlying the complex agronomic traits in B. napus and will expedite the breeding of high quality, high resistance and high yield in B. napus varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanotechnology is one of the promising scientific advancements that has captured widespread interest across various industries, notably in medicine. The utilization of plants for the synthesis of silver nanomaterials (AgNMs) has emerged as a promising and eco-friendly approach, offering cost-effective solutions for potential biomedical applications. The study aims to optimize the efficiency of biogenic AgNMs fabrication by employing Kaempferia parviflora aqueous extraction (KP-AE) as both a reducing and encapsulating agent, thus optimizing the yield of AgNMs. Phytochemical screening was conducted to identify the phytochemical compounds present in KP-AE. Various parameters were optimized, including pH, temperature, and the ratio of KP extract to AgNO3, over different incubation periods. The synthesized AgNMs were analyzed spectroscopically and microscopically using UV-Vis and SEM techniques. At varying concentrations of KP and AgNO3, the KP-AE AgNMs were successfully biogenic fabricated, but the yields varied. As the concentrations of AgNO3 increased, a greater yield of KP-AE AgNMs was achieved. Phytochemical screening KP-AE demonstrated the presence of potential phytochemicals such as alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, and oils that assisted in the biogenic fabrication of AgNMs. This study established an efficient, affordable, and ecologically sustainable approach for fabricating stable AgNMs using KP-AE AgNMs. Synergistically, reducing and capping potential has been achieved by combining the plant extract in plant-mediated biogenic fabrication, producing stabilized NMs compared to those produced individually. The AgNMs derived from KP-AE exhibit robust antioxidant properties, showcasing promise for further exploration in pharmaceutical applications. Additional research is needed to investigate the biological potential and pharmacological properties of the biogenic fabricated KP-AE AgNMs.

Transforming the bulk of tungsten disulfide (WS2) into one-dimensional (1D) nanoscrolls has potential applications in a variety of fields. The current methods for fabricating (1D) WS2 nanoscrolls suffer from low yields, high temperatures, a complicated fabrication process, and the use of surfactants. We have reported a facile and cost-effective approach for fabricating WS2 nanoscrolls in high yield using ultrasound probe sonication (20 KHz) from bulk WS2 in dimethylformamide (DMF) in two hours. Importantly, this simple method achieves a 90 % WS2 nanoscroll yield. This depends on critical experimental parameters such as the choice of solvent, the initial concentration of WS2, and the sonication time. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measurements confirm that the nanoscrolls have a closely uniform shape, with an interlayer spacing of ∼ 0.62 nm between adjacent layers of WS2 nanoscrolls. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) reveals that the nanoscrolls have a length of approximately 650 nm and a height profile of 5–10 nm, indicating their formation from multiple layers of WS2. We further investigate the fabricated nanoscrolls using other techniques such as X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy.

【Objective】A joint evaluation on Ricinus communis cross combinations was conducted to provide a theoretical reference for screening high-yield varieties suitable for mechanical harvest.【Method】The yield trait, adaptability for mechanical harvest and photosynthetic performance of 30 R. communis cross combinations were jointly evaluated by grey relational analysis, principal component analysis and cluster analysis.【Result】In the grey relational analysis, 6 combinations including N19 (0.768), N7 (0.751), N11 (0.727), N10 (0.717), N6 (0.713) and N13 (0.712) with weighted correlation degree between various combinations and the ideal varieties were screened out. Among which, the former 4 combinaitons had higher weighted correlation degrees than that in Zibi 5 (0.714), and the weighted correlation degrees of the latter 2 were close to that in Zibi 5. Principal analysis results showed that, 10 traits were classified into 3 principal components, namely, plant type factor, yield determining factor and photosynthetic and branching angle factor, with a cumulative contribution rate of 67.07%. Among the 30 combinations, the comprehensive scores of 21 combinations were higher than that of Zibi 5 (-0.699), and only 4 combinations, N18 (2.370), N4 (1.848), N19 (1.742) and N11 (1.019) had comprehensive scores larger than 1, of which N19 was the most prominent with a much higher score than that in other 3 combinations. Cluster analysis revealed that, the 30 combinations could be classified into 4 groups at Euclidean distance value equal to 22. Among them, Group IV members (including N19, N11 and N30) with the best overall performance was most similar to the ideal varieties based on the average performance in each cluster, however, the branching angle (59.10°) was large and still expected to be improved.【Conclusion】Based on the above 3 evaluation results, the comprehensive evaluation avoids the acceptance of redundant germplasm and the loss of elite germplasm. The N19 and N11 with high yield, good plant type and high photosynthetic rate were selected as the optimal Ricinus communis cross combinations, and their comprehensive performances were better than that of Zibi 5, providing a direction for further improvement of varieties.out of varieties.

Foxtail millet is an important cereal crop in the North China Plain. However, excessive nitrogen fertilizer application over the years has led to declining yield and soil quality. This study investigated nutrient management strategies for foxtail millet based on crop yield levels and soil nutrient availability. In a field where targeted fertilization was conducted over six seasons, nitrogen fertilization effects and the dynamics of soil-available nitrogen were monitored continuously for two consecutive years (2022–2023) across five different foxtail millet varieties with varying yield levels. The study aimed to determine the optimal nitrogen application rate for achieving a high yield of foxtail millet, the minimum soil nitrate threshold required to maintain soil fertility, and the effective nitrogen application rate range for sustaining soil-available nitrate levels. Results showed that fertilization significantly affected dry matter weight during flowering, while variety affected dry matter weight at maturity. The average nitrogen application rate for achieving high yield across all five millet varieties was 141.3 kg·ha−1. Specifically, the average nitrogen application rate of nitrogen-efficient varieties achieving high yield (5607.32–5637.19 kg·ha−1) was 151.5 kg·ha−1, while the average nitrogen application rate of nitrogen-inefficient varieties achieving high yield (4749.77–4847.74 kg·ha−1) was 134.5 kg·ha−1. Soil NH4+-N and NO3−-N content increased when nitrogen application rate exceeded 360 kg·ha−1, posing environmental risks. To achieve high yield, soil nitrate levels would be maintained at an average of 17.23 mg·kg−1 (before sowing) and 9.75 mg·kg−1 (at maturity). A relationship between soil nitrate and nitrogen application rate was established: y = 867.5 − 50z (where y represents the optimal nitrogen application rate for high yield (kg·ha−1), and z represents soil NO3−-N content in the 0–20 cm layer before sowing, ranging from 10.0 to 17.35 mg·kg−1), which provided a practical method for nitrogen fertilization to achieve high yield of foxtail millet. In this study, the fertilization strategy was optimized according to soil nutrient level and yield targets, and the nitrogen application rate was controlled within 360 kg·ha−1 based on the soil nitrate nitrogen content, which will be instructive for reducing fertilizer use, maximizing fertilizer efficiency, and increasing yield.

This study explores the efficient conversion of castor oil to sebacic acid utilizing iron oxide (Fe2O3) loaded on activated carbons as catalysts. Through a combination of saponification, acidification, and catalytic cracking, sebacic acid was produced with a notable yield improvement. The process involved using liquid paraffin as a thinning agent, overcoming the limitations of traditional toxic agents. The catalysts were prepared via adsorption-precipitation-calcination methods, with ultrasonication pretreatment to enhance iron adsorption on activated carbons. The chemical composition, structure, and morphology properties were investigated by different characterizations; such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TG/DTG). Systematic investigations into the adsorption capacity, catalytic activity, and operational parameters like temperature, reaction time, and catalyst recycling were conducted. The optimized method achieved a sebacic acid yield of 83.4%, significantly higher than traditional methods (60.2%), with improved safety and environmental impact. The study provides valuable insights into sustainable and efficient sebacic acid production which is crucial for industrial applications in processing of castor oil.

Bacterial cellulose (BC) is a broadly utilized natural nanofiber produced by microbial fermentation, but its high-cost and low-yield production and limited function still hinder its application. Here, we used the spraying-assisted biosynthesis method to introduce biomass nanofibers along with the nutrient media to the fermenting BC. Biomass nanofibers could be cellulose, chitosan, and others. They entangled with BC nanofibers via intermolecular interactions, including hydrogen binding and electrostatic adsorption, to form uniform BC composites. The BC composites achieved an enhanced yield of ~140 wt% compared with pure BC and displayed similar excellent mechanical properties (Young’s moduli = 0.9–1.4 MPa for wet films and =~6500 MPa for dried films). BC composites also had similar high crystallinity and thermal stability to pure BC. The functional groups of biomasses endowed BC composite additional functions such as antibacterial and dye-adsorption capabilities. Moreover, a high yield and functionalization could be realized simultaneously by feeding functional cellulose nanofibers. This method provides a facile way to produce BC composites with low cost, high yield, and multiple functions.

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is the second most important vegetable crop after potatoes, and global demands have been steadily increasing in recent years. Conventional and modern breeding techniques have been applied to breed and domesticate tomato varieties to meet the need for higher yield or superior agronomical traits that allow them to sustain under different climatic conditions. In the current study, we applied bulk population breeding by crossing eight tomato accessions procured from the Asian Vegetable Research and Development Center with three heat-resistant tomato inbred lines from Vietnam and generated ten elite tomato (ET) lines in the F8 generation. The individual F8 lines exhibited robust vigor and adaptability to climatic conditions of North Vietnam. Among the ten lines, ET1 and ET3 displayed indeterminate growth. ET2 showed semi-determinate, while all the other lines had determinate growth. The different ET lines showed distinctive superior agronomical traits, including early maturing (ET4, ET7, and ET10), highly efficient fruit set (ET1), higher yield (ET1, ET8, ET10), jointless pedicels (ET2), and partial parthenocarpy (ET9). Molecular analysis revealed that the ET3 line consisted of Ty-1 and Ty-3 loci that positively contribute to Tomato yellow leaf curl virus resistance in tomato plants. The elite tomato lines developed in this study would contribute significantly to the Vietnamese and Asian gene pool for improved tomato production and would be a valuable resource for various breeding goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maximizing rice yield potential has always been the focus of high-yield rice cultivation research. For high-yield rice cultivation and breeding, more research into the link between yield and yield components is essential. In this experiment, 38 rice varieties with different yield types and 185 rice varieties as materials were chosen. The relationships between yield and yield components were studied. The regulation effects of total nitrogen application rate (TNAR) on yield and yield components were observed. The results showed that (1) the grain yield of high-yield varieties was 189.3−195.6%, 76.1−77.7%, and 27.0−28.7% higher than that of super-low-yield, low-yield, and medium-yield varieties, respectively. Compared with rice varieties with other yield types, rice varieties with high-yield type have a higher total number of spikelets. (2) The spikelet number per panicle and total number of spikelets were significantly positively linked with grain yield, but significantly negatively correlated with filled grains and grain weight. (3) With an increase in TNAR (0−340 kg ha−1), the panicles, spikelet number per panicle, and total spikelets of rice varieties with different yield types increased gradually, and the filled grains and grain weight decreased gradually. The higher the TNAR, the more obvious the decrease in filled grains and grain weight. The grain yield of rice varieties with different yield types was the highest under the TNAR at 250 kg ha−1. The main factor contributing to its high yield was the substantial increase in total spikelets. The above results showed that increasing the spikelet number per panicle and total spikelets played a material role in improving rice yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

【Objective】 A joint evaluation on Ricinus communis cross combinations was conducted to provide a theoretical reference for screening high-yield varieties suitable for mechanical harvest. 【Method】 The yield trait, adaptability for mechanical harvest and photosynthetic performance of 30 R. communis cross combinations were jointly evaluated by grey relational analysis, principal component analysis and cluster analysis. 【Result】 In the grey relational analysis, 6 combinations including N19 (0.768), N7 (0.751), N11 (0.727), N10 (0.717), N6 (0.713) and N13 (0.712) with weighted correlation degree between various combinations and the ideal varieties were screened out. Among which, the former 4 combinaitons had higher weighted correlation degrees than that in Zibi 5 (0.714), and the weighted correlation degrees of the latter 2 were close to that in Zibi 5. Principal analysis results showed that, 10 traits were classified into 3 principal components, namely, plant type factor, yield determining factor and photosynthetic and branching angle factor, with a cumulative contribution rate of 67.07%. Among the 30 combinations, the comprehensive scores of 21 combinations were higher than that of Zibi 5 (-0.699), and only 4 combinations, N18 (2.370), N4 (1.848),N19 (1.742) and N11 (1.019) had comprehensive scores larger than 1, of which N19 was the most prominent with a much higher score than that in other 3 combinations. Cluster analysis revealed that, the 30 combinations could be classified into 4 groups at Euclidean distance value equal to 22. Among them, Group IV members (including N19, N11 and N30) with the best overall performance was most similar to the ideal varieties based on the average performance in each cluster, however, the branching angle (59.10°) was large and still expected to be improved. 【Conclusion】 Based on the above 3 evaluation results, the comprehensive evaluation avoids the acceptance of redundant germplasm and the loss of elite germplasm. The N19 and N11 with high yield, good plant type and high photosynthetic rate were selected as the optimal Ricinus communis cross combinations, and their comprehensive performances were better than that of Zibi 5, providing a direction for further improvement of varieties.out of varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a natural genetic reservoir, wild rice contains many favorable alleles and mutations conferring high yield and resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, there are few reports describing favorable genes or QTL from the AA genome wild rice O. longistaminata, which is characterized by tall and robust habit and long tassels and anthers and shows high potential for use in cultivated rice improvement. We constructed a stable BC2F20 backcross inbred line (BIL) population of 152 lines from the cross of 9311 × O. longistaminat. Some BILs showed large panicles, large seeds, and strong resistance to rice false smut, bacterial leaf blight, rice blast spot, and brown planthopper. Genomic resequencing showed that the 152 BILs covered about 99.6% of the O. longistaminata genome. QTL mapping with 2432 bin markers revealed 13 QTL associated with seven yield traits and eight with resistance to brown planthopper and to four diseases. Of these QTL, 12 for grain yield and 11 for pest and disease resistance are novel in Oryza species. A large-panicle NIL1880 line containing QTL qPB8.1 showed a nearly 50% increase in spikelet number and 27.5% in grain yield compared to the recurrent parent 9311. These findings support the potential value of O. longistaminata for cultivated rice improvement.

The recent rapid growth of the battery industry has led to a rapid increase in methylene chloride emissions. Methylene chloride causes health and social problems in humans. In this study, cellulose-based activated carbon fibers (CACFs) with improved yield were prepared for the removal of methylene chloride. The concentration of ammonium phosphate in the pretreatment controlled the crosslink density of cellulose fibers and improved the yield. From the results, the specific surface area and total pore volume of cellulose-based activated carbon fibers pretreated with ammonium phosphate (AP-CACFs) were determined to be 1920–2060 m2/g and 0.83–1.02 cm3/g, respectively, and the total yield improved by 6.78–11.59% compared to that of CACFs (4.97%). In particular, a correlation between the textural properties of CACFs and methylene chloride adsorption/desorption behavior was obtained. This correlation can be used to develop efficient adsorbents for methylene chloride removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here, we report a Na-promoted FeCu-based catalyst with excellent liquid hydrocarbon selectivity and catalytic activity. The physiochemical properties of the catalysts were comprehensively characterized by various characterization techniques. The characterization results indicate that the catalytic performance of the catalysts was closely related to the nature of the metal promoters. The Na-AlFeCu possessed the highest CO2 conversion due to enhanced CO2 adsorption of the catalysts by the introduction of Al species. The introduction of excess Mg promoter led to a strong methanation activity of the catalyst. Mn and Ga promoters exhibited high selectivity for light hydrocarbons due to their inhibition of iron carbides generation, resulting in a lack of chain growth capacity. The Na-ZnFeCu catalyst exhibited the optimal C5+ yield, owing to the fact that the Zn promoter improved the catalytic activity and liquid hydrocarbon selectivity by modulating the surface CO2 adsorption and carbide content. Carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrogenation to liquid fuel is considered a method for the utilization and conversion of CO2, whereas satisfactory activity and selectivity remains a challenge. This method provides a new idea for the catalytic hydrogenation of CO2 and from there the preparation of high-value-added products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

I asked whether Grime's triangle of competitive, stress tolerance and ruderal ecological strategies—which was originally developed for plants—applies to microbes.I conducted a synthesis of empirical studies that tested relationships among microbial traits presumed to define the competitive, stress tolerance and ruderal, and other ecological strategies.There was broad support for Grime's triangle. However, the ecological strategies were inconsistently linked to shifts in microbial communities under environmental changes like nitrogen and phosphorus addition, warming, drought, etc. We may be missing important ecological strategies that more closely influence microbial community composition under shifting environmental conditions.We may need to start by documenting changes in microbial communities in response to environmental conditions at fine spatiotemporal scales relevant for microbes. We can then develop empirically based ecological strategies, rather than modifying those based on plant ecology.Synthesis. Microbes appear to sort into similar ecological strategies as plants. However, these microbial ecological strategies do not consistently predict how community composition will shift under environmental change. By starting 'from the ground up', we may be able to delineate ecological strategies more relevant for microbes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tree architectural attributes demonstrate a significant association with fruit yield. Yellowhorn is the future bioenergy tree in China; however, the species suffers from high reproductive energy and exceedingly low reproductive output. To optimize yellowhorn management and pinpoint priority trees featuring optimal architecture, we employed machine learning modeling to develop high fruit yielding predictive models using five yield indicators (dependent variables: FrW, SeW, ShW, FrW, and SeN) and five tree characteristics (independent variables: CA, TH, DGL, HLC, and MBN) of yellowhorn. Results showed that trees characterized by a substantial canopy area (>1.70 m2) and a large diameter at ground level (>3.71 cm) have been found to yield a higher fruit production. However, increased tree height does not invariably correlate with an elevated yield. Effective selection of high‐yielding individuals can be accomplished by restricting tree height within the range of 192–232.4 cm. This approach emphasizes the importance of integrating considerations of tree architecture into forestry management practices. Such integration can bolster productivity, thereby contributing to both the sustainability and economic viability of yellowhorn forests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades act as crucial signaling modules that regulate plant growth and development, response to biotic/abiotic stresses, and plant immunity. MAP3Ks can be activated through MAP4K phosphorylation in non-plant systems, but this has not been reported in plants to date. Here, we identified a total of 234 putative TaMAPK family members in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). They included 48 MAPKs, 17 MAP2Ks, 144 MAP3Ks, and 25 MAP4Ks. We conducted systematic analyses of the evolution, domain conservation, interaction networks, and expression profiles of these TaMAPK–TaMAP4K (representing TaMAPK, TaMAP2K, TaMAP3K, and TaMAP4K) kinase family members. The 234 TaMAPK–TaMAP4Ks are distributed on 21 chromosomes and one unknown linkage group (Un). Notably, 25 of these TaMAP4K family members possessed the conserved motifs of MAP4K genes, including glycine-rich motif, invariant lysine (K) motif, HRD motif, DFG motif, and signature motif. TaMAPK3 and 6, and TaMAP4K10/24 were shown to be strongly expressed not only throughout the growth and development stages but also in response to drought or heat stress. The bioinformatics analyses and qRT-PCR results suggested that wheat may activate the MAP4K10–MEKK7–MAP2K11–MAPK6 pathway to increase drought resistance in wheat, and the MAP4K10–MAP3K8–MAP2K1/11-MAPK3 pathway may be involved in plant growth. In general, our work identified members of the MAPK–MAP4K cascade in wheat and profiled their potential roles during their response to abiotic stresses and plant growth based on their expression pattern. The characterized cascades might be good candidates for future crop improvement and molecular breeding.

Abstract Tree architectural attributes demonstrate a significant association with fruit yield. Yellowhorn is the future bioenergy tree in China; however, the species suffers from high reproductive energy and exceedingly low reproductive output. To optimize yellowhorn management and pinpoint priority trees featuring optimal architecture, we employed machine learning modeling to develop high fruit yielding predictive models using five yield indicators (dependent variables: FrW, SeW, ShW, FrW, and SeN) and five tree characteristics (independent variables: CA, TH, DGL, HLC, and MBN) of yellowhorn. Results showed that trees characterized by a substantial canopy area (>1.70 m2) and a large diameter at ground level (>3.71 cm) have been found to yield a higher fruit production. However, increased tree height does not invariably correlate with an elevated yield. Effective selection of high‐yielding individuals can be accomplished by restricting tree height within the range of 192–232.4 cm. This approach emphasizes the importance of integrating considerations of tree architecture into forestry management practices. Such integration can bolster productivity, thereby contributing to both the sustainability and economic viability of yellowhorn forests.

Vaccination is an efficient approach to preventing influenza virus infections. Recently, we developed influenza A and B virus vaccine backbones that increased the yield of several vaccine viruses in Madin–Darby canine kidney (MDCK) and African green monkey kidney (Vero) cells. These vaccine backbones also increased viral replication in embryonated chicken eggs, which are the most frequently used platform for influenza vaccine manufacturing. In this study, to further increase the viral titers in embryonated chicken eggs, we introduced random mutations into the 'internal genes' (i.e., all influenza viral genes except those encoding the hemagglutinin and neuraminidase proteins) of the influenza A virus high-yield virus backbone we developed previously. The randomly mutated viruses were sequentially passaged in embryonated chicken eggs to select variants with increased replicative ability. We identified a candidate that conferred higher influenza virus growth than the high-yield parental virus backbone. Although the observed increases in virus growth may be considered small, they are highly relevant for vaccine manufacturers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Drainage & Irrigation Machinery Engineering / Paiguan Jixie Gongcheng Xuebao is the property of Editorial Department of Drainage & Irrigation Machinery Engineering and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The paper presents ground reasoning and results of experiments and modeling of heavy hollow ingot manufacturing using advanced electroslag technology. The requirements for ingots for huge diameter reactor pressure vessels include high density, homogeneity, and minimal segregation, which are very difficult to achieve by traditional casting. In the electroslag remelting process (ESR), hollow ingots form in between two copper water-cooled molds under effective heat removal. This improves the solidification pattern due to the shortening of a solidifying volume thickness more than twice compared with a solid ingot of the same diameter. The shallow liquid metal pool and narrow mushy zone at the ESR hollow ingot solidification assure their high metallurgical quality. Due to the dense and low segregation structure, ESR hollow ingots proved to be used for as-cast pipes and heavy wall billets for further forging. The results of a mathematical simulation within the range of simulated dimensions (the outer diameter up to 2900 mm, wall thickness up to 750 mm) also predict the favorable solidification pattern for thick-wall hollow ingots of big diameters. The analysis made and the modeling results provide a framework for scaling up the sizes of hollow ingots produced by ESR and widening their application for manufacturing heavy wall large diameter shells for nuclear and petrochemical industries. The higher reachable productivity of hollow ingot formation and lower capacity of power supply source than that for solid ingots of the same diameter and weight are also preconditions of their energy saving and cost-effective manufacturing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Acta Agronomica Sinica is the property of Crop Science Society of China and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Proso millet (Panicummiliaceum L.) is a short-duration C4 crop that is drought tolerant and nutritionally rich and can grow well in marginal lands. Though the crop has many climate-resilient traits like tolerance to drought and heat, its yield is lower than that of common cereals like rice, wheat, and maize. Being an underutilized crop, the molecular resources in the crop are limited. The main aim of the present study was to develop and characterize contrasting mutants for yield and generate functional genomic information for the trait in proso millet. Gamma irradiation-induced mutant population was screened to identify highyielding mutants, which were evaluated up to M4 generation. One mutant with a dense panicle and high yield (ATL_hy) and one with a lax panicle and low yield (ATL_ly) along with the wild type were sequenced using the genotyping-bysequencing approach. The variants detected as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions-deletions (InDels) were annotated against the reference genome of proso millet. Bioinformatic analyses using the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and UniProt databases were performed to elucidate genetic information related to the SNP variations. A total of 25,901, 30,335, and 31,488 SNPs, respectively, were detected in the wild type, ATL_hy mutants, and ATL_ly mutants. The total number of functional SNPs identified in high-yielding and low-yielding mutants was 84 and 171, respectively. Two functional SNPs in the high-yielding mutant (ATL_hy) and one in the lowyielding mutant (ATL_ly) corresponded to the gene coding for "E3 ubiquitinprotein ligase UPL7". Pathway mapping of the functional SNPs identified that two SNPs in ATL_ly were involved in the starch biosynthetic pathway coding for the starch synthase enzyme. This information can be further used in identifying. genes responsible for various metabolic processes in proso millet and in designing useful genetic markers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study assessed perceived factors influencing farmers’ preference for rice varieties grown in Enugu State, Nigeria. A structured interview schedule was used to obtain information from 150 rice farmers. Data collected were analysed using frequency counts and percentages. The major rice varieties grown by the farmers were Faro 44 (60.7%), R8 (28.7%) and Mass II (20.7%). The farmers’ major sources of information that perhaps influenced their preferences for rice varieties were fellow farmers (93.3%) and personal observation (86.7%).The farmers’ perceived factors influencing preference of varieties were high yield (74.7%) and cooking characteristics like not sticking together on cooking (64.0%), 87 nice taste (60.0%) and rising better while cooking (59.4%). Aside from the preference for FARO 44 rice variety because of high yield, the perceived factors influencing farmers’ preference of other rice varieties (R8 and Mass) were mainly because of seed availability. Therefore, farmers need information on affordable sources of FARO 44 rice seeds for higher yield that could increase their profit and raise their standard of living

The rice culture, CB 12588 evolved by crossing CB 04110 x CB 05501 was released as CO 54 during the year 2021 as an alternate variety to CO 51 and ADT 43 with 105-110 days duration. CO 54 is a medium tall variety with a profuse tillering habit, long erect leaves and droopy compact panicles possessing more number of filled grains per panicle. CB 12588 recorded an overall mean grain yield of 6354 kg/ha in various yield trials which was 10.83 per cent improvement over CO 51 and 10.35 per cent over ADT 53. CO 54 has got high yielding potential due to its high agronomic and physiological efficiency and the maximum yield of 9259 was recorded in Bhavanisagar, Erode district under multi location trial. A High yield of more than 7000 kg/ha was realized in 16 locations in an adaptive research trial. Besides yield, the culture CB 12588 has got marketable grain type i.e. medium slender grains with high milling outturn and head rice recovery percentage. Desirable cooking quality parameters like good linear elongation ratio, high volume expansion, intermediate amylose, soft gel consistency and moderate gelatinization temperature along with highly productive plant traits make CO 54 a suitable alternate variety to CO 51 and ADT 53. The culture CB 12588 is moderately resistant to blast, sheath rot, sheath blight and BPH under artificial conditions. The rice culture CB 12588 was released as CO 54 with a higher yield, better pest and disease resistance and good cooking quality in comparison to the checks CO 51 and ADT 53. It is suitable for cultivation during Kar/ Kuruvai/Sornavari/ Navarai and the seasons/tracts wherever early maturing rice varieties are cultivated throughout Tamil Nadu.

Selection for earliness, high yield, quality pods, resistance to pests and diseases are the major aims in the French bean. Selection and identification of French bean variety suitable for cultivation are needed. Collections were made at the Nilgiris district and based on evaluation, French bean variety Ooty 3 (pole type) was selected as a pure line. Initially, sixteen different genotypes were collected from different locations and evaluated at Horticultural Research Station, Ooty. A single plant namely PvP5-1 was selected from Nilgiris local based on improvement in pod length, pod number, pod weight, pod circumference and yield per plant. The yield performance of Ooty 3 was superior over check in all the Multi-Location Trials, Adaptive Research Trial and large-scale evaluation trials. Due to its consistent superior performance, it was released as a French bean variety, Ooty 3 during 2018 duly approved by the Crop Scientist Meet, 2017 held at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and Tamil Nadu State variety release committee to cater for the needs of Tamil Nadu farmers thereby increasing the yield level.

Climate change is one of the biggest threats to plant species around the world. As one of the most important crops worldwide, rice is an awfully climate-sensitive agro-ecosystem. Therefore, Giza 183 will be released in 2023 as a high-yielding variety that has been adapted to mitigate climate change. This new variety is the product of cross-breeding between Giza 178 and SKC 23893 in 2010. The first generation, "F1," of this cross was evaluated in 2011 and planted as the F2 generation in 2012. Sequentially, the next generations from F3 to F6 were evaluated in the pedigree trails from 2013 to 2016, under cross number "GZ 10848." Five promising sister lines of GZ 10848 were selected and evaluated in the preliminary yield trail (GZ 10848-1-2-2-1, GZ 10848-1-2-2-2, GZ 10848-1-2-4-5, GZ 10848-1-2-5-3, and GZ 10848-1-2-5-6). The results revealed that the promising line GZ 10848-1-2-2-1 "Giza 183" surpassed all selected lines. Accordingly, Giza 183 was evaluated from 2017 to 2022 in multi-location yield trails at Sakha, Gemmiza, and Zarzoura as normal conditions and El-Sirw as saline conditions, as well as in regional, final, and verification yield trails. The evaluation resulted in a significant superiority of the yield of Giza 183 over Giza 178, with shorter growth duration and blast resistance. The new variety grain yield recorded 10.88, 10.47, 11.30, 10.60, and 10.70 t/ha during the 2017 to 2022 seasons under normal conditions, respectively, with a total duration of 122 days. while the grain yield for Giza 178 was recoded at 10.50, 10.54, 9.90, 10.00, 9.80, and 10.30 t/ha during the same seasons and conditions, with a total duration of 135 days. Furthermore, Giza 183 exhibited a higher yield than Giza 178 as a salt tolerance check variety at a rate of 0.800-0.160 t/ha under saline conditions at El-Sirw Agricultural Research Station in different years of evaluation. Giza 183 showed a high level of blast resistance in blast nursery and trap varieties in the field and artificial inoculation under greenhouse conditions. Finally, the new rice variety Giza 183 is resistant to stem borer and has high grain quality traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saline and drought conditions are the biggest threats to plant species around the world. The rice crop is one of the most important crops worldwide. Therefore, the Giza 179 rice variety was released in the 2013 season as an earlymaturing, high-yielding variety that is adapted and mitigated to drought and saline soils. This new variety was produced by crossbreeding between GZ6296-12-1-2-1-1 and GZ 1368-5-S-4 in the 2001 season. The first generation, "F1," of this cross was evaluated in the 2002 season and planted as the F2 generation in the 2003 season. Sequentially, the next generations from F3 to F6 were evaluated in the pedigree trails during the 2004-2007 seasons under code number GZ 9057. Two promising sister lines, GZ 9057-6-1-3-1 and GZ 9057-6-1-3-2, were selected and evaluated in a preliminary yield trail at the Experimental Farm of Rice Research and Training Center, Sakha, Kafr El-Sheikh Governorate, Egypt. The results revealed that the promising line GZ 9057-6-1-3-2 (Giza 179) surpassed all selected lines. Accordingly, the line GZ 9057-6-1-3-2 was evaluated from 2009 to 2011 and used as a check variety up to the 2022 seasons in multi-location yield trails at Sakha, Gemmiza, and Zarzoura as normal conditions and El-Sirw as saline conditions in regional, final, and verification yield trails. The GZ 9057-6-1-3-2 (Giza 179) recorded 10.47 t/ha for grain yield with a total duration of 122-125 days under normal conditions and 7.000-7.200 t/ha under saline conditions at El-Sirw Agricultural Research Station, while Giza 178 recorded 9.75 t/ha during the same seasons under normal conditions with a total duration of 135 days. Furthermore, the Giza 179 variety showed a high level of blast resistance in blast nursery and trap varieties in the field and artificial inoculation under greenhouse conditions. The results from PCR analysis for the Giza 179 with their parents showed that the proximity matrix was 89.8% between Giza 179 and GZ6296 and 71.1% between Giza 179 and GZ1368. Finally, it is an excellent new cultivar to be released and recommended for cultivation in the different rice-growing governorates, particularly in areas suffering from water shortages and saline soils in Egypt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] To avoid the drawbacks (such as multi-step operations and causing big quality loss) of currently reported molten salt-assisted strategy for the preparation of crystalline graphitic carbon nitride (g-C 3 N 4) photocatalysts, in this study, an innovative and one-step sodium acetate (CH 3 COONa)-mediated synthesis strategy has been designed to synthesize a high-yield and crystalline g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst. It is found that CH 3 COONa can strongly combine with dicyandiamide (DCDA) to availably prevent the massive sublimation of DCDA and the following intermediates, causing the high-efficiency transformation of DCDA into g-C 3 N 4 with a high yield (52.2 wt%). In addition to the promoted denitrification and quick polymerization of DCDA via CH 3 COONa, the produced Na 2 CO 3 from CH 3 COONa decomposition at a higher temperature can further accelerate the polymerization reaction of 3-s-triazine units, leading to the final production of highly ordered and crystalline g-C 3 N 4. Consequently, the resultant high-yield and crystalline g-C 3 N 4 shows an obviously strengthened hydrogen (H 2)-evolution rate, about 2.4 times higher than that of bulk g-C 3 N 4 , which is due to the synergetic function of highly crystalline structure, reduced band gap and cyano-groups. The current one-step CH 3 COONa-mediated synthesis strategy may open a novel horizon for the facile preparations and various applications of crystalline g-C 3 N 4 materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accumulation of toxic and essential nutrient elements in wheat grain influences wheat yield, grain nutritional quality, and human health. Here, we assessed the potential for breeding wheat cultivars to combine high yield with low cadmium and high iron and/or zinc concentrations in grains, and we screened appropriate cultivars. A pot experiment was conducted to explore differences in grain cadmium, iron, and zinc concentrations among 68 wheat cultivars, as well as their relationships with other nutrient elements and agronomic characters. The results showed 2.04-, 1.71-, and 1.64-fold differences in grain cadmium, iron, and zinc concentrations, respectively, among the 68 cultivars. Grain cadmium concentration was positively correlated with grain zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese concentrations. Grain copper concentration was positively correlated with grain zinc and iron concentrations, but not with grain cadmium concentration. Therefore, copper has a potential role in regulating grain iron and zinc accumulation without influencing cadmium concentration in wheat grain. There were no significant relationships between grain cadmium concentration and four important wheat agronomic characters (i.e., grain yield, straw yield, thousand kernel weight, and plant height), indicating that the breeding of low-cadmium-accumulating cultivars with dwarfism and high yield characteristics is possible. On cluster analysis, four cultivars (Ningmai11, Xumai35, Baomai6, and Aikang58) exhibited low-cadmium and high-yield characteristics. Among them, Aikang58 contained moderate iron and zinc concentrations, while Ningmai11 had relatively high iron but low zinc concentrations in the grain. These results imply that it is feasible to breed high-yield dwarf wheat with low cadmium and moderate iron and zinc concentrations in the grain.

Maximizing rice yield potential has always been the focus of high-yield rice cultivation research. For high-yield rice cultivation and breeding, more research into the link between yield and yield components is essential. In this experiment, 38 rice varieties with different yield types and 185 rice varieties as materials were chosen. The relationships between yield and yield components were studied. The regulation effects of total nitrogen application rate (TNAR) on yield and yield components were observed. The results showed that (1) the grain yield of high-yield varieties was 189.3−195.6%, 76.1−77.7%, and 27.0−28.7% higher than that of super-low-yield, low-yield, and medium-yield varieties, respectively. Compared with rice varieties with other yield types, rice varieties with high-yield type have a higher total number of spikelets. (2) The spikelet number per panicle and total number of spikelets were significantly positively linked with grain yield, but significantly negatively correlated with filled grains and grain weight. (3) With an increase in TNAR (0−340 kg ha−1), the panicles, spikelet number per panicle, and total spikelets of rice varieties with different yield types increased gradually, and the filled grains and grain weight decreased gradually. The higher the TNAR, the more obvious the decrease in filled grains and grain weight. The grain yield of rice varieties with different yield types was the highest under the TNAR at 250 kg ha−1. The main factor contributing to its high yield was the substantial increase in total spikelets. The above results showed that increasing the spikelet number per panicle and total spikelets played a material role in improving rice yield.

Rice plays a vital role in global food security, and its yield needs to be increased to meet escalating demand. Although many high yield quantitative trait loci (QTLs) have been identified in the last decades, rice grain yield in the main rice-producing countries is stagnating. By summarizing the yield performance of high-yielding QTL lines, we highlighted that almost all the high-yielding QTL introduced lines had no practical usage in current high yield breeding programs, mainly due to their low absolute grain yield. Further analysis showed that scientists primarily focused on spikelet number per panicle alone rather than other yield traits, and, in most of the studies, the yield increase was referenced to very old cultivars. By analyzing the yield traits correlations across cultivars in both field and pot conditions and different eco-sites using the same cultivars, we emphasized that the rice high yield will be rarely achieved by using single trait approaches due to the counteracting effects of yield components. Finally, several recommendations are provided to the next generation of biotechnological breeding in rice.

Proso millet (Panicummiliaceum L.) is a short-duration C4 crop that is drought tolerant and nutritionally rich and can grow well in marginal lands. Though the crop has many climate-resilient traits like tolerance to drought and heat, its yield is lower than that of common cereals like rice, wheat, and maize. Being an underutilized crop, the molecular resources in the crop are limited. The main aim of the present study was to develop and characterize contrasting mutants for yield and generate functional genomic information for the trait in proso millet. Gamma irradiation-induced mutant population was screened to identify high-yielding mutants, which were evaluated up to M4 generation. One mutant with a dense panicle and high yield (ATL_hy) and one with a lax panicle and low yield (ATL_ly) along with the wild type were sequenced using the genotyping-by-sequencing approach. The variants detected as single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and insertions–deletions (InDels) were annotated against the reference genome of proso millet. Bioinformatic analyses using the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) and UniProt databases were performed to elucidate genetic information related to the SNP variations. A total of 25,901, 30,335, and 31,488 SNPs, respectively, were detected in the wild type, ATL_hy mutants, and ATL_ly mutants. The total number of functional SNPs identified in high-yielding and low-yielding mutants was 84 and 171, respectively. Two functional SNPs in the high-yielding mutant (ATL_hy) and one in the low-yielding mutant (ATL_ly) corresponded to the gene coding for “E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase UPL7”. Pathway mapping of the functional SNPs identified that two SNPs in ATL_ly were involved in the starch biosynthetic pathway coding for the starch synthase enzyme. This information can be further used in identifying genes responsible for various metabolic processes in proso millet and in designing useful genetic markers.

Superior upland rice varieties can be obtained through the plant breeding process. Upland rice lines that are carried out from crossing have different potentials. The research aims to determine upland rice promising lines with high yields in acid-dry land. The study is conducted on Ultisol soil. The first season is in 2019 for F6 lines, and the second is in 2021 for F7 lines. The experimental methods use factorial Randomized Block Design (RBD). The treatment at the preliminary yield test use 5 lines 4 varieties, and 1 landrace. The advanced yield test uses 5 F7 lines (selected from F7 lines) and 5 types. Analysis data use ANOVA and LSI test. The result shows that lines GH8 and GH10 have the highest yields on acid-dry soils during two planting seasons. The GH10 line has a 7.20-9.53 kg/plot yield, and the GH8 line has a 5.22-6.260 kg/plot. The highest yield potential was the GH10 line of 3.69-4.77 t/ha, more increased than Balok, Banyuasin, Danau Gaung, Inpago 8, and PBM-UBB1 varieties. GH10 and GH8 lines are recommended as candidates for new superior varieties of upland rice that are adaptive to acid-dry soils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]