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Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV), belonging to the genus Tobamovirus, is a highly virulent emerging virus, causing disease outbreaks and significant crop losses worldwide. The growing number of ToBRFV epidemic episodes prompted the investigation of the role of seeds in the dissemination of the virus as an important aspect in the overall disease management. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the localization of ToBRFV within tomato seeds and to evaluate its seed transmission characteristics. Seeds extracted from naturally ToBRFV-infected tomato fruits were tested for the presence of the virus using serological, molecular, and biological assays. Three immunolocalization techniques were used to determine the localization and distribution of ToBRFV within the different tissues and parts of tomato seeds. To evaluate seed transmission of ToBRFV, two grow-out experiments were conducted to assess the rate of both vertical (seeds to progeny seedlings) and possible horizontal transmission (plant to plant) based on serological and molecular assays. Seeds extracted from ToBRFV-infected fruits had a 100% contamination rate. The localization of ToBRFV in tomato seeds is only external on the seed coat (testa). Seed transmission rate from seeds to their seedlings was very low (0.08%), while no transmission was recorded from plants to plants in a small-scale greenhouse experimental setup. In conclusion, ToBRFV is a seedborne virus located externally on tomato seed coat and transmitted mechanically from ToBRFV-contaminated tomato seeds to seedlings, which could initiate a disease foci and eventually drive further dissemination and spread of the disease in a new growing area.

Wild oat is a herbicide resistance-prone global weed species that causes significant economic losses in dryland and horticultural agriculture. As a result, there has been a significant research effort to control this species. A major impediment to this research is the seed coat-mediated dormancy of wild oat, which requires a labor-intensive incision or puncturing of the seed coat to initiate seed germination. This study defines the most efficient settings of a mechanical thresher to overcome wild oat seed dormancy and then validates these settings using multiple populations collected from the Western Australian grain belt. We also compare the effects of rapid mechanical scarification and known germination stimulus tactics such as scarification with sulfuric acid (H2SO4), partial endosperm removal, sandpaper scarification of the seed coat, and immersion in sodium nitroprusside (NO donor SNP) solution on wild oat seedling growth rate. Threshing treatment of 1,500 rpm for 5 s provides equivalent germination compared with manually puncturing individual wild oat seeds, with no difference in seedling relative growth rate. The mechanical scarification of seeds using the thresher resulted in greater germination (66%) than H2SO4 scarification (0%), partial endosperm removal (10%), sandpaper seed coat scarification (25%), and exposure to NO donor SNP (34%). This study demonstrates that the physical dormancy of wild oat can be rapidly overcome using a commercially available mechanical thresher.

Herein, the synthesis of silver nanoparticles using extracts of pistachio seed coat waste is investigated. The surface plasmon resonance peak at 443 nm was observed in the nanoparticles by using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis). To identify potential biomolecules involved in the bio-reduction of silver ions, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was used. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) show irregular shapes with an average size of ∼20 nm. The active surface determined by Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller analysis was 22 m2/g. The effect of silver nanoparticles on eggplants sprayed with a nanoparticle suspension of 75 mg/L led to increased plant growth and chlorophyll and carotenoid contents. The fly ash addition to the soil promoted plant growth. The highest increase in plant growth occurs when plants were sprayed with 75 ppm AgNPs in 20% fly ash amended soil.

Cat (Felis silvestris catus) shelter practices may have important implications for cats’ health and well-being. This study explored the relationship between husbandry practices and cat health in Hong Kong's shelters which are unregulated. Cat health was measured via body condition score (BCS), coat condition and signs of oculo-nasal discharge. A total of 314 cats in 24 cat shelters were assessed. A satisfactory BCS was associated with regular veterinary input, more than once per day disinfection and more than once per day change of water. The presence of oculo-nasal discharge — as a marker for upper respiratory tract infection — was associated with a lack of regular veterinary input and less frequent change of water within the shelter. A lack of regular feeding was the only factor associated with a dull coat. In summary, this study showed that certain husbandry practices had important associations with different aspects of cats’ health forcatshoused in an unregulated shelter environment in Hong Kong. These findings provide evidence-based support for husbandry guidelines or regulations for cat shelters which could have a positive impact on shelter cats’ health and welfare.

The objective of this study was to evaluate maternal-filial stress and maternal ability in a herd positive for small ruminant lentivirus (SRLV), submitted to a control program for this disease, in the Northeastern semi-arid region, through ethological analysis and quantification of cortisol in the blood plasma and the hair coat. After the parturitions, 4 subgroups were formed according to the order of birth (primiparous or pluriparous) and to natural or artificial suckling: primiparous goats with natural suckling (PriN), primiparous goats with artificial suckling (PriA), pluriparous goats with natural suckling (PluN) and pluriparous goats with artificial suckling (PluA). The attentive posture was higher in goats from the PriA group (30.6%) compared to PriN (15.9%) and PluA (13.7%). The matrices of the PriN group showed lesser positioning behavior when compared to the PluN, (17.8%, 31.6%, respectively) (P ≤ 0.05). As for the behavior of the kids, there was a difference (P ≤ 0.01) for the vocalization parameter between those separated from pluriparous mothers (60.48%) and those kept with the mother (8.54%). The same occurred with the kids of the primiparous mothers (43.20%; 6.99%), for those separated and those kept with their mothers, respectively. The separated kids of pluriparous mothers had a higher record for attempted escape (P ≤ 0.05), attentive posture (P ≤ 0.01), and restlessness (P ≤ 0.01), concerning those kept with their mothers. Primiparous kids were more restless (P ≤ 0.01) and attentive (P ≤ 0.01). The plasma cortisol and hair values did not differ (P > 0.05), except at parturition. It is concluded that the postpartum separation exerts higher levels of stress in the kids, that mothers already have a level of stress related to external factors, and that the postpartum separation does not interfere in the maternal ability of the mothers in subsequent births.

When lipids are exposed to heat, light and oxygen, it leads to oxidation. The addition of antioxidants is required to preserve colour, flavour and vitamin destruction. Present study was, therefore, planned to investigate pod coat of pigeon pea as possible sources of natural antioxidants and to assess their efficacy in stabilization of crude soybean oil during normal storage (28 days at 50°C). Study revealed that acetone pod coat extract of pigeon pea showed richness in total phenolics (17.72 mg/g), flavonoids (9.00 mg/g) and tannins (2.21 mg/g) while the extract of ethyl acetate was found enriched in tocopherols content (9.56 mg/g). The IC50 value of acetone extract was found to be lowest, exhibited potent antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric thiocyanate (FTC) methods. After adding synthetic and natural antioxidants in oil, Peroxide, p-Anisidine, Thiobarbituric acid value, Conjugated dienes, trienes and free fatty acids content were measured every 4 days. Acetone pod coat extract (2000ppm) of pigeon pea gave strong antioxidant efficacy in stabilization of crude soybean oil and hence could be recommended as natural antioxidants for food applications.The research explored the possibility of using pod coat of pigeon pea as imminent sources of green antioxidants and to evaluate their efficacy in stabilization of crude soybean oil.

Fungal dermatitis is classified into superficial, cutaneous and subcutaneous mycoses. However, the incidence of fungal dermatitis in small mammals is relatively low. Among rodents guinea pig the most affected specie, however it usually has an asymptomatic pattern. The present text reports an unusual case of fungal dermatitis in Caviaporcelluscaused by Scopulariopsis brevicaulis. The animal was received with complaint of alteration of coat around the neck, as well as report of incorrect feeding management. During the physical examination the presence of a dry and crusty dermatitis, negative on fluorescence test of wood. Samples of blood, skin, scabs and hair were collected for parasitic and mycological analysis. The hematological evaluation showed only a discrete eosinophilia; no ectoparasites were observed, but it was noticed the presence of Scopulariopsis brevicaulis. The animal underwent terbinafine and griseofulvin protocol, with total regression of the lesions after 30 days. S. brevicaulis is an unusual geophilic fungus causing animal mycosis, presenting more pathological reports in human mycoses, thus, representing a zoonotic potential. According to the clinical findings and results obtained from mycology assay, it was diagnosed dermatitis by Scopulariopsis brevicaulis, secondary to nutritional deficiency. The combined use of topical terbinafine with systemic griseofulvin was efficient in the treatment. Finally, it was recommended a dietary correction.

Melia azedarach is a multipurpose tree of high medicinal properties and used for therapeutic purposes in ayurveda, siddha and unani system of Medicine. The infestation of Araecerus fasciculatus on M. azedarach fruits was recorded first time in the year 2000 during field survey in Uttarakhand, India. Maximum infestation was observed on fruits of M. azedarach collected from Udham Singh Nagar. Female beetles laid their eggs in the matured fruits making a hole in the pulp. The grub feeds on the pulp making gallery surrounding the seed kernel and do not feed on kernel or seed coat. After emergence, the adult beetle feeds on the fruit pulp only and come out through an exit hole of about 2 mm. The biology was studied in details; adult longevity was 22.00 (F) and 28.33 (M) days. The total life cycle of this beetle was completed in 50.91 (F) and 59.67 (M) days. Body size of male was shorter than the female but the legs of male were longer than female. Detailed morphometrics of different biological stages was also measured. Egg measured 0.898 mm, grub from 1st to fourth instar measured 2.13 mm, 3.49 mm, 4.20 mm and 4.80 mm, respectively. Subsequently, morphometrics of adult body part was also studied and color pictures of all the stages were provided.

Many plant species synthesize different biochemical substances from their various organs (leaves, flowers, fruits and roots, etc.). While some of these biochemical substances which are known as allelochemicals have a stimulating effect on the growth and development of other plants, some of them have an inhibitory effect. In this study, the effect of extracts obtained from the Styrax officinalis L., which spreads naturally in the Mediterranean and Aegean regions, on the seedling growth of Salvia sclarea L. were investigated. In the study, the extracts prepared with water at 5% concentration from dry fruit peel and seed coat of S. officinalis, and tap water as control were used. According to the results of this study, it was determined that the fruit peel and seed coat extracts obtained from S. officinalis had a significant inhibitory effect on the emergence of S. sclarea seeds and its seedling growth. The inhibitory effect of fruit peel was higher than that of seed coat.

Morphological data from light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of pollen and seeds are used to explore phylogenetic relationships between four taxa of cultivated and wild Pisu...

Background Flavonoids can protect plants against extreme temperatures and ROS due to their antioxidant activities. We found that deep-purple seed coat color was controlled by two gene interaction (12:3:1) from the cross between yellow and deep-purple seed coat colored inbreds. F2:3 seeds were grouped in 3 by seed coat color and germinated under chilling (4 °C) and non-acclimated conditions (18 °C) for a week, followed by normal conditions (18 °C) for three weeks and a subsequent chilling stress (4 °C) induction. We analyzed mean daily germination in each group. Additionally, to study the acclimation in relationship to the different seed coat colors on the germination ability and seedling performances under the cold temperatures, we measured the chlorophyll content, ROS scavenging activity, and expression levels of genes involved in ROS scavenging, flavonoid biosynthetic pathway, and cold response in seedlings. Results The results of seed color segregation between yellow and deep purple suggested a two-gene model. In the germination study, normal environmental conditions induced the germination of yellow-seed, while under chilling conditions, the germination ratio of deep purple-seed was higher than that of yellow-colored seeds. We also found that the darker seed coat colors were highly responsive to cold acclimation based on the ROS scavenging enzymes activity and gene expression of ROS scavenging enzymes, flavonoid biosynthetic pathway and cold responsive genes. Conclusions We suggest that deep purple colored seed might be in a state of innate pre-acquired stress response state under normal conditions to counteract stresses in a more effective way. Whereas, after the acclimation, another stress should enhance the cold genes expression response, which might result in a more efficient chilling stress response in deep purple seed seedlings. Low temperature has a large impact on the yield of crops. Thus, understanding the benefit of seed coat color response to chilling stress and the identification of limiting factors are useful for developing breeding strategies in order to improve the yield of wheat under chilling stress.

CDC Dorado is a yellow seed coat oilseed flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) registered in 2017 by the Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada. This cultivar has a 7% higher yield than AC Nugget in the Black soil zone of the prairies coupled with a earlier maturity than Flanders across 10 site-years in western Canada. It has a medium (45.2%) oil content, high iodine value (204.2), an α-linolenic acid content of 64%, and a 1000-seed weight of 6.0 g. It is immune to flax rust caused by Melampsora lini (Ehrenb.) Thüm. and is moderately resistant to wilt and powdery mildew caused by Fusarium oxysporum Schltdl. f. sp. lini (Bolley) W.C. Snyder & H.N. Hansen and Oidium lini, respectively.

The Valais Blackneck goat is a Swiss goat breed with a characteristic coat color phenotype. Before the revision of the breed standard in 1938, 4 different color varieties of Valais goats were known. Besides Blackneck animals resembling the modern breed standard, the brown and white Copperneck goat, the white Capra Sempione, and the greyish Grüenochte comprised the historic Valais goats. The brown pigmentation of Copperneck goats had previously been traced back to an introgression of a mutant TYRP1 allele from Toggenburg goats. In the present study, we identified additional introgression events of distinct ASIP alleles causing the remaining 2 rare coat color patterns within the Valais Blackneck goat breed. We identified the introgression of the AWt allele from Appenzell or Saanen goats in white Capra Sempione goats. Similarly, introgression of the Apc allele from Peacock goats resulted in the greyish Grüenochte phenotype. These results demonstrate past hybridization events between breeds that are separated today. A perfect genotype-phenotype association in 393 Valais goats supported the causality of the genotyped variants for the different coat color phenotypes. Our study gives insights into the introgression of functionally relevant copy number variant (CNV) alleles controlling pigmentation between goat breeds with strikingly different coat color patterns.

Due to large size and enormous morphological plasticity, the taxonomy of the genus Astragalus is very complex and challenging. The identification and grouping of species chiefly based on macromorphological characters become sometimes difficult in the genus. In the present study, the micromorphology of the seeds of 30 species belonging to 14 sections of Astragalus from India has been examined applying scanning electron microscopy (SEM) along with light microscopy (LM) to evaluate their role in identification and classification. Attention was paid to colour, shape, size and surface of seeds. The overall size of the seeds ranges from 1.5–3.2 × 0.8–2.2 mm. The shape of the seeds is cordiform, deltoid, mitiform, orbicular, ovoid and reniform. The colour of seeds varies from brown to blackish-brown to black. Papillose, reticulate, ribbed, rugulate and stellate patterns were observed on the seed coat surface (spermoderm) among different species. The study reveals that the seed coat ornamentations have evolved differently among species and do not support the subgeneric and sectional divisions of the genus. However, they add an additional feature to the individual species, which may help in identification in combination with other macro-morphological features.

This work aims to establish a simplified genotype for American mink (Neovison vison), on the basis of a group of basic genes (Asip, Tyrp–1, Tyr, Myo–5a, and Mc–1r) and three modifying genes (fawn, Ednrb, and Kit). The analysis used pedigrees of 61 females of standard brown, palomino, and silverblue colour variations. The database covered 380 offspring in nine colour variations: brown, silverblue, palomino, brown cross, palomino cross, pearl, pastel, silverpastel, and white. The analysis led to a simplified genotype explaining the principles of inheritance of most common coat colour variations in Polish mink farms. Due to the limited number of animals and the limited number of colour variations used, the analysis could not test the inheritance of all colours found in mink. The genotype was constructed on the basis of the homologous genes responsible for coat colour found in most animal species.

The goal is to study the structure and content of the seed coat of Gleditsia triacanthos L. with a hard seed coat, and some changes in its structure when this seeds swell. Research methods. One of the main reasons for hard-seeding is the hard, waterproof seed skin. In practice, before sowing, solid seeds are subjected to various types of treatments: physical or chemical, which increases the permeability of the seed shell to water. The seeds were treated with acetone, provided that the suberin, which is part of the seed shell with a solid cover, is a highly polymer hydrophobic substance with mandatory component – saturated and unsaturated acidic triglycerides and triglycerides, and partially dissolves in a solution of acetone. The presence of lignified elements, suberin and polysaccharides in the seed coat of honey-locust was confirmed by IR spectra of the surface of the seed coat, as well as histochemical reactions. The structure and composition of the seed coat were studied on the example of seeds of honey-locust. The results. In the coat of the seed of honey-locust there are identified three major layers with different physical-chemical and mechanical properties that vary with their functions. The cells of the epidermis of the seed coat of honey-locust have a thin shell with partial lignification. The hypoderm consists of cells impregnated with the hydrophobic substance suberin, whose shape is elongated parallel to the surface and provides a tight coupling between them. The parenchyma is the most powerful layer, consisting of parenchymal cells that are laid loosely. Scientific novelty. The research made it possible to find out the functions of individual layers of the Gleditsia seed coat, as well as to track changes in the structure of the seed coat when this seed swells.

The golden wildebeest, a colour variant of the blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus taurinus), is one of the most common colour variant animals that South African game ranchers breed for. Based on pedigree records, the prevailing hypothesis is that the golden coat colour is an autosomal recessive trait. However, the genetic basis of the golden coat colour phenotype has not been investigated. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was performed with 14 624 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) to identify putative candidate genes involved in blue wildebeest pigmentation. A total of 374 SNPs were significantly associated with coat colour (P value ≤ 0.001). Five of these SNPs mapped to four different Bos taurus orthologous genes that could be involved in pigmentation based on previous literature reports. An additional three SNPs with an association P value ≤ 0.05 mapped to well-known pigmentation genes and were also considered. Based on the reported biological function of the genes, the myosin VC (MYO5C), myosin VIIA (MYO7A), solute carrier family 6 member 3 (SLC6A3), solute carrier family 28 member 2 (SLC28A2), dopamine receptor D2 (DRD2), frizzled class receptor 4 (FZD4) and tyrosinase (TYR) genes are promising candidate genes that could contribute to coat colour determination in blue wildebeest. Based on the number of identified candidate genes, gene–gene interaction analysis, and their determined mode of inheritance, coat colour in blue wildebeest could rather be a quantitative threshold trait. This study provides a basis for further investigation on the genetic mechanisms of pigmentation in blue wildebeest.

Organisms use color for camouflage, sexual signaling, or as a warning sign of danger. Primates are one of the most vibrantly colored Orders of mammals. However, the genetics underlying their coat color are poorly known, limiting our ability to study molecular aspects of its evolution. The role of the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) in color evolution has been implicated in studies on rocket pocket mice (Chaetodipus intermediusi), toucans (Ramphastidae), and many domesticated animals. From these studies, we know that changes in MC1R result in a yellow/red or a brown/black morphology. Here, we investigate the evolution of MC1R in Lorisidae, a monophyletic nocturnal primate family, with some genera displaying high contrast variation in color patterns and other genera being monochromatic. Even more unique, the Lorisidae family has the only venomous primate: the slow loris (Nycticebus). Research has suggested that the contrasting coat patterns of slow lorises are aposematic signals for their venom. If so, we predict the MC1R in slow lorises will be under positive selection. In our study, we found that Lorisidae MC1R is under purifying selection (ω = 0.0912). In Lorisidae MC1R, there were a total of 75 variable nucleotides, 18 of which were nonsynonymous. Six of these nonsynonymous substitutions were found on the Perodicticus branch, which our reconstructions found to be the only member of Lorisidae that has predominantly lighter coat color; no substitutions were associated with Nycticebus. Our findings generate new insight into the genetics of pelage color and evolution among a unique group of nocturnal mammals and suggest putative underpinnings of monochromatic color evolution in the Perodicticus lineage., In primates, the most colorful of mammals, few have examined the influence the melanocortin 1 receptor (MC1R) has on color variation (light or dark) in primates. Here, we examined how MC1R impacts color variation in a cryptic primate family with high contrasting color variation. We found MC1R is under purifying selection, but there appears to be a link in nucleotide changes and light coat color.

The study explored propagation techniques of Entada rheedii Spreng., a threatened medicinal climber species with extremely hard seed coat. Propagation trials included both pre-sowing treatments of seeds for germination and clonal propagation by stem cutting. Pre-sowing treatments included (a) soaking of both cut (notched) and uncut (intact) seeds in water for 0 h, 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h and (b) immersion of intact seeds in 5% acetone solution for 5 min, 10 min, and 20 min before sowing in germination media in polybags. On the other hand, stem cutting involved treating the summer or autumn cuttings with 0%, 0.4%, and 0.8% IBA solution before rooting in non-mist propagator. Notched seeds soaked in water for 48 h showed the fastest seed germination with the highest germination percentages (73.3) and better seedling growth in terms of plant height, collar diameter, leaf number and total dry mass followed by notched seeds soaked in water for 72 h. The slowest germination and the lowest germination percentage (3.3), as well as the poorest growth performance was for intact seeds without any treatment. The highest rooting percent­age with maximum number of roots (36.6) was obtained from the summer cuttings treated with 0.4% IBA solution followed by autumn cuttings with 0.8% IBA and the lowest (43.3% and 8.3 roots) was for summer cuttings in control. The factors also dictated the survival and growth performance of rooted cuttings in the nursery conditions. The outcomes of these trials i.e., notched seeds soaking in water for 48 h will help to enhance the propagation of this valuable medicinal plant species.

Species of the genus Thismia Griff. are small herbs, considered mycoheterotrophic due to an intimate relationship with fungi. They are achlorophyllous, with complex floral structure but little information on reproductive strategies. This study evaluated structural and ecological aspects associated with the dispersal of seeds of Thismia panamensis (Standley) Jonk. The study was carried out in a forest fragment in the Brazilian Cerrado. During the reproductive period, 36 individuals were monitored for spatial distribution of the population and their fruits were collected. Samples were subjected to light microscopy and microtomography techniques, in addition to an experiment to evaluate seed dispersal by water droplets. Thismia panamensis is up to 8-cm tall, with a tuberous root and stem, without leaves. Its fruit is dehiscent, cup-shaped, 5 ± 1 mm in diameter, containing 219.33 ± 106.70 seeds, with an average length of 0.55 ± 0.07 mm. The seeds are exposed, and their coat has a thin and lignified wall. Accumulation of secretions was observed inside the fruits. The innermost cell layer of the ovary showed typical characteristics of aquiferous parenchyma. Water splash experiments showed that the seeds reached an average distance of 44.04 ± 26.58 cm. Each splash contained, on average, 1.50 ± 1.23 seeds, with 75% of the splashes containing a single seed. A total of 239 seeds were counted in the 163 splashes evaluated. The data show potential seed dispersal by ombrohydrochory in T. panamensis, favouring its maintenance in the study area and reflecting its clumped spatial distribution.

Physical dormancy in seeds exists widely in seed plants and plays a vital role in maintaining natural seed banks. The outermost cuticle of the seed coat forms a water-impermeable layer, which is critical for establishing seed physical dormancy. We previously set up the legume plant Medicago truncatula as an excellent model for studying seed physical dormancy, and our studies revealed that a class II KNOTTED-like homeobox, KNOX4, is a transcription factor critical for controlling hardseededness. Here we report the function of a seed coat β-ketoacyl-CoA synthase, KCS12. The expression level of KCS12 is significantly downregulated in the knox4 mutant. The KCS12 gene is predominantly expressed in the seed coat, and seed development in the M. truncatula kcs12 mutant is altered. Further investigation demonstrated that kcs12 mutant seeds lost physical dormancy and were able to absorb water without scarification treatment. Chemical analysis revealed that concentrations of C24:0 lipid polyester monomers are significantly decreased in mutant seeds, indicating that KCS12 is an enzyme that controls the production of very long chain lipid species in the seed coat. A chromatin immunoprecipitation assay demonstrated that the expression of KCS12 in the seed coat is directly regulated by the KNOX4 transcription factor. These findings define a molecular mechanism by which KNOX4 and KCS12 control formation of the seed coat and seed physical dormancy.

Pulse beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Bruchidae: Coleoptera), commonly known as Cowpea weevil or Cowpea seed beetle is a pest of stored grain that attacks legumes in the field and stored conditions. An investigation was conducted for screening the developmental preference of Callosobruchus maculatus in different legumes. Five different legumes were used with three replications in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The grains of legumes were obtained from the local market of Dera Ghazi Khan. Two pairs of adult (C. maculatus) were inoculated in 20 g seeds of different legumes. Statistics on egg count, egg-laying preference percentage, hatching percentage, incubation period, larval + pupal period, total developmental period (from egg to adult), male and female population, total adult emergence, No. of holes in seeds and seeds weight loss percentage was recorded. The outcomes of this study represented that red kidney bean grains (22.54%) contained more egg-laying preference for C. maculatus as compared to other tested legumes while desi chickpea grains (14.53%) had a lesser ovipositional preference. Minimum growth period was recorded on mung bean (22.66 days), followed by cowpea (24.33 days), kabuli chickpea (27 days) and desi chickpea (30.33 days). But there was (0.0 days) no growth of C. maculatus on red kidney bean grains. In short, smooth seed coat and well-filled seeds were most preferred by C. maculatus for egg-laying, short developmental time, maximum adult emergence and increased holed seeds.

Citron watermelon [Citrullus lanatus var. citroides (L.H. Bailey) Mansf. ex Greb.] is an important genetic resource serving for food, feed, and breeding dessert watermelon (C. lanatus var. lanatus) and other cross-compatible species. Wide phenotypic variation exists among South African citron watermelon landraces which are yet to be systematicaly assessed for diverse uses and cultivar design. The objective of this study was to assess phenotypic diversity of citron watermelon landrace accessions of South Africa and to select desirable genotypes with suitable agronomic and horticultual traits for direct production, breeding and conservation. Thirty six citron watermelon landrace accessions were evaluated under field conditions in two seasons using a 6 × 6 alpha lattice design with three replicates. Data on key qualitative and quantitative traits were collected and subjected to non-parametric and parametric statistical analyses. The accessions showed wide phenotypic variation and unique traits for genetic improvement. Positive and significant correlations (p

Seed coat colour is an important quality trait, domestication trait and morphological marker, and is closely associated with flavonoid and anthocyanin metabolism pathways. The seed coat colour of adzuki bean, an important legume crop, influences the processing quality of its paste, the commodity and its nutritional quality. In this study, the genetic relationships of seed coat colour were analysed using 12 hybridized combinations of F2 individuals and four F3 families derived from hybridized combinations between the accessions of eight seed coat colours. The loci of the colour traits were analysed based on phenotypes and using the chi-square test. Ivory colour is recessive to red and is controlled by a single R locus. Black, black mottle on grey, black mottle on red, light brown, golden and brown are all dominant to red. The phenotypes of black mottle on red, light brown, golden and brown are all controlled by a single genetic locus. Black mottle on grey is controlled by two loci. Black is controlled with two loci, and the black locus shows dominant epistasis to another locus. A genetic model of these seed coat colours was predicted. Our results will be important for gene mapping and cloning of seed coat colour characters and for providing further insight into the regulatory network of seed coat colour.

Cowpea is one of the most important legume grain in the SubSaharian region of Africa used for human consumption and animal feeding but its production is hampered by biotic and abiotic constraints raising the need to broaden its genetic basis. For this purpose, the seeds of two cowpea varieties Melakh and Yacine were respectively irradiated with 300 and 340 Gy. The developed mutant populations were agromorphologically characterized from M5 to M7 while the genetic diversity of the last were evaluated using 13 ISSR markers. Based on agromorphological characterization, variation of flower color, pod length, seed coat color and seed weight with respectively 78.01, 68.29, 94.48 and 57.58% heritability were recorded in the mutant lines. PCA analyses allowed to identify the elite mutants based on their agromorphological traits while Pearson’s correlation results revealed a positive correlation between yield component traits. Three subpopulations were identified through STRUCTURE analyses but assignment of the individuals in each group was improved using DAPC. Analysis of Molecular Variance revealed that the majority (85%) of the variance rather existed within group than among (15%) group. Finally, our study allowed to select new promising mutant genotypes which could be tested for multi local trials to evaluate their agronomic performance.

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of prosopis africana seed coat meal (PASCM) on the performance and nutrient utilization of three hundred (300) Nera brown day-old pullet chicks that were fed for 56 days. The birds were randomly allotted to 5 experimental diets with 3 replications of 20 birds each. The diets were formulated with the inclusion of PASCM at 0, 15, 20, 25 and 30% levels, respectively and the data collected were subjected to analysis of Variance in a completely randomized design. Results obtained showed that the 0%(control diet) had the highest feed intake of 31.94g/bird/day. While the best FCR (3.09) and highest final weight gain (608.33g/bird) were obtained in 0% PASCM inclusion level. Also birds on 0% PASCM inclusion level had the highest value of weight gain (10.33g/bird) and best protein efficiency ratio (0.64). Mortality was not observed. The digestible CP and EE were highest (P 0.05) from 15% and 20% inclusion levels. It was therefore concluded that 20% PASCM inclusion level could be adopted for optimum growth performance and digestibility in pullet chicks’ diets.

Kobus vardonii (Livingstone, 1857) is a bovid commonly known as the puku. It is a medium-sized antelope with a golden-yellow coat and white underparts, sexually dimorphic as only males carry lyre-shaped horns, and according to current taxonomy it is one of 12 extant species in the genus Kobus. Adult males defend territories, whereas females and young move around in unstable groups. Feeding on a great variety of grasses, K. vardonii occurs in grasslands along rivers and lakes in southern central Africa with Zambia being the center of its distribution and Tanzania holding the largest population. It is classified as “Near Threatened” on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

In India, six wild species of the genus Corchorus, namely C. pseudo-olitorius, C. aestuans, C. trilocularis, C. fascicularis, C. tridens and C. pseudo-capsularis are known to occur in diverse ecological conditions. These wild species are very important due to the presence of genetic variability for yield attributing traits and resistance to biotic stress. Seed of wild Corchorus species exhibit 100% seed dormancy due to hardseededness. Seed dormancy in wild species limits their scope of utilization in breeding programmes due to failure of germination in a desired period. Seed dormancy also creates problems in maintenance of these wild germplasms. Various types of scarification treatments, like mechanical scarification with sandpaper, hot water treatments (at 80 °C) and acid scarification with concentrated H2SO4, have been reported by several workers to remove hardseededness in wild Corchorus species. The present investigation was carried out to find out the effects of eighteen different scarification treatments including solo and some specific combinations in completely randomized design to identify the best suited scarification protocols in five wild Corchorus species. The study revealed that acid scarification with concentrated H2SO4 significantly improved seed germination but scarification with concentrated H2SO4 for 5 and 10 min prior to hot water treatment (2 min at 100 °C) resulted in the highest seed germination in C. pseudo-olitorius (90%) and C. aestuans (92%) respectively. Acid scarification in concentrated HCl for 10 min prior to hot water treatment (2 min at 100 °C) provided the significantly highest seed germination in both C. tridens (84%) and C. trilocularis (71%). However, acid scarification with H2SO4 for 30 min was capable of providing maximum seed germination (56%) in C. fascicularis. These species-specific treatment combinations can be utilized to maximise seed germination in wild Corchorus species.

CDC Melyn is a yellow seed coat oilseed flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), registered in 2016 by the Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada. This cultivar has a yield (106%) comparable to the cultivar AC Nugget (the yield standard for yellow seed coat oilseed flax) and a maturity rating equal to Flanders. It has a medium (46.6%) oil content, iodine value (199.4), alpha-linolenic acid content (61%), and a 1000-seed weight of 5.0 g. It is immune to flax rust caused by Melampsora lini (Ehrenb.) Thüm. and moderately resistant to wilt and powdery mildew caused by Fusarium oxysporum Schltdl. f. sp. lini (Bolley) W.C. Snyder & H.N. Hansen and Oidium lini, respectively.

The genus Iris in Russia is represented by 41 species. Four species are endemic, 11 are included in the Red Data Book of the Russian Federation and 30 have different regional conservation status. The presented results of the study of the morphology of seeds and of seed coat surface morphology in 40 species from the genus Iris growing in Russia were obtained mainly using light and scanning electron microscopy. Seed shape is round, ovate, oblong or pear‑shaped, with the exception for I. psammocola, in which it is club‑shaped. The smallest seeds in the studied species belong to I. ruthenicaand I. uniflora. Morphometric data lead to interesting conclusions regarding the taxonomic relations between some species. For example, the species currently considered as synonyms, e.g., I. biglumisand I. pallasii in I. lactea, and I. maackii in I. pseudacorus, are found different concerning seed morphology. On the other hand, the taxonomically well distinct species such as I. halophila and I. pseudonotha share similar seed morphology. A study of the morphological characteristics of the seed coat surface in 40 species of the genus Iris made it possible to compile an atlas for determining species in the genus Iris in Russia.

Phenotypic parallelism has been established with similar aberrations of coat color in sables and northern fur seals with known fur color mutations in American mink. On the basis of the similarities in the phenotypic variability of the coat color in these species of distant origin, we can imply the presence of specific coloring markers of the gene component, which ensures adaptation to extreme environmental conditions.

The seed coat is specialized dead tissue protecting the plant embryo from mechanical and oxidative damage. Tannins, a type of flavonoids, are antioxidants known to accumulate in the Arabidopsis seed coat and transparent testa mutant seeds, deficient in flavonoid synthesis, exhibit low viability. However, their precise contribution to seed coat architecture and biophysics remains evasive. A seed coat cuticle, covering the endosperm outer surface and arising from the seed coat inner integument 1 cell layer was, intriguingly, previously shown to be more permeable in transparent testa mutants deficient not in cuticular component synthesis, but rather in flavonoid synthesis. Investigating the role of flavonoids in cuticle permeability led us to identify periclinal inner integument 1 tannic cell walls being attached, together with the cuticle, to the endosperm surface upon seed coat rupture. Hence, inner integument 1 tannic cell walls and the cuticle form two fused layers present at the surface of the exposed endosperm upon seed coat rupture, regulating its permeability. Their potential physiological role during seed germination is discussed.

The seed coat anatomy of Wollemia nobilis W. G. Jones, K. D. Hill et J. M. Allen was carried out. In theresult of analysis of transverse sections of seeds the sufficient parenchymatization of seed coats and their differentiationinto three morphogenetic zones – the exotesta, the mesotesta and the endotesta was revealed. Such characters of thespermoderm as differentiation of the mesotesta into several topographic zones, presence of resin cavities in mesotesta, aswell as the participation of both exotesta and mesotesta in making the wing are treated as the archaic ones. The seeds of W.nobilis are of transitional type between exomesotestal and the exotestal type (according to Corner's typology). In generalthe seed coat structure of W. nobilis fits into the divercity of seed coats structure in the family Araucariaceae and is treatedas a progressive type within the family.

The sooty mangabey (Cercocebus atys) practices year-round durophagy. A large part of the C. atys diet consists of the oily nut of Sacoglottis gabonensis, which is accessed by post-canine crushing of the hard, protective seed coat. During a typical foraging bout, some seeds are discarded after initial crushing attempts using isometric biting, but the reason mangabeys reject some seeds and break into others is unclear. Although C. atys is sexually dimorphic, little is known about whether differences between males and females affect the selectivity of mechanically protected foods. We studied C. atys feeding on S. gabonensis in the Tai National Park, Cote d’Ivoire, in July and August 2016. Nuts discarded after an initial crushing attempt were collected and their hardness measured using a Shore D durometer. Measurements were taken in the region of the nut where monkeys attempted to crush it. Hardness values of nuts rejected by adult male (n = 79) and adult female (n = 104) C. atys were compared to those of a control assemblage of nuts collected randomly on the forest floor (n = 69). Nuts rejected by either sex do not differ statistically from the random sample; however, they do differ from each other, with females rejecting harder nuts. This suggests that males are more effective at broaching harder seed husks, and discard seeds based on other factors.

Donkeys (Equus asinus) is a domestic livestock popular in helping farming activities and providing food for some societies. Population of donkeys were drastically decreasing due to the overexploitation for its hides and industrialization. Little is known regarding the morphometric measurements of this species which provide a useful information for selective breeding and genetic conservation. One hundred and forty-four male donkeys from D/Kudu Kano state where enrolled in this study for morphometric characterisation. Seven morphological parameters were analysed in association with age and coat colour of donkeys observed. Descriptive statistical analysis, analysis of variance (ANOVA) as well as correlation coefficient among parameters were evaluated. Result revealed that donkeys in the studied area were categorised into 7 different coat colour with light grey (30.6%) being the dominant colour. High Frequency distribution of donkeys between the ages of 5-7 years (41%) were recorded. Also, both age and coat colour showed a significant (P

Assembly of the Bacillus subtilis spore coat involves over 80 proteins which self‐organize into a basal layer, a lamellar inner coat, a striated electrodense outer coat and a more external crust. CotB is an abundant component of the outer coat. The C‐terminal moiety of CotB, SKRB, formed by serine‐rich repeats, is polyphosphorylated by the Ser/Thr kinase CotH. We show that another coat protein, CotG, with a central serine‐repeat region, SKRG, interacts with the C‐terminal moiety of CotB and promotes its phosphorylation by CotH in vivo and in a heterologous system. CotG itself is phosphorylated by CotH but phosphorylation is enhanced in the absence of CotB. Spores of a strain producing an inactive form of CotH, like those formed by a cotG deletion mutant, lack the pattern of electrondense outer coat striations, but retain the crust. In contrast, deletion of the SKRB region, has no major impact on outer coat structure. Thus, phosphorylation of CotG by CotH is a key factor establishing the structure of the outer coat. The presence of the cotB/cotH/cotG cluster in several species closely related to B. subtilis hints at the importance of this protein phosphorylation module in the morphogenesis of the spore surface layers., CotB and CotG are abundant components of the Bacillus subtilis spore coat, both possessing a series of serine‐/lysine‐rich repeats (SKR). CotG interacts with CotB promoting its polyphosphorylation in the SKR region by the CotH kinase. CotG, itself phosphorylated by CotH, is a key determinant of the striated pattern of the outer coat. Conservancy of the cotB/cotH/cotG cluster suggests that protein phosphorylation is an important mechanism in the morphogenesis of the spore surface across species.

Coat colour is one of the most important qualitative traits of fur animals. Determining melanin pigments forming the basics of visible coat colour may contribute to a better understanding of the process of creating different coat colour variations in fur-bearing animals. This study aimed to (i) isolate pigment cells from the hair of American mink of 11 colour variations (standard brown, silverblue, palomino, black, wild type, sapphire, black cross, pearl, palomino cross, glow, and amber) using acid and alkali; and (ii) characterise the melanin pigments obtained. The purified pigment cells were observed under a light microscope and verified by spectrophotometry scanning and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The method allowed for obtaining pure melanin specimens. Using acid and alkali to extract eumelanosomes did not affect their shape and structure; it also allowed for obtaining pheomelanin from the hair. The results have proven that the hair colour of the American mink is based on all types of melanin, and that its variations differ in terms of how much eumelanin and pheomelanin the hair contains.

Over 35 fur colours have been described in American mink (Neovison vison), only six of which have been previously linked to specific genes. Moyle fur colour belongs to a wide group of brownish colours that are highly similar to each other, which complicates selection and breeding procedures. We performed whole genome sequencing for two American minks with Moyle (m/m) and Violet (a/a m/m /p/p) phenotypes. We identified two frame-shift mutations in the gene encoding Ras-related protein-38 (RAB38), which regulates the trafficking of tyrosinase-containing vesicles to maturing melanosomes. The results highlight the role of RAB38 in the biogenesis of melanosomes and melanin and the genetic mechanism contributing to hair colour variety and intensity. These data are also useful for tracking economically valuable fur traits in mink breeding programmes.

Mung bean (Vigna radiata) is an immunomodulatory medicinal plant, which is recognized as a component of a traditional postpartum diet. The liver plays a crucial role in fatty acid synthesis under t...

Pinto bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is one of the leading market classes of dry beans that is most affected by postharvest seed coat darkening. The process of seed darkening poses a challenge for bean producers and vendors as they encounter significant losses in crop value due to decreased consumer preference for darker beans. Here, we identified a novel allele of the P gene, Psd , responsible for the slow darkening seed coat in pintos, and identified trait-specific sequence polymorphisms which are utilized for the development of new gene-specific molecular markers for breeding. These tools can be deployed to help tackle this economically important issue for bean producers. Summary Postharvest seed coat darkening in pinto bean is an undesirable trait that reduces the market value of the stored crop. Regular darkening (RD) pintos darken faster after harvest and accumulate higher level of proanthocyanidins (PAs) compared to slow darkening (SD) cultivars. Although the markers cosegregating with the SD trait have been known for some time, the SLOW DARKENING (Sd) gene identity had not been proven.Here, we identified Psd as a candidate for controlling the trait. Genetic complementation, transcript abundance, metabolite analysis, and inheritance study confirmed that Psd is the Sd gene. Psd is another allele of the P (Pigment) gene, whose loss-of-function alleles result in a white seed coat. Psd encodes a bHLH transcription factor with two transcript variants but only one is involved in PA biosynthesis. An additional glutamate residue in the activation domain, and/or an arginine to histidine substitution in the bHLH domain of the Psd-1 transcript in the SD cultivar is likely responsible for the reduced activity of this allele compared to the allele in a RD cultivar, leading to reduced PA accumulation.Overall, we demonstrate that a novel allele of P, Psd , is responsible for the SD phenotype, and describe the development of new, gene-specific, markers that could be utilized in breeding to resolve an economically important issue for bean producers.

The hard seed coat of Cercis chinensis Bunge is an important factor of its dormancy. A study of the characteristics of water absorption is vital for understanding seed dormancy and germination. This investigation found that soaking in water at an initial temperature of 80 °C for 5 min was optimal for breaking the hardness of C. chinensis seeds. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dye-tracking, and blocking experiments were used to examine the major water entry sites and the relationship between water uptake and seed coat structure during C. chinensis seed imbibition. The SEM images showed that the seed coat consisted of three layers: epidermis, palisade, and sclereid. Special light line, vascular bundle, and counter-palisade layer structures were found in the side of the hilum. The blocking experiments showed that the hilar region was an important water absorption site because, if the region was not blocked, it showed the highest water absorption when imbibed for 3–12 h. However, all parts of the seed coat can absorb water if enough time is allowed after the seed coat hardness has been broken. The dye-tracking test showed that after 3 h water entered the seed only via the hilum fissure. Therefore, the hilum fissure acts as the initial site of water absorption. When more time was allowed, water moved more rapidly on the side with vascular bundles than on the opposite side.

Long-term studies (2012–2018) of cultures of microscopic fungi (dermatomycetes) isolated from clinically sick cats were carried out. Samples of biomaterial were taken from domestic animals with signs of skin and coat damage in veterinary clinics of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Molecular genetic studies, species identification and determination of the properties of selected cultures were carried out in accordance with the approved methodological recommendations and with the use of determinants of pathogenic and potentially pathogenic fungi. Cultural-morphological (phenotypic), keratinolytic, biochemical and molecular genetic properties of the main species of microscopic fungi that cause dermatomycosis – Microsporum canis were studied. As a result of research, four strains of the fungus Microsporum canis , 13 Kz, 376 Kz, 384 Kz, and 428 Kz, were obtained. The studied strains were characterized by a variety of phenotypic properties (they formed colonies with different morphology on nutrient media and had a different color of air and substrate mycelium), as well as similar microstructures (they had septate bamboolike mycelium with characteristic branching, bilayer spindle-shaped macroconidia), biochemical properties (the presence of high saccharolytic and urease activity) and keratinolytic activity. Phenotypic characteristics fully corresponded to the culture of the microscopic fungus Microsporum canis . Molecular genetic studies established the identity of the sequences of the obtained strains of the fungus Microsporum canis 13 Kz, 376 Kz, 384 Kz and 428 Kz with the sequences of strains EU181444.1, EF581130.1 and EF581129.1 published in GenBank. Molecular genetic studies made it possible to identify the cultures of dermatomycetes that were obtained as an anamorphic stage of Microsporum canis , as well as a teleomorph known as Arthroderma otae .

Sweet potato pakakuy virus (SPPV), a member of the species Sweet potato pakakuy virus (genus Badnavirus, family Caulimoviridae), was recently identified as a sweet potato-infecting virus; thus, relatively little is known about the virus and disease epidemiology. In a study on transmission of SPPV by seeds, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses with SPPV-specific primers were used to monitor two strains of SPPV, sweet potato badnavirus A (SPBV-A, synonym SPPV-A) and sweet potato badnavirus B (SPBV-B, synonym SPPV-B), in seeds and seedlings produced from SPPV-infected plants of two sweet potato cultivars (Yu-8 and Xu25-2). SPPV was detected at high frequency in seed tissues including intact seed, embryo, endosperm, and seed coat. All seeds derived from infected sweet potato plants gave rise to infected seedlings. Meanwhile, bioinformatics analyses of small RNAs in SPPV-positive seedlings, as verified by PCR, revealed key features of SPPV, such as coat protein, reverse transcriptase, and RNaseH domains, further confirming the seed transmission of SPPV. That SPPV can be transmitted via seeds at a high transmission rate in sweet potato has important implications for sweet potato breeding and establishment of appropriate strategies for SPPV control.

Fruit ingestion by frugivores and the subsequent passage of seeds through their digestive tract can influence seed germination patterns. The removal of germination inhibitors contained in the fruit pulp (deinhibition effect), and/or the abrasion of the seed coat (scarification effect), can modify the probability and speed of seed germination. We followed seven groups ofblack-and-gold howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya) in northeastern Argentina between November 2012 and January 2013 to study the effect of seed passage through the howler monkeys? gut on seed germination. For three native and one exotic species, we compared the proportion of germination and germination times among seeds in three different treatments: gutpassed seeds (GP), manually extracted seeds from fruits (ME), and seeds in intact fruits (IF). Paired comparisons between treatments allowed us to assess the overall effect of seed passage (total effect without distinguishing individual effects, GP vs. IF), deinhibition effect (ME vs. IF), and scarification effect (GP vs. ME). Our results suggest that passage through the howler monkeys? gut enhances seed germination by an increase in the proportion of germinated seeds and/or by a reduction in germination times. We found that deinhibition enhanced germination in three out of the four studied species, while scarification enhanced germination in one and decreased germination in another species. Our work highlights that gut passage may affect seed germination by different mechanisms, and all of these mechanisms should be considered in germination studies. It also emphasizes the importance of A. caraya as a seed disperser in northeastern Argentina, showing the high quality of the treatment provided to seeds. Fil: Fergnani, Darío Martín. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Parque Centenario. Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia"; Argentina Fil: Kowalewski, Miguel Martin. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Parque Centenario. Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia". Estación Biológica de Usos Múltiples (Sede Corrientes); Argentina Fil: Fernandez, Vanina Alejandra. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Parque Centenario. Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia"; Argentina