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ABSTRACT Fruit colour diversity within different ripening stages confers ornamental value for pepper plants. Using images can be helpful in analysing the fruit colour‐related genetic diversity and enable selecting accessions for ornamental purposes by avoiding subjectiveness. This study aimed to evaluate the phenotypic diversity among accessions of ornamental pepper using image processing techniques to identify fruit colours. Photos from 40 fruits from each of 12 accessions were captured by a camera from a smartphone. Separate channels and colour indices were extracted from the images to analyse the accessions using both dendrogram and principal components analysis. Dendrogram analysis allowed separating accessions with predominance of dark fruits from those whose fruits showed lighter and more vivid colours, with a cophenetic correlation coefficient of 0.811. The VARI and NGRDI vegetation indices were efficient in discriminating fruits with a predominance of green colour, and the BGI could be used to discriminate accessions with predominantly reddish‐brown fruits. The proposed method can be used in small‐scale breeding programs for accurately assessing the development of varieties regarding their fruit colour diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Stripe rust, induced by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is the most harmful and prevalent disease in temperate regions worldwide, affecting wheat production areas globally. An effective strategy for controlling the disease involves enhancing genetic resistance against stripe rust, achieved through Egyptian breeding efforts not previously conducted on wheat genotypes. The resistance level to stripe rust in thirty-eight wheat genotypes was assessed using marker-assisted selection methods. The investigation suggests that wheat breeding programs can utilize slow-rusting Yr genes, which are effective resistance genes, to develop novel genotypes with stripe rust resistance through marker-assisted breeding. Based on the four disease responses of the wheat genotypes under investigation, the results categorized the genotypes into three groups. The first group included resistant genotypes, the second group exhibited a slow-rusting character with the lowest disease symptom rates, and the last group displayed the highest disease characteristics rates throughout the three seasons, comprising fast-rusting genotypes. The rust-resistant genes identified were Yr5, Yr9, Yr10, Yr15, Yr17, Yr18, Yr26, Yr29, Yr30, and Yr36. Genes Yr26, Yr30, and Yr36 were present in all genotypes. Genotypes Misr3, Misr4, Giza168, Giza167, Giza170, Giza171, Gemmeiza9, and Gemmeiza10 carried the Yr9 gene. Only one genotype, Sids13, was found to have the Yr17 gene. Genes Yr18 and Yr29 were identified in Sids14, Giza168, Giza170, Gemmeiza9, and Gemmeiza10. However, none of the wheat genotypes showed the presence of Yr5, Yr10, or Yr15. Several backcrossing generations were conducted to introduce the Yr5 and Yr10 genes into susceptible genotypes (Misr1, Misr2, and Gemmeiza11). These genotypes are cultivated globally and are known for producing high-quality flour, making them of great importance to farmers. The study demonstrates significant potential for enhancing wheat genotypes for stripe rust resistance and increased production.

Plant breeding is a complex endeavor that is almost always multi-objective in nature. In recent years, stochastic breeding simulations have been used by breeders to assess the merits of alternative breeding strategies and assist in decision-making. In addition to simulations, visualization of a Pareto frontier for multiple competing breeding objectives can assist breeders in decision-making. This paper introduces Python Breeding Optimizer and Simulator (PyBrOpS), a Python package capable of performing multi-objective optimization of breeding objectives and stochastic simulations of breeding pipelines. PyBrOpS is unique among other simulation platforms in that it can perform multi-objective optimizations and incorporate these results into breeding simulations. PyBrOpS is built to be highly modular and has a script-based philosophy, making it highly extensible and customizable. In this paper, we describe some of the main features of PyBrOpS and demonstrate its ability to map Pareto frontiers for breeding possibilities and perform multi-objective selection in a simulated breeding pipeline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almond cultivation has a long-standing tradition on the island of Majorca, traditionally practiced under rainfed conditions. Currently, new plantations are established with irrigation; however, due to present conditions and the impacts of climate change, water availability is limited. The Government of the Balearic Islands permits a maximum water supply of 3000 m3 ha−1 per year for almond cultivation. In this study, a 6-year field trial was conducted to investigate the adaptation of fourteen almond cultivars obtained from different research centers under deficit irrigation practices in the soil and climatic conditions of Majorca Island. The cultivars had a significant effect on trunk cross-sectional area TCSA, cumulative almond in-shell yield, cumulative kernel yield, yield efficiency, and shelling percentage. The 'Marta' and 'Tarraco' cultivars exhibited the highest TCSA values. Regarding cumulative almond in-shell yield, 'Glorieta' and 'Constantí' produced the highest yields, whereas the lowest yields were observed in 'Mardía' and 'Tarraco'. In terms of shelling percentage, 'Ferragnès' exhibited the highest value. Kernel quality parameters were cultivar-specific. Additionally, oleic acid content was strongly negatively correlated with linoleic acid content. All cultivars exhibited an unsaturated fatty acid content exceeding 90%, with 'Masbovera' showing the highest value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stripe rust, induced by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, is the most harmful and prevalent disease in temperate regions worldwide, affecting wheat production areas globally. An effective strategy for controlling the disease involves enhancing genetic resistance against stripe rust, achieved through Egyptian breeding efforts not previously conducted on wheat genotypes. The resistance level to stripe rust in thirty-eight wheat genotypes was assessed using marker-assisted selection methods. The investigation suggests that wheat breeding programs can utilize slow-rusting Yr genes, which are effective resistance genes, to develop novel genotypes with stripe rust resistance through marker-assisted breeding. Based on the four disease responses of the wheat genotypes under investigation, the results categorized the genotypes into three groups. The first group included resistant genotypes, the second group exhibited a slow-rusting character with the lowest disease symptom rates, and the last group displayed the highest disease characteristics rates throughout the three seasons, comprising fast-rusting genotypes. The rust-resistant genes identified were Yr5, Yr9, Yr10, Yr15, Yr17, Yr18, Yr26, Yr29, Yr30, and Yr36. Genes Yr26, Yr30, and Yr36 were present in all genotypes. Genotypes Misr3, Misr4, Giza168, Giza167, Giza170, Giza171, Gemmeiza9, and Gemmeiza10 carried the Yr9 gene. Only one genotype, Sids13, was found to have the Yr17 gene. Genes Yr18 and Yr29 were identified in Sids14, Giza168, Giza170, Gemmeiza9, and Gemmeiza10. However, none of the wheat genotypes showed the presence of Yr5, Yr10, or Yr15. Several backcrossing generations were conducted to introduce the Yr5 and Yr10 genes into susceptible genotypes (Misr1, Misr2, and Gemmeiza11). These genotypes are cultivated globally and are known for producing high-quality flour, making them of great importance to farmers. The study demonstrates significant potential for enhancing wheat genotypes for stripe rust resistance and increased production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant pathogens in the genus Phytophthora are a severe threat to forest plantations, ecosystems and tree nurseries. Especially in forests and natural ecosystems, there is a lack of effective measures to control and manage these pathogens. In this study, we conducted a systematic mapping review to collate evidence regarding the control and management of forest Phytophthora in different production settings and ecosystems. The study aimed to reveal possible knowledge gaps, thus guiding future research priorities. We extracted information from nine databases, limiting the search to studies published during the time period from January 2010 to December 2022. The articles were shared between three reviewers who classified the reports using a set of inclusion/exclusion criteria. A total of 561 articles were included and mapped in a database using pre‐defined coding, and critically appraised for relevance and reliability. The analysis showed that biological or bio‐based measures were the most studied interventions, followed by genetics or breeding programmes, whereas chemical and silvicultural management approaches were less studied. Most of the studies were conducted in Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand. Phytophthora cinnamomi has been the most studied species followed by P. ramorum. We discuss the current knowledge gaps in the implementation of existing research, likely due to a lack of holistic understanding of the processes over time and space, and suggest future research that is needed to manage Phytophthora in forest ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current and future tidal swamplands are very strategic as one of the Indonesia national food barns considering the decreasing of productive land. Utilization of tidal swampland for agriculture, especially rice farming in South Kalimantan by local farmers began spontaneously hundreds of years ago. Most of the tidal swampland in South Kalimantan is still planted with local rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties. Various local rice varieties planted by farmers include Siam, Bayar, Pandak, and Lemo varieties. These local varieties have been collected, identified, and conserved ex-situ in the tidal fields of South Kalimantan. The technology of local varieties of rice cultivation from seedling to harvest is carried out traditionally and uses traditional tools. Numerous local varieties collected and conserved, undergo crossbreeding with superior varieties to generate new high-yielding varieties with flavours favoured by the local populace. The Siam Unus serves as local variety for crossbreeding, while the superior varieties include Cisokan and Dodokan. The crossing of Siam Unus with Cisokan yields Margasari variety, and with Dodokan, it produces Martapura variety. Both varieties enjoy significant popularity among farmers and the local communities in the tidal areas of South and Central Kalimantan. This paper reviews research on traditional rice farming of tidal swampland and its impact on breeding and conservation programs in South Kalimantan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almond (Prunus dulcis Miller) is a major commodity with the highest nut production in the world. A core collection is of the utmost importance for fruit tree breeding programs from a managerial and economic perspective. In current study, an almond germplasm panel consisting of 228 genotypes was subjected to a comprehensive analysis for two years, which included 20 morphological and pomological traits. A curated ensemble of 28 almond genotypes or cultivars was precisely selected by applying stringent parameters through the use of the Power Core software, ultimately leading to the establishment of the novel almond core collection. It is noteworthy that this collection effectively contained 9.2% of quantitative traits and 3.5% of qualitative traits. In addition, variance difference (VD%) and mean difference (MD%) computations of quantitative and qualitative traits yielded values of 97.43% and 10.18%, respectively, thus indicating a profound degree of genetic variation in core collection. Moreover, the Shannon diversity index (H) pertinent to categorical traits demonstrated a substantial augmentation across all seven phenotypic factors. Cluster analysis indicated the core collection accessons were equally distributed among two distinct population groups. Furthermore, oil content measurement showed Ooil content ranged from 44.61% in genotype 151 to 62.72% in genotype C1, while fatty acid ranged from 60.20% in genotype K49 to 80.57% in Avizj, thereby indicating a metabolic variation in core collection germplasm. These results may provide valuable references and be conductive to the germplasm collection strategy, which may facilitate the improvement of almond in future breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The expansion of forest plantations to supply the wood market requires selection of genotypes that can provide high gains, which may compromise long-term tree breeding programs. With the final purpose of producing quality sawn wood, the aims of this study were to: (a) estimate genetic parameters for a progeny/provenance test of Plathymenia foliolosa Benth; (b) carry out optimized selection based on an inbreeding rate (F) from 0 to 7% in progeny/provenance tests evaluated at 35 months for P. foliolosa and Cordia trichotoma (Vell.) Arrab. ex Steud, and at 42 months for Zeyheria tuberculosa (Vell.) Bureau ex Verl.; (c) develop a practical index for balancing gains and F; d) and indicate the most appropriate genetic base structure based on effective population size ( N e ) to subsidize conservation strategies, breeding programs, and clonal orchard with those species native from Brazil. Diameters at breast height (DBH) were obtained in progeny/provenance tests conducted in the south of Bahia–Brazil. For P. foliolosa, the moderated heritability (h2a) value of 0.55 demonstrated favorable conditions for selection based on DBH. For this trait, there is better possibility of achieving progressive gains by exploiting genetic variability into the families (CVgi). Simulation of scenarios without optimization for P. foliolosa, C. trichotoma and Z. tuberculosa showed a high possibility of gains for breeding programs, ranging between 95.6 and 311.05%. However, in those scenarios, high rates of F were also observed. For the three species, selection based on the selection optimization index (SOI) was proposed in order to balance ideal increments in genetic gains and maintenance of genetic diversity. With the use of SOI, it was possible to simulate selection of scenarios with good prospects of gain balanced with N e in a practical and direct manner for germplasm conservation strategies, production of improved seeds in clonal orchards, and tracking recombination cycles within breeding populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract In South America, Tambaqui (Colossoma macropomum) stands as the primary target for aquaculture, yet breeding programs for this Amazon native species are in their early stages. While high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays are pivotal for aquaculture breeding, their costs can be prohibitive for non- or semi-industrial species. To overcome this, a cost-effective approach involves developing low-density SNP arrays followed by genotype imputation to higher densities. In this study, a 1K SNP array for tambaqui was created and validated, offering a balance between SNP quantity and genome representativity. The imputation accuracy from various SNP densities to a medium-density array was evaluated, with the 1K density demonstrating the best trade-off (accuracy of 0.93). This subset was further utilized to construct a commercial array through Agriseq™ targeted genotyping-by-sequencing, validated in 192 DNA samples, affirming its high quality for genotyping tambaqui. The low-density SNP array, with genome-wide coverage and high polymorphism, emerges as an effective tool for exploring genetic variation within diverse populations. Population analyses using the 1K panel proved to be an efficient tool for genetic characterization of sampled broodstocks, making it a valuable resource for genetic improvement programs targeting this Amazon native species.

The study evaluated 80 corn genotypes based on grain production under comparative crop conditions. The research took place within the ARSD Lovrin, Romania. The culture of the 80 corn genotypes was carried out in non-irrigated conditions. The hybrids were numbered in the form C01 to C80 (C - corn; 01 to 80 - genotype number). The height of the corn plants (PH) varied between PH = 2.05 - 2.71±0.02 m. The height of corn ear insertion (EIH) varied between EIH = 0.74 - 1.25±0.01 m. The weight of one thousand grains (TGW) varied between TGW = 230.10 - 345.20±2.95 g. The hectoliter weight (HW) varied between HW = 75.20 - 84.45±0.21 kg. Grain production (Y) varied between Y = 5,027.00 - 10,169.00±120.29 kg ha-1. Under the aspect of the variability of the studied parameters values, based on the coefficient of variation (CV), a high value of variation was recorded in the case of production (CV=14.55874), followed by the variability within the EIH parameter (CV=11.14396), the TGW parameter (CV= 9.05588), PH (CV=5.67716) and HW (CV=2.39561). The multivariate analysis (PCA) led to the distribution diagram and principal component (PC1, PC2) explained the variance (PC1 = 44.857%; PC2 = 21.495%). The cluster analysis (CA) led to the obtaining of the dendrogram of the grouping of the maize genotypes in relation to the main parameters. The variation of production in relation to plants parameters (PH, EIH), and corn grains quality (TGW, HW) was described mathematically and in the form of graphic models, under statistical safety conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) is the most preferable cultivated crop in the World and can grow on poor soil with water scarcity. More than 80.0% of its cultivation is confined to the Sub-Saharan African continent. However, it is now one of the most preferable crops in Asia and Europe due to its low nutritional and water demand during cultivation under field conditions. In this study, the Bodrum Red cultivar of cowpea was used for in vitro regeneration. The 9-0 days old half cotyledonary node explant was used and placed on different concentrations of Benzylaminopurine (BAP), Indole-butyric acid (IBA), and Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA). The results were analyzed by ANOVA and response surface methodology (RSM). The ANOVA analysis revealed the maximum shoots from the medium enriched with 1.0 mg/L BAP with shot counts ranging from 1.17-3.11. The results were further analyzed by surface regression analysis which revealed the significant impact of NAA on callus formation. The results were also analyzed through Pareto charts and normal plots which confirmed the significant role of BAP and NAA on in vitro regeneration. The use of a response optimizer revealed the maximum shoot counts of 3.0 per explant from the medium supplemented with BAP. Results revealed the significance of RSM for optimizing input factors precisely for multiple input factors simultaneously. Advanced biotechnological approaches like genetic engineering and marker-assisted selection could enhance cowpea resilience to environmental conditions, ensuring its sustainability and adaptability across diverse agroecological zones with the aid of RSM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) is very important in terms of horticulture and food in the world. In total, 125 pomegranate genotypes were selected from the Saveh region in Markazi province, Iran, to determine morphological variation and also to select the promising genotypes based on the quality of fruit. The measured traits showed significant variation among these genotypes. Fruit length ranged from 46.22 to 93.04 mm, and the range of fruit diameter was from 48.42 to 108.69 mm. The range of fruit weight was from 77.23 to 511.11 g, and 100-aril fresh weight ranged between 15.65 and 48.23 g. Principal component analysis placed the traits into seven components explaining 78.41% of the total variation. The first principal component showed significant correlations with fruit diameter, fruit length, fruit neck diameter, fruit crown diameter, peel thickness, and fruit weight, called fruit size components which had the greatest effect on the separation of genotypes. Ward dendrogram and scatter plot showed considerable variations in the 125 genotypes with several groups. In conclusion, one soft-seeded genotype and 21 semi-soft-seeded genotypes were selected that may be used by the breeding programs. Also, among the above 22 genotypes, 10 genotypes with high fruit quality traits, such as fruit weight, aril weight, aril color, and TSS, are recommended for cultivation in commercial orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most male date palms available for pollinating different female cultivars have mainly originated from seed propagation resulting in many different local males that represent a source of genetic diversity. Favourable fruit production is related to the quality of pollen and its compatibility with a certain female variety. Therefore, the genetic characterisation of the male progenitors should be the first step to establish a selection programme to produce superior males through different procedures. In this study, the genetic diversity and population structure of 72 male date palm accessions were investigated using 15 microsatellite loci. The highest mean number of alleles per locus was obtained for Tozeur group. Bayesian model-based clustering analysis indicated the presence of two differentiated endemic male date palm genetic clusters, continental and insular, with the presence of introduced accessions originating from the Middle East. The diversity analysis in the insular region of Tunisia, which had never been performed before, revealed that this germplasm enclosed valuable endemic resources supporting the hypothesis of the presence of wild material. These findings are crucial for identifying interesting genotypes that can be integrated into international coordinated actions of Phoenix dactylifera L. breeding programmes and the protection and conservation of valuable resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Environmental & Social Management Journal / Revista de Gestão Social e Ambiental is the property of Environmental & Social Management Journal 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.)

Simple Summary: Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) infection in sheep is a common problem affecting small and large farms worldwide. These GIN parasites will normally infect the intestine of a sheep and may lead to diarrhea, weight loss, anemia and, in some cases, the animal's death. The animals can also present a decrease in meat, wool, and milk production, which will lead to substantial economic losses. The use of anthelmintics to treat infected sheep as a single approach has resulted in worms developing resistance against the available commercial drugs. Other studies have shown that the animals resistant to GIN infection are capable of coping with the infection and have reduced health impairment caused by the GIN parasites. In this review, we summarize the results from the literature on the estimated genetic parameters for traits assessing GIN resistance in sheep. Additionally, we summarize the possible genetic gains when sheep are selected to be resistant to GIN and how genetics and genomics have impacted breeding programs in different countries. Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs) are a major problem affecting sheep production systems worldwide. The flocks infected with GINs can undergo significant economic losses due to a decrease in productivity, the animals' deaths, and the costs associated with treatments. The over-reliance on anthelmintics in the past years to eliminate GINs has resulted in the development of resistance against the available commercial anthelmintics. Genetically resistant animals can be used in mating systems to improve the overall flock resistance. This review aimed to summarize the estimated genetic parameters for resistance traits and genetic gains through the use of genetic/genomic selection for resistance to GINs in sheep. Heritability estimates from the literature ranged from 0.00 to 0.46 for fecal egg counts, 0.12 to 0.37 for packed cell volume/hematocrit, 0.07 to 0.26 for FAffa MAlan CHArt (FAMACHA©), from 0.10 to 0.37 for blood parameters, and 0.19 for Immunoglobulin A. Genetic correlations between traits measuring resistance to GINs and production traits ranged from negative to positive values in the literature. Genetic gains are possible when genetic/genomic selection for GIN resistance is applied. Therefore, genetic/genomic selection can be used to improve flocks' resistance to GINs as a sustainable approach in sheep production systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simulation can be an efficient approach to design, evaluate, and optimize breeding programs. In the era of modern agriculture, breeding programs can benefit from a simulator that integrates various sources of big data and accommodates state-of-the-art statistical models. The initial release of XSim, in which stochastic descendants can be efficiently simulated with a drop-down strategy, has mainly been used to validate genomic selection results. In this article, we present XSim Version 2 that is an open-source tool and has been extensively redesigned with additional features to meet the needs in modern breeding programs. It seamlessly incorporates multiple statistical models for genetic evaluations, such as GBLUP, Bayesian alphabets, and neural networks, and it can effortlessly simulate successive generations of descendants based on complex mating schemes by the aid of its modular design. Case studies are presented to demonstrate the flexibility of XSim Version 2 in simulating crossbreeding in animal and plant populations. Modern biotechnology, including double haploids and embryo transfer, can all be simultaneously integrated into the mating plans that drive the simulation. From a computing perspective, XSim Version 2 is implemented in Julia, which is a computer language that retains the readability of scripting languages (e.g. R and Python) without sacrificing much computational speed compared to compiled languages (e.g. C). This makes XSim Version 2 a simulation tool that is relatively easy for both champions and community members to maintain, modify, or extend in order to improve their breeding programs. Functions and operators are overloaded for a better user interface so they may concatenate, subset, summarize, and organize simulated populations at each breeding step. With the strong and foreseeable demands in the community, XSim Version 2 will serve as a modern simulator bridging the gaps between theories and experiments with its flexibility, extensibility, and friendly interface.

Sesame seeds and their various derivatives, such as sesame oil, can be special in household diets worldwide due to their unique nutritional and health properties. Despite the long history of sesame cultivation in Iran and its suitability to the Iranian climate, Iran remains an importer of sesame. In other words, sesame production in Iran faces numerous constraints and obstacles, limiting its production capacity. This study aims to present sesame production status in Iran over the past 22 yr, elucidating the production trends, quantity and value of imports, obstacles, and solutions for sustainable sesame seed production in the country. To achieve this goal, in addition to reviewing national and international databases, extensive correspondence was conducted with stakeholders in sesame production, ranging from farmers to researchers, promoters, and policymakers, to compile a comprehensive list of leading challenges in sesame production and operational solutions to overcome these challenges. The analysis revealed that the most significant challenges in sesame production in the country could be categorised into seven main sections, including poor agronomic management, soil fertility decline, pest, diseases and weed issues, inadequate breeding programs, lack of sustainable financial support, an uncertain sesame market and fragmented and ineffective research. To address these issues, it is essential to enhance sesame production by updating agricultural management practices, introducing and making high-yielding and stress-tolerant varieties accessible, improving soil management techniques, conducting applied research, and transferring knowledge to farms. Also, establishing sesame producer associations and cooperatives can help eliminate intermediaries in the production-to-sales chain. Timely support from government institutions for small-scale sesame producers and raising consumer awareness of sesame's nutritional and health benefits and its by-products are crucial to overcoming these challenges. All these actions can lead to the promotion and development of sesame production in Iran to meet the high domestic and global demand for this valuable and nutritious seed. This cannot be achieved without increased interaction between farmers, researchers, promoters, and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the genetic architecture is important because it allows us to understand the relationship between molecular markers, like miRNAs, QTLs and SNPs, and traits of interest such as milk yield, lipidic content in milk, heat tolerance etc. In the present study we performed an exploratory analysis that found an association of 480 miRNAs within QTLs related to 155 traits. We also discovered that those 480 miRNAs might modulate the expression of 12.374 genes. The most predominant traits available in the data were milk related, such as milk yield and fatty acids content in milk. Besides, the functional enrichment analysis revealed that some of those genes were linked to sensory perception, olfactory perception, perception of stimulus and chemical stimulus, localization, establishment of localization, transport etc. Furthermore, the discovery of miRNAs within QTLs and their target analysis suggests that they might be associated with characteristics of interest. By analyzing these relationships, we strongly encourage that future QTL studies should include miRNAs analysis. Altogether, our analysis enabled us to explore the association between multiple complex traits, miRNAs within QTLs and their target genes in Bos taurus that might have implications in breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Identification and improvement of salt-tolerant melon (Cucumis melo L.) genotypes is needed to temper salinization threats to growth and physiological development under cultivation conditions. To assess the potential of five inbred lines of melon, a factorial experiment with different salinity treatments was performed. Plants exposed to NaCl showed a different leaf color and phenotypic changes compared to plants in the control group. The inbred line Cm.UT.Kh at 14 ds. m−1 had the highest significant necrosis ratio compared to other inbreeds. LAB and RGB leaf colors showed a significant high coefficient of determination for the regression models selected, which indicated their useful information for assessing salinity effects in melon leaves. Generally, the drawbacks of high-salt treatment in all five inbred lines manifested in decreased total dry and fresh weight of shoots and roots as well as reduced leaf area and plant height compared to the controls. The lowest reduction in leaf leakage was recorded for Cm.UT.Gr and Cm.UT.Jaf. Furthermore, Cm.UT.Gr and Cm.UT.1025 showed the highest membrane stability with increasing salt concentration. The potassium content of leaves revealed positive correlations with high biomass production and membrane stability index, but negative correlations with Na+ leaf content and electrolyte leakage. Principal component analysis (PCA) results for growth parameters, leaf ion content, membrane stability index, and root characteristics could help to indirectly identify salt-tolerant plants. The results of appropriate inbred melon lines implies that selecting the right varieties might lead to higher salinity tolerance in future melon hybridization and breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp tracheiphilum (Fot) is a soil-borne fungal disease of significant constraint to cowpea production in West Africa. The disease infection can cause up to 100% yield loss in highly infested fields. The most effective control strategy is the use of resistant varieties. Sixty cowpea germplasm collections were screened for resistance to F. oxysporum. The result revealed that only two (TVu 134 and TVu 410) of the germplasm showed a high level of resistance when subjected to artificial epiphytotic and innovative seedling root dip screening methods using three inoculum concentration levels. These two cultivars can be used directly by farmers or as potential donors for developing resistant cultivars against F. oxysporum. The study also identified useful polymorphic SSR markers associated with resistant and susceptible parents, which will significantly enhance the breeding programs in developing varieties' resistance to the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Barberries are versatile shrubs with diverse applications, including ornamental, medicinal, and edible purposes. In this study, we employed molecular markers to assess the genetic diversity and genetic base of superior barberry genotypes selected from an F1 population obtained through Shahrood University Barberry Breeding Program (SUBBP), alongside their parents. We utilized nine ISSR markers and 10 RAPD markers to analyze the population's genetic diversity. From these markers, we obtained 98 polymorphic bands using ISSR markers and 112 polymorphic bands using RAPD markers. The average PIC value was 0.16 for ISSR markers and RAPD markers, while the average genetic resolution power was 3.93 for ISSR markers and 2.11 for RAPD markers. Furthermore, we calculated the genetic dissimilarity coefficient (GDC) based on ISSR and RAPD markers, which ranged from 0.23 to 0.86 (average 0.62) and 0.21 to 0.85 (average 0.60), respectively. The ISSR data analysis classified the genotypes into three main clusters, with genotypes 0515, R5N1, 'Bth', 'Seedless (BD)', and R2N1 being genetically distant from the others. Similarly, the analysis of 10 RAPD primers resulted in the classification of genotypes into three main groups. Notably, genotype 0609 exhibited greater genetic distance from other genotypes in this subgroup. The Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) using both ISSR and RAPD marker data further supported the grouping of genotypes into three distinct clusters. These results provide valuable insights into the genetic composition of the F1 population and contribute to the advancement of barberry breeding strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The long-term sustainability of ex situ animal populations requires coordination across facilities through cooperative breeding programs. Here, we investigate the reasons for inconsistent reproductive success in the zoo-based North American Asian small-clawed otter (ASCO; Aonyx cinereus) population. Reproductive viability analysis (RVA) was used to identify which characteristics of ASCOs in breeding pairs were most predictive of reproductive success. The RVA identified pair type, contraception history, and age as the most significant predictors of offspring production. The use of deslorelin in males and long-term deslorelin use in females hinder future reproductive potential and should, therefore, be considered carefully in genetically valuable individuals and potential breeders. Moreover, genetically valuable animals should be paired with younger mates, as advancing male and female age decreases the likelihood of success. The lack of reproductive success observed after 1 year of attempted breeding among new pairs provides evidence of potential mate incompatibility, therefore, population managers should consider splitting up pairs that remain unsuccessful over time, because the likelihood of offspring production is low. Lastly, the inclusion of dens and/or caves and pools designed with ample shallow water areas in ASCO habitats may improve breeding success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental 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.)

Fusarium head blight (FHB) caused mainly by Fusarium graminearum, is a devastating disease of wheat and other small grain cereals in humid and semi-humid areas. Understanding the host-pathogen interaction and realizing the relationship between the host and pathogen is an important issue in breeding programs. In this study, the interaction between F. graminearum isolates causing FHB and wheat genotypes was investigated by inoculating two representative isolates of the fungus from each of Canada, Iran, and CIMMYT, Mexico on five wheat genotypes with different levels of resistance to FHB from each of the mentioned origins. Results showed significant differences in aggressiveness of Fusarium isolates inoculated on wheat genotypes. While CIMMYT isolates produced the least disease severities on wheat genotypes tested (8.1–10.0%), the isolates from Canada and Iran severely infected the genotypes (43.2–59.3%). Significant differences were also observed in reaction of wheat genotypes to Fusarium isolates, and four genotypes including 93FHB37 (Canada), SHA3/CBRD (CIMMYT), N-83-6 (Iran), and NG8675/NING8645 (CIMMYT), with disease severities from 8.0 to 9.0%, were consistently among the most resistant ones. Our results also showed significant interactions (P < 0.0001) between Fusarium isolates and wheat genotypes used. Due to significant differences in disease rate caused by Fusarium isolates in wheat genotypes, it seems that all isolates, regardless of their rate of aggressiveness, will be able to differentiate wheat genotypes in terms of resistance/susceptibility. However, in wheat breeding programs, the criteria used for selecting resistant genotypes, have to be considered in appropriate to the rate of aggressiveness of the isolate used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salt stress is one of the most important environmental stresses that negatively affects the plant growth and productivity worldwide. To delineate physio-biochemical and molecular differences among barley genotypes, antioxidant enzyme and transcriptomic profiles along with several physiological traits were compared among a set of elite genotypes of barley subjected to salinity stress. The experiment was conducted at the early growth stage under two control (0 mM NaCl) and salinity (200 mM NaCl) conditions. Salt treatment significantly increased root and shoot Na+ contents, the activity of APX and GPX antioxidant enzymes, and the relative expression of HvHKT2, HvHKT3, HvSOS1, HvSOS3, HvNHX1, HvNHX3, APX, and GPX genes. In contrast, other root and shoot fresh weights, root and shoot dry weights, root and leaf K+ contents, and root and leaf K+:Na+ ratios were significantly decreased due to salinity stress. A principal component analysis showed the relationships among measured traits and relative expression of salt-responsive genes. Remarkably, our results indicated a positive and significant association between the relative expression of HvNHX1 and HvSOS3 genes with root Na+ content and leaf K+:Na+ ratio. Furthermore, associations among relative expression of HvHKT2, HvNXH3, HvSOS1, APX, and GPX genes were positive and significant. Taken together, this study revealed that genotypes G6 responded better to salinity stress than other genotypes. Hence it could be selected as the most salt-tolerant genotype for further complementary experiments with the aim of releasing as a commercial variety. Moreover, this genotype could be used as an ideal parent for transferring favorable physiological and biochemical activities in barley breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary steps in breeding programs are identifying and selecting superior fruit trees genotypes. This study was conducted to achieve the most productive, self-compatible, and cold tolerated almond [Prunus dulcis (Mill.)D.A.webb] genotypes, by determining genetic variability of 103 progenies resulted by crossing ‘Tuono’ and ‘Shokoufe’ during two years, 2016-2017 at Meshkin Abad Horticulture Research Station in Karaj (50.9°E, 35. ° 7521 N, 1245 m height, with moderate and cold climates, shallow, calcareous soils, with a pH = 7) according to almond description (Gulcan, 1985) for selecting superior hybrids. The genetic relationship between selected hybrids was carried out by using genetic correlation. Minimum, maximum, and comparing mean results represented hybrids’ variability. Correlations indicated significant positive and negative variability. 20 components of effective traits justified 77.4% of the total variance. Hybrid separation was carried out by clustering analysis using 20 components. In 10th Euclidean distance, hybrids were separated into 17 groups. Fruit, nut, kernel, productivity, and vigor characteristics were the main factors in grouping clusters, respectively. In the first factor, traits including fruit size (0.70), fruit weight (0.880), fruit length (0.741), fruit width (0.769), fruit thickness (0.722), nut weight (0.872), nut length (0.729), nut width (0.795), nut thickness (0.673), kernel weight (0.849), kernel length (0.635) and kernel width (0.837). In the second factor, there were traits including productivity (0.797), number of nuts per tree (0.925), fruit weight per tree (0.932), and nut weight per tree (0.905). In the third factor, traits such as trunk diameter (0.60), the radius of expansion in two directions north-south (0.755) and east-west (0.804), leaf density (0.60), and growth habit (0.60). These third components could justify about 14%, 7%, and 5% of the total variance. The most variable traits were growth habit, high quality, bearing habit, flowering and leafing time, fruit size; date of harvesting, nut shape and the lowest variable trait was kernel taste.

It is well known that breeding is based on phenotypic and behavioural performance assessed at the level of each honeybee colony. By selection, the genes responsible for the desired characters have to be favoured, by evaluation and classification of all colonies involved in a breeding program. Generally, in the beekeeping practice, the most applied method of selection is the mass selection regarding the main objective- honey production. Some more elaborated programs use selection simultaneous selection on several characters. Until now, a standard method for honey bees evaluation and selection on several characters could not be generalized, every breeder establishing the selection method depending on proposed goals which could be different especially when we speak about different races and environmental conditions. Taking into account the selection objectives in Romania it was conceived a standardized methodology for the selection on several characters in Romanian condition

The success of sugarcane breeding depends on the understanding and exploitation of new germplasm. Sugarcane breeders often choose parental clones based on phenotypes when genotypes are unknown. In this study, an SSR fingerprint profile of 104 Yunrui-series sugarcane genotypes was constructed and the genetic diversity and population structure of these genotypes were analyzed using 21 pairs of fluorescence-labeled highly polymorphic SSR markers and a capillary electrophoresis platform. One hundred and thirty-six SSR fragments were detected. The percentage of polymorphic loci averaged 98.25%, and the polymorphism information content averaged 0.88. A neighbor-joining dendrogram and population structure analysis divided the 104 genotypes into four populations with a Q value of < 0.6 for half of the genotypes. Pairwise genetic differentiation (Fst) between populations ranged from 0.009 to 0.023. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed that 98% of the variations occurred within the populations, with a significant Fst value of 0.018 (p < 0.001). The results demonstrated that Yunrui-series sugarcane genotypes shared a moderate to high level of genetic diversity, but a low level of genetic differentiation due to multiple occurrences of crossing and backcrossing involving a limited number of parents. Therefore, sugarcane breeders should consider the genetic distance and population structure information more than phenotype performance when choosing parental genotypes for crossing programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the present research was the application of the linear retention index (LRI) system for the identification of non-psychoactive cannabinoids using a portable LC instrument. The miniaturization, viz. the use of very low quantities of mobile phase, enabled the development of a compact mobile system to be used for in situ analysis, also according to a green and cost-saving approach. In particular, new capillary LC (cap-LC) methods coupled with UV detection were developed for the analysis of extracts of Cannabis sativa L. Two setups were explored to achieve the efficient separation of twenty-four cannabinoids: a single column setup which exploited a sub-2 µm packing to increase the chromatographic resolution, and a dual-column setup based on the serial connection of two different stationary phases, each coupled to an UV detector. The latter allowed the determination of two LRI values for each analyte, thus increasing the identification power. Moreover, since two different wavelengths were used on the LED-based UV detectors, the ratio of the absorbances measured on each chromatographic trace represented a third identification criterion, thus fulfilling the recommendations of the Scientific Working Group for The Analysis of Seized Drugs (SWDRUG) about the categories of analytical techniques to be used and the minimum number of parameters required for the unambiguous identification of drugs. The obtained results could be used for the development of a novel analytical method for fast and automatic in situ forensic investigations and hemp breeding programs, also minimizing the consumption of both sample and solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Hortícolas is the property of Revista Colombiana de Ciencias Horticolas 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.)

Dry soil conditions at soybean planting results in poor stand establishment, which often necessitates replanting. We conducted a study to identify soybean genotypes that can maintain germination rates and possess better root morphology under water stress. We tested 41 Plant Introductions (PI) for germination and seedling root traits under controlled environmental conditions at five water potentials: 0.00, −0.27, −0.54, −0.82, and −1.09 MPa (no, low, mild, severe, and extreme water stress, respectively). The same genotypes were tested for emergence and seedling root traits under field conditions in South Carolina (2021 and 2022) and North Carolina (2022). Among the 41 genotypes evaluated, PI 398566 and PI 424605A maintained higher germination percentages (≥63%) under water stress. The same genotypes were ranked among the top 15 genotypes for root traits (total-root and fine-root (diameter between 0.25 and 0.50 mm) length, surface area, and/or volume) under water stress. Furthermore, they had relatively higher emergence percentages under field conditions (≥35% under dry soil conditions). The superior genotypes identified in this study (PI 398566 and PI 424605A) that had better germination and root morphology under water-stress and no-stress conditions and better emergence would be useful for developing varieties with drought tolerance during the emergence phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almond, one of the most characteristic crops in the agricultural landscape of Mallorca Island, cultivated mainly under rainfed conditions and from native cultivars, represents an important source of income for the Island. Nowadays, modern cultivars were introduced to meet the almond demand, agronomical needs, and climate change issues. Consumption has considerably increased in the last years and the SARS-CoV-2 virus contributed to consumer behavior changes. The present work aimed to characterize 14 cultivars of which 9 were modern and 5 natives. In general, the natives cultivars presented a lower weight (1.3 g), size (21 mm), darker skin (L = 38), softer texture (107 N), with more benzaldehyde flavor (2-fold change) and "twins" (16%), but with a greater thickness, fiber, and linoleic acid (0.1-fold change, respectively). Modern cultivars offered greater weight (1.5 g), size (24 mm), lighter skin (L = 39), and harder texture (121 N), with no or low benzaldehyde flavor and no "twins". Finally, 'Belona', 'Ferragnès', 'Marta', 'Masbovera', 'Penta', 'Soleta', 'Vairo', 'Duareta', 'Jordi' and 'Vivot' met all the requirements to be certified under the quality guarantee Protected Indication of Origin "Almendra de Mallorca". However, each cultivar presented its own profile which makes them suitable for different purposes in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In livestock sector, dairy animals alone produce 18% of the total greenhouse gas emissions globally as methane (CH4). This Enteric methane is the largest component of total carbon footprints produced by livestock production system and its reduction is today's new challenge to make livestock farming sustainable for earth's environment. The production of enteric methane in ruminants is a complex phenomena involving different host factors like host genotype, rumen microbiome, host physiology along with dietary factors. Efforts have been made to reduce methane emissions largely through nutritional interventions and dietary supplements, but permanent reductions can be obtained through genetic means by selecting and breeding of low methane emitting animals. From genome-wide association studies, many important genomic QTL regions and single nucleotide polymorphisms involved in shaping the composition of the ruminal microbiome and thus their carbon footprints have been recognised, implying that methane emission traits are quantitative traits. The major bottleneck in implementation of reduced methane emission traits in the breeding programs is wide variation at phenotypic level, lack of precise methane measurements at individual level. Overall, the heritability for CH4 production traits is moderate, and it can be used in breeding programmes to target changes in microbial composition to reduce CH4 emission in the dairy industry for far-reaching environmental benefits at the cost of a minor reduction in genetic gain in production traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of raw milk is of major importance for dairy products, especially fat, protein, and casein (CN) contents, which are used worldwide in breeding programs for dairy species because of their role in human nutrition and in determining cheese yield (%CY). The aim of the study was to develop formulas based on detailed milk composition to disentangle the role of each milk component on %CY traits. To this end, 1,271 individual milk samples (1.5 L/cow) from Brown Swiss cows were processed according to a laboratory model cheese-making procedure. Fresh %CY (%CYCURD), total solids and water retained in the fresh cheese (%CYSOLIDS and %CYWATER), and 60-days ripened cheese (%CYRIPENED) were the reference traits and were used as response variables. Training-testing linear regression modeling was performed: 80% of observations were randomly assigned to the training set, 20% to the validation set, and the procedure was repeated 10 times. Four groups of predictive equations were identified, in which different combinations of predictors were tested separately to predict %CY traits: (i) basic composition, i.e., fat, protein, and CN, tested individually and in combination; (ii) udder health indicators (UHI), i.e., fat + protein or CN + lactose and/or somatic cell score (SCS); (iii) detailed protein profile, i.e., fat + protein fractions [CN fractions, whey proteins, and nonprotein nitrogen (NPN) compounds]; (iv) detailed protein profile + UHI, i.e., fat + protein fractions + NPN compounds and/or UHI. Aside from the positive effect of fat, protein, and total casein on %CY, our results allowed us to disentangle the role of each casein fraction and whey protein, confirming the central role of β-CN and κ-CN, but also showing α-lactalbumin (α-LA) to have a favorable effect, and β-lactoglobulin (β-LG) a negative effect. Replacing protein or casein with individual milk protein and NPN fractions in the statistical models appreciably increased the validation accuracy of the equations. The cheese industry would benefit from an improvement, through genetic selection, of traits related to cheese yield and this study offers new insights into the quantification of the influence of milk components in composite selection indices with the aim of directly enhancing cheese production.

The recent breeding programs for livestock and poultry projects have aimed at maximizing productivity and minimizing gross costs. It is well known that feed represents the main variable component affecting the productive process. The animal's requirements can be divided into needs for maintenance and productive requests. Consequently, recent breeding programs have aimed at reducing production costs through genetic improvements in residual feed intake (RFI). A bird that consumes less feed than expected for production and preservation requirements has a negative residual feed intake (−RFI). This case is desirable for decreasing feed costs in animal and poultry projects. Chickens with low predicted feed intake (PFI) (R−) need less feed to reach a similar body weight and production performance. On the other hand, birds that eat more feed than expected have a positive RFI. Accordingly, the latter birds (+RFI) must be avoided by breeders via effective selection programs.

Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata has a relatively low commercial value due to the low size and pulp to stone ratio of its drupes compared to commercial olive cultivars. Nevertheless, this subspecies could represent a valid source of useful traits for olive breeding. In the current work, the drupe metabolic composition (secoiridoids, flavonoids, simple phenols, triterpenic acids, etc.) of a progeny of 27 cuspidata genotypes coming from free pollination and their female parent was evaluated by applying a powerful LC-MS method. A total of 62 compounds were detected within the profiles; 60 of them were annotated and 27 quantified. From a quantitative point of view, the genotypes from the progeny of cuspidata showed quite different metabolic profiles to olive common cultivars ("Arbequina", "Frantoio", "Koroneiki" and "Picual") used as controls. Cuspidata drupes were richer in terms of several bioactive compounds such as rutin, hydroxytyrosol glucoside, a few interesting secoiridoids and the compounds of m/z 421 and 363. The relationships among several secondary metabolites determined in the progeny inferred from the results of both PCA and cross-correlation analysis were explained according to metabolic biosynthesis pathways in olive drupes. These outcomes underlined the potential of cuspidata genetic resources as a source of potentially interesting variability in olive breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]