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Summary: Cotton cultivation spans over 30 million hectares across 85 countries and regions, with more than half participating in the global cotton textile trade. The elongated cotton fiber cell is an ideal model for studying cell elongation and understanding plant growth and development. Brassinosteroids (BRs), recognized for their role in cell elongation, offer the potential for improving cotton fiber quality and yield. Despite extensive research highlighting BR's positive impact on fiber development, a comprehensive review on this topic has been lacking. This review addresses this gap, providing a detailed analysis of the latest advancements in BR signaling and its effects on cotton fiber development. We explore the complex network of BR biosynthesis components, signaling molecules, and regulators, including crosstalk with other pathways and transcriptional control mechanisms. Additionally, we propose molecular strategies and highlight key genetic elements for optimizing BR‐related genes to enhance fiber quality and yield. The review emphasizes the importance of BR homeostasis and the hormonal landscape during cotton fiber development, offering insights into targeted manipulation opportunities and challenges. This consolidation offers a comprehensive understanding of BR's multifaceted roles in fiber development, outlining a strategic approach for BR optimization in cotton fiber quality and yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY Cotton stands as a pillar in the textile industry due to its superior natural fibers. Lignin, a complex polymer synthesized from phenylalanine and deposited in mature cotton fibers, is believed to be essential for fiber quality, although the precise effects remain largely unclear. In this study, we characterized two ubiquitously expressed cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenases (CAD), GhCAD37A and GhCAD37D (GhCAD37A/D), in Gossypium hirsutum. GhCAD37A/D possess CAD enzymatic activities, to catalyze the generation of monolignol products during lignin biosynthesis. Analysis of transgenic cotton knockout and overexpressing plants revealed that GhCAD37A/D are important regulators of fiber quality, positively impacting breaking strength but negatively affecting fiber length and elongation percentage by modulating lignin biosynthesis in fiber cells. Moreover, GhCAD37A/D are shown to modulate anther vitality and affect stem lodging trait in cotton by influencing lignin biosynthesis in the vascular bundles of anther and stem, respectively. Additionally, our study revealed that Ghcad37A/D knockout plants displayed red stem xylem, likely due to the overaccumulation of aldehyde intermediates in the phenylpropanoid metabolism pathway, as indicated by metabolomics analysis. Thus, our work illustrates that GhCAD37A/D are two important enzymes of lignin biosynthesis in different cotton organs, influencing fiber quality, anther vitality, and stem lodging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Growth, productivity, and fiber quality of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.), a vital fiber-producing cash crop, are severely affected under drought conditions. Seed priming has a proven role in enhancing crop tolerance to abiotic stress, including drought. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of seed priming with KNO3 on cotton productivity and fiber quality under drought stress. A germination experiment was established under laboratory conditions with five treatments of seed priming (non-primed or control treatment, hydropriming, and priming with 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5 g KNO3 L−1). Another experiment under polyhouse conditions based on the same seed priming treatments was conducted under three levels of soil water contents (field capacity [FC] 100%: FC100, 75%: FC75, and 50%: FC50). The results obtained showed that there was a clear reduction in the different parameters tested at FC50 in comparison to FC100 (39–54%, 32–44%, 6–12%, and 7–12% reduction for boll number per plant, seed cotton yield, fiber strength, and leaf relative water content, respectively, across all priming treatments). Seed priming with KNO3 at 5 g L−1 effectively alleviated the detrimental effects originated from drought stress and caused 61–73%, 13–16%, and 16–23% increase in seed cotton yield, fiber length, and fiber strength, respectively, across soil moisture levels when compared with the control treatment. The same KNO3 dose caused an increase of 78% in water productivity in comparison to the control plants at FC50. Priming cotton seeds with 5 g KNO3 L−1 holds promise to obtain synchronized germination, enhance fiber quality, and increase yield, especially under water-limited conditions, thereby promoting economic viability and environmental sustainability. Additionally, this practice enhances water productivity, leading to significant water savings and reduced irrigation costs for cotton farmers. This method could be used as potential technology in advancing sustainable agriculture in water-constraint conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spinnability of different quality types of Island cotton was evaluated by using conventional cotton spinning combing process. The results show: the higher Macron value can effectively control the neps when spinning high count yarn, the fiber fineness and fiber strength are more useful to the improvement of yarn strength when spinning low count yarn, the long fiber length is helpful to control of the neps, and the higher fiber strength is beneficial to the improvement of yarn strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcription Factors (TFs) are key regulators of how plants grow and develop. Among the diverse TF families, the Glabrous-enhancer binding protein (GeBP) family plays a key role in trichome initiation and leaf development. The specific roles of GeBP TFs in plants remain largely unexplored, although GeBP transcription factors play important roles in plants. This study identified 16 GhGeBP genes in Gossypium hirsutum, ranging from 534 bp (GhGeBP14) to 1560 bp (GhGeBP2). Phylogenetic analysis grouped 16 GhGeBP genes clustered into three subgroups, unevenly distributed across 14 chromosomes. Analysis of the cis-acting elements revealed 408 motifs in the 2 kb upstream regions of the promoters, including stress-responsive, phytohormone-responsive, and light-responsive elements. Tissue-specific expression analysis showed 8 GhGeBP genes were highly expressed across all tissues, while GhGeBP4 and GhGeBP12 were down-regulated under conditions of drought, salt, cold, and heat stress. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified GhGeBP4 was associated with fiber micronaire (FM) and fiber strength (FS), while GhGeBP9 was linked to the node of the first fruiting branch (NFFB) and flowering time (FT). Haplotype analysis revealed that GhGeBP4-HAP2 exhibited higher fiber quality traits, while GhGeBP9-HAP2 was associated with early maturity. The results of this study offer significant insights that are worthy of further investigation into the role of the GhGeBP gene family in G. hirsutum and promising targets for marker-assisted selection strategies in cotton breeding programs, particularly for improving fiber quality and early maturity traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton is a widely planted commercial crop in the world. Enhancing fiber yield and quality is a long-term goal for cotton breeders. Our previous work has demonstrated that fine promotion of auxin biosynthesis in ovule epidermis, by overexpressing FBP7pro::iaaM, has a significant improvement on lint yield and fiber fineness. Lately, transgenic cottons overexpressing GhROP6 variants modify mature fiber length by controlling GhPIN3a-mediated polar auxin transport in ovules. Here, this study showed that all these GhROP6-related cottons displayed unsatisfactory agronomic performance in field conditions. Yet extra auxin supply could promote their fiber development, suggesting inadequate auxin supply in the ovules. Thus, these cottons were integrated with enhanced auxin synthesis by crossing with FBP7pro::iaaM cotton. All the transgene-stacked cottons exhibited synergetic effects on cotton yield (seedcotton yield, lint yield, and lint percentage) and quality (length, strength, and micronaire). Notably, comparing to the FBP7pro::iaaM background, the transgene-stacked cotton co-expressing FBP7pro::iaaM and CA-ghrop6 (constitutively active GhROP6) exhibited a 12.6% increase in seedcotton yield and a 19.0% increase in lint yield over a three-year field trial, and simultaneously resulted in further improvement on fiber length, strength, and micronaire. Collectively, our data provide a potential strategy for genetic improvement on cotton fiber yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

Abstract Transcription Factors (TFs) are key regulators of how plants grow and develop. Among the diverse TF families, the Glabrous-enhancer binding protein (GeBP) family plays a key role in trichome initiation and leaf development. The specific roles of GeBP TFs in plants remain largely unexplored, although GeBP transcription factors play important roles in plants. This study identified 16 GhGeBP genes in Gossypium hirsutum, ranging from 534 bp (GhGeBP14) to 1560 bp (GhGeBP2). Phylogenetic analysis grouped 16 GhGeBP genes clustered into three subgroups, unevenly distributed across 14 chromosomes. Analysis of the cis-acting elements revealed 408 motifs in the 2 kb upstream regions of the promoters, including stress-responsive, phytohormone-responsive, and light-responsive elements. Tissue-specific expression analysis showed 8 GhGeBP genes were highly expressed across all tissues, while GhGeBP4 and GhGeBP12 were down-regulated under conditions of drought, salt, cold, and heat stress. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified GhGeBP4 was associated with fiber micronaire (FM) and fiber strength (FS), while GhGeBP9 was linked to the node of the first fruiting branch (NFFB) and flowering time (FT). Haplotype analysis revealed that GhGeBP4-HAP2 exhibited higher fiber quality traits, while GhGeBP9-HAP2 was associated with early maturity. The results of this study offer significant insights that are worthy of further investigation into the role of the GhGeBP gene family in G. hirsutum and promising targets for marker-assisted selection strategies in cotton breeding programs, particularly for improving fiber quality and early maturity traits.

Pectin is a major constituent of the plant cell wall. Pectate lyase (PEL, EC 4.2.2.2) uses anti-β-elimination chemistry to cleave the α-1,4 glycosidic linkage in the homogalacturonan region of pectin. However, limited information is available on the comprehensive and evolutionary analysis of PELs in the Malvaceae. In this study, we identified 597 PEL genes from 10 Malvaceae species. Phylogenetic and motif analyses revealed that these PELs are classified into six subfamilies: Clades I, II, III, IV, Va, and Vb. The two largest subfamilies, Clades I and II, contained 237 and 222 PEL members, respectively. The members of Clades Va and Vb only contained four or five motifs, far fewer than the other subfamilies. Gene duplication analysis showed that segmental duplication played a crucial role in the expansion of the PEL gene family in Gossypium species. The PELs from Clades I, IV, Va, and Vb were expressed during the fiber elongation stage, but nearly all PEL genes from Clades II and III showed no expression in any of the investigated fiber developmental stages. We further performed single-gene haplotype association analysis in 2,001 G. hirsutum accessions and 229 G. barbadense accessions. Interestingly, 14 PELs were significantly associated with fiber length and strength traits in G. barbadense with superior fiber quality, while only eight GhPEL genes were found to be significantly associated with fiber quality traits in G. hirsutum. Our findings provide important information for further evolutionary and functional research on the PEL gene family members and their potential use for fiber quality improvement in cotton.

Copyright of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences is the property of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences Editorial Department 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.)

Copyright of Journal of Agro-Environment Science is the property of Journal of Agro-Environment Science Editorial Board 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.)

Fiber length (FL) and strength (FS) are the core indicators for evaluating cotton fiber quality. The corresponding stages of fiber elongation and secondary wall thickening are of great significance in determining FL and FS formation, respectively. QTL mapping and high-throughput sequencing technology have been applied to dissect the molecular mechanism of fiber development. In this study, 15 cotton chromosome segment substitution lines (CSSLs) with significant differences in FL and FS, together with their recurrent parental Gossypium hirsutum line CCRI45 and donor parent G. barbadense line Hai1, were chosen to conduct RNA-seq on developing fiber samples at 10 days post anthesis (DPA) and 20 DPA. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained via pairwise comparisons among all 24 samples (each one with three biological repeats). A total of 969 DEGs related to FL-high, 1285 DEGs to FS-high, and 997 DEGs to FQ-high were identified. The functional enrichment analyses of them indicated that the GO terms of cell wall structure and ROS, carbohydrate, and phenylpropanoid metabolism were significantly enriched, while the GO terms of glucose and polysaccharide biosynthesis, and brassinosteroid and glycosylphosphatidylinositol metabolism could make great contributions to FL and FS formation, respectively. Weighted gene co-expressed network analyses (WGCNA) were separately conducted for analyzing FL and FS traits, and their corresponding hub DEGs were screened in significantly correlated expression modules, such as EXPA8, XTH, and HMA in the fiber elongation and WRKY, TDT, and RAC-like 2 during secondary wall thickening. An integrated analysis of these hub DEGs with previous QTL identification results successfully identified a total of 33 candidate introgressive DEGs with non-synonymous mutations between the Gh and Gb species. A common DEG encoding receptor-like protein kinase 1 was reported to likely participate in fiber secondary cell thickening regulation by brassionsteroid signaling. Such valuable information was conducive to enlightening the developing mechanism of cotton fiber and also provided an abundant gene pool for further molecular breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superior fiber quality is one of the most important objectives in cotton breeding. To detect the genetic basis underlying fiber quality, an F2 population containing 413 plants was constructed by crossing Jifeng 914 and Jifeng 173, both of which have superior fiber quality, with Jifeng 173 being better. Five fiber quality traits were investigated in the F2, F2:3, F2:4, and F2:5 populations. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping was conducted based on a high-density genetic map containing 11,488 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and spanning 4202.12 cM in length. Transgressive segregation patterns and complex correlations in the five tested traits were observed. A total of 108 QTLs were found, including 13 major effect QTLs that contributed more than 10% toward phenotypic variation (PV) and 9 stable QTLs that could be repeatedly mapped in different generations. Chromosome A7 contained 12 QTL, ranking the first. No QTL was found on chromosomes D1 and D11. Two QTLs could be repeatedly detected in three populations, including qFL-D3-2 in F2, F2:4, and F2:5 with 9.18–21.45% of PV and qFS-A11-1 in F2:3, F2:4, and F2:5 with 6.05–10.41% of PV. Another seven stable QTLs could be detected in two populations, including four major effect QTLs: qFL-A12-3, qFS-D10-2, qMC-D6-2, and qMC-D8-1. Fourteen QTL-overlapping regions were found, which might explain the complex correlations among the five phenotypic traits. Four regions on chromosome A11, D3, D6, and D10 covered by both stable and major effect QTLs are promising for further fine mapping. The genomic regions of the two QTLs detected in three populations and the four major effect QTLs contain 810 genes. Gene functional analysis revealed that the annotated genes are mainly involved in protein binding and metabolic pathways. Fifteen candidate genes in the qFL-D3-2 region are highly expressed in fiber or ovules during fiber initiation, elongation, secondary cell wall thickening, or maturation stages. qRT-PCR revealed that Ghir_D03G005440.1 and Ghir_D03G011310.1 may play a role in promoting fiber initiation, while Ghir_D03G006470.1 may be beneficial for promoting fiber elongation. This study provides more information for revealing the molecular genetic basis underlying cotton fiber quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fiber quality improvement is a primary goal in cotton breeding. Identification of fiber quality-related genes and understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms are essential prerequisites. Previously, studies determined that silencing the gene GhWRKY40 resulted in longer cotton fibers; however, both the underlying mechanisms and whether this transcription factor is additionally involved in the regulation of cotton fiber strength/fineness are unknown. In the current study, we verified that GhWRKY40 influences the fiber strength, fiber fineness, and fiber surface structure by using virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS). Potential proteins that may interact with the nucleus-localized GhWRKY40 were screened in a yeast two-hybrid (Y2H) nuclear-system cDNA library constructed from fibers at 0, 10, and 25 days post-anthesis (DPA) in two near-isogenic lines differing in fiber length and strength. An aspartyl protease/asparaginase-related protein, GhAPD6, was identified and confirmed by Y2H and split-luciferase complementation assays. The expression of GhAPD6 was approximately 30-fold higher in the GhWRKY40-VIGS lines at 10 DPA and aspartyl protease activity was significantly upregulated in the GhWRKY40-VIGS lines at 10–20 DPA. This study suggested that GhWRKY40 may interact with GhAPD6 to regulate fiber development in cotton. The results provide a theoretical reference for the selection and breeding of high-quality cotton fibers assisted by molecular technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to help users in the textile industry to fully understand USTER Statistics, the USTER Statistics 2023 was interpretated. The concept, history, source of samples of USTER Statistics were introduced. Its scope, percentile curve, application of interactive table and form of publication were explained. The new changes in USTER Statistics 2023 which included the expansion of fiber quality and the quality data of recycled yarn were interpreted. Finally, from the fiber indexes change and fiber indexes change during processing and the change of yarn indexes, the change trend of cotton fiber and yarn quality in the world were analyzed. It is considered that the correct use of the USTER Statistics can help different users of textile enterprises accurately defining yarn quality specifications with a common quality language, promote production process improvement and the realization of key quality performance. And the technology development and spinning parts improvement of textile machinery producers can be proceed based on the latest quality requirements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic maps highlight the genome organization and structure but also provide the chance of tagging superior traits for crop improvement through marker-assisted selection. Amino acids are building blocks of proteins and perform crucial function in regulating the signaling of molecules involved in the development and growth of plants. Plant architecture also have an impact on crop productivity. In order to select elite cultivars for breeding and identification of favorable alleles and their functional properties, a deep understanding of genetic architecture and development of genetic map is essential. In present investigation, an interspecific cross of Gossypium barbadense XH-18 × G. darwinii 5-7 was made to develop a genetic map utilizing single sequence repeat markers for the dissection of amino acids involved in genetic architecture of G. barbadense and G. darwinii. We measured chromosomal distribution of 20 amino acids across the whole genome of both species. The map consists of 613 markers spread across all 26 chromosomes, covering 2371.4 cM of cotton genome with an average inter-marker distance of 9.35 cM. The marker number anchored on the chromosomes varied from 5 to 76 with an average of 23.57 on each chromosome. The Dt sub-genome had more markers (83.03%) than the At sub-genome (15.66%). Moreover, the longest chromosome was 143.387 cM, the shortest was 58.430 cM, and the average length was 91.207 cM. The Dt subgenome spans a greater genomic distance than the At subgenome. A sum of 21,035 genes were discovered, covering the complete genome of G. barbadense; G. darwinii and have been found to be involved in tRNA 3'-trailer cleavage, macromolecule modification, peptide deformylase activity, response to biotic stimulus and defense response. The minimum Glutamic acid (Glu), Histidine (His), and Lysine (Lys) were found on Chr.13 (0.00-17.74), Chr.02 (0.00-8.01), and Chr.06 (0.00-17.97), respectively found through chromosomal amino acid dissection. The genome-wide SSR interspecific genetic map of G. barbadense and G. darwinii is first of its kind, and studying chromosomal distribution of amino acids will set a landmark step to dissect the genome structure of G. darwinii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical regulation has beneficial effects on the growth, yield, and fiber quality of cotton with different plant architectures. This study aimed to investigate the combined effects of chemical regulators such as mepiquat chloride (1,1-dimethyl-piperidiniuchloride, DPC), chlormequat chloride (CCC), thidiazuron (TDZ), and ethephon (ETH) during the growth period of cotton. Different combinations of chemical regulators were applied to examine the growth, development, yield, and quality of cotton. The results showed that the application of different chemical regulators had varying effects on the yields of the two cotton varieties with distinct plant architecture. Specifically, K1C1 (before and after topping with 1:1 25% DPC, 50% TDZ, and 40% ETH) and K2C2 (before topping with 25% DPC and after topping with 50% CCC, 50% TDZ, and 40% ETH) were sprayed on ‘Wankemian-1’ and ‘Wanmian-191’, thereby increasing the cotton yield. The K2C2 treatment increased the upper half mean length and fiber strength of the two varieties but decreased the fiber length uniformity index. The fiber strength, fiber length uniformity index, and spinning consistency index of ‘Wankemian-1’ were higher than those of ‘Wanmian-191’. Based on comprehensive yield, quality, and economic benefits, K1C1 and K2C2 were determined to be the most effective chemical regulators of ‘Wankemian-1’ and ‘Wanmian-191’, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton fiber, the mainstay of the world's textile industry, is formed by the differentiation of epidermal cells on the outer peridium of the ovule. The TBL gene family is involved in the regulation of epidermal hair development aswell as response to abiotic stress. However, the function of TBL genes in cotton has not been systematically studied yet. Here, we identified 131 and 130 TBL genes in TM-1 (Gossypium hirsutum) and Hai7124 (Gossypium barbadense), respectively. Phylogenetic, gene structure, expression pattern and cis-element of promoter analysis were performed and compared. Single gene association analysis indicated that more TBL genes related to fiber quality traits were found in G. barbadense, whereas more genes associated with yield traits were found in G. hirsutum. One gene, GhTBL84 (GH_D04G0930), was induced by treatment at 4 °C for 12 and 24 h in G. hirsutum and silencing of the GhTBL84 gene by VIGS technology in TM-1 can significantly improve the resistance of cotton seedlings to low temperature stress. In sum, our study conducted a genome-wide identification and comparative analysis of TBL family genes in G. hirsutum and G. barbadense and demonstrated a group of TBL genes significantly associated with fiber quality and excavated cold stress responsive gene, such as GhTBL84, providing a theoretical basis for further improving cotton agronomic traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To determine the genes associated with the fiber strength trait in cotton, three different cotton cultivars were selected: Sea Island cotton (Xinhai 32, with hyper-long fibers labeled as HL), and upland cotton (17–24, with long fibers labeled as L, and 62–33, with short fibers labeled as S). These cultivars were chosen to assess fiber samples with varying qualities. RNA-seq technology was used to analyze the expression profiles of cotton fibers at the secondary cell wall (SCW) thickening stage (20, 25, and 30 days post-anthesis (DPA)). The results showed that a large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from the three assessed cotton cultivars at different stages of SCW development. For instance, at 20 DPA, Sea Island cotton (HL) had 6,215 and 5,364 DEGs compared to upland cotton 17–24 (L) and 62–33 (S), respectively. Meanwhile, there were 1,236 DEGs between two upland cotton cultivars, 17–24 (L) and 62–33 (S). Gene Ontology (GO) term enrichment identified 42 functions, including 20 biological processes, 11 cellular components, and 11 molecular functions. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis identified several pathways involved in SCW synthesis and thickening, such as glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, galactose metabolism, propanoate metabolism, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids pathway, valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation, fatty acid elongation pathways, and plant hormone signal transduction. Through the identification of shared DEGs, 46 DEGs were found to exhibit considerable expressional differences at different fiber stages from the three cotton cultivars. These shared DEGs have functions including REDOX enzymes, binding proteins, hydrolases (such as GDSL thioesterase), transferases, metalloproteins (cytochromatin-like genes), kinases, carbohydrates, and transcription factors (MYB and WRKY). Therefore, RT-qPCR was performed to verify the expression levels of nine of the 46 identified DEGs, an approach which demonstrated the reliability of RNA-seq data. Our results provided valuable molecular resources for clarifying the cell biology of SCW biosynthesis during fiber development in cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agriculture & Nature / Kahramanmaraş Sütçü İmam Üniversitesi Tarım & Doğa Dergisi is the property of Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam Universitesi 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.)

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) requires a long growing period for fruit and fiber maturation, making it vulnerable to insect pests, thus affecting the seed cotton yield and fiber quality. Cotton-feeding thrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) are one of the major insects impacting cotton yield throughout the U.S. cotton belt and worldwide. A two-year field research conducted at Texas A&M AgriLife Research farm in west Texas, USA quantified the interactive effect of three cover crops [wheat (Triticum aestivum), rye (Secale cereale), and no cover] and three irrigation regimes [rainfed, deficit irrigation (30%) and full irrigation] on thrips population dynamics across the phenologically susceptible stages of upland cotton and resulting impact on plant growth and yield parameters. Temporal densities of thrips, feeding injury from thrips, cotton growth and reproductive profiles, yield, and fiber quality varied with cover crops and irrigation levels. Thrips densities were conspicuously low due to harsh weather conditions, but the densities decreased with an increase in plant age. Terminated rye and wheat cover versus conventional-tilled, no-cover treatments showed marginal effects on thrips colonization and population dynamics. Similarly, full irrigation treatment supported higher thrips densities compared to rainfed and deficit irrigation treatments. Immature thrips densities increased through the successive sampling periods, indicating increased thrips reproduction following the initial colonization. Thrips feeding injury was significantly greater in no-cover plots in the early seedling stage, but the effect was insignificant across all cover crop treatments in subsequent sampling dates. The results of this study demonstrated increased seedling vigor, plant height, and flower densities in terminated cover crop plots across all irrigation regimes compared to that in no-cover plots. However, the cover crop x irrigation interaction significantly impacted the cotton lint yield, with increased lint yield on cover crop treatments. This study clearly demonstrates the value of cover crops in semi-arid agricultural production systems that are characterized by low rainfall, reduced irrigation capacity, and wind erosion of topsoil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cotton is a pivotal global commodity underscored by its economic value and widespread use. In the face of climate change, breeding resilient cultivars for variable environmental conditions becomes increasingly essential. However, the process of phenotyping, crucial to breeding programs, is often viewed as a bottleneck due to the inefficiency of traditional, low-throughput methods. To address this limitation, this study utilizes hyperspectral remote sensing, a promising tool for assessing crucial crop traits across forty cotton varieties. The results from this study demonstrated the effectiveness of four vegetation indices (VIs) in evaluating these varieties for water-use efficiency (WUE). The prediction accuracy for WUE through VIs such as the simple ratio water index (SRWI) and normalized difference water index (NDWI) was higher (up to R2 = 0.66), enabling better detection of phenotypic variations (p < 0.05) among the varieties compared to physiological-related traits (from R2 = 0.21 to R2 = 0.42), with high repeatability and a low RMSE. These VIs also showed high Pearson correlations with WUE (up to r = 0.81) and yield-related traits (up to r = 0.63). We also selected high-performing varieties based on the VIs, WUE, and fiber quality traits. This study demonstrated that the hyperspectral-based proximal sensing approach helps rapidly assess the in-season performance of varieties for imperative traits and aids in precise breeding decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Existing methods for measuring fineness are time-consuming, tedious, and impractical to evaluate many samples. For this reason, the Textile Industry has sought a rapid, accurate, and reliable instrument to determine fiber fineness. Recently, the Optical Fiber Diameter Analyzer (OFDA) was introduced for rapid and precise evaluation of the diameter of different types of fibers. In this study, the OFDA was evaluated for measuring the ribbon width of cotton fiber snippets. One hundred and four carded cotton samples covering a wide range of fiber properties were selected and tested with nine replications per sample. The repeatability of the OFDA diameter measurement was confirmed. Comparisons with the data (cross-sections, AFIS, and Cottonscope) obtained from previous studies on the 104 samples were used to assess the effectiveness of the proposed method. The relationship between ribbon widths measured by Cottonscope and OFDA was found to be weak. Yet, there is a strong correlation between OFDA ribbon width and AFIS standard fineness. We hypothesize that the poor relationship between the Cottonscope and the OFDA is related to the medium in which the measurements are performed. The results are stable and provide measurements closely related to AFIS standard fineness, a trusted measurement within the Textile Industry.

Subtropical fiber flax faces significant challenges due to crop lodging, exacerbated by the high N regimes needed for increased fiber production. This study examines impact of balanced P and K applications under varied N regimes on lodging resistance, fiber yield, and quality of flax. Field experiments with 12 NPK treatments revealed that while 120:19:38 kg N, P, K ha−1 achieved highest plant height, stem-diameter, and fresh-weight while increased lodging percentage and reduced fiber quality when P and K were not balanced. Conversely, balanced P and K applications mitigated negative effects of high N, significantly reducing lodging and enhancing fiber yield, quality. Optimal fiber quality, including fiber length and bundle tenacity, was observed with 90:19:38 kg N, P, K ha−1. The novelty of this study lies in integration of stochastic and ML approaches to develop hybrid models for lodging. By combining LASSO with ANN, NLSVR, and RF techniques, hybrid models outperformed individual models in lodging prediction. Specifically, LASSO-NLSVR provided most accurate predictions due to its nonlinear mapping capabilities. Key predictive factors included fiber content, linear density, and tensile strength at 60 days post-sowing, offering valuable insights for breeders and agronomists to improve flax lodging resistance and fiber quality in subtropical climates.

ABSTRACTOne of the current commercially available and accepted instruments for simultaneous cotton fiber length and maturity measurement is the advanced fiber information system (AFIS), which tests an individualized (single) fiber in lint samples. Extending fiber length and maturity measurement into a seed cotton, the AFIS method is an option, since it requires a minimum 0.5 g sample that could be accessible via a single locule sampling. In this study, AFIS measurement was examined for locule fibers within a naturally variable seed cotton cultivar and for ginned lint of different cultivars. In comparison with averages of AFIS length and maturity from locule samples in a seed cotton, those from lint samples of the same cultivar or diverse cultivars showed less differences in L(w), UQL(w), L5%(n) and maturity ratio (MR). The result suggested the feasibility of estimating L(w), UQL(w), L5%(n), and MR in a lint from AFIS measurements of multiple locule fibers in its seed cotton. Comparison of correlations between locule samples of a seed cotton and lint samples of diverse cultivars indicated statistically significant sampling method X ginning interactions for all AFIS length and maturity properties except for MR and Fineness. The analysis also implied the difficulties of evaluating AFIS length from AFIS maturity directly.

ABSTRACTThe work deals characteristics of new flax Hera variety in terms of fiber quality with regard to agronomic assessment and seeds quality. The results of the analyzes were related to the reference varieties Nike, Sara and Modran grown in Poland in 2022 season. The study included evaluation of agrotechnical experiment, flax straw and fiber evaluation taking into account the morphology and surface as well cross section of flax fiber. Moreover, seeds quality assessment were conducted. Hera variety was characterized by the highest total (6.27 t/ha, 0.627 kg/m2) and straw yield (5.16 t/ha, 0.516 kg/m2). Straw of Hera variety was characterized by the best average total (78.5 cm) as well as average technical (66.5 cm) length and average diameter (1.43 mm). In addition, it has fiber to raw straw content (16.42%) at a level comparable to the reference varieties. The metrological analysis of the fiber showed that the Hera variety fiber can be a good raw material for production of yarns.

Background. Climate change on the planet requires the creation of cultivars adapted to new conditions, which suggests a constant search for sources of the required traits, and the VIR cotton collection provides unlimited opportunities for breeding. Also, the harsh conditions of the northwestern Astrakhan region make it possible to identify the potential capabilities of the accessions. Materials and methods. 25 accessions of the VIR cotton collection were studied at the Caspian Agrarian Federal Scientific Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences (PAFSC RAS) in 2021 against the backdrop of adverse weather conditions. Comparative assessment of morphological and economically important features was carried out according to the VIR methodology. Factor analysis based on the principal component method has been performed. Excel 2016 and STATISTICA 7.0 were used. Results and discussion. The study resulted in the identification of accessions exceeding the ʻAC 5ʼ standard in terms of the yield. The Chinese accessions had a very good fiber yield and can serve as sources of this trait, although they are not too precocious and are characterized by a medium-size capsule. Unfavorable weather conditions during the period of fiber formation did not facilitate obtaining a very good quality fiber, but some accessions yielded fiber with a length of 32-33 mm. Conclusions. Factor analysis showed that American accessions are the least suitable for the conditions of the northern Astrakhan Region due to their late maturity and tall stature. The search for appropriate sources is promising among accessions originating from other regions.

Abstract Background Natural and synthetic plant growth regulators are essential for plant health, likewise these regulators also play a role in increasing organic production productivity and improving quality and yield stability. In the present study, we have evaluated the effects of foliar applied plant growth regulators, i.e., moringa leaf extract (MLE) and mepiquat chloride (MC) alone and in combination MC and MLE on the conventional cotton cultivar (CIM 573) and transgenic one (CIM 598). The growth regulators were applied at the start of bloom, 45 and 90 days after blooming. Results The application of MC and MLE at 90 days after blooming significantly improved the relative growth rate, net assimilation rate, the number of bolls per plant, and seed cotton yield. Likewise, the combined application of MLE and MC at 90 days after blooming significantly boosted the nitrogen uptake in locules, as well as the phosphorus and potassium uptake in the leaves of both cotton cultivars. The application of MLE alone has considerably improved the nitrogen uptake in leaves, and phosphorus and potassium contents in locules of Bt and conventional cotton cultivars. Similarly, Bt cotton treated with MLE at 90 days after blooming produced significantly higher ginning out turn and oil contents. Treatment in combination (MLE + MC) at 90 days after blooming produced considerably higher micronaire value, fiber strength, and staple length in conventional cultivar. Conclusion The natural growth enhancer, MLE is a rich source of minerals and zeatin, improving the nutrient absorption and quality of cotton fiber in both conventional and Bt cotton cultivars.

Abstract Background Water deficit is an important problem in agricultural production in arid regions. With the advent of wholly mechanized technology for cotton planting in Xinjiang, it is important to determine which planting mode could achieve high yield, fiber quality and water use efficiency (WUE). This study aimed to explore if chemical topping affected cotton yield, quality and water use in relation to row configuration and plant densities. Results Experiments were carried out in Xinjiang China, in 2020 and 2021 with two topping method, manual topping and chemical topping, two plant densities, low and high, and two row configurations, i.e., 76 cm equal rows and 10+66 cm narrow-wide rows, which were commonly applied in matching harvest machine. Chemical topping increased seed cotton yield, but did not affect cotton fiber quality comparing to traditional manual topping. Under equal row spacing, the WUE in higher density was 62.4% higher than in the lower one. However, under narrow-wide row spacing, the WUE in lower density was 53.3% higher than in higher one (farmers’ practice). For machine-harvest cotton in Xinjiang, the optimal row configuration and plant density for chemical topping was narrow-wide rows with 15 plants m-2 or equal rows with 18 plants m-2. Conclusion The plant density recommended in narrow-wide rows was less than farmers’ practice and the density in equal rows was moderate with local practice. Our results provide new knowledge on optimizing agronomic managements of machine-harvested cotton for both high yield and water efficient.

Abstract Background As the most widely cultivated fiber crop, cotton production depends on hybridization to unlock the yield potential of current varieties. A deep understanding of genetic dissection is crucial for the cultivation of enhanced hybrid plants with desired traits, such as high yield and fine fiber quality. In this study, the general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) of yield and fiber quality of nine cotton parents (six lines and three testers) and eighteen F1 crosses produced using a line × tester mating design were analyzed. Results The results revealed significant effects of genotypes, parents, crosses, and interactions between parents and crosses for most of the studied traits. Moreover, the effects of both additive and non-additive gene actions played a notably significant role in the inheritance of most of the yield and fiber quality attributes. The F1 hybrids of (Giza 90 × Aust) × Giza 86, Uzbekistan 1 × Giza 97, and Giza 96 × Giza 97 demonstrated superior performance due to their favorable integration of high yield attributes and premium fiber quality characteristics. Path analysis revealed that lint yield has the highest positive direct effect on seed cotton yield, while lint percentage showed the highest negative direct effect on seed cotton yield. Principal component analysis identified specific parents and hybrids associated with higher cotton yield, fiber quality, and other agronomic traits. Conclusion This study provides insights into identifying potential single- and three-way cross hybrids with superior cotton yield and fiber quality characteristics, laying a foundation for future research on improving fiber quality in cotton.

Abstract Between 2016 and 2018, the Agriculture Research Center's Sakha Agriculture Research Station conducted two rounds of pedigree selection on a segregating population of cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.) using the F2, F3, and F4 generations resulting from crossing Giza 94 and Suvin. In 2016, the top 5% of plants from the F2 population were selected based on specific criteria. The superior families from the F3 generation were then selected to produce the F4 families in 2017, which were grown in the 2018 summer season in single plant progeny rows and bulk experiments with a randomized complete block design of three replications. Over time, most traits showed increased mean values in the population, with the F2 generation having higher Genotypic Coefficient of Variance (GCV) and Phenotypic Coefficient of Variance (PCV) values compared to the succeeding generations for the studied traits. The magnitude of GCV and PCV in the F3 and F4 generations was similar, indicating that genotype had played a greater role than the environment. Moreover, the mean values of heritability in the broad sense increased from generation to generation. Selection criteria I2, I4, and I5 were effective in improving most of the yield and its component traits, while selection criterion I1 was efficient in improving earliness traits. Most of the yield and its component traits showed a positive and significant correlation with each other, highlighting their importance in cotton yield. This suggests that selecting to improveone or more of these traits would improve the others. Families number 9, 13, 19, 20, and 21 were the best genotypes for relevant yield characters, surpassing the better parent, check variety, and giving the best values for most characters. Therefore, the breeder could continue to use these families in further generations as breeding genotypes to develop varieties with high yields and its components.

The economical and effective weed control in cotton can succeed by breeding IMI-tolerant genotypes. For this purpose, we treated seeds with gamma rays at different doses and sprayed the plants with imazamox in M1-M5 generations. Thirty-three M4 lines in 2020 and seventeen M5 lines in 2021 with two comparative varieties were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. M4 lines generally had superior fiber properties than standard varieties. We transferred 17 M4 lines, superior in terms of yield, ginning out-turn and fiber quality, to the M5 generation. All M5 lines exhibited finer fibers than comparative varieties. Seed cotton yield and ginning out-turn of eight M5 lines were superior to the comparative varieties. Five IMI-tolerant genotypes with high yield and favourable fiber quality were transferred to further generations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluating the cultivars' performance is an important step in the cotton breeding process. Therefore, we tested the yield, fiber quality and within-boll yield components of genotypes, and associations among observed characters were estimated. Ten cotton genotypes inc., Bomba, Özbek 100, Ramses, May 455, Bir 949, Fiona, Şahin 2000, Sahra, Sasha and Eva, were planted in a Randomized Complete Block Design with four replications in 2022. The highest seed cotton yield was recorded in Sasha and Bomba genotypes. Ramses performed the higher ginning out-turn (47.70%) and favorable fiber fineness (4.62 mic.). Bir 949 (32.65 mm), Ramses (31.49 mm) and Sasha (31.31 mm) for fiber length; Sasha (35.18 g tex-1 ) and Sahra (34.08 g tex-1 ) for fiber strength exhibited desirable performances. The highest relative leaf water content (%) as a drought indicator was recorded in Ramses (67.79), Fiona (67.45), Şahin 2000 (65.25) and Bomba (65.11). The number of fibers per seed ranged from 10.82 thousand (Özbek 100) to 13.00 thousand (Bir 949). It was concluded that it seemed difficult to associate the seed cotton yield, fiber quality and relative leaf water content. Therefore, the genotypes in which all three traits are optimized should be emphasized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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[Objective] To provide theoretical basis for selecting early-maturing machine-picked cotton varieties with excellent defoliation effect. [Method] We analyzed the defoliation rule and ripening effect of different types of leaves of Jinken 1402. The important influencing factors affecting the leaf shedding rate of individual plants of variety were found out under the action of defoliating agent. [Result] Jinken 1402 was higher than Xinluzao 61 in the quantity of main stem leaves, fruit branch leaves and leaf branch leaves, but the abscission rates were higher than Xinluzao 61, and the defoliation effect was better than Xinluzao 61 at 21 d after treatment. The number of boll per plant of Jinken 1402 was higher than Xinluzao 61, and the rate of boll opening number was higher than Xinluzao 61. The fiber quality index reached more than ‘Shuang 31’, and better than Xinluzao 61. [Conclusion] The growth period of Jinken 1402 was about 119 d, and the defolianting effect was good at 21 d after spraying defoliator, indicating that this variety was sensitive to defoliation agents. After application, the boll opening rate of cotton were better and excellent fiber quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Natural and synthetic plant growth regulators are essential for plant health, likewise these regulators also play a role in increasing organic production productivity and improving quality and yield stability. In the present study, we have evaluated the effects of foliar applied plant growth regulators, i.e., moringa leaf extract (MLE) and mepiquat chloride (MC) alone and in combination MC and MLE on the conventional cotton cultivar (CIM 573) and transgenic one (CIM 598). The growth regulators were applied at the start of bloom, 45 and 90 days after blooming. Results: The application of MC and MLE at 90 days after blooming significantly improved the relative growth rate, net assimilation rate, the number of bolls per plant, and seed cotton yield. Likewise, the combined application of MLE and MC at 90 days after blooming significantly boosted the nitrogen uptake in locules, as well as the phosphorus and potassium uptake in the leaves of both cotton cultivars. The application of MLE alone has considerably improved the nitrogen uptake in leaves, and phosphorus and potassium contents in locules of Bt and conventional cotton cultivars. Similarly, Bt cotton treated with MLE at 90 days after blooming produced significantly higher ginning out turn and oil contents. Treatment in combination (MLE + MC) at 90 days after blooming produced considerably higher micronaire value, fiber strength, and staple length in conventional cultivar. Conclusion: The natural growth enhancer, MLE is a rich source of minerals and zeatin, improving the nutrient absorption and quality of cotton fiber in both conventional and Bt cotton cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: As the most widely cultivated fiber crop, cotton production depends on hybridization to unlock the yield potential of current varieties. A deep understanding of genetic dissection is crucial for the cultivation of enhanced hybrid plants with desired traits, such as high yield and fine fiber quality. In this study, the general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) of yield and fiber quality of nine cotton parents (six lines and three testers) and eighteen F1 crosses produced using a line × tester mating design were analyzed. Results: The results revealed significant effects of genotypes, parents, crosses, and interactions between parents and crosses for most of the studied traits. Moreover, the effects of both additive and non-additive gene actions played a notably significant role in the inheritance of most of the yield and fiber quality attributes. The F1 hybrids of (Giza 90 × Aust) × Giza 86, Uzbekistan 1 × Giza 97, and Giza 96 × Giza 97 demonstrated superior performance due to their favorable integration of high yield attributes and premium fiber quality characteristics. Path analysis revealed that lint yield has the highest positive direct effect on seed cotton yield, while lint percentage showed the highest negative direct effect on seed cotton yield. Principal component analysis identified specific parents and hybrids associated with higher cotton yield, fiber quality, and other agronomic traits. Conclusion: This study provides insights into identifying potential single- and three-way cross hybrids with superior cotton yield and fiber quality characteristics, laying a foundation for future research on improving fiber quality in cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Water deficit is an important problem in agricultural production in arid regions. With the advent of wholly mechanized technology for cotton planting in Xinjiang, it is important to determine which planting mode could achieve high yield, fiber quality and water use efficiency (WUE). This study aimed to explore if chemical topping affected cotton yield, quality and water use in relation to row configuration and plant densities. Results: Experiments were carried out in Xinjiang China, in 2020 and 2021 with two topping method, manual topping and chemical topping, two plant densities, low and high, and two row configurations, i.e., 76 cm equal rows and 10+66 cm narrow-wide rows, which were commonly applied in matching harvest machine. Chemical topping increased seed cotton yield, but did not affect cotton fiber quality comparing to traditional manual topping. Under equal row spacing, the WUE in higher density was 62.4% higher than in the lower one. However, under narrow-wide row spacing, the WUE in lower density was 53.3% higher than in higher one (farmers' practice). For machine-harvest cotton in Xinjiang, the optimal row configuration and plant density for chemical topping was narrow-wide rows with 15 plants m-2 or equal rows with 18 plants m-2. Conclusion: The plant density recommended in narrow-wide rows was less than farmers' practice and the density in equal rows was moderate with local practice. Our results provide new knowledge on optimizing agronomic managements of machine-harvested cotton for both high yield and water efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences is the property of Xinjiang Agricultural Sciences Editorial Department 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.)

Plant phenotype assessment approaches have facilitated crop improvement in recent years by providing opportunities for the dissection of complex nature quantitative traits. Fiber quality and yield are significant economic traits with a complex nature mainly due to interactions between its genetic architecture and the surrounding environment. These economic traits showed stagnant performance in recent decades due to eroded genetic diversity via the selection process. It necessitates exploiting conserved germplasm resources to rebuild genetic diversity within cotton cultivars. Compared to the conventional univariate selection methods using a single trait at a time, the multivariate analysis extends its selection to multiple variables for the selection of genotypes. In evaluating a core collection of cotton over two years using various phenotyping methods, multivariate analysis, particularly principal component analysis (PCA), was employed to assess genetic diversity. The PCA analysis demonstrated substantial variability of 39.83% and 45.37% across two years, highlighting a significant impact on yield and fiber quality attributes. The cumulative eigenvalues of principal components exceeding 80% supported the classification of accessions into six distinct groups based on their trait variability. Both PCA and cluster analysis successfully categorized accessions into six groups, indicating high diversity and suggesting their potential utility in breeding programs. The diverse genotypes identified in this study would be potential resources for variety development and accelerated breeding programs, particularly focusing on stress resilience under climate change scenarios. By utilizing these diverse genotypes, there is an opportunity to enhance breeding strategies and accelerate the development of improved cotton varieties with enhanced yield and fiber quality attributes. The significance of our study lies in its demonstration of the importance of genetic diversity in improving yield and fiber quality attributes, thus underscoring its relevance to cotton breeding programs.

Genetic maps highlight the genome organization and structure but also provide the chance of tagging superior traits for crop improvement through marker-assisted selection. Amino acids are building blocks of proteins and perform crucial function in regulating the signaling of molecules involved in the development and growth of plants. Plant architecture also have an impact on crop productivity. In order to select elite cultivars for breeding and identification of favorable alleles and their functional properties, a deep understanding of genetic architecture and development of genetic map is essential. In present investigation, an interspecific cross of Gossypium barbadense XH-18 × G. darwinii 5-7 was made to develop a genetic map utilizing single sequence repeat markers for the dissection of amino acids involved in genetic architecture of G. barbadense and G. darwinii. We measured chromosomal distribution of 20 amino acids across the whole genome of both species. The map consists of 613 markers spread across all 26 chromosomes, covering 2371.4 cM of cotton genome with an average inter-marker distance of 9.35 cM. The marker number anchored on the chromosomes varied from 5 to 76 with an average of 23.57 on each chromosome. The Dt sub-genome had more markers (83.03%) than the At sub-genome (15.66%). Moreover, the longest chromosome was 143.387 cM, the shortest was 58.430 cM, and the average length was 91.207 cM. The Dt subgenome spans a greater genomic distance than the At subgenome. A sum of 21,035 genes were discovered, covering the complete genome of G. barbadense; G. darwinii and have been found to be involved in tRNA 3'-trailer cleavage, macromolecule modification, peptide deformylase activity, response to biotic stimulus and defense response. The minimum Glutamic acid (Glu), Histidine (His), and Lysine (Lys) were found on Chr.13 (0.00-17.74), Chr.02 (0.00-8.01), and Chr.06 (0.00-17.97), respectively found through chromosomal amino acid dissection. The genome-wide SSR interspecific genetic map of G. barbadense and G. darwinii is first of its kind, and studying chromosomal distribution of amino acids will set a landmark step to dissect the genome structure of G. darwinii.

To determine the genes associated with the fiber strength trait in cotton, three different cotton cultivars were selected: Sea Island cotton (Xinhai 32, with hyper-long fibers labeled as HL), and upland cotton (17–24, with long fibers labeled as L, and 62–33, with short fibers labeled as S). These cultivars were chosen to assess fiber samples with varying qualities. RNA-seq technology was used to analyze the expression profiles of cotton fibers at the secondary cell wall (SCW) thickening stage (20, 25, and 30 days post-anthesis (DPA)). The results showed that a large number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were obtained from the three assessed cotton cultivars at different stages of SCW development. For instance, at 20 DPA, Sea Island cotton (HL) had 6,215 and 5,364 DEGs compared to upland cotton 17–24 (L) and 62–33 (S), respectively. Meanwhile, there were 1,236 DEGs between two upland cotton cultivars, 17–24 (L) and 62–33 (S). Gene Ontology (GO) term enrichment identified 42 functions, including 20 biological processes, 11 cellular components, and 11 molecular functions. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis identified several pathways involved in SCW synthesis and thickening, such as glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, galactose metabolism, propanoate metabolism, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids pathway, valine, leucine and isoleucine degradation, fatty acid elongation pathways, and plant hormone signal transduction. Through the identification of shared DEGs, 46 DEGs were found to exhibit considerable expressional differences at different fiber stages from the three cotton cultivars. These shared DEGs have functions including REDOX enzymes, binding proteins, hydrolases (such as GDSL thioesterase), transferases, metalloproteins (cytochromatin-like genes), kinases, carbohydrates, and transcription factors (MYB and WRKY). Therefore, RT-qPCR was performed to verify the expression levels of nine of the 46 identified DEGs, an approach which demonstrated the reliability of RNA-seq data. Our results provided valuable molecular resources for clarifying the cell biology of SCW biosynthesis during fiber development in cotton.

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Cotton fiber maturity has been reported as average maturity and maturity distribution in a sample, through measuring the fibers in the way of either an individual fiber cross-section or a longitude of several subsamples by cross-sectional image analysis (IA), advanced fiber information system (AFIS), and Cottonscope method. As a different approach, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR FT-IR) spectroscopy was proposed to estimate fiber maturity (MIR) and maturity distribution at a bundle fiber level on the basis of three MIR (low-, mid-, and high) classifications. Although maturity distributions from IA, AFIS, or Cottonscope measurement are reported, they are not related with high-volume instrument (HVI) and AFIS qualities considerably. Novelty of this study examined the effect of individual three MIR indices and additional MIR differentials on HVI and AFIS qualities in commercial cotton fibers. There were statistically significant and moderate-to-strong correlations between the MIR indices and fiber maturity and fineness measurements, and also moderate correlations between the MIR indices and other fiber qualities (for example, HVI strength). In particular, there was a moderate correlation between MIR readings and one fiber length parameter [AFIS L(n)] or two short fiber content (SFC) properties [AFIS SFC(w) and AFIS SFC(n)]. Meanwhile, MIR differential (D3) was observed to be correlated with HVI strength significantly and strongly. The result indicated the capability of ATR FT-IR spectroscopy for monitoring fiber maturity distribution in commercial cotton fibers and further in understanding fiber quality measurement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing irrigation strategies is crucial for sustaining cotton production in the face of growing water scarcity. The three-year experimental study (2020–2022) focused on the impact of varying irrigation amounts (320, 370, and 420 mm) and frequencies (4-, 8-, and 12-day intervals) on cotton growth, yield, yield components, and fiber quality in southern Xinjiang. Employing a completely randomized design with three replications, the results indicated higher irrigation amounts resulted in numerically 2.5–7.5% higher lint yields compared to those under medium and low irrigation amounts, notably significant in 2021. Boll density emerged as the primary yield component influencing yield loss due to irrigation amount, followed by seed cotton weight boll−1. Increased boll density was associated with a greater total number of fruiting sites. Additionally, the increased seed cotton weight boll−1 could be linked to an increased seed number boll−1 and a decreased boll fraction at the lower fruiting branches with lower seed cotton weight boll−1. Higher irrigation frequency improved lint yield by increasing boll density, though a significant effect was observed only in 2020. Increased irrigation amounts generally led to longer fiber lengths but lower micronaire values, while increased irrigation frequency resulted in longer, stronger fibers and reduced micronaire values. Furthermore, the highest yield stability was observed under the condition of high irrigation amount and high frequency. This study holds certain guiding significance for water resource management in cotton production in arid regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

【Objective】Understand the cotton boll and fiber quality traits and their correlation of island-upland hybrid long-staple cotton to provide references for breeding high yield island-upland hybrid long-staple cotton.【Methods】New hybrid combinations of island-upland cotton were developed using self-selected insect-resistant upland cotton germplasm line as female parent,and production promoted and applied Xinjiang long-staple island cotton variety as male parent. The cotton boll traits,fiber quality traits and the correlations of the F1 of the 23 island-upland hybrid cotton combinations were analyzed. 【Results】In the 23 island-upland hybrid cotton combinations,the variation range of F1 single boll weight was 3.7-5.0 g. 12 combinations had single boll weight over 4.2 g,with a 9.0% coefficient of variation. The variation range of lint percentage was 20.1%-36.7%. 5 combinations had lint percentage over 30.0%,with a 10.7% coefficient of variation. The variation range for fiber length was 34.5-38.5 mm. 22 combinations had fiber length over 35.0 mm,with a 2.6% coefficient of variation. The variation range of fiber specific strength was 34.8-41.8 cN/tex. 9 combinations had fiber specific strength over 39.0 cN/tex,with a 5.3% coefficient of variation. The variation range of micronaire value was 2.8-4.2. There were 10 combinations with A-level micronaire value and a coefficient of variation of 11.8%. The single boll weight of the island-upland hybrid cotton was extremely significantly (r=-0.683**) negatively correlated with the sterile seed rate,extremely significantly (r=0.660**）positively correlated with seed numbers per capsule and significantly (r=0.495*) positively correlated with capsule numbers per boll. The fiber uniformity of the island-upland hybrid cotton was extremely significantly (r=0.578**,r=0.639**) positively correlated with fiber length and fiber specific strength,and significantly (r=0.506*) positively correlated with elongation rate. Lint percentage was significantly (r=-0.475*) negatively correlated with fiber length. Among 23 island-upland hybrid cotton combinations,W042 × Xinhai No. 53,W046 × Xinhai No. 54 and W047 × Xinhai No. 54 showed simultaneous improvement of cotton boll traits and fiber quality traits.【Conclusion】The simultaneous improvement of yield and fiber quality traits of long-staple cotton can be realized by utilizing the complementary heterosis crossing upland cotton with long-staple island cotton. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Climate change has had significant impacts on agriculture, particularly on cotton production, where drought has emerged as a major threat worldwide. Long and intense dry periods in cotton-growing regions have become more frequent and severe. Drought stress severely affects various aspects of cotton plants, including chlorophyll pigments, carbohydrate metabolism, and enzyme activities related to fiber development, such as vacuolar invertase and sucrose synthase. Furthermore, drought stress disrupts the movement of nutrients toward the reproductive tissues in cotton, resulting in compromised pollen function, propagative failure, and fiber characteristics. To tackle these issues, scientists have made advancements in creating drought-resistant cotton varieties through transgenic methods or molecular breeding techniques, genome editing, CRISPR/Cas9, utilizing quantitative trait loci (QTL). Moreover, the application of plant growth regulators and mineral elements has displayed the potential to improve cotton's ability to endure drought stress while also enhancing fiber yield and quality. These approaches activate stress-responsive signaling pathways, which could contribute to mitigating reproductive failure and improving fiber characteristics. While the impact of drought stress on cotton plants has been extensively studied, the variations in fiber quality resulting from drought stress are not yet completely understood. Current research has been focused on unraveling the mechanisms underlying these changes, including the physiological, biochemical, and molecular alterations during the multiplicative growth phase that contribute to poor fiber development. Understanding these mechanisms will facilitate the development of novel strategies to alleviate the adverse impact of worldwide weather changes on cotton growth and fiber quality. This research focuses on the drought stress in cotton cultivation and explores its different effects on cotton morphology, physiology, crop yield, and fiber characteristics as well as mechanisms by which cotton exhibits drought tolerance and highlights innovative strategies to mitigate drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]