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Abstract Background Improving the quality and shelf life of groundnut oil is one of the foremost objectives of groundnut breeding programmes. This can be achieved by marker-assisted introgression, a technique that efficiently and precisely enables breeders to develop plants with enhanced qualities. This study focused on improving the oleic acid content of an elite groundnut variety, TMV 7, by introgressing a recessive mutation responsible for the increase in oleic acid from ICG 15419. Hybridization was performed between the donor and recurrent parents to develop the F1, BC1F1, BC2F1 and BC2F2 populations. Introgressed lines with increased oleic acid in the genetic background of TMV 7 were identified using allele-specific marker, F435-F, F435SUB-R and a set of SSR markers were employed to recover the genome of the recurrent parent. Results With two backcrosses, a total of ten homozygous plants in the BC2F2 population were identified with oleic acid content ranging from 54.23 to 57.72% causing an increase of 36% over the recurrent parent. Among the ten lines, the line IL-23 exhibited the highest level of recurrent parent genome recovery of 91.12%. Conclusions The phenotypic evaluation of 10 homozygous introgressed lines indicated fewer differences for all other traits under study compared to the recurrent parent, except for oleic acid and linoleic acid content confirming the genetic background of the recurrent parent. The identified lines will be subjected to multilocation trials before their commercial release.

A multiplicity of substantial disruptions in the physiological systems of the wheat crop (Triticum aestivum L.) are the result of a potassium deficiency.The foliar application of potassium improves the quality of wheat and the production of grains for end-use purposes. This study was carried out during the growing seasons of 2021-22 to investigate the response of winter wheat cultivars to foliar application of potassium (0, 1, and 2 g/L), at two growth stages (green up and heading) on the grain yield (t/ha), protein content (%), specific weight and plant vegetative indicators (chlorophyll content, flag leaf area and plant height). Foliar applications of potassium fertilizer were implemented at concentrations of (0, 1 and 2 g/L). The treatments were applied at both the tillering and flowering stages. Potassium treatments, wheat cultivars, and their interactions significantly differed in most measured parameters. Application of 2g/L of K increases grain yield, protein content, and plant height than 0, 1 g/L by 5.51 t/ha, 10.52% and 95.60 cm, respectively. Foliar application of nano-potassium timed at both tillering and flowering stages would be beneficial in improving the yield and its component. Furthermore, the various trait responses of cultivars to K application can be attractive to wheat breeders for selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Improving the quality and shelf life of groundnut oil is one of the foremost objectives of groundnut breeding programmes. This can be achieved by marker-assisted introgression, a technique that efficiently and precisely enables breeders to develop plants with enhanced qualities. This study focused on improving the oleic acid content of an elite groundnut variety, TMV 7, by introgressing a recessive mutation responsible for the increase in oleic acid from ICG 15419. Hybridization was performed between the donor and recurrent parents to develop the F1, BC1F1, BC2F1 and BC2F2 populations. Introgressed lines with increased oleic acid in the genetic background of TMV 7 were identified using allele-specific marker, F435-F, F435SUB-R and a set of SSR markers were employed to recover the genome of the recurrent parent. Results: With two backcrosses, a total of ten homozygous plants in the BC2F2 population were identified with oleic acid content ranging from 54.23 to 57.72% causing an increase of 36% over the recurrent parent. Among the ten lines, the line IL-23 exhibited the highest level of recurrent parent genome recovery of 91.12%. Conclusions: The phenotypic evaluation of 10 homozygous introgressed lines indicated fewer differences for all other traits under study compared to the recurrent parent, except for oleic acid and linoleic acid content confirming the genetic background of the recurrent parent. The identified lines will be subjected to multilocation trials before their commercial release. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The color of flour products has an important influence on consumer acceptance. Flour color is largely determined and measured by the index of flour whiteness (FW) in China. In this study, an association population comprising 207 wheat (Triticum aestivum) accessions originating from seven countries was used for dissection of FW-related genetic loci through genome-wide association analysis. Six quantitative trait loci (QTLs) significantly associated with FW were identified, accounting for 7.87–16.53 % of the total phenotypic variation. Four KASP markers were developed from single-nucleotide polymorphisms associated with the QTLs QFW.HAAS-1AS, QFW.HAAS-1BL, QFW.HAAS-5AL, and QFW.HAAS-7AL. The phytoene synthase-encoding gene TraesCS7A03G1357000 (TaPsyA1) was identified as a candidate gene for QFW.HAAS-7AL. Two allelic variants of TaPsyA1 (designated PsyA1-a and PsyA1-b) were differentiated on the basis of a 37 bp insertion/deletion polymorphism in the second intron. PsyA1-b included the 37 bp insertion, which led to a translational frameshift in the gene and was associated with higher FW. The PsyA1-a allele lacked the 37 bp insertion and was classified into two haplotypes according to the number of repeated ‘TC’ units in a simple sequence repeat in the promoter region. Of the two PsyA1-a haplotypes, the Type 1 haplotype conferred higher FW, flour brightness, and flour redness, and lower yellow pigment content and flour yellowness. The KASP markers and PsyA1 polymorphic markers developed in the present study are suitable for use in molecular marker-assisted selection for improvement of wheat FW.

Peanut cultivation in China spans various ecological zones, each with unique environmental conditions. Identifying suitable peanut varieties for these regions has been challenging due to significant phenotypic variations observed across environments. This study, based on a comprehensive analysis of 256 peanut varieties, selected nine representative varieties (Huayu23, Yuanza9102, Silihong, Wanhua2, Zhonghua6, Zhonghua16, Zhonghua21, Zhonghua215, Zhonghua24) for cultivation in five distinct ecological zones including Chengdu, Hefei, Nanjing, Shijiazhuang, and Wuhan. The yield and quality related phenotypic traits of these varieties were thoroughly assessed, revealing a complex interplay between genetic and environmental factors. Principal component analysis (PCA) effectively distinguished varieties based on yield and quality traits. Strong correlations were observed between specific traits, such as seed size and quality components. The G ​× ​E interaction was evident, as some varieties consistently performed better in certain environments. Varieties with lower coefficient of variation (CV) values exhibited stable trait expression, making them reliable choices for broad cultivation. In contrast, varieties with higher CV values displayed greater sensitivity to environmental fluctuations, potentially due to specific genetic factors. Two high oleic acid varieties, Zhonghua24 and Zhonghua215, demonstrated remarkable stability in oleic acid content across diverse environments, suggesting the presence of genetic mechanisms that buffer against environmental variations. Overall, this study underscores the importance of selecting peanut varieties based on their adaptability and performance in specific ecological zones. These findings provide valuable insights for peanut breeders and farmers, facilitating informed decisions for improved crop production and quality.

Abstract Compressive nutritional, nutraceuticals and mineral profiling was carried out in eight diverse pigmented rice landraces originated from Koraput and compared them with improved variety (IR 64). The proximate compositions such as moisture content varied from 8.23 to 11.65 g 100 g−1, ash 0.68–1.46 g 100 g−1, fat 1.07–2.23 g 100 g−1, protein 7.00–9.63 g 100 g−1, carbohydrate 76.37–80.66 g 100 g−1, fiber 0.11–1.69 g 100 g−1 and energy 346.3–362.11 kcal 100 g−1 in the studied rice lines. These landraces are rich in phenol, flavonoid, and antioxidant concentrations and varied from 3.0 to 9.0 mg g−1, 0.150 to 0.950 mg 100 g−1, and 10.8 to 40.20%, respectively. Principal component analysis explained 47.2% of the overall variation and reflected huge difference between explored genotypes. The heritability and genetic advance varied from 30.22–99.90% and 2.5–111.5%, respectively. In compared to improved IR 64 variety, rich in energy content was recorded in Paradhan, Bhatamali and Haladiganthi indicated its nutritional superiority. Further, exceptional rich in phenol, flavonoid, vitamin C, vitamin E and antioxidant capacity was recorded in Kalachudi, Bedagurumukhi and Kandulakanthi, which may create opportunities for its large-scale commercialization and cultivation. These nutrition rich landraces also hold great potential for future crop improvement programs aimed at enhancing quality.

Aromatic rice is considered an important commodity in the global market because of its strong aroma and eating and cooking quality. Asian countries, such as India and Pakistan, are the leading traders of Basmati rice, whereas Thailand is the major supplier of Jasmine rice in the international market. The strong aroma of rice is associated with more than 300 volatile compounds, among which 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP) is the principal component. 2-AP is a phenotypic expression of spontaneous mutations in the recessive gene OsBadh2 or Badh2. The present review focuses on the origin, evolution and diversity of genetic resources of aromatic rice available worldwide. A brief discussion is presented on the genes responsible for quality traits along with details of their molecular genetics. This compilation and discussion will be useful for future breeding programs and the biofortification of quality traits of aromatic rice to ensure food security and nutritional need.

In order to realize the performance of yield related traits and the quality characteristics of a new soybean variety Jindazhilü 1, in this study, Jindazhilü 1 and Jinda 74, one of its parents, were selected as the materials. Yield performance and variation of yield related indexes including pod number per plant, seed number per plant, seed number per pod, seed weight per plant, and 100-seed weight were compared and analyzed by multiple locations of ecological adaptability test. The contents of protein, fat, amino acid, and fatty acid components were determined by near infrared spectroscopy, and the correlation analysis of components of quality traits and yield was conducted. The results indicated that the 100-seed weight decreased and the seeds number per pod increased significantly in Jindazhilü 1, the coefficient of variation of yield related indexes was lower than that of Jinda 74, and the yield increased from 3.73% to 24.65%. The protein content and essential amino acids such as phenylalanine, leucine, isoleucine, lysine, and tryptophan were much higher in Jindazhilü 1, the contents of palmitic acid, linoleic acid and oleic acid were significantly increased, and the contents of stearic acid and linolenic acid were significantly decreased in Jindazhilü 1. The most of amino acid components were extremely significantly negatively correlated with soybean yield except for cystine and methionine. Oleic acid content was extremely significantly negatively correlated with yield, while linoleic acid and linolenic acid content were positively correlated with yield, but the correlation coefficient was small. The yield related indexes of Jindazhilü 1 showed more stable and had a better yield performance in different locations, the contents of most components of the essential amino acids, oleic acid, and linoleic acid were much higher, the variety could be used as an excellent germplasm of the staygreen soybeans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to promote the development of the Ficus carica Linn.industry in Guangdong, screen and cultivate suitable local germplasm resources. Using 20 Ficus carica Linn. germplasm resources as materials, 13 traits including tree vigor, leaf area, SPAD,single fruit weight and soluble solids were investigated and analyzed. The results showed that the coefficient of variation of the traits was between 5.77% and 34.69%,indicating a rich genetic diversity. There were 6 and 8 pairs of extremely significant and significant correlations, respectively, in which the single fruit weight was significantly positively correlated with transverse and longitudinal diameter; SPAD value and leaf area were significantly negatively correlated with soluble solids. Principal component analysis showed that component 1 had the largest contribution rate（30.941%）,which was mainly related to fruit transverse and longitudinal diameter. The 20 germplasm resources could be divided into 5 categories. Category I could be used to screen varieties with higher soluble solid content and YⅡ value. Category Ⅱ could be used to screen moderate varieties such as soluble solids content, single fruit weight, fruit shape index, and fruit transverse and longitudinal diameter. Category Ⅲ could be used to screen varieties with single fruit weight, transverse and longitudinal diameter and large fruit holes. Category IV could be used to screen varieties with larger SPAD values. Group V could be used to screen varieties with larger fruit shape index, internode length and leaf area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Aromatic rice is considered an important commodity in the global market because of its strong aroma and eating and cooking quality. Asian countries, such as India and Pakistan, are the leading traders of Basmati rice, whereas Thailand is the major supplier of Jasmine rice in the international market. The strong aroma of rice is associated with more than 300 volatile compounds, among which 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP) is the principal component. 2-AP is a phenotypic expression of spontaneous mutations in the recessive gene OsBadh2 or Badh2. The present review focuses on the origin, evolution and diversity of genetic resources of aromatic rice available worldwide. A brief discussion is presented on the genes responsible for quality traits along with details of their molecular genetics. This compilation and discussion will be useful for future breeding programs and the biofortification of quality traits of aromatic rice to ensure food security and nutritional need. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potato is an important food crop, and sensitive to water. With global warming, drought damage to agriculture is increasing. In order to enrich new varieties of potato resistant to drought in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, the main agronomic characters, yield and quality characters related to drought resistance of 18 potato varieties were measured under the drought stress treatments. Principal component analysis was performed on 10 main traits, including the number of tubers per plant, mean tuber weight and number of large- and medium- sized tubers. The cumulative contribution rate of three principal components was 71.293% . According to the comprehensive score, 'Zhongshu 31', 'Huasong 7' and 'Huasong 56' were considered relatively drought- resistant. The genetic diversity of 18 potato varieties was analyzed using SSR molecular marker technology. Based on the genetic distance (GD) value of 0.66, 18 potato varieties were divided into four categories: 'Zhongshu 9', 'Zhongshu 28', 'Zhongshu 31', 'Neinongshu 2', 'Atlantic', 'Zhongshu 18' and 'Zhongshu 668' in category I; 'Zhongshu 27', 'Zhongshu 19', 'V7', 'Huasong 56', 'Xisen 6', 'Huasong 58', 'Neinongshu 1' and 'Huasong 34' in category II; 'Huasong 7' and 'Innovator' in category III; and 'Jizhangshu 12' in category IV. This study provides a basis for the utilization of potato germplasm resources and the selection of drought resistant breeding parents in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology (1008-0864) is the property of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology 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.)

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

Copyright of Forest Research is the property of Forest Research Editorial Office 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.)

Bread wheat is a highly adaptable food crop grown extensively around the world and its quality genetic improvement has received wide attention. In this study, the genetic loci associated with five quality traits including protein content (PC), gluten content (GC), baking value (BV), grain hardness (HA), and sedimentation value (SV) in a population of 253 Chinese wheat grown in Inner Mongolia were investigated through genome wide association mapping. A total of 103 QTL containing 556 SNPs were significantly related to the five quality traits based on the phenotypic data collected from three environments and BLUP data. Of these QTL, 32 QTL were continuously detected under at least two experiments. Some QTL such as qBV3D.2/qHA3D.2 on 3D, qPC5A.3/qGC5A on 5A, qBV5D/qHA5D on 5D, qBV6B.2/qHA6B.3 on 6B, and qBV6D/qHA6D.1 on 6D were associated with multiple traits. In addition, distribution of favorable alleles of the stable QTL in the association panel and their effects on five quality traits were validated. Analysis of existing transcriptome data revealed that 34 genes were specifically highly expressed in grains during reproductive growth stages. The functions of these genes will be characterized in future experiments. This study provides novel insights into the genetic basis of quality traits in wheat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for allometries of body compositions and metabolic traits in chicken, we phenotypically characterize the allometric growths of multiple body components and metabolic traits relative to BWs using joint allometric scaling models and then establish random regression models (RRMs) to fit genetic effects of markers and minor polygenes derived from the pedigree on the allometric scalings. Prior to statistically inferring the QTLs for the allometric scalings by solving the RRMs, the LASSO technique is adopted to rapidly shrink most of marker genetic effects to zero. Computer simulation analysis confirms the reliability and adaptability of the so-called LASSO-RRM mapping method. In the F2 population constructed by multiple families, we formulate two joint allometric scaling models of body compositions and metabolic traits, in which six of nine body compositions are tested as significant, while six of eight metabolic traits are as significant. For body compositions, a total of 14 QTLs, of which 9 dominant, were detected to be associated with the allometric scalings of drumstick, fat, heart, shank, liver and spleen to BWs; while for metabolic traits, a total of 19 QTLs also including 9 dominant be responsible for the allometries of T4, IGFI, IGFII, GLC, INS, IGR to BWs. The detectable QTLs or highly linked markers can be used to regulate relative growths of the body components and metabolic traits to BWs in marker-assisted breeding of chickens.

Bread wheat is a highly adaptable food crop grown extensively around the world and its quality genetic improvement has received wide attention. In this study, the genetic loci associated with five quality traits including protein content (PC), gluten content (GC), baking value (BV), grain hardness (HA), and sedimentation value (SV) in a population of 253 Chinese wheat grown in Inner Mongolia were investigated through genome wide association mapping. A total of 103 QTL containing 556 SNPs were significantly related to the five quality traits based on the phenotypic data collected from three environments and BLUP data. Of these QTL, 32 QTL were continuously detected under at least two experiments. Some QTL such as qBV3D.2/qHA3D.2 on 3D, qPC5A.3/qGC5A on 5A, qBV5D/qHA5D on 5D, qBV6B.2/qHA6B.3 on 6B, and qBV6D/qHA6D.1 on 6D were associated with multiple traits. In addition, distribution of favorable alleles of the stable QTL in the association panel and their effects on five quality traits were validated. Analysis of existing transcriptome data revealed that 34 genes were specifically highly expressed in grains during reproductive growth stages. The functions of these genes will be characterized in future experiments. This study provides novel insights into the genetic basis of quality traits in wheat.

Summary: Pounded yam is a popular food in Nigeria. This study reports end‐user preferences for pounded yam and implications for trait evaluation by breeding programme. The study was carried out in two pounded yam‐consuming regions in Nigeria: south‐east and south‐west. Multistage sampling technique was used to collect information from users along food chain. This involved market, individual, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Responses of participants were used to develop product profile of pounded yam from raw material (yam) to final product. Key user‐preferred quality traits for pounded yam in both regions were colour and textural quality followed by taste and aroma which are lesser attributes. There were regional differences in ranking of these quality attributes but no gender difference. This information will be useful in determining food quality indicators that can be used to select breeding lines for preferred quality traits in pounded yam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology (1008-0864) is the property of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology 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.)

[Objectives] Aiming at the problems of high bolting rate, low yield and poor quality traits in the production of Angelica sinensis in Qinghai Province, this study investigated the effect of seeding quality on the growth, yield and quality of A. sinensis. [Methods] Field experiments were carried out in five aspects, including different seedling shapes, different seedling sizes, different seedling ages, different seedling raising methods, and different seedling sources. The effect of seedling quality on the survival rate, bolting rate, main quality traits (root length, root fresh weight, root head thickness, root head length) and yield of A. sinensis was investigated. [Results] The seedlings, 0.2-0.5 cm in diameter, 100 -110-d old, raised from three-year-old provenance in cultivated land by conventional method, were more preferable, and their survival rate was high, bolting rate was low, yield is high, and quality traits performed well. [Conclusions ] The seedlings, 0. 2 -0. 5 cm in diameter, 100 -110-d old, raised from three-year-old provenance in cultivated land by conventional method, were more preferable, and their survival rate was high, bolting rate was low, yield is high, and quality traits performed well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] This paper aims to provide references for rational parents selection and heterosis prediction in pepper quality breeding. [Method] In the present study,10 pepper self-breeding parents were used as experimental materials, and 25 cross combinations were configured according to a 5x5 incomplete dillel test design to analyze the heterosis of quality traits in F1 generation and the SSR molecular genetic distance between parents and their heterosis correlation. [Result] The positive and negative heterosis of 150 traits in 25 hybrid combinations of the 10 tested parents accounted for 50.00 % of the total traits,respectively. The mean values of the super-median heterosis of vitamin C, crude fiber and capsaicin were positive, which were 2.62,8.74 and 0.26, respectively. The mean values of the super-median heterosis of dry matter, crude fat and protein were negative,which were — 1.71, —1.51 and —19.63,respectively. The average heterosis of crude fiber and capsaicin were 1.36 and 4.99, respectively. The average heterosis of dry matter, vitamin C, crude fat and protein were — 12.15, — 15. 33, —16.39 and — 31.66, respectively. Among the 10 tested parents, the genetic distance between H042023 A and H042025 D was the smallest, and the genetic distance between H042025D and H004 was the largest, with an average genetic distance of 0.25, and the genetic relationship was relatively close. SSR molecular genetic distance was only significantly positively correlated with crude fat,and was not significantly positively correlated or negatively correlated with the other five quality indicators, and was not significantly positively correlated or negatively correlated with the six quality indicators. [Conclusion] The heterosis of pepper quality traits is widespread, and it is feasible to improve pepper quality traits by heterosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pigmented rice is enriched with antioxidants, macro- and micronutrients. A comprehensive investigation of the gene expression patterns among the pigmented rice varieties would help to understand the cellular mechanism and biological processes of rice grain pigmentation. Hence, we performed RNA sequencing and analysis on the whole grain of dehusked mature seeds of selected six Malaysian rice varieties with varying grain pigmentations. These varieties were black rice (BALI and Pulut Hitam 9), red rice (MRM16 and MRQ100) and white rice (MR297 and MRQ76). Illumina HiSeq™ 4000 sequencer was used to generate total raw nucleotides of approximately 53 Gb in size. From 353,937,212 total paired-end raw reads, 340,131,496 total clean reads were obtained. The raw reads were deposited into European Nucleotide Archive (ENA) database and can be accessed via accession number PRJEB34340. This dataset allows us to identify and profile all expressed genes with functions related to nutritional traits (i.e. antioxidants, folate and amylose content) and quality trait (i.e. aroma) across both pigmented and non-pigmented rice varieties. In addition, the transcriptome data obtained will be valuable for discovery of potential gene markers and functional SNPs related to functional traits to assist in rice breeding programme.

In order to map quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for allometries of body compositions and metabolic traits in chicken, we phenotypically characterize the allometric growths of multiple body components and metabolic traits relative to BWs using joint allometric scaling models and then establish random regression models (RRMs) to fit genetic effects of markers and minor polygenes derived from the pedigree on the allometric scalings. Prior to statistically inferring the QTLs for the allometric scalings by solving the RRMs, the LASSO technique is adopted to rapidly shrink most of marker genetic effects to zero. Computer simulation analysis confirms the reliability and adaptability of the so-called LASSO-RRM mapping method. In the F2 population constructed by multiple families, we formulate two joint allometric scaling models of body compositions and metabolic traits, in which six of nine body compositions are tested as significant, while six of eight metabolic traits are as significant. For body compositions, a total of 14 QTLs, of which 9 dominant, were detected to be associated with the allometric scalings of drumstick, fat, heart, shank, liver and spleen to BWs; while for metabolic traits, a total of 19 QTLs also including 9 dominant be responsible for the allometries of T4, IGFI, IGFII, GLC, INS, IGR to BWs. The detectable QTLs or highly linked markers can be used to regulate relative growths of the body components and metabolic traits to BWs in marker-assisted breeding of chickens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The Pacific oyster Crassostrea gigas is an important marine fishery resource, which contains high levels of glycogen that contributes to the flavor and the quality of the oyster. However, little is known about the molecular and chemical mechanisms underlying glycogen content differences in Pacific oysters. Using a homogeneous cultured Pacific oyster family, we explored these regulatory networks at the level of the metabolome and the transcriptome. Results Oysters with the highest and lowest natural glycogen content were selected for differential transcriptome and metabolome analysis. We identified 1888 differentially-expressed genes, seventy-five differentially-abundant metabolites, which are part of twenty-seven signaling pathways that were enriched using an integrated analysis of the interaction between the differentially-expressed genes and the differentially-abundant metabolites. Based on these results, we found that a high expression of carnitine O-palmitoyltransferase 2 (CPT2), indicative of increased fatty acid degradation, is associated with a lower glycogen content. Together, a high level of expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), and high levels of glucogenic amino acids likely underlie the increased glycogen production in high-glycogen oysters. In addition, the higher levels of the glycolytic enzymes hexokinase (HK) and pyruvate kinase (PK), as well as of the TCA cycle enzymes malate dehydrogenase (MDH) and pyruvate carboxylase (PYC), imply that there is a concomitant up-regulation of energy metabolism in high-glycogen oysters. High-glycogen oysters also appeared to have an increased ability to cope with stress, since the levels of the antioxidant glutathione peroxidase enzyme 5 (GPX5) gene were also increased. Conclusion Our results suggest that amino acids and free fatty acids are closely related to glycogen content in oysters. In addition, oysters with a high glycogen content have a greater energy production capacity and a greater ability to cope with stress. These findings will not only provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying oyster quality, but also promote research into the molecular breeding of oysters.

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

Xuzishu 8 is a new cultivated sweetpotato with high anthocyanidin content. The growth period affects its tuber trails and quality. In this study, the changes in sweetpotato shape, number of tubers per plant, rale of big and medium tubers, yield, anllux yanin content and starch content of Xuzishu 8 were investigated under 12 growth periods from 78 to 188 d. The results showed that various traits of Xuzishu 8 were significantly different between different growth periods. The rate of large and medium tubers, the fresli sweetpotato yield, the starch content and the anlhocyanin yield increased gradually with the extension of the growth period. The lengtlt/width ratio of sweetpotato tul)ers, the rate of small tubers and the contents of reducing sugar and soluble sugar decreased with the prolongation of the growth period. The correlation analysis showed thai the fresli sweetpotato yield was in significant or extremely significant positive correlation with the number of tubers per plant, rate of big and medium tubers, dry matter content, dry yield and starch content. The 148-day growth period treatmenl exhibited the highest number of tubers per plant, the highest fresh sweetpotato yield and anlhocyanin yield reaching 3 927 and 4.25 kg/667 m2, respectively, as well as the rate of large and medium tubers up to 90%. Therefore, the tubers had good marketability and eating quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

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

Agronomic and quality traits in alfalfa are very important to forage industry. Genomic prediction (GP) based on genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) data could shorten the breeding cycles and accelerate the genetic gains of these complex traits, if they display moderate to high prediction accuracies. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive potentials of these traits in alfalfa. A total of 322 genotypes from 75 alfalfa accessions were used for GP of the agronomic and quality traits, which were related to yield and nutrition value, respectively, using BayesA, BayesB, and BayesCπ methods. Ten-fold cross validation was used to evaluate the accuracy of GP represented by the correlation between genomic estimated breeding value (GEBV) and estimated breeding value (EBV). The accuracies ranged from 0.0021 to 0.6485 for different traits. For each trait, three GP methods displayed similar prediction accuracies. Among 15 quality traits, mineral element Ca had a moderate and the highest prediction accuracy (0.34). NDF digestibility after 48 h (NDFD 48 h) and 30 h (NDFD 30 h) and mineral element Mg had prediction accuracies varying from 0.20 to 0.25. Other traits, for example, fat and crude protein, showed low prediction accuracies (0.05 to 0.19). Among 10 agronomic traits, however, some displayed relatively high prediction accuracies. Plant height (PH) in fall (FH) had the highest prediction accuracy (0.65), followed by flowering date (FD) and plant regrowth (PR) with accuracies at 0.52 and 0.51, respectively. Leaf to stem ratio (LS), plant branch (PB), and biomass yield (BY) reached to moderate prediction accuracies ranging from 0.25 to 0.32. Our results revealed that a few agronomic traits, such as FH, FD, and PR, had relatively high prediction accuracies, therefore it is feasible to apply genomic selection (GS) for these traits in alfalfa breeding programs. Because of the limitations of population size and density of SNP markers, several traits displayed low accuracies which could be improved by a bigger reference population, higher density of SNP markers, and more powerful statistic tools.

On the basis of ascertaining the dominant and recessive relationship and separation ratio of quality traits such as leaf type and peel stripes,the separation of dominant and recessive traits was studied to infer whether the genes of the previous generation were homozygous. Individuals with homozygous recessive traits can be confirmed in F2 generation,and homozygous single lines with dominant traits can be confirmed in F3 generation,which speeds up the breeding process of watermelon inbred lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agronomic and quality traits in alfalfa are very important to forage industry. Genomic prediction (GP) based on genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) data could shorten the breeding cycles and accelerate the genetic gains of these complex traits, if they display moderate to high prediction accuracies. The aim of this study was to investigate the predictive potentials of these traits in alfalfa. A total of 322 genotypes from 75 alfalfa accessions were used for GP of the agronomic and quality traits, which were related to yield and nutrition value, respectively, using BayesA, BayesB, and BayesCπ methods. Ten-fold cross validation was used to evaluate the accuracy of GP represented by the correlation between genomic estimated breeding value (GEBV) and estimated breeding value (EBV). The accuracies ranged from 0.0021 to 0.6485 for different traits. For each trait, three GP methods displayed similar prediction accuracies. Among 15 quality traits, mineral element Ca had a moderate and the highest prediction accuracy (0.34). NDF digestibility after 48 h (NDFD 48 h) and 30 h (NDFD 30 h) and mineral element Mg had prediction accuracies varying from 0.20 to 0.25. Other traits, for example, fat and crude protein, showed low prediction accuracies (0.05 to 0.19). Among 10 agronomic traits, however, some displayed relatively high prediction accuracies. Plant height (PH) in fall (FH) had the highest prediction accuracy (0.65), followed by flowering date (FD) and plant regrowth (PR) with accuracies at 0.52 and 0.51, respectively. Leaf to stem ratio (LS), plant branch (PB), and biomass yield (BY) reached to moderate prediction accuracies ranging from 0.25 to 0.32. Our results revealed that a few agronomic traits, such as FH, FD, and PR, had relatively high prediction accuracies, therefore it is feasible to apply genomic selection (GS) for these traits in alfalfa breeding programs. Because of the limitations of population size and density of SNP markers, several traits displayed low accuracies which could be improved by a bigger reference population, higher density of SNP markers, and more powerful statistic tools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relation among the quality and freshness traits of chicken breast meat during storage for 12 d at 4°C. In addition, correlations between freshness traits and torrymeter values were examined. The L* and a* value of the color was constant; however, the b* value increased on day 5 of storage (P < 0.05). The shear force value significantly decreased, whereas the 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances value significantly increased during storage. Regarding the sensory properties, the off-odor and the drip loss increased along with the decrease in color and overall acceptability evaluated by the panelist. The pH, total microorganism counts, and volatile basic nitrogen (VBN) value of chicken breast significantly increased following storage, whereas the torrymeter value and overall acceptability of chicken breast meat significantly decreased from 12.80 to 4.53 and from 6.14 to 1.86, respectively. The VBN value was positively correlated with the pH and total microorganism counts, and the pH value was positively correlated with the total microorganism counts. The torrymeter value was associated with the VBN (−0.918, P < 0.01), pH (−0.973, P < 0.001), total microorganism counts (−0.975, P < 0.001), and overall acceptability (0.884, P < 0.01). These results suggest that the tested traits highly correlate with torrymeter value and it can be used as an indicator of freshness of chicken meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluating quality traits is important to the selection of elite lines in Brassica napus L. In this study, the quality traits of 488 global collections of B. napus L were evaluated for two consecutive years under central Chinese growing conditions, and a series of phenotypic data was obtained. The measured total glucosinolate content (GLC) and erucic acid content (ERU) values for 95.5% of the accessions were consistent with the original values, and large variations in quality traits were found among these accessions, thus enabling selection for these characters. In general, Chinese accessions tended to have a higher oil content (OC) than foreign accessions, while compared with winter and spring accessions, semi-winter accessions tended to have the highest OC. The mean GLC and ERU of Chinese rapeseed accessions showed gradual downward trends over time, and the genotypic variation in ERU accounted for 98.44% of the total variation, which was the highest among all 10 of the quality traits. Additionally, the heritability for ERU was largest among all 10 of the quality traits. Significant correlations were observed between different traits; OC had significantly (P < 0.01) negative correlation coefficients with oleic acid content, whereas OC had significantly (P < 0.01) positive correlation coefficients with ERU. Principal component analysis revealed that there was no clear boundary among materials of different geographic origins and different ecotypes according to the first two principal coordinates, respectively. This information about variations in quality traits revealed in this study could identify parents for improved rapeseed breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology (1008-0864) is the property of Journal of Agricultural Science & Technology 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.)