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Tomato paste is the most consumed tomato product on the Ghanaian market, the majority of which are imported into the country. This food product is easily adulterated, and thus, routine quality checks are necessary. Therefore, the current study is aimed at assessing the quality of eight tomato paste products on the Ghanaian market and checking for the presence of starch and artificial colourant erythrosine as possible adulterants. Routine quality metrics such as the pH, titratable acidity, total solids, and total soluble solids were assessed using standard methods. An HPLC method was employed to detect the presence of the colourant erythrosine, whereas starch content was determined by an enzymatic method using α‐amylase and then amyloglucosidase. Fifty percent of the products did not qualify to be called tomato paste based on total solid estimation. All the sampled products contained some amount of starch, with three having more than 10 g/100 g of this thickener. Additionally, the banned colourant erythrosine was detected in two of the products. All other parameters were consistent with regulatory standards. The present study has shown that some tomato paste products on the Ghanaian market contain additives that are not permitted under any circumstance and fall short of regulatory standards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Forest Products Industry is the property of China Forest Products Industry 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.)

Millet, a vital and nutritionally dense cereal extensively cultivated in Sub-Saharan Africa, plays a key role in ensuring food security. This study investigates the starch synthase (SS) gene family, which is crucial for starch biosynthesis and influences various plant functions and stress responses. While the specific roles of SS genes in millet under drought conditions are not fully elucidated, this research provides a thorough analysis of the SS gene family in millet. A total of twelve millet SS genes (SiSSs) were identified and classified into four subfamilies (I–IV) through gene structure and phylogenetic analysis. The SiSS genes were unevenly distributed across millet chromosomes, with cis-acting elements associated with plant growth and stress defense being identified. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) revealed dynamic and varied expression patterns of SiSSs in different tissues under drought stress. Millet plants subjected to drought conditions showed higher tissue starch content and increased starch synthase activity compared to controls. Importantly, the expression levels of the twelve SiSSs were positively correlated with both starch content and synthase activity, suggesting their significant role in drought tolerance. This study enhances our understanding of the millet SS gene family and highlights the potential of these genes in breeding programs aimed at developing drought-resistant millet varieties. Further research is recommended to validate these findings and delve deeper into the mechanisms underlying drought tolerance.

SUMMARY Cassava is a crucial staple crop for smallholder farmers in tropical Asia and Sub‐Saharan Africa. Although high yield remains the top priority for farmers, the significance of nutritional values has increased in cassava breeding programs. A notable negative correlation between provitamin A and starch accumulation poses a significant challenge for breeding efforts. The negative correlation between starch and carotenoid levels in conventional and genetically modified cassava plants implies the absence of a direct genomic connection between the two traits. The competition among various carbon pathways seems to account for this relationship. In this study, we conducted a thorough analysis of 49 African cassava genotypes with varying levels of starch and provitamin A. Our goal was to identify factors contributing to differential starch accumulation. Considering carotenoid levels as a confounding factor in starch production, we found that yellow‐ and white‐fleshed storage roots did not differ significantly in most measured components of starch or de novo fatty acid biosynthesis. However, genes and metabolites associated with myo‐inositol synthesis and cell wall polymer production were substantially enriched in high provitamin A genotypes. These results indicate that yellow‐fleshed cultivars, in comparison to their white‐fleshed counterparts, direct more carbon toward the synthesis of raffinose and cell wall components. This finding is underlined by a significant rise in cell wall components measured within the 20 most contrasting genotypes for carotenoid levels. Our findings enhance the comprehension of the biosynthesis of starch and carotenoids in the storage roots of cassava. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elucidating the genetic basis of natural variation in grain size and weight among rice varieties can help breeders develop high-yielding varieties. We identified a novel gene, GW3a (Grain Weight 3a) (LOC_Os03g27350), that affects rice grain size and weight. gw3a mutants showed higher total starch content and dry matter accumulation than the wild type (WT), Nipponbare, suggesting that GW3a negatively regulates grain size and weight. Moreover, our study found that GW3a interacted with OsATG8 by cleaving it, suggesting that GW3a may be involved in the assembly of autophagosomes and starch degradation in plants. The haplotype analysis of GW3a showed functional differences between indica and japonica rice. Taken together, we conclude that GW3a is expressed in the autophagosome pathway regulating starch metabolism in rice, affecting yield-related traits, such as grain size, grain weight and thousand grain weight (TGW). Our findings also shed new light on autophagy-mediated yield trait regulation, proposing a possible strategy for the genetic improvement of high-yield germplasm in rice.

The upgrading of improved varieties can guarantee national food security, and effectively promote the increase of agricultural production and efficiency. It is of great significance to carry out comparative experiments of new varieties and screen new potato varieties suitable for planting in Hulunbeier for the development of potato industry in this region. In 2022-2023, using 'Kexin 13' as the control, the phenological period and tuber traits of 11 potato varieties were recorded, and the performance and stability of yield and starch content were measured and evaluated. The average yield of 'Longshu 22', 'Beifang 002' and 'Beifang 001' was 3 602, 3 470 and 3 291 kg/667m2 , respectively, which were significantly higher than that of 'Kexin 13', and their stability was good, suggesting that these varieties could be extended as table potatoes in this region. The starch content of 'Zhongshuzao 39' was the highest (19.09% ), which was significantly higher than that of 'Kexin 13', with good stability. The yield of this variety was higher than that of 'Kexin 13' though the difference was not significant, and the yield stability was medium high. For 'Zhongshuzao 39', it could be recommended as an early maturing high starch variety for starch processing in this region, but some agronomic measures designed especially for this variety should be taken to ensure its yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat is a staple crop essential to the diet and economy of Basra Governorate. Ensuring its quality and viability post-harvest is crucial for food security and economic stability in the region. The study was conducted during the period from November 1st, 2021, to August 1st, 2022, at the College of Education, Qurna - University of Basra. The aim is to determine the best storage method and duration for preserving wheat seeds. Four varieties of wheat seeds (Ibaa 99, Al-Baraka, Al-Rashid, Abu Ghraib) were stored using two storage methods (piles, bags) and three time periods (3 months, 6 months, 9 months). Laboratory germination tests and chemical analysis of the seeds were also performed after each storage period. The results showed that the method of storage in bags and the time period of three months was the best in preserving the seeds, and it also resulted in the highest germination percentage and fastest germination speed. Al-Baraka cultivar showed the highest average germination rate (96.38%), while Abu Ghraib cultivar gave the lowest germination rate (92.77%). In the triple interactions (varieties x storage methods x storage periods), the four cultivars x two storage methods (bags and piles) x the storage period for three months, and the same cultivars x two storage methods x the storage period for six months gave the highest germination rate, which ranged between (100 and 95). %. While, Abu Ghraib cultivar × piles method × nine-month storage period, and Al-Rasheed cultivar × piles method × nine-month storage period gave an average germination rate of (78.33 and 76.66) %, respectively. As for Al-Baraka variety, it showed the highest average germination speed (5.91), while the Al-Rasheed variety showed the lowest germination speed (5.25). In the triple interactions, the four cultivars x the two-storage methods x the storage period for three months, and the same cultivars x the two-storage methods x six months gave the highest germination speed, which ranged between (7.96 and 4.60). While, Abu Ghraib cultivar × piles method × storage period of nine months, and Al-Rasheed cultivar × piles method × storage period of nine months gave the lowest average germination (3.73 and 4.06), respectively. The results of the chemical analysis of the stored seeds showed a decline in the quality of the seeds with the length of the storage period, as the percentages of protein, starch, and fat decreased. As the cultivar Ibaa 99 gave the highest average protein percentage (11.20) %, while the Abu Ghraib cultivar gave the lowest average protein percentage (9.84%). The Al-Baraka variety gave the highest average fat percentage (1.76) %, while the Ibaa 99 variety gave the lowest average fat percentage (1.08%). As for the starch percentage, the Abu Ghraib cultivar showed the highest average (64.46) %, while the Al Baraka variety gave the lowest average starch percentage (63.03%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

【Objective】To explore the effects of different microbial agents on potato growth and development and soil nutrients in potato fields,so as to provide a reference for green and sustainable potato planting in Inner Mongolia.【Methods】Potato V7 was used as the test material,by setting distilled water (CK),applying Bacillus sp. 188 bacterial agent (T1),Pseudomonas sp. BP16 bacterial agent (T2),and Streptomyces rochei D74 bacterial agent (T3) four treatments to soak the seeds for 30 min. Potato yield,tuber starch content,dry matter mass of each organ,nutrient accumulation per plant,leaf chlorophyll content,nitrate reductase activity,soil ammonium nitrogen,nitrate nitrogen,available phosphorus and available potassium content were measured at different growth stages after potato planting.【Results】After 110 days of potato planting,compared with CK,the yield of potato in T2 and T3 treatments was significantly increased by 7.14% and 9.16% (P<0.05),the starch content of tubers was significantly increased by 11.84% and 16.38% (P<0.05),the dry matter mass of potato roots,stems,leaves,and tubers were significantly increased by 26.87%,16.92%,11.77% and 13.59% by T3 treatment (P<0.05),the accumulation of nitrogen,phosphorus and potassium in plants was significantly increased by 28.86%,32.78% and 30.81% by T3 treatment (P<0.05). After 70 days of potato planting,the chlorophyll content in potato leaves treated with T3 treatment was the highest [4.29 mg/ (g·FW)],and the nitrate reductase activity in the leaves was significantly increased by 15.29% compared to CK (P<0.05). After 50 days of potato planting,the soil nitrate nitrogen content in T3 treatment reached its maximum value (42.32 mg/kg),the available phosphorus content significantly increased by 26.17% compared to CK (P<0.05),and the available potassium content in T1 and T3 treatments significantly increased by 24.95% and 21.65% compared to CK (P<0.05),respectively.After 70 days of planting,the soil ammonium nitrogen content in T2 treatment significantly increased by 47.03% compared to CK (P<0.05).【Conclusion】Soaking seeds with Streptomyces rochei D74 microbial can increase potato yield,tuber starch content,dry matter mass of each organ,plant nitrogen,phosphorus and potassium accumulation,at agent tuber formation stage,the leaf chlorophyll content at maturation stage,soil nitrate nitrogen,available potassium,available potassium content at early growth stage,soil ammonium nitrogen at agent tuber formation stage. It can be used as a suitable microbial agent for potato cultivation in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Brewing is the property of China Brewing 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.)

This investigation scrutinized the yield, starch, and protein content of five distinct potato genotypes (Desiree, Borostyán, Piroska, Rubinka, and Rózsa) over 5 years of repetitive replanting. The experiment aimed to compare different potato genotypes and examine the yield reduction resulting from possible genetic deterioration over the years. The research took place in Zirc, Hungary’s temperate deciduous forest zone, at 450 m elevation from 2017 to 2021, on a 100 m2 plot. Potato dry matter was measured according to MSZ 6369-4:1987, and starch content followed MSZ 6830-18:1988 standards. Tubers’ total nitrogen was gauged using the Kjeldahl method, while crude protein analysis employed the Dumas method. Pure protein evaluation adhered to the trichloroacetic acid precipitation technique, all consistent with WBSE-131:2018. Observed variations in starch content revealed Borostyán as the genotype with the highest mean starch content (75.41%) and Desiree with the least (74.98%). Protein content also varied among the genotypes; Borostyán exhibited the highest average level (10.99%), while Desiree had the least (5.52%). The remaining genotypes, Piroska, Rubinka, and Rózsa, exhibited comparable mean protein levels between 8.15 and 8.82%. Findings also noted a positive correlation between yield and starch and protein content. However, certain genotypes demonstrated a negative correlation, highlighting the impact of genetic factors and management practices such as nitrogenous fertilization and crop rotation on these associations. Additionally, the findings suggest that not only the standard Desiree variety but also the Borostyán variety can be reliably recommended for use in potato research and breeding initiatives. Conclusively, this study provides insights valuable for potato breeding and selection programs and the potential development of high-protein potato products. Further investigation is recommended to elucidate the mechanisms and genetic determinants that impact these observed relationships.

Starch is a major component of cereals, comprising over 70% of dry weight. It serves as a primary carbon source for humans and animals. In addition, starch is an indispensable industrial raw material. While maize (Zea mays) is a key crop and the primary source of starch, the genetic basis for starch content in maize kernels remains poorly understood. In this study, using an enlarged panel, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) based on best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) value for starch content of 261 inbred lines across three environments. Compared with previous study, we identified 14 additional significant quantitative trait loci (QTL), encompassed a total of 42 genes, and indicated that increased marker density contributes to improved statistical power. By integrating gene expression profiling, Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment and haplotype analysis, several potential target genes that may play a role in regulating starch content in maize kernels have been identified. Notably, we found that ZmAPC4, associated with the significant SNP chr4.S_175584318, which encodes a WD40 repeat-like superfamily protein and is highly expressed in maize endosperm, might be a crucial regulator of maize kernel starch synthesis. Out of the 261 inbred lines analyzed, they were categorized into four haplotypes. Remarkably, it was observed that the inbred lines harboring hap4 demonstrated the highest starch content compared to the other haplotypes. Additionally, as a significant achievement, we have developed molecular markers that effectively differentiate maize inbred lines based on their starch content. Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the genetic basis of starch content and the molecular markers can be useful in breeding programs aimed at developing maize varieties with high starch content, thereby improving breeding efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of environmental and genetic factors on the yield, starch, and dry matter content in tubers of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars belonging to different maturity groups considering cultivars diversity according to SSR markers. Twenty-four very early, early, medium, and late potato cultivars were evaluated. Field experiments were conducted in 2018-2020 in two locations: Forest Steppe and Forest zones of Ukraine. The SSRs analysis was carried out in 2021 using eight markers: STM0019, STM3009, STM2005, STM2028, STM3012, STM3023, STM5136, and STM5148. During this study, it was found that the growing zone and the year weather conditions had the greatest influence on the potato tuber yield - 54% and 24%, while the effect of the cultivar genotype on the tuber yield was 8%. It was found that the cultivar genotype and the year weather conditions had the greatest influence on the potato tuber dry matter content - 36% and 30%, respectively. The impact of cultivar genotype on the starch content was 31%, while the influence of the year weather conditions reached 21% and the growing zone 3%. Based on the distribution of alleles obtained by SSR markers, the majority of the very early ('Riviera', 'Prada', 'Duma', and 'Vzirets') and one of the early ('Zhytnytsia') tested potato cultivars were included in one cluster group. It was revealed that the 416 bp allele was identified by the STM5148 marker mainly in the very early potato cultivars, and the 424 bp allele was detected only in the very early and early ones. The study of SSRs and their associations with maturity can be considered as a reliable and rapid method for potato genotyping to find favourable combinations of alleles. Thus, to increase the nutritional value and productive potential of potatoes by developing and improving the main elements of cultivation technology, the biological characteristics of the potato cultivars in the agricultural and climatic conditions of Ukraine should be taken into account. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pollen viability of Siberian spruce (Picea obovata Ledeb.) has been studied on the border of the city Krasnoyarsk, as well as under unpolluted growth conditions. This study has discovered the variability and correlation between the functional characteristics of pollens, as well as a low rate of development anomalies. The viability of pollen growth in forest ecosystems of the middle mountains of the Eastern Sayans (the northeastern border of the Krasnoyarskie Stolby national park) have decreased under pollution press. The great variety of pollen viability characteristics of the Siberian spruce pollen makes the high degree of flexibility and adaptability of species reproductive processes evident. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Betula pendula Roth. is tolerant to technogenic air pollutants. However, the viability of pollen decreases under stress conditions, as well as under air pollution. This research was conducted in Middle Siberia on eight plots of motley birches near the industrial city of Krasnoyarsk. In each plot on the west side, the male twigs of 15–20 trees were cut at pollination time. Pollen was extracted from the male generative organs for size and viability (potential (by starch test) and actual (by in vitro germination)) determination. The results were analyzed by statistical methods. A reduction in pollen viability under technogenic pollution and reliable differences in pollen grain (PG) diameters under different growing conditions is revealed, but deformed PG is not. The variability of PGs in diameter in the biocenosis does not exceed 9.3–9.9%. The maximum number of sprouted PGs is observed under background conditions and the minimum is at the eastern border of the city in the main direction of the transfer of technogenic aerosols. The length of pollen tubes in trees growing under these conditions decreased by more than twice in comparison with the critical value (namely, PG diameter of 18–20 µm). Regression analysis has shown correlations between pollen germination and the accumulation of dust on foliage, as well as of lead and aluminum content in the foliage (r = − 0.1−0.3, р ≥ 0.05). Despite the tolerance of the species to air pollution, Betula pendula male generative structures are sensitive to contamination. Pollen viability can be used as a bioindicator of environmental pollution upon monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to select suitable potato varieties for the farming pastoral ecotone at the northern foot of Yinshan Mountain which was main production bases of potato seed tubers in China, and promote the development of local industries, the original seed of 30 potato varieties from licensed seed potato enterprises were compared. The results showed that the yield, commercial tuber rate, average tuber number per plant, av- erage tuber number per plant with different weight, starch content and dry matter content of different potato varieties were significantly differ- ent. The yield of 30 varieties was 21-70 t/hm², the percentage of commercial tubers was 23.4% -94.6%, the number of tubers per plant was 3.3-13.3, the dry matter content was 15.5%-28.0%, and the starch content was 9.8% -22.3%. There were four highest yields of 60 t/hm² and above, namely Jizhangshu 12, Zhongjia 16, Minfeng 12 and Zhongjia 7.The lowest yield was 2 at 25 t/hm² and below, namely Zhongshuzao 43 and Dongnong 310, 20 at 45-60 t/hm² and 4 at 30-45 t/hm². The highest commercial potato rate was Jingzhangshu 1, Jizhangshu 12 and Jing- zhangshu 3, with an average of 93.3%; the lowest commercial potato rate was Dongnong 310, which was 23.4%. The highest number of tubers per plant was Huasong 58, with an average of 13.3; there were 5 varieties with the lowest significance, namely Houqihong, Qingshu 9, Jing- zhangshu 1, Zhongshuzao 43 and Jinshu 16, with an average of 3.9; the number of tubers above 150 g in Dongnong 310 was the lowest, 0.2. The highest dry matter content was Zhongjia 11 (28.1%); the lowest was Zhongjia 2, Zhongjia 7 and Huasongzao, with an average content of 15.9%. The starch content was classified into three types by cluster analysis: high, medium and low starch varieties. Dongnong 310 and Zhongjia 11 were high starch varieties, with an average content of 21.28%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the importance of prioritizing genome-based breeding of sweet potato to enable the promotion of food and nutritional security for future human societies, here, we aimed to dissect the genetic basis of storage root starch content (SC) when associated with a complex set of breeding traits including dry matter (DM) rate, storage root fresh weight (SRFW), and anthocyanin (AN) content in a mapping population containing purple-fleshed sweet potato. A polyploid genome-wide association study (GWAS) was extensively exploited using 90,222 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) obtained from a bi-parental 204 F1 population between ‘Konaishin’ (having high SC but no AN) and ‘Akemurasaki’ (having high AN content but moderate SC). Through the comparison of polyploid GWAS on the whole set of the 204 F1, 93 high-ANcontaining F1, and 111 low-AN-containing F1 populations, a total of two (consists of six SNPs), two (14 SNPs), four (eight SNPs), and nine (214 SNPs) significantly associated signals were identified for the variations of SC, DM, SRFW, and the relative AN content, respectively. Of them, a novel signal associated with SC, which was most consistent in 2019 and 2020 in both the 204 F1 and 111 low-ANcontaining F1 populations, was identified in homologous group 15. The five SNP markers associated with homologous group 15 could affect SC improvement with a degree of positive effect (~4.33) and screen high-starch-containing lines with higher efficiency (~68%). In a database search of 62 genes involved in starch metabolism, five genes including enzyme genes granule-bound starch synthase I (IbGBSSI), a-amylase 1D, a-amylase 1E, and a-amylase 3, and one transporter gene ATP/ADP-transporter were located on homologous group 15. In an extensive qRT-PCR of these genes using the storage roots harvested at 2, 3, and 4 months after field transplantation in 2022, IbGBSSI, which encodes the starch synthase isozyme that catalyzes the biosynthesis of amylose molecule,was most consistently elevated during starch accumulation in sweet potato. These results would enhance our understanding of the underlying genetic basis of a complex set of breeding traits in the starchy roots of sweet potato, and the molecular information, particularly for SC, would be a potential platform for molecular marker development for this trait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cassava breeding is a critical aspect of sustainable agriculture to address the challenges of food security and climate change. The present study aimed to assess the combining ability of six Thai cassava elite varieties for four key traits, including fresh root yield (FRY), fresh shoot yield (FSY), harvest index (HI) and starch content (SC) through an analysis of the diallel mating design over two years. Parental lines HB80 and R5 showed significant positive general combining ability (GCA) effects for high SC; R1 and HB80 for low FSY; and R1 for high FRY and HI. The genetic effects for FSY, SC and HI were primarily influenced by the GCA of the progenitors, while specific combining ability (SCA) was more important for the FRY than the other three traits. Cultivation conditions were also found to impact the evaluation of genetic effects, with a poor growing environment affecting the expression of the genotype. This study provides a useful basis for the selection of parental lines for cassava breeding programs and insights into the genetic control of yield and related traits in the Thai elite cassava germplasm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stability for yield and seed quality across environments are desirable traits for varieties used for the support of livestock, and such specific varieties of common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) and peas (Pisum sativum L.) are highly demanded from farmers. The objective of this study was to investigate the stability performance of seed quality attributes on six common vetch genotypes and five pea genotypes. The genotypes' stability traits were based on seed quality characteristics of peas and common vetch under low-input vs. conventional cultivation systems. Significantly positive or negative correlations between the main traits in all cultivation schemes were found. Based on these findings, improving certain traits that exhibit qualitative inheritance is expected to be an efficient indirect way to improve seed quality stability, more easily in the case of peas. It was evident from comparisons that even in low-input farming systems, varieties showed stable performance. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), GGE biplot on main traits, and AMMI analysis all resulted in statistically significant variations between genotypes, environments, and farming practices. This analysis resulted in specific pea varieties and vetch cultivars that were stable for various regions and farming systems on seed quality traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Protein, starch, amylose and total soluble sugars are basic metabolites of seed that influence the eating, cooking and nutritional qualities of rice. Chlorophyll is responsible for the absorption and utilization of the light energy influencing photosynthetic efficiency in rice plant. Mapping of these traits are very important for detection of more number of robust markers for improvement of these traits through molecular breeding approaches. Results A representative panel population was developed by including 120 germplasm lines from the initial shortlisted 274 lines for mapping of the six biochemical traits using 136 microsatellite markers through association mapping. A wide genetic variation was detected for the traits, total protein, starch, amylose, total soluble sugars, chlorophyll a, and chlorophyll b content in the population. Specific allele frequency, gene diversity, informative markers and other diversity parameters obtained from the population indicated the effectiveness of utilization of the population and markers for mapping of these traits. The fixation indices values estimated from the population indicated the existence of linkage disequilibrium for the six traits. The population genetic structure at K = 3 showed correspondence with majority of the members in each group for the six traits. The reported QTL, qProt1, qPC6.2, and qPC8.2 for protein content; qTSS8.1 for total soluble sugar; qAC1.2 for amylose content; qCH2 and qSLCHH for chlorophyll a (Chl. a) while qChl5D for chlorophyll b (Chl. b) were validated in this population. The QTL controlling total protein content qPC1.2; qTSS7.1, qTSS8.2 and qTSS12.1 for total soluble sugars; qSC2.1, qSC2.2, qSC6.1 and qSC11.1 for starch content; qAC11.1, qAC11.2 and qAC11.3 for amylose content; qChla8.1 for Chl. a content and qChlb7.1 and qChlb8.1 for Chl. b identified by both Generalized Linear Model and Mixed Linear Model were detected as novel QTL. The chromosomal regions on chromosome 8 at 234 cM for grain protein content and total soluble sugars and at 363 cM for Chl. a and Chl. b along with the position at 48 cM on chromosome 11 for starch and amylose content are genetic hot spots for these traits. Conclusion The validated, co-localized and the novel QTL detected in this study will be useful for improvement of protein, starch, amylose, total soluble sugars and chlorophyll content in rice.

The aim of the study conducted in 2019-2021 was to determine the effect of biostimulants and growth regulators on the yield size and structure, as well as the chemical composition of edible potato tubers. The cultivar evaluated was Vineta. Asahi SL, Kelpak SL, Aminoplant, Tytanit, gibberellic acid (GA3) and Moddus 250 EC were applied in potato cultivation. The application of biostimulants Asahi SL and Tytanit increased the total and marketable tuber yield, as well as the average tuber weight. Aminoplant had a beneficial effect only on the marketable yield, while Moddus 250 EC decreased tuber yield and mean tuber weight, especially under conditions of high rainfall. Biostimulant Asahi SL caused a decrease in the number of tubers formed, while gibberellic acid stimulated tuberisation. Both preparations increased the share of deformed tubers in the total yield. The effect of biostimulants and growth regulators on the formation of the chemical composition of potato tubers was multidirectional. Tytanit increased protein content in tubers, while the remaining preparations, with the exception of the growth regulator Moddus 250 EC, decreased the amount of this component. GA3 and Moddus 250 EC decreased the content of crude fibre and, in the case of Moddus 250 EC, also the content of mineral components. The highest concentration of nitrates (V) was characteristic for potato tubers treated with Asahi SL and the lowest for those treated with Moddus 250 EC.

Potato starch has some excellent characteristics that other starches do not have, and it is widely used in food, feed, chemicals, adhesives, paper, textiles, biodegradable materials, and other fields. Potato varieties with high yield and starch content can increase farmers' income and enterprises' efficiency. However, there is still a lack of highyield and high-starch varieties, especially early-maturing varieties. In order to identify and screen early-maturing potato varieties suitable for starch processing, the performance and stability of seven early-maturing potato varieties ('Dongnong 312', 'Longshu 3', 'Zhongshuzao 35', 'Zhongshuzao 39', 'Zhongshuzao 43', 'Zhongshuzao 44' and 'Zhongshuzao 45') were evaluated in 2021 and 2022 for tuber yield, starch content and starch yield, using 'Youjia 70' as a control, in Keshan Farm, Heilongjiang Province, in a randomized complete block design with four replications. The tuber yield, starch content and starch yield stability of 'Zhongshuzao 39' were medium, with 46 643 kg/ha tuber yield, slightly higher than the average value of 43 676 kg/ha of the eight varieties tested, but significantly higher than the control variety 'Youjia 70'. The starch content of 'Zhongshuzao 39' was 18.68%, the highest among the eight varieties tested, making its starch yield the highest, reaching 8 699 kg/ha, significantly different from other varieties (including control 'Youjia 70'). 'Zhongshuzao 39' performed well as a whole and could be used as an early maturing starch processing variety for large-scale trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of different starch contents in calf starter on the growth, feed intake, and fecal characteristics in dairy calves fed under a high plane of nutrition. Twenty‐seven Holstein calves were assigned equally to one of three calf starter treatment groups in a randomized block design: high (H) starch (41.8%); medium (M) starch (31.9%); and low (L) starch (22.0%). Milk replacer was fed up to 1.2 kg/day as fed, gradually reduced from 6 weeks of age; calves were weaned at 8 weeks of age. Each starter (up to 3.5 kg/day as fed) and chopped hay were provided ad libitum from 5 days of age. Fecal samples, along with body measurements, were collected from 4 to 13 weeks of age. The average daily gain after weaning was greater in the H group than in the L group. The average starter intake for 3 days before weaning was not different among treatments but was greater after weaning in the H group than in the L group. Starter starch content did not affect the number of days with diarrhea or fecal starch concentration. The high‐starch starter had no adverse effects during the weaning transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of red and blue light from light-emitting diodes (LED) can induce the rapid propagation of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) under in vitro culture. Here, 'Zhuanxinwu' potato cultivar plantlets were grown under in vitro culture, and the proteome, growth performances, physiological metabolisms, and leaf anatomy of potato plantlets were studied under red, blue, and white light derived from LEDs. Our results indicated that blue light increased leaf thickness and the thickening of the upper epidermis, palisade tissue, and spongy tissue. Red and blue light resulted in decreases in the net photosynthetic rate and soluble sugar content; however, the starch content slightly increased in the red light treatment and decreased in the blue light treatment. The serious inhibition of plant biomass and the differences in plant height and stem diameter under the two monochrome light treatments were related to their higher levels of abscisic acid and lower levels of indole-3-acetic acid and gibberellin 3. Moreover, a total of 2982 significant differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified across the Red_vs_White, Blue_vs_White, and Red_vs_Blue comparisons, and 95 core conserved DEPs were further identified across these comparisons. Various candidate proteins identified were involved in photosynthesis, starch and sucrose metabolism, carbon fixation in photosynthetic organisms, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, pentose phosphate pathway, plant hormone signal transduction, ribosome, MAPK signaling pathway, and nitrogen metabolism. Therefore, our findings provide new insights that will aid future research examining the effects of different types of light on potato growth as well as the use of light to enhance the rapidity with which potatoes can be propagated in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A randomized block design was used to examine the important medicinal plant ashwagandha in three replications throughout the late Kharif seasons of 2018, 2019, and 2020. The cultivars of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera Dunal), CIMAP Chetak, CIMAP Pratap, NMITLI-101, NMITLI-118, and Poshita were used to evaluate the quality of dry root yield for a better quality of five variations over the years in south India and variety recommendations. The years I and III were the two years with the most discrimination, whereas year II had the least discrimination. A lower AEA angle in a test year is more typical of subsequent test years. The first and second years are the most representative, whereas the third and fourth are the least representative. The year I was discriminating and representative during the test year, making them suitable candidates for selecting adapted varieties. The separation of stable and unstable types was made easier in environments that were discriminating or non-representative of test years. There was much diversity for stability in the various traits, as reflected by the character means. A line that passes through the biplot origin and measures performance over a year determines the rank. Four varieties, CIMAP-Pratap, Poshtita, CIMAP-Chetak, and NMITLI-118, were highly stable and good rankers for the dry root yield, root starch (%), starch and fiber ratio, and total alkaloid, among other economic traits (%). These varieties were highly stable for dry root yield and root starch (%), starch and fiber ratio, and total alkaloid, based on the mean performance of major economic features and stability measures (%). As a result, these types are recommended for further cultivation in southern India. [Display omitted] • Ashwagandha is a plant utilized as a medicine in Ayurveda, Unani, and Indian medicinal systems. • The dissimilarity can be due to the genotype mean difference (G) and environment interaction (GEI). • Environments I and III were most informative/discriminatory and II least discriminating. • NMITLI-101 and Pratap cultivars have shown stability and a high mean dry root yield. • Pratap, NMITLI118 for seed yield, Poshita, Pratap for root starch; Pratap, Chetak for alkaloids were better. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Starch is the most abundant type of carbohydrate in faba bean grain. In general, starch content affects its physical and chemical properties, thereby affecting the quality and the use of faba bean. Understanding the genetic diversity of faba bean varieties and finding molecular markers closely linked to faba bean starch content are of great significance to the molecular marker-assisted (MAS) breeding of faba bean. In this study, 260 accessions of faba bean germplasm were used as test materials to determine the total starch content, amylose content and amylopectin content in 2019 and 2020. To analyze the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of 260 accessions of faba bean materials, the GLM and MLM models of Tassel 2.1 software were used to analyze the association between markers and starch content using 132 pairs of SSR markers with significant polymorphism. The results showed that the coefficient of phenotypic variation ranged from 13.21% to 20.52% with an average value of 14.85%, indicating that the test population had a certain phenotypic diversity. A total of 629 polymorphic locus were detected by 132 markers in 260 accessions of faba bean materials. The average number of alleles at each site was 4.77, and the range of variation was 2--11. The value of polymorphism information (PIC) was between 0.0385 and 0.7772, with an average of 0.4935. About 50% of the PIC values were greater than the average, indicating that the diversity of markers used in this study was relatively high. Cluster analysis divided 260 materials into three groups. Group I included 42 materials, Group II included 59 materials, and Group III included 159 materials. The classification results reflected the genetic relationship between faba bean varieties. The population genetic structure analysis divided 260 materials into two subgroups, indicating that the test population structure was relatively simple, which was conducive to association analysis. Based on the GLM model and the MLM model, eight markers significantly (P < 0.01) associated with the content of total starch, amylose and amylopectin were detected in two years respectively. The explanation rates of single markers for phenotypic variation were 4.54%--9.04% and 2.69%--10.39%, respectively. The SSR-10927 marker was significantly (P < 0.05) associated with amylopectin content in two years and in both models, and was significantly (P < 0.05) associated with the total starch content in the two models in 2019 and the MLM model in 2020 with the highest detection rate. The results of this study laid a theoretical foundation for faba bean MAS breeding and the selection of parental materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oil palm trunks (OPTs) abandoned in plantations after the replanting process contain large amounts of starch and sugars, especially high-starch OPTs with various industrial uses (e.g., bioethanol and bioplastics). Although oil palm plantations may contain both high-starch and low-starch OPTs, the low-starch OPTs have no practical uses, and the co-existence of these two types in the same plantation, along with the contributing factor, is unknown. To understand the mechanism of starch stability and its accumulation in OPTs, the starch and sugar contents of felled OPTs were determined and the OPT transcriptome was sequenced to identify the factors contributing to the differences among high-starch, low-starch, and Ganoderma -infected OPTs. During the 15-day incubation period, there were slight decreases in the OPT starch, which was stable when kept within a certain period of time. A transcriptomics analysis of the OPTs was conducted to explore the molecular basis of the differences among the high-starch, low-starch, and Ganoderma- infected OPTs. The number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of the high-starch OPT was the least followed by the low-starch and the Ganoderma -infected OPT. Both the low-starch and Ganoderma -infected OPTs had similar highly expressed genes encoding the pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins which was further confirmed with Venn diagram, heatmap, and principal coordinate analysis. These expression patterns suggested that the number of DEGs and PR proteins expressed are the contributing factors to the starch contents of the OPTs. Thus, high-starch OPTs can be obtained through plantation management to increase the utility value of OPTs. These results provide important insights into the generation of value-added products induced by a well-managed plantation practice on the large quantities of the OPTs. [Display omitted] • Oil palm trunk (OPT) contains different levels of starch that is stable. • The genes expressed were high in the low-starch and Ganoderma -infected OPTs. • Pathogenesis-related proteins upregulated in low-starch and Ganoderma -infected OPTs. • Gene expression in low-starch OPTs was similar to that of Ganoderma -infected OPTs. • The accumulation of starch depends on the condition of the OPTs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • This study firstly reported the role of DpME and nitrogen limitation in D. parva. • DpME overexpression and N stress caused increase of 27.41% in lipid content. • DpME overexpression and N stress caused increase of 26.43% in carotenoid content. • This study enhanced the application value of D. parva (an oil-producing microalga). Overexpression of Dunaliella parva (D. parva) malic enzyme (ME) gene (DpME) significantly increased DpME expression and ME enzyme activity in transgenic D. parva. Nitrogen limitation had an inhibitory effect on protein content, and DpME overexpression could improve protein content. Nitrogen limitation increased carbohydrate content, and Dunaliella parva overexpressing malic enzyme gene under nitrogen limitation (DpME-N−) group showed the lowest starch content among all groups. Dunaliella parva overexpressing malic enzyme gene under nitrogen sufficient condition (DpME) and DpME-N− groups showed considerably high mRNA levels of DpME. ME activity was significantly enhanced by DpME overexpression, and nitrogen limitation caused a smaller increase. DpME overexpression and nitrogen limitation obviously enhanced lipid accumulation, and DpME overexpression had more obvious effect. Compared with control (wild type), lipid content (68.97%) obviously increased in DpME-N− group. This study indicated that the combination of DpME overexpression and nitrogen limitation was favorable to the production of microalgae biodiesel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Precooling is the rapid removal of field heat in harvested crops to preserve their quality and increase their shelf life. The following study was conducted to understand the importance of precooling and to optimize the precooling condition to extend the storage life of potatoes. Therefore, the study was divided into two components. In the first part, the Kufri Jyoti potatoes were subjected to field heat for 0–64 h, then were precooled for 48 h before sending to cold storage for 60 days. The results demonstrated that when the time delay was doubled, starch content (SC) decreased by 15.86%, reducing sugar content (RSC) increased by 32.71%, ascorbic acid content (AAC) decreased by 5.94% and total plate count (TPC) increased by 20.06%. Microstructural changes in potatoes due to the exposure to field heat were visible in SEM images. These results suggested a decrease in the quality of potatoes with an increase in time delay between harvest and cooling. In the second part of the study, the potatoes were precooled for 48 h at different temperatures (T) (6 °C, 8 °C, and 10 °C) and relative humidity (RH) (87%, 91%, and 95%), and their effect was studied on the same quality parameters after storage. Regression models were developed for each response, and models with non-significant lack of fit were selected for optimization. The analysis of the observations has shown that precooling aided in better quality retention of potatoes during cold storage. • Delay between harvest & cooling deteriorates the quality of potato during storage. • Effect of delayed cooling on potatoes chemical properties was studied. • Precooling temperature & RH for potatoes were optimized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, visible-near-infrared (VIS-NIR) hyperspectral imaging was combined with a data fusion strategy for the nondestructive assessment of the starch content in intact potatoes. Spectral and textural data were extracted from hyperspectral images and transformed principal component (PC) images, respectively, and a partial least squares regression (PLSR) prediction model was then established. The results revealed that low-level data fusion could not improve accuracy in predicting starch content. Therefore, to improve prediction accuracy, key variables were selected from the spectral and textural data through competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) and correlation analysis, respectively, and mid-level data fusion was performed. With a residual predictive deviation (RPD) value > 2, the established PLSR model achieved satisfactory prediction accuracy. Therefore, this study demonstrated that appropriate data fusion can effectively improve the prediction accuracy for starch content and thus aid the sorting of potato starch content in the production line. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The aim of the study conducted in 2019-2021 was to determine the effect of biostimulants and growth regulators on the yield size and structure, as well as the chemical composition of edible potato tubers. The cultivar evaluated was Vineta. Asahi SL, Kelpak SL, Aminoplant, Tytanit, gibberellic acid (GA3) and Moddus 250 EC were applied in potato cultivation. The application of biostimulants Asahi SL and Tytanit increased the total and marketable tuber yield, as well as the average tuber weight. Aminoplant had a beneficial effect only on the marketable yield, while Moddus 250 EC decreased tuber yield and mean tuber weight, especially under conditions of high rainfall. Biostimulant Asahi SL caused a decrease in the number of tubers formed, while gibberellic acid stimulated tuberisation. Both preparations increased the share of deformed tubers in the total yield. The effect of biostimulants and growth regulators on the formation of the chemical composition of potato tubers was multidirectional. Tytanit increased protein content in tubers, while the remaining preparations, with the exception of the growth regulator Moddus 250 EC, decreased the amount of this component. GA3 and Moddus 250 EC decreased the content of crude fibre and, in the case of Moddus 250 EC, also the content of mineral components. The highest concentration of nitrates (V) was characteristic for potato tubers treated with Asahi SL and the lowest for those treated with Moddus 250 EC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) is a highly nutritional multipurpose millet crop. However, the genetic and molecular regulatory mechanisms governing sorghum grain development and the associated agronomic traits remain unexplored. In this study, we performed a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of pistils collected 1-2 days before pollination, and developing seeds collected -2, 10, 20 and 30 days after pollination of S. bicolor variety M35-1. Out of 31 337 genes expressed in these stages, 12 804 were differentially expressed in the consecutive stages of seed development. These exhibited 10 dominant expression patterns correlated with the distinct pathways and gene functions. Functional analysis, based on the pathway mapping, transcription factor enrichment and orthology, delineated the key patterns associated with pollination, fertilization, early seed development, grain filling and seed maturation. Furthermore, colocalization with previously reported quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for grain weight/size revealed 48 differentially expressed genes mapping to these QTL regions. Comprehensive literature mining integrated with QTL mapping and expression data shortlisted 25, 17 and 8 core candidates for engineering grain size, starch and protein content, respectively., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Cassava breeding is a critical aspect of sustainable agriculture to address the challenges of food security and climate change. The present study aimed to assess the combining ability of six Thai cassava elite varieties for four key traits, including fresh root yield (FRY), fresh shoot yield (FSY), harvest index (HI) and starch content (SC) through an analysis of the diallel mating design over two years. Parental lines HB80 and R5 showed significant positive general combining ability (GCA) effects for high SC; R1 and HB80 for low FSY; and R1 for high FRY and HI. The genetic effects for FSY, SC and HI were primarily influenced by the GCA of the progenitors, while specific combining ability (SCA) was more important for the FRY than the other three traits. Cultivation conditions were also found to impact the evaluation of genetic effects, with a poor growing environment affecting the expression of the genotype. This study provides a useful basis for the selection of parental lines for cassava breeding programs and insights into the genetic control of yield and related traits in the Thai elite cassava germplasm.

Stability for yield and seed quality across environments are desirable traits for varieties used for the support of livestock, and such specific varieties of common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) and peas (Pisum sativum L.) are highly demanded from farmers. The objective of this study was to investigate the stability performance of seed quality attributes on six common vetch genotypes and five pea genotypes. The genotypes’ stability traits were based on seed quality characteristics of peas and common vetch under low-input vs. conventional cultivation systems. Significantly positive or negative correlations between the main traits in all cultivation schemes were found. Based on these findings, improving certain traits that exhibit qualitative inheritance is expected to be an efficient indirect way to improve seed quality stability, more easily in the case of peas. It was evident from comparisons that even in low-input farming systems, varieties showed stable performance. Analysis of variance (ANOVA), GGE biplot on main traits, and AMMI analysis all resulted in statistically significant variations between genotypes, environments, and farming practices. This analysis resulted in specific pea varieties and vetch cultivars that were stable for various regions and farming systems on seed quality traits.

This paper involves an analysis to determine appropriate cassava harvest practices and choose a pricing scheme between farmers and factories, cassava yards, and collectors in Thailand. Harvest practices represent all activities from land preparation to harvest. A key decision that governs the amount of resources required during cassava life cycle is the cassava's harvesting age. The harvesting age can be from eight to 18 months in two patterns: fixed age, e.g., harvest every 12 months, and variable age, e.g., harvest at an age between 10 and 14 months. After harvesting, there are two common pricing schemes to consider, which are weight-based and starch-content-based. Factors that affect the two decisions made by Thai farmers at a given time are the market price, which highly varies within a season and between seasons, and yields in terms of weight and starch content, both of which change with cassava's age and/or harvest month. Economic sustainability measure for Thai farmers is the average monthly profit that the farmers gain over cassava harvest cycle under uncertain market price. To handle uncertainties, a simulation model is constructed to imitate cassava planting activities from cultivation to harvest. The purpose is to evaluate various harvesting ages and two pricing schemes under uncertain cassava market prices. Market prices in 15 seasons (2006–2021) are grouped using the k-mean clustering into four price scenarios. As cassava grows in the simulation, the required resources are consumed until the decisions on harvesting time and pricing scheme are made with estimated selling probability under different price scenarios and uncertainty in cassava yield. Through simulation, harvesting age and pricing scheme that are most profitable and robust-to-system-variation are determined. Finally, a guideline for Thai farmers to choose a pricing scheme is developed based on the sensitivity analysis of the simulation model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wise use of water resources is the dire need of the day due to the alarming situation of water crisis. Management Allowed Depletion (MAD) level irrigation technique is used to enhance crop yield as well as the precise use of water. The present study was designed to investigate the optimum MAD level (when to irrigate) at which tuber yield and quality did not deteriorate significantly. Four different MAD levels were scheduled i.e., irrigation applied when MAD0 = 0%, MAD20 = 20%, MAD35 = 35%, and MAD50 = 50% of available soil water depleted from the soil at Water Management Research Center, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad-Pakistan during the two successive winter growing seasons (2014-15 and 2015-16). Data of different physico-chemical properties and yield of potato tubers were gathered under the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and set into standard statistical techniques. Results revealed that physical parameters (i.e., length, thickness, diameter, weight, and actual volume) of potato tubers were significantly affected by the different MAD levels, while MAD35 was at par with other irrigation schedules. Different MAD levels didn't show significant effects on some of the physico-chemical properties (i.e., particle density, porosity, specific gravity, tuber starch content, and total soluble solids) of potato tubers, and revealed that these traits are entirely genetic based. While tuber size percentage and yield are significantly affected by the different MAD levels. The maximum yield (i.e., 15.52, 16.76 in tons acre-1) and crop water productivity (i.e., 14.19 and 14.64 in kg m-3) were also observed at MAD35 during both years. In nutshell, results revealed that both advanced and delayed irrigation practices severely affect the physical parameters, yield as well as to some extent physico-chemical traits of potato tubers. Therefore, 35% MAD level schedule is the optimum one and recommended for potato cultivation under bed sowing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Astract—For the first time for the Central Caucasus, a description of the qualitative parameters of the Scots pine, such as viability and anomalies of pollen grains, is given. The cytological analysis of the morphological damage to the pollen structure enabled us to distinguish six morphotypes of the cells in the study area. At the sites of survey, the occurrence of abnormal pollen grains varied insignificantly and comprised less than 10%, except for the Elbrus sample (17%). A correlation between abnormal changes in the pollen of the Scots pine and the elevation of its habitat was revealed. In the natural stands of the Scots pine studied, we registered the potentially high quality of the pollen; no correlation between qualitative parameters of the pollen of the Scots pine and the altitudinal gradient was revealed (r = 0.11 when p = 0.005). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variety testing sites, due to heavy workload, do not have the opportunity to test varieties against different forecrops, mineral nutrition backgrounds, planting dates and standards, etc. In this regard, the time has come to change approaches to testing potato varieties in the state standards of variety testing. Considering the current situation, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the registered varieties planted after green fallow and potatoes, to establish their stability in yield and quality of tubers in the northern forest-steppe of the Tyumen region (Russia). The results of testing potato varieties after green fallow and potatoes in the northern forest-steppe of the Tyumen region are presented. It was found that the registered Valentina variety exceeded the standard Zhukovsky ranniy variety after both forecrops in yield and quality of tubers by 2.1-2.2 t/ha and starch by 2.7-2.9%. The yield of the standard variety after green fallow was 32.7 t/ha, after potatoes, it was 17.6 t/ha, and starch content equaled 12.5 and 12.9%, respectively. An average negative relationship has been established between the yield of tubers and the starch content in them (r=-0.36±0.05-0.42±0.09), with a close positive relationship between the content of dry matter and starch (r=0.79±0.12-0.86±0.09). The variety had a strong influence on the content of dry matter and starch, while the share of its contribution was 59%, while the influence the year amounted to 24% and that of the forecrop to 17%. The Valentina variety ranks first among the studied varieties in terms of yield and starch content, the standard Zhukovsky ranniy variety ranks second in terms of yield, and the Alyona variety occupies the second position in terms of starch content. For the Valentina and Alyona varieties, it is necessary to accelerate the reproduction of healthy planting material and expand the planting area in the private sector and agricultural enterprises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid and non-destructive prediction of starch content in kudzu is essential for the food industry. In this work, we present an approach combining hyperspectral imaging (HSI) and deep learning (DL) techniques for predicting kudzu root starch content. Practical constraints such as equipment and experimental conditions limit the quantity of spectral data and labels obtained, which leads to diminish model performance. To address this restriction, we employ Wasserstein generative adversarial networks with gradient penalty (WGAN-GP) to augment spectral and starch content data simultaneously. Through numerous iterations, synthetic data that closely resemble real data is generated, which is validated through comprehensive evaluations using various qualitative and quantitative analysis. Additionally, we establish and compare partial least squares regression (PLSR), support vector regression (SVR) and one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1DCNN) model before and after data augmentation. Experimental results demonstrate that the introduction of synthetic data could improve model performance significantly. Particularly, 1DCNN model exhibits the best performance, achieving correlation coefficients (R2) of 92.97% and 93.43% for starch content in the two types of kudzu roots. Overall, this study not only provides an effective method for rapidly, non-destructively, and accurately determining starch content in kudzu roots, but also addresses the challenge of requiring a large amount of data. • Integrating hyperspectral imaging (HSI) and deep learning (DL) techniques for predicting starch content in kudzu roots. • Utilizing WGAN-GP for simultaneous augmentation of spectral and starch content data, validated through extensive qualitative and quantitative analyses. • Establishing and comparing the performance of PLSR, SVR, and 1DCNN models before and after data augmentation to assess the effectiveness of the generated data. • Demonstrating significant improvements in predictive accuracy of the models with the inclusion of synthetic data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The potato size and shape can affect the accuracy of predicting potato quality using near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. This study used NIR spectroscopy and a linear-nonlinear algorithm to eliminate the influence of potato size and shape on the accuracy of the prediction model for potato starch and moisture content. Savitzky-Golay (SG) filtering and four dimensionality reduction algorithms (iterative variable subset optimization (IVSO), variable combination population analysis- iteratively retaining informative variables (VCPA-IRIV), bootstrapping soft shrinkage (BOSS), and principal component analysis (PCA)) were used to optimize the NIR spectrum and extract spectral data. Partial least squares (PLS) linear regression and a nonlinear model (convolutional neural network–bi-directional long short-term memory (CNN-BiLSTM)) were used to establish and compare 52 quantitative prediction models. The optimum prediction model was the SG-IVSO-PLS-CNN-BiLSTM. Its correlation coefficient of prediction (Rp), root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP), and relative percent deviation (RPD) were 0.949, 1.350 %, and 3.172 for predicting the moisture content and 0.937, 1.110 %, and 2.863 for predicting the starch content. The SG-IVSO-PLS-CNN-BiLSTM eliminated the influence of potato size and shape on the accuracy of the prediction model. This method is suitable for predicting potato quality in the potato processing industry. [Display omitted] • Non-destructive testing of potatoes with a large size range. • IVSO, BOSS, and VCPA-IRIV algorithms optimize the performance of prediction models. • Linear and nonlinear methods are combined and compared. • Combined models can be used to detect starch and moisture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the effect of various chelated nano and amino acid fertilizers on grain yield, biological yield, harvest index, oil quantity and quality, starch content and percentage of protein in corn grain, an experiment has been conducted based on a randomized complete block design with 16 treatments and three replications simultaneously in Urmia University and Ajabshir during the 2017 cropping year. Results show that the highest content of starch (80.66%), protein (12.70%), and harvest index (34.60%) related to NPK nano-chelate fertilizer treatment, the highest amount of oil (4.98%), grain yield (16596 kg / ha), and biological yield (52393 kg / ha) are related to iron amino chelate and the highest weight of 100 grains (36.34 g) is related to zinc nano chelate, which are 22.03%, 30.92%, 23.66%, 25.44%, 50.81%, 33.15%, and 24.65% more than the control treatment, respectively. The use of magnesium amino chelate, micro-mix amino chelate, potassium amino chelate, and NPK nano-chelate increase the amount of saturated fatty acids more than other fertilizers, but Copper nanochelate, phosphorus amino-chelate, pigeon, and salicylic acid fertilizers increase the content of unsaturated fatty acids by 16.04%, 16.35%, 17.44%, and 20.29%, respectively, compared to the control treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: In China, breeders overlook changes in grain quality traits of starch, protein, and fat content that occur concurrently in normal maize (Zea mays L.). Here, we collected data for 436 single‐cross normal maize varieties released since the 1960s and 258 landraces from China's three main agroecological regions to investigate how grain quality traits have changed over time. Findings: Since the 1960s, crude starch content has increased and protein content has decreased in northern China, crude starch content has increased and fat content has decreased in southwestern China and the Yellow‐Huai River Valley, and lysine content has increased in southwestern China only. In the 2010s, northern China and the Yellow‐Huai River Valley had the highest crude starch content, southwestern China had the highest crude protein content, and northern China had the highest crude fat content. Conclusions: Breeding since the 1960s has significantly changed the composition of maize seeds in the three main maize growing regions of China. Significance and novelty: This study provides a worthy summary of the changes in grain quality traits of normal maize varieties in China in the last 50 years and insights into developing strategies for breeding grain quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of maize, both as main and by-product, is extremely versatile and diverse. The highest amount of carbohydrate within maize is found in the form of starch (C6H10O5)x. In terms of industrial starch, maize is the most important raw material. Fodder maize is primarily an energy source due to its high starch content, and its protein and oil content are less important. It was found that starch and protein content, which are negatively correlated with each other, are significantly affected by fertilizer doses. The experiment is located in the Hajdúság Loess Plateau, its soil is loess-based deep humus layered calcareous chernozem. The following treatments were applied in the scope of the polyfactorial experiment: Tillage: T1 = winter ploughing, T2 = strip tillage, T3 = ripping. Crop years: 2017, 2018 and 2019. Fertilization treatments: N 0 kg ha-1 P2O5 0 kg ha-1 K2O 0 kg ha-1 (control); N 80kg ha-1 P2O5 60 kg ha-1 K2O 90 kg ha-1 and N 160 kg ha-1 P2O5 60 kg ha-1 K2O 90 kg ha-1. Analysis of the nutritional component was carried out by means of a Foss Infratec TM 1241 Grain Analyser. In terms of fertilization treatments, the highest (64.42%) maize starch content was measured for the control treatment, while the lowest starch content was recorded in the case of the 160 kg N ha-1 treatment (62.62%). The analysis of the crop year effect showed that 2018 was the most favourable year for the maize starch content of the examined samples (65.76%). Of the studied years, the lowest starch content was measured in 2017 (61.78%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the effects of red and blue light on potato growth and yield, potato plantlets were transplanted under white (W), red (R), blue (B), and red + blue (RB; 50%R + 50%B) light in growth chambers. Plants under W had a significantly lower tuber yield per plant than the other treatments, although their shoot dry weights were the highest among all treatments. Potato plants under R had the highest tuber yield per plant among all treatments. The distribution of tuber yield under R showed a lower ratio of 2–20 g tubers and a higher ratio of > 20 g tubers, compared to tubers under W. Plants under R had greater leaf dry weight and slowly decreasing total leaf area compared to other treatments in the late stage of potato growth, thereby extending active tuber bulking under R. Although plants under B and RB did not significantly differ in tuber yield per plant, tuber bulking under B and RB occurred in different ways. Plants under RB advanced tuberization in the seedling stage, while tubers under B rapidly accumulated biomass in the medium stage. Plants under B had higher sucrose transport from leaves to sinks and stronger tuberization signals in tubers than those under W. Tubers under B had significantly increased levels of ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase and sucrose synthase to promote starch biosynthesis, compared to tubers under W. Overall, red light increased tuber biomass accumulation, while blue light rapidly promoted tuber bulking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]