Search Results (1,784)

The controlled-environment cultivation of Capsicum chinense Jacq. is a high-value but input-sensitive system, where optimizing fertilization management practices (FMPs) is essential for maximizing yield and fruit quality. We tested the hypothesis that targeted FMPs—biochar, wood vinegar, and Cropmax—enhance vegetative growth, pigment accumulation, and reproductive performance in three genotypes (‘Carolina Reaper’, ‘Trinidad Scorpion’, and ‘Habanero Chocolate’) under containerized greenhouse conditions. Across biometric, pigment, and yield metrics, biochar–Cropmax combinations produced the strongest responses, increasing plant height by up to 22%, leaf number by 51%, and chlorophyll content index by 36% over controls. Yield gains were substantial: ‘Trinidad Scorpion’ reached 301.79 g plant⁻¹ (+46%), ‘Habanero Chocolate’ 142.58 g (+32%), and ‘Carolina Reaper’ showed marked improvement in mean fruit mass (5.58 g). Biochar also elevated dry matter content to 10.31% and soluble solids to 8.35 °Brix. These results demonstrate that integrating biochar-based FMPs can significantly intensify C. chinense greenhouse production while aligning with sustainable horticultural objectives. Full article

Lotus corniculatus L., also known as birdsfoot trefoil (BFT), is a perennial, non-bloating, temperate forage legume widely grown due to its accumulation of high levels of condensed tannins (CTs) in foliage. However, variations in the CT levels and other plant metabolites in BFT genotypes in response to environmental and yearly factors under field conditions remain largely unexplored. Here, we combine conventional CT quantification and metabolome profiling with high-resolution liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to understand how environmental factors impact CT and other metabolite profiles. Eight BFT genotypes grown in Kentville, Canada, and Rhode Island and Utah in the United States were investigated, revealing significant genotypic variations in soluble CT contents. The global metabolome profiles of the eight BFT genotypes clustered predominantly based on geographical location. These results demonstrate that geographical location strongly influences CT accumulation and metabolome composition, offering potential for selecting genotypes adapted to specific environments. Our findings provide an opportunity for targeted breeding strategies to optimize CT levels, improve forage quality, and enhance stress resilience in birdsfoot trefoil. Full article

Cotton is one of the most important crops worldwide, having considerable economic importance in Greece. This study aimed to evaluate the fiber quality traits of partially interspecific cotton lines under contrasting irrigation and nitrogen environments within a strip-split block field design. Experiments conducted over two consecutive years include a control (commercial cultivar Celia) and four partially interspecific lines of the Pa7 generation (Gossypium hirsutum × G. barbadense). Three irrigation and two nitrogen fertilization levels were applied. Significant differences were observed among genotypes and environments for all fiber quality traits, with some year-to-year variation. Genotypic response for yellowness was influenced by fertilization. Across the two experimental years, a strong Fertilization × Environment interaction was observed, and in the second year, a Genotype × Fertilization × Environment interaction was detected for the uniformity index. Pa7 lines consistently outperformed Celia in fiber length (≈33 vs. 30 mm) and elongation (≈7.0 vs. 5.5%), while exhibiting higher yellowness values. Fiber strength, micronaire, uniformity, and reflectance varied between years but remained within acceptable ranges. Overall, Pa7 lines demonstrated superior fiber quality and stability under variable conditions, highlighting their potential for breeding programs. These findings support the importance of integrating interspecific germplasm with suitable irrigation–nitrogen management to improve cotton fiber performance and resilience under diverse cultivation environments. Full article

Peruvian Creole goats (PCGs) represent a unique genetic resource shaped by adaptation to diverse environments and traditional breeding practices. In this study, we performed a genomic analysis of six regional populations (Ancash, Ica, Lambayeque, Lima, Piura, and Tumbes) using high-density SNP genotype data. Principal component analysis revealed a moderate genetic structure, with the Ica population showing clear separation and northern populations exhibiting overlap. Runs of homozygosity were predominantly short, and specific regions on chromosome 6 were shared across populations. Inbreeding coefficients were generally low, with Ancash showing the highest values. Linkage disequilibrium decayed rapidly over genetic distance, especially in Piura, indicating higher genetic diversity. Estimates of effective population size revealed decreasing trends across populations, with Piura maintaining the largest recent population size. These findings offer valuable insights into the population structure of Peruvian Creole goats, providing guidance for conservation and sustainable breeding efforts. Full article

European black pine (Pinus nigra Arn. subsp. nigra) persists in scattered montane stands across Greece, where isolated populations harbour genetic variation shaped by local environments and demographic history. In this study, we assessed the genetic diversity and population structure of P. nigra using nuclear microsatellite markers (nSSRs) across four populations: Mt. Athos, Sithonia, Thassos, and Perama. A total of 67 individuals were genotyped, and seven high-quality polymorphic loci were retained after rigorous filtering. The Mt. Athos population exhibited the highest allelic richness and heterozygosity, with all loci being polymorphic and a low inbreeding coefficient after null allele correction. In contrast, the Perama population displayed reduced diversity, fewer polymorphic loci, and persistent heterozygote deficits. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Discriminant Analysis of Principal Components (DAPC) revealed weak overall population structure, with Perama genetically distinct from the other sites. Spatial Principal Component Analysis (sPCA) further uncovered an east–west cline within Athos and localized structure potentially shaped by both natural isolation and human influence. These findings highlight regional variation in genetic diversity within P. nigra and identify Athos as a genetically rich population of particular interest. The results provide a foundation for long-term monitoring and support informed strategies for the management and conservation of P. nigra in Greece. Full article

Collagen hydrogels serve as biomimetic scaffolds that closely resemble the natural extracellular matrix, thus providing an ideal 3D biocompatible environment for cells. However, based on our previous experience, not all collagen isolates are capable of gelling, which appears to depend on the type, origin, species, age and sex of the source animal and the collagen isolation method applied. We therefore decided to evaluate porcine collagen-rich materials isolated from two different porcine genotypes applying two different specific isolation methods, and to analyse other main components, i.e., lipids and glycosaminoglycans, as well as amino acid composition and structural and morphological properties. While all the collagen isolates obtained were subjected to the gelling process, only one of them successfully gelled. In addition, the gelling ability of this isolate was confirmed repeatedly on collagens that were isolated from other pigs of the same porcine genotype. The results revealed that the gelling process proceeds via cooperation between the composition and the structure of the collagen isolate. With respect to the composition, one of the most important factors in terms of the success of the gelation process of collagen isolates concerns elevated glycosaminoglycan contents. The structural factors that characterise collagen isolates, i.e., cross-links (immature and mature) and their mutual ratio, as well as the presence of telopeptides, strongly impact the progress of the gelling process and the resulting character of the hydrogel structure. All these factors are influenced by the isolation procedure. Full article

A pivotal food crop in arid and semi-arid zones, proso millet boasts remarkable economic value, making the breeding of stable high-yield varieties critical for industrial sustainability. This study employed a randomized complete block design to conduct a two-year multi-environment trial on nine new varieties across six representative spring-sown test regions in China. Analytical tools, including additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) biplots, AMMI stability values (ASV), genotype and genotype × environment (GGE) models, and genotype by yield–trait (GYT) biplots were utilized to assess genotype–environment (G × E) interactions and screen superior genotypes. AMMI variance analysis showed extremely significant effects of genotype, environment, and G × E on yield traits (p < 0.01). G × E principal component analysis identified JS8, PS3, PS6, and PM4 as dominant genotypes. Based on ASV indices, varietal stability rankings were PS5 > YS13 > JS8 > PS3 > PS6 > PM4 > others. GGE analysis indicated PM4 had the broadest adaptability across tested environments, while JS15 exhibited specific adaptability in Datong. Huairen and Shuozhou were validated as ideal testing environments via an ideal environment plot. GYT biplots further confirmed that YS13, JS15, PS3, and PM4 excelled in comprehensive yield–trait combinations. These findings offer a scientific foundation for ecological adaptability evaluation, breeding material selection, and commercial variety promotion. Full article

This study provides the first long-term, cross-border evaluation of Lithuanian potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars, integrating agronomic performance, tuber quality, and resistance to major pathogens across diverse environments. Field and controlled trials conducted in Lithuania and Ukraine from 2014 to 2024 revealed substantial genetic variability among 14 national cultivars, enabling their classification into five distinct maturity groups. Maincrop cultivars outperformed others in yield and starch accumulation, with ‘VB Meda’, ‘Goda’, and ‘VB Aista’ exhibiting a superior balance of productivity (up to 49 t ha⁻¹), starch content (>19%), and moderate-to-high resistance to Phytophthora infestans. A broader genetic screening of 287 accessions—including varieties, breeding lines, and hybrids—demonstrated wide diversity in phenological development, disease resistance, and reproductive traits. Notably, Ro₁ pathotype resistance was identified in 85 genotypes, predominantly with yellow-skinned tubers, while genotypic sterility in flowering and berry set was associated with both parental lineage and elevated temperatures. Although no complete immunity to P. infestans was detected, several genotypes displayed stable polygenic field resistance, suggesting the presence of horizontally inherited defense mechanisms effective under variable agroclimatic conditions. These results underscore the strategic breeding potential of Lithuanian potato germplasm for developing high-performing cultivars with enhanced resilience to late blight and nematodes and offer valuable insights for climate-adapted potato breeding in Northern and Eastern Europe. Full article

Selection indices enhance dairy cattle breeding by optimizing multiple traits simultaneously. This study analyzed 2181 lactation records from Holstein–Friesian cows at Sakha Experimental Farm, Egypt, to evaluate selection indices for 305-day milk yield (MY), fat yield (FY), and protein yield (PY) using two relative economic value (REV) methods: actual economic values (REV1) and one phenotypic standard deviation (REV2). Using MTDFREML software, we estimated heritabilities of 0.27 ± 0.01 (MY), 0.22 ± 0.01 (FY), and 0.28 ± 0.02 (PY). Four selection indices were constructed based on actual relative economic values (REV1) and one phenotypic standard deviation (REV2). The comprehensive index (I₁) incorporated all three key production traits, viz., MY, FY, and PY, to maximize the genetic merit of the aggregate genotype. In contrast, the reduced indices (I₂, I₃, and I₄) included only two traits each. The I₂ incorporated MY and FY, the I₃ included MY and PY, and the I₄ included FY and PY. The index I₁ (including all traits) yields the highest genetic gains (305 kg MY, 14.0 kg FY, 11.93 kg PY per generation). Both REV methods produced comparable genetic gains, but REV2 is recommended for its computational simplicity. These findings support the use of selection indices for genetic improvement in Holstein–Friesian cows, offering practical guidance for dairy breeding programs in Egypt and similar environments. Full article

Poplar (Populus spp.) is a keystone commercial tree species in Northeast China, valued for its high economic returns. The genotype-by-environment (G × E) interaction critically governs its growth performance and ecological adaptability, which are pivotal for ensuring the long-term sustainability and economic viability of poplar plantations. In this study, the fibrous roots of the (P. simonii × P. nigra) × P. deltoides clone planted at three distinct sites, including Lishu (named SR1), Xinmin (named SR2), and Cuohai (named SR3), were used to perform transcriptome and metabolome. Comparative analysis revealed 6246, 3455, and 3854 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the SR1 vs. SR2, SR1 vs. SR3, and SR2 vs. SR3 comparisons, respectively. These DEGs were functionally enriched in pathways associated with antioxidant enzyme activity, stimulus response, plant hormone signal transduction pathways, and α-linolenic acid metabolism. Metabolomic analysis identified 106, 147, and 189 significantly differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) across the same comparisons, primarily linked to glutathione metabolism, butanoate metabolism, and pentose–glucuronate interconversions. Notably, we identified a core regulatory module comprising 57 genes and four key metabolites within the α-linolenic acid metabolic pathway, which exhibited strong correlations with phenotypic adaptability. These findings provide mechanistic insights into poplar’s plasticity under environmental heterogeneity, offering a molecular roadmap for future breeding strategies and the sustainable expansion of poplar cultivation. Full article

Heat-exacerbated drought stress is becoming increasingly common in crop production systems, including peanuts, yet limited information exists on how peanut cultivars respond to this combined stress. While controlled environments allow for the isolation of these stress effects, their relevance to field conditions remains unclear. In this study, five Virginia-type peanut cultivars were evaluated under four treatments in a growth chamber environment, i.e., control, heat, drought, and combined heat and drought stress; and under two treatments in the field environment, i.e., rainfed control, and combined heat and drought stress using rainout shelters. The physiological traits assessed included stomatal conductance and transpiration rate, as well as leaf temperature difference. In both environments, combined heat and drought resulted in a significant decline in physiological performance compared to control conditions. On average, stomatal conductance decreased by 65% in the growth chamber and 21% in the field under combined heat and drought stress, while transpiration was reduced by 49% and 24%, respectively. In the growth chamber, leaf temperature difference increased by 40% under combined stress, whereas it was not statistically different under field conditions. Correlations of the physiological responses between growth chamber and field were stronger under combined stress conditions than under control conditions. Principal component analysis revealed clear genotypic separation based on gas exchange and thermal traits, with NC 20 and Sullivan consistently associated with higher stomatal conductance and transpiration under stress across environments, indicating greater physiological resilience, while Emery clustered with traits linked to stress susceptibility. These findings underscore the significant impacts of combined stress in peanut production and highlight the importance of evaluating cultivar responses under both controlled and field environments to guide crop improvement strategies. Full article

A strictly aerobic, straight-rod, motile Gram-negative bacterium, SDUM041083^T, was isolated from marine sediment in Xiaoshidao, Weihai, China, in the formation of yellowish-brown colonies. Its growing conditions are as follows: 20–40 °C, pH 5.5–9.5, and 0.5–11% (w/v) NaCl. Phylogenetic analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence showed that SDUM041083^T was related to members of the genus Microbulbifer. Strain SDUM041083^T showed the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity (98.23%) with Microbulbifer okinawensis JCM 16147^T. The primary cellular fatty acids of SDUM041083^T were iso-C11:0 3-OH, iso-C11:0, and iso-C15:0. The respiratory quinone of SDUM041083^T was Q-8, and the polar lipids were phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, and one aminolipid. The genomic DNA G+C content of SDUM041083^T was 57.5 mol%. The phenotypic and genotypic characteristics of SDUM041083^T indicate that the strain should be classified as a new species representing the genus Microbulbifer, with the name Microbulbifer weihaiensis sp. nov. being proposed. The type strain was SDUM041083^T (=KCTC 8896^T = MCCC 1H01537^T). Comparative genomic analysis showed that the 32 Microbulbifer species shared 1446 core genes and differed mainly in terms of lipid metabolism, signal transduction and xenobiotic biodegradation and metabolism. Preliminary research showed that SDUM041083^T has the potential to degrade chitin. Biogeographic distribution analysis showed that the marine environments constitute the main habitat of the genus Microbulbifer. Full article

Climate change poses significant challenges to agriculture in Türkiye, where diverse climatic conditions demand resilient forage crops to meet rising roughage demands. This study evaluates the performance of Hungarian vetch (Vicia pannonica Crantz), a cold- and drought-tolerant legume, to enhance sustainable forage production. Eight genotypes (Line-5, Line-16, Line-23, Line-28, Tarm White, Aegean White, Budak, and Oguz) were tested in Bilecik and Bingol during the 2015–2016 and 2016–2017 growing seasons using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Key traits such as pods per plant, thousand-seed weight, biological yield, seed yield, straw yield, and harvest index were analyzed using Genotype plus Genotype-by-Environment (GGE) biplot analysis based on Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The distribution of these traits was also examined using box plots. Results showed significant variations: pods per plant ranged from 17.5 to 21.7, thousand-seed weight from 26.8 to 42.6 g, biological yield from 5710 to 8780 kg ha⁻¹, seed yield from 826 to 1132 kg ha⁻¹, straw yield from 4997 to 7643 kg ha⁻¹, and harvest index (HI) from 13.9% to 21.0%. Aegean White excelled in seed yield, while Line-16 showed the highest harvest index. GGE biplot analysis highlighted harvest index as the primary variance contributor, emphasizing genotype-environment interactions for selecting adaptable cultivars for sustainable agriculture. Full article

Apolipoprotein E (APOE) remains the most robust and widely replicated genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) susceptibility, with the ε4 allele (APOE4) demonstrating profound associations with accelerated symptom manifestation, enhanced disease trajectory, and modified therapeutic responsiveness. This comprehensive review synthesizes contemporary evidence regarding the clinical utility of APOE4 genotyping, emphasizing its integration into personalized therapeutic frameworks and early diagnostic paradigms. The APOE4 variant exerts pathogenic influence through impaired amyloid-β clearance, enhanced tau pathology, and compromised neuronal repair mechanisms that alter disease phenotype. We systematically examine available genotyping methodologies, encompassing polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS) platforms, and evaluate their practical implementation within clinical environments. Recent investigations demonstrate that APOE4 status profoundly influences therapeutic efficacy, particularly with anti-amyloid interventions such as lecanemab, where carriers exhibit enhanced treatment response alongside increased adverse event susceptibility. Emerging gene therapeutic approaches show promise in mitigating APOE4-associated risks through targeted molecular interventions. The integration of APOE4 genotyping with fluid biomarkers and neuroimaging techniques enables refined patient stratification and enhanced diagnostic precision, facilitating earlier intervention windows that optimize therapeutic outcomes before irreversible neuronal damage occurs. This review underscores APOE4 testing as a transformative component of precision medicine in AD management, emphasizing its contribution to diagnostic refinement, clinical decision support, and targeted therapeutic interventions. Full article

Phenolic compounds contribute significantly to the nutritional and functional properties of wheat, particularly due to their antioxidant activity. In this study, a genome-wide association study was conducted to elucidate the genetic basis of total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (AA) in a panel of 144 tetraploid wheat accessions representing diverse subspecies. The panel was evaluated under two different environments, located in Chile and Italy, to assess the influence of genotype, environment, and their interaction. Significant variability was observed for both TPC and AA, with TPC ranging from 0.26 to 0.82 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g and AA from 0.04 to 0.99 µmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/g. Substantial phenotypic variation and high broad-sense heritability were observed for both traits, underscoring the predominant genetic control. The genome-wide association study, using a mixed linear model (MLM), and the Bayesian information and Linkage-disequilibrium Iteratively Nested Keyway (BLINK) approaches identified 17 significant marker–trait associations, including quantitative trait loci on chromosomes 2B, 3A, 4B, 5A, 5B, and 6B. Notably, QTLs on chromosome 5A were co-localized for both TPC and AA, suggesting potential pleiotropic loci. Candidate genes linked to these loci included flavonol 3-sulfotransferase and peptidylprolyl isomerase, which are involved in phenylpropanoid metabolism and oxidative stress response, respectively. These findings offer valuable insights into the genetic basis of wheat phenolic traits and provide molecular targets for the development of biofortified cultivars through marker-assisted selection. Full article