Agricultural Experiment Station Research Articles

Cluster analysis of Corchorus capsularis jute based on agro-morphological characters to isolate high-yielding genotypes for breeding purposes

White jute (Corchorus capsularis) is an important bast fiber producing cash crop. Its narrow genetic base due to its self-pollination nature as well as genetic incompatibility in respect of interspecific hybridization cause low morphological variability. The searching for good genotypes and their use in intraspecific hybridization is the best option to increase the yield potentiality of this crop. In this research experiment, 95 white jute genotypes including 93 accessions and two pre-released varieties (CVL-1 and BJRI Deshi Pat 9) were investigated for higher fibre yield. The experiment was laid out in an augmented design at Jute Agricultural Experiment Station, Manikgonj during 2019. Plants were harvested at 120 days age and morphological data like plant height (m), base diameter (mm), green weight with leaves (g plant-1), fiber yield (g plant-1) and stick yield (g plant-1) were recorded carefully. From the descriptive analyses of the recorded data, good fibre yields were found in A-725 (20 g plant-1) and A-2232 (16.60 g plant-1) followed by A-2224, A-248, A-07, A-675, A-2264, A-1292, A-247, A-469, A-2226, A-674, A-02, A-232, A-10, A-684 than the control varieties BJRI Deshi Pat-9 (10.80 g plant-1) and CVL-1 (9.20 g plant-1). From the hierarchical cluster analysis, the average inter-cluster distances were found higher than the average intra-cluster distances, which shows the presence of wide genetic diversity among the genotypes of different clusters than those of the same cluster. These higher fibre yielding accessions with wide genetic diversity would be used as breeding materials for varietal improvement through hybridization and selection approaches.

Effect of Herbicide and Biostimulants on Production and Economic Results of Edible Potato

In modern agriculture, preparations qualified as biostimulants are used alongside pesticides. They influence the development of plants and enable a yield-forming effect. An important feature of these preparations is that they are safe for the environment. They can be treated as substitutes for plant protection agents, which is especially important in the era of implementation of the European Green Deal, ordering the reduction of chemicalization of agriculture. The purpose of this paper was to compare the production and economic results of five methods of plantation care in Solanum tuberosum cultivation: on the first object (control), mechanical cultivation was used, and on the second, object the herbicide Avatar 293 ZC (1.5 dm3·ha−1), on object three, the herbicide Avatar 293 ZC (1.5 dm3·ha−1) and the biostimulant PlonoStart (2.0 dm3·ha−1), on object four, the herbicide Avatar 293 ZC (1.5 dm3·ha−1) and biostimulant Aminoplant (1.5 dm3·ha−1), and on object five, the herbicide Avatar 293 ZC (1.5 dm3·ha−1) and biostimulant Agro-Sorb Folium (4.0 dm3·ha−1). The research was conducted from 2018 to 2020 at the Agricultural Experimental Station in Zawady, central-eastern Poland. The results were analyzed, on average, for two Polish edible potato cultivars (Malaga and Oberon), and three years of study (2018–2020) were taken into consideration. The experiment was established as a two-factor experiment in three replicates on light soil in a spit-plot arrangement. A beneficial effect of herbicides and biostimulants on the yield and profitability of edible potato production was observed. An average increase of 33.2% in marketable yield was obtained. The gross margin increased by an average of 49.3%. The highest total yield, as compared to the control object, was obtained from object 5, where the herbicide Avatar 293 ZC with biostimulant Agro-Sorb Folium was applied, such as the greatest economic effect was achieved also in object no. 5. Application of this biostimulant was most beneficial.

Comparison of the oxidative respiratory burst and mitogen-induced leukocyte responses of camels, goats, sheep, and cows.

Background and Aim:The reports from the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries suggest that camels suffer less compared to goats, sheep, and cows from a number of common infectious diseases in Oman. However, there is no immunological evidence to substantiate this claim. This present study is, therefore, an attempt to study the immunological responses of camels, goats, sheep, and cows by comparing their oxidative respiratory burst of peripheral blood leukocytes (PBLs) as a marker of innate immunity occurring during phagocytosis and the mitogenic responses of their peripheral blood mononuclear leukocytes (PBMLs) as a marker of their adaptive immune response.Materials and Methods:Ten female adult animals (n = 10) were selected from each species (goats, sheep, and cows). The goats, sheep, and cows were maintained at the Agricultural Experiment Station, while camels were kept at the Royal Camel Corps (RCC). Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein in 7 mL of heparin and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid vacutainer tubes. The oxidative respiratory burst of PBLs was measured using a chemiluminescence (CL) assay. Reactants consisted of 75 mL of whole blood diluted (1:50), 75 mL of luminol/isoluminol, and 75 mL of zymosan opsonized with non-heat inactivated serum/heat-inactivated serum or non-opsonized zymosan. CL responses were measured as relative light units and expressed as the mean count per minute and peak CL values. The mitogenic response of PBMLs to concanavalin A (Con-A), phytohemagglutinin (PHA), and pokeweed mitogen (PWM) was tested using a WST-8 assay and read spectrophotometrically at 450 nm.Results:The present findings showed that camel PBLs generate significantly higher CL responses, both intracellularly as well as extracellularly, with zymosan opsonized with autologous serum. Camel PBLs demonstrated a significantly higher (p = 0.001) response when stimulated with zymosan opsonized with heat-inactivated serum compared to those of goat, sheep, and cow lymphocytes from camels exhibited significantly higher (p = 0.001) stimulation indices (SI) with Con-A, PHA, and PWM.Conclusion:The present study suggests that camels are capable of mounting both superior innate as well as adaptive immune responses and provide immunological evidence supporting the belief of some authors, who have proposed that camels are less susceptible to a number of common infectious diseases than other domesticated ruminants.

From nanotoxicology to nano-enabled agriculture: Following the science at the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station (CAES)

The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station was founded in 1875 and has a 147-year history of “Putting Science to Work for Society.” No program exemplifies that core mission more than the Station’s 12-year effort on nanotechnology. This work first started in the realm of nanotoxicology, evaluating the negative effects of these potential emerging contaminants on crop species and in agricultural systems. However, as evidence began increasing that select nanomaterials at appropriate doses and under certain conditions could actually convey some benefit to plant species, work in nano-enabled agriculture began. With an increasing population and a changing climate driving food insecurity, CAES has developed a robust program on the safe and sustainable application of nanotechnology for food production and preservation. Initiatives include novel strategies for crop protection against a range of pathogens; enhancing crop tolerance abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, and toxic metal contamination; elevating rates of photosynthesis; developing biopolymer-based delivery systems for agrochemicals with much greater efficiency and efficacy; and novel food nanoscale strategies for food preservation. By collaborating with over 30 domestic and international institutions, CAES has and will continue to lead and participate in efforts to combat global food insecurity.

Association Between University Students’ Reported Family History of Chronic Disease and Fruit and Vegetable Intake

ObjectivesThe purpose of this study is to explore the association between reported family history (FHx) of heart disease (HD), cancer, and/or diabetes, with fruit and vegetable (f/v) intake in college students.MethodsData were collected between 2006–21 from the College Health and Nutrition Assessment Survey, an ongoing, cross-sectional study conducted at a midsized, northeast university. Reported FHx data were obtained from a personal health history form; age, race, and gender were collected from an online survey. Three-day food records analyzed via online nutrient software (Diet&WellnessPlus) were used to calculate average f/v intake (cups/day). Anthropometric assessments (height, weight, body composition) were measured in duplicate after overnight fast. Mean f/v intake was compared between students with FHx and those without FHx via ANCOVA; daily calories, BMI, and gender served as covariates.ResultsAfter omission for missing data, the final sample (n = 8686) was 70.1% female and 94.3% white; the mean age was 18.9 ± .01 years. Overall, 84% of total sample reported having a FHx of at least one of the three diseases. Almost half (47%) reported FHx of heart disease, 46.2% reported FHx of diabetes, and 69% reported a FHx of cancer. Mean total f/v intake of subjects was 3.2 ± .02 cups/day. Those with a FHx of diabetes consumed slightly less f/v than those without a FHx (3.2 ± .03 vs 3.1 ± .03, p = .04) and those with a FHx of cancer also consumed less than those not reporting a FHx (3.2 ± .3 vs 3.1 ± .2, p = .04).ConclusionsFindings suggest most students were aware of FHx of at least one chronic disease, and only small differences in f/v intake were observed between those with FHx and without FHx. Increasing students’ awareness of risk factors for future disease including genetic predisposition may be important in the promotion of healthier diets and lifestyle behaviors.Funding SourcesNew Hampshire Agriculture Experiment Station and USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Project 1,010,738.

Sleep Duration and Metabolic Syndrome Severity Scores in Emerging Adults

ObjectivesResearch suggests sleep duration can influence metabolic systems including fasting glucose, blood pressure, hormone regulation, nervous system activity, and total energy expenditure (TEE), all of which are related to cardiometabolic disease risk. The purpose of this study is to examine the association between sleep duration and metabolic syndrome severity scores (MSSS) in a sample of emerging adults (18–24 y/o).MethodsData were collected between 2012 and 2021 from the College Health and Nutrition Assessment Survey, an ongoing, cross-sectional study conducted at a midsized northeastern university. Anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical measures were obtained following an overnight fast and used to assess the prevalence if metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS severity scores (MSSS) were calculated using race- and sex-specific formulas. Sleep duration was calculated from the difference in self-reported bedtime and get-up time acquired though an online survey. ANCOVA was used to examine the relationship between sleep duration and MetS severity score while adjusting for covariates (age, sex, BMI, physical activity level, smoking status, alcohol consumption, and major).ResultsMetS (>3 criteria) was present in 3.4% of the final sample (n = 3,893); 15.7% of students >2 MetS criteria. Mean MSS was −0.65 + 0.56 and reported sleep duration was 7.91 + 1.2 hours/day. MSS differed between for short sleepers (< 7 hrs) and long sleepers (>9 hrs) compared to the reference sleepers (7–8 hrs/day) (−0.61 + 0.21 and −0.63 + 0.13 vs. −0.7 + 0.15, p < .01).ConclusionsOur findings suggest that short (<7 h/d) and long (>9 h/d) sleep durations raise the risk of MetS in a sample of emerging adults. Further research is needed to elucidate the impact of improving sleep habits on future disease risk.Funding SourcesNew Hampshire Agriculture Experiment Station and USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Project 1010738.

Efficiency of complex agro-reclamation on irrigated lands

In recent years, due to the irrational use of land and the irregular implementation of agro-reclamation measures, there has been a rise in the level of mineralized groundwater and secondary salinization of soils, which has affected the decline in the seed-cotton yield. The area of nonsaline soils in this region is decreasing from year to year, and there is also a shortage of water resources. Irrigated lands are mostly plowed to a depth of only 30 cm. Such shallow basic tillage for such a long time contributed to the formation of a rigid "plow pan" in the arable layer and an increase in soil bulk weight and salinization, which negatively affected the yield of agricultural crops, including cotton. Currently, in serozems (grey earth), the basic tillage is carried out to a depth of 30 cm. Shallow soil plowing for many years affects the density formation in the soil layer, that is, an increase in the bulk weight of the soil and its salinization, which negatively affects the yield of cotton plantations. This complex of negative factors leads to a decrease in the fertility of serozems and soil erosion. Scientists of the Agricultural Experiment Station for Cotton and Melon Growing, in conditions of progressive dehumification and to prevent soil salinity, as well as to increase their soil fertility and cotton yield on irrigated gray-earth soils, scientific research was conducted based on the use of complex intensive agro-reclamation measures.

Streamlining Bioactive Peptide Discovery With In Silico Prospecting: An investigation on Seaweed Pacific Dulse

ObjectivesBioactive hydrolysates and peptides from seaweed sources have been shown to exert beneficial effects in both in vitro and in vivo models for metabolic health. However, the discovery approach relies heavily on the conventional hydrolysate preparation and screening model selection, both driven by resource availability and time constraints. Considering the potential for functional food and therapeutics development, efficient and cost-effective strategies are needed to scope out as much prospect that can be screened for increased chances of hits to find potent, stable, and commercializable bioactive peptides (BAPs). This work aimed to identify multifunctional BAPs from seaweed Pacific Dulse, and to determine which hydrolytic condition can favor the release of more BAPs of interest from this protein-rich macroalgae. MethodsVirtual hydrolysates were prepared from dulse proteins using three digestion platforms (ExPASy, SystemsBio, and Rapid Peptide Generator) under three production stream contexts (hydrolysate preparation, gastrointestinal digestion, and microbial fermentation). Peptide products were then subjected to in silico bioactivity prospecting for anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antihypertensive potential. Stability in the intestine and blood was predicted along with potential toxicity. Non-toxic and stable peptides predicted to have multifunctionalities were shortlisted for bioactivity validation, and production streams predicted to generate most number of BAPs were noted for test hydrolysate production. ResultsWith our approach, we identified 13 novel prospect BAPs that have multiple bioactivities, high stability, and low toxicity. Hydrolysate production using bromelain and ficin favored the 5–10aa long mBAPs generation. Simulated gastrointestinal digestion and microbial fermentation also showed promise in the release of some BAPs of interest. ConclusionsWhen consumed in either hydrolyzed, whole, or fermented form, BAPs can be generated from seaweed Pacific Dulse proteins. Bioactivity testing of the novel BAPs identified, and microscale production of the promising BAP production stream are underway. Funding SourcesOregon Agricultural Experiment Station.

Impact of Maternal Omega-3 Fatty Acid Intake on Ovine Placental and Fetal Tissue Metabolism

ObjectivesDietary supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) during pregnancy is often recommended to support optimal fetal brain development and cognitive function of the offspring. DHA supplementation also influences cardiometabolic risk parameters in adults, but its effect on fetal metabolism and subsequent risk is poorly understood. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of maternal DHA supplementation (MDS) on placental and fetal nutrient handling during pregnancy.MethodsWhite-faced ewes were fed either a control diet (Show-rite NewCo Lamb Feed) or a DHA-supplemented diet (control diet + 3% w/w algae-derived DHA) from 2–3 weeks before pregnancy until mid-gestation (75 days), after which a C-section was performed to collect the placenta and fetal tissues for metabolic analyses.ResultsMDS significantly increased serum DHA levels and decreased serum triglycerides in the uterine (maternal) circulation, but not umbilical (fetal) circulation. Nevertheless, MDS resulted in significant DHA enrichment of the placenta and all fetal tissues examined, and differentially affected the protein expression of the four major fatty acid transport proteins FATP1, FATP4, CD36 and FABP in placenta, muscle, liver and heart, but had no effect on kidney or brain. Consistent with these findings, MDS tended to increase the capacity for fat over pyruvate oxidation in fetal muscle and heart, but favored a greater capacity for glucose uptake and oxidation in fetal liver.ConclusionsThis study is the first to validate use of an ovine model for investigating the impact of maternal DHA supplementation on fetal metabolism and development. Results demonstrate a complex tissue-specific effect of MDS on fetal tissue carbohydrate and fatty acid metabolism that favors a greater capacity for serum glucose disposal and fatty acid oxidation. Whether these changes ultimately impact nutrient metabolism and cardiometabolic risk in the offspring later in life merits further investigation.Funding SourcesColorado Agricultural Experiment Station.

Relationship between Binge Drinking and Diet Quality Scores Among College Students

ObjectivesDespite the negative impact on health, safety, and academics, research shows college students have high rates of binge drinking. The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between binge drinking and diet quality among college students at a large university. MethodsData were collected between 2012–2021from the College Health and Nutrition Assessment Survey (CHANAS), an ongoing, cross-sectional study, at a northeastern university. After excluding participants with missing data, the final sample (n = 4,519) was 66.5% female and 33.5% male. Via online survey, participants self-reported their drinking occasions during the past 30 days; binge drinking was defined as ≥ 5 drinks for men and ≥ 4 drinks for women per occasion. Binge drinking was further categorized into 3 groups: non-binge drinkers, moderate binge drinkers (1–5 times/30 days), and heavy binge drinkers (5–30 times/30 days). Diet quality was assessed using a modified Healthy Eating Index (HEI); scoring was based upon HEI-2005, -2010, and -2015. Differences in HEI scores according to binge drinking participation were evaluated using ANCOVA; gender, age, total perceived stress scores, and BMI served as covariates. ResultsMore than half (n = 2,624; 58.1%) of participants reported binge drinking within the past 30 days; 19.5% of participants reported binge drinking 6 or more times within the past 30 days. The mean modified HEI score was 64.8 ± .2. Heavy binge drinkers had the lowest HEI scores when compared to moderate and non-binge drinkers (63.8 ± .4 vs. 64.8 ± .3 and 65.5 ± .3, p = 0.05, p < 0.01). ConclusionsFindings show high rates of binge drinking. While many college students will benefit from reducing binge drinking habits data also suggests a modest relationship with dietary quality. This work adds to the evidence in the college population of the benefits of reducing alcohol intake. Funding SourcesNew Hampshire Agriculture Experiment Station and USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Project 1,010,738.

Relationship between Dietary Quality and Cardiometabolic Risk in a College Population

ObjectivesEarly adulthood plays a key role in the development of healthy eating habits, however, the association between dietary indices and cardiometabolic risk is not well investigated in younger adults. This study assessed diet quality and its relationship with cardiometabolic risk of university students. MethodsBetween 2007–21 students (18–24 years) were recruited from a northeast university as part of the ongoing College Health and Nutrition Assessment Survey. All participants were enrolled in a semester-long nutrition course. Students completed a 3-day dietary food record; nutrient intake was calculated using online analysis software. A modified Healthy Eating Index (mHEI) score was assigned (0–100) based on HEI-2005, -2010, and -2015 categories using daily intakes of fruit, vegetables, grains, meat and beans, fatty acids, protein, milk, saturated fat, sodium, and empty calories. After excluding cases with missing data and stratifying for sex, mHEI scores were grouped into quartiles. Chi-square analyses assessed the relationship between ascending mHEI quartiles (Q1-4) with prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and individual MetS criterion. ResultsThe final sample (n = 6,214) of students included mostly first- or second-year students (85%) but only 6% were nutrition majors (n = 455). About a third (29%) of students met 1 criterion for MetS and 14.5% met ≥ 2 (n = 1,167.) More men than women met 1 or 2 MetS criteria (43.3% vs. 35.5%, 17.1% vs. 12.9%, respectively, both p < .001). Mean mHEI score was 64.4 ± 12.6. Participants in mHEI Q1 vs. Q4 were more likely to meet ≥ 2 MetS criteria (22.7% vs. 15.0%, X2 = 30.0, p < 0.0001). Moreover, a higher proportion of mHEI Q1 v. Q4 met the criteria for fasting plasma glucose (7.4% v. 4.0%, X2 = 29.0, p < 0.001) and blood pressure (22.8% v. 19.1%, X2 = 8.8, p = 0.04). ConclusionsFindings support a relationship between dietary quality and cardiometabolic risk in the college population and suggest a need for further research on the dietary habits of young adults for disease prevention earlier in the life cycle. Funding SourcesNew Hampshire Agriculture Experiment Station and USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Project 1,010,738.

Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis Shifts Global Transcriptional and Post-translational Modification Signals in Preterm Infant Gut Epithelial Cells

Objectives Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis (B. infantis) is an important human infant gut symbiont that confers benefits to the infant by shaping the gut microbiome in vivo. Here, we investigated the transcriptomic and post-translational modification (PTM) impacts of B. infantis on host gut epithelial cells representative of preterm infants, in vitro.MethodsRNA isolated from preterm infant intestinal epithelial cells (HIEC-6) exposed to sterile, cell-free B. infantis supernatants or controls (no supernatant) for 20 hours was subjected to RNA-sequencing to assess global transcriptional changes (n = 6/group). Using the same approach, HIEC-6 cells were incubated for 3 or 20 hours, with or without supernatant (10% v/v; n = 3/group), before harvest for cellular proteins and subsequent western blotting. Gels were probed for α-tubulin, acetylated α-tubulin, Extracellular signal-Regulated Kinase (ERK), and phosphorylated ERK as markers of PTM activity.ResultsGlobal transcriptomic profiles were significantly different between cells exposed to supernatant and those that were not (P = 0.006) and gene pathways involved in anti-inflammatory responses and chemotaxis were significantly upregulated (P < 0.01). Western blotting revealed significant increases in acetyl-α-tubulin and phospho-ERK in cells exposed to supernatant relative to the control group (P < 0.05), while total α-tubulin and ERK concentrations were not significantly different (P > 0.05).ConclusionsThese findings demonstrate the ability of B. infantis to alter global transcriptional and PTM responses affecting inflammation, intracellular trafficking of α-tubulin, and transcription factor recruitment by ERK phosphorylation. These pathways regulate key cellular processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, migration and survival, providing molecular insights into the ability of B. infantis to regulate transcriptional and PTM processes in vitro.Funding SourcesThis work was funded by the Department of Nutrition, the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology, & Natural Resources, the Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station, and the Vice President for Research and Innovation, as well as the NICHD, R03HD105881, and grants from the NIGMS (GM103440 and GM104944) from the NIH.

Wheatgerm Supplementation Reduces Gut Inflammation and Epithelial Barrier Dysfunction in IL-10 KO Mice Fed Atherogenic Diet

Abstract Objectives Wheat germ (WG) contains many bioactive compounds with the potential to maintain an anti-inflammatory gut environment. This study investigated the effects of WG supplementation on gut inflammation and integrity in high-fat fed interleukin (IL)-10 KO mice. Methods Eight-wk-old female B6.129P2-Il10tm1Cgn/J (IL-10KO) and C57BL/6 (WT) mice (n = 10/group) were randomly assigned to diets: WT fed a control diet (WTCO; AIN93-M) and IL-10 KO mice fed control (KOCO), high-fat with high-cholesterol (HFHC; 45% fat kcal, 1% cholesterol), or HFHC + 10% WG (HFWG) for 3 m. Disease activity indices (fecal blood, ruffled fur, stool softness, and rectal prolapse) were monitored twice a week. Fecal indole and short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) concentration were assessed at the beginning and end of study. Proinflammatory cytokines were assessed in the serum and ileum. Ileal and colonic protein expression of transcription factors (STAT3, p-STAT3, PPARg, FoxP3, and AhR), tight junction proteins (ZO-1, occludin), and tryptophan catabolizing enzyme (IDO-1) were assessed by immunoblotting. Relative ileal and colonic gene expression of IL-22 and antimicrobial peptides (Reg3b and Reg3g) were assessed using qRT-PCR. P &amp;lt; 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results WG increased (P = 0.003) colon length compared to the HFHC group. Weight loss (12.2% in HFHC vs WTCO) was not prevented by WG, but disease activity indices were significantly reduced in the WG vs HFHC group. WG also increased fecal indole, total SCFAs and acetate accompanied by an increase in colonic protein expression of PPARg (P &amp;lt; 0.0001) and FoxP3 (P = 0.001). Ileal STAT3 phosphorylation was reduced (P = 0.0076) due to WG supplementation. An increased colon and ileal protein expression of IDO-1 in the HFHS group was reduced by WG, while also increasing the expression of AhR, ZO-1, and occludin. The relative gene expression of the antimicrobial peptides (Reg3b and Reg3g) was increased (P &amp;lt; 0.05) while serum and ileal tissue concentration of the proinflammatory cytokine, IL-17 was reduced (P = 0.0165 and p = 0.0248 respectively) by WG. Conclusions WG modulated changes that are associated with HF-feeding in IL-10 KO mice, and might be a promising regimen for ameliorating the effects of gut inflammation. Funding Sources Oklahoma Agriculture Experiment Station, Jim and Lynn Williams Professorship, and Barbara K. Pass Grant.

Synthetic Sugar Substitutes Alter Intestinal Epithelial Cell Proliferation and Differentiation in a Cell-Line Dependent Manner In Vitro

ObjectivesThe acute and long-term effects of synthetic sugar substitutes have yet to be fully determined. Importantly, their interactions with the gut epithelium are poorly understood. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of two synthetic sugar substitutes on intestinal epithelial cells in terms of 1) cellular toxicity, 2) effects on cell proliferation, and 3) effects on cellular differentiation.MethodsGut epithelial cells (n = 3/group) were challenged for 3 hours with varying concentrations of saccharin and sucralose, to determine cellular toxicity thresholds, as assessed by MTT assay. Three morphologically distinct epithelial cell lines (HT-29, HT-29MTX, and T84) were also challenged (n = 3/group) with the maximum concentrations of these compounds that did not induce toxicity to evaluate cell proliferation over a 96-hour period. RNA was isolated from synthetic sugar substitute-challenged cells and analyzed for epithelial cell differentiation-related gene expression via CDX2 by qRT-PCR, and normalized to B2M, an epithelial cell reference gene.ResultsCellular toxicity assays indicated that 10% w/v sweetener was the maximum level tested that avoided evidence of cellular toxicity. When comparing distinct epithelial cell lines, HT-29MTX and T84 displayed significant differences in cell proliferation when exposed to saccharin (HT29-MTX, P < 0.01) and sucralose (T84, P < 0.01), demonstrating increased cell proliferation, relative to unchallenged controls. Finally, CDX2 expression, a marker of cellular differentiation, was significantly increased in the presence of both saccharin (5% w/v) and sucralose (10% w/v) in HT-29 cells, relative to unchallenged controls (P < 0.05).ConclusionsThese findings demonstrate that exposure to high concentrations of synthetic sugar substitutes alter proliferation and differentiation of gut epithelial cell lines in vitro, in a cell line-dependent manner. Additional research is necessary to determine whether these interactions also occur in vivo.Funding SourcesThis work was funded by the University of Nevada, Reno Department of Nutrition, the College of Agriculture, Biotechnology, & Natural Resources, the Vice President for Research and Innovation, and the Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station.

Relationship between Dietary Fiber and Allergy Prevalence in a College Population

ObjectivesTo characterize the relationship between dietary fiber intake and the prevalence of allergic diseases, seasonal allergies and asthma, in a college student population.MethodsData were collected from 2012–2021 through the College Health and Nutrition Assessment Survey, an ongoing cross-sectional study at a midsized, public New England university. Students (18–24 years; n = 4135; 67% female) completed a comprehensive, online demographic and health information survey, a 3-day food record, and an analysis of their average nutrient intake via an online program (Diet and Wellness Plus). After stratifying by sex, students’ fiber intake (g/day) were grouped into quartiles; differences in allergy and asthma prevalence across quartiles were evaluated via chi-square tests. Logistic regression was used to examine differences in allergy and asthma prevalence between low fiber intake and those with higher intakes after controlling for covariates BMI, smoking status, and alcohol consumption.ResultsOf the final sample, 37.6% and 19.2% reported a seasonal allergy and asthma, respectively, after exclusion of participants with missing data (4135 of 5093). Food records indicate only 18.2% of females and 12.2% of males are meeting recommended intakes of dietary fiber. Quartile fiber consumption was associated with seasonal allergy prevalence in males (X2 = 10.657, df = 3, P = 0.014) and females (X2 = 15.526, df = 3, P = 0.001). Females consuming the lowest quartile of fiber intake (<13.62 g/day) experience 1.39 times the odds of seasonal allergies (P < 0.001, 95% CI 1.164–1.651) when controlling for the covariates of BMI, smoking status, and alcohol use. No significant differences in asthma prevalence were identified between fiber intake quartiles.ConclusionsConsistent with previously identified associations, our findings suggest fiber intake is related to seasonal allergies but not asthma, with a stronger relationship among females. This study further emphasizes the need to investigate potential dietary risk factors for allergic diseases and to inform institutions on key dietary priorities for college student health.Funding SourcesNew Hampshire Agriculture Experiment Station and USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture Hatch Project 1,010,738.

Создание ультраскороспелых и скороспелых сортов сои для условий Северного Казахстана

The article presents data on the results of breeding work for developing ultra-early and early-maturing soybean varieties for cultivation in the Northern re-gions of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Kostanay, Pavlodar, Akmola regions. The work is carried out according to the full scheme of the breeding process. Two scientific organizations of Kazakhstan take part in the development of ultra-early varieties – LLP “Ag-ricultural Experimental Station “Zarechnoye” under the leadership of LLP “Kazakh Research Institute of Agriculture and Crop Production”. The efficiency of hybridization varies within 4–15%. Soybean varieties have been developed and submitted: 000 maturity group – Rusia, the growing season is 85–90 days, the average yield – 26.6 c/ha; 00 maturity group – Fire-fly, the growing season is 90–95 days, the average yield – 27.7 c/ha, Ivushka, the growing season is 90–95 days, the average yield – 24.0 c/ha; 0 maturity group – Northern Lights, the growing season is 105–107 days, the average yield – 23.3 c/ha. The variety Ivushka is approved for production in Kostanay, Pavlodar and Akmola regions.

Characterization of the Spanish Pomegranate Germplasm Collection Maintained at the Agricultural Experiment Station of Elche to Identify Promising Breeding Materials.

Pomegranates were one of the first domesticated fruit crops, and their long history resulted in the development of local cultivars all over the world. Spain is one of the main producers and exporters of this crop in the Mediterranean Basin, but in order to maintain the competitiveness of this crop, new varieties should be developed. For this purpose, the pomegranate germplasm collection hold at the Agricultural Experiment Station of Elche, a public institution dependent on the Valencian regional government, is an interesting tool. However, the detailed characterization of any germplasm collection is a fundamental requirement to be able to make the most of these resources, allowing to identify putative promising accessions and to optimize the design of the future crosses. In this work, the genetic diversity of 94 accessions of this collection was analyzed using 19 microsatellite markers. As a result, 85 different genotypes were identified. These genetic profiles could be useful for varietal identification. Despite this genetic diversity, no clear substructure was observed, except for the ornamental accessions, that could be related to the vegetative propagation of the species. Additionally, the morphological characterization of this collection has made it possible to identify some materials that may be of interest as a source of traits for breeding. Results presented here pave the way for further genetic analyses, allowing the selection of parents to obtain segregating populations, as well as their descendants by the use of molecular assisted selection.

Аккумуляция радионуклида в гибридном материале желтого люпина

In the 90s of the last century, in the breeding nurseries of the Novozybkov Agricultural Experimental Station, samples with a relatively low concentration of cesium-137 in the seeds and green mass of yellow lupine were selected: 4-83, SN-1408, 52-87-2113, variety Kastrychnik, etc. They were involved in hybrid combinations and received numbers 1-00-2-9, 1-02 and 10-04, 7-09, 8-12, which have been repeatedly used as parental forms in crosses in recent years. Studies have shown the possibility of obtaining positive results in blocking the accumulation of cesium-137 at the early stages of the breeding process, which contributes to the preservation of valuable material for further study during hybridization and the creation of yellow lupine varieties with the lowest possible content of 137Cs in the final product. For 2018–2019 varieties of hybrid origin of yellow lupine with a consistently low accumulation of cesium-137 in the grain were identified, regardless of the density of soil pollution: 5-14-11 (112 and 243 Bq/kg), 5-12-92 (206 and 221 Bq/kg), 13-10-96 (270 and 243 Bq/kg), 15-10-7212 (235 and 271 Bq/kg). Despite the higher density of soil contamination by 13–33% in 2019, in the hybrid material 2-08-57, 4-08-116, 11-10-65 and 12-10-66, the concentration of 137Cs in grain decreased by 63% with indirect participation in crosses of variety samples selected in 1994–1996. In 2020, the analysis of 13 samples showed a significant decrease in the accumulation of cesium-137 in grain to 61–136 Bq/kg, regardless of the decrease (8–34%) or increase (5–46%) in the density of soil contamination relative to 2018–2019, as well as grain yield. Stability in terms of the content of cesium-137 in the green mass was not obtained: in 2018, out of 60 samples, 12 variety samples fit into the standard for dry matter (400 Bq/kg), in 2019 they were absent due to the low yield of green mass. Accessions 5-12-92, 5-14-11, 13-10-96, 4-08-116, etc. were included in crosses as parental forms, and the resulting offspring are being tested in hybrid and breeding nurseries for the purpose of research on blocking the accumulation of 137Cs in yellow lupine grain. It has been established that within three years the lowest radionuclide content in yellow lupine grain was obtained from samples 5-12-92 and 5-14-11, with which seed nurseries for testing offspring will be established.

Water use of intercropped species: Maize-soybean, soybean-wheat and wheat-maize

Plant-plant interactions in the intercropping system can significantly affect crop productivity. However, it is poorly understood how the interactions affect the land equivalent ratios (LER) in the cereal-legumes and cereal-cereal intercropping systems in semi-arid agroecosystems. A two-year (2019–2020) field experiment was conducted in the Dryland Agricultural Experimental Station of Lanzhou University, a semiarid rainfed site of northwest China, to quantify the impact of crop diversification on land equivalent ratio, and its moisture-dependent mechanisms in three intercropping systems of maize-wheat, maize-soybean and wheat-soybean. The soybean-involved intercropping systems showed positive interactions, which substantially promoted crop productivity of maize and wheat by 18.1–20.9%. The soil water in soybean strips can be used by intercropped wheat or maize, which in turn promoted soil water storage (SWS) in maize or wheat strips by 0.6% and 11.0% respectively, during the co-growth period. This further improved the photosynthetic rate (Pn), instantaneous growth rate (IGR), and water use efficiency (WUE) for each species and thereafter elevated the land equivalence ratio (LER>1). However, in the wheat-maize intercropping system, interspecific competition was dominated with wheat as dominant species and maize as inferior one respectively. The competition plundered available water of maize strips (SWS decreased by 10.5%), and thus decreased its Pn and WUE by 12.7% and 20.0% (P < 0.05), respectively. Importantly, maize yield and LER were not improved via the compensation effect during the post-harvest period of wheat. While soil water was to some extent restored, the Pn and IGR of intercropped maize were still lower than those of monoculture maize. This trend resulted in maize yield loss during the reproductive period, and ultimately lower LER. For the first time, we found a rarely reported phenomenon, i.e. negative relationships between crop diversity and land equivalent ratios in semiarid agroecosystem, since the yield loss caused by competition was not compensated during the co-growth period. Therefore, a positive relationship between crop diversification and land equivalent ratio required rational crop species configuration, in terms of the tradeoff between crop diversity and its productivity at agricultural landscape scale.

Genetic variability of yam (Dioscorea trifida) genotypes in the Ucayali region, Peru

The aim of this research was to assess genetic variability of yam Dioscorea trifida genotypes using morphological descriptors for the germplasm collection conserved in the Agricultural Experiment Station in Ucayali, Peru. Thirty-eight morphological traits were evaluated for 30 D. trifida genotypes over ten years; from the data we estimated the Shannon-Weaver diversity index (H’) and the coefficient of variation and performed principal component analysis and cluster analysis. Qualitative traits with high phenotypic diversity index were: petiole anthocyanin (0.86), internal tuber color (0.86), petiole color (0.81) and stem color (0.80). The quantitative traits with the highest coefficient of variation were: tuber weight per plant (33.01) and tuber yield (32.99). Seventy-six percent of the morphological variability is explained by four principal components, the first component is constituted by the characters tuber width, tuber weight per plant, and tuber yield (29%). Five groups of genotypes were also identified with statistically significant differences, where group B stands out for its higher yield in fewer days to harvest. This research reveals wide morphological diversity in genotypes of D. trifida; these results can be used to strengthen the conservation, management, and genetic improvement initiatives of this important species in the Peruvian Amazon.