Favorable Traits Research Articles

Unravelling Morpho‐Physiological Mechanism and Candidate Genes Associated With Salinity Tolerance in Superior Haplotypes of Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.)

ABSTRACTThe lack of suitable genetic resources for saline regions and the complexity of the traits involved impede the progress in crop breeding for salt tolerance. The present investigation was carried out using 27 diverse barley genotypes chosen based on the assessment of salt tolerance potential within the barley mini‐core collection at the National Genebank of India. The genotypes were exposed to salinity stress (200 mM NaCl) and were examined for morpho‐agronomic, physiological traits and salt uptake parameters. Exposure to salt stress resulted in a significant decline in all parameters ranging from 5.94% in relative water content to 80.04% in shoot K+/Na+ ratio compared to the control in the evaluated accessions. Moreover, the grain yield and its key attribute hundred‐grain weight decreased substantially by 65.35% and 48.62%, respectively, under saline treatment. The majority of the resilient accessions managed to uphold a higher K+/Na+ ratio ranging from 0.51 in EC0578359 to 1.19 EC0578251 in contrast to vulnerable germplasm (<0.56) under saline circumstances. The analysis of haplotype variants disclosed allelic diversity linked with two promising candidate genes, HVA1 and HvHKT2, recognised for conferring salt tolerance. Examination of nucleotide sequences revealed that the HVA1 remained considerably conserved among the evaluated genotypes as the majority of the SNPs (single‐nucleotide polymorphisms) were synonymous. Conversely, for HvHKT2, a significant level of genetic variation led to the identification of two primary haplotypic clusters—Hap1 associated with sensitivity to salinity and Hap2 linked with tolerant traits. Hap2 predominantly consisted of In/Dels which caused a modification in the overall protein length alongside the phospho‐variant allelic form of the HKT2 gene, further enhancing the biological specificity and functional stress response in a spatiotemporal fashion. These haplotype clusters correlated with favourable traits could be utilised for trait integration into breeding populations, thereby expediting the enhancement of superior salt‐tolerant barley cultivars.

Evaluation of confectionary sunflower germplasm accessions and their derived hybrids

AbstractConfectionary sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) has gained popularity due to its utilization in roasting as snacks, poultry, bird food, and bakery products. However, seed quality of confectionary sunflower differs from non-oil seed types. In the present study, 71 sunflower accessions were selected for the evaluation of seed quality traits. Significant genetic variability was observed for traits such as 100-seed mass and seed length, as indicated by high genotypic coefficients of variability. Genotypic correlation analysis revealed a positive association between 100-seed mass and seed size, protein content, and oleic acid content. Path coefficient analysis based on genotypic and phenotypic correlations suggested that accessions with high sugar content may be selected to develop superior germplasm for confectionary products. Biplot analysis was conducted to identify suitable accessions with favorable confectionary traits. Accessions ‘Hybrid 100’, ‘GOR101’, and ‘Odesskijj112’ exhibited high sugar content, while ‘Yawn’ demonstrated comparatively higher oleic acid content. Accessions ‘Vinimik 6931’ and ‘HA 305’ displayed high 100-seed mass, while seed length was greater in accessions ‘Comet’ and H. × multiflorous. Combining ability analysis were performed to assess the breeding value of accessions. ‘Comet’ exhibited the highest general combining ability (GCA) effects for seed yield per plant, head diameter and 100-achene mass; while ‘G.OR.104’ had positive GCA for achene yield per plant but negative combining ability for other traits. ‘Tenissiei’ displayed positive GCA for all traits. Among the testers, accession ‘Universal’ showed positive GCA for seed yield per plant, while ‘HA-292’ exhibited positive GCA for head diameter. The accessions with higher values for confectionary traits and positive general combining ability effects for yield related traits may be further exploited in confectionary sunflower breeding programs as parents.

Understanding molecular mechanisms of vertebral number of variations on Mongolian sheep using candidate genes analysis.

This study aimed to investigate the genetic link between variations in vertebral number and meat production traits, such as body weight and body measurements (body length, body height, heart girth, and shin width) in Mongolian (Bayantsagaan) sheep. Additionally, we examined the association of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in candidate genes, particularly Vertnin (VRTN), Nuclear receptor subfamily 6, group A, member 1 (NR6A1), and synapse differentiation-inducing 1-like (SYNDIG1L), with vertebral number variations and their potential impact on meat production traits. The study involved 220 Bayantsagaan sheep from Bayantsagaan soum, Tov province, Mongolia, including 104 sheep with extra vertebrae group and 116 individuals with typical vertebral number as the control group. Morphological data, including body weight and body measurements, were collected, and genetic samples were obtained. The impact of vertebral number on morphological traits was estimated using a general linear model. SNPs in the VRTN, NR6A1, and SYNDIG1L genes were sequenced, and their association with vertebral number was analyzed using one-way ANOVA. Bayantsagaan sheep with extra vertebrae were, on average, 4.45 kg heavier and exhibited higher variability in body size traits compared to the control group. Four polymorphic sites were identified at the VRTN gene, with one polymorphic locus (VRTN1716) showing a significant association with vertebrae number and body size. Sheep with C/C genotype at VRTN1716 locus, had more vertebrae and larger body size compared to other genotypes. The findings suggest that variations in vertebral number and VRTN gene polymorphisms are linked to favorable meat production traits in Bayantsagaan sheep. The identified SNP (VRTN1716) associated with vertebral number and body size offers the potential for marker-assisted selection in breeding programs. These results provide valuable insights into the genetic basis of meat production traits in Bayantsagaan sheep and may contribute to the development of more efficient breeding strategies.

2D/1D VSe2/MWCNT hybrid-based electrochemical sensor for carbendazim quantification of environmental, food, and biological samples.

Forthe first time the sensitive determination of carbendatim (CRB) is reportedutilizing a well-designed sensing architecture based on vanadium diselenide-multiwalled carbon nanotube (VSMC). FTIR, XRD, FESEM, EDS, and EIS were employed to evaluate the sensor's structural integrity, and the results demonstrated the successful integration of nanomaterials, resulting in a robust and sensitive electrochemical sensor. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometric (CA) investigations showed that the sensor best performed at pH 8.0 (BRB) with an excellent detection limit of 9.80nM with a wide linear range of 0.1 to 10.0µM. A more thermodynamically viable oxidation of CRB was observed at the VSMC/GCE, with a shift of 200mV in peak potential towards the less positive side compared with the unmodified GCE. In addition, the sensor demonstrated facile heterogeneous electron transfer, favorable anti-fouling traits in the presence of a wide range of interferents, good stability, and reproducible analytical performance. Finally, the developed sensor was validated for real-time quantification of CRB from spiked water, food, and bio-samples, which depicted acceptable recoveries (98.6 to 101.5%) with RSD values between 0.35 and 2.23%. Further, to derive the possible sensing mechanism, the valence orbitals projected density of states (PDOS) for C, H, and N atoms of an isolated CRB molecule, VSe2 + CNT and VSe2 + CNT + CRB were calculated using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The dominant charge transfer from the valence 2p-orbitals of the C and N atoms of CRB to CNT is responsible for the electrochemical sensing of CRB molecules.

Single nucleotide polymorphisms in SEPALLATA 2 underlie fruit length variation in cucurbits.

Complete disruption of critical genes is generally accompanied by severe growth and developmental defects, which dramatically hinder its utilization in crop breeding. Identifying subtle changes, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), in critical genes that specifically modulate a favorable trait is a prerequisite to fulfill breeding potential. Here, we found 2 SNPs in the E-class floral organ identity gene cucumber (Cucumis sativus) SEPALLATA2 (CsSEP2) that specifically regulate fruit length. Haplotype (HAP) 1 (8G2667A) and HAP2 (8G2667T) exist in natural populations, whereas HAP3 (8A2667T) is induced by ethyl methanesulfonate mutagenesis. Phenotypic characterization of 4 near-isogenic lines and a mutant line showed that HAP2 fruits are significantly longer than those of HAP1, and those of HAP3 are 37.8% longer than HAP2 fruit. The increasing fruit length in HAP1-3 was caused by a decreasing inhibitory effect on CRABS CLAW (CsCRC) transcription (a reported positive regulator of fruit length), resulting in enhanced cell expansion. Moreover, a 7638G/A-SNP in melon (Cucumis melo) CmSEP2 modulates fruit length in a natural melon population via the conserved SEP2-CRC module. Our findings provide a strategy for utilizing essential regulators with pleiotropic effects during crop breeding.

Enhanced fusiform rust hazard maps for loblolly pine: Incorporating genotype and climate to predict disease

Hazard maps are a critical component in determining the regional disease pressure for fusiform rust disease [caused by the fungal pathogen Cronartium quercuum (Berk.) Miyabe ex Shirai f. sp. fusiforme], which is considered the most important disease of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) in the southeastern United States. Genetically improved fusiform rust resistant stock should be deployed in areas that are estimated to be at a high hazard for the disease, while stocks with lower resistance to the disease, but perhaps other favorable traits, can be deployed in areas with a lower estimated hazard. Current hazard maps are based on the historic presence of the disease but do not consider the effect of host genotype or climate which can influence the presence and distribution of fungal pathogens. Here, we aim to improve current hazard maps for fusiform rust by identifying, modeling, and predicting the relationship between the disease and yearly climate indicators. Different loblolly pine genotypes were tested: one family improved for resistance and non-improved checklots for each location. We found that, for the non-improved genotypes, location, potential evapotranspiration, consecutive cloud cover, diurnal temperature range, and a yearly available water indicator can explain 89.2 % of the deviance for disease occurrence. For the improved family, we found that longitude, yearly water deficit, yearly consecutive frost days, yearly consecutive cloud cover, and yearly diurnal temperature range explain 93.1 % deviance for disease incidence. We produce two rust hazard maps based on each model, illustrating the probability of the incidence of the disease. With this project, we pave the way for a better-informed determination of where and what loblolly pine resistant stock should be deployed to limit the damage and costs associated with the management of fusiform rust disease.

COBLAH: A chaotic OBL initialized hybrid algebraic-heuristic algorithm for optimal S-box construction

The Substitution box (S-box) is the main nonlinear component responsible for the cryptographic strength of any Substitution-Permutation Network (SPN) based block cipher. Generating the S-box with optimal cryptographic properties is one of cryptography's most challenging combinatorial problems because of its enormous search space, lack of guidance, and conflicting performance criteria. This paper introduces a novel Chaotic Opposition-based Learning Initialized Hybrid Algebraic-Heuristic (COBLAH) algorithm, combining the favorable traits of Algebraic and heuristics methods based on Galois field inversion, affine mapping, and Genetic Algorithm (GA). The Galois field inversion and affine mapping are used to construct the S-box, while the GA guides the algebraic construction to find the best bit-matrix and additive vector based on any irreducible polynomial for GF(28). GA initializes with a random population generated using a newly constructed cosine-cubic map incorporated with binarization and Opposition-based Learning (OBL). Further, Multi-Objective Optimization Ratio Analysis (MOORA) is utilized to identify the best S-box from the final optimized population. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated by comparing the generated COBLAH S-box with more than twenty state-of-the-art S-boxes, including Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), Skipjack, Gray, and Affine Power Affine (APA). The COBLAH S-box has nonlinearity 112, Strict Avalanche Criterion (SAC) offset 0.0202, Distance to SAC (DSAC) 332, Differential Approximation Probability (DP) 0.0625, Linear Approximation Probability (LP) 0.0156, Bit Independence Criterion-Strict Avalanche Criterion (BIC-SAC) 0.50006, and Bit Independence Criterion-Nonlinearity (BIC-NL) 112, which stands as the optimal observed thus far. The absence of fixed and opposite fixed points and the fact that it adheres to a single cycle aligns the COBLAH S-box with an ideal S-box. In addition, an image encryption mechanism is utilized to encrypt and decrypt the different images sourced from the standard USC-SIPI image dataset using COBLAH S-box and compared against different state-of-the-art S-boxes based on various image characteristics.

Clinical characteristics of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients with superoptimal peak inspiratory flow rate

Characteristics of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients with superoptimal peak inspiratory flow rates (PIFR) has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to compare the characteristics between COPD patients with superoptimal PIFR and those with optimal and sub-optimal PIFR. PIFR was measured using In-Check DIAL G16 and categorized into sub-optimal (PIFR lower than that required by the patient’s device), optimal, and superoptimal (peak PIFR ≥ 90 L/min). Considering COPD patients with sub-optimal PIFR as the reference group, analyses were performed to identify PIFR-related factors. Subgroup analysis was performed according to the forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) % of the predicted value (%pred). Among 444 post-bronchodilator-confirmed COPD patients from seven tertiary hospitals in South Korea, 98, 223, and 123 were classified into the sub-optimal, optimal, and superoptimal PIFR groups, respectively. The superoptimal PIFR group were younger, had an increased proportion of males, a higher body mass index, lowest number of comorbidities and less frequent exacerbation in the previous year, as well as the highest forced vital capacity %pred. The adjusted odds ratio for frequent exacerbation in the previous year was lower in the superoptimal PIFR group than in the sub-optimal PIFR group and was more pronounced in patients with an FEV1%pred of < 70%. COPD patients with superoptimal PIFR have clinical characteristics different from those patients with the sub-optimal and optimal PIFR. Having a high inspiratory flow may be a favorable trait in COPD.

Disgust in the mating context – choosing the best and the least bad self-presentation option in a date simulation game

In order to achieve interpersonal goals, people manipulate their self-image: they manifest their most favourable traits and avoid exhibiting the most aversive ones. Disgust is one of the most powerful turn-offs in a mating context. Here, we explored which disgust domain −pathogen, sexual, or moral − is considered the most damaging for self-image. We also revisited the importance of various positive traits in a potential partner. The participants (N = 1,017) played a date-simulation game. They chose which one of five positive characteristics, and which one of three disgust norm transgressions they want to manifest. We analysed the influence of one’s biological sex, sexual orientation, and culture on self-presentation during a date.Women more often manifested morally disgusting behaviours and artistic abilities than men, while men more often manifested pathogenically disgusting behaviours and kindness. Homosexual orientation predicted lower frequency of admitting to moral disgust transgressions, and higher frequency of exhibiting artistic abilities.

Exploring Weissella confusa W1 and W2 Strains Isolated from Khao-Mahk as Probiotic Candidates: From Phenotypic Traits to Genomic Insights.

Growing interest in probiotics has spurred research into their health benefits for hosts. This study aimed to evaluate the probiotic properties, especially antibacterial activities and the safety of two Weissella confusa strains, W1 and W2, isolated from Khao-Mahk by describing their phenotypes and genotypes through phenotypic assays and whole genome sequencing. In vitro experiments demonstrated that both strains exhibited robust survival under gastric and intestinal conditions, such as in the presence of low pH, bile salt, pepsin, and pancreatin, indicating their favorable gut colonization traits. Additionally, both strains showed auto-aggregation and strong adherence to Caco2 cells, with adhesion rates of 86.86 ± 1.94% for W1 and 94.74 ± 2.29% for W2. These high adherence rates may be attributed to the significant exopolysaccharide (EPS) production observed in both strains. Moreover, they exerted remarkable antimicrobial activities against Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi, Vibrio cholerae, and Acinetobacter baumannii, along with an absence of hemolytic activities and antibiotic resistance, underscoring their safety for probiotic application. Genomic analysis corroborated these findings, revealing genes related to probiotic traits, including EPS clusters, stress responses, adaptive immunity, and antimicrobial activity. Importantly, no transferable antibiotic-resistance genes or virulence genes were detected. This comprehensive characterization supports the candidacy of W1 and W2 as probiotics, offering substantial potential for promoting health and combating bacterial infections.

Selection for feed efficiency improves production traits and digestibility and its relationship to the fecal microbiota in both Large White dam and sire lines

This study evaluated production traits, apparent total tract digestibility (ATTD), and fecal microbiota composition in finishing boars ( n = 207) selected for feed efficiency (FE; low = LFE; high = HFE) based on estimated breeding value for feed conversion ratio (FCR) within a Large White dam and sire genetic lines. Also, the association between gut microbiota with production and digestibility traits was investigated. Regardless of the genetic line, HFE pigs presented low FCR ( P &lt; 0.05), had thinner back fat ( P &lt; 0.05) and had greater loin depth ( P &lt; 0.05) than LFE pigs. Also, HFE pigs had a significantly higher ATTD for Ca and a tendency for a higher crude protein ( P = 0.06) and phosphorous ( P = 0.10) ATTD than LFE pigs. No significant differences in alpha- and beta-diversity measurements for fecal microbiota were seen between FE groups in each genetic line. The genera Lactobacillus and Prevotella were associated ( P &lt; 0.01) with some growth performance (e.g., feed intake), carcass traits (e.g., backfat thickness), and nutrient digestibility (e.g., Ca). In conclusion, HFE pigs had favourable production traits and higher digestibility of key nutrients than LFE pigs; however, the bacterial genera were associated with phenotypic traits but not by genetic merit.

Multi-trait index: selection and recommendation of superior black bean genotypes as new improved varieties

Common bean provides diet rich in vitamins, fiber, minerals, and protein, which could contribute into food security of needy populations in many countries. Developing genotypes that associate favorable agronomic and grain quality traits in the common bean crop could increase the chances of adopting new cultivars black bean. In this context, the present study aimed at selection of superior black bean lines using multi-variate indexes, Smith-Hazel-index, and genotype by yield*trait biplot analysis. These trials were conducted in Campos dos Goytacazes - RJ, in 2020 and 2021. The experimental design used was randomized blocks, with 28 treatments and three replications. The experimental unit consisted of four rows 4.0 m long, spaced at 0.50 m apart, with a sowing density of 15 seeds per meter. The two central rows were used for the evaluations. The selection of superior genotypes was conducted using the multiple trait stability index (MTSI), multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index (MGIDI), multi-trait index based on factor analysis and genotype-ideotype distance (FAI-BLUP), Smith-Hazel index, and Genotype by Yield*Trait Biplot (GYT). The multivariate indexes efficiently selected the best black bean genotypes, presenting desirable selection gains for most traits. The use of multivariate indexes and GYT enable the selection of early genotypes with higher grain yields. These lines G9, G13, G17, G23, and G27 were selected based on their performance for multiple traits closest to the ideotype and could be recommended as new varieties.

QTL analysis on a lemon population provides novel insights on the genetic regulation of the tolerance to the two-spotted spider mite attack

BackgroundAmong the Citrus species, lemon (Citrus limon Burm f.) is one of the most affected by the two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch). Moreover, chemical control is hampered by the mite’s ability to develop genetic resistance against acaricides. In this context, the identification of the genetic basis of the host resistance could represent a sustainable strategy for spider mite control. In the present study, a marker-trait association analysis was performed on a lemon population employing an association mapping approach. An inter-specific full-sib population composed of 109 accessions was phenotyped through a detached-leaf assays performed in modified Huffaker cells. Those individuals, complemented with two inter-specific segregating populations, were genotyped using a target-sequencing approach called SPET (Single Primer Enrichment Technology), the resulting SNPs were employed for the generation of an integrated genetic map.ResultsThe percentage of damaged area in the full-sib population showed a quantitative distribution with values ranging from 0.36 to 9.67%. A total of 47,298 SNPs were selected for an association mapping study and a significant marker linked with resistance to spider mite was detected on linkage group 5. In silico gene annotation of the QTL interval enabled the detection of 13 genes involved in immune response to biotic and abiotic stress. Gene expression analysis showed an over expression of the gene encoding for the ethylene-responsive transcription factor ERF098-like, already characterized in Arabidopsis and in rice for its involvement in defense response.ConclusionThe identification of a molecular marker linked to the resistance to spider mite attack can pave the way for the development of marker-assisted breeding plan for the development of novel selection coupling favorable agronomical traits (e.g. fruit quality, yield) with a higher resistance toward the mite.

Leadership Styles, Emotional Intelligence and Personality Traits of Muslim Women Academic Heads of the Mindanao State University and their Correlation with Organizational Performance

The study identified the leadership style, emotional intelligence and personality traits of the Muslim women deans of the Mindanao State University, the biggest state University in Southern Mindanao, and their correlation with organizational performance. The respondents of the study were the faculty members of the four colleges of the University under the leadership of a Muslim woman dean. The study disclosed that the women deans practiced more of transformational than the transactional leadership style. Transformational leadership was the preferred and widely practiced style among these deans, according to nearly all the faculty respondents. In terms of organizational performance, the faculty respondents rated their Muslim women deans as highly effective. Using McKinsey's 7S model, the deans were rated highest in skills, followed by shared values, style, strategy, system, and staff, in descending order. This indicates that the deans excel in various aspects of organizational management. The study also established correlations between these elements based on the data obtained through the use of four standardized questionnaires such as the Bass multi-factor leadership instrument and Mckinsey’s 7S model. Moreover, the study revealed that there is a moderate positive correlation between leadership style and organizational performance, another moderate positive correlation between personality traits and organizational performance, but a low positive correlation between emotional intelligence and organizational performance. This suggests that leadership style and personality traits play a more significant role in influencing organizational performance than emotional intelligence. In conclusion, it can be hypothetically argued that the Muslim women deans under study were more inclined to embrace transformational leadership, emphasizing emotional intelligence and displaying favourable personality traits.

The Recognition and Utilization of Natural Genetic Resources for Advances in Plant Biology through Genomics and Biotechnology

Biological diversity is the most essential gift from nature, and many elite or superior genes that confer favorable traits remain to be discovered and utilized [...]

Genotype by year interaction for selected traits in sweet maize (Zea maize L.) hybrids using AMMI model

This study investigated genotype × environment interactions for the stability of expression of four productivity traits (cobs yield, cobs I class trade share, lend of cobs and fulfilment of cobs) of sweet maize hybrids (Zea mays L.). The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) model was employed to assess genotype × environment interaction. AMMI stability value was used to evaluate both stability and genotype. The genotype selection index was calculated for each hybrid, incorporating both the average trait value and the stability index. Ten sweet maize hybrids were evaluated: Golda, GSS 1453, GSS 3071, GSS 5829, GSS 8529, Overland, Noa, Shinerock, Sindon, and Tessa. Trials were ran conducted over four vegetative seasons at a single location in the Wielkopolska region using replicated field experiments. The AMMI model revealed significant genotypic and environmental effects for all analyzed traits. Based on their superior stability and favorable average trait values, both the Golda cultivar and the GSS 3071 hybrid are recommended for further breeding program inclusion.

Genetic variations of bread wheat varieties for bread‐making quality traits in moisture stressed areas of Wollo, Ethiopia

AbstractIn Ethiopia, wheat variety development has traditionally prioritized yield and disease resistance over bread‐making quality. To address this gap, our study evaluated 22 Ethiopian bread wheat varieties across six locations during the 2015/2016 season, utilizing a randomized complete block design with three replications. Various quality traits, including 1000‐kernel weight (TKW), hectoliter weight (HLW), Perten hardness index (HI), single kernel weight (SKW), single kernel diameter (SKD), grain protein content (PC), wet gluten (WG), Zeleny value (ZV), and starch content (SC), were analyzed. Significant effects of varieties, locations, and their interactions on these traits were observed (p &lt; 0.01). Madawalabu, Danda'a, and Mekelle‐4 displayed superior TKW (&gt;40 g), while Menze and Bolo exhibited higher HLW. HI values ranged from 82.8% in Sofumar to 35.5% in Mekelle‐3, indicating diverse grain hardness. Favorable milling traits were observed with SKW values exceeding 30 mg and SKD surpassing 2.5 mm. Genotype and location influenced PC (9.5%–11.0%) and WG content (21.6%–25.2%), meeting bread‐making requirements. ZV ranged from 21.9% to 31%, and SC varied from 64% to 68%, reflecting changes in starch concentration between varieties. Varietal performance varied, with Madawalabu, Menze, and Bolo showing promise. Correlation analysis revealed positive associations among HLW, SKD, SKW, TKW, PC, WG, and ZV, and a negative correlation with SC. These insights provide a foundation for targeted breeding strategies to enhance specific attributes crucial for optimal bread quality, contributing valuable information to wheat breeding programs.

High Tartronic Acid Content Germplasms Screening of Cucumber and Its Response to Exogenous Agents.

Tartronic acid is known for its potential to inhibit sugar-to-lipid conversion in the human body, leading to weight loss and fat reduction. This compound is predominantly found in cucumbers and other cucurbit crops. Therefore, cultivating cucumbers with high tartronic acid content holds significant health implications. In this study, we assessed the tartronic acid content in 52 cucumber germplasms with favorable overall traits and identified 8 cucumber germplasms with elevated tartronic acid levels. Our investigation into factors influencing cucumber tartronic acid revealed a decrease in content with fruit development from the day of flowering. Furthermore, tartronic acid content was higher in early-harvested fruits compared to late-harvested ones, with the rear part of the fruit exhibiting significantly higher content than other parts. Foliar spraying of microbial agents increased tartronic acid content by 84.4%. This study provides valuable resources for breeding high tartronic acid cucumbers and offers practical insights for optimizing cucumber production practices.

PSIII-13 Putative metabolites for sow lifetime opportunity and production traits

Abstract Identifying females with favorable lifetime born alive (opportunity) and weaned (wn; production) traits requires extended observation. Estimate of lifetime (4 parities) difference in the economic margin over genetic cost between a high producing female (48 pigs weaned; wn) and a low producing female (31 wn) is approximately $1,000. Determining metabolic compounds present from females with favorable or unfavorable longevity traits may provide profiles that could be assessed in younger females prior to entry within the breeding system to indicate their potential productivity. Females within the USMARC breeding system were retained through four parities then harvested between 12 to 15 d following their post-weaning estrus. Liver, skeletal muscle, and subcutaneous adipose tissues were collected and stored at -80° C for later analyses. Females were categorically identified by the level of opportunity (born alive; ba) and production (wn) over their lifetime. Females with consistent opportunity and production traits at each parity were categorized as high (H; 61 ba), medium (M; 50 ba), or low (L; 39 ba) opportunity and H (50 wn), M (42 wn), or L (34 wn) production resulting in six categories (HH, HL, MH, ML, LH, LL). Tissue extracts were subjected to positive mode UPLC-MS and numerous features were detected. Using Progenesis Q software features were annotated and those with a fold-change ≥ 2.0 and P &amp;lt; 0.05 by category were then tested using a mixed model in SAS to determine LS Mean differences of raw abundances among the six categories. Of those compounds tested in SAS, a significance threshold was set at P &amp;lt; 0.01 as a false discovery adjustment. Within liver 877 compounds were analyzed with 152 yielding a significant (P &amp;lt; 0.01) categorical effect. Of those, 43 compounds predominantly identified either HH or LL from other categories. Within skeletal muscle 359 compounds were subjected to mixed models, 221 compounds had significance for a category effect, and 105 compounds were predominantly different for HH or LL from all other categories. Within adipose tissue, 406 compounds were submitted to mixed model testing, 186 compounds had a categorical effect with 44 compounds predominantly different for HH or LL categories. Annotation of these compounds suggest differences in metabolites associated with, but not limited to, bacteria by-products (pradmicin, adifolin, lactobacillic acid), alkyloids, sapogenins, amino acids (lysine, tyrosine), minerals (calcium, copper), lipids (sphingomyelin), and fatty acids (mono-, di-, tri-acylglycerol). Future confirmation and evaluation of these metabolites in young pre-breeding females will need to be done. Establishing a metabolic profile panel that could discern young pre-breeding gilts with a likelihood of becoming a LL female will improve economic productivity and animal welfare concerns.

Growth and yield of tropical maize landraces and commercial genotypes in Yucatan, Mexico

The state of Yucatan, known for its shallow Leptosol soils poses challenges to agriculture. Therefore, this study focused on examining ecophysiological attributes influencing the growth and yield determinants of six maize genotypes. The study assessed vegetative characteristics, growth rates, dry matter allocation, grain yield, and harvest index. All maize genotypes exhibited early maturity, a favorable trait under the climate conditions of Yucatan. Most genotypes exhibited superior growth rate and dry matter content when compared to the landrace Elotillo. Stem and grain were identified as the primary organs for dry matter accumulation, with 36% and 22% respectively. The highest grain yield was noted in hybrids Impacto and DK-390. This study provided valuable information for farmers in selecting suitable maize genotypes in Yucatan, although additional evaluations of different genotypes and management conditions are recommended.