Genotypic Differences Research Articles

ABC Family Gene Polymorphisms and Cognitive Functions Interact to Influence Antidepressant Efficacy.

The importance of identifying relevant indicators of antidepressant efficacy is highlighted by the low response rates to antidepressant treatment for depression. The ABC gene family, encoding ATP-dependent transport proteins facilitating the transport of psychotropic drugs, has drawn attention. This study delved into the relationship between antidepressant efficacy and seven single nucleotide polymorphisms of ABCB1 and ABCB6 genes. A total of 549 depressed patients participated in the study, and all completed a 6-week course of antidepressant treatment. Cognitive function was assessed at baseline and post-treatment. Patients were categorized based on post-treatment HAMD-17 scores (with HAMD≤7 indicating remission), and comparisons were made between different groups in terms of allelic gene frequencies and genotypes. Logistic regression was used to explore the interaction between cognitive function and genotype on efficacy. Dual-luciferase reporter assays were performed to compare the regulatory effects of rs1109866 allele variants on the ABCB6 promoter. There were no notable differences in allelic gene frequencies and genotypes between the remission and non-remission groups. Nonetheless, a significant interaction was identified between the rs1109866 genotype and language fluency-related indicators concerning efficacy (p=0.029) before correction. The dual-luciferase reporter assays demonstrated markedly higher fluorescence intensity of rs1109866-C compared to that of rs1109866-T (p<0.001). Relying solely on genetic polymorphisms of ABC family genes as predictors of antidepressant treatment response may not be sufficient. However, the interaction between the rs1109866 and cognition plays a pivotal role. The potentially enhanced transcriptional activity of rs1109866-C might offer insight into its impact on antidepressant efficacy.

Preharvest Natural Multitoxin Contamination of Winter Wheat Genotypes in Hungary with Special Attention to Aflatoxins and HT-2 Toxin

Toxigenic fungi are among the most significant disease-causing agents in wheat. DON is the most common Fusarium mycotoxin, and for a long time, it was the only toxin researched. However, multitoxin data from wheat samples have drawn attention to the fact that much more toxins can be involved in the wheat toxin story than we supposed earlier. For resistance breeding, we need a more detailed approach to identify toxins that occur above the limit and identify the source of the fungal species that produces them. This study analyzed local wheat varieties for fungal infections and natural multitoxin contamination. Eighteen winter wheat genotypes were tested for fungal contaminations across three different locations in 2021 and 2022. Fourteen different mycotoxins—deoxynivalenol, aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, and G2), fumonisins (B1 and B2), sterigmatocystin, ochratoxin A, zearalenone, T-2, HT-2, and diacetoxyscirpenol—were analyzed using HPLC/triple-quad MS. Toxigenic species such as Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium had low rates of occurrence, but the toxin contamination was often surprisingly high. Many samples without corresponding fungal infections were also identified as containing mycotoxins. Therefore, the identified fungal infection is less useful for forecasting toxin level. In conclusion, mycotoxin contamination is decisive. Most samples were contaminated by one or more mycotoxins. Although the mycotoxin concentrations typically remained below EU limits, some samples exhibited higher levels, particularly aflatoxins and Ht-2 toxin. Significant variations were observed across year, location, and genotype. For several toxins, significant genotype differences were identified, supporting the hypothesis that resistance may be a useful and suitable control measure. Stability of toxin contamination across years and locations is a very valuable trait; genotypes were identified with low toxin levels and stability (low variance) to all mycotoxins tested. It seems that, in addition to DON, more attention should be given to aflatoxin B1, B2, and G1, which provided similar concentrations. The HT-2 toxin was present in many samples surpassing EU limits. This is the first report on the dangerous occurrence of preharvest-origin aflatoxins and the HT-2 toxin of wheat in Hungary.

Evaluation of yield and stability of sugar beet (beta vulgaris L.) genotypes using GGE biplot and AMMI analysis

Rhizomania is the most destructive sugar beet disease in the world, and in recent years, it has widespread in most of the sugar beet growing areas in Iran. Since the control of this soil-borne disease is a difficult task, the use of resistant genotypes is known as the best measure against the disease. The ultimate goal of sugar beet breeders is to produce genotypes that can be used in both infected and non-infected fields without any reduction in terms of yield and quality. Twenty-one sugar beet genotypes along with four controls were evaluated in randomized complete block design with four replications in fields with natural infection to rhizomania in five research stations. Important sugar beet traits including root yield, sugar yield, sugar content, and white sugar yield were evaluated for two years (2021 and 2022). For all traits, location was the main source of variation that spanned 33 to 55% of the total sum of the square followed by the location×year×genotype accounted for 3–40% of the variation. Based on the results of analysis of variance, multivariate stability parameters were computed to evaluate the genotypes’ stability. The first two principal components (IPCA1 and IPCA2) generated by GGE biplot contributed for 31.3 and 17.5% difference in genotype×environment interaction for root yield, respectively. According to the GGE biplot, genotypes RM-11 and RM-12 were identified as the winning genotypes across environments for both root yield and white sugar yield traits whereas AMMI model identified RM-14 and RM-9 (for root yield) and RM-1 (for white sugar yield) as best genotypes. Based on the ideal genotype ranking, RM-11 and RM-10 were the best performer with a high mean yield as well as stability in the studied environments. The biplot rendered using the weighted average of absolute scores (WAASB) and root yield and white sugar yield identified RM-11 and RM-9 as superior genotypes in terms of yield and stability. The selected genotypes can be used in breeding programs to transfer the disease resistance and cultivar development.

Parasalinivibrio latis gen. nov., sp. nov., isolated from the distal gut of healthy farmed Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer).

Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer) is widely farmed as a sustainable source of protein for countries in the tropical Indo-West Pacific region. However, microbial species of the gut microbiome of healthy Asian Seabass remain largely uncharacterized and uncultured. Here, we analysed the microbial composition along the gastrointestinal tract of a farmed healthy Asian Seabass. We used different cultivation approaches to obtain isolates from the seabass intestinal tract and describe the isolation and characterization of a novel strain, TLL-SE01T. Analysis of the strain's 16S rRNA gene indicates that the strain belongs to the family Vibrionaceae with Photobacterium damselae as its closest relative, albeit sharing only 94.8% (aligned region 1553bp) nucleotide identity. Comparative genomic analysis with all validly published Vibrionaceae species with available genomes revealed average nucleotide identity (ANI) and DNA-DNA hybridisation (DDH) values of around 70% and 24% respectively to strain TLL-SE01T, which are well below proposed thresholds for species delineation (ANI, 95-96%; DDH, 70%). The alignment fraction and ANI genus demarcation boundaries for all genera in the Vibrionaceae family were determined for which strain TLL-SE01T is well below the calculated values, indicating that it belongs to a novel genus. Single- and core-gene phylogenetic analysis places strain TLL-SE01T in a monophyletic clade, further supporting its designation to a novel genus. Phenotypic comparison between strain TLL-SE01T and its close relatives indicated additional differences, such as growth response at different salt concentrations and different metabolic capabilities. Based on genotypic, phylogenetic and phenotypic differences to other Vibrionaceae species, we propose a novel species in a new genus, Parasalinivibrio latis gen. nov. sp. nov. and strain TLL-SE01T (= BCRC 81435T = JCM 36283T) as the type strain.

Essential Oil Composition and Physiology of Three Mentha Genotypes Under Shaded Field Conditions

Mentha spp. are commonly used for the production of tea and for the extraction of essential oils (EOs). The key factor of mint quality is the content and composition of the EO. Health-promoting compounds such as menthol are desirable, whereas the presence of potentially health-damaging compounds such as menthofuran should be avoided. This study examines the effect of shading on the EO content and composition of three Mentha genotypes (Mentha × piperita ‘Multimentha’, Mentha × piperita ‘Fränkische Blaue’ and Mentha rotundifolia ‘Apfelminze’). The Mentha genotypes were cultivated in field trials for two years (2022–2023). Each genotype was shaded with a shading net (50% photosynthetic active radiation (PAR) reduction), and a control without shading was prepared. EO content was determined by steam distillation and EO composition was characterized by GC-MS analysis. Furthermore, biomass, vegetation indices (VIs) and the electron transport rate (ETR) were analyzed. While shading led to higher plant heights, higher EO content and a slightly reduced amount of undesired EO compounds, the unshaded control yielded a higher biomass accumulation. Significant genotypic differences were determined. In conclusion, the benefits of shading depend on the intended use and genotype selection.

Apolipoprotein E Gene ε4 Allele is Associated with Atherosclerosis in Multiple Vascular Beds.

Atherosclerosis is a systemic disease that can involve multiple vascular beds. The risk factors for atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds remain unclear. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) is involved in inflammation and lipid deposition in the process of atherosclerosis. The objective of this study was to investigate whether APOE polymorphisms are associated with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds. A total of 416 patients with atherosclerosis in single vascular bed and 658 patients with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds were included. APOE genotypes were detected and the differences of APOE genotypes between the groups were compared. Logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the relationship between APOE genotypes and atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds. APOE E3/E4 genotype frequency was lower in the patients with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds than that of patients with atherosclerosis in single vascular bed (11.4% vs 17.8%, P=0.004). There was no significant difference in age and gender distribution, proportion of history of smoking, alcohol consumption, hypertension, and diabetes mellitus between the two groups (all P>0.05), and among patients with different APOE alleles (all P>0.05). Logistic regression analysis indicated that APOE E3/E4 genotype (E3/E4 vs E3/E3: odds ratio (OR) 0.598, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.419-0.854, P=0.005), and APOE ε4 allele (ε4 vs ε3: OR 0.630, 95% CI: 0.444-0.895, P=0.010) associated with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds. APOE ε4 allele is associated with atherosclerosis in multiple vascular beds.

Diversity of Major Yield Traits and Nutritional Components Among Greenhouse Grown Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Breeding Lines, Landraces, and Cultivars of Different Origins.

This study analyzed the diversity of major yield traits and nutritional components across 122 chickpea breeding lines, cultivars, and landraces of different origins. All parameters showed significant variations, with a variance ranging from 4.61% in days to maturity (DM) to 43.04% in oleic acid. Six accessions, including CP021, CP022, CP026, CP037, CP066, and CP109, outperformed in yield traits and nutritional value. Origin significantly affected all phenotypic traits except total fatty acid contents, with Indian and Ukrainian accessions demonstrating contrasting performances. Most traits, except for the number of seeds per pod (SPP), palmitic acid, and total fatty acid contents, differed significantly among breeding lines, cultivars, and landraces. Breeding lines were the earliest to flower and to mature with average days to flowering (DF) of 50.23 days and DM of 101.50 days. They also had the highest average SPP, number of pods per plant (PPP), total seeds per plant (TSPP), total protein, crude fiber, dietary fiber, linoleic acid, and linolenic acid contents making them preferable for high yield and nutrition. Hierarchical cluster analysis classified the chickpea accessions into seven clusters, showing significant variations in yield traits and nutritional components. Principal component and Pearson's correlation analyses indicated positive correlations between DM and DF, and between SPP, PPP, and TSPP. Nutritional components also displayed varying associations, with a notable negative correlation between oleic and linoleic acids, the two essential fatty acids. Overall, this study showed the diversity of key phenotypic traits in chickpea breeding lines, cultivars, and landraces of different origins. The significant effects of genotype and origin differences on these traits could be used as a basis for future metabolomics and genomics research.

Effect of sulfur and potassium foliar applications on wheat grain protein quality

ContextThe effects of sulfur and potassium fertilizers on wheat yield and quality have been well studied, but most of them are used as basal fertilizers. However, the root system is senescent at the later stages of wheat growth and cannot absorb sufficient sulfur and potassium fertilizers plant needed. It is still unclear whether sulfur and potassium foliar applications at the later stages can affect wheat yield and quality. ObjectiveThis experiment was conducted to investigate the changes of sulfur and potassium accumulation and transport, protein synthesis and flour processing quality after foliar application of sulfur and potassium fertilizers, transport and the relating physiological mechanisms. MethodsIn 2020–2021 and 2021–2022, a three-factor split plot experiment was carried out in the middle and lower reaches of Yangtze River, with wheat variety, concentration of sulfur fertilizer and potassium fertilizer served as main factor, subfactor and sub-subfactor respectively. ResultsIn the study from 2020 to 2022, the albumin protein content of both varieties decreased in the nutrient spraying treatment, particularly in the high potassium level. However, there was no significant effect on the globulin content. Moreover, the gliadin protein content decreased in the sulfur spraying treatment alone, but significantly increased the wheat gluten content, and thereby the total protein content. We also found significant genotypic differences in the composition and content of high molecular weight wheat glutenin subunits (HMW-GS) between the two varieties. The foliar spraying of sulfur and potassium fertilizers significantly increased the content of subunits 1 and 8 in Yangmai (YM15) and subunits 7 and 12 in Yangmai (YM16), and the effect of mixed spraying was better than single-nutrient spraying, especially the amount of 0.2 % sulfur and 0.3 % potassium fertilizer treatment. ConclusionsThe superimposed effect of sulfur and potassium effectively increased the total protein content by promoting the accumulation of sulfur in transit to the seeds, increasing the substrate supply level, and enhancing enzyme activity. Although sulfur and potassium combination can improve the grain protein quality and flour processing quality, too high spraying concentrations can decrease the flour processing quality. ImplicationsSpraying the appropriate amount of 0.2 % sulfur and 0.3 % potassium fertilizer can serve as an optimization measure for high-quality and efficient production of different types of wheat varieties.

The impact of water relations on the vase life of contrasting Anthurium andraeanum (Hort.) cut flowers

ABSTRACT Genotypic differences in the moderation of water relations have been shown to play a key role in explaining differences in vase life in Anthurium andraeanum (Hort.). In this study, we compared the impact of a range of holding solutions on water relations in two cultivars with contrasting vase lives: ‘Spirit’ and ‘Honduras’ (designated as short vase life – ‘Spirit-S’ and long vase life – ‘Honduras-L’). The application of a biocide (8-hydroxyquinoline sulphate; 8-HQS), ‘stem’ re-cutting and a combination of both were tested for their potential to improve water uptake and vase life in the short-lived cultivar Spirit-S. The effects of osmotic conditions were compared for both cultivars, by placing cut flowers in a Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) solution. Re-cutting and biocide altered the pattern of water uptake, but neither treatment improved vase life, suggesting that occlusion of the peduncle/microbial obstruction were not important factors in determining vase life. PEG significantly reduced vase life in both cultivars. Honduras-L responded to PEG by significantly reducing its spathe osmotic potential, while no change was observed in Spirit-S. Thus, PEG-induced drought resulted in osmotic adjustment only in the long vase life cultivar, suggesting that a genotype’s capacity for osmotic adjustment influences vase life.

Association between lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 gene Val279Phe homozygous genotypes and variant angina in Japanese women

Abstract Background The role of the lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 gene (PLA2G7) in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases remains controversial. The PLA2G7 gene normally produces a protein called "plasma platelet activating factor-acetylhydrolase"(PAF-AH). Homozygotes of rs76863441, which is PLA2G7 Val279Phe polymorphism, produce none of PAF-AH, and heterozygotes produce less than half of the normal levels. This polymorphism is rare outside of Asia and is particularly common in Japan, where homozygous mutations account for 4% of the population. The association between rs76863441 and risk of myocardial infarction was significant in ethnicity for Japanese population, but not in other countries. Variant angina is a severe case of coronary artery spasm (CSA) and causes an acute myocardial infarction. It is widely accepted that variant angina is more common in Japanese than in other races. Purpose The aim of this study was to examine the possible association between rs76863441 and variant angina. Methods rs76863441 was analyzed by direct sequencing in 62 patients with variant angina (43 men and 19 women with a mean age of 60.0±11.6 years). In all patients, ST segment elevation was recorded on ECG and coronary angiography was performed. Acetylcholine provocation test was performed in 31 patients. We compared genotypes of rs76863441 between variant angina patients and 872 healthy volunteers without a history of heart diseases living in the same area, who participated in the Iwaki Health Promotion Project, which has been conducted by the Hirosaki University School of Medicine since 2005. These volunteers had undergone Japonica Arrays, which is the SNP array for the Japanese population. Results Homozygotes genotype for rs76863441, heterozygotes genotype, and wild genotype were present in 4 (6.5%), 22 (35.5%), and 36 (58.1%) of the variant angina group, respectively, and in 30 (3.4%), 246 (28.2%), and 596 (68.3%) of the control group, respectively. Statistically, there were no significant differences in genotypes between the variant angina group and the control group. Next, males and females were analyzed separately. In males, there were no significant differences in homozygous mutations (1 out of 43 patients (2.3%) in the variant angina group vs. 11 out of 327 patients (3.4%) in the control group, P=1.00). However, in females, there was a significant difference in homozygous mutations (3 out of 19 (15.8%) in the variant angina group vs. 19 out of 545 (3.4%) in the control group, P=0.033). Conclusions These findings indicate that homozygotes of rs76863441, which has PAF-AH deficiency, may be associated with the pathogenesis of variant angina in Japanese women. Further functional analyses of this mutation are of great interest.Genotypes of rs76863441Gender disparities of rs76863441

Association of polymorphism of apolipoprotein e gene with acute myocardial infarction and its short term clinical outcome

Abstract Background/Introduction Myocardial infarction (MI) is a multifactorial disease influenced by environmental and genetic factors. Apolipoprotein E (ApoE) is a protein incorporated into serum lipoproteins directing their catabolism via binding to receptors. It is a structural component of both chylomicrons and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) remnants. ApoE is thought to play a central role in atherosclerosis by participating in overall plasma cholesterol homeostasis. In addition to other classical risk factors, positive family history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been found to be significantly and independently associated with MI in epidemiological studies (1). Besides traditional cardiovascular risk factors it is likely that additional genetic factors like ApoE gene polymorphism may interact with environmental factors to determine overall cardiovascular risk of an individual to develop MI. Purpose The purpose of our study was to determine the risk of association of variants of ApoE gene with Acute Myocardial Infarction. Moreover, we also wanted to study the impact of ApoE gene polymorphism in short term major adverse cardiac events (MACE) in patients with MI not willing for coronary intervention. Methods In this case control study a total of 200 consecutively admitted AMI patients admitted to the coronary care unit of our hospital were enrolled to the study along with 200 age and gender matched controls admitted during the same time period . ApoE gene polymorphism was detected by DNA extraction, DNA amplification by PCR in a DNA thermal cycler followed by restriction enzyme digestion(2). Chi square test was used to investigate the difference in genotype and allele frequencies in casend controls and also between observed and expected frequencies in the realm of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Odds Ratio (OR) with 95 % confidence interval and p values were calculated while analysing the association of different genotypes of ApoE genetic polymorphism with the disease and MACE. Logistic regression analysis was carried out amongst the groups under consideration to find the unadjusted OR and adjusted OR of the genotypes in relation to the disease.p&amp;lt;0.05 was considered as significant Analysis was done in SPSS software. Results Besides the traditional risk factors Apo E4 allele (OR 2.298, CI 1.305-4.044 ) and Apo E3/E4 genotype (OR 2.116, CI 1.008-4.443, p=0.048) showed strong of association with the disease. There was a higher population of Apo E3/E4 genotypes and Apo E2/E3 genotypes with MACE events (25.6% and 28.6%), while the common ApoE3/E3 genotypes had a MACE event of 10.5 %. However, the difference was not significant (p=0.071, Χ 2 =8.63 df =4). Similarly, ApoE4 allele showed a non significantly higher MACE events (p=0.22, Χ 2 =3.01 df =4) Conclusion ApoE4 allele and ApoE3/E4 genotype are strongly and independently associated with AMI.RISK FACTORS AND RISK OF MIGenotype and MACE

Diabetes Mellitus influence in Lipoprotein(a) gene expression and association to coronary artery disease

Abstract Introduction Lp(a) and type 2 diabetes mellitus are both known and established risk factors for the development of coronary artery disease (CAD). Lp(a) levels are 75% to 95% heritable and predominately determined by single-nucleotide variants at the LPA gene; rs3798220 is one of the most studied variants and accounts for a significant portion of Lp(a) levels. Whether diabetes could influence the LPA rs3798220 account for Lp(a) levels is unknown. Aim Evaluate whether there is a different association between polymorphism LPA rs3798220 T&amp;gt;C and Lp(a) levels and their association with CAD in diabetic and non-diabetic populations. Methods 3,209 subjects (mean age 59.3±8.9 years, 76.3% male were selected from the data set of the Research Center. The LPA rs3798220 T&amp;gt;C was genotyped with the TaqMan PCR assay (Applied Biosystems 7300 Real-Time). This genetic variant has a minor allele frequency (MAF) &amp;lt;2%; hence, the risk homozygous CC is a rare genotype, and we used the heterozygous CT in our analysis. Lp(a) biochemical levels were measured in all participants. From the 3,209 participants, 810 had diabetes, and 2399 were no diabetics. For each group, chi-squared tests were used to determine the association of CAD prevalence by genotype, and t-tests were used to evaluate differences in CAD prevalence by Lp(a) levels. Results In non-diabetic subjects, LPA TC was significantly associated with CAD in non-diabetic subjects compared with TT (p&amp;lt;0.0001). Similarly, Lp(a) was higher in the CAD population (37.2±39.7) compared to the healthy population (25.6±30.0) (p&amp;lt;0.0001). In diabetic group, Lp(a) was higher in the CAD population (38.5±41.4) compared to the population without CAD (23.9±29.2) (p&amp;lt;0.0001). Nevertheless, there was no difference in genotype between CAD and non-CAD patients (p=0.710). Conclusion The LPA rs3798220 T&amp;gt;C variant in non-diabetic group can explain high Lp(a) levels and their association with CAD. However, in patients with diabetes, Lp(a) is elevated in CAD patients besides the fact that no significant genotype differences were displayed. Non-genetic influences like behavioural factors or even epigenetic changes may probably explain high Lp(a) levels in this population.

Is the HNF4A gene variant paradoxically associated with better prognostic in CAD patients?

Abstract Background The Hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 A (HNF4A) gene was considered to be associated with susceptibility to atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease (CAD). It encodes a protein HNF4α, a genetic transcription factor regulating the genetic expression of thousands of genes playing essential roles in glucose and lipid metabolism. Its abnormal expression is emerging as a critical factor in diabetes, dyslipidemia, and cancer. Loss of function of specific mutations could attenuate its role in CAD pathogenesis and the progression of atherosclerosis. Aim To investigate whether a genetic variant (HNF4α rs1884613 C&amp;gt;G) could be associated with a low genetic function and, paradoxically, a better prognostic in CAD patients. Methods A cohort of 1,718 patients with coronary angiography (&amp;gt;70% stenosis of at least one main coronary vessel) from the GENEMACOR Study was investigated. Thirty-three genetic variants were genotyped using TaqMan assay methodology and HNF4A rs1884613 C&amp;gt;G genotype models were individually studied regarding the occurrence of Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACEs). We used bivariate analysis to evaluate genotypic and allelic differences. Multivariate Cox regression analysis estimated variables independently associated with MACE, and Kaplan-Meier estimate methodology assessed the survival. Results Of the 1,718 CAD patients with the CC wild type, 73.4% had MACE, compared with 66.5% without. CG had 25.2% compared with 30.5% without. Finally, in the GG genotype, only 1.4% had events compared with 3.0% without (p=0.004). Cox regression analysis showed that GG genotype (mutated) is significantly and independently associated with 56% of MACE protection with a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.436; p=0.014. Physical inactivity and type-2 Diabetes remained independently associated with MACE occurrence (Fig.1). Kaplan-Meier cumulative event analysis disclosed that the carriers of the GG genotype were significantly associated with a better event-free time, and CC discloses a worse event-free time (Breslow test, p=0.001) (Fig.2). Conclusions The rs1884613 genetic variant of HNF4A is associated with a better CAD prognosis. This variant could probably induce gene downregulation and HNF4A gene function loss. Modifying and modulating hepatic lipase and lipid metabolism positively affected atherosclerosis progression. Future bioactive modulators for HNF4A variants could raise the possibility that diseases involving diabetes, lipid disorders, and cancer might be amenable to pharmacologic intervention.

Root Circumnutation Reduces Mechanical Resistance to Soil Penetration.

Root circumnutation, the helical movement of growing root tips, is a widely observed behaviour of plants. However, our mechanistic understanding of the impacts of root circumnutation on root growth and soil exploration is limited. Here, we deployed a unique combination of penetrometer measurements, X-ray computed tomography and time-lapse imaging, and cavity expansion modelling to unveil the effects of root circumnutation on the mechanical resistance to soil penetration. To simulate differences in circumnutation amplitude and frequency occurring among plant species, genotypes and environmental conditions, we inserted cone penetrometers with varying bending stiffness into soil samples that were subjected to orbital movement at different velocities. We show that greater circumnutation intensity, determined by a greater circumnutation frequency in conjunction with a larger circumnutation amplitude, decreased the mechanical resistance to soil penetration. Cavity expansion theory and X-ray computed tomography provided evidence that increased circumnutation intensity reduces friction at the cone-soil interface, indicating a link between root circumnutation and the ability of plants to overcome mechanical constraints to root growth. We conclude that circumnutation is a key component of root foraging behaviour and propose that genotypic differences in circumnutation intensity can be leveraged to adapt crops to soils with greater mechanical resistance.

Effect of Age at First Calving on the Reproduction Parameters, Metabolic Profile, and Fatty Acid Composition of Polish Holstein Friesian (PHF) and Crossbreds PHF × Swedish Red (SRB) Cattle

Background: The high dairy production of Polish Holstein Friesian (PHF) cows determines high energy requirements in the early stages of lactation. Unfortunately, it is very often difficult to meet this demand through feedstuffs; therefore, homeostasis may be disturbed and metabolic diseases may occur, causing a majority of cows’ health problems. Breeders are, therefore, looking for alternatives to the PHF breed using crossbreeding. Methods: This experiment involved 30 PHF cows and 30 PHF × Swedish Red (SRB) crossbred hybrid cows, divided into two age groups, &lt;2 years and &gt;2 years, at first calving. Milk and blood samples were collected at 35 ± 5 days postpartum for analysis. Data on reproductive performance were also analyzed. Results: This study revealed lower milk production for the crossbreds hybrid (27.44 kg compared to 32.08 kg), with a higher basic composition content than PHF cows (fat: 3.97% compared to 3.83%, protein: 3.53% compared to 3.27%). The heifers of the crossbreds hybrid reached sexual maturity earlier but did not affect the lower age at first calving. Dividing the cows into age categories provided a more detailed perspective of the impact of genotypic differences on reproductive and metabolic profiles in PHF and PHF × SRB cattle. The findings highlight the importance of considering age-specific effects when assessing the performance and health of dairy cattle with diverse genotypes. Conclusions: The choice between PHF and PHF × SRB should depend on the specific goals and priorities of the cattle farming operation. Factors such as overall milk yield requirements, market demands, reproductive management strategies, and health considerations should be carefully evaluated to determine the most suitable breed for a given farming context.

Investigating Leptin Gene Variants and Methylation Status in Relation to Breastfeeding and Preventing Obesity

Objective: We investigated whether the results of leptin gene (LEP) 2548G/A (rs7799039) and leptin receptor gene (LEPR) 668 A/G (rs1137101) variants, as well as the methylation analysis of CpG regions at nucleotides −31 and −51 of the LEP gene, showed any differences between breastfed and non-breastfed children in this study. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional study included 100 children aged 2–5 years who were attending nursery and kindergarten and had been accepted to the Department of General Paediatrics. Infants who were exclusively breastfed for the first six months after birth constituted the study group, and those who were not only breastfeed constituted the control group. Methylation percentages at CpG islands of the LEP gene were compared between exclusively breastfed and non-exclusively breastfed infants, and the statistical significance was analyzed by looking for changes in LEP −31 and −51 nt methylation and LEP 2548G/A ve LEPR 668 A/G variants. Results: Both groups were compared by feeding, and the association of LEPR and LEP gene polymorphisms and −51 nt and −31 nt methylations were analyzed. There were no significant differences between the groups regarding genotype and allele frequency for the LEPR 668 A/G, LEP 2548 G/A gene variant, −31 nt methylation, and −51 nt methylation status. Similarly, there was no significant difference in genotype and allele frequency for the LEPR 668 A/G gene variant in terms of duration of exclusive breastfeeding, total breastfeeding, body mass index, family obesity, and satiety status. However, maternal support from family elders and physical activity increased the 51 nt methylation, but this methylation was not significantly affected by BMI, age, or satiety status. Conclusions: Maternal support from family elders and physical activity were associated with increased 51 nt methylation, but this methylation was not significantly affected by BMI, age, or satiety status. However, there are not enough studies in this area to reach a definitive conclusion, and further research is needed.

Genetic Diversity, Analysis of Some Agro-Morphological and Quality Traits, and Utilization of Plant Resources of Coriander (Coriandrum sativum) Supported with Cluster and Multivariate Analyses

In this study, 119 different coriander genotypes (38 different countries), including 114 genotypes and five cultivars, were undertaken to characterize the genotypes based on phenotypic, morphological, yield, and International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) properties, along with some chemical properties. The yield components were between 1.34 and 21.49 g for thousand-grain weight, 0.02–9.58 g/plant for fruit yield, 0.01–50.78 g/plant for biological yield, and 8.48–73.36% for harvest index. Similarly, the results of this study revealed significant variations in essential oil (0.05–1.86%v/w) and fixed oil content (10.22–34.03%v/w). The main components of the essential oil were determined as linalool (3.13–45.70%v/v), p-cymene (0.10–15.77%v/v), ɣ-terpinene (0.04–13.80%v/v), while the fixed oil main acids were determined as petroselinic (24.47–87.70%v/v), palmitic (7.13–23.04%v/v), elaidic (1.55–47.44%v/v), and behenic acids (3.17–12.56%v/v). The cluster, heat map, correlation, and principal coordinate (PCA) analyses were conducted to determine the genetic diversity and relationship among the genotypes based on the examined properties. The cluster and heat map analyses showed differences in the same origin genotypes. Petroselinic acid was the major contributing factor for PCA. As a result of this study, Ames 13900 and Ames 18595 genotypes had high values for fruit yield, fixed oil content, and essential oil content.

Genotypic difference in green stem disorder severity and vegetative storage protein accumulation affected by different degrees of sink limitation in soybeans [Glycine max (L.) merr.]

ABSTRACT Green stem disorder (GSD) delays leaf and stem senescence even after pods mature in soybean. In this study, the relationship between GSD severity and vegetative storage protein (VSP) dynamics was investigated under different timings and intensities of depodding treatments. Short growth period (Yukihomare, Yu), GSD-susceptible (Tachinagaha, Tc), and GSD-resistant (Touhoku 129, Th) cultivars were grown under repeated depodding treatments from the R3 growth stage by half [R3 (1/2)] or by one-third [R3 (1/3)], under a single-time depodding treatment at the R5 growth stage by half [R5 (single)], and under no depodding (control). Depodding from R3 decreased the pod number and induced GSD for both Yu and Th. However, the pod weight and stem weight per plant were statistically unchanged from those in control, indicating that remaining pods partially served as a surplus source reservoir in Yu and Th. Tc reduced the pod number and pod weight and unchanged the stem weight in depodding treatments from R3 but induced GSD regardless of the treatments. The growth of single-time depodding at R5 was not different from that of control except the growth parameters of Yu. The relative VSP content temporarily increased 14 days after R3 (DAR3) in all the treatments and cultivars. Although the relative VSP content decreased afterward in Yu and Th, that of Tc increased according to the depodding intensity. In the depodding experiments over three years, a negative correlation tended to be found after 28 DAR3 between VSP accumulation and GSD severity in Th but not in Tc, suggesting that the mechanism underlying N metabolism and GSD occurrence was different between cultivars.

Quantitative analysis of fat distribution in men and women: contribution of diet, physical activity, and FTO genotype

BACKGROUND: The Russian Federation is among the top ten countries in terms of obesity prevalence among adults. AIM: To identify the endogenous (biological factors such as age and FTO genotype) and exogenous (diet and physical activity level) factors that influence body fat accumulation and distribution among a group of women and men from Moscow. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 464 volunteers, consisting of 231 women and 233 men aged between 18 and 60 years, from Moscow took part in a single-center, cross-sectional, observational study. The program involved measuring body height, weight, body and limb girths, as well as conducting caliperometry, bioimpedance analysis, and administering questionnaires. Indices of body fat distribution were calculated. Additionally, differences in genotype, specifically the rs9939609 TA variant in the FTO gene, were also determined. RESULTS: Maintaining a vegetarian diet for at least three years was associated with lower fat and fat-free mass, but not with abdominal fat in both men and women. Engaging in regular physical activity had the most significant impact on abdominal fat in both genders. Furthermore, participating in amateur or professional sports activities for a minimum of 180 minutes per week was associated with lower overall body fat. We found no association between the FTO rs9939609 gene and fat accumulation or distribution, regardless of diet and physical activity levels. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that vegetarian diet and regular physical activity are likely to be the most effective total and abdominal fat loss strategy for male and female adult residents of Moscow.

Supplementation and Mitigating Cognitive Decline in Older Adults With or Without Mild Cognitive Impairment or Dementia: A Systematic Review.

This systematic literature review aims to answer the question of how micronutrients might influence the development and progression of dementia. In the present work, we focused on an overview of an updated review of relevant literature published in the last two decades. This review aims to delineate the relationship between micronutrient supplementation and cognitive decline in older subjects. In carrying out this review, we followed PRISMA, and our literature search was performed on PubMed. This systematic review includes only primary studies that have investigated the efficacy of nutritional interventions for the prevention of dementia and improvement of cognitive function in subjects aged 65 years or older with normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or Alzheimer's disease (AD). A gross heterogeneity of studies forbids the possibility of a direct comparison of the results. A review of the inclusion criteria and restrictions has been conducted to check the validity and reliability of the results. In this review, thirty-three primary studies were included. Results have shown that supplementation with vitamin D, probiotics, and PUFAs would most likely reduce cognitive decline, dementia, or AD compared with vitamins A, B, C, and E, which were seen to be relatively ineffective. Of note, when considering vitamin B supplementation, positive effects were only observed in non-aspirin users having high ω-3 fatty acid (ω-3 FA) plasma levels. In some cases, however, there were genotypic differences in subjects in response to vitamin B supplementation.