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15 pages, 784 KB  
Article
Impacts of Tree Thinning on Overall Productivity in Densely Planted Walnut Orchards
by Qian Ye, Qinyang Yue, Yingxia Zhang, Rui Zhang, Qiang Jin, Jianliang Zhang, Siyuan Zhu, Miaomiao Zhao and Zhongzhong Guo
Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1216; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101216 - 9 Oct 2025
Abstract
To effectively address the issues of poor ventilation, light deficiency, increased pest and disease pressure, and declining fruit quality in closed-canopy walnut orchards, this study was conducted in a standard, densely planted ‘Xinwen 185’ walnut orchard. Three treatments were established: an unthinned control [...] Read more.
To effectively address the issues of poor ventilation, light deficiency, increased pest and disease pressure, and declining fruit quality in closed-canopy walnut orchards, this study was conducted in a standard, densely planted ‘Xinwen 185’ walnut orchard. Three treatments were established: an unthinned control (CK), a 1-year thinning treatment (T1), and a 2-year thinning treatment (T2). All parameters were uniformly investigated during the 2023 growing season to analyze the effects of thinning on orchard population structure, microenvironment, leaf physiological characteristics, fruit quality, and yield. The results demonstrated that tree thinning significantly optimized the population structure: crown width expanded by 6.22–6.76 m, light transmittance increased to 27.74–33.64%, and orchard coverage decreased from 100% to 75.94–80.51%. The microenvironment was improved: inter-row temperature increased by 2.34–4.08 °C, light intensity increased by 5.38–25.29%, and relative humidity decreased by 2.15–3.30%. Furthermore, leaf physiological functions were activated: in the T2 treatment, the chlorophyll content in outer-canopy leaves increased by 15.23% and 12.45% at the kernel-hardening and maturity stages, respectively; the leaf carbon-to-nitrogen ratio increased by 18.67%; the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) during fruit expansion increased by 34.21–46.10%; and the intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) decreased by 10.18–10.31%. Fruit quality and yield were synergistically enhanced: single fruit weight increased by 23.39~37.94%, and kernel weight increased by 26.79–41.13%. The total sugar content in inner-canopy fruits increased by 16.50–16.67%, while the protein and fat content in outer-canopy fruits increased by 0.69–12.50% and 0.60–2.18%, respectively. Yield exhibited a “short-term adjustment and long-term gain” pattern: the T2 treatment (after 2 years of thinning) achieved a yield of 5.26 t·ha−1, which was 20.38% higher than the CK. The rates of diseased fruit and empty shells decreased by 65.71% and 93.22%, respectively, and the premium fruit rate reached 90.60%. This study confirms that tree thinning is an effective measure for improving the growing environment and enhancing overall productivity in closed-canopy walnut orchards, providing a scientific basis for sustainable orchard management and increased orchard profitability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fruit Tree Cultivation and Sustainable Orchard Management)
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16 pages, 1089 KB  
Article
QTL Mapping for Leaf Rust Resistance in a Common Wheat Recombinant Inbred Line Population of Doumai/Shi4185
by Yamei Wang, Wenjing Li, Rui Wang, Nannan Zhao, Xinye Zhang, Shu Zhu and Jindong Liu
Plants 2025, 14(19), 3113; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14193113 - 9 Oct 2025
Abstract
Leaf rust, a devastating fungal disease caused by Puccinia triticina (Pt), severely impacts wheat quality and yield. Identifying genetic loci for wheat leaf rust resistance, developing molecular markers, and breeding resistant varieties is the most environmentally friendly and economical strategy for disease control. [...] Read more.
Leaf rust, a devastating fungal disease caused by Puccinia triticina (Pt), severely impacts wheat quality and yield. Identifying genetic loci for wheat leaf rust resistance, developing molecular markers, and breeding resistant varieties is the most environmentally friendly and economical strategy for disease control. This study utilized a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population of Doumai and Shi4185, combined with the wheat 90 K single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) chip data and maximum disease severity (MDS) of leaf rust from four environments, to identify adult plant resistance (APR) loci through linkage mapping. Additionally, kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers suitable for breeding were developed, and genetic effects were validated in a natural population. In this study, 5 quantitative trait loci (QTL) on chromosomes 1B (2), 2A and 7B (2) were identified through inclusive composite interval mapping, and named as QLr.lfnu-1BL1, QLr.lfnu-1BL2, QLr.lfnu-2AL, QLr.lfnu-7BL1 and QLr.lfnu-7BL2, respectively, explaining 4.54–8.91% of the phenotypic variances. The resistance alleles of QLr.lfnu-1BL1 and QLr.lfnu-1BL2 originated from Doumai, while the resistance alleles of QLr.lfnu-2AL, QLr.lfnu-7BL1 and QLr.lfnu-7BL2 came from Shi4185. Among these, QLr.lfnu-1BL2, QLr.lfnu-7BL1 and QLr.lfnu-7BL2 overlapped with previously reported loci, whereas QLr.lfnu-1BL1 and QLr.lfnu-2AL are likely to be novel. Two KASP markers, QLr.lfnu-2AL and QLr.lfnu-7BL, were significantly associated with leaf rust resistance in a diverse panel of 150 wheat varieties mainly from China. Totally, 34 potential candidate genes encoded the NLR proteins, receptor-like kinases, signaling kinases and transcription factors were selected as candidate genes for the resistance loci. These findings will provide stable QTL, available breeding KASP markers and candidate genes, and will accelerate the progresses of wheat leaf rust resistance improvement through marker-assisted selection breeding. Full article
13 pages, 712 KB  
Article
Short-Term Effects of Alfalfa Silage Versus Hay, with or Without Hydrolysable Tannins, on Production Performance, Rumen Fermentation, and Nutrient Digestibility in Mid-Lactation Dairy Cows
by Xuning Miao, Chun Bai, Guofang Chen, Jiajin Sun, He Du, Chen Shen, Wenjie Huo, Qiang Liu, Cong Wang, Lei Chen and Gang Guo
Microorganisms 2025, 13(10), 2327; https://doi.org/10.3390/microorganisms13102327 - 9 Oct 2025
Abstract
This study examined the effects of alfalfa silage versus alfalfa hay in a total mixed ration (TMR) on milk yield, rumen fermentation, and nutrient digestibility in dairy cows. Hydrolyzed tannins (HT) were supplemented individually to assess changes. Thirty-two multiparous Holstein cows (DIM: 94 [...] Read more.
This study examined the effects of alfalfa silage versus alfalfa hay in a total mixed ration (TMR) on milk yield, rumen fermentation, and nutrient digestibility in dairy cows. Hydrolyzed tannins (HT) were supplemented individually to assess changes. Thirty-two multiparous Holstein cows (DIM: 94 ± 8 d; milk yield: 41 ± 2 kg) were assigned to four treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial design: basal diet (alfalfa hay, H, or alfalfa silage, S) and additive (control, C, or 100 g/d HT, T). Production performance, rumen fermentation, nutrient digestibility, and blood metabolites were evaluated. Compared with group H, group S had a 0.16% higher milk protein percentage and significantly higher fat-corrected milk yield, milk fat percentage, fat-to-protein ratio, total solids, and milk urea nitrogen. After feeding, the ST group had increased ruminal pH. HT supplementation significantly decreased ruminal NH3-N levels (p < 0.05) and increased microbial crude protein (MCP) content (p < 0.05). Group H showed no significant changes, and the effects of HT were less evident in hay-fed cows than in silage-fed cows. In summary, alfalfa silage feeding increased ruminal microbial populations, while HT supplementation mitigated the post-feeding decline in ruminal pH. Considering the relatively small sample size (n = 32), the results should be viewed as indicative rather than conclusive, and future studies with larger cohorts will be valuable to confirm and extend these findings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Microbiology)
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15 pages, 899 KB  
Article
Functional and Bioactive Characterization of Hemp Cake Proteins and Polyphenols from Non-Psychoactive Cannabis sativa
by María Quinteros, Paola Wilcaso, Carlos Ribadeneira and Edgar Vilcacundo
Processes 2025, 13(10), 3184; https://doi.org/10.3390/pr13103184 - 7 Oct 2025
Abstract
The agro-industrial residue known as hemp cake, derived from non-psychoactive Cannabis sativa L., represents a sustainable alternative for the development of protein-rich ingredients. In Ecuador, particularly in Bolívar Province, this by-product has been underutilized. However, similar challenges in the valorization of hemp residues [...] Read more.
The agro-industrial residue known as hemp cake, derived from non-psychoactive Cannabis sativa L., represents a sustainable alternative for the development of protein-rich ingredients. In Ecuador, particularly in Bolívar Province, this by-product has been underutilized. However, similar challenges in the valorization of hemp residues have also been reported in other regions, where they are often discarded or used as low-value animal feed. These issues are not exclusive to Bolívar, and since protein stability depends primarily on drying and storage rather than geographic relocation, the valorization strategies proposed in this study can be extrapolated to other production zones. Protein concentrates were extracted from freeze-dried flower cake (TL, freeze-dried hemp cake) and oven-dried flower cake (TS, oven-dried hemp cake) using isoelectric precipitation, yielding protein concentrates from freeze-dried cake (CPL) and oven-dried cake (CPS). Protein content was determined using the Dumas combustion method, the Bradford dye-binding method, and the bicinchoninic acid (BCA) method. Functional properties such as solubility, water absorption, oil absorption, foaming capacity, and foam stability were evaluated, together with total phenolic and flavonoid content and in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Results demonstrated high protein values (up to 90.42%), remarkable functional properties, and strong bioactive potential, supporting hemp cake concentrates as sustainable alternatives for food, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical applications Full article
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20 pages, 1670 KB  
Article
Exploring Bone Health Determinants in Youth Athletes Using Supervised and Unsupervised Machine Learning
by Nikolaos-Orestis Retzepis, Alexandra Avloniti, Christos Kokkotis, Theodoros Stampoulis, Dimitrios Balampanos, Dimitrios Draganidis, Anastasia Gkachtsou, Marietta Grammenou, Anastasia Maria Karaiskou, Danai Kelaraki, Maria Protopapa, Dimitrios Pantazis, Maria Emmanouilidou, Panagiotis Aggelakis, Nikolaos Zaras, Ilias Smilios, Ioannis G. Fatouros, Maria Michalopoulou and Athanasios Chatzinikolaou
Dietetics 2025, 4(4), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/dietetics4040044 - 4 Oct 2025
Viewed by 118
Abstract
Background: Bone health in youth is influenced by both modifiable factors, such as nutrition and physical activity, and non-modifiable factors, such as biological maturation and heredity. Understanding how these elements interact to predict body composition may enhance the effectiveness of early interventions. Importantly, [...] Read more.
Background: Bone health in youth is influenced by both modifiable factors, such as nutrition and physical activity, and non-modifiable factors, such as biological maturation and heredity. Understanding how these elements interact to predict body composition may enhance the effectiveness of early interventions. Importantly, the integration of both supervised and unsupervised machine learning models enables a data-driven exploration of complex relationships, allowing for accurate prediction and subgroup discovery. Methods: This cross-sectional study examined 94 male athletes during the developmental period. Anthropometric, performance, and nutritional data were collected, and bone parameters were assessed using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Three supervised machine learning models (Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, and Support Vector Regression) were trained to predict Total Body-Less Head (TBLH) values. Nested cross-validation assessed model performance. Unsupervised clustering (K-Means) was also applied to identify dietary intake profiles (calcium, protein, vitamin D). SHAP analysis was used for model interpretability. Results: The Random Forest model yielded the best predictive performance (R2 = 0.71, RMSE = 0.057). Weight, height, and handgrip strength were the most influential predictors. Clustering analysis revealed two distinct nutritional profiles; however, t-tests showed no significant differences in TBLH or regional BMD between the clusters. Conclusions: Machine learning, both supervised for accurate prediction and unsupervised for nutritional subgroup discovery, provides a robust, interpretable framework for assessing adolescent bone health. While dietary intake clusters did not align with significant differences in bone parameters, this finding underscores the multifactorial nature of skeletal development and highlights areas for further exploration. Full article
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16 pages, 3432 KB  
Article
Genetic Architecture and Meta-QTL Identification of Yield Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.)
by Xin Li, Xiaoqiang Zhao, Siqi Sun, Meiyue He, Jing Wang, Xinxin Xiang and Yining Niu
Plants 2025, 14(19), 3067; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14193067 - 4 Oct 2025
Viewed by 253
Abstract
Yield components are the most important breeding objectives, directly determining maize high-yield breeding. It is well known that these traits are controlled by a large number of quantitative trait loci (QTL). Therefore, deeply understanding the genetic basis of yield components and identifying key [...] Read more.
Yield components are the most important breeding objectives, directly determining maize high-yield breeding. It is well known that these traits are controlled by a large number of quantitative trait loci (QTL). Therefore, deeply understanding the genetic basis of yield components and identifying key regulatory candidate genes can lay the foundation for maize marker-assisted selection (MAS) breeding. In this study, our aim was to identify the key genomic regions that regulate maize yield component formation through bioinformatic methods. Herein, 554 original QTLs related to 11 yield components, including ear length (EL), hundred-kernel weight (HKW), ear weight (EW), cob weight (CW), ear diameter (ED), cob diameter (CD), kernel row number (KRN), kernel number per row (KNR), kernel length (KL), grain weight per plant (GW), and kernel width (KW) in maize, were collected from the MaizeGDB, national center for biotechnology information (NCBI), and China national knowledge infrastructure (CNKI) databases. The consensus map was then constructed with a total length of 7154.30 cM. Approximately 80.32% of original QTLs were successfully projected on the consensus map, and they were unevenly distributed on the 10 chromosomes (Chr.). Moreover, 44 meta-QTLs (MQTLs) were identified by the meta-analysis. Among them, 39 MQTLs controlled two or more yield components, except for the MQTL4 in Chr. 1, which was associated with HKW; MQTL11 in Chr. 2, which was responsible for EL; MQTL19 in Chr. 3, which was related to KRN; MQTL26 in Chr. 5, which was involved in HKW; and MQTL36 in Chr. 7, which regulated EL. These findings were consistent with the Pearson correlation results, indicating that these traits exhibited co-linked heredity phenomena. Meanwhile, 159 candidate genes were found in all of the above MQTLs intervals, of which, 29 genes encoded E3 ubiquitin protein ligase, which was related with kernel size and weight. Other genes were involved in multiple metabolic processes, including plant hormones signaling transduction, plant growth and development, sucrose–starch synthesis and metabolism, and reproductive growth. Overall, the results will provide reliable genetic resources for high-yield molecular breeding in maize. Full article
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14 pages, 1012 KB  
Article
Productivity and Forage Quality of Alfalfa Response to Potassium Fertilizer: A Field Study in Inner Mongolian Plateau
by Yuntao Wang, Lele Cui, Shenghao Liu, Wenxuan Li, Zhenyi Li, Wenxing Ye and Linqing Yu
Agronomy 2025, 15(10), 2328; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15102328 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 284
Abstract
The Inner Mongolian Plateau is a critical region for the development of herbivorous animal husbandry in China. However, its harsh climate and poor soil quality have constrained the sustainable growth of the alfalfa industry. This 3-year field study investigated the effects of potassium [...] Read more.
The Inner Mongolian Plateau is a critical region for the development of herbivorous animal husbandry in China. However, its harsh climate and poor soil quality have constrained the sustainable growth of the alfalfa industry. This 3-year field study investigated the effects of potassium (K) fertilizer on the productivity and forage quality of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L. cv. ‘WL168’) in such specific conditions of the region. Five rates of K fertilizer (0 (CK), 100, 200, 300, and 400 kg ha−1 of K2O) were applied in three split applications. Forage harvests occurred three times annually in 2023 and 2024, and yield, yield components, and forage quality were determined. The results showed that the forage yield of alfalfa increased initially and then decreased with the rising K application rates, which paralleled the changes in the plant density, and plant height, especially the mass shoot−1; forage yield was mainly correlated with mass shoot−1. Appropriate K fertilizer improved forage quality, especially in 2024. With increasing application, crude protein (CP) and total digestible nutrients (TDNs) first rose then declined, whereas neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) decreased steadily, leading to a consistent rise in the relative feeding value (RFV). Comprehensively considering both yield and quality under such condition, a K fertilizer application rate of 273.2 kg ha−1 of K2O is suggested as a reference for this region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fertility Management for Higher Crop Productivity)
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18 pages, 2926 KB  
Article
Pseudomonas sp. UW4 Enhances Drought Resistance in Garlic by Modulating Growth and Physiological Parameters
by Yiwei Yan, Chunqian Guo, Bernard R. Glick and Jie Tian
Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1170; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101170 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 255
Abstract
Drought stress is one of the primary abiotic factors negatively affecting garlic growth, development, and yield formation. The application of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) could enhance plant tolerance to drought stress. The aim of this study was to explore the regulatory effect of [...] Read more.
Drought stress is one of the primary abiotic factors negatively affecting garlic growth, development, and yield formation. The application of plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) could enhance plant tolerance to drought stress. The aim of this study was to explore the regulatory effect of the PGPB Pseudomonas sp. UW4 on growth and physiological indexes of garlic under drought stress. The results revealed that drought stresses significantly reduced total root length, total root surface area, root projection area and total root volume, chlorophyll content, antioxidant enzyme activity and osmolyte content (proline and soluble proteins), and increased relative electrical conductivity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content, all of which could be significantly improved by inoculating the roots with strain UW4. Under drought stress, an increase in total surface area of roots of 87.06% and an increase in root projected area of 40.71% were observed upon inoculation with strain UW4. The a, b, and total content of chlorophyll were increased significantly by 83.63%, 217.33% and 100.02%, respectively. The osmolyte content in leaves significantly increased, and decreased significantly in roots. The content of antioxidants also significantly increased. Moreover, the relative electrical conductivity in leaves and roots was decreased by 23.18% and 41.20%, respectively, upon strain UW4 inoculation. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased by 25.23% and 54.08%, respectively, in the presence of strain UW4. The result of principal component analysis (PCA) revealed that the key factors influencing drought tolerance in garlic inoculated with Pseudomonas sp. UW4 could be summarized into two categories: photosynthetic pigments and root growth-related factors, and leaf osmotic adjustment and root antioxidant enzyme-related factors. Based on the result of the Mantel test, it can be inferred that there was a connection between the osmoregulation and antioxidant enzyme systems in the roots and leaves. Based on the D values, the comprehensive evaluation result of drought resistance was that the drought resistance of the garlic inoculated with strain UW4 under drought stress was lower than that of the garlic inoculated with UW4 under normal treatment and higher than that of the garlic under normal treatment. Therefore, Pseudomonas sp. UW4 enhanced the drought resistance of garlic seedlings by improving root phenotype and antioxidant enzyme activity, and increasing the content of shoot chlorophyll. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biotic and Abiotic Stress)
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29 pages, 5748 KB  
Article
Metatranscriptome Analysis of Sheep Rumen Reveals Methane Production Changes Induced by Moringa oleifera as a Dietary Supplement
by Alicia Alejandra Grijalva-Hinojos, Vicente Arnau, Wladimiro Díaz, Samuel Piquer, Daniel Díaz-Plascencia, Yamicela Castillo-Castillo, Joel Domínguez-Viveros and Perla Lucia Ordoñez-Baquera
Fermentation 2025, 11(10), 568; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11100568 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 795
Abstract
Global warming has become a significant public health concern, with intensive livestock farming as a major contributor. To mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, strategies such as manipulating the ruminal environment with dietary additives are essential. This study evaluated Moringa oleifera, a globally widespread [...] Read more.
Global warming has become a significant public health concern, with intensive livestock farming as a major contributor. To mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, strategies such as manipulating the ruminal environment with dietary additives are essential. This study evaluated Moringa oleifera, a globally widespread tree with antioxidant, multivitamin, protein-rich, and anti-inflammatory properties, as a feed additive. Rumen fluid was collected from three Pelibuey sheep, homogenized, and subjected to an in vitro fermentation study for 48 h with three alfalfa/moringa ratio treatments: T0 Control (100:0), T1 Low (85:15), and T2 High (70:30). Total RNA was extracted, followed by high-definition sequencing of the metatranscriptome. The sequencing yielded approximately 456 million sequences. A total of 117 phyla were identified and approximately 1300 genera were mapped. Predominant phylum differed by treatment: T0, Firmicutes; T1, Proteobacteria; and T2 with Synergistetes, at least one sample per treatment. Archaea were nearly absent in T1, which explains a statistically significant decrease in methane production. In the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA), it was observed that one of the metabolic pathways with a statistically significant difference (p-value < 0.05) was that of methane, specifically in the low moringa treatment (T1) compared to the control (T0). From the functional analysis, differentially expressed enzymes were identified, some of which are involved in the methane metabolic pathway, such as formate dehydrogenase (EC 1.17.1.9) and glycine hydroxymethyltransferase (EC 2.1.2.1), which are intermediates in methane formation. These results suggest that 15% Moringa oleifera supplementation alters ruminal microbiota, reduces archaeal activity, and suppresses methane-related pathways. These findings provide molecular evidence supporting the potential of M. oleifera as a methane mitigation strategy in ruminant nutrition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Fermentation: 2nd Edition)
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14 pages, 5008 KB  
Article
Genome-Wide Identification of the BBX Gene Family: StBBX17 Positively Regulates Cold Tolerance in Potato
by Xiaobo Luo, Luo Wang, Feng Shen, Yi Mei, Degang Zhao and Fei Li
Horticulturae 2025, 11(10), 1167; https://doi.org/10.3390/horticulturae11101167 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 229
Abstract
Potato is an important crop in the world and is rich in various nutrients. Common tetraploid potato is not tolerant of low temperatures and frost. Low-temperature stress severely affects the growth above-ground and the yield underground in potato. The BBX genes play an [...] Read more.
Potato is an important crop in the world and is rich in various nutrients. Common tetraploid potato is not tolerant of low temperatures and frost. Low-temperature stress severely affects the growth above-ground and the yield underground in potato. The BBX genes play an important role in the plant response to low-temperature stress. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the potato StBBX genes involved in cold stress response remains unclear. In the present study, 30 StBBX genes were identified in potato and divided into five groups. A total of 10 motifs and 10 cis-acting elements were obtained in all BBX proteins. All StBBX genes contained light responsive elements in the promoter, of which nine StBBX genes harbored low-temperature responsive elements. In total, 15 pairs of StBBX genes were identified in duplicated genomic regions. The gene expression patterns of all StBBXs were assessed in different tissues by transcriptome data. The qRT-PCR analysis indicated that six StBBX genes were significantly induced in response to cold stress. Subcellular localization suggested that the StBBX17 protein was localized in the nucleus. Compared with wild type (WT), the cold tolerance in StBBX17 overexpression lines was dramatically increased. After cold treatment, the StBBX17 overexpression lines displayed a less injured area of leaves and lower electrolyte leakage compared with the WT plants, demonstrating StBBX17 positively regulated cold tolerances in potato. These results indicate that StBBX genes have important functions under cold stress, providing a theoretical reference for the breeding of cold-resistant potato. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biotic and Abiotic Stress)
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10 pages, 458 KB  
Article
Preliminary Investigation of Nitrogen Rate Influence on Irrigated Bermudagrass Forage Production
by Bronc Finch and Lance Blythe
Nitrogen 2025, 6(4), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/nitrogen6040088 - 1 Oct 2025
Viewed by 158
Abstract
Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) forage production recommendations are often developed in natural environments with available water limitations, often resulting in highly variable responses and lower average responses. As farmland ownership changes and agriculture and irrigation technologies become more affordable the amount of [...] Read more.
Bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon) forage production recommendations are often developed in natural environments with available water limitations, often resulting in highly variable responses and lower average responses. As farmland ownership changes and agriculture and irrigation technologies become more affordable the amount of irrigated hay production has increased. While much of the agronomic management does not differ between rain-fed and irrigated environments, nutrient use and uptake dynamics may. This requires a reevaluation and potential adjustment of current recommendations to allow for increased yield potential of irrigated production systems without detrimental impacts on the system. The objective of this study was to identify the need for further investigation of nitrogen application rates for forage bermudagrass production under irrigated conditions. Nitrogen applications of 0 to 280 kg N ha−1, in 56 kg increments, were applied at spring green-up and following the first and second harvests. Dry matter biomass, crude protein, and total digestible nutrients increased with increasing nitrogen application rate, while yield and profit maximizing rates both exceeded the typical recommended rate for bermudagrass hay production. The responses noted for increased nitrogen application rates indicate the need for further investigation of N requirements of non-moisture-limited hay production. Full article
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21 pages, 2625 KB  
Article
Effects of Ridge and Furrow Planting Patterns on Crop Yield and Grain Quality in Dryland Maize–Wheat Double Cropping System
by Qihui Zhou, Ming Huang, Chuan Hu, Aohan Liu, Shiyan Dong, Kaiming Ren, Wenzhong Tian, Junhong Li, Fang Li, Guozhan Fu, Jinzhi Wu and Youjun Li
Plants 2025, 14(19), 3030; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14193030 - 30 Sep 2025
Viewed by 249
Abstract
Ridge and furrow planting is a prevalent drought-resistant cultivation technique in dryland regions. Notably, the effects of this technology on crop grain yield and quality in dryland maize–wheat double-cropping systems remain limited. This study utilized a long-term positioning experiment initiated in 2004, which [...] Read more.
Ridge and furrow planting is a prevalent drought-resistant cultivation technique in dryland regions. Notably, the effects of this technology on crop grain yield and quality in dryland maize–wheat double-cropping systems remain limited. This study utilized a long-term positioning experiment initiated in 2004, which included five treatments: a permanent ridge and furrow with a border ridge of 133 cm row space (PRFBR); a ridge and furrow created each year with a border ridge of 133 cm row space (EYRFBR); a permanent ridge with a normal ridge of 100 cm row space (PRFNR); a ridge and furrow created each year with a normal ridge of 100 cm row space (EYRFNR), and a conventional flat planting pattern according to the local farmer (CF). The crop grain yield in 2015–2021, as well as the protein and phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) content in maize and wheat grains, and the protein components in winter wheat grains in 2020–2021 were investigated. The results showed that, compared to CF, all four ridge and furrow planting patterns significantly enhanced crop yield in dry and normal years, and the effects varied depending on crop species, with increases of 45.3–97.8% for wheat and 11.0–33.8% increases annually in dry years; and 24.5–51.6% increases for maize and 12.2–37.5% increases annually in the normal years. EYRFBR treatment increased wheat grain P and K content by 24.3% and 13.7%, as well as increasing the total protein, albumin, gliadin, soluble protein, and storage protein content by 9.7%, 22.3%, 9.6%, 14.5%, and 5.6%, whereas PRFNR reduced the glutenin content and glutenin/gliadin ratio in winter wheat grains by 5.1% and 10.9%, respectively. The yield achieved with a permanent ridge and furrow (PRF) surpassed that achieved when the ridge and furrow was created anew each year (EYRF), yet the normal ridge width (NR) outperformed the border ridge width (BR). However, the P, K, protein, and protein component content in wheat grains under EYRF was superior to that under PRF. Comprehensive evaluations through principal component analysis (PCA) and TOPSIS analysis consistently demonstrated that the EYRFBR treatment delivered optimal performance in yield and quality for winter and annual, while PRFNR achieved superior yield for summer maize. Consequently, in dryland maize–wheat double-cropping systems, an EYRFBR planting pattern should be recommended for high-yield and high-quality wheat production; however, the PRFNR planting pattern is more suitable for summer maize production. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Management for Crop Production and Quality)
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22 pages, 1239 KB  
Article
Novel Insights into Torrefacto and Natural Coffee Silverskin: Composition, Bioactivity, Safety, and Environmental Impact for Sustainable Food Applications
by Ernesto Quagliata, Silvina Gazzara, Cecilia Dauber, Analía Rodríguez, Luis Panizzolo, Bruno Irigaray, Adriana Gámbaro, José A. Mendiola, Ignacio Vieitez and María Dolores del Castillo
Foods 2025, 14(19), 3388; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14193388 - 30 Sep 2025
Viewed by 538
Abstract
Coffee silverskin (CS), the principal solid by-product from coffee roasting, is a promising raw material for sustainable food applications aligned with circular economy principles. Due to its high flammability at roasting temperatures, effective management of CS is not only an environmental but also [...] Read more.
Coffee silverskin (CS), the principal solid by-product from coffee roasting, is a promising raw material for sustainable food applications aligned with circular economy principles. Due to its high flammability at roasting temperatures, effective management of CS is not only an environmental but also a safety concern in coffee processing facilities. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the chemical composition, bioactivity, safety, and environmental impact of torrefacto (CT) and natural (CN) coffee silverskin. CT (from Arabica–Robusta blends subjected to sugar-glazing) and CN (from 100% Arabica) were characterized in terms of composition and function. Oven-dried CT showed higher levels of caffeine (13.2 ± 0.6 mg/g vs. 8.7 ± 0.7 mg/g for CN), chlorogenic acid (1.34 ± 0.08 mg/g vs. 0.92 ± 0.06 mg/g), protein (18.1 ± 0.2% vs. 16.7 ± 0.2%), and melanoidins (14.9 ± 0.3 mg/g vs. 9.6 ± 0.2 mg/g), but CN yielded more total phenolics (13.8 ± 0.6 mg GAE/g). Both types exhibited strong antioxidant capacity (ABTS: 48.9–59.2 µmol TE/g), and all oven-dried samples met food safety criteria (microbial loads below 102 CFU/g, moisture 7.9%). Oven drying was identified as the most industrially viable, ensuring preservation of bioactives and resulting in a 19% lower greenhouse gas emissions impact compared to freeze-drying. Sun drying was less reliable microbiologically. The valorization of oven-dried CT as a clean-label, antioxidant-rich colorant offers clear potential for food reformulation and waste reduction. Renewable energy use during drying is recommended to further enhance sustainability. This study provides scientific evidence to support the safe use of coffee silverskin as a novel food, contributing to regulatory assessment and sustainable food innovation aligned with SDGs 9, 12, and 13. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Uses and Applications of By-Products of the Food Industry)
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21 pages, 4984 KB  
Article
Genome-Wide Linkage Mapping of Root System Architecture-Related Traits Under Drought Stress in Common Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
by Yirong Jin, Guiju Chen, Xiaodong Qiu, Fuyan Wang, Hui Jin, Liang Zhang, Cheng Liu, Jianjun Liu, Wenjing Li and Peng Liu
Plants 2025, 14(19), 3023; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14193023 - 30 Sep 2025
Viewed by 263
Abstract
Drought severely threatens wheat production. Under drought conditions, root system architecture (DRSA)-related traits in common wheat significantly affect wheat production. In China, Zhoumai16 is a high-yield winter wheat variety in the Huang-Huai wheat region. It is suitable for high-fertilizer and high-water cultivation and [...] Read more.
Drought severely threatens wheat production. Under drought conditions, root system architecture (DRSA)-related traits in common wheat significantly affect wheat production. In China, Zhoumai16 is a high-yield winter wheat variety in the Huang-Huai wheat region. It is suitable for high-fertilizer and high-water cultivation and has moderate drought tolerance. DK171 is a newly developed high-yield and stress-tolerant variety, with higher drought tolerance. Thus, identifying genetic loci associated with DRSA-related traits from DK171 and developing available molecular markers are of great importance for enhancing wheat stress tolerance breeding. In this study, DRSA-related traits, including the total root dry weight (DDRW), total root length (DTRL), total root area (DTRA), and the number of root tips (DNRT) under drought stress, were assessed using the hydroponic system in Zhoumai16/DK171 recombinant inbred lines (RIL) population. A total of five quantitative trait loci (QTL) for DRSA-related traits were identified, e.g., QDDRW.daas-1BL, QDTRS.daas-4AL, QDNRT.daas-4DS, QDTRL.daas-3AL, and QDDRW.daas-5D, and explained 6.1% to 18.9% of the phenotypic variances, respectively. Among these, QDTRS.daas-4AL and QDTRL.daas-3AL were consistent with previous reports, whereas the QDDRW.daas-1BL, QDNRT.daas-4DS, and QDDRW.daas-5D are novel. The favorable alleles of QDTRS.daas-4AL and QDNRT.daas-4DS were inherited from Zhoumai16, whereas the favorable alleles for QDDRW.daas-1BL, QDTRL.daas-3AL, and QDDRW.daas-5D were contributed by DK171. Furthermore, five kompetitive allele-specific PCR (KASP) markers, Kasp_1BL_DTRS (QDDRW.daas-1BL), Kasp_3AL_DTRS (QDTRL.daas-3AL), Kasp_4A_DTRS (QDTRA.daas-4A), Kasp_5D_DDRW (QDDRW.daas-5D), and Kasp_4D_DNRT (QDNRT.daas-4D), were developed and validated in a diverse panel with 108 wheat varieties mainly from China. Additionally, eight candidate genes related to plant hormone regulation, ABC transporters, and calcium-dependent lipid-binding domain proteins were identified. This study offers new loci, candidate genes, and available KASP markers for wheat drought tolerance breeding and facilitating progress in developing drought-tolerant wheat cultivars. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Plant Genetics and Genomics)
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20 pages, 4907 KB  
Article
Brown Algae Extracts Increase the Tolerance of Tomato Plants to High Temperatures by Improving Morphological, Physiological, Metabolomic, and Transcriptional Parameters
by Oscar Sariñana-Aldaco, Rosa M. Rodríguez-Jasso, Adalberto Benavides-Mendoza, Armando Robledo-Olivo, Pablo Preciado-Rangel, Antonio Juárez-Maldonado and Susana González-Morales
Plants 2025, 14(19), 2996; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14192996 - 28 Sep 2025
Viewed by 484
Abstract
Currently, biostimulants in the horticultural sector are a tool that is being used to improve the yield and quality of vegetables under optimal and stressful growth conditions. In the present study, we evaluate the effects of foliar application of a hydroethanolic extract of [...] Read more.
Currently, biostimulants in the horticultural sector are a tool that is being used to improve the yield and quality of vegetables under optimal and stressful growth conditions. In the present study, we evaluate the effects of foliar application of a hydroethanolic extract of Sargassum spp., a commercial extract based on Ascophyllum nodosum, and a control with distilled water on growth and biomass, stomatal conductance, photosynthetic pigments, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, protein content, and the expression of defense genes in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.) without stress and with high-temperature stress (45 °C). The results showed that Sargassum spp. extract only increased the height of tomato plants under stress-free conditions (2.71%) in the last evaluation. The aboveground and total dry biomass of the plants were increased by Sargassum spp. extract under stress-free conditions by 9.56 and 8.58%, respectively. Under stress conditions, aboveground dry biomass was increased by 6.66% by Sargassum spp. extract. Stomatal conductance, photosynthetic pigments, protein content, enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, and defense gene expression of tomato plants were positively modified with the use of Sargassum spp. and A. nodosum extract under high-temperature stress conditions. Under stress-free conditions, the described variables were positively modified except for gene expression, where some genes were expressed and others were repressed. The results indicate that extracts of Sargassum spp. and A. nodosum are effective in mitigating high-temperature stress, making their use a promising alternative for inducing resistance in plants to the daily adversities of climate change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biostimulation for Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants)
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