The Epstein-Barr virus membrane antigen was constructed and inserted into vaccinia virus, Tian-tan strain in order to study the effect of this virus on EB infection and tumorogenesis. The EBV-derived membrane antigen ...The Epstein-Barr virus membrane antigen was constructed and inserted into vaccinia virus, Tian-tan strain in order to study the effect of this virus on EB infection and tumorogenesis. The EBV-derived membrane antigen was expressed under the control of a 7.5 K promoter of vaccinia virus. The antibody against the membrane antigen of EB virus was produced on rabbits vaccinated with recombinant vaccinia virus.展开更多
Infections by the fungus Monilinia laxa,the main cause of brown rot in Europe,result in considerable losses of stone fruit.Herein,we present a comprehensive transcriptomic approach to unravel strategies deployed by ne...Infections by the fungus Monilinia laxa,the main cause of brown rot in Europe,result in considerable losses of stone fruit.Herein,we present a comprehensive transcriptomic approach to unravel strategies deployed by nectarine fruit and M.laxa during their interaction.We used M.laxa-inoculated immature and mature fruit,which was resistant and susceptible to brown rot,respectively,to perform a dual RNA-Seq analysis.In immature fruit,host responses,pathogen biomass,and pathogen transcriptional activity peaked at 14–24 h post inoculation(hpi),at which point M.laxa appeared to switch its transcriptional response to either quiescence or death.Mature fruit experienced an exponential increase in host and pathogen activity beginning at 6 hpi.Functional analyses in both host and pathogen highlighted differences in stage-dependent strategies.For example,in immature fruit,M.laxa unsuccessfully employed carbohydrate-active enzymes(CAZymes)for penetration,which the fruit was able to combat with tightly regulated hormone responses and an oxidative burst that challenged the pathogen’s survival at later time points.In contrast,in mature fruit,M.laxa was more dependent on proteolytic effectors than CAZymes,and was able to invest in filamentous growth early during the interaction.Hormone analyses of mature fruit infected with M.laxa indicated that,while jasmonic acid activity was likely useful for defense,high ethylene activity may have promoted susceptibility through the induction of ripening processes.Lastly,we identified M.laxa genes that were highly induced in both quiescent and active infections and may serve as targets for control of brown rot.展开更多
Yaks are well-adapted to the harsh environment of the Tibetan Plateau,and they emit less enteric methane(CH_(4))and digest poor-quality forage better than cattle.To examine the potential of yak rumen inoculum to mitig...Yaks are well-adapted to the harsh environment of the Tibetan Plateau,and they emit less enteric methane(CH_(4))and digest poor-quality forage better than cattle.To examine the potential of yak rumen inoculum to mitigate CH_(4)production and improve digestibility in cattle,we incubated substrate with rumen inoculum from yak(YRI)and cattle(CRI)in vitro in five ratios(YRI:CRI):(1)0:100(control),(2)25:75,(3)50:50,(4)75:25 and(5)100:0 for 72 h.The YRI:CRI ratios of 50:50,75:25 and 100:0 produced less total gas and CH_(4)and accumulated less hydrogen(H_(2))than0:100(control)at most time points.From 12 h onwards,there was a linear decrease(P<0.05)in carbon dioxide(CO_(2))production with increasing YRI:CRI ratio.At 72 h,the ratios of 50:50 and 75:25 had higher dry matter(+7.71%and+4.11%,respectively),as well as higher acid detergent fiber digestibility(+15.5%and+7.61%,respectively),when compared to the 0:100 ratio(P<0.05).Increasing the proportion of YRI generally increased total VFA concentrations,and,concomitantly,decreased the proportion of metabolic hydrogen([2H])incorporated into CH_(4),and decreased the recovery of[2H].The lower[2H]recovery indicates unknown[2H]sinks in the culture.Estimated Gibbs free energy changes(ΔG)for reductive acetogenesis were negative,indicating the thermodynamic feasibility of this process.It would be beneficial to identify:1)the alternative[2H]sinks,which could help mitigate CH_(4)emission,and 2)core microbes involved in fiber digestion.This experiment supported lower CH_(4)emission and greater nutrient digestibility of yaks compared to cattle.Multi-omics combined with microbial culture technologies developed in recent years could help to better understand fermentation differences among species.展开更多
为研究极端干旱对牧草生长的影响,选择多年生黑麦草(Lolium perenne,Lp)和雀麦(Bromus valdivianus,Bv)给予80%~85%植物有效水(Plant available water,PAW)和20%~25%PAW 2种水分处理,分析两种牧草生长及体内水分状况对干旱胁迫的响应。...为研究极端干旱对牧草生长的影响,选择多年生黑麦草(Lolium perenne,Lp)和雀麦(Bromus valdivianus,Bv)给予80%~85%植物有效水(Plant available water,PAW)和20%~25%PAW 2种水分处理,分析两种牧草生长及体内水分状况对干旱胁迫的响应。研究表明:80%~85%PAW充足水分下,两种牧草生物量积累、水势(Water potential,WP)、相对含水量(Relative water content,RWC)和净光合速率(Net photosynthetic rate,Pn)无明显种间差异。Bv叶片宽而重,蒸腾速率(Transpiration rate,Tr)、CO_(2)总导度(Total conductance to CO_(2),CndCO_(2))和气孔导度(Conductance to H 2O,Gs)显著高于Lp。而Lp分蘗多、叶多汁,瞬时水分利用效率是Bv的1.63倍。20%~25%PAW对两种牧草生长影响不完全一致,叶饱和重、干重和叶面积有相反变化趋势,但与充足水分相比差异不显著;Pn,Tr,CndCO_(2),Gs和RWC则极显著降低,WP极显著降低了1.60 MPa,致使枯叶占比和叶温差显著升高。总之,雀麦和多年生黑麦草生长相近,水分利用模式不同;遭受极端干旱,不同种的两种牧草耐旱机制具有一定的共性,通过增强叶片持水力、降低水分循环、减少蒸腾失水以提高牧草抗旱性。展开更多
The biotrophic fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici is the causal agent of the yellow rust in wheat. Between the years 2010–2013 a new strain of this pathogen(Warrior/Ambition),against which the present cultiva...The biotrophic fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici is the causal agent of the yellow rust in wheat. Between the years 2010–2013 a new strain of this pathogen(Warrior/Ambition),against which the present cultivated wheat varieties have no resistance, appeared and spread rapidly. It threatens cereal production in most of Europe. The search for sources of resistance to this strain is proposed as the most efficient and safe solution to ensure high grain production. This will be helped by the development of high performance and low cost techniques for field phenotyping. In this study we analyzed vegetation indices in the Red,Green, Blue(RGB) images of crop canopies under field conditions. We evaluated their accuracy in predicting grain yield and assessing disease severity in comparison to other field measurements including the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index(NDVI), leaf chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, and canopy temperature. We also discuss yield components and agronomic parameters in relation to grain yield and disease severity.RGB-based indices proved to be accurate predictors of grain yield and grain yield losses associated with yellow rust(R2= 0.581 and R2= 0.536, respectively), far surpassing the predictive ability of NDVI(R2= 0.118 and R2= 0.128, respectively). In comparison to potential yield, we found the presence of disease to be correlated with reductions in the number of grains per spike, grains per square meter, kernel weight and harvest index. Grain yield losses in the presence of yellow rust were also greater in later heading varieties. The combination of RGB-based indices and days to heading together explained 70.9% of the variability in grain yield and 62.7% of the yield losses.展开更多
Background:National and international institutions periodically demand information on forest indicators that are used for global reporting.Among other aspects,the carbon accumulated in the biomass of forest species mu...Background:National and international institutions periodically demand information on forest indicators that are used for global reporting.Among other aspects,the carbon accumulated in the biomass of forest species must be reported.For this purpose,one of the main sources of data is the National Forest Inventory(NFI),which together with statistical empirical approaches and updating procedures can even allow annual estimates of the requested indicators.Methods:Stand level biomass models,relating the dry weight of the biomass with the stand volume were developed for the five main pine species in the Iberian Peninsula(Pinus sylvestris,Pinus pinea,Pinus halepensis,Pinus nigra and Pinus pinaster).The dependence of the model on aridity and/or mean tree size was explored,as well as the importance of including the stand form factor to correct model bias.Furthermore,the capability of the models to estimate forest carbon stocks,updated for a given year,was also analysed.Results:The strong relationship between stand dry weight biomass and stand volume was modulated by the mean tree size,although the effect varied among the five pine species.Site humidity,measured using the Martonne aridity index,increased the biomass for a given volume in the cases of Pinus sylvestris,Pinus halepensis and Pinus nigra.Models that consider both mean tree size and stand form factor were more accurate and less biased than those that do not.The models developed allow carbon stocks in the main Iberian Peninsula pine forests to be estimated at stand level with biases of less than 0.2 Mg·ha^(-1).Conclusions:The results of this study reveal the importance of considering variables related with environmental conditions and stand structure when developing stand dry weight biomass models.The described methodology together with the models developed provide a precise tool that can be used for quantifying biomass and carbon stored in the Spanish pine forests in specific years when no field data are available.展开更多
In this study, we evaluated the effects of genistein supplementation of the thawing extender on frozen-thawed human semen parameters. We analyzed the effect of supplementation on sperm motility, capacitation （membran...In this study, we evaluated the effects of genistein supplementation of the thawing extender on frozen-thawed human semen parameters. We analyzed the effect of supplementation on sperm motility, capacitation （membrane lipid disorder）, reactive oxygen species （ROS） generation, chromatin condensation and DNA damage. Using this preliminary information, it maybe possible to improve the cryopreservation process and reduce the cellular damage. We have confirmed that the isoflavone genistein （10 μmol L-1） has antioxidant properties on the frozen-thawed spermatozoa. This results in a decreased ROS production that shows a slight improvement in the sperm motility, and decreases the membrane lipid disorder and DNA damage caused by cryopreservation. These results suggest an effect of genistein on sperm functionality that could be of interest for assisted reproduction treatments using frozen- thawed human spermatozoa, but further studies will be necessary to confirm our findings and to evaluate the possible clinical applications.展开更多
Postcopulatory sexual selection through sperm competition may be an important evolutionary force affecting many reproductive traits, including sperm morphometrics. Environmental factors such as pollutants, pesticides,...Postcopulatory sexual selection through sperm competition may be an important evolutionary force affecting many reproductive traits, including sperm morphometrics. Environmental factors such as pollutants, pesticides, and climate change may affect different sperm traits, and thus reproduction, in sensitive bird species. Many sperm-handling processes used in assisted reproductive techniques may also affect the size of sperm cells. The accurately measured dimensions of sperm cell structures （especially the head） can thus be used as indicators of environmental influences, in improving our understanding of reproductive and evolutionary strategies, and for optimizing assisted reproductive techniques （e.g., sperm cryopreservation） for use with birds. Computer-assisted sperm morphometry analysis （CASA-Morph） provides an accurate and reliable method for assessing sperm morphometry, reducing the problem of subjectivity associated with human visual assessment. Computerized systems have been standardized for use with semen from different mammalian species. Avian spermatozoa, however, are filiform, limiting their analysis with such systems, which were developed to examine the approximately spherical heads of mammalian sperm cells. To help overcome this, the standardization of staining techniques to be used in compute^-assessed light microscopical methods is a priority. The present review discusses these points and describes the sperm morphometric characteristics of several wild and domestic bird species.展开更多
The need for reforestation in cork oak （Quercus suber L.） areas is challenged by difficulties. Principal among these is herbivory of young plants, vegetative competition, and slow growth rates of cork oak seedlings....The need for reforestation in cork oak （Quercus suber L.） areas is challenged by difficulties. Principal among these is herbivory of young plants, vegetative competition, and slow growth rates of cork oak seedlings. We evaluated the early development of cork oak seedlings treated using tree shelters and mulching in northwestern Tunisia. We tested three tree shelter treatments （non-vented, vented, and control） to shield seedlings from animal damage and five mulch types to control competing vegetation （Italian Stone Pine, Lentisk, combination of Italian Stone Pine and Lentisk （organic mulches）, gravel （inorganic mulch） and no mulch）. At the end of the two-year experiment, sheltered seedlings were 89-99% taller than unshelteredseedlings and had higher numbers and lengths of shoot growth flushes. In contrast, both stem diameter growth and dry weight biomass （from samples extracted after two years） were significantly reduced inside tree shelters. Root-to-shoot ratio was not significantly different in sheltered vs. unsheltered seedlings, suggesting that tree shelters do not adversely affect this parameter. Mulching alone did not favour growth, but could be beneficial when combined with tree shelters. The combination of vented tree shelters and gravel mulch was the most effective treatment for promoting diameter, height and stem volume growth.展开更多
Background: The aim of this study was to determine how maternal undernutrition during pregnancy and offspring birth-weight can affect the postnatal development of offspring under farm conditions, which may lead to con...Background: The aim of this study was to determine how maternal undernutrition during pregnancy and offspring birth-weight can affect the postnatal development of offspring under farm conditions, which may lead to consequences in its meat and carcass quality. The current study involved a total of 80 litters from Iberian sows fed a diet fulfilling daily requirements(n = 47; control) or providing 70% daily requirements(n = 33; underfed) from d 38 to d 90 of gestation when fetal tissue development begins. After birth, piglets born live were classified as low birthweight(LBW; < 1 kg) and normal birth-weight(NBW; ≥1 kg). During the growing phase, 240 control and 230 underfed pigs(50% males and females) distributed by BW category and sex were studied until the slaughter.Results: At birth and weaning, there were significant differences in all morphological measures and weight between NBW and LBW piglets as expected(P < 0.0005), but few effects of the gestational feed restriction. During the growing phase, NBW pigs continued with higher weight than LBW pigs on all the days of evaluation(P < 0.05),even though control-LBW-females and LBW-males showed a catch-up growth. However, underfed pigs showed slower growth and higher feed conversion ratio than control pigs(P < 0.0001) at 215 days old. Moreover, the average daily weight gain(ADWG) for the overall period was greater for NBW, male and control pigs than for their LBW, female and underfed pigs(P < 0.0001, P< 0.0005 and P< 0.05, respectively) and NBW pigs were slaughtered at a younger age than LBW pigs(P < 0.0001). After slaughtering, control pigs also had higher carcass yield and backfat depth than underfed pigs(P < 0.0005) and the maternal nutritional effect caused main changes in the polar lipid fraction of liver and loin. The fatty acid composition of loin in control pigs had higher C18:1 n-9 and n-3 FA concentrations, as well as lower ∑n-6/∑n-3 ratio, than in underfed pigs(P < 0.005).Conclusions: In brief, results showed that the effects of maternal nutritional restriction appeared and increased with offspring age, causing worse developmental patterns for underfed pigs than for control pigs.展开更多
Estimating individual tree volume is one of the essential building blocks in forest growth and yield models. Ecologically based taper equations provide accurate vol- ume predictions and allow classification by mer- ch...Estimating individual tree volume is one of the essential building blocks in forest growth and yield models. Ecologically based taper equations provide accurate vol- ume predictions and allow classification by mer- chantable sizes, assisting in sustainable forest management. In the present study, ecoregion-based compatible volume systems for brutian pine and black pine in the three ecoregions of southern Turkey were developed. Several well-known taper functions were evaluated. A second- order continuous-time autoregressive error structure was used to correct the inherent autocorrelation in the hierar- chical data, allowing the model to be applied to irregularly spaced and unbalanced data. The compatible segmented model of Fang et al. （For Sci 46：1-12, 2000） best described the experimental data. It is therefore recommended for estimating diameter at a specific height, height to a specific diameter, merchantable volume, and total volume for the three ecoregions and two species analyzed. The nonlinearextra sum of squares method indicated differences in ecoregion and tree-specific taper functions. A different taper function should therefore be used for each pine spe- cies and ecoregion in southern Turkey. Using ecoregion- specific taper equations allows making more robust esti- mations and, therefore, will enhance the accuracy of diameter at different heights and volume predictions.展开更多
We assessed the effect of mulching and tree shelters on the establishment and early growth of zeen oak(Quercus canariensis Willd.) during the first 4 years after planting in Northwestern Tunisia. Five mulch types(Ital...We assessed the effect of mulching and tree shelters on the establishment and early growth of zeen oak(Quercus canariensis Willd.) during the first 4 years after planting in Northwestern Tunisia. Five mulch types(Italian Stone Pine(Pinus pinea L.), Lentisk(Pistacia lentiscus L.),and a combination of Italian Stone Pine and Lentisk(organic mulches), gravel(inorganic mulch) and control), and three tree shelter types(non-vented and vented tree shelters, and control) were tested. An increase in the number of internodes occurred under the gravel mulch, while a reduction in survival was found for the lentisk mulch. Tree shelters had no effect on survival, but increased mean height growth and reduced mean diameter growth during the 4 years(excepting a non-significant effect for vented tree shelter at year four). Comparison of the annual shoots and growth units(GU) between sheltered and unsheltered plants according to year of formation revealed two growth phases. In first phase, shoots were totally or partially inside the shelters; mean length of annual shoots and GU were greater for sheltered plants. The second phase was characterized by shoots emerging from shelters; mean length of annual shoots and GU were similar for all plants, with or without tree shelters. Results suggest that the use of tree shelters, particularly vented shelters, could contribute to the improvement of the artificial regeneration of zeen oak.The use of mulching alone or in combination with tree shelters did not improve zeen oak performance in the field.展开更多
Runner bean is usually grown in Chile as household plantings, in small surfaces with trellis support. Several studies were made to grow runner beans extensively without trellis support, like common beans are grown. Th...Runner bean is usually grown in Chile as household plantings, in small surfaces with trellis support. Several studies were made to grow runner beans extensively without trellis support, like common beans are grown. Three runner bean ecotypes were evaluated, with and without trellis support. Although the highest yield was obtained with trellis support, significant yields were obtained without trellis. Thus, this specie can be established without support like the common bean, allowing a great economic advantage especially at large scale plantings. The ecotype named ＂Quilapallar＂ was selected by its white and large grains and excellent cooking quality. Then, seed rates and dry grain yield were compared with commercial varieties of common bean. There was not statistical difference in yield among row distances, except when this was 25 cm apart. Besides, there was not statistical difference among Quilapallar and Torcaza INIA, although the later is a common bean variety with a high yield potential.展开更多
The abundance of predatory phytoseiid mites,Typhlodromus pyri,important biological control agents of spider mite pests in numerous crops,is positively influenced by the density of leaf trichomes and tuft-form domatia ...The abundance of predatory phytoseiid mites,Typhlodromus pyri,important biological control agents of spider mite pests in numerous crops,is positively influenced by the density of leaf trichomes and tuft-form domatia in vein axils.Identification of the genetic regions controlling both trophic levels could facilitate the improvement of predatory mite habitat in breeding programs.The abundance of T.pyri and non-glandular trichomes was measured in a segregating F1 family derived from the cross of the complex Vitis hybrid,‘Horizon’,with Illinois 547-1(V.rupestris B38×V.cinerea B9),finding positive correlation among traits.High density genetic maps were used to localize one major quantitative trait locus(QTL)on chromosome 1 of Illinois 547-1 associated with both predatory mite abundance and leaf trichomes.This QTL explained 23%of the variation in phytoseiid abundance and similar amounts of variance in domatia rating(21%),domatia size(16%),leaf bristle density(37%in veins and 33%in blades),and leaf hair density(20%in veins and 15%in blades).Another nine QTL distributed among chromosomes 1,2,5,8,and 15 were associated solely with trichome density,and explained 7–17%of the phenotypic variation.Combined,our results provide evidence of the genetic architecture of non-glandular trichomes in Vitis,with a major locus influencing trichome densities,domatia size and predatory mite abundance.This information is relevant for breeding grapevines with a more favorable habitat for biological control agents.展开更多
Background: Coupling biomass models with nutrient concentrations can provide sound estimations of carbon and nutrient contents, enabling the improvement of carbon and nutrient balance in forest ecosystems. Although nu...Background: Coupling biomass models with nutrient concentrations can provide sound estimations of carbon and nutrient contents, enabling the improvement of carbon and nutrient balance in forest ecosystems. Although nutrient concentrations are often assumed to be constant for some species and specific tree components, at least in mature stands,the concentrations usually vary with age, site index and even with tree density. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the sources of variation in nutrient concentrations in biomass compartments usually removed during harvesting operations, covering a range of species and management conditions: semi-natural forest, conventional forest plantations and short rotation forestry(SRF). Five species(Betula pubescens, Quercus robur, Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus nitens and Populus spp.) and 14 genotypes were considered. A total of 430 trees were sampled in 61 plots to obtain 6 biomass components:leaves, twigs, thin branches, thick branches, bark and wood. Aboveground leafless biomass was pooled together forpoplar.The concentrations of C, N, K, P, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn and B were measured and the total biomass of each sampled tree and plot were determined. The data were analysed using boosted regression trees and conventional techniques.Results: The main sources of variation in nutrient concentrations were biomass component > > genotype(species) ≈ age >tree diameter. The concentrations of Ca, Mg and K were most strongly affected by genotype and age. The concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, S and Cu in the wood component decreased with age, whereas C concentrations increased, with a trend to reach 50% in the older trees. In the SRF, interamerican poplar and P. trichocarpa genotypes were comparatively more efficient in terms of Ca and K nutrient assimilation index(NAI)(+65-85%) than eucalypts, mainly because leafless biomass can be removed. In the conventional eucalypt plantations(rotation 15 years), debarking the wood at logging(savings of225% of Ca and 254% of Mg for E. globulus) or the use of selected genotypes(savings of 45% of P and 35% of Ca) will provide wood at a relatively lower nutrient cost. Considering all the E. globulus genotypes together, the management for pulp with removal of debarked wood shows NAI values well above(x 1.7-x 3.9) the ones found for poplar or eucalypt SRF and also higher(x 1.6-x4.0) than the ones found for oak and birch managed in medium or long rotations.The annual rates of nutrient removal were low in the native broadleaved species but the rates of available soil nutrients removed were high as compared to poplar or eucalypts. Management of native broadleaved species should consider nutrient stability through selection of the biomass compartments removed.(Continued on next page)(Continued from previous page)Conclusions: The nutrient assimilation index is higher in poplar grown under short rotation forestry management than in the other systems considered. Nutrient management of fast growing eucalyptus plantations could be improved by selecting efficient genotypes and limiting removal of wood. The values of the nutrient assimilation index are lower in the natural stands of native broadleaved species than in the other systems considered.展开更多
The widespread use of antimicrobials in animal husbandry has led to an increase in concentrations of antibiotics in animal faeces. Furthermore, the spreading of this waste as fertilizer on agricultural land indirectly...The widespread use of antimicrobials in animal husbandry has led to an increase in concentrations of antibiotics in animal faeces. Furthermore, the spreading of this waste as fertilizer on agricultural land indirectly introduces antimicrobial residues into the environment. This study examined samples of pig slurry and poultry manure for three tetracyclines—oxytetracycline (OTC), chlortetracycline (CTC) and doxycycline (DOC) and conducted an environmental evaluation of soils. The samples were taken from manure heaps on eight broiler chicken farms and from slurry ponds on eight pig farms. The tetracycline analysis was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS). The risk assessment was carried out on the basis of the estimated PECsoil value and the ecotoxicological information available for terrestrial organisms. TC concentrations were between >0.01 and 1.38 mg/kg. OCT was detected in 37% of the poultry manure and in 20% of the pig slurry samples. DOC was present in 50% of pig slurry samples with an average concentration of 1.2 mg/kg, while CTC was only found in one slurry sample at a concentration of 0.56 mg/kg. Compared with published values for these two farm animals from other countries, the TC concentrations obtained in this study were low. The environmental importance of the data generated was also discussed.展开更多
Lipoxygenase(LOX)is an important contributor to the formation of aroma-active C6 aldehydes in apple(Malus×domestica)fruit upon tissue disruption but little is known about its role in autonomously produced aroma v...Lipoxygenase(LOX)is an important contributor to the formation of aroma-active C6 aldehydes in apple(Malus×domestica)fruit upon tissue disruption but little is known about its role in autonomously produced aroma volatiles from intact tissue.We explored the expression of 22 putative LOX genes in apple throughout ripening,but only six LOXs were expressed in a ripening-dependent manner.Recombinant LOX1:Md:1a,LOX1:Md:1c,LOX2:Md:2a and LOX2:Md:2b proteins showed 13/9-LOX,9-LOX,13/9-LOX and 13-LOX activity with linoleic acid,respectively.While products of LOX1:Md:1c and LOX2:Md:2b were S-configured,LOX1:Md:1a and LOX2:Md:2a formed 13(R)-hydroperoxides as major products.Site-directed mutagenesis of Gly567 to an alanine converted the dual positional specific LOX1:Md:1a to an enzyme with a high specificity for 9(S)-hydroperoxide formation.The high expression level of the corresponding MdLOX1a gene in stored apple fruit,the genetic association with a quantitative trait locus for fruit ester and the remarkable agreement in regio-and stereoselectivity of the LOX1:Md:1a reaction with the overall LOX activity found in mature apple fruits,suggest a major physiological function of LOX1:Md:1a during climacteric ripening of apples.While LOX1:Md:1c,LOX2:Md:2a and LOX2:Md:2b may contribute to aldehyde production in immature fruit upon cell disruption our results furnish additional evidence that LOX1:Md:1a probably regulates the availability of precursors for ester production in intact fruit tissue.展开更多
Peach(Prunus persica)and almond(Prunus dulcis)are two sexually compatible species that produce fertile offspring.Almond,a highly polymorphic species,is a potential source of new genes for peach that has a strongly ero...Peach(Prunus persica)and almond(Prunus dulcis)are two sexually compatible species that produce fertile offspring.Almond,a highly polymorphic species,is a potential source of new genes for peach that has a strongly eroded gene pool.Here we describe the genetics of a male sterile phenotype that segregated in two almond(‘Texas’)×peach(‘Earlygold’)progenies:an F2(T×E)and a backcross one(T1E)to the‘Earlygold’parent.High-density maps were developed using a 9k peach SNP chip and 135 simple-sequence repeats.Three highly syntenic and collinear maps were obtained:one for the F2(T×E)and two for the backcross,T1E(for the hybrid)and E(for‘Earlygold’).A major reduction of recombination was observed in the interspecific maps(T×E and T1E)compared to the intraspecific parent(E).The E map also had extensive monomorphic genomic regions suggesting the presence of large DNA fragments identical by descent.Our data for the male sterility character were consistent with the existence of cytoplasmic male sterility,where individuals having the almond cytoplasm required the almond allele in at least one of two independent restorer genes,Rf1 and Rf2,to be fertile.The restorer genes were located in a 3.4 Mbp fragment of linkage group 2(Rf1)and 1.4 Mbp of linkage group 6(Rf2).Both fragments contained several genes coding for pentatricopeptide proteins,demonstrated to be responsible for restoring fertility in other species.The implications of these results for using almond as a source of novel variability in peach are discussed.展开更多
Background:Inbreeding depression can adversely affect traits related to fitness,reproduction and productive performance.Although current research suggests that inbreeding levels are generally low in most goat breeds,t...Background:Inbreeding depression can adversely affect traits related to fitness,reproduction and productive performance.Although current research suggests that inbreeding levels are generally low in most goat breeds,the impact of inbreeding depression on phenotypes of economic interest has only been investigated in a few studies based on genealogical data.Results:We genotyped 1040 goats with the Goat SNP50 BeadChip.This information was used to estimate different molecular inbreeding coefficients and characterise runs of homozygosity and homozygosity patterns.We detected38 genomic regions with increased homozygosity as well as 8 ROH hotspots mapping to chromosomes 1,2,4,6,14,16 and 17.Eight hundred seventeen goats with available records for dairy traits were analysed to evaluate the potential consequences of inbreeding depression on milk phenotypes.Four regions on chromosomes 8 and 25were significantly associated with inbreeding depression for the natural logarithm of the somatic cell count.Notably,these regions contain several genes related with immunity,such as SYK,IL27,CCL19 and CCL21.Moreover,one region on chromosome 2 was significantly associated with inbreeding depression for milk yield.Conclusions:Although genomic inbreeding levels are low in Murciano-Granadina goats,significant evidence of inbreeding depression for the logarithm of the somatic cell count,a phenotype closely associated with udder health and milk yield,have been detected in this population.Minimising inbreeding would be expected to augment economic gain by increasing milk yield and reducing the incidence of mastitis,which is one of the main causes of dairy goat culling.展开更多
文摘The Epstein-Barr virus membrane antigen was constructed and inserted into vaccinia virus, Tian-tan strain in order to study the effect of this virus on EB infection and tumorogenesis. The EBV-derived membrane antigen was expressed under the control of a 7.5 K promoter of vaccinia virus. The antibody against the membrane antigen of EB virus was produced on rabbits vaccinated with recombinant vaccinia virus.
基金supported by national project AGL2017-84389-C2-1-R from the Spanish Government(MINECO),by a PhD grant CPD2016-0159(M.B.-L.)from INIA,by funding received from the CERCA Programme/Generalitat de Catalunya and start-up funds from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and the Department of Plant Sciences(UC Davis)granted to B.B.-U.All authors declare no commercial,industrial links,or affiliations.
文摘Infections by the fungus Monilinia laxa,the main cause of brown rot in Europe,result in considerable losses of stone fruit.Herein,we present a comprehensive transcriptomic approach to unravel strategies deployed by nectarine fruit and M.laxa during their interaction.We used M.laxa-inoculated immature and mature fruit,which was resistant and susceptible to brown rot,respectively,to perform a dual RNA-Seq analysis.In immature fruit,host responses,pathogen biomass,and pathogen transcriptional activity peaked at 14–24 h post inoculation(hpi),at which point M.laxa appeared to switch its transcriptional response to either quiescence or death.Mature fruit experienced an exponential increase in host and pathogen activity beginning at 6 hpi.Functional analyses in both host and pathogen highlighted differences in stage-dependent strategies.For example,in immature fruit,M.laxa unsuccessfully employed carbohydrate-active enzymes(CAZymes)for penetration,which the fruit was able to combat with tightly regulated hormone responses and an oxidative burst that challenged the pathogen’s survival at later time points.In contrast,in mature fruit,M.laxa was more dependent on proteolytic effectors than CAZymes,and was able to invest in filamentous growth early during the interaction.Hormone analyses of mature fruit infected with M.laxa indicated that,while jasmonic acid activity was likely useful for defense,high ethylene activity may have promoted susceptibility through the induction of ripening processes.Lastly,we identified M.laxa genes that were highly induced in both quiescent and active infections and may serve as targets for control of brown rot.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32072757 and U21A20250)。
文摘Yaks are well-adapted to the harsh environment of the Tibetan Plateau,and they emit less enteric methane(CH_(4))and digest poor-quality forage better than cattle.To examine the potential of yak rumen inoculum to mitigate CH_(4)production and improve digestibility in cattle,we incubated substrate with rumen inoculum from yak(YRI)and cattle(CRI)in vitro in five ratios(YRI:CRI):(1)0:100(control),(2)25:75,(3)50:50,(4)75:25 and(5)100:0 for 72 h.The YRI:CRI ratios of 50:50,75:25 and 100:0 produced less total gas and CH_(4)and accumulated less hydrogen(H_(2))than0:100(control)at most time points.From 12 h onwards,there was a linear decrease(P<0.05)in carbon dioxide(CO_(2))production with increasing YRI:CRI ratio.At 72 h,the ratios of 50:50 and 75:25 had higher dry matter(+7.71%and+4.11%,respectively),as well as higher acid detergent fiber digestibility(+15.5%and+7.61%,respectively),when compared to the 0:100 ratio(P<0.05).Increasing the proportion of YRI generally increased total VFA concentrations,and,concomitantly,decreased the proportion of metabolic hydrogen([2H])incorporated into CH_(4),and decreased the recovery of[2H].The lower[2H]recovery indicates unknown[2H]sinks in the culture.Estimated Gibbs free energy changes(ΔG)for reductive acetogenesis were negative,indicating the thermodynamic feasibility of this process.It would be beneficial to identify:1)the alternative[2H]sinks,which could help mitigate CH_(4)emission,and 2)core microbes involved in fiber digestion.This experiment supported lower CH_(4)emission and greater nutrient digestibility of yaks compared to cattle.Multi-omics combined with microbial culture technologies developed in recent years could help to better understand fermentation differences among species.
文摘为研究极端干旱对牧草生长的影响,选择多年生黑麦草(Lolium perenne,Lp)和雀麦(Bromus valdivianus,Bv)给予80%~85%植物有效水(Plant available water,PAW)和20%~25%PAW 2种水分处理,分析两种牧草生长及体内水分状况对干旱胁迫的响应。研究表明:80%~85%PAW充足水分下,两种牧草生物量积累、水势(Water potential,WP)、相对含水量(Relative water content,RWC)和净光合速率(Net photosynthetic rate,Pn)无明显种间差异。Bv叶片宽而重,蒸腾速率(Transpiration rate,Tr)、CO_(2)总导度(Total conductance to CO_(2),CndCO_(2))和气孔导度(Conductance to H 2O,Gs)显著高于Lp。而Lp分蘗多、叶多汁,瞬时水分利用效率是Bv的1.63倍。20%~25%PAW对两种牧草生长影响不完全一致,叶饱和重、干重和叶面积有相反变化趋势,但与充足水分相比差异不显著;Pn,Tr,CndCO_(2),Gs和RWC则极显著降低,WP极显著降低了1.60 MPa,致使枯叶占比和叶温差显著升高。总之,雀麦和多年生黑麦草生长相近,水分利用模式不同;遭受极端干旱,不同种的两种牧草耐旱机制具有一定的共性,通过增强叶片持水力、降低水分循环、减少蒸腾失水以提高牧草抗旱性。
文摘The biotrophic fungus Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici is the causal agent of the yellow rust in wheat. Between the years 2010–2013 a new strain of this pathogen(Warrior/Ambition),against which the present cultivated wheat varieties have no resistance, appeared and spread rapidly. It threatens cereal production in most of Europe. The search for sources of resistance to this strain is proposed as the most efficient and safe solution to ensure high grain production. This will be helped by the development of high performance and low cost techniques for field phenotyping. In this study we analyzed vegetation indices in the Red,Green, Blue(RGB) images of crop canopies under field conditions. We evaluated their accuracy in predicting grain yield and assessing disease severity in comparison to other field measurements including the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index(NDVI), leaf chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, and canopy temperature. We also discuss yield components and agronomic parameters in relation to grain yield and disease severity.RGB-based indices proved to be accurate predictors of grain yield and grain yield losses associated with yellow rust(R2= 0.581 and R2= 0.536, respectively), far surpassing the predictive ability of NDVI(R2= 0.118 and R2= 0.128, respectively). In comparison to potential yield, we found the presence of disease to be correlated with reductions in the number of grains per spike, grains per square meter, kernel weight and harvest index. Grain yield losses in the presence of yellow rust were also greater in later heading varieties. The combination of RGB-based indices and days to heading together explained 70.9% of the variability in grain yield and 62.7% of the yield losses.
文摘Background:National and international institutions periodically demand information on forest indicators that are used for global reporting.Among other aspects,the carbon accumulated in the biomass of forest species must be reported.For this purpose,one of the main sources of data is the National Forest Inventory(NFI),which together with statistical empirical approaches and updating procedures can even allow annual estimates of the requested indicators.Methods:Stand level biomass models,relating the dry weight of the biomass with the stand volume were developed for the five main pine species in the Iberian Peninsula(Pinus sylvestris,Pinus pinea,Pinus halepensis,Pinus nigra and Pinus pinaster).The dependence of the model on aridity and/or mean tree size was explored,as well as the importance of including the stand form factor to correct model bias.Furthermore,the capability of the models to estimate forest carbon stocks,updated for a given year,was also analysed.Results:The strong relationship between stand dry weight biomass and stand volume was modulated by the mean tree size,although the effect varied among the five pine species.Site humidity,measured using the Martonne aridity index,increased the biomass for a given volume in the cases of Pinus sylvestris,Pinus halepensis and Pinus nigra.Models that consider both mean tree size and stand form factor were more accurate and less biased than those that do not.The models developed allow carbon stocks in the main Iberian Peninsula pine forests to be estimated at stand level with biases of less than 0.2 Mg·ha^(-1).Conclusions:The results of this study reveal the importance of considering variables related with environmental conditions and stand structure when developing stand dry weight biomass models.The described methodology together with the models developed provide a precise tool that can be used for quantifying biomass and carbon stored in the Spanish pine forests in specific years when no field data are available.
文摘In this study, we evaluated the effects of genistein supplementation of the thawing extender on frozen-thawed human semen parameters. We analyzed the effect of supplementation on sperm motility, capacitation （membrane lipid disorder）, reactive oxygen species （ROS） generation, chromatin condensation and DNA damage. Using this preliminary information, it maybe possible to improve the cryopreservation process and reduce the cellular damage. We have confirmed that the isoflavone genistein （10 μmol L-1） has antioxidant properties on the frozen-thawed spermatozoa. This results in a decreased ROS production that shows a slight improvement in the sperm motility, and decreases the membrane lipid disorder and DNA damage caused by cryopreservation. These results suggest an effect of genistein on sperm functionality that could be of interest for assisted reproduction treatments using frozen- thawed human spermatozoa, but further studies will be necessary to confirm our findings and to evaluate the possible clinical applications.
文摘Postcopulatory sexual selection through sperm competition may be an important evolutionary force affecting many reproductive traits, including sperm morphometrics. Environmental factors such as pollutants, pesticides, and climate change may affect different sperm traits, and thus reproduction, in sensitive bird species. Many sperm-handling processes used in assisted reproductive techniques may also affect the size of sperm cells. The accurately measured dimensions of sperm cell structures （especially the head） can thus be used as indicators of environmental influences, in improving our understanding of reproductive and evolutionary strategies, and for optimizing assisted reproductive techniques （e.g., sperm cryopreservation） for use with birds. Computer-assisted sperm morphometry analysis （CASA-Morph） provides an accurate and reliable method for assessing sperm morphometry, reducing the problem of subjectivity associated with human visual assessment. Computerized systems have been standardized for use with semen from different mammalian species. Avian spermatozoa, however, are filiform, limiting their analysis with such systems, which were developed to examine the approximately spherical heads of mammalian sperm cells. To help overcome this, the standardization of staining techniques to be used in compute^-assessed light microscopical methods is a priority. The present review discusses these points and describes the sperm morphometric characteristics of several wild and domestic bird species.
基金supported by the laboratory of silvopastoral resources (Silvopastoral Institute-Tabarka)
文摘The need for reforestation in cork oak （Quercus suber L.） areas is challenged by difficulties. Principal among these is herbivory of young plants, vegetative competition, and slow growth rates of cork oak seedlings. We evaluated the early development of cork oak seedlings treated using tree shelters and mulching in northwestern Tunisia. We tested three tree shelter treatments （non-vented, vented, and control） to shield seedlings from animal damage and five mulch types to control competing vegetation （Italian Stone Pine, Lentisk, combination of Italian Stone Pine and Lentisk （organic mulches）, gravel （inorganic mulch） and no mulch）. At the end of the two-year experiment, sheltered seedlings were 89-99% taller than unshelteredseedlings and had higher numbers and lengths of shoot growth flushes. In contrast, both stem diameter growth and dry weight biomass （from samples extracted after two years） were significantly reduced inside tree shelters. Root-to-shoot ratio was not significantly different in sheltered vs. unsheltered seedlings, suggesting that tree shelters do not adversely affect this parameter. Mulching alone did not favour growth, but could be beneficial when combined with tree shelters. The combination of vented tree shelters and gravel mulch was the most effective treatment for promoting diameter, height and stem volume growth.
基金supported by funds from the Ministry of Economy and competitiveness(project AGL2013–48121-C3-R and AGL2016–79321-C2–2-R)co-funded by FEDER.More funds were obtained from MEDGAN-REDLAB(project S2013/ABI-2913)CAM,co-funded by FEDER.MVG and CGC are backed by the Spanish Government(MVG:FPU National Program Grant Number FPU014/01285.CGC:FPI National Program Grant Number BES-2014-070464)
文摘Background: The aim of this study was to determine how maternal undernutrition during pregnancy and offspring birth-weight can affect the postnatal development of offspring under farm conditions, which may lead to consequences in its meat and carcass quality. The current study involved a total of 80 litters from Iberian sows fed a diet fulfilling daily requirements(n = 47; control) or providing 70% daily requirements(n = 33; underfed) from d 38 to d 90 of gestation when fetal tissue development begins. After birth, piglets born live were classified as low birthweight(LBW; < 1 kg) and normal birth-weight(NBW; ≥1 kg). During the growing phase, 240 control and 230 underfed pigs(50% males and females) distributed by BW category and sex were studied until the slaughter.Results: At birth and weaning, there were significant differences in all morphological measures and weight between NBW and LBW piglets as expected(P < 0.0005), but few effects of the gestational feed restriction. During the growing phase, NBW pigs continued with higher weight than LBW pigs on all the days of evaluation(P < 0.05),even though control-LBW-females and LBW-males showed a catch-up growth. However, underfed pigs showed slower growth and higher feed conversion ratio than control pigs(P < 0.0001) at 215 days old. Moreover, the average daily weight gain(ADWG) for the overall period was greater for NBW, male and control pigs than for their LBW, female and underfed pigs(P < 0.0001, P< 0.0005 and P< 0.05, respectively) and NBW pigs were slaughtered at a younger age than LBW pigs(P < 0.0001). After slaughtering, control pigs also had higher carcass yield and backfat depth than underfed pigs(P < 0.0005) and the maternal nutritional effect caused main changes in the polar lipid fraction of liver and loin. The fatty acid composition of loin in control pigs had higher C18:1 n-9 and n-3 FA concentrations, as well as lower ∑n-6/∑n-3 ratio, than in underfed pigs(P < 0.005).Conclusions: In brief, results showed that the effects of maternal nutritional restriction appeared and increased with offspring age, causing worse developmental patterns for underfed pigs than for control pigs.
基金financially supported by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey(Project No:109 O 714)
文摘Estimating individual tree volume is one of the essential building blocks in forest growth and yield models. Ecologically based taper equations provide accurate vol- ume predictions and allow classification by mer- chantable sizes, assisting in sustainable forest management. In the present study, ecoregion-based compatible volume systems for brutian pine and black pine in the three ecoregions of southern Turkey were developed. Several well-known taper functions were evaluated. A second- order continuous-time autoregressive error structure was used to correct the inherent autocorrelation in the hierar- chical data, allowing the model to be applied to irregularly spaced and unbalanced data. The compatible segmented model of Fang et al. （For Sci 46：1-12, 2000） best described the experimental data. It is therefore recommended for estimating diameter at a specific height, height to a specific diameter, merchantable volume, and total volume for the three ecoregions and two species analyzed. The nonlinearextra sum of squares method indicated differences in ecoregion and tree-specific taper functions. A different taper function should therefore be used for each pine spe- cies and ecoregion in southern Turkey. Using ecoregion- specific taper equations allows making more robust esti- mations and, therefore, will enhance the accuracy of diameter at different heights and volume predictions.
基金supported by the laboratory of silvopastoral resources(Silvopastoral Institute-Tabarka)
文摘We assessed the effect of mulching and tree shelters on the establishment and early growth of zeen oak(Quercus canariensis Willd.) during the first 4 years after planting in Northwestern Tunisia. Five mulch types(Italian Stone Pine(Pinus pinea L.), Lentisk(Pistacia lentiscus L.),and a combination of Italian Stone Pine and Lentisk(organic mulches), gravel(inorganic mulch) and control), and three tree shelter types(non-vented and vented tree shelters, and control) were tested. An increase in the number of internodes occurred under the gravel mulch, while a reduction in survival was found for the lentisk mulch. Tree shelters had no effect on survival, but increased mean height growth and reduced mean diameter growth during the 4 years(excepting a non-significant effect for vented tree shelter at year four). Comparison of the annual shoots and growth units(GU) between sheltered and unsheltered plants according to year of formation revealed two growth phases. In first phase, shoots were totally or partially inside the shelters; mean length of annual shoots and GU were greater for sheltered plants. The second phase was characterized by shoots emerging from shelters; mean length of annual shoots and GU were similar for all plants, with or without tree shelters. Results suggest that the use of tree shelters, particularly vented shelters, could contribute to the improvement of the artificial regeneration of zeen oak.The use of mulching alone or in combination with tree shelters did not improve zeen oak performance in the field.
文摘Runner bean is usually grown in Chile as household plantings, in small surfaces with trellis support. Several studies were made to grow runner beans extensively without trellis support, like common beans are grown. Three runner bean ecotypes were evaluated, with and without trellis support. Although the highest yield was obtained with trellis support, significant yields were obtained without trellis. Thus, this specie can be established without support like the common bean, allowing a great economic advantage especially at large scale plantings. The ecotype named ＂Quilapallar＂ was selected by its white and large grains and excellent cooking quality. Then, seed rates and dry grain yield were compared with commercial varieties of common bean. There was not statistical difference in yield among row distances, except when this was 25 cm apart. Besides, there was not statistical difference among Quilapallar and Torcaza INIA, although the later is a common bean variety with a high yield potential.
基金supported by the Specialty Crop Research Initiative of the National Institute of Food and Agriculture,U.S.Department of Agriculture,under award number 2011-51181-30635 and National Research Initiative award number 2004-35302-14725.
文摘The abundance of predatory phytoseiid mites,Typhlodromus pyri,important biological control agents of spider mite pests in numerous crops,is positively influenced by the density of leaf trichomes and tuft-form domatia in vein axils.Identification of the genetic regions controlling both trophic levels could facilitate the improvement of predatory mite habitat in breeding programs.The abundance of T.pyri and non-glandular trichomes was measured in a segregating F1 family derived from the cross of the complex Vitis hybrid,‘Horizon’,with Illinois 547-1(V.rupestris B38×V.cinerea B9),finding positive correlation among traits.High density genetic maps were used to localize one major quantitative trait locus(QTL)on chromosome 1 of Illinois 547-1 associated with both predatory mite abundance and leaf trichomes.This QTL explained 23%of the variation in phytoseiid abundance and similar amounts of variance in domatia rating(21%),domatia size(16%),leaf bristle density(37%in veins and 33%in blades),and leaf hair density(20%in veins and 15%in blades).Another nine QTL distributed among chromosomes 1,2,5,8,and 15 were associated solely with trichome density,and explained 7–17%of the phenotypic variation.Combined,our results provide evidence of the genetic architecture of non-glandular trichomes in Vitis,with a major locus influencing trichome densities,domatia size and predatory mite abundance.This information is relevant for breeding grapevines with a more favorable habitat for biological control agents.
基金Funding for this research was obtained from MINECO(Spain)through the project RTA2014-00007-C03-02Additional funding was derived from the projects AGL2010-22308-C02-01 and AGL2007-66739-C02-01/FOR
文摘Background: Coupling biomass models with nutrient concentrations can provide sound estimations of carbon and nutrient contents, enabling the improvement of carbon and nutrient balance in forest ecosystems. Although nutrient concentrations are often assumed to be constant for some species and specific tree components, at least in mature stands,the concentrations usually vary with age, site index and even with tree density. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the sources of variation in nutrient concentrations in biomass compartments usually removed during harvesting operations, covering a range of species and management conditions: semi-natural forest, conventional forest plantations and short rotation forestry(SRF). Five species(Betula pubescens, Quercus robur, Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus nitens and Populus spp.) and 14 genotypes were considered. A total of 430 trees were sampled in 61 plots to obtain 6 biomass components:leaves, twigs, thin branches, thick branches, bark and wood. Aboveground leafless biomass was pooled together forpoplar.The concentrations of C, N, K, P, Ca, Mg, S, Fe, Mn, Cu, Zn and B were measured and the total biomass of each sampled tree and plot were determined. The data were analysed using boosted regression trees and conventional techniques.Results: The main sources of variation in nutrient concentrations were biomass component > > genotype(species) ≈ age >tree diameter. The concentrations of Ca, Mg and K were most strongly affected by genotype and age. The concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, S and Cu in the wood component decreased with age, whereas C concentrations increased, with a trend to reach 50% in the older trees. In the SRF, interamerican poplar and P. trichocarpa genotypes were comparatively more efficient in terms of Ca and K nutrient assimilation index(NAI)(+65-85%) than eucalypts, mainly because leafless biomass can be removed. In the conventional eucalypt plantations(rotation 15 years), debarking the wood at logging(savings of225% of Ca and 254% of Mg for E. globulus) or the use of selected genotypes(savings of 45% of P and 35% of Ca) will provide wood at a relatively lower nutrient cost. Considering all the E. globulus genotypes together, the management for pulp with removal of debarked wood shows NAI values well above(x 1.7-x 3.9) the ones found for poplar or eucalypt SRF and also higher(x 1.6-x4.0) than the ones found for oak and birch managed in medium or long rotations.The annual rates of nutrient removal were low in the native broadleaved species but the rates of available soil nutrients removed were high as compared to poplar or eucalypts. Management of native broadleaved species should consider nutrient stability through selection of the biomass compartments removed.(Continued on next page)(Continued from previous page)Conclusions: The nutrient assimilation index is higher in poplar grown under short rotation forestry management than in the other systems considered. Nutrient management of fast growing eucalyptus plantations could be improved by selecting efficient genotypes and limiting removal of wood. The values of the nutrient assimilation index are lower in the natural stands of native broadleaved species than in the other systems considered.
文摘The widespread use of antimicrobials in animal husbandry has led to an increase in concentrations of antibiotics in animal faeces. Furthermore, the spreading of this waste as fertilizer on agricultural land indirectly introduces antimicrobial residues into the environment. This study examined samples of pig slurry and poultry manure for three tetracyclines—oxytetracycline (OTC), chlortetracycline (CTC) and doxycycline (DOC) and conducted an environmental evaluation of soils. The samples were taken from manure heaps on eight broiler chicken farms and from slurry ponds on eight pig farms. The tetracycline analysis was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography combined with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC/MS). The risk assessment was carried out on the basis of the estimated PECsoil value and the ecotoxicological information available for terrestrial organisms. TC concentrations were between >0.01 and 1.38 mg/kg. OCT was detected in 37% of the poultry manure and in 20% of the pig slurry samples. DOC was present in 50% of pig slurry samples with an average concentration of 1.2 mg/kg, while CTC was only found in one slurry sample at a concentration of 0.56 mg/kg. Compared with published values for these two farm animals from other countries, the TC concentrations obtained in this study were low. The environmental importance of the data generated was also discussed.
基金This research was financially supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft in frame of the project numbers AOBJ 575560 and AOBJ 575561.
文摘Lipoxygenase(LOX)is an important contributor to the formation of aroma-active C6 aldehydes in apple(Malus×domestica)fruit upon tissue disruption but little is known about its role in autonomously produced aroma volatiles from intact tissue.We explored the expression of 22 putative LOX genes in apple throughout ripening,but only six LOXs were expressed in a ripening-dependent manner.Recombinant LOX1:Md:1a,LOX1:Md:1c,LOX2:Md:2a and LOX2:Md:2b proteins showed 13/9-LOX,9-LOX,13/9-LOX and 13-LOX activity with linoleic acid,respectively.While products of LOX1:Md:1c and LOX2:Md:2b were S-configured,LOX1:Md:1a and LOX2:Md:2a formed 13(R)-hydroperoxides as major products.Site-directed mutagenesis of Gly567 to an alanine converted the dual positional specific LOX1:Md:1a to an enzyme with a high specificity for 9(S)-hydroperoxide formation.The high expression level of the corresponding MdLOX1a gene in stored apple fruit,the genetic association with a quantitative trait locus for fruit ester and the remarkable agreement in regio-and stereoselectivity of the LOX1:Md:1a reaction with the overall LOX activity found in mature apple fruits,suggest a major physiological function of LOX1:Md:1a during climacteric ripening of apples.While LOX1:Md:1c,LOX2:Md:2a and LOX2:Md:2b may contribute to aldehyde production in immature fruit upon cell disruption our results furnish additional evidence that LOX1:Md:1a probably regulates the availability of precursors for ester production in intact fruit tissue.
基金This work has been partly funded under grants AGL2012-40228-C02-01 from the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Knowledge and the EU Seventh Framework Programme by the FruitBreedomics project No.265582:Integrated approach for increasing breeding efficiency in fruit tree crops.
文摘Peach(Prunus persica)and almond(Prunus dulcis)are two sexually compatible species that produce fertile offspring.Almond,a highly polymorphic species,is a potential source of new genes for peach that has a strongly eroded gene pool.Here we describe the genetics of a male sterile phenotype that segregated in two almond(‘Texas’)×peach(‘Earlygold’)progenies:an F2(T×E)and a backcross one(T1E)to the‘Earlygold’parent.High-density maps were developed using a 9k peach SNP chip and 135 simple-sequence repeats.Three highly syntenic and collinear maps were obtained:one for the F2(T×E)and two for the backcross,T1E(for the hybrid)and E(for‘Earlygold’).A major reduction of recombination was observed in the interspecific maps(T×E and T1E)compared to the intraspecific parent(E).The E map also had extensive monomorphic genomic regions suggesting the presence of large DNA fragments identical by descent.Our data for the male sterility character were consistent with the existence of cytoplasmic male sterility,where individuals having the almond cytoplasm required the almond allele in at least one of two independent restorer genes,Rf1 and Rf2,to be fertile.The restorer genes were located in a 3.4 Mbp fragment of linkage group 2(Rf1)and 1.4 Mbp of linkage group 6(Rf2).Both fragments contained several genes coding for pentatricopeptide proteins,demonstrated to be responsible for restoring fertility in other species.The implications of these results for using almond as a source of novel variability in peach are discussed.
基金funded by the European Regional Development Fund(FEDER)/Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación-Agencia Estatal de Investigación/Project Reference grant:PID2019-105805RB-I00by the CERCA Programme/Generalitat de Catalunya+3 种基金the support of the Spanish Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación for the Center of Excellence Severo Ochoa 2020–2023(CEX2019–000902-S)grant awarded to the Centre for Research in Agricultural Genomics(CRAG,Bellaterra,Spain)the support of the CERCA programme of the Generalitat de Catalunyafunded by a PhD fellowship from the China Scholarship Council(CSC)funded with a PhD fellowship Formación de Personal Investigador(BES-C-2017-079709)awarded by the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitivity。
文摘Background:Inbreeding depression can adversely affect traits related to fitness,reproduction and productive performance.Although current research suggests that inbreeding levels are generally low in most goat breeds,the impact of inbreeding depression on phenotypes of economic interest has only been investigated in a few studies based on genealogical data.Results:We genotyped 1040 goats with the Goat SNP50 BeadChip.This information was used to estimate different molecular inbreeding coefficients and characterise runs of homozygosity and homozygosity patterns.We detected38 genomic regions with increased homozygosity as well as 8 ROH hotspots mapping to chromosomes 1,2,4,6,14,16 and 17.Eight hundred seventeen goats with available records for dairy traits were analysed to evaluate the potential consequences of inbreeding depression on milk phenotypes.Four regions on chromosomes 8 and 25were significantly associated with inbreeding depression for the natural logarithm of the somatic cell count.Notably,these regions contain several genes related with immunity,such as SYK,IL27,CCL19 and CCL21.Moreover,one region on chromosome 2 was significantly associated with inbreeding depression for milk yield.Conclusions:Although genomic inbreeding levels are low in Murciano-Granadina goats,significant evidence of inbreeding depression for the logarithm of the somatic cell count,a phenotype closely associated with udder health and milk yield,have been detected in this population.Minimising inbreeding would be expected to augment economic gain by increasing milk yield and reducing the incidence of mastitis,which is one of the main causes of dairy goat culling.
