In-depth analysis of Bt cotton adoption:farmers'opinions,genetic landscape,and varied perspectives——a case study from Pakistan

Background Bt technology has played significant role in controlling bollworms and increasing cotton yield in earlier days of its introduction,a subsequent decline in yield became apparent over time.This decline may be attributed to various environmental factors,pest dynamics,or combination of both.Therefore,the present biophysical survey and questionnaire were designed to evaluate the impact of Bt cotton on bollworms management and its effect on reducing spray costs,targeting farmers with varied landholdings and educational backgrounds.Additionally,data on farmers'cultivated varieties and the prevalence of bollworms and sucking insects in their fields were recorded.Subsequently,about eleven thousand cotton samples from farmer fields were tested for Cry1Ac,Cry2Ab and Vip3A genes by strip test.Results In this analysis,83% of the farmers planting approved varieties believe that Bt technology control bollworms,while 17% hold contradictory views.Similarly,among farmers cultivating unapproved varieties,77% agree on effectiveness of Bt technology against bollworms,while 23% disagree.On the other hand,67% of farmers planting approved varieties believe that Bt technology does not reduce spray costs,while 33% agree with the effectiveness.Similarly,78% of farmers cultivating unapproved varieties express doubt regarding its role to reduce spray costs,while 22% are in favour of this notion.Differences in opinions on the effectiveness of Bt cotton in controlling bollworms and reducing spray cost between farmers planting unapproved and approved varieties may stem from several factors.One major cause is the heavy infestation of sucking insects,which is probably due to the narrow genetic variation of the cultivated varieties.Additionally,the widespread cultivation of unapproved varieties(21.67%)is also an important factor to cause different opinions on the effectiveness of Bt cotton.Conclusion Based on our findings,we propose that the ineffective control of pests on cotton crop may be attributed to large scale cultivation of unapproved varieties and non-inclusion of double and triple transgene technologies in country's sowing plan.On the basis of our findings,we suggest cotton breeders,regulatory bodies and legislative bodies to discourage the cultivation of unapproved varieties and impure seed.Moreover,the adoption of double and triple Bt genes in cottons with a broad genetic variation could facilitate the revival of the cotton industry,and presenting a promising way forward.

Characterization of early maturing elite genotypes based on MTSI and MGIDI indexes:an illustration in upland cotton(Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Background Globally,the cultivation of cotton is constrained by its tendency for extended periods of growth.Early maturity plays a potential role in rainfed-based multiple cropping system especially in the current era of climate change.In the current study,a set of 20 diverse Gossypium hirsutum genotypes were evaluated in two crop seasons with three planting densities and assessed for 11 morphological traits related to early maturity.The study aimed to identify genotype(s)that mature rapidly and accomplish well under diverse environmental conditions based on the two robust multivariate techniques called multi-trait stability index(MTSI)and multi-trait genotype-ideotype distance index(MGIDI).Results MTSI analysis revealed that out of the 20 genotypes,three genotypes,viz.,NNDC-30,A-2,and S-32 accomplished well in terms of early maturity traits in two seasons.Furthermore,three genotypes were selected using MGIDI method for each planting densities with a selection intensity of 15%.The strengths and weaknesses of the genotypes selected based on MGIDI method highlighted that the breeders could focus on developing early-maturing genotypes with specific traits such as days to first flower and boll opening.The selected genotypes exhibited positive genetic gains for traits related to earliness and a successful harvest during the first and second pickings.However,there were negative gains for traits related to flowering and boll opening.Conclusion The study identified three genotypes exhibiting early maturity and accomplished well under different planting densities.The multivariate methods(MTSI and MGIDI)serve as novel approaches for selecting desired genotypes in plant breeding programs,especially across various growing environments.These methods offer exclusive benefits and can easily construe and minimize multicollinearity issues.

Exogenous application of bio-stimulants and growth retardants improve nutrient absorption and fiber quality in upland cotton

Background Natural and synthetic plant growth regulators are essential for plant health,likewise these regulators also play a role in increasing organic production productivity and improving quality and yield stability.In the present study,we have evaluated the effects of foliar applied plant growth regulators,i.e.,moringa leaf extract(MLE)and mepiquat chloride(MC)alone and in combination MC and MLE on the conventional cotton cultivar(CIM 573)and transgenic one(CIM 598).The growth regulators were applied at the start of bloom,45 and 90 days after blooming.Results The application of MC and MLE at 90 days after blooming significantly improved the relative growth rate,net assimilation rate,the number of bolls per plant,and seed cotton yield.Likewise,the combined application of MLE and MC at 90 days after blooming significantly boosted the nitrogen uptake in locules,as well as the phosphorus and potassium uptake in the leaves of both cotton cultivars.The application of MLE alone has considerably improved the nitrogen uptake in leaves,and phosphorus and potassium contents in locules of Bt and conventional cotton cultivars.Similarly,Bt cotton treated with MLE at 90 days after blooming produced significantly higher ginning out turn and oil contents.Treatment in combination(MLE+MC)at 90 days after blooming produced considerably higher micronaire value,fiber strength,and staple length in conventional cultivar.Conclusion The natural growth enhancer,MLE is a rich source of minerals and zeatin,improving the nutrient absorption and quality of cotton fiber in both conventional and Bt cotton cultivars.

Emerging technological developments to address pest resistance in Bt cotton

Cotton plays a crucial role in shaping Indian economy and rural livelihoods.The cotton crop is prone to numerous insect pests,necessitating insecticidal application,which increases production costs.The advent of the expression of Bacillus thuringiensis(Bt)insecticidal protein in cotton has significantly reduced the burden of pest without compromising environmental or human health.After the introduction of transgenic cotton,the cultivated area expanded to 22 million hectares,with a 64% increase in adoption by farmers worldwide.Currently,Bt cotton accounts for 93% of the cultivated cotton area in India.However,extensive use of Bt cotton has accelerated resistance development in pests like the pink bollworm.Furthermore,the overreliance on Bt cotton has reduced the use of broad-spectrum pesticides,favouring the emergence of secondary pests with significant challenges.This emphasizes the urgent necessity for developing novel pest management strategies.The high-dose and refuge strategy was initially effective for managing pest resistance in Bt cotton,but its implementation in India faced challenges due to misunderstandings about the use of non-Bt refuge crops.Although gene pyramiding was introduced as a solution,combining mono toxin also led to instances of cross-resistance.Therefore,there is a need for further exploration of biotechnological approaches to manage insect resistance in Bt cotton.Advanced biotechnological strategies,such as sterile insect release,RNA interference(RNAi)-mediated gene silencing,stacking Bt with RNAi,and genome editing using clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats/CRISPR-associated protein(CRISPR-Cas),offer promising tools for identifying and managing resistance genes in insects.Additionally,CRISPR-mediated gene drives and the development of novel biopesticides present potential avenues for effective pest management in cotton cultivation.These innovative approaches could significantly enhance the sustainability and efficacy of pest resistance management in Bt cotton.

Pectin methylesterase inhibitors GhPMEI53 and AtPMEI19 improve seed germination by modulating cell wall plasticity in cotton and Arabidopsis

The germination process of seeds is influenced by the interplay between two opposing factors,pectin methylesterase(PME)and pectin methylesterase inhibitor(PMEI),which collectively regulate patterns of pectin methylesterification.Despite the recognized importance of pectin methylesterification in seed germination,the specific mechanisms that govern this process remain unclear.In this study,we demonstrated that the overexpression of GhPMEI53is associated with a decrease in PME activity and an increase in pectin methylesterification.This leads to seed cell wall softening,which positively regulates cotton seed germination.AtPMEI19,the homologue in Arabidopsis thaliana,plays a similar role in seed germination to GhPMEI53,indicating a conserved function and mechanism of PMEI in seed germination regulation.Further studies revealed that GhPMEI53 and AtPMEI19 directly contribute to promoting radicle protrusion and seed germination by inducing cell wall softening and reducing mechanical strength.Additionally,the pathways of abscicic acid(ABA)and gibberellin(GA)in the transgenic materials showed significant changes,suggesting that GhPMEI53/AtPMEI19-mediated pectin methylesterification serves as a regulatory signal for the related phytohormones involved in seed germination.In summary,GhPMEI53 and its homologs alter the mechanical properties of cell walls,which influence the mechanical resistance of the endosperm or testa.Moreover,they impact cellular phytohormone pathways(e.g.,ABA and GA)to regulate seed germination.These findings enhance our understanding of pectin methylesterification in cellular morphological dynamics and signaling transduction,and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the PME/PMEI gene superfamily in plants.

Exogenous melatonin improves cotton yield under drought stress by enhancing root development and reducing root damage

The exogenous application of melatonin by the root drenching method is an effective way to improve crop drought resistance.However,the optimal concentration of melatonin by root drenching and the physiological mechanisms underlying melatonin-induced drought tolerance in cotton(Gossypium hirsutum L.)roots remain elusive.This study determined the optimal concentration of melatonin by root drenching and explored the protective effects of melatonin on cotton roots.The results showed that 50μmol L-1 melatonin was optimal and significantly mitigated the inhibitory effect of drought on cotton seedling growth.Exogenous melatonin promoted root development in drought-stressed cotton plants by remarkably increasing the root length,projected area,surface area,volume,diameter,and biomass.Melatonin also mitigated the drought-weakened photosynthetic capacity of cotton and regulated the endogenous hormone contents by regulating the relative expression levels of hormone-synthesis genes under drought stress.Melatonin-treated cotton seedlings maintained optimal enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant capacities,and produced relatively lower levels of reactive oxygen species and malondialdehyde,thus reducing the drought stress damage to cotton roots(such as mitochondrial damage).Moreover,melatonin alleviated the yield and fiber length declines caused by drought stress.Taken together,these findings show that root drenching with exogenous melatonin increases the cotton yield by enhancing root development and reducing the root damage induced by drought stress.In summary,these results provide a foundation for the application of melatonin in the field by the root drenching method.

Genetics of biochemical attributes regulating morpho-physiology of upland cotton under high temperature conditions

Background Cotton is a strategically important fibre crop for global textile industry.It profoundly impacts several countries’industrial and agricultural sectors.Sustainable cotton production is continuously threatened by the unpre-dictable changes in climate,specifically high temperatures.Breeding heat-tolerant,high-yielding cotton cultivars with wide adaptability to be grown in the regions with rising temperatures is one of the primary objectives of modern cotton breeding programmes.Therefore,the main objective of the current study is to figure out the effective breed-ing approach to imparting heat tolerance as well as the judicious utilization of commercially significant and stress-tolerant attributes in cotton breeding.Initially,the two most notable heat-susceptible(FH-115 and NIAB Kiran)and tolerant(IUB-13 and GH-Mubarak)cotton cultivars were spotted to develop filial and backcross populations to accom-plish the preceding study objectives.The heat tolerant cultivars were screened on the basis of various morphological(seed cotton yield per plant,ginning turnout percentage),physiological(pollen viability,cell membrane thermostabil-ity)and biochemical(peroxidase activity,proline content,hydrogen peroxide content)parameters.Results The results clearly exhibited that heat stress consequently had a detrimental impact on every studied plant trait,as revealed by the ability of crossing and their backcross populations to tolerate high temperatures.However,when considering overall yield,biochemical,and physiological traits,the IUB-13×FH-115 cross went over particularly well at both normal and high temperature conditions.Moreover,overall seed cotton yield per plant exhibited a posi-tive correlation with both pollen viability and antioxidant levels(POD activity and proline content).Conclusions Selection from segregation population and criteria involving pollen viability and antioxidant levels concluded to be an effective strategy for the screening of heat-tolerant cotton germplasms.Therefore,understanding acquired from this study can assist breeders identifying traits that should be prioritized in order to develop climate resilient cotton cultivars.

Identification of SSR markers linked to the abscission of cotton boll traits and mining germplasm in Cotton

Background Cotton is an economically important crop.It is crucial to find an effective method to improve cotton yield,and one approach is to decrease the abscission of cotton bolls and buds.However,the lack of knowledge of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying cotton boll abscission traits has hindered genetic improvements.Results Pearson’s correlation analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between boll abscission rates 1(AR1)and boll abscission rates 2(AR2).A genome-wide association study was conducted on 145 loci that exhibited high polymorphism and were uniformly distributed across 26 chromosomes(pair).The study revealed 18,46,and 62 markers that were significantly associated with boll abscission,fiber quality,and yield traits(P<0.05),explaining 1.75%–7.13%,1.16%–9.58%,and 1.40%–5.44%of the phenotypic variation,respectively.Notably,the marker MON_SHIN-1584b was associated with the cotton boll abscission trait,whereas MON_CGR5732a was associated with cotton boll abscission and fiber quality traits.Thirteen of the marker loci identified in this study had been previously reported.Based on phenotypic effects,six typical cultivars with elite alleles related to cotton boll abscission,fiber quality,and yield traits were identified.These cultivars hold great promise for widespread utilization in breeding programs.Conclusions These results lay the foundation for understanding the molecular regulatory mechanism of cotton boll abscission and provide data for the future improvement of cotton breeding.

Association mapping of lignin response to Verticillium wilt through an eight-way MAGIC population in Upland cotton

Lignin metabolism plays a pivotal role in plant defense against pathogens and is always positively correlated as a response to pathogen infection. Thus, understanding resistance genes against plant pathogens depends on a genetic analysis of the lignin response. This study used eight Upland cotton lines to construct a multi-parent advanced generation intercross(MAGIC) population(n=280), which exhibited peculiar characteristics from the convergence of various alleles coding for advantageous traits. In order to measure the lignin response to Verticillium wilt(LRVW), the artificial disease nursery(ADN) and rotation nursery(RN) were prepared for MAGIC population planting in four environments. The stem lignin contents were collected, and the LRVW was measured with the lignin value of ADN/RN in each environment, which showed significant variations. We employed 9 323 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphism(SNP) markers obtained from the Cotton-SNP63K array for genotyping the MAGIC population. The SNPs were distributed through the whole genome with 4.78 SNP/Mb density, ranging from 1.14(ChrA06) to 10.08(ChrD08). In addition, a genome-wide association study was performed using a Mixed Linear Model(MLM) for LRVW. Three stable quantitative trait loci(QTLs), qLRVW-A04, qLRVW-A10, and qLRVW-D05, were identified in more than two environments. Two key candidate genes, Ghi_D05G01046 and Ghi_D05G01221, were selected within the QTLs through the combination of variations in the coding sequence, induced expression patterns, and function annotations. Both genes presented nonsynonymous mutations in coding regions and were strongly induced by Verticillium dahliae. Ghi_D05G01046 encodes a leucine-rich extensin(LRx) protein involved in Arabidopsis cell wall biosynthesis and organization. Ghi_D05G01221 encodes a transcriptional co-repressor novel interactor of novel interactor of jasmonic acid ZIM-domain(JAZ–NINJA), which functions in the jasmonic acid(JA) signaling pathway. In summary, the study creates valuable genetic resources for breeding and QTL mapping and opens up a new perspective to uncover the genetic basis of VW resistance in Upland cotton.

Investigation of Working Bodies of the Device for Separation of Fibers Suitable for Spinning from Cotton Waste

It is known that fiber wastes (lint, down and seeds) produced at ginneries contain fibers that are suitable for spinning and can be used in industry, and their separation significantly increases the level of fiber production (1.9% - 2.5%). Based on these analyzes, the study aimed to create a new device that separates long fibers from lint and down. As a result, the amount of fiber output in the enterprise will increase and the enterprise will have significant economic benefits. In addition, the introduction of the device will prevent the addition of long fibers (longer than 16 mm) that can be used in the textile industry to the waste. This article focuses on the creation of a fiber separation device suitable for the treatment and spinning of fibrous waste produced in ginneries. The study theoretically examined the main working bodies of the fiber separation device from waste. Theoretical research is devoted to the study of the strength of the main working body of the fiber separation device−the separating saw drum and its shaft. In the study, the sawdust drum is a more stressed steel coating, and it was found that the strength reserve of this drum is [δТ] = 2.03 (where δТ = 0.8 - 2.5) was found to be. As a result of calculating the resistance of the saw drum shaft to stiffness and vibration, it was determined that the shafts are resistant to vibration under periodic loading and that the oscillation frequency along its axis through the critical rotation frequency is vcr=10.3 Gts.

Cotton Response to Variable Nitrogen Rate Fertigation through an Overhead Irrigation System

Recent increases in irrigated hectares in the Southeastern US have enabled growers to obtain higher yields through applying nutrients through irrigation water. Therefore, many growers apply nutrients through irrigation systems, known as fertigation. Currently, there are no practical decision-making tools available for variable-rate application of nitrogen (N) through overhead sprinkler irrigation systems. Therefore, field tests were conducted on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) during the 2016 and 2017 growing seasons to 1) adapt the Clemson sensor-based N recommendation algorithms from a single side-dress application to multiple applications through an overhead irrigation system;and 2) to compare sensor-based VRFS with conventional nutrient management methods in terms of N use efficiency (NUE) and crop responses on three soil types. Two seasons of testing Clemson N prediction algorithms to apply multiple applications of N were very promising. The multiple applications of N compared to the grower’s conventional methods (even though less N was applied) had no impact on yields in either growing season. There was no difference in cotton yields between 101 and 135 kg/ha N applications in either management zone. Also, there were no differences in yield between sensor-based, multiple N applications and conventional N management techniques. In relation to comparisons of the sensor methods only applying N in three or four applications, statistically increased yields compared to single or split applications in 2016. Applying N in four applications, statistically increased yields compared to single, split or triple applications in 2017. When the sensor-based methods were compared to the grower’s conventional methods averaged over four treatments, the sensor-based N applications reduced fertilizer requirement by 69% in 2016 and 57% in 2017 compared to grower’s conventional methods. When comparing N rates among the four sensor-based methods (three or four) applications, increased N rates by 22 kg/ha in 2016 and 26 kg/ha in 2017 compared to single or split applications but increased the cotton lint yields by 272 and 139 kg/ha, for 2016 and 2017, respectively.

Persicaria lanigera (Polygonaceae) leaf extract exhibits antiulcerogenic and antiproliferative activities against acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis and cotton pellet-induced granuloma tissue in rats

Objective:To assess the effect of leaf extract of Persicaria lanigera on cotton pellet-induced granuloma tissue formation and acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis.Methods:Rats were randomly divided into six groups:normal control,negative control,positive control(dexamethasone or sulfasalazine)as well as Persicaria lanigera(100-600 mg/kg)-treated groups.The effects of the extracts on body weight,antioxidant,and hematological parameters,as well as mast cell proliferation,were assessed.In addition,a histological evaluation was conducted.Results:Persicaria lanigera extract significantly decreased the mean exudate amount and suppressed granuloma tissue formation in a concentration-dependent manner in rats(P<0.05).Additionally,the extract significantly increased body weight,improved hematological profile,reduced the disease activity index score and malondialdehyde level,as well as enhanced catalase and superoxide dismutase activities(P<0.05).Histological evaluation showed Persicaria lanigera extract alleviated acetic acid-induced colonic damages,as evidenced by decreased cell necrosis,edema,and inflammatory cell infiltration.Conclusions:Persicaria lanigera extract possesses antiproliferative,antioxidative,and anti-colitis activities.However,its underlying mechanisms of action need further investigation.

Comparative analysis of SIMILAR to RCD ONE(SRO)family from tetraploid cotton species and their diploid progenitors depict their significance in cotton growth and development

Background SRO(Similar to RCD1)genes family is largely recognized for their importance in the growth,develop-ment,and in responding to environmental stresses.However,genome-wide identification and functional characteri-zation of SRO genes from cotton species have not been reported so far.Results A total of 36 SRO genes were identified from four cotton species.Phylogenetic analysis divided these genes into three groups with distinct structure.Syntenic and chromosomal distribution analysis indicated uneven distribu-tion of GaSRO,GrSRO,GhSRO,and GbSRO genes on A2,D5 genomes,Gh-At,Gh-Dt,Gb-At,and Gb-Dt subgenomes,respectively.Gene duplication analysis revealed the presence of six duplicated gene pairs among GhSRO genes.In promoter analysis,several elements responsive to the growth,development and hormones were found in GhSRO genes,implying gene induction during cotton growth and development.Several miRNAs responsive to plant growth and abiotic stress were predicted to target 12 GhSRO genes.Organ-specific expression profiling demonstrated the roles of GhSRO genes in one or more tissues.In addition,specific expression pattern of some GhSRO genes dur-ing ovule development depicted their involvement in these developmental processes.Conclusion The data presented in this report laid a foundation for understanding the classification and functions of SRO genes in cotton.

Laboratory evaluation of toxicity of selected insecticides against egg and larval stages of cotton pink bollworm, Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae)

Background The cryptic nature of pink bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella(Saunders)larvae enables its reduced vul-nerability to insecticidal control.Further,the development of resistance against Bacillus thuringiensis(Bt)toxins posed a serious threat to transgenic cotton cultivation.This necessitated determining the critical timing of spray applications on the control effectiveness.This study assessed the influence of egg age(freshly laid vs.three-day-old)and the loca-tion of larvae(directly exposed to the insecticide residues on the boll rind vs.burrowed inside the bolls)on insecticide control efficacy.Results The results revealed a significant decrease in the ovicidal activity of tested insecticides with an increase in the age of eggs from one day old to three days old(paired t-test,P<0.05).The larvae directly exposed to the insec-ticide residues on the boll rind were more susceptible(>80%mortality)than the larvae exposed after they had bur-rowed inside the bolls(<49%mortality).The inhibitory effects of tested insecticides on developmental biology were more pronounced in the experiment on pre-larval release insecticide treatment compared with insecticide treatment given post-larval release and entry inside the bolls.Conclusion Egg age influences the insecticide susceptibility,as does the larval location,directly exposed vs bur-rowed inside the bolls.Older eggs and the larvae that had burrowed inside the green bolls of cotton were relatively less susceptible to the insecticide treatments.The toxic effects of insecticides on egg and larval stages were primar-ily ephemeral.These findings are significant for devising a comprehensive strategy for pink bollworm management on a sustainable basis.

GhWDL3 is involved in the formation and development of fiber cell morphology in upland cotton(Gossypium hirsutum L.)

Background Cotton fiber is a model tissue for studying microtubule-associated proteins(MAPs).The Xklp2(TPX2)proteins that belong to the novel MAPs member mainly participate in the formation and development of microtubule(MT).However,there is a lack of studies concerning the systematic characterization of the TPX2 genes family in cotton.Therefore,the identification and portrayal of G.hirsutum TPX2 genes can provide key targets for molecular manipula-tion in the breeding of cotton fiber improvement.Result In this study,TPX2 family genes were classified into two distinct subclasses TPXLs and MAP genes WAVE DAMP-ENED2-LIKE(WDLs)and quite conservative in quantity.GhWDL3 was significantly up-regulated in 15 days post anthe-sis fibers of ZRI-015(an upland cotton with longer and stronger fiber).GhWDL3 promotes all stem hairs to become straight when overexpressed in Arabidopsis,which may indirectly regulate cotton fiber cell morphology during fiber development.Virus induced gene silencing(VIGS)results showed that GhWDL3 inhibited fiber cell elongation at fiber development periods through regulating the expression of cell wall related genes.Conclusion These results reveal that GhWDL3 regulated cotton fiber cell elongation and provide crucial information for the further investigation in the regulatory mechanisms/networks of cotton fiber length.

Combining ability of Egyptian cotton(Gossypium barbadense L.)reveals genetic potential for improved yield and fiber quality

Background As the most widely cultivated fiber crop,cotton production depends on hybridization to unlock the yield potential of current varieties.A deep understanding of genetic dissection is crucial for the cultivation of enhanced hybrid plants with desired traits,such as high yield and fine fiber quality.In this study,the general combining ability(GCA)and specific combining ability(SCA)of yield and fiber quality of nine cotton parents(six lines and three testers)and eighteen F1 crosses produced using a line×tester mating design were analyzed.Results The results revealed significant effects of genotypes,parents,crosses,and interactions between parents and crosses for most of the studied traits.Moreover,the effects of both additive and non-additive gene actions played a notably significant role in the inheritance of most of the yield and fiber quality attributes.The F1 hybrids of(Giza 90×Aust)×Giza 86,Uzbekistan 1×Giza 97,and Giza 96×Giza 97 demonstrated superior performance due to their favorable integration of high yield attributes and premium fiber quality characteristics.Path analysis revealed that lint yield has the highest positive direct effect on seed cotton yield,while lint percentage showed the highest negative direct effect on seed cotton yield.Principal component analysis identified specific parents and hybrids associated with higher cotton yield,fiber quality,and other agronomic traits.Conclusion This study provides insights into identifying potential single-and three-way cross hybrids with superior cotton yield and fiber quality characteristics,laying a foundation for future research on improving fiber quality in cotton.

Surface Morphology and Thermo-Electrical Energy Analysis of Polyaniline (PANI) Incorporated Cotton Fabric

With the exponential development in wearable electronics,a significant paradigm shift is observed from rigid electronics to flexible wearable devices.Polyaniline(PANI)is considered as a dominant material in this sector,as it is endowed with the optical properties of both metal and semiconductors.However,its widespread application got delineated because of its irregular rigid form,level of conductivity,and precise choice of solvents.Incorporating PANI in textile materials can generate promising functionality for wearable applications.This research work employed a straightforward in-situ chemical oxidative polymerization to synthesize PANI on Cotton fabric surfaces with varying dopant(HCl)concentrations.Pre-treatment using NaOH is implemented to improve the conductivity of the fabric surface by increasing the monomer absorption.This research explores the morphological and structural analysis employing SEM,FTIR and EDX.The surface resistivity was measured using a digital multimeter,and thermal stability is measured using TGA.Upon successful polymerization,a homogenous coating layer is observed.It is revealed that the simple pre-treatment technique significantly reduces the surface resistivity of Cotton fabric to 1.27 kΩ/cm with increasing acid concentration and thermal stability.The electro-thermal energy can also reach up to 38.2°C within 50 s with a deployed voltage of 15 V.The modified fabric is anticipated to be used in thermal regulation,supercapacitor,sensor,UV shielding,antimicrobial and other prospective functional applications.

Several Cotton Rotation and Intercropping Systems in Cotton Planting Area of Eastern Henan Province

In recent years,the area dedicated to cotton cultivation in eastern Henan Province has experienced a continuous decline.Developing efficient multi-cropping systems for cotton and increasing the multiple cropping index represent effective strategies to stabilize the cotton planting area and enhance the income of cotton farmers.This paper presents an overview of intercropping systems and the benefits associated with cotton rotation and intercropping practices.Specifically,it discusses the"early maturing cotton-wheat"rotation system,the"cotton-watermelon"intercropping system,the"cotton-Dutch bean"intercropping system,and the"early maturing cotton-peanut-garlic"intercropping system.

Methods for Reducing Seed Damage in the Technological Process of Cotton Processing

The article describes the transfer of cotton to the next technological process while preserving its natural properties during the initial processing process. The analysis of methods of reducing impact forces when removing displaced stones with cotton is analyzed. For this, it is based on the primary processing of cotton.

Reproductive Performance and Fiber Quality Responses of Cotton to Potassium Nutrition

Potassium (K) deficiency affects cotton growth and development and fiber properties. An experiment was conducted in an outdoor pot culture facility by imposing four potassium stress treatments (100%, 40%, 20% and 0% of optimum K level) prior to flowering during 2010 and 2011 growing season. Upland cotton cultivar, TM-1, was seeded in the pots comprised of fine sand as rooting medium. Flowers and bolls were tagged daily to estimate boll maturation period (BMP). Leaf samples were collected every four days from flowering to maturity to estimate leaf K content. Plant height and node numbers were recorded from emergence to 21 days after treatment. Photosynthesis and stomatal conductance were measured weekly from day of treatment imposition to physiological maturity at an interval of seven days. Stem, leaf, and boll dry-component weights, and boll numbers were recorded at the end of the experiment in each year. From each boll, the lint samples were collected and grouped based on average leaf potassium concentration during BMP, and fiber quality parameters were recorded for each group in each treatment. At high K deficient (0 K) condition, total biomass declined by 27% and 28% in years 2010 and 2011, respectively. Significantly, lower numbers of bolls were retained per plant at 0 K stress treatment during both the years. Leaf photosynthesis (r2 = 0.92) and stomatal conductance (r2 = 0.80) declined with declining leaf K levels. Fiber length, strength, micronaire, and uniformity declined linearly with decrease in leaf K content. Weaker fibers with medium length were produced under K-deficient conditions with micronaire values in the discount range. Fiber uniformity, however, did not decline with decrease in leaf K. The identified leaf K status-specific relationships for fiber properties could be used to improve management practices under potassium deficiency and to develop new sub-routines of the existing cotton simulation models. New and improved models will be useful not only in management, but also in arena of policy decisions including future climate change impact assessment analysis.