Decoding the inconsistency of six cropland maps in China

Accurate cropland information is critical for agricultural planning and production,especially in foodstressed countries like China.Although widely used medium-to-high-resolution satellite-based cropland maps have been developed from various remotely sensed data sources over the past few decades,considerable discrepancies exist among these products both in total area and in spatial distribution of croplands,impeding further applications of these datasets.The factors influencing their inconsistency are also unknown.In this study,we evaluated the consistency and accuracy of six cropland maps widely used in China in circa 2020,including three state-of-the-art 10-m products(i.e.,Google Dynamic World,ESRI Land Cover,and ESA WorldCover)and three 30-m ones(i.e.,GLC_FCS30,GlobeLand 30,and CLCD).We also investigated the effects of landscape fragmentation,climate,and agricultural management.Validation using a ground-truth sample revealed that the 10-m-resolution WorldCover provided the highest accuracy(92.3%).These maps collectively overestimated Chinese cropland area by up to 56%.Up to 37%of the land showed spatial inconsistency among the maps,concentrated mainly in mountainous regions and attributed to the varying accuracy of cropland maps,cropland fragmentation and management practices such as irrigation.Our work shed light on the promotion of future cropland mapping efforts,especially in highly inconsistent regions.

Effect of Forest Litter on the Regeneration of Larix sibirica: Insight from Aqueous Extract and Litter Coverage

The effect of litter on forest regeneration depends on the characteristics of regional climate and also shows community specificity. The influences of plant litter on seed germination and seedling growth of Larch Siberian forest in the Altai Mountains were investigated through two simulated experiments including litter coverage and litter aqueous extracts. In the litter coverage experiment, three litter coverage methods including above (D), below (S) and in the middle (Z) of litter were set with the litter coverage thickness of 0, 1, 2, and 4 cm, while two aqueous extract obtained methods using the air-dried litter and litter ash after fir were used with the concentration of 10%, 40%, 80% and 100% in the present study. Results showed that: the aqueous extracts obtained using the air-dried litter restrained the seed germination, while the aqueous extracts obtained using litter ash improved the seed germination. Compared with other litter concentration, the influences of 100% concentration reach highest. The seed germination rate, seed germination potential and vital index under the treatment of seeds above the litter coverage were highest, which were significantly higher than other treatments. The above-ground biomass was significantly higher and the inhibition index of below-ground bio-mass was significantly lower under the treatment of seed above the litter with thin litter cover-age (S1) compared to other litter coverage treatments. These results indicated that the litter aqueous extract and the litter coverage had a combined effect on the seed germination and seedling growth of Siberian larch forest. Fire disturbance could promote seed germination by modifying the adverse effects of litter aqueous extracts and litter coverage, and thus plays an important role in the regeneration of Siberian larch in the Altai Mountains.

Dependency of litter decomposition on litter quality,climate change,and grassland type in the alpine grassland of Tianshan Mountains,Northwest China

Litter decomposition is an important component of the nutrient recycling process and is highly sensitive to climate change.However,the impacts of warming and increased precipitation on litter decomposition have not been well studied,especially in the alpine grassland of Tianshan Mountains.We conducted a manipulative warming and increased precipitation experiment combined with different grassland types to examine the impact of litter quality and climate change on the litter decomposition rate based on three dominant species(Astragalus mongholicus,Potentilla anserina,and Festuca ovina)in Tianshan Mountains from 2019 to 2021.The results of this study indicated there were significant differences in litter quality,specific leaf area,and leaf dry matter content.In addition,litter quality exerted significant effects on litter decomposition,and the litter decomposition rate varied in different grassland types.Increased precipitation significantly accelerated the litter decomposition of P.anserina;however,it had no significant effect on the litter decomposition of A.mongholicus and F.ovina.However,warming consistently decreased the litter decomposition rate,with the strongest impact on the litter decomposition of F.ovina.There was a significant interaction between increased precipitation and litter type,but there was no significant interaction between warming and litter type.These results indicated that warming and increased precipitation significantly influenced litter decomposition;however,the strength was dependent on litter quality.In addition,soil water content played a crucial role in regulating litter decomposition in different grassland types.Moreover,we found that the litter decomposition rate exhibited a hump-shaped or linear response to the increase of soil water content.Our study emphasizes that ongoing climate change significantly altered litter decomposition in the alpine grassland,which is of great significance for understanding the nutrient supply and turnover of litter.

Identification of novel antisense long non-coding RNA APMAP-AS that modulates porcine adipogenic differentiation and inflammatory responses

Long non-coding RNAs(lncRNAs)are emerging as powerful regulators of adipocyte differentiation,fat metabolism and gene expression.However,the functional roles and mechanisms of lncRNAs in these processes remain unclear.Here,we identified a novel antisense transcript,named APMAP-AS,transcribed from adipocyte membrane-associated protein(APMAP)in the pig genome.APMAP-AS and APMAP were highly expressed in retroperitoneal adipose of obese pigs,compared with that in control pigs.Using a bone mesenchymal stem cells(BMSCs)adipogenic differentiation model,we found that APMAP-AS positively regulated adipogenic differentiation.APMAP-AS had the potential to form an RNA–RNA duplex with APMAP,and increased the stability of APMAP mRNA.Additionally,APMAP-AS promoted lipid metabolism and inhibited the expression of inflammatory factors.These findings of a natural antisense transcript for a regulatory gene associated with lipid synthesis might further our understanding of lncRNAs in driving adaptive adipose tissue remodeling and preserving metabolic health.

Phenotypical and gene co-expression network analyses of seed shattering in divergent sorghum(Sorghum spp.)

Sorghum[Sorghum bicolor(L.)Moench],a multipurpose C4 crop,is also a model species of the Poaceae family for plant research.During the process of domestication,the modification of seed dispersal mode is considered a key event,as the loss of seed shattering caused a significant increase in yield.In order to understand the seed shattering process in sorghum,we further studied eight previously identified divergent sorghum germplasm with different shattering degrees.We described their phenotypes in great detail,analyzed the histology of abscission zone,and conducted a gene co-expression analysis.We observed that the abscission layer of the most strong-shattering varieties began to differentiate before the 5-10 cm panicles development stage and was completely formed at flag leaf unfolding.The protective cells on the pedicels were also fully lignified by flowering.Through the weighted gene correlation network analysis(WGCNA),we mined for candidate genes involved in the abscission process at the heading stage.We found that these genes were mainly associated with such biological processes as hormone signal transmission(SORBI_3003G361300,SORBI_3006G216500,SORBI_3009G027800,SORBI_3007G077200),cell wall modification and degradation(SORBI_3002G205500,SORBI_3004G013800,SORBI_3010G022400,SORBI_3003G251800,SORBI_3003G254700,SORBI_3003G410800,SORBI_3009G162700,SORBI_3001G406700,SORBI_3004G042700,SORBI_3004G244600,SORBI_3001G099100),and lignin synthesis(SORBI_3004G220700,SORBI_3004G062500,SORBI_3010G214900,SORBI_3009G181800).Our study has provided candidate genes required for shedding for further study.We believe that function characterization of these genes may provide insight into our understanding of seed shattering process.

Identification of the target genes of AhTWRKY24 and AhTWRKY106 transcription factors reveals their regulatory network in Arachis hypogaea cv.Tifrunner using DAP-seq

WRKY transcription factors(TFs)have been identified as important core regulators in the responses of plants to biotic and abiotic stresses.Cultivated peanut(Arachis hypogaea)is an important oil and protein crop.Previous studies have identified hundreds of WRKY TFs in peanut.However,their functions and regulatory networks remain unclear.Simultaneously,the AdWRKY40 TF is involved in drought tolerance in Arachis duranensis and has an orthologous relationship with the AhTWRKY24 TF,which has a homoeologous relationship with AhTWRKY106 TF in A.hypogaea cv.Tifrunner.To reveal how the homoeologous AhTWRKY24 and AhTWRKY106 TFs regulate the downstream genes,DNA affinity purification sequencing(DAP-seq)was performed to detect the binding sites of TFs at the genome-wide level.A total of 3486 downstream genes were identified that were collectively regulated by the AhTWRKY24 and AhTWRKY106 TFs.The results revealed that W-box elements were the binding sites for regulation of the downstream genes by AhTWRKY24 and AhTWRKY106 TFs.A gene ontology enrichment analysis indicated that these downstream genes were enriched in protein modification and reproduction in the biological process.In addition,RNA-seq data showed that the AhTWRKY24 and AhTWRKY106 TFs regulate differentially expressed genes involved in the response to drought stress.The AhTWRKY24 and AhTWRKY106 TFs can specifically regulate downstream genes,and they nearly equal the numbers of downstream genes from the two A.hypogaea cv.Tifrunner subgenomes.These results provide a theoretical basis to study the functions and regulatory networks of AhTWRKY24 and AhTWRKY106 TFs.

Strategies for improving crop comprehensive benefits via a decision-making system based on machine learning in the rice‒rape,rice‒wheat and rice‒garlic rotation systems in Southwest China

Rice‒rape,rice‒wheat and rice‒garlic rotations are common cropping systems in Southwest China,and they have played a significant role in ensuring ecological and economic benefits(EB)and addressing the challenges of China’s food security in the region.However,the crop yields in these rotation systems are 1.25‒14.73%lower in this region than the national averages.Intelligent decision-making with machine learning can analyze the key factors for obtaining better benefits,but it has rarely been used to enhance the probability of obtaining such benefits from rotations in Southwest China.Thus,we used a data-intensive approach to construct an intelligent decision‒making system with machine learning to provide strategies for improving the benefits of rice-rape,rice-wheat,and rice-garlic rotations in Southwest China.The results show that raising the yield and partial fertilizer productivity(PFP)by increasing seed input under high fertilizer application provided the optimal benefits with a 10%probability in the rice-garlic system.Obtaining high yields and greenhouse gas(GHG)emissions by increasing the N application and reducing the K application provided suboptimal benefits with an 8%probability in the rice-rape system.Reducing N and P to enhance PFP and yield provided optimal benefits with the lowest probability(8%)in the rice‒wheat system.Based on the predictive analysis of a random forest model,the optimal benefits were obtained with fertilization regimes by reducing N by 25%and increasing P and K by 8 and 74%,respectively,in the rice-garlic system,reducing N and K by 54 and by 36%,respectively,and increasing P by 38%in rice-rape system,and reducing N by 4%and increasing P and K by 65 and 23%in rice-wheat system.These strategies could be further optimized by 17‒34%for different benefits,and all of these measures can improve the effectiveness of the crop rotation systems to varying degrees.Overall,these findings provide insights into optimal agricultural inputs for higher benefits through an intelligent decision-making system with machine learning analysis in the rice-rape,rice‒wheat,and rice-garlic systems.

Levels of Germinable Seed in Topsoil and Yak Dung on an Alpine Meadow on the North-East Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

In order to clarify the interactive mechanism between grazing yak and alpine meadow on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau,our study assessed seed density（by species） in the topsoil of alpine meadow with different grazing intensities in the Tianzhu area,north-eastern margins of the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau and their rates of occurrence in yak dung.Seed density in the topsoil of the lightly grazed,moderately grazed,heavily grazed and extremely grazed alpine meadows in November,2010 were 1 551,1 692,2 660 and 1 830 grains m-2,while in the same meadows in April,2011 densities were 1 530,2 404,2 530 and 2 692 grains m-2,respectively.In the cold season pasture,mean seed density in yak dung from November to April in the lightly grazed,moderately grazed,heavily grazed and extremely grazed sites were 121,127,187,and 120 grains kg-1of dry yak dung.The proportion of total seed numbers in yak dung to soil seed bank in lightly grazed,moderately grazed,heavily grazed and extremely grazed alpine meadow was 1.40,2.62,0.69,and 0.90%.12 species out of the 47 were not found in topsoil but were found in yak dung,10 species out of 45 were not found in yak dung but were found in the topsoil.Endozoochorous dispersal by yaks is therefore very important for soil seed bank and plant biodiversity and population dynamics in alpine meadows.

Overload type and optimization of meadow carrying capacity in Maqin County in the Three-River Source Region,China

Alpine meadows,comprising the main ecosystem of the Three-River Source Region,play an important role in the economic development of western pastoral areas.To determine whether the grazing level was too intense or the nutrient-carrying capacity of the meadows was overloaded,and to offer solutions in Maqin County,Qinghai Province,China,the meadows carrying capacity was determined by combining grass-yield and nutrients data for different seasons across different meadows.The results showed that the levels of crude protein(CP),ether extract(EE),ash,soluble sugars(SS),gas production,and energy value of forage in the summer–autumn grazing meadows were higher than those of the winter–spring meadows.Neutral detergent fiber(NDF)and acid detergent fiber(ADF)of forage in the summer–autumn grazing meadows were lower than those of the winter–spring meadows.We found that no pastures were overloaded with metabolizable energy(ME)for the whole year but digestible crude protein(DCP)was overloaded in winter–spring.And there were differences in the amount carrying capacity(forage yield)of seasonal grazing meadows for the different herds,the overload types were annual overloading(herd A),overloaded in summer–autumn(herd B),overloaded in winter–spring(herd C),and not overloaded(herd D).Compared with the previous grazing mode,theoretical carrying capacity,DCP carrying capacity,and ME carrying capacity of herd A increased by 20,19,and 27 sheep units,respectively,after optimization;herd B:36,31,and 45 sheep units,respectively;herd C:28,23,and 44 sheep units,respectively;and herd D:43,40,and 61 sheep units,respectively.In the Three-River Source Region and similar alpine pastoral areas,the grassland-livestock structure should be optimized to improve grassland vegetation status and increase the theoretical carrying capacity.

Assessment of biological changes in wheat seedlings induced by ^(12)C^(6+)-ion irradiation

The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of 12 6+ C ion beam (10～80 Gy) on biological changes of wheat seedlings. Reactive oxygen species (ROS)-related biomarkers and the quantification of plant survival and growth were examined at 10 day after carbon ions irradiation (LET: 30.8 keV/μm). The results showed that heavy ions obviously enhanced ROSs reflected by the production of O2 and H2O2 as well as TBARS, and - treatment with 20 Gy achieved the peak value, suggesting that higher mutagenic potential may occur at 20 Gy. Simultaneously, increase of SOD activity was induced by heavy ions to counteract ROS accumulation. On the other hand, higher doses at 40 and 80 Gy inhibited wheat growth and survival in comparison with the control, and reversely lower doses at 10 or 20 Gy stimulated wheat growth and survival. In conclusion, the above observations imply that a dose range of 20~40 Gy is likely promised for wheat mutation breeding.

Effects of mulch and planting methods on Medicago ruthenica seed yield and soil physical-chemical properties

Medicago ruthenica (L.) Trautv., a wild grass species, is commonly grown as a forage crop in arid and semi-arid areas of China. Herein, we explored mulch patterns and planting methods for optimizing M. ruthenica seed production in the loess plateau of the Gansu Province, China from 2017 to 2019. The experiments comprised of six treatments including (1) flat ground without mulch (F0, control);(2) flat ground with a transparent white 0.008 mm thick plastic film mulch (FP);(3) flat ground with 4500 kg/hm2 straw mulch (FS);(4) furrow with 10 cm ridges (R0);(5) furrow with plastic film mulch (RP);and (6) furrow with straw mulch (RS). Results showed that the harvested seed yield of M. ruthenica was the highest under RP treatment, followed by FP and FS treatments. Soil moisture content from mid-May to mid-August in 2017 was the highest under RP and FP treatments, followed by RS and FS treatments. In 2018, soil moisture content was the highest under RS and FS treatments. In 2017 and 2018, soil temperature was the highest under FP and RP treatments, followed by F0 and R0 treatments. Total and available nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium contents were the highest under RS and FS treatments, followed by RP and FP treatments. Comprehensive analysis result showed that surface mulch improved soil microenvironment and increased seed yield of M. ruthenica. Straw mulch also effectively recycled excess crop straw, thereby encouraging the sustainable development of agriculture in this area. In conclusion, FS treatment was considered the best mode for M. ruthenica seed production in this area.

Heterogeneous expression of Osa-MIR156bc increases abiotic stress resistance and forage quality of alfalfa

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is the most widely cultivated perennial leguminous forage crop woldwide.Micro RNA156 (miR156) precursor genes from dicotyledonous species are reportedly useful for improving alfalfa plant architecture and abiotic stress resistance.However,there has been no report on whether a miR156 precursor gene from a monocotyledonous species functions in alfalfa.We introduced two tandem precursor genes of miR156,rice Osa-MIR156b and Osa-MIR156c (Osa-MIR156bc),into alfalfa.The expression of miR156 in the transgenic (TG) alfalfa was significantly elevated.Compared to wild-type plants,the TG plants overexpressing miR156 had more branches and leaves and showed improved salt and drought tolerance.Overexpression of miR156 slightly reduced plant height,but the biomass yield of TG plants grown in flowerpots was still increased.Forage quality of TG plants was markedly improved by reduction of acid detergent lignin (ADL) content and increase in crude protein content.The expression of the putative miR156 target genes Ms SPL6,Ms SPL12,and Ms SPL13 in TG plants was repressed by miR156overexpression,and that of all tested Ms SPLs would be sharply increased under drought or salt stress.RNA sequencing revealed that overexpression of miR156 affected the expression of genes associated with abiotic stress resistance and plant development in multiple pathways.This first report of overexpression of monocot miR156 precursors in alfalfa sheds light on the function of mi RNA156 precursors from the monocot species rice that could be used for genetic improvement of the dicot forage crop alfalfa.

Land cover classification in a mixed forest-grassland ecosystem using LResU-net and UAV imagery

Using an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) paired with image semantic segmentation to classify land cover within natural vegetation can promote the development of forest and grassland field. Semantic segmentation normally excels in medical and building classification, but its usefulness in mixed forest-grassland ecosystems in semi-arid to semi-humid climates is unknown. This study proposes a new semantic segmentation network of LResU-net in which residual convolution unit (RCU) and loop convolution unit (LCU) are added to the U-net framework to classify images of different land covers generated by UAV high resolution. The selected model enhanced classification accuracy by increasing gradient mapping via RCU and modifying the size of convolution layers via LCU as well as reducing convolution kernels. To achieve this objective, a group of orthophotos were taken at an altitude of 260 m for testing in a natural forest-grassland ecosystem of Keyouqianqi, Inner Mongolia, China, and compared the results with those of three other network models (U-net, ResU-net and LU-net). The results show that both the highest kappa coefficient (0.86) and the highest overall accuracy (93.7%) resulted from LResU-net, and the value of most land covers provided by the producer’s and user’s accuracy generated in LResU-net exceeded 0.85. The pixel-area ratio approach was used to calculate the real areas of 10 different land covers where grasslands were 67.3%. The analysis of the effect of RCU and LCU on the model training performance indicates that the time of each epoch was shortened from U-net (358 s) to LResU-net (282 s). In addition, in order to classify areas that are not distinguishable, unclassified areas were defined and their impact on classification. LResU-net generated significantly more accurate results than the other three models and was regarded as the most appropriate approach to classify land cover in mixed forest-grassland ecosystems.

The genome of the warm-season turfgrass African bermudagrass (Cynodon transvaalensis)

Cynodon species can be used for multiple purposes and have high economic and ecological significance.However,the genetic basis of the favorable agronomic traits of Cynodon species is poorly understood,partially due to the limited availability of genomic resources.In this study,we report a chromosome-scale genome assembly of a diploid Cynodon species,C.transvaalensis,obtained by combining Illumina and Nanopore sequencing,BioNano,and Hi-C.The assembly contains 282 scaffolds(~423.42 Mb,N50=5.37 Mb),which cover~93.2%of the estimated genome of C.transvaalensis(~454.4Mb).Furthermore,90.48%of the scaffolds(~383.08 Mb)were anchored to nine pseudomolecules,of which the largest was 60.78Mb in length.Evolutionary analysis along with transcriptome comparison provided a preliminary genomic basis for the adaptation of this species to tropical and/or subtropical climates,typically with dry summers.The genomic resources generated in this study will not only facilitate evolutionary studies of the Chloridoideae subfamily,in particular,the Cynodonteae tribe,but also facilitate functional genomic research and genetic breeding in Cynodon species for new leading turfgrass cultivars in the future.

Construction of a high-density genetic linkage map and identification of flowering-related QTL in erect milkvetch(Astragalus adsurgens)

Erect milkvetch(Astragalus adsurgens)is a perennial legume forage crop with economic and ecological value in livestock grazing and soil-erosion control in arid and semiarid areas worldwide.Genomic information and molecular tools to support breeding and research in the species are limited.The objectives of this investigation were to map its genome using DNA markers and to identify quantitative trait loci(QTL)in the species.An F1 mapping population of 250 plants was developed from a cross between two parents with differing flowering-related traits.A high-density genetic linkage map containing 4821 markers on eight linkage groups(LGs)with a total genetic length of 1395 cM and a mean interval of 0.29 cM between adjacent markers was constructed with SLAF-seq technology.Comparative genomic analyses revealed the highest genome sequence similarity(8.71%)between erect milkvetch and Medicago truncatula,followed by Glycine max(7.65%),Cicer arietinum(7.53%),and Lupinus angustifolius(5.21%).A total of 64 significant QTL for flowering-related traits on six LGs were detected,accounting for 9.38 to 19.1%of the associated phenotype variation.Five and 48 key candidate genes for floret number and inflorescence length were identified based on the Glycyrrhiza uralensis genome.These candidate genes were involved in ubiquitination/degradation,pollen development,cell division,cytokinin biosynthetic process,and plant flowering.These findings shed light on the regulation of flowering traits in erect milkvetch and provide genomic resources for future molecular breeding of the crop.

Biological Characteristics of Exorista civilis,A Dominant Parasitoid of Loxostege sticticalis L.

Exodsta civilis Rond. （ Diptera： Tachinidae） is an important parasitoid of Loxostege sticticalis L. （ Lepidoptera： Pyrelidae） and other lepidopterous pests. The biological characteristics of E. civilis were observed in the laboratory with L. sticticalis as host. The adults emerged mainly during the daytime from 08：00 am to 10：00 am and 14：00 pm to 16：00 pm, and males emerged usually earlier than females, with the sex ratio of 1.26：1 （ 2/♂ ）. The average fecundity of female （number of eggs laid by one female） was 159.8 eggs, and the spawning duration lasted 16.6 d on average; the first spawning peak appeared on the fourth day after spawning. The longevity of adults was the longest at constant temperature of （23 ± 1 ） ℃. Supplement of sugary substances could significantly prolong the longevity of adults, especially feeding 20% hydromel could extend the longevity to 44 d. The emergence rate of E. civilis significantly decreased with an increase in storage time of L. sticticalis cocoon, but there was no further significant decrease after 110 d.

Evaluation of genetic diversity and drought tolerance among thirtythree dichondra (Dichondra repens) genotypes

Dichondra(Dichondra repens)is an important ground cover plant and is also used as a herbal medicine in China.Objectives of this study were to evaluate phenotypic and genetic diversities among 33 genotypes by using 18 simple sequence repeat(SSR)markers and to further identify the drought tolerance of these germplasms based on five physiological parameters.Results showed that natural variations in phenotypes including plant height,leaf area,leaf thickness,and petiole length were observed among 33 genotypes under well-watered conditions.All 18 SSR primer pairs were found to be polymorphic and significant genetic variation was found in these genotypes.In addition,there were obvious differences in leaf relative water content(RWC),electrolyte leakage(EL),chlorophyll(Chl)content,photochemical efficiency(Fv/Fm),and performance index on absorption basis(PIABS)among 33 genotypes in response to a prolonged period of drought stress(46 d).Drought tolerance of 33 genotypes was then ranked by using subordinate function value analysis(SFVA)and the most drought-tolerant or-sensitive genotypes were identified as Dr5 or Dr29,respectively.Principal component analysis(PCA)further classified 33 genotypes into group I(drought-tolerant),group II(droughtsensitive),and group III(medium types).Current findings showed that 18 selected SSR primers could be potentially used to analyze genetic diversity and varietal identification in dichondra species.Drought-tolerant wild dichondra resources provide a rich genetic base for breeding of new cultivars.

Underexpression of PpDXS1 gene decreased plant height and resulted in altered accumulation of phytohormones in Kentucky bluegrass

1-deoxy-D-xylulose-5-phosphate synthase(DXS)catalyzes the first and rate-limiting step of the plastidic 2-C-methyl-D-derythritol-4-phosphate(MEP)pathway which regulates the synthesis of terpenoids,such as gibberellins,abscisic acid,and chlorophyll.The objective of this study was to determine the functional role of PpDXS1 in plant growth and development in Kentucky bluegrass(Poa pratensis L.).The PpDXS1 gene has a 2139 bp open reading frame that encodes a polypeptide of 712 amino acids with a calculated molecular weight of 76.7 kDa.PpDXS1 gene expression was the highest in leaves.Moreover,the PpDXS1 promoter contained several hormone response elements and gene expression was induced by exogenous treatment with gibberellin,abscisic acid,jasmonate,and pathogen infection.Functional analysis indicated that underexpression of PpDXS1 gene in Poa pratensis decreased plant height and endogenous gibberellin and indole acetic acid production,but promoted abscisic acid accumulation.Furthermore,transcriptome analysis and qRT-PCR results showed that the expression levels of related genes involved in the phytohormone biosynthesis and signal transduction were differentially regulated by PpDXS1 in transgenic Poa pratensis.Overall,these results indicated that PpDXS1 has strong effects on plant height and accumulation of phytohormones,and provided a preliminary understanding of molecular characterization,expression and function of PpDXS1 in Poa pratensis.

Regulation of nutrient accumulation byγ-aminobutyric acid associated with GABA priming-enhanced heat tolerance in creeping bentgrass

γ-Aminobutyric acid(GABA)is known for its positive effects on improving plant stress tolerance,while the association of its role in regulating nutritional availability and GABA priming-enhanced heat tolerance is not well documented.The objective of this study was to determine whether GABA priming may improve heat tolerance in cool-season grass species involving regulation of plant nutrition for macronutrients and micronutrient elements.Plants of creeping bentgrass(Agrostis stolonifera)(cv.'Penncross')in each pot were treated with 10 mL of water(control)or 0.5 mM GABA(GABA priming)by foliar spray and then subjected to heat stress(35/30°C,day/night)or optimal growth temperature(control)(21/19°C,day/night)(non-stress control)for 30 d in growth chambers.GABA-primed plants had significantly higher endogenous GABA content associated with improved heat tolerance compared to non-treated plants,as reflected by higher leaf cell membrane stability,relative water content,osmotic adjustment,chlorophyll content,photochemical efficiency,and net photosynthetic rate.Plants pretreated with GABA exhibited significantly higher content of nitrogen(N),phosphorus(P),calcium(Ca),sodium(Na),and copper(Cu)but lower content of boron(B)and manganese(Mn)in leaves than non-treated plants under heat stress.The enhanced accumulation of N,P,Ca,Na,and Cu and restricted B and Mn accumulation by GABA priming indicate that GABA could modulate mineral nutrient availability in plants,contributing to improved heat tolerance for creeping bentgrass.

Multiple omics datasets reveal significant physical and physiological dormancy in alfalfa hard seeds identified by multispectral imaging analysis

Physical dormancy(PY) commonly present in the seeds of higher plants is believed to be responsible for the germination failure by impermeable seed coat in hard seeds of legume species, instead of physiological dormancy(PD). In this study, a non-destructive approach involving multispectral imaging was used to successfully identify hard seeds from non-hard seeds in Medicago sativa, with accuracy as high as96.8%–99.0%. We further adopted multiple-omics strategies to investigate the differences of physiology,metabolomics, methylomics, and transcriptomics in alfalfa hard seeds, with non-hard seeds as control.The hard seeds showed dramatically increased antioxidants and 125 metabolites of significant differences in non-targeted metabolomics analysis, which are enriched in the biosynthesis pathways of flavonoids, lipids and hormones, especially with significantly higher ABA, a hormone known to induce dormancy. In our transcriptomics results, the enrichment pathway of “response to abscisic acid” of differential expressed genes(DEG) supported the key role of ABA in metabolomics results. The methylome analysis identified 54,899, 46,216 and 54,452 differential methylation regions for contexts of CpG, CHG and CHH, and 344 DEGs might be regulated by hypermethylation and hypomethylation of promoter and exon regions, including four ABA-and JA-responsive genes. Among 8% hard seeds in seed lots,24.5% still did not germinate after scarifying seed coat, and were named as non-PY hard seeds.Compared to hard seeds, significantly higher contents of ABA/IAA and ABA/JA were identified in nonPY hard seeds, which indicated the potential presence of PD. In summary, the significantly changed metabolites, gene expressions, and methylations all suggested involvement of ABA responses in hard seeds, and germination failure of alfalfa hard seeds was caused by combinational dormancy(PY + PD),rather than PY alone.