Search

Climate change is becoming a global challenge, threating agriculture's capacity to meet the food and nutritional requirements of the growing population. Underutilized crops present an opportunity to address climate change and nutritional deficiencies. Tef is a stress-resilient cereal crop, producing gluten-free grain of high nutritional quality. However, knowledge is lacking on tef's diversity of grain nutritional properties, their interaction with environmental conditions (e.g., water availability) and the underlying genomic loci. We assessed the effect of water availability on tef grain nutrient concentrations and identify the associated genomic loci. A collection of 223 tef genotypes, a subset of tef diversity panel 300 (TDP-300), were grown in the field under well-watered and water-limited conditions in 2021, and phenotyped for 11 traits including: grain protein and mineral concentrations and seed color. A genome-wide association study was conducted using 28,837 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and phenotypic data to identify marker–trait associations (MTAs). Tef grain nutrient concentrations exhibited wide genetic diversity with a significant influence of environment. Protein and most micronutrients were more concentrated under water-limited conditions, whereas most macronutrients were higher in the well-watered environment. A total of 59 SNPs were associated with one or more of the studied traits, resulting in 65 MTAs detected under both water treatments, and providing insights into the genetic basis of grain nutrients. Five SNPs reflected multiple associations, with four detecting the same trait under both treatments (multiple-environment effect), and one associated with both Zn and K (pleiotropic effect). In addition, two pairs of closely linked SNPs reflected multiple-environment effects. While multiple-environment associations provide greater support for the integrity of these MTAs, the pleiotropic locus hints at a common mechanism controlling two mineral ions. The identified MTAs shed new light on the genomic architecture of tef's nutritional properties and provide the basis to enhance tef grain nutritional quality alongside drought resilience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orphan crops are crops that are of substantial importance to food security and economic growth at a local or regional scale, yet lacking investment in crop improvement and seed systems development. Tef is an example of such an orphan crop. It is vital to economy and food systems in the Horn of Africa, yet investment in breeding and agronomy is very limited. Since almost 20 years, the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture has invested in tef, supporting work to both develop and disseminate improved varieties to farmers in Ethiopia. To date, this has led to the release of four improved varieties. As the project also invested in the development of seed systems for improved tef varieties, it allowed us to monitor seed production and variety adoption over time. The data obtained from seed production monitoring over 7 years and 4 varieties from both formal and informal seed systems shows a total of 1227 tons of tef seed from improved varieties delivered to farmers in Ethiopia. Assuming an average genetic gain of 0.4 tons per hectare, this suggests that the value generated to farmers and local value chains from tef breeding and seed systems development exceeds the investment by an order of at least 2.5. With this paper, we want to make a case for more long-term investment in breeding and seed systems development and stimulate replication of the approach to other orphan crops. We further want to call for a continued investment in tef crop improvement and seed systems development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Following land degradation and the associated reduction in crop production, smallholder farmers in the highlands of northwestern Ethiopia have recently practiced Acacia decurrens‐based fallow system. Despite the rapid expansion of this new cropping system, its effect on soil properties and crop productivity has never been exhaustively studied. We assessed the effects of A. decurrens‐based fallow system on soil properties and tef (Eragrostis tef) productivity under the existing production environment on farmers' fields using: (i) tef cultivation under the fallow system in two rotations which represent 5 and 10 years of continuous fallow period (fallowed lands); (ii) conventional tef cultivation system (ST system); (iii) tef cultivation on fallowed lands in the first rotation for two consecutive years; (iv) ST system adjoining a 4‐year‐old acacia woodlot; and (v) interview with local farmers. The results showed that fallowed lands in the first and second rotations improved soil properties and tef productivity with greater effects in the second rotation. Compared to the ST system, fallowed lands in both rotations significantly increased soil pH, soil organic carbon (SOC), available P, total N and cation exchange capacity (CEC), but decreased exchangeable Al3+. Tef aboveground biomass and grain yields were increased by 74% and 93% in the first rotation and 103% and 167% in the second rotation over the ST system, respectively. Similarly, height was increased by 9% in the first rotation and 17% in the second rotation. Fallowed lands sustained positive effects on soil fertility and tef productivity over two successive production years highlighting that the fallow system can benefit farmers through the cultivation of two annual crops in 2 years. Significant tef yield reductions occurred over the first 10 m distance from the acacia woodlot. Soil moisture, pH, SOC, available P, total N and CEC were higher at croplands close to the acacia woodlot. According to the farmers, the fallow system can improve tef productivity and reduce the need for inorganic fertilizer by 50%. Overall, the results demonstrated that fallowing with A. decurrens can reduce soil acidity and restore nutrients for sustainable crop production; and the shading effect could be the limiting factor for tef production on croplands adjacent to the acacia woodlots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pre-scaling up of improved Dursi variety was carried out in Chora district of Buno Bedele zone Southwestern Ethiopia with the objectives to popularize improved Dursi tef variety, to create wider demand towards improved Dursi tef variety and strength stakeholders' linkage in the study area. The variety was scaled up on ten farmers' fields those predominantly selected in collaboration with respective three kebeles' Development Agents based on farmers' willingness to provide the required land size. The land size of 25 m x 25 m was used where all the recommended agronomic practice like seed rate, fertilizer rate and weed control method were used for the accomplishment of the activity. Training was provided to Dursi growers, development agents and woreda agricultural experts to facilitate further production and dissemination of the variety. Data like number of participants on the training and yield data were recorded and analyzed using simple descriptive statistics. The result revealed that, about 124 (104 male and 20 female) participants were participated on the training. The mean grain yield of 1790 kg ha-1 was obtained which is greater than yield obtained during demonstration trial. Therefore, Dursi variety was recommended for further dissemination across numerous tef producers in the study area and similar agro ecologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case study of a 15-year-old male with a recurrent tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) who underwent suspension microesophagoscopy for endoscopic suture closure. Traditional endoscopic repair methods for wide, short TEFs have been challenging, often requiring a thoracoscopic or open approach. However, this patient's medical history and narrow trachea made those options less feasible. Suspension microesophagoscopy allowed for improved exposure and the placement of sutures from the esophageal side, resulting in a successful closure of the TEF. This technique shows promise as an alternative for endoscopic closure of difficult-to-treat TEFs. [Extracted from the article]

Iatrogenic tracheoesophageal fistulae management and repair are difficult to manage with few resourced describing management and repair. Two cases are presented describing the approach to and repair of a tracheoesophagea fistula; one with a free flap and one with local flap reconstruction. Both cases utilized allograft material to maintain separation between the alimentary and repiratory tracts. Laryngoscope, 134:3761–3764, 2024 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orphan crops are crops that are of substantial importance to food security and economic growth at a local or regional scale, yet lacking investment in crop improvement and seed systems development. Tef is an example of such an orphan crop. It is vital to economy and food systems in the Horn of Africa, yet investment in breeding and agronomy is very limited. Since almost 20 years, the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture has invested in tef, supporting work to both develop and disseminate improved varieties to farmers in Ethiopia. To date, this has led to the release of four improved varieties. As the project also invested in the development of seed systems for improved tef varieties, it allowed us to monitor seed production and variety adoption over time. The data obtained from seed production monitoring over 7 years and 4 varieties from both formal and informal seed systems shows a total of 1227 tons of tef seed from improved varieties delivered to farmers in Ethiopia. Assuming an average genetic gain of 0.4 tons per hectare, this suggests that the value generated to farmers and local value chains from tef breeding and seed systems development exceeds the investment by an order of at least 2.5. With this paper, we want to make a case for more long-term investment in breeding and seed systems development and stimulate replication of the approach to other orphan crops. We further want to call for a continued investment in tef crop improvement and seed systems development.

In a study conducted in India, 50 Fusarium isolates were collected from pigeonpea growing regions and extensively examined for their cultural and morphological characteristics. These isolates exhibited significant variations in traits including growth rate, mycelial growth patterns, color, zonation, pigmentation, spore size, and septation. Subsequently, 30 isolates were chosen for pathogenicity testing on eight pigeonpea genotypes. Results showed distinct reactions, with four genotypes displaying differential responses (ICP8858, ICP8859, ICP8862, and BDN‐2), while ICP9174 and ICP8863 consistently exhibited resistance and ICP2376 and BAHAR remained susceptible to wilt disease. To study the interaction between Fusarium isolates and pigeonpea host differentials (HDs), an additive main effects and multiplicative interaction analysis was conducted. The majority of disease incidence variation (75.54%) was attributed to HD effects, while Fusarium isolate effects accounted for only 1.99%. The interaction between Isolates and HDs (I × HD) contributed 21.95% to the total variation, being smaller than HD but larger than I. Based on HD reactions, isolates were classified into nine variants, showing varying distributions across pigeonpea growing states, with variants 2 and 3 being prevalent in several regions. This diversity underscores the need for location‐specific wilt‐resistant pigeonpea cultivars. Furthermore, genetic analysis of 23 representative isolates, through internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA and translation elongation factor 1‐α gene sequencing, revealed three major clusters: Fusarium udum, Fusarium solani, and Fusarium equiseti. These findings hold potential for developing location‐specific wilt‐resistant pigeonpea cultivars and enhancing disease management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef research has little benefited from omics due to neglect of the crop by the global scientific community. However, the few utilized tools showed promising results. Chromosome-scale assembly of the genome reveals the evolution of tef. The whole-genome sequencing of drought-resurrecting Eragrostis nindensis and desiccation-sensitive Eragrostis curvula shows genes that play key roles in drought responses. A few studies using omics tools have revealed differentially expressed genes, proteins, and metabolites in tef plants exposed to drought. Molecular markers have deciphered diversity in tef germplasm collected from diverse agroecologies in Ethiopia. The application of targeting induced local lesions in genomes resulted in mutant tef lines with a semidwarf stature, which were later bred to locally adapted and high-yielding varieties. Genome editing using 'Green Revolution' genes resulted in a semidwarf and lodging-tolerant tef plant. Tef or teff [ Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] is a cereal crop indigenous to the Horn of Africa, where it is a staple food for a large population. The popularity of tef arises from its resilience to environmental stresses and its nutritional value. For many years, tef has been considered an orphan crop, but recent research initiatives from across the globe are helping to unravel its undisclosed potential. Advanced omics tools and techniques have been directed toward the exploration of tef's diversity with the aim of increasing its productivity. In this review, we report on the most recent advances in tef omics that brought the crop into the spotlight of international research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement Summary Underutilized species (also known as orphan crops) present opportunities to increase crop diversity and food security. Such crops lack modern genetic tools and knowledge to facilitate efficient modern breeding approaches. A wide collection of tef (Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter) genotypes was used to identify genomic regions associated with productivity, lodging, and morpho‐physiological traits under contrasting water availabilities. The obtained results are expected to enhance modern breeding and improve tef productivity under traditional and modern cropping systems, thus improving farmers' livelihood and food security. Tef (E. tef (Zucc.) Trotter) is an allotetraploid (2n = 4x = 40) C4 cereal crop, endemic to Ethiopia and mainly cultivated in the Horn of Africa. Tef is characterized by high grain and feed nutritional qualities and resilience to abiotic and biotic stresses; thus, it holds great potential to sustain food and nutrition security in Africa and other parts of the world. The objective of this study was to identify genomic regions associated with responses to contrasting water regimes, as a basis for future improvement. A tef diversity panel was genotyped with 28,837 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and phenotyped for productivity, lodging, and morpho‐physiological traits along two seasons (2020 and 2021) under well‐watered and water‐limited treatments. A genome‐wide association study was performed to identify genomic regions associated with key traits for tef breeding. A total of 107 SNPs were associated with one or more of the studied traits, resulting in 138 marker–trait associations (MTAs) detected under both water treatments. Of these, 22 SNPs were associated with more than one trait, showing either multiple trait (pleiotropic) or multiple environment associations or both. A particularly strong association was found between grain yield, lodging, and time to heading. These findings open new avenues to further research on the genetic basis and physiological mechanisms underlying major traits in tef, as well as to marker‐assisted breeding of drought‐resilient tef cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusion: Using Raman micro-spectroscopy on tef roots, we could monitor cell wall maturation in lines with varied genetic lodging tendency. We describe the developing cell wall composition in root endodermis and cylinder tissue. Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] is an important staple crop in Ethiopia and Eritrea, producing gluten-free and protein-rich grains. However, this crop is not adapted to modern farming practices due to high lodging susceptibility, which prevents the application of mechanical harvest. Lodging describes the displacement of roots (root lodging) or fracture of culms (stem lodging), forcing plants to bend or fall from their vertical position, causing significant yield losses. In this study, we aimed to understand the microstructural properties of crown roots, underlining tef tolerance/susceptibility to lodging. We analyzed plants at 5 and 10 weeks after emergence and compared trellised to lodged plants. Root cross sections from different tef genotypes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, micro-computed tomography, and Raman micro-spectroscopy. Lodging susceptible genotypes exhibited early tissue maturation, including developed aerenchyma, intensive lignification, and lignin with high levels of crosslinks. A comparison between trellised and lodged plants suggested that lodging itself does not affect the histology of root tissue. Furthermore, cell wall composition along plant maturation was typical to each of the tested genotypes independently of trellising. Our results suggest that it is possible to select lines that exhibit slow maturation of crown roots. Such lines are predicted to show reduction in lodging and facilitate mechanical harvest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Tef (Eragrostis tef) is a C4 plant known for its tiny, nutritious, and gluten-free grains. It contains higher levels of protein, vitamins, and essential minerals like calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) than common cereals. Tef is cultivated in diverse ecological zones under diverse climatic conditions. Studies have shown that tef has great diversity in withstanding environmental challenges such as drought. Drought is a major abiotic stress severely affecting crop productivity and becoming a bottleneck to global food security. Here, we used in silico-based functional genomic analysis to identify drought-responsive genes in tef and validated their expression using quantitative RT-PCR. Results We identified about 729 drought-responsive genes so far reported in six crop plants, including rice, wheat, maize, barley, sorghum, pearl millet, and the model plant Arabidopsis, and reported 20 genes having high-level of GO terms related to drought, and significantly enriched in several biological and molecular function categories. These genes were found to play diverse roles, including water and fluid transport, resistance to high salt, cold, and drought stress, abscisic acid (ABA) signaling, de novo DNA methylation, and transcriptional regulation in tef and other crops. Our analysis revealed substantial differences in the conserved domains of some tef genes from well-studied rice orthologs. We further analyzed the expression of sixteen tef orthologs using quantitative RT-PCR in response to PEG-induced osmotic stress. Conclusions The findings showed differential regulation of some drought-responsive genes in shoots, roots, or both tissues. Hence, the genes identified in this study may be promising candidates for trait improvement in crops via transgenic or gene-editing technologies.

While much has been written about the impact of metrics in higher education, less is known about the variety of response orientations that individual academics may adopt in reaction to the increasing metricization of academia. Taking the English higher education sector as a case study, this research surveyed the views of academics from Education and Economics departments in England regarding the impact of teaching and research metrics on their academic identity and practice. Based on a hierarchical cluster analysis of their survey and interview responses, we proposed three distinct response orientations which we called true-belief, pragmatism or alienation, based on how they negotiated or accommodated their academic practices in response to metrics-based evaluation. This heterogeneity of academics' responses to metrics-based evaluation, proposed by our research, suggests the need for a leadership culture which acknowledges a more varied set of attitudes and challenges resulting from that evaluation. The findings of our study also make the case for a more inclusive approach to deciding the institutional response to metrics; allowing all individuals within an institution to make meaningful contributions which are better aligned to their academic identities and professional values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Tef (Eragrostis tef) is a C4 plant known for its tiny, nutritious, and gluten-free grains. It contains higher levels of protein, vitamins, and essential minerals like calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) than common cereals. Tef is cultivated in diverse ecological zones under diverse climatic conditions. Studies have shown that tef has great diversity in withstanding environmental challenges such as drought. Drought is a major abiotic stress severely affecting crop productivity and becoming a bottleneck to global food security. Here, we used in silico-based functional genomic analysis to identify drought-responsive genes in tef and validated their expression using quantitative RT-PCR. Results: We identified about 729 drought-responsive genes so far reported in six crop plants, including rice, wheat, maize, barley, sorghum, pearl millet, and the model plant Arabidopsis, and reported 20 genes having high-level of GO terms related to drought, and significantly enriched in several biological and molecular function categories. These genes were found to play diverse roles, including water and fluid transport, resistance to high salt, cold, and drought stress, abscisic acid (ABA) signaling, de novo DNA methylation, and transcriptional regulation in tef and other crops. Our analysis revealed substantial differences in the conserved domains of some tef genes from well-studied rice orthologs. We further analyzed the expression of sixteen tef orthologs using quantitative RT-PCR in response to PEG-induced osmotic stress. Conclusions: The findings showed differential regulation of some drought-responsive genes in shoots, roots, or both tissues. Hence, the genes identified in this study may be promising candidates for trait improvement in crops via transgenic or gene-editing technologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using the rights contained in the Freedom of Information Act, we collected data on the teaching undertaken by staff at 52 UK universities. In contrast to workload modelling, our data reveals the extent of the variation in contact hours by institution, subject, and seniority. We provide for the first time an accurate measure of the teaching undertaken by staff on different contract types. One of our findings is that few universities employ full-time Teaching-only staff. It is some of the most prestigious universities that are leading the way in promoting this specialisation, with important implications for teaching and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durum wheat semolina is the preferable ingredient for pasta products preparation. However, it has low protein quality, micronutrient and fiber composition. In this study, response surface methodology was applied to optimally formulate a macaroni by supplementing durum wheat semolina with tef (0 to 40)% and chickpea (0 to 15)% flours. The aim was improving the nutritional quality of the product while maintaining the cooking quality. Supplementing the durum wheat semolina (S) with tef (T) and chickpea (C) flours improved the Water Absorption Capacity and Index (WAC and WAI) significantly (p

This paper suggests a nonlinear controller of a Static Synchronous Series Compensator (SSSC) and a doubly-fed induction generator (DFIG) for transient stability enhancement by transient energy function (TEF) technique and super-twisting differentiator in the multi-machine power system. Initially, the TEF approach is employed to damping control and stability enhancement in a multi-machine power system including an SSSC, DFIG, and synchronous generator (SG). Then, the signals of time-derivative in the controller with a super-twisting differentiator are estimated. The significance and novelty of this work are the employs of the TEF method obtained for the multi-machine power system containing DFIG and SG. Another novelty is the use of the DFIG and SSSC simultaneous control whose uncertain parameters are estimated with a super-twisting differentiator. The feature of the nonlinear control approach is robust versus modifications in the topology of the system. Simulation is performed on the IEEE 9-bus system to appraise the operation of the nonlinear controller approach compared to back-stepping and sliding mode control. The simulation results demonstrate that the nonlinear controller approach satisfactorily reduces the first swing of oscillations. • DFIG model is similar to a one-axis model of an SG. • The TEF is obtained in the power system with DFIG and SSSC. • Control laws are achieved with three control variables DFIG and SSSC. • The time-derivative signals of the DFIG and SSSC control are estimated based on a super twisting differentiator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] is considered a promising cereal accounting for its compliance in the changing climatic conditions and nutritional benefits. Transcription factors constitute significant portion of coding genes in plant genome. WRKY represents a large family of transcription factors, which play or coordinate abiotic stress related responses. In our study, we targeted comprehensive study of WRKYs in tef using in silico approach and analyzed motifs, phylogeney, cis-elements, gene ontology and association networks. A total of 121 EtWRKYs were identified and annotated which elucidated formation of three major clusters comprising 68, 45 and 8 members respectively. The commonly predicted cis-element were ABRE, CAT-box, CAAT-box, TATA-box TGACG-motif, AS-1 and Unnamed (CGTGG and CTCC) motifs, most of which are known for their response in abiotic stress like drought, heat, cold, salinity, light, and hormone responsive elements. The association network depicted the putative protein–protein interaction of WRKY interologs between E. tef and Arabidopsis thaliana. GO blast analysis revealed the sequence specific nucleic acid binding and function in a predicted sub-cellular localization. These results provide useful information for elucidation of further exploring the functional and structural working of EtWRKY genes in variety of process for tef plant metabolism. The study is likely to bear valuable information which could be utilized for better insight into abiotic stress tolerance mechanism in tef. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] flour is a gluten-free cereal rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, which offers a promising alternative for new food development. This study investigated the effect of microwave radiation (MW) on the techno-functional, thermal, rheological and microstructural properties of tef flours. White and brown tef grains were milled and microwaved at different moisture contents (MC) (15%, 20% and 25%) for a total irradiation time of 480 s. The morphological structure of tef flours was affected by MW treatment, and its particle size and hydration properties increased after the treatment. Lower peak, breakdown, and setback viscosities, up to 45%, 96%, and 67% below those of the control (untreated) samples, and higher pasting temperature, up to 8 °C in the 25% MC samples, were observed. From FTIR analysis a disruption of short-range molecular order was concluded, while DSC confirmed an increased stability of starch crystallites. Rheological analysis of the gels made from the treated samples revealed that MW had a structuring and stabilizing effect on all samples, leading to higher viscoelastic moduli, G′ and G″, and the maximum stress the gels withstood before breaking their structure, τmax. The MC of the flours during the MWT drove the modification of the techno-functional properties of the tef flours and the gel rheological and thermal characteristics. These results suggest that MW-treated tef flours are potential ingredients for improving the technological, nutritional and sensory quality of food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Tef is a multi-harvest crop with high production capacity and outstanding fodder quality. Our overall goal is to establish tef as a multi-harvest summer fodder crop. Here, we report on the effects of irrigation (75% vs. 100%), genotype (RTC-2, RTC-119, RTC-361, and RTC-400), and additives; heterofermentative inoculum, molasses, and molasses + heterofermentative inoculum on tef silage making and silage quality. Our results showed for the first time that tef can be ensiled. Most of tef silage qualitative parameters were better at 75% irrigation than 100%, and additives treatments improved the silage parameters; additives lowered silage pH and ammonia nitrogen, but increased in vitro dry matter digestibility, lactic acid, lactic acid bacteria, and crude protein content of tef silage. Tef is known as a multi-harvest crop with high production capacity and outstanding fodder quality. Hence, our overall goal is to develop tef as a new multi-harvest summer crop that can maintain high-quality feed and contribute to both field crops and the livestock industry in Israel. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the ability to preserve tef as silage. Four tef genotypes grown under well-watered (100%) and water-limited (75%) irrigation regimes were harvested at grain filling stage and ensiled with either no additives (control, CTL), or with heterofermentative inoculum (HI), molasses (MOL), and both MOL + HI. Our results showed for the first time that tef could be ensiled, although water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) were lower than those in corn, "the perfect ensiling crop". Most of the tef silage qualitative parameters were better at water-limited irrigation. Additives HI or MOL or MOL + HI also improved silage parameters, e.g., lowered pH and ammonia nitrogen content, but increased in vitro dry matter digestibility, lactic acid and crude protein content, and lactic acid bacteria counts of tef silage. The current results imply increasing the diversity of local ruminant fodder crops, ensuring high-quality feed supply during the summer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil fertility has been declining in many parts of Ethiopia, moreover limits agricultural production, sustainability and food security. Nutrient balance is used to evaluate the state of soil fertility, rate of nutrient depletion, sustainability of land productivity, as well as to take the appropriate management decisions. This study was conducted to quantify soil nutrient balance and stocks on smallholder farms at Agew Mariam watershed, in northern Ethiopia in the 2020/21 season. The inflows-outflows of NPK into, and out of barley, tef, and wheat farms were determined through, field measurement, laboratory analysis and interviews. The nutrient balance in each crop was quantified by subtracting nutrient outputs from the inputs. The N partial balance of barley, tef and wheat was −66, −9.8, and −50.7 kg ha−1 yr−1fields, respectively. The P balance was also −5.9, 0.9, and −2.6 kg ha−1 yr−1 for barley, tef, and wheat fields, respectively. The K balance was −12.3, −3.2, and −5.4 kg ha−1 yr−1 in barley, tef, and wheat fields, respectively. The analysis revealed that N, P, and K had negative values except for P in tef. The stock of N was 1295, 1510, and 1240 in barley, tef, and wheat kg ha−1fields, respectively. The P stock was 63, 18.7, and 27.5 kg ha−1 in barley, tef, and wheat farms, respectively. Similarly, K stock was 1092.7, 1059.4, and 1090.6 kg ha−1 in barley, tef, and wheat cropping systems, respectively. Reversing the imbalance between inflows and outflows via adding organic and inorganic fertilizer is essential for barley, tef, and wheat cropping systems in the study area.

Varieties of a single crop type may vary in several attributes affecting the choice at different spots of the food supply chain. This paper demonstrates a rapid classification of ten tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] grain varieties based on image processing and multivariate data analysis. Extreme Gradient Boosted Tree Discriminant Analysis (EGBDA) was applied for the variety-based classification. The developed classification model achieved a remarkable classification performance with 97% of prediction accuracy and 99% of precision. A less complex classification model using eighteen selected variables also achieved similar classification performance. The developed technique can authenticate tef varieties at the research and industrial level. Although the finding of this study is remarkable, it is essential to incorporate additional tef varieties into the model and consider other sources of variation such as agroecology as an extension of this finding.

Climate change is becoming a global challenge, threating agriculture's capacity to meet the food and nutritional requirements of the growing population. Underutilized crops present an opportunity to address climate change and nutritional deficiencies. Tef is a stress-resilient cereal crop, producing gluten-free grain of high nutritional quality. However, knowledge is lacking on tef's diversity of grain nutritional properties, their interaction with environmental conditions (e.g., water availability) and the underlying genomic loci. We assessed the effect of water availability on tef grain nutrient concentrations and identify the associated genomic loci. A collection of 223 tef genotypes, a subset of tef diversity panel 300 (TDP-300), were grown in the field under well-watered and water-limited conditions in 2021, and phenotyped for 11 traits including: grain protein and mineral concentrations and seed color. A genome-wide association study was conducted using 28,837 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and phenotypic data to identify marker-trait associations (MTAs). Tef grain nutrient concentrations exhibited wide genetic diversity with a significant influence of environment. Protein and most micronutrients were more concentrated under water-limited conditions, whereas most macronutrients were higher in the well-watered environment. A total of 59 SNPs were associated with one or more of the studied traits, resulting in 65 MTAs detected under both water treatments, and providing insights into the genetic basis of grain nutrients. Five SNPs reflected multiple associations, with four detecting the same trait under both treatments (multiple-environment effect), and one associated with both Zn and K (pleiotropic effect). In addition, two pairs of closely linked SNPs reflected multiple-environment effects. While multiple-environment associations provide greater support for the integrity of these MTAs, the pleiotropic locus hints at a common mechanism controlling two mineral ions. The identified MTAs shed new light on the genomic architecture of tef's nutritional properties and provide the basis to enhance tef grain nutritional quality alongside drought resilience., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Alemu, Ben-Zeev, Barak, Tutus, Cakmak and Saranga.)

Objective: In traditional Chinese philosophy, durian is classified as a "yang" food with heaty properties, believed to raise body temperature and blood pressure (BP) after consumption. In contrast, bananas are considered as "yin," possessing cooling effect. However, scientific evidence supporting these concepts is limited. This study aims to compare the metabolic effects in response to durian and banana ingestion., Methods: This randomized cross-over clinical study recruited 16 young, healthy Chinese participants (8 males and 8 females). All participants ingested isocaloric portion (367.5 kcal) of durian and banana with a wash-out period of at least 5 days. 3-h thermic effect of food (TEF) and substrate oxidation were assessed by indirect calorimetry. Postprandial vital signs and metabolic responses were measured over a period of 3 h., Results: Durian induced a higher and longer-lasting TEF than banana in most participants. Additionally, durian significantly lowered BP and increased triglyceride (TG) levels during 3 h after consumption, whereas bananas had no significant effects on these measures. Despite containing much fewer carbohydrates, durian prompted a comparable postprandial rise in blood glucose concentrations to that of banana., Conclusion: While durian offers nutritional benefits and a BP-lowering effect, moderation is recommended due to its high sugar and fat content, which can elevate blood glucose and lipid levels, and its "heatiness" may cause digestive discomforts and a sore throat according to anecdotal experiences.

Adoption of Tef production technology has paramount importance to increase Tef productivity, foster food security, and secure the well-being of smallholder farmers. Hence, this study aims to identify the determinants of adoption of Tef technology packages in Yilmana Densa district, and subsequently assess the factors influencing the intensity of adoption of the technology. In this study, 224 sample households were selected using systematic random sampling techniques. The data were obtained mainly from sampled Tef grower households via structured interviews, and it was supported by key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics such as Chi-square, t-test, and one-way ANOVA were employed. First-hurdle of double hurdle model result revealed that adoption decision of Tef technology packages was determined via the frequency of extension contact, agricultural training, farmers’ perception, and farmers’ cooperative membership, positively. The second-hurdle result also shown that the adoption intensity of Tef technology packages was influenced by the frequency of extension contact, agricultural training, demonstration participation, and seed multiplication membership, positively, whereas the distance to input market and land fragmentation influenced negatively. Therefore, efforts to be expected from the Ministry of Agriculture, extension agents, and other stockholders to enhance the adoption level of farmers.

AbstractIntercropping of cereals and legumes is common in Ethiopia. However, intercropping of lupine with tef is a new practice in Northwestern Ethiopia’s tef-based cropping system. In the 2016 and 2017 main cropping seasons, a field experiment was conducted in Gozamin District, East Gojjam Zone, to assess the effect of plant density of lupine intercropping with tef on the productivity of tef fields. The two experimental factors were two inter-row spacings (20 and 40 cm) and three intra-row spacings (10, 15, and 20 cm) of lupine intercropped with tef, and their factorial combination was studied using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The highest tef grain yield (1.80 t ha−1) was recorded from 40 and 20 cm inter- and intra-row spacing of lupine intercropped with tef, respectively. The highest lupine yield (2.74 t ha−1) was recorded from sole cropping. A total of 40 and 15 cm inter- and intra-row spacing of lupine intercropped with tef improved tef equivalent yield (2.32 t ha−1), area time equivalent ratio (1.09), actual yield loss (0.87), monetary advantage index (396.2 USD), net benefit (2479.5 USD ha−1), and marginal rate of return (MRR) (682%). Among all planting densities, 40 and 15 cm inter- and intra-row spacing of lupine were the most profitable and had the highest yield advantage based on equivalent yield and other economic benefits. To maximize the productivity of tef fields, 40 cm of inter- and 15 cm of intra-row spacing of lupine intercropping with tef was recommended.

Enhancement of heat transfer in solar air heater systems using corrugations has the dual benefit of enhanced heat transfer area and enhanced flow turbulence. This work presents two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis to evaluate the effect of discrete triangle wave corrugations on the absorber plate for different flow Reynolds numbers of 6000–24000. The geometric parameters of corrugation such as the non-dimensional amplitude (A = 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1) and non-dimensional wavelength (WL = 0.113, 0.226 and 0.453) are varied to establish the thermo-hydraulic performance. The CFD results reveal that the presence of discrete triangle wave corrugations significantly affect the flow structure near the absorber surface and exhibit enhanced fluid turbulence levels. The highest increase in the Nusselt number is found to be about 2.082 times higher than that of the smooth duct for A = 0.1 and WL = 0.453 at Re = 6000. The maximum rise in friction factor is about 2.568 times that of the smooth duct at Re = 6000 for the configuration of WL = 0.113 and A = 0.1. The configuration having A = 0.1 and WL = 0.453 can be particularly useful for lower flow rate requirements and exhibits the highest thermal enhancement factor (TEF) of about 1.612 at Re = 6000 among all the configurations considered in the present study. However, the configuration having A = 0.05 and WL = 0.453 provides a relatively steady TEF performance for a wider range of flow rates with a maximum TEF of 1.473 at Re = 12,000.

Increasing focus worldwide on accountability and quality assurance in universities has forced senior management to develop policies to address academic support at institutional-level. One such area is the mathematical and statistical skills that students in many disciplines need to succeed. In common with many countries, large numbers of students at English universities arrive inadequately prepared for their courses' quantitative demands. University-wide mathematics and statistics support provision has been developed to mitigate this problem. We explore such provision from the perspective of institutional accountability and quality assurance, researching the extent to which such support is referenced in institutionally-written regulatory documents. The documents reveal that mathematics and statistics support is stated as contributing to retention, achievement, employability and widening participation. The paper closes with implications and recommendations drawn from the analysis of these documents and therefore is of relevance to those responsible for development and implementation of institutional teaching and learning strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Congenital malformations are of major concern as they are cosmetically unacceptable, often associated with significant functional abnormalities and may sometimes even be life-threatening. Study was done to explore the outcome of surgical intervention in congenital anomalies in a tertiary care rural hospital. Material and Methods: A prospective observational longitudinal hospital based study conducted in rural based tertiary care centre in the department of pediatrics from May 2016 to July2018. All the newborns were examined throughly for minor and major anomalies. Printed proforma was filled for recording of clinical examination of newborn and relevant investigations. Statistical analysis was applied to the data to study the types and factors affecting congenital anomalies. Results : Total number of neonatal admissions during this period was 19600. Major anomalies were in 155 patients while minor anomalies were observed in 15 babies. 150 babies with major anomalies also had minor anomalies. Out of 170 patients 57 underwent surgical procedure. Outcome was favourable in 42 cases while 15 died in post operative period due to various reasons. Conclusion: Management of these congenital anomalies as well as the associated morbidity and mortality constitute a significant healthcare problem. There is need to improve health care in tertiary area. Early diagnosis and surgrical intervention for major anomalies helps in preventing morbidity and mortality in neonatal period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef is a highly nutritious gluten-free Ethiopian cereal with food-feed potential. However, its productivity is affected by lodging, weed infestation, terminal drought, small seed size, and shattering. Following the recent availability of tef genome sequences, we highlight the need to harness the benefits that this underutilised crop offers to improve food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef [Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter] flour is a gluten-free cereal rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, which offers a promising alternative for new food development. This study investigated the effect of microwave radiation (MW) on the techno-functional, thermal, rheological and microstructural properties of tef flours. White and brown tef grains were milled and microwaved at different moisture contents (MC) (15%, 20% and 25%) for a total irradiation time of 480 s. The morphological structure of tef flours was affected by MW treatment, and its particle size and hydration properties increased after the treatment. Lower peak, breakdown, and setback viscosities, up to 45%, 96%, and 67% below those of the control (untreated) samples, and higher pasting temperature, up to 8 °C in the 25% MC samples, were observed. From FTIR analysis a disruption of short-range molecular order was concluded, while DSC confirmed an increased stability of starch crystallites. Rheological analysis of the gels made from the treated samples revealed that MW had a structuring and stabilizing effect on all samples, leading to higher viscoelastic moduli, G′ and G″, and the maximum stress the gels withstood before breaking their structure, τmax. The MC of the flours during the MWT drove the modification of the techno-functional properties of the tef flours and the gel rheological and thermal characteristics. These results suggest that MW-treated tef flours are potential ingredients for improving the technological, nutritional and sensory quality of food products.

Enhancement of heat transfer in solar air heater systems using corrugations has the dual benefit of enhanced heat transfer area and enhanced flow turbulence. This work presents two-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis to evaluate the effect of discrete triangle wave corrugations on the absorber plate for different flow Reynolds numbers of 6000–24000. The geometric parameters of corrugation such as the non-dimensional amplitude (A = 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1) and non-dimensional wavelength (WL = 0.113, 0.226 and 0.453) are varied to establish the thermo-hydraulic performance. The CFD results reveal that the presence of discrete triangle wave corrugations significantly affect the flow structure near the absorber surface and exhibit enhanced fluid turbulence levels. The highest increase in the Nusselt number is found to be about 2.082 times higher than that of the smooth duct for A = 0.1 and WL = 0.453 at Re = 6000. The maximum rise in friction factor is about 2.568 times that of the smooth duct at Re = 6000 for the configuration of WL = 0.113 and A = 0.1. The configuration having A = 0.1 and WL = 0.453 can be particularly useful for lower flow rate requirements and exhibits the highest thermal enhancement factor (TEF) of about 1.612 at Re = 6000 among all the configurations considered in the present study. However, the configuration having A = 0.05 and WL = 0.453 provides a relatively steady TEF performance for a wider range of flow rates with a maximum TEF of 1.473 at Re = 12,000. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durum wheat semolina is the preferable ingredient for pasta products preparation. However, it has low protein quality, micronutrient and fiber composition. In this study, response surface methodology was applied to optimally formulate a macaroni by supplementing durum wheat semolina with tef (0 to 40)% and chickpea (0 to 15)% flours. The aim was improving the nutritional quality of the product while maintaining the cooking quality. Supplementing the durum wheat semolina (S) with tef (T) and chickpea (C) flours improved the Water Absorption Capacity and Index (WAC and WAI) significantly (p <.05). Among the 11 flour blending ratios of S:T:C, (60: 40: 0)%, (85: 0: 15)%, (60: 25: 15)%, and (68: 28: 4)% improved the WAC and WAI of the semolina flour by (36, 8)%, (25, 7)%, (32, 9)%, and (31, 3)%, respectively. With the same blending ratios, the cooking weight and the WAC of the control macaroni increased by (15, 15)%, (10, 19)%, (17, 18)%, and (22, 23)%, respectively (p <.05). Interestingly, these blending ratios significantly reduced the wet gluten content of the semolina by 58%, 28%, 53%, and 42% (p <.05). With higher tef and chickpea incorporation, the macaroni had lower and higher firmness. The macaroni prepared with incorporation of chickpea (3.5–15)% appeared to have better color and comparable overall acceptability score with control. The optimum formulation of macaroni for desirable sensorial and cooking quality (better firmness, lower stickiness and cooking loss) was 73.46 g/100 g semolina, 11.55 g/100 g tef flour, and 14.25 g/100 g chickpea flour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Adoption of Tef production technology has paramount importance to increase Tef productivity, foster food security, and secure the well-being of smallholder farmers. Hence, this study aims to identify the determinants of adoption of Tef technology packages in Yilmana Densa district, and subsequently assess the factors influencing the intensity of adoption of the technology. In this study, 224 sample households were selected using systematic random sampling techniques. The data were obtained mainly from sampled Tef grower households via structured interviews, and it was supported by key informant interviews. Descriptive statistics such as Chi-square, t-test, and one-way ANOVA were employed. First-hurdle of double hurdle model result revealed that adoption decision of Tef technology packages was determined via the frequency of extension contact, agricultural training, farmers' perception, and farmers' cooperative membership, positively. The second-hurdle result also shown that the adoption intensity of Tef technology packages was influenced by the frequency of extension contact, agricultural training, demonstration participation, and seed multiplication membership, positively, whereas the distance to input market and land fragmentation influenced negatively. Therefore, efforts to be expected from the Ministry of Agriculture, extension agents, and other stockholders to enhance the adoption level of farmers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef (Eragrostis tef), is a gluten-free orphan cereal, crop of nutritional and economical significance. Here we used untargeted metabolomics to survey metabolite variation in 14 diverse tef accessions at 15-days post germination. Tef genotypes were classified into four metabolomic groups where variation was linked to flavones and flavonols. Further analysis on white seeded accessions shows variation related to sucrose and important vitamins, nicotinamides (vitamin B3) riboflavin (vitamin B2) and folate (vitamin B9). Coloured seeded accessions showed variation in metabolism related to amino acid and sugars. This study highlights the potential of metabolomics in exploring the nutritional traits in tef. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef is known as a multi-harvest crop with high production capacity and outstanding fodder quality. Hence, our overall goal is to develop tef as a new multi-harvest summer crop that can maintain high-quality feed and contribute to both field crops and the livestock industry in Israel. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the ability to preserve tef as silage. Four tef genotypes grown under well-watered (100%) and water-limited (75%) irrigation regimes were harvested at grain filling stage and ensiled with either no additives (control, CTL), or with heterofermentative inoculum (HI), molasses (MOL), and both MOL + HI. Our results showed for the first time that tef could be ensiled, although water-soluble carbohydrates (WSC) were lower than those in corn, “the perfect ensiling crop”. Most of the tef silage qualitative parameters were better at water-limited irrigation. Additives HI or MOL or MOL + HI also improved silage parameters, e.g., lowered pH and ammonia nitrogen content, but increased in vitro dry matter digestibility, lactic acid and crude protein content, and lactic acid bacteria counts of tef silage. The current results imply increasing the diversity of local ruminant fodder crops, ensuring high-quality feed supply during the summer.

Fusarium solani and F. oxysporum are plant pathogenic fungi that cause root rot and wilt, respectively, in many economically important crops. Identification of both species by morphological characteristics is complex and time-consuming, especially when a crop is host to several species, as in the case of strawberry and other many crops. The objective of this research was to develop a molecular method for the precise and sensitive identification of Fusarium solani and F. oxysporum by multiplex PCR. Specific PCR conditions were developed for the amplification of about 170-bp PCR product from the internal transcribed spacer of F. oxysporum and a PCR product of about 650 bp from the elongation factor 1-alpha gene of F. solani. The specificity of the multiplex PCR was tested using gDNA extracted from 232 strains of F. solani and F. oxysporum, 12 strains of other Fusarium spp. and 14 strains of other genera. The sensitivity of each primer set was tested individually and simultaneously with one strain of F. oxysporum and F. solani. This protocol was then used to identify both species in natural isolates from diseased plant and soil samples from strawberry nursery. Each primer set was validated using genomic DNA from non-sterile and sterile soils artificially inoculated with both species. Under these conditions, both Fusarium species were detected and distinguished over a range of concentrations (1 × 107 to 1 × 102 conidia g−1 soil) by successful amplification of corresponding PCR products for each species. This multiplex PCR technique is a fast tool to identify natural isolates of both species, F. solani and F. oxysporum, in a single PCR reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) is an evaluation of teaching quality at UK universities. The aim of the TEF is to raise esteem for teaching in line with research and recognise teaching excellence. In 2017 all universities who took part in the TEF exercise were awarded ratings of gold, silver or bronze for teaching quality. These awards were based on a set of quantitative measures and a 15-page provider submission from each university to describe teaching at their institution. In this paper, we analyse the provider submissions that played a crucial role in universities' TEF rating. We conducted a corpus-assisted discourse analysis of all of the provider statements (232 statements; 1,742,438 words) submitted by participating institutions in order to un-earth the discourse of the TEF. We found that the themes driving success in the TEF are (1) employment, (2) employability (3) student outcomes and (4) research. Recognising what discourse is rewarded in the TEF has important implications for the accepted discourse of teaching excellence in UK higher education. It is anticipated that, in future, university discourse around teaching quality will continue to be dominated by employability discourse (rather than discourse around, for instance, social goods, personal development or equity). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many regions around the world are experiencing an increase in climate-related shocks, such as drought. This poses serious threats to farming activities and has major implications for sustaining rural livelihoods and food security. Farmers’ ability to respond to and withstand the increasing incidence of drought events needs to be strengthened and their resilience enhanced. Implementation of measures to enhance resilience is determined by decisions of farmers and it is important to understand the reasons behind their behavior. We assessed the viability of measures to enhance resilience of farmers to drought, by developing a general framework that covers economic-technical and psychological-cognitive aspects, here summarized under the terms (1) motivation and (2) feasibility. The conceptual framework was applied to cocoa farmers in Ghana and tef farmers in Ethiopia by using questionnaire-based surveys. A portfolio of five specific measures to build resilience (i.e., irrigation, shade trees, fire belts, bookkeeping, mulching, early mature varieties, weather forecast, reduced tillage, improved harvesting) in each country was evaluated with a closed-ended questionnaire that covered the various aspects of motivation and feasibility whereby farmers were asked to (dis)agree on a 5-point Likert scale. The results show that if the motivation mean score is increased by 0.1 units, the probability of implementation increases by 16.9% in Ghana and by 7.7% in Ethiopia. If the feasibility mean score is increased by 0.1 units, the probability of implementation increases by 24.9% in Ghana and by 11.9% in Ethiopia. We can conclude that motivation and feasibility matter, and we improve our understanding of measure implementation if we include both feasibility and motivation into viability assessments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef is the most important and well adapted cereal crop in Ethiopia and grows better than other cereals both in biotic and abiotic stress conditions. In this study 93 tef accessions representative of various agro-ecologies of Ethiopia along with four improved varieties, one local check and six wild relatives were studied. The materials were genotyped with 12 simple sequence repeat markers (SSRs) to investigate the extent and structure of the genetic diversity of tef. A total of 152 alleles were detected indicating high polymorphism in the studied accessions. The number of alleles per polymorphic loci ranged from seven for CNLT 538 to 29 for CNLT150 with an average of 12.67. High average polymorphic information content (0.82) and average expected heterozygosity (0.86) also signifies the suitability and efficiency of SSR markers to discriminate among tef genotypes. Cluster, principal coordinate and structure analyses grouped the 98 tef genotypes and six wild relatives into four distinct classes. The groupings showed no special pattern despite the different regions of origins for the accessions; however, the five wild relatives were grouped together. The analysis of molecular variance and fixation index showed low genetic differentiation and high gene flow between regions revealing that much of the variability was attributed to within populations variation. Generally, the present study showed that there is high genetic variability with unstructured genetic pattern among the studied tef genotypes which implies the vitality of conserved tef germplasms at Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute and the impact of the seed exchange system on tef breeding activities in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted for three consecutive years (2017 to 2019) to determine the appropriate time of nitrogen (N) fertilizer application during the crop growth cycle for increased tef productivity and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) at central highlands of Ethiopia. A split-plot experimental design was used with two varieties and eight timings of N application at different growth stages. The results showed that variety and time of N application had a significant effect on growth parameters, NUE traits, yield, and yield components of tef at both locations. Kora variety gave higher growth parameters of tef at both locations and higher yield at Ude. Regarding time of N application, the highest yield was obtained when N was applied 50% at planting +25% at tillering + 12.5% at flag leaf +12.5% at heading, though not significantly different from other split applications at Ude. Split application increased grain yield and NUE traits as compared to full N application at once. However, at Minjar, split application didn't show any significant difference of grain yield and NUE traits with that of full application. Partial budget analysis at Ude also showed that N application of 50% at planting +25% at tillering + 12.5% at flag leaf +12.5% at heading gave the highest net benefit and MRR. Therefore, four times (50% at planting +25% at tillering + 12.5% at flag leaf +12.5% at heading of split N fertilizer application can be recommended for higher economic yield and NUE of tef at Ude area, but split application is not advantageous at Minjar area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tef is one of the most important staple cereal crops in Ethiopia. However, the production and productivity of the crop remain low due to lack of appropriate agronomic recommendations. Lack of optimum sowing methods and seed rates are key agronomic factors limit the productivities of the crop. Hence, field experiment was conducted to study the effects of seed rates and sowing methods on growth, yield and yield components of tef. The treatments contains factorial combination of two sowing methods (row and broadcast) and five seeding rates (5, 7.5,10, 12.5, and 15 kg ha−1in randomized factorial complete block design with three replications. Days to heading, days to maturity, plant height, spike length, total number of tiller, total number of effective tiller, above ground dry biomass yield, grain yield and straw yield collected and subjected to analysis of variance using SAS system. The main effect seed rate significantly affect days to physiological maturity, plant height, panicle length, and straw yield and the maximum values of these parameters were recorded at the seed rate of 5 kg ha−1. Similarly, number of total tillers, fertile tillers, total biomass, grain yield, and lodging percent were significantly (p < 0.05) influenced by interaction effect of sowing methods and seeding rates. The highest grain yield (2.301 kg/ha) and other growth parameters recorded at the interaction effect of 5 kg ha−1 of seed rate and row planting method compared to other treatments. Maximum net benefit (795,689.21ETB) with acceptable marginal rate of return (104.32) also recorded at the interaction effect of 5 kg ha−1 of seeding rate and row planting. Hence, 5 kg ha−1 seed rate with row planting method could be recommended for maximum yield of tef in Adet soil and climatic conditions.

Among constraints pests are most limiting factors of tef production in Ethiopia. Surveys were conducted during 2017 and 2018 cropping seasons in seven districts of Central Gondar at 5-10 km interval using quadrate (0.09m2) with objective of assessing and identifying tef pests and their intensity. A total of 116 farmers' fields were assessed, and from these 44 weeds, 8 insect pests and 2 diseases were identified and quantified. Weed species compositions were described by frequency, abundance, dominance and similarity index. Members of Asteraceae and Commelinaceae were found frequently and abundantly across altitudes. From similarity indices, variation was noted in growth stage of tef. Moreover, similarity indices between districts were >60% except in two districts. It also showed that shoot fly and grasshopper were the most prevalent, and smudge and rust diseases were also detected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter is becoming popular in the world due to its gluten free seeds and suitability to raise under marginal environment unlike major cereals grown worldwide. Growth Regulating Factors (GRF) are class of transcription factors involved in various biological processes and abiotic stress responses. No reports are available on characterization and phylogenetic relationships of GRFs in tef and few only in other plants. In this study, 170 GRF sequences from eleven plants were used as query to BLAST, in the available databases and resulted in four distinct EtGRFs. Two highly conserved QLQ, WRC, and the rare FFD domains were identified in selected range of GRF proteins. Phylogenetic analysis from MEGA-X clustered into 7 major groups and EtGRFs shared common ancestral route with GRFs from Setaria italica var. italica (L.) P. Beauv.), Oryza sativa subsp. indica (L.) Kato, Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench, Panicum hallii Vasey and Zea mays subsp. mexicana (Schrad.) H. H. Iltis. Promoter analysis revealed the presence of various binding units known to play ontological roles. Protein structures and association network analysis confirmed EtGRFs as interologs to structural functions of GRF genes in closely related plants. The finding contributes to the understanding of structural and functional roles of GRFs in Eragrostis tef and other cereals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]