Search

This paper introduces a distributed control approach for optimizing the operation of islanded DC microgrids (µGs), accounting for cyber delays and network failures. Initially, an integrated network emulation platform is utilized to calculate realistic cyber delays for islanded DC µGs employing IEC 61850 communication standard. To address the instability issues arising from cyber delays, the Artstein-Kwon-Pearson reduction technique is employed to convert the system with cyber delays into one without delays. The Subsequently, a consensus-based generation-cost optimization algorithm is designed for maintaining the economic operation of the µG. This algorithm efficiently equalizes the incremental costs (ICs) of all distributed generators (DGs) in a fully distributed manner, while adhering to the DGs capacity limits. Additionally, a fully distributed voltage regulation control is developed to stabilize µG average voltage, ensuring the balance between generation and demand. The efficacy of the formulated control technique is substantiated through diverse case studies, thereby underscoring its superior operational performance.

Abstract The present study focused on the impact of infection with the tobacco mosaic virus (TMV). Specifically, changes in phytochemicals and gene activity related to pathogenesis-related and phenylpropanoid pathway genes in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.) during a period of 2–14 days post-inoculation (dpi). According to TEM investigation and coat protein sequence analysis, the purified TMV Egyptian AM isolate (PP133743) has a rod-shaped structure with a diameter of around 110 nm. The RT-qPCR analysis revealed that PR-1 showed an initial increase after TMV infection, as seen in the time-course analysis. In contrast, PR-2 was consistently elevated throughout the infection, suggesting a stronger reaction to the virus and suppressing PAL expression at 6 to 14 dpi. The expression levels of HQT and CHS transcripts exhibited alternating patterns of up-regulation and down-regulation at different time intervals. The HPLC and GC–MS analysis of control- and TMV-infected tomato extracts revealed that different phenolic, flavonoid, and fatty acid compounds were increased (such as naringenin, rutin, flavone, ferulic acid, and pyrogallol) or significantly decreased (such as salicylic acid and chlorogenic acid) after TMV infection. The ability of TMV to inhibit most polyphenolic compounds could potentially accelerate the viral life cycle. Consequently, focusing on enhancing the levels of such suppressed compounds may be critical for developing plant viral infection management strategies.

Background Pharmacogenetic testing improves the efficacy and safety of antidepressant pharmacotherapy for moderate-severe major depressive disorder by identifying genetic variations that influence medication metabolism, and adjusting treatment regimens accordingly. This study aims to assess the cost-effectiveness of implementing a pharmacogenetic testing approach to guide the prescription of antidepressants.Methods From the public hospital perspective, we developed a two-stage decision tree diagram of a short-term 6-week follow up, and a lifetime Markov model with 3-month cycles. The analysis compared the current standard of care with the alternative strategy of Pharmacogenetic-guided (multi-gene panel) testing in adult patients with moderate-severe major depressive disorder. Clinical outcomes and utilities were obtained from published studies, while healthcare costs were locally available. The short-term incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was against treatment response without side effects and without relapse, and against treatment response with/without side effects and without relapse. The long-term incremental cost-effectiveness ratio was against the quality-adjusted life year gained and years of life saved.Results Adopting the pharmacogenetic-guided therapy for adult patients with moderate-severe major depressive disorder in Qatar resulted in cost savings of Qatari Riyal 2,289 (95% confidence interval, −22,654–26,340) for the health system. In the short term, the pharmacogenetic-guided testing was associated with higher response rates without side effects and without relapse (mean difference 0.10, 95% confidence interval 0.09–0.15) and higher response rates with or without side effects and without relapse (mean difference 0.05, 95% confidence interval 0.04–0.06). For long term, the pharmacogenetic-guided testing resulted in 0.13 years of life saved and 0.06 quality-adjusted life year gained, per person, along with cost savings of Qatari Riyal 46,215 (95% confidence interval-15,744–101,758). The sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the model results.Conclusion Implementing pharmacogenetic testing to guide antidepressant use was found to improve population health outcomes, while also significantly reducing health system costs.

Abstract Pharmacogenetic (PGx)‐informed medication prescription is a cutting‐edge genomic application in contemporary medicine, offering the potential to overcome the conventional “trial‐and‐error” approach in drug prescription. The ability to use an individual's genetic profile to predict drug responses allows for personalized drug and dosage selection, thereby enhancing the safety and efficacy of treatments. However, despite significant scientific and clinical advancements in PGx, its integration into routine healthcare practices remains limited. To address this gap, the Qatar Genome Program (QGP) has embarked on an ambitious initiative known as QPGx‐CARES (Qatar Pharmacogenetics Clinical Applications and Research Enhancement Strategies), which aims to set a roadmap for optimizing PGx research and clinical implementation on a national scale. The goal of QPGx‐CARES initiative is to integrate PGx testing into clinical settings with the aim of improving patient health outcomes. In 2022, QGP initiated several implementation projects in various clinical settings. These projects aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of PGx testing, gather valuable insights into the effective dissemination of PGx data to healthcare professionals and patients, and identify the gaps and the challenges for wider adoption. QPGx‐CARES strategy aimed to integrate evidence‐based PGx findings into clinical practice, focusing on implementing PGx testing for cardiovascular medications, supported by robust scientific evidence. The current initiative sets a precedent for the nationwide implementation of precision medicine across diverse clinical domains.

Abstract Identifying a viable substitute for the limited array of current antifungal agents stands as a crucial objective in modern agriculture. Consequently, extensive worldwide research has been undertaken to unveil eco-friendly and effective agents capable of controlling pathogens resistant to the presently employed fungicides. This study explores the efficacy of Trichoderma isolates in combating tomato leaf spot disease, primarily caused by Alternaria alternata. The identified pathogen, A. alternata Alt3, was isolated and confirmed through the ITS region (OQ888806). Six Trichoderma isolates were assessed for their ability to inhibit Alt3 hyphal growth using dual culture, ethyl acetate extract, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) techniques. The most promising biocontrol isolate was identified as T. afroharzianum isolate TRI07 based on three markers: ITS region (OQ820171), translation elongation factor alpha 1 gene (OR125580), and RNA polymerase II subunit gene (OR125581). The ethyl acetate extract of TRI07 isolate was subjected to GC–MS analysis, revealing spathulenol, triacetin, and aspartame as the main compounds, with percentages of 28.90, 14.03, and 12.97%, respectively. Analysis of TRI07-VOCs by solid-phase microextraction technique indicated that the most abundant compounds included ethanol, hydroperoxide, 1-methylhexyl, and 1-octen-3-one. When TRI07 interacted with Alt3, 34 compounds were identified, with major components including 1-octen-3-one, ethanol, and hexanedioic acid, bis(2-ethylhexyl) ester. In greenhouse experiment, the treatment of TRI07 48 h before inoculation with A. alternata (A3 treatment) resulted in a reduction in disease severity (16.66%) and incidence (44.44%). Furthermore, A3 treatment led to improved tomato growth performance parameters and increased chlorophyll content. After 21 days post-inoculation, A3 treatment was associated with increased production of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, POD, SOD, and PPO), while infected tomato plants exhibited elevated levels of oxidative stress markers MDA and H2O2. HPLC analysis of tomato leaf extracts from A3 treatment revealed higher levels of phenolic acids such as gallic, chlorogenic, caffeic, syringic, and coumaric acids, as well as flavonoid compounds including catechin, rutin, and vanillin. The novelty lies in bridging the gap between strain-specific attributes and practical application, enhancing the understanding of TRI07’s potential for integrated pest management. This study concludes that TRI07 isolate presents potential natural compounds with biological activity, effectively controlling tomato leaf spot disease and promoting tomato plant growth. The findings have practical implications for agriculture, suggesting a sustainable biocontrol strategy that can enhance crop resilience and contribute to integrated pest management practices.

Abstract Fungicides or insecticides are popular means of controlling a variety of pathogens and insect pests; however, they can cause harmful effects on both human health and the environment. Different researchers have suggested using plant extracts, which have shown promise in managing fungi and insects. The purpose of this investigation was to explore the antifungal activities of an acetone extract made from the leaves of Indian Hawthorn (HAL) against phytopathogens that are known to harm maize crops, Fusarium verticillioides (OQ820154) and Rhizoctonia solani (OQ820155), and to evaluate the insecticidal property against Aphis gossypii Glover aphid. The HAL extract demonstrated significant antifungal activity against the two fungal pathogens tested, especially at the high dose of 2000 µg/mL. Laboratory tests on the LC20 of HAL extract (61.08 mg/L) versus buprofezin 25% WP (0.0051 mg/L) were achieved on A. gossypii Glover. HAL extract diminished the nymph's production over 72 h and their total reproductive rate. This extract was like buprofezin 25% WP in decreasing the daily reproductive rate, reproductive period, and mean survival percentage. Nevertheless, the newly-born nymphs of treated females with HAL extract attained the highest reduction in survival percentage at 46.00%. Equalized prolongations on the longevity of nymphs to 9.33, 8.33, and 7 days and the total life cycle to 15.00, 14.00, and 12.67 days were realized by HAL extract, buprofezin 25% WP, and the control, respectively. The olfactory choice test on the aphids showed the minimum attraction rate to HAL extract. The HPLC of HAL extract comprised an abundance of phenolic compounds (ferulic acid, gallic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, salicylic acid, ellagic acid, and pyrogallol), and the concentrations of these compounds vary widely, with salicylic acid being the most concentrated at 25.14 mg/mL. Among the flavonoids, epicatechin has the highest concentration at 11.69 mg/mL. The HAL extract GC–MS consists of various organic compounds, including sesquiterpenes, cyclopropenes, fatty acids, steroids, alcohols, ketones, esters, bufadienolides, opioids, and other organic compounds. The most abundant compounds in the sample are n-hexadecanoic acid (12.17%), followed by 5α, 7αH, 10α-eudesm-11-en-1α-ol (9.43%), and cis-13-octadecenoic acid (5.87%). Based on the findings, it can be inferred that the HAL extract may be a viable option for plants to combat both fungal and insect infestations. This presents an encouraging prospect for utilizing a natural and sustainable approach toward long-term pest management in plants.

White mold, caused by the necrotrophic fungus Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, is a challenging disease to common bean cultivation worldwide. In the current study, two non-proteinogenic amino acids (NPAAs), γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and ß-alanine, were suggested as innovative environmentally acceptable alternatives for more sustainable management of white mold disease. In vitro, GABA and ß-alanine individually demonstrated potent dose-dependent fungistatic activity and effectively impeded the radial growth and development of S. sclerotiorum mycelium. Moreover, the application of GABA or ß-alanine as a seed treatment followed by three root drench applications efficiently decreased the disease severity, stimulated plant growth, and boosted the content of photosynthetic pigments of treated S. sclerotiorum-infected plants. Furthermore, although higher levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), superoxide anion (O2•−), and malondialdehyde (MDA) indicated that S. sclerotiorum infection had markedly triggered oxidative stress in infected bean plants, the exogenous application of both NPAAs significantly reduced the levels of the three studied oxidative stress indicators. Additionally, the application of GABA and ß-alanine increased the levels of both non-enzymatic (total soluble phenolics and flavonoids), as well as enzymatic (catalase [CAT], peroxidases [POX], and polyphenol oxidase [PPO]) antioxidants in the leaves of S. sclerotiorum-infected plants and improved their scavenging activity and antioxidant efficiency. Applications of GABA and ß-alanine also raised the proline and total amino acid content of infected bean plants. Lastly, the application of both NPAAs upregulated the three antioxidant-related genes PvCAT1, PvCuZnSOD1, and PvGR. Collectively, the fungistatic activity of NPAAs, coupled with their ability to alleviate oxidative stress, enhance antioxidant defenses, and stimulate plant growth, establishes them as promising eco-friendly alternatives for white mold disease management for sustainable bean production.

Water deficit is a critical obstacle that devastatingly impacts rice production, particularly in arid regions under current climatic fluctuations. Accordingly, it is decisive to reinforce the drought tolerance of rice by employing sustainable approaches to enhance global food security. The present study aimed at exploring the effect of exogenous application using different biostimulants on physiological, morphological, and yield attributes of diverse rice genotypes under water deficit and well-watered conditions in 2-year field trial. Three diverse rice genotypes (IRAT-112, Giza-178, and IR-64) were evaluated under well-watered (14400 m3/ha in total for the entire season) and water deficit (9170 m3/ha) conditions and were exogenously sprayed by nano-silicon, potassium sulfate, or proline. The results showed that drought stress substantially decreased all studied photosynthetic pigments, growth traits, and yield attributes compared to well-watered conditions. In contrast, antioxidant enzyme activities and osmoprotectants were considerably increased compared with those under well-watered conditions. However, the foliar application of nano-silicon, potassium sulfate, and proline substantially mitigated the deleterious effects of drought stress and markedly enhanced photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant enzyme activities, growth parameters, and yield contributing traits compared to untreated stressed control. Among the assessed treatments, foliar spray with nano-silicon or proline was more effective in promoting drought tolerance. The exogenous application of proline improved chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids by 21.4, 19.6 and 21.0% followed by nano-silicon treatment, which enhanced chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids by 21.1, 17.6 and 9.5% compared to untreated control. Besides, the application of proline demonstrated a superior improvement in the content of proline by 52.5% compared with the untreated control. Moreover, nano-silicon exhibited the maximum enhancement of catalase and peroxidase activity compared to the other treatments. The positive impacts of applied exogenously nano-silicon or proline significantly increased panicle length, number of panicles/plant, number of grains/panicle, fertility percentage, 1000-grain weight, panicle weight, and grain yield, compared to untreated plants under water deficit conditions. In addition, the physiological and agronomic performance of evaluated rice genotypes significantly contrasted under drought conditions. The genotype Giza-178 displayed the best performance under water deficit conditions compared with the other genotypes. Consequently, the integration of applied exogenously nano-silicon or proline with tolerant rice genotype as Giza-178 is an efficient approach to ameliorating drought tolerance and achieving agricultural sustainability under water-scarce conditions in arid environments.

Criollo cattle, the descendants of animals brought by Iberian colonists to the Americas, have been the subject of natural and human-mediated selection in novel tropical agroecological zones for centuries. Consequently, these breeds have evolved distinct characteristics such as resistance to diseases and exceptional heat tolerance. In addition to European taurine (Bos taurus) ancestry, it has been proposed that gene flow from African taurine and Asian indicine (Bos indicus) cattle has shaped the ancestry of Criollo cattle. In this study, we analysed Criollo breeds from Colombia and Venezuela using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array data to examine population structure and admixture at high resolution. Analysis of genetic structure and ancestry components provided evidence for African taurine and Asian indicine admixture in Criollo cattle. In addition, using WGS data, we detected selection signatures associated with a myriad of adaptive traits, revealing genes linked to thermotolerance, reproduction, fertility, immunity and distinct coat and skin coloration traits. This study underscores the remarkable adaptability of Criollo cattle and highlights the genetic richness and potential of these breeds in the face of climate change, habitat flux and disease challenges. Further research is warranted to leverage these findings for more effective and sustainable cattle breeding programmes.

In this study, we used RT-qPCR to examine how PR genes were expressed in model tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants that had been infected with TMV or CMV. Under greenhouse conditions, the indirect ELISA data showed that both viruses were detected for the first time at 6 dpi. Then, the levels of accumulation increased very quickly, reaching a peak of 15 dpi. During the course of the study (1–15 dpi), the Delta CT, NormFinder, BestKeeper, and GeNorm software tools revealed that the β-actin gene was the most informative reference gene in the virally infected tomato tissues. For both the TMV- and CMV-infected tomato plants, the transcriptional expression levels of most tested genes changed between activation and repression, especially in the first 12 dpi. Compared to mock-inoculated plants, the expression levels of PR-1 were induced at all time intervals except at 8 dpi for CMV and at 6, 7, and 8 dpi for TMV infection. Conversely, the greater activation and accumulation of both viruses were associated with the greater up-regulation of PR-2 at 8 dpi, with relative expression levels of 7.28- and 5.84-fold for TMV and CMV, respectively. The up-regulated expression of PR-3, PR-4, and PR-7 was shown at 4 dpi. In contrast, the PR-5 gene was inhibited in TMV at 1 dpi until 9 dpi, and the induction of this gene at 10 dpi increased by 1.72-fold, but PR-5 was observed to up-regulate the expression of CMV at 1 dpi. This study provides the first valuable information on the comparative transcriptional levels of these tomato genes between TMV and CMV infections.

Nitrogen is an essential element for maize growth, but excessive application can lead to various environmental and ecological issues, including water pollution, air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and biodiversity loss. Hence, developing maize hybrids resilient to low-N conditions is vital for sustainable agriculture, particularly in nitrogen-deficient soils. Combining ability and genetic relationships among parental lines is crucial for breeding superior hybrids under diverse nitrogen levels. This study aimed to assess the genetic diversity of maize inbred lines using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and evaluate their combining ability to identify superior hybrids under low-N and recommended conditions. Local and exotic inbred lines were genotyped using SSR markers, revealing substantial genetic variation with high gene diversity (He = 0.60), moderate polymorphism information content (PIC = 0.54), and an average of 3.64 alleles per locus. Twenty-one F1 hybrids were generated through a diallel mating design using these diverse lines. These hybrids and a high yielding commercial check (SC-131) were field-tested under low-N and recommended N conditions. Significant variations (p < 0.01) were observed among nitrogen levels, hybrids, and their interaction for all recorded traits. Additive genetic variances predominated over non-additive genetic variances for grain yield and most traits. Inbred IL3 emerged as an effective combiner for developing early maturing genotypes with lower ear placement. Additionally, inbreds IL1, IL2, and IL3 showed promise as superior combiners for enhancing grain yield and related traits under both low-N and recommended conditions. Notably, hybrids IL1×IL4, IL2×IL5, IL2×IL6, and IL5×IL7 exhibited specific combining abilities for increasing grain yield and associated traits under low-N stress conditions. Furthermore, strong positive associations were identified between grain yield and specific traits like plant height, ear length, number of rows per ear, and number of kernels per row. Due to their straightforward measurability, these relationships underscore the potential of using these traits as proxies for indirect selection in early breeding generations, particularly under low-N stress. This research contributes to breeding nitrogen-efficient maize hybrids and advances our understanding of the genetic foundations for tolerance to nitrogen limitations.

Genetic counseling is a dynamic and rapidly growing field. In Qatar, the significance of genetic counseling is underscored by the distinctive demographic characteristics of the population, including elevated rates of consanguinity and larger family sizes, contributing to the increased incidence of many genetic conditions. This emphasizes the crucial role of genetic counseling in addressing the specific needs of the community. Over the past decade, key health care institutions in Qatar, such as Hamad Medical Corporation and Sidra Medicine, have significantly expanded genetic counseling services encompassing premarital, reproductive, prenatal, pediatric, adult, and cancer care. This multifaceted approach reflects Qatar’s health care system’s commitment to addressing various aspects of genetic health and well-being across different life stages.A pivotal milestone in the field’s development in Qatar was the establishment of a genetic counseling master’s program at Qatar University in 2018, showcasing the country’s dedication to fostering indigenous expertise in genetic counseling with the necessary competencies and cultural sensitivity to address the unique genetic counseling needs of the population. The recognition of genetic counseling as a profession and the licensure by the Ministry of Public Health in Qatar is another key achievement to ensure the high quality of service and protection of the profession. Contributing to global genetic knowledge, various academic and research entities in Qatar are conducting genetic/genomic/genetic counseling research toward advancing precision medicine in the country, and initiatives such as the Qatar Biobank and Qatar Genome Program have played a major role in catalyzing these efforts.

Recently, hand sanitization has gained attention for preventing disease transmission. Many on-the-market convenient dermal sanitizers contain alcohol, which can be detrimental to the skin. Therefore, three nanoemulgel formulations (LN-F1, LN-F2, LN-F3) incorporating lemon peel extract (LE), and with various increasing concentrations of xanthan gum as a gelling agent and stabilizer, were developed and characterized as a novel alternative. All formulations showed non-Newtonian shear-thinning flow behavior, particle size values below 200 nm, and increasing zeta potential with higher xanthan gum concentrations. All nanoemulgel formulations exhibited greater in vitro phenolic compound release than free LE. LN-F2 (1.0% LE, 20.0% mineral oil, 20.0% Span 80, 4.0% Cremophor RH 40, 4.0% PEG 400, 0.5% xanthan gum, 50.5% dH2O) was selected as the optimal formulation due to improved characteristics. LE and LN-F2 potential cytotoxicity was assessed on MA-104, showing no significant cellular morphological alterations up to 10 mg/mL for both samples. LN-F2 showed in vitro antimicrobial activity against E. coli, S. Typhimurium, P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, L. monocytogenes, and C. albicans, as well as antiviral activity against phiX 174, but no effect against rotavirus (SA-11). In vivo, LN-F2 presented a removal capacity of 83% to 100% for bacteria and 89% to 100% for fungi. These findings suggest that the formulated nanoemulgel holds potential as a safe and effective antiseptic, providing a viable alternative to commercial alcohol-based formulations.

Abstract One of the tomato’s acutely devastating diseases is Alternaria leaf spot, lowering worldwide tomato production. In this study, one fungal isolate was isolated from tomatoes and was assigned to Alternaria alternata TAA-05 upon morphological and molecular analysis of the ITS region and 18SrRNA, endoPG, Alt a1, and gapdh genes. Also, Urtica dioica and Dodonaea viscosa methanol leaf extracts (MLEs) were utilized as antifungal agents in vitro and compared to Ridomil, a reference chemical fungicide. The in vitro antifungal activity results revealed that Ridomil (2000 µg/mL) showed the highest fungal growth inhibition (FGI) against A. alternata (96.29%). Moderate activity was found against A. alternata by D. viscosa and U. dioica MLEs (2000 µg/mL), with an FGI value of 56.67 and 54.81%, respectively. The abundance of flavonoid and phenolic components were identified by HPLC analysis in the two plant extracts. The flavonoid compounds, including hesperidin, quercetin, and rutin were identified using HPLC in D. viscosa MLE with concentrations of 11.56, 10.04, and 5.14 µg/mL of extract and in U. dioica MLE with concentrations of 12.45, 9.21, and 5.23 µg/mL, respectively. α-Tocopherol and syringic acid, were also identified in D. viscosa MLE with concentrations of 26.13 and 13.69 µg/mL, and in U. dioica MLE, with values of 21.12 and 18.33 µg/mL, respectively. Finally, the bioactivity of plant extracts suggests that they play a crucial role as antifungal agents against A. alternata. Some phenolic chemicals, including coumaric acid, caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and α-tocopherol, have shown that they may be utilized as environmentally friendly fungicidal compounds.

Ninety, one-day-old Cobb chicks were randomly divided into 3 groups, each with 3 replicates. A control group was fed a standard diet, whereas the other two treatment groups received a diet with 0.2 or 0.3 mL thyme essential oil (TEO) per kg of the diet for 21 days. The 0.3 group had more meat protein (P ≤ 0.048) than the control group, while the other meat constituents have not changed. Meat sensory parameters (external aspect, odour, colour, and elasticity) declined (P < 0.001), while meat quality parameters (pH, total volatile nitrogen TVN, thiobarbituric acid number TBA, peroxide value PV, and free fatty acids FFA) increased (P < 0.001), through storage of the groups. In TEO groups, improved (P < 0.001) meat overall scores, external aspect and muscular elasticity was observed compared to control. Quality parameters were improved (P < 0.001) including pH, TVN, TBA, PV, and FFA, compared to control during storage. TEO had no effect on heavy metal concentrations while reducing bacterial contamination in meat. TEO 0.2 samples were positive for Salmonella Kentuckey and Staphylococcus aureus, while TEO 0.3 group were free from pathogenic bacteria. Thyme essential oil can enhance quality, and safety of the chilled broiler’s breast meat.

Water deficit poses significant environmental stress that adversely affects the growth and productivity of durum wheat. Moreover, projections of climate change suggest an increase in the frequency and severity of droughts, particularly in arid regions. Consequently, there is an urgent need to develop drought-tolerant and high-yielding genotypes to ensure sustained production and global food security in response to population growth. This study aimed to explore the genetic diversity among local and exotic durum wheat genotypes using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers and, additionally, to explore the combining ability and agronomic performance of assessed durum wheat genotypes and their 28 F1 crosses under normal and drought stress conditions. The investigated SSRs highlighted and confirmed the high genetic variation among the evaluated parental durum wheat genotypes. These diverse eight parental genotypes were consequently used to develop 28 F1s through a diallel mating design. The parental durum genotypes and their developed 28 F1s were assessed under normal and drought stress conditions. The evaluated genotypes were analyzed for their general and specific combining abilities as well as heterosis for agronomic traits under both conditions. The local cultivar Bani-Suef-7 (P8) is maintained as an effective combiner for developing shortened genotypes and improving earliness. Moreover, the local cultivars Bani-Suef-5 (P7) and Bani-Suef-7 (P8) along with the exotic line W1520 (P6) demonstrated excellent general combining ability for improving grain yield and its components under drought stress conditions. Furthermore, valuable specific hybrid combinations, W988 × W994 (P1 × P2), W996 × W1518 (P3 × P5), W1011 × W1520 (P4 × P6), and Bani-Suef-5 × Bani-Suef-7 (P7 × P8), were identified for grain yield and its components under drought stress conditions. The assessed 36 genotypes were grouped according to tolerance indices into five clusters varying from highly drought-sensitive genotypes (group E) to highly drought-tolerant (group A). The genotypes in cluster A (two crosses) followed by thirteen crosses in cluster B displayed higher drought tolerance compared to the other crosses and their parental genotypes. Subsequently, these hybrids could be considered valuable candidates in future durum wheat breeding programs to develop desired segregants under water-deficit conditions. Strong positive relationships were observed between grain yield and number of grains per spike, plant height, and 1000-grain weight under water-deficit conditions. These results highlight the significance of these traits for indirect selection under drought stress conditions, particularly in the early stages of breeding, owing to their convenient measurability.

Abstract The current study was performed on 8 years old "Succary" pomegranate cultivar (Punica granatum L.) during the 2019 and 2020 seasons. One hundred pomegranate trees were chosen and sprayed three times at the beginning of flowering, full bloom, and 1 month later with the following treatments: water as control, 0.025, 0.05 and 0.1 mg/L Se; 5 mL/L, 7.5 and 10 mL/L Ag NPs, and 0.5, 1 and 2 mg/L K2Si2O5. The results showed that spraying of SE, Ag NPs, and K2Si2O5 ameliorated the shoot length, diameter, leaf chlorophyll content, set of fruiting percentage, and fruit yield per tree and hectare compared to control through studying seasons. Moreover, they improved the fruit weight, length, and diameter, as well as total soluble solids, total, reduced, and non-reduced sugars percent, while they lessened the juice acidity percentage compared to control. The most obvious results were noticed with Se at 0.1 mg/L, Ag NPs at 10 mL/L, and K2Si2O5 and K2Si2O5 in both experimental seasons over the other applied treatments. By HPLC analysis, peel extracts showed the presence of several bioactive compounds of catechol, syringic acid, p-coumaric acid, benzoic acid, caffeic acid, pyrogallol, gallic acid, ferulic acid, salicylic acid, cinnamic acid, and ellagic acid. The extracts applied to Melia azedarach wood showed promising antifungal activity against Rhizoctonia solani and were considered wood-biofingicides.

Abstract Background Cattle are considered to be the most desirable livestock by small scale farmers. In Africa, although comprehensive genomic studies have been carried out on cattle, the genetic variations in indigenous cattle from Nigeria have not been fully explored. In this study, genome-wide analysis based on genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) of 193 Nigerian cattle was used to reveal new insights on the history of West African cattle and their adaptation to the tropical African environment, particularly in sub-Saharan region. Results The GBS data were evaluated against whole-genome sequencing (WGS) data and high rate of variant concordance between the two platforms was evident with high correlated genetic distance matrices genotyped by both methods suggestive of the reliability of GBS applicability in population genetics. The genetic structure of Nigerian cattle was observed to be homogenous and unique from other African cattle populations. Selection analysis for the genomic regions harboring imprints of adaptation revealed genes associated with immune responses, growth and reproduction, efficiency of feeds utilization, and heat tolerance. Our findings depict potential convergent adaptation between African cattle, dogs and humans with adaptive genes SPRY2 and ITGB1BP1 possibly involved in common physiological activities. Conclusion The study presents unique genetic patterns of Nigerian cattle which provide new insights on the history of cattle in West Africa based on their population structure and the possibility of parallel adaptation between African cattle, dogs and humans in Africa which require further investigations.

Abstract Background Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV) is a dangerous disease of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) that reduces dramatically the yield. To reduce ToMV infection, microalgal isolates were utilized. Microalgal species (Chlorella vulgaris, Anabaena oryzae, Spirulina platensis, Nostoc linckia and Dunaliella salina) were shown to be responsible for the stimulation of tomato resistance against ToMV. Results Initial signs of discoloration and mosaic in ToMV-inoculated plants were detected and identified on inoculated leaves at 6 and 12 dpi in control and treated plants, respectively, suggesting that microalgae may inhibit ToMV growth. Treatment with microalgae resulted in a significant decrease in symptoms (up to 63% reduction in disease severity) and negative ELISA readings, indicating that the microalgae induced resistance in tomato against ToMV infection. The isolates also enhanced the activity of pathogenesis-related enzymes (PPO and POX reaching to 0.033 and 0.054 in D. salina, respectively), as well as tomato growth characters in comparison with the control. Microalgal treatments demonstrated that the salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) pathways were involved in tomato plant defense responses. The relative gene expressions of PR1 and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), which are involved in the SA and JA pathways, respectively, were improved in treated plants compared to the control. Conclusion The findings indicated that algal-induced ToMV resistance was mediated via several defense pathways in tomato. The antiviral mechanism was described, which provides a light on the potential of algae in plant viral disease management.

Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus) is a large-body old world rodent found in sub-Saharan Africa. The body size and the unique taste of the meat of this major crop pest have made it a target of intense hunting and a potential consideration as a micro-livestock. However, there is insufficient knowledge on the genetic diversity of its populations across African Guinean forests. Herein, we investigated the genetic diversity, population structures and evolutionary history of seven Nigerian wild grasscutter populations together with individuals from Cameroon, Republic of Benin, and Ghana, using five mitochondrial fragments, including D-loop and cytochrome b (CYTB). D-loop haplotype diversity ranged from 0.571 (± 0.149) in Republic of Benin to 0.921 (± 0.013) in Ghana. Within Nigeria, the haplotype diversity ranged from 0.659 (± 0.059) in Cross River to 0.837 (± 0.075) in Ondo subpopulation. The fixation index (FST), haplotype frequency distribution and analysis of molecular variance revealed varying levels of population structures across populations. No significant signature of population contraction was detected in the grasscutter populations. Evolutionary analyses of CYTB suggests that South African population might have diverged from other populations about 6.1 (2.6–10.18, 95% CI) MYA. Taken together, this study reveals the population status and evolutionary history of grasscutter populations in the region.

Abstract Risk genes for Mendelian (single-gene) disorders (SGDs) are consistent across populations, but pathogenic risk variants that cause SGDs are typically population-private. The goal was to develop “QChip1,” an inexpensive genotyping microarray to comprehensively screen newborns, couples, and patients for SGD risk variants in Qatar, a small nation on the Arabian Peninsula with a high degree of consanguinity. Over 108 variants in 8445 Qatari were identified for inclusion in a genotyping array containing 165,695 probes for 83,542 known and potentially pathogenic variants in 3438 SGDs. QChip1 had a concordance with whole-genome sequencing of 99.1%. Testing of QChip1 with 2707 Qatari genomes identified 32,674 risk variants, an average of 134 pathogenic alleles per Qatari genome. The most common pathogenic variants were those causing homocystinuria (1.12% risk allele frequency), and Stargardt disease (2.07%). The majority (85%) of Qatari SGD pathogenic variants were not present in Western populations such as European American, South Asian American, and African American in New York City and European and Afro-Caribbean in Puerto Rico; and only 50% were observed in a broad collection of data across the Greater Middle East including Kuwait, Iran, and United Arab Emirates. This study demonstrates the feasibility of developing accurate screening tools to identify SGD risk variants in understudied populations, and the need for ancestry-specific SGD screening tools.

Host genetics is a key determinant of COVID-19 outcomes. Previously, the COVID-19 Host Genetics Initiative genome-wide association study used common variants to identify multiple loci associated with COVID-19 outcomes. However, variants with the largest impact on COVID-19 outcomes are expected to be rare in the population. Hence, studying rare variants may provide additional insights into disease susceptibility and pathogenesis, thereby informing therapeutics development. Here, we combined whole-exome and whole-genome sequencing from 21 cohorts across 12 countries and performed rare variant exome-wide burden analyses for COVID-19 outcomes. In an analysis of 5,085 severe disease cases and 571,737 controls, we observed that carrying a rare deleterious variant in the SARS-CoV-2 sensor toll-like receptor TLR7 (on chromosome X) was associated with a 5.3-fold increase in severe disease (95% CI: 2.75-10.05, p = 5.41x10-7). This association was consistent across sexes. These results further support TLR7 as a genetic determinant of severe disease and suggest that larger studies on rare variants influencing COVID-19 outcomes could provide additional insights.

This research was performed to evaluate the potential of carvone, cuminaldehyde, cineole, and linalool for the control of root-knot of tomato. The tested control agents were evaluated for their ability to stimulate systemic resistance to Meloidogyne incognita in tomato by monitoring the transcription levels of defense-related genes. Moreover, the ability of the tested agents to induce nematicidal activity concerning second-stage juveniles (J2) hatching and mortality was evaluated. Furthermore, the effect of the tested agents on certain tomato growth and yield parameters was assessed. The tested monoterpenes showed high nematicidal activity against M. incognita concerning J2 hatching inhibition and mortality. Carvone, cuminaldhyde, linalool, and cineole had LC50 values of 123.5, 172.2, 354.9, 466.4, and 952.3 μg/mL, respectively. Carvone was found to be the most efficient hatching inhibitor. The tested monoterpenes showed a high potential against root-knot under greenhouse and field conditions with respect to root-galling, egg masses, and the number of J2. Carvone was the most effective treatment. The growth and yield characters of treated tomato were significantly increased in monoterpenes treatments compared to untreated control. Treated tomato plants showed expression of defense-related genes (PR1 and PAL) 5-8 folds higher than the control. The results also showed that cuminaldhyde, followed by carvone, linalool, and cineole, had the greatest levels of expression in tomato plants. Taken together, the selected monoterpenes could be used as alternatives to control the root-knot of tomato.

Rhizobium spp. manifests strong nitrogen fixation ability in legumes. However, their significance as biocontrol agents and antivirals has rarely been investigated. Under greenhouse conditions, the molecularly identified nitrogen-fixing plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae strain 33504-Alex1, isolated from the root nodules of faba bean plants, was tested as a soil inoculum or a foliar application to trigger faba bean plants’ resistance against Bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV) infection. Compared to the non-treated faba bean plants, the applications of 33504-Alex1 in either soil or foliar application significantly promoted growth and improved total chlorophyll content, resulting in a considerable reduction in disease incidence and severity and the inhibition index of BYMV in the treated faba bean plants. Furthermore, the protective activities of 33504-Alex1 were associated with significant reductions in non-enzymatic oxidative stress markers [hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA)] and remarkably increased DPPH free radical scavenging activity and total phenolic content compared to the BYMV treatment at 20 days post-inoculation. Additionally, an increase in reactive oxygen species scavenging enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO)] and induced transcriptional levels of pathogenesis-related (PR) proteins (PR-1, PR-3, and PR-5) were observed. Of the 19 polyphenolic compounds detected in faba bean leaves by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, gallic and vanillic acids were completely shut down in BYMV treatment. Interestingly, the 33504-Alex1 treatments were associated with the induction and accumulation of the most detected polyphenolic compounds. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis showed hexadecanoic acid 2,3-dihydroxypropyl ester, tetraneurin-A-Diol, oleic acid, and isochiapin B are the major compounds in the ethyl acetate extract of 33504-Alex1 culture filtrate (CF), suggesting it acts as an elicitor for the induction of systemic acquired resistance (SAR) in faba bean plants. Consequently, the capacity of R. leguminosarum bv. viciae strain 33504-Alex1 to enhance plant growth and induce systemic resistance to BYMV infection will support the incorporation of 33504-Alex1 as a fertilizer and biocontrol agent and offer a new strategy for crop protection, sustainability, and environmental safety in agriculture production.

Extensive use of chemical control agents and fungicides typically leads to numerous risks to human health and the environment. Using plant extracts as natural substances represents a dual key for the environment and sustainable food production, as it reduces the input of synthetic pesticides into the environment and/or controls plant pathogens. For the first time, a Plantago lagopus ethanolic extract has been characterized and evaluated for its protective and curative effects against Rhizoctonia solani in tomato plants. The results showed that P. lagopus extract (10 μg/ml) completely inhibited R. solani mycelial growth in vitro. At 20 days of post fungal inoculation, the results demonstrated that using P. lagopus extract (100 μg/ml) in vivo enhanced tomato plant growth by significantly increasing shoot and root parameters in protective and curative treatments. Furthermore, the protective and curative treatments significantly reduced the disease index by 18.66 and 38.66%, respectively. Induction of systemic resistance with upregulation of PR-1 and PR-2 and a significant increase in the transcriptional levels of PR-3 and CHS in all P. lagopus extract-treated tomato plants were reported compared to untreated plants. HPLC analysis showed that the most common polyphenolic components detected in P. lagopus extract were rutin (74206.3 mg/kg), naringenin (2388.74 mg/kg), quercetin (1249.13 mg/kg), and p-hydroxybenzoic acid (1035.87 mg/kg). In addition, the ellagic acid (798.47 mg/kg), vanillic acid (752.55 mg/kg), catechol (648.89 mg/kg), cinnamic acid (332.51 mg/kg), ferulic acid (296.32 mg/kg), benzoic acid (295.95 mg/kg), and chlorogenic acid (116.63 mg/kg) were also reported. Our study is the first to show that P. lagopus extract can help plants fight off R. solani fungal infection. Furthermore, the findings imply that using the P. lagopus extract as a natural biocontrol agent could be a sustainable strategy to manage plant fungal diseases.

This study was implemented to assess the mechanism by which Moringa oleifera leaf extract (MOLE) improves the quality and prolongs shelf-life of the broilers’ breast meat. Ninety Cobb chicks were randomly allocated to 3 groups. A control group received the standard diet, whereas the other two groups received diets containing MOLE at the doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg for 21 days. Inclusion of MOLE in broilers diet significantly reduced the detrimental changes in the overall sensory attribute scores, characteristic color and odor, and the loss of breast muscle elasticity during storage. Furthermore, it significantly reduced concentrations of thiobarbituric acid, total volatile nitrogen, non-esterified fatty acids, and peroxide, during storage compared to the control samples. No effect on the concentrations of heavy metals, such as copper, cadmium, and lead, was observed. Decomposition of samples was delayed as indicated by lower pH values and higher sensory scores at 4 and 6 days of storage in the MOLE groups. Reduced contamination with E. coli and Salmonella species indicated an antibacterial effect of MOLE. Finally, the present study highlights that MOLE supplementation may play a role in improving quality and shelf-life of the chilled breast meat in broilers.

Abstract The current study was performed on eight years old peach (Prunus persica L. Batsch) trees cv. Florida prince to study the influence of spraying of commercial nano fertilizer on vegetative growth, pollen grain viability, yield, and fruit quality of the "Florida prince" peach cultivar. Furthermore, extracts from the nanofertilizer treated leaves were studied for their bioactivity as insecticidal or bactericidal activities against some stored grain insects and plant bacterial pathogens. Seventy uniform peach trees were sprayed three time as follow: before flowering; during full bloom, and one month later in addition using the water as a control. Commercial silver particales (Ag NPs) at 10, 12.5, and 15 mL/L and zinc particales (Zn NPs) at 2.5, 5 and 7.5 mL/L as recommended level in a randomized complete block design in ten replicates/trees. Spraying Ag NP at 15 mL/L increased shoot diameter, leaf area, total chlorophyll, flower percentage, fruit yield and fruit physical and chemical characteristics, followed by Ag NPs at 12.5 mL/L and Zn NPs at 7.5 mL/L. Moreover, Zn and Ag NPs caused a highly significant effect on pollen viability. Different type of pollen aberrations were detected by Zn NPs treatment. The commercial Ag NPs showed a high increase in pollen viability without any aberrations. The Ag NPs significantly increased the pollen size, and the spores also increased and separated in different localities, searching about the egg for pollination and fertilization. Peach leaves extract was examined for their insecticidal activity against rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzea L.) and the lesser grain borer (Rhyzopertha dominica, Fabricius) by fumigation method. The antibacterial activity of all treatments was also performed against molecularly identified bacteria. Ag NPs treated leaves extract at concentration 3000 µg/mL were moderate sufficient to inhibit all the bacterial isolates with inhibition zone (IZ) ranged 6–8.67 mm with high efficiency of acetone extracts from leaves treated with Ag NPs compared with Zn NPs. Also, S. oryzae was more susceptible to acetone extracts from leaves treated with both nanomaterials than R. dominica.

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) have gained significant attention in nanotechnology due to their unique properties and potential applications in various fields, including insecticidal and antibacterial activities. The ZnO-NPs were biosynthesized by Eriobotrya japonica leaf extract and characterized by various techniques such as UV–visible (UV–vis) spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential analysis. The results of SEM revealed that NPs were irregular and spherical-shaped, with a diameter between 5 and 27 nm. Meanwhile, DLS supported that the measured size distributions were 202.8 and 94.7 nm at 11.1° and 90.0°, respectively, which supported the polydisperse nature of NPs, and the corresponding zeta potential was −20.4 mV. The insecticidal activity of the produced ZnO-NPs was determined against the adult stage of coleopteran pests, Sitophilus oryzae (Linnaeus) (Curculionidae) and Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Tenebrionidae). The LC50 values of ZnO-NPs against adults of S. oryzae and T. castaneum at 24 h of exposure were 7125.35 and 5642.65 μg/mL, respectively, whereas the LC90 values were 121,824.56 and 66,825.76 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, the biosynthesized nanoparticles exhibited antibacterial activity against three potato bacterial pathogens, and the size of the inhibition zone was concentration-dependent. The data showed that the inhibition zone size increased with an increase in the concentration of nanoparticles for all bacterial isolates tested. The highest inhibition zone was observed for Ralstonia solanacearum at a concentration of 5 µg/mL, followed by Pectobacterium atrosepticum and P. carotovorum. Eventually, ZnO-NPs could be successfully used as an influential agent in pest management programs against stored-product pests and potato bacterial diseases.

Due to the constant increase in the number of plant diseases and the lack of available treatments, there has been a growing interest in plant extracts over the past few decades. Numerous studies suggest that plant extract molecules possess valuable antimicrobial activities, particularly against fungi and bacteria. This suggests that these biomaterials could potentially serve as attractive therapeutic options for the treatment of phytopathogen infections. In the present study, we investigated and analyzed the methanolic extract of Eryngium campestre L. whole plant extract using HPLC. The analysis revealed the presence of several polyphenolic constituents, with benzoic acid, catechol, quercetin, vanillic acid, resveratrol, naringenin, and quinol being the most abundant. The amounts of these constituents were determined to be 2135.53, 626.728, 579.048, 356.489, 323.41, 153.038, and 128.77 mg/kg, respectively. Furthermore, we isolated and identified different plant fungal and bacterial isolates from symptomatic potato plants, which were accessioned as Rhizoctonia solani (OQ880458), Fusarium oxysporum (OQ820156) and Fusarium solani (OQ891085), Ralstonia solanacearum (OQ878653), Dickeya solani (OQ878655), and Pectobacterium carotovorum (OQ878656). The antifungal activity of the extract was assessed using fungal growth inhibitions (FGI) at concentrations of 100, 200, and 300 µg/mL. The results showed that at the lowest concentration tested (100 µg/mL), the extract exhibited the highest effectiveness against R. solani with an FGI of 78.52%, while it was least effective against F. solani with an FGI of 61.85%. At the highest concentration tested, the extract demonstrated the highest effectiveness against R. solani and F. oxysporum, with FGIs of 88.89% and 77.04%, respectively. Additionally, the extract displayed a concentration-dependent inhibitory effect on all three bacterial pathogens. At the highest concentration tested (3000 µg/mL), the extract was able to inhibit the growth of all three bacterial pathogens, although the inhibition zone diameter varied. Among the bacterial pathogens, D. solani exhibited the highest sensitivity to the extract, as it showed the largest inhibition zone diameter at most of the extract concentrations. These findings highlight the potential of the E. campestre extract as a source of natural antimicrobial agents for controlling various plant pathogens. Consequently, it offers a safer alternative to the currently employed protective methods for plant disease management.

Numerous strategies have been suggested to reduce dependence on synthetic products, such as physical, microbial, and natural methods. Among the natural remedies, plant extracts have emerged as a popular option owing to their eco-friendly character, ease of degradation, and harmless nature to humans. In our study, we used the acetone and hexane extracts of Rhaphiolepis indica fruit to combat two fungal pathogens that were isolated from infected bean plants and showed root rot symptoms. The two pathogens were confirmed to be pathogenic by pathogenicity assays conducted in vivo. The morphological and molecular identification by ITS-region sequencing revealed that the two isolates were Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium solani, and they were assigned accession numbers OQ880457 and OQ820158, respectively. Our data showed that both hexane and acetone extracts caused a significant decrease in the linear growth of F. solani at all concentrations used (1%, 2%, and 3%), compared to the control. However, at a concentration of 3%, the hexane extract caused much greater inhibition than the acetone extract. For R. solani, the hexane extract, shows a significant inhibition percentage at all concentrations, which further increases to 85.24% at 3% concentration. The HPLC of both extracts indicated the presence and absence of phenolic and flavonoid compounds. The obtained results revealed that five acetonic phenolic extract compounds were ferulic, p-coumaric, gallic, p-OH benzoic, and cinnamic, with concentrations of 5.31, 10.36, 7.24, 6.08, and 0.89 mg/mL, respectively. On the other hand, the five hexanoic phenolic compounds were catechol, caffeic, chlorogenic, p-OH benzoic, and cinnamic acids, with concentrations of 3.66, 5.14, 0.69, 6.31, and 13.47 mg/mL, respectively. The identified acetonic flavonoid extract compounds, namely rutin, chrysin, quercetin, kaempferol, chrysoeriol, 7-OH flavone, and naringin, had respective concentrations of 5.36, 10.23, 4.32, 15.33, 1.06, 0.087, and 0.069 mg/mL, respectively. In contrast, it was observed that the seven hexanoic flavonoid extracts comprised of rutin, quercetin, kampferol, luteolin, chrysoeriol, 7-OH flavone, and catechin exhibited concentrations of 5.36, 7.15, 18.20, 6.04, 2.04, 10.24, and 13.43 mg/mL, respectively. The results of the study suggest that plant extracts may be a useful natural remedy for combating fungal pathogens and reducing dependence on synthetic products.

In this study, we investigated the antifungal properties of an acetone extract derived from the leaves of Swietenia mahagoni (SMAL) against two isolated fungi, Fusarium equiseti (OQ820153) and Rhizoctonia solani (OQ820152), from rice sheath. The extract was effective in inhibiting the growth of both fungi at the highest concentration tested, 3000 μg·mL−1. Laboratory tests on the LC20 of SMAL extract (49.86 mg·L−1) versus pyriproxyfen 10% EC (1.96 mg·L−1) were accomplished on Aphis gossypii Glover. The extract potently reduced the survival of the nymphs (49.58%) more than the other treatments. The longevity of nymphs treated with the extract had the highest prolongation at 9.67 days. The olfactory choice test exhibited the lowest aphid attraction percentage (23.33%). The HPLC of SMAL extract contained various phenolic compounds, and the most abundant found were catechin (752.64 µg·g−1), gallic acid, and chlorogenic acid, as well as flavonoids such as rutin (585.24 µg·g−1) and naringenin. A GC–MS analysis revealed n-hexadecanoic acid (37.1%) as the major compound, followed by oleic acid. These results suggest that SMAL extract has the potential to help plants fight against fungal and insect infections, making it a promising natural and renewable solution for long-term plant pest regulation.

Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) is a major pathogen affecting tomato plants worldwide. The efficacy of silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) mediated by Punica granatum biowaste peel extract in mitigating the negative impact of TMV infection on tomato growth and oxidative stress was investigated through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-Visible (UV-Vis) spectrophotometer, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier-transform infrared spectra (FTIR). Results of SEM analysis of green Ag-NPs revealed the presence of condensed spherical or round NPs with diameters ranging between 61 and 97 nm. TEM confirmed the SEM results and showed round-shaped Ag-NPs with an average size of 33.37 ± 12.7 nm. The elemental analysis (EDX) of prepared Ag-NPs revealed the presence of elemental Ag as a major peak (64.43%) at 3–3.5 KeV. The FTIR revealed several functional groups on the prepared Ag-NPs, for which three treatment strategies for Ag-NP applications were evaluated in the greenhouse study and compared to inoculated TMV and control plants: pre-infection treatment (TB), post-infection treatment (TA), and dual treatment (TD). The results showed that the TD strategy is the most effective in improving tomato growth and reducing viral replication, whereas all Ag-NP treatments (TB, TA, and TD) were found to significantly increase expression of the pathogenesis-related (PR) genes PR-1 and PR-2, as well as polyphenolic compounds, HQT, and C4H genes compared to control plants. In contrast, the flavonoid content of tomato plants was not affected by the viral infection, while the phenolic content was significantly reduced in the TMV group. Furthermore, TMV infection led to a significant increase in oxidative stress markers MDA and H2O2, as well as a reduction in the enzymatic activity of the antioxidants PPO, SOD, and POX. Our results clearly showed that the application of Ag-NPs on TMV-infected plants reduces virus accumulation, delays viral replication in all treatments, and greatly enhances the expression of the CHS gene involved in flavonoid biosynthesis. Overall, these findings suggest that treatment with Ag-NPs may be an effective strategy to mitigate the negative impact of TMV infection on tomato plants.

Ten-year-old lemon (Citrus limon L. cv. Eureka) was used during the 2019 and 2020 seasons to investigate the effect of AgNPs at control, 5, 7.5, and 10 mg/L as a foliar application on vegetative growth, yield, and fruit quality. The selected trees were subjected to agricultural practices applied in the field during the study. The results indicated that the foliar application of AgNPs positively improved the shoot length, total chlorophyll, flower, and fruit set percentage, fruit yield, physical and chemical characteristics of fruits, and leaf mineral composition from macro and micronutrients compared to control in both seasons. The foliar application of AgNPs at 10 mg/L showed the highest mean values followed by 7.5 and 5 mg/L, respectively, for the previous characteristics. The treated leaves and fruit peels were hydrodistillated to extract the essential oils (EOs), and GC–MS analysis of leaf EOs. The analysis of leaves EOs showed the presence of neral, geranial, neryl acetate, and limonene as the main abundant bioactive compounds. While in peel the main compounds were neral, geranial, neryl acetate, D-limonene, geraniol acetate, linalool, and citronellal. Toxin effect of both EOs from leaves and peels were evaluated on the rice weevils (Sitophilus oryzae) and the results indicated a higher effect of lemon peel EOs than leaves based on mortality percentage and the values of LC50 and LC95 mg/L. Melia azedarach wood samples loaded with the produced lemon EOs were evaluated for their antifungal activity against the molecularly identified fungus, Fusarium solani (acc # OL410542). The reduction in mycelial growth was increased gradually with the applied treatments. The most potent activity was found in lemon leaf EOs, while peel EOs showed the lowest reduction values. The mycelial growth reduction percentages reached 72.96 and 52.59%, by 0.1% leaf and peel EOs, respectively, compared with control.

Background Great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence is involved in most cases of varicose disease. Standard preinterventional assessment is required to decide the treatment modalities. GSV diameter was measured at saphenofemoral junction, proximal thigh, distal thigh, knee, proximal leg, and distal leg. Analysis was done to find at which diameter size the reflux is expected to occur. Patient and methods The study involved 100 limbs from outpatient vascular clinic. GSV diameter was measured at the saphenofemoral junction, the proximal thigh, the distal thigh, below the knee, and mid-leg and correlated with reflux. Results Reflux in the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) (group I) occurred at 7.16±2.30 mm, proximal thigh (group II) at 6.60±1.89 mm, distal thigh (group III a) at 6.12±1.63 mm, knee (group III b) at 5.78±1.60 mm, proximal leg (group IV) at 4.61.24 mm, and mid leg (group V) at 3.59±1.16 mm. Conclusion Measurement at six sites revealed higher sensitivity and specificity to predict reflux. GSV diameter correlates with reflux.

Plants and soil microorganisms interact at every stage of growth. Pseudomonas spp. are highly regarded for their ability to increase crop production and protection from diseases. The aim of this study is to understand the mechanisms of the rhizobacterial colonization of tomato roots via chemotaxis assay and the activation of tomato resistance against the pathogenic bacterium, Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (Pst). The capillary assay was used to evaluate the chemotaxis response of PGPRs (plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria). The activities of defense enzymes and the expressions of PR (pathogenesis-related) genes were measured using real-time qPCR. Chemotactic responses to malic and citric acids (the most important root exudates found in different plant species) at low concentrations varied substantially among the rhizobacterial isolates (63 species). Beneficial isolates including Pseudomonas resinovorans A5, P. vranovensis A30, P. resinovorans A28, P. umsongensis O26, P. stutzeri N42, and P. putida T15 reacted well to different concentrations of root exudates. P. putida T15 demonstrated the most potent anti-Pst activity. At three and six days after inoculation, the greatest levels of polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase activity were reported in the A5 and T15 groups. In tomato, transcript levels of four PR (pathogenesis-related) genes were elevated by rhizobacterial treatments. PGPR isolates alone or in combination with BABA (β-amino butyric acid) up-regulated the transcriptions of PR1, PR2, LOX, and PAL genes. Treatments with N42 and T15 resulted in the greatest improvements in tomato growth and yield traits. In conclusion, the results explain the mechanisms of rhizobacterial colonization for the improved management of Pst. Rhizobacterial isolates play a role in tomato’s resistance to Pst via salicylic acid and jasmonic acid pathways.

Cinnamomum camphora methanolic extract was tested for antifungal activity against three common, isolated, widespread phytopathogens: Alternaria alternata, Fusarium solani, and Fusarium oxysporum, which were molecularly identified and assigned accession numbers ON795987, ON795988, and ON795989, respectively. At 4000 µg/mL, the highest concentration of C. camphora methanolic extract inhibits the fungal mycelia weight of F. oxysporum, A. alternata, and F. solani by 60, 49, and 24%, respectively. The presence of several bioactive metabolites in the C. camphora extract could explain its antifungal activity. The presence of numerous phenolic and flavonoid compounds in the extract was revealed by HPLC analysis, including catechin and gallic acid, which had the highest concentrations of 6.21 and 6.98 µg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, osmoprotectants, total amino acids, and glycine betaine were abundant. Furthermore, total antioxidant activities, as measured by PMA and DPPH, were significant. The most abundant compound in the extract, according to GC-MS analysis, was mono(2-ethylhexyl) ester of 1,2-benzene dicarboxylic acid. Based on its in vitro efficacy in inhibiting mycelial growth weight, the tested extract could be recommended as a safe fungicide instead of a chemical treatment.

Qatar, a country with a strong health system and a diverse population consisting mainly of expatriate residents, has experienced two large waves of COVID-19 outbreak. In this study, we report on 2634 SARS-CoV-2 whole-genome sequences from infected patients in Qatar between March-2020 and March-2021, representing 1.5% of all positive cases in this period. Despite the restrictions on international travel, the viruses sampled from the populace of Qatar mirrored nearly the entire global population’s genomic diversity with nine predominant viral lineages that were sustained by local transmission chains and the emergence of mutations that are likely to have originated in Qatar. We reported an increased number of mutations and deletions in B.1.1.7 and B.1.351 lineages in a short period. These findings raise the imperative need to continue the ongoing genomic surveillance that has been an integral part of the national response to monitor the SARS-CoV-2 profile and re-emergence in Qatar.

The faba bean plant (Vicia faba L.) is one of the world’s most important legume crops and can be infected with various viral diseases that affect its production. One of the more significant viruses in terms of economic impact is bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV). The current study used the molecularly identified Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. viciae strain 33504-Borg1, a nitrogen-fixing bacteria, to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) to control BYMV disease in faba bean plants. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), a particle size analyzer (PSA) with dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) were used to characterize the prepared AgNPs. The DLS, SEM, and TEM analyses revealed that the AgNPs were spherical and rough, with sizes ranging from 13.7 to 40 nm. The FTIR analysis recognized various functional groups related to AgNP capping and stability. Under greenhouse conditions, spraying faba bean leaves with the AgNPs (100 µg/mL) 24 h before BYMV inoculation induced plant resistance and reduced plant disease severity and virus concentration levels. Contrarily, the AgNP treatment enhanced plant health by raising photosynthetic rates, increasing the fresh and dry weight of the faba bean plants, and increasing other measured metrics to levels comparable to healthy controls. Antioxidant enzymes (peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase) inhibited the development of BYMV in the faba bean plants treated with the AgNPs. The AgNPs decreased oxidative stress markers (H2O2 and MDA) in the faba bean plants. The plants treated with the AgNPs showed higher expression levels of PR-1 and HQT than the control plants. The study findings could be used to develop a simple, low-cost, and environmentally friendly method of protecting the faba bean plant from BYMV.

Nanoparticles nowadays are an effective control agent against most phytopathogens. However, there are many reports on their antimicrobial activity and little as a nematicide. In this study, green biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using Acalypha wilkesiana aqueous leaf extract was achieved. X-ray diffraction patterns confirmed the crystalline structure with face-centred cubic (fcc), where is the size was nearly 20 nm. SEM images of the Ag NPs show the spherical shape and in the range from 10 to 30 nm. Various functional groups, capping, and stability agents were identified using Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The nematicidal activity of biosynthesized Ag NPs conc. 25, 50, and 100 µg/mL were evaluated in vitro against root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita), egg hatching (6 days after) and movement after 24 and 48 h. The Ag NPs (100 µg/ml) application after 48 h was the most effective treatment that showed 53.3% of nematode mortality. Overall, the efficiency of bio-Ag NPs reduced the nematode activity, mortality, egg hatching, and movement of larvae. To our knowledge, this is the first report of nematicidal action of biosynthesized Ag NPs using A. wilkesiana aqueous extract, and it could be recommended to manage the plant-parasitic nematode as it is simple, stable, cost-effective and keep the environment safe.

Abstract Background Tracheal intubation is the second most dangerous procedures reflected in the ICU. It includes passing a plastic tube named endotracheal tube (ET) through the vocal cords into the trachea. Errors of this procedure like the placement of ET in the oesophagus or advancing the ET too far into one of the two lungs are life threatening. Objectives This work was designed to provide cheap and quick technique to confirm proper ET tube placement by utilizing simple video laryngoscopy and using dogs as an animal model. Materials and methods This study was conducted on 20 dogs divided into two equal group (n = 10). The first group, in which a semi-flexible video laryngoscope (VLS) fitted with endotracheal tube was introduced and placed into the trachea of the experimental dogs. In the second group, dogs were intubated through soft and flexible video laryngoscope (VLS) fitted with the endotracheal tube. Number and time of the first attempt for introduction of ET were recorded. Results The number of attempts was significantly (P

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) causes a significant threat to crop output sustainability and human nutrition worldwide, since it is one of the most prevalent plant viruses infecting most kinds of plants. Nowadays, different types of nanomaterials are applied as a control agent against different phytopathogens. However, their effects against viral infections are still limited. In the current study, the antiviral activities of the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) mediated by aqueous extract of Ocimum basilicum against cucumber mosaic virus in squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) were investigated. The prepared Ag-NPs were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and zeta potential distribution techniques. DLS, SEM, and TEM analyses showed that the Ag-NPs were spherical, with sizes ranging from 26.3 to 83 nm with an average particle size of about 32.6 nm. FTIR identified different functional groups responsible for the capping and stability of Ag-NPs. The zeta potential was reported as being −11.1 mV. Under greenhouse conditions, foliar sprays of Ag-NPs (100 µg/mL) promoted growth, delayed disease symptom development, and significantly reduced CMV accumulation levels of treated plants compared to non-treated plants. Treatment with Ag-NPs 24 h before or after CMV infection reduced CMV accumulation levels by 92% and 86%, respectively. There was also a significant increase in total soluble carbohydrates, free radical scavenging activity, antioxidant enzymes (PPO, SOD, and POX), as well as total phenolic and flavonoid content. Furthermore, systemic resistance was induced by significantly increasing the expression levels of pathogenesis-related genes (PR-1 and PR-5) and polyphenolic pathway genes (HCT and CHI). These findings suggest that Ag-NPs produced by O. basilicum could be used as an elicitor agent and as a control agent in the induction and management of plant viral infections.

Chemical pesticides and fungicides are used extensively, negatively affecting people’s health and the environment. Reducing synthetic pesticides and increasing the efficiency of sustainable food production using plant extracts as natural chemicals is a win–win. Here, we first describe and evaluate an ethanolic extract of Chorisia speciosa for its protective and curative activities against Rhizoctonia solani in greenhouse-grown tomato plants. The results showed that the mycelial growth of R. solani was completely suppressed in vitro by C. speciosa extract (10 µg/mL). Twenty days after fungal inoculation, the results demonstrated that using C. speciosa extract (10 µg/mL) in vivo significantly improved shoot and root growth parameters in protective and curative treatments. Further, the protective and curative treatments decreased the disease index by 26.67% and 53.33%, respectively. C. speciosa-treated tomato plants showed significantly increased antioxidant enzyme production (PPO, CAT, and SOD) and up-regulated PR-1, PR-2,PR-3, PAL, and CHS expression levels compared to untreated plants. According to HPLC examination, the most prevalent phenolic acids or flavonoid components quantities (µg/mL) noticed in C. speciosa extract were 7-OH-flavone (10.36), kaempferol (9.23), p-coumaric acid (8.65), ferulic acid (8.14), caffeic acid (7.59), gallic acid (6.33), and iso-ferulic (5.71). Our findings are the first to demonstrate that a C. speciosa extract can assist plants in combating fungal infestation. Therefore, the data imply that C. speciosa extract, as a natural and renewable product, could be adopted as a long-term approach for regulating plant fungus.

Potato Virus Y (PVY) is a serious potato disease that may significantly decrease potato production. To suppress potato virus infection, several measures have been undertaken. The utilization of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria is one of these methods. Biochar soil treatment is believed to provide plants with a number of advantages, including increased plant growth and the development of systemic resistance to a variety of plant diseases. The goal of this research was to see whether adding biochar and Klebsiella oxytoca to the soil might cause PVY resistance and enhance the involved mechanisms in PVY resistance. Potato and tobacco seedlings treated with Klebsiella oxytoca and biochar exhibited the same impact of significant symptom reduction, with complete negative ELISA findings, supporting the antiviral activity of K. oxytoca and biochar. Furthermore, owing to the connection between the ISR implicated substrates, significant amounts of polyphenol oxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase were observed in treated plants, with the same behavior as defense genes expression levels. It may be a step forward in the development of biochar and K. oxytoca as potential environmentally friendly disease control strategies against PVY.

The African cattle provide unique genetic resources shaped up by both diverse tropical environmental conditions and human activities, the assessment of their genetic diversity will shade light on the mechanism of their remarkable adaptive capacities. We therefore analyzed the genetic diversity of cattle samples from Nigeria using both maternal and paternal DNA markers. Nigerian cattle can be assigned to 80 haplotypes based on the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) D-loop sequences and haplotype diversity was 0.985 + 0.005. The network showed two major matrilineal clustering: the dominant cluster constituting the Nigerian cattle together with other African cattle while the other clustered Eurasian cattle. Paternal analysis indicates only zebu haplogroup in Nigerian cattle with high genetic diversity 1.000 ± 0.016 compared to other cattle. There was no signal of maternal genetic structure in Nigerian cattle population, which may suggest an extensive genetic intermixing within the country. The absence of Bos indicus maternal signal in Nigerian cattle is attributable to vulnerability bottleneck of mtDNA lineages and concordance with the view of male zebu genetic introgression in African cattle. Our study shades light on the current genetic diversity in Nigerian cattle and population history in West Africa.

This study was conducted to evaluate eco-friendly control agents (carvone, cuminaldehyde, and linalool) against Rhizoctonia solani, which causes root rot disease either by induction of defense response or direct antifungal activity. The induction of resistance was examined by detecting the transcription of defense genes and the effect of the tested control agents on the growth and the yield of common bean plants. The growth of R. solani was significantly inhibited after treatment with the tested compounds compared to the untreated control under laboratory conditions. The disease severity of root rot was decreased in common bean plants treated with the tested compounds compared to untreated control plants under greenhouse conditions. Common bean plants treated with the tested control agents expressed defense genes (Phenylalanine ammonia lyase and β-1,3-Glucanase) involved in jasmonic acid (JA) and salicylic acid (SA) signaling pathways with 2–5 fold higher than the control. Treatment of common beans with the tested control agents and fungicide significantly improved the growth and yield characteristics of common bean. Therefore, the use of monoterpenes could be a novel strategy to control this pathogen and consider the first report.

Modified whey proteins with quercetin (WPI-QU) and onion extract (WPI-OE), as a control approach, could be applicable because it is available, safe and cheap. The modified whey protein isolate (WPI) with quercetin dihydrate and onion extract powder rich with quercetin were evaluated for induction of systemic resistance against Pepper mild mottle virus (PMMoV) in pepper plants. Data of mass spectrometry illustrated that one or more of Qu isomers covalently attached to WPI. Unmodified whey protein (UWPI), WPI-QU and WPI-OE significantly decreased PMMoV concentration and severity at two weeks after inoculation. Plant height, number of leaves, and shoot fresh and dry weights were substantially increased in WPI-QU- and WPI-OE-treated pepper plants compared to the control. Total antioxidant status (TAS) and vitamin C contents were highly increased in WPI-OE-treated plants compared with other treatments. The expression levels of defense related genes (PR4, PR9, TIN1 and PIN2) were enormously elevated in WPI-OE and WPI-QU treatments using qRT-PCR. In conclusion, the results give novel insights to possible applications of the WPI–quercetin bioconjugates in designing a wide range of functional products. Moreover, this study is the first to establish the effective control of PMMoV by modified whey proteins.

The current study focuses on the effects of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) infection on phytochemical changes and pathogenesis- and phenylpropanoid pathway-associated gene activities in squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) plants during a time course of 2 to 12 days post inoculation (dpi). The identity of the CMV isolate was confirmed by DAS-ELISA, TEM, and coat protein gene sequence. The CMV infection initially boosts and then suppresses transcript levels of the defense-related genes PR-1, PR-2, PAL, HQT, and CHS during the investigated time course compared to controls. The expression profile during the time-course study indicated that early, transient induction of PR-1 occurs during CMV infection, while CMV induced the expression of PR-2 in systemically infected squash tissues at all time points and suppressed the expression of PAL and HQT at 8-12 dpi. CHS transcript levels fluctuated between up- and down-regulation, but by 12 dpi, CHS expression reached its peak. The HPLC and GC–MS analyses of CMV-infected squash extracts revealed that different phenolic, flavonoid, and fatty acid compounds could be induced or suppressed upon CMV infection. In particular, CMV could suppress the synthesis of most phenolic compounds, specifically chlorogenic acid, possibly leading to the virus’s rapid spread.

Cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) provides an irreplaceable strategy for commercial exploitation of heterosis and producing high-yielding hybrid rice. The exogenous application of plant growth regulators could improve outcrossing rates of the CMS lines by affecting floral traits and accordingly increase hybrid rice seed production. The present study aimed at exploring the impact of growth regulators such as gibberellic acid (GA3), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) on promoting floral traits and outcrossing rates in diverse rice CMS lines and improving hybrid rice seed production. The impact of foliar applications of growth regulators comprising GA3 at 300 g/ha or GA3 at 150 g/ha + IAA at 50 g/ha + NAA at 200 g/ha versus untreated control was investigated on floral, growth, and yield traits of five diverse CMS lines. The exogenously sprayed growth regulators, in particular, the combination of GA3, IAA, and NAA (T3) boosted all studied floral, growth, and yield traits in all tested CMS lines. Moreover, the evaluated CMS lines exhibited significant differences in all measured floral traits. L2, L3, and L1 displayed the uppermost spikelet opening angle, duration of spikelet opening, total stigma length, style length, stigma brush, and stigma width. In addition, these CMS lines exhibited the highest plant growth and yield traits, particularly under T3. Consequently, exogenous application of GA3, IAA, and NAA could be exploited to improve the floral, growth, and yield traits of promising CMS lines such as L2, L3, and L1, hence increasing outcrossing rates and hybrid rice seed production.

Pepper is vulnerable to soil-borne fungal pathogens such as Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium oxysporum. The potential of beneficial rhizosphere microorganisms to control R. solani and F. oxysporum f.sp. capsici was evaluated in pepper plants. Paenibacillus polymyxa and Trichoderma longibrachiatum were isolated from rhizospheric soil samples of healthy pepper plants. In vitro, both isolates caused clear reductions in the radial growth of root rot and wilt pathogens. Scanning electron microscopy displayed lysis and abnormal shape of the pathogens in dual cultures with P. polymyxa and T. longibrachiatum. The incidence and severity of root rot and wilt diseases were significantly reduced in pepper plants treated with the growth-promoting fungi (PGPF isolates; Fusarium equiseti GF19-1, Fusarium equiseti GF18-3, and Phoma sp. GS8-3), P. polymyxa, or T. longibrachiatum in comparison to the control. Moreover, the induction treatments led to increased pepper growth compared with their control. The defense related gene (CaPR4) expression was shown to be significantly higher in the treated plants than in the control plants. In conclusion, the antagonistic isolates (P. polymyxa and T. longibrachiatum) and PGPF isolates have a clear impact on the prevention of root rot and wilt diseases in pepper plants incited by R. solani and F. oxysporum f.sp. capsici. The expression of the CaPR4 gene added to the evidence that PGPF isolates generate systemic resistance to pathogen infections.

Water scarcity is a major environmental stress that adversatively impacts wheat growth, production, and quality. Furthermore, drought is predicted to be more frequent and severe as a result of climate change, particularly in arid regions. Hence, breeding for drought-tolerant and high-yielding wheat genotypes has become more decisive to sustain its production and ensure global food security with continuing population growth. The present study aimed at evaluating different parental bread wheat genotypes (exotic and local) and their hybrids under normal and drought stress conditions. Gene action controlling physiological, agronomic, and quality traits through half-diallel analysis was applied. The results showed that water-deficit stress substantially decreased chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiency (FV/Fm), relative water content, grain yield, and yield attributes. On the other hand, proline content, antioxidant enzyme activities (CAT, POD, and SOD), grain protein content, wet gluten content, and dry gluten content were significantly increased compared to well-watered conditions. The 36 evaluated genotypes were classified based on drought tolerance indices into 5 groups varying from highly drought-tolerant (group A) to highly drought-sensitive genotypes (group E). The parental genotypes P3 and P8 were identified as good combiners to increase chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll content, relative water content, grain yield, and yield components under water deficit conditions. Additionally, the cross combinations P2 × P4, P3 × P5, P3 × P8, and P6 × P7 were the most promising combinations to increase yield traits and multiple physiological parameters under water deficit conditions. Furthermore, P1, P2, and P5 were recognized as promising parents to improve grain protein content and wet and dry gluten contents under drought stress. In addition, the crosses P1 × P4, P2 × P3, P2 × P5, P2 × P6, P4 × P7, P5 × P7, P5 × P8, P6 × P8, and P7 × P8 were the best combinations to improve grain protein content under water-stressed and non-stressed conditions. Certain physiological traits displayed highly positive associations with grain yield and its contributing traits under drought stress such as chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll content, photosynthetic efficiency (Fv/Fm), proline content, and relative water content, which suggest their importance for indirect selection under water deficit conditions. Otherwise, grain protein content was negatively correlated with grain yield, indicating that selection for higher grain yield could reduce grain protein content under drought stress conditions.