Heritability and genetics correlations for body weight in escargots

The objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters for body weight at 60 (P60), 90 (P90), and 120 (P120) days of age in escargotsof the subspecies Cornu aspersum maximum, evaluating the influence of fixed and covariable effects on these traits. The data used were collected from escargotskept in a total confinement system. The significant fixed effects and covariates for these traits were tested in a general linear model by the F-test, considering a level of significance of 5%. Both the fixed effects of box and birth year and the quadratic effect of age of weighing as a covariate were significant (p < 0.05) for P60, P90, and P120. The Restricted Maximum Likelihood (REML) methodology was used to estimate (co)variance components and genetic parameters. High heritability for P60, P90, and P120 (0.38, 0.55 and 0.78, respectively) and high genetic correlations (0.58 to 0.77) among the traits were observed. The genetic parameterscan be used as a basis for studies and practical applications to increase zootechnical indexes in this population.(AU)

Genetic parameters and association between longevity and milk production in buffaloes using the ssGBLUP method

The objectives of this work were to estimate the genetic parameters for the traits longevity (LG) and accumulated milk yield at 305 days (MY305) using a bitrait animal model and the single-step GBLUP method and estimate the genetic gain for LG through direct and indirect selection for MY305. We used 4,057 records of first lactations of Murrah dairy buffaloes, collected between 1987 and 2020, belonging to six Brazilian herds located in the states Ceará, Rio Grande do Norte, and São Paulo and 960 animals genotyped using the 90K Axiom Buffalo Genotyping (Thermo Fisher Scientific, Santa Clara, CA) to estimate the genetic parameters. The heritability estimate was 0.25 for MY305 and 0.13 for LG. The genetic gain for LG was 0.13 months under direct selection, and 0.14 months under indirect selection, which results in a relative selection efficiency of 11% under selection for MY305 compared with the direct selection. The genetic correlation between the two traits was 0.77, indicating that animals with genetic potential for high MY305 tend to live longer. The genetic trends for MY305 and LG were 0.22 kg/year and 5.20 days/year, respectively, indicating a positive response, which reaffirms its relationship with the high genetic correlation between the two traits.(AU)

Estimation of repeatability and genotypic superiority of elephant grass half-sib families for energy purposes using mixed models

The mixed-model methodology is an alternative to select genotypes for traits highly influenced by the environment. In addition, this method allows FOR estimating the repeatability coefficient and predicting the number of assessments needed for a selection process to increase reliability. This study aimed to determine the minimum number of evaluations necessary for a reliable selection process and to estimate the variance components used for predicting genetic gains between and within half-sib families of elephant grass ( Cenchrus purpureus (Schumach.) Morrone ) using the mixed-model methodology. Half-sib families were generated using genotypes from the Active Germplasm Bank of Elephant Grass. The experiment was performed in a randomized block design with nine half-sib families, three replicates, and eight plants per plot. We evaluated 216 genotypes (individual plants) of elephant grass. The deviance analysis was carried out, genetic parameters were estimated, gains between and within families were predicted, and repeatability coefficients were obtained using Selegen software. There was genetic variability for selection within the families evaluated. The reliability values found above 60 % for plant height and number of tillers and above 80 % for dry matter yield suggest that only two evaluations are required to select superior genotypes with outstanding reliability. Sixteen genotypes were identified and selected for their productive potential, which can be used as parents in elephant grass breeding programs for bioenergy production.(AU)

Genetic parameters and selection gain in tropical wheat populations via Bayesian inference / Parâmetros genéticos e ganho de seleção em populações tropicais de trigo via inferência bayesiana

ABSTRACT: The development process of a new wheat cultivar requires time between obtaining the base population and selecting the most promising line. Estimating genetic parameters more accurately in early generations with a view to anticipating selection means important advances for wheat breeding programs. Thus, the present study estimated the genetic parameters of F2 populations of tropical wheat and the genetic gain from selection via the Bayesian approach. To this end, the authors assessed the grain yield per plot of 34 F2 populations of tropical wheat. The Bayesian approach provided an adequate fit to the model, estimating genetic parameters within the parametric space. Heritability (h2) was 0.51. Among those selected, 11 F2 populations performed better than the control cultivars, with genetic gain of 7.80%. The following populations were the most promising: TbioSossego/CD 1303, CD 1303/TbioPonteiro, BRS 254/CD 1303, Tbio Duque/Tbio Aton, and Tbio Aton/CD 1303. Bayesian inference can be used to significantly improve tropical wheat breeding programs.

RESUMO: O processo de desenvolvimento de uma nova cultivar de trigo requer tempo entre a obtenção da população base e a seleção da linhagem mais promissora. Estimar parâmetros genéticos com mais precisão nas primeiras gerações com vistas a antecipar a seleção significa avanços importantes para os programas de melhoramento de trigo. Assim, o presente estudo estima os parâmetros genéticos de populações F2 de trigo tropical e o ganho genético da seleção via abordagem Bayesiana. Para tanto, os autores avaliaram a produtividade de grãos por parcela de 34 populações F2 de trigo tropical. A abordagem Bayesiana proporcionou um ajuste adequado ao modelo, estimando parâmetros genéticos dentro do espaço paramétrico. A herdabilidade (h2) foi de 0,51. Dentre as selecionadas, 11 populações F2 obtiveram desempenho superior às cultivares controle, com ganho genético de seleção de 7,80%. As seguintes populações foram as mais promissoras: Tbio Sossego/CD 1303, CD 1303/Tbio Ponteiro, BRS 254/CD 1303, Tbio Duque/Tbio Aton e Tbio Aton/CD 1303. A inferência Bayesiana pode ser usada para melhorar significativamente programas de melhoramento de trigo tropical.

Variation in patterns of fish assemblage and their environmental correlates in a tropical river basin from the Gulf of Mexico slope

Understanding patterns of freshwater fish assemblage structure is key to protect them from ongoing human-induced threats to aquatic biodiversity. Yet, studies on associations between fish assemblages and habitat are lacking from many areas of high diversity in Middle America. We assessed fish assemblage structure and environmental associations from a portion of the Lacantún River sub-basin (Usumacinta River, Chiapas, Mexico). Based on environmental data and 17,462 individuals (56 species, 46 genera, and 22 families) captured from 13 sites sampled between 2017­2019, we found that stream order, distance to the Usumacinta, forest cover, temperature, and dissolved oxygen are key to explaining assemblage composition. Four clusters were found via multivariate regression tree analysis, with stream order and dissolved oxygen as defining variables. Our findings suggest that fish communities remain spatially structured even at small scales, in association to environmental gradients among habitats.(AU)

Comprender los patrones de estructuración en los ensamblajes de peces dulceacuícolas es una clave para protegerlos de las amenazas humanas a la biodiversidad acuática. No obstante, los estudios sobre asociaciones entre ensamblajes de peces y su hábitat son aún escasos en muchas áreas de alta diversidad de América Media. Evaluamos las asociaciones entre la estructura de los ensamblajes de peces y el ambiente de una porción de la subcuenca del Río Lacantún (cuenca del Río Usumacinta, Chiapas, México). Con base en datos ambientales y un total de 17,462 individuos (56 especies, 46 géneros, y 22 familias) capturados de 13 sitios muestreados entre 2017­2019, encontramos que el orden del cauce, distancia al Usumacinta, cobertura vegetal, temperatura y oxígeno disuelto son clave para explicar la composición de los ensamblajes. Cuatro grupos se detectaron utilizando un árbol de regresión multivariada, definidos por el orden del cauce y el oxígeno disuelto como variables definitorias. Nuestros hallazgos sugieren que las comunidades de peces retienen su estructura espacial aún a pequeñas escalas, en asociación a gradientes ambientales entre hábitats.(AU)

Genetic parameters and genetic trends for production traits in dairy Gir cattle / Parâmetros genéticos e tendências genéticas de características de produção de bovinos Gir Leiteiro

The objective of this research was to estimate genetic parameters and genetic trends (GT) for 305-day milk yield (MY305) and 305-day fat yield (FY305) of purebred Dairy Gir animals of the National Dairy Gir Breeding Program. The restricted maximum likelihood method was used in an animal model. GT were obtained via linear regression and divided into two periods (1935-1992 and 1993-2013 for PL305; 1935-1992 and 1993-2010 for MY305). The estimated heritabilities were 0.23 (MY305) and 0.10 (FY305). The GT (kg/year) values for MY305 in the 2nd period for measured females (25.49), females (26.11), and males (35.13) were higher than those found in the 1st period (2.52; 2.06, and 1.00, respectively). The heritability estimated for MY305 confirmed the possibility of genetic improvement by selection and indicated a lower additive genetic effect on FY305 of purebred animals. The genetic progress for MY305 in all purebred population is denoted by the more expressive gains found from 1990's, when the first bull catalogs were published.

Objetivou-se estimar os parâmetros genéticos e tendências genéticas (GT) para produção de leite (MY305) e produção de gordura (FY305), ambas em 305 dias, de animais puros Gir Leiteiro, integrantes do Programa Nacional de Melhoramento do Gir Leiteiro. Foi utilizada a metodologia da máxima verossimilhança restrita em modelo animal. As GT foram obtidas via regressão linear e divididas em dois períodos (1935-1992 e 1993-2013 para PL305; 1935-1992 e 1993-2010 para MY305). As herdabilidades foram de 0,23 (MY305) e 0,10 (FY305). Para PL305, as GT (kg/ano) do 2º período para fêmeas mensuradas (25,49), fêmeas (26,11) e, machos (35,13) foram claramente superiores às do 1º período (2,52; 2,06 e 1,00; respectivamente). A estimativa de herdabilidade para MY305 reafirma ser possível melhoramento genético por meio de seleção, enquanto para FY305 sugere uma menor influência genética aditiva em animais puros. O progresso genético para MY305 em toda a população pura está evidenciado pelos ganhos mais expressivos, observados a partir da década de 90, quando foram divulgados os primeiros sumários de touros.

Genetic control of quality melon traits / Controle genético de caracteres de qualidade do melão

ABSTRACT: This research studied the genetic control of the traits related to melon fruit quality. The F1, F2, BC1, BC2 generations from the OL x A-16 and OL x PV crossings were evaluated in two separate trials conducted in randomized blocks with three replications. The evaluated traits were: average fruit weight, shape index, pulp thickness, pulp firmness, soluble solids content and cracking rate. The analyses were accomplished through a classic study of generations involving mixed models. The parameters on heritability and number of loci controlling the traits were evaluated in a broad and narrow sense. The inheritance of the evaluated traits is complex, presenting one gene of greater effect and polygenes with additive and dominant effects.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se com este trabalho estudar o controle genético de caracteres relacionados à qualidade do fruto do melão. Foram avaliadas as gerações F1, F2, RC1, RC2 dos cruzamentos OL x A-16 e OL x PV em dois ensaios separados conduzidos em blocos casualizados com três repetições. Os caracteres avaliados foram: peso médio do fruto, índice de formato, espessura da polpa, firmeza da polpa, sólidos solúveis e porcentagem de rachadura. As análises foram feitas por meio de estudo clássico de gerações envolvendo modelos mistos. Foram estimados os parâmetros de herdabilidades nos sentidos amplo e restrito e número de loci que controlam o caráter. A herança dos caracteres estudados é complexa com a presença de gene de efeito maior e poligenes com efeitos aditivos e de dominância.

Genotypic selection of pre-clultivars of carioca and early carioca beans for the Agreste-Sertão of Pernambuco, Brazil / Seleção genotípica de pré-cultivares de feijão carioca e carioca precoce para o Agreste-Sertão de Pernambuco, Brasil

Genotype x environment interactions represent a major challenge in identifying and selecting genotypes responsive to different climate and soil conditions. This research evaluated and selected pre-cultivars of carioca bean and early carioca bean based on adaptability, stability, and grain yield. In the 2014 crop season, two regional competition trials were conducted in the state of Pernambuco: carioca beans (14 genotypes in Arcoverde, Belém de São Francisco, Caruaru and São João) and early carioca beans (11 genotypes in Araripina, Arcoverde, and Caruaru) and, in the 2015 crop season, with early carioca beans (11 genotypes in Araripina, Arcoverde, and Brejão). Parameters were estimated by mixed models, and the selection was performed using the Harmonic Mean of Relative Performance of Genetic Values (HMRPGV) method following three strategies: i) selection based on predicted genetic value with no interaction; ii) selection according to predicted genetic value considering each location; and iii) simultaneous selection for grain yield, adaptability, and stability. The environments influenced the phenotypic expression of the carioca and early carioca bean genotypes, representing a specific adaptation. The genotypes BRS Notável, BRS Estilo and BRS Pérola, of carioca beans, and CNFC 15875, BRS Notável and CNFC 15630, of early carioca beans, had the best results in the environments tested, regarding, simultaneously, adaptability to different soil and climate conditions, performance stability, and grain yield.

A interação genótipo x ambiente representa um grande desafio na identificação e seleção de genótipos responsivos às diversas condições de clima e solo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar e selecionar pré-cultivares de feijão carioca e feijão carioca precoce com base na adaptabilidade, estabilidade e produtividade de grãos. Na safra 2014 foram conduzidos dois ensaios regionais de competição no estado de Pernambuco: feijão carioca (14 genótipos em Arcoverde, Belém de São Francisco, Caruaru e São João) e feijão carioca precoce (11 genótipos em Araripina, Arcoverde e Caruaru) e na safra de 2015 com feijão carioca precoce (11 genótipos, em Araripina, Arcoverde e Brejão). Os parâmetros foram estimados por meio de modelos mistos e a seleção foi realizada pelo método da Média Harmônica do Desempenho Relativo dos Valores Genéticos (MHPRVG), adotando-se três estratégias: i) seleção com base no valor genético predito, sem interação; ii) seleção com base no valor genético predito, considerando cada local; iii) seleção simultânea quanto à produtividade de grãos, adaptabilidade e estabilidade. Observou-se que os ambientes influenciaram na expressão fenotípica dos genótipos de feijão carioca e carioca precoce, configurando adaptação específica. Os genótipos BRS Notável, BRS Estilo e BRS Pérola, de feijão carioca, e CNFC 15875, BRS Notável e CNFC 15630, de feijão carioca precoce, apresentaram os melhores desempenhos nos ambientes testados, considerando-se, simultaneamente, a adaptabilidade a diferentes condições edafoclimáticas, estabilidade de desempenho e produtividade de grãos

Mathematical models to describe the growth curves of Vietnamese Ri chicken

Abstract Ri chicken is the most popular backyard chicken breed in Vietnam, but little is known about the growth curve of this breed. This study compared the performances of models with three parameters (Gompertz, Brody, and Logistic) and models containing four parameters (Richards, Bridges, and Janoschek) for describing the growth of Ri chicken. The bodyweight of Ri chicken was recorded weekly from week 1 to week 19. Growth models were fitted using minpack.lm package in R software and Akaikes information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC), and root mean square error (RMSE) were used for model comparison. Based on these criteria, the models having four parameters showed better performance than the ones with three parameters, and the Richards model was the best one for males and females. The lowest and highest value of asymmetric weights () were obtained by Bridges and Brody models for each of sexes, respectively. Age and weight estimated by the Richard model were 8.46 and 7.51 weeks and 696.88 and 487.58 g for males and for females, respectively. Differences in the growth curves were observed between males and female chicken. Overall, the results suggested using the Richards model for describing the growth curve of Ri chickens. Further studies on the genetics and genomics of the obtained growth parameters are required before using them for the genetic improvement of Ri chickens.

Resumo O frango Ri é a raça de frango de quintal mais popular do Vietnã, mas pouco se sabe sobre a curva de crescimento dessa raça. Este estudo comparou o desempenho de modelos com três parâmetros (Gompertz, Brody e Logistic) e modelos contendo quatro parâmetros (Richards, Bridges e Janoschek) para descrever o crescimento do frango Ri. O peso corporal do frango Ri foi registrado semanalmente da semana 1 à semana 19. Os modelos de crescimento foram ajustados usando o pacote minpack.lm no software R e o critério de informação de Akaike (AIC); critério de informação bayesiano (BIC) e erro quadrático médio (RMSE) foram usados para comparação de modelos. Com base nesses critérios, os modelos com quatro parâmetros apresentaram melhor desempenho do que os com três parâmetros, sendo o modelo de Richards o melhor para homens e mulheres. O menor e o maior valor dos pesos assimétricos () foram obtidos pelos modelos Bridges e Brody para cada um dos sexos, respectivamente. A idade e o peso estimados pelo modelo de Richard foram de 8,46 e 7,51 semanas e 696,88 e 487,58 g para homens e mulheres, respectivamente. Diferenças nas curvas de crescimento foram observadas entre frangos machos e fêmeas. No geral, os resultados sugeriram o uso do modelo de Richards para descrever a curva de crescimento de frangos Ri. Mais estudos sobre a genética e genômica dos parâmetros de crescimento obtidos são necessários antes de usá-los para o melhoramento genético de frangos Ri.

Updating knowledge in estimating the genetics parameters: Multi-trait and Multi-Environment Bayesian analysis in rice

Among the multi-trait models selected to study several traits and environments jointly, the Bayesian framework has been a preferred tool when constructing a more complex and biologically realistic model. In most cases, non-informative prior distributions are adopted in studies using the Bayesian approach. However, the Bayesian approach presents more accurate estimates when informative prior distributions are used. The present study was developed to evaluate the efficiency and applicability of multi-trait multi-environment (MTME) models within a Bayesian framework utilizing a strategy for eliciting informative prior distribution using previous data on rice. The study involved data pertaining to rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes in three environments and five crop seasons (2010/2011 until 2014/2015) for the following traits: grain yield (GY), flowering in days (FLOR) and plant height (PH). Variance components, genetic and non-genetic parameters were estimated using the Bayesian method. In general, the informative prior distribution in Bayesian MTME models provided higher estimates of individual narrow-sense heritability and variance components, as well as minor lengths for the highest probability density interval (HPD), compared to their respective non-informative prior distribution analyses. More informative prior distributions make it possible to detect genetic correlations between traits, which cannot be achieved with non-informative prior distributions. Therefore, this mechanism presented to update knowledge for an elicitation of an informative prior distribution can be efficiently applied in rice breeding programs.

Genotypic selection of pre-clultivars of carioca and early carioca beans for the Agreste-Sertão of Pernambuco, Brazil / Seleção genotípica de pré-cultivares de feijão carioca e carioca precoce para o Agreste-Sertão de Pernambuco, Brasil

ABSTRACT: Genotype x environment interactions represent a major challenge in identifying and selecting genotypes responsive to different climate and soil conditions. This research evaluated and selected pre-cultivars of carioca bean and early carioca bean based on adaptability, stability, and grain yield. In the 2014 crop season, two regional competition trials were conducted in the state of Pernambuco: carioca beans (14 genotypes in Arcoverde, Belém de São Francisco, Caruaru and São João) and early carioca beans (11 genotypes in Araripina, Arcoverde, and Caruaru) and, in the 2015 crop season, with early carioca beans (11 genotypes in Araripina, Arcoverde, and Brejão). Parameters were estimated by mixed models, and the selection was performed using the Harmonic Mean of Relative Performance of Genetic Values (HMRPGV) method following three strategies: i) selection based on predicted genetic value with no interaction; ii) selection according to predicted genetic value considering each location; and iii) simultaneous selection for grain yield, adaptability, and stability. The environments influenced the phenotypic expression of the carioca and early carioca bean genotypes, representing a specific adaptation. The genotypes BRS Notável, BRS Estilo and BRS Pérola, of carioca beans, and CNFC 15875, BRS Notável and CNFC 15630, of early carioca beans, had the best results in the environments tested, regarding, simultaneously, adaptability to different soil and climate conditions, performance stability, and grain yield.

RESUMO: A interação genótipo x ambiente representa um grande desafio na identificação e seleção de genótipos responsivos às diversas condições de clima e solo. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar e selecionar pré-cultivares de feijão carioca e feijão carioca precoce com base na adaptabilidade, estabilidade e produtividade de grãos. Na safra 2014 foram conduzidos dois ensaios regionais de competição no estado de Pernambuco: feijão carioca (14 genótipos em Arcoverde, Belém de São Francisco, Caruaru e São João) e feijão carioca precoce (11 genótipos em Araripina, Arcoverde e Caruaru) e na safra de 2015 com feijão carioca precoce (11 genótipos, em Araripina, Arcoverde e Brejão). Os parâmetros foram estimados por meio de modelos mistos e a seleção foi realizada pelo método da Média Harmônica do Desempenho Relativo dos Valores Genéticos (MHPRVG), adotando-se três estratégias: i) seleção com base no valor genético predito, sem interação; ii) seleção com base no valor genético predito, considerando cada local; iii) seleção simultânea quanto à produtividade de grãos, adaptabilidade e estabilidade. Observou-se que os ambientes influenciaram na expressão fenotípica dos genótipos de feijão carioca e carioca precoce, configurando adaptação específica. Os genótipos BRS Notável, BRS Estilo e BRS Pérola, de feijão carioca, e CNFC 15875, BRS Notável e CNFC 15630, de feijão carioca precoce, apresentaram os melhores desempenhos nos ambientes testados, considerando-se, simultaneamente, a adaptabilidade a diferentes condições edafoclimáticas, estabilidade de desempenho e produtividade de grãos.

Agronomic performance of Humuluslupulus L. varieties cultivated in organic and conventional systems in São Paulo center-west, Brazil / Desempenho agronômico de variedades de Humulus lupulus L. cultivadas em sistema orgânico e convencional no centro-oeste paulista, Brasil

Hop is a multifunctional specie; however, a large part of its production is destined for the beer market. In Brazil, all hop demand is imported, which has aroused interest in national production. Genetic material and cultivation systems can influence hops production. Thus, this study evaluated morphological and productive performance of hop varieties grown under organic and conventional management in the central-west region of São Paulo, Brazil. The hop yard was installed in the experimental area of the FCA/UNESP (São Paulo State University, School of Agriculture) - Botucatu, in November 2018, the data were collected in second year of production. A randomized block design was adopted, in 2 x 5 Split-Plot, being the main factor: cultivation systems (organic and conventional), and secondary factor: hop varieties (Columbus, Chinook, Nugget, Cascade, and HallertauMittelfrüeh), with four blocks and four plants per plot. Crop-specific morphological and productive parameters were evaluated. The results showed no significant influence of cultivation systems in morphological parameters. Regarding the varieties, Chinook, Cascade, and Nugget stand out for cone length. Columbus, Chinook and Cascade showed higher yields when grown in organic system, obtaining 1100.66, 1088.27 and 940.40 g of cones per plant, respectively. While, HallertauMittelfrüeh variety was the least productive in both systems, in organic system with 160.50 g per plant production, and 267.84 g per plant in conventional system, and, also showing lower cycle compared to the others.

O lúpulo é uma espécie multifuncional, entretanto, grande parte de sua produção é destinada ao mercado cervejeiro. No Brasil, toda a demanda de lúpulo é importada, o que tem despertado interesse pela produção nacional. Fatores como o material genético e sistemas de produção podem influenciar na produção do lúpulo, sendo assim, o trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o desempenho morfológico e produtivo de variedades de lúpulo cultivadas sob manejo orgânico e convencional na região centro-oeste paulista, Brasil. O campo de lúpulo foi instalado na área experimental da FCA/UNESP - Botucatu, em novembro de 2018 e os dados coletados no segundo ano de produção. Foi adotado o delineamento de blocos casualizados, em esquema de parcelas subdivididas 2 x 5, sendo o fator principal os dois sistemas de cultivo (orgânico e convencional) e fator secundário as cinco variedades selecionadas (Columbus, Chinook, Nugget, Cascade e Hallertau Mittelfrüeh), com quatro blocos e quatro plantas por parcela. Foram avaliados os parâmetros morfológicos e produtivos específicos da cultura. Os resultados demonstraram que os sistemas de cultivo não promovem alterações significativas nos parâmetros morfológicos. Quanto às variedades, destaca-se Chinook, Cascade e Nugget para comprimento de cone. Columbus, Chinook e Cascade apresentaram maiores produções quando cultivadas em sistema orgânico, obtendo 1100,66; 1088,27 e 940,40 g de cones por planta, respectivamente. Enquanto que, a variedade Hallertau Mittelfrüeh foi a menos produtiva em ambos os sistemas, no sistema orgânico com produção de 160,50 g por planta, enquanto que no convencional 267,84 g por planta, apresentando também menor ciclo quando comparada com as demais.

Mathematical models to describe the growth curves of Vietnamese Ri chicken / Modelos matemáticos para descrever as curvas de crescimento do frango Ri vietnamita

Ri chicken is the most popular backyard chicken breed in Vietnam, but little is known about the growth curve of this breed. This study compared the performances of models with three parameters (Gompertz, Brody, and Logistic) and models containing four parameters (Richards, Bridges, and Janoschek) for describing the growth of Ri chicken. The bodyweight of Ri chicken was recorded weekly from week 1 to week 19. Growth models were fitted using minpack.lm package in R software and Akaike’s information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC), and root mean square error (RMSE) were used for model comparison. Based on these criteria, the models having four parameters showed better performance than the ones with three parameters, and the Richards model was the best one for males and females. The lowest and highest value of asymmetric weights (α) were obtained by Bridges and Brody models for each of sexes, respectively. Age and weight estimated by the Richard model were 8.46 and 7.51 weeks and 696.88 and 487.58 g for males and for females, respectively. Differences in the growth curves were observed between males and female chicken. Overall, the results suggested using the Richards model for describing the growth curve of Ri chickens. Further studies on the genetics and genomics of the obtained growth parameters are required before using them for the genetic improvement of Ri chickens.

O frango Ri é a raça de frango de quintal mais popular do Vietnã, mas pouco se sabe sobre a curva de crescimento dessa raça. Este estudo comparou o desempenho de modelos com três parâmetros (Gompertz, Brody e Logistic) e modelos contendo quatro parâmetros (Richards, Bridges e Janoschek) para descrever o crescimento do frango Ri. O peso corporal do frango Ri foi registrado semanalmente da semana 1 à semana 19. Os modelos de crescimento foram ajustados usando o pacote minpack.lm no software R e o critério de informação de Akaike (AIC); critério de informação bayesiano (BIC) e erro quadrático médio (RMSE) foram usados para comparação de modelos. Com base nesses critérios, os modelos com quatro parâmetros apresentaram melhor desempenho do que os com três parâmetros, sendo o modelo de Richards o melhor para homens e mulheres. O menor e o maior valor dos pesos assimétricos (α) foram obtidos pelos modelos Bridges e Brody para cada um dos sexos, respectivamente. A idade e o peso estimados pelo modelo de Richard foram de 8,46 e 7,51 semanas e 696,88 e 487,58 g para homens e mulheres, respectivamente. Diferenças nas curvas de crescimento foram observadas entre frangos machos e fêmeas. No geral, os resultados sugeriram o uso do modelo de Richards para descrever a curva de crescimento de frangos Ri. Mais estudos sobre a genética e genômica dos parâmetros de crescimento obtidos são necessários antes de usá-los para o melhoramento genético de frangos Ri.

Mathematical models to describe the growth curves of Vietnamese Ri chicken / Modelos matemáticos para descrever as curvas de crescimento do frango Ri vietnamita

Ri chicken is the most popular backyard chicken breed in Vietnam, but little is known about the growth curve of this breed. This study compared the performances of models with three parameters (Gompertz, Brody, and Logistic) and models containing four parameters (Richards, Bridges, and Janoschek) for describing the growth of Ri chicken. The bodyweight of Ri chicken was recorded weekly from week 1 to week 19. Growth models were fitted using minpack.lm package in R software and Akaikes information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC), and root mean square error (RMSE) were used for model comparison. Based on these criteria, the models having four parameters showed better performance than the ones with three parameters, and the Richards model was the best one for males and females. The lowest and highest value of asymmetric weights (α) were obtained by Bridges and Brody models for each of sexes, respectively. Age and weight estimated by the Richard model were 8.46 and 7.51 weeks and 696.88 and 487.58 g for males and for females, respectively. Differences in the growth curves were observed between males and female chicken. Overall, the results suggested using the Richards model for describing the growth curve of Ri chickens. Further studies on the genetics and genomics of the obtained growth parameters are required before using them for the genetic improvement of Ri chickens.(AU)

O frango Ri é a raça de frango de quintal mais popular do Vietnã, mas pouco se sabe sobre a curva de crescimento dessa raça. Este estudo comparou o desempenho de modelos com três parâmetros (Gompertz, Brody e Logistic) e modelos contendo quatro parâmetros (Richards, Bridges e Janoschek) para descrever o crescimento do frango Ri. O peso corporal do frango Ri foi registrado semanalmente da semana 1 à semana 19. Os modelos de crescimento foram ajustados usando o pacote minpack.lm no software R e o critério de informação de Akaike (AIC); critério de informação bayesiano (BIC) e erro quadrático médio (RMSE) foram usados para comparação de modelos. Com base nesses critérios, os modelos com quatro parâmetros apresentaram melhor desempenho do que os com três parâmetros, sendo o modelo de Richards o melhor para homens e mulheres. O menor e o maior valor dos pesos assimétricos (α) foram obtidos pelos modelos Bridges e Brody para cada um dos sexos, respectivamente. A idade e o peso estimados pelo modelo de Richard foram de 8,46 e 7,51 semanas e 696,88 e 487,58 g para homens e mulheres, respectivamente. Diferenças nas curvas de crescimento foram observadas entre frangos machos e fêmeas. No geral, os resultados sugeriram o uso do modelo de Richards para descrever a curva de crescimento de frangos Ri. Mais estudos sobre a genética e genômica dos parâmetros de crescimento obtidos são necessários antes de usá-los para o melhoramento genético de frangos Ri.(AU)

Mathematical models to describe the growth curves of Vietnamese Ri chicken / Modelos matemáticos para descrever as curvas de crescimento do frango Ri vietnamita

Abstract Ri chicken is the most popular backyard chicken breed in Vietnam, but little is known about the growth curve of this breed. This study compared the performances of models with three parameters (Gompertz, Brody, and Logistic) and models containing four parameters (Richards, Bridges, and Janoschek) for describing the growth of Ri chicken. The bodyweight of Ri chicken was recorded weekly from week 1 to week 19. Growth models were fitted using minpack.lm package in R software and Akaike's information criterion (AIC), Bayesian information criterion (BIC), and root mean square error (RMSE) were used for model comparison. Based on these criteria, the models having four parameters showed better performance than the ones with three parameters, and the Richards model was the best one for males and females. The lowest and highest value of asymmetric weights (α) were obtained by Bridges and Brody models for each of sexes, respectively. Age and weight estimated by the Richard model were 8.46 and 7.51 weeks and 696.88 and 487.58 g for males and for females, respectively. Differences in the growth curves were observed between males and female chicken. Overall, the results suggested using the Richards model for describing the growth curve of Ri chickens. Further studies on the genetics and genomics of the obtained growth parameters are required before using them for the genetic improvement of Ri chickens.

Resumo O frango Ri é a raça de frango de quintal mais popular do Vietnã, mas pouco se sabe sobre a curva de crescimento dessa raça. Este estudo comparou o desempenho de modelos com três parâmetros (Gompertz, Brody e Logistic) e modelos contendo quatro parâmetros (Richards, Bridges e Janoschek) para descrever o crescimento do frango Ri. O peso corporal do frango Ri foi registrado semanalmente da semana 1 à semana 19. Os modelos de crescimento foram ajustados usando o pacote minpack.lm no software R e o critério de informação de Akaike (AIC); critério de informação bayesiano (BIC) e erro quadrático médio (RMSE) foram usados ​​para comparação de modelos. Com base nesses critérios, os modelos com quatro parâmetros apresentaram melhor desempenho do que os com três parâmetros, sendo o modelo de Richards o melhor para homens e mulheres. O menor e o maior valor dos pesos assimétricos (α) foram obtidos pelos modelos Bridges e Brody para cada um dos sexos, respectivamente. A idade e o peso estimados pelo modelo de Richard foram de 8,46 e 7,51 semanas e 696,88 e 487,58 g para homens e mulheres, respectivamente. Diferenças nas curvas de crescimento foram observadas entre frangos machos e fêmeas. No geral, os resultados sugeriram o uso do modelo de Richards para descrever a curva de crescimento de frangos Ri. Mais estudos sobre a genética e genômica dos parâmetros de crescimento obtidos são necessários antes de usá-los para o melhoramento genético de frangos Ri.

DGAT and LEP gene polymorphisms and their association with carcass characteristics and the lipid profile of meat from Nellore cattle / Polimorfismo dos genes DGAT e LEP e sua associação com características de carcaça e perfil lipídico da carne de bovinos nelore

The objective of this study was to evaluate the association of polymorphisms in the diacylglycerol acyltransferase (DGAT) and leptin (LEP) genes with the performance, carcass characteristics, meat quality, and lipid profile of Nellore cattle. A total of 100 intact male Nelore cattle were used to analyze the performance, carcass, physicochemical and centesimal composition, and fatty acid profile of beef. To identify the polymorphisms, the PCR­single-strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) technique was applied to genomic DNA extracted from muscle tissue. The SSCP technique revealed the presence of four band patterns for the DGAT gene (AC, AD, AE and BB) with five alleles (A, B, C, D and E). For the LEP gene, five band patterns (AA, AB, AC, BB and BC) with three alleles (A, B and C) were observed. For the LEP gene, the AB genotype was associated with higher backfat thickness and ribs weight, while the BB genotype was associated with lower ribs yield; higher hindquarter yield was associated with AC and BB genotypes. Higher contents of C17:0, C18:0 and lower contents of C18:2ω6C, total polyunsaturated fatty acids, total ω6 and ratio of polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids (PUFA/SFA) were verified for the AC genotype of the LEP gene. The AC and AA genotypes of the LEP gene were associated with higher means of C15:0 and C18:1ω9t. For the DGAT gene, the highest C24:0 content was associated with the AE genotype and the lowest with the AD and BB genotypes. Polymorphisms in the DGAT and LEP genes influence carcass parameters and the lipid profile of the meat of Nellore cattle.

Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar a associação do polimorfismo dos genes da Diacilglicerol Aciltransferase (DGAT) e Leptina ­ (LEP) em relação ao desempenho, características de carcaça, qualidade de carne e perfil lipídico de bovinos Nelore. Para o estudo, foram utilizados um total de 100 bovinos nelores machos inteiros e avaliado os parâmetros de desempenho, composição da carcaça, composição físico-química, centesimal e perfil lipídico da carne. Para identificação dos polimorfismos foi utilizada a técnica de PCR-SSCP a partir da extração do DNA genômico do tecido muscular. A técnica de SSCP revelou a presença de quatro padrões de banda para o gene DGAT (AC, AD, AE e BB) com cinco alelos (A, B, C, D e E) e, para o gene LEP foram verificados cinco padrões de bandas (AA, AB, AC, BB e BC) com três alelos (A, B e C). Para o gene LEP, o genótipo AB foi associado a maior espessura de gordura subcutânea e peso do corte ponta de agulha, enquanto o genótipo BB foi associado a menor rendimento do corte ponta de agulha; maior rendimento do corte traseiro foi associado aos genótipos AC e BB. Maiores teores de C17:0, C18:0 e menores de C18: 2ω6C, total de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados, total de ω6 e a relação de ácidos graxos poli-insaturados e saturados (POL/SAT) foram verificados para o genótipo AC do gene LEP. Os genótipos AC e AA do gene LEP foram associados a maiores médias de C15:0 e C18:1ω9t. Para o gene DGAT, os maiores teores de C24:0 foram associados o genótipo AE e o menores aos genótipos AD e BB. A ocorrência de polimorfismo nos genes DGAT e LEP revelaram influência destes sobre parâmetros de carcaça e perfil lipídico da carne de bovinos Nelore.

The molecular investigations on the subgenus Artemisia Less. of the genus Artemisia L. (Asteraceae) in Turkey / Investigações moleculares sobre o subgênero Artemisia Less. do gênero Artemisia L. (Asteraceae) na Turquia

Abstract The genus Artemisia L. of the family Asteraceae is systematically very complex. The aim of this study was to evaluate taxonomic positions of taxa of the subgenus Artemisia belonging to the genus Artemisia in Turkey using some molecular techniques. In this molecular study, 44 individuals belong to 14 species of the subgenus Artemisia were examined. Analyses were performed on the combined dataset using maximum parsimony, maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference and Molecular parameters obtained from co-evaluations of sequences of the psbA-trnH, ITS and ETS regions of examined individuals were used in the phylogenetic tree drawing. According to the results of this study, two molecular groups have been formed based on the DNA sequence similarity of the species, but there are no obvious morphological characters corresponding to two molecular groups. There is no also agreement between the two molecular groups and the two morphological groups formed according to the hairiness condition of the receptacle of species. Due to the lack of molecular significance of their receptacles with or without hair, dividing of the subgenus Artemisia species into new subgenera or sections was not considered appropriate. Likewise, it has been found that with or without hair on the corolla lobes of the central hermaphrodite disc flowers have no molecular significance. It was found that there were no gene flow and hybridization between the 14 species of the subgenus Artemisia and these 14 species were found completed their speciation. This study is important as it is the first molecular based study relating with belong to subgenus Artemisia species growing naturally in Turkey. In addition, new haplotypes related to the populations of Turkey belonging to the subgenus Artemisia taxa were reported by us for the first time and added to the GenBank database.

Resumo O gênero Artemisia L. da família Asteraceae é sistematicamente muito complexo. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as posições taxonômicas de táxons do subgênero Artemisia pertencentes ao gênero Artemisia na Turquia usando algumas técnicas moleculares. Neste estudo molecular, 44 indivíduos pertencentes a 14 espécies do subgênero Artemisia foram examinados. As análises foram realizadas no conjunto de dados combinado usando máxima parcimônia, máxima verossimilhança e inferência bayesiana e parâmetros moleculares obtidos a partir de coavaliações de sequências das regiões psbA-trnH, ITS e ETS de indivíduos examinados foram usados ​​no desenho da árvore filogenética. De acordo com os resultados deste estudo, dois grupos moleculares foram formados com base na similaridade da sequência de DNA das espécies, mas não há caracteres morfológicos óbvios correspondentes a dois grupos moleculares. Também não há concordância entre os dois grupos moleculares e os dois grupos morfológicos formados de acordo com a condição de pilosidade do receptáculo da espécie. Devido à falta de significado molecular de seus receptáculos com ou sem cabelo, a divisão das espécies do subgênero Artemisia em novos subgêneros ou seções não foi considerada apropriada. Da mesma forma, verificou-se que com ou sem cabelo nos lobos da corola das flores do disco hermafrodita central não tem significado molecular. Constatou-se que não houve fluxo gênico e hibridização entre as 14 espécies do subgênero Artemisia e essas 14 espécies concluíram sua especiação. Este estudo é importante porque é o primeiro estudo de base molecular relacionado com espécies pertencentes ao subgênero Artemisia crescendo naturalmente na Turquia. Além disso, novos haplótipos relacionados às populações da Turquia pertencentes ao subgênero Artemisia taxa foram relatados por nós pela primeira vez e adicionados ao banco de dados do GenBank.

The embryo non-invasive pre-implantation diagnosis era: how far are we?

Advancements in assisted reproduction (AR) methodologies have allowed significant improvements in live birth rates of women who otherwise would not be able to conceive. One of the tools that allowed this improvement is the possibility of embryo selection based on genetic status, performed via preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). Even though the widespread use of PGT from TE biopsy helped to decrease the interval from the beginning of the AR intervention to pregnancy, especially in older patients, in AR, there are still many concerns about the application of this invasive methodology in all cycles. Therefore, recently, researchers started to study the use of cell free DNA (cfDNA) released by the blastocyst in its culture medium to perform PGT, in a method called non-invasive PGT (niPGT). The development of a niPGT would bring the diagnostics power of conventional PGT, but with the advantage of being potentially less harmful to the embryo. Its implementation in clinical practice, however, is under heavy discussion since there are many unknowns about the technique, such as the origin of the cfDNA or if this genetic material is a true representative of the actual ploidy status of the embryo. Available data indicates that there is high correspondence between results observed in TE biopsies and the ones observed from cfDNA, but these results are still contradictory and highly debatable. In the present review, the advantages and disadvantages of niPGT are presented and discussed in relation to tradition TE biopsy-based PGT. Furthermore, there are also presented some other possible non-invasive tools that could be applied in the selection of the best embryo, such as quantification of other molecules as quality biomarkers, or the use artificial intelligence (AI) to identify the best embryos based on morphological and/or morphokitetic parameters.(AU)

Association of visual scores with reproductive traits in Nelore cattle using Bayesian Inference / Associação de escores visuais com características reprodutivas em bovinos Nelore utilizando Inferência Bayesiana

The use of morphological traits assessed using visual scores as indirect selection criteria in cattle has the advantage of evaluating young animals regarding potential productive and reproductive performance. This enables breeders to make earlier decisions compared to later measurements, such as scrotal circumference at 450 days (SC450) and stayability (STAY). The aim of this study was to estimate the genetic parameters for visual score traits and their associations with reproductive traits: scrotal circumference at 365 days of age (SC365), SC450, STAY, probability of precocious calving (PPC30) and age at first calving (AFC) in Nellore cattle. Visual score data from 4,175 Nellore cattle, with an average age of 22 months, and reproductive data from 3,075 cattle belonging to the HoRa Genetics Provada herd were used. The morphological traits were evaluated by the MERCOS methodology. The heritability estimates obtained ranged from 0.15 to 0.28 for visual scores and 0.10 to 0.54 for reproductive traits. Genetic correlations between visual scores and reproductive traits were generally low, except between: muscularity and PPC30; structure and STAY; racial and SC450; conformation and SC365, SC450, STAY, and AFC; navel and STAY and AFC; and sacrum and SC365, STAY, and AFC, which were moderate to high. The identification of animals with flat sacral bone (not protruding or sloping) can also be an efficient characteristic in the identification for early pregnancy, and together with the musculature score, they can be related to animals with lower age at the first calving.(AU)

A utilização de características morfológicas de bovinos, pelo uso de escores visuais como critério de seleção indireta tem como vantagem a avaliação em animais jovens quanto ao potencial desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo, antecipando a tomada de decisão em comparação a medidas tomadas de forma tardia, como perímetro escrotal aos 450 dias (PE450) e stayability (STAY). Objetivou-se estimar os parâmetros genéticos para características de escores visuais e a associação dessas com características reprodutivas, perímetro escrotal aos 365 (PE365) dias de idade, PE450, STAY, probabilidade de parto precoce (3P) e idade ao primeiro parto (IPP) em bovinos Nelore. Foram utilizadas informações de escores visuais e de reprodução de 4.175 e 3.075 bovinos, respectivamente, com idade média de 22 meses, pertencentes a fazenda HoRa Genética Provada. As características morfológicas foram avaliadas pela metodologia MERCOS. As estimativas de herdabilidade obtidas apresentam grande amplitude, variando de 0,15 a 0,28 para escores visuais e 0,10 a 0,54 para características reprodutivas. As correlações genéticas entre característica de escores visuais e reprodução foram, de maneira geral baixas (0.03-0.66), com exceção entre a musculosidade e 3P, estrutura e STAY, racial e PE450, conformação com PE365, PE450, STAY e IPP, ônfalo com STAY e IPP, e sacro com PE365, STAY e IPP, que foram moderadas a altas. A identificação de animais com melhor osso sacro (mesmo nível das ancas), ou seja, não saliente ou inclinado pode ser uma característica eficiente na identificação para prenhez precoce, e juntamente ao escore de musculatura poderão ser relacionados a animais com menor idade ao primeiro parto.(AU)

pedSimulate ­ An R package for simulating pedigree, genetic merit, phenotype, and genotype data

This study aimed to introduce R package pedSimulate, which was built to simulate pedigree, genetic merit, phenotype, and genotype data. These are amongst the most important data types that animal breeders and quantitative geneticists deal with. Twenty pedigrees with ten generations were simulated applying different combinations of three parameters: genetic variance (10 vs. 20), proportion of males selected (10 vs. 20%), and the pattern for selecting females (random, positively, or negatively based on own phenotype or parent average). Males were selected positively based on parent average. Consequently, assortative mating was applied to the pedigrees in which females were positively selected based on their own phenotype or parent average. Disassortative mating was applied to the pedigrees in which females were selected negatively based on phenotype or parent averages. Genetic gain and response to selection over generations were positive for all the pedigrees due to high selection intensity on males, mating each male with multiple females, and moderate to high heritability (0.25 and 0.40 for genetic variances 10 and 20, and the residual variance of 30). Genetic variance showed a slightly increasing trend over generations by assortative mating and lower selection intensity on males. Selection intensity on females was the same in all the pedigrees. This study provided examples of how R package pedSimulate can be adopted for pedigree, genetic merit, phenotype, and genotype data simulation in animal breeding studies. By using different functions and combining different parameters for their arguments, many scenarios can be simulated by R package pedSimulate.(AU)