William Mbasa | Agronomy | Young scientist Award

Mr. William Mbasa | Agronomy | Young scientist Award

 

Mr at University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

William Valerian Mbasa is a dedicated microbiologist/pathologist with a strong background in agricultural research, specializing in cashew crops and microbiology. He holds a PhD and Master’s degree in Microbiology from the University of Dar es Salaam, complemented by a Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Sokoine University of Agriculture. Currently serving at Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre, William has authored several influential research articles and played pivotal roles in projects focusing on cashew crop protection and organic-based nutrient management. His leadership experience includes coordinating research and innovation efforts, contributing significantly to the agricultural research landscape in Tanzania.

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Ā Personal Profile

I am a microbiologist/pathologist with self-motivation, goal-oriented, well-organized, hardworking, and attentive to details. I can work efficiently both in a team and individually. Moreover, I am eager to effectively contribute to research and development in solving community challenges.

šŸŽ“Academic Qualification

Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Microbiology (By Thesis) University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 2022 to Date, Master of Science in Microbiology (By Thesis) University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, 2018 – 2020, Bachelor Degree of Science in Agriculture General Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania 2012 ā€“ 2015, National Form Six Examination Certificate ā€œAdvance levelā€ Kwiro High School, Morogoro, Tanzania, 2010 – 2012, National Form Four Examination Certificate ā€œOrdinary Levelā€ Naliendele Secondary School, Mtwara, Tanzania 2006 – 2009, Primary School Examination Certificate Naliendele Primary School, Mtwara, Tanzania 1999 ā€“ 2005

šŸ’¼Professional/ Work Experience

Research Officer Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre 1st November 2022 ā€“ Present. Agricultural Research Officer Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre under Temporary Terms 25th January 2021 ā€“ 31st October 2022. Agricultural Research Officer. Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre under Cashew Research Program (CRP) September 2016 – 24th January 2021

šŸŒŸLeadership Experience

Assistant of Coordinator of Research and Innovation (CRI) Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre 1st January 2024 ā€“ Present Assistant of Coordinator of Cashew Research Program (CRP) Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre 1st January 2024 ā€“ Present Head of Crop Protection Section Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre under Cashew Research Program (CRP)-Cashew Crop Protection December 2022 ā€“ Present Acting Head of Cashew Agronomy Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre under Cashew Research Program (CRP)-Agronomy section March 2017 – March 2018

šŸ”¬Research Involved

Cashew Apple Organic-Based Nutrient Management Practice: Potential for Improved Productivity of Cashew in Southeastern Tanzania Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre, 2019 – 2022, šŸŒ± One (1) cashew apple organic-based fertilizer was recommended., šŸ“š One (1) research article was published in a reputable journal.. Investigations of Cashew Wilt Disease: An Emerging Threat Caused by Fusarium oxysporum in Tanzania Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI)-Naliendele Centre 2018 ā€“ 2020 (Phase I), 2022 – To Date (Phase II)Ā Three (3)

Publications Top Notes

  • Title: Distribution, characterization and chemical management of noxious shrub weed (Dichapetalum stuhlmannii Engl) in cashew in southeastern Tanzania
    Authors: Mbasa, W.V., Kapinga, F.A., Nene, W.A., Ngiha, K.N., Bashiru, R.A.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Heliyon
    DOI: e28207

 

  • Title: Influence of cashew apple utilization on soil nutrient replenishment and performance of cashew seedlings
    Authors: Valerian Mbasa, W., Kapinga, F.A., Nene, W.A., Merengo, M.J., Lilai, S.A.
    Year: 2024
    Journal: Journal of Plant Nutrition
    Volume and Issue: 47(4)
    Pages: 595ā€“614

 

  • Title: The efficacy of biofungicides on cashew wilt disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum
    Authors: Lilai, S.A., Kapinga, F.A., Nene, W.A., Mbasa, W.V., Tibuhwa, D.D.
    Year: 2022
    Journal: European Journal of Plant Pathology
    Volume and Issue: 163(2)
    Pages: 453ā€“465

 

  • Title: Ecological factors influencing severity of cashew fusarium wilt disease in Tanzania
    Authors: Lilai, S.A., Kapinga, F.A., Nene, W.A., Mbasa, W.V., Tibuhwa, D.D.
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Research in Plant Disease
    Volume and Issue: 27(2)
    Pages: 49ā€“60

 

  • Title: In vitro efficacy of botanical leaf extracts on Fusarium oxysporum causing cashew wilt disease in Tanzania
    Authors: Mbasa, W.V.
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection
    Volume and Issue: 54(19-20)
    Pages: 2397ā€“2406

 

  • Title: Characterization and chemical management of Cashew Fusarium Wilt Disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum in Tanzania
    Authors: Mbasa, W.V., Nene, W.A., Kapinga, F.A., Lilai, S.A., Tibuhwa, D.D.
    Year: 2021
    Journal: Crop Protection
    Volume: 139
    DOI: 105379

 

Islem Yangui | Forest Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Islem Yangui | Forest Pathology | Best Researcher Award

AssistantĀ Professor at Higher Institute of Agronomy of Chott Mariem, Tunisia

Summary:

Dr. Islem Yangui is an Assistant Professor specializing in plant physiology and biological engineering. His research focuses on fungal pathogens of Quercus suber L., with a particular interest in morphological and molecular characterization and biocontrol strategies. Dr. Yangui has taught courses at various academic institutions and conducted research projects aimed at understanding and enhancing the resilience of forest resources in urban settings.

Profile:

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šŸŽ“Education:

Dr. Islem Yangui holds a PhD in Biological Engineering from the National Research Institute for Rural Engineering, Water and Forests of Tunisia (INRGREF), completed between 2015 and 2019. His doctoral research focused on Biscogniauxia mediterranea, a pathogenic fungus of Quercus suber L., emphasizing morphological, molecular characterization, and biocontrol strategies. Prior to his PhD, he earned an engineering degree in Industrial Biology from the National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Tunisia (INSAT) in 2014.

šŸ„šŸ‘Øā€šŸ«Professional Experience:

From January 2021 to October 2022, Dr. Yangui served as an Adjunct Professor at the Higher School of Agriculture of Kef, Tunisia, where he taught Plant Physiology. Previously, from January 2021 to April 2021, he held a similar position at the National Institute of Applied Sciences and Technology of Tunisia (INSAT), teaching Biostatistics, Plant Physiology, and Valorization of Bioresources.

Research Interests:

Dr. Yangui’s research interests encompass plant physiology, fungal pathology, biological engineering, and the management and valorization of forest resources. He specializes in studying fungal pathogens affecting Quercus suber L., focusing on both morphological and molecular aspects, as well as exploring biocontrol strategies. His recent work includes evaluating tree species’ resistance and vulnerability traits in urban environments.

Publications Top Notes šŸ“:

1. Thymus algeriensis Boiss. et Reut., a north African endemic plant species: genetic diversity and population structure as assessed by molecular markers, a pioneer step for conservation implications

  • Authors: Ben Elhadj Ali, I., Yangui, I., Raadani, A., Boussaid, M., Messaoud, C.
  • Journal: Molecular Biology Reports
  • Volume: 51
  • Issue: 1
  • Year: 2024
  • Pages: 534

2. Culture media and temperature effects on Neofusicoccum mediterraneum: assessing mycelial growth and colony characteristics

  • Authors: Abouzkhar, F.A., Yangui, I., Hlaiem, S., Ezzine, O., JamĆ¢a, M.L.B.
  • Journal: European Journal of Plant Pathology
  • Volume: 169
  • Issue: 1
  • Year: 2024
  • Pages: 73-80

3. Biscogniauxia rosacearum: A newly identified pathogen of strawberry tree (Arbutus unedo L.) in North Africa

  • Authors: Yangui, I., Hlaiem, S., Khadraoui, H., Ben JamĆ¢a, M.L., Ezzine, O.
  • Journal: Forest Pathology
  • Volume: 54
  • Issue: 2
  • Year: 2024
  • Article Number: e12862

4. Variation in Phenolic Content, Antioxidant Activity and Alpha-amylase and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Capacities of Different Extracts from Tunisian Satureja barceloi (Willk) L.

  • Authors: Raadani, A., Boulila, A., Yangui, I., Messaoud, C., Ben Elhadj Ali, I.
  • Journal: Chemistry and Biodiversity
  • Volume: 21
  • Issue: 4
  • Year: 2024
  • Article Number: e202302109

5. Nutritional profile, phytochemical characterization, and biological activities of Tunisian cultivar Ficus carica zidi leaves

  • Authors: Ben Achour Harrabi, N., Taamalli, W., Jiljli, H., Attia, R., Mejri, M.
  • Journal: Euro-Mediterranean Journal for Environmental Integration
  • Year: 2024

 

Charul Chaudhary | Agronomy | Women Researcher Award

Ā  Dr. Charul Chaudhary| Agronomy | Women Researcher Award

Charul Chaudhary is a dedicated agronomist with expertise in crop production, cropping systems, conservation agriculture, and soil management. Holding a Ph.D. in Agronomy from COA, CCS HAU, Hisar, she excels in research focused on weed control, crop diversification, and improving soil health for enhanced productivity. Currently serving as a Young Professional-II at ICAR, Charul previously contributed significantly as a Senior Research Fellow at ICAR-Central Soil Salinity Research Institute. She is a recipient of prestigious awards including the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fellowship and has authored multiple impactful publications in renowned journals.

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  • ā€¢ Influence of crop residue and nitrogen management on nutrient uptake, yield and economics of Rice-Wheat
    Cropping system. 2023. Journal of Plant Nutrition, pp-376-391. DOI- 10.1080/01904167.2023.2277399

 

  • ā€¢ Standardization of spraying technique for pre-emergence herbicides in zero-tillage wheat with surface residue
    cover. 2023. Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences (IJAS), 92 (11): 1358ā€“1363

 

  • ā€¢ Effect of herbicidal treatments on the seed quality parameters and yield of Pearl millet. 2022. Agricultural
    Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America, 53(5): 8085-8093

 

  • ā€¢ Impact of Integrated weed management practices on growth parameters, yield attributes and yield of pearl
    millet (Pennisetum glaucum L. Br. Emend. Stuntz.). 2022. The Pharma Innovation, 11(4): 687-692.

 

  • ā€¢ Impact of Integrated weed management practices on weed parameters and yield of pearl millet (Pennisetum
    glaucum L. Br. Emend. Stuntz.). 2022. The Pharma Innovation, 11(4): 693-700.

 

  • ā€¢ Lodging: significance and preventive measures for increasing crop production, International Journal of
    Chemical Studies, IJCS 2018; 6(1): 700-705.

Nyasha Chiuraise | Crop protection | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Nyasha Chiuraise | Crop protection | Best Researcher Award

Doctoreta at Seed Co Ltd Zimbabwe

Summary:

Dr. Nyasha Chiuraise, a 39-year-old plant pathologist from Harare, Zimbabwe, has over nine years of experience in crop protection within the private sector. He currently works with SeedCo Group, a leading seed company operating across 17 African countries. Dr. Chiuraise’s expertise includes breeding for disease resistance and integrated pest, weed, and disease management. His work is instrumental in improving crop resilience and supporting sustainable agricultural practices in Africa.

Profile:

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šŸŽ“Education:

  • Ph.D. in Plant Pathology
    University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa, 2023
  • M.Sc. in Plant Breeding, cum laude
    University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, 2015
  • B.Sc. Honours in Plant Pathology
    University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa, 2012
  • B.Sc. Honours in Biological Sciences
    Midlands State University, Gweru, Zimbabwe, 2007

šŸ„šŸ‘Øā€šŸ«Professional Experience:

Plant Pathologist SeedCo Group, Harare, Zimbabwe June 2015 ā€“ Present Responsible for diagnosing fungal, bacterial, and viral diseases of cereals and vegetables through morphological, serological, and molecular techniques. Applies KASP SNP genotyping for plant disease resistance breeding and collaborates with global breeding teams. Develops strategies for field and controlled environment research on various crops, conducts fungicide and insecticide field trials, and provides technical expertise in plant health to seed producers and farmers. Maintains relationships with academia and the agricultural industry globally. Field Plant Pathologist Plant Health Products, Nottingham Road, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa January 2015 ā€“ June 2015 Developed, tested, and commercialized biocontrol products for field crops and pasture species. Conducted insect rearing and pathogen culturing for bioassays, tested biocontrol product compatibility with pesticides, and isolated and identified plant pathogens using various techniques.

Research Interests:

Dr. Chiuraise’s research focuses on breeding for disease resistance and integrated management of pests, weeds, and diseases in wheat and maize. He is particularly interested in the application of advanced genotyping techniques for plant disease resistance and the development of biocontrol strategies for sustainable agriculture.

Publications Top Notes šŸ“:

1. Occurrence and characterization of Puccinia triticina in Zimbabwe

  • Journal: Canadian Journal of Plant Pathology
  • Year: 2024 (In Press)
  • Contributors: N. Chiuraise, B. Visser, A. MarĆ©, W. Boshoff

2. First Report of Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici, Causing Stripe Rust of Wheat, in Zimbabwe

  • Journal: Plant Disease
  • Year: 2020
  • Volume: 104
  • Issue: 1
  • Contributors: W.H.P. Boshoff, B. Visser, C.M. Lewis, N. Chiuraise, Z.A. Pretorius
  • Citations: 11

3. Comparative evaluation of commercial rhizobial inoculants of soybean

  • Journal: South African Journal of Plant and Soil
  • Year: 2016
  • Volume: 33
  • Issue: 2
  • Pages: 157ā€“160
  • Contributors: B.J. Sivparsad, N. Chiuraise, M.D. Laing
  • Citations: 3

4. Progress in stacking aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination resistance genes in maize hybrids

  • Journal: Euphytica
  • Year: 2016
  • Volume: 207
  • Issue: 1
  • Pages: 49ā€“67
  • Contributors: N. Chiuraise, J. Derera, K.S. Yobo, A. Nunkumar, N.F.P. Qwabe
  • Citations: 7

5. Seed treatment with Trichoderma harzianum strain kd formulation reduced aflatoxin contamination in groundnuts

  • Journal: Journal of Plant Diseases and Protection
  • Year: 2015
  • Volume: 122
  • Issue: 2
  • Pages: 74ā€“80
  • Contributors: N. Chiuraise, K.S. Yobo, M.D. Laing
  • Citations: 11

 

Zeinab Bolboli | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Ā Dr. Zeinab Bolboli | Plant Pathology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Shiraz University Iran

šŸ‘©ā€šŸ”¬

Zeinab Bolboli is a distinguished researcher specializing in Plant Pathology, with a Ph.D. from Shiraz University. Their expertise encompasses mycology, plant virology, and advanced research methods. Zeinab’s innovative work includes identifying causal agents of plant diseases and evaluating crop susceptibility, earning recognition as the top Ph.D. student and for their dissertation. They’ve demonstrated excellence in teaching and have conducted various workshops, showcasing proficiency in bioinformatics and scientific photography. With a comprehensive skill set in microscopy, bioinformatics, and molecular characterization, Zeinab is poised to continue making significant contributions to the field of plant pathology.šŸŒŸ

 

Profile

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Orcid

 

Education and Academic Achievements šŸŽ“

šŸ“š Postdoctoral Researcher: Shiraz University, INSF (4016120)

  • PhD: Plant Pathology (Mycology), Department of Plant Protection, Shiraz University, Iran (2016-Present)
    • Dissertation: Identification of the Causal Agent of Fig Canker and Evaluation of Susceptibility of Iranian Fig Cultivars to the Disease.
    • Main courses: Advanced Mycology II, Advanced Applied Mycology, Genetics of Plant Pathogens, and more.
  • MSc: Plant Pathology (Mycology), Department of Plant Protection, Shiraz University, Iran (2013-2016)
    • Thesis: Phylogenetic relationships and taxonomic characteristics of Pythium spp. isolates in cereal fields of Fars Province.
    • Main courses: Advanced Mycology I, Plant Virology, Plant Disease Management, and more.
  • BSc: Plant Protection, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran (2007-2011)
    • Main courses: General and Advanced Plant Pathology, Mycology, Nematology, and more.
  • Diploma: Science, Alzahra High School, Kermanshah, Iran (2003-2006)

Teaching and Awards šŸ†

Received Top Student awards for both PhD and BSc.Recognized for having the top PhD dissertation at Shiraz University in 2023.Served as a Teaching Assistant for various courses including Advanced Mycology and General Plant Pathology.Supervised graduate theses and conducted workshops on scientific topics.

Workshops Attended and Skills šŸ’¼

Participated in workshops on RNA-Seq data analysis, Real-time PCR, Primer Designing, and more.Held workshops on Scientific Digital Photography and Diagnosis of Plant Disease.Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, Bioinformatics tools, and scientific photography.

Publications Top Notes šŸ“

  1. Title: Development of PCR-based assays for the detection of the evident and latent infection with Stilbocrea banihashemiana, the causal agent of fruit tree cankers
    • Journal: Crop Protection
    • Year: 2024
    • DOI: 10.1016/j.cropro.2024.106677
    • Contributors: Hamed Negahban; Zeinab Bolboli; Reza Mostowfizadeh-Ghalamfarsa

 

  1. Title: First report of Peroneutypa scoparia associated with canker disease on Ficus carica in northern Iran
    • Journal: New Disease Reports
    • Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1002/ndr2.12201
    • Contributors: M. Ghaedi; Z. Bolboli; Reza Mostowfizadeh-Ghalamfarsa

 

  1. Title: Susceptibility of fig cultivars to Diaporthe canker in Iran
    • Journal: Plant Pathology
    • Year: 2023
    • DOI: 10.1111/ppa.13687
    • Contributors: Zeinab Bolboli; Reza Mostowfizadeh-Ghalamfarsa; Moslem Jafari; Ali Sarkhosh

 

  1. Title: Neocosmospora caricae sp. nov. and N. metavorans, two new stem and trunk canker pathogens on Ficus carica in Iran
    • Journal: Mycological Progress
    • Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.1007/s11557-022-01834-9
    • Contributors: Zeinab Bolboli; Reza Mostowfizadeh-Ghalamfarsa; Marcelo Sandoval-Denis; Moslem Jafari; Pedro W. Crous

 

  1. Title: Stilbocrea banihashemiana sp. nov. a New Fungal Pathogen Causing Stem Cankers and Twig Dieback of Fruit Trees
    • Journal: Journal of Fungi
    • Year: 2022
    • DOI: 10.3390/jof8070694
    • Contributors: Zeinab Bolboli; Behnaz Tavakolian; Reza Mostowfizadeh-Ghalamfarsa; Moslem Jafari; Santa Olga Cacciola

 

Zahrabeigom Moradi Shakoorian | Agriculture sustainability | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Zahrabeigom Moradi Shakoorian | Agriculture sustainability | Best Researcher Award

šŸ‘Øā€šŸ«Profile Summary

An innovative and forward-thinking expert with a passion for sustainable food production. Offering over 7 years of specialized experience in indoor farms and vertical farming systems. Proficient in leveraging cutting-edge technology and automation to optimize crop yield, conserve resources, and reduce environmental impact. Skilled in plant physiology, hydroponics, aeroponics, and controlled environment agriculture techniques. Demonstrated strong project management abilities, evidenced by successful execution of vertical farming projects from conception to completion. Additionally, possess a history of presenting scientific articles in reputable journals. Seeking opportunities to apply expertise and spearhead advancements in vertical farming for a greener and more efficient future of agriculture. šŸŒæšŸŒ

šŸŒ Professional Profiles

šŸŒ±Work History:

Scientist, Aerofarms, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (03/2023 ā€“ 09/2023) Conducted research to improve the characteristics of specialty crops in controlled environment agriculture. Experimented with plant responses to environmental stress to enhance quality and yield. Collaborated with team members and departments to stay updated on research developments. Presented research findings internally and to partners. Grower, FKP Group, Tehran, Iran (01/2015 – 02/2023) Managed technical procedures and controlled environmental factors to optimize crop growth. Conducted physiological research and implemented horticultural methods to improve crop characteristics. Directed research and development projects focusing on crop enhancement techniques. Advisor, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran (01/2022 – 01/2023) Advised master’s thesis on investigating the morphological response of ornamental plants to drought stress. Research Scholarship, Georgia University, Georgia State, USA (09/2017 – 01/2018) Investigated onion seed priming techniques and enzymatic changes during seed priming. Explored modeling of seed germination and the effects of abiotic stress on germination. Deputy Botanic Products Improvement, Agriculture Organization of Tehran, Baharestan, Iran (01/2007 – 12/2014) Managed horticulture department and led projects related to greenhouses and mushrooms. Effectively managed projects from planning to implementation, ensuring successful outcomes. Established collaborative networks with academia and research institutions.

 

Achievements: šŸ†

Identified methodologies for seed priming and evaluated their impact on onion seed quality. Disseminated research findings in authentic journals. Managed critical projects and established academic collaborations resulting in meaningful research outcomes.

Skills:

  • Project management
  • Experimental design
  • Analytical thinking
  • Research and analysis (SAS, SPSS, Sigma plot)
  • Techniques for working with HPLC, Spectrophotometer, Plate reader
  • Microsoft Office proficiency
  • GPS mapping expertise

šŸŽ“Education:

Doctor’s Degree: Postharvest Physiology and Technology of Horticultural Crops, University of Tehran Master’s Degree: Horticulture, University of Bu Ali Sina, Bachelor’s Degree: Horticulture, University of Bu Ali Sina

 

šŸ“šTop Noted Publication

  1. Moradi Shakoorian, Z., Delshad, M., Diaz-Perez, JC., Askari-Sarcheshmeh, M.-A., Nambeesan, S., Mamedi, A. (2023). Onion (Allium cepa L.) seed germination affected by temperature and water potential: hydrothermal time model. Journal of Applied Research on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, 35, 100495. DOI: 10.1016/j.jarmap.2023.100495

 

  1. GarcĆ­a-GaytĆ”n, V., BojĆ³rquez-Quintal, E., HernĆ”ndez-Mendoza, F., Tiwari, D.K., Corona-Morales, N., Moradi Shakoorian, Z. (2019). Polymerized silicon (SiO2Ā· nH2O) in equisetum arvense: potential nanoparticle in crops. Journal of the Chilean Chemical Society, 64(1), 4298-4302. DOI: 10.4067/s0717-97072019000104298

 

  1. Sarcheshmeh, A., Moradi Shakoorian, Z., Delshad, M., Tavakkol, A.R. (2018). Determination of the cardinal temperatures and studying the effect of temperature on the efficiency of priming on onion seed (Allium cepa cv, Zargan). Iranian Journal of Seed Science and Technology, 8(1), 265-277.