Impact of Novel Varietal and Regional Differences on Cotton Fiber Quality Characteristics

Date estimation of fabrication and repair of Color garments encouragement banner

The Color Garments Encouragement Banner was designated a Korean Heritage in 2014 to recognize it as the most significant object of the color garments encouragement campaign. However, despite its significance, nothing is known about its manufacture. Therefore, this study attempted to analyze the materials of the banners to estimate when they were manufactured and repaired. The investigation of materials on the banner involved visual examination, literature review, microscopy, SEM–EDS, FT-IR, Py-GC–MS, ICP-MS, and LC–MS. The fabric, patch, and threads comprising the artifact were identified as cotton. FT-IR and Py-GC–MS confirmed that the repair patch was a woven blend of polyester and cotton yarns. EDS analysis indicated that the polyester was treated with titanium delustering. ICP-MS detected high concentrations of chromium that were not used in traditional dyeing techniques. The azo and sulfur compounds were identified by LC–MS analysis. The material layered on the grommet patch was thought to be a mixture of Pb, Ti with CaCO3 and BaSO4. Based on the overall results, the production date of the banner was narrowed down to the late 1920s, and the repair date to the mid-1950s. Although the materials used could not be identified owing to the limitations of the applicable analysis. Nonetheless, it is hoped that the analyses conducted in this study can serve as a scientific foundation for dating modern cultural heritage objects with limited handed-down record and historical documentation.

Improvement of qualitative and quantitative traits in cotton under normal and stressed environments using genomics and biotechnological tools: A review

Due to the increasing demand for high-quality and high fiber-yielding cotton (Gossypium spp.), research into the development of stress-resilient cotton cultivars has acquired greater significance. Various biotic and abiotic stressors greatly affect cotton production and productivity, posing challenges to the future of the textile industry. Moreover, the content and quality of cottonseed oil can also potentially be influenced by future environmental conditions. Apart from conventional methods, genetic engineering has emerged as a potential tool to improve cotton fiber quality and productivity. Identification and modification of genome sequences and the expression levels of yield-related genes using genetic engineering approaches have enabled to increase both the quality and yields of cotton fiber and cottonseed oil. Herein, we evaluate the significance and molecular mechanisms associated with the regulation of cotton agronomic traits under both normal and stressful environmental conditions. In addition, the importance of gossypol, a toxic phenolic compound in cottonseed that can limit consumption by animals and humans, is reviewed and discussed.