Abstract: The present disclosure provides a genomics-assisted prediction method for apple fruit quality traits and disease resistance and use thereof, and belongs to the technical field of plant genetics, genomics and breeding. The method is achieved by molecular markers. There are a total of 319 molecular markers, including 318 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and 1 InDel marker; and the molecular markers are associated with 16 traits of the Malus genus, including fruit ripening date, fruit shape, fruit cover color degree, fruit weight, soluble solid content, fruit juice pH value, malate content, chlorogenate content, procyanidin B2 content, flesh firmness at harvest, flesh crispness at harvest, flesh firmness retainability, flesh crispness retainability, fruit ring rot disease resistance, Glomerella leaf blotch resistance, and spur tree architecture.

Abstract: This invention relates to a two or three-stage apparatus and method of use to produce high purity silicon, such as for use in solar panels and/or photovoltaics. The device of this invention includes a melting apparatus with a delivery device, a holding apparatus with a tipping or transfer mechanism, and at least one solidification apparatus for receiving a molten feedstock. The optimized designs of individual apparatuses function efficiently in combination to produce high purity silicon.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are provided for casting silicon for photovoltaic cells and other applications. With these methods, an ingot can be grown that is low in carbon and whose crystal growth is controlled to increase the cross-sectional area of seeded material during casting.