bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc Uptake and Shoot Partitioning Between Zinc Efficient and Inefficient Exacum Genotypes
Authors: Riseman Andrew , Craig Richard , Lynch Jonathan P.
Published: January 2019

Interspecific hybrids of exacum (Exacum L.) display variable responses to zinc nutrition. Our research compared two genotypes with contrasting zinc efficiency phenotypes in terms of root cation exchange capacity (CEC), whole plant 65Zn uptake, and the effects of Cu+2 and Mg+2 on 65Zn uptake and partitioning to shoot tissues. Results show that the zinc efficient and inefficient genotypes had significantly different root CEC [27.2 and 16.9 cmol(+)·kg-1 root dry weight (DW), respectively] and whole plant 65Zn uptake rates (0.048 and 0.026 μmol·h-1·g-1 DW, respectively). In equimolar concentrations to Zn+2, Cu+2 reduced Zn+2 uptake by approximately 50% in both genotypes while supplemental Mg+2 enhanced Zn+2 uptake. In addition, Mg+2 facilitated a larger proportion of absorbed 65Zn to the upper shoot of the efficient genotype. We conclude zinc is absorbed through a specific Zn+2/Cu+2 transporter and that zinc efficiency in exacum is based on a combination of apoplastic and symplastic traits. In addition, a secondary Mg+2 × Zn+2 interaction may contribute to the zinc efficiency phenotype.
Genetic and Environmental Variation in Anthocyanins and their Relationship to Antioxidant Activity in Blackberry and Hybridberry Cultivars
Authors: Connor Ann Marie , Finn Chad E. , McGhie Tony K. , Alspach Peter A.
Published: January 2019

Dietary anthocyanins (ACYs) may give health benefits through their antioxidant activity (AA) or other physiological effects. We examined AA and ACY profiles and contents in 16 blackberry and hybridberry (Rubus L. species) cultivars harvested in 2002 and 2003 in New Zealand and Oregon. Total ACY content varied widely among cultivars harvested from a single site in a single year (e.g., from 58 to 343 mg/100 g fruit Oregon in 2003). For the 12 cultivars common to both sites and years, cultivar and year within location significantly affected total ACY content, accounting for 40% and 10% of total variation, respectively. Cultivar interactions with both location and year within location were also significant, together accounting for 39% of variation. Cyanidin 3-O-glucoside and cyanidin 3-O-rutinoside were identified in all cultivars in both locations in at least 1 year. Compared with total ACY, cultivar accounted for more variation in these two ACYs (63% and 92%, respectively), while cultivar interactions together accounted for a smaller, but statistically significant, proportion of variation (23% and 7%, respectively). Cyanidin 3-O-sophoroside and cyanidin 3-O-(2G-glucosylrutinoside) were identified in only four cultivars. Cultivar effects accounted for 64% and 76% of variation in these ACYs, respectively, while cultivar interactions together contributed 18% and 24%, respectively. For AA, cultivar effects were not significant, contributing 11% of variation; in contrast, year effect and cultivar × environment interactions were significant, contributing 22% and 55% of total variation, respectively. Based on cultivar means for all 16 genotypes, the phenotypic correlation between AA and total ACY was positive but lower than that between AA and total phenolic content (TPH) (r = 0.63 and 0.97, respectively). Combinations of individual ACYs did not provide higher correlations with AA. Thus, ACY profiles and content are not as useful as TPH as a proxy measurement for AA.
Field Evaluation of Strawberry Genotypes for Tolerance to Black Root Rot on Fumigated and Nonfumigated Soil
Authors: Particka Chrislyn A. , Hancock James F.
Published: January 2019

Black root rot (BRR) is a widespread disease of strawberry (Fragari×ananassa Duchnesne) that causes the death of feeder roots and the degradation of structural roots. The major causal organisms of BRR include Rhizoctonia fragariae Husain and W.E. McKeen, Pythium Pringsh., and Pratylenchus penetrans (Cobb) Filipjev and Schuurmans Stekhoven. The current method of control for black root rot is methyl-bromide fumigation; however, methyl bromide is scheduled to be phased out in 2005, and its effects are short-lived in matted-row systems. The objectives of the study were to measure levels of tolerance to BRR in 20 strawberry genotypes and to determine which pathogens were present in the soil. The genotypes were planted in four blocks each of methyl-bromide fumigated and nonfumigated soil, and were evaluated for crown number, number of flowers per crown, yield, and average berry weight over 2 years. The results showed that all three pathogens were present in the field, and that there was a significant genotype × fumigation interaction for yield and crown number in both years. The cultivars Bounty, Cabot, and Cavendish, all released from the breeding program in Nova Scotia, displayed tolerance to the pathogens that cause BRR.
The Effect of Verticillium Infection in Runner Plant Propagation Nurseries on Resistant and Susceptible Strawberry Genotypes
Authors: Shaw Douglas V. , Gordon Thomas R. , Larson Kirk D. , Kirkpatrick Sharon C.
Published: January 2019

Mother plants from strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.) genotypes susceptible to and resistant to verticillium (Verticillium dahliae Kleb.) were inoculated with this pathogen in a high elevation nursery. The infection rate for mother plants was 77.3% ± 7.5% and 80.7% ± 5.4% for resistant and susceptible genotypes, respectively. Conversely, the percentage of runner plants identified as infected by postharvest petiole assay that were produced by these inoculated mother plants differed significantly (P < 0.01) between sets of genotypes, 25.1% ± 3.7% and 59.8% ± 5.3% for resistant and susceptible genotypes, respectively. The percentage of runner plants from inoculated mothers that eventually collapsed in the fruit production field was larger than the percentage identified as infected by petiole assay for susceptible genotypes (68.9% ± 4.1%), and substantially less than the pre-plant infected fraction for resistant genotypes (3.5% ± 1.4%). Yield for runner plants from inoculated mothers was reduced by 73% to 75% for susceptible genotypes, and by 7% to 15% for resistant genotypes. The percentage of runner plants identified as infected in the nursery was correlated with the percentage of plants that collapsed in the fruiting field (r = 0.91, P < 0.01) and with yield in infested plots (r = -0.79, P < 0.01). Most of the effect of this disease was expressed as plant collapse, but the presence of yield reductions larger than the rate of plant collapse demonstrated substantial sub-lethal effects as well.
Priming Duration Influences Anatomy and Germination Responses of Parsley Mericarps
Authors: Olszewski Michael , Pill Wallace , Pizzolato Thompson D. , Pesek John
Published: January 2019

Germination studies indicated that increasing priming duration (-1.0 MPa at 20 °C for 7, 14, or 21 days) increased `Moss Curled' parsley [Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Nyman ex A.W. Hill] germination rate quadratically and seed moisture content linearly. A histological and anatomical study was conducted to identify and/or quantify principle mericarp organ or tissue volume changes influenced by priming duration. Embryo volume increased as priming duration increased from 7 to 21 days (0.014 to 0.034 mm3), and this was due more to radicle (0.007 to 0.022 mm3) than to cotyledon (0.006 to 0.011 mm3) growth. Concomitant with increased embryo volume was increased volume of the depleted layer (space formation, surrounding the embryo), from 0.038 after 7 days to 0.071 mm3 after 21 days, and increased hydrolysis of central endosperm (a thick-walled endosperm type). In nonprimed mericarps, central endosperm cells constituted 97% of the endosperm volume. The remaining 3% was comprised of 1% depleted layer and 2% distal endosperm (small, thin-walled, and irregularly shaped endosperm cells). During 7 or 21 days of priming, ≈10% or 40%, respectively, of central endosperm cells were hydrolyzed centrifugally around the embryo with a corresponding decrease in volume of central endosperm with thick cell walls. In addition, distal endosperm cells adjacent to the depleted layer, containing reserve materials, were digested of contents following 21 days priming, and sometimes, following 7 days priming. A long priming duration resulted in degradation of pericarp tissues, as indicated visually and by a decline in pericarp volume. We hypothesize that priming duration of parsley primarily influences radicle growth and centrifugal digestion and utilization of central and distal endosperm, resulting in a larger depleted layer required for embryo volume increases. Secondary events influenced by priming duration include cotyledon growth and degradation of pericarp tissues.
The Development of Upper Leaf Necrosis in Lilium `Star Gazer'
Authors: Chang Yao-Chien , Miller William B.
Published: January 2019

A necrotic disorder occurs on upper leaves of many oriental hybrid lily (Lilium L.) cultivars, including the most-widely-grown `Star Gazer'. We term this disorder “upper leaf necrosis” (ULN) and hypothesize that it is a calcium (Ca) deficiency. We demonstrated that Ca concentration in necrosed tissues was nearly six-fold below that of normal leaves (0.10% vs. 0.57% dry weight), and that Ca concentration was negatively associated with percentage necrosed leaf area. It was concluded that ULN is a Ca deficiency disorder. When the symptoms were slight, early ULN symptoms appeared as tiny depressed spots on the lower surface of the leaf, or as water-soaked areas when the disorder was severe. Most commonly, ULN began on the leaf margin. The injured areas turned brown, leading to leaf curling, distortion, or tip death. ULN occurred on leaves associated with flower buds and leaves immediately below the flower buds. For the plants grown from 16-18 cm circumference bulbs, the five leaves directly below the flower buds and larger leaves associated with the 1st and the 2nd flower buds were most susceptible. In general, flower buds were not affected by ULN, and continued to develop and flower normally, even though they were associated with subtending, highly distorted leaves. Eighty-five percent of plants began to exhibit ULN symptoms 30-40 days after planting (i.e., 24-34 days after shoot emergence). This was the stage when the 6th or 7th leaf under the bottom flower bud was just unfolded. Light was not the main factor that initiated ULN, however, ULN severity was greatly increased by light reduction, as leaf transpiration was reduced.
Physical and Hydraulic Properties of Baked Ceramic Aggregates Used for Plant Growth Medium
Authors: Steinberg Susan L. , Kluitenberg Gerard J. , Jones Scott B. , Daidzic Nihad E. , Reddi Lakshmi N. , Xiao Ming , Tuller Markus , Newman Rebecca M. , Or Dani , Alexander J. Iwan D.
Published: January 2019

Baked ceramic aggregates (fritted clay, arcillite) have been used for plant research both on the ground and in microgravity. Optimal control of water and air within the root zone in any gravity environment depends on physical and hydraulic properties of the aggregate, which were evaluated for 0.25-1-mm and 1-2-mm particle size distributions. The maximum bulk densities obtained by any packing technique were 0.68 and 0.64 g·cm-3 for 0.25-1-mm and 1-2-mm particles, respectively. Wettable porosity obtained by infiltration with water was ≈65%, substantially lower than total porosity of ≈74%. Aggregate of both particle sizes exhibited a bimodal pore size distribution consisting of inter-aggregate macropores and intra-aggregate micropores, with the transition from macro- to microporosity beginning at volumetric water content of ≈36% to 39%. For inter-aggregate water contents that support optimal plant growth there is 45% change in water content that occurs over a relatively small matric suction range of 0-20 cm H2O for 0.25-1-mm and 0 to -10 cm H2O for 1-2-mm aggregate. Hysteresis is substantial between draining and wetting aggregate, which results in as much as a ≈10% to 20% difference in volumetric water content for a given matric potential. Hydraulic conductivity was approximately an order of magnitude higher for 1-2-mm than for 0.25-1-mm aggregate until significant drainage of the inter-aggregate pore space occurred. The large change in water content for a relatively small change in matric potential suggests that significant differences in water retention may be observed in microgravity as compared to earth.
Analysis of Solanaceae Species Harvest-organ Growth by Linear Increase in Harvest Index and Harvest-organ Growth Rate
Authors: Moriondo M. , Bindi M. , Sinclair T.
Published: January 2019

Crop growth simulation models have been mainly developed to simulate final yield reliably. Thus, a main challenge in these models is the definition of a stable method for expressing the growth of harvested organs (e.g., fruit, seed, tuber, etc.). Generally, two approaches have been used: growth rate analysis of harvested organs [yield growth rate (YGR)] and analysis of harvest index (HI) increase over time (dHI/dt). This work aims to: 1) examine whether YGR and dHI/dt increase linearly over much of growing period, and 2) compare the two growth indices in terms of stability across a number of treatments, in order to identify which is the best indicator of harvest-organ growth. This analysis has already been performed for a large number of field crops, including wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.), soybean [Glycine max L. (Merr.)], and pea (Pisum sativum L.), but it has never been attempted in crops where final yield is not simply seeds. In this study, YGR and dHI/dt performances for tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.), potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), and eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) were compared using 21, 18, and 4 datasets, respectively. Results indicated that both descriptors of harvest-organ growth increased linearly for most of the growth period, whilst the comparison among the two variables in terms of stability showed that, although a direct statistical test failed, dHI/dt was more suitable to describe harvest-organ growth (smaller coefficient of variability) under a large range of crop management conditions (e.g., irrigation, sowing date, planting density, and water salt concentration).
Modeling Growth and Development of Celosia and Impatiens in Response to Temperature and Photosynthetic Daily Light Integral
Authors: Pramuk Lee Ann , Runkle Erik S.
Published: January 2019

Commercial greenhouse growers often produce bedding plants from midwinter to early summer, and thus crops are grown under a wide range of environmental conditions. Despite bedding plants' high economic value, the interactions of temperature and photosynthetic daily light integral (DLI) on growth and flowering have not been determined for many bedding plants. We grew celosia (Celosia argentea L. var. plumosa L.) and seed impatiens (Impatiens wallerana Hook.f.) in glass greenhouses in a range of temperature (15 to 27 °C) and DLI (8 to 26 mol·m-2·d-1) conditions to quantify effects on growth and flowering. Growth (e.g., plant dry mass at flowering) and flowering characteristics (e.g., time to flowering and flower bud number) were modeled in response to the average daily temperature and DLI by using multiple regression analysis. Rate of progress to flowering (1/days to flower) of celosia increased as temperature increased up to ≈25 °C and as the average DLI increased to 15 ·mol·m-2·d-1. Impatiens grown under a DLI <15 mol·m-2·d-1 flowered progressively earlier as temperature increased from 14 to 28 °C, whereas temperature had little effect on flowering time when plants were grown under the highest DLI treatments. Number of flowers and flower buds at first flowering increased in both species as temperature decreased or DLI increased. Shoot dry mass at first flowering followed a similar trend, except celosia dry mass decreased as temperature decreased. The models developed to predict flowering time and plant quality could be used by commercial growers to determine the impacts of changing growing temperature, growing plants at different times of the year, and providing supplemental lighting.
Identification of Self-(in)compatibility Alleles in Apricot by PCR and Sequence Analysis
Authors: Vilanova Santiago , Romero Carlos , Llácer Gerardo , Badenes María Luisa , Burgos Lorenzo
Published: January 2019

This report shows the PCR-based identification of the eight known self-(in)compatibility alleles (S1 to S7 and Sc) of apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.). Two sets of consensus primers, designed from P. armeniaca S-RNase genomic sequences and sweet cherry (P. avium L.) S-RNase-cDNAs, were used to amplify fragments containing the first and the second S-RNase intron, respectively. When the results obtained from the two PCRs were combined, all S-alleles could be distinguished. The identity of the amplified S-alleles was verified by sequencing the first intron and 135 base pairs (bp) of the second exon. The deduced amino acid sequences of these fragments showed the presence of the C1 and C2 Prunus L. S-RNase conserved regions. These results allowed us to confirm S-genotypes previously assigned by stylar ribonuclease analyses and to propose one self-(in)compatibility group (I) and one universal donor group (O) containing unique S-genotypes and self-compatible cultivars (SC). This PCR-based typing system also facilitates the identification of the Sc-allele and might be a very useful tool for predicting self-compatibility in apricot breeding progenies.
Response to Inbreeding of Seedling Traits in a Prunus domestica L. Breeding Population
Authors: DeBuse Carolyn J. , Shaw Douglas V. , DeJong Theodore M.
Published: January 2019

Controlled pollinations were made using 20 elite selections from the University of California, Davis, Prunus domestica (european plum) breeding program as parents. These parents were used to generate 11 self-pollinated progenies with an inbreeding coefficient (F) of 0.5, 10 full-sibling progenies (F = 0.25), and 11 progenies from among nonrelated parents (F = 0). Seven additional progenies were chosen as a random-mating control set within the parental group; progenies in the control set had accumulated a range of current inbreeding coefficients (average F = 0.23) over two to five generations with intervening cycles of selection. Survival percentages were 85, 82, and 74 for the full-sib progeny, control set progeny, and selfed progeny, respectively, relative to nonrelated progeny. Two months after germination the percent decrease in the growth trait means for the selfed progeny compared to the nonrelated progeny ranged from 14% to 30% whereas growth trait means for full-sib progeny decreased from 1% to 9% compared to nonrelated progeny. The percent decrease for growth trait means of the selfed progeny after completing one season of growth in the field (10 months) was similar to that observed after 2 months, ranging from 14% to 28% compared to nonrelated progeny, whereas the decrease in full-sib progeny trait means was somewhat greater, ranging from 6% to 20%. Regression analysis of all growth traits on current-generation rates of inbreeding indicated a significant negative linear relationship (P = 0.0011 to 0.0232). No significant relationships were found between accumulated Fs and growth trait means of the control set progenies and the nonrelated progenies after 2 months in the greenhouse or one season growing in the field, suggesting that selection between breeding cycles decreased inbreeding depression.
Comparisons between Orange- and Green-fleshed Non-netted and Orange-fleshed Netted Muskmelons: Antioxidant Changes following Different Harvest and Storage Periods
Authors: Hodges D. Mark , Lester Gene E.
Published: January 2019

The consumption of netted muskmelons (Cucumis melo L. Reticulatus group) has raised health concerns due to pathogenic bacteria attaching to sites on the netted rind inaccessible to sanitation. The purpose of this study was to compare 1) the enzymic and nonenzymic antioxidant capacity between representative cultivars of netted muskmelon and both green- and orange-fleshed honey dew muskmelons during storage for 17 days and 2) levels of non-nutrient phytochemicals between these genotypes in consideration of ultimately substituting netted orange-fleshed with non-netted orange-fleshed muskmelon. Netted muskmelon (`Cruiser'), green-fleshed (`Honey Brew'), and orange-fleshed (`Orange Dew') muskmelons were harvested in Texas at the beginning (21 May) and at the end (11 June) of the production season in 2004. Fruit were analyzed immediately (day 0) or stored simulating retail conditions for 7 or 14 days at 7 °C and 95% ± 2% relative humidity plus 3 days at 21 °C. Both `Orange Dew' and `Honey Brew' non-netted cultivars evinced similar and less lipid peroxidation, and hence postharvest senescence, during the 17-day storage period than the netted muskmelon `Cruiser'. In comparison with `Cruiser', `Orange Dew' generally exhibited higher concentrations of ß-carotene and phenolics and, with few exceptions, higher activities of the antioxidant enzymes ascorbate peroxidase (AsPX), monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDHAR), dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR), catalase (CAT), guaiacol peroxidase (POX), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Higher AsPX and SOD activities in both `Orange Dew' and `Honey Brew' appear to confer a greater resistance to lipid peroxidation in these muskmelon genotypes than to the netted `Cruiser'. `Orange Dew' also appears to be a healthier food choice not only due to its lack of a netted rind which could potentially harbour human illness-related pathogens, but also that it is superior to both `Cruiser' and `Honey Brew' in overall beta-carotene and phenolic levels.
Relationship of Plant Growth and Actual Evapotranspiration to Irrigation Frequency Based on Management Allowed Deficits for Container Nursery Stock
Authors: Beeson R.C.
Published: January 2019

Three species of woody ornamentals, Viburnum odoratissimum Ker Gawl, Ligustrum japonicum Thunb., and Rhaphiolepis indica Lindl. were transplanted from 3.8-L into 11.4-L containers and grown for 6 months while irrigated with overhead sprinkler irrigation. Irrigation regimes imposed consisted of an 18-mm-daily control and irrigation to saturation based on 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% deficits in plant available water [management allowed deficits (MAD)]. Based on different evaluation methods, recommendations of 20%, 20%, and 40% MAD are supported for V. odoratissimum, L. japonica, and R. indica, respectively, for commercial production. Comparisons of plant growth rates, supplied water, and conversion of transpiration to shoot biomass are discussed among irrigation regimes within each species. Comparisons of cumulative actual evapotranspiration (ETA) to either shoot dry mass or canopy volume were linear and highly correlated. Results indicated there were minimum cumulative ETA volumes required for plants to obtain a specific size. This suggests that irrigation regimes that restrict daily ETA will prolong production times and may increase supplemental irrigation requirements. Thus the hypothesis that restrictive irrigation regimes will reduce irrigation requirements to produce container plants is false due to the strong relationship between cumulative ETA and plant size.
Size, Biomass, and Nitrogen Relationships with Sweet Orange Tree Growth
Authors: Morgan K.T. , Scholberg J.M.S. , Obreza T.A. , Wheaton T.A.
Published: January 2019

Growth and nitrogen (N) accumulation relationships based on tree size, rather than age, may provide more generic information that could be used to improve sweet orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] N management. The objectives of this study were to determine how orange trees accumulate and distribute biomass and N as they grow, investigate yearly biomass and N changes in mature orange trees, determine rootstock effect on biomass and N distribution, and to develop simple mathematical models describing these relationships. Eighteen orange trees with canopy volumes ranging between 2 and 43 m3 were dissected into leaf, twig, branch, and root components, and the dry weight and N concentration of each were measured. The N content of each tree part was calculated, and biomass and N distribution throughout each tree were determined. The total dry biomass of large (mature) trees averaged 94 kg and contained 0.79 kg N. Biomass allocation was 13% in leaves, 7% in twigs, 50% in branches/trunk, and 30% in roots. N allocation was 38% in leaves, 8% in twigs, 27% in branches/trunk, and 27% in roots. For the smallest tree, above-/below-ground distribution ratios for biomass and N were 60/40 and 75/25, respectively. All tree components accumulated biomass and N linearly as tree size increased, with the above-ground portion accumulating biomass about 2.5 times faster than the below-ground portion due mostly to branch growth. The growth models developed are currently being integrated in a decision support system for improving fertilizer use efficiency for orange trees, which will provide growers with a management tool to improve long-term N use efficiency in orange orchards.
Independent Inheritance of Leaf Shape and Main Vein Color in Caladium
Authors: Deng Zhanao , Harbaugh Brent K.
Published: January 2019

The ornamental value of caladium (Caladium ×hortulanum Birdsey) depends primarily on leaf characteristics, including leaf shape and main vein color. Caladium leaf shapes are closely associated with plant growth habit, stress tolerance, and tuber yield; leaf main vein colors are often used for cultivar identification. Thirty-eight crosses were made among 10 cultivars and two breeding lines; their progeny were analyzed to understand the inheritance of leaf shape and main vein color and to determine if there is a genetic linkage between these two traits. Results showed that a single locus with three alleles determined the main vein color in caladium. The locus was designated as V, with alleles Vr, Vw, and Vg for red, white, and green main veins, respectively. The white vein allele was dominant over the green vein allele, but it was recessive to the red vein allele, which was dominant over both white and green vein alleles; thus the dominance order of the alleles is Vr > Vw > Vg. Segregation data indicated that four major red-veined cultivars were heterozygous with the genotype Vr Vg, and that one white-veined cultivar was homozygous and one other white-veined cultivar and one breeding line were heterozygous. The observed segregation data confirmed that the three leaf shapes in caladium were controlled by two co-dominant alleles at one locus, designated as F and f, for fancy and strap leaves, respectively. The skewedness of leaf shape segregation in some of the crosses implied the existence of other factors that might contribute to the formation of leaf shape. Contingency chi-square tests for independence revealed that caladium leaf shape and main vein color were inherited independently. The chi-square tests for goodness-of-fit indicated that the five observed segregation patterns for leaf shape and main vein color fit well to the expected ratio assuming that two co-dominant and three dominant/recessive alleles control leaf shape and main vein color and they are inherited independently.
Melon-Powdery Mildew Interactions Reveal Variation in Melon Cultigens and Podosphaera xanthii Races 1 and 2
Authors: McCreight James D.
Published: January 2019

Powdery mildew is a serious disease of melon (Cucumis melo L.) worldwide. Twenty-two melon cultigens have been used to define 22 reported races of the pathogen Podosphaera xanthii (sect. Sphaerotheca) xanthii (Castag.) U. Braun & N. Shish. Comb. nov. [syn. Sphaerotheca fuliginea (Schlecht. ex Fr.) Poll.]. Discrepancies in the reactions of eight cultigens to populations of P. xanthii races 1 and 2 in California, Japan, and Spain revealed genetic differences among them that can be used to differentiate P. xanthii race 1 and 2 populations in these countries. Implicit in these results is the existence of previously unknown virulence factors in these populations of P. xanthii races 1 and 2 that permit designation of new races of P. xanthii on melon. Synthesis of these results with previous reports resulted in the identification of 28 putative races of P. xanthii on melon that include eight variants of race 1 and six variants of race 2. Six of the cultigens exhibited resistant blisters in response to heavy infection by P. xanthii in field and greenhouse tests.
Characterization and Genetic Relationships of Wild Species and Old Garden Roses Based on Microsatellite Analysis
Authors: Scariot Valentina , Akkak Aziz , Botta Roberto
Published: January 2019

Six polymorphic sequence-tagged microsatellite sites (STMSs) were used to characterize 65 accessions of old garden roses [OGRs (Rosa L. spp.)] from seven botanical sections and 13 horticultural groups. Aims of the study were to define the genetic profiles of accessions and to provide information useful for the classification and pedigree reconstruction of OGRs. In roses, a precise botanical classification is difficult due to repeated hybridization carried out in breeding; OGRs are classified in horticultural groups on the basis of their original parentage or of their morphological traits. A total of 82 alleles were detected at six loci. The number of alleles per locus ranged from six to 21, with an average of 13.7 alleles per locus. A dendrogram was constructed by cluster analysis, displaying the relative genetic similarities between species' accessions, hybrids, and cultivars. Cluster analysis grouped the genotypes into seven major clusters that were substantially consistent with their classification into botanical sections and horticultural groups. Several hypotheses of apportionment of accessions to horticultural groups were evaluated on the basis of the relative position in the dendrogram of the analyzed individuals. Results demonstrated that DNA analyses can contribute to drawing the botanic classification of rose accessions, improving the genetic knowledge on the background of modern rose, and providing the basis for breeding programs.
Antisense Expression of MdTFL1, a TFL1-like Gene, Reduces the Juvenile Phase in Apple
Authors: Kotoda Nobuhiro , Iwanami Hiroshi , Takahashi Sae , Abe Kazuyuki
Published: January 2019

Because fruit trees such as apple (Malus ×domestica Borkh.) flower and set fruit only after an extended juvenile phase lasting several years, efficient breeding of fruit trees is limited. We previously suggested that MdTFL1 (Malus ×domestica TFL1) functions analogously to TERMINAL FLOWER 1 (TFL1) and that MdTFL1 is involved in the maintenance of the juvenile/vegetative phase in apple. To clarify the function of MdTFL1 in apple, we produced transgenic `Orin' apple trees expressing MdTFL1 antisense RNA. One of them flowered only 8 months after the transfer to the greenhouse, whereas the nontransformed control plants have not flowered in nearly 6 years. As expected, the expression of endogenous MdTFL1 was suppressed in the transgenic lines that showed precocious flowering. In addition, the expression level of the transgene was correlated with the reduction of the juvenile phase. These findings confirm that MdTFL1 functions like TFL1 and that MdTFL1 maintains the juvenile and vegetative phase in apple. Flower organs of the transgenic apple trees were normal in appearance, and a precocious flowering transgenic line set fruit and seeds. Interestingly, some flowers of the transgenic apple trees developed without undergoing dormancy. The expression of MdTFL1 in apple may affect flower development as well as flower induction.
Differential Expression of rolC Results in Unique Plant Phenotypes
Authors: Gardner Nicole , Melberg Tracy , George Manju , Smith Alan G.
Published: January 2019

Expression of the rolC gene in plants has been shown to cause pleiotropic effects, including decreased height. The effects of differential rolC gene expression on plant height, leaf color, root growth, leaf size, corolla length, and stem diameter were determined. Differential expression of rolC in Nicotiana tabacum L. `Samsun' plants was achieved using the 35S promoter, the light-inducible rbcS promoter, or the native rolC promoter. Sixteen plants from the T1 generation—six with the 35S promoter, six with the rbcS promoter, and four with the native rolC promoter—and non-transformed controls were measured for height, internode length, branch number, bud size, corolla length and diameter, root growth, and the number of days to flowering. Steady state mRNA levels of rolC were measured in roots, stems, and leaves to assess relationships between rolC expression level in specific tissues and phenotypes. Plants expressing rolC showed a wide range of phenotypes, with the largest changes in plants expressing rolC using the 35S promoter, which also had the highest rolC mRNA levels. Plants expressing rolC with the rolC or rbcS promoter had significant changes for many measured traits, despite rolC mRNA levels that were not significantly different from non-transformed controls. In general, as rolC mRNA levels increased, so did the severity of the rolC phenotype observed. Three plants, A4, A7, and B9, had unique combinations of traits that did not follow this general trend. Transformation with rolC can be useful in ornamental crops where smaller cultivars are desired.
Increase in the Expression of an Alpha-Amylase Gene and Sugar Accumulation Induced during Cold Period Reflects Shoot Elongation in Hyacinth Bulbs
Authors: Sato Azusa , Okubo Hiroshi , Saitou Kazuyuki
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate physiological and biochemical mechanisms of shoot elongation after cold period in hyacinth (Hyacinthus orientalis L. cv. Delft Blue). Hyacinth shoot rapidly elongated during hydro-culture period in cooled bulbs, but not in non-cooled bulbs. Alpha-amylase (EC 3.2.1.1.) is a key enzyme involved in starch hydrolysis. Alpha-amylase activity increased during the cold storage period and was low during rapid shoot elongation in hyacinth. In the non-cooled bulbs, its activity remained at the similar level. Sucrose content increased during the cold storage period in the shoot, but not in the scales. We, for the first time, isolated cDNA for cold-responsive alpha-amylase gene (HoAmy1A, accession No. AB198975) from hyacinth, and presented that HoAmy1A expression increased in the scale during the cold storage period, but the level was very low during shoot elongation. We also found that promoter region of HoAmy1A contained CArG element, which is related to the response to low temperature. In tulip (Tulipa genesriana L.), the most studied bulbous plant, dramatic increase in alpha-amylase activity and translocation of sugars from the scales to shoot occurred during the growth stage, following cold treatment (Komiyama et al., 1997; Lambrechts et al., 1994). Our results suggest that there are two types (tulip and hyacinth types) of sprouting mechanisms in bulbous plants.
Water on the Surface Aggravates Microscopic Cracking of the Sweet Cherry Fruit Cuticle
Authors: Knoche Moritz , Peschel Stefanie
Published: January 2019

The effect of surface water on the frequency of microcracks in the cuticular membrane (CM) of exocarp segments (ES) of developing sweet cherry fruit (Prunus avium L.) was studied. Strain of CM and ES on the fruit surface was preserved by mounting a stainless steel washer on the fruit surface in the cheek region using an ethyl-cyanacrylate adhesive. ES were excised by tangentially cutting underneath the washer. Frequency of microcracks in the CM of ES was determined following infiltration for 10 minutes with a 0.1% acridine orange solution by fluorescence microscopy before and after exposure to deionized water (generally 48 hours). Exposing the surface of ES of mature `Burlat' sweet cherry fruit to water resulted in a rapid increase in microcracks in the CM that approached an asymptote at about 30 microcracks/cm2 within 24 hours. There was no change in microcracks in the CM when the surface of the ES remained dry. Incubating ES in polyethylene glycol solution that was isotonic to fruit juice extracted from the same batch of fruit resulted in a greater increase in frequency of microcracks as compared to incubation in deionized water. The water-induced increase in microcracks was closely related to strain of the CM across different developmental stages within a cultivar [between 45 and 94 days after full bloom (DAFB); r2 = 0.96, P ≤ 0.001, n = 9] or across different cultivars at maturity (r2 = 0.92, P ≤ 0.0022, n = 6). Incubating ES of developing fruit in enzyme solution containing pectinase and cellulase such that the outer surface remained dry resulted in complete rupture and failure of the ES. Time to rupture and percentage of ruptured ES were closely related to the strain of the CM (r2 = 0.92, P ≤ 0.001, n = 9 and r2 = 0.68, P ≤ 0.0063, n = 9, respectively). Removal of epicuticular wax had no effect on frequency of water-induced microcracks. Also, temperature had no effect on frequency of water-induced microcracks, but frequency of microcracks increased exponentially when exposing the outer surface of ES to relative humidities above 75%. At 100% humidity the increase in frequency of microcracks did not differ from that induced by liquid water. Local wetting the surface of intact fruit in the pedicel cavity or stylar end region resulted in formation of macroscopically visible cracks despite of a net water loss of fruit. Uniaxiale tensile tests using dry and fully hydrated CM strips isolated from mature `Sam' sweet cherry fruit established that hydration increased fracture strain, but decreased fracture stress and moduli of elasticity. Our data demonstrate that exposure of the fruit surface to liquid water or high concentrations of water vapor resulted in formation of microcracks in the CM.
Self-incompatibility of `Arbequina' and `Picual' Olive Assessed by SSR Markers
Authors: Díaz Aurora , Martín Antonio , Rallo Pilar , Barranco Diego , De la Rosa Raúl
Published: January 2019

We studied the self-incompatibility of two main Spanish olive (Olea europaea L.) cultivars, `Picual' and `Arbequina', by testing the selfing of the seeds with microsatellites. For this purpose, we used a rapid single-seed DNA extraction method and four highly polymorphic microsatellites. We analyzed seeds produced in branches bagged for selfing from mono- and multi-cultivar orchards in 2002 and 2003. We did not find any seed coming from selfing in the bagged branches, for either cultivar, in the two types of orchards. Additionally, we tested seeds coming from free pollination in mono-cultivar orchards from different locations. In the case of `Picual' olive, only three seeds out of the 70 collected were the product of selfing, although they came from mono-cultivar orchards located in areas where the cultivar used as the female parent was predominant. From the 20 seeds of `Arbequina' olive harvested in the middle of two high-density plantations, not one was a product of selfing. According to this, olive would behave as an allogamous species in mono-cultivar growing conditions and the pollen coming from long distances would be able to produce a normal bearing. Therefore, there is strong evidence to support the idea that the cultivars studied could be self-incompatible. Future experiments in self-compatibility should include a paternity check of the possible self seeds obtained.
Calibration and Evaluation of a STELLA Software-based Daily CO2 Balance Model in Vitis vinifera L.
Authors: Poni Stefano , Palliotti Alberto , Bernizzoni Fabio
Published: January 2019

This paper describes and evaluates the reliability of a model for prediction of daily carbon balance and dry matter (DM) accumulation in vertically shoot positioned grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.) canopies based on the user-friendly STELLA simulation software. Validation of the model was produced for potted `Cabernet Sauvignon' grapevines at both low canopy density [LD (≈10 shoots/m of row)] and high canopy density [HD (≈20 shoots/m of row)] by comparing, on a seasonal basis, the modelled daily CO2 balance with the diurnal net carbon exchange rate (NCER) measured using a whole-canopy enclosure method. Estimated daily total photosynthesis (Pn) was linearly correlated with measured NCER for LD (r2 = 0.87) and HD (r2 = 0.86), thereby indicating that despite its simplicity the model led to a fairly good degree of precision, although it tended to slightly underestimate (5% to 8% less) the measured rates and scattering increased at high values of CO2 fixations. Daily total respiration (R) for LD treatment was 29.0% of total daily Pn, with clusters, leaves and stems accounting for 11.8%, 46.7%, and 41.5%, respectively. Daily total R was 24.2% of total daily Pn in HD treatment and single organs contributed 22.3% (clusters), 41.6% (leaves), and 36.1% (stems). The model estimated that 1604 and 1893 g DM per vine accumulated at harvest for LD and HD treatment, respectively, whereas destructive sampling of leaves, stems and clusters yielded 1475 ± 64 g per vine for LD treatment and 1730 ± 96 g per vine for HD treatment, respectively, corresponding to the 91% and 92% of the DM estimated with STELLA, which in its present version does not take into account root respiration.
Leaf Area Index, Water Index, and Red: Far Red Ratio Calculated by Spectral Reflectance and its Relation to Plant Architecture and Cut Rose Production
Authors: Mascarini Libertad , Lorenzo Gabriel A. , Vilella Fernando
Published: January 2019

In roses (Rosa ×hybrida L.), the bending of branches is a technique that modifies the canopy of the plant and could affect such parameters as the leaf area index (LAI), the quality of reflected light, and the water index (WI) of the plant. The measurement of spectral reflectance with remote sensors is a nondestructive, quick, and simple method to study these parameters. The aim of this paper is to quantify the modification of reflected radiation quality, the LAI and the water index of the plant with different canopies, and its impact on flowering and the number and quality of flowers produced. In R. ×hybrida `Terracotta', using the spectral crop reflectance, the red: far red ratio [red (R) = 680 nm; far red (FR) = 730 nm], percentage of blue light of reflected radiation, and vegetation indices [normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), simple ratio index (SRI), water index (WI)] were calculated in two architectural managements: traditional (upright hedge) and bent shoot. NDVI had a greater correlation with LAI than SRI (r2 = 0.98 and 0.85, respectively), but SRI was more reliable for LAI values of 1 to 3.5. The bent shoot system compared to the traditional one decreased the R:FR ratio of reflected radiation and increased LAI and plant water content. These changes were related to a higher commercial quality of the flowers (longer flowering shoots with a larger stem diameter and fresh weight), although there was no significant difference in the number of flowers harvested. The period that showed the largest difference in the quality of the flower using the bent shoot system had a LAI of 2.8 vs. 1.8 with traditional management and a marked reduction in the R:FR of the light reflected by bent plants. The bent shoot system advanced the peak production by 1 month at the end of winter and improved the flowers at a time when sun radiation is limiting factor for production.
Cold Hardiness and Vernal Budbreak of Rhamnus caroliniana and the Invasive Rhamnus cathartica
Authors: Stewart J. Ryan , Graves William R. , Landes Reid D.
Published: January 2019

Carolina buckthorn [Rhamnus caroliniana Walt. or Frangula caroliniana (Walt.) Gray] is an attractive and water-stress-resistant shrub or small tree distributed extensively in the southeastern United States that merits use in managed landscapes. Due to substantial climatic differences within its distribution (30-year normal midwinter minima range from 13 to -8 °C), selection among provenances based on differences in cold hardiness is warranted. Before selections are marketed, the potential of carolina buckthorn to be invasive also merits investigation. Ecological problems resulting from the introduction of Rhamnus L. species in the United States, most notably the dominance of R. cathartica L. (common buckthorn) over neighboring taxa, are due in part to early budbreak. Consequently, we investigated depth of cold hardiness and vernal budbreak of carolina buckthorn and common buckthorn. Stem samples of carolina buckthorn and common buckthorn collected in midwinter survived temperatures as low as -21 and -24 °C, respectively. Although the cold hardiness of carolina buckthorns from Missouri was greater than that of carolina buckthorns from Ohio and Texas on 2 Apr. 2003, there were no differences in cold hardiness of stems from Missouri and Texas on all three assessment dates in the second experiment. All plants survived at both field locations except for the carolina buckthorns from southern Texas planted in Iowa, which showed 0% and 17% survival in 2003 and 2004, respectively. Budbreak of both species with and without mulch in Ames, Iowa, was recorded from 9 Apr. to 10 May 2002. Mean budbreak of common buckthorn was 5.7 days earlier than budbreak of carolina buckthorn, and buds of mulched carolina buckthorns broke 4.2 days earlier than did buds of unmulched carolina buckthorns. We conclude that the cold hardiness of carolina buckthorn is sufficient to permit the species to be planted outside of its natural distribution. Populations of carolina buckthorn in Ohio and Missouri should be the focus of efforts to select genotypes for use in regions with harsh winters. Phenology of its budbreak suggests carolina buckthorn will not be as invasive as common buckthorn, but evaluation of additional determinants of invasiveness is warranted.
Implications of the Genetics of Root Structure in Melon Breeding
Authors: Fita Ana , Picó Belén , Nuez Fernando
Published: January 2019

Roots are critical for plants to withstand environmental abiotic and biotic stresses. Wild taxa are often used as source of variation for improving root systems, as they are adapted to more stressful soil environments than their cultivated relatives. We studied the genetics of traits related to root biomass, root length, and root architecture (considering the primary/secondary and the tertiary root levels) in melon (Cucumis melo L.) in a 2-year assay by examining the root systems of mature plants in 91 F3 families derived from the cross between a wild accession, Pat 81 [C. melo ssp. agrestis (Naud) Pangalo], and a cultivated accession, `Piel de sapo' (C. melo ssp. melo L.). Despite the difficulties of working with adult plants, we found that Pat 81 and `Piel de sapo' differ greatly in their mature root systems, which is in concordance with the results previously obtained with young roots. Pat 81 developed roots with less biomass than `Piel de sapo', but this wild accession had more favorable root length and architectural traits: a higher density of framework roots, more uniformly distributed along the soil profile, longer laterals with a higher density of branches, and a higher number of root orders. This root structure is linked to a deeper rooting ability and to the capacity of exploiting a larger soil volume. The genetic analysis indicated that length and architectural traits are more stable than biomass traits, both between years and between developmental stages. Moderate to low broad- and narrow-sense heritabilites were found for root length and architectural traits, with most of the observed variation due to additive effects. Our results suggest that Pat 81 could be used as donor of valuable genes for increasing root length and improving the root architecture of cultivated melons, producing melons potentially more tolerant to soil stresses. The lack of phenotypic and genetic correlations between length and architectural parameters and root biomass suggest that root structure can be successfully improved without increasing carbon expenditures.