bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(107) Ripening of Pawpaw (Asimina triloba L.) Fruit Affects Pulp Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Kobayashi Hideka , Wang Changzheng , Pomper Kirk W.
Published: February 2019

Pawpaw (Asimina triloba L.), a species of the eastern United States, bears the largest edible fruit of all native trees. Relatively little is known about ripening of pawpaw, and several problems, such as short shelf life and duration of harvesting, hamper pawpaw production. While previous investigations have resulted in identifying physical properties associated with ripening, the effects on phenolic content and antioxidant capacity have not been investigated. The objectives of the study were to investigate changes in phenolic content and antioxidant capacity and to identify physical parameters of pawpaw pulp during ripening. Sample extraction of pawpaw was achieved by adding acetone (2 mL/1 g of sample) to pulp of a pawpaw cultivar, PA Golden, and then vortexing (30 s) and sonicating (15 min) the sample and solvent, prior to centrifugation (15 min) twice at 2987 × g. Folin-Ciocalteu assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay were used for the estimation of phenolic content and the antioxidant capacity, respectively. While soluble solid content increased during ripening, the hardness of the fruit decreased, confirming previous reports. The pulp of unripe fruits had the greatest phenolic content (gallic acid eq. 131.2 mg/100 g FW) and antioxidant capacity (Trolox eq. 22.7 μM/g FW), which decreased by about 20% as the fruit ripened. Of three color properties measured, chroma, an estimate of color saturation, increased with ripening, while lightness of pawpaw pulp remained the same. A high correlation was found between chroma and hardness of fruits (r = 0.62), and between phenolic content and antioxidant capacity of pawpaw pulp (r = 0.80), suggesting these parameters can be incorporated into methods to estimate the ripeness of pawpaw fruit.
(244) Genetic Breeding of Gladiolus hybridus in Romania
Authors: Cantor Maria
Published: February 2019

Gladiolus is one of the most popular flower crops grown in Romania. The breeding program at the University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca of this species has been especially focused on the improvement of main characteristics, such as color, number and form of florets, plant height, multiplication capacity, diseases resistance, etc. A program for genetic breeding of gladiolus varieties using different genitors (Romanian and foreign cultivars) was initiated. An intraspecific crossing between cultivars has been made followed by clonal selection and vegetative multiplication of the selections. In this paper, we show 15 new gladiolus selections, which were observed and analyzed in 2004–05. The selections obtained have a great uniformity of their morphological characteristics. These selections are more vigorous, producing greater number of florets with superior quality, have new colors of flower, and are distinguished by a long blooming time. The intraspecific variability of the above-mentioned characteristics was more than low, and rarely medium, high, or very high. These data suggest fair possibilities to choose the best selections that will be proposed for testing and homologation as new cultivars. The hybrids represent a step forward in combining high qualities in gladiolus. They will contribute to improving the assortment of gladiolus for cut flowers, landscape, or as genetic material, which can be used for new crossing in order to obtain new cultivars. Scientifically, a series of findings appeared considering the combining capacity of genitors, transmission of some useful qualities, and other aspects that contribute to improve of the new varieties.
(252) Inheritance of Phytophthora Stem Blight, Root Rot, and Foliar Blight Resistance in Capsicum
Authors: Sy Ousmane , Bosland Paul W.
Published: February 2019

The oomycete fungus Phytophthora capsici Leon. is known to be a limiting factor of chile pepper (Capsicum spp.) production around the world. The genetics of the resistance is becoming better understood due to the specific nature of the host–pathogen interaction; i.e., all plant organs are subject to infection. This study determined whether stem blight was the same disease syndrome as root rot or foliar blight. Stem cuttings of a segregating F2 population and testcross progeny facilitated the ability to screen for two disease syndromes concurrently. When the three disease syndromes were compared separately, the F2 populations fit a 3R:1S ratio and the testcross progeny fit a 1R:1S ratio. When comparative studies were performed (stem vs. foliar and stem vs. root), the F2 populations fit a 9R/R:3R/S:3S/R:1S/S ratio and the testcross fit a 1R/R:1R/S:1S/R:1S/S ratio. These ratios are consistent of a single gene controlling the resistance of each system. Therefore, Phytophthora stem blight, root rot, and foliar blight are three separate disease syndromes.
(280) Temporal and Spatial Expression of LEAFY and TERMINAL FLOWER 1 Homologues in Floral Bud of Japanese Pear and Quince
Authors: Esumi Tomoya , Tao Ryutaro , Yonemori Keizo
Published: February 2019

Japanese pear (Pyrus pyrifolia) and quince (Cydonia oblonga), both classified in the subfamily Maloideae, show differences in inflorescence architectures despite of the fact that they are genetically closely related. We previously isolated flowering related genes, LEAFY (LFY) and TERMINAL FLOWER 1 (TFL1) homologues, from these species and showed that they had two types of homologues for each gene. In this study, we examined the expression pattern of LFY and TFL1 homologues in these species by in situ hybridization and RT-PCR. The floral bud was dissected to small pieces under stereomicroscope; apical meristem, scales/bracts, pith, floral meristem, and inflorescence; and then used for RT-PCR. The LFY homologues were expressed in apical meristem and scales/bracts before the floral differentiation in both Japanese pear and quince. After floral differentiation, the expression was observed in floral meristem, scales/bracts and pith in both the species. The TFL1 homologues were strongly expressed in the apical meristem, but their expression was drastically decreased just before floral differentiation. It is considered that the decrease of expression of TFL1 homologues is a sign of floral initiation. The expression of TFL1 homologues was transiently increased at the beginning of floral differentiation in both species. Moreover, one of TFL1 homologues in Japanese pear was continuously expressed in the inflorescence part in the floral primordia, whereas expression of TFL1 homologues in quince almost completely disappeared after a solitary floral meristem was initiated. It was suggested that TFL1 homologues may also be involved in the inflorescence development of Japanese pear.
(286) Identification of Genes in Tomato Roots Induced by Aluminum Stress using Fluorescent cDNA Differential Display
Authors: Chen Tingting , Zhou Suping , Smith Stephen , Sauve Roger
Published: February 2019

The goal of this study was isolate genes that are regulated by Al treatments of tomato roots growing in vitro. For Al treatment, germinating tomato seeds were plated on a MS agar medium supplemented with 0, 350, and 1200 μM AlCl3 for 30 days. Total RNA was extracted from root tissues and separated on denature formamide gel to check their quantity and quality. Equal amount of total RNA from treatment and control was treated with DNAse I (Genhunter, TN) to remove genomic DNA contamination. cDNA was obtained by reverse transcription using all the regents in RNA Image Kit (Genhunter, TN). The cDNA was amplified using the fluorescently labeled anchor primers (Oligo dT-A, C, G) and 16 random primers. Amplification products were separated by electrophoresis in 6% nondenaturing polyacrylamide gels and DNA bands were observed by scanning the gel on a FMBIOIII scanner. After comparing the band profile on the gel image, fragments of gene that showed changes in intensity compared to control (0 μM AlCl3) were isolated from the gel manually. These bands were re-amplified with the same pair of primers as the original amplification and cloned onto PCR-Trap cloning vector (Genhunter, TN). After DNA sequence analysis and homology comparison with NCBI database, we have identified clone # C01HBa0256E08 on L. esculentum chromosome 01, clone # C10HBa0111D09 on chromosome 10 and clone # LE_HBa-31H5 on chromosome 4.
(44) Microscopic and Macroscopic Studies on the Development of Puccinia hemerocallidis in Resistant and Susceptible Daylily Cultivars
Authors: Li Yonghao , Windham Mark T. , Trigiano Robert N. , Fare Donna C. , Spiers James M. , Copes Warren E.
Published: February 2019

Infection process of Puccinia hemerocallidis, the causal agent of daylily rust, and resistance responses in eight daylily cultivars, were studied macroscopically and microscopically. After germination of urediniospores, appressoria were formed at the tip of germ tubes and penetrated through stomatal openings. Intercellular hyphae aggregated and formed uredia under the infection sites, and released urediniospores after rupturing the epidermis. In highly resistant cultivars `Prairie Blue Eyes' and `Bertie Ferris', intercellular hyphal growth was restricted and uredia were not formed. No macroscopic symptoms of the disease were present on the leaf surface, although a few collapsed cells were observed microscopically. Both resistant and moderately resistant reactions were characterized by necrotic lesions with many collapsed cells under infection sites. The difference between these two reactions was that uredia and urediniospores were observed on the moderately resistant cultivar `Chicago Apache', but not on resistant cultivars, `Buttered Popcorn' and `Stella De Oro'. Sporulation was observed on both moderately susceptible and susceptible cultivars, but latent periods were delayed and the amount of urediniospore production was reduced on moderately susceptible cultivars, `Mary Todd' and `Chorus Line', compared to the susceptible cultivar `Pardon Me'. The results indicate that the hypersensitive cell death is one of the resistance responses to daylily rust, but necrotic lesions on leaf surfaces are associated with the amount of collapsed host cells. The delayed latent periods and reduced sporulation that resulted from restricted intercellular hyphal growth could represent another resistance mechanism in the daylily rust pathosystem.
(304) Alaska Native Plant Commerical Demand Survey
Authors: Elder Lee , Gorman Robert
Published: February 2019

About 333 people in the Anchorage area are involved in landscaping and landscape architecture, while about 18% of all farms in Alaska are considered greenhouse and nursery farms. These greenhouse and nursery farms account for $12.7 million in annual sales and comprise 28% of total Alaska agricultural sales. Alaskan horticulture producers have little industry knowledge of landscapers' and landscape architects' demand for Alaska native plants. This survey attempted to uncover the amounts of specific native Alaska varieties of shrubs, trees, herbaceous plants, and ferns that landscapers and landscape architects used in 2004, while also asking what types of plants they would like to use if a consistent supply was established. Landscapers' and landscape architects' business activities and perceptions are also evaluated. Surveys were distributed electronically as well as by standard mail to 165 landscapers and landscape architects in the Anchorage area. An overall 12% response rate provided insight into the commercial demand for Alaska native plant varieties.
(310) Mwarmwars and Leis in Guam
Authors: McConnell James , Naholowaa Louise Q. , Marutani Mari
Published: February 2019

A survey was conducted in Guam to determine the preferred uses and preferred flowers and foliage for leis and mwarmwars. Mwarmwars are a form of lei that is worn on the head. Mwarmwars were introduce to Guam by Carolinians. Lei giving is popular for special occasions to signify honored guests, as a token to loved ones, or given to travelers. In Guam, it is popular to give mwarmwars and leis as gifts to middle school, high school and college students. Preferred characteristics of flowers and foliage are wilt resistance and those that are not fragile. The most popular flowers are orchids, plumeria, mini carnations, baby's breath, bougainvillea, alstromeria, crown flowers, mini daisies, red ginger, spray roses, and sweetheart roses. The most popular foliage are leather leaf fern, polyscias, ti leaf, asparagus fern, and lemon leaves. The majority of the flowers and foliage are imported.
(75) Sugars and Flower Induction in Poinsettia
Authors: Orozco-Gaeta Emilia , Colinas-Leon Maria-Teresa , Valdez-Aguilar Luis-Alonso , Avitia-Garcia Edilberto , Leon-Rivera Ismael
Published: February 2019

During Fall 2004, poinsettia plants were grown in a greenhouse (Texcoco, Edo. Mexico, 19°29'N). The objectives were to: 1) evaluate which soluble carbohydrates (mono- and disaccharides) are present in the cultivars Supjibi and Peter Star and their concentrations; 2) study the relationship between sugar content and flower induction; and 3) analyze the relationship between starch content and phenology of the plant. Apical meristems were prepared for microscopy, soluble sugars, and sugars from starch hydrolysis were studied by HPLC. Flower induction in `Supjibi' took place about 99 days after transplant (DAT), with no artificial short photoperiod. In `Peter Star', flower induction took place about 137 DAT, 19 days after initiation of short-day photoperiod. Soluble sugars found were: sucrose, maltose, glucose, and fructose (in order of the highest to lowest concentration). Concentration varied from 0.5% to 2.1% for `Supjibi' and from 1.1% to 2.9% for `Peter Star', based on fresh weight. Sucrose content is reduced in root and mature leaf during flower induction, probably sent to young leaves. During flower induction, there is also an increase in glucose in young leaves. Sugars from starch hydrolysis were: fucose, (6-desoxi-L-galactose), fructose, and galactose. Soluble sugars content generated from starch varies in each organ from 2.0% to 32% for `Supjibi', and from 2.0% to 39% in `Peter Star'. During induction, starch content is reduced (between 6% and 9%). After flower induction, there is an increase in leaf area and in starch content (from 32% to 39%), during bract development starch seems to be utilized in this plant part.
(80) Direct Somatic Embryogenesis from Thin-section Leaf Explant of Phalaenopsis Hybrids
Authors: Chung Jae-Dong , Kim Hong-Yul , Suh Jung-Hae , Kwon Oh-Chang , Kim Chang-kil
Published: February 2019

Somatic embryo formation was observed on thin-sectioned leaf explants within 3 weeks of culture from two Phalaenopsis hybrids—Phalaenopsis Hwafeng Redjewell `Ching Ruey' Phalaenopsis Chingruey's Giant Ching Ruey' (R×R), and Phalaenopsis Formosa Best Girl Ching Ruey' Depts. Lih Jiang Beauty `S 566' (WR×WR). Frequency of somatic embryo formation was higher in hybrid WRxWR than R×R and optimal concentration of TDZ for the induction of somatic embryos was 9.08 μM. In (WR×WR) embryo proliferation was simultaneously observed after transferring the explants with somatic embryo clumps onto PGR-free half-strength MS medium. Six months after initiation, the culture plantlets were produced. This is the first report on somatic embryogenesis induced directly from the leaf explants using TDZ in Phalaenopsis.
(204) Optimization of One-step Extraction/Methylation Method for Analysis of Fatty Acid Composition in Rice and Alday Seeds
Authors: Cho Kyoung-Shim , Kim Hyun-Ju , Moon Sang-Mi , Choi Hyun-Gu , Lee Young-Sang
Published: February 2019

Traditionally fatty acid composition used to be analysed by GC and the sample preparation consisted of lipid extraction from sample and subsequent methyl esters preparation, which are time-consuming and cumbersome. As an alternative, simultaneous extraction/methylation methods are being developed for rapid and simplified sample preparation. To optimize one-step extraction/methylation method for analysis of fatty acid composition in brown rice and adlay seeds, various factors, such as sample to reaction solution ratio, reaction time and temperature, and shaking intensity, were altered and resultant fatty acid composition data were evaluated in comparison with previous reports. The ratio of sample weight to reaction solution volume was the most critical factor in that higher sample to reaction solution ratio caused overestimation of palmitic acid and linoleic acid composition, resulting in underestimation of oleic acid. Lower reaction temperature also induced overestimation of linoleic acid and underestimation of oleic acid. Reaction duration and the intensity of shaking prior to and during the reaction, however, induced no significant changes in analysis results. In conclusion, the optimum condition for brown rice was mixing 5 grains (about 0.2 g) of brown rice with 680 μL of methylating mixture and 400 μL of heptane, followed by reaction at 80 °C for 2 hours.
(206) Carbohydrate Compositions and Peroxidase Activity in Whole Seed, Cotyledon, and Embryo Tissues of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp) Cultivars Grown Under Stress Temperatures
Authors: Islam Shahidul , Rafaela Carmen , Garner James
Published: February 2019

Twenty-five cultivars were initially screened for germination at 10 °C, 30 °C, and 40 °C. Four cultivars were chosen for further study for physiological and biochemical characteristics—namely, `Texas Cream 40' (TC-40), which showed ability to germinate at very high (40 °C) and low (10 °C) temperatures; `Black Crowder' (BC), which had acceptably high germination at 40 °C, but reduced germination at 10 °C; and `Mississippi Purple' (MP), which exhibited lower germination at all temperatures tested. The main sugars present in cowpea seed were sucrose, raffinose, and stachyose. Sugar contents were affected by cultivar, type of tissue, and temperature. Sucrose contents were higher in embryo tissue of cultivars with a lower germination percentage, and reduced in the cultivar with a higher germination percentage, suggesting the use of sucrose for germination. Sucrose decreased greatly at 30 °C and increased again at 40 °C. Sucrose “de novo” synthesis was higher at higher temperature. An accumulation of sucrose was evident in embryo tissues of cultivars with reduced ability to germinate at low temperature. Raffinose and stachyose contents were higher in ungerminated seed. In germinated seed, raffinose and stachyose contents were found only in cotyledon tissues at 10 °C. The peroxidase activity was affected by cultivars, type of tissue, and temperature. The highest peroxidase activity was found at low temperature (10 °C) in embryo tissue of the cultivar with the highest germination. The result also suggests that high peroxidase activity was related to ability of seed to germinate at low temperature.
(61) Nutrient Management of Common Herbaceous Perennial Plantings in Southern Landscapes
Authors: Chen Yan , Bracy Regina , Rosendale Roger
Published: February 2019

While herbaceous perennials continuously gain popularity in southern landscape plantings, the nutrient requirements of many species in this group are still unknown. The business goal of lawn and garden care companies emphasizes aesthetic value of the urban landscape. Improper nutrient management, such as the overapplication of fertilizers, is inefficient and may result in increased pest problems and risks of contaminating ground and surface waters by nutrient runoff. Seven herbaceous perennials (lantana, rudbeckia, purple cone flower, daylily, mexican heather, cigar plant, and guara) were planted in simulated landscape beds. Fertilizers applied included one or two OsmocotePlus 16-8-12 tablets (7.5 g), OsmocotePlus 15-9-12 (5 months) at 0, 33, 66, and 131 g/m2 at planting, or applying OsmocotePlus 15-9-12 (5 months) 33 g/m2 or one OsmocotePlus tablet at the time of planting plus another 33 g/m2 topdressing after flowering. Plant growth of rudbeckis, purple cone flower, and lantana were highest at 131 g/m2 applied at planting, but resulted in similar overall plant quality as with 33 or 66 g/m2 treatments. Daylily growth was similar across fertilization treatments, and overall quality decreased at high fertilization rates with more severe daylily rust observed on these plants. Applying one OsmocotePlus 7.5-g tablet resulted in similar plant quality with applying OsmocotePlus 33 and 66 g/m2, but significantly reduced the amount of fertilizer used. Additional topdressing after flowering did not further increase plant quality in fall, but may affect the overwintering survival of perennial plants.
(167) Carotenoid Accumulation Among the Diploid and Amphidiploid Brassica Species
Authors: Kopsell Dean A. , McElroy Scott , Sams Carl , Kopsell David
Published: February 2019

Vegetable crops can be significant sources of nutritionally important dietary carotenoids and Brassica vegetables are sources that also exhibit antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activity. The family Brassicaceae contains a diverse group of plant species commercially important in many parts of the world. The six economically important Brassica species are closely related genetically. Three diploid species (B. nigra, B. rapa, and B. oleracea) are the natural progenitors of the allotetraploid species (B. juncea, B. napus, and B. carinata). The objective of this study was to characterize the accumulation of important dietary carotenoid pigments among the genetically related Brassica species. The HPLC quantification revealed significant differences in carotenoid and chlorophyll pigment accumulation among the Brassica species. Brassica nigra accumulated the highest concentrations of lutein, 5,6-epoxy lutein, violaxanthin, and neoxanthin. The highest concentrations of beta-carotene and total chlorophyll were found in B. juncea. Brassica rapa accumulated the highest concentrations of zeaxanthin and antheraxanthin. For each of the pigments analyzed, the diploid Brassica species accumulated higher concentrations, on average, than the amphidiploid species. Brassicas convey unique health attributes when consumed in the diet. Identification of genetic relationships among the Brassica species would be beneficial information for improvement programs designed to increase carotenoid values.
(169) Antioxidant Levels in Frozen and Processed Lingonberries and Bog Blueberries
Authors: Holloway Patricia S. , Dinstel Roxie Rodgers
Published: February 2019

Frozen lingonberries (Vaccinium vitis-idaea subsp. minus) and bog blueberries (V. uliginosum) were processed using recipes of the Alaska Cooperative Extension Service. Overall antioxidant activity (H-ORAC) was 71 μmol·g-1 of TE for frozen bog blueberries and for lingonberries, 160–165 μmol·g-1 of TE. Processing into fruit leather and drying increased levels in bog blueberries to 260–430 μmol·g-1 of TE and lingonberries to 457–939 μmol·g-1 of TE. Leathers and dried fruit had significantly higher levels of total anthocyanins (frozen bog blueberries: 2.1 μg·g-1, leather: 8.0 μg·g-1, dried: 9.8 μg·g-1; frozen lingonberries 1.4 μg·g-1, leather: 4 μg·g-1, dried: 5.2 μg·g-1); total phenolics (frozen bog blueberries: 4.8 μg·g-1, leather: 19 μg·g-1, dried: 26 μg·g-1; frozen lingonberries 7.7 μg·g-1, leather 24 μg·g-1, dried: 38 μg·g-1); and quercetin (frozen bog blueberries: 6.7 μg·g-1, leather: 86 μg·g-1, dried: 150 μg·g-1; frozen lingonberries 7.7 μg·g-1, leather 110 μg·g-1, dried: 430 μg·g-1). Bog blueberries did not have detectible levels of p-coumeric acid or benzoic acid, but lingonberries showed a significant increase in dried fruit and leather (frozen fruit p-coumeric: 0.18 μg·g-1g, leather: 0.45 μg·g-1, dried: 1.4 μg·g-1; frozen fruit benzoic: 0.41 μg·g-1, leather: 0.84 μg·g-1, dried: 0.71 μg·g-1). Frozen and processed lingonberries had little or no vitamin C. Bog blueberries had detectible levels in all treatments [highest in leather (440 μg·g-1), frozen berries (220 μg·g-1)]. ORAC, total anthocyanins, total phenolics, and quercetin were detected in all other processing methods (canned fruit, syrup, canned juice, jam, sauce, frozen j uice, and freezer jam). Levels were similar to or lower than frozen fruit.
(173) Phytonutrient Accumulation and Antioxidant Capacity at Eight Developmental Stages of Black Raspberry Fruit
Authors: Ozgen Mustafa , Tulio Artemio Z. , Chanon Ann M. , Janakiraman Nithya , Reese R. Neil , Miller A. Raymond , Scheerens Joseph C.
Published: February 2019

To investigate phytonutrient accumulation in black raspberries, fruits of `Jewel' and `MacBlack' were harvested at stages from the onset of color development (S1) to ripe fruit (S7). S1–S7 samples were characterized for color reflectance and then frozen at –28 °C within an hour of harvest. Additional ripe fruit were maintained at 20 °C for 3 days to overripen (S8) before freezing. After storage, samples were analyzed for dry weight (DW), total soluble solids (TSS), fructose (FRU), glucose (GLU), and organic acid (ORG) contents; total phenolic (PHE) and anthocyanin (ACY) contents; individual cyanidin glycoside levels (ICG); and antioxidant capacity (FRAP and ABTS) by standard methodology. `Jewel' and `MacBlack' ripened similarly. Chroma values and DW percentage decreased while TSS levels, sugar contents (FRU+GLU), PHE, ACY, the ACY: PHE ratio, and ICG increased with progressive ripening stages (S1–S7). Values of PHE, ACY, and ICG were highly correlated (r < +0.95) with FRAP and ABTS values. ACY levels in S6 fruit were 18% to 23% less than those of S7; lower S6 ACY levels were associated with reduced antioxidant capacity in `MacBlack', but not `Jewel'. Overripened fruit (S8) exhibited increased DW (11% to 25%) and decreased sugar contents (16% to 17%), consistent with moisture and respiratory losses after harvest. After correction for these losses, S7 and S8 levels of PHE, ACY, FRAP, and ABTS were similar in `MacBlack'. However, as `Jewel' overripened, ACY levels and antioxidant activity increased 44% and 22% to 26%, respectively. Our data suggests that significant changes in the antioxidant behavior of black raspberries can occur during the periods surrounding peak ripeness.
(178) Ultraviolet Radiation Influences Grapefruit Juice Bioactive Furocoumarins
Authors: Simpkins Sara , Girennavar Basavaraj , Jayaprakasha G.K. , Patil Bhimanagouda S.
Published: February 2019

Irradiation of fruit and vegetables can potentially be used by industry as a quarantine method to contain insect pests, microorganisms, and to extend shelf life. Gamma, electron beam, and ultraviolet radiation are the most frequently used radiation techniques. These radiation treatments have an effect on bioactive compounds. Grapefruit juice contains bioactive compounds such as limonoids, flavonoids, and furocoumarins. Bioactive furocoumarins in grapefruit juice have been found to increase the bioavailability of many drugs. Bergamottin, dihydroxybergamottin, and paradisin A are major furocoumarins that are shown to inhibit the activity of CYP P450 3A4 and P-gylcoprotein, which are involved in the first pass metabolism of drugs in the gut. This results in a dose-dependent increase of the drug beyond what is intended. Furocoumarins are photoreactive compounds and will readily react to ultraviolet radiation. The effect of various doses of ultraviolet radiation was investigated on `Rio Red' and `Marsh White' grapefruit. Grapefruit juice (50 mL) was irradiated with Ultraviolet A, B, and C radiation for either 5 or 10 min. Treated and control juice was extracted with 100, 50, and 50 mL of ethyl acetate. The extract was then dried and reconstituted with methanol and filtered through a 0.4-μm PTFE membrane filter. The methanol extracts were analyzed by HPLC and the concentrations of bergamottin, dihydroxybergamottin, and paradisin A were compared for UVA, UVB, UVC, and control. This project is based upon work supported by the USDA-CSREES under Agreement USDA IFAFS # 2001 52102 02294 and USDA # 2005-34402-14401 “Designing Foods for Health” through the Vegetable & Fruit Improvement Center.
(214) Adult Pear Response to Integrated Nitrogen Fertigation and Drip Irrigation System
Authors: Yin Xinhua , Seavert Clark , Bai Jinhe
Published: February 2019

Responses of adult pear to the integrated N fertigation and drip irrigation system have not been documented in Oregon. A field trial was conducted on adult pear at the Mid-Columbia Agricultural Research and Extension Center, Hood River, Ore., in 2005. Two N and water management systems (integrated N fertigation and drip irrigation system; and broadcast application of dry N fertilizer to the soil surface and microsprinkler irrigation system) were compared on pear cultivars of Bartlett and Golden Russet Bosc, and rootstocks of OH×F97 and OH×F87. The responses of these cultivars and rootstocks to the integrated N fertigation and drip irrigation system were similar. The integrated N fertigation and drip irrigation system consumed 1450 m3·ha-1 of irrigation water during the entire season from May to September, reducing irrigation water use by 73% compared with 5297 m3·ha-1 under the current system—broadcast application of dry N fertilizer to the soil surface and microsprinkler irrigation system averaged over the four cultivar and rootstock combinations. The fruit yield was statistically similar for the integrated N fertigation and drip irrigation system and the broadcast application of dry N fertilizer and microsprinkler irrigation system on the average of the four cultivars and rootstocks. Differences in fruit size and color were negligible between the two N and irrigation management systems. Overall, our results suggest that adopting the integrated N fertigation and drip irrigation system does not cause significant reduction in yield or quality of adult pear; the integrated N fertigation and drip irrigation system could be a profitable and environmentally sound management alternative for pear production.
The Impact of the Louisiana Master Gardener Program on the Perceived and Actual Horticultural Knowledge of Program Participants
Authors: Fletcher Bobby H. , Burnett Michael F. , Machtmes Krisanna L. , Kuehny Jeff S.
Published: February 2019

The primary purpose of this study was to determine the impact of participation in the Master Gardener program on horticultural knowledge and practice. In 1972, the “Master Gardener” concept was initiated in Washington State due to the high demand to answer consumer horticultural questions. The main objective of this program is to increase horticultural knowledge of program participants so they can transfer this information to consumer horticultural clientele. The program quickly spread throughout the United States. It reached Louisiana in 1994 and was expanded throughout most metropolitan areas by 1997. No formal evaluation has been conducted to determine the horticultural knowledge impacts of this program. All 257 participants in the 2004 Louisiana Master Gardener (LMG) program were surveyed before and after participation in this program. The survey used was a researcher-developed instrument designed to measure self-perceived knowledge, tested knowledge, and Best Management Practices (BMPs) used. Data were collected by master gardener coordinators and submitted to the researcher after each phase of data collection (pre and post). Results of the study revealed that the LMG participants were highly educated, mostly Caucasian, and mostly female. Significant improvements were identified in all of the knowledge and practice measurements included in the study. These included self-perceived knowledge, tested knowledge, and use of BMPs. It was concluded that the 2004 Louisiana Master Gardener program was effective in increasing the self-perceived horticultural knowledge and tested horticultural knowledge of program participants. In addition, the study concluded that the 2004 Louisiana Master Gardener program improved the use of BMPs among the participants.
Potential of Anaerobic Digestion-derived Biosolids as an Organic Addendum in Horticultural Growing Media
Authors: Compton Michael , Zauche Timothy
Published: February 2019

Soilless horticultural growing media are composed of organic matter, coarse aggregates, nutrients, and a wetting agent. Sphagnum peat has been the standard organic addendum to soilles growing media. However, recent shortages, escalating costs, and its acidity make sphagnum peat a sometimes less-than-desirable material. Alternatives such as composted bark dust, coconut coir, composted manure, and crop by-products have been proposed as substitutes for sphagnum peat, but none are a suitable general alternative. Anaerobic digestion-derived biosolids (ADB) has the potential to become a complete or partial substitute for sphagnum peat. ADB is a cellulosic product similar in appearance to sphagnum peat and is a product from the anaerobic digestion of cattle manure for 14 to 25 days at temperatures between 104 °F. and 140 °F. Bacteria from the animal's rumen, present in the manure prior to anaerobic digestion, are used to breakdown excessive nutrients present in the manure. Following anaerobic digestion, the nutrient-rich liquid phase is removed to yield an odorless cellulosic fiber that is sterile, free of weeds, pests, and pathogens, as well as uniform and reproducible. The potential application of ADB to the horticulture industry, most specifically as an organic addendum to soilless media, is immense and will be discussed. Use of anaerobic digester-derived biosolids in horticultural growing media is a protected intellectual property and available for license through the WiSys Technology Foundation.
Roots Affect the Accuracy of Dual-probe Heat-pulse Method for Measuring Water Content in Plant Growth Media
Authors: Steinberg Susan L. , Kluitenberg Gerard J. , Tanzeema Soheni
Published: February 2019

Little attention has been paid to how the presence of roots influences water content measurements obtained with water content sensors. This issue is especially important if sensors are deployed in densely rooted soil or growth media. This work addresses the impact of roots on water content measurements obtained with dual-probe heat-pulse (DPHP) sensors. In the DPHP method, the maximum temperature rise in response to heating (Tmax) is used to calculate volumetric heat capacity, which in turn is used to calculate volumetric water content. The accuracy of DPHP sensors was evaluated in unrooted and rooted 0.25–1 mm baked ceramic aggregate. For both restricted and unrestricted volumes of aggregate the presence of roots caused DPHP sensors to consistently overestimate water content by 0.05–0.09 cm3·cm-3. Measured values of Tmax were lower in the presence of roots, which resulted in overestimation of volumetric heat capacity that was attributed to the high specific heat of water contained in roots in addition to that contained within the aggregate. Differences in water content and aggregate heating between unrooted and rooted aggregate equilibrated to the same matric potential were less distinct in unrestricted volumes, where the decrease in bulk density has the offsetting effect of lowering the heat capacity. Error in water content caused by the presence of roots and changes in bulk density was estimated by developing a theoretical mixing model for volumetric heat capacity that accounted for the heat capacity of all constituents, including aggregate, water, root water, and root tissue. Predicted errors in volumetric water content due to changes in bulk density or changes in heat capacity due to roots agreed well with direct measurement.
Meristem Identity Genes and the Control of the Reproductive Development in Brassica oleracea
Authors: Duclos Denise , Björkman Thomas
Published: February 2019

The genetic factors that control reproductive development in B. oleracea remain a mystery. Broccoli differs from cauliflower in its floral development stage at harvest. We are studying the role of meristem identity genes (MIGs) in the transition from inflorescence meristem (cauliflower) to floral buds (broccoli). The objectives are to determine stage-specific roles of MIGs during reproductive development and to check whether expression of flowering genes in heading B. oleracea is as predicted by the Arabidopsis flowering model. We tested a model of arrest in B. oleracea that incorporates FUL, a redundant gene of AP1 in controlling inflorescence architecture and floral meristem identity, the meristem gene TFL1, the flowering gene LFY, and AP1/CAL, and genes involved in flower transition. Conclusions. 1) Arrest at the inflorescence meristem stage is highly correlated with a decrease in LFY to TFL1 ratio, given by a decrease in TFL1 expression. 2) Transcription of AP1c is stimulated at the time of floral primordium initiation, suggesting a role in floral transition but not in floral organ specification. Plants recessive for AP1a, AP1c, and CAL formed normal floral buds containing all four whorls of organs, and did not necessarily form curd. We suggest that their ability to flower could be related with the ectopic expression of FUL by affecting TFL1 expression. FUL paralogs were highly expressed at all stages of development of the triple mutant plants. 3) The lack of upregulation in AP1 transcripts at the floral bud stage, and the absence of an A-function mutant phenotype imply that other genes act redundantly with AP1 in the specification of sepal identity and questions the role of AP1a and AP1c as A-function genes in B. oleracea.
Sprayable 1-MCP Effects on Maturity and Quality of Apple Fruit at Harvest and After Storage: The New York Experience
Authors: Watkins Chris B. , Nock Jacqueline F. , Wardeh Tarek
Published: February 2019

A sprayable formulation of 1-MCP (250 μL·L-1) and 1% oil adjuvant was applied to `McIntosh' and `Empire' apple trees 24, 14, and 7 days prior to anticipated optimum harvest dates (early, mid-, and late-spray timings, respectively), and fruit harvested sequentially over 2 to 3 weeks from this date. At harvest, internal ethylene concentrations (IEC), percentage of blush, starch indices, firmness, and soluble solids concentration (SSC) were measured, as well as ethylene production of fruit maintained for 7 days at 20 °C. Additional fruit were stored in air (0.5 °C) with or without postharvest 1-MCP treatment. Preharvest drop of `McIntosh' apples was also measured. Quality of these fruit was assessed at intervals for up to 4.5 months (`McIntosh') or 6 months (`Empire'). All spray timing resulted in marked delays of preharvest drop. For both cultivars, increases of IEC were inhibited or delayed by sprayable 1-MCP treatment, but effects on other maturity and quality factors were small. Ethylene production of treated fruit was lower than that of untreated fruit. The effects of sprayable 1-MCP on IEC and firmness were maintained during storage, but the longetivity of these effects was affected by cultivar, spray timing, and storage period. Postharvest application of 1-MCP further inhibited IEC and maintained firmness of the fruit during storage. These experiments show that sprayable 1-MCP may be a valuable tool to manipulate both pre- and postharvest responses of apple fruit. However, with the formulation used in these experiments, phytotoxicity, primarily as damage around lenticel areas, was observed at harvest indicating that further development of the formulation is necessary for industry use.
Effects of 1-MCP and Ozone on Carrot Volatiles during Storage
Authors: Jordan Michael A. , McRae Kenneth , Fillmore Sherry , Renderos Willy
Published: February 2019

Volatile compounds contribute to carrot (Daucus carota) flavor. However, effects of postharvest treatments on these compounds are not defined. To characterize treatment effects, fresh carrots (cv. Sunrise) were treated with 0 or 1.0 μL/L 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) at 10 °C for 16 h, then exposed to 0, 0.3, or 1.0 μL/L ozone (O3) at 10 °C for 1, 2, or 4 days, and subsequently stored at 0 °C for up to 24 weeks. Twelve terpenes were identified in the headspace over whole carrots, including dimethylstyrene (22.5%), alpha-pinene (19.1%), caryophyllene (15.8%), beta-pinene (9.1%), p-cymene (8.3%), limonene (7.7%), gamma-terpinene (6.7%), myrcene (4.7%), gamma-terpinolene (4.5%) camphene (1.0%), alpha-phellandrene (0.52%), and sabinene (0.03%). Most terpenes responded similarly to treatments and storage. Immediately after treatment with 1.0 μL/L O3 for 1, 2, or 4 days, total terpene concentrations were 45%, 85%, and 87% greater than concentrations in non-treated controls. Caryophyllene, beta-pinene, and sabinene did not increase in response to the O3 treatment unlike the other terpenes. 1-MCP reduced terpene concentrations by an average of 18%. O3 treatments also stimulated stress volatile production. Ethanol headspace concentrations were 8-, 21-, and 43-times greater than the nontreated controls immediately following treatments with 0.3 nL/L O3 for 4 days or 1.0 μL/L O3 for 2 or 4 days, respectively. However, after 8 weeks, no differences among treatments were observed. Hexanal production also was stimulated by all O3 treatments, being 2- to 11-times greater than controls immediately following treatment. 1-MCP reduced O3-stimulated ethanol and hexanal production by 23% and 8%, respectively.
Rapid Reconnaissance Method to Assess Hurricane Damage to Horticultural Crops in Miami–Dade County
Authors: Lamberts Mary , Pybas Donald , Balerdi Carlos , Garofalo Joseph , LaPradd Charles
Published: February 2019

The University of Florida Miami-Dade County Extension, as a member of the USDA's County Emergency Board, is required to assess damage to commercial horticultural crops (tropical fruit, ornamentals, and vegetables) immediately following natural disasters. While trying to determine dollar values following a freeze in Jan. 1997, Extension and the Farm Service Agency (FSA) developed a spreadsheet that lists all the major crops by commodity along with average yield per acre and price based on how the crop is sold. Acreage is another component, as is the percentage of each crop that was “lost” during the disaster in question. These components are multiplied to give a dollar value of the loss for each individual crops and are totaled to give losses for the major commodities in Miami-Dade. While acreage is relatively stable for ornamental and tree fruit crops, it fluctuates considerably for vegetables, depending on the time of year. Within roughly 24 h of a disaster, the committee assesses actual damage to different crops by conducting a windshield survey of the local growing area. This allows staff to calculate the percentage of damage experienced by each sector and current acreage. Then, acreage and crop loss figures are plugged into the equation and dollar values are generated. Crop loss can also be translated into lost jobs, which can assist migrant service providers with funding requests. This presentation will review the different types of damage experienced during hurricanes Katrina and Wilma in 2005 and their effects on the local economy. Katrina caused extensive flooding, with some structural damage, while damage from Wilma was primarily due to high winds and micro-bursts.
Maturity, Yield, and Quality Modeling for Processing Carrots
Authors: Lada Rajasekaran , Adams Azure , Thiagarajan Arumugam
Published: February 2019

Carrot processing demands a continuous supply of uniform root grades for various product lines. Consequently, producers frequently harvest carrots with disregard to optimum maturity and quality, resulting in reduced yields, recovery, and profits. Beyond management inputs, weather conditions influence carrot growth and maturity through their intrinsic processes connected with carbon fixation and utilization. Establishing the relationship between the weather parameters and crop maturity, bulking, and quality of various processing carrot varieties would help in predicting crop growth, maturity, yield, and quality; thus leading to better harvest planning. Accordingly, experiments were conducted during the growing seasons of 2002–04, using seven carrot varieties in commercial plots at various locations in Nova Scotia. Weather stations were installed at each location to constantly record air temperature, rainfall, solar radiation, relative humidity, soil temperature, wind speed and direction, from which degree days and evaporation were calculated. Crop measurements included plant stand, leaf biomass (top growth), root girth and length, and gross yield. Recovery of marketable grades was arrived after the final yield was determined. Cumulative data was compiled for all of the weather parameters measured to coincide with the sampling dates. Multiple regression analyses were performed to quantify the association between cumulative weather parameters and maturity traits. All varieties, in all locations, showed strong correlations between bulking and various cumulative weather parameters. Field trials were repeated at three adjacent locations for all varieties during the 2005 growing season and the data obtained will be used to validate the fitness of the proposed model.
Cold Storage Effects on Pawpaw Fruit Ripening and Quality
Authors: Galli Federica , Archbold Douglas D. , Pomper Kirk W.
Published: February 2019

Pawpaw [Asimina triloba (L.) Dunal] has significant potential as a new fruit crop. During ripening, loss of firmness is extremely rapid, and this trait may be the biggest obstacle to the development of a broader market. Cold storage of pawpaw fruit seems limited to 4 weeks at 4 °C, though fruit softening merely slows during storage. A study of several cultivars with commercial appeal has shown that none have superior cold storage life. Extending the cold storage beyond 4 weeks resulted in increasing loss of fruit firmness, poor poststorage ripening, and development of quality traits, and many fruit exhibiting flesh and peel discoloration. Cold storage duration affected fruit volatile production. By 4 weeks of cold storage, ethyl hexanoate and ethyl octanoate were the major volatiles produced, replacing methyl hexanoate, which was the major volatile produced by ripe fruit after harvest. By 8 weeks of cold storage, volatile ester production was generally low and ethyl hexanoate became the only major volatile. This loss of volatile production was accompanied by a decrease in alcohol acetyl transferase activity. Also, during cold storage, there was an increase in total phenolic content, lipid peroxidation products, and polyphenol oxidase activity. These changes may contribute to the black discoloration that developed in fruit cold-stored for 8 weeks or more. It is apparent that cold storage alone may not be sufficient to extend the storage life of most, if not all, current pawpaw cultivars beyond 4 weeks.
Influence of Commercial Packing and Storage on Navel Orange Flavor, Quality Constituents, and Juice Ethanol Concentration
Authors: Obenland David , Neipp Paul , Collin Sue , Sievert Jim , Fjeld Kent , Toyota Margo , Doctor Julie , Lu Arpaia Mary
Published: February 2019

It is commonly believed within the citrus industry that handling, waxing, and storage of navel oranges may have undesirable effects on flavor. However, the effect of each potential influencing factor under commercial conditions is not completely understood. The purpose of this study was to systematically investigate these potential influences on navel orange flavor. Navel oranges were harvested on two separate dates, using three grower lots per harvest date, and the fruit run on a commercial packing line. Fruit were sampled at four different stages of the packing process: in the field bin; after the washer; after the waxer; and after packing into standard cartons. Fruit quality, flavor, and juice ethanol concentration were evaluated immediately after sampling and following 3 and 6 weeks of storage at 5 °C. The overall hedonic score, a measure of flavor, significantly declined from 6.5 to 5.7, as a result of 6 weeks storage. Fruit selected from field bins, from after the washer, and after the waxer were all judged by the taste panel to be equivalent in flavor. The packed fruit were judged to be slightly inferior in flavor. Titratable acidity declined while soluble solids increased as a result of storage; the stage of the packing process influenced neither. Waxing and storage both were associated with higher ethanol levels in the fruit.