bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isozyme Variation in Indian and Chinese Melon (Cucumis melo L.) Germplasm Collections
Authors: McCreight James D. , Staub Jack E. , López-Sesé Anabel , Chung Sang-Min
Published: January 2019

Genetic variation among 378 melon (Cucumis melo L.) germplasm accessions collected in India in 1992 and 26 accessions in China in 1994 was evaluated with 19 isozyme loci. `Top Mark' and `Green Flesh Honeydew', which represented two distinct C. melo ssp. melo L. groups, Cantalupensis and Inodorus, respectively, were used as reference cultivars. Genetic distances among accessions were calculated, and an initial cluster analysis using these distances resulted in 148 groups of varying size, ranging from two to 47 accessions. One accession from each of the 148 groups was chosen at random and used in a second cluster analysis that identified 11 accession groups. Group 1 was unique and consisted of only two C. melo ssp. agrestis (Naudin) Pangalo accessions. Two large branches were detected at cluster node 2. One branch was comprised of three groups of 3, 12, and 34 accessions, while the other branch contained seven groups of 2, 3, 14, 16, and 47 accessions, and the reference cultivars. Of the 148 accessions, 132 were from 41 sites in Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh, India, which were distributed unequally across the 11 groups. The 14 Chinese accessions originating from seven provinces were also dispersed unequally in the four major cluster groups. `Top Mark' and `Green Flesh Honeydew' were genetically distinct and uniquely clustered in the same group. These results indicate that additional collections of melon germplasm should be made in eastern and southern India.
Unraveling the Species Dilemma in Capsicum frutescens and C. chinense (Solanaceae): A Multiple Evidence Approach Using Morphology, Molecular Analysis, and Sexual Compatibility
Authors: Baral Jit B. , Bosland Paul W.
Published: January 2019

The species status of two morphologically closely related species, Capsicum frutescens L. and C. chinense Jacq., was investigated using typological, phylogenetic, and biological species concepts. Diagnostic morphological differences, randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) marker-based cluster analysis, and hybrid analyses were used to delimit C. frutescens and C. chinense. In many cases two morphological characters, calyx constriction and flower position, can separate accessions of C. frutescens from C. chinense. The RAPD-based analysis clearly separated accessions of C. frutescens and C. chinense into two distinct groups. The average genetic similarity within C. frutescens and C. chinense accessions was 0.85 and 0.8, respectively, whereas the average genetic similarity between C. frutescens and C. chinense accessions was only 0.38. The progenies obtained from C. frutescens and C. chinense hybridization had reduced fertility. Based on these evidences, C. frutescens and C. chinense represent two morphologically diagnosable, phylogenetically distinct, and reproductively isolated species.
Relationship of Tomato Fruit Sugar Concentration with Physical and Chemical Traits and Linkage of RAPD Markers
Authors: Georgelis N. , Scott J.W. , Baldwin E.A.
Published: January 2019

Small-fruited cherry tomato accession PI 270248 (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. var. cerasiforme Dunal) with high fruit sugars was crossed to large-fruited inbred line Fla.7833-1-1-1 (7833) that had normal (low) fruit sugar. Sugars in the F2 were positively correlated with soluble solids, glucose, fructose, pH, and titratable acidity, and inversely correlated with fruit size. Earliness was not significantly correlated with sugars but was negatively correlated with fruit size. Thus, the lack of a sugar-earliness correlation indirectly indicates a trend for early tomato plants to be lower in sugars than later maturing plants. Sugars were not correlated with yield or pedicel type. Fruit from indeterminate plants had significantly more sugars than from determinate plants. Six random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers linked to high sugars were found, five dominant (OPAE 4, UBC 731, UBC 744, UBC 489, UBC 290) and one co-dominant (UBC 269). Five of the markers were also linked to small fruit size and one of these also was linked to low yield (UBC 290). The sixth marker (UBC 269) was linked to indeterminate plant habit. UBC 731, UBC 489, and possibly OPAE 4 were in one linkage group, while UBC 744 and UBC 290 were in another linkage group. Combinations of all the markers together explained 35% of the sugar variation in the F2 grown in Spring 2002.
Expression of Anthocyanin Biosynthesis Genes in the Skin of Peach and Nectarine Fruit
Authors: Tsuda Tomomi , Yamaguchi Masami , Honda Chikako , Moriguchi Takaya
Published: January 2019

We used RNA blot analysis to examine the expression of six genes of the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway in the flowers and fruit skins at three developmental stages of white and red peaches and a deep-red nectarine [Prunus persica (L.) Batch]. In the red peach `Akatsuki' and the deep-red nectarine `Flavortop', expression levels of anthocyanin biosynthesis genes were related to anthocyanin accumulation in the fruit skin; expression of all six genes dramatically increased at Stage III of fruit development, and anthocyanin concentration also increased at this stage. In the white peach `Mochizuki', however, expression of the chalcone synthase gene (CHS) and the dihydroflavonol 4-reductase gene (DFR) was undetectable in Stage III, although the chalcone isomerase gene (CHI), the flavanone 3-hydroxylase gene (F3H), the anthocyanidin synthase gene (ANS), and the UDP-glucose-flavonoid 3-O-glucosyltransferase gene (UFGT) were expressed. We occasionally found red pigment in the skin of `Mochizuki' peach. In these red skin areas, both CHS and DFR were clearly expressed in Stage III. These results suggest that CHS and DFR are the key regulatory genes in the process of anthocyanin biosynthesis in mature red peach and nectarine.
Evaluation of AFLP in Poinsettia: Polymorphism Selection, Analysis, and Cultivar Identification
Authors: Parks Elizabeth J. , Moyer James W.
Published: January 2019

Fingerprinting using molecular markers is a highly effective method of cultivar identification that is a powerful aid to traditional methods based on morphology. Amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) is a robust and reliable method for generating molecular markers that has been used to evaluate many crops for a variety of applications. In this study, AFLP was used to develop and validate robust genetic fingerprints for poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima Willd. ex Klotzch) cultivars. Polymorphism selection was completed to facilitate the identification of useful polymorphisms and minimize future fingerprinting costs and time. Poinsettia is a highly variable crop subject to genetic drift and variable cultivars. Validation of polymorphisms to remove those associated with intracultivar variation improved the reliability of the fingerprinting. The result was a poinsettia AFLP database that defines the genetic fingerprints of 104 cultivars. Cluster analysis illustrated differentiation of most poinsettia cultivars tested. Selection of a subset of AFLP polymorphisms resulted in clustering of cultivars according to known origin and breeding program. This method has applications not only for cultivar identification for cultivar protection, and maintenance of cultivar uniformity, but also has the potential application of developing markers for important traits.
Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, Organic and Inorganic Controlled-release Fertilizers: Effect on Growth and Leachate of Container-grown Bush Morning Glory (Ipomoea carnea ssp. fistulosa) Under High Production Temperatures
Authors: Carpio Lucila Amaya , Davies Fred T. , Arnold Michael A.
Published: January 2019

This research determined the effects of two commercial arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) inocula, organic slow-release fertilizer (OSRF), and inorganic controlled-release fertilizer (ICRF) on plant growth, marketability and leachate of container-grown Ipomoea carnea N. von Jacquin ssp. fistulosa (K. Von Martinus ex J. Choisy) D. Austin (bush morning glory) grown outdoors under high temperature summer conditions (maximum container media temperature averaged 44.8 °C). Uniform rooted liners were planted into 7.6-L pots containing a pasteurized substrate [pine bark and sand (3:1, by volume)]. The AMF treatment consisted of BioterraPLUS and MycorisePro and a noninoculated control (NonAMF). Fertilizer treatments included OSRF [Nitrell 5-3-4 (5N-1.3P-3.3K)] and ICRF [Osmocote 18-7-10 (18N-3.0P-8.3K)]. OSRF was tested at three rates: 8.3, 11.9, and 16.6 kg·m-3, which were respectively, 70%, 100%, and 140% of manufacturer's recommended rate, while ICRF was tested at two rates: 3.6 and 7.1 kg·m-3, which were, respectively, 50% and 100% of manufacturer's recommended rate. The P levels were equivalent between 70% and 140% OSRF and, respectively, 50% and 100% ICRF. Greatest growth [leaf, shoot, flower bud, and flower number; root, leaf, shoot, and total plant dry mass (DM); growth index; leaf area]; N, P, and K uptake; leaf chlorophyll; and plant marketability occurred with BioterraPLUS plants at 50% and 100% ICRF rate and MycorisePro at the 100% ICRF rate. Greater plant growth occurred with increasing fertility levels; however, plants at the 140% OSRF (same P level as 100% inorganic SRF) had poorest growth, in part due to high temperature. While AMF enhanced growth of plants with OSRF at all concentrations, better growth and marketability occurred with ICRF than OSRF plants inoculated with AMF. AMF plants at the 50% ICRF had comparable or better growth, higher N, P, and K and marketability than NonAMF plants at either 100% OSRF or ICRF. AMF were able to survive under high temperature and colonize plants grown from low to high fertility conditions. AMF inoculation had minimal effect on container leachate (pH and electrical conductivity). However, the larger-sized AMF plants at 100% ICRF rate had greater total leaf tissue N, P, and K, suggesting greater nutrient utilization—thus reduced potential risk for leachate runoff.
Differential Response of Common Bean Genotypes to High Temperature
Authors: Rainey K.M. , Griffiths P.D.
Published: January 2019

Yield components of 24 common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes were evaluated following exposure during reproductive development to four greenhouse day/night temperature treatments (24 °C/21 °C, 27 °C/24 °C, 30 °C/27 °C and 33 °C/30 °C). Genotypes included 12 snap beans, two wax beans, six dry beans, and four common bean accessions; 18 genotypes were previously described as heat-tolerant and three were heat-sensitive controls. The highest temperature treatment reduced seed number, pod number, mean seed weight and seeds/pod an average of 83%, 63%, 47%, and 73%, respectively. A heat susceptibility index (S) measuring yield stability under high temperatures indicated that `Brio', `Carson', `G122', `HB 1880', `HT 20', `HT 38', `Opus', and `Venture' were heat tolerant. Heat-tolerant genotypes displayed differential responses to high temperature, suggesting different genetic control of heat tolerance mechanisms. Genotypes with moderate heat tolerance, including `Barrier' and `Hystyle', showed stable yields in the 30 °C/27 °C treatment only, indicating this regime is optimal for screening common bean materials of unknown heat tolerance. `Haibushi', `Indeterminate Jamaica Red', and `Tío Canela-75' were previously described as heat tolerant but exhibited a heat-sensitive reaction in this study. Heat-sensitive genotypes `Haibushi' and `Labrador' maintained mean seed weight under high temperature. This data will help utilize nonallelic heat tolerance genes in development of bean varieties grown in high temperature environments.
Morphological Characterization and Molecular Verification of a Fertile Haploid Pummelo (Citrus grandis Osbeck)
Authors: Yahata Masaki , Harusaki Seiichi , Komatsu Haruki , Takami Kayo , Kunitake Hisato , Yabuya Tsutomu , Yamashita Kensuke , Toolapong Pichit
Published: January 2019

The morphological characteristics and reproductive potential of a haploid plant obtained from the cross between `Banpeiyu' pummelo (Citrus grandis) and `Ruby Red' grapefruit (C. paradisi Macf.) were investigated. The haploid was confirmed to be derived from female gamete of `Banpeiyu' pummelo by isozyme and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the haploidy was maintained in several tissues and organs of this plant. It also had the typical morphology of a haploid, such as small leaves and flowers, and had slightly fertile pollen grains. Furthermore, diploid progenies were obtained from the cross between `Kiyomi' tangor and the haploid. The hybridity of these seedlings was confirmed by assessment of the leaf characteristics and RAPD analysis. These results suggest that this haploid produced fertile unreduced pollen grains (n = 9).
Genetic Variation in Date Palms Propagated from Offshoots and Tissue Culture
Authors: Gurevich Vyacheslav , Lavi Uri , Cohen Yuval
Published: January 2019

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera L.) is a major tree crop in arid regions of the Middle East and North Africa, having an important impact on the economy of many countries in these regions. Date palms are traditionally propagated through offshoots. The development of propagation methods through tissue culture resulted in massive expansion of date palm plantations. While most trees generated from tissue culture are normal and true-to-type, several typical abnormal phenotypes are detected. The present study applies amplification fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis to characterize the genetic variation of two elite date cultivars, `Barhee' and `Medjool', as well as male clones, propagated from offshoots and through tissue culture. The two cultivars have very distinct AFLP band patterns. Most offshoots, as well as the tissue culture-propagated plants, have very similar band patterns, demonstrating a low level of genetic variation. However, a significant level of genetic variation was detected among `Medjool' plants generated from tissue culture. Several phenotypically abnormal trees were characterized by unique and different AFLP band patterns. The male clones are characterized by a high level of polymorphic bands. Genetic variation was also detected between various tissues of variegated `Medjool' trees propagated from tissue culture. The significance of these results, regarding the mechanism of the phenomenon and its relevance to agricultural practice, is discussed.
Genetic Structure and Diversity among Radish Varieties as Inferred from AFLP and ISSR Analyses
Authors: Muminović Jasmina , Merz Andrea , Melchinger Albrecht E. , Lübberstedt Thomas
Published: January 2019

Twelve amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) primer combinations and 10 inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) primers were applied to estimate genetic diversity among 68 varieties of cultivated radish (Raphanus sativus L.). The material consisted of open-pollinated varieties, inbred lines, diploid and a few tetraploid hybrid varieties of garden radish [R. sativus var. sativus DC. convar. radicula (DC.) Alef.] and black radish [R. sativus var. niger (Mill.) Pers.]. Two accessions of uncultivated relatives of radish that as weeds cause serious contamination during the process of hybrid radish production were added to the analyses. Polymorphic fragments were scored for calculation of Jaccard's coefficient of genetic similarity (GS). Substantial level of genetic variability (average AFLP-based GS = 0.70; average ISSR-based GS = 0.61) was detected in the available germplasm of cultivated radish. Cluster analyses separated two weedy species from the cultivated germplasm. Within cultivated material, black radish and french breakfast radish types formed separate clusters. Based on AFLP data, a principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) and model-based approach revealed the genetic structure within cultivated radish germplasm and indicated the existence of divergent pools. Although the model-based approach did not separate black radish from french breakfast radish varieties, it offered a clear sub-division within garden radish germplasm. The results of this study may be relevant for hybrid radish breeding.
Overexpression of Cytosolic Ascorbate Peroxidase in Tomato Confers Tolerance to Chilling and Salt Stress
Authors: Wang Yueju , Wisniewski Michael , Meilan Richard , Cui Minggang , Webb Robert , Fuchigami Leslie
Published: January 2019

Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) plays an important role in the metabolism of hydrogen peroxide in higher plants, affording them protection against oxidative stress. We studied the effect of overexpressing a cytosolic ascorbate peroxidase (cAPX) gene—derived from pea (Pisum sativum L.)—in transgenic tomato plants (Lycopersicon esculentum L.). Transformants were selected in vitro using kanamycin resistance and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and northern analyses. An APX native-gel assay indicated that, in the absence of stress, APX activity in transgenic plants was several times greater than that measured in wild-type (WT) plants. Several independently transformed lines were propagated and evaluated for resistance to chilling and salt stress. After placing seeds at 9 °C for 5 weeks, percent germination was greater for seeds obtained from transgenic lines (26% to 37%) compared to the WT (3%). Plants from transgenic lines also had lower electrolyte leakage (20% to 23%) than WT (44%) after exposure to 4 °C. Visual assessment of transgenic and WT lines exposed to salinity stress (200 or 250 mm) confirmed that overexpression of APX minimized leaf damage. Moreover, APX activity was nearly 25- and 10-fold higher in the leaves of transgenic plants in response to chilling and salt stresses, respectively. Our results substantiate that increased levels of APX activity brought about by overexpression of a cytosolic APX gene may play an important role in ameliorating oxidative injury induced by chilling and salt stress.
Variation of Anthocyanin and Carotenoid Contents and Associated Antioxidant Values in Potato Breeding Lines
Authors: Brown C.R. , Culley D. , Yang C.-P. , Durst R. , Wrolstad R.
Published: January 2019

A breeding effort designed to increase the antioxidant level of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) by means of high concentrations of anthocyanins and/or carotenoids provided selected materials for analysis. Extraction methods suitable for isolating both hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds were used and measurements of total anthocyanin and total carotenoid were made. Two methods of measurement of oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) adapted to hydrophilic and lipophilic compounds were applied. Total anthocyanin values varied between 9.5 and 38 mg per 100 g fresh weight (FW). The hydrophilic fraction ORAC measurements among anthocyanin-rich clones varied between 250 and 1420 μmol Trolox equivalents per 100 g FW. These two variables were significantly correlated, r = 0.73, and with significant positive slope in linear regression. Measurement of total carotenoids revealed differing degrees of yellowness covered a range of total carotenoid extending from 35 to 795 μg per 100 g FW. Dark yellow cultivars had roughly 10 times more total carotenoid than white-flesh cultivars. The lipophilic fraction ORAC values ranged from 4.6 to 15.3 nmoles α-tocopherol equivalents per 100 g FW. Total carotenoid was correlated with the lipophilic ORAC values, r = 0.77, and also had a statistically significant positive regression coefficient. Clones with red and yellow pigments visible in the flesh had anthocyanins and carotenoids in elevated levels and ORAC contributions from both fractions. The introgression of high levels of carotenoid from germplasm directly extracted from the Papa Amarilla (yellow potato) category of cultivars of South America into long-day adapted North American materials is presented here. Although anthocyanins and carotenoids are major contributors to antioxidant activity, other constituents of potato flesh likely play significant roles in total antioxidant values.
Retrospective Determination of the Parental Population of Superior Cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) Seedlings and Association of Microsatellite Alleles with Productivity
Authors: Schnell R.J. , Olano C.T. , Brown J.S. , Meerow A.W. , Cervantes-Martinez C. , Nagai C. , Motamayor J.C.
Published: January 2019

Commercial production of cacao in Hawaii is increasing, and this trend is expected to continue over the next several years. The increased acreages are being planted with seedlings from introduced and uncharacterized cacao populations from at least three initial introductions of cacao into the islands. Productive seedlings have been selected from a planting at Waialua, Oahu. The parents of these selections were believed to be the population at the Hawaii Agriculture Research Center (HARC) at Kunia; however, potential parental populations also exist at Univ. of Hawaii research stations at Waimanalo and Malama Ki. Using microsatellite markers, we analyzed the potential parental populations to identify the parents and determine the genetic background for 99 productive and 50 unproductive seedlings from the Waialua site. Based on 19 polymorphic microsatellite loci the parental population was identified as trees from Waimanalo and not trees from Malama Ki or Kunia. The Kunia and Malama Ki populations were very similar with low allelic diversity (A = 1.92) and low unbiased gene diversity (Hnb) of 0.311 and 0.329, respectively, and were determined to be Trinitario in type. The Waimanalo, productive seedling, and unproductive seedling populations had much higher levels of genetic diversity with Hnb of 0.699, 0.686, and 0.686, respectively, and were determined to be upper Amazon Forastero hybridized with Trinitario in type. An additional 46 microsatellite markers were amplified and analyzed in the Waimanalo parents, productive, and unproductive seedlings for a total of 65 loci. Seventeen loci contained alleles that were significantly associated with productive seedlings as determined by Armitage's trend test. Of these, 13 loci (76.4%) co-located with previously reported quantitative trait loci for productivity traits. These markers may prove useful for marker assisted selection and demonstrate the potential of association genetic studies in perennial tree crops such as cacao.
Low Relative Humidity at Harvest and Before Storage at High Humidity Influence the Severity of Postharvest Peel Pitting in Citrus
Authors: Alferez Fernando , Zacarias Lorenzo , Burns Jacqueline K.
Published: January 2019

Several citrus cultivars including `Marsh' grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) and `Fallglo' tangerine [Bower citrus hybrid (C. reticulata Blanco × C. reticulata × C. paradisi) × Temple tangor (C. reticulata × C. sinensis L. Osbeck)] are prone to develop postharvest peel pitting at nonchilling temperatures. This disorder is characterized by depressions in flavedo that ultimately affect oil glands. Although the fundamental cause for this disorder has not been well defined, increasing evidence indicates that alteration in peel water status during postharvest handling of fruit plays a major role. `Fallglo' tangerines developed postharvest peel pitting when transferred from low (30%) to high (90%) relative humidity (RH) storage. To determine the number of hours of dehydration prior to storage at high RH sufficient to induce peel pitting in `Marsh' grapefruit and `Fallglo' tangerines, fruit were exposed to low RH conditions for increasing periods of time and then washed, coated with commercial shellac-based wax, and stored at high RH. Only 2 hours of low RH storage were sufficient to induce peel pitting in `Fallglo' and `Marsh' after transfer to high RH. The severity of pitting in `Fallglo' tangerines was greater than in `Marsh' grapefruit. Weight loss of fruit at the end of low RH storage and peel pitting after 3 weeks of storage at high RH were significantly correlated. RH conditions in the field at the time of harvest affected susceptibility to peel pitting in both cultivars. Peel pitting was more severe when fruit were harvested at low field RH than high field RH when followed by treatments that induce peel pitting. The data suggest that harvesting susceptible cultivars at high RH, and minimizing exposure to low RH after harvest, could reduce the commercial impact of postharvest peel pitting.
Expression of α-Farnesene Synthase AFS1 and 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A Reductase HMG2 and HMG3 in Relation to α-Farnesene and Conjugated Trienols in `Granny Smith' Apples Heat or 1-MCP Treated to Prevent Superficial Scald
Authors: Lurie Susan , Lers Amnon , Shacham Zohar , Sonego Lilian , Burd Shaul , Whitaker Bruce
Published: January 2019

Untreated control, 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP)-treated, and heated fruit of the superficial scald-susceptible `Granny Smith' cultivar of apple [Malus sylvestris (L.) Mill. var. domestica (Borkh.) Mansf.] were compared with respect to scald incidence, internal ethylene concentration (IEC), α-farnesene metabolism, expression of the genes AFS1, which encodes α-farnesene synthase, the final, rate-limiting enzyme in the α-farnesene biosynthetic pathway, and HMG2 and HMG3, which encode isozymes of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase, the proposed rate-limiting enzyme in the mevalonate pathway of isoprenoid synthesis. The incidence of scald in untreated `Granny Smith' apples after 16 weeks at 0 °C plus 1 week at 20 °C was 100%; 1-MCP treatment prevented scald development, whereas heat treatment delayed and reduced scald development. 1-MCP also inhibited both α-farnesene and IEC, suggesting that ethylene induces transcription of key genes involved in α-farnesene biosynthesis. Heat treatment reduced levels of α-farnesene and and its oxidation products, conjugated trienols (CTols), but not to the extent of 1-MCP. Internal ethylene concentrations in heated apples did not differ from those in the controls. In both control and heated fruit, a sharp increase in AFS1 mRNA during the first 4 weeks of storage preceded an increase in α-farnesene and a subsequent increase in CTols. AFS1 transcript was absent from 1-MCP-treated apples for the first 10 weeks of storage, and even at 16 weeks was lower than in heated and untreated control fruit. Levels of the HMG2 and HMG3 transcripts varied during storage and among treatments, and were not correlated with the incidence of scald. HMG2 mRNA transcript accumulation was low at harvest and increased in abundance during storage in all treatments, with the greatest increase occurring in 1-MCP-treated fruit. In contrast, HMG3 transcript was constitutively present at all storage times, although it too was slightly more abundant in 1-MCP-treated fruit.
Sensory and Objective Quality Attributes of Beta-carotene and Lycopene-rich Tomato Fruit
Authors: Stommel John , Abbott Judith A. , Saftner Robert A. , Camp Mary J.
Published: January 2019

Consumer acceptance of fresh and processed tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) products is influenced by product appearance, flavor, aroma, and textural properties. Color is a key component that influences a consumer's initial perception of quality. Beta-carotene and lycopene are the principal carotenoids in tomato fruit that impart color. Analytical and sensory analyses of fruit quality constituents were conducted to assess real and perceived differences in fruit quality between orange-pigmented, high-beta-carotene cherry tomato genotypes and conventional lycopene-rich, red-pigmented cherry tomato cultivars. Thirteen sensory attributes were evaluated by untrained consumers under red-masking light conditions where differences in fruit color could not be discerned and then under white light. Panelists preferred the appearance of the red-pigmented cultivars when viewed under white light, but scored many of the other fruit-quality attributes of red- and orange-pigmented genotypes similarly whether they could discern the color or not. Irrespective of light conditions, significant genotype effects were noted for fruit appearance, sweetness, acidity/sourness, bitterness, tomato-like flavor, unpleasant aftertaste, firmness in fingers, juiciness, skin toughness, chewiness, bursting energy, and overall eating quality. Attributes whose scores differed between white and red-masking lights were intensities of tomato aroma, tomato-like flavor, sweetness, bursting energy, juiciness, and overall eating quality. The results demonstrated a color bias favoring red-pigmented fruit and highlight the influence that color has on perception of tomato fruit quality, particularly on tomato-like flavor, juiciness, and overall eating quality. Interactions between fruit chemical constituents likely influenced perceptions of quality. High-beta-carotene genotypes contained higher levels of sugars and soluble solids and equal or higher titratable acidity than the red-pigmented cultivars. Total volatile levels did not differ among genotypes; however, several individual volatiles were significantly higher in high-beta-carotene genotypes.
Spur Characteristics, Fruit Growth, and Carbon Partitioning in Two Late-maturing Japanese Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai) Cultivars with Contrasting Fruit Size
Authors: Zhang Caixi , Tanabe Kenji , Tamura Fumio , Itai Akihiro , Wang Shiping
Published: January 2019

The aim of this study was to investigate the roles of spur characteristics and carbon partitioning in regulating cultivar differences in fruit size of two late-maturing japanese pear cultivars, `Atago' and `Shinkou'. The study of spur characteristics showed that the two cultivars displayed different patterns in leaf development, flower characteristics, fruit growth, and shoot type. In contrast to `Atago' with dramatically larger fruit, `Shinkou' is a heavily spurred cultivar with a higher total leaf area and leaf number per spur early in fruit growth, less vegetative shoots, and smaller fruit but larger core. No significant differences were obtained in specific leaf weight, leaf thickness, chlorophyll content, and net photosynthesis of mature leaves, and seed number per fruit between the two cultivars. The results of trace experiment with 13C revealed that on a spur basis, there were no significant differences in the amount of 13C assimilate produced by spur leaves on each labeling date except at 190 days after anthesis, however, there were highly significant differences in the amount of 13C allocated to fruit between cultivars. Moreover, a higher amount of 13C assimilates was allocated to `Atago' flesh (or fruit) than that in `Shinkou'. Analysis of relative sink strength (RSS) indicates that the sink strength of fruit was dominant over those of other organs in the spur measured in both cultivars except at the early stage of fruit growth. `Atago' exhibited a greater RSS of fruit and lower losses of 13C for respiration and export than `Shinkou'. These results suggest that the movement of photosynthates into the fruit was determined by sink strength of the fruit rather than the source strength in the two cultivars.
Sucrose Transport into Citrus Juice Cells: Evidence for an Endocytic Transport System
Authors: Etxeberria Ed , Gonzalez Pedro , Pozueta-Romero Javier
Published: January 2019

To investigate the mechanisms of sucrose transport and its accumulation into `Murcott' mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco) fruit, developmental changes in determinants of sink strength such as sucrose metabolizing enzymes, and sucrose transport across both plasmalemma and tonoplast were analyzed. Concurrently with sucrose levels, sucrose synthase, sucrose phosphate synthase and sucrose phosphate phosphatase increased throughout fruit development. Plasmalemma and tonoplast vesicles isolated from fruit collected at different developmental stages were analyzed for their transport capabilities. Sucrose uptake into energized plasmalemma vesicles was abolished by gramicidin, which is in accordance with the presence of an active symport mechanism of sucrose transport from the apoplast into the cytosol. Unexpectedly, tonoplast vesicles were shown to lack active transport mechanism of sucrose into the vacuole. More importantly, however, and in conformity with recent findings showing the occurrence of an endocytic mechanism of ion uptake in maize (Zea mays L.) root cells, citrus (Citrus L.) juice cells were shown to incorporate membrane impermeable dyes into their vacuoles in the presence of sucrose. High definition confocal microscopy revealed the co-localization of membrane impermeable markers in cytoplasmic vesicles and the formation of vesicles at the plasmalemma. The data provide evidence for an endocytic system of transport that allows direct incorporation of sucrose from the apoplast to the vacuole bypassing both the plasmalemma and tonoplast.
Hydraulic Conductance in Tepal Growth and Extension of Vase Life with Trehalose in Cut Tulip Flowers
Authors: Wada Hiroshi , Iwaya-Inoue Mari , Akita Mitsuru , Nonami Hiroshi
Published: January 2019

Two cultivars of tulip (Tulipa gesneriana L.) were used to check the effect of trehalose-feeding on longevity of vase life. `Oxford' plants were grown from bulbs, and trehalose-fed cut flowers were compared with the intact plants grown in pots. `Pink Diamond' flowers were obtained commercially as cut flowers from the market, and trehalose-feeding was examined by using only flower parts. In both cultivars of plants, it was confirmed that trehalose-feeding enhanced longevity of the vase life significantly at room temperature. Additionally, mechanisms of prolonging the vase life with trehalose-fed flowers were studied by comparing the water status in the zone of elongation of tulip tepals when their growth rates were modified with different treatments. In the elongating region of tulip tepals, cell elongation rates were linearly correlated to sizes of the growth-induced water potential regardless of treatments. It was found that trehalose-feeding reduced the hydraulic conductance, resulting in a decrease in cell elongation rates. Also, trehalose helped to maintain turgor of tepal cells for longer periods. Furthermore, trehalose enhanced pigmentation in tepals, and thus, trehalose is believed to have had a role in altering the metabolism in elongating cells and in reducing hydraulic conductivity in membranes.
Photoprotective Mechanisms of `Concord' Grape Leaves in Relation to Iron Supply
Authors: Smith Brandon R. , Cheng Lailiang
Published: January 2019

The objective of this study was to quantify how photoprotective mechanisms in the leaves of `Concord' grapevines (Vitis labruscana Bailey) respond to a range of iron (Fe) supply. Own-rooted, 1-year-old container-grown vines were fertigated twice weekly for 11 weeks with a complete nutrient solution containing 1, 10, 20, 50, or 100 μm Fe from ferric ethylenediamine di (o-hydroxyphenylacetic) acid (Fe-EDDHA). Leaf total Fe content did not increase in response to Fe supply; however, “active” Fe (extracted with 2,2′-dipyridyl) and chlorophyll (Chl) increased on a leaf area basis as applied Fe increased. At the lowest active Fe level, leaf absorptance and the efficiency of excitation transfer (Fv′/Fm′) was lower, and nonphotochemical quenching (NPQ) was significantly greater. Photosystem II (PSII) quantum efficiency decreased curvilinearly, and the proportion of PSII reaction centers in the open state (qP) decreased linearly as active Fe content decreased. On a Chl basis, the xanthophyll cycle pool size [violaxanthin (V) + antheraxanthin (A) + zeaxanthin (Z)], lutein, and β-carotene increased curvilinearly as active Fe decreased, and neoxanthin (Neo) increased at the lowest Fe level. On a leaf area basis, as active Fe decreased, V+A+Z and β-carotene decreased curvilinearly, and lutein and Neo decreased linearly. At noon, conversion of V to A and Z increased as active Fe decreased. On a Chl basis, activities of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD), monodehydroascorbate reductase (MDAR), and dehydroascorbate reductase (DHAR) increased curvilinearly, and glutathione reductase (GR) activity increased linearly as active Fe levels declined. Ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT), on a Chl basis, were relatively constant. On a leaf area basis, a decrease in active Fe increased SOD and MDAR activity, whereas APX, CAT, DHAR and GR activity decreased. Antioxidant metabolites ascorbate (AsA), dehydroascorbate (DAsA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) also increased in response to Fe limitation when expressed on a Chl basis, whereas on a leaf area basis AsA and DAsA decreased and GSH increased curvilinearly. The GSH:GSSG ratio increased as active Fe declined, whereas the AsA:DAsA ratio did not change. In conclusion, both photoprotective mechanisms, xanthophyll cycle-dependent thermal dissipation and the ascorbate-glutathione antioxidant system, are enhanced in response to Fe deficiency to cope with excess absorbed light. In a low soil pH tolerant species such as V. labruscana, the foliar antioxidant system was upregulated in response to excess absorbed light from Fe deficiency-induced chlorosis, and there was no evidence of an increase in oxidative stress from high rates of applied Fe-EDDHA.
Resistance Gene Mapping for Witches' Broom Disease in Theobroma cacao L. in an F2 Population using SSR Markers and Candidate Genes
Authors: Brown J. Steven , Schnell R.J. , Motamayor J.C. , Lopes Uilson , Kuhn David N. , Borrone James W.
Published: January 2019

A genetic linkage map was created from 146 cacao trees (Theobroma cacao), using an F2 population produced by selfing an F1 progeny of the cross Sca6 and ICS1. Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers (170) were used principally for this map, with 12 candidate genes [eight resistance gene homologues (RGH) and four stress related WRKY genes], for a total of 182 markers. Joinmap software was used to create the map, and 10 linkage groups were clearly obtained, corresponding to the 10 known chromosomes of cacao. Our map encompassed 671.9 cM, approximately 100 cM less than most previously reported cacao maps, and 213.5 cM less than the one reported high-density map. Approximately 27% of the markers showed significant segregation distortion, mapping together in six genomic areas, four of which also showed distortion in other cacao maps. Two quantitative trait loci (QTL) for resistance to witches' broom disease were found, one producing a major effect and one a minor effect, both showing important dominance effects. One QTL for trunk diameter was found at a point 10.2 cM away from the stronger resistance gene. One RGH flanked the minor QTL for witches' broom resistance, implying possible association. QTLs mapped in F2 populations produce estimates of additive and dominance effects, not obtainable in F1 crosses. As dominance was clearly shown in the QTL found in this study, this population merits further study for evaluation of dominance effects for other traits. This F2 cacao population constitutes a useful link for genomic studies between cacao and cotton, its only widely grown agronomic relative.
Inheritance of the Two-points Pattern of Partly Colored Seedcoats in Common Bean
Authors: Bassett Mark J.
Published: January 2019

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) seedcoats can have partly colored patterns such as the new two-points pattern, which has an unknown genotype. The gene tcf (derived from PI 507984) expresses partly colored seedcoat pattern with colored flowers. A genetic tester stock tcf two-points BC3 5-593 was derived from PI 507984 by backcrossing to the recurrent parent, Florida dry bean breeding line 5-593, which has black self-colored seeds and purple flowers due to the genotype T P V. A series of test crosses were made between tcf two-points BC3 5-593 and three genetic tester stocks: t z jers white BC3 5-593, t z bip bipunctata BC3 5-593, and t z virgarcus BC3 5-593. All three test crosses were studied in F1 and F2 populations, and the latter test cross in F3 progenies derived from 80 randomly selected F2 plants. The two-points pattern was never observed with white flower plants expressed by t/t, supporting the hypothesis that tcf is necessary for two-points expression. The complete genotype for two-points was found to be tcf z jers. The tcf gene expresses more extensive colored zones in partly colored seedcoats than t. For example, tcf z J expresses self-colored seedcoats, whereas tcf/t z J expresses white ends pattern and t z J expresses virgarcus. Similarly, the tcf z jers genotype expresses two-points pattern, whereas t z jers expresses white seedcoat; and tcf/-z J/jers expresses PI type pattern, whereas t z J/jers expresses weak virgarcus pattern.
Inheritance of Antioxidant Activity and its Association with Seedcoat Color in Cowpea
Authors: Nzaramba M. Ndambe , Hale Anna L. , Scheuring Douglas C. , Miller J. Creighton
Published: January 2019

The inheritance of antioxidant activity (AOA) and its association with seedcoat color was investigated in cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]. Four advanced cowpea lines, ARK95-356 (black seedcoat) and ARK98-348 (red seedcoat), which were high (H) in AOA, and ARK96-918 (cream seedcoat) and LA92-180 (cream seedcoat), which were low (L) in AOA, were selected from the 2002 Regional Southernpea Cooperative Trials. They were crossed in a complete diallel mating design, generating F1, F1′ (1st generation and 1st generation reciprocal cross, respectively), F2, F2′ (2nd generations from F1, F1′), BC1, and BC2 (backcrosses to parents 1 and 2, respectively) populations. Individual seeds were ground and samples were extracted in methanol and analyzed for AOA using the free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Combining ability tests using Griffing's Method I Model I indicated presence of highly significant general combining ability (GCA), specific combining ability (SCA), and reciprocal (RE) and maternal (MAT) effects, with pigmented lines exhibiting positive GCA and MAT, while nonpigmented lines exhibited negative GCA and MAT. AOA in the F1 was not significantly different from the maternal parent, with seedcoat color also resembling the maternal parent. Segregation for seedcoat color was observed in the F2 and F2′. Additive, dominance, and epistatic effects were significant. The broad sense heritability estimate was 0.87. Minimum number of genes responsible for AOA was estimated at five. Factors governing high AOA appeared to be the same as those responsible for seedcoat color, with apparent pleiotropic effects. In conclusion, breeding for high AOA in cowpea is possible using highly pigmented parental lines.
Genetic Analysis of Advanced Populations in Antirrhinum majus L. with Special Reference to Cut Flower Postharvest Longevity
Authors: Martin William J. , Stimart Dennis P.
Published: January 2019

Narrow-sense heritabilities and genetic correlations of ornamental quality traits of Antirrhinum majus (snapdragon) were evaluated with special reference to cut flower postharvest longevity (PHL). Inbreds P1 (16 days PHL) and P2 (3 days PHL) were hybridized to produce an F1 (P1 × P2) that was self-pollinated to produce an F2 population. The F2 were self-pollinated to produce F3 families and advanced through single-seed descent by self-pollination to the F5 generation. P1, P2, F1, F3, F4, and F5 were evaluated for ornamental quality traits. Quality traits were found to be quantitative and normally distributed. Narrow-sense heritability (h2) estimates were high and consistent across generations examined; PHL h2 ranged from 0.79 to 0.81 ± 0.06. Phenotypic and genotypic correlations revealed underlying physiological and pleiotropic interactions relevant to breeding programs aimed at simultaneous improvement of ornamental quality traits. PHL is inversely related to cut flower strength and days to flower, -0.44 ± 0.04 and -0.43 ± 0.44. Buds at discard is positively correlated to cut flower and plant diameter, cut flower weight and days to flower, 0.77 ± 0.05, 0.58 ± 0.06, 0.71 ± 0.06, and 0.77 ± 0.07, respectively. Gain from selection for quality traits of interest can be rapid.
Molecular Cloning and Expression Analysis of a Putative Terpene Synthase Gene from Citrus
Authors: Jia Ying , Xia Dianren , Louzada E.S.
Published: January 2019

A cDNA coding for a putative terpene synthase (Grtps) was isolated from `Rio Red' grapefruit (Citrus paradisi Macf.) mature fruit by differential display RT-PCR and the corresponding full-length cDNA and genomic clone were subsequently obtained. The isolated cDNA clone was 1644 bp in length encoding a protein of 548 amino acids with a predicted molecular mass of 64 kDa and of pI 5.38. The genomic clone was 3203 bp in length with 6 introns and 7 exons. This Grtps appears to be a sesquiterpene synthase based on molecular weight, genomic organization, and similarity with the other terpene synthases. Both RT-PCR and Northern blot expression analysis indicated that Grtps is not expressed in immature fruits, roots, or leaves, but only in mature fruits. Southern blot analysis of genomic DNA demonstrated that Grtps is one of the members in the family of terpene synthases.
Characterization of Microcracks in the Cuticle of Developing Sweet Cherry Fruit
Authors: Peschel Stefanie , Knoche Moritz
Published: January 2019

Frequency and distribution of microcracks in the cuticular membrane (CM) were monitored in cheek, suture, pedicel cavity and stylar regions of developing sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) fruit using fluorescence microscopy following infiltration with a fluorescence tracer (1 to 2 min in 0.1% w/v acridine orange containing 50 mm citric acid and 0.1% Silwet L-77, pH 6.5). These microcracks were limited to the cuticle, did not extend into the pericarp and were only detected by microscopy. Fruit mass and surface area increased in a sigmoidal pattern with time between 16 days after full bloom (DAFB) and maturity. The increase in frequency of fruit with microcracks paralleled the increase in fruit mass. During early development (up to 43 DAFB) the CM of `Sam' fruit remained intact. However, by 57 DAFB essentially all `Sam' fruit had microcracks in the pedicel cavity and ≈25% in the suture region with little change thereafter. At maturity percentage of `Sam' fruit with microcracks in cheek, suture, pedicel cavity and stylar end region averaged 23%, 25%, 100%, and 63%, respectively. Similar data were obtained for `Hedelfinger' (70% and 100% for cheek and pedicel cavity, respectively), `Kordia' (80% and 100%) and `Van' (100% and 100%). Generally, microcracks were most severe in pedicel cavity and stylar end region. Most of the first detectable microcracks formed above periclinal walls of epidermal cells perpendicular to their longest axis (72% and 92% in cheek and stylar regions, respectively). The other microcracks formed above the anticlinal walls were mostly oriented in the direction of the underlying cell wall. There was no difference in projected surface area, length/width ratio or orientation among epidermal cells below, adjacent to or distant from the first detectable microcracks in the CM. However, as length of microcracks increased the projected surface area of cells underlying cracks increased suggesting strain induced upon cracking of the CM. Permeability of excised exocarp segments in osmotic water uptake was positively correlated with number of stomata and number of microcracks in the CM. From our results we suggest that strain of the epidermal system during stage III of fruit growth is a factor in “microcracking” of the CM that may predispose fruit to subsequent rain-induced cracking.