bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The shared genetic landscape of polycystic ovary syndrome and breast cancer: convergence on ER+ breast cancer but not ER- breast cancer
Authors: Bi Kaixin , Chen Miaoran , Zhao Qianru , Yang Tongtong , Xie Wenjia , Ma Wenqi , Jia Hongyan
Published: April 2024

Background: The clinically high co-morbidity of polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS) and breast cancer(BC) has been widely reported, but little is known about their shared genetic basis and mechanisms.
Method: Using summary statistics from the largest GWASs to date, we performed a large-scale genome-wide cross-trait analysis of PCOS and BC with multiple genetic statistical methods to unlock potential shared genetic causes.
Results: The study found some genetic overlap between the three trait pairs, and after dividing the entire genome into 2,495 independent regions, we observed chr8: 75,011,700- 76,295,483, and chr17: 6,305,079- 7,264,458 to be loci with significant localized genetic correlations. Pleiotropic analysis under a composite null hypothesis identified 1,183 significant potential pleiotropic SNPs in 3 trait pairs, FUMA mapped 26 pleiotropic loci in which 16q12.2 and 6q25.1were found to be duplicated across all three pairs of traits and then 3 colocalized loci detected by COLOC. The gene-based analysis identified 23 unique candidate pleiotropy genes, including the FTO locus shared by three trait pairs as well as SER1, RALB, and others. Whereas pathway enrichment analysis further highlighted the biological pathways present between PCOS-BCALL and PCOS-ERPBC that are primarily involved in prostate glandular acinus development, prostate glandular acinus morphogenesis and cellular response to stress. Latent Heritable Confounder Mendelian randomization (LHC-MR) further supports positive causality of PCOS in BCALL and ERPBC but not ERNBC.
Conclusion: In conclusion our genome-wide cross-trait analysis identified a shared genetic basis between PCOS and BC, specific identical genetic mechanisms and causality between PCOS and various BC subtypes, which could better explains the genetics of the co-morbidity of PCOS and ERPBC rather than PCOS and ERNBC. These findings provide new insights into the biological mechanisms underlying the co-morbidity of these two complex diseases, which have important implications for clinical disease intervention, treatment, and improved prognosis.
Impact of Serum Indoxyl Sulfate on One-year Adverse Events in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients with Heart Failure
Authors: Iwasaki Keiichiro , Miyoshi Toru , Urabe Chikara , Sakuragi Satoru , Kawai Yusuke , Fuke Soichiro , Doi Masayuki , Takaishi Atsushi , Oka Takefumi , Tokunaga Naoto , Ito Hiroshi
Published: April 2024

Indoxyl sulfate (IS), a uremic toxin, is associated with mortality and cardiovascular events in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic implications of serum IS levels in patients with heart failure and CKD. This was a prospective multicentre observational study. Overall, 300 patients with chronic heart failure with a previous history of hospitalisation and an estimated glomerular filtration rate of 45 mL/min/1.73 m2 or less without dialysis were analysed. The primary outcome assessed was a composite of all-cause death, hospitalisation for heart failure, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal stroke. Clinical events were followed up to one year the measurement of IS. The median patient age was 75 years, and 57% of the patients were male. We divided the cohort into low and high IS categories according to a median value of 9.63 mg/mL. The primary outcome occurred in 27 of 150 patients in the low IS group and 27 of 150 patients in the high IS group (hazard ratio, 1.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.58 to 1.70). The results were consistent across various subgroups. Among heart failure patients with CKD, serum IS concentrations were not significantly associated with the subsequent occurrence of cardiovascular events.
Association between TyG-related parameters and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease risk in non-obese individuals: a cross-sectional study based Japanese population
Authors: Wang Xiuli , Liu Jie , Yu Ke , Huang Zhenhua , Liu Hanxiong , Li Xiang
Published: April 2024

The incidence of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in non-obese populations is also on the rise but is often overlooked. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the relationship between triglyceride-glucose (TyG) related parameters (TyG-BMI, TyG-WC, TyG-WHtR) and NAFLD in non-obese individuals to enhance early detection and intervention for NAFLD in this population. We conducted a cross-sectional analysis using data from the NAGALA database, covering 11,987 participants who underwent health examinations between 2004 and 2015. Logistic regression models were employed to assess the relationship between TyG-related parameters and NAFLD risk, incorporating cubic spline functions and smooth curve fitting to explore potential nonlinear relationships between TyG-related parameters and NAFLD risk. ROC curve analysis was performed to evaluate their predictive performance. After adjusting for confounding variables, the incidence of NAFLD in non-obese individuals increased with higher TyG-related parameters. Moreover, we identified nonlinear relationships between TyG index and its related parameters with NAFLD risk, along with critical inflection points. Additionally, the area under the ROC curve for TyG index and its related parameters were 0.7984, 0.8553, 0.8584, and 0.8353, respectively, with a more pronounced effect observed in the female population. There exists a nonlinear relationship between TyG-related parameters and the risk of NAFLD occurrence, revealing various turning points associated with NAFLD risk. Notably, TyG-related parameters outperform the TyG index in predicting NAFLD, especially in females. These findings establish crucial theoretical foundations for future research in NAFLD prevention and treatment for non-obese population.
Oysters, a sustainable bluefood?
Authors: Domech Paula Costa , Cooney Ronan , Tahar Alexandre , Kennedy Alan , Wan Alex H L , Clifford Eoghan
Published: April 2024

Sustainable food production that meets consumer demands while reducing environmental impacts is a critical societal challenge. The seafood industry, including shellfish aquaculture, is considered a key segment for future protein supplies. Like all food production sectors, environmental impacts of the "blue food” sector are a key consideration. The present study demonstrated that Irish Pacific oyster (Magallana gigas) farming has relatively low environmental impacts (i.e., 100-year global warming potential of 373.86 kg CO2 eq. tonne-1; acidification potential of 1.33 kg SO2 eq. tonne-1; and eutrophication potential of 0.39 kg PO4 eq. tonne-1) compared to other seafood and terrestrial animal sectors. Using ecosystem services metrics, one tonne of fresh harvested oysters can remove, on average, 3.05 tonnes of nitrogen, 0.35 tonnes of phosphorus, and sequester 70.52 tonnes of carbon from the environment, thus potentially acting as a nutrient remediator and a potential short-term carbon sink. These findings show how oysters can offer a sustainable food source and provide local environmental benefits. The study also points to future work which could further improve ecosystem services modelling for this food source.
In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory, Anticancer Effects and Phytochemical Characterization of Organic Extracts from Aristolochia olivieri Colleg. Ex Boiss
Authors: Abdullah Fuad O.
Published: April 2024

Organic extract plays a crucial role in our lives, providing food and pharmaceuticals. Extracts from plants showed anti-inflammatory potential in an in vitro macrophage model, and their anticancer activities were assessed using real-time PCR and MTT assays. Major compounds in the n-hexane (AR-H) and the ethyl acetate (AR-E) Aristolochia olivieri extracts was n-hexadecanoic acid, and the major component of the methanol extract (AR-M) was pentacosane. The AR-M extract had a strong ability to induce mRNA expression of an inflammatory cytokine, IL-6, as an M1-like macrophage subset compared to the negative control (DMSO-treated cells). In contrast, AR-E treatment showed strong anti-inflammatory activity against macrophages. The AR-H extract had a moderate inflammatory effect against macrophages. The IC50 results of the anticancer assays ranged from 58.29 to 451.03 µg/mL for the three extracts. The anticancer action of the AR-E extract against U-87MG cells was higher (58.29 µg/mL) than that of AR-H and AR-M (156.38 and 196.14 µg/mL, respectively). The greater cytotoxicity effect observed with the AR-E extract against U-87MG can be linked to its high content of hexadecanoic acid (32.49%) and linolenic acid (12.90%). In this study to fully understand the therapeutic potential and uses as food to confirm safety.
BRCAIndica: a Resource for ACMG/AMP classified BRCA1 and BRCA2 Variants
Authors: Vatsyayan Aastha , RI Anu , Mathur Prerika , Uchil Divya , Joshi Ashish , Dwivedi Aradhana , Sirohi Bhawna , Mathew Aju , Damodaran Dileep , Panda Soumya Surath , Kolluri Spoorthy , Ayillath Shaji K. , Amalnath Deepak , Shankar Gomathi , Pandhare Kavita , Scaria Vinod
Published: April 2024

Purpose: As genetic testing becomes increasingly accessible and affordable, the uniform and accurate interpretation of genetic variants becomes essential. The ACMG/AMP joint guidelines provide the basis for systematic and uniform interpretation of pathogenicity of genetic variants. However, the application of these in routine clinical interpretation at-scale has largely been limited by the lack of resources providing harmonized data especially at a population-scale. Here we describe BRCAIndica, a resource for BRCA1 and BRCA2 variants conforming to the ACMG & AMP joint guidelines to aid uniform clinical interpretation of genetic tests with a specific focus on variants reported in the Indian population.
Methods: Variants were collected and harmonized from across several resources including population-scale datasets, literature survey and other variant datasets. They were then classified according to the ACMG/AMP guidelines.
Results: We have collected a total of 10,490 unique variants, of which 2261 Pathogenic and 43 Likely Pathogenic variants belong to BRCA1 and 2694 Pathogenic and 20 Likely Pathogenic variants to BRCA2 respectively.
BRCAIndica can be accessed at: https://clingen.igib.res.in/brcaindica/
Conclusion: BRCAIndica is a powerful resource that offers researchers and clinicians with ACMG/AMP annotated BRCA variants.
Manually operated microtube automatic capper/decapper system for clinical laboratory and biological laboratory personnel
Authors: Jinno Makoto , Nonoyama Ryosuke , SAKURAI Yasuteru , YOSHIKWA Rokusuke , KINOSHITA Takaaki , YASUDA Jiro
Published: April 2024

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is an effective method for diagnosing infectious diseases and has been the primary method throughout the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. PCR tests (from specimen collection to result acquisition) involve sample pretreatment, nucleic acid extraction, and PCR procedure. Automating the pretreatment process is crucial to mitigate the risk of infection for workers and to reduce the likelihood of sample contamination-triggered misdiagnosis, particularly when handling centrifuge tubes, cryopreservation tubes, and microtubes. Robotic systems have been engineered to automate cell culture and PCR-based diagnosis , predominantly designed for use with screw-capped containers. However, this leaves a notable gap in automation solutions for microtubes equipped with press-type caps. To address this gap, we developed a versatile microtube capper/decapper system. On the other hand, many tasks of manual operation using microtubes, which are routinely conducted in clinical tests and biological experiments, were performed. Despite the risks of contamination and infection derived from the manual handling of microtube caps, which can compromise diagnosis/experiment accuracy and worker safety, devices for manually opening and closing microtube caps without direct contact remain lacking. Therefore, leveraging the technology from the developed versatile microtube capper/decapper system for laboratory automation, we created a manually operated microtube equipped with an automatic capper/decapper system tailored for personnel in clinical and biological laboratories.
In this study, we first examined the required specifications and prerequisites for a manual microtube capper/decapper and clarified the operating methods, operating procedures, operation environment, device size, accompanying functions, etc. Based on the required specifications and preconditions, we proceeded with the mechanical and control design of the conceptual model, manufactured a prototype, and confirmed its basic functions and performance. The compliant to the required specifications and preconditions and the usefulness of the proposed manual microtube capper/decapper were validated through various experiments and demonstrations. Because microtubes are used in various clinical tests and biological experiments, we believe that the proposed system can markedly reduce the workload for personnel across numerous clinical and biological laboratories.
METTL3 silencing suppresses cardiac fibrosis via m6A modification of SMOC2
Authors: He Yanru , Pan Xiaodong , Tao Zaixiao , Chen Zhongpu , Ma genshan , Ling Sunkai
Published: April 2024

Cardiac fibrosis leads to decreased cardiac compliance, impaired systolic and diastolic function, resulting in heart failure. M6A methylation plays a role in fibrosis development. However, its underlying mechanism remain poorly understood. This study explores the role and molecular mechanisms of m6A methylation in regulating cardiac fibrosis after myocardial infarction (MI). A mouse myocardial fibrosis model post-MI was established by ligating the left coronary artery. Corresponding gene knockdown was achieved in vitro or in vivo using short hairpin RNA or fibroblast-specific AAV9 virus. Echocardiography assessed cardiac function in mice, while Masson staining determined the degree of collagen deposition post-MI. The meRIP-Seq kit detected mRNA methylation levels in myocardial tissue and hypoxia-treated cardiac fibroblasts. Expression of RNA methylation-related enzymes, fibrosis-related proteins, and SMOC2 expression in the myocardial tissue or cardiac fibroblasts was detected using western blotting. Actinomycin D assessed SMOC2 mRNA stability. Results demonstrated increased levels of m6A methylation and METTL3 expression in myocardial fibrosis tissue post-MI and in hypoxia-treated cardiac fibroblasts. In vivo METTL3 downregulation reduced the fibrotic area and improved cardiac function, while METTL3 downregulation in vitro can alleviate cardiac fibroblast proliferation and differentiation after hypoxia. Per bioinformatic analysis, SMOC2 may be differentially expressed, regulated by RNA methylation during cardiac fibroblast proliferation and differentiation. SMOC2 is significantly elevated in myocardial fibrotic tissue post-MI and hypoxia-induced cardiac fibroblasts. SMOC2 downregulation alleviates cardiac fibroblast proliferation and differentiation. Mechanistically, METTL3 promoted SMOC2 mRNA stability by increasing its m6A methylation level, thereby regulating cardiac fibroblast proliferation and differentiation. Conclusively, METTL3 participates in cardiac fibroblasts proliferation and differentiation post-MI by increasing the m6A methylation level of SMOC2 mRNA, thereby promoting its stability.
Transforming Handwritten Answer Assessment: A Multi-Modal Approach Combining Text Detection, Handwriting Recognition, and Language Models
Authors: Hiremath Aditya , Irabatti Nipun , Desai Akhilesh , Dhondge Prabhuraj , Sheikh Shagufta
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes an automated system for grading handwritten subjective answers, leveraging advanced computer vision, natural language processing, and large language model techniques. Although time-consuming, the system presents a promising theoretical approach by employing CRAFT for text detection, TrOCR for handwritten text recognition, and a fine-tuned language model for answer evaluation. Experimental results demonstrate the system's potential accuracy in transcribing handwritten text and consistency in grading answers compared to human raters. The proposed methodology offers a scalable and efficient solution to automate the traditionally labor-intensive task of grading handwritten responses, with the potential to transform education assessment practices. The system's performance, limitations, and future research directions to improve efficiency are discussed.
Extraction of pentosan from corn cob
Authors: Zuo Jinlong , Jiang Shan , Ma Xuewei , Li Junsheng , Tan Chong , Xia Zhi
Published: April 2024

Corn is an important food crop, but its production often generates a large amount of corn cobs as waste. However, corn cobs contain rich polysaccharides, among which xylan is particularly noteworthy due to its various biological activities and wide potential applications. To improve the utilization rate of corn cobs, xylan is extracted from corn cobs using water extraction, examining the effects of three factors: extraction temperature, extraction time, and liquid-to-solid ratio on the extraction yield of xylan. Through response surface methodology, the optimal extraction conditions are obtained. The structure of the extract is analyzed using SEM, FTIR, and UV-VIS characterization techniques.
Determination of Quality of Drinking Water in Larkana based on the SPI model
Authors: Ali Niaz
Published: April 2024

In light of growing concerns over water contamination, particularly in regions like Sindh, Pakistan, this research aimed to evaluate and map the groundwater quality in Taluka Larkana for both drinking and irrigation applications, addressing the expressed worries of the local community. A total of forty groundwater samples were collected from various sources such as hand pumps, taps, and tube wells. These samples underwent comprehensive analysis encompassing parameters including color, odor, taste, turbidity, pH, total hardness (TH), electrical conductivity (EC), and total dissolved solids (TDS), with comparisons drawn against WHO guidelines.
Results indicated that taste, color, odor, and turbidity of the groundwater samples generally fell within acceptable ranges. However, EC levels varied from moderately elevated to excessively high. Notably, a significant proportion of samples (84% EC, 21% Cl, 30% Ca, 37% Mg, 22% TH, and 84% TDS) exceeded WHO-recommended thresholds.
Assessment via the SPI model classified approximately 16% of samples as moderately contaminated, while 65% were deemed highly contaminated, and 19% were found unsuitable for drinking purposes. These findings underscore the pressing need for concerted efforts to address water quality issues in the region.
The global biogeography of coastal oceanographic connectivity
Authors: Legrand Térence , Fragkopoulou Eliza , González-Trujillo Juan David , Assis Jorge
Published: April 2024

A better understanding of the extent to which coastal species passively disperse and establish connections across seascapes is instrumental for marine conservation and management, as well as biogeography and climate change research. This understanding is particularly relevant for projecting the dynamics of species' geographical ranges. However, a comprehensive perspective on the elemental structures and patterns of species connectivity along coastlines is currently lacking. To address this gap, we present a mechanistic biophysical approach designed to reveal communities in connectivity networks for a broad spectrum of taxonomic groups, including fishes, corals, molluscs, crustaceans, macroalgae, seagrasses, and mangroves on a global scale. This approach is grounded by 21 years of ocean current data and tuned by empirical information on species dispersal capacity, with kernels spanning from local to long-distance dispersal events. We delineate well-connected communities as distinct oceanographic units, explaining observed community composition derived from species range maps (approximately 4,000 species globally). We identify the location of connectivity barriers and the directional putative connectivity pathways at the global scale, revealing a global network between oceanographic units for each taxonomic group under consideration. By expanding connectivity analysis to the biogeographic scale, our findings establish baselines to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms controlling species dispersal and ongoing range shifts due to climate change. Additionally, they provide standards for the development of effective conservation and management spatial strategies for marine coastal species.
SARE (SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE RESEARCH AND EDUCATION PROGRAM)
Authors: Bird George W.
Published: April 2024

USDA is responsible for SARE (formerly LISA). Sustainable agriculture is defined in the 1990 Farm Bill as an integrated system of plant and animal production practices having site-specific application that will, over the long-term: satisfy human food and fiber needs; enhance environmental quality and the natural resource base upon which the agriculture economy depends; make the most efficient use of non-renewable resources and integrate, where appropriate, natural biological cycles and controls; sustain the economic viability of farm operations; and enhance the quality of life for farmers and society as a whole. Sustainable agriculture is a rapidly emerging concept and social movement. SARE is funded at $6.7 million annually, and managed through regional councils composed of farmers and ranchers, and representatives of non-profit private, agribusiness, government and academic organizations. The councils develop policy, allocate resources and organize oversight protocols. SARE projects place emphasis on whole farm, on-farm resource, economic, environmental, and quality of life issues.
MODIFIED ATMOSPHERE PACKAGING DETERMINATION OF THE LOW OXYGEN LIMIT OF APPLE FRUIT BY HEADSPACE ETHANOL ACCUMULATION
Authors: Gran Christopher D. , Beaudry Randolph M.
Published: April 2024

`Red Delicious', `Golden Delicious', `Marshall McIntosh', and `Redmax McIntosh' apple (Malus domestica, Borkh.) fruit were sealed in low density polyethylene packages and stored at 0 to 25°C (3 to 25°C for `McIntosh' strains) until steady-state respiration occurred. O2and CO2 partial pressures for packages were determined, after which headspace EtOH samples were drawn from packages with a range of O2 partial pressures. The lower O2 limit for each variety over the range of temperatures was determined by elevated EtOH levels. As temperatures increased, the minimum O2 partial pressure at which EtOH accumulated increased. Temperature effects varied with cultivars. In the case of `Golden Delicious' the lower O2 limit (determined by EtOH accumulation) ranged from 0.57 kPa at 0° C to 0.80 kPa at 25°C, while for `Marshall McIntosh' low O2 limit values ranged from 1.2 kPa at 3°C to 6.4 kPa at 25°C. Macerated tissue EtOH levels mimicked headspace EtOH levels, and headspace accumulation of EtOH with time indicated active fermentation of tissues.
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF APPLES FROM SEVERAL COUNTRIES.
Authors: Bongers Anton J. , Risse Lawrence A. , Bus Vincent G.
Published: April 2024

Comparisons were made of the major physical and chemical characteristics of seven cultivars of apples (Malus domestica Borkh.) produced and imported into Western Europe from 13 origins. During the 1990-91 (September-August) marketing season, `Delicious', `Golden Delicious' and `Granny Smith' apples from the U.S. were included in the study. Physical characteristics evaluated were length-to-diameter ratio, shape, external defects, internal defects, watercore, bruises, firmness, blush surface and color. Chemical characteristics evaluated were starch, juice content, soluble solids, acids and ascorbic acid. Statistically significant differences in some of these quality characteristics were found between the different origins. U.S. produced apples, particularly `Delicious', had some superior quality characteristics compared to fruit from other origins.
LIGHT INFLUENCE ON IN VITRO ANTHOCYANIN PRODUCTION IN THREE CRANBERRY (Vaccinum macrocarpon) CULTIVARS
Authors: Toledo J.U. , Smith M.A.L. , Spomer L. Art
Published: April 2024

The influence of spectral irradiance on in vitro anthocyanin production in white friable callus of cranberry cultivars `Stevens', `Searles', and `Ben Lear' was examined by modifying cool white fluorescent lamp emission. Filters were used to shift spectral balance to blue, yellow, and red wavelengths at different PPF levels within a span of 30 to 150 μmol m-2s-1. White, friable, dark-grown calli—originally derived from shoots and leaves of shoot culture stock plants—were maintained approximately 6 months with subculture every 4 wk. Uniform callus masses were then subcultured to pigment induction medium and transferred to treatment microenvironments. Visual and machine vision analysis of pigmentation was assessed weekly for one month. Higher PPF levels stimulated the most rapid anthocyanin synthesis. Calli in the blue treatment produced the greatest pigmentation within the first two weeks. All three cultivars responded similarly to the treatments, however, pigmentation was slightly more intense in `Ben Lear' at higher PPFs. Results indicate spectral irradiance significantly affects anthocyanin synthesis in cranberry callus cultures, and suggest that manipulation of the physical microenvironment is an important consideration in development of efficient in vitro natural pigment production systems.
A POSSIBLE DWARFING CHIMERA PRESENT IN A DWARF TRUMPET VINE, CAMPSIS SP.
Authors: Mackay Wayne A.
Published: April 2024

Actively growing shoots were collected from a mature dwarf trumpet vine in central Texas and successfully micropropagated. Plantlets were transferred to the greenhouse and acclimatized to in vivo conditions. Of the first 150 plants transferred to the greenhouse only two dwarf plants were recovered. The vigorous plants had altered leaf morphology and size, number of nodes to first flower, and internode length. However, flower morphology was unchanged. Conventional cuttings have now resulted in the recovery of several plants with both dwarf and vigorous phenotypes on the same plant. These results suggest the dwarf phenotype of the parent plant is controlled by a dwarfing chimera.
EVALUATION OF SOMACLONES REGENERATED FROM LEAVES OF `THORNLESS EVERGREEN' BLACKBERRY
Authors: Norton Margaret A. , Skirvin Robert M.
Published: April 2024

Plants were regenerated in vitro from intact lamina of Rubus laciniatus Willd. `Thornless Evergreen' (TE), a chimeral thornless form of `Evergreen' blackberry, which carries a thornless gene only in its epidermal tissue. Leaves without petioles or axillary buds were harvested from proliferating cultures and explanted onto modified Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium with various levels of BA, NAA and thidiazuron (TDZ). TDZ gave more consistent regeneration than BA. Up to 100% regeneration was observed with 0.2 μM TDZ plus NAA (0.25 or 1.0 μM) or 0.1 μM TDZ plus 1.0 μM NAA.

Regenerants from chimeral TE and a pure thornless somaclone (IL 6-6), were classified according to stem and petiole morphology and presence or absence of prickles. Most (74%) of the regenerants from chimeral TE showed marked stem and petiole twisting compared to 4% of the regenerants from IL 6-6. The plants with straightest petioles tended to have the most prickles. These regenerants have been field planted. Additional observations of these regenerants will be discussed.
DORMANT CARBOHYDRATE AND NUTRIENT RESERVES OF `REDHAVEN' PEACH ON THREE ROOTSTOCKS UNDER TWO ORCHARD FLOOR MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS.
Authors: Ellis Danielle R. , Reighard Gregory L. , Miller William B.
Published: April 2024

Trees of `Redhaven' peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] budded to Lovell, Bailey and Nemaguard rootstocks were grown with either bahiagrass or cultivated row-middles. Terminal shoots and roots were collected on four dates during 1991-92 (Nov. 15, Jan. 16, Feb. 26 and Apr. 1). On the April 1 collection date, trees grown with cultivated row-middles had higher levels of total soluble sugars and total carbohydrates in shoot tissue than trees grown with sod. There were no differences on any of the other dates. Orchard floor management did not affect the levels of Ca, Mg, K, P or Fe in shoots or roots. Trees on Nemaguard rootstock had significantly less starch and total carbohydrates in shoot tissue than those on Lovell on the last two collection dates. Shoot tissue of trees on Nemaguard and Bailey rootstocks had lower levels of K than those on Lovell. Sorbitol and total soluble sugar levels were higher in the root tissue of Lovell than Bailey and Nemaguard. Nemaguard had significantly higher levels of starch in root tissue than Lovell and Bailey. Nemaguard and Bailey had lower levels of Mg in roof tissue than Lovell.
SIZE-CONTROLLING APPLE ROOTSTOCK EFFECTS ON FINAL TREE DRY WEIGHT AND TOTAL PRODUCTIVE EFFICIENCY
Authors: Elfying D.C. , Schechter I.
Published: April 2024

After 12 growing seasons, `Starkspur Supreme Delicious' apple trees on 9 rootstock genotypes from very vigorous (MAC 24) to very dwarfing (M.27 EMLA) were divided into branches, trunk, rootstock shank, and roots, and total fresh and dry weights of each component determined. Final tree dry weight (DW) ranged from 2 kg (M.27 EMLA) to 90 kg (MAC 24). Both total top DW and total tree DW (including roots) were closely and linearly related to final trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA). Both total cumulative fruit fresh weight and DW per kg final tree DW increased curvilinearly with smaller final TCSA. The percentage of cumulative fruit DW plus final tree DW in fruit increased curvilinearly with smaller final TCSA. Although 9 distinct rootstock genotypes of widely different vigors were included, the close relationships of tree DW and the distribution of DW between fruit vs. wood to final TCSA suggested that rootstock effects on both vigor and productivity were mediated through a single overall mechanism.
GROWTH AND ANATOMY DIFFERENTIATE ABORTING FROM NON-ABORTING FLOWERS AND FRUITS IN PECAN
Authors: Yates I. , Sparks D.
Published: April 2024

Growth and anatomical variations were compared between aborting and non-aborting pistillate flowers\fruits for the four physiological drops common to pecan. Size differences were larger between aborting and non-aborting flowers\fruits during early than late season drops. Flowers aborting during first drop typically had retarded development of the integument. Embryo sacs were invaginated in second drop fruits and distended in non-aborting fruits. Nucellar tissue and coencytic endosperm persisted in third drop fruits; whereas, nucellar tissue was degraded and the embryo surrounded by cellular endosperm in non-aborting fruits. The major defect in aborting fruits in the fourth drop was aberrant embryo development. Thus, aborting flowers\fruits had anomalies in the development of nonembryonic tissue during the first three drops and of embryonic tissue at the fourth drop.
IDENTIFYING THE OPTIMUM TEMPERATURE AND TIME FOR AERATED WATER SOAK TREATMENT TO STIMULATE RED OAK ACORN GERMINATION
Authors: Hurt N. , Struve D. , Bennett M.
Published: April 2024

Earlier work demonstrated that red oak acorns subjected to an Aerated Water Soak (AWS) treatment had germination characteristics similar to osmo-conditioned vegetable seeds; acorn germination was accelerated and more uniform than untreated seeds. However, the optimum AWS time and temperature are unknown. Stratified bulk collections of red oak acorns were subjected to a factorial combination of AWS times (0, 3, 6, 9, 12 or 15 days) and temperatures (0, 5, 10 or 15°C). Following treatment, germination tests were conducted. Additional studies explored the effects of the AWS treatment combinations on seed respiration.
TOLERANCE OF CONTAINER-GROWN AZALEA AND LIRIOPE TO FOLIAR-APPLIED HERBICIDES THAT CONTROL NUTSEDGE.
Authors: Hurt R. Todd , Vencill William K.
Published: April 2024

Rhododendron L. `Macrantha Orange' and Liriope muscari Bailey were treated with four herbicides at two rates each to determine phytotoxicity. The herbicide treatments were: imazethapyr at 280 and 560 g ha-1, imazaquin at 280 and 560 g ha-1, AC-263, 222 at 35 and 70 g ha-1, and MON12037 at 9 and 18 g ha-1(treatments 1 - 8, respectively). Growth measurements and visual ratings were taken for the azalea and liriope at 28 DAT. No damage from any of the treatments was observed on the liriope. Azalea new growth reductions were (by treatment): (1) 83%, (2) 85%, (3) 87%, (4) 70%, (5) 57%, (6) 72%, (7) 44%, and (8) 24%. Azaleas receiving treatments 1-6 exhibited a loss of apical dominance resulting in multiple shoot formations below the terminal bud. The new leaves mat emerged with treatments 5 & 6 were underdeveloped and chlorotic. Treatments 7 & 8 caused the least amount of stunting and did not induce any additional adverse effects.
INFORMATION SEARCH PATTERNS OF PERENNIAL PLANT CONSUMERS
Authors: Rhodus W. Timothy , Widhalm Laura
Published: April 2024

A declining number of knowledgeable sales staff in the garden center has increased the importance of signs and tags. Information that is provided by these mechanisms may influence purchasing decisions. Since performance of a plant product in a consumer's yard affects their satisfaction level, it is necessary to effectively assist their information collection and decision process.

Horticultural consumer behavior studies regarding information search patterns have not been done before. An experiment using an information display board technique was used. Consumers were first evaluated on numerous consumer attributes. Then they were presented with 6 perennial plants and asked if this is a plant they would purchase for their own yard. The option to collect information about the plant was provided. Finally, consumer response to 11 plant attribute factors was determined. The degree, direction, and sequence of the consumer's information search was recorded and an overall pattern was discovered.
VEGETABLE DAMAGE REDUCTION WITH DECELERATORS
Authors: Marshall Dale E.
Published: April 2024

The handling of mechanically harvested vegetables typically results in significant impact damage (bruises, broken or splits) when falling 1.8 to 2.8 m into empty field transport vehicles. To reduce this damage, reinforced vinyl hammock designs were suspended 0.7 m above the bottom of the container on rubber elastic springs. As the vegetables filled the hammock it settled to the floor. The hammock and spring system provided cushioning and significant damage reduction compared to when vegetables directly impacted the bare floor. Field studies with the hammock showed a 65 to 80% damage reduction to the first 15 to 20 cm depth of carrots and onions and 50% reduction in pickling cucumbers and potatoes. Compared to active systems such as an air bag, passive decelerators are simple, relatively inexpensive and significantly reduce impact damage. The cost effectiveness depends on the number of fills per season. Typical frequency of use of high-lifts in carrots (30 to 35 times/day) will pay for the hammock system in 1 season. To maintain field quality for the consumer, the impact damage encountered in field harvesting and handling operations can and must be reduced.
ANTHOCYANIN MOSAICISM IN PEACH: EVIDENCE FOR AN ACTIVE TRANSPOSABLE ELEMENT
Authors: Chaparro J. , Werner D. , Whetten R. , O'Malley D. , Sederoff R.
Published: April 2024

Anthocyanin mosaicism in peach was investigated in the cultivar `Pillar' and its progeny. Reversion of the unstable white flower (w) allele in `Pillar' gave rise to mericlinal chimeras of non-pigmented and pigmented tissues. Self seeds obtained from chimeric shoots with green stems, red sepals, and bright pink flowers produced only anthocyaninless progeny, suggesting reversion in the LI cell layer. Mutant sectors with red stems, green sepals, and pale pink flowers produced about 50% pigmented progeny, suggesting reversion in LII tissue. Mendelian segregation of the revertant phenotype was demonstrated by crossing pollen from revertant red shoots (LII revertants) onto a stable anthocyaninless female of genotype GrGrww. Progeny segregated approximately 1:1 for anthocyanin production (red leaf color) and anthocyanin absence, respectively. Pollen from flowers on green-stemmed sectors produced predominantly anthocyaninless progeny when crossed to GrGrww females. Reversion of the unstable w allele in green-leafed progeny from these crosses was greater in LI than in LII tissue. Genetic evidence supports the contention that anthocyanin instability in `Pillar' is due to transposable element activity.
DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING OF F1 HYBRID PEACHES AS AN ALTERNATIVE PEACH PRODUCTION STRATEGY
Authors: Scorza Ralph , Pooler Margaret
Published: April 2024

F1 hybrids have not been used in tree breading because 1) there have generally not been technologies for the production of homozygous lines; 2) in most species homozygosity leads to severe inbreeding depression and the inability to sustain inbred lines; and 3) in the case of tree fruits the long juvenile periods of most species makes it impractical to use F1 hybrid seed for fruit production. Unlike most species, the peach may be particularly suited to the development of F1 hybrid rootstock or scion varieties because it tolerates inbreeding and the juvenility period is relatively short (2-3 yrs). Doubled haploid peaches, including male sterile lines, were obtained from T.K. Toyama (Hortscience 9:187). Intercrossing male sterile and fertile lines, we produced seven F1 hybrid populations. F1 trees fruited in the third growing season. Flowering, fruit production and fruit quality were uniform within each F1 hybrid population. Fruit quality of the different F1 hybrid lines ranged widely. Productivity was high and tree growth vigorous. These observations suggest the potential for the use of F1 hybrids for peach rootstock and scion variety development.
PROVISIONAL RELEASE OF BY520-9 PEACH ROOTSTOCK FOR THE SOUTHEASTERN UNITED STATES
Authors: Okie W.R. , Beckman T.G. , Reighard G.L.
Published: April 2024

Most peaches in the Southeast are propagated on either Lovell [moderate longevity on peach tree short-life (PTSL) site, but root-knot nematode susceptible] or Nemaguard (short longevity on PTSL site; root-knot resistant) seedling rootstock. Rootstock BY520-9 appears to confer longer scion life than Lovell on PTSL sites and to be as resistant as Nemaguard to root-knot nematode, based on results from 9-year trials in Georgia and South Carolina followed by a 5-year budded trial in South Carolina. Parental line B594520-9 is a relic of USDA root-knot resistance breeding and traces back to a 1955 cross between a seedling of S-37 and Nemaguard. USDA and Clemson are making available bulked seed from superior selections of B594520-9, collectively known as BY510-9, to facilitate broad-scale industry testing. Plant Variety Protection (PVP) for BY520-9 is being applied for. Testing to select a single parental genotype continues at several southeastern test sites.
ORGANIZATION OF LIMA BEAN GERMPLASM BASED ON RAPD BANDING PATTERNS
Authors: James Nienhuis. , Santos J.B.dos , Tivang J. , Skroch P.
Published: April 2024

Genetic distance was estimated among 65 Phaseolus lunarus genotypes, which included 4 large seeded and 8 small seeded cultivars, and 53 landraces from the the Caribbean, North, Central and South America. Based on 130 polymorphic RAPD bands two major clusters were observed among the landraces, which generally corresponded with small and large seed size (Fig. 1). The four `Forkhook' type cultivars and a landrace from the USA formed a separate cluster, which was most closely related the the large seeded landraces.
MAPPING COMMON BLIGHT RESISTANCE LOCI IN PHASEOLUS VULGARIS L. USING RANDOM AMPLIFIED POLYMORPHIC DNA (RAPD) MARKERS
Authors: Jung Geunhwa , Skroch Paul W. , Coyne Dermot P. , Nienhuis James , Arnaud-Santana E.
Published: April 2024

Common bacterial blight (CBB) disease, incited by Xanthomonas campestris pv phaseoli (Smith) Dye (Xcp) is an important disease of common beans. Low heritabilities and low genetic correlations were found previously for reactions to Xcp in leaves, pods, and seeds in recombinant inbred (RI) F6 lines from the cross `PC-50 × XAN-159'. RAPD reactions were conducted on the above RI lines of known reactions to Xcp. 134 RAPD markers were mapped to 14 linkage groups using 70 F6 RI lines. Genomic regions involved in the genetic control of the traits were found using single-factor ANOVAs and regression analyses. For seed, pod and leaf reactions, 6, 2, and 5 putative QTLs were identified, which accounted for about 51%, 29%, and 57% of the phenotypic variation in CBB resistance. QTLs were generally independently distributed except for one linkage group with closely linked QTLs for resistance in all plant parts. Molecular marker results confirm previous phenotypic Xcp reaction findings and also may provide for more efficient selection for resistance in the different plant organs.
OCTYLPHENOXY SURFACTANT-ENHANCEMENT OF NAPHTHYLENE ACETIC ACID (NAA) AND BENZYLADENINE (BA) PENETRATION THROUGH ISOLATED TOMATO FRUIT CUTICLES
Authors: Petracek Peter D. , Knoche Moritz , Fader Royal G. , Bukovac Martin J.
Published: April 2024

The cuticle is the primary barrier to the penetration of foliar applied chemicals. Recent studies indicate that octylphenoxy polyethoxylated surfactants (Triton X, TX) directly enhance cuticular permeability. An infinite dose diffusion system, which consisted of donor and receiver cells interfaced by a cuticular membrane (CM) enzymatically isolated from mature tomato fruit, was used to determine surfactant effect on growth regulator penetration. Steady state penetration of CM and dewaxed CM by the nondissociated forms of radiolabelled NAA and BA was followed successively after. (1) NAA or BA addition to donor cell, then (2) surfactant (0.1% w/v) addition to donor or receiver cell, and finally (3) surfactant addition to the other cell. The ratio of growth regulator permeances after to before surfactant addition (Pa/b)was used to quantify the surfactant effect In general, surfactants increased growth regulator penetration regardless of the location of surfactant addition, presence of waxes, or cuticle orientation to the donor solution (average Pa/b: NAA + TX-45, 6.1; BA + TX-100, 2.1). Surfactantenhanced penetration did not depend on growth regulator/surfactant copenetration since the enhancement was observed when the two components were in opposite cells. This suggested that the surfactant acted directly on cuticle. Transient state analysis of growth regulator sorption/desorption did not indicate a clear surfactant effect on either diffusivity or partitioning. However, latent effects of TX-45 on NAA penetration were seen also for sorption and desorption.
CYTOCHROME AND ALTERNATE RESPIRATORY PATHWAY CAPACITIES OF PEACH EMBRYOS
Authors: Moreno Yerko M. , Azarenko Anita Nina
Published: April 2024

`Lovell' peach seeds were stratified for 0 to 12 weeks at 4°C under moist conditions. Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was used to study the respiratory capacity for the cytochrome (CP) and alternative (AP) pathway of the embryos during this period. Azide and SHAM titration curves were obtained by measuring the heat of metabolism produced by the excised embryos after vacuum infiltration with appropriate combinations of the two inhibitors.

Uninhibited total respiratory activity increased steadily with the stratification treatment. AP capacity of the embryos was higher than CP capacity for the first 4 weeks of stratification. Between 4 and 6 weeks, CP capacity increased markedly and after 6 weeks was at least 40% higher than AP capacity. This rise on CP capacity coincided with the point at which an increase in seedling vigor and germinative capacity was observed and is in agreement with previous studies suggesting a change in respiratory efficiency as being responsible for the increase in seedling vigor.
LEAF AREA TO CLUSTER WEIGHT RATIO ON FRUIT VISUAL COLOR, CONTENTS OF TOTAL ANTHOCYANIN AND INDIVIDUAL ANTHOCYANINS OF RELIANCE GRAPES (Vitis hybrid)
Authors: Gao Yu , Cahoon Garth A.
Published: April 2024

Fruit color parameters including fruit red color, total anthocyanin content, and individual anthocyanins content in response to leaf area to cluster weight ratio (LACWR, cm2/g), were investigated using Reliance grapevines grown in the field. Non-linear parametric models were used to describe the relationship between LACWR and fruit color parameters. The critical levels in LACWRs required for maximum fruit red color, total anthocyanin content, delphinidin-3-glucoside, cyanldin-3-glucoside, petunidin-3-glucoside, peonldin-3-glucoside, malvidin-3-glucoside, and cyanldin-3-(p-coumarin)-glucoside contents, were 7.85, 8.09, 7.85, 8.19, 8.52, 8.52, 9.25, 7.92, respectively. Delphinidin-3-glucoside (critical LACWR, 7.85) or cyanldin-3-(p-coumarin)-glucoside (critical LACWR, 7.92) showed much closer association with fruit red visual color than cyanldin-3-glucoside (critical LACWR 8.19). Much higher LACWRs were required for the evolution of petunidin-3-glucoside, peonidin-3-glucoside, or malvidin-3-glucoside than for the fruit visual color. This indicates that petunldin-3-glucoside, peonldin-3-glucoside, or malvidin-3-glucoside contributed much less to fruit red visual color than delphinidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-glucoside, or cyanldin-3-(p-coumarin)-glucoside.
CARBOHYDRATE METABOLISM IN GA3-TREATED AND POLLINATED RABBITEYE BLUEBERRY FRUITS.
Authors: Cano-M. Raquel , Darnell Rebecca L.
Published: April 2024

Carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes and carbohydrate accumulation were examined in pollinated, non-pollinated and GA3-treated blueberry fruit. Our hypothesis was that GA3 induces fruit set in blueberry by increasing the carbohydrate metabolizing enzyme activity in the ovary with a subsequent increase in carbohydrate mobilization. FW of non-pollinated fruits increased little between 0-45 days, when abscission occurred. FW of GA3-treated and pollinated fruits increased from 20 mg at anthesis to 1 and 2 g, respectively, at ripening. Insoluble invertase activity decreased from 15 μmol gFW-1 h-1 at anthesis to 3 μmol gFW-1 h-1 at 45 DAA for GA3-treated and pollinated fruits, and 9 μmol gFW-1 h-1 in non-pollinated fruits. Soluble invertase was undetectable in any treatment from 0 to 45 days, but rose sharply, averaging 57 μmol gFW-1 h-1 at ripening for both GA3-treated and pollinated fruits. No consistent correlation was found between ovary carbohydrate concentration and fruit growth among treatments. Differences in fruit set and size among treatments were not due to differences in enzyme activity and subsequent differences in carbohydrate accumulation.