bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting the S-allele Nomenclature in Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium) Using RFLP Profiles
Authors: Hauck Nathanael R. , Iezzoni Amy F. , Yamane Hisayo , Tao Ryutaro
Published: January 2019

Correct assignment of self-incompatibility alleles (S-alleles) in sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) is important to assure fruit set in field plantings and breeding crosses. Until recently, only six S-alleles had been assigned. With the determination that the stylar product of the S-locus is a ribonuclease (RNase) and subsequent cloning of the S-RNases, it has been possible to use isoenzyme and DNA analysis to genotype S-alleles. As a result, numerous additional S-alleles have been identified; however, since different groups used different strategies for genotype analysis and different cultivars, the nomenclature contained inconsistencies and redundancies. In this study restriction fragment-length polymorphism (RFLP) profiles are presented using HindIII, EcoRI, DraI, or XbaI restriction digests of the S-alleles present in 22 sweet cherry cultivars which were chosen based upon their unique S-allele designations and/or their importance to the United States sweet cherry breeding community. Twelve previously published alleles (S1, S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, S9, S10, S11, S12, and S13) could be differentiated by their RFLP profiles for each of the four restriction enzymes. Two new putative S-alleles, both found in `NY1625', are reported, bringing the total to 14 differentiable alleles. We propose the adoption of a standard nomenclature in which the sweet cherry cultivars `Hedelfingen' and `Burlat' are S3S5 and S3S9, respectively. Fragment sizes for each S-allele/restriction enzyme combination are presented for reference in future S-allele discovery projects.
Nitrogen Status and Light Environment Influence Dry Matter Partitioning in Cauliflower
Authors: Alt C. , Kage H. , Stützel H.
Published: January 2019

Concepts of above-ground dry matter partitioning in cauliflower [Brassica oleracea L. (Botrytis Group)] as dependent on nitrogen (N) supply and light environment are presented. Leaf and stem partitioning depends on a functional relationship between stem dry weight and leaf area, independent of N status. Dry matter partitioning into the inflorescence is sink-limited (potential capacity) at the beginning, and source limited (daily available assimilates) later. The intrinsic specific growth rate of the inflorescence is dependent on leaf N content. The model is parameterized and evaluated with data from field experiments. Applied to an independent data set, the model predictions of proportions of inflorescence, leaf, and stem on total dry matter corresponded with measurements (r = 0.84, 0.92 and 0.22, respectively) for different N fertilization rates and light treatments.
Model-based Control of Nutrient Solution Concentration Influences Tomato Growth and Fruit Quality
Authors: Schwarz D. , Kläring H.-P. , Ingram K.T. , Hung Y.-C.
Published: January 2019

Diurnal changes in microclimate in a greenhouse are often greater than changes in daily averages over weeks or months. Thus, one may hypothesize that changing the nutrient solution concentration supplied to plants at intervals less than one day would improve tomato yield and quality. To test this hypothesis research was conducted to compare four nutrient control strategies for their effects on plant growth, fruit yield, fruit quality, and root characteristics of `Counter' tomato [Lycopersicon esculentum (L.) Mill.]. The four strategies were 1) ECvariable, adjustment of nutrient solution electrical conductivity (EC) at 15-min intervals according to greenhouse microclimate over the previous 15-min and empirical models of photosynthesis and transpiration; 2) ECdaily, daily adjustment of nutrient solution EC based on each morning's 24-hour weather forecast; 3) EC3.7, supply of a single high nutrient solution of 3.7 dS·m-1; or 4) EC1.5, low nutrient solution EC of 1.5 dS·m-1 for the entire growth period. Mean effluent EC levels were 1.8 dS·m-1 for treatment EC1.5, 5.1 dS·m-1 for treatment EC3.7, 3.6 dS·m-1 for treatment ECdaily, and 3.4 dS·m-1 for treatment ECvariable. Except for fresh weight (FW) of roots, growth characteristics did not differ significantly among treatments. Total production averaged 12.2 kg·m-2 FW and 1.0 kg·m-2 dry weight (DW); and fruit yield averaged 6.7 kg·m-2. Dry matter content, yield loss to blossom-end rot, and firmness responded linearly to treatment EC. In general, ECdaily yielded higher fruit quality and ECvariable lower fruit quality than that predicted by linear regression. Although our strategy of short-term dynamic changes of nutrient solution EC according to changes in climate variables did not increase yield, daily adjustment of nutrient solution EC improved external fruit quality characteristics and may be practical for grower adoption.
Partitioning of Sorbitol and Sucrose Catabolism within Peach Fruit
Authors: Bianco Riccardo Lo , Rieger Mark
Published: January 2019

The peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch (Peach Group)] fruit is a sink organ comprised of different types of tissue, which undergoes three distinct developmental stages during the growth season. The objective of this study was to characterize the activity and partitioning of sorbitol and sucrose catabolism within `Encore' peach fruit to determine whether the two forms of translocated carbon play different roles in the various fruit tissues and/or stages of development. Sorbitol catabolic activity was defined as the sum of NAD-dependent sorbitol dehydrogenase (SDH) and sorbitol oxidase (SOX) activities, whereas sucrose catabolic activity was defined as the sum of sucrose synthase (SS), soluble acid invertase (AI), and neutral invertase (NI) activities. Partitioning of sorbitol and sucrose catabolism in each tissue was calculated as percentage of total sorbitol or sucrose catabolic activity in the entire fruit. At cell division, sorbitol catabolic activity was similar in the endocarp and mesocarp, but lower in the seed. However, sorbitol catabolism was mostly partitioned into the mesocarp, due to its large size compared to that of other tissues. SDH was more active in the mesocarp, while SOX was more active in the endocarp. Sucrose catabolism was most active and partitioned mainly into the endocarp. At endocarp hardening, both sorbitol and sucrose catabolic activities were highest in the seed, but despite this, sucrose catabolism was partitioned mostly in the mesocarp. At cell expansion, sorbitol and sucrose catabolic activities were still higher in the seed only when expressed on a weight basis and similar in mesocarp and seed when expressed on a protein basis. Both sorbitol and sucrose catabolism were partitioned mostly into the mesocarp. Sorbitol and sucrose contents were generally higher in the tissues that exhibited lower catabolic activities. All carbohydrates were always partitioned mostly into the mesocarp. Our results show that, at the cell division and endocarp hardening stages, sorbitol and sucrose catabolism are partitioned differently in the fruit and that SDH activity may play an important role in mesocarp cell division and final fruit size determination.
Colored Plastic Film Mulches Affect Tomato Growth and Yield Via Changes in Root-zone Temperature
Authors: Díaz-Pérez Juan C. , Batal K. Dean
Published: January 2019

Soil warming is one of the benefits associated with use of plastic film mulches. However, under high temperature conditions during the summer, especially in the southeastern United States, some mulches warm the soil to temperatures that might be deleterious to plant growth. Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) plants grown in the field were exposed to a range of root-zone temperatures (RZTs), resulting from growing the plants in different seasons and by using colored mulches that differed in their soil-warming ability. The objective was to determine the relationship of mean seasonal RZT, as affected by different colored plastic film mulches, with plant growth and fruit yield. The study consisted of experiments carried out in three seasons: Fall 1999 (five mulches, one cultivar), Spring 2000 (eight mulches and three cultivars), and Fall 2000 (four mulches and three cultivars). Treatments were black (n = 2), gray, red, silver (n = 3), and white (n = 2) mulches, and bare soil. Over the season, mean RZT decreased in the fall (from 32 to 24 °C) and increased in the spring (from 20 to 29 °C). Daily mean values of RZT over the season under plastic mulches were higher (1 to 5 °C) than those of air temperature. The highest RZT at midday occurred under black mulch, and the lowest under bare soil and white mulch. Bare soil showed the largest diurnal RZT fluctuation. RZT at midday was up to 4 °C higher under black or gray mulch compared to the other mulches or bare soil. The degree of soil warming was correlated with reflectivity of the mulch. Black mulch had the lowest light reflectance [10% photosynthetically active radiation (PAR)] while silver mulch had the highest (55% PAR). There were, however, differences in reflectance among mulches of the same color depending on the manufacturer. RZT affected vegetative top fresh weight (FW), fruit yield, fruit number, and individual fruit FW. All these growth attributes fitted a quadratic relationship with mean RZT for the season, with an optimal that ranged between 25.4 and 26.3 °C. The effects of colored mulches on plant response depended on the impact of the mulch on RZT. Plant growth and yield were highest as RZT approached the optimal RZT for the plants.
Incident Irradiance and Cupric Hydroxide Container Treatment Effects on Early Growth and Development of Container-grown Pawpaw Seedlings
Authors: Pomper Kirk W. , Layne Desmond R. , Jones Snake C.
Published: January 2019

The North American pawpaw [Asimina triloba (L.) Dunal] has great potential as a fruit crop or as a landscape plant. The influence of incident irradiance on pawpaw seedling growth and development in containers was examined in the greenhouse and outdoors. Root spiraling can be a problem for container-grown pawpaw seedlings; therefore, the influence of paint containing cupric hydroxide [Cu(OH)2] at 100 g·L-1 applied to the interior of containers on plant growth was also examined in a greenhouse environment. In pawpaw seedlings grown outdoors for 11 weeks, low to moderate shading levels of 28%, 51%, or 81% increased leaf number, total leaf area, and total plant dry weight (DW) compared to nonshaded seedlings. A shading level of 81% decreased the root to shoot ratio by half compared to nonshaded plants. Shading of 98% reduced leaf number, leaf size, and shoot, root, and total plant DW. Shading increased leaf chlorophyll a and b concentrations for pawpaw seedlings grown outdoors, while it decreased average specific leaf DW (mg·cm-2). In a separate greenhouse experiment, pawpaw seedlings subjected to shade treatments of 0%, 33%, 56%, 81%, or 98% did not respond as greatly to shading as plants grown outdoors. Greenhouse-grown plants had greater total and average leaf area under 33% or 56% shading than nonshaded plants; however, shading >56% reduced root, shoot, and total plant DW. Total shoot DW was greater in greenhouse grown plants with 33% shading compared to nonshaded plants. Pawpaw seedlings in control and most shade treatments (33% to 81%) in the greenhouse environment had more leaves and greater leaf area, as well as larger shoot, root, and total plant DW than seedlings in similar treatments grown outdoors. The greenhouse environment had a 10% lower irradiance, a 60% lower ultraviolet irradiance, and a significantly higher (1.23 vs. 1.20) red to far-red light ratio than the outdoors environment. Treatment of container interiors with Cu(OH)2 decreased total and lateral root DW in nonshaded seedlings, and it adversely affected plant quality by causing a yellowing of leaves and reduction of chlorophyll levels by the end of the experiment in shaded plants. Growth characteristics of pawpaw seedlings were positively influenced by low to moderate shading (28% or 51%) outdoors and low shading (33%) in the greenhouse. Seedlings did not benefit from application of Cu(OH)2 to containers at the concentration used in this study. Commercial nurseries can further improve production of pawpaw seedlings using low to moderate shading outdoors.
Photothermal Ratio Affects Plant Quality in `Freedom' Poinsettia
Authors: Liu Bin , Heins Royal D.
Published: January 2019

Light (radiant energy) and temperature (thermal energy) affect quality of greenhouse crops. Radiant energy drives photosynthesis and, consequently, plant biomass accumulation. Thermal energy is the primary environmental factor driving developmental rate. The concept of a photothermal ratio (PTR), the ratio of radiant energy [moles of photosynthetic (400 to 700 nm) photons/m2] to thermal energy (degree-day), was proposed to describe the balance between plant growth and plant development in greenhouse crops. The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of PTR during vegetative (PTRv) or reproductive (PTRr) phases on finished plant quality of `Freedom' poinsettia (Euphorbia pulcherrima Willd. ex Klotzsch). In Expt. 1, plants were grown under 27 combinations of three constant temperatures (19, 23, or 27 °C), three daily light integrals (DLIs) as measured by the number of photosynthetic (400 to 700 nm) photons (5, 10, or 20 mol·m-2·d-1), and three plant spacings (15 × 15, 22 × 22, or 30 × 30 cm) from pinch to the start of short-day flower induction, and then moved to a common PTR until anthesis. In Expt. 2, plants were grown under a common PTR during the vegetative stage and then moved to combinations of three DLIs (5, 10, or 15 mol·m-2·d-1) and three plant spacings (25 × 25, 30 × 30, or 35 × 35 cm) at a constant 20 °C from the start of short days until anthesis. Both PTRr and PTRv affected final plant dry weight (DW). All components of DW (total, stem, leaf, and bract) increased linearly as PTRr increased, and responded quadratically to PTRv, reaching a maximum when PTRv was 0.04 mol/degree-day per plant. Stem strength depended more on PTRv than PTRr. When PTRv increased from 0.02 to 0.06 mol/degree-day per plant, stem diameter increased ≈24%, while stem strength increased 75%. The size of bracts and cyathia increased linearly as PTRr increased, but was unaffected by PTRv. When PTRr increased from 0.02 to 0.06 mol/degree-day per plant, bract area, inflorescence diameter, and cyathia diameter increased 45%, 23%, and 44%, respectively.
Combining Engineered (Bt-cry3A) and Natural Resistance Mechanisms in Potato for Control of Colorado Potato Beetle
Authors: Coombs Joseph J. , Douches David S. , Li Wenbin , Grafius Edward J. , Pett Walter L.
Published: January 2019

The Colorado potato beetle [Leptinotarsa decemlineata Say (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)] is a destructive pest of the cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) in northern latitudes. Combining resistance mechanisms of leptine glycoalkaloids and glandular trichomes with the synthetic Bacillus thuringiensis Berliner (Bt) cry3A gene in potato may be an effective strategy for controlling the Colorado potato beetle. Bt-cry3A transgenic plants were developed for three potato lines with differing levels of resistance to Colorado potato beetle ['Yukon Gold' (susceptible control), USDA8380-1 (leptine glycoalkaloids), and NYL235-4 (glandular trichomes)]. Polymerase chain reaction, and Southern and northern blot analyses confirmed integration and transcription of the cry3A gene in the transgenic lines. Detached-leaf bioassays of the cry3A engineered transgenic lines demonstrated that resistance effectively controlled feeding by first instar Colorado potato beetles. The susceptible `Yukon Gold' control suffered 32.3% defoliation, the nontransformed high foliar leptine line (USDA8380-1) had 3.0% defoliation, and the nontransformed glandular trichome line (NYL235-4) had 32.9% defoliation. Mean percentage defoliation for all transgenic lines ranged between 0.1% and 1.9%. Mean mortality ranged from 0.0% to 98.9% among the Bt-cry3A transgenic lines, compared to 20% for the susceptible `Yukon Gold' control, 32.2% for USDA8380-1, and 16.4% for NYL235-4. Results indicate that genetic engineering and the availability of natural resistance mechanisms of potato provide the ability to readily combine host plant resistance factors with different mechanisms in potato.
Growth and Yield of Iron-deficient Chile Peppers in Sand Culture
Authors: Anchondo J.A. , Wall M.M. , Gutschick V.P. , Smith D.W.
Published: January 2019

Growth and yield responses of `New Mexico 6-4' and `NuMex R Naky' chile pepper [Capsicum annuum L. var. annuum (Longum Group)] to four Fe levels were studied under sand culture. A balanced nutrient solution (total nutrient concentration <2 mmol·L-1) was recirculated continuously to plants potted in acid-washed sand from the seedling stage to red fruit harvest. Plants received 1, 3, 10 or 30 μm Fe as ferric ethylenediamine di-(o-hydroxyphenyl-acetate). Plant growth was determined by leaf area, specific leaf area [(SLA), leaf area per unit dry weight of leaves], instantaneous leaf photosynthetic rates, and dry matter partitioning. Low Fe (1 or 3 μm Fe) in the nutrient solution was associated with lower relative growth rates (RGR), increased SLA, and higher root to shoot ratios (3 μm Fe plants only) at final harvest. High Fe levels (10 or 30 μm Fe) in the nutrient solution were associated with an increased yield of red fruit and total plant dry matter. RGR of low-Fe young chile plants was reduced before any chlorotic symptoms appeared.
Estimation of Viable Root-length Density of Heat-tolerant `Crenshaw' and `L93' Creeping Bentgrass by an Accumulative Degree-day Model
Authors: Schlossberg Maxim J. , Karnok Keith J. , Landry Gil
Published: January 2019

Subjection of intensively managed creeping bentgrass [Agrostis stolonifera L. var. palustris (Huds.). Farw., (syn. Agrostis palustris Huds.)] to supraoptimal soil temperatures is deleterious to root viability and longevity. The ability to estimate viable root length would enable creeping bentgrass managers to more accurately schedule certain management practices. The purpose of this rhizotron study was to develop a model, based on an accumulated degree-day (ADD) method, capable of estimating viable root length density of established `Crenshaw' and `L93' creeping bentgrass maintained under putting green conditions. Viable root length density observations were made biweekly and soil temperature data collected April through September 1997, and January through August 1998 and 1999. Relative viable root length density (RVRLD) is defined as the measured viable root length density divided by the maximum density attained that spring. In both years, maximum annual viable root length density for all plots was reached, on average, by 138 days from the beginning of the year (18 May). Cultivar and year effects were nonsignificant (P = 0.67 and 0.20, respectively). Degree-day heat units were calculated using an array of base temperatures by integral and arithmetical methods. Although the two accumulative methods proved suitable, the model regressing arithmetical degree-day accumulations against the bentgrass RVRLD provided a better fit to the data set. Use of the 10 °C base temperature in the arithmetical ADD calculations provided the following model; RVRLD = 0.98 - [1.30 × 10-4 (ADD)], accounting for 83.8% of the experimental variability (P < 0.0001). As several abiotic/edaphic factors have been shown to significantly influence root growth and viability, development of a widely usable model would include additional factors.
Genetic Relationships of Pyrus Species and Cultivars Native to East Asia Revealed by Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA Markers
Authors: Teng Yuanwen , Tanabe Kenji , Tamura Fumio , Itai Akihiro
Published: January 2019

A total of 118 Pyrus sp. (pear) and cultivars native mainly to east Asia were subjected to randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis to evaluate genetic variation and relationships among the accessions. Two hundred fifty RAPD markers were scored from 20 decamer primers. RAPD markers specific to species were identified. Clustering analysis revealed two divisions: one comprising cultivars of P. communis L., and the other including all accessions of Pyrus native to east Asia. The grouping of the species and cultivars by RAPD data largely agrees with morphological pear taxonomy. However, some noted incongruence existed between two classification methods. Pyrus calleryana Dcne. clustered together with P. koehnei Schneid., P. fauriei Schneid. and P. dimorphophylla Makino. Pyrus betulaefolia Bge. clustered with P. ×hopeiensis Yu and P. ×phaeocarpa Rehd. A noncultivated clone of P. aromatica Kikuchi et Nakai grouped with P. aromatica cultivars. Pyrus hondoensis Nakai et Kikuchi and cultivars of P. ussuriensis Max. formed a single group. Some accessions from Korea (named Korean pear) had species-specific RAPD markers and comprised an independent group. Most of the Chinese white pears clustered together with most of the Chinese sand pears. Based on the present results, the new nomenclature P. pyrifolia var. sinensis (Lindley) Teng et Tanabe for Chinese white pear was suggested. Most accessions of Japanese pears fell into one main group, whereas pear cultivars from Kochi Prefecture of Japan subclustered with some Chinese sand pears and one accession from Korea. Our results infer that some local Japanese pear cultivar populations may have been derived from cultivars native to Kochi Prefecture in Shikoku region, and that the latter may have been introduced from ancient China and/or Korea.
Inheritance and Interactions of Necrotic, Mottled, and Resistant Reactions to Lettuce Mosaic Virus in Lettuce
Authors: Ryder Edward J.
Published: January 2019

Segregation data from crosses between necrotic and mottled lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) parents showed that a single gene controls the difference in type of reaction to lettuce mosaic virus: necrosis is dominant to mottled. Segregation data from crosses between resistant and necrotic parents differed, depending on the necrotic parent. In crosses with the necrotic cultivar Prizehead, there were two independent genes, one controlling necrotic vs. mottled and the other resistant vs. susceptible. In a cross with the necrotic cultivar Maikonig, resistance was epistatic to necrotic, suggesting a second necrotic allele. Crosses among necrotic cultivars indicated a single gene for the necrotic reaction, with the possibility of more than one necrotic allele. Necrotic alleles identified are named Necrotic-1m and Necrotic-1p.
Application of Time-of-flight Near-infrared Spectroscopy for Detecting Water Core in Apples
Authors: Tsuchikawa Satoru , Kumada Sanae , Inoue Kinuyo , Cho Rae-Kwang
Published: January 2019

Time-of-flight near-infrared spectroscopy (TOF-NIRS) was used to investigate optical characteristics of water-cored tissue in `Fuji' apples [Malus sylvestris (L.) Mill. var. domestica (Borkh. Mansf.)]. The combined effects on the time resolved profiles of water core, laser beam wavelength, and detection position of transmitted light were investigated in detail. Attenuance of peak maxima (At), time delay of peak maxima (Δt), and variation of full width at half maximum (Δw) decreased gradually as water core increased. Water-cored tissue transmitted much more energy because of the filling of intercellular spaces with liquid, so that the light path time through a sample decreased. These parameters were also strongly dependent on detection position and wavelength of the laser beam. The substantial optical path length calculated from Δt at λ = 800 nm was 10 to 17 times, while that for λ = 900 nm varied from six to 11 times the distance of the diameter of the fruit. Results indicated the optimum optical parameter for detection of water core was Δt.
Studies on Water Transport through the Sweet Cherry Fruit Surface: V. Conductance for Water Uptake
Authors: Beyer Marco , Knoche Moritz
Published: January 2019

Rain-induced cracking of sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) fruit is thought to be related to water absorption through the fruit surface. Conductance for water uptake (gtot. uptake) through the fruit surface of `Sam' sweet cherry was studied gravimetrically by monitoring water penetration from a donor solution of deionized water through segments of the outer pericarp into a polyethyleneglycol (PEG) containing receiver solution. Segments consisting of cuticle plus five to eight cell layers of epidermal and hypodermal tissue were mounted in stainless steel diffusion cells. Conductance was calculated from flow rates of water across the segment and the difference in osmotic potential between donor and receiver solution. Flow rates were constant up to 12 hours and decreased thereafter. A log normal distribution of gtot. uptake was observed with a median of 0.97 × 10-7 m·s-1. Further, gtot. uptake was not affected by storage duration (up to 71 days) of fruit used as a source of segments, thickness of segments (range 0.1 to 4.8 mm), or segment area exposed in the diffusion cell. Osmolality of the receiver solution in the range from 1140 to 3400 mmol·kg-1 had no effect on gtot. uptake (1.45 ± 0.42 × 10-7 m·s-1), but gtot. uptake increased by 301% (4.37 ± 0.46 × 10-7 m·s-1) at 300 mmol·kg-1. gtot. uptake was highest in the stylar scar region of the fruit (1.44 ± 0.16 × 10-7 m·s-1) followed by cheek (1.02 ±0.21 × 10-7 m·s-1), suture (0.57 ±0.17 × 10-7 m·s-1) and pedicel cavity regions (0.22 ±0.09 × 10-7 m·s-1). Across regions, gtot. uptake was related positively to stomatal density. Extracting total cuticular wax by dipping fruit in chloroform/methanol increased gtot. uptake from 1.18 ± 0.23 × 10-7 m·s-1 to 2.58 ± 0.41 × 10-7 m·s-1, but removing epicuticular wax by cellulose acetate stripping had no effect (1.59 ± 0.28 × 10-7 m·s-1). Water flux increased with increasing temperature (range 20 to 45 °C). Conductance differed between cultivars with `Hedelfinger' sweet cherry having the highest gtot. uptake (2.81 ± 0.26 × 10-7 m·s-1), followed by `Namare' (2.68 ± 0.26 × 10-7 m·s-1), `Kordia' (0.96 ± 0.14 × 10-7 m·s-1), `Sam' (0.87 ± 0.15 × 10-7 m·s-1), and `Adriana' (0.33 ± 0.02 × 10-7 m·s-1). The diffusion cell system described herein may be useful in analyzing conductance in water uptake through the fruit surface of sweet cherry and its potential relevance for fruit cracking.
Root Dynamics of Muskmelon Transplants as Affected by Nursery Irrigation
Authors: Franco José A. , Leskovar Daniel I.
Published: January 2019

Containerized `Lavi' muskmelon [Cucumis melo L. (Reticulatus Group)] transplants were grown in a nursery with two irrigation systems: overhead irrigation (OI) and flotation irrigation (FI). Initially, root development was monitored during a 36-day nursery period. Thereafter, seedling root growth was monitored either in transparent containers inside a growth chamber, or through minirhizotrons placed in the field. During the nursery period, OI promoted increased early basal root growth, whereas FI promoted greater basal root elongation between 25 and 36 days after seeding (DAS). At 36 DAS leaf area, shoot fresh weight (FW) and dry weight (DW), and shoot to root ratio were greater for OI than for FI transplants, while root length and FWs and DWs were nearly the same. Total root elongation in the growth chamber was greater for FI than for OI transplants between 4 and 14 days after transplanting. Similarly, the minirhizotron measurements in the field showed a greater root length density in the uppermost layer of the soil profile for FI than for OI transplants. Overall, muskmelon transplants had greater root development initially when subjected to overhead compared to flotation irrigation in the nursery. However, during late development FI transplants appeared to have a greater capacity to regenerate roots, thus providing an adaptive mechanism to enhance postplanting root development and to withstand transplant shock in field conditions. At harvest, root length density and yield were closely similar for the plants in the two transplant irrigation treatments.
Yield and Chemical Composition of Chinese Cabbage in Relation to Thermal Regime as Influenced by Row Covers
Authors: Moreno Diego A. , Víllora Gemma , Hernández Joaquín , Castilla Nicholas , Monreal Luis Romero
Published: January 2019

During three consecutive years of field experiments, three crop-covering treatments [noncovered (C), perforated polyethylene (PO, 500 holes/m2), and a nonwoven polypropylene (AO) sheet] were used to create different environmental conditions for growth of `Nagaoka 50' chinese cabbage [Brassica rapa L. (Pekinensis Group)]. The PO and AO treatments reduced solar irradiance and increased air and root temperatures compared to C plants. Plants were sampled five times each year from transplanting to harvest, and fresh and dry weights, yield at harvest, leaf pH, citric and ascorbic acid concentrations, and cell-wall fractions were determined. The PO floating row cover was the most beneficial for yield and chemical composition of chinese cabbage of the early spring crop in southern Spain, where environmental conditions during an unfavorable season can injure sensitive crops.
Heat Stability of Resistance to Southern Root-knot Nematode in Bell Pepper Genotypes Homozygous and Heterozygous for the N Gene
Authors: Thies Judy A. , Fery Richard L.
Published: January 2019

Expression of the N gene, which confers resistance to southern root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita Kofoid and White) in bell pepper [(Capsicum annuum L. var. annuum (Grossum Group)], is modified at high temperatures (28 °C and 32 °C), but its expression in the heterozygous condition (Nn) has not been documented at moderate or high temperatures. Responses of the near-isogenic bell pepper cultivars, Charleston Belle and Keystone Resistant Giant (differing at the N locus), and the F1 and reciprocal F1 crosses between these cultivars to M. incognita race 3 were determined at 24, 28, and 32 °C in growth chamber experiments. `Keystone Resistant Giant' (nn) was susceptible at 24, 28, and 32 °C. `Charleston Belle' (NN) exhibited high resistance at 24 °C and resistance was partially lost at 28 and 32 °C. However, at 32 °C root gall and egg mass severity indices for `Charleston Belle' were still in the resistant range, and the number of M. incognita eggs per gram fresh root and reproductive index were 97% and 90% less, respectively, than for `Keystone Resistant Giant'. Responses of the F1 and F1 reciprocal hybrid populations to M. incognita were similar to the response of the resistant parent at all temperatures. Root fresh weights and top dry weights indicated that both hybrid populations tolerated M. incognita infections at least as well as `Charleston Belle'. These findings indicate that i) only one of the parental inbred lines needs to be converted to the NN genotype to produce F1 hybrid cultivars with fully functional N-type resistance to M. incognita; and ii) cytoplasmic factors are not involved in expression of N-type resistance and the resistant parental inbred can used to equal advantage as either the paternal or the maternal parent.
Enhancing Early Spring Microclimate to Increase Carbon Resources and Productivity in June-bearing Strawberry
Authors: Bushway Lori J. , Pritts Marvin P.
Published: January 2019

Effects of early spring cultural practices and microclimate manipulation on `Jewel' strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa Duch.) plant development, carbohydrate reserves, and productivity were measured in the field and under simulated early spring conditions in growth chambers. With traditional winter straw mulching practices of the northeastern and midwestern United States, starch content of overwintering leaves, crowns, and roots in the field declined by 51%, 78% and 69%, respectively, during late winter and early spring. There was also a net loss in root biomass over winter and no new leaf growth before mid-April, suggesting that carbohydrate reserves could be limiting plant performance during the critical early growth and flowering phase in spring. In growth chambers, exposure to CO2 levels between 700 to 1000 mL·L-1 significantly increased photosynthetic rates of overwintering and spring leaves compared to ambient CO2 levels. Elevated CO2 in growth chambers also accelerated flower development, reduced depletion of starch reserves in roots, and increased starch accumulation in crowns. In the field, early removal of straw and application of spunbonded rowcover accelerated plant development, increased starch accumulation in the leaves, and increased photosynthetic rates of overwintering and spring leaves. Elevating the CO2 levels under rowcover further increased photosynthetic rates and advanced plant development and starch accumulation, but not significantly above rowcover alone. Carbohydrate losses later in the season during flower development were reduced when rowcover was applied in early spring. Total fruit yield was as much as 48% higher for plants under rowcover in early spring than those that had no cover and an additional 9% higher when CO2 was elevated. Yield improvements were attributed mostly to an increase in the number of marketable secondary and tertiary fruit than to an increase in mean fruit size. The economics of rowcover use is favorable if the material is reused. The added expense of CO2 gas and the resulting marginal gains would not make field CO2 enrichment an economically viable practice for strawberry growers using the method herein.
Cultivar Differences and the Effect of Winter Temperature on Flower Bud Development in Blackberry
Authors: Takeda Fumiomi , Strik Bernadine C. , Peacock Derek , Clark John R.
Published: January 2019

Transition to reproductive development and subsequent development of floral primordia (e.g., sepals, petals, stamens, and pistils) were determined in several blackberry (Rubus subgenus Rubus Watson) cultivars (Boysen, Cherokee, Chester Thornless, Marion, and Thornless Evergreen) growing in one or more locations (Clarksville, Ark., Aurora and Hillsboro, Ore., and Kearneysville, W. Va.). Also, daily maximum, mean, and minimum temperatures were recorded at three sites (Clarksville, Aurora, and Kearneysville) for the September to April sampling period. In buds of `Boysen' and `Marion' from Oregon, sepal primordia were first observed in November and December, respectively. Further floral bud development continued into January. Sepal development in `Cherokee' buds occurred in October in Oregon and in December in Arkansas. At all three sites, the buds of `Chester Thornless' blackberry remained undifferentiated until spring. The average mean temperatures in Oregon were generally well above 5 °C during the bud sampling period, but were near 0 °C on most days from mid-December to January in Arkansas and from December to late-February in West Virginia. The phenology of flower bud differentiation varied among the cultivars and was strongly influenced by prevailing winter temperatures. The results suggest that the shortening day lengths of late summer trigger flower bud development in blackberry. Floral bud development in blackberry, once initiated, was continuous; however, periods of low temperature (<2 °C) can arrest development.
Genetic Divergence and Chimerism within Ancient Asexually Propagated Winegrape Cultivars
Authors: Riaz Summaira , Garrison Keith E. , Dangl Gerald S. , Boursiquot Jean-Michel , Meredith Carole P.
Published: January 2019

In total, 25 clones of Vitis vinifera `Pinot noir' and 22 clones of `Chardonnay' were analyzed with 100 microsatellite markers, selected from an initial screening of 228 markers. Of the 100 markers, 17 detected polymorphism within one or both of the cultivars. In `Pinot noir', 15 polymorphic markers detected 15 different genotypes, uniquely distinguished 12 clones out of the 25 and separated the remaining 13 clones into 3 groups. In `Chardonnay', 9 polymorphic markers detected 9 genotypes and uniquely distinguished 6 clones out of the 22. The remaining 16 clones were separated into 3 groups. For markers that were polymorphic in `Pinot noir' and `Chardonnay', none of the variant alleles were common to both cultivars. It is inferred from this result that the natural cross that produced `Chardonnay' probably occurred when `Pinot' was still relatively young. Many of the variant genotypes were expressed as three alleles. Further analysis revealed the presence of chimeras in which the third allele was present in leaf but not root or wood tissues, confirming that the grape apical meristem is functionally two-layered. Some clones that share the same microsatellite genotype are documented to have originated in the same locality, suggesting that the origins of undocumented clones may be traced by comparing their microsatellite genotypes with those of well-documented clones. Because clones of `Pinot noir' and `Chardonnay' are often visually indistinguishable, microsatellite genotyping may also be useful to detect identification errors in collections and nurseries.
Development and Characterization of PCR Markers in Cucumber
Authors: Fazio Gennaro , Staub Jack E. , Chung Sang Min
Published: January 2019

Highly polymorphic microsatellites or simple sequence repeat (SSR), along with sequence characterized amplified region (SCAR) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP), markers are reliable, cost-effective, and amenable for large scale analyses. Molecular polymorhisms are relatively rare in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) (3% to 8%). Therefore, experiments were designed to develop SSR, SCAR and SNP markers, and optimize reaction conditions for PCR. A set of 110 SSR markers was constructed using a unique, strategically applied methodology that included the GeneTrapper (Life Technologies, Gaithersburg, Md.) kit to select plasmids harboring microsatellites. Of these markers, 58 (52%) contained dinucleotide repeats (CT, CA, TA), 21 (19%) possessed trinucleotide repeats (CTT, ATT, ACC, GCA), 3 (2.7%) contained tetranucleotide repeats (TGCG, TTAA, TAAA), 4 (3.6%) enclosed pentanucleotide repeat (ATTTT, GTTTT, GGGTC, AGCCC), 3 (2.7%) contained hexanucleotide repeats (CCCAAA, TAAAAA, GCTGGC) and 21 possessed composite repeats. Four SCARs (L18-3 SCAR, AT1-2 SCAR, N6-A SCAR, and N6-B SCAR) and two PCR markers based on SNPs (L18-2H19 A and B) that are tightly linked to multiple lateral branching (i.e., a yield component) were also developed. The SNP markers were developed from otherwise monomorphic SCAR markers, producing genetically variable amplicons. The markers L18-3 SCAR and AT1-2 SCAR were codominant. A three-primer strategy was devised to develop a codominant SCAR from a sequence containing a transposable element, and a new codominant SCAR product was detected by annealing temperature gradient (ATG) PCR. The use of a marker among laboratories can be enhanced by methodological optimization of the PCR. The utility of the primers developed was optimized by ATG-PCR to increase reliability and facilitate technology transfer. This array of markers substantially increases the pool of genetic markers available for genetic investigation in Cucumis.
A Genetic Map of Squash (Cucurbita sp.) with Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA Markers and Morphological Markers
Authors: Brown Rebecca Nelson , Myers James R.
Published: January 2019

A molecular and morphological marker map would improve our knowledge of Cucurbita genetics, and would facilitate efforts to breed improved summer and winter squash cultivars. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers were used to construct a partial map of the Cucurbita genome. The mapping population was the BC1 progeny of the Cucurbita pepo L. yellow straightneck inbred A0449 and the tropical Cucurbita moschata Duchesne ex Lam. landrace `Nigerian Local'. A0449 was the recurrent parent. This cross was chosen because of the relatively greater economic importance of summer squash, traits of value to be introgressed from the C. moschata parent, and maximized genetic variation from the interspecific cross. The map contains 148 RAPD markers in 28 linkage groups. Loci controlling five morphological traits were placed on the map. The map covers 1,954 cM, which is estimated to be 75% of the Cucurbita genome. The qualitative traits placed on the map include the B gene for fruit which turn yellow before anthesis, the M gene for silver mottling of leaves, and a locus controlling the intensity of rind color on mature fruit. Quantitative trait loci (QTL) associated with fruit shape and the depth of the indentations between primary leaf veins were identified.
Sulfur Deprivation and Genotype Affect Gene Expression and Metabolism of Onion Roots
Authors: McCallum John A. , Pither-Joyce Meeghan , Shaw Martin
Published: January 2019

Genetic and environmental factors affect onion (Allium cepa L.) pungency but the molecular basis for this variation is not understood. To initiate molecular analysis of onion sulfur metabolism we isolated cDNAs from onion associated with sulfur assimilation and compared gene expression and sulfur metabolism of mild and pungent onion cultivars. We isolated cDNAs encoding homologues of 5'adenosine-phosphosulfate (APS) reductase, γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase and serine acetyl transferase using a homology-based RT-PCR approach. Homologues of high-affinity sulfate transporters and sulfite reductase were isolated from an onion root differential cDNA library enriched for genes up-regulated by 48 hours sulfur deprivation. The influence of genotype and sulfur nutrition on root expression of selected genes was measured in an experiment in which a low pungency onion cultivar (`Houston Grano') and a high pungency cultivar (`Canterbury Longkeeper') were grown hydroponically in low (0.1 meq·L-1) or high (4.0 meq·L-1) sulfate medium and harvested before bulbing. `Canterbury Longkeeper' contained higher concentrations of (+)-S-methyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide in leaf and root than `Houston Grano' but cultivars did not differ in leaf trans-(+)-S-(1-propenyl)-L-cysteine sulfoxide concentrations. `Houston Grano' accumulated significantly higher concentrations of total N, nitrate, and basic amino acids in leaves and roots, suggesting these cultivars differ markedly in maintenance of S/N homeostasis. Steady-state transcript levels of APS reductase and high-affinity sulfate transporter in roots were significantly higher (2- to 3-fold) at low sulfate. By contrast, steady state levels of ATP sulfurylase transcript were significantly higher at high sulfate levels and in `Canterbury Longkeeper'. We conclude that differences in regulation of the sulfur assimilation pathway may underlie genetic differences in pungency.
Molecular Markers Used to Verify Interspecific Hybridization between Hemlock (Tsuga) Species
Authors: Pooler Margaret R. , Riedel Louise G.H. , Bentz S.E. , Townsend A.M.
Published: January 2019

Controlled pollinations were made between five hemlock (Tsuga) species from eastern North America and Asia, resulting in over 5700 germinating seedlings. A subset of putative hybrid seedlings from each cross was tested for authenticity by various DNA marker systems. The most reliable and useful system for verifying hybrids was amplified fragment-length polymorphism (AFLP) markers. Hybridizations between the eastern North American species, T. canadensis [L.] Carriere and T. caroliniana Engelm., and the Asian species, T. chinensis (Franch.) E. Pritz., were used as a model to test the inheritance, reliability, and ease of use of these markers. Using AFLP markers, we were able to verify 58 hybrids between T. caroliniana and T. chinensis, one hybrid between T. caroliniana and T. canadensis, but could find no definitive hybrids between T. canadensis and T. chinensis. Results using other marker systems, including RAPD, SCAR, ITS, and SSR, are also presented.
Development of SCAR Markers for DNA Fingerprinting and Germplasm Analysis of American Cranberry
Authors: Polashock James J. , Vorsa Nicholi
Published: January 2019

DNA fingerprinting has been useful for genotypic classification of American cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based methodologies including randomly amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers are relatively easy to use, and inexpensive as compared to other methods. However, RAPD markers have some limitations including seamless interlaboratory transferability and susceptibility to certain types of error. An alternative method, sequence characterized amplified regions (SCARs), was developed for cranberry germplasm analysis. Nine primer sets were designed from RAPD-identified polymorphic markers for use in two multiplex PCR reactions. These primer sets generated 38 markers across a cranberry germplasm collection. Estimates of genetic relatedness deduced from employment of the RAPD and SCAR methods were compared among 27 randomly chosen cranberry germplasm accessions. Although both methods produced comparable results above 0.90 coefficient of similarity, branches below this level exhibited variation in clustering. SCAR and RAPD markers can be employed for identifying closely related genotypes. However, the inferences of more distant genetic relationships are less certain. SCAR marker reactions provided more polymorphic markers on a per reaction basis than RAPD marker reactions and as such more readily separated closely related progeny. When SCAR primers were fluorescent dye-labeled for computerized detection and data collection, reduced marker intensity relative to unlabeled reactions was one problem encountered.
Insect Damage to Sweet Corn Hybrids in the South Atlantic European Coast
Authors: Malvar R.A. , Revilla P. , Velasco P. , Cartea M.E. , Ordás A.
Published: January 2019

The pink stem borer (PSB) (Sesamia nonagrioides Lefebvre) and the European corn borer (ECB) (Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner) are the major insect pests of corn (Zea mays L.) in Mediterranean countries, although larvae of other insects can also cause damage. The objective of this research was to evaluate the effect of sweet corn hybrids, planting time, and environment on damage by various insects. Data were recorded on the number of larvae of each of the aforementioned pests and damage produced in the ear 20 days after pollination and in the ear and stem when plants were dry. PSB was the most abundant pest, followed by ECB. Other insects, such as Mythimna unipuncta (Haworth) and Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) were rarely found in sweet corn plants. ECB was constant over time, PSB had larger seasonal variation, and M. unipuncta and H. armigera were highly variable over time. There were significant differences among planting dates and growing cycles for damage traits in each environment. Interactions among hybrids, planting dates, and environments were significant. Dry ears were damaged more than fresh ears and stems had more larvae than ears. The economic value of the crop was seriously affected because most fresh ears had some damage, and seed production would be severely affected by PSB.