bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(136) Effects of Healthy and Natural Ingredients in Various Beverage Lines: A Practical Approach for Small Businesses by Offering Healthy Products
Authors: Palaniswamy Usha , Bokhari Zafar
Published: February 2019

Zafi Beverages, Inc., envisioned energy drinks, mineral natural water, healthy drinks for kids, exotic drinks, flavored drinks, and cholesterol-reducing tea. Emphasis is on non-carbonation and the use of herbal extracts. Consumption of carbonated drinks can lead to reflux, ulcer, and other stomach problems. Zafi Beverages is also developing a unique marketing approach for its products, offering a niche for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Zafi's educational process of entrepreneurship also covers the steps on the road to success: innovative, value-creating, and growth-oriented. Emphasis is also placed on ethical marketing. Small businesses employ 53% of the total private nonfarm work force, contribute to 47% of all sales in the country, are responsible for 51% of the gross domestic product (GDP), produce about two out of every three new jobs each year, and account for over half of United States GDP. Studies report that 40% of the top 1% of the wealthiest Americans got there by building a small business. Interest in small business is increasing, because many Americans believe this is one of the best paths to riches in the United States. About 16 million Americans are in some type of part- or full-time entrepreneurial activity. Entrepreneurship is attractive to people of all ages. Some unique contributions of small business concepts promoted by Zafi Beverages are to encourage innovation and flexibility, maintain close relationships with customers and community, and provide employees with comprehensive learning experience, develop risk-takers, generate new employment, and provide greater job satisfaction. Zafi Beverages is 2 years old; its growth and challenges in the development of herbal drinks for health and new entrepreneurs are described.
(2) Icebox Watermelon Variety Trial in Western Washington
Authors: Miles Carol A. , Kolker Kathryn , Smith Tracy , Reed Jenn , Becker Gail , Adams Carolyn
Published: February 2019

Icebox watermelons first appeared in the United States about 50 years ago. They weigh between 6 and 12 pounds and come in a variety of shapes and colors. With a rising interest in local production, organic produce, and direct marketing, farmers in Washington are looking to diversify crop varieties to meet these demands. Icebox watermelons offer a means of locally producing high-quality watermelons. In 2004 and 2005, we evaluated icebox watermelon varieties to determine which are most suitable for production in our region. In 2004, we evaluated 44 varieties of icebox watermelon and in 2005 we evaluated 100 varieties at WSU Vancouver REU. Varieties were seeded in the greenhouse mid-April and transplanted to the field by mid-June. The greenhouse and field were managed organically. The study design was a randomized complete-block with three replications. Plots were single rows, 6.1 m long, with seven plants per plot. Spacing was 1 m between plants and 3 m between rows. Plants were mulched with black plastic and drip-irrigated 2.5 cm per week. Melons were harvested twice weekly, from mid-August through mid-October. Fruit weight, number, and size were measured, and percentage of soluble solids was measured using a °Brix meter. General eating quality was also evaluated. Summaries of selected varieties will be presented here. To view other varieties included in the trial, see our website, http://agsyst.wsu.edu. Results of this study show significant differences among icebox watermelon varieties in total yield, number of fruit per plot, average fruit weight, number of days to harvest, and percentage of soluble solids. These preliminary findings indicate that more than 80 varieties of icebox watermelon can be grown productively in our region.
(180) Postharvest Calcium Chloride Dips of Whole Tomato Fruit Reduce Postharvest Decay under Commercial Conditions
Authors: Ritenour Mark A. , Stoffella Peter J. , He Zhenli , Narciso Jan A. , Salvatore James J.
Published: February 2019

Previous research showed that mature green tomato fruit dipped 1 to 4 min in a 1% CaCl2 solutions before storage had significantly increased peel calcium content and reduced postharvest decay. The present experiments, conducted over 3-day periods (reps), evaluate treatment effectiveness under commercial packinghouse conditions. Three cartons of 5 × 6 sized mature green `FL 47' tomatoes were collected from the line (control). CaCl2 was then added to the packinghouse 15,142-L dump tank to a concentration of 1% before more fruit were run through the line and three additional cartons collected. The cycle was repeated after bringing the concentration in the dump tank up to 2% CaCl2. After storage for ≤24 days at 20 °C, postharvest decay was significantly reduced in fruit receiving the 2% CaCl2 treatment. Calcium content in the tomato peel tended to increase with each successively higher CaCl2 treatment, but differences were nonsignificant. Laboratory tests showed Rhizopus more affected by 3% CaCl2, while Alternaria was affected by 2% and 3% CaCl2 solutions. Results were recorded as colony diameter, but colony morphology and sporulation were also affected. Inoculation studies of tomatoes dipped in 1% CaCl2 after wounding with Rhizopus or Alternaria showed better decay control when compared to treating before wounding.
(185) Genetic Resistance to Crack Development in Processed “Baby” Carrots
Authors: Joy Phillip , Lada Rajasekaran , Ells Angus , Williams Brian
Published: February 2019

The individually quick frozen “baby” carrot industry is growing. Crack development during freezing (CDF) has recently become a quality issue. There is little scientific information available on the causes of CDF. Studies were initiated to determine genetic resistance for CDF and to identify crack-resistant varieties. Ten varieties and breeding lines (Columbia, HMX-0331, Sugarsnax, Sweet Bites, Tasty Peel, Top Cut, Trinity, XCR-0124, XCR-9650, and XCR-9840) were grown under the same field conditions, harvested identically, and processed. Samples were removed after a quick freeze tunnel and tested immediately for membrane stability using electrical conductivity (EC/g) and a membrane injury index. Percentage cracked, the length, width, and depth of cracks were also measured. Another set of samples were placed in freezer storage at –10 °C for 8 weeks and tested again for the same parameters. EC/g and membrane injury indexes showed significant interactions between variety and length of storage time. Crack length, width, and depth were significantly higher in XCR-9650 and XCR-9840, while Trinity had the smallest dimensions. Crack depths after week 8 in freezer storage were also significantly higher (0.30 cm) than those at week 0 (0.21 cm). Finally, percent cracked was also dependent on the variety and length of storage time. Trinity had the lowest percentage of cracked pieces (16%), whereas XCR-9650 (70%) had the highest percentage of visible cracking. Freezer storage time also played a role in CDF, since cracked percent significantly increased by 4% over the 8 weeks. Our results clearly reveal that there are differences in CDF among varieties. Among all, Trinity had the highest resistance to cracking, comparable to all the varieties except XCR-9650 and XCR-9840.
(186) Fresh-cut Chunks of a New Orange-fleshed Melon Genotype: Analytical and Sensory Comparisons to Its Inbred Parents, and to Commercial Cantaloupe and Green-fleshed Honeydew Harvested in Winter
Authors: Saftner Robert , Lester Gene , Abbott Judith A.
Published: February 2019

A new hybrid orange-fleshed netted melon has been bred specifically for use by the fresh-cut industry in winter. Quality characteristics of fresh-cut chunks from the hybrid were compared to those of its parental lines and to commercial cantaloupe and honeydew fruits available in winter. Female parent and hybrid chunks had higher soluble solids content (SSC) and firmness, and lower aromatic volatile concentrations versus that of the male parent. Hybrid chunks also had higher SSC (>3%) and were firmer (>5 N) than commercial fruit, and showed no appreciable differences in aromatic volatile concentrations to commercial honeydew or in surface color to commercial cantaloupe. Consumers liked the flavor, texture, sweetness, and overall eating quality of the hybrid chunks better than those of its inbred parents and winter honeydew and as well as or better than that of winter cantaloupe. Hybrid fruit stored 5 weeks at 1 °C under modified atmospheric conditions, then fresh-cut and stored 14 d in air at 5 °C maintained good quality (firmness = 51 N, SSC = 12.2%, surface pH = 6.0, beta-carotene and ascorbic acid concentrations = 14 and 182 mg·kg-1, respectively), and showed no signs of tissue translucency or surface pitting despite microbial populations approaching 8 log cfu·g-1. The results indicate that the orange-fleshed hybrid melon is a promising new melon type for fresh-cut processing, especially during the winter.
(71) Comparison of Phytophthora Disease Incidence in Composted Pine Bark Mixes to Chemical and Biological Controls
Authors: Green Jennifer , Harp Derald A. , Ong Kevin L.
Published: February 2019

Phytophthora diseases are economically important, requiring the use of chemical fungicides and, more recently, biological controls. Recent research suggests that composted bark products may lessen the impact of the disease, even in the absence of these chemicals. An experiment was conducted to compare chemical and biological fungicides to untreated pine bark compost. Impatiens wallerana plugs were transplanted from 288 trays into 1801 trays. All plants were planted into Berger BM-7, 35% composted bark mix (Berger Horticulture, Quebec, Canada). Media was prepared by premixing one of the five following fungicide treatments: 1) Control, 2) Banrot at 0.6 g/L, 3) Root Shield at 1.6 g/L, 4) Actino-Fe at 5.1 g/Ll, or 5) SoilGard at 1.6 g/L. Plants received no fertilizer. Three strains of Phytophthora were grown in 25 °C on clarified V8 media. Pathogenic inoculum was made by macerating the growth media and fungi in 100 ml H2O. Mixture was pulse-blended for 1 min, and an additional 200 mL dH2O was added. Inoculation was 5 ml per plant. Flats were kept on a misting bench, and misted twice daily for 15 min. The experiment was set up using a RBD repeated six times with three plants per rep. Plants were rated weekly for 5 weeks using a damage scale of 0 to 5, with 0 indicating no sign of disease and 5 being dead. Statistical analysis was conducted using a Chi-Square. Disease incidence between the biological, chemical, and composted bark treatments did not differ, with all treatments providing complete control. At least in this study, the use of composted pine bark media provided Phytophthora control equivalent to current chemical and biological fungicides.
(298) Harvest Yields of Greenhouse Tomatoes Grown in Pine Bark-amended Cotton Gin Compost
Authors: Jackson Brian E. , Kemble Joe M. , Wright Amy N. , Sibley Jeff L.
Published: February 2019

Tomatoes are the most abundantly produced greenhouse vegetable crop in the United States. The use of compost substrates has increased in recent years for the greenhouse production of many vegetables, bedding plants, and nursery crops. `Blitz' tomatoes were grown during the spring and fall growing seasons in 2004 in six substrate blends of pine bark (PB), a traditional production substrate in the Southeastern U.S., and cotton gin compost (CGC), an agricultural by-product, to assess the potential use of CGC as a viable replacement for PB for the production of greenhouse tomatoes. Treatments ranged from 100% PB to 100% CGC. During both growing seasons, plants grown in substrates containing CGC produced similar total, marketable, and cull yields compared to plants grown in 100% PB. Substrates containing 40% or more CGC had significantly higher EC levels both initially and throughout both growing seasons than did 20% CGC and 100% PB blends. Initial and final pH of all substrates was similar during both studies and remained within recommended ranges for greenhouse tomato production. Water-holding capacity increased as the percent CGC increased in each substrate blend, indicating the need for less irrigation volume for substrates containing CGC compared to the 100% PB control. Results indicate that CGC can be used as an amendment to or replacement for PB in greenhouse tomato production.
(302) Physical and Chemical Properties of Energized Water and Its Effects on the Germination, Growth, and Development of Sprouting Vegetable Plants
Authors: Kim Wol-Soo
Published: February 2019

Energized water production: Underground water, which was not con-taminated with heavy metal ions, chemicals, and much nitrate, etc. => 1) filtering through reversed osmosis pressure filter, 2) nano-sized mineral system with specific stone powder, 3) far red light expositing system, 4) magnetic field treatment, 5) oxygen supply system => energized water (EW). Physical and chemical properties: EW showed higher pH level, electrical conductivity (EC), energy levels by Killian camera and oxygen concentration; however, lower ORP, cluster size as much as 79 Hz by NMR in comparison to underground water, as control. Bioassay of sprouting vegetable plants: In barley germination test, EW showed higher germination rate, strong top/root growth, especially outstanding differentiation of roots in comparison to control. After 2 weeks, the control barley seedlings showed significant symptoms of senescence in root tissue. Also, bean sprouts greatly increased growth in epicotyls and hypocotyls, and development under EW conditions. The roots of control plants showed discolored and mal flavors and gradually decayed in room temperature. With EW supply, vegetable seeds and sprouting plants showed better growth and development of top and root parts. In conclusion, EW influenced the plants to have higher biodynamic potentials for seed germination and growth and development of new plant tissues.
(35) Foliar Mineral Nutrition of Colorado Spruce Trees after Digging Affects Shoot Growth in the Landscape
Authors: Tripepi Robert R. , George Mary W. , Linskey K. Amanda , Van Wagoner Jennifer L. , Lloyd John E.
Published: February 2019

The goal of this study was to determine if nutrient treatments applied to Colorado spruce (Picea pungens Engelm.) trees while they were held in a mulch bed one season after digging affected subsequent shoot growth of the trees after they were planted in the landscape. Sixty 1.5- to 1.8-m-tall trees with 61-cm (24-inch) diameter root balls were heeled into a holding bed of fresh pine bark mulch. The nutrient treatments applied to the root balls were a control (pine bark without fertilizer), 114.2 g Osmocote 15–9–12 distributed over the top of the ball (label rate), one Ross Gro-Stake 10–10–10 Evergreen fertilizer spike per ball, one-half cartridge of Ross Root Feeder 10–12–12 evergreen fertilizer injected into the root ball at four points, or a 50:50 mixture (by volume) of Eko Compost mixed with pine bark. After one growing season in the mulch bed, the trees were transplanted to a landscape site. The height increases of the terminal leaders on all trees were determined for the next 2 years. Changes in tree height by the end of the growing season in the mulch bed were unaffected by the nutrient treatments. By fall, needles from trees treated with the mixture of 50:50 compost: bark had the highest levels of foliar N, Mg, Ca, S, Mn, and B. Trees treated with one fertilizer spike had the second-highest levels of foliar N and S. Leaders on trees that received the compost:bark or fertilizer spike treatments grew at least 70% or 36% taller, respectively, than those receiving the other treatments by the end of the second growing season in the landscape. The compost:bark mixture and to some extent the fertilizer spike improved tree foliar nutrition during the first growing season after digging, which later promoted tree height increases in the landscape.
(94) White-fleshed Peaches and Nectarines for the Southeastern United States
Authors: Layne Desmond R. , Okie W.R.
Published: February 2019

White-fleshed peaches and nectarines are delicacies that have been enjoyed for centuries around the world. They are native to China and were introduced to the United States in the 1800s. Some white-fleshed peaches and nectarines are highly perishable and bruise easily, but are of very high eating quality. These are perhaps best suited for the local roadside market, where they can be sold and consumed more quickly. Others are much firmer at harvest, have a longer shelf life. and are suitable for long-distance transport to wholesale markets. White-fleshed peaches and nectarines may have some acidity or they may be very low acid with high sugar content (°Brix). Some novel flat (peento or donut) types also exist. Proximity to an urban market with a substantial Asian population is advantageous because Asians, in particular, often prefer the low-acid flavor and are willing to pay premium prices for high quality fruits. In our peach and nectarine cultivar evaluation program at Clemson University, we are currently evaluating 70 cultivars and advanced selections at four different locations in South Carolina. Several of these have been evaluated since 2000 and the “top performers” over the last six seasons by ripening date (earliest to latest) include the following: `Sugar May', `Scarletpearl', `Snowbrite', `Southernpearl', `White Lady', `Sugar Lady', `Summer Sweet', `Sugar Giant', `Stark's Summer Pearl', `Snow King', and `Snow Giant'. In general, most of the white nectarines and the flat/donut peaches and nectarines have serious problems with insect damage and brown rot. Complete details of our peach and nectarine (yellow- and white-flesh) evaluation work in South Carolina since 2000 will be noted by referring to my peach website (http://www.clemson.edu/hort/Peach/index.php).
(104) Evaluation of Grafting Methods in Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola L.) in the Dry Tropics of Mexico
Authors: González-González Juan Manuel , Guzmán-González Salvador , Chavez-Luna Sergio
Published: February 2019

Starfruit (Averrhoa carambola L.) is reproduced by seeds from `Criollo' cultivars. The replication of desirable agronomic traits is difficult when selected plants are from sexual reproduction. The heterogeneity of plants is observed as higher trees, irregular fresh fruit yield, variable fruit quality, differential insect pest and disease susceptibilities, and extended period for recovering the inversion. Vegetative propagation is an alternative for reducing the heterogeneity of starfruit trees. Four grafting methods for propagating starfruit in the coast of Colima, Mexico: splice-side graft, wedge graft, whip graft, and bud graft were evaluated. The experiment was carried out on the Tecoman campus of the Universidad de Colima. The ambient conditions were dry tropic (BS1). Seven-month-old rootstocks were obtained from Criollo seedlings, and the scion was obtained from a healthy 15-year-old `Miss' donor tree. The experiment was distributed under a completely randomized design. The splice-side graft had 70% success and was the best, bud graft had 40% success, wedge graft, had 5% success and whip graft 0% success, and was the least successful.
(217) Preemergence Weed Control in Container-grown Herbaceous Perennials
Authors: Staats David , Klett James , Howlett Teri , Rogoyski Matt
Published: February 2019

During the 2005 season, three preemergence herbicides were applied to four container-grown herbaceous perennials and evaluated for weed control, phytotoxicity, and effect on plant growth. The herbicides and application rates were: 1) Pendimethalin (Pendulum 2G) 2.24, 4.48, and 8.96 kg/ha; 2) Trifluralin and Isoxaben (Snapshot 2.5 TG) 2.8, 5.6, and 11.2 kg/ha; and 3) S-metolachlor (Pennant Magnum 7.6 EC) 2.8, 5.6, and 11.2 kg/ha. Herbicides were applied to Coral Bells (Heuchera sanguinea), Hopflower Oregano (Origanum libanoticum), CORONADO™ Hyssop (Agastache aurantiaca), and SPANISH PEAKS™ Foxglove (Digitalis thapsi). Treatments were applied twice with 30 days between applications. Plants were evaluated for phytotoxicity after 1, 2, and 4 weeks after applying herbicide treatments. No phytotoxicity symptoms were apparent on any of the plants treated with Pendulum, and plant size (dry mass) was not affected. Snapshot resulted in visual phytotoxicity with Digitalis and Heuchera at the higher rates and also resulted in smaller plants. Pennant Magnum caused phytotoxicity at all rates in all plants and resulted in significantly smaller plants than the control. Weed control was very good with all herbicides, but did not control every weed.
(222) The Effects of Fertilization on Constitutive and Wound-induced Levels of Total Phenolics and Jasmonic Acid in Gerbera jamesonii
Authors: Spiers James D. , Davies Fred T. , Finlayson Scott A. , He Chuanjiu , Heinz Kevin M. , Starman Terri W.
Published: February 2019

This research focused on the effects of nitrogen fertilization on jasmonic acid accumulation and total phenolic concentrations in gerbera. The phytohormone jasmonic acid is known to regulate many plant responses, including inducible defenses against insect herbivory. Phenolics are constitutive secondary metabolites that have been shown to negatively affect insect feeding. Gerbera jamesonii `Festival Salmon Rose' plants were grown in a growth chamber and subjected to either low fertilization (only supplied with initial fertilizer charge present in professional growing media) or high fertilization (recommended rate = 200 mg·L-1 N). Plants were fertilized with 200 mL of a 15N–7P–14K fertilizer at 0 or 200 mg·L-1 N at each watering (as needed). Treatments consisted of ±mechanical wounding with a hemostat to one physiologically mature leaf and the subsequent harvest of that leaf at specified time intervals for jasmonic acid quantification. Total phenolics were measured in physiologically mature and young leaves harvested 0 and 10 hours after ±mechanical wounding. Low-fertility plants had reduced aboveground dry mass, were deficient in nitrogen and phosphorus, and had about a 10× higher concentration of total phenolics when compared to high fertility plants. In low-fertility plants, young leaves had greater concentrations of phenolics compared to physiologically mature leaves. There were no differences in total phenolics due to wounding. The effect of nitrogen fertilization on jasmonic acid accumulation will also be discussed.
(224) Weed Control in Norway Spruce Christmas Trees with Applied Films
Authors: Rinaldi Laura M.R. , la Marca Orazio
Published: February 2019

Weed management systems for Norway spruce (Picea abies L.) Christmas trees were investigated under field conditions. Potential alternative methods to replace the use of herbicides included the application of three different soil covers: plastic film (100% recoverable), biodegradable film 40-μ thick, and biodegradable film 70-μ thick. On another group, weed control was carried out mechanically (control plants). Each treatment consisted of 27 plants with three replications. At the time of the first growing season, the percentage of dead and survived plants in treated plants and in the control plants did not differ significantly. Data were recorded on plant height and quality during the second year of growth. Control plants always showed height increases shorter than other plants. Application of these films significantly affected growth and plant quality. In plastic film-treated plants, the average height increases were significantly higher than those observed on control plants mechanically treated (19 vs. 12 cm, respectively), and did not differ from biodegradable film-treated plants (17 cm). Plants responded similarly to the biodegradable films of varying thickness. The results indicate that all three films have potential for use in Christmas tree production. However, the use of biodegradable films would be preferable because they do not need to be removed at the end of the rotation (about 6–7 years). Furthermore, this culture system would be an efficient way to achieve three objectives: 1) to enhance weed control, avoiding the application of herbicides by many Christmas tree producers; 2) to improve quality and plant commercial value; and 3) to obtain a shorter rotation.
(55) Leaf Abnormality on White and Red Oak Linked to Drift of Chloroacetanilide Herbicides
Authors: Samtani Jayesh B. , Masiunas John B. , Appleby James E.
Published: February 2019

In some years, the emerging leaves of white oak and, to a lesser extent, of red oak in the Midwest have developed abnormally. This abnormality is referred to as leaf tatters. Reports to state foresters and Extension specialists associated tatters with herbicide applications. In 2005, white and red oak seedlings were treated in a spray chamber delivering 187 L/ha, with seven herbicides at three concentrations, 1/4×, 1/10×, and 1/100× of the standard field use rate. These herbicides and their standard field use rate of the active ingredients included atrazine at 2.3 kg/ha and chloroacetanilide herbicides: acetochlor at 2.0 kg/ha, metolachlor at 2.1 kg/ha, and dimethenamid at 0.8 kg/ha alone or mixed with atrazine at 2.3 kg/ha, at the leaves unfolding stage. After treatment, oaks were placed outdoors in a randomized complete-block design. Leaf symptoms in our study were similar to those seen in the landscape. In chloroacetanilide-treated white and red oak seedlings, browning of interveinal leaf tissues was noticed 5–6 days after treatment. The dried leaf tissues then dropped off, leaving only the main vein with little interveinal leaf area. In few seedlings treated with atrazine, the leaf tissues turned yellow to brown, while in few others, interveinal tissue damage was restricted, leaving small holes in the leaf. When chloroacetanilide herbicides were applied with atrazine, the dominant symptoms were those of leaf tatters. A few seedlings treated with dimethenamid and atrazine had predominately atrazine symptoms. Although new growth later in the season was not injured, the leaves with tatters remained on the plant until the end of the growing season. The study will be repeated in 2006.
(108) Early Flower Bud Production and Field Establishment of Two Pawpaw Cultivars on Five Seedling Rootstocks
Authors: Pomper Kirk , Crabtree Sheri , Layne Desmond R.
Published: February 2019

The pawpaw [Asimina triloba (L.) Dunal] is native to the southeastern United States and has potential as a new tree fruit crop. Clonal rootstocks are not currently available for pawpaw cultivars; therefore, nurseries graft cultivars onto rootstock derived from locally available seed. Great variation in rootstock vigor with this seedstock can result in grafted trees that lack vigor and have delayed fruit production. Pawpaw rootstocks that promote precocity would be desirable to growers. The objectives of this study were to determine if rootstock source and pruning system influenced precocity and field establishment of two pawpaw cultivars. In May 2004, a rootstock trial was planted at the Kentucky State University Research Farm that consisted of `Sunflower' and `Susquehanna' budded onto five seedling rootstocks (PA-Golden, Sunflower, Susquehanna, K8-2, and commercially available seed) with either a minimal or central leader pruning system. There were eight replicate blocks with each treatment combination, for a total of 160 trees. In Fall 2005, field mortality was greatest (58%) for `Susquehanna' budded onto Susquehanna seedling rootstock, whereas mortality was about 25% with other scion/rootstock combinations. The number of flower buds present on each tree was evaluated in Feb. 2006. Rootstock and pruning method did not influence the number of trees exhibiting flower buds. However, cultivar did influence the number of trees with flower buds; more trees of `Sunflower' (48%) had flower buds than `Susquehanna' (8%), and `Sunflower' (3.46) had more flower buds per tree than Susquehanna (0.43). Pruning system did influence the number of flower buds per tree; minimal pruned trees (2.65) had more flower buds per tree than central leader (1.21) trained trees.
(317) A New Seed Vigor Testing System for Ornamental Species using Computerized Imaging Technology
Authors: Hu Xiaolei , McDonald Miller , Tay David
Published: February 2019

During the past 2 decades, automated plug production in the flower seed industry has created important requirements by growers for high-quality flower seeds. Using computerized imaging technology, a new seed vigor testing system, Seed Vigor Imaging System (SVIS), was developed at The Ohio State University. By analyzing the digital images of seedlings, it can detect and measure the length of hypocotyls and radicles separately, and then generate a value for the growth and uniformity each. This system provides a fast, labor-saving and objective approach to measuring seed quality. In this study, its capacity and correlation with field performance was studied and compared with other traditional tests, i.e. standard germination test, germinate rate, and accelerated aging test. Five species (dianthus, cleome, rudbeckia, salvia, and lettuce) were selected and their quality was tracked continuously by SVIS and other mentioned tests. It was found that stressed test (ageing test) was able to detect the quality deterioration earlier than others under ideal conditions, but SVIS could generate much more information, such as the growth, uniformity, and vigor level of the seed lot. Therefore, SVIS following 3-day ageing was developed and shown to be the most sensitive and comprehensive vigor test for those ornamental species mentioned above. Being fast and objective, this system will also benefit the global seed trade by providing a unique quality standard. In addition, it can also be of great usage to seed companies and germplasm centers worldwide for the routine quality track during shipment/storage and inventory management.
(319) Addtional Features Possible with Electronic Publications
Authors: McConnell James
Published: February 2019

An electronic document does not have to be limited to text and static images. Electronic publications greatly expand the potential of types of images that can be included compared to print media. With increased ease of accessing the internet and increased bandwidth availability, individuals have less limitations for downloading the enhanced documents. These documents include much more than color images. Options such as hypertext links, interactive graphics, movies, presentations, and audio are discussed.
(114) Performance of Cranberry Varieties on an Upland Site in Michigan
Authors: Hanson Eric , Schilder Annemiek
Published: February 2019

Twenty cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) genotypes were evaluated for five seasons in an experimental upland planting in southwest Michigan. Beds were constructed on a silty clay loam soil by excavating to grade, and filled with 30 to 45 cm of sand. Four 2 × 2-m plots of each genotype were planted in 1996. Fruit were harvested with hand scoops from 2000 to 2005. Yield per plot, average berry weight, and percent berries exhibiting decay were determined. Sound fruit were also stored at 2 °C for 4 to 8 weeks and sorted to determine the percentage of fruit developing decay in storage. Fungi were isolated and identified by morphological characteristics. Genotypes producing the highest average yields were `Stevens', `Ben Lear', #35, `LeMunyon', and `Franklin'. Varieties with the highest average berry weight were `Pilgrim', `Stevens', `Baines', `Beckwith', `Searles', and #35. Genotypes with lower rot incidence at harvest were #35, `Early Black', and `Foxboro Howes', whereas `Howes' and #35 developed the least rot during storage. Fungi commonly isolated from decaying fruit were Colletotrichum sp., Coleophoma empetri, Phomopsis vaccinii, Phyllosticta vaccinii, Fusicoccum putrefaciens, Botrytis cinerea, Pestalotia sp., and Allantophomopsis sp. Prevalence of specific fungi differed among cranberry genotypes.
(199) Effect of Harvest Maturity on Quality of Pear Salad
Authors: Bai Jinhe , Barckley Kristi , Manthey John
Published: February 2019

Pear texture is similar to that of apple—firm and crispy—and is one of the potential alternatives to apple. However, at a crispy stage the taste is flat. Improving the taste of pears is considered the key to the success of pear salad. This study evaluated the effect of harvest maturity on the quality of pear salad. Fruit were harvested at commercial maturity or 1 month delayed. After 2 and 5 months (1 and 4 months for delayed harvested fruit) of storage at –1 °C, fruit were sliced (eight to 10 wedges per fruit), treated with an anti-browning dip, packaged in zip-lock bags (10 pieces per bag), and stored at 1 °C for up to 21 days. Delayed harvested fruit were larger in size (≈12.5% increase in weight), had lower flesh firmness (≈5 N decrease), lower titratable acidity content (≈20% decrease), and a lower phenolic content (≈45% decrease in pulp). There was no significant difference in soluble solids content. After 2 months of storage, ethylene production and respiration rate were initially lower in delayed harvested fruit in either the intact fruit or cut slices, but tended to similar after 7 days in storage. Sensory evaluation results show that about 80% of the panel preferred delayed-harvested fruit over commercial harvest, especially in terms of visual quality (71% to 92%), sweetness (75% to 93%), taste (69% to 92%), texture of skin (61% to 92%), texture of flesh (53% to 92%), and overall quality (73% to 92%) during 21 days of storage at 1 °C. After 5 months of storage, cutting surface was dry-looking in delayed harvested fruit. However, sensory evaluation showed panels still preferred the delayed-harvested fruit. The results indicate that salad quality of pears can be improved by delaying harvest.
(285) Characterization of a Composite Promoter from Genomic Sequences of Grapevine
Authors: Dutt Manjul , Li Zhijian T. , Dhekney Sadanand , Gray Dennis J.
Published: February 2019

Genetic transformation of plants necessitates the use of promoters to control transgene expression. Numerous promoters have been isolated from a wide range of organisms for use in plants. However, many of these natural promoters exhibit relatively low activity and/or have limited use. To provide an alternative, we constructed a composite promoter (EP) using a genomic DNA sequence and a 35 bp TATA-containing fragment from the 2S albumin (VvAlb1) gene core promoter of grapevine. The 0.9-kb genomic sequence was identified after TAIL-PCR, based on the presence of several unique cis-acting elements. The sequence showed no homology to any known plant gene, enhancer, and promoter. Two binary vectors, pEP-EGFP/NPT and pEP-GUS, containing a bifunctional EGFP/NPTII fusion gene and a GUS gene, respectively, were constructed to test transcriptional activity of the composite promoter both qualitatively and quantitatively. Transient GFP expression was observed in somatic embryos (SE) of Vitis vinifera `Thompson Seedless' after Agrobacterium-mediated transformation using pEP-EGFP/NPT. Quantitative GUS assay of stably transformed SE containing pEP-GUS indicated that the EP composite promoter was capable of producing GUS activity as high as 12% of that from a doubly enhanced Cauliflower Mosaic Virus 35S promoter or eight times higher than that from a doubly enhanced Cassava Vein Mosaic Virus promoter. In addition, transformation of Arabidopsis with pEP-GUS yielded comparable GUS activity throughout the plant. These data indicate that the EP composite promoter can be used in transformation studies to provide sustained constitutive gene expression in plants.
(137) High Temperature Increases the Midday Depression of Net Photosynthesis in Oncidium Gower Ramsey
Authors: Chang Yao-Chien , Chen Hsiao-Wei , Lee Nean
Published: February 2019

Photosynthetic rate is reduced during midday in some crops; this phenomenon has been termed as midday depression (MD). Oncidium also suffers greatly from MD in the summer, resulting in reduced growth and poor flowering quality. Since high radiation usually accompanies high temperature midday in the summer, it is difficult to figure out the key factor that promotes MD. We investigated the photosynthetic activities of Oncidium Gower Ramsey in the following conditions: environment-controlled and nonenvironment-controlled. In a growth chamber that simulated field growth conditions, photosynthesis declined dramatically when the temperature was higher than 32 °C. Photosynthesis was also reduced when photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) exceeded the saturating point of Oncidium. Gower Ramsey, which is about 250 μmol·m-2·s-1. However, the reduction was slight when PAR was under 500 μmol·m-2·s-1. Daily photosynthetic patterns were changed when Oncidium Gower Ramsey was grown under different environments. By regression, we found that MD was not directly associated with PAR within the range of 0–400 μmol·m-2·s-1. By contrast, photosynthesis was significantly reduced when temperature was higher than 32 °C. This explains the observation of greater photosynthetic reduction and earlier occurrence of MD when Oncidium Gower Ramsey was grown in rain-shelter rather than in phytotron and growth chamber, since temperature in the rain-shelter was not controlled, while the others were controlled at 25 °C. When Oncidium Gower Ramsey was moved from 35 °C to 25 °C, the photosynthetic depression was relieved.
(147) Effect of Hypobaria, Oxygen, and Carbon Dioxide on Gas Exchange, Ethylene Evolution, and Growth of Lettuce Plants for NASA Advanced Life Support Systems
Authors: He Chuanjiu , Davies Fred T. , Lacey Ronald E. , Rao Sheetal
Published: February 2019

There are engineering and payload advantages in growing plants under hypobaric (reduced atmospheric pressure) conditions in biomass production for extraterrestrial base or spaceflight environments. Objectives of this research were to characterize the influence of hypobaria on growth, gas exchange, and ethylene evolution of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Buttercrunch). Elevated levels of the plant hormone, ethylene, occur in enclosed crop production systems and in space-flight environments—leading to adverse plant growth and sterility. Lettuce plants were grown under variable total gas pressures [25 (low) or 101 kPa (ambient)]. During short growth periods of up to 10 days, growth was comparable between low and ambient pressure plants. Regardless of total pressure, plant growth was reduced at 6 kPa pO2 compared to 12 and 21 kPa pO2. At 6 kPa pO2 there was greater growth reduction and stress with ambient (101 kPa) than low (25kPa) pressure plants. Plants at 25/12 kPa pO2 had comparable CO2 assimilation and a 25% lower dark-period respiration than 101/21 kPa pO2 (ambient) plants. Greater efficiency of CO2 assimilation/dark-period respiration occurred with low pressure plants at 6 kPa pO2. Low pressure plants had a reduced CO2 saturation point (100 Pa CO2) compared with ambient (150 Pa CO2). Low pO2 lowered CO2 compensation points for both 25 and 101 kPa plants, i.e., likely due to reduced O2 competing with CO2 for Rubisco. Ethylene was 70% less under low than ambient pressure. High ethylene decreased CO2 assimilation rate of 101/12 kPa O2 plants. The higher dark-period respiration rates (higher night consumption of metabolites) of ambient pressure plants could lead to greater growth (biomass production) of low pressure plants during longer crop production cycles.
Biosynthesis Genes in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Rao Sheetal , Finlayson Scott , He Chuanjiu , Lacey Ronald , Wheeler Raymond , Davies Fred T.
Published: February 2019

The NASA Advanced Life Support (ALS) System for space habitation will likely operate under reduced atmospheric pressure (hypobaria). There are engineering, safety, and plant growth advantages in growing crops under low pressure. In closed production environments, such as ALS, excessive plant-generated ethylene may negatively impact plant growth. Growth of lettuce (Lactuca sativa) in the Low Pressure Plant Growth (LPPG) system was enhanced under low pressure (25kPa), due in part to decreased ethylene production. Under reduced pO2, ethylene production decreased under low as well as ambient conditions (He et al., 2003). During hypobaria, the expression of genes encoding ethylene biosynthesis enzymes, namely ACC synthase (ACS) and ACC oxidase (ACO), is not known. The primary objective of this research was to characterize the expression of ACS and ACO genes in response to hypobaria. Three-week-old Arabidopsis was used to determine the effects of hypobaria (25 kPa) and reduced O2 (12 kPa pO2) at the molecular level. Candidate gene expression was tested using quantitative real-time PCR at different times after treatment. Under low pressure, ACO1 expression is induced in the initial 12 hours of treatment, gradually decreasing with increased exposure. At 12 kPa pO2, ACO1 was induced under ambient conditions, suggesting that plants under low pressure may be more tolerant to hypoxic stress. The mechanism for enhanced growth of lettuce under hypobaric conditions will be studied further by analysis of the ACS and ACO gene families, and stress-responsive genes, namely late-embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins and dehydrins.
(149) Phytoremediation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons with a Lolium multiflorum–Glomus intraradices–Inorganic Fertilization System: Influence on Plant Growth, Antioxidant Activity, Microbial Respiration, and Hydrocarbon Degradation
Authors: Alarcon Alejandro , Davies Frederick T. , Autenrieth Robin L. , Reed David Wm. , Zuberer David A.
Published: February 2019

A phytoremediation study in a 3 × 3 × 2 factorial experimental design was conducted to determine the effect of Glomus intraradices (AMF) inoculation and inorganic fertilization on the growth and development of Lolium multiflorum cv. Passarel Plus, and on the degradation of total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH). The 80-day study was done with pots containing sandy soil. Seedlings of L. multiflorum were transplanted to uncontaminated or soil contaminated with Arabian crude oil (ACO) at concentrations of 3000 and 15,000 mg·kg-1. Half of the seedlings were inoculated with 500 spores of AMF. Plants were fertilized with Long Ashton Nutrient Solution (LANS) at 0.5×, 1.0×, or 2.0× strength, modified to supply 30 μg·mL-1 P to maximize the AMF establishment. Total plant dry weight and leaf antioxidant activity were reduced by ACO when compared to control plants. The LANS fertilization enhanced plant growth under ACO-contamination, and allowed similar antioxidant activity in plants exposed to 15,000 mg·kg-1. Soil rhizosphere respiration was increased by LANS, particularly with 15,000 mg·kg-1 ACO. AMF inoculation did not enhance plant growth, antioxidant activity, or microbial respiration. The average root colonization was around 30% in contaminated and uncontaminated rhizospheres, indicating that the tolerance of AMF symbiosis to ACO. Greater TPH degradation was achieved in non-AMF plants at 3000 mg·kg-1 ACO in combination with 0.5× LANS. LANS-fertilization with 1.0× or 2.0× did not enhance TPH-degradation when compared to 0.5× LANS.
(305) Plant Propagation Protocol for Gardeners of Ten Species Native to Southeast Alaska
Authors: Gorman Robert F. , Roller Julie
Published: February 2019

Ten plant species native to southeast Alaska and surrounding regions were selected based on their value as ornamentals, food crops, disturbed site revegetation, and traditional Native American uses. Between 2003–05, seeds, cuttings, rhizomes, and bulbs from the 10 native plant species were collected in Sitka, Alaska, and propagated according to existing plant propagation protocol for each species. The most successful propagation method for each species was determined from field trials. This information was provided through workshops and Extension publications to gardeners in southeast Alaska and other parts of Alaska. The purpose of this project was to enhance growing local native plants as ornamentals, food crops, in disturbed site revegetation and for traditional Native American uses, particularly among native elders unable to collect these plants in the wild. A secondary purpose was to create a market for native plants in southeast Alaska and spawn a cadre of local cottage market gardeners to grow native plants for existing small nurseries. The 10 species selected included: Cornus canadensis, C. stolonifera, Empetrum nigrum, Fritillaria camschatcensis, Linnaea borealis, Oplopanax horridus, Rubus chamaemorus, Vaccinium parvifolium, Vaccinium ovalifolium, and Viburnum edule.
(306) Growing Native Plants from Seed in Public Workshops
Authors: Wolf Margaret
Published: February 2019

Five Utah Native Plant Propagation workshops during Mar. 2005 supplied 100 participants with specialized containers and potting mix, native plant seed, resource booklet, lecture, and instructor supervision during the hands-on workshop portion. Forty-three participants responded to a Sept. 2005 follow-up survey. Seedling survival averaged 6.4 seedlings per tray of 72 cells, or 8.8%. Only 36% of the participants used the resource booklet after the workshop. Most survey respondents did not cite particular reasons for seedling failure. Seed propagation workshops are challenging due to: 1) wide variance in participants' horticultural experience; 2) limited materials and resources; and 3) inherent inconsistencies in native plant seed viability. Before attending future seed propagation workshops, registrants will receive seedling cultivation information to improve success rates.
(14) Establishment of Buckwheat as a Summer Cover Crop after Early Vegetables
Authors: Björkman Thomas
Published: February 2019

Buckwheat has historically been used to suppress weeds and improve soil condition, but many of the tricks to success have been lost to history. Buckwheat is inexpensive and particularly effective in short windows between crops. We are documenting the techniques of existing experts and complementing that with research. We surveyed northeastern vegetable and strawberry growers to identify what information they need in order to feel confident that they could succeed with a buckwheat cover crop. Top questions include seed availability, types of weeds controlled, relation to other cover crops, volunteer management, and herbicide tolerance. One question tested experimentally was how to establish a full stand with minimum cost. We tested the minimum tillage requirement following pea harvest. No-till resulted in good emergence but slow growth, and dominance by weeds. Disk incorporating the pea residue resulted in excellent growth, which was not further enhanced by chisel plowing before disking. Buckwheat seedlings are intolerant of waterlogging, so deeper tillage may be important in wet years. Sowing buckwheat immediately after tillage resulted in emergence of 35%, leaving gaps large enough for weeds to grow. Waiting 1 week gave an 80% stand and complete weed suppression. Waiting 2 weeks also gave an 80% stand, but weed growth was advanced enough that weed suppression was incomplete. Therefore, a buckwheat cover crop following early vegetables requires light tillage to permit root growth, and up to a week of decomposition. If those provisions are made, complete weed suppression is obtainable.