bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can aspirin help identify leaf proteins active in defence responses?
Authors: PIERPOINT W S
Published: July 2006

The oxidation of arachidonic acid in vertebrate tissues is briefly compared to the oxidation of linolenic acid in plants. Both give rise to bio‐active molecules containing cyclopentane rings, the prostaglandins and jasmonic acid respectively. Both oxidations are inhibited by salicylic acid, aspirin and other non‐steroidal, anti‐inflammatory drugs. Aspirin is known to inhibit the cyclising enzyme, cyclo‐oxygenase in animal tissues. By contrast it is thought to inhibit allene oxide synthase (AOS) rather than the analogous cyclising enzyme in plants. This conclusion is based on studies of an unusual isoform of AOS, and it is suggested that a search should be made for aspirin‐acetylatable proteins in extracts of the leaves of temperate crop plants. The possible reaction of aspirin with the unusual AOS produced by sea corals is briefly considered.
Relationship between potassium fertilisation and nitrate assimilation in leaves and fruits of cucumber (Cucumis sativus) plants
Authors: RUIZ J M , ROMERO L
Published: July 2006

The effect of application of different potassium rates on some parameters of nitrate metabolism and yield in cucumber plants (Cucumis sativus) was studied. All plants were grown under controlled conditions in an experimental greenhouse. The treatments consisted of applications of K+ at three rates in the form of K2SO4 (Kl: 0.075 mg ml−1, K2: 0.15 mg ml−1, and K3: 0.30 mg ml−1). The results showed a positive effect of higher K+ fertilisation (0.30 mg ml−1) on uptake, translocation and reduction of NO3− in leaves compared with the lowest K+ rate. In addition, the higher K+ rates strengthened the translocation of organic nitrogenous compounds (amino acids) towards the fruit, thereby perhaps also enhancing the maximal commercial yield. In conclusion, for improved cucumber cultivation under greenhouse conditions, 0.15 mg ml−1 of K+ gave maximal yield, while the application of 0.30 mg ml−1 increased the metabolism and efficient utilisation of NO3−.
Germination ecology of the weed Parthenium hysterophorus in eastern Ethiopia
Authors: TAMADO T , SCHUTZ W , MILBERG P
Published: July 2006

Germination ecology of Parthenium hysterophorus, recently introduced to Ethiopia, was studied in a series of experiments. Viability of the seeds was greater than 50% after 26 months of burial in the soil indicating the potential build‐up of a substantial persistent soil seed bank. A short period of dry storage was sufficient to overcome a light requirement for germination in a minor fraction of the seeds. Likewise, seeds exhumed from burial showed an increase in germination ability in darkness over time, with a weak tendency for seasonal cyclicity in dormancy level at one of two sites. Germination occurred at the mean minimum (10°C) and maximum (25°C) temperatures of the collection sites, as well as over a wide range of fluctuating (12/2°C‐35/25°C) temperatures in light. No germination of P. hysterophorus seeds occurred at osmotic potentials < ‐0.52 MPa (at 27°C), the species being less tolerant to moisture stress than sorghum grains. Most seedlings emerged from shallowly buried (< 0.5 cm) seeds and none from more than 5 cm depth. Naturally dispersed seeds required about 60 days, at a hot lowland site, to start emergence despite the presence of adequate rainfall, and higher number of seedlings emerged in undisturbed plots than in hand hoed plots. These experiments and field observations suggest that there are no obvious climatic conditions that may limit the germination of Parthenium hysterophorus in Ethiopia, but a high moisture requirement of the seeds for germination could be the major factor limiting germination during the dry season.
Biological and molecular characterisation of Prunus necrotic ringspot virus isolates and possible approaches to their phylogenetic typing
Authors: GLASA MIROSLAV , BETINOVÁ EVA , KÚDELA OTAKAR , ŠUBR ZDENO
Published: July 2006

Seven isolates of Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV) originating from Slovakia were subjected to biological tests under glasshouse conditions. Mainly mild symptoms were observed on chip‐budded test cherry rootstocks. The complete sequence for the capsid protein (CP) gene of four isolates was determined. All sequences were 675 nucleotides long and clustered in the largest of four groups delineated by phylogenetic analyses of all so far known PNRSV CP sequences. A set of restriction endonucleases was suggested to differentiate four isolate clusters by restriction enzyme digestion of CP sequences.
Propagation and characterisation of the freezing tolerance of a novel South African ornamental (Cineraria saxifraga)
Authors: BURCHETT S , FULLER M P , DAKIN‐ELLIOT N
Published: July 2006

Successful propagation of Cineraria saxifraga was achieved using apical softwood cuttings and micropropagation protocols. Plants propagated using micropropagation had a multiplication rate eight times that of the original population after 4 wk. Apical cuttings were subjected to a standard conductive freezing test to establish the freezing tolerance of the species. Results showed that cold‐acclimated plants had a 43% increased survival compared to non‐acclimated plants. Using plants established from tissue culture, two further freezing tests were conducted to establish the effects of surface water and container size on the frost resistance of this species. Surface water significantly decreased survival score compared to dry plants. Plants grown in small containers had a significant decrease in plant survival score compared to those grown in large containers.
Abscisic acid added to the nutrient solution induces a water deficit‐like response in Trifolium subterraneum
Authors: XU X , CIFRE J , MEDRANO H
Published: July 2006

The response of subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum) to the addition of increasing concentrations of abscisic acid (ABA) in the nutrient solution (10−3, 10−2 and 10−1 mol m−3) was studied under growth room conditions. Six cultivars of contrasting yield capacity were compared.

Plants were grown in Hoagland's solution until they had produced at least four fully developed leaves. ABA was then added and its effect on the fresh weight, leaf number and longest root length was determined, 1 day, 4 days, 7 days and 11 days after addition. The addition of ABA caused significant reductions in all the measured growth parameters, as well as a significant decrease in leaf water potential, which was dependent on the ABA concentration. The average growth reduction after 11 days under 10−1 mol m−3 ABA were within previously reported ranges for this crop under drought, in field conditions. The average leaf number, area of a fully developed leaf and the dry weight per plant of the six cultivars decreased by approximately 50%, whereas the root/shoot ratio increased by 80%.

The variation and ranking for this treatment resembled closely those obtained for the same cultivars in field experiments. The cvs Clare, Nuba and Seaton Park, showed the best results under both control and ABA treated conditions. The correlation between the response to ABA in nutrient solution and previous water deficit studies raises the possibility of using this approach as an alternative way to quantify the drought sensitivity of subterranean clover cultivars.
Direct plant regeneration from leaf explants of Plumbago species and its genetic fidelity through RAPD markers
Authors: ROUT G R
Published: July 2006

In vitro plant regeneration was achieved from leaf explants of Plumbago rosea and Plumbago zeylanica on Murashige & Skoog (1962) medium supplemented with 1.5 mg litre−1 6‐benzylaminopurine, 0.25 mg litre−1 indole‐3‐acetic acid, 50 mg litre−1 adenine sulfate and 3% (w/v) sucrose. The shoot initials developed within 2–3 wk on the leaf margin as well as from the wounds of the leaf. High frequency shoot‐bud regeneration was achieved on similar medium in subsequent subcultures. The semi‐mature leaves produced more shoot‐buds as compared to the younger leaves. Mature leaves did not show any response for shoot bud initiation. More than 85% of the semi‐mature explants produced shoot‐buds per leaf explant within 4 wk of culture. Shoots rooted easily on medium having half‐strength basal Murashige & Skoog (1962) medium supplemented with 0.25 mg litre−1 indole‐3‐butyric acid and 2% (w/v) sucrose; 84–92% of the in vitro rooted plantlets survived in the greenhouse. The regenerated plantlets appeared morphologically similar to the mother plants. No variation was detected among the regenerated plants by the use of Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. This method might be useful for assessing plant improvement programmes.
Physiological changes in soybean (Glycine max) Wuyin9 in response to N and P nutrition
Authors: GAN YINBO , STULEN INEKE , van KEULEN HERMAN , KUIPER PIETER J C
Published: July 2006

Phosphorus deficiency is a very common problem in the acid soil of central China. Previous research has shown that starter N and N topdressing at the flowering stage (Rl) increased soybean (Glycine max) yield and N2 fixation (Gan et al, 1997, 2000). However, there is little information available concerning soybean response to P‐fertiliser in soybean production in central China (Gan, 1999). A field experiment was conducted to investigate the response to P (0 kg P ha−1, 22 kg P ha−1, 44 kg P ha−1 before sowing) and N fertiliser application (N1: 0 kg N ha−1, N2: 25 kg N ha−1 before sowing, N3: N2 + 50 kg N ha−1 at the V2 stage and N4: N2 + 50 kg N ha−1 at the R1 stage) on growth, yield and N2 fixation of soybean. Both N and P fertiliser increased growth and seed yield of soybean (P < 0.01). Application of basal P fertiliser at 22 kg P ha−1 or 44 kg P ha−1 increased total N accumulation by 11% and 10% (P < 0.01) and seed yield by 12% and 13% (P < 0.01), respectively, compared to the zero P treatment. Although application of starter N at 25 kg N ha−1 had no positive effect on seed yield at any P level (P > 0.05), an application of a topdressing of 50 kg N ha−1 at the V2 or R1 stage increased total N accumulation by 11% and 14% (P < 0.01) and seed yield by 16% and 21% (P < 0.01), respectively, compared to the zero N treatment.

Soybean plants were grown on sterilised Perlite in the greenhouse experiment to study the physiological response to different concentrations of phosphate (P1: 0 mM; P2: 0.05 mM; P3: 0.5 mM; P4:1.0 mN) and nitrate (N1: 0 mM with inoculation, N2: 20 mM with inoculation). The result confirmed that N and P nutrients both had positive effects on growth, nodulation and yield (P < 0.01). The relative importance of growth parameters that contributed to the larger biomass with N and P fertilisation was in decreasing order: (i) total leaf area, (ii) individual leaf area, (iii) shoot/root ratio, (iv) leaf area ratio and (v) specific leaf area. The yield increase at N and P supply was mainly associated with more seeds and a larger pod number per plant, which confirmed the result from the field experiment.
Comparative phytotoxicity of four monoterpenes against Cassia occidentalis
Authors: SINGH H P , BATISH DAIZY R , KAUR S , RAMEZANI H , KOHLI R K
Published: July 2006

The effect of four monoterpenes ‐ citronellol, citronellal, cineole and linalool ‐ on the germination, growth and physiology of Cassia occidentalis was investigated. All four monoterpenes reduced germination of C. occidentalis seeds but to varying extents. Citronellal and linalool completely inhibited germination beyond the concentrations of 55 and 110 μM, respectively, whereas in response to treatment of citronellol no germination was observed beyond 330 μM. Further, the growth of seedlings, measured in terms of seedling length and biomass, was also adversely affected. A reduction in chlorophyll content of the cotyledonary leaves of C. occidentalis was also noticed, indicating an adverse effect on photosynthesis. Likewise, respiratory ability of growing seeds was also impaired in response to all four monoterpenes, clearly indicating that monoterpenes affect energy metabolism. On the basis of overall phytotoxicity, potency of monoterpenes was in the order of citronellal > linalool > citronellol > cineole. The results from this study suggest that both citronellal and linalool possess strong phytotoxic potential and can thus serve as lead molecules for the synthesis of bioherbicides.
Fungitoxic properties of selected South African plant species against plant pathogens of economic importance in agriculture
Authors: PRETORIUS J C , ZIETSMAN P C , EKSTEEN D
Published: July 2006

Thirty‐nine plant species, representing 20 families from the subclasses Rosidae, Asteridae, Commelinidae and Liliidae, were collected from the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga, South Africa. Crude extracts were prepared and bioassayed, at equal concentrations, for their antifungal potential by determining the inhibitory effects on the mycelial growth of seven economically important plant pathogenic fungi. Statistically significant differences between plants and plant parts were observed as well as the resistance of different fungi to treatment with different plant extracts. The most significant mycelial growth inhibition was obtained with extracts from two species of the subclass Liliidae, namely Aristea ecklonii and Agapanthus inapertus. The crude extract of A. ecklonii performed best of all extracts as it totally inhibited the mycelial growth of all seven of the plant pathogenic test organisms and outperformed the inhibition by a broad spectrum synthetic fungicide (carbendazim/difenoconazole). Crude extracts of A. inapertus showed complete inhibition of four and strong inhibition of the remaining three plant pathogenic fungi. Although not as efficient as the previous two species, the extract of Anisopappus junodii, from the subclass Asteridae, also showed promising antifungal activity by completely inhibiting mycelial radial growth of two and strongly inhibiting that of the remaining five fungi.
In vivo control of Mycosphaerella pinodes on pea leaves by a crude bulb extract of Eucomis autumnalis
Authors: PRETORIUS J C , CRAVEN P , VAN DER WATT E
Published: July 2006

We previously reported on the in vitro antifungal activity of a crude whole plant extract from Eucomis autumnalis against seven economically important plant pathogenic fungi. A crude extract of the bulb showed similar in vitro mycelial growth inhibition of the same plant pathogenic fungi as well as that of an eighth fungus, Mycosphaerella pinodes, the cause of black spot or Ascochyta blight, in peas. Subsequently, fourth internode leaves were removed from 4 wk old pea plants, placed on moist filter paper in Petri dishes and inoculated with an M. pinodes spore suspension before and after treatment with the extract. The control of Ascochyta blight by different concentrations of the crude E. autumnalis extract was followed in vivo by leaf symptoms over a 6 day period at 20°C in a growth cabinet. The crude extract prevented M. pinodes spore infection of the leaves when the leaves were inoculated with spores both before or after treatment with the extract, confirming complete inhibition of spore germination. The crude E. autumnalis extract showed no phytotoxic reaction on the leaves even at the highest concentration applied.
Variability in the developmental stage of apricot ovules at anthesis and its relationship with fruit set
Authors: ALBURQUERQUE N , BURGOS L , EGEA J
Published: July 2006

The stage of ovule development at anthesis and its relationship with fruit set was studied in several apricot cultivars growing in Mediterranean climatic conditions. Although generally the ovule was immature at anthesis, a great variability was found in the stage of development of the ovules from different cultivars. Considering functional ovules to be those with an embryo sac with at least four nuclei at anthesis, the earliest flowering varieties frequently showed more than 50% of functional ovules. Though these results could suggest that there is an influence of the chilling requirement on the percentage of functional ovules at anthesis, data recorded from two cultivars, ‘Goldrich’ and ‘Colorao’, with high chilling requirements, contrast with this suggestion. These results indicate that in apricot flowers the development of the embryo sac at anthesis is genotype dependent. The fact that a high frequency of functional ovules at anthesis was found, in cultivars with more than 50% of fruit set, suggests that, to be fertilised, a certain level of development of the apricot ovules at this time is necessary.
Ascocarp formation and survival and primary inoculum production in Erysiphe (sect. Microsphaera) pulchra in dogwood powdery mildew
Authors: MMBAGA M T
Published: July 2006

Development of powdery mildew Erysiphe (sect. Microsphaera) pulchra in dogwood (Cornus florida) was assessed over a 5‐year period (1996–2000). Variations in the timing of initial infection, disease severity, ascocarp formation, and primary inoculum density were evaluated. Ascocarps formed late in the growing season (September‐November) when relatively low temperatures (< 27°C) persisted for at least 2 weeks, but ascocarp abundance was not influenced by disease severity. Studies conducted in a controlled environment showed that low temperatures triggered ascocarp formation and neither day length nor host plant age affected ascocarp formation. Ascocarps formed within 12–14 days at 18°C/ 10°C (day/night) and 23°C/15°C, but required 25 days at 26°C/18°C; no ascocarps formed at 28°C/ 20°C. Because ascocarps are an important source of primary inoculum for dogwood powdery mildew, ascocarp survival was evaluated in a 2‐year study (1998–2000). 60–80% of mature, dark‐coloured ascocarps survived at ‐10°C and ‐20°C and maintained viable spores for 4 months, but only 4–12% of partially developed, light brown ascocarps survived at ‐10°C and ‐20°C in the first experiment and only 30–40% survived in the second experiment. Immature ascocarp initials (cream‐yellow in colour) withered and disintegrated at all temperatures (24°C/20°C, 4°C, ‐10°C, and ‐20°C). Because ascocarps need time to mature, the timing of ascocarp initiation affects ascocarp maturity and thus winter survival and primary inoculum density. The evaluation of spring inoculum dispersal to spore traps and trap plants in 1999 and 2000 showed that rainfall patterns in early spring influenced primary inoculum and thus the timing of initial infection.
Transmission features of Mai de Río Cuarto virus in wheat by its planthopper vector Delphacodes kuscheli
Authors: ARNEODO J D , GUZMAN F A , CONCI L R , LAGUNA I G , TRUOL G A
Published: July 2006

Mal de Rio Cuarto virus (MRCV, Fijivirus) infects maize (Zea mays) and other gramineae, producing significant losses in Argentina. Although MRCV mainly affects maize, other cereals, such as wheat, serve as potential virus reservoirs and hosts for the planthopper vector Delphacodes kuscheli. Aspects of the virus‐vector relationships were elucidated by studying the minimum periods of acquisition access (AAPmin), latency (LPmin) and inoculation access (IAPmin) in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Trials were conducted under controlled conditions of temperature (24 ± 1°C), photoperiod (12 h light) and humidity (50 ± 5%). The results show that the AAPmin was 5 h, LPmin was 10 days (even though, the median latent period was between 16 and 17 days) and IAPmin was 30 min. Our experiments have demonstrated, for the first time, a persistent manner of virus transmission. No differences were detected in transmission ability between males and females. The implication of these results on virus taxonomy and epidemiology are discussed.
Cavity spot of carrot (Daucus carota)
Authors: HILTUNEN L H , WHITE J G
Published: July 2006

Cavity spot disease of carrot (Daucus carota) has been one of the intractable problems for both growers and scientists. Carrots are rejected at grading with one or two visible lesions, and when disease incidence passes a relatively low threshold it becomes uneconomic to harvest crops. For the scientist, there has been considerable pressure to produce both information on the cause of the disease and a cure. Many putative causes have been advanced over the years, but these were almost always contradicted by subsequent work. The first solid indication of involvement of a pathogen was when three different fungicides with activity against Oomycete fungi all reduced disease. Very quickly the causal agents Pythium violae and Pythium sulcatum were isolated from cavity spot lesions and Koch's postulates satisfied. The species are not typical of the more common pythia, having slow growth at normal temperatures, which means that in the context of isolation work, plates may be overgrown by other species before they are seen. Metalaxyl fungicide was identified as the most effective in controlling cavity spot caused by P. violae, but P. sulcatum is naturally tolerant of the fungicide. Recently, metalaxyl has been shown to be subject to enhanced microbial degradation. This phenomenon has been associated with failure to control cavity spot. No other fungicide has been shown to be consistently effective in the field, and none has been registered for disease control. For the future, this means that control of cavity spot can not be based solely on fungicidal control. Other, complementary strategies are necessary for reducing disease. Calcium carbonate is known to have significant effects on cavity spot, probably by inducing a soil microflora inhibitory to filamentous fungi. Management of agronomic aspects such as irrigation, soil cultivation and the length of time for which crops are grown may all be used, while carrot cultivars with some field resistance may be beneficial. However, one of the most significant factors is disease avoidance by not selecting fields with high inoculum levels. One serology‐based risk assessment test has been produced and commercialised, and molecular probes which could be the basis of more sensitive tests are available for both pathogens. The potential for disease reduction via a management strategy combining several key components is discussed.
Integrating cultural control methods for tomato late blight (Phytophthora infestans) in Uganda
Authors: TUMWINE J , FRINKING H D , JEGER M J
Published: July 2006

Cultural control measures against tomato late blight (Phytophthora infestans) were evaluated in six field experiments over 3 years in Uganda. Each experiment included sanitation (removal of diseased plant tissues), fungicide (mancozeb) application, and an untreated control, as standard treatments. Late blight incidence and severity were greatly reduced by sanitation, without reducing the number of healthy leaves; however, tomato growth and production were adversely affected. Fungicide treated plants retained the highest numbers of flowers and attached fruits and gave the highest yields. Three cultural practices were evaluated in repeated experiments for their effectiveness in alleviating the adverse effects of sanitation. Tomatoes grown within plastic shelters early in the production cycle were taller, and had more healthy leaves than those grown late. The numbers of diseased leaves and disease severity were equally low in sanitation alone and plastic shelter/with sanitation treatments. Flower and fruit production were significantly higher when tomatoes were grown under early shelters with sanitation than with sanitation alone. Planting density was increased without significant effects on late blight and tomato growth and production. Intercropping tomato with soybean (Glycine max) or sesame (Sesamum indicum), with sanitation, limited late blight development, but taller intercrops suppressed tomato growth and production. Integrated treatments (combining plastic shelters, a sesame intercrop and high tomato planting density) were evaluated, with and without sanitation, against the fungicide mancozeb. The mean numbers of healthy leaves in the integrated treatments were not significantly less than with fungicide treatment. Late blight incidence and severity were higher in the integrated plots without than with sanitation. The numbers of flowers and attached fruits were not significantly less in integrated treatments than in fungicide treated plots, but tomato yield was highest with fungicide treatment.
Leaf photosynthetic parameters of two maize (Zea mays) cultivars in response to various patterns of chilling temperatures and photon flux densities
Authors: SAROPULOS A S , DRENNAN D S H
Published: July 2006

Chilling‐induced photosynthetic impairment was examined in leaves of maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings of two cultivars, one adapted to western Europe and one adapted to Mexican highlands.

Three experiments were performed in a controlled environment. The effects of chilling night temperatures, of chilling at high light intensity and of variable chilling day temperatures on photosynthetic parameters, were evaluated.

Chilling in the dark period resulted in stomatal limitation of net photosynthesis. Chilling at moderate to high light intensities caused chilling‐dependent photoinhibition of CO2 uptake. Photobleached maize leaves did not resume normal photosynthetic function.

Maize cv. Batan 8686 from the highlands of Mexico was less susceptible to photosynthetic damage than maize cv. Bastion adapted for cultivation in W. Europe, when exposed to chilling night temperatures, or to mild chilling photoinhibitory conditions.
Rapid vascular movement of tobraviruses does not require coat protein: evidence from mutated and wild‐type viruses
Authors: SWANSON M , BARKER H , MACFARLANE S A
Published: July 2006

Early studies of the tobravirus Tobacco rattle virus (TRV) described two types of virus isolate with apparently different disease characteristics. M‐type isolates, which contain both viral genomic RNAs and form virus particles, could be passaged by mechanical inoculation and produced rapid but shortlived systemic symptoms. In contrast, NM‐type isolates, which contain only RNA1 and do not form virus particles, were difficult to passage by mechanical inoculation and were very slow to produce systemic symptoms. From the early observations on such isolates made in the 1960s, it has become accepted that M isolates with encapsidated TRV particles move rapidly through the vascular system whereas NM isolates containing only unencapsidated TRV RNA1 move only slowly via plasmodesmata from cell to cell and take many weeks to reach the upper parts of plants. However, we show that NM isolates of TRV and another tobravirus Pea early‐browning virus (PEBV) move into systemic tissue of TV. benthamiana and N. clevelandii by 6 days post inoculation, suggesting that this rapid movement occurs via the vasculature. The systemic movement of TRV and PEBV mutants lacking functional coat protein that have been modified to express the green fluorescent protein were examined by confocal microscopy. This confirmed that the tobraviruses do not require the CP for long distance movement via the phloem, a property that is shared with only a small group of plant viruses.
15N stable isotope labelling of slugs (Gastropoda: Pulmonata)
Authors: HAKVOORT S G H , SCHMIDT O
Published: July 2006

Stable isotope tracers are a promising tool for investigating the ecology of terrestrial slugs, including predator‐prey relationships, migration behaviour, nutrient turnover and dietary routing. The objective of the present feasibility study was to label two economically important slug groups, Deroceras reticulatum and keeled slugs (families Limacidae and Milacidae, respectively), with the stable isotope 15N under controlled laboratory conditions. Significant isotopic enrichment in slug tissue was detected after 4 days and persisted for at least 10 days after slugs had been fed on 15N enriched food for a period of 15 days. The time course of 15N uptake into slug tissues and its relation to food consumption were well described mathematically. Estimated mean 15N assimilation efficiencies from labelled maize mixed with unlabelled wheat bran were 30% and 38%, respectively, for the species groups studied. These findings suggest that slugs can be readily and efficiently labelled and that it is feasible to devise protocols for producing large numbers of isotopically labelled slugs for use in ecological studies. A simple method is described for the collection and analysis of cutaneous mucus from individual slugs which can be used to test uniformity of isotopic labelling.
Prospects for molecular breeding of barley
Authors: THOMAS W T B
Published: July 2006

Data from UK Recommended List Trials showed that the introduction of new cultivars of spring and winter barley has maintained a significant increase in yield over time, whereas there has been no significant improvement in hot water extract, the major determinant of good malting quality, in either crop. Commercial barley breeding is based upon phenotypic selection, and the introduction of molecular breeding methods must either increase the rate of advance, or offer an improvement in the cost‐effectiveness of breeding programmes. Molecular breeding can be applied to either single gene or polygenic characters but is not widely used in commercial barley breeding, other than as a marker for resistance to the Barley Yellow Mosaic Virus complex. There are many reports of potential targets for use in molecular breeding but the few validation studies that have been carried out to date are disappointing. Results from genomics studies are likely to lead to the identification of key candidate genes, which can be associated with economically important characters through co‐location on certain chromosomal regions. Associations between candidate gene sequence haplotypes and phenotypic characteristics is expected to identify allelic combinations, which are most frequently observed in successful cultivars, that can be used in molecular breeding of barley on a commercial scale.
Strategies of plant breeding for improved rumen function
Authors: KINGSTON‐SMITH A H , THOMAS H M
Published: July 2006

In general, breeding programmes directed at the improvement of forage have concentrated on easily measurable phenotypes such as yield, digestibility, resistance to lodging, etc. Selection programmes have improved forage production but historically have addressed relatively few quality considerations. In addition, selection for quality has been limited by availability of suitable analytical techniques. With the current emphasis on quality rather than quantity and the desire by the public for greater understanding about where their food comes from, quality considerations should be a greater target in future breeding programmes. This review briefly covers previous improvements in quality of grazed and silage forages and considers how new technologies might be employed to realise targets for future improvements. In particular we address the concept that interactions between rumen micro‐organisms and ingested plant material in the rumen are not static but are in fact dynamic. This has implications for post‐ingestion biology and feed utilisation.
Differentiation of velogenic, mesogenic and lentogenic strains of Newcastle disease virus by multiplex RT‐PCR
Authors: SONGHUA SHAN , CHAOGANG SHAO , CAOZHE XU , JIAN ZOU , YONGQIANG HU , JIANHUA WU , ZUXUN GONG
Published: July 2006

A multiplex RT‐PCR technique has been developed for differentiation of velogenic, mesogenic and lentogenic pathotypes of Newcastle disease virus (NDV), using a set of three oligonucleotide primers designed from NDV genomic RNA (P1, P2 and P3). The primer pair P1 and P2 generated a RT‐PCR product of 204 bp, only with RNA from velogenic and mesogenic strains, whereas the P1 and P3 generated a 364 bp product only with RNA from mesogenic and lentogenic strains. Thirty four NDV strains, including some reference strains (known pathotypes), NDV field isolates and NDV vaccine strains, as well as other avian virus strains, were tested with multiplex RT‐PCR. All reference strains tested were differentiated in agreement with their intracerebral pathogenicity index (ICPI) values or with the pathotypes known in previous reports. The nucleotide sequence analysis of RT‐PCR products for four NDV strains was fully in agreement with the RT‐PCR characterisations of these strains. The RT‐PCR results of other avian RNA viruses further confirmed the reliability and specificity of this technique. However, the RT‐PCR failed to detect some other avian NDV, which may not originate from chicken. This multiplex RT‐PCR technique is simple and easy to perform. It could be applied not only to determine the origin of NDV, but also may be used diagnostically in molecular epidemiological analysis of ND and for prediction of pathotypes of NDV isolates.
Effects of three modern insecticides, pyriproxyfen, spinosad and tebufenozide, on survival and reproduction of Chrysoperla carnea adults
Authors: MEDINA PILAR , BUDIA FLOR , DEL ESTAL PEDRO , VIÑUELA ELISA
Published: July 2006

Three novel insecticides, pyriproxyfen, spinosad and tebufenozide, were evaluated for their effect on survival and reproduction of Chrysoperla carnea adults using two methods of exposure: direct contact and ingestion. Pyriproxyfen and tebufenozide proved to be harmless to adult survival, whereas spinosad 72 h after treatment reduced the number of adults by 39.8% and 87.2% in topical and ingestion treatment at the maximum concentration recommended (800 mg a.i. litre−1). Fecundity was not affected irrespective of the insecticide or time of application (before or after the onset of oviposition). Concerning fertility, only pyriproxyfen exerted a negative effect on hatching when the eggs were deposited by females treated by ingestion in the post‐oviposition period at the highest concentration tested (150 mg a.i. litre−1).
Isolation of anti‐fungal phenolic compounds from petioles of two Hevea brasiliensis (rubber) genotypes and their effect on Phytophthora meadii
Authors: JAYASURIYA K E , WIJESUNDERA R L C , DERANIYAGALA S A
Published: July 2006

Phenolic compounds were present in greater amounts in non‐infected petioles of genotypes of Hevea brasiliensis that are resistant to Phytophthora leaf disease than in genotypes that are susceptible. Phenolic compounds extracted from petioles of either susceptible (PB86) or resistant (RRIC100) genotypes, before or after infection with Phytophthora meadii, had anti‐fungal properties. Artificially infected petioles of PB86 had phenolic acids, triterpenoids or flavonoids, whereas healthy petioles contained only triterpenoids or flavonoids. However, healthy or infected petioles of RRIC100 contained only trace amounts of the above compounds and of vanillin (3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxybenzaldehyde). Vanillin and umbelliferone (7‐hydroxycoumarin) were shown to suppress zoospore germination of P. meadii on glass slides and to inhibit its growth in pea broth and V‐8 juice agar. Vanillin was slightly more active than umbelliferone. Resistance of RRIC100 to Phytophthora was suspected as being related to the polymerisation of phenolic compounds to form lignin, which may suppress further spread of the pathogen's mycelium into healthy tissues. Formation of lignin from phenolic aldehydes as a barrier to disease spread may be a critical factor in resistance.
Localisation and movement of Plum pox virus in apricot stem tissues
Authors: DICENTA F , MARTÍNEZ‐GÓMEZ P , RUBIO M , AUDERGON J M
Published: July 2006

Localisation and movement of Plum pox virus (PPV), sharka disease, in stem tissues of susceptible and resistant apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) cultivars was studied. Two different assays were performed. In the first assay, apricot cultivars were grafted on to a non‐inoculated GF305 peach rootstock and, after two months, the sprouted apricot was inoculated by chip‐grafting. In the second assay, apricot cultivars were grafted on to a previously chip‐inoculated GF305 showing strong PPV symptoms. Localisation of virus was studied in apricot stem by immuno‐tissue printing and sharka symptoms in GF305 and apricot leaves were also observed. Virus was mainly localised in the xylem, and sometimes in the cortex and pith. Results revealed that, while all the cultivars allowed limited virus movement from the inoculation point, only the susceptible cultivars (Screara, Bebeco and Colomer) allowed long distance movement and even showed symptoms in leaves.
Impact of the predatory mite Anystis baccarum (Prostigmata: Anystidae) on apple rust mite Aculus schlechtendali (Prostigmata: Eriophyidae) populations in Northern Ireland Bramley orchards
Authors: CUTHBERTSON A G S , BELL A C , MURCHIE A K
Published: July 2006

Anystis baccarum is a common predatory mite in Northern Ireland Bramley orchards. To determine its effect on Aculus schlechtendali populations, sticky traps and sprays of demeton‐S‐methyl were used to exclude A. baccarum from branches. Out of four trials, exclusion of A. baccarum by sticky traps alone resulted in significantly greater numbers of A. schlechtendali in one trial. In the other trials where A. schlechtendali numbers were lower, there was either no effect, or possible evidence of fewer A. schlechtendali. The combination of demeton‐S‐methyl treatments and sticky traps to exclude A. baccarum resulted in significantly more A. schlechtendali in two trials out of three in 1998. It seems likely that this resulted from the dual effects of stimulation of A. schlechtendali reproduction by the acaricide and the absence of predation by A. baccarum, because acaricide treatment alone in 1999 resulted in significant reductions in A. schlechtendali numbers at the end of the season. This effect could have resulted from A. baccarum re‐invading the treatment branches after the effects of the acaricide had worn off. It is recommended that growers are encouraged to conserve A. baccarum within their orchards.
Breeding cereals for Mediterranean conditions: ecophysiological clues for biotechnology application
Authors: ARAUS J L , BORT J , STEDUTO P , VILLEGAS D , ROYO C
Published: July 2006

Water stress is the main environmental factor limiting cereal yield in Mediterranean environments. For particular regions, such as the Mediterranean basin, the agroecological conditions are expected to get worse. In response to this challenge attempts are being made to improve crop yield through farm‐ management practices and plant breeding efforts. Here we examine traits that may be used as selection criteria for breeding C3 cereal crops with improved yield and stability in Mediterranean conditions. Emphasis is made on the potential implications of defining proper selection traits and target environments when adopting biotechnology approaches in breeding programmes.
Emerging geminivirus problems: A serious threat to crop production
Authors: VARMA ANUPAM , MALATHI V G
Published: July 2006

Geminiviruses form the second largest family of plant viruses, the Geminiviridae, represented by four genera: Mastrevirus, Curtovirus, Topocuvirus and Begomovirus. During the last two decades these viruses have emerged as devastating pathogens, particularly in the tropics and subtropics, causing huge economic losses and threatening crop production. Epidemics caused by re‐emerging and newly emerging geminiviruses are becoming frequent even in regions that were earlier free from these viruses. Compared to mastreviruses and curtoviruses, begomoviruses have emerged as more serious problems in a variety of crops, for example, cassava, cotton, grain legumes and vegetables. Major contributory factors for the emergence and spread of new geminivirus diseases are the evolution of variants of the viruses, the appearance of the whitefly ‘B’ biotype and the increase in the vector population. Variability in geminiviruses has arisen through mutations, recombination and pseudorecombination. Genomic recombination in geminiviruses, not only between the variants of the same virus but also between species and even between genera, has resulted in rapid diversification. From the disease point of view, most virulent variants have developed through recombination of viral genomes such as those associated with cassava mosaic, cotton leaf curl, and tomato leaf curl diseases. Heterologous recombinants containing parts of the host genome and/or sequences from satellite‐like molecules associated with monopartite begomoviruses provide unlimited evolutionary opportunities. Human activity has also played an important role in the emergence of serious geminivirus diseases across the globe, like the changes in cropping systems, the introduction of new crops, the movement of infected planting materials and the introduction of host susceptibility genes through the exchange of germplasm.
Inheritance and expression of introduced DNA in transgenic onion plants (Allium cepa)
Authors: EADY COLIN C , READER JILL , DAVIS SHEREE , DALE TRACEY
Published: July 2006

Transgenic onion plants (Allium cepa) containing the Cauliflower mosaic virus 35s promoter (CaMV35s) and gfp gene construct encoding the visual green fluorescent reporter protein from pBINm gfp ER and the CaMV35s‐bar gene construct encoding resistance to the herbicide phosphinothricin from pCAMBlA3301 were produced by Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation. These plants weregrown to maturity and selfed in order to determine the expression and inheritance of the transgenes. CaMV35s regulation in onion, as observed by GFP expression, was essentially constitutive, and profiles of regulation were typical of those observed in dicotyledonous plants. Inhibition of CaMV35s regulated gene expression was only observed in one transformant. Both the expression of GFP and tolerance to phosphinothricin appeared to be inherited in a Mendelian fashion. Levels of expression in F1 offspring varied, presumably due to environmental and genetic factors. However, it appeared that copy number did strongly influence GFP protein production and expression. In the majority of plants there were no obvious detrimental phenotypic effects caused by the transgene, the integration event, or Somaclonal variation due to the need to perform tissue culture.
Clonal composition of the peach‐potato aphid Myzus persicae (Homoptera: Aphididae) in France and Scotland: Comparative analysis with IGS fingerprinting and microsatellite markers
Authors: FENTON B , MALLOCH G , NAVAJAS M , HILLIER J , BIRCH A N E
Published: July 2006

Fourteen colonies of the peach‐potato aphid, Myzus persicae, were taken either from French peach trees or weeds in 2001. Thirty five apomictic parthenogenetic lineages (APLs) were established. Ribosomal DNA intergenic spacer (IGS) fingerprinting was used to characterise these and 28 fingerprints were duly obtained. Those lineages with different fingerprints were considered different genotypes and those with the same fingerprint as the same. The genetic identity of APLs was further tested using four microsatellite loci. APLs that differed by IGS fingerprint had distinct microsatellite allele combinations and those that had the same IGS fingerprint had the same microsatellite allele combinations. The results confirmed that IGS types corresponded to different aphid genotypes. Independent APLs with identical IGS and microsatellite genotype were therefore considered different representatives of the same clone. APLs from M. persicae found on Scottish crops in 1995, 1996 and 2001, as well as a long‐term laboratory line were also examined by the same methods. Their IGS fingerprints were similar or identical suggesting that they all belonged to the same clone. Microsatellite markers also suggested that these lineages were derived from a single clone. Some field lineages exhibited slight modifications to their IGS fingerprints confirming that the IGS evolves more rapidly than these microsatellite alleles. Thus, IGS will continue to provide a useful marker for aphid fieldwork.
A comparative assessment of molecular marker assays (AFLP, RAPD and SSR) for white yam (Dioscorea rotundata) germplasm characterization
Authors: MIGNOUNA H D , ABANG M M , FAGBEMI S A
Published: July 2006

Several DNA‐based marker systems are available for genetic fingerprinting of plants but information on their relative usefulness for yam germplasm characterisation is lacking. The efficiency of RAPD, AFLP and SSR markers for the assessment of genetic relationships, and for cultivar identification and discrimination among 45 West and Central African white yam cultivars belonging to 22 morphotypes/cultivar groups was investigated. Dendrograms were produced based on band pattern scores using the UPGMA method. Results showed that each of the three techniques could unequivocably identify each cultivar, but that techniques differed in the mean number of profiles generated per primer (or primer pair) per cultivar, referred to as genotype index (GI). The order of merit based on this criterion in this study was AFLPs (GI = 2.56), SSRs (GI = 0.39) and RAPDs (GI = 0.35). Yam genotypes classified in the same cultivar group based on morphology were often genetically different, emphasising the need for molecular fingerprinting in yam germplasm characterisation. AFLPs showed the highest efficiency in detecting polymorphism and revealed genetic relationships that most closely reflected morphological classification.
Characterisation of distant Alstrogmeria hybrids: application of highly repetitive DNA sequences from A. ligtu ssp. ligtu
Authors: ZHOU SHUJUN , DE JEU MARJO J , VISSER RICHARD G F , KUIPERS ANJA G J
Published: July 2006

Clones from a Sau 3A family of eight highly repetitive sequences previously isolated from a genomic DNA library of Alstroemeria ligtu ssp. ligtu were sequenced and found to be highly conserved. A trinucleotide microsatellite repeat [GCA]3−4 was present. A second, unrelated, Sau 3A repeat was also characterised. Southern analysis proved that the isolated repeats were specific for the A. ligtu subspecies and could not be detected in other Chilean or Brazilean Alstroemeria species. As shown by in situ hybridisation, the Sau 3A family and the unrelated Sau 3A repeat co‐localised at distinct sites along most chromosomes of Alstroemeria ligtu ssp. ligtu and Alstroemeria ligtu ssp. simsii. The present set of species‐specific repetitive sequences enables the identification of A. ligtu chromosomes, and thus the tracking of chromosome transmission to interspecific hybrids and their progeny.
Epidemiology of apple proliferation (AP) in northwestern Italy: evaluation of the frequency of AP‐positive psyllids in naturally infected populations of Cacopsylla melanoneura (Homoptera: Psyllidae)
Authors: TEDESCHI ROSEMARIE , VISENTIN CRISTINA , ALMA ALBERTO , BOSCO DOMENICO
Published: July 2006

Adults of Cacopsylla melanoneura, vector of the apple proliferation (AP) phytoplasma, were collected every 2 weeks from January until May in 2000 and 2001 by the beating tray method in eight apple orchards of the Aosta Valley (northwestern Italy). Total DNA was extracted from batches of five insects and amplified with the universal phytoplasma primers P1/P7 in direct PCR. A nested PCR assay was then performed on P1/P7 amplicons using the primers fO1/rO1, specific for the AP‐ phytoplasma group. The digestion of fO1/rO1 amplicons with Ssp I restriction endonuclease confirmed that C. melanoneura adults harboured the AP phytoplasma. The data obtained with PCR were used to estimate the proportion of AP‐positive insects in over wintered and offspring adults. Percentages of AP‐positive insects of 3.6% and 0.8% were estimated in 2000 among over wintered and offspring psyllids respectively. In 2001 only the over wintered insects were found infected, with an estimated proportion of 2.8%. The seasonal abundance of the vector was measured using yellow sticky traps. C. melanoneura was always present at a low population level, and the highest density was recorded from mid‐February until mid‐March in both years. The results show that the overwintered population is higher and spends a longer period in apple orchards, suggesting the crucial role of the overwintered adults in vectoring AP.