201. Partial root zone drying in golden delicious apple. [Spanish] Villagran Deoses, R. A. Nunez Barrios, A. Parra Quezada, R. A. Jacobo Cuellar, J. L. Ojeda Barrios, D. L. Ruiz Anchondo, T. de J. Salas Salazar, N. Terra Latinoamericana; 2015. 33(4):299-308. 23 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20163078742 Over exploitation of aquifers is a big problem in many arid and semi-arid zones of the world. In recent years, new strategies have been developed to optimize water use. One of these is partial root zone drying (PRD). The aim of this research was to determine the effect of PRD on apple yield and fruit quality and how much water can be save with this strategy. This work was done in Bachiniva, Chihuahua, Mexico, during 2008 and 2009. Three treatments were evaluated: control (only the rain), fully irrigated (FI) and partial root zone drying (PRD). In the case of PRD, the irrigation pipeline was alternated from one side of the tree row to the other during the growing season, applying only 50% of the water used for FI. Results showed that yield, fruit quality (polar and equatorial diameter, firmness and solid soluble solids), shoot growth and leaf area of PRD were not statistically dif ferent from those of FI. With PRD, it is possible to save 50% of the water applied through the irrigation system and reduce 21.3% of the total water used in the apple orchard. Publisher Sociedad Mexicana de la Ciencia del Suelo A.C. Location of Publisher Chapingo Country of Publication Mexico 202. Genotype by watering regime interaction in cultivated tomato: lessons from linkage mapping and gene expression. Albert, E. Gricourt, J. Bertin, N. Bonnefoi, J. Pateyron, S. Tamby, J. P. Bitton, F. Causse, M. TAG Theoretical and Applied Genetics; 2016. 129(2):395-418. 134 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20163077364 As a result of climate change, drought will increasingly limit crop production in the future. Studying genotype by watering regime interactions is necessary to improve plant adaptation to low water availability. In cultivated tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.), extensively grown in dry areas, well-mastered water deficits can stimulate metabolite production, increasing plant defenses and concentration of compounds involved in fruit quality, at the same time. However, few tomato Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs) and genes involved in response to drought are identified or only in wild species. In this study, we phenotyped a population of 119 recombinant inbred lines derived from a cross between a cherry tomato and a large fruit tomato, grown in greenhouse under two watering regimes, in two locations. A large genetic variability was measured for 19 plant and fruit traits, under the two watering treatments. Highly significant genotype by watering regime interactions were detected and resulted from re-ranking more than scale changes. The population was genotyped for 679 SNP markers to develop a genetic map. In total, 56 QTLs were identified among which 11 were interactive between watering regimes. These later mainly exhibited antagonist effects according to watering treatment. Variation in gene expression in leaves of parental accessions revealed 2259 differentially expressed genes, among which candidate genes presenting sequence polymorphisms were identified under two main interactive QTLs. Our results provide knowledge about the genetic control of genotype by watering regime interactions in cultivated tomato and the possible use of deficit irrigation to improve tomato quality. Publisher Springer-Verlag GmbH Location of Publisher Berlin Country of Publication Germany 203. Monitoring of change in cantaloupe fruit quality under pre-cooling and storage treatments. Azam, M. M. Eissa, A. H. A. Hassan, A. H. Journal of Food Processing and Technology; 2015. 6(12):527. 22 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20163073205 During recent years, global concern for protection of the environment has led researchers to improving postharvest treatments such (precooling, handling, storage, etc.,). The present investigation was also directed to find out the precooling and storage alternatives for the extension of the storage life of cantaloupe fruits (Cucumis melon). Fruits were harvested at the mature stage and precooled by forcing cooling air with velocity of 1-2 m/s at three different air temperatures of 5 degrees C, 10 degrees C and 15 degrees C. The fruits were analyzed for physiological characters such as loss in weight, fruit firmness, change in color surface of fruit and its flesh. Fruit temperature expectedly decreased from initial level of about 36-38 degrees C to the desired storage temperature of 10 degrees C by forcing cooling air at 5 degrees C, for about 45 min. Cooling time increased to 105 and 165 min when cooling air temperature increased to 10 degrees C and 15 degrees C, respectively. During subsequent storage at 15 degrees C with 90-95% relative humidity, precooled fruits were exhibit more desirable characteristics than that of non-precooled fruits (control), where precooling was retard softening. Non precooled fruits "control" turned ripe-soft after 15 days when firmness decreased to less than 10 N from initial value of 90 N at the unripe stage. Publisher OMICS Publishing Group Location of Publisher Los Angeles Country of Publication USA 204. Development of inhibitory ssDNA aptamers for the FtsZ cell division protein from citrus canker phytopathogen. Ha NaReum Lee SangChoon Hyun JaeWook Yoon MoonYoung Process Biochemistry; 2016. 51(1):24-33. 38 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20163071701 Citrus canker caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri (X. axonopodis) is a plant pathogenic bacterial disease infectious to citrus crops, resulting in reduced fruit quality and premature fruit drop. Many chemical substances to prevent citrus canker cannot cure the progressive disease caused by drug resistant pathogens. In this study, we identified the filamentous temperature-sensitive Z (FtsZ) protein of X. axonopodis, a GTPase essential for bacteria cell division, as a new target for anti-citrus canker agent. We found nine single-stranded DNA aptamers with 44-444 nM Kd values against recombinant FtsZ, using SELEX. Among these aptamers, three FtsZ binding aptamers (FBAs) exhibited potent inhibitory effects with IC50 values of 1-2 micro M similar to berberine, a well-known commercial antibacterial agent. Furthermore, the FBAs also demonstrated high growth inhibitory activity at the cellular level with MIC50 values in the 100 micro M range. Consequently, this is the first report of a biocompatible inhibitory aptamer as a drug against X. axonopodis FtsZ, and provides a novel strategy for the development of eco-friendly citrus canker prevention agents, thereby replacing the presently used chemical-based drug in near future. Publisher Elsevier Ltd Location of Publisher Oxford Country of Publication UK 205. Green chemistry for inducing resistance against chocolate spot disease of faba bean. Elwakil, M. A. Abass, M. A. El-Metwally, M. A. Mohamed, M. S. Journal of Environmental Science and Technology; 2016. 9(1):170-187. many ref. [Journal article] AN: 20163069794 Uses of a green chemistry in form of antioxidants and micronutrients for seed treatments or for foliar spray on faba bean plants was implemented as a delicate tactic for controlling chocolate spot disease cause by Botrytis fabae. The in vitro trials revealed that salicylic acid at 7 mM inhibited the growth of B. fabae followed by zinc at 8 g L-1 and iron at 4 g L-1. The combinations of hydroquinone (HQ), salicylic acid (SA), zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe); (HQ+SA+Fe, HQ+SA+Zn and HQ+Zn+Fe) significantly reduced the growth of the fungus. Field experiment showed that all tested combinations in form of seed soaking or foliar spraying confirmed the in vitro results as they decreased the disease severity of chocolate spot. On the other hand, the physiological characters included the photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll a, b and carotenoids), total phenols, proline content in the leaves, total protein in seeds, antioxidant activities in both leaves and seeds were also increased. So far, application of the above tactics may be recommended as delicate methods to increase the plant resistance against a number of plant pathogens including chocolate spot pathogen of faba bean (B. fabae). However, large scale application is needed to confirm these data. Publisher Asian Network for Scientific Information Location of Publisher Faisalabad Country of Publication Pakistan 206. Response of tomato plant towards amino acid under salt stress in a greenhouse system. Jannesari, M. Ghehsareh, A. M. Fallahzade, J. Journal of Environmental Science and Technology; 2016. 9(1):131-139. many ref. [Journal article] AN: 20163069789 Salinity is one of the most progressive environmental factors limiting the productivity of crop plants. To evaluate the effects of foliar application of amino acid on fruit yield, some elements and proline of tomato under salinity stress, a greenhouse experiment were conducted in a factorial arrangement based completely randomized design with three replicates. Five salinity levels of irrigation water including 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 dS m-1 and 3 levels of amino acid (0, 2 and 4 g L-1) by foliar application method was used. Although, the results indicated that salinity of irrigation water significantly reduced fruit yield (kg per plant) of tomato, amino acid had no significantly effect on fruit yield. The highest fruit yield were obtained at the without amino acid and 2 dS m-1 of salinity level. Also, statistical testing shows significant increase in proline concentration in plant leaves with application of water salinity at 8 and 10 dS m-1. The highest (713.9 mg kg-1) proline concentration was obtained at the 2 g L-1 amino acid and 10 dS m-1 of salinity level. Although, the concentration of K and Mg in plant leaves was significantly decreased by salinity, the concentration of Na in plant leaves was continuously increased with increasing salinity levels. However, results showed that salinity and amino acid had no significant effect on concentration of calcium in leaf. The highest (3.03%) nitrogen concentration in plant leaves were obtained at the without amino acid and 10 dS m-1 of salinity level. Publisher Asian Network for Scientific Information Location of Publisher Faisalabad Country of Publication Pakistan 207. Research progress in effects of rain-shelter cultivation on quality of grape berry. [Chinese] Cao Meng Guo JingNan Gao DengTao Sun XiaoWen Wei ZhiFeng Journal of Henan Agricultural Sciences; 2016. 45(1):15-19. 43 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20163069552 Grapevine shelter cultivation effectively reduces the diseases of the grapevine, but also produces some influence on the fruit quality in fact. This paper focused on the effect of microenvironment on the fruit quality, such as light, temperature and humidity in the shelter cultivation. The relationship was analysis between the micro environmental changes and the contents of sugar, acid, color, aromatic substances and phenolic substances of the fruit. The current research status was analyzed, and the future of the study was discussed. Publisher Henan Agricultural Sciences Location of Publisher Zhengzhou Country of Publication China 208. Combined effect of deficit irrigation and strobilurin application on yield, fruit quality and water use efficiency of "cherry" tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Cantore, V. Lechkar, O. Karabulut, E. Sellami, M. H. Albrizio, R. Boari, F. Stellacci, A. M. Todorovic, M. Agricultural Water Management; 2016. 167:53-61. [Journal article] AN: 20163068611 This study focused on the assessment of the interactive effect of deficit irrigation and strobilurin application in improving tomato physiological and yield response under water shortage. A two-year field research (2011 and 2012) was carried out in southern Italy, on tomato grown under three irrigation regimes - full recovering of crop evapotranspiration (I100), 50% of full irrigation supply (I50) and rainfed (I0) - and with three fungicide treatments - control (F0) without any fungicide; application of fungicides without strobilurin (F1); application of a strobilurin based fungicide (CabrioReg. Duo) (F2). Plant water status, yield and quality parameters, biomass and yield water use efficiencies (B_WUE and Y_WUE), yield and biomass water response factors (Ky and Kby) were assessed. Water shortage significantly affected yield and quality response: as an average of the two years, a marketable yield decrement of 52.7 and 80.5% was observed in I50 and I0 in respect to I100 treatment, respectively, because of the reduction in both fruit weight and number. Fruit dry matter, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, firmness and redness showed an increase to the decline of water availability. Strobilurin based fungicide application increased total and marketable yield by 14.2% and 19.1%, respectively. In addition, strobilurin improved the plant water status under water shortage as a consequence of reduction in stomatal conductance. Deficit irrigation caused a decrease of B_WUE and Y_WUE, while the strobilurin application improved Y_WUE by 17%. Kby and Ky on average were equal to 1.11 and 1.40, respectively, and were unaffected by fungicide treatments. These results indicated the potential benefits of using strobilurin based agrochemicals in tomato disease management, due to their complementary action in improving yield, WUE, and plant water status under water stress conditions. Publisher Elsevier Ltd Location of Publisher Oxford Country of Publication UK 209. Evaluation of neural network modeling to predict non-water-stressed leaf temperature in wine grape for calculation of crop water stress index. King, B. A. Shellie, K. C. Agricultural Water Management; 2016. 167:38-52. [Journal article] AN: 20163068610 Precision irrigation management of wine grape requires a reliable method to easily quantify and monitor vine water status to allow effective manipulation of plant water stress in response to water demand, cultivar management and producer objective. Mild to moderate water stress is desirable in wine grape in determined phenological periods for controlling vine vigor and optimizing fruit yield and quality according to producer preferences and objectives. The traditional leaf temperature based crop water stress index (CWSI) for monitoring plant water status has not been widely used for irrigated crops in general partly because of the need to know well-watered and non-transpiring leaf temperatures under identical environmental conditions. In this study, leaf temperature of vines irrigated at rates of 35, 70 or 100% of estimated evapotranspiration demand (ETc) under warm, semiarid field conditions in southwestern Idaho USA was monitored from berry development through fruit harvest in 2013 and 2014. Neural network (NN) models were developed based on meteorological measurements to predict well-watered leaf temperature of wine grape cultivars 'Syrah' and 'Malbec' (Vitis vinifera L.). Input variables for the cultivar specific NN models with lowest mean squared error were 15-min average values for air temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation and wind speed collected within+or-90 min of solar noon (13:00 and 15:00 MDT). Correlation coefficients between NN predicted and measured well-watered leaf temperature were 0.93 and 0.89 for 'Syrah' and 'Malbec', respectively. Mean squared error and mean average error for the NN models were 1.07 and 0.82 degrees C for 'Syrah' and 1.30, and 0.98 degrees C for 'Malbec', respectively. The NN models predicted well-watered leaf temperature with significantly less variability than traditional multiple linear regression using the same input variables. Non-transpiring leaf temperature was estimated as air temperature plus 15 degrees C based on maximum temperatures measured for vines irrigated at 35% (ETc). Daily mean CWSI calculated using NN estimated well-watered leaf temperatures between 13:00 and 15:00 MDT and air temperature plus 15 degrees C for non-transpiring leaf temperature consistently differentiated between deficit irrigation amounts, irrigation events, and rainfall. The methodology used to calculate a daily CWSI for wine grape in this study provided a daily indicator of vine water status that could be automated for use as a decision-support tool in a precision irrigation system. Publisher Elsevier Ltd Location of Publisher Oxford Country of Publication UK 210. Kaolin improves salinity tolerance, water use efficiency and quality of tomato. Boari, F. Donadio, A. Pace, B. Schiattone, M. I. Cantore, V. Agricultural Water Management; 2016. 167:29-37. [Journal article] AN: 20163068609 Many areas in Southern Italy covered by tomato crops suffer from problems of high salinity in the irrigation water, that adversely affects yield. The reduction in transpiration rate mitigates the adverse effects of salinity. Thus, spraying the crop with kaolin-based aqueous suspension, which has an antitranspirant effect, can help improve tolerance to salinity. A three-year research study was carried out in open-field conditions in the Basilicata region (Southern Italy), to study the combined effect of three irrigation-water salinity levels (ECw=0.5, 5, and 10 dS m-1) and spraying or non-spraying of kaolin on tomato cultivars, in terms of yield, fruit quality, biomass and yield water use efficiency (respectively B_WUE and Y_WUE). Irrigation with brackish water reduced tomato yield mainly because of declining fruit weight, but fruit quality was better in terms of dry matter content and total soluble solids. In addition, salinity increased blossom-end rot mainly on cultivars with elongated fruits. Overall, using the average from the three years, kaolin improved total (12.7%) and marketable yield (17.7%), fruit weight (8.1%) and harvest index (10.3%), and reduced fruit sunburn by 76.4%. In addition, kaolin contributed to reducing insect attack on the fruit (58.7%), improvement in total soluble solids (6.2%) and redness (10.2% for the skin and 16.6% for the pulp) of fruits, and increased Y_WUE (19.7%). Furthermore, kaolin mitigated the detrimental effects of salinity through a smaller decrease (averaging the three years) in total yield (22.8%), marketable yield (34.4%), fruit weight (21.1%), B_WUE (22.9%) and Y_WUE (34.7%), between the control irrigated with fresh water and the more saline treatment. Kaolin can be used to increase salinity tolerance, as well as to protect the tomato crop from pests damage, radiation and heat stress. Publisher Elsevier Ltd Location of Publisher Oxford Country of Publication UK 381. Comparing alternative nutritional functional units for expressing life cycle greenhouse gas emissions in food production systems. Kendall, A. Brodt, S. B. Proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Life Cycle Assessment in the Agri-Food Sector (LCA Food 2014), San Francisco, California, USA, 8-10 October, 2014; 2014. :628-633. 18 ref. [Conference paper] AN: 20153221377 Life cycle assessments (LCAs) of crop production systems and food products commonly report results using functional units of mass. While these functional units appear to facilitate comparison between different products, they fail to account for substantial differences in a multitude of benefits humans derive from food products, especially nutritional value. This study explores the effects of using different functional units, including mass, serving size, energy content, protein content and a composite nutrient score, on four food's life cycle global warming potential (GWP). Process-based LCA models of almonds, processed tomatoes (diced and paste), and rice, all produced in California, are used to calculate GWP. The results show that rice has the highest GWP except for the energy-content based functional unit, and almonds the lowest GWP except for the mass-based functional unit, and the performance of all the products are significantly affected by the choice of functional unit. The composite nutrient score functional unit appears to magnify the differences among the foods because it accentuates nutrient density, and thus foods like almonds perform better and foods like rice perform worse. Transparency in reporting and reporting multiple functional units is recommended for future studies. Publisher American Center for Life Cycle Assessment Location of Publisher Vashon Country of Publication USA 382. Nitrogen deficiency in barley (Hordeum vulgare) seedlings induces molecular and metabolic adjustments that trigger aphid resistance. (Special Issue: Breeding plants to cope with future climate change.) Comadira, G. Rasool, B. Karpinska, B. Morris, J. Verrall, S. R. Hedley, P. E. Foyer, C. H. Hancock, R. D. Journal of Experimental Botany; 2015. 66(12):3639-3655. many ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153255456 Agricultural nitrous oxide (N2O) pollution resulting from the use of synthetic fertilizers represents a significant contribution to anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, providing a rationale for reduced use of nitrogen (N) fertilizers. Nitrogen limitation results in extensive systems rebalancing that remodels metabolism and defence processes. To analyse the regulation underpinning these responses, barley (Horedeum vulgare) seedlings were grown for 7 d under N-deficient conditions until net photosynthesis was 50% lower than in N-replete controls. Although shoot growth was decreased there was no evidence for the induction of oxidative stress despite lower total concentrations of N-containing antioxidants. Nitrogen-deficient barley leaves were rich in amino acids, sugars and tricarboxylic acid cycle intermediates. In contrast to N-replete leaves one-day-old nymphs of the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae) failed to reach adulthood when transferred to N-deficient barley leaves. Transcripts encoding cell, sugar and nutrient signalling, protein degradation and secondary metabolism were over-represented in N-deficient leaves while those associated with hormone metabolism were similar under both nutrient regimes with the exception of mRNAs encoding proteins involved in auxin metabolism and responses. Significant similarities were observed between the N-limited barley leaf transcriptome and that of aphid-infested Arabidopsis leaves. These findings not only highlight significant similarities between biotic and abiotic stress signalling cascades but also identify potential targets for increasing aphid resistance with implications for the development of sustainable agriculture. Publisher Oxford University Press Location of Publisher Oxford Country of Publication UK 383. The soybean gene, GmMYBJ2, encodes a R2R3-type transcription factor involved in drought stress tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana. Su LianTai Wang Ying Liu DeQuan Li XiaoWei Zhai Ying Sun Xin Li XuYan Liu YaJing Li JingWen Wang QingYu Acta Physiologiae Plantarum; 2015. 37(7):138. 62 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153254695 MYB genes are extensively distributed in higher plants and constitute one of the largest transcription factors (TFs) families. These TFs have been proved to be implicated in the regulation of plant growth, development, metabolism, and multiple abiotic stress responses. In the present study, a new soybean MYB gene, denoted GmMYBJ2, was isolated and its function was characterized. The GmMYBJ2 cDNA is 1428 bp in length with an open reading frame (ORF) of 960 bp encoding 319 amino acids. Sequence and yeast one-hybrid analyses showed GmMYBJ2 contains two MYB domains and belongs to R2R3-MYB protein with transactivation activity. Transient expression analysis using the GmMYBJ2-GFP fusion gene in onion epidermal cells showed GmMYBJ2 protein is targeted to the nucleus. GmMYBJ2 was induced by drought, cold, salt, and exogenous abscisic acid (ABA). Arabidopsis overexpressing GmMYBJ2 exhibited a higher seed germination rates (GRs), a notable increase in the soluble sugar content under water-deficit stress, and a lower water loss rate (WLR) when water is sufficient. These results indicated the overexpression of GmMYBJ2 make transgenic Arabidopsis more tolerant to drought stress than wild-type (WT) plants, and GmMYBJ2 may be useful for improving drought stress tolerance in transgenic plant breeding. Publisher Springer-Verlag GmbH Location of Publisher Berlin Country of Publication Germany 384. Interacting effects of high light and elevated CO2 on the nutraceutical quality of two differently pigmented Lactuca sativa cultivars (Blonde of Paris Batavia and Oak Leaf). Perez-Lopez, U. Miranda-Apodaca, J. Munoz-Rueda, A. Mena-Petite, A. Scientia Horticulturae; 2015. 191:38-48. many ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153251545 This study presents changes in the nutraceutical quality and biomass production of two differently pigmented Lactuca sativa (L.) cultivars grown under various combinations of high light (700 micro mol photons m-2 s-1) and elevated CO2 (700 micro mol mol-1) conditions. In an ambient CO2 atmosphere, high light intensity increased biomass production in the green cultivar (Blonde of Paris Batavia) but not in the red cultivar (Oak Leaf). In both cultivars, high light intensity increased the concentration of soluble proteins and sugars. High light intensities also increased the levels of carotenoids, glutathione, total phenols and anthocyanins, which was most likely due to oxidative stress. Conversely, the levels of almost all minerals remained unchanged compared with the values detected for control light intensity and ambient CO2 conditions. When a high light intensity was applied at elevated CO2 conditions, the biomass production increased in both cultivars. The concentrations of minerals (except Fe and Mg), glutathione and ascorbate remained constant compared with the high light and ambient CO2 conditions, which indicated that these components and biomass accumulated at comparable rates. The decreases in the levels of Chl-a, carotenoids, total phenols and anthocyanins in response to elevated CO2 levels at high light conditions could indicate a relief of oxidative stress due to an improved balance between ATP and NADPH production and consumption at elevated CO2 levels. These results demonstrate that the biomass production and the nutritional quality of lettuce can be improved, but the response is cultivar-specific, and the choice of the best cultivation practice (using high light intensity alone or in combination with elevated CO2 levels) depends on the attributes that are targeted for improvement. Publisher Elsevier Ltd Location of Publisher Amsterdam Country of Publication Netherlands 385. Identification of cold resistance of squash and cucumber fruits by electrical conductivity and logistic equation. [Chinese] Xie Yue Zhang Min Liang FeiXia Yuan HaiTao Huang RuGuo Zhu SaiSai Transactions of the Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering; 2015. 31(7):292-298. 30 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153251046 The present study was undertaken to investigate cold-sensitive fruits' cold resistance at low temperatures. Squash and cucumber were two typical kinds of cold-sensitive fruits, and they were very sensitive to low temperatures and easily suffered from chilling injury for inappropriate cold storage. Therefore, the research took squash, Jinyou cucumber and Shenqing cucumber as samples, and analyzed the changes of electrolyte leakage rate at different low temperatures (2, 8, 12 and 20 degrees C) for different days (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 d). Because the changes in cell membrane permeability were significantly earlier than other chilling injury symptoms, such as the index of internal browning, but the changes between different varieties of cold-sensitive fruits were not always the same. That was the reason why the research took two different kinds of cucumbers as samples. The electrolyte leakage rate was often taken to identify cold-sensitive fruit's cold resistance. In addition, it has achieved some progress and breakthroughs at home and abroad in resent years. The electrolyte leakage rate was tested and documented every two days. Storage temperature and time, maturity, penetration time, measurement unit were considered as major influential factors on the research for electrolyte leakage rate. Among all the factors, penetration time and measurement unit were the most innovative and unique ones. Semi-lethal temperatures were determined by the logistic equation and they were taken as the important basis to judge whether cold-sensitive fruits suffered from chilling injury or not and the order of cold resistance. The result showed that the electrolyte leakage rate achieved stable when penetration time reached 90 minutes. At the same storage temperature, for the growth of the electrolyte leakage rate, there was little difference between the two varieties. With the extension of the storage time, the growth of the electrolyte leakage rate increased and showed significant difference (P<0.05). At the end of the storage time, the growth of the electrolyte leakage rate became stabilized, indicating that the cell membrane permeability had been completely destroyed at this moment. That was to say, the lower the storage temperature, the longer the storage time, the higher the electrolyte leakage rate, the worse the fruits' quality. Meanwhile, semi-lethal temperature of squash was between 5.37-6.56 degrees C, Jinyou cucumber was between 6.69-7.86 degrees C and Shenqing cucumber was between 8.04-8.96 degrees C. That was to say, these cold-sensitive fruits would have maintained a high quality when they were stored at this temperature range. They were confirmed individually and accurately. The tendency of the electrolyte leakage rate followed the Logistic equation and had a linear relationship with semi-lethal temperature. The result of semi-lethal temperature showed significant difference between different varieties, with the extension of duration time at low temperatures, the value of semi-lethal temperature increased and had a positive correlation with the duration time (P<0.05). The order of cold-sensitive fruit's cold resistance from high to low was squash, Jinyou cucumber, Shenqing cucumber and it had no significant relationship with fruits' maturity. Publisher Chinese Society of Agricultural Engineering Location of Publisher Beijing Country of Publication China 386. Azole fungicides - understanding resistance mechanisms in agricultural fungal pathogens. Price, C. L. Parker, J. E. Warrilow, A. G. S. Kelly, D. E. Kelly, S. L. Pest Management Science; 2015. 71(8):1054-1058. 55 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153247299 Plant fungal pathogens can have devastating effects on a wide range of crops, including cereals and fruit (such as wheat and grapes), causing losses in crop yield, which are costly to the agricultural economy and threaten food security. Azole antifungals are the treatment of choice; however, resistance has arisen against these compounds, which could lead to devastating consequences. Therefore, it is important to understand how these fungicides are used and how the resistance arises in order to tackle the problem fully. Here, we give an overview of the problem and discuss the mechanisms that mediate azole resistance in agriculture (point mutations in the CYP51 amino acid sequence, overexpression of the CYP51 enzyme and overexpression of genes encoding efflux pump proteins). Publisher Wiley-Blackwell Location of Publisher Chichester Country of Publication UK 387. Impact of gamma -irradiation on aroma flavour, bio-active constituents and quality attributes of water melon juice. Eissa, H. A. Shaheen, M. S. Botros, H. W. Journal of Plant Pathology and Microbiology; 2014. 5(2):227. 68 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153246903 gamma -Irradiation is highly effective in inactivating microorganisms and enzymes activity in various foods and it offers a safe alternative method of food decontamination and maintaining quality. Water melon juice was exposed to gamma -irradiation of 1, 3 and 5 kGy at room temperature (25+or-1 degrees C). With regard to colorimetric parameters the fresh water melon juice was lower than the irradiated samples. There was an improvement in the Hunter color value in irradiated water melon juice compared with fresh samples. The ascorbic acid, other antioxidants measured (DPPH, beta -carotene assays, total phenols, flavonoids and antioxidant capacity) showed enhancement on exposure to gamma -irradiation. Microbial studies showed reduction in total bacterial counts in irradiated juice at 5 kGy. gamma -irradiation improves microbial decontamination and antioxidant activity as well as colour of the water melon juice (WMJ) without any adverse change in bioactive and volatile compounds qualities. These results support the application of gamma -irradiation as a measure of food preservation technique for water melon juice that can be explored commercially to benefit both the producers and consumers. Publisher OMICS Publishing Group Location of Publisher Los Angeles Country of Publication USA 388. VIII International Peach Symposium, Matera, Italy. Xiloyannis, C. Inglese, P. Montanaro, G. Acta Horticulturae; 2015. (1084):834 pp. [Journal issue. Conference proceedings] AN: 20153246673 This proceedings contains 112 papers highlighting several important facts that are related to peach cultivation and production. The main topics covered include (i) the multifunctional role of peach orchards, (ii) biology and physiology, (iii) orchard design and management, (iv) fruit quality, post-harvest and processing technology, (v) fruit and human health benefits, (vi) cultivars, rootstocks and breeding, (vii) socio-economic aspects and marketing, and (viii) plant protection: pests and diseases. Publisher International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS) Location of Publisher Leuven Country of Publication Belgium 389. Effects of salt and water stress on plant growth and on accumulation of osmolytes and antioxidant compounds in cherry tomato. Al-Hassan, M. Martinez Fuertes, M. Ramos Sanchez, F. J. Vicente, O. Boscaiu, M. Notulae Botanicae, Horti Agrobotanici, Cluj-Napoca; 2015. 43(1):1-11. many ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153236588 The effects of salt and water stress on growth and several stress markers were investigated in cherry tomato plants. Some growth parameters (stem length and number of leaves) and chlorophyll contents were determined every third day during plant growth, and leaf material was collected after 25 and 33 days of treatment. Both stresses inhibited plant growth; chlorophyll levels, however, decreased only in response to high NaCl concentrations. Proline contents largely increased in leaves of stressed plants, reaching levels high enough to play a major role in cellular osmotic adjustment. Despite reports indicating that tomato does not synthesize glycine betaine, the stress-induced accumulation of this osmolyte was detected in cherry tomato, albeit at lower concentration than that of proline. Therefore, it appears that the plants are able to synthesise glycine betaine as a secondary osmolyte under strong stress conditions. Total sugars levels, on the contrary, decreased in stress-treated plants. Both stress treatments caused secondary oxidative stress in the plants, as indicated by a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) contents. Water stress led to an increase in total phenolics and flavonoid contents and a reduction of carotenoid levels in the leaves; flavonoids also increased under high salinity conditions. Publisher University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Location of Publisher Cluj-Napoca Country of Publication Romania 390. Comparison of processing fruit quality of several grape varieties cultivated in climatic conditions of Poland and Bulgaria. Angelov, L. Stalev, B. Ochmian, I. Mijowska, K. Chelpinski, P. Folia Pomeranae Universitatis Technologiae Stetinensis, Agricultura, Alimentaria, Piscaria et Zootechnica; 2015. 318(34/2):5-14. 23 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153235971 Wine producers have been working on selecting the most suitable grape variety for specific regions and therefore improving wine production technology for numerous years. Climate changes lead to change in grape quality; in the future these changes will have to be considered by the vineyard owners as they will affect cultivation methods, harvest dates and vinification process. The aim of this paper is to compare the quality of several grape varieties cultivated in different climatic conditions. Research material was collected from vineyards situated in the Szczecin Lowlands (Poland) and Plovdiv (Bulgaria). The study focused on three grape varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Pinot Noir. Measured characteristics included contained physical parameters: ruit weight, bunch weight and length and firmness as well as chemical composition: soluble solids, acidity, pH, ascorbic acid and nitrates levels, anthocyanin index. Analysed fruit was also examined in terms of colouration and must colour changes during maceration. Climatic conditions of the crop location had significant influence on the chemical composition of fruits, for example Bulgarian fruit featured higher levels of extract and pH combined with lower acidity. The Cabernet Sauvignon variety, regardless of crop location, had the highest levels of extract and organic acids. The juice obtained from Bulgarian grapes was darker (L*) than the juice from the fruit harvested in Poland. On the other hand, the juice of Polish fruit had more blue pigment (b*). It was also found that a* and b* fruit colour parameters are highly correlated with the anthocyanin index. Publisher Zachodniopomorski Uniwersytet Technologiczny w Szczecinie Location of Publisher Szczecin Country of Publication Poland 391. Cloning and expression analysis of a transcription factor gene BoWRKY2 from broccoli. [Chinese] Jiang Ming Chen BeiBei Guan Ming Li JinZhi Huang XiaoMei Gu YunJi Journal of Zhejiang University (Agriculture and Life Sciences); 2015. 41(2):153-159. 28 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153233349 Broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica), which belongs to Cruciferae family, is a cash crop widely cultivated in China, and it is regarded as one of the most consumed vegetables in the world. The flower head of broccoli is rich in minerals, vitamins, fibers as well as anti-oxidants, so it is recognized as a healthy vegetable with anti-cancer properties. As a major broccoli production center in China, the average plantation areas reach to 8 000 hm2 in Taizhou of Zhejiang Province. However, broccoli cultivation suffered from plant diseases of downy mildew and stalk break which were caused by Hyaloperonospora parasitica and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, respectively, resulting in yield and quality loss. WRKY transcription factors played important roles in plant stress responses, and WRKY domains were defined as an approximately 60-amino acid motif named WRKYGQK as well as a zinc finger structure of C-X4-5-C-X22-23-H-X1-H at their C-terminus. The WRKY domain binds specifically to DNA sequence of (T)(T)TGAC(C/T) known as the W-box which exists in defense-related promoters. Enhanced disease resistance by overexpression of WRKY genes in different crop plants has been reported in recent years. In this study, a WRKY gene designated as BoWRKY2, was isolated from B. oleracea var. italica. Based on sequence analysis, expression patterns of BoWRKY2 were detected using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method while challenged by H. parasitica and S. sclerotioruni, respectively. The results showed that the genome DNA sequence was 1 507 bp in length with two introns and a complete coding sequence of 987 bp, and the length of two introns were 425 and 95 bp, respectively; BoWRKY2 encoded 328 amino acids with a WRKYGQK residue and a zinc finger structure of C-X5-C-X23-H-X1-H. The WRKY domain located between 247 and 313 residues, and several DNA binding sites were found at sites of 66, 67, 69, 71, 74, 281, 282, 283 and 317. The WRKY domain was similar to that of oilseed rape with only one amino acid residue difference between them. Phylogenetic analysis indicated the BoWRKY2 was grouped with other Cruciferae plants such as B. napus, Arabidopsis thaliana, A. lyrata, Capsella rubella and Eutrema salsugineum, with 97% confidence. RT-PCR results revealed that the BoWRKY2 was induced by both H. parasitica and S. sclerotiorum with similar expression patterns. The expression level both increased at 6 h and 12 h, and decreased after 24 h, indicating the resistance responses of BoWRKY2 against two plant fungi. In a word, the cloning and expression analysis of BoWRKY2 gene lay the foundation for further studies in gene function identification and molecular breeding of broccoli. Publisher Zhejiang University Press Location of Publisher Hangzhou Country of Publication China 392. Patterns of nectar and pollen presentation influence the attractiveness of four raspberry and blackberry cultivars to pollinators. Schmidt, K. Filep, R. Orosz-Kovacs, Z. Farkas, A. Journal of Horticultural Science and Biotechnology; 2015. 90(1):47-56. 40 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153233272 Floral rewards such as nectar and pollen have a major influence on successful pollination and fruit-set, even in self-fertile Rubus sp. (Rosaceae), which include most cultivated raspberries and blackberries. A 2-year study was designed to examine the diurnal dynamics of nectar secretion and pollen shedding in the raspberry cultivars 'Autumn Bliss' and 'Malling Exploit', and in the blackberry cultivars 'Arapaho' and 'Hull', in order to establish the effect of these traits on floral attractiveness to various insect visitors. The volume of nectar secreted per flower was measured using calibrated capillaries, and the concentrations of sugars in the nectar were measured using a hand-held refractometer. The four Rubus cultivars differed in their patterns of nectar and pollen presentation. Volumes of nectar and concentrations of sugars were influenced by year, cultivar, age of the flower, and time of sampling. The four cultivars exhibited different patterns of nectar secretion over the 2 years. In year-1, an early morning peak in nectar volume was followed by a rapid decline, while the concentrations of sugars increased during the day. In year-2, both the volume of nectar and the concentrations of sugars increased from the morning to the afternoon. The patterns of pollen presentation were similar in both years of study. Anther dehiscence took only 3-8 h per flower in the poorest nectar producer, 'Arapaho'; while, in cultivars with higher nectar yields, pollen shedding lasted for 6-10 h. Pollen-shedding flowers secreted significantly higher volumes of nectar, with significantly lower concentrations of sugars, compared to pre-pollen-shedding flowers in year-1. The concentrations of sugars in the nectar were higher in both raspberry cultivars than in the blackberry cultivars, but both blackberry cultivars were as attractive to bees due to their more appealing nectar sugar composition. Bees were more attracted to flowers of cultivars which simultaneously offered ample nectar and some pollen (i.e., 'Autumn Bliss', 'Malling Exploit', and 'Hull') than to flowers with a rapid rate of pollen shedding, but a low nectar yield (i.e., 'Arapaho'). Higher rates of bee-mediated cross-pollination may provide economically important increases in fruit yields and better quality fruit. Publisher Headley Brothers Ltd., The Invicta Press Location of Publisher Ashford Country of Publication UK 393. Response of young 'Star Ruby' grapefruit trees to regulated deficit irrigation with saline reclaimed water. Pedrero, F. Maestre-Valero, J. F. Mounzer, O. Nortes, P. A. Alcobendas, R. Romero-Trigueros, C. Bayona, J. M. Alarcon, J. J. Nicolas, E. Agricultural Water Management; 2015. 158:51-60. [Journal article] AN: 20153231858 In this study, the physiological and agronomic effects of irrigating a commercial young grapefruit orchard with saline reclaimed water (RW) combined or not with a regulated deficit irrigation (RDI) strategy were analyzed over three consecutive years. Two water sources, transferred water (TW; ECw ~ 1.3 dS m-1) and reclaimed water (RW; ECw ~ 3.0 dS m-1) were used, and two irrigation treatments, a control treatment (irrigated 100% of the crop evapotranspiration; ETc) and a RDI treatment (irrigated 50% of ETc during the 2nd stage of fruit growth) were performed. Results evidenced that RW, especially under the RDI strategy, increased the soil salinity, particularly in summer due to a greater evapotranspirative water demand. However, soil salinity did not increase, as salts were likely to be washed by rainfall. Stomatal conductance and net photosynthesis were not affected by the use RW combined or not with RDI strategies. However, RDI strategies worsened the tree water status regardless of the type of water used; TW or RW, although re-watering increased rapidly the stem water potential up to values similar to that of the control trees. The RDI treatment, which allowed reaching an average annual water saving of 13.2%, combined or not with RW, did not negatively affect vegetative growth, yield and fruit quality, which might be of great economic and competitive significance for agriculture. The combination of RW and RDI did have not affect negatively the soil and young grapefruits, but further research focused on a longer term should be carried out since detrimental effects might appear. Publisher Elsevier Ltd Location of Publisher Oxford Country of Publication UK 394. Biodiversity of plant pathogenic bacteria in Phaseolus-blight complex in selecting bean germplasm. [Spanish] Navarrete Maya, R. Revista Mexicana de Fitopatologia; 2013. 31(Suplemento 1):S20-S21. 6 ref. [Journal article. Conference paper] AN: 20153179544 In Mexico, bacterial blights of primary bean (Phaseolus spp.) develop independently or combined, common blight is caused by Xanthomonas campestris pv. phaseoli and X. campestris pv. phaseoli [X. phaseoli] var. fuscans [X. fuscans subsp. fuscans], and halo blight by Pseudomonas syringae pv. phaseolicola [P. savastanoi pv. phaseolicola]. It is postulated that pathogens co-evolve with their hosts, especially in the primary centres of origin and diversity, which fosters pathogenic variability and presence of plants differing in susceptibility to them, reasons that hinder development of resistant varieties. This paper describes pathogenic variability in Phaseolus-blight complex and its role in selecting and improving bean germplasm. There is a challenge between bean breeding and biodiversity of bacteria inducing common and halo blights so appropriate management should be planned in order to obtain good crop yield and quality seed, even with the presence of bacteria. As a starting point, the use of healthy seeds is suggested. Publisher Sociedad Mexicana de Fitopatologia Location of Publisher Obregon Country of Publication Mexico 395. Characterization of Cucumber mosaic virus isolated from Taiwan swallowwort (Cynanchum taiwanianum Yamazaki) in Taiwan. [Chinese] Yang, S. H. Chen, T. H. Tzeng, J. Lee, W. L. Tsao, L. Y. Chen, C. C. Plant Protection Bulletin (Taipei); 2014. 56(4):109-136. 33 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153148962 Taiwan swallowwort (Cynanchum taiwanianum Yamazaki) is a native herbal plant in Taiwan. It belongs to Asclepiadaceae and has economically cultivated at Neimen Township, Kaohsiung County, Taiwan, due to its tuber is used as herbal medicine. Taiwan swallowwort virus disease was first found at Neimen area in 2005. Isometric particles were observed in diseased leaves showing mosaic symptom by electron microscopy. A disease incidence of 88% was obtained in field survey at Neimen area. However, a fluctuation in disease symptoms relative to temperature could be observed at net house cultivation. An apparently disease symptom appeared during the low temperature period from January to April. While, mild disease symptoms were observed during high temperature period from May to August. An isometric viral particle of 28 nm in diameter was successfully isolated by mechanical inoculation from a diseased Taiwan swallowwort plant showing mosaic symptom to Chenopodium amaranticolor and named as SW-1. The thermal inactivation point of SW-1 and the dilution end point was 10-5. The longevity in vitro of SW-1 was 96 hours at 24 degrees C and more then 12 months at -80 degrees C. A purified viral preparation of 66.6 mg could be obtained from 50 g SW-1 infected leaf tissue of Nicotiana tabacum cv. vam Hicks. The host range tests indicated that SW-1 could infect 32 plant species in 7 families such as Cucurbitaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Solanaceae and etc. among 74 plant species in 12 families inoculated mechanically. The molecular weight of coat protein of the virus was estimated at 26 KDa by electrophoresis in sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) polyacrylamide gel. An antiserum with a titer of 2048 was obtained by immunizing a New Zealand white rabbit with the purified virions. In Western blotting, indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and SDS-agar gel double diffusion test, the antiserum against reacted strongly with its homologous antigens and Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) control antigen. Furthermore, the gene of viral coat protein was cloned and sequenced. A sequence of 889 nucleotides encoding an open reading frame of 218 amino acid residues was obtained. An identity of 99% and 100% with CMV infecting tomato in nucleotide (D28780, AJ829779) and amino acid (Y10886, AF523340) levels respectively were evidenced. Based on these result a conclusion could be drawn that the virus (SW-1) from diseased Taiwan swallowwort is a isolated of Cucumber mosaic virus. To our knowledge, this is the first report of virus disease occurring in Taiwan swallowwort. Publisher Plant Protection Society of the Republic of China Location of Publisher Taichung Country of Publication Taiwan 396. Advances on salinity responses and tolerance in citrus. [Chinese] Wei QingJiang Feng FangFang Gu QingQing Journal of Fruit Science; 2015. 32(1):136-141. 46 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153229440 Citrus is a major horticultural crop and is very salt sensitive. The review summarized the difference of salt tolerance of citrus germplasm. The adverse effects of salinity on physiological aspects of citrus are also summarized. Salinity causes water deficit in plants, and causes specific ion toxicity especially the Cl-toxicity. Besides, salinity affects the absorption of mineral elements and finally leads to nutritional imbalance within plants. During the long-term evolution process, citrus plants have developed some tolerant mechanisms to cope with salt stress. For example, biosynthesis of sugar alcohols and amino acids contribute to osmotic adjustment in citrus under salinity stress, and enzymatic system and some oxidants (non-enzymes) can help to reduce the damage from reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, the ion transporters such as ATP-binding cassette transporter (ABC) and Chloride channel (CLC) are involved in reestablishment of ion homeostasis, which also play important roles in adaptations of citrus under salt stress. Publisher Magazines Publishing House Location of Publisher Zhengzhou Country of Publication China 397. The effects of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungus (AMF) and humic acid on the growth of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) plant and root rot disease caused by Phytophthora capsici Leonian. [Turkish] Aslanpay, B. Demir, S. Yuzuncu Yil Universitesi Journal of Agricultural Sciences; 2015. 25(1):48-57. 44 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153229162 In this study, the effects of singular and double combinations of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) and humic acid (HA) were investigated on the growth of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) and rot root disease caused by Phytophthora capsici Leonian which has been known as an important problem of pepper cultivation and leading yield losses. Under controlled conditions, four F1 pepper cultivars (Ergenekon, Bafra, Sirena and Yldz) were inoculated with three different AMF strains (Glomus intraradices, G. mossea and Gigaspora margaritha) in order to determine the most appropriate combination of pepper cultivar and AMF species to be used in studies. While each AMF species colonized between 3.05-38.66% on four pepper varieties, mycorrhizal dependency ratio changed between 2.52-20.64%. The best affinity was determined between Bafra x G. mosseae combination in point of not only colonization but also mychorrhizal dependency and this combination used in the second experiment. At the end of the study, it was found that the applications of AMF and humic acid were encouraged plant growth positively. Similar results were also determined in terms of plant macro-micro nutrient contents, and especially nutrient content of plants with AMF significantly increased. Therefore, single or combined applications of AMF and HA were effective by reducing the incidence of disease severity between 37.6-55.6%. Publisher Yzuncu yil Universitesi Ziraat Fakultesi Location of Publisher Van Country of Publication Turkey 398. The influence of irrigation level on olive tree nutritional status. Zipori, I. Yermiyahu, U. Erel, R. Presnov, E. Faingold, I. Ben-Gal, A. Dag, A. Irrigation Science; 2015. 33(4):277-287. 47 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153224195 While modernization of olive cultivation has recently lead to vast expansion of fully irrigated orchards, characterization of olive tree nutritional status remains based on knowledge gleamed from rain-fed orchards. In the present study, the effect of irrigation level on olive tree nutritional status was investigated in Israel over 4 years on two cultivars and in two locations characterized by differences in soil, tree age, management history, fertilizer application and irrigation water quality. Diagnostic leaves, sampled in July, were evaluated as indicators of nutritional status. Leaf nitrogen concentration was not affected by irrigation level. Leaf phosphorous and potassium concentrations increased with increasing irrigation level. Leaf calcium, manganese and iron tended to decrease with irrigation, while magnesium, sodium and zinc concentrations were not generally affected by irrigation level. Leaf boron and chloride concentrations increased with increasing irrigation when their concentration in irrigation water was relatively high. Leaf nutrient concentration was influenced by cultivar. The results presented in this study emphasize a strong link between irrigation level and the nutritional status of olives for some nutrients and no association for others. These findings should aid in developing distinct fertilization recommendations for fully irrigated olives, different from those developed and used for rain-fed or supplemental-irrigated orchards. Publisher Springer-Verlag GmbH Location of Publisher Berlin Country of Publication Germany 399. Response of spring wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) quality traits and yield to sowing date. Mukhtar Ahmed Fayyaz-ul-Hassan PLoS ONE; 2015. 10(4):e0126097. 50 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153222770 The unpredictability and large fluctuation of the climatic conditions in rainfed regions do affect spring wheat yield and grain quality. These variations offer the opportunity for the production of better quality wheat. The effect of variable years, locations and sowing managements on wheat grain yield and quality was studied through field experiments using three genotypes, three locations for two years under rainfed conditions. The two studied years as contrasting years at three locations and sowing dates depicted variability in temperature and water stress during grain filling which resulted considerable change in grain yield and quality. Delayed sowing, years (2009-10) and location (Talagang) with high temperature and water stress resulted increased proline, and grain quality traits i.e. grain protein (GP) and grain ash (GA) than optimum conditions (during 2008-09, at Islamabad and early sowing). However, opposite trend was observed for dry gluten (DG), sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), SPAD content and grain yield irrespective of genotypes. The influence of variable climatic conditions was dominant in determining the quality traits and inverse relationship was observed among some quality traits and grain yield. It may be concluded that by selecting suitable locations and different sowing managements for subjecting the crop to desirable environmental conditions (temperature and water) quality traits of wheat crop could be modified. Publisher Public Library of Sciences (PLoS) Location of Publisher San Francisco Country of Publication USA 400. Measurement of photosynthetic response to plant water stress using a multi-modal sensing system. Kim, J. Y. Glenn, D. M. Transactions of the ASABE; 2015. 58(2):233-240. 31 ref. [Journal article] AN: 20153222467 Plant yield and productivity are significantly affected by abiotic stresses such as water or nutrient deficiency. Automated timely detection of plant stress can mitigate stress development, thereby maximizing productivity and fruit quality. A multi-modal sensing system was developed and evaluated to identify the onset and severity of plant stress in young apple trees (cultivar 'Gale Gala') under five different water treatments in a greenhouse. The multi-modal sensors include a multispectral camera, an NDVI sensor, a digital camera, an ultrasonic range finder, and a thermal imager. Photosynthesis measurements for each water treatment group were recorded to determine photosynthesis reduction due to water stress and compared with multi-modal sensor responses. Data analysis determined that spectral signature (NDVI) and canopy temperature are highly correlated to plant water stress. The highest correlation to photosynthesis reduction was found for canopy temperature (r2=0.83), followed by GreenSeeker NDVI (r2=0.76) and multispectral camera (r2=0.64). Publisher American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers Location of Publisher St Joseph Country of Publication USA