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The consumption of blueberries has increased in recent years due to their excellent flavor and high antioxidant activity, which promote human well-being and health. Several sustainable cultural practices, such as biostimulants, have been applied to increase crop performance. The pre-harvest foliar application of two doses of a biostimulant based on the macroalgae Ecklonia maxima (EM), two doses of a glycine–betaine (GB) biostimulant, and two doses of the combination of the biostimulants in 'Duke' and 'Draper' blueberry cultivars in 2022 and 2023 were studied. The application of 4 L ha−1 EM significantly increased the yield of 'Draper' blueberries, while the same occurred in 'Duke' fruits treated with 4 L ha−1 EM + 4 kg ha−1 GB. The blueberries sprayed with both doses of EM + GB were heavier and larger. 'Duke' fruits treated with EM were firmer and, following 4 L ha−1 EM + 4 kg ha−1 GB treatment, presented a lower concentration of organic acids, determined by HPLC, greater sensorial sweetness, and lower acidity. Therefore, these biostimulants are recommended for a more environmentally friendly production perspective, as they may increase blueberry yield and improve fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary flowering is the phenomenon in which a tree blooms twice or more times a year. Along with the development of blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) fruits in spring, a large number of secondary flowers on the strong upright spring shoots were noticed in blueberries planted in the greenhouse. To reveal the cause and possible regulatory mechanism of the phenomenon, we clarified the phenological characteristics of flower bud differentiation and development on the spring shoots by combining phenological phenotype with anatomical observation. Furthermore, the changes in carbohydrates, trehalose-6-phosphate (Tre6P), and the relationship among the key enzyme regulatory genes for Tre6P metabolism and the key regulatory genes for flower formation during the differentiation process of apical buds and axillary buds were investigated. The results showed that the process of flower bud differentiation and flowering of apical and axillary buds was consistent, accompanied by a large amount of carbohydrate consumption. This process was positively correlated with the expression trends of VcTPS1/2, VcSnRK1, VcFT, VcLFY2, VcSPL43, VcAP1, and VcDAM in general, and negatively correlated with that of VcTPP. In addition, there is a certain difference in the differentiation progress of flower buds between the apical and axillary buds. Compared with axillary buds, apical buds had higher contents of sucrose, fructose, glucose, Tre6P, and higher expression levels of VcTPS2, VcFT, VcSPL43, and VcAP1. Moreover, VcTPS1 and VcTPS2 were more closely related to the physiological substances (sucrose and Tre6P) in axillary bud and apical bud differentiation, respectively. It was suggested that sucrose and trehalose-6-phosphate play a crucial role in promoting flower bud differentiation in strong upright spring shoots, and VcTPS1 and VcTPS2 might play a central role in these activities. Our study provided substantial sight for further study on the mechanism of multiple flowering of blueberries and laid a foundation for the regulation and utilization of the phenomenon of multiple flowering in a growing season of perennial woody plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.), a perennial shrub, flower bud initiation is mediated by a short-day (SD) photoperiod and buds bloom once the chilling requirement is satisfied. A plant factory with artificial lighting (PFAL) is a planting system that can provide a stable and highly efficient growing environment for blueberry production. However, the characteristics of bud differentiation of blueberry plants inside PFAL systems are poorly understood. To better understand flower bud initiation and the flowering mechanism of blueberry in PFAL systems, the anatomical structure of apical buds under SD conditions in a PFAL system was observed using the southern highbush cultivar 'Misty' and a transcriptomic analysis was performed to identify the candidate flowering genes. The results indicated that the apical bud of 'Misty' differentiated gradually along with SD time course and swelled obviously when chilling was introduced. A total of 39.28 Gb clean data were generated, and about 20.31–24.11 Mb high-quality clean reads were assembled, yielding a total of 17370 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), of which 9637 were up-regulated and 7733 were down-regulated. Based on the functional annotation, 26 DEGs were identified including 20 flowering-related and 6 low-temperature DEGs, out of which the expressive level of four flowering-related DEGs (VcFT2, VcFPA, VcFMADS1, and VcCOP1) and two low-temperature-induced DEGs (VcTIL-1 and VcLTI 65-like) were confirmed by qRT-PCR with a good consistency with the pattern of transcriptome. Functional analysis indicated that VcFT2 was highly conserved with nuclear and cytoplasmic subcellular localization and was expressed mainly in blueberry leaf tissue. In Arabidopsis, ectopic overexpression of VcFT2 results in an early flowering phenotype, indicating that VcFT2 is a vital regulator of the SD-mediated flowering pathway in blueberry. These results contribute to the investigation of photoperiod-mediated flowering mechanisms of blueberry in PFAL systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blueberries are considered super-food because of their richness in antioxidants and vitamin C, essential for strengthening the immune system and protecting the brain. Breeders strive to improve the blueberries' fruit quality treats, so these fruits will have flavors and unique tastes, considerable size, and intense colors, which makes them even more appreciated by consumers. The firmness of fruits, their juiciness, taste, aroma, size, and color are all indicators used to appreciate the 30 blueberry varieties used in this study. Eight Romanian varieties and 22 foreign varieties were analyzed in a testing session in August 2023 with 51 accessors. The highest ranking is attributed to the 'Brigitta' variety. The 'Pink Lemonade' variety scored the best results for flavor, taste, firmness, and juiciness. The Romanian variety 'Delicia' was in the top 3 for 3 indicators. The results of the present study could be used by breeders to select promising varieties as genitors in blueberry breeding programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of covers to protect blueberry orchards from adverse weather events has increased due to the variability in climate patterns, but the effects of rain covers and netting materials on yield and fruit quality have not been studied yet. This research evaluated the simultaneous effect of an LDPE plastic cover, a woven cover, and netting material on environmental components (UV light, PAR, NIR, and growing degree days (GDDs)), plant performance (light interception, leaf area index, LAI, yield, and flower development), and fruit quality traits (firmness, total soluble solids, and acidity) in two blueberry cultivars. On average, UV transmission under the netting was 11% and 43% higher compared to that under woven and LDPE plastic covers, while NIR transmission was 8–13% higher with both types of rain covers, with an increase in fruit air temperature and GDDs. Yield was 27% higher under the woven cover with respect to netting, but fruit firmness values under the netting were 12% higher than those of the LDPE plastic cover. Light interception, LAI, and flower development explained 64% (p = 0.0052) of the yield variation due to the cover material's effect. The obtained results suggest that the type of cover differentially affects yield and fruit quality in blueberries due to the specific light and temperature conditions generated under these materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Agroindustrial Science is the property of Agroindustrial Science and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Consumer demand for natural preservatives in processed meat products has prompted research into alternative options that can maintain health and safety standards. In this study, the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) (BB) were investigated, and four beef burger formulas were (control beef burger) (C), a beef burger with 0.01% butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (T1), a beef burger with 1% BB (T2), and a beef burger with 1.5% BB (T3). The results revealed that BB contained high levels of total phenolics (435 mg GAE/100g sample, flavonoids (59.76mg Quercetin/ 100g sample), and anthocyanins (173.3mg/ 100g.), making it a promising candidate for use as a natural preservative. Furthermore, incorporating BB into the beef burgers improved all sensory parameters when compared with control, and significantly increased cooking yield, while decreasing cooking loss (p< 0.05). The inclusion of BB also resulted in a clear decrease in the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) and peroxide values (p<0.05), indicating its potential as a functional ingredient with preservative ability during meat product processing. Therefore, the use of blueberries as a natural preservative in meat products is recommended as a sustainable alternative to synthetic preservatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-bush blueberry is an important economic and nutraceutical species, due to its high content of anthocyanins and high antioxidant activity. Nowadays, climate changes are affecting plant growth and development, leading to changes in plants' adaptation to new environmental conditions. Consequently, the need to create new varieties and hybrids to cope with changes and meet the growing demands of consumers is imperative. One way to hasten plant breeding is to employ molecular methods, such as ISSR. In the present study, five ISSR molecular markers were used to study the genetic relationships between seven Romanian blueberry cultivars and one hybrid. The dendrogram obtained following ISSR analysis revealed the presence of two clusters, one cluster containing 'Lax', 'Prod', 'Vital', 'Azur', and the second one 'Simultan', 'Delicia', 'Compact', and the hybrid obtained through free pollination of variety 'Compact'. The shortest genetic distance was noted between the hybrid genotype and the 'Compact' cultivar. The longest genetic distance was noted between the varieties 'Compact' and 'Prod'. The study also revealed common markers for the hybrid studied and its maternal genitor, that could be used as markers in blueberry breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a lack of information on how protected cultivation alters plant and soil responses to water stress. The objective of this study was to understand the influence of the covering material on drought tolerance responses and soil water content in the effective rooting zone in two promising new cultivars grown under contrasting climatic conditions. (2) Methods: Two experiments were conducted in young blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) orchards, cv. Blue Ribbon and cv. Top Shelf, in two different locations in the south-central region of Chile (Linares and Traiguén) in 2018–2019 and 2019–2020. Four treatments (uncovered control, net, woven, and plastic) were installed from bud break to leaf senescence. (3) Results: Woven and plastic-covered plants showed no relationship between stem water potential and stomatal conductance, while uncovered and net-covered plants showed a quadratic relationship between both variables. Under deficit irrigation, higher plant water status, stomatal conductance, and photosystem II efficiency were found in covered plants. 'Top Shelf' showed greater tolerance to water stress than 'Blue Ribbon' due to more sensitive stomatal control. (4) Conclusions: Protected cultivation delayed the onset of water stress, maintained high stomatal conductance, and reduced photoinhibition in young blueberry plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) is a popular fruit with an abundance of anthocyanins in its leaves and fruits. Light is one of the pivotal environmental elements that affects plant growth and development, but the regulatory mechanism between light quality and anthocyanin formation is poorly understood. Methods: An integrated transcriptome and metabolome analysis was performed to investigate the effects of white (control), blue (B), red (R), and red/blue (60R/40B) light on blueberry growth and reveal the potential pathway controlling anthocyanin biosynthesis in blueberry leaves. Results: The anthocyanin content was significantly improved by the blue and red/blue light when compared with white light, whereas there was a significant reduction in the photosynthesis under the blue light, showing an inverse trend to that of anthocyanin accumulation. Transcriptomic analysis resulted in the assembly of 134,709 unigenes. Of these, 22 were differentially expressed genes (DEGs) that participate in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway, with the majority being significantly up-regulated under the blue light. Most of the photosynthesis-related genes that were down-regulated were expressed during anthocyanin accumulation. Targeted metabolome profiling identified 44 metabolites associated with anthocyanin biosynthesis. The contents of most of these metabolites were higher under blue light than the other light conditions, which was consistent with the transcriptome results. The integrated transcriptome and metabolome analysis suggested that, under blue light, leucoanthocyanidin dioxygenase (LDOX), O-methyltransferase (OMT), and UDP-glucose flavonoid glucosyltransferase (UFGT) were the most significantly expressed, and they promoted the synthesis of cyanidin (Cy), malvidin (Mv), and pelargonidin (Pg) anthocyanidins, respectively. The expression levels of dihydroflavonol 4-reductase (DFR) and OMT, as well as the accumulation of delphinidin (Dp), peonidin (Pn), and petunidin (Pt), were significantly increased by the red/blue light. Discussion: The blue and red/blue lights promoted anthocyanin biosynthesis via inducing the expression of key structural genes and accumulation of metabolites involved in anthocyanin synthesis pathway. Moreover, there was a possible feedback regulating correlation between anthocyanin biosynthesis and photosynthesis under different light qualities in blueberry leaves. This study would provide a theoretical basis for elucidating the underlying regulatory mechanism of anthocyanin biosynthesis of V. corymbosum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Agro-Knowledge Journal / Agroznanje is the property of University of Banja Luka, Faculty of Agriculture and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the content and profile of the phenolic compounds (PCs) and antioxidant properties of field-grown leaves, in vitro leaves and in vitro callus cultures of the blackberry ‘Čačanska Bestrna’ and blueberry ‘Toro’. In vitro shoots of the selected genotypes were grown either on original Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 1 mg/L BA, 0.1 mg/L IBA and 0.1 mg/L GA3 (‘Čačanska Bestrna’) or on MS medium with macroelements reduced to 1/2, 2 mg/L zeatin and 0.2 mg/L IAA (‘Toro’). Callus cultures were induced from in vitro leaves and established on MS medium with 2 mg/L BA and 2 mg/L 2,4-D (‘Čačanska Bestrna’) or MS medium with half strength macroelements, 2 mg/L BA, 2 mg/L 2,4-D and 1 mg/L NAA (‘Toro’). Total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC) were the highest in blueberry leaves, whereas low TPC and TFC values were obtained in callus cultures of both cultivars. A higher content of PCs in blueberry leaves compared to blackberry leaves was determined by the UHPLC-DAD MS/MS technique. Quercetin derivatives and phenolic acids were the dominant PCs in the leaves of both berries, whereas gallocatechin was present in a significant amount in blueberry leaves. Callus cultures of both berries had a specific PC profile, with none detected in the leaves except quercetin-3-O-glucoside and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside. Blackberry leaves showed the best antioxidant properties as estimated by ferric reducing power (FRP), ABTS•+ and DPPH• scavenging activity assays. Callus cultures of both berries exhibited three to five times lower ABTS•+ and ten to seventeen times lower DPPH• scavenging activity compared to corresponding leaves. The analyzed leaves and callus cultures can be a good source of PCs with good antioxidant properties and specific phenolics, respectively, for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study describes molecular detection, high prevalence and geographical distribution of blueberry latent virus (BlLV) in Serbia. BlLV was discovered in the USA and the main signature of the virus is latent infection. A number of 110 samples from 14 highbush blueberry cultivars collected from different locations in 9 municipalities of Serbia were tested by RT-PCR with BlLV-specific primers. The presence of BlLV was confirmed in 69 samples (62.7%) in all surveyed locations. BlLV was confirmed in single infections, but also in a mixed infection with blueberry mosaic-associated virus and blueberry red ringspot virus. To access the genetic diversity, direct sequencing of the fragment from the fusion protein gene of 14 Serbian isolates was done. Serbian isolates showed 99.64–100% nucleotide (nt) and 98.94–100% amino acid (aa) identity. In comparison with the available BlLV sequences of the isolates from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Japan, South Korea and the USA, our isolates showed 99.29–100 nt and 97.87–100% aa similarity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of Vaccinium sp. has been a growing worldwide interest after understending their importance for diet and human health. The aim of the work was direct regeneration, propagation and rooting of axillary buds isolated from five highbush blueberry cultivars 'Bluecrop', 'Bluegold', 'Bluejay', 'Spartan' and 'Patriot' and adapt of suitable protocol, developed and applied for Vaccinium corymbosum L. cultivars in our laboratory. For micropropagation, a basal cultural medium WPM was used, supplemented with 3.0 mg/L zeatin and 2.0 mg/l 2-iP, pH 4.2. The highest proliferation capacity was reported for cv. 'Bluegold' after fourth passage of sub cultivation (4.4 shoots per explant) and the largest length of the shoots was reported for the cv. 'Bluejay' (3.9 cm). The rooting ability was established on the same basal medium (WPM) with half-reduced salt concentration enriched with 1.0 mg/L IAA, pH 4.2. The high rooting percentage (33.3%) and the highest average number of roots (3.9) was reported for cv. 'Spartan' and 'Patriot'. The results demonstrate that regeneration potential is genotyp dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the light of current trends for enlarging the growing possibilities of blueberry plants, we were focusing in the present work on the innovative systems designed for higher productions and in the same time organically managed to accomplish the sustainable goals. Three northern highbush blueberry varieties were subject of the trial set up in early 2019: 'Early blue', 'Duke' and 'Hannah's choice'. The two years old planting material was moved under the plastic solar in containers of 65 liters with different substrate composition. A fertilization scheme using only organic commercial products was applied and the reaction of the plants was evaluated. 'Hannah's choice' was the most vigorous variety according to the total annual growths per plant. Several organic products to control pests were tested too, and the most efficient one to aphids was Chrisopa. In order to define a tailored organic technology for such a crop system, the results need further validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this investigation was to evaluate the vegetative growth and some physicochemical quality parameters in fruits of different varieties of blueberries grown with amendments applied to the soil. The experimental design was completely randomized according to factorial treatments with nine replications. Length and number of shoots, flower buds number, total soluble solids (TSS), pH, color, total anthocyanins (TA), total phenols (TP) and antioxidant capacity (AC) were evaluated. The application of gypsum, sulphur and compost increased the shoots number in the varieties 'Bluejay' and 'Duke' with values from 15 and 17.5, respectively. The 'Duke' variety was the latest with regard to the flowering stage, evading the problem of frost. Among varieties, 'Bluejay' and 'Blueray' stood out for presenting fruits with greater acidity and antioxidant capacity (89.1 and 91.5% DPPH inhibition, respectively), however, the TP was higher in 'Bluejay' (701.6 mg gallic acid 100 g-1). The use of gypsum, sulphur and compost allows obtaining fruits with high soluble solids content (9.8 °Brix), however, the antioxidant capacity was similar when pine peel was included, with AC values from 91.4 and 88.8% DPPH inhibition, respectively. The amendments such as gypsum, sulphur and compost incorporated into the soil allow an adequate vegetative growth and the obtaining of blueberry fruits with physicochemical quality characteristics acceptable for their commercialization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Anthocyanins are the major phenolics group detected in the bilberry liqueurs. • Hydroxycinnamic acids are the major phenolics group in the blueberry liqueurs. • Bilberry recipes were comparable in terms of the phenolics contents. • Whole blueberry fruit are not suitable for making blueberry liqueurs. The purpose of this study was to investigate the differences between the phenolics compositions of bilberry and blueberry liqueurs, to determine whether these are comparable. Both bilberry and blueberry liqueurs have the same name on the market, however they differ in phenolic composition and content. A total of 43 compounds were identified, 36 in the bilberry liqueur, and 21 in the blueberry liqueur. High performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) was used to identify and quantify these compounds, where they were fragmented to the MS4 fragments. Anthocyanins were the major phenolics group detected in the bilberry liqueurs, but only the second most abundant phenolics group in the blueberry liqueurs. The most abundant phenolics group in the blueberry liqueurs was hydroxycinnamic acids. The lowest content of individual phenolic compounds was for blueberry liqueur made from whole fruit. This study will provide valuable data to consumers in their choice of a more expensive bilberry liqueur or a cheaper blueberry liqueur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quality of fruit powders is ambiguously shaped by processing parameters depending on matrix composition. Thus, the objective was to evaluate influence of drying techniques and inulin application on physico-chemical, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of sugar-free juice extract powders prepared from three blueberry cultivars. Drying significantly affected physical attributes, pointed vacuum drying as preferred. The highest phenolics content was ensured by spray- and freeze-drying (9.32–30.36 and 9.25–30.94 mg · 100 g−1 dry matter, respectively). Inulin lowered bioactives by 48% and alleviated cultivar-driven differences in powders. Phenolic profile affected antibacterial activity towards Campylobacter jejuni stronger than phenolic content. Ten out of fifteen carrier-free powders showed bactericidal effect against Helicobacter pylori , while one among inulin-added. Vacuum drying improved anti-inflammatory properties in gastric cell cultures infected with Helicobacter pylori of selected blueberry products compared to spray- and freeze-drying. The study provides comprehensive insight into blueberry powders manufacturing with high scientific and practical significance. • Carrier-free blueberry powders mostly inhibited Helicobacter pylori growth. • Phenolics profile affected Campylobacter jejuni growth stronger than their content. • Vacuum drying improved anti-inflammatory properties of blueberry powders. • Spray and freeze-drying ensured comparable phenolics retention in blueberry powders. • Inulin application alleviated cultivar-rooted differences between blueberry powders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthocyanin profiles, polyphenols and flavonoids contents, and the antioxidant capacities of 13 blueberry ( Vaccinium corymbosum L. and Vaccinium corymbosum L ./V. angustifolium Ait.) cultivars were determined and compared, including six cultivars for the first time. Although similar anthocyanins were found in the 13 cultivars, their concentrations and proportions were cultivar-dependent. Bluegold, Berkeley, and St. Cloud displayed particular anthocyanin profiles. Half-high cultivars had higher concentrations and proportions of anthocyanidins than highbush cultivars. The Pearson correlations and principal component analysis (PCA), performed to evaluate differences among cultivars, showed that anthocyanins, polyphenols, and flavonoids contents were significantly and positively correlated with blueberry antioxidant capacities. The 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl radical assay was less suited to assess antioxidant capacities based on flavonoids than ferric reducing antioxidant power assay. Although highbush cultivars could not be separated from half-high cultivars by PCA, each group had its own distribution area, which might be due to the peculiarities of each cultivar, possibly due to genetic origin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blueberry fruits are frequently processed to different products, which are subjected to different temperature regimes during their manufacture. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different temperatures (4 °C, room temperature, 50 °C, 75 °C and 100 °C) on the stability of soluble solids, pH value, color and primary and secondary metabolites in blueberry purees of three different highbush cultivars ('Bluecrop', 'Jersey' and 'Earliblue'). Soluble solids content increased with heating; conversely, 8–16% lower levels of total sugars and organic acids have been measured in purees subjected to highest temperature regimes. Blueberry purees prepared at higher temperatures were also characterized by a 11–32% decrease in total phenolic content and a lower content of all analyzed phenolic groups. A major, 38–64% decrease in total anthocyanins has been linked to darker color of purees, subjected to higher temperature. The loss of secondary metabolites was cultivar specific and higher temperatures caused a greater decrease on 'Earliblue' and 'Jersey' purees compared to 'Bluecrop' puree. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blueberry surface color is determined in large part by anthocyanin pigments and is one of the most important quality traits influencing consumer preference. Postharvest changes in fruit surface color and phenolic compounds, including anthocyanins, have been reported in blueberries; however, the relationships between these changes had not yet been investigated. A total of 25 anthocyanins and 14 flavonols were quantified across 20 blueberry genotypes at harvest and during four weeks of postharvest storage in 2019 and 2020. Total anthocyanin concentration ranged from 585.4 to 2556.4 mg kg‐1 across genotypes and was higher than total flavonol concentration that ranged from 129.3 to 331.0 mg kg‐1. Malvidin glycosides were the major anthocyanins in all genotypes; however, distinct anthocyanin profiles were observed among genotypes based on differences in the type of glycosylation. Quercetin 3-O-galactoside was the most abundant flavonol in all genotypes. Changes in total anthocyanin and total flavonol concentrations showed various trends during storage, depending on the genotype and the season. In contrast, anthocyanin and flavonol profiles for each genotype remained constant during storage and between seasons. Surface color parameters (lightness, chroma, and hue angle) showed weak correlations (r < 0.4) with anthocyanin concentrations measured at harvest and during postharvest storage. However, the color changes (Δ color) over four weeks of storage showed a strong correlation (r > 0.7) with changes in anthocyanin concentrations. This study provides novel understanding of the relationship between changes in anthocyanins and fruit surface color during postharvest storage in blueberries. • Anthocyanin profiles vary among blueberry genotypes by the type of glycosylation. • Season and postharvest storage time have limited effects on anthocyanin profiles. • Variations in anthocyanins at harvest do not determine variations in fruit color. • Postharvest changes in anthocyanin levels and fruit color do correlate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chilean fresh blueberries take 20–50 days to arrive by boat to the Northern hemisphere, softening and dehydration being the main defects upon arrival. The effect of maturity at harvest (75% blue, 100% blue, and overripe) on cuticular triterpene content, and the possible associated impacts on firmness and weight loss after cold storage were explored for ‘Duke’ and ‘Brigitta’ fruit, both non-bagged or bagged in macro-perforated low-density polyethylene bags. Softening and weight loss varied with cultivar and maturity stage: ‘Duke’ fruit softened faster and were more prone to dehydration than ‘Brigitta’ samples, whereas overripe fruit were less firm after storage. This is the first report characterizing the triterpenoid fraction in cuticles of fresh blueberries, which may play a role in their postharvest behavior. Weight loss and softening rates were highly correlated to ursolic acid contents at harvest; further research will be required for a better understanding of these relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we investigated the anti-inflammatory effect of a blueberry extract in the carrageenan-induced paw edema model and collagen-induced arthritis model, both in rats. Along with the chemical characterization of the phenolic content of the fruits and extract, the antioxidant potential of the extract, the cellular antioxidant activity and the effects over neutrophils’ oxidative burst, were studied in order to provide a mechanistic insight for the anti-inflammatory effects observed. The extract significantly inhibited paw edema formation in an acute model the rat. Our results also demonstrate that the standardized extract had pharmacological activity when administered orally in the collagen-induced arthritis model in the rat and was able to significantly reduce the development of clinical signs of arthritis and the degree of bone resorption, soft tissue swelling and osteophyte formation, consequently improving articular function in treated animals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, anthocyanins in 17 samples of blueberries of different varieties and geographical origins in China (including Duke, Bluecrop, Northland, Northblue, Spartan, and St. Cloud blueberry varieties) were identified and quantified. Thirteen anthocyanins were identified by means of their absorbance spectrum and fragmentation pattern in tandem mass spectrometry. The anthocyanin profiles from blueberries of all cultivars were similar, but the proportions were cultivar-dependent. Malvidin (41.0%), delphinidin (33.1%), and petunidin (17.3%) were the major contributors to the total anthocyanidin content. The multivariate method of principal component analysis (PCA) was used to evaluate the differences among the cultivars. The results showed that each species could be separated from others cultivated in China, primarily by the proportions of each anthocyanin compound in each blueberry variety. The differences were probably due to the cultivar and climatic factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ennobled blueberry (V. Corymbosum L.) has many specific requirements for optimal growth, therefore, the increase of cultivated areas is limited. It requires acidic soils (pH 4,3-4,8), well drained, with full aeration and a constant moderate amount of moisture. The successful technique of asexual propagation will be necessary for rapid clonal propagation of selected cultivars. The objective of this experiment was to identify an efficient way to improve rooting with the help of growth regulators in the 'Bluecrop' cultivar using well-lignified one-year old wood pieces, collected at the end of winter, end of March prior to bud swelling. Treatments with various concentrations (1500, 3000, 4500 mg/l), show that treatment with IBA at 3000 mg/l has the highest rooting percentage in comparison to NAA. Whilst the torf-perlite substrate (at a 2:1 ratio), has produced a higher rooting percentage compared to the torf-only substrate, and the crucial factor for successful rooting is the time of collecting wood pieces. Treatment results have promoted higher rooting of wooden pieces compared to the control (untreated wooden pieces). The most efficient promotor in all concentrations was IBA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of freezing/thawing and microwave-assisted drying on the quality of blueberries and energy consumption of drying. The structure collapse, reduction in sample volume, mechanical resistance and thickness of the skin during freezing/thawing facilitated heat and moisture transfer during drying of blueberries. Freezing/thawing significantly reduced drying time (by up to 29%) and specific energy consumption of drying (by up to 27%) in comparison with drying without initial pretreatment. Nevertheless, the combination of freezing/thawing and drying adversely affected the quality of the final product, generating harder, more chewy and gummy fruits compared with those dried without initial pretreatment. Microwave-assisted drying of raw berries, which included hot air drying at 80 °C until the achievement of moisture content of 1.95 ± 0.05 kg·kg −1 d.w. (dry weight), promoted most efficient drying in terms of enhanced product quality (determined by hardness, chewiness, gumminess, porosity, density and shrinkage) and reduced energy consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to find an effective elimination method of Blueberry red ringspot virus (BRRV), shoot tips of 2-3 mm size originating from buds of highbush blueberry cv. Darrow naturally infected by BRRV and collected in winter months were regenerated and multiplied on woody-plant medium (WPM) with 1.5 mg/l zeatin and 20 g/l sucrose. Developed shoots tested negative by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for BRRV were transferred onto a rooting medium consisting of WPM supplemented with 1 mg/l indole-3-butyric acid. Rooting plants were transferred into soil and tested twice by PCR 6 months apart. Ninety per cent eradication of BRRV was achieved while isolating shoot tips, multiplying them in one vegetative generation, and regenerating whole 50-60 cm high plants within 30 months. All plants developed rich fruits after their overwintering in a cold greenhouse and were tested BRRV negative in summer 2013. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: The blueberry FLOWERING LOCUS T ( FT )-like gene ( VcFT ) cloned from the cDNA of a tetraploid, northern highbush blueberry ( Vaccinium corymbosum L.) is able to reverse the photoperiodic and chilling requirements and drive early and continuous flowering. Abstract: Blueberry is a woody perennial bush with a longer juvenile period than annual crops, requiring vernalization to flower normally. Few studies have been reported on the molecular mechanism of flowering in blueberry or other woody plants. Because FLOWERING LOCUS T ( FT) from Arabidopsis thaliana plays a multifaceted role in generating mobile molecular signals to regulate plant flowering time, isolation and functional analysis of the blueberry ( Vaccinium corymbosum L.) FT-like gene ( VcFT) will facilitate the elucidation of molecular mechanisms of flowering in woody plants. Based on EST sequences, a 525-bp VcFT was identified and cloned from the cDNA of a tetraploid, northern highbush blueberry cultivar, Bluecrop. Ectopic expression of 35S:VcFT in tobacco induced flowering an average of 28 days earlier than wild-type plants. Expression of the 35S:VcFT in the blueberry cultivar Aurora resulted in an extremely early flowering phenotype, which flowered not only during in vitro culture, a growth stage when nontransgenic shoots had not yet flowered, but also in 6-10-week old, soil-grown transgenic plants, in contrast to the fact that at least 1 year and 800 chilling hours are required for the appearance of the first flower of both nontransgenic 'Aurora' and transgenic controls with the gusA. These results demonstrate that the VcFT is a functional floral activator and overexpression of the VcFT is able to reverse the photoperiodic and chilling requirements and drive early and continuous flowering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The fruit quality traits and the phytochemical content of blueberries are of increasing importance to researchers in the field of food and health and important breeding objectives. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to gain preliminary information on parent's performances and variation of the fruit traits and phytochemicals from a small breeding population. METHODS: The breeding population was from a 3 × 4 factorial mating design, 120 seedlings in total. The fruit traits evaluated were weight, colour, pedicel scar size and firmness and the phytochemical composition included the total anthocyanin and phenolic contents and total antioxidant activity. RESULTS: Variation was found for all the traits studied in all families, with low genetic correlations between fruit traits, high correlations between phytochemicals and negative correlations between fruit weight and phytochemicals. CONCLUSIONS: Breeding population size was small and the lack of replication has influenced the statistical approach. From our observations we found 'Hortblue Petite' potentially an excellent parent for phytochemical traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental - Agriambi is the property of Revista Brasileira de Engenharia Agricola e Ambiental and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Latvian Journal of Agronomy / Agronomija Vestis is the property of Latvian Journal of Agronomy and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Latvian Journal of Agronomy / Agronomija Vestis is the property of Latvian Journal of Agronomy and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

In nursery production, inoculation with mycorrhizal fungi is thought to be most beneficial when colonization occurs as early as possible during plant growth. Unrooted tissue culture plantlets (TC) and hardwood cuttings (HC) of different cultivars of highbush blueberry plants (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) were inoculated with mixed inoculum of three different isolates of ericoid mycorrhizal fungi (EMF) in a commercial blueberry nursery. Plants were monitored for root colonization by EMF and plant growth to determine if inoculation with EMF influences rooting, subsequent plant growth, or EMF colonization during one (HC) or two (TC) years after inoculation. Tissue culture plants became naturally colonized by EMF, however, the intensity of this natural colonization was low and inoculation with EMF increased colonization for some cultivars, especially in the first few months after inoculation. This suggests that low colonization during nursery production of blueberry may be at least partially a result of low inoculum potential of the grow ing medium. However, we found that the frequency and intensity of colonization of certain cultivars decreased substantially after plants were transplanted and moved to an outside growing area. This decrease in colonization suggests that; (1) the fungi used for inoculation may not be suitable for this cultivar under the specific cultural conditions used in the nursery, (2) changes in cultural conditions from transplanting inhibited further colonization of the fungi that were present in the initial stages of propagation, or (3) there were possible changes in the type of fungi on the root system. Inoculation of TC plants with EMF caused measurable changes in root and aboveground plant morphology and biomass partitioning during the first two growing seasons; however, we found that the responses to inoculation with EMF can vary with cultivar, suggesting that a level of plant-fungus specificity may exist in EMF associations with blueberry plants that influences plant growth. Inoculation of HC with EMF increased colonization frequency and intensity on cuttings under the cultural practices used in the nursery; however, colonization decreased between 3 months and 5 months after sticking suggesting that the specific cultural conditions used during propagation decrease colonization by both natural and inoculated populations of the fungi. Even though colonization decreased during propagation, inoculation reduced the time required for rooting and caused measurable changes in root biomass of rooted cuttings. This increased root biomass may lead to increased quality and performance of rooted cuttings after transplanting. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Ericoid mycorrhizal fungi (EMF) form symbiotic relationships with roots of blueberry plants providing increased access to nutrients from fertilizers and soil. A survey of commercial nursery plants produced from tissue culture and cuttings was conducted to determine when or if EMF colonize blueberry plants under nursery cultural methods. Although there were cultivar-specific differences, in general, colonization frequency (the percentage of plants colonized) and intensity (the percentage of root length with EMF) increased during the first growing cycle for both plants produced from tissue culture or cuttings. For most cultivars, colonization frequency and intensity increased over the first winter, but decreased after transplanting into either containers or bareroot production beds. Colonization at all phases of production was generally low, however, plants transplanted into bareroot production beds generally had higher colonization than plants transplanted into containers. Our results suggest that the colonization of plants in containers and bareroot fields may be limited by environmental and cultural factors and not just the presence or absence of the correct fungi. Natural EMF colonization of blueberry plants in nurseries may be limited by nursery cultural conditions, low availability of EMF propagules, and aspects of plant-fungus specificity. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Two separate studies were initiated in January 1998 on 'Tifblue' rabbiteye (Vaccinium ashei Reade) and 'Magnolia' southern highbush (V. corymbosum L.) blueberry plants that had received > 500 chilling hours (7°C). In each study, the terminal 2 flower buds from both excised stems and paired stems on plants were forced in a greenhouse (17-23°C and natural daylength) and rated for floral bud development. In 'Magnolia,' leaf removal from excised stems and intact stems resulted in an increased rate of floral bud development. After 7 days of forcing, excised stems with leaves removed showed no significant differences in floral bud development from intact plants with unabscised leaves. After 40 days of forcing, flower buds from all treatments had reached stage 3, an easily recognizable stage of development. 'Tifblue' stems with 5 mm basal sections removed weekly to retard vascular blockage did not differ in floral bud development from stems without basal pruning. Excised stems did not differ from matching intact stems for the first 3.5 weeks of forcing. At this time 'Tifblue' flower buds had reached 3.7 on the floral development scale. After>4.5 weeks of forcing in the greenhouse floral bud development ratings on excised stems were significantly lower than those on intact stems. These studies indicate that with sufficient chilling, floral bud development in excised stems without leaves approximate that of intact plants for a period of 3.5 weeks and reach at least stage 3, an easily identifiable floral stage. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Two separate studies were conducted to study the effects of kaolin applications (Surround WP) on southern highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L.). When applied to mature blueberry plants, kaolin clay emulsion dried to form a white reflective film and affected bud development, fruit set and development, plant growth, and fruit yield, but had no effect on fruit quality attributes. 'Cooper' received a single application of kaolin during flowering (bud stages 3-6) which increased fruit set and reduced the rate of flower bud development. Berry size was reduced with kaolin, perhaps due to increased number of fruit present. 'Magnolia' received a single application of kaolin at four different stages of maturity resulting in a linear increase in plant volume with early applications. When kaolin was applied before fruit set, yield was increased with no significant residue left on the fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Frozen highbush blueberries (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) were processed into juice, and the influence was studied of a steam blanching step, applied to fruit before milling, on the recovery of anthocyanin pigments and total cinnamates, in relation to the radical-scavenging properties of blueberry juices. Inactivation of PPO induced a significant recovery increase of anthocyanin and cinnamate contents. Furthermore juice from blanched fruits was more blue and less red than that obtained in the traditional way, due to the positive effect of the thermal treatment on the extraction of the most soluble anthocyanin pigments, which are also the most intense blue. Blanching of fruit greatly increased the radical-scavenging activity of the juice, in relation to the higher recovery of anthocyanin pigments and total cinnamates. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The spring of 2000 was no ta bly warmer than pre vi ous years in cen tral Po land. At the end of April, most blue berry cultivars be gan to bloom and some of them were in the full bloom stage. A sig nif i cant percent age of the flow ers were in jured on May 3 when a heavy frost oc curred with tem per a tures reach ing to 21°F (2 6°C) for 3 hours. The early-flowering cultivars 'Patriot', 'Darrow', and 'Earliblue', had 85%, 83%, and 73% of their flow ers in jured, re spec tively. This was much higher than was found in the later flow er ing cultivars 'Bluecrop', 'Berke ley', 'Blueray', and 'Spar - tan'. The late-flow er ing cultivar 'Lateblue' avoided frost in jury be cause of its de layed blossom ing and the per cent in jured flow ers was only 11%. Symp toms of frost dam age to the flow ers also showed on the ber ries dur ing their de vel op ment. Some in jured ber ries can de velop and ripen, but most of them re mained quite small and had no seeds. This frost had lit tle in flu ence on fruit set and berry num ber on the late-flow er ing cultivar 'Lateblue'. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

• Phenolic compounds profiles were differentiated in Rabbiteye and Highbush. • Were identified 44 flavonols and chlorogenic acid in blueberries. • Quercetin HMG glycoside was found for the first time in blueberries. • Glucuronides of syringetin and laricitrin were found for the first time in blueberries. • Rhamnosyl-galactosides of myricetin, quercetin and isorhamnetin were also found for the first time. Although blueberries are widely studied, little information exists on their composition and content of flavonol glycosides. Most studies identify only a few flavonols in blueberries due to separation and identification issues. In the present study, we identified 44 flavonols and chlorogenic acid in 30 samples of Highbush and Rabbiteye blueberry, using HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn. Highbush group fruits presented mainly quercetin-3-galactoside in their composition, while Rabbiteye group fruits exhibited higher levels of quercetin-3-rhamnoside and quercetin-3-glucuronide. Among the identified flavonols, 8 acylates (acetyl and hydroxymethylglutaroyl) were found, of which quercetin-3- O -[4″-(3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaroyl)]-α-rhamnoside was found for the first time in blueberries. This compound is exclusive to the cultivars Florida and Powderblue, where it is present in high quantities. Glucuronides of syringetin and laricitrin, and rhamnosyl-galactosides of myricetin, quercetin and isorhamnetin were also found for the first time in blueberries. The Principal Component Analysis showed that blueberry groups can be distinguished based on their phenolic compound profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the current study was to identify and quantify triterpenoids and other non-polar compounds in the leaves of three high bush blueberry cultivars (Vaccinium corymbosum L. var. Bluegold, var. Bluecrop and var. Elliott) and three natural populations of Vaccinium species (Vaccinium uliginosum L., Vaccinium myrtillus L. and Vaccinium vitis-idaea L.) by means of gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detector (HPLC-DAD). Metabolite profiles differed significantly among the Vaccinium species analyzed, as well as among the populations of the same species. The populations of V. vitis-idaea predominantly contained relative concentrations of phytosterols (varying between 10.48% of total ion current (TIC) and 22.29% of TIC) and almost twice the content of triterpenes (from 29.84% of TIC to 49.62% of TIC) of the other berry species investigated. The leaves of V. corymbosum varieties biosynthesized the highest relative amount of fatty acids, while the leaves of the populations of V. uliginosum had the highest relative concentrations of fatty alcohols. The results of principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) showed that the diverse populations of each berry species analyzed differed from each other, most likely due to variations in the climatic and geographical conditions of their localities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, consumers' preference for fruits such as blueberry has increased noticeably. This fact is probably related to their bioactive components such as anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, vitamins, minerals, and tannins that have been found in blueberries by the latest research studies. Both total anthocyanins (TA) and total phenolic compounds (TPC) are known for their multiple beneficial effects on our health, due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-cancer properties. This is the reason why the development of new methodologies for the quality control analysis of raw materials or derived products from blueberry has a great relevance. Two ultrasound-assisted extraction methods (UAE) have been optimized for the quantification of TA and TPC in blueberry samples. The six variables to be optimized were: solvent composition, temperature, amplitude, cycle, extraction solvent pH, and sample/solvent ratio using response surface methodology. The optimized methods have proven to be suitable for the extraction of the TPC and TA with good precision (repeatability and intermediate precision) (coefficient of variation (CV) < 5%) and potentially for application in commercial samples. This fact, together with the multiple advantages of UAE, makes these methods a good alternative to be used in quality control analysis by both industries and laboratories. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercial blueberry industry in Florida has expanded significantly in both acreage and value in the past several years. The southern highbush blueberry (SHB, Vaccinium corymbosum L. interspecific hybrid) is the major blueberry type grown in Florida. The nitrogen (N) demand of young SHB differs from the northern highbush blueberry (NHB, V. corymbosum L.) and from mature blueberry plants. The objective of this study was to optimize fertigated N rates for the growth and yield of young SHB plants. One-year-old 'Emerald' and 'Farthing' plants were fertilized with 32N-0P-0K through drip irrigation at annual rates of 0, 42, 84, 168, and 336 kg N ha−1. Soil nitrate levels at multiple depths were measured along with leaf nutrient concentration, percent canopy ground cover, fruit yield and fruit quality. The results indicated that N rates had no significant effect on leaf nutrient concentrations. Greater N rates advanced bloom and harvest, increased percentage of ground cover (an indicator of canopy size), fruit yield and berry numbers per plant, but decreased mean berry diameter and weight. The soil nitrate results from both 'Emerald' and 'Farthing' revealed that the 336 kg N ha−1 treatment had a significantly greater risk for nitrate leaching than the lower N treatments in spring. The effect of N rates on fruit quality varied with cultivar and harvest season. The linear plateau regression of fruit yield and N rates indicated that the maximum yield reached at the annual N fertigation rate of 222 kg ha−1 for 'Emerald' and 206 kg ha−1 for 'Farthing'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]