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[EN] An LCA of the cultivation of switchgrass in the Mediterranean region of Spain is carried out, based on 2010-2013 inventory data from experimental plots of two sites, Moncofar and Orihuela. Thus, a 4-year cycle is evaluated, considering different sources of variability. The functional unit is 1 t of switchgrass (dry basis) for electricity generation. Besides typical impact categories, blue and green water consumption impacts are also addressed by using watershed-specific characterization factors. In 2010, the production in Orihuela is more input-intensive than it is in Moncofar, while the biomass yield is lower. This causes greater climate change as CO2-eq. (709.1 vs. 65.0 kg t(-1)) and greater metal depletion as Fe-eq. (8.1 vs. 1.5 kg t(-1)). In the subsequent years, the yields are higher in Orihuela, and Moncofar performs worse for some specific impact categories, mainly the toxicity-related ones, and also metal depletion as Fe-eq., but only in 2011 (2.0 vs. 1.2 kg t(-1)). Due to larger irrigation doses, the blue water impact as ecosystem-eq. water is always higher in Orihuela (e.g. in 2010, 2020 vs. 390 m(3) t(-1)). On the contrary, the green water impact, also as ecosystem-eq. water, is greater in Moncofar, except for the first year (86.8 vs. 15.2 m(3) t(-1)). Switchgrass from the two locations could be eligible for bioelectricity production in the European Union in accordance with the sustainability requirements for greenhouse gas savings. Ad hoc decisions on crop management are, however, critical to the environmental impacts, evidencing the importance of taking a multi-year approach.

[EN] An LCA of the cultivation of switchgrass in the Mediterranean region of Spain is carried out, based on 2010-2013 inventory data from experimental plots of two sites, Moncofar and Orihuela. Thus, a 4-year cycle is evaluated, considering different sources of variability. The functional unit is 1 t of switchgrass (dry basis) for electricity generation. Besides typical impact categories, blue and green water consumption impacts are also addressed by using watershed-specific characterization factors. In 2010, the production in Orihuela is more input-intensive than it is in Moncofar, while the biomass yield is lower. This causes greater climate change as CO2-eq. (709.1 vs. 65.0 kg t(-1)) and greater metal depletion as Fe-eq. (8.1 vs. 1.5 kg t(-1)). In the subsequent years, the yields are higher in Orihuela, and Moncofar performs worse for some specific impact categories, mainly the toxicity-related ones, and also metal depletion as Fe-eq., but only in 2011 (2.0 vs. 1.2 kg t(-1)). Due to larger irrigation doses, the blue water impact as ecosystem-eq. water is always higher in Orihuela (e.g. in 2010, 2020 vs. 390 m(3) t(-1)). On the contrary, the green water impact, also as ecosystem-eq. water, is greater in Moncofar, except for the first year (86.8 vs. 15.2 m(3) t(-1)). Switchgrass from the two locations could be eligible for bioelectricity production in the European Union in accordance with the sustainability requirements for greenhouse gas savings. Ad hoc decisions on crop management are, however, critical to the environmental impacts, evidencing the importance of taking a multi-year approach.

[EN] Introduction. Interest in grafting onto rootstocks resistant to soil-borne pathogens has risen since the phasing-out of methyl bromide, an efficient soil disinfectant. In this study, we have evaluated the putative effect of rootstock¿scion combinations on pepper fruit nutritional quality in relation to grafting, an effect that is sometimes overlooked. Materials and methods. As the scions, we used two representative sweet pepper cultivars, `Almuden¿ and `Coyote¿, and as rootstocks `Foc¿ and `Charlot¿, both resistant to Phytophthora capsici and Meloidogyne incognita. Dry matter, soluble solids, proteins, phenolics, and vitamin C content, as well as eight minerals (P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Cu, and Zn) were measured in fruits from non-grafted, self-grafted, and grafted plants. Results and discussion. Differences in the fruit composition were found, depending on the genotype, rootstock, or rootstock¿scion combination. The main effects were as follows. Higher values of ¿Brix, phenolics, P, Mg, and Na were found in the fruit of `Coyote¿ whereas the vitamin C and Fe levels were higher in `Almuden¿ fruit. The dry matter, protein, and K concentrations were higher in the fruit from grafted plants with respect to the values from non-grafted plants, especially in the fruit from plants grafted onto `Charlot¿ and `Foc¿ rootstocks (increases of 11.8%, 17.6%, and 9.6%, respectively; when average values of the four combinations of these rootstocks). Fruit from `Almuden¿ and `Coyote¿ plants grafted onto the rootstock `Foc¿ had lower ¿Brix values (about one degree less than the control) and lower values of phenolics were also obtained when used this rootstock (14.4% less than for the control). On the other hand, the P concentration was higher in the fruit of `Coyote¿ grafted onto `Charlot¿ (17.2% higher than for the control). This combination also exhibited the highest fruit K concentration (226.70 mg 100 g¿1 fresh weight). Conclusion. From a nutritional point of view it is important

[EN] Introduction. Interest in grafting onto rootstocks resistant to soil-borne pathogens has risen since the phasing-out of methyl bromide, an efficient soil disinfectant. In this study, we have evaluated the putative effect of rootstock¿scion combinations on pepper fruit nutritional quality in relation to grafting, an effect that is sometimes overlooked. Materials and methods. As the scions, we used two representative sweet pepper cultivars, `Almuden¿ and `Coyote¿, and as rootstocks `Foc¿ and `Charlot¿, both resistant to Phytophthora capsici and Meloidogyne incognita. Dry matter, soluble solids, proteins, phenolics, and vitamin C content, as well as eight minerals (P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Cu, and Zn) were measured in fruits from non-grafted, self-grafted, and grafted plants. Results and discussion. Differences in the fruit composition were found, depending on the genotype, rootstock, or rootstock¿scion combination. The main effects were as follows. Higher values of ¿Brix, phenolics, P, Mg, and Na were found in the fruit of `Coyote¿ whereas the vitamin C and Fe levels were higher in `Almuden¿ fruit. The dry matter, protein, and K concentrations were higher in the fruit from grafted plants with respect to the values from non-grafted plants, especially in the fruit from plants grafted onto `Charlot¿ and `Foc¿ rootstocks (increases of 11.8%, 17.6%, and 9.6%, respectively; when average values of the four combinations of these rootstocks). Fruit from `Almuden¿ and `Coyote¿ plants grafted onto the rootstock `Foc¿ had lower ¿Brix values (about one degree less than the control) and lower values of phenolics were also obtained when used this rootstock (14.4% less than for the control). On the other hand, the P concentration was higher in the fruit of `Coyote¿ grafted onto `Charlot¿ (17.2% higher than for the control). This combination also exhibited the highest fruit K concentration (226.70 mg 100 g¿1 fresh weight). Conclusion. From a nutritional point of view it is important

The effect of using low densities of different dispensing technologies on mating disruption of the striped rice stem borer, Chilo suppressalis Walker, was evaluated in the rice-growing area of Valencia (Spain) from 2011 to 2013. The reduction of the current number of release points (30 polymeric dispensers/ha) was investigated by installing 3 aerosol devices per ha (Experiments 1 and 2) or with clusters of hand-applied dispensers (10 or 5 release points/ha; Experiment 3). The influence of pheromone blend on disruption was also studied by loading aerosol devices with the three-component blend or only the main pheromone compound, Z-11-hexadecenal. Results showed that the installation of 3 aerosol devices/ha or clusters of passive dispensers (total dose: 6.6-7.9 g/ha) proved equally effective as the conventional treatment with 30 Selibate (R) CS dispensers/ha (similar to 5 g/ha), reducing damage below 1% of infested plants. Although the treatment with 3 aerosol devices/ha loaded with Z-11-hexadecenal provided control of damage comparable to the conventional mating disruption treatment, the higher captures recorded suggest that mating disruption with the incomplete pheromone blend is only slightly effective in the tested conditions. These changes in the number of point sources and pheromone blend could represent important advantages for the implementation of mating disruption against C. suppressalis. (C) 2016 Korean Society of Applied Entomology, Taiwan Entomological Society and Malaysian Plant Protection Society. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[EN] The flight ability and patterns of an insect influence its spread, and the study of its behaviour can be used to improve the strategies to control the pest. Regarding Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae), one of the worst threats to palm trees worldwide, laboratory experiments have been conducted to analyze their flight potential. However, these data must be complemented with tests that allow us to know its flight behaviour and dispersal patterns under field conditions. Two mark-release-recapture experiments were conducted in areas with R. ferrugineus infestations. In the first, the effects of weevil sex, temperature, solar radiation, and relative humidity, on the take-off and flight mobility of adults were analyzed. The second experiment aimed to determine the maximum flight distance covered by adults in field. The take-off rate for R. ferrugineus males was significantly greater than for females, and was positively influenced by temperature (optimum take-off around 25 degrees C) and solar radiation, both factors being highly correlated. Female weevil recaptures were significantly higher, especially as temperatures increased (optimum recapture around 21 degrees C). Dispersal distances of weevil adults increased when temperatures rose, and while this insect tended to fly short distances (<500 m), it was able to cover up to 7 km. The dispersal of R. ferrugineus adults mainly occurred during the first 7 days after their release, and when relative humidity increased, their dispersal time was reduced. The results obtained will permit a more effective implementation of certain measures used to control R. ferrugineus, such as olfactory trapping or intensive surveillance around pest outbreaks.

[EN] The flight ability and patterns of an insect influence its spread, and the study of its behaviour can be used to improve the strategies to control the pest. Regarding Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae), one of the worst threats to palm trees worldwide, laboratory experiments have been conducted to analyze their flight potential. However, these data must be complemented with tests that allow us to know its flight behaviour and dispersal patterns under field conditions. Two mark-release-recapture experiments were conducted in areas with R. ferrugineus infestations. In the first, the effects of weevil sex, temperature, solar radiation, and relative humidity, on the take-off and flight mobility of adults were analyzed. The second experiment aimed to determine the maximum flight distance covered by adults in field. The take-off rate for R. ferrugineus males was significantly greater than for females, and was positively influenced by temperature (optimum take-off around 25 degrees C) and solar radiation, both factors being highly correlated. Female weevil recaptures were significantly higher, especially as temperatures increased (optimum recapture around 21 degrees C). Dispersal distances of weevil adults increased when temperatures rose, and while this insect tended to fly short distances (<500 m), it was able to cover up to 7 km. The dispersal of R. ferrugineus adults mainly occurred during the first 7 days after their release, and when relative humidity increased, their dispersal time was reduced. The results obtained will permit a more effective implementation of certain measures used to control R. ferrugineus, such as olfactory trapping or intensive surveillance around pest outbreaks.

The rejection of citrus fruit caused by infestations of the California red scale (CRS), Aonidiella aurantii (Maskell) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae), raises concerns about its management. This fact has led to the introduction of new integrated control methods in citrus orchards, including the implementation of techniques based on pheromones. Previous works described efficient mating disruption pheromone dispensers to control A. aurantii in the Mediterranean region. The main aims of the present study were to adjust the timing of dispenser applications and study the importance of controlling the early first generation of A. aurantii by testing two different application dates: before and after the first CRS male flight. The efficacy of the different mating disruption strategies was tested during 2010 in an experimental orchard and these results were confirmed during 2011 in a commercial citrus farm. Results showed that every mating disruption strategy achieved significantly lower male captures in monitoring pheromone traps compared with untreated plots, as well as mean fruit infestation reductions of about 80 %. The control of the first CRS generation is not essential for achieving a good efficacy as demonstrated in two locations with different pest pressure. The late application of MD dispensers before the second CRS male flight has proven to be effective, suggesting a new advantageous way to apply mating disruption.

[EN] The variability present in 63 accessions of 14 Spanish tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) landraces has been studied using morpho-agronomical descriptors and molecular markers. For this purpose, a set of 32 polymorphic SNP has been specifically developed. The relation between Spanish landraces has been analysed using the information generated. The cluster analysis using SNP data showed a moderate correlation with morpho-agronomical data, which is rare considering the low level of genetic diversity found in tomato and that few genes control key traits in landrace recognition, as size, shape and external appearance. Compared with previous studies, the set of SNP markers used provides a reliable tool for the analysis of diversity, with high bootstrap values obtained in the cluster analysis. Nevertheless, it seems to exist a strong influence of the specific combination of populations of each landraces analysed, the marker type and set of markers on the analysis of genetic differentiation in tomato landraces. Specific combinations of SNP markers (from two to six markers per landrace) enabled the clear identification of most of the landraces evaluated. Its use would be a useful tool to control the commercial fraud typical of quality niche markets where high yielding modern varieties resembling traditional landraces are sold, taking advantage of the price premium of these materials. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[EN] The variability present in 63 accessions of 14 Spanish tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) landraces has been studied using morpho-agronomical descriptors and molecular markers. For this purpose, a set of 32 polymorphic SNP has been specifically developed. The relation between Spanish landraces has been analysed using the information generated. The cluster analysis using SNP data showed a moderate correlation with morpho-agronomical data, which is rare considering the low level of genetic diversity found in tomato and that few genes control key traits in landrace recognition, as size, shape and external appearance. Compared with previous studies, the set of SNP markers used provides a reliable tool for the analysis of diversity, with high bootstrap values obtained in the cluster analysis. Nevertheless, it seems to exist a strong influence of the specific combination of populations of each landraces analysed, the marker type and set of markers on the analysis of genetic differentiation in tomato landraces. Specific combinations of SNP markers (from two to six markers per landrace) enabled the clear identification of most of the landraces evaluated. Its use would be a useful tool to control the commercial fraud typical of quality niche markets where high yielding modern varieties resembling traditional landraces are sold, taking advantage of the price premium of these materials. (C) 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

BACKGROUND: Traditional varieties of tomato, usually associated with excellent organoleptic quality, are increasingly appreciated in European quality markets. A collection of 126 populations of 16 traditional varieties from the East of Spain (a secondary diversity center for tomato) have been evaluated during two years in order to determine their potential value as sources of functional compounds, including ascorbic acid, lycopene, B-carotene and total phenolic content. RESULTS: Population and population x year interaction significantly affected lycopene and ascorbic acid contents, while year effect was also significant for B-carotene. Despite finding some global trends in certain varieties concerning their functional value, high levels of variation have been found at the intra-varietal level. Populations with high levels of the compounds analyzed have been found, as well as different levels of intra-population and inter-year variation. Maximum mean contents for both years have reached 308 mg kg-1 of ascorbic acid, 130 mg kg-1 of lycopene, 30 mg kg-1 of B-carotene and 89 mg caffeic acid 100g-1 of total phenolic contents, though it is difficult to identify accessions with joint high values of the three compounds. CONCLUSION: These results open the possibility to promote traditional materials as sources of functional compounds, thus strengthening their quality niches and consolidating their price-premium. Additionally, these materials could also be used in breeding programs for quality.

[EN] Anaerobic co-digestion of pig slurry with four agricultural substrates (tomato, pepper, persimmon and peach) was investigated. Each agricultural substrate was tested in co-digestion with pig slurry at four inclusion levels: 0%, 15%, 30% and 50%. Inclusion levels consisted in the replacement of the volatile solids (VS) from the pig slurry with the VS from the agricultural substrate. The effect of substrate type and inclusion level on the biochemical methane potential (BMP) was evaluated in a batch assay performed at 35 C for 100 days. Agricultural substrate s chemical composition was also analyzed and related with BMP. Additionally, Bacteria and Archaea domains together with the four main methanogenic archaeal orders were quantified using quantitative real-time TaqMan polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) at the end of the experiment to determine the influence of agricultural substrate on sludge s microbial composition. Results showed that vegetable substrates (pepper and tomato) had higher lipid and protein content and lower carbohydrates than fruit substrates (persimmon and peach). Among substrates, vegetable substrates showed higher BMP than fruit substrates. Higher BMP values were obtained with increasing addition of agricultural substrate. The replacement of 50% of VS from pig slurry by tomato and pepper increased BMP in 41% and 44%, respectively compared with pig slurry only. Lower increments in BMP were achieved with lower inclusion levels. Results from qPCR showed that total bacteria and total archaea gene concentrations were similar in all combinations tested. Methanomicrobiales gene concentrations dominated over the rest of individual archaeal orders

The red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae), native to tropical Asian regions, has become a serious threat to palm trees all over the world. Knowledge of its flight potential is vital to improving the preventive and curative measures currently used to manage this pest. As R. ferrugineus is a quarantine pest, it is difficult to study its flight potential in the field. A computer-monitored flight mill was adapted to analyse the flying ability of R. ferrugineus through the study of different flight parameters (number of flights, total distance flown, longest single flight, flight duration, and average and maximum speed) and the influence of the weevil s sex, age, and body size on these flight parameters. Despite significant differences in the adult body size (body weight and length) of males and females, the sex of R. ferrugineus adults did not have an influence on their flight potential. Neither adult body size nor age was found to affect the weevil s flying abilities, although there was a significantly higher percentage of individuals flying that were 8 23 days old than 1 7 days old. Compared to the longest single flight, 54% of the insects were classified as short-distance flyers (covering <100m) and 36 and 10% were classified as medium- (100 5000m) and long-distance (> 5000m), respectively. The results are compared with similar studies on different insect species under laboratory and field conditions.

The red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Dryophthoridae), native to tropical Asian regions, has become a serious threat to palm trees all over the world. Knowledge of its flight potential is vital to improving the preventive and curative measures currently used to manage this pest. As R. ferrugineus is a quarantine pest, it is difficult to study its flight potential in the field. A computer-monitored flight mill was adapted to analyse the flying ability of R. ferrugineus through the study of different flight parameters (number of flights, total distance flown, longest single flight, flight duration, and average and maximum speed) and the influence of the weevil s sex, age, and body size on these flight parameters. Despite significant differences in the adult body size (body weight and length) of males and females, the sex of R. ferrugineus adults did not have an influence on their flight potential. Neither adult body size nor age was found to affect the weevil s flying abilities, although there was a significantly higher percentage of individuals flying that were 8 23 days old than 1 7 days old. Compared to the longest single flight, 54% of the insects were classified as short-distance flyers (covering <100m) and 36 and 10% were classified as medium- (100 5000m) and long-distance (> 5000m), respectively. The results are compared with similar studies on different insect species under laboratory and field conditions.

[EN] Anaerobic co-digestion of pig slurry with four agricultural substrates (tomato, pepper, persimmon and peach) was investigated. Each agricultural substrate was tested in co-digestion with pig slurry at four inclusion levels: 0%, 15%, 30% and 50%. Inclusion levels consisted in the replacement of the volatile solids (VS) from the pig slurry with the VS from the agricultural substrate. The effect of substrate type and inclusion level on the biochemical methane potential (BMP) was evaluated in a batch assay performed at 35 C for 100 days. Agricultural substrate s chemical composition was also analyzed and related with BMP. Additionally, Bacteria and Archaea domains together with the four main methanogenic archaeal orders were quantified using quantitative real-time TaqMan polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) at the end of the experiment to determine the influence of agricultural substrate on sludge s microbial composition. Results showed that vegetable substrates (pepper and tomato) had higher lipid and protein content and lower carbohydrates than fruit substrates (persimmon and peach). Among substrates, vegetable substrates showed higher BMP than fruit substrates. Higher BMP values were obtained with increasing addition of agricultural substrate. The replacement of 50% of VS from pig slurry by tomato and pepper increased BMP in 41% and 44%, respectively compared with pig slurry only. Lower increments in BMP were achieved with lower inclusion levels. Results from qPCR showed that total bacteria and total archaea gene concentrations were similar in all combinations tested. Methanomicrobiales gene concentrations dominated over the rest of individual archaeal orders

BACKGROUND: Traditional varieties of tomato, usually associated with excellent organoleptic quality, are increasingly appreciated in European quality markets. A collection of 126 populations of 16 traditional varieties from the East of Spain (a secondary diversity center for tomato) have been evaluated during two years in order to determine their potential value as sources of functional compounds, including ascorbic acid, lycopene, B-carotene and total phenolic content. RESULTS: Population and population x year interaction significantly affected lycopene and ascorbic acid contents, while year effect was also significant for B-carotene. Despite finding some global trends in certain varieties concerning their functional value, high levels of variation have been found at the intra-varietal level. Populations with high levels of the compounds analyzed have been found, as well as different levels of intra-population and inter-year variation. Maximum mean contents for both years have reached 308 mg kg-1 of ascorbic acid, 130 mg kg-1 of lycopene, 30 mg kg-1 of B-carotene and 89 mg caffeic acid 100g-1 of total phenolic contents, though it is difficult to identify accessions with joint high values of the three compounds. CONCLUSION: These results open the possibility to promote traditional materials as sources of functional compounds, thus strengthening their quality niches and consolidating their price-premium. Additionally, these materials could also be used in breeding programs for quality.

Mycosphaerella nawae is the causal agent of circular leaf spot of persimmon. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based protocol was developed for M. nawae-specific identification from pure culture, or infected symptomatic and asymptomatic persimmon tissues. Variation among the internal transcribed spacer regions (ITS) of the ribosomal DNA (rDNA) sequences of potentially related fungal species in persimmon orchards was analyzed for a primer pair design. Specificity was confirmed using multiple isolates of these species, other fungal pathogens that cause foliar diseases in persimmon and contaminants commonly obtained in the isolation process. The detection threshold for M. nawae DNA was lowered from 50 pg to 500 fg when nested-PCR was evaluated instead of single PCR. The nested-PCR protocol developed in this study showed its suitability to be applied for the specific detection of M. nawae from three types of naturally infected persimmon tissues: from lesions in fresh leaves, from pseudothecia present in lesions in leaf litter, and from infected asymptomatic leaves. The protocol can be useful for routine diagnosis, disease monitoring programs and for epidemiological research.

A proteomic analysis of buds from mandarin trees with contrasting fruit load (on- and off-crop trees) was carried out during the onset of low-temperature induction. The aim of the study was to find out more about the molecular mechanism relating to alternate bearing in Citrus and its relationship with flowering. The 'Moncada' variety (Clementine 'Oroval' x 'Kara' mandarin), displaying remarkable behaviour in alternate production, was used in this study. From 2D DICE gel, 192 spots were isolated: 97 showed increased expression in the off-crop buds as compared to the on-crop buds, while 95 exhibited enhanced expression in the on-crop buds versus the off-crop buds. These spots were identified by MALDI-MS or LC -MS-MS. The largest groups of proteins up-expressed in the off-crop buds were the proteins involved in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, and the proteins expressed in response to stimuli such as reactive oxygen species. The largest groups of proteins up-expressed in the on-crop buds were related to primary metabolism, oxidative stress and defence responses. Depending on their function, some of these proteins can stimulate the flowering, such as fructose-bisphosphate aldolase or leucine-rich repeat transmembrane protein kinase, while others can inhibit it, such as cytochrome c oxidase subunit II. Twenty-two other proteins with unknown functions were up-expressed in the on- or off-crop buds. (C) 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

[ES] Desde hace cuatro años, el COMAV y el IVIA están colaborando en un proyecto de caracterización y valoración de variedades tradicionales de tomate. El objetivo es identificar y conocer bien las mejores líneas con vistas a su valorización comercial. Se han encontrado cultivares con resultados productivos adecuados y con elevados contenidos en principios de calidad nutritiva, de gran interés para la mejora genética y para obtener producciones de calidad.

Detailed characterization of fruit shape in eggplant (Solanum melongena) is important for horticulturists and breeders. In fact, commercial varieties are classified according to their fruit shape. However, traditional morphological descriptors provide limited information on this complex attribute. Recently, a software tool (Tomato Analyzer) for the processing of scanned images of sections of tomato fruits has been developed. Tomato Analyzer is adequate for phenomics studies of fruit shape, as it provides quantitative and objective data for a large number of fruit morphology traits. We used Tomato Analyzer for evaluating fruit shape in a collection of 21 accessions of eggplant from four varietal groups (Round, Listada de Gandia, Semi-long, and Long). For each accession we evaluated 20 fruits, for which we measured fruit weight, length, and width (manually), and 23 fruit shape parameters using the Tomato Analyzer. Significant differences among accessions have been found for all traits, except for Shoulders Height. For many traits, high values for the coefficient of genotypic variation (CVG) and broad-sense heritability (H-2) have been obtained, indicating that selection will be efficient. Significant differences have also been found among varietal groups for 20 out of the 26 traits, and for six of them each of the four varietal groups differed significantly from the others. Multivariate principal components analysis (PCA) shows that accessions of each of the four varietal groups plot together and in separate areas of the PCA graph, with the exception of some overlapping between Round and Listada de Gandia accessions. Discriminant analysis resulted in 57.14% of the individual fruits being correctly assigned to their accession, and of those incorrectly classified, 21.67% were correctly classified to their varietal group. The results obtained show that the Tomato Analyzer image software tool is of great utility for phenomics studies of fruit shape in eggplant, which is o

The heat production (HP) from CH4 and CO2 production and O-2 consumption was determined by the respirometry quotient (RQ) method and by C-N balance measurements (CN method). Twelve dry and none pregnant Guirras sheep were fed with 3 diets consisting in the same quantity of alfalfa hay (2 kg/d offered) and increasing quantities of barley grain (150,300 and 450 g/d). The experimental design was completely random with 4 replication by treatment. Fasting HP was determinate in one sheep from each group. Ewes were allocated to individual metabolism cages at thermoneutrality. After 10 d of adaptation, feed intake, and total fecal and urine output were recorded daily for each ewe during a 5 d period, as well as BW at the beginning and end of the period. Gas exchange measurements were recorded by open-circuit face mask respirometry system. Average HP measured by RQ method was in agreement with the average HP determined by CN method accounting for 395.6 and 393.4 kJ/kg(0.75) BW/d, respectively. The metabolizable energy requirement for maintenance (MEm) was estimated by linear regression at 352.3 kJ/kg(0.75) BW. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[ES] Desde hace cuatro años, el COMAV y el IVIA están colaborando en un proyecto de caracterización y valoración de variedades tradicionales de tomate. El objetivo es identificar y conocer bien las mejores líneas con vistas a su valorización comercial. Se han encontrado cultivares con resultados productivos adecuados y con elevados contenidos en principios de calidad nutritiva, de gran interés para la mejora genética y para obtener producciones de calidad.

The heat production (HP) from CH4 and CO2 production and O-2 consumption was determined by the respirometry quotient (RQ) method and by C-N balance measurements (CN method). Twelve dry and none pregnant Guirras sheep were fed with 3 diets consisting in the same quantity of alfalfa hay (2 kg/d offered) and increasing quantities of barley grain (150,300 and 450 g/d). The experimental design was completely random with 4 replication by treatment. Fasting HP was determinate in one sheep from each group. Ewes were allocated to individual metabolism cages at thermoneutrality. After 10 d of adaptation, feed intake, and total fecal and urine output were recorded daily for each ewe during a 5 d period, as well as BW at the beginning and end of the period. Gas exchange measurements were recorded by open-circuit face mask respirometry system. Average HP measured by RQ method was in agreement with the average HP determined by CN method accounting for 395.6 and 393.4 kJ/kg(0.75) BW/d, respectively. The metabolizable energy requirement for maintenance (MEm) was estimated by linear regression at 352.3 kJ/kg(0.75) BW. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A proteomic approach was used to know more about the molecular mechanism related to Citrus alternate bearing. To this end, we researched protein expression differences between on-crop and off-crop "Moncada" [Clementine 'Oroval' (Citrus clementina Hort ex Tanaka) x 'Kara' mandarin (Citrus unshiu Marc. x Citrus nobilis Lou.)] mandarin leaves. This variety usually shows a remarkable behaviour in alternate production. Samples were collected in the period during which the fruit affect flowering induction. From 2D DIGE gel, 110 spots were isolated: 43 showed increased expression in the off-crop samples compared to on-crop samples, while 67 showed increased expression in the on-crop samples against off-crop samples. These spots were identified by MALDI-MS or LC-MS-MS. According to the up-expressed proteins in off-crop leaves such as proteins related to nutrient reservoir activity or to the pentose phosphate pathway, the primary metabolism was more active in off-crop trees than in on-crop trees. In contrast, the proteins up-expressed in on-crop samples such as catalase were related to the oxidoreductase activity and, therefore, the redox state seemed different for off-crop and for on-crop leaves. Other proteins with unknown functions were isolated, which could be also related to the alternate bearing and to the flowering induction. (c) 2012 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

A proteomic analysis of buds from mandarin trees with contrasting fruit load (on- and off-crop trees) was carried out during the onset of low-temperature induction. The aim of the study was to find out more about the molecular mechanism relating to alternate bearing in Citrus and its relationship with flowering. The 'Moncada' variety (Clementine 'Oroval' x 'Kara' mandarin), displaying remarkable behaviour in alternate production, was used in this study. From 2D DICE gel, 192 spots were isolated: 97 showed increased expression in the off-crop buds as compared to the on-crop buds, while 95 exhibited enhanced expression in the on-crop buds versus the off-crop buds. These spots were identified by MALDI-MS or LC -MS-MS. The largest groups of proteins up-expressed in the off-crop buds were the proteins involved in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, and the proteins expressed in response to stimuli such as reactive oxygen species. The largest groups of proteins up-expressed in the on-crop buds were related to primary metabolism, oxidative stress and defence responses. Depending on their function, some of these proteins can stimulate the flowering, such as fructose-bisphosphate aldolase or leucine-rich repeat transmembrane protein kinase, while others can inhibit it, such as cytochrome c oxidase subunit II. Twenty-two other proteins with unknown functions were up-expressed in the on- or off-crop buds. (C) 2013 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Heat production (HP) from CH4 and CO2 production, and O-2 consumption was determined by the respiratory quotient (RQ) method and by the C-N balance (CN method). Twelve dry Manchegas sheep were fed with a diet constituted by alfalfa hay and barley grain at three levels, approximately 1, 1.5 and 2x metabolizable energy for maintenance (MEm). Later, the sheep were fed close to maintenance and HP determined by indirect calorimetry after 3 d fasting. The sheep were allocated to metabolism cages. After 10 d of adaptation, feed intake, and total fecal and urine output were recorded daily during 5 d, as well as the body weight (BW) at the beginning and end of the sampling period. Gas exchange measurements were recorded by a mobile open-circuit respirometry system. Average HP measured by RQ method was in agreement with the HP determined by CN method accounting for 410 and 407 kJ/kg(0.75) BW/d, respectively. Fasting HP was 268 kJ/kg(0.75) BW. Proportion of energy associated to the oxidation of protein (OXP), carbohydrate (OXCHO) and fat (OXF) was calculated. In fasting condition most of HP associated to substrates oxidation (HPx) was due to OXF (0.931) and less to OXP (0.037) and OXCHO (0.032). OXP was increased with the feeding level and was greater (0.193) than in fasting. OXCHO was increased with the feeding level until a stable level (0.507).

A mobile open-circuit respirometry system was constructed for estimating heat production (HP) in small ruminants from CH4 and CO2 production and 02 consumption by the respiratory quotient (RQ) method. The method was evaluated against HP estimates by C-N balance measurements (CN method). Calibration factors were established injecting N-2 into the system. Repetitive and consistent values for the calibration factor were obtained (1.0065 +/- 0.01307, n = 9), which confirms the absence of leaks and good performance of the whole system. A pilot experiment with 14 Granadina female dry goats was conducted to evaluate the system. The metabolizable energy intake (MEI) was close to ME for maintenance. Average HP measured by RQ method was in agreement with the average HP determined by CN method accounting for 505 and 500 kJ/kg(0.75) BW/d. respectively. It is concluded that the mobile system was suitable for measuring gas exchange and energy metabolism in small ruminants.

[EN] Penjar tomato is a varietal type cultivated in northeast Spain that characteristically has a long shelf life, small fruit, and wide morphological variability among cultivars. To determine the genetic basis for the long shelf life in the Penjar varietal type and to describe the genetic background and agromorphologic characteristics of the group, we studied 27 Penjar accessions representative of the entire range of variation in traits related to agronomic behavior, fruit morphology, and sensory quality. We found that the long shelf life of Penjar (mean: 126.8 days) is due to the ripening mutant alcoba double dagger a (alc), and the molecular basis of this mutation is the replacement of thymine by adenine in position 317 of the coding sequence of the NAC.NOR gene; thus, alcoba double dagger a (alc) is an allele of non-ripening (nor). The amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) study found 18.07% polymorphic loci within the Penjar varietal type, which is higher than usual in landraces. The variation in agronomic and morphologic traits between accessions was also very high; thus, the heterogeneity of the Penjar group probably results from the introduction of the allele alc in distinct landraces. Our results also show that in germplasm containing the alc mutation shelf life is negatively correlated with fruit size (weight, width, length, and number of locules); thus, the predominance of small fruit within the varietal type is probably the result of this trait being dragged along in the selection for long shelf life.

A mobile open-circuit respirometry system was constructed for estimating heat production (HP) in small ruminants from CH4 and CO2 production and 02 consumption by the respiratory quotient (RQ) method. The method was evaluated against HP estimates by C-N balance measurements (CN method). Calibration factors were established injecting N-2 into the system. Repetitive and consistent values for the calibration factor were obtained (1.0065 +/- 0.01307, n = 9), which confirms the absence of leaks and good performance of the whole system. A pilot experiment with 14 Granadina female dry goats was conducted to evaluate the system. The metabolizable energy intake (MEI) was close to ME for maintenance. Average HP measured by RQ method was in agreement with the average HP determined by CN method accounting for 505 and 500 kJ/kg(0.75) BW/d. respectively. It is concluded that the mobile system was suitable for measuring gas exchange and energy metabolism in small ruminants.

Chemical composition and gas emissions from two types of pig slurry were evaluated: the liquid fraction of mechanical solid-liquid separated slurry (SS), and raw slurry (RS). The slurry was obtained at the end of a pig fattening period and was stored in 100 l vessels for 15 weeks simulating outdoor storage conditions. During this period, representative samples were taken and analysed for chemical composition. Methane, carbon dioxide, ammonia, water vapour and nitrous oxide emissions were recorded. The results showed a high biological degradation during the first five weeks of outdoor storage in SS and RS slurries, as a result of an increase in the dissolved chemical oxygen demand, volatile fatty acids and carbon dioxide emission observed in this period. However, methanogenic activity was not evident until week 6 of storage in both slurries, confirmed by the volatile fatty acids accumulation and the negligible methane emissions during the first five weeks of storage. The results showed that differences in the initial slurry organic matter content, influenced by solid separation process affects the evolution pattern of the organic matter degradation. Storage time can considerably affect the biodegradability of organic matter in pig slurry. © 2011 IAgrE.

Background and Aims Gene determination of flowering is the result of complex interactions involving both promoters and inhibitors. In this study, the expression of flowering-related genes at the meristem level in alternate-bearing citrus trees is analysed, together with the interplay between buds and leaves in the determination of flowering. Methods First defruiting experiments were performed to manipulate blossoming intensity in `Moncada¿ mandarin, Citrus clementina. Further defoliation was performed to elucidate the role leaves play in the flowering process. In both cases, the activity of flowering-related genes was investigated at the flower induction (November) and differentiation (February) stages. Key Results Study of the expression pattern of flowering-genes in buds from on (fully loaded) and off (without fruits) trees revealed that homologues of FLOWERING LOCUS T (CiFT), TWIN SISTER OF FT (TSF), APETALA1 (CsAP1) and LEAFY (CsLFY) were negatively affected by fruit load. CiFT and TSF activities showed a marked increase in buds from off trees through the study period (ten-fold in November). By contrast, expression of the homologues of the flowering inhibitors of TERMINAL FLOWER 1 (CsTFL), TERMINAL FLOWER 2 (TFL2) and FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) was generally lower in off trees. Regarding floral identity genes, the increase in CsAP1 expression in off trees was much greater in buds than in leaves, and significant variations in CsLFY expression (approx. 20 %) were found only in February. Defoliation experiments further revealed that the absence of leaves completely abolished blossoming and severely affected the expression of most of the flowering-related genes, particularly decreasing the activity of floral promoters and of CsAP1 at the induction stage. Conclusions These results suggest that the presence of fruit affects flowering by greatly altering gene-expression not only at the leaf but also at the meristem level. Although leaves are required for flowering to occu

Chemical composition and gas emissions from two types of pig slurry were evaluated: the liquid fraction of mechanical solid-liquid separated slurry (SS), and raw slurry (RS). The slurry was obtained at the end of a pig fattening period and was stored in 100 l vessels for 15 weeks simulating outdoor storage conditions. During this period, representative samples were taken and analysed for chemical composition. Methane, carbon dioxide, ammonia, water vapour and nitrous oxide emissions were recorded. The results showed a high biological degradation during the first five weeks of outdoor storage in SS and RS slurries, as a result of an increase in the dissolved chemical oxygen demand, volatile fatty acids and carbon dioxide emission observed in this period. However, methanogenic activity was not evident until week 6 of storage in both slurries, confirmed by the volatile fatty acids accumulation and the negligible methane emissions during the first five weeks of storage. The results showed that differences in the initial slurry organic matter content, influenced by solid separation process affects the evolution pattern of the organic matter degradation. Storage time can considerably affect the biodegradability of organic matter in pig slurry. © 2011 IAgrE.

Background and Aims Gene determination of flowering is the result of complex interactions involving both promoters and inhibitors. In this study, the expression of flowering-related genes at the meristem level in alternate-bearing citrus trees is analysed, together with the interplay between buds and leaves in the determination of flowering. Methods First defruiting experiments were performed to manipulate blossoming intensity in `Moncada¿ mandarin, Citrus clementina. Further defoliation was performed to elucidate the role leaves play in the flowering process. In both cases, the activity of flowering-related genes was investigated at the flower induction (November) and differentiation (February) stages. Key Results Study of the expression pattern of flowering-genes in buds from on (fully loaded) and off (without fruits) trees revealed that homologues of FLOWERING LOCUS T (CiFT), TWIN SISTER OF FT (TSF), APETALA1 (CsAP1) and LEAFY (CsLFY) were negatively affected by fruit load. CiFT and TSF activities showed a marked increase in buds from off trees through the study period (ten-fold in November). By contrast, expression of the homologues of the flowering inhibitors of TERMINAL FLOWER 1 (CsTFL), TERMINAL FLOWER 2 (TFL2) and FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) was generally lower in off trees. Regarding floral identity genes, the increase in CsAP1 expression in off trees was much greater in buds than in leaves, and significant variations in CsLFY expression (approx. 20 %) were found only in February. Defoliation experiments further revealed that the absence of leaves completely abolished blossoming and severely affected the expression of most of the flowering-related genes, particularly decreasing the activity of floral promoters and of CsAP1 at the induction stage. Conclusions These results suggest that the presence of fruit affects flowering by greatly altering gene-expression not only at the leaf but also at the meristem level. Although leaves are required for flowering to occu

[EN] The use of dielectric properties at low frequencies to estimate the progress of pork meat (Longissimus dorsi) ageing was evaluated. Dielectric measurements were perfomed at 140 Hz, 1 kHz and 300 kHz in perpendicular to the long axis of the meat muscle fibers at 12, 24,48 and 168 h post-mortem. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to describe the relationships between meat physical/biochemical parameters and dielectric parameters of pork meat. Good correlations were found between the ageing indexes (Al(sigma) and Al(epsilon')) calculated from dielectric properties and some parameters of texture such as hardness and chewiness. Moreover, both indexes correlated well with free amino acids content, and with K value. The high degree of correlation confirms the viability of using the ageing indexes obtained from dielectric measurements to evaluate the degree of ageing of pork meat, giving information about some important eating quality parameters. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The postharvest evolution of Penjar tomatoes has been studied in four accessions representative of the variability of the varietal type. The long-term shelf life of these materials, which carry the alc allele, was confirmed with 31.2-59.1% of commercial fruits after 6 months of effective conservation at room temperature and a limited loss of weight (21.1-27.9%). Aroma in Penjar tomatoes is differentiated from other tomato varieties by a characteristic 'sharp-floral' aroma descriptor. The evolution of the 'sharp-floral' aroma during postharvest showed a peak of intensity at 2 months of postharvest, though in one accession a delay of 2 months in this response was detected. Out of 25 volatiles analysed, including main and background notes, a reverse iPLS variable selection revealed that the main candidates behind this aromatic behaviour are ¿-terpineol, trans-2-hexenal, 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one, trans-2-octenal, ¿-pinene, ß-ionone, 2 + 3-methylbutanol and phenylacetaldehyde. Between harvest and 2 months postharvest, most compounds reduced considerably their concentration, while the intensity of the 'sharp-floral' descriptor increased, which means that probably there is a rearrangement of the relative concentrations among volatiles that may lead to masking/unmasking processes. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.

[EN] Dielectric measurements of different standard solutions (nucleotides, nucleosides, lactic acid and myoglobin) were assayed simulating the concentrations of these substances in early postmortem meat. These assays were performed for considering the potential use of dielectric spectra for the quality control of meat. Good correlations among solutions of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), Inosine Monophosphate (IMP) and lactic acid with loss factor at punctual frequencies (0.5, 0.915 and 1 GHz) were found. The other assayed substances did not present a marked effect over the electromagnetic spectra. Good correlations of dielectric properties with IMP and lactic acid content of real pork meat samples were also found at 0.5 GHz. This work is presenting prospective data of dielectric spectra for certain key biochemical markers in order to consider its potential application as a non-destructive control sensor for the prediction of pork meat quality. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The efficacy of ten fungicides against Mycosphaerella nawae, the causal agent of circular leaf spot (CLS) of persimmon, was evaluated in vitro and in field experiments. Field trials were conducted in 2009 and 2010 to investigate the comparative efficacy of the fungicides alone or combined using alternating sequences in spray programmes based on two, three or four applications. Disease incidence was assessed by estimating the percentage of affected leaves, which included leaves showing at least one necrotic spot and defoliation. Fenpropimorph, pyraclostrobin, tebuconazole and thiophanate-methyl were the most effective fungicides in inhibiting mycelial growth of M. nawae isolates (EC50 < 2 ppm). In field experiments, the most effective fungicides using two spray applications were captan, chlorothalonil, mancozeb and pyraclostrobin which significantly reduced disease incidence compared with untreated plots. Regarding the number of spray applications, two applications of captan and mancozeb were less efficient than three to control the disease. However, the percentage of affected leaves provided by three applications of captan and mancozeb alone or combined with pyraclostrobin using alternating sequences in spray programmes, was not significantly different from that provided by four applications. Experimental results demonstrated that spray programmes based on three applications of these fungicides could effectively control CLS of persimmon. The advantages of spray programmes based on alternated use of strobilurins and protective fungicides are discussed. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd.

Background and Aims The presence of fruit has been widely reported to act as an inhibitor of flowering in fruit trees. This study is an investigation into the effect of fruit load on flowering of `Moncada¿ mandarin and on the expression of putative orthologues of genes involved in flowering pathways to provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying alternate bearing in citrus. Methods The relationship between fruit load and flowering intensity was examined first. Defruiting experiments were further conducted to demonstrate the causal effect of fruit removal upon flowering. Finally, the activity of flowering-related genes was investigated to determine the extent to which their seasonal expression is affected by fruit yield. Key Results First observations and defruiting experiments indicated a significant inverse relationship between preceding fruit load and flowering intensity. Moreover, data indicated that when fruit remained on the tree from November onwards, a dramatic inhibition of flowering occurred the following spring. The study of the expression pattern of flowering-genes of on (fully loaded) and off (without fruits) trees revealed that homologues of FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), SUPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CONSTANS 1 (SOC1), APETALA1 (AP1) and LEAFY (LFY) were negatively affected by fruit load. Thus, CiFT expression showed a progressive increase in leaves from off trees through the study period, the highest differences found from December onwards (10-fold). Whereas differences in the relative expression of SOC1 only reached significance from September to mid-December, CsAP1 expression was constantly higher in those trees through the whole study period. Significant variations in CsLFY expression only were found in late February (close to 20 %). On the other hand, the expression of the homologues of TERMINAL FLOWER 1 (TFL1) and FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) did not appear to be related to fruit load. Conclusions These results suggest for the first time that f

Background and Aims The presence of fruit has been widely reported to act as an inhibitor of flowering in fruit trees. This study is an investigation into the effect of fruit load on flowering of `Moncada¿ mandarin and on the expression of putative orthologues of genes involved in flowering pathways to provide insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying alternate bearing in citrus. Methods The relationship between fruit load and flowering intensity was examined first. Defruiting experiments were further conducted to demonstrate the causal effect of fruit removal upon flowering. Finally, the activity of flowering-related genes was investigated to determine the extent to which their seasonal expression is affected by fruit yield. Key Results First observations and defruiting experiments indicated a significant inverse relationship between preceding fruit load and flowering intensity. Moreover, data indicated that when fruit remained on the tree from November onwards, a dramatic inhibition of flowering occurred the following spring. The study of the expression pattern of flowering-genes of on (fully loaded) and off (without fruits) trees revealed that homologues of FLOWERING LOCUS T (FT), SUPRESSOR OF OVEREXPRESSION OF CONSTANS 1 (SOC1), APETALA1 (AP1) and LEAFY (LFY) were negatively affected by fruit load. Thus, CiFT expression showed a progressive increase in leaves from off trees through the study period, the highest differences found from December onwards (10-fold). Whereas differences in the relative expression of SOC1 only reached significance from September to mid-December, CsAP1 expression was constantly higher in those trees through the whole study period. Significant variations in CsLFY expression only were found in late February (close to 20 %). On the other hand, the expression of the homologues of TERMINAL FLOWER 1 (TFL1) and FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) did not appear to be related to fruit load. Conclusions These results suggest for the first time that f

[EN] The use of dielectric properties at low frequencies to estimate the progress of pork meat (Longissimus dorsi) ageing was evaluated. Dielectric measurements were perfomed at 140 Hz, 1 kHz and 300 kHz in perpendicular to the long axis of the meat muscle fibers at 12, 24,48 and 168 h post-mortem. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used to describe the relationships between meat physical/biochemical parameters and dielectric parameters of pork meat. Good correlations were found between the ageing indexes (Al(sigma) and Al(epsilon')) calculated from dielectric properties and some parameters of texture such as hardness and chewiness. Moreover, both indexes correlated well with free amino acids content, and with K value. The high degree of correlation confirms the viability of using the ageing indexes obtained from dielectric measurements to evaluate the degree of ageing of pork meat, giving information about some important eating quality parameters. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The postharvest evolution of Penjar tomatoes has been studied in four accessions representative of the variability of the varietal type. The long-term shelf life of these materials, which carry the alc allele, was confirmed with 31.2-59.1% of commercial fruits after 6 months of effective conservation at room temperature and a limited loss of weight (21.1-27.9%). Aroma in Penjar tomatoes is differentiated from other tomato varieties by a characteristic 'sharp-floral' aroma descriptor. The evolution of the 'sharp-floral' aroma during postharvest showed a peak of intensity at 2 months of postharvest, though in one accession a delay of 2 months in this response was detected. Out of 25 volatiles analysed, including main and background notes, a reverse iPLS variable selection revealed that the main candidates behind this aromatic behaviour are ¿-terpineol, trans-2-hexenal, 6-methyl-5-hepten-2-one, trans-2-octenal, ¿-pinene, ß-ionone, 2 + 3-methylbutanol and phenylacetaldehyde. Between harvest and 2 months postharvest, most compounds reduced considerably their concentration, while the intensity of the 'sharp-floral' descriptor increased, which means that probably there is a rearrangement of the relative concentrations among volatiles that may lead to masking/unmasking processes. © 2011 Springer-Verlag.

[EN] Dielectric measurements of different standard solutions (nucleotides, nucleosides, lactic acid and myoglobin) were assayed simulating the concentrations of these substances in early postmortem meat. These assays were performed for considering the potential use of dielectric spectra for the quality control of meat. Good correlations among solutions of Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), Inosine Monophosphate (IMP) and lactic acid with loss factor at punctual frequencies (0.5, 0.915 and 1 GHz) were found. The other assayed substances did not present a marked effect over the electromagnetic spectra. Good correlations of dielectric properties with IMP and lactic acid content of real pork meat samples were also found at 0.5 GHz. This work is presenting prospective data of dielectric spectra for certain key biochemical markers in order to consider its potential application as a non-destructive control sensor for the prediction of pork meat quality. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The efficacy of ten fungicides against Mycosphaerella nawae, the causal agent of circular leaf spot (CLS) of persimmon, was evaluated in vitro and in field experiments. Field trials were conducted in 2009 and 2010 to investigate the comparative efficacy of the fungicides alone or combined using alternating sequences in spray programmes based on two, three or four applications. Disease incidence was assessed by estimating the percentage of affected leaves, which included leaves showing at least one necrotic spot and defoliation. Fenpropimorph, pyraclostrobin, tebuconazole and thiophanate-methyl were the most effective fungicides in inhibiting mycelial growth of M. nawae isolates (EC50 < 2 ppm). In field experiments, the most effective fungicides using two spray applications were captan, chlorothalonil, mancozeb and pyraclostrobin which significantly reduced disease incidence compared with untreated plots. Regarding the number of spray applications, two applications of captan and mancozeb were less efficient than three to control the disease. However, the percentage of affected leaves provided by three applications of captan and mancozeb alone or combined with pyraclostrobin using alternating sequences in spray programmes, was not significantly different from that provided by four applications. Experimental results demonstrated that spray programmes based on three applications of these fungicides could effectively control CLS of persimmon. The advantages of spray programmes based on alternated use of strobilurins and protective fungicides are discussed. © 2011 Elsevier Ltd.

[EN] Twelve 2-yr-old, dry Murciano-Granadina dairy goats were selected and divided into four equal groups based on similar body weight (38.41 +/- 0.78 kg). The four treatments were mixed diets with approximately 600 g kg(-1) alfalfa hay chopped to 2.5-cm particle size, and 400 g kg(-1) of concentrate. The concentrate has 250 g kg(-1) of cereal grain (corn or barley) and 150 g kg(-1) of protein (sunflower meal or green peas). Experimental diets were isoenergetic with an average value of 18.9 MJ gross energy (GE) kg(-1) of dry matter (DM). Apparent digestibility, intake, metabolic energy and methane (CH4) production were obtained. The effect of cereal grain was significant for crude protein (P < 0.001) and acid detergent fiber (P < 0.049) digestibility. The effect of protein source was significant for DM (P < 0.025), organic matter (P < 0.031) and DEI (P < 0.016) digestibilities. CH4 exhaled was determined by an open-circuit mask calorimeter system. An average value of 0.8 L CH4 h(-1) was found for these mixed rations. When this was expressed as the proportion of the ingested GE lost as exhaled methane, the average value was 4.6. Because of the non-significant differences observed among these mixed diets studied to determine exhaled CH4 by nonproductive dairy goats, diets based on barley and sunflower meal are recommended. These crops are cheaper than corn and peas because they are produced in Spain and not imported from other countries.

Acceso libre en: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09712119.2010.9707163, [EN] To study the effect of physical form of alfalfa on methane production, long (L) or chopped (C) alfalfa hay was fed with barley (B) or corn (C) to three 2 years old Murciano-Granadina dairy goats. Sunflower meal (pelleted) was the main protein source for all diets. Chopping improved CP digestibility with either grain and fibre digestibility with corn only. Significant differences in methane production were observed for the effect of corn vs. barley, only for diets containing long alfalfa hay. Least methane was found for long alfalfa hay in combination with barley grain. Moderate lower methane production was found for chopped alfalfa without effect between corn vs. barley

Acceso libre en: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/09712119.2010.9707163, [EN] To study the effect of physical form of alfalfa on methane production, long (L) or chopped (C) alfalfa hay was fed with barley (B) or corn (C) to three 2 years old Murciano-Granadina dairy goats. Sunflower meal (pelleted) was the main protein source for all diets. Chopping improved CP digestibility with either grain and fibre digestibility with corn only. Significant differences in methane production were observed for the effect of corn vs. barley, only for diets containing long alfalfa hay. Least methane was found for long alfalfa hay in combination with barley grain. Moderate lower methane production was found for chopped alfalfa without effect between corn vs. barley

[EN] Twelve 2-yr-old, dry Murciano-Granadina dairy goats were selected and divided into four equal groups based on similar body weight (38.41 +/- 0.78 kg). The four treatments were mixed diets with approximately 600 g kg(-1) alfalfa hay chopped to 2.5-cm particle size, and 400 g kg(-1) of concentrate. The concentrate has 250 g kg(-1) of cereal grain (corn or barley) and 150 g kg(-1) of protein (sunflower meal or green peas). Experimental diets were isoenergetic with an average value of 18.9 MJ gross energy (GE) kg(-1) of dry matter (DM). Apparent digestibility, intake, metabolic energy and methane (CH4) production were obtained. The effect of cereal grain was significant for crude protein (P < 0.001) and acid detergent fiber (P < 0.049) digestibility. The effect of protein source was significant for DM (P < 0.025), organic matter (P < 0.031) and DEI (P < 0.016) digestibilities. CH4 exhaled was determined by an open-circuit mask calorimeter system. An average value of 0.8 L CH4 h(-1) was found for these mixed rations. When this was expressed as the proportion of the ingested GE lost as exhaled methane, the average value was 4.6. Because of the non-significant differences observed among these mixed diets studied to determine exhaled CH4 by nonproductive dairy goats, diets based on barley and sunflower meal are recommended. These crops are cheaper than corn and peas because they are produced in Spain and not imported from other countries.

[EN] Semiochemical-based pest management programs have been increasingly used to provide environmentally friendly methods for the control of major insect pests. The efficacy of the mating disruption technique has been demonstrated for several moth pests. Unfortunately, not many experiments on mating disruption to control diaspididae species have been documented. In this work, biodegradable dispensers for mating disruption with increasing pheromone loads were used in order to Study the potential of this technique for the control of Aonidiella aurantii Maskell. Field trial results demonstrated that dispensers loaded with 50 mg (a.i.) (20 g ha(-1)) and 100 mg (a.i.) (40 g ha(-1)) of sex pheromone were the most Suitable, achieving significant reductions in male catches, compared to all untreated plot. In treated Plots, Virtually a 70% reduction in damage to fruit Was recorded. Pheromone release profiles of all the dispensers were also Studied under field conditions. We found that emission values > 250 mu g day(-1) were the most suitable. This Study suggests a new biodegradable dispenser capable of interfering with normal A. aurantii chemical communication. The use of mating disruption as a control method against A. aurantii is discussed.

[EN] Semiochemical-based pest management programs have been increasingly used to provide environmentally friendly methods for the control of major insect pests. The efficacy of the mating disruption technique has been demonstrated for several moth pests. Unfortunately, not many experiments on mating disruption to control diaspididae species have been documented. In this work, biodegradable dispensers for mating disruption with increasing pheromone loads were used in order to Study the potential of this technique for the control of Aonidiella aurantii Maskell. Field trial results demonstrated that dispensers loaded with 50 mg (a.i.) (20 g ha(-1)) and 100 mg (a.i.) (40 g ha(-1)) of sex pheromone were the most Suitable, achieving significant reductions in male catches, compared to all untreated plot. In treated Plots, Virtually a 70% reduction in damage to fruit Was recorded. Pheromone release profiles of all the dispensers were also Studied under field conditions. We found that emission values > 250 mu g day(-1) were the most suitable. This Study suggests a new biodegradable dispenser capable of interfering with normal A. aurantii chemical communication. The use of mating disruption as a control method against A. aurantii is discussed.