Gas exchanges and chlorophyll content in green pepper plants under bio-fertilization and times of application

This study aimed to determine the gas exchange and the chlorophyll content of green pepper plants under doses and times of application of bio-fertilizers based on manure and enriched organic compost. Two experiments were carried out simultaneously with applications of bio-fertilizers prepared from manure and enriched organic compost, one using cattle manure (CBF) and the other sheep manure (SBF). For these, four doses of biological fertilizers (100, 200, 300 and 400 dm³ ha-1), three application times (0, 30 and 60 days after transplantation - DAT) and absolute control, referring to the absence of fertilization, were used. treatments. were arranged in a randomized block design, totaling 13 treatments. The variables evaluated were: the relative chlorophyll a, b and total content; liquid photosynthesis (A); stomatal conductance (gs); internal CO2 concentration (Ci); instant carboxylation efficiency (iCE - A/Ci); transpiration rate (T); intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE - A/gs); and water use efficiency (WUE - A/E). Gs, A and T, showed significant effect at 60 DAT with the application of SBF and Ci at 30 DAT with CBF. The dose of 400 dm³ ha-1 of SBF provided greater gas results, and the doses of 200 and 300 dm³ ha-1 of CBF promoted a greater Ci, greater stomatal conductance, greater liquid photosynthesis and better water use efficiency, which results in a greater plant fresh weight at the time of flowering induction.

Avaliação in vitro da atividade antimicrobiana dos extratos de Calendula officinalis, Capsicum annuum L e Hamamelis virginiana L. sobre cepas clínicas multirresistentes de Klebsiella pneumoniae e Pseudomonas aeruginosa / In vitro Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of extracts from Calendula officinalis, Capsicum annuum L and Hamamelis virginiana L. on multiresistant clinical straines of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

O conhecimento dos efeitos dos extratos naturais de plantas vem cada vez mais se mostrando um campo promissor. Extratos de Calendula officinalis, Capsicum annuum e Hamamelis virginiana apresentam propriedades analgésicas, anti-inflamatórias, antioxidantes e potencial antimicrobiano que deve ser aprofundado. Assim, o objetivo foi avaliar ação antimicrobiana dos extratos glicólicos em culturas planctônicas e biofilmes de cepas padrão e clínicas de Klebsiella pneumoniae e Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Foi realizado o teste de microdiluição em caldo segundo Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, para determinação da Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) e Concentração Microbicida Mínima (CMM) dos extratos. Foram realizados biofilmes monotípicos, nos tempos de contato de 5 min e 24 h, utilizando o teste de MTT. A CIM e CMM variaram de 1,56 a 50 mg/mL para todas as cepas avaliadas. C. annuum (50 mg/mL) apresentou redução de 0,25% entre 8,60% para cepa ATCC de P. aeruginosa (5 min) e em 24 h redução de 99,89% entre 99,99%, destacando-se os extratos de C. annuum (100 mg/mL) e os de C. officinalis. C. annuum (200 mg/mL) apresentou redução de 18% de K. pneumoniae (ATCC 4352). Em 24 h houve redução de 8,86%-75,74%, para o extrato de C. annuum (100 mg/mL). Os extratos apresentaram resultados mais satisfatórios quando expostos aos tratamentos de 24 horas. As cepas clínicas K1, K2 e K3 responderam ao tratamento de C. annuum (50 e 100 mg/mL) (p>0,05%). Para cepa clínica K4, os extratos de C. annuum (50 e 100 mg/mL) e C. officinalis (12,5 mg/mL) promoveram redução de viabilidade semelhante a clorexidina 2% (p>0,05%). O extrato de C. annuum (50 e 100 mg/mL), promoveu a redução de viabilidade de P1 e P2, enquanto o extrato de C. officinalis (25 e 50 mg/mL), reduziu P1 (p>0,05%). Para as cepas P3 e P4 o extrato de 50 e 100 mg/mL de C. annuum, apresentaram resultados semelhantes a clorexidina. Conclui-se que todos os extratos apresentaram ação antimicrobiana em cultura planctônica, no entanto, o extrato de C. annuum foi o que apresentou importante ação antibiofilme (24 h) sobre cepas clínicas multirresistentes de K. pneumoniae e P. aeruginosa, podendo ser considerado um potencial agente antimicrobiano.

Empirical knowledge of natural plant extracts is increasingly proving to be a promising field. Extracts of Calendula officinalis, Capsicum annuum and Hamamelis virginiana have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial potential that should be further developed. This research objective was to evaluate the antimicrobial action of glycolic extracts in planktonic cultures and biofilms of standard and clinical strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The broth microdilution test was performed according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Microbicide Concentration (MMC) of the extracts. Tests were performed on monotypic biofilms, at contact times of 5 min and 24 h, using the MTT test. The MIC and CMM of the extracts ranged from 1.56 to 50 mg/mL for all strains evaluated. C. annuum (50 mg/mL) showed a reduction of 0.25% between 8.60% for the ATCC strain of P. aeruginosa (5 min) and in 24 h a reduction of 99.89% between 99.99%, highlighting extracts from C. annuum (100 mg/mL) and from C. officinalis. C. annuum (200 mg/mL) showed an 18% reduction in K. pneumoniae (ATCC 4352). In 24 h there was a reduction of 8.86% between 75.74% for the extract of C. annuum (100 mg/mL). The extracts showed more satisfactory results when exposed to 24-hour treatments. Clinical strains K1, K2 and K3 responded to the treatment of C. annuum (50 and 100 mg/mL) (p>0.05%). For clinical strain K4, extracts of C. annuum (50 and 100 mg/mL) and C. officinalis (12.5 mg/mL) promoted a reduction in viability similar to chlorhexidine 2% (p>0.05%). The extract of C. annuum (50 and 100 mg/mL), reduced the viability of P1 and P2, while the extract of C. officinalis (25 and 50 mg/mL), reduced P1 (p>0.05% ). For strains P3 and P4, the extract of 50 and 100 mg/mL of C. annuum showed similar results to chlorhexidine. It is concluded that all extracts showed antimicrobial action in planktonic cultures, however, the extract of C. annuum was the one that showed an important antibiofilm action (24 h) on multiresistant clinical strains of K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa and can be considered a potential antimicrobial agent

Maturation and Resting of Sweet Pepper Fruits on Physiological Quality and Biochemical Response of Seeds

Abstract The post-harvest resting of the fruits can improve seed physiological quality ,once it allows the seed to complete the maturation process, so it has been a common practice in vegetable seed companies, however, there are a few studies of this technique in sweet pepper. The objective of this research was to evaluate physiological quality, and biochemical response of sweet's peppers in regarding on the stage of maturation and the post-harvest rest of the fruits. The experimental was conducted in a 4x2 factorial, being the first factor comprised four maturation stages (35, 50, 65 and 80 days after anthesis) and, the second the post-harvest management of fruits, with and without a temporary storage of seven days. Seeds were evaluated for water content, weight of thousand seeds, germination, vigor, superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase activities, lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide content. Fruit harvest time indicated is 80 days after anthesis (fruits 100% yellow) when seeds showed maximum germination and vigor. The post-harvest resting of the fruits was beneficial to seed physiological quality, weight of one thousand seeds and to reduce hydrogen peroxide content. Seeds of higher physiological quality showed lower superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activity, so they can be used as a marker of physiological quality in sweet pepper seeds.

Assessment of genetic variability of chilli in Western Himalayan Region

Aim: The present study was conducted with the aim to collect and evaluate the available genetic diversity of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) in order to identify promising accessions for cultivation as well as use in crop improvement. Methodology: A total 78 accessions of chilli were collected from Western himalayan region, i.e., Kashmir valley of India. Collected germplasm was evaluated at one location for fifteen quantitative traits of horticultural importance. Results: With ample diversity in these traits, a high coefficient of variation was found. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that first five principal components possessed eigen value > 1, cumulatively contributed > 65.2 percent of total variability. All the genotypes were grouped into five clusters showing non parallelism between geographic and genetic diversity. Interpretation: The genotypes grouped in different clusters may be utilized for hybridization programme to produce more heterotic recombinants.

Cloning and molecular characterization of a putative habanero pepper SERK1 cDNA expressed during somatic and zygotic embryogenesis

Background: Plant gene homologs that control cell differentiation can be used as biotechnological tools to study the in vitro cell proliferation competence of tissue culture-recalcitrant species such as peppers. It has been demonstrated that SERK1 homologs enhance embryogenic competence when overexpressed in transformed tissues; therefore, cloning of a pepper SERK1 homolog was performed to further evaluate its biotechnological potential. Results: A Capsicum chinense SERK full-length cDNA (CchSERK1) was cloned and characterized at the molecular level. Its deduced amino acid sequence exhibits high identity with sequences annotated as SERK1 and predicted-SERK2 homologs in the genomes of the Capsicum annuum CM-334 and Zunla-1 varieties, respectively, and with SERK1 homologs from members of the Solanaceae family. Transcription of CchSERK1 in plant tissues, measured by quantitative RT-PCR, was higher in stems, flowers, and roots but lower in leaves and floral primordia. During seed development, CchSERK1 was transcribed in all zygotic stages, with higher expression at 14 days post anthesis. During somatic embryogenesis, CchSERK1 was transcribed at all differentiation stages, with a high increment in the heart stage and lower levels at the torpedo/cotyledonal stages. Conclusion: DNA sequence alignments and gene expression patterns suggest that CchSERK1 is the C. chinense SERK1 homolog. Significant levels of CchSERK1 transcripts were found in tissues with cell differentiation activities such as vascular axes and during the development of zygotic and somatic embryos. These results suggest that CchSERK1 might have regulatory functions in cell differentiation and could be used as a biotechnological tool to study the recalcitrance of peppers to proliferate in vitro.

Advanced lines of Jalapeño pepper with potential for mechanical harvesting / Linhagens avançadas de pimenta Jalapeño com potencial para a colheita mecanizada

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the plant and fruit characteristics in advanced lines of Jalapeño pepper for mechanical harvesting. Thus, two experiments were carried out in the field. Experiment I (2015) was conducted as a randomized block design (three replications and eight plants per plot) and Experiment II (2016) in a completely randomized design (five replications and ten plants per plot). In 2015, lines CNPH 30,112, CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, CNPH 30,183, and CNPH 30,245 were evaluated, together with the control 'BRS Sarakura'. Significant differences were detected for fruit and plant characteristics (P<0.05). Lines CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, and CNPH 30,245 were selected based on plant height and height of the first bifurcation, earliness, and yield. They were evaluated again in 2016, together with 'BRS Sarakura' and 'Jalapeño Plus F1' as controls. In 2016, CNPH 30,159 and CNPH 30,118 were selected due to their potential for mechanical harvesting. They were evaluated for height of the first bifurcation (>10cm), large fruits (11 cm x 4 cm), high pulp firmness (11 N), wall thickness (about 5mm), and content of capsaicinoid substances (>50,000 SHU). Selected lines are undergoing additional field evaluation for mechanical harvesting with the Etgar Moses 1010 pepper harvester.

RESUMO: O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar as características de planta e fruto em linhagens avançadas de pimenta do tipo Jalapeño visando à colheita mecanizada. Assim, foram feitos dois experimentos em campo. O Experimento I (2015) foi conduzido em delineamento de blocos casualizados (três repetições e oito plantas por parcela) e o Experimento II (2016) em delineamento inteiramente casualizado (cinco repetições e dez plantas por parcela). Em 2015, foram avaliadas as linhagens CNPH 30,112, CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, CNPH 30,183 e CNPH 30,245, juntamente com o controle 'BRS Sarakura'. Foram detectadas diferenças significativas para as características de planta e fruto (P<0,05). As linhagens CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159 e CNPH 30,245 foram selecionadas com base nas alturas da planta e da primeira bifurcação, precocidade e rendimento. Elas foram novamente avaliadas em 2016, juntamente com os controles 'BRS Sarakura' e 'Jalapeño Plus F1'. Em 2016, as linhagens CNPH 30,159 e CNPH 30,118 foram selecionadas com potencial para a colheita mecanizada. Elas foram avaliadas para altura da primeira bifurcação (>10cm), frutos grandes (11 cm x 4cm), polpa de elevada firmeza (11 N), espessura de parede (5mm) e teor de substâncias capsaicinóides (>50.000 SHU). As linhagens selecionadas estão passando por avaliação adicional em campo para colheita mecânica com a colhedora de pimentas Etgar Moses 1010.

Estimation of genetic merit of diallel hybrids of sweet pepper by mixed models / Estimação do mérito genético de híbridos dialélicos de pimentão sob cultivo hidropônico via modelos mistos

ABSTRACT: The use of mixed models for evaluating diallel crosses is a highly timely option to the reliable prediction of progeny genetic values. In the sweet pepper crop, hybrids are commercially explored on a large scale, mainly because of their characteristics of economic importance. This study aimed to assess the potential of hybrids obtained from a partial diallel among five sweet pepper lines developed for the hydroponic cultivation system and two simple hybrids, by applying mixed models. It was performed crosses in the partial diallel scheme among the (L1B, L6, L7, L18, and L19) lines and the simple hybrids 'Valdor' and 'Atlantis'. Plants were cultivated in hydroponic system with substrate and irrigated three times a day using nutrient solution. On the basis of mixed models, the following traits were assessed: mean fruit diameter (FD), mean fruit length (FL), mean fruit number per plant (FNP), mean fruit mass (FM), early yield (EYIELD), and mean fruit mass per plant (FMP). The L6 line was the one that showed the highest estimate of general combination capacity for FMP, FM, and EYIELD, proving to be promising for recommendation. The hybrid that provided the best specific combining ability for FD, FM, FMP, and EYIELD was L6 x 'Valdor'. Triple hybrids were efficient to maximize yield for the traits of interest by the use of the mixed model.

RESUMO: A utilização de modelos mistos na avaliação de cruzamentos dialélicos é uma opção altamente oportuna para a fidedigna predição dos valores genéticos das progênies. Na cultura do pimentão, os híbridos são largamente explorados comercialmente, principalmente por suas características de importância econômica. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o potencial de híbridos resultantes de um dialelo parcial entre cinco linhagens de pimentão desenvolvidas para o sistema de cultivo hidropônico e dois híbridos simples, utilizando modelos mistos. Foram realizados cruzamentos no esquema de dialelo parcial entre as linhagens (L1B, L6, L7, L18 e L19) e os híbridos simples 'Valdor' e 'Atlantis'. As plantas foram cultivadas em sistema hidropônico com substrato e irrigadas três vezes ao dia com solução nutritiva. Com base em modelos mistos, foram avaliadas as características: diâmetro médio de frutos (DF); comprimento médio de frutos (CF); número médio de frutos por planta (NFP); massa média de frutos (MMF); produção precoce (PP) e massa média de frutos por planta (MFP). A linhagem L6 foi a que expressou maior estimativa de capacidade geral de combinação para MFP, MMF e PP, revelando-se promissora para recomendação. O híbrido triplo que apresentou melhor capacidade específica de combinação para DF, MMF, MFP e PP, foi L6 x 'Valdor'. Os híbridos triplos foram eficientes para incrementar a produtividade para as características de interesse com a aplicação da modelagem mista.

Establishment of HPLC Fingerprint ，Cluster Analysis and Principal Component Analysis of Capsicum annuum / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE： To establish HPLC fingerprint of Capsicum annuum，and to conduct cluster analysis and principal component analysis. METHODS： HPLC method was adopted. The determination was performed on Agilent C18 column with mobile phase consisted of methanol-0.2％ phosphoric acid solution （gradient elution） at the flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The detection wavelength was set at 235 nm， and column temperature was 30 ℃. The sample size was 15 μL. Using capsaicin peak as reference， HPLC fingerprints of 15 batches of C. annuum from different production areas were determined. The similarity evaluation of common peaks was evaluated by using the TCM Chromatographic Fingerprint Similarity Evaluation System （2004 A edition） to confirm common peaks. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis were performed by using SPSS 19.0 software. RESULTS： The similarities were more than 0.95 in HPLC chromatograms of 15 batches of C. annuum. There were 12 common peaks. Its HPLC fingerprint was in good agreement with that of control fingerprint. 15 batches can be divided into three sub-categories as S1， S3-S5， S7， S9-S13 sub-categorie， S2， S14， S15 sub-categorie and S6， S8 sub-categorie. Through the principal component analysis， the cumulative contribution rate of 4 main component factors was 94.093， and comprehensive score of S5  was the highest with the best quality. CONCLUSIONS： Established HPLC fingerprints， cluster analysis and principal component analysis results can provide reference for the quality control of C. annuum.

Morphological Characteristics of Some Pepper Genotypes (Capsicum annuum L.) Grown in Conventional and Organic Agricultural Systems: Comparative Analysis

Long-term research in pepper organic production are scarce in Republic of Macedonia. Plant and fruit morphological traits of important pepper varieties organically produced were compared to pepper produced in conventional systems. Conceivably, this is the first morphological traits comparative study of locally important pepper genotypes (Capsicum annuum L.) in Republic of Macedonia in organic and conventional open-field production. The aim of the research is to determine the differences in pepper morphological traits when produced organically in comparison to conventional production. Eight plants and fruits were used for morphological traits determination of plant and fruit in six locally important pepper genotypes (Strumicka Kapija, Strumicka Vezena, Piran, Zupska Rana, Duga Bela and Kurtovska Kapija) grown in an organic and conventional production system. The traits number or branches per plant, fruit width and fruit index were significantly affected by the production manner resulting in less branches per plant, lower fruit width and lower fruit index in organic production. The traits fruit weight, pericarp thickness and fruit flesh percentage, which are the most important for pepper crop yield and utilisation of pepper fruits were not significantly affected by the production practice. Organic production has limited influence on pepper plant and fruit traits, but not in a manner to decrease the production, which generally is the main fear of conversion from conventional to organic production in vegetables. Appropriate selection of pepper varieties with application of suitable cultivation and management practices can contribute to successful organic production resulting in high quality pepper production.

Vitamin C and Total Antioxidant Content in Pepper Fruits (Capsicum annuum L.): Comparative Analysis of Peppers Grown in Conventional and Organic Agricultural Systems

Up-to-date, there is no methodical and long-term research on fruit quality and nutritional characteristics of peppers grown in organic production system in Republic of Macedonia. Still, there are debates in broad sense about the advantage of organic vegetable production compared to conventional one in terms of quality characteristics. Led by this idea, this research was conducted with an aim to study vitamin C content and total antioxidant content in fruits of six pepper genotypes as most important fruit quality characteristics and to determine if there are differences in fruit quality properties between those grown in organic and conventional production system. Fruits of six different pepper genotypes Strumicka Kapija, Strumicka Vezena, Piran, Zupska Rana, Duga Bela and Kurtovska Kapija cultivated in organic and conventional production systems were used for determination of vitamin C and total antioxidant content. The extraction of vitamin C and total antioxidants were performed in a plant tissue extractor with orthophosphoric acid and methanol as extracting reagents, respectively. Vitamin C content was determined by HPLC instrument, while total antioxidant content was measured with potentionstat instrument. The genotype Strumicka Kapija was characterized with the highest content of vitamin C in both cultivation systems. In all genotypes under study, except Zupska Rana, the vitamin C content was higher in fruits from organic production as compared to pepper fruits from the conventional system. Generally, the total antioxidant content in pepper fruits from the conventional system was averagely lower than the total antioxidant content measured in pepper fruits from the organic production system. These findings are a prove that production system is very important for the fruit quality characteristic and the organic production of peppers results with production of fruits with higher content of vitamin C and antioxidants compared to conventional ones, therefore organic peppers give more nutrition and health benefits to consumers.

Antidepressant Effect of Methanol Fruit Extract of Capsicum annuum in Mice

Aims: To determine the antidepressant potential of methanol fruit extract of Capsicum annuum in Mice. Methodology: Force Swim Test (FST), Tail Suspension Test (TST) and Open Field Test (OFT) were used. Immobility time in both FST and TST was determined by randomly dividing 30 mice into five (5) groups of six (6) mice each. Group 1 received saline, Group 2, Imipramine (15 mg/kg), Group 3, 4, and five were treated with 500 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg, and 2000 mg/kg of methanol extract of fruits of Capsicum annuum respectively. In the OFT, 25 mice were divided into five(5) groups of five (5) mice each; Group 1 received normal saline, group 2, Diazepam (0.5 mg/kg), group 3,4 and 5 were treated with 500 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg of methanol fruit extract of C. annuum respectively. Results: Imipramine, and the doses of the methanol fruit extract significantly reduced the immobility time when compared with a normal saline group (p≤ 0.05) in the mice FST and TST. The effect of the extract was dose-dependent; 2000 mg/kg produced the highest reduction. In the Open field test (OFT), the number of square crossing showed no significant difference between Diazepam (0.5 mg/kg) and all the doses of the extract administered. This implied that the extract did not act as a stimulant. Conclusion: The decrease behavioural despair in this study suggests that Capsicum annuum may be a promising candidate for the management of depression. The antidepressant like activity may be attributed to the presence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant flavonoids and triterpene in the plants given the role of inflammation and oxidative stress in depression. Further work will be carried out to validate this result.

Ethylene, 1-methylcyclopropene and silver thiosulfate on the post-production of ornamental pepper / Etileno, 1-metilciclopropeno e tiossulfato de prata na pós-produção de pimenteiras ornamentais

ABSTRACT: Species from Capsicum genus are used for different purposes and in more recent years as ornamental potted plant. Despite the increased commercial importance, there are only a few studies on the environmental factors affecting the post-production shelf life of these ornamental plants. The presence of ethylene induces various responses on potted peppers, reducing the shelf life of sensitive cultivars. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of ethylene and the inhibitors of ethylene action, 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) and silver thiosulfate (STS) on the shelf life of potted 'Calypso' and 'MG 302' peppers. Cultivar 'MG 302' showed intermediate sensitivity to ethylene action, while the cultivar 'Calypso' showed complete abscission of leaves when exposed to ethylene. In both cultivars, treatment with STS + Ethylene presented symptoms of phytotoxicity in plants, while treatment with 1-MCP + Ethylene was effective in delaying senescence and abscission for the cultivar 'MG 302', while cultivar 'Calypso' showed abscission similar to control plants. Plants treated with STS showed the longest durability when compared to the other treatments, about six days for 'Calypso' and 18 days for 'MG 302'. Nevertheless, plants treated with 1-MCP also exhibited good shelf life, about six days for 'Calypso' and nine days for the 'MG 302'. Although the treatment with STS was more efficient on the plants shelf life, did not completely block the action of ethylene and exhibited some phytotoxicity, while the treatment with 1-MCP had good efficiency without inducing any toxicity.

RESUMO: Espécies do gênero Capsicum estão sendo usados para diversas finalidades e nos últimos anos como planta ornamental de vaso. Apesar da crescente importância comercial, há poucos estudos sobre os fatores ambientais que afetam a sua vida útil de pós-produção destas plantas ornamentais. A presença de etileno induz várias respostas em pimenteiras em vasos, reduzindo a vida útil de prateleira de cultivares sensíveis. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os efeitos do etileno e inibidores da ação do etileno, 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP) e tiossulfato de prata (STS) sobre a vida útil de vaso de pimenteiras das cultivares 'Calypso' e 'MG 302'. A cultivar 'MG 302' apresentou sensibilidade intermediária a ação do etileno, enquanto a cultivar 'Calypso' apresentou abscisão completa das folhas quando exposta ao etileno. Em ambas as cultivares, o tratamento STS + Etileno mostrou sintomas de fitotoxicidade nas plantas. O tratamento com 1-MCP + Etileno foi eficaz em retardar a senescência e abscisão apenas para a cultivar 'MG 302', enquanto a cultivar 'Calypso' mostrou abscisão foliar semelhante as plantas controle. Plantas tratadas com STS mostraram maior durabilidade quando comparadas aos outros tratamentos, cerca de seis dias para 'Calypso' e dezoito dias para 'MG 302'. No entanto, as plantas tratadas com 1-MCP também exibiram boa vida útil de prateleira, cerca de seis dias para 'Calypso' e nove dias para a 'MG 302'. Embora o tratamento com STS tenha sido mais eficiente na vida de prateleira das plantas, não bloqueou completamente a ação do etileno e apresentaram algum fitotoxicidade, enquanto o tratamento com 1-MCP teve boa eficiência sem induzir qualquer toxicidade.

Flask sealing on in vitro seed germination and morphogenesis of two types of ornamental pepper explants / Tipo de vedação na germinação e na morfogênese in vitro de dois tipos de explante de pimenteira ornamental

ABSTRACT: The influence of flask sealing and explant source on the in vitro morphogenesis of pepper, were evaluated in Capsicum annuum. Seeds were sterilized and inoculated in Murashige and Skoog media supplemented with vitamins, myo-inositol, sucrose, and agar. Gas exchange was evaluated in the germination stage by comparing 3 flask-sealing systems: rigid polypropylene lids (PLs) without vents, PLs with 1 vent, and PLs with 2 vents covered with membranes. In the regeneration stage, cotyledon and hypocotyl segments were transferred to the organogenesis-inducing media, being the different sealing types also tested in a factorial scheme. Photosynthetic pigments, morphological and hystological analyses were conducted for each treatment. Plants maintained in glass flasks capped with vented lids showed more vigorous growth and differentiated anatomical structures. These treatments resulted in taller plants, higher numbers and more expanded leaves, higher fresh and dry weights, and an increase in photosynthetic pigments. Cultivation of C. annuum in flasks with reduced gas exchange was more effective on callus induction. During the regeneration stage, hypocotyls were more effective than cotyledons. Sealing type influenced the morphogenic responses of pepper, demonstrating that an increase in gas exchange has a positive effect on biomass production and acclimatization of the plantlets.

RESUMO: Objetivando avaliar a influência de trocas gasosas e da fonte de explante na morfogênese in vitro de pimenteira ornamental, sementes de Capsicum annuum foram desinfestadas e inoculadas em meio de Murashige e Skoog suplementado com vitaminas, mio-inositol, sacarose e ágar. O efeito das trocas gasosas foi avaliado na fase de germinação, utilizando três tipos de vedações nos frascos: tampas de polipropileno rígido (TPR) sem membrana (controle), TPR com um orifício (10mm de diâmetro) coberto com membrana e TPR com dois orifícios cobertos com membranas permeáveis à gases. Na fase de regeneração, segmentos de hipocótilo e cotilédones foram transferidos para o meio de indução de organogênese e os diferentes tipos de vedação foram novamente testados em esquema fatorial. Análises anatômicas de pigmentos fotossintéticos e de características morfológicas foram realizadas. Plântulas cultivadas em frascos com tampas com membranas apresentaram estruturas anatômicas diferenciadas e mais vigorosas. Esses tratamentos resultaram em plântulas maiores, com folhas mais expandidas, maior número de folhas, maior massa fresca e seca e maior quantidade de pigmentos fotossintéticos. O cultivo de C. annuum em frascos com menores trocas gasosas foi mais eficaz na indução de calos. Durante o estágio de regeneração, hipocótilos foram mais eficazes do que cotilédones. O tipo de vedação influenciou nas respostas morfogênicas em pimenteira, demonstrando que o aumento nas trocas gasosas tem um efeito positivo sobre a produção de biomassa e aclimatização das plântulas.

Drying and pickling on phenols, capsaicinoids, and free radical-scavenging activity in Anaheim and Jalapeño peppers / Secagem e conserva sobre os fenóis, capsaicinoides e neutralização de radicais livres em pimentas Anaheim e Jalapeño

ABSTRACT: The effects of sun-drying, air-drying and pickling processes on phenol and capsaicinoid contents, and free radical-scavenging activity [2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2,2′-azino-bis 3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS)] in Anaheim (red) and Jalapeño peppers were evaluated. Sun-drying process in Anaheim pepper caused the highest phenols retention (100%), and the free radical-scavenging activity (100%) when compared with air-drying (80%). Pickling process in Jalapeño pepper caused a moderate reduction on the phenol content (24%) and the radical-scavenging activity by DPPH (35%). Processes studied did not cause variations in the capsaicinoid fractions neither in its radical-scavenging activity. Results suggested that dried and pickled peppers are a good source of phenolics and capsaicinoids with antioxidant activity.

RESUMO: Os efeitos dos processos de secagem ao sol, secagem ao ar e conserva sobre o conteúdo dos fenóis e capsaicinoides, assim como a atividade de eliminação de radicais livres [2,2-difenil-1-picrilhidrazilo (DPPH), e ácido 2, 2'-azino-bis 3-etilbenztiazolino-6-sulfónico ABTS)] em pimentas Anaheim (vermelho) e Jalapeño foram avaliados. A secagem ao sol mostrou maior retenção de fenóis (100%) e atividade de eliminação dos radicais livres (100%) quando foi comparada com a secagem ao ar (80%). O processo de conserva mostrou uma redução moderada no teor de fenóis (24%) e na capacidade de remoção de radicais (35%). Os processos estudados não causaram alterações nas frações capsaicinoides nem na seu atividade de eliminação de radicais. Os resultados sugerem que as pimentas secas e em conserva são uma boa fonte de fenóis e capsaicinoides com atividade antioxidante.

Non-destructive models to estimate leaf area on bell pepper crop / Modelos não-destrutivos para estimar a área foliar na cultura do pimentão

ABSTRACT: The leaf area determination are extremely important in agronomic and physiological studies, as they provide valuable information in vegetable metabolism, methods used for this purpose should be accurate. This study aimed to develop polynomial models to estimate leaf area (LA). The methods used were leaf discs and ImageJ(r) software, with measures of length (L), width (W), and relationship between length times width (LW) in leaves of the bell pepper crop in two field trials with two hybrids: Arcade and Impacto, as well as, the correlation of values found when using the two methods. Through a random sampling, 560 leaves from each hybrid were selected, at different stages of crop growth. Regression analysis of LA versus measures L, W and LW were performed by linear and quadratic models. The variable that best estimated LA was the relationship between LW with linear model (r2=0.98). Measurements of length and width of leaves presented adjustment to quadratic model r2=0.93 and r2=0.91, respectively. The integrator model for all samples and both hybrids was: LA=0.57×LW. The destructive method of leaf discs showed high correlation (r2=0.99) with the non-destructive method of ImageJ(r) software.

RESUMO: A determinação da área foliar é importante, em estudos agronômicos e fisiológicos, para a obtenção de informações sobre o metabolismo vegetal e as técnicas utilizadas devem ser simples. O objetivo deste estudo foi desenvolver modelos polinomiais para estimar a área foliar (AF). Foram utilizados os métodos de discos foliares e software ImageJ, com as medidas do comprimento (C) e da largura (L), e a relação entre o comprimento vezes a largura (CL) em folhas da cultura do pimentão, em dois ensaios com dois híbridos, Arcade e Impacto, e correlacionar os valores encontrados pelos dois métodos. Através de amostragem aleatória simples, foram selecionadas 560 folhas de cada híbrido, em diferentes estágios de crescimento da cultura. A análise de regressão da área foliar versus as medidas de C, L e CL foi realizada por modelos lineares e quadráticos. A variável que melhor estimou a AF foi a relação entre o CL, pelo modelo linear com r2=0,98. As medidas do comprimento e da largura das folhas apresentou ajustamento do modelo quadrática de r2=0,93 e r2=0,91, respectivamente. O modelo integrador de todas as amostras, para ambos os híbridos, foi: AF=0,57×CL. O método destrutivo por discos mostrou alta correlação (r2=0,99) com o método não destrutivo pelo ImageJ.

Efecto bacteriostático y bactericida de extractos de ají panca (Capsicum chinense) y pimiento (Capsicum annuum var. annuum) sobre cultivos de Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 y Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 / Bacteriostatic and bactericidal effect of extracts of red pepper (Capsicum chinense) and pepper (Capsicum annuum var. Annuum) on cultures of Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923

En la actualidad, es creciente el interés por nuevas alternativas para reemplazar los antimicrobianos químicos debido a los efectos adversos para el consumidor. Existen especies botánicas con efecto antimicrobiano como los frutos de Capsicum que son de uso común en nuestro país. Los extractos obtenidos de los ajíes y pimientos poseen compuestos activos con efecto antimicrobiano sobre bacterias, hongos y virus; además, su uso es seguro debido a su naturaleza orgánica. Por ello, el objetivo del presente estudio fue evaluar la actividad bacteriostática y bactericida de extractos de Ají Panca (Capsicum chinense) y Pimiento (Capsicum annuum var. annuum) sobre Escherichia coli ATCC 25922 y Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923. Se elaboró extracto de ambos frutos con rendimientos de 12.53 ± 0.30% y 12.17 ± 0.23% para Ají Panca y Pimiento, respectivamente. Asimismo, el extracto de ají panca contuvo 1.39 mg de capsaicina y 0.54 mg de dihidrocapsaicina, determinadas por HPLC. Estos compuestos no se analizaron para el pimiento ya que los niveles son no detectables en variedades dulces. Se evaluó el efecto de ambos extractos a concentraciones de 25, 12.5, 6.25, 3.13, 1.56, 0.78, 0.39, 0.20, 0.10 y 0.04% usando el método de microdilución en caldo y posterior crecimiento en agares selectivos. Los resultados muestran que no existe efecto bacteriostático para ambas cepas. Asimismo, la viabilidad de E. coli ATCC 25922 no fue afectada por los dos extractos mientras que para S. aureus ATCC 25923 solo el ají panca no afecto su viabilidad. Finalmente, el efecto bactericida para S. aureus ATCC 25923, fue observado con el extracto de pimiento a concentraciones de 25, 12.5 y 6.25%.

Effects of Colletotrichum capsici infection on the growth and antioxidative response on defense mechanisms of Capsicum annuum

Aims: Capsicum annuum (pepper) is one of the most important crops in the world. It contains an impressive list of phytonutrients that were found to have disease-preventing and health-promoting properties. Today, they are grown widely in many parts of the world as an important commercial crop. However, fungal infection is the main problem that leads to the common pepper disruptive disease, known as the Anthracnose, which lowers the yields of this plant. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the growth, enzymatic antioxidant specific activities of catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and guaiacol peroxidase (g-POD) as well as non-enzymatic antioxidants including ascorbic acid, α-tocopherol and carotenoids content in C. annuum as a response to the fungal infections by Colletotrichum capsici. Methodology and results: The assays were conducted at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 weeks of fungal treatment periods. The results showed that plant growth (plant height, leaves number, length and width, chlorophyll content) was significantly lower in treated plants compared to controls. The CAT specific activity increased drastically at the early stages of the experiment and decreased thereafter. In contrast, the APX and g-POD specific activity were initially lower, but increased significantly at the later stages of the experiment. For the non-enzymatic antioxidants, the amount of ascorbic acid, α- tocopherol and carotenoids content were significantly higher at the first week of treatment and slowly reduced afterwards. Conclusion, significance and impact of study: This study shows that fungal infection inhibited the growth of pepper plants and the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants worked in concert to fight against the stress caused by the fungal infection, with their different specific roles in removing and reducing the reactive oxygen species in stress condition.

Plant vibration of american pepper cultivars for fruit production in protected environment with and without closed sides / Vibração de plantas de pimenta americana para produção de frutos em ambiente protegido

The aim of this research was to evaluate plant vibration for fruit and seed production of american pepper in greenhouse with open and closed sides. The experiment was carried out at Fazenda Experimental da Unesp/FCA located in the municipality of São Manuel-SP. Six treatments were carried out, in a split plot design, two plots with plant vibration or without plant vibration and three subplots with cultivars ('Dirce', 'Dínamo' and 'Doce Comprida'). Plants were vibrated by shaking the wire where the stake was fixed, manually, for about 5 seconds, twice a day. Randomized block design with three replications were used. The same experiment was performed in two environments: with and without closed sides with screen. The traits evaluated were: mass of fruit and total and marketable number of fruits (no visible defects) per plant; percentage of marketable fruit; mass, diameter and length of the fruit; mass and number of seeds per fruit; and plant height. The fruit production was higher in the environment with sides closed, with 24 marketable fruits per plant whereas in the open environment, 7 marketable fruits. American pepper plant vibration did not affect production, length, diameter and average mass of the fruits. Exceptionally for the cultivar 'Doce Comprida', a higher seed production per fruit was obtained in open environment in the absence of plant vibration, in comparison to close environment, with average of 259 and 126 seeds per fruit, respectively. American pepper plant vibration did not affect production, length, diameter and average mass of marketable fruits.

Objetivou-se verificar o efeito da vibração de plantas na produção de frutos e sementes de pimenta americana em cultivo protegido com laterais aberta e fechada. O experimento foi realizado na Fazenda Experimental da Unesp/FCA, localizada no município de São Manuel-SP. Foram seis tratamentos, em esquema de parcelas subdivididas, sendo as duas parcelas a vibração ou não das plantas e as subparcelas três cultivares de pimenta ('Dirce', 'Dínamo' e 'Doce Comprida'). As plantas foram vibradas balançando-se o arame onde se prendia o tutor de bambu com a mão por cerca de 5 segundos, duas vezes por dia. O delineamento foi em blocos ao acaso, com três repetições. O mesmo experimento foi realizado em dois ambientes: com e sem fechamento das laterais com tela. As características avaliadas foram: massa e número de frutos totais e comerciais (sem defeitos aparentes) por planta; porcentagem de frutos comerciais; massa, diâmetro e comprimento de fruto; massa e número de sementes por fruto; e altura de planta. A produção de frutos foi maior no ambiente com as laterais fechadas, com 24 frutos comerciais por planta, enquanto, no ambiente aberto, foram sete. A vibração de plantas de pimentas americanas não afetou a produção, comprimento, diâmetro e massa média de frutos. Apenas para a cultivar 'Doce Comprida' obteve-se maior produção de sementes por fruto no ambiente aberto em relação ao ambiente fechado, na ausência de vibração das plantas, com média de 259 e 126 sementes por fruto, respectivamente. A vibração de plantas de pimentas americanas não afetou a produção, comprimento, diâmetro e massa média de frutos comerciais.

Inhibition of ethylene response by 1-methylcyclopropene in potted ornamental pepper / Inibição das respostas ao etileno por 1-methylcyclopropeno em pimenta ornamental de vaso

In the face of great potential of 1-MCP in blocking ethylene action, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of 1-MCP on ethylene action and extend the post-production of ornamental peppers Capsicum annuum potted plants. Ornamental pepper cultivar Calypso shows complete abscission of leaves when exposed to 10µL L-1 ethylene. By exposing plants to ethylene, significant drops on a, b and total chlorophyll were found at the end of the treatment. Nevertheless, no changes on leaf total carotenoid were observed after the treatment with ethylene. When the plants were treated with 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP), followed or not by treatment with ethylene, contents of a, b, total chlorophyll and carotenoid remained unchanged. Control plants showed no changes in chlorophylls or carotenoid contents after 48 hours from moving the pots from greenhouse to indoor conditions illuminated with white fluorescent light. The 1-MCP was able to prolong the post production shelf life, by inhibiting the abscission of leaves. Plants treated with 1-MCP, followed by ethylene had 38% accumulated leaf abscission, after 18 days of post production life, similar to control plants. After the same period, plants treated only with 1-MCP had 22% leaf abscission. The 1-MCP partially blocked ethylene and induced leaf abscission. Regardless which treatment was applied during post production life, there was a continuous decrease on leaf chlorophyll content beyond 18th day. Thus, 1-MCP was effective in preventing leaf abscission even in the presence of ethylene, avoiding deleterious effects of ethylene by blocking its receptor sites.

Em face do grande potencial de utilização do 1-MCP no bloqueio da ação do etileno, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a eficiência do 1-MCP em bloquear a ação do etileno e estender a vida pós-produção de plantas de pimenta ornamental da espécie Capsicum annuum. A pimenta ornamental, cultivar Calypso, apresenta abscisão completa das folhas quando exposta a 10µL L-1 de etileno. Nas plantas expostas ao etileno, houve reduções significativas dos teores de clorofila a, b e total ao final do tratamento. Nenhuma alteração no conteúdo de carotenoides total das folhas foi observada após o tratamento com etileno. Quando as plantas foram tratadas com 1-metilciclopropeno (1-MCP), seguido ou não pelo tratamento com etileno, os teores de clorofila a, b, total e carotenoides permaneceram inalterados. As plantas controle não apresentaram alterações nas clorofilas ou carotenoides, após 48 horas da remoção dos vasos da estufa para recinto fechado iluminado com luz branca fluorescente. O 1-MCP foi capaz de prolongar a vida de prateleira semelhante às plantas controle. No mesmo período, plantas tratadas somente com 1-MCP tiveram 22% de abscisão foliar. O tratamento com 1-MCP bloqueou parcialmente a queda das folhas induzida por etileno. Independentemente do tratamento aplicado, houve diminuição contínua do teor de clorofila das folhas após o 18º dia. A fumigação com 1-MCP foi eficaz na pós-produção, inibindo a abscisão das folhas. Plantas tratadas com 1-MCP, seguido por etileno, tiveram 38% de abscisão foliar acumulada, após 18 dias de vida em pós-produção, prevenção da queda de folhas, mesmo na presença de etileno, evitando os efeitos deletérios de etileno, através do bloqueio dos sítios receptores de etileno.

Developing novel bacterial based bioformulation having PGPR properties for enhanced production of agricultural crops.

Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial rhizobacteria which enhance plant growth as well as the productivity by a variety of mechanisms. PGPR were isolated from the rhizosphere region of som plants (Machilus bombycina King) maintained at the Central Muga Eri Research and Training Institute, Lahdoigarh, Jorhat. A bacterial based bioformulation was prepared and sprayed over the experimental crops including tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var botrytis), chili (Capsicum annuum) and brinjal (Solanum melongena). Biochemical analysis was done on these PGPR treated crops as well as the untreated crops. The bioformulations prepared from Bacillus cereus (MTCC 8297), Pseudomonas rhodesiae (MTCC 8299) and Pseudomonas rhodesiae (MTCC 8300) was found to be the most effective in increasing the shoot height, number of leaves, early fruiting and total biomass content of the plants after treatment.