Cabbage

Distribution by Scientific Domains
Distribution within Life Sciences

Kinds of Cabbage

  • chinese cabbage
  • white cabbage

  • Terms modified by Cabbage

  • cabbage root fly

  • Selected Abstracts


    EFFECTS OF APPLICATION PARAMETERS AND ADJUVANTS ON THE FOLIAR SURVIVAL AND PERSISTENCE OF ENTOMOPATHOGENIC NEMATODE STEINERNEMA CARPOCAPSAE ALL STRAIN ON CABBAGES

    INSECT SCIENCE, Issue 2 2004
    Yong-ling Jin
    Abstract, Effects of the critical parameters (spray pressure, the distance between a sprayer and the sprayed plant, the concentration of infective juveniles (Us), volumes of the sprayed suspension of IJs, the temperature and humidity combinations) and the addition of various adjuvants on the survival and persistence of entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema carpocapsae All strain on leaf surfaces of the Chinese cabbage Brassica pekingensis were determined. The results showed that (1) The pressure of a sprayer had negative influence on the persistence of IJs on the leaf. (2) The numbers of the living IJs collected on the leaf significantly increased with the IJ dosages applied on the leaf when the dosage was over 2 000 IJs per mL. (3) More IJs (from 10.1 IJs/cm2 to 45.5 IJs/cm2) were collected on the leaf when more volumes of IJ suspension (from 3.3 mL to 19.8 mL) were sprayed. However, when the highest volume of IJ suspension was used, the IJ numbers collected did not increase. (4) In general, the survival of the IJs on the leaf decreased with the exposure time. (5) The formulation of IJs by adding xanthan gum, a sticker and detergent surfactant enhanced the survival and persistence of IJs. The number of living IJs on the leaf with 0.3 % of xanthan gum was 150 times higher than that of the IJs with water alone. IJ suspensions with different concentrations of glycerin and with 0.5 % molasses and 0.01 % detergent surfactant showed similar effects. [source]


    Effects of functionalized and nonfunctionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes on root elongation of select crop species,,

    ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 9 2008
    Jaclyn E. Cañas
    Abstract Single-walled carbon nanotubes have many potential beneficial uses, with additional applications constantly being investigated. Their unique properties, however, create a potential concern regarding toxicity, not only in humans and animals but also in plants. To help develop protocols to determine the effects of nanotubes on plants, we conducted a pilot study on the effects of functionalized and nonfunctionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes on root elongation of six crop species (cabbage, carrot, cucumber, lettuce, onion, and tomato) routinely used in phytotoxicity testing. Nanotubes were functionalized with poly-3-aminoben-zenesulfonic acid. Root growth was measured at 0, 24, and 48 h following exposure. Scanning-electron microscopy was used to evaluate potential uptake of carbon nanotubes and to observe the interaction of nanotubes with the root surface. In general, nonfunctionalized carbon nanotubes affected root length more than functionalized nanotubes. Nonfunctionalized nanotubes inhibited root elongation in tomato and enhanced root elongation in onion and cucumber. Functionalized nanotubes inhibited root elongation in lettuce. Cabbage and carrots were not affected by either form of nanotubes. Effects observed following exposure to carbon nanotubes tended to be more pronounced at 24 h than at 48 h. Microscopy images showed the presence of nanotube sheets on the root surfaces, but no visible uptake of nanotubes was observed. [source]


    Chinese Cabbage (Brassica campestris L.) does not Improve Glucose Tolerance, Serum Insulin, or Blood Lipid Profiles in a Rat Model of Type-2 Diabetes

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 9 2008
    M.S. Islam
    ABSTRACT:, The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of a low (0.5%) and a high (2.0%) dietary dose of freeze-dried Chinese cabbage (CC) (Brassica campestris L.) powder in a type-2 diabetes (T2D) model of rats. Five-week-old male Sprague,Dawley rats were fed a high fat (HF)-containing diet for 2 wk then randomly divided into 4 groups of 8 animals, namely: normal control (NC), diabetic control (DBC), Chinese cabbage low (CCL, 0.5%), and Chinese cabbage high (CCH, 2.0%) groups. Diabetes was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 40 mg/kg body weight) in all groups except the NC group. After 4 wk feeding of experimental diets, although food intake was not different among the DBC, CCL, and CCH groups, body weight gain was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the CCH group compared to the DBC group. Relatively higher serum insulin concentrations and better glucose tolerance were observed in the CC-fed groups compared to the DBC group; however, the results were not significantly different. Fasting blood glucose, blood glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), liver weight, and liver glycogen levels were not influenced by the CC-containing diets. Additionally, hypertriglyceridemic tendencies were observed in the CC-fed groups compared to the NC and DBC groups, while difference observed for total-, HDL-, and LDL-cholesterols between the groups were negligible. Results of this study suggest that up to 2% dietary dose of freeze-dried CC is not significantly effective to reduce diabetes-related symptoms in an HF diet-fed STZ-induced T2D model of rats. [source]


    Effects of Leuconostoc mesenteroides Starter Culture on Fermentation of Cabbage with Reduced Salt Concentrations

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 5 2007
    Suzanne Johanningsmeier
    ABSTRACT:, Sauerkraut fermentations rely upon selection of naturally occurring lactic acid bacteria by addition of 2.0% to 2.25% granulated sodium chloride (NaCl) to shredded cabbage. Excess brine generated is a waste product with high levels of organic material (BOD) and nonbiodegradable NaCl. The objective was to determine whether addition of Leuconostoc mesenteroides starter culture to reduced-salt cabbage fermentations would yield sauerkraut with reproducible and acceptable chemical composition and sensory qualities. Shredded cabbage was salted with 0.5%, 1.0%, or 2.0% NaCl (wt/wt) at 2 starter culture levels, none or L. mesenteroides strain LA 81, ATCC 8293 (106 CFU/g). Fermentation products were quantified by high-performance liquid chromatography, and pH was measured during the initial stages of fermentation and after 10 mo storage at 18 °C. A trained descriptive sensory panel used category scales to rate the flavor and texture of selected sauerkrauts. A modified Kramer shear test was used to measure firmness. Cabbage fermented with L. mesenteroides consistently resulted in sauerkraut with firm texture and reduced off-flavors across all salt levels (P < 0.05). Conversely, sauerkraut quality was highly variable, with softening and off-flavors occurring as salt concentrations were decreased in natural fermentations (P < 0.05). Fermentations were rapid, with a more uniform decline in pH when starter culture was added. L. mesenteroides addition to cabbage fermentations ensured that texture and flavor quality were retained, while allowing 50% NaCl reduction. Application of this technology to commercial sauerkraut production could improve the uniformity of fermentations and substantially reduce generation of nonbiodegradable chloride waste. [source]


    Effectiveness of Some Natural Antimicrobial Compounds in Controlling Pathogen or Spoilage Bacteria in Lightly Fermented Chinese Cabbage

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 9 2005
    Yasuhiro Inatsu
    ABSTRACT: This study was designed to evaluate the bactericidal or bacteriostatic effect of chitosan, an allyl isothiocyanate (AIT) product, and nisin for the artificially inoculated pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli, Salmonella Enteritidis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Listeria monocytogenes) or natural microflora of fermented Chinese cabbage. Addition of 0.1% chitosan decreased the population of pathogens from 0.7 to 1.7 log colony-forming units (CFU)/g after 4 d of storage at 10 °C. The bactericidal activity of chitosan was found to be stronger than that of nisin (0.05 mg/g). Addition of 0.2% of the AIT product (containing AIT and hop extract) exhibited a bacteriostatic effect. However, a combination of AIT product and chitosan enhanced bactericidal efficacy against L. monocytogenes. The addition of chitosan or AIT product was observed to suppress the populations of mesophilic and coliform bacteria during storage at 10 °C for 4 d. Moreover, the use of chitosan or the AIT product did not change the sensory quality of the lightly fermented vegetable. Therefore, these results suggest that chitosan or the AIT product could be useful to improve the microbial safety and quality of lightly fermented vegetable. [source]


    Isolation and Expression Analysis of Two Cold-Inducible Genes Encoding Putative CBF Transcription Factors from Chinese Cabbage (Brassica pekinensis Rupr.)

    JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE PLANT BIOLOGY, Issue 7 2006
    Yong Zhang
    Abstract Two homologous genes of the Arabidopsis C-repeat/dehydration-responsive element binding factors (CBF/DREB1) transcriptional activator were isolated by RT-PCR from Chinese cabbage (Brassica pekinensis Rupr. cv. Qinbai 5) and were designated as BcCBF1 and BcCBF2. Each encodes a putative CBF/DREB1 protein with an AP2 (Apetal2) DNA-binding domain, a putative nuclear localization signal, and a possible acidic activation domain. Deduced amino acid sequences show that BcCBF1 is very similar to the Arabidopsis CBF1, whereas BcCBF2 is different in that it contains two extra regions of 24 and 20 amino acids in the acidic domain. The mRNA accumulation profiles indicated that the expression of BcCBF1 and BcCBF2 is strongly induced by cold treatment, but does not respond similarly to dehydration or abscisic acid (ABA) treatment. However, the cold-induced accumulation of BcCBF2 mRNA was rapid but short-lived compared with that of BcCBF1. The mRNA levels of both BcCBF1 and BcCBF2 were higher in leaves than in roots when plants were exposed to cold, whereas, salt stress caused higher accumulation of BcCBF2 mRNA in roots than in leaves, suggesting that the organ specificity of the gene expression of the BcCBFs is probably stress dependent. In addition, the accumulation of BcCBF1 and BcCBF2 mRNAs was greatly enhanced by light compared with darkness when seedlings were exposed to cold. It is concluded that the two BcCBF proteins may be involved in the process of plant response to cold stress through an ABA-independent pathway and that there is also a cross-talk between the light signaling conduction pathway and the cold response pathway in B. pekinensis as in Arabidopsis. (Managing editor: Li-Hui Zhao) [source]


    Antioxidative and antimutagenic activities and polyphenol content of pesticide-free and organically cultivated green vegetables using water-soluble chitosan as a soil modifier and leaf surface spray

    JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 15 2001
    Huifeng Ren
    Abstract Five green vegetables (qing-gen-cai, Chinese Cabbage, spinach, Welsh onion and green pepper) commonly used in our daily diet were analysed to determine their antioxidative and antimutagenic activities and chemical content of polyphenols. We obtained pesticide-free and organically cultivated (O) vegetables using water-soluble chitosan as a soil modifier and leaf surface spray (as an alternative natural insecticide) in order to investigate biofunctions induced or enhanced by such specialised cultivation practices. In addition, we purchased the same varieties of vegetables cultivated on an adjacent farm in the conventional manner (C) using pesticides and chemical fertilisers in order to examine the differences in biological activities and distribution of constituents responsible for such activities. The antioxidative activity shown by O vegetables was 120% times higher than that shown by C vegetables in the case of spinach and 20,50% higher in the case of Welsh onion, Chinese cabbage and qing-gen-cai. In comparison with C vegetables, the antimutagenic activity shown by O vegetables was higher against 4-nitroquinoline oxide (4NQO) in qing-gen-cai, Chinese cabbage and Welsh onion, against benzo[a]pyrene (BaP) in all five vegetables, against 2-amino-3-methylimidazo[4,5- f]quinoline (IQ) in qing-gen-cai, Chinese cabbage and green pepper and against 3-amino-1-methyl-5H -pyrido[4,3- b]indole acetate (Trp-P-2) in spinach only. Among all green vegetable juices tested for flavonoid composition, quercitrin, caffeic acid and baicalein in O vegetables were detected in concentrations 1.3,10.4 times higher than those found in C vegetables, suggesting the influence of different cultivation practices. © 2001 Society of Chemical Industry [source]


    Editor's Introduction: Cabbages and Kings in the Classification of Seizures and the Epilepsies

    EPILEPSIA, Issue 1 2003
    Robert S. Fisher
    First page of article [source]


    Of Cabbages and Kings: Some Considerations on Classifications, Diagnostic Schemes, Semiology, and Concepts

    EPILEPSIA, Issue 1 2003
    Peter Wolf
    First page of article [source]


    Factors influencing anthocyanin content in red cabbage (Brassica oleracea var capitata L f rubra (L) Thell)

    JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, Issue 13 2002
    Roberta Piccaglia
    Abstract In North and Central Italy an experiment was conducted for two consecutive years to optimise the anthocyanin yield of red cabbage. Two hybrids (,Roxy' and ,Gradur') were grown under a factorial combination of increasing rates of potassium sulphate (0, 50, 100,kg K ha,1) and superphosphate (0, 39, 78,kg P ha,1) applied before planting. Cabbages were transplanted at the beginning of August and harvested in winter. Anthocyanins were extracted from cabbage heads with HCl in methanol (1% v/v solution) and quantified by absorption spectrophotometry at 530,nm. Results showed that red cabbage can give high yields of anthocyanins (more than 90,kg,ha,1) which are characterised by strong acylation and therefore, presumably, by good stability. However, differences over sites and years were marked. In the first year, yields in North Italy were reduced by a heavy infection of soft rot disease. The choice of variety, linked to a different anthocyanin content in the heads, appeared to be the major factor for a successful crop. P and K fertilisation had only a small influence. On clay soils in Central Italy the highest rates of both elements had a negative effect on the anthocyanin concentration in cabbage heads. © 2002 Society of Chemical Industry [source]


    Companion planting , behaviour of the cabbage root fly on host plants and non-host plants

    ENTOMOLOGIA EXPERIMENTALIS ET APPLICATA, Issue 1 2005
    Kate Morley
    Abstract Six-hundred individual female cabbage root flies (Delia radicum L.) (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) were each observed for 20 min under laboratory conditions to record how they behaved after landing on a host or a non-host plant. Fly movements were recorded on host plants [cabbage ,Brassica oleracea var. capitata (Cruciferae)] and non-host plants [clover ,Trifolium subterraneum L. (Papilionaceae)] surrounded by bare soil and on cabbage surrounded by clover. The most frequently observed behaviours made by the flies were (1) hops/spiral flights and (2) walks/runs. In the bare soil situation, the 50 individual flies observed in each treatment made 66 hops/spiral flights on the cabbage and 94 on the clover. When the two plants were tested together the movements were not additive as, instead of the expected 160 hops/spiral flights in the mixed plant treatment, the flies made 210 hops/spiral flights when they landed initially on cabbage but only 130 when they landed initially on clover. Few of the flies that landed initially on clover moved onto the host plant, even though the host plant was only a few centimetres away. The duration of the individual walks and runs made by the cabbage root flies were similar on both the host and non-host plants. The only differences were the numbers of walks/runs made and the time the flies remained inactive. On the host plants, the females made four walks/runs, each of about 12 s duration, interspersed by rest periods that totalled 1.5 min. In contrast, on the non-host plants the females made 10 walks/runs, each of about 9 s duration, interspersed by rest periods that totalled 7 min. Therefore, after landing on a plant, the flies, on average, left the host plant after 2.25 min and the non-host plant after 8.5 min. Our conclusion is that the protracted time spent on the non-host plants is the mechanism that disrupts insects from finding host plants in diverse plantings. Hence, the flies were arrested by non-host plants rather than being repelled or deterred as suggested in earlier studies. [source]


    Development and evaluation of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect Pieris rapae remains in guts of arthropod predators

    ENTOMOLOGIA EXPERIMENTALIS ET APPLICATA, Issue 1 2001
    M.A. Schmaedick
    Abstract An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was developed to detect remains of Pieris rapae L. (Lepidoptera: Pieridae) immature stages in the guts of field collected arthropod predators. The assay can be used to help ascertain the relative importance of arthropod predator species in suppressing P. rapae in cabbage, Brassica oleracea var. capitata L. The ELISA is sensitive to all immature stages of P. rapae, although first and fifth instars can be detected more readily than eggs or pupae and third instars showed intermediate detectability. Assays on whole body homogenates of predators readily detected predation on P. rapae first instars by all seven of the predator species tested, although response generally declined with increasing predator size. Together the results show that the P. rapae ELISA possesses a sufficiently high level of sensitivity and specificity to be a useful tool in helping to elucidate the roles of arthropod predator species in reducing populations of P. rapae in cabbage. [source]


    Opportunism of Conidiobolus obscurus stems from depression of infection in situ to progeny colonies of host alatae as disseminators of the aphid-pathogenic fungus

    ENVIRONMENTAL MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 4 2007
    Guo-Zhong Zhang
    Summary Conidiobolus (Entomophthorales: Ancylistaceae) includes common aphid pathogens but causes sporadic mycosis worldwide. This epizootiological opportunism was explored herein by examining the potential of mycosis transmission in the progeny colonies of 513 Myzus persicae alates as disseminators of C. obscurus often infecting aphids. The alates exposed to spore showers were flown for 2.05 (0.01,8.95) km on flight mills and then reared individually on cabbage at 20,23°C for 14 day colonization. All truly infected alates were mycosed within 6 days and averagely left 3.9 (0,15) nymphs while those uninfected produced 11.6 (0,35) nymphs during the same period. Secondary and tertiary infections occurred only in 16.2% and 4.8% of the progeny colonies of the mycosed alates respectively, due to c. 60% of the cadavers forming resting spores. Most of the contagious infections appeared on days 4,8 after colonization and no more occurred from day 11 onwards. Trends of colony sizes (last-day averaging 51.5 aphids) and mycosis transmission (sixth-day maximum 6.3%) fit well to logistic (r 2 = 0.99) and Gompertz growth models (r 2 = 0.91) respectively. The results confirm that the opportunism of C. obscurus stems from depression of contagious infection after dissemination by host alates and suggest that it be overwhelmed by the prevalence of other non-resting fungal species. [source]


    Effects of amendments of N, P, Fe on phytoextraction of Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn in soil of Zhangshi by mustard, cabbage, and sugar beet

    ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY, Issue 6 2007
    Lina Sun
    Abstract Soil contaminated with Cd, Pb, Cu, and Zn in the Zhangshi irrigation area is very hard to be remediated. Phytoextraction is considered as an efficient method to remove these toxic metals from soil. In the present study, three vegetables including sugar beet (Beta vulgaris), mustard (Brassica juncea L.), and cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata Linn.) were used to bioaccumulate heavy metals in soil through pots experiment for 90 days; and nutrient elements were applied to stimulate the phytoextraction of metals. Results of bioconcentration factors (BCF) and translocation factors (TF) from this study showed that these plants could phytoextract heavy metals, but the accumulation and translocation of metals differed with species of plants, categories of heavy metals, and some environmental conditions (e.g. nutrients). Meanwhile, the addition of nutrient elements, such as N, P, and Fe, could affect the phytoremediation of heavy metals via promoting the normal metabolism of vegetables or changing forms of metals. Results of this study could provide some available information for in-site bioremediation of soil from Zhangshi irrigation area. © 2007 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 22: 565,571, 2007. [source]


    Effects of functionalized and nonfunctionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes on root elongation of select crop species,,

    ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 9 2008
    Jaclyn E. Cañas
    Abstract Single-walled carbon nanotubes have many potential beneficial uses, with additional applications constantly being investigated. Their unique properties, however, create a potential concern regarding toxicity, not only in humans and animals but also in plants. To help develop protocols to determine the effects of nanotubes on plants, we conducted a pilot study on the effects of functionalized and nonfunctionalized single-walled carbon nanotubes on root elongation of six crop species (cabbage, carrot, cucumber, lettuce, onion, and tomato) routinely used in phytotoxicity testing. Nanotubes were functionalized with poly-3-aminoben-zenesulfonic acid. Root growth was measured at 0, 24, and 48 h following exposure. Scanning-electron microscopy was used to evaluate potential uptake of carbon nanotubes and to observe the interaction of nanotubes with the root surface. In general, nonfunctionalized carbon nanotubes affected root length more than functionalized nanotubes. Nonfunctionalized nanotubes inhibited root elongation in tomato and enhanced root elongation in onion and cucumber. Functionalized nanotubes inhibited root elongation in lettuce. Cabbage and carrots were not affected by either form of nanotubes. Effects observed following exposure to carbon nanotubes tended to be more pronounced at 24 h than at 48 h. Microscopy images showed the presence of nanotube sheets on the root surfaces, but no visible uptake of nanotubes was observed. [source]


    Viruses of vegetable crops in Albania

    EPPO BULLETIN, Issue 3 2005
    M. Finetti-Sialer
    Field surveys were carried out in the main vegetable-growing areas of Western and Central Albania to evaluate the sanitary status of open-field and protected cultivations of capsicum, tomato, potato, watermelon, cucumber, courgette, aubergine, lettuce, cabbage, chicory, leek and celery. The following viruses were detected: Alfalfa mosaic alfamovirus (AMV), Cucumber mosaic cucumovirus (CMV), Potato Y potyvirus (PVY), Tomato spotted wilt tospovirus (TSWV) and Watermelon mosaic potyvirus 2 (WMV-2). The virus found most frequently was CMV and all the isolates identified were of subgroup IA. AMV was also detected in several areas and all isolates were of subgroup II, suggesting a French origin. Finally, at the time of this survey, TSWV infections appeared to be moderately relevant and absent in protected crops. This is the first documented record of AMV, CMV, PVY, TSWV and WMV-2 in Albania. No infection by Tomato yellow leaf curl begomovirus (TYLCV) or Zucchini yellow mosaic potyvirus (ZYMV) was detected during this survey. [source]


    Tospoviruses infecting vegetable crops in Israel

    EPPO BULLETIN, Issue 2 2000
    A. Gera
    Symptoms of vein clearing, stem necrosis, curling, necrotic spots and rings on the leaves associated with infection by tomato spotted wilt tospovirus (TSWV) were documented among vegetable crops growing in commercial glasshouses and open fields in Israel. Plants exhibiting symptoms were collected, from 1994-01 to 1998-12. Among cultivated vegetable crops analysed for TSWV by ELISA, the following plants were found to be infected: tomato, capsicum, aubergine, lettuce, cabbage and cucumber. These incidences of the virus were all correlated with the occurrence in high population of Frankliniella occidentalis. Transmission of the virus from infected Datura stramonium to Petunia leaf discs, by F. occidentalis, was up to 26%. TSWV antigens were readily detected by ELISA in seeds harvested from naturally infected vegetable crops. However, we failed to show virus transmission to the progeny plants. Iris yellow spot tospovirus (IYSV) was detected in onion. High incidence of the disease was associated with large populations of Thrips tabaci. [source]


    Insights into the structure of plant ,-type phospholipase D

    FEBS JOURNAL, Issue 10 2007
    Susanne Stumpe
    Phospholipases D play an important role in the regulation of cellular processes in plants and mammals. Moreover, they are an essential tool in the synthesis of phospholipids and phospholipid analogs. Knowledge of phospholipase D structures, however, is widely restricted to sequence data. The only known tertiary structure of a microbial phospholipase D cannot be generalized to eukaryotic phospholipases D. In this study, the isoenzyme form of phospholipase D from white cabbage (PLD,2), which is the most widely used plant phospholipase D in biocatalytic applications, has been characterized by small-angle X-ray scattering, UV-absorption, CD and fluorescence spectroscopy to yield the first insights into its secondary and tertiary structure. The structural model derived from small-angle X-ray scattering measurements reveals a barrel-shaped monomer with loosely structured tops. The far-UV CD-spectroscopic data indicate the presence of ,-helical as well as ,-structural elements, with the latter being dominant. The fluorescence and near-UV CD spectra point to tight packing of the aromatic residues in the core of the protein. From the near-UV CD signals and activity data as a function of the calcium ion concentration, two binding events characterized by dissociation constants in the ranges of 0.1 mm and 10,20 mm can be confirmed. The stability of PLD,2 proved to be substantially reduced in the presence of calcium ions, with salt-induced aggregation being the main reason for irreversible inactivation. [source]


    The development and endophytic nature of the fungus Heteroconium chaetospira

    FEMS MICROBIOLOGY LETTERS, Issue 2 2005
    Teruyoshi Hashiba
    Abstract The root endophytic fungus Heteroconium chaetospira was isolated from roots of Chinese cabbage grown in field soil in Japan. This fungus penetrates through the outer epidermal cells of its host, passes into the inner cortex, and grows throughout the cortical cells, including those of the root tip region, without causing apparent pathogenic symptoms. There are no ultrastructural signs of host resistance responses. H. chaetospira has been recovered from 19 plant species in which there was no disruption of host growth. H. chaetospira has a symbiotic association with Chinese cabbage. The fungus provides nitrogen in exchange for carbon. These associations are beneficial for the inoculated plants, as demonstrated by increased growth rate. When used as a preinoculum, H. chaetospira suppresses the incidence of clubroot and Verticillium yellows when the test plant is post-inoculated with the causal agents of these diseases. H. chaetospira is an effective biocontrol agent against clubroot in Chinese cabbage at a low to moderate soil moisture range and a pathogen resting spore density of 105 resting spores per gram of soil in situ. Disease caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. macricola and Alternaria brassicae on leaves can be suppressed by treatment with H. chaetospira. The fungus persists in the roots and induces systemic resistance to the foliar disease. [source]


    Molecular identification and population dynamics of two species of Pemphigus (Homoptera: Pemphidae) on cabbage

    INSECT SCIENCE, Issue 2 2009
    Naiqi Chen
    Abstract The poplar petiole gall aphid, Pemphigus populitransversus Riley, has been one of the major pests on cruciferous vegetable in the Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) of Texas since the late 1940s. It normally migrates from poplar trees to cruciferous vegetables in the fall, and migrates back to the trees in early spring of the coming year. Some root-feeding aphids were found on cruciferous vegetables in late spring and early summer in 1998 and the following years. Those aphids have been identified as Pemphigus obesinymphae Moran. This discovery completely changed the current knowledge about the root-feeding aphids on cruciferous vegetables in the LRGV. Due to their small size, morphological and feeding similarities between P. populitransversus and P. obesinymphae, their identification and distinction are difficult. In this study, random amplification of polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) were used to distinguish these two species over a period of time when the two species occurred together, or separately, in cabbage fields. The two species occurred on cabbage at different times of the year, and overlapped from October to June. From May to October, both species migrated to their primary hosts. The apterous aphids found on cabbage in winter contained mainly P. obesinymphae, whereas in early spring more apterous P. populitransversus were recovered. The root-feeding aphids would feed on cabbage plants as long as this host was available even during the hot, dry summer in the LRGV, although their populations were generally low. Both RAPD and AFLP techniques were efficient in discriminating the two species that showed obviously genetic variability. These molecular techniques confirmed the existence of the two aphid species in apterous samples collected from the soil in cabbage fields in the LRGV, and the results performed by RAPD were confirmed by AFLP. Furthermore, the results suggest that RAPD technique was a better choice despite its reproducibility problem, as it was less time-consuming and required less technology, labor and expense than AFLP. [source]


    Effect of different cooking methods on the antioxidant activity of some vegetables from Pakistan

    INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY, Issue 3 2008
    Bushra Sultana
    Summary The effects of different cooking methods (boiling, frying and microwave cooking) on the antioxidant activity of some selected vegetables (peas, carrot, spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, yellow turnip and white turnip) were assessed by measuring the total phenolic contents (TPC), reducing power and percentage inhibition in linoleic acid system. TPC (gallic acid equivalents g/100 g of dry weight) and reducing power of the methanolic extracts of raw-, microwaved-, boiled- and fried vegetables ranged 0.333,2.97, 0.52,2.68, 0.48,2.08, 1.00,2.02 and 0.391,2.24, 0.822,1.10, 0.547,1.16, 0.910,4.07, respectively. The level of inhibition of peroxidation ranged 71.4,89.0, 66.4,87.3, 73.2,89.2 and 77.4,91.3%, respectively. Antioxidant activity of the vegetables examined was appreciably affected because of varying cooking treatments. TPC of vegetables, generally, decreased by boiling, frying and microwave cooking. There was a significant (P < 0.05) increase in reducing power as a result of frying. However, boiling and microwave cooking did not affect reducing power. Inhibition of peroxidation increased by boiling and frying, whereas, in contrast it was decreased by microwave cooking. The results of the present investigation showed that all the cooking methods affected the antioxidant properties of the vegetables; however, microwave treatment exhibited more deleterious effects when compared with those of other treatments. Thus an appropriate method might be sought for the processing of such vegetables to retain their antioxidant components at maximum level. [source]


    Development of the herbivore Pieris rapae and its endoparasitoid Cotesia rubecula on crucifers of field edges

    JOURNAL OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 9-10 2006
    J. A. Harvey
    Abstract:, Several studies have reported that flowering herbs, which grow naturally or are sown adjacent to agricultural fields, may be an important source of nutrients for natural enemies. Many parasitoids readily feed on plant exudates such as floral nectar, which contain different types of sugars that enable the insects to optimize their longevity, mobility and reproductive success. However, leaf tissues of plants grown in the margins of agricultural fields may also provide food for immature stages of insect herbivores, such as caterpillars, that are in turn attacked by parasitoids. Herbivores and their parasitoids may later disperse into the crop, so the nutritional quality of surrounding plants, as this affects herbivore and parasitoid fitness, may also influence the success of biological control programmes, especially later in the season. Here, we compare the suitability of three species of cruciferous plants (Brassicaceae) on the development of Pieris rapae L. (Lep., Pieridae) and its solitary endoparasitoid, Cotesia rubecula Marshall (Hym., Bracondiae). Insects were reared on a feral population of cabbage, Brassica oleracea, on radish Raphanus sativus, which is widely sown in agricultural margins, and on hedge mustard, Sisymbrium officinale, a wild crucifer which often grows in medium to large stands along road verges and field edges. Development time in both the herbivore and parasitoid were extended on R. sativus, compared with the other two species, whereas C. rubecula completed its development most rapidly on B. oleracea. Moreover, adult butterflies and parasitoids were significantly smaller when reared on R. sativus plants. Our results reveal that differences in the quality of plants growing adjacent to agricultural fields can affect the development of key herbivores and their parasitoids. This should be borne in mind when establishing criteria for the selection of floral biodiversity. [source]


    Control of Plutella xylostella using polymer-formulated Steinernema carpocapsae and Bacillus thuringiensis in cabbage fields

    JOURNAL OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 4 2005
    S. Schroer
    Abstract:, Field trials evaluating the potential of the entomopathogenic nematode Steinernema carpocapsae and the feasibility to combine nematodes with Bacillus thuringiensis for sustainable control of the diamondback moth (DBM) Plutella xylostella were conducted in cabbage cultivated in the province Probolinggo, east Java and Indonesia. A single use of 0.5 million S. carpocapsae m,2 applied with a surfactant-polymer-formulation containing 0.3% xanthan and 0.3% Rimulgan® achieved a significant reduction of the insects per plant with >50% control after 7 days. Even 14 days after the application about 45% control was recorded and dead larvae containing nematodes were found. No significant effects were recorded when the formulation was compared with nematodes applied in water or with a surfactant alone. This was attributed to high humidity in the experimental area at the end of the rainy season and a microclimate in the cabbage heads favouring nematode survival. Weekly applications of B. thuringiensis (Turex®) or alternating applications of Turex® and the nematodes achieved >80% control. The application of both biological agents together every second week reached insignificant lower efficacy (70%). Nematodes can be used to substitute ineffective chemical insecticides and alterations with B. thuringiensis can prevent the further development of resistance against the bacterial control agent. [source]


    Effects of contact, oral and persistent toxicity of selected pesticides on Cotesia plutellae (Hym., Braconidae), a potential parasitoid of Plutella xylostella (Lep., Plutellidae)

    JOURNAL OF APPLIED ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 1 2002
    M. Haseeb
    Cotesia plutellae (Kurd.) is an important larval parasitoid of Plutella xylostella (L.). Effects of contact, oral and persistent toxicity of field doses of selected pesticides on immature and mature stages of this useful wasp were determined in controlled conditions. Contact toxicity tests showed that cartap 75% SG, chlorfenapyr 10% F, emamectin benzoate 1% EC, permethrin 20% EC, chlorfluazuron 5% EC, flufenoxuron 10% EC, and teflubenzuron 5% EC were found to be selective against the cocoon stage. In contrast, contact toxicity of four insecticides viz., cartap 75% SG, chlorfenapyr 10% F, emamectin benzoate 1% EC, permethrin 20% EC were found to be moderately to extremely toxic (80% to 100% lethal) to wasp stage. Effects of oral toxicity of three IGRs on wasp stage were somewhat selective. However, beneficial performance of wasps seems to be adversely affected as host parasitism was recorded as being significantly different (P < 0.05) in comparison with control. A persistent toxic effect of insecticides via cabbage leaves discs against female wasps showed that cartap 75% SG was moderately persistent (16,30 days). While chlorfenapyr 10% F and emamectin benzoate 1% EC were recorded slightly to be persistent (5,10 days) and permethrin seems to be short lived (< 5 days). Implications of tested products in IPM of cabbage are discussed. [source]


    Molecular detection and , -glucuronidase expression of gus -marked Bacillus subtilis L-form bacteria in developing Chinese cabbage seedlings

    JOURNAL OF APPLIED MICROBIOLOGY, Issue 2 2003
    E. Tsomlexoglou
    Abstract Aim: To detect L-form bacteria in developing Chinese cabbage seedlings. Methods and Results: Stable Bacillus subtilis L-forms were genetically modified to express the gus gene (encoding , -glucuronidase). Germinated seeds of Chinese cabbage were soaked in mannitol based suspensions of the L-form bacteria or with mannitol alone and after washing were grown in aseptic conditions on plant growth medium. Histochemical staining of , -glucuronidase activity (X-gluc) and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) detection of the gus gene were achieved in the L-form associated seedlings. , -Glucuronidase was localized in discrete spots, mainly in the roots with staining, and was also observed in the cotyledons and base of stems. Correlation was observed between PCR detection of the gus gene and histochemical staining with detection in similar tissues. Stable L-form bacteria were non-culturable after their association with plant material. Conclusions: The gus reporter gene system with its associated histological staining for enzyme activity was used successfully for detecting B. subtilis L-form bacteria in plant material. Significance and Impact of the Study: These molecular marked L-forms should provide a specific and sensitive technique for detecting L-form bacteria in planta and offer a method for further understanding the L-form/plant association. [source]


    SIMULTANEOUS DETECTION OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES, STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS, SALMONELLA ENTERICA AND ESCHERICHIA COLI O157:H7 IN FOOD SAMPLES USING MULTIPLEX PCR METHOD

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SAFETY, Issue 3 2009
    D. ZHANG
    ABSTRACT In this study, one multiplex polymerase chain reaction (MPCR) assay was developed for simultaneous detection of four foodborne pathogens, i.e., Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella enterica and Escherichia coli O157:H7. Five specific primer pairs were designed based on the nucleotide sequences of hemolysin gene (hly) of Listeria monocytogenes, thermostable nuclease gene (nuc) of Staphylococcus aureus, invasion gene (invA) of Salmonella enterica, shiga-like toxin gene (stx) and intimin gene (eae) of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in this assay. The specificity and sensitivity of the MPCR method were validated, and the limit of detection (LOD) of this method was about 10 copies. One cfu/mL each of these foodborne pathogens spiked in practical food samples, i.e., ground meat, beef, pork, fish, shrimp, cheese, canola leaf and cabbage, could be detected simultaneously after 24 h enrichment at a rate of 87.5%, indicating that the established MPCR detection method was effective and suitable for practical use. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS This study presents a quick and effective identification method to simultaneous monitor four foodborne pathogens in food samples. The specificity and sensitivity of this method can be used to unambiguously identify these four foodborne pathogens in practical food samples based on the species-specific genes. Therefore, this detection method is applicable for surveillance measures of these four foodborne pathogens in the food production chain. [source]


    Relation between Developmental Stage, Sensory Properties, and Volatile Content of Organically and Conventionally Grown Pac Choi (Brassica rapa,var.

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 4 2010
    Mei Qing Choi)
    ABSTRACT:, This study was conducted to identify and quantify the sensory characteristics and chemical profile of organically and conventionally grown pac choi (Brassica rapa,var. Mei Qing Choi), also called bok choy, at 3 stages of growth (2.5, 4.5, and 6.5 wk). Sensory and instrumental data were correlated using partial least squares regression. Pac choi was grown in late spring. Descriptive sensory analysis was conducted by a highly trained panel and compounds were identified and quantified using a gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer. The findings of the study indicate that the differences in sensory characteristics and chemical profiles among stages of growth are more substantial than the differences between organic and conventional production. Green-unripe, musty/earthy, lettuce, and sweet flavors are representative in pac choi at early stages of growth. When older, pac choi has higher intensities of green-grassy/leafy, bitter, cabbage, and sulfur flavors that are associated with the increase of (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol, octyl acetate, 1-nonanol, 2-decanone, 1-penten-3-ol, linalool, camphor, menthol, isobornyl acetate, geranylacetone, and cedrol compounds. Conventional pac choi was higher than organic pac choi in green overall, bitter, and soapy flavors only at 2.5 wk of age. This may be associated with the presence of (Z)-3-hexenal, 2-hexyn-1-ol, and (E)-2-hexenal compounds. Practical Application: The increased popularity of organic production has amplified the need for research that will help in understanding how this production system affects the final quality of food products. This study suggests that the stage of development has a much larger impact on sensory quality than organic or conventional growing of pac choi. Findings from this study promote consumer choice by showing that comparable sensory quality can be obtained using either production system, making the ultimate choice not only based on sensory quality but consumer choice related to environmental beliefs or economics. [source]


    Evaluating the enemies hypothesis in a clover-cabbage intercrop: effects of generalist and specialist natural enemies on the turnip root fly (Delia floralis)

    AGRICULTURAL AND FOREST ENTOMOLOGY, Issue 2 2010
    Maria Björkman
    1The relative importance of the resource concentration hypothesis and the enemies hypothesis was investigated for the turnip root fly Delia floralis in a cabbage,red clover intercropping system compared with a cabbage monoculture. 2Delia floralis egg densities were measured as well as the activity-densities of generalist predators in a field experiment during two growing seasons. In the second year, a study of egg predation with artificially placed eggs was conducted, in addition to a predator exclusion experiment, to estimate total predation during the season. Parasitization rates were estimated from samples of pupae. 3Delia floralis oviposition was greater in the monoculture during both years. The predator activity-densities differed between treatments and study years. The known natural enemies of Delia spp., Bembidion spp. and Aleochara bipustulata showed a strong response to a cultivation system with higher activity-densities in the monoculture. The response, however, appeared to be caused primarily by habitat preferences and not by D. floralis egg densities. 4The reduction in the number of D. floralis pupae in the intercropping may be explained by a disruption in oviposition behaviour caused by the presence of clover because neither predation, nor parasitization rates differed between cultivation systems. [source]


    Chinese Cabbage (Brassica campestris L.) does not Improve Glucose Tolerance, Serum Insulin, or Blood Lipid Profiles in a Rat Model of Type-2 Diabetes

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 9 2008
    M.S. Islam
    ABSTRACT:, The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of a low (0.5%) and a high (2.0%) dietary dose of freeze-dried Chinese cabbage (CC) (Brassica campestris L.) powder in a type-2 diabetes (T2D) model of rats. Five-week-old male Sprague,Dawley rats were fed a high fat (HF)-containing diet for 2 wk then randomly divided into 4 groups of 8 animals, namely: normal control (NC), diabetic control (DBC), Chinese cabbage low (CCL, 0.5%), and Chinese cabbage high (CCH, 2.0%) groups. Diabetes was induced by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ; 40 mg/kg body weight) in all groups except the NC group. After 4 wk feeding of experimental diets, although food intake was not different among the DBC, CCL, and CCH groups, body weight gain was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in the CCH group compared to the DBC group. Relatively higher serum insulin concentrations and better glucose tolerance were observed in the CC-fed groups compared to the DBC group; however, the results were not significantly different. Fasting blood glucose, blood glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), liver weight, and liver glycogen levels were not influenced by the CC-containing diets. Additionally, hypertriglyceridemic tendencies were observed in the CC-fed groups compared to the NC and DBC groups, while difference observed for total-, HDL-, and LDL-cholesterols between the groups were negligible. Results of this study suggest that up to 2% dietary dose of freeze-dried CC is not significantly effective to reduce diabetes-related symptoms in an HF diet-fed STZ-induced T2D model of rats. [source]


    Retention of Quality and Nutritional Value of 13 Fresh-Cut Vegetables Treated with Low-Dose Radiation

    JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE, Issue 7 2008
    X. Fan
    ABSTRACT:, Improving the microbial safety while maintaining quality of fresh fruits and vegetables will increase consumer confidence in fresh produce. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of irradiation at 1 kGy, a dose that potentially inactivates E. coli O157:H7 by 5 logs, on the quality of 13 common fresh-cut vegetables: iceberg, romaine, green and red leaf lettuce, spinach, tomato, cilantro, parsley, green onion, carrot, broccoli, red cabbage, and celery. The results showed that the appearance of irradiated samples was similar to the nonirradiated ones except that irradiated carrots, celery, cilantro, and green onions had higher appearance scores than corresponding nonirradiated vegetables. There was no difference in the instrumental texture between irradiated samples and nonirradiated ones. The aroma of several irradiated vegetables was significantly better than controls after 14-d storage, because these control samples decayed or senesced. The 1 kGy irradiation did not affect vitamin C content of most vegetables; however, irradiated green and red leaf lettuce had 24% to 53% lower vitamin C contents than the controls. Our results suggest that most fresh-cut fruits and vegetables tested can tolerate up to 1 kGy irradiation without significant losses in any of the quality attributes. [source]