Evaluation of Functional Spray Coatings for Mitigating the Uptake of Volatile Phenols by Pinot Noir Wine Grapes via Blocking, Absorption, and/or Adsorption.

Spray coatings have shown promising potential in preventing the uptake of smoke phenols from wildfires into wine grapes. Three cellulose nanofiber-based coatings with low methoxyl pectin or varying concentrations of chitosan were made into films and their potential for blocking, absorption, or adsorption of phenols (guaiacol, -cresol, and syringol) was evaluated using a custom-built smoke diffusion box. The coatings were also applied to Pinot noir grapes in a vineyard.

Impact of functional spray coatings on smoke volatile phenol compounds and Pinot noir grape growth.

The frequency and intensity of wildfires have been increasing over the last 50 years and negatively impacted the wine industry. Previous methods of smoke mitigation during grape processing have shown little impact in reducing smoke taint in wines. Therefore, a novel method of using edible spray coatings for vineyard application was developed to help prevent volatile smoke phenol uptake in wine grapes.

Morphological and Molecular Characterization of spp. Isolated from European Pears.

In a recent survey of post-harvest rot pathogens in European pear in Southern Oregon, spp. were frequently isolated from orchard samples of pear flowers and fruits. Morphological differences were observed within the isolated cultures.

On-Site Molecular Detection of Soil-Borne Phytopathogens Using a Portable Real-Time PCR System.

On-site diagnosis of plant diseases can be a useful tool for growers for timely decisions enabling the earlier implementation of disease management strategies that reduce the impact of the disease. Presently in many diagnostic laboratories, the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), particularly real-time PCR, is considered the most sensitive and accurate method for plant pathogen detection. However, laboratory-based PCRs typically require expensive laboratory equipment and skilled personnel.