[1] We present a new method of combining satellite altimetry and tide gauge data to obtain improved estimates of absolute (or geocentric) vertical crustal motion at tide gauges within a semi-enclosed sea. As an illustration, we combine TOPEX/POSEIDON altimetry data (1992 -2001) and 25 long-term (>40 years) tide gauge records around the Baltic Sea region of Fennoscandia, an area where crustal deformation is dominated by glacial isostatic adjustment (GIA). A comparison of the estimated vertical motion, at 1 -11 mm/yr, with independent solutions from 10 collocated BIFROST GPS sites, shows a difference of 0.2 ± 0.9 mm/yr, thus verifying the accuracy and robustness of the procedure. The solution uncertainty is estimated at 0.4 mm/yr, which is significantly lower than previous analyses of this type. We conclude that our technique can potentially provide accurate vertical motion observations globally where long-term tide gauge records exist.
BackgroundMost agronomic plant traits result from complex molecular networks involving multiple genes and from environmental factors. One such trait is the enzymatic discoloration of fruit and tuber tissues initiated by mechanical impact (bruising). Tuber susceptibility to bruising is a complex trait of the cultivated potato (Solanum tuberosum) that is crucial for crop quality. As phenotypic evaluation of bruising is cumbersome, the application of diagnostic molecular markers would empower the selection of low bruising potato varieties. The genetic factors and molecular networks underlying enzymatic tissue discoloration are sparsely known. Hitherto there is no association study dealing with tuber bruising and diagnostic markers for enzymatic discoloration are rare.ResultsThe natural genetic diversity for bruising susceptibility was evaluated in elite middle European potato germplasm in order to elucidate its molecular basis. Association genetics using a candidate gene approach identified allelic variants in genes that function in tuber bruising and enzymatic browning. Two hundred and five tetraploid potato varieties and breeding clones related by descent were evaluated for two years in six environments for tuber bruising susceptibility, specific gravity, yield, shape and plant maturity. Correlations were found between different traits. In total 362 polymorphic DNA fragments, derived from 33 candidate genes and 29 SSR loci, were scored in the population and tested for association with the traits using a mixed model approach, which takes into account population structure and kinship. Twenty one highly significant (p < 0.001) and robust marker-trait associations were identified.ConclusionsThe observed trait correlations and associated marker fragments provide new insight in the molecular basis of bruising susceptibility and its natural variation. The markers diagnostic for increased or decreased bruising susceptibility will facilitate the combination of superior alleles in breeding programs. In addition, this study presents novel candidates that might control enzymatic tissue discoloration and tuber bruising. Their validation and characterization will increase the knowledge about the underlying biological processes.
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