Genetic improvement of tomato by targeted control of fruit softening

Controlling the rate of softening to extend shelf life was a key target for researchers engineering genetically modified (GM) tomatoes in the 1990s, but only modest improvements were achieved. Hybrids grown nowadays contain 'non-ripening mutations' that slow ripening and improve shelf life, but adversely affect flavor and color. We report substantial, targeted control of tomato softening, without affecting other aspects of ripening, by silencing a gene encoding a pectate lyase

Asymptomatic double aortic arch

A 51-year-old male patient with a past history of lung tuberculosis was referred to our clinic for routine control. The patient reported no complaints and chest X-ray was normal. Three-dimensional thoracic computed tomography revealed a balanced-type double aortic arch with no compression of trachea or esophagus. © 2010 Tanaka et al, publisher and licensee Dove Medical Press Ltd