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Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study evaluates mineral concentrations, biocomponents contents and fruit quality attributes in 'Rojo Brillante' persimmon grown under organic and conventional managements. During two seasons, the concentrations of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), zinc (Zn), and boron (B) were determined in leaves and fruits. Weight, color, firmness, and total soluble solids (TSS) were also evaluated in fruits. Moreover, in the second season, organic acids (citric, succinic, and fumaric acids), main sugars (sucrose, glucose, and fructose), carotenoids (β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin, violaxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin), phenolic compounds (gallic and ρ-coumaric), and ascorbic acid concentrations were determined in fruit flesh. The crop yield in the conventional plots was bigger than that for organic crops. Nevertheless, the highest agronomic efficiency was found in organic management. In general, the greater nutrient supply in the conventional compared to in the organic system did not result in higher concentrations of macro- and microelements in leaves and fruits. The organic fruit had higher color values and lower firmness values than the conventional fruit. The concentrations of malic acid, β-cryptoxanthin, and ascorbic acid were higher in the organic compared to in the conventional fruit, while no crop system effect was found in the other evaluated biocompounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the utilization of biomass materials for the removal and detection of water pollutants has garnered considerable attention. This study introduces, for the first time, the preparation of Fe3O4/persimmon leaf magnetic biomass composites. The magnetic composites were employed in a magnetic solid-phase extraction method, coupled with gas chromatography-electron capture detection (GC-ECD), for the analysis of four pesticides (trifluralin, triadimefon, permethrin, and fenvalerate) in environmental water samples. The innovative magnetic persimmon leaf composites were synthesized by in situ generation of Fe3O4 nanoparticles through coprecipitation and loaded onto persimmon leaves. These composites exhibit superparamagnetism with a saturation magnetization of 12.8 emu g−1, facilitating rapid phase separation using a magnetic field and reducing the extraction time to 10 min. Desorption can be achieved within 30 s by aspirating 20 times, eliminating the need for time-consuming and labor-intensive experimental steps like filtration and centrifugation. The specific surface area of the magnetic composite adsorbent increased from 1.3279 m2 g−1 for the original persimmon leaf to 5.4688 m2 g−1. The abundant hydroxyl and carboxyl groups on the composites provide ample adsorption sites, resulting in adsorption capacities ranging from 55.056 mg g−1 to 73.095 mg g−1 for the studied pesticides. The composites exhibited extraction recoveries ranging from 80% to 90% for the studied pesticides. Compared to certain previously reported MSPE methods, this approach achieves equivalent or higher extraction recoveries in a shorter operation time, demonstrating enhanced efficiency and convenience. Good linearity of the target analytes was obtained within the range of 0.75–1500 μg L−1, with a determination of coefficient (R2) greater than 0.999. These findings contribute to the use of magnetic persimmon leaf biomass materials as effective and environmentally friendly adsorbents for pollutant determination in water samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently we reported about the consumption of red wines from grapes, having several health properties. There are different types of wines that originated from grapes and other fruits. In the present study fruit wines from persimmon, kiwifruit and pomegranate were investigated and compared for their antioxidant ability, using cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) and the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. To the fruit wines were applied the same methods of investigation as to the traditional ones made from grapes. The results showed the highest antioxidant activity of pomegranate, followed by kiwifruit and persimmon wines. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used in order to correlate these results. The interaction of wine bioactive compounds with the main serum proteins in the human metabolism, such as human serum albumin (HSA), globulin (GL), and fibrinogen (FB), showed that pomegranate wine possesses higher quenching properties than kiwifruit and persimmon wines. All determined fluorescence indices have a direct correlation with the bioactivity of polyphenols and not with the content of alcohol. We hypothesize that the results of the interaction of main human serum proteins with bioactive compounds of wines can be additional predictors of their health properties. The used analytical methods for quality of fruit wines can be applied to a wide range of fruits and vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the ultrasound‐assisted extraction of bioactive compounds from persimmon (Diospyros kaki) calyx by deep eutectic solvents (DES) with different molar ratios. For this reason, the prepared DES extracts' total phenolic–flavonoid compounds and antioxidant activities (1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrilhydrazyl radical scavenging activity [DPPH•], Cupric Reducing Antioxidant Capacity (CUPRAC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power [FRAP]) were investigated as a result of the experimental design and optimization study conducted for this purpose. A sonication time of 20 min was determined as the optimal condition. Under these conditions, a molar ratio of 1.9:1 (lactic acid:choline chloride) and a water ratio of 70% provided the highest phenolic/flavonoid compounds and antioxidative activity. Correlations among water ratio, molar ratio, and sonication time were determined using principal component analysis (PCA). In conditions where total flavonoid compound, FRAP, and DPPH• are high due to PCA, it can be concluded that the sonication time is at high level; on the contrary, the water and molar ratios are at low level. In conclusion, ultrasound‐assisted extraction using DES proved effective in persimmon calyx. Therefore, it can be recommended to use these environmentally friendly green solvents as an alternative to organic solvents in preparing extracts in various fields. Practical Application: This study shows the effectiveness of the ultrasound‐assisted green extraction method using persimmon calyx specified as waste. These findings are compelling in the food industry in terms of consumers being now aware of green technology and the discovery that calyx is a good source of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the effect of microwave drying on the color change of different parts of persimmon slices, focusing on the mechanism of enzymatic browning. The samples were partitioned in two directions, the vertical group was divided into three parts from the top to the bottom: A, B and C, and the horizontal group was divided into two parts from the outside to the inside: 1 and 2. The color, the contents of total phenols, soluble tannins, total flavonoids, and the activities of PPO and POD in six parts were investigated under different drying conditions, and correlation and cluster analysis were performed. The results exhibited that PPO and POD were both inactivated under various drying conditions. The contents of total phenols, soluble tannins and total flavonoids in different parts increased with the increase of microwave power and drying time and the decrease of loading amount. When the microwave power was 560 W and loading amount was 1.8 kg/m2, the contents of total phenols, soluble tannins and total flavonoids reached the maximum in part B2. However, the contents of three phenols reached the maximum in part C1 when the drying time was 15 min, which were 14.47 mg GAE/g, 11.72 mg GAE/g, and 16.56 mg RE/g, respectively. Correlation and cluster analysis showed that the color darkening in different parts of persimmon slices was negatively correlated with the content of total flavonoids, the enzymatic browning might be more difficult in part B than in parts A and C, and the color change occurred first in part B2 and spread from inside to outside, which might have little relationship with enzymatic browning during the drying process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Mycosystema is the property of Mycosystema Editorial Board and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of COMU Journal of Agriculture Faculty / ÇOMÜ Ziraat Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Canakkale Onsekiz Mart University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background: Dioecy, a sexual system of single-sexual (gynoecious/androecious) individuals, is rare in flowering plants. This rarity may be a result of the frequent transition from dioecy into systems with co-sexual individuals. Results: In this study, co-sexual expression (monoecy and hermaphroditic development), previously thought to be polyploid-specific in Diospyros species, was identified in the diploid D. oleifeara historically. We characterized potential genetic mechanisms that underlie the dissolution of dioecy to monoecy and andro(gyno)monoecy, based on multiscale genome-wide investigations of 150 accessions of Diospyros oleifera. We found all co-sexual plants, including monoecious and andro(gyno)monoecious individuals, possessed the male determinant gene OGI, implying the presence of genetic factors controlling gynoecia development in genetically male D. oleifera. Importantly, discrepancies in the OGI/MeGI module were found in diploid monoecious D. oleifera compared with polyploid monoecious D. kaki, including no Kali insertion on the promoter of OGI, no different abundance of smRNAs targeting MeGI (a counterpart of OGI), and no different expression of MeGI between female and male floral buds. On the contrary, in both single- and co-sexual plants, female function was expressed in the presence of a genome-wide decrease in methylation levels, along with sexually distinct regulatory networks of smRNAs and their targets. Furthermore, a genome-wide association study (GWAS) identified a genomic region and a DUF247 gene cluster strongly associated with the monoecious phenotype and several regions that may contribute to andromonoecy. Conclusions: Collectively, our findings demonstrate stable breakdown of the dioecious system in D. oleifera, presumably also a result of genomic features of the Y-linked region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Tannin content and postharvest quality characteristics of persimmon fruit are often determined by the destructive analysis that consumes time, does not allow the acquisition of data from the same fruit continuously, and requires expensive high-performance equipment. This research was done to investigate the potential for non-destructive estimation of astringency and quality parameters in persimmon fruit based on visible/near-infrared (VNIR) spectra. Methods: VNIR spectra readings, the reference tannin content, and quality parameters were measured from fruits of “Cheongdo-Bansi” and “Daebong” persimmon cultivars at harvest and throughout the ripening/deastringency period. The spectra readings from half of the total fruit were utilized for the calibration set, while the other half readings were used for the prediction set. To develop models correlating the spectra data to the measured reference parameters data, the partial least square regression (PLSR) method was utilized. Results and discussion: In the case of ‘Daebong’, the coefficients of determination (R2 ) between VNIR spectra and the actual measured values of TSS, firmness, simple sugars, and tannin content were (0.95, 0.94, 0.96, and 0.96) and (0.93, 0.89, 0.96, and 0.93), for the calibration and prediction sets, respectively. Similarly, the R2 -values of (0.86, 0.93, 0.79, and 0.81) and (0.83, 0.91, 0.75, and 0.75) were recorded in ‘Cheongdo-Bansi’ for the calibration and prediction sets, respectively. Additionally, the acquired data were divided into two sets in a 3:1 ratio to develop predictive models and to validate the models in multiple regressions. PLSR models were developed in multiple regression to estimate the tannin content of both cultivars from firmness and simple sugars with R2 -values of 0.83 and 0.79 in ‘CheongdoBansi’ for the calibration and prediction sets, respectively, whereas, R2 -values of 0.80 and 0.84 were recorded in ‘Daebong’ for the calibration and prediction sets, respectively. The overall findings of this study showed the possibility of using VNIR spectra for the prediction of postharvest quality and tannin contents from intact persimmon fruit with quick, chemical-free, and low-cost assessment methods. Also, the multiple regression using physicochemical parameters could fairly predict the tannin content in persimmon fruit though destructively but save time and low-cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The persimmon fruit (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) is renowned for its exceptional health benefits, which can be attributed to its abundance of bioactive compounds. This study aimed to optimize the extraction of bioactive compounds from persimmon peel, an underexplored waste biomass, within the frame of sustainability and a circular economy. For this reason, a comprehensive multi-factor extraction approach was employed. Specifically, diverse methods including a pulsed electric field and ultrasonication combined with simple stirring were explored. Through this systematic approach, the most efficient extraction process was determined, resulting in elevated yields of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, ascorbic acid, and total carotenoids. Among the identified phenolic compounds, rutin emerged as the most abundant, with concentrations reaching up to 172.86 μg/g. Utilizing partial least squares analysis, the maximum predicted values for the bioactive compounds were determined, with total polyphenols reaching 7.17 mg GAE/g, ascorbic acid at 4.93 mg/g, and total carotenoids at 386.47 μg CtE/g. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was evaluated with the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical, and H2O2 scavenging assays. The recorded antioxidant performance underscored the substantial potential of persimmon peels as a source of cost-effective extracts with high antioxidant activity. This study not only contributes to optimizing the bioactive compounds' extraction from persimmon peel but also highlights the process's viability by producing valuable extracts with antioxidant properties at low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) fruit is characterized by rapid metabolic changes following ripening, and softening occurs due to the gradual breakdown of the cell membrane by direct catabolic cascades of phospholipase D enzyme on the phospholipid bilayer. Cell membrane weakening is also enhanced by the generation of reactive oxygen species during stress conditions such as cold storage and postharvest handling. This research evaluated the postharvest hexanal dipping application on persimmon fruit storage quality. RESULTS: The response of 'MKÜ Harbiye' persimmon fruit to exogenous hexanal at different concentrations (0.04% and 0.08%, named as HEX‐I and HEX‐II, respectively) on quality parameters, chilling injury (CI), microbial growth, antioxidant compounds and free radical scavenging capacity (FRSC) during storage at 0 °C and 80–90 ± 5% relative humidity for 120 days were evaluated. Both hexanal treatments retained quality and delayed senescence, as indicated by greener peel (lower a* and L* values), higher firmness, total phenol concentration, FRSC and titratable acidity, but lower weight loss, electrical conductivity, rate of CO2, ethylene production, decay and microbial growth than the control. Total soluble solids were lower in treated fruit than the control up to 100 days, and were much lower in HEX‐I treatment as compared to HEX‐II treatment. HEX‐I treatment exhibited lower CI than the other treatments during storage. CONCLUSION: Hexanal at 0.04% could be used to increase the storage period of 'MKÜ Harbiye' persimmon fruit up to 120 days at 0 °C and 80–90 ± 5% relative humidity by retaining quality and delaying senescence. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The study aimed to reveal the microbial community structure and soil physicochemical properties of apple rhizosphere under the intercropping system of persimmon and apple trees. [Method] In the study, rhizosphere soil of intercropping (I) and non-intercropping (NI) apples were used as materials to analyze the rhizosphere microbial community structure by high-throughput sequencing technology. [Result] lnter-cropping of persimmon significautly increased the contents of organic matter (OM), available nitrogen (AN), total phosphorus (TP), decreased the contents of available potassium (AK) in apple rhizosphere soil. The Alpha diversity analysis showed that intercropping had no significant effect on the bacterial richness index and diversity index of apple rhizosphere soil, whereas significantly reduced the Ace index of rhizosphere soil fungi (P = 0. 03). β diversity analysis showed that there were significant differences in bacterial and fungal community structure between intercropped and non-intercropped soils. Further LEfSe analysis showed that intercropping significantly increased the abundance of 17 bacterial genera in apple rhizosphere soil, of which, 9 were known genera, and 8 were unknown genera. These nine known genera included Sporacetigenium, Tepidisphaera, Agromyces, Alkanindiges, Phycisphaera, Pseudoxanthomonas, Terrimonas, Pseudohaliea, Paenisporosarcina; The abundances of four bacterial genera, namely Sporichthya, Methylocystis, Devosia and Alter-erythrobacter were significantly decreased. Intercropping significantly increased the abundance of 1 fungal genus Arthrographis and decreased the abundance of 3 fungal genera, namely Cylindrocarpon, Metacordyceps and Exophiala. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that Pseudomonas was positively correlated with available phosphorus (AP) and TP, while Naganishia was positively correlated with AP. The fungal genera Polyscytalum and Minimedusa showed a significant negative correlation with AP. PICRUSt2 functional prediction analysis showed that intercropping significantly decreased the abundance of carbohydrate transport and metabolism, and extracellular structure in rhizosphere bacteria. FUNGuild analysis showed that intercropping significantly reduced the abundance of pathogen-saprophytic transitional fungi in apple rhizosphere soil. [Conclusion] Intercropping of apple and persimmon trees can increase the contents of OM, AN, TP in apple rhizosphere soil, significantly increase the relative abundance of beneficial rhizosphere microorganisms, and reduce the relative abundance of pathogenic fungi microorganisms, which will provide data reference for exploring the mechanism of intercropping disease resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) is a worldwide fruit cultivated mainly in the East Asia, Mediterranean, Caucasus, Latin America, and Oceania regions. This fruit contains abundant proanthocyanidins (PAs, also called condensed tannins), whose biosynthesis is the main cause of fruit astringency. As the original centre and top producing country, China has discovered a unique type with desirable natural deastringency, the Chinese pollination-constant non-astringent (C-PCNA) persimmon. Studies have revealed that the C-PCNA trait is controlled by a single and dominant locus, which differs from that of another type, the Japanese PCNA type, with recessive loci. In the C-PCNA type, accumulating evidence has shown that the astringency removal process involves two pathways ("dilution effect" and "coagulation effect"). Moreover, molecular marker-assisted selection (MAS) for the natural deastringency trait locus in C-PCNA has been used to test the non-astringency/astringency trait of hybrid offspring at the seedling stage. Importantly, persimmon can bear male flowers, female flowers, and perfect flowers, but sex-linked MAS has been developed for female-only persimmon. This sex-linked MAS, together with astringency-linked MAS and embryo rescue technology, may even shorten the conventional cross-breeding period of about 2–3 years. In addition, recently studies have established a stable genetic transformation system for persimmon transgenic improvement. Despite these efforts, how synthetic PAs and metabolism pathways lead to a deastringent trait remains unclear for persimmon. Thus, our review summarizes the latest research progress on the natural deastringency mechanism in C-PCNA, and we provide a new viewpoint for the genetic improvement of persimmon breeding in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low-temperature storage is used to extend the postharvest storage of horticultural produce. However, during low-temperature storage, certain fruit exhibit physiological disorders and alterations, which is known as chilling injury (CI). Nevertheless, the cause and the details of CI symptoms are unclear. Here we report 'Cheongdobansi', an astringent persimmon that showed a pattern of CI development, initiating in the middle of the inner flesh in contact with white pith, spreading along the vascular tissue, and ending by covering the upper mesocarp. CI critical temperature of 'Cheongdobansi' persimmon was 8 ℃ and the maximum CI induction was at 5 °C. However, temperature showed very low CI induction at −1 ℃, indicating that −1 ℃ is the optimal storage temperature of 'Cheongdobansi' persimmon. This result aslo challenges the common idea of CI that lowering the temperature below the critical temperature worsens CI symptoms. Interestingly, the highest ethylene production was detected at 2 °C, with very low occurrence of decay at this temperature, suggesting a new hypothesis that ethylene production might be involved in the inhibition of decay. Moreover, the increase in respiration and decrease in firmness of persimmons take precedence over the prominent CI symptoms, where jelly-like flesh formation and electrolyte leakage occur. Electrolyte leakage showed a significant increase after the onset of visible CI symptoms. Our results provide important clues, such as the correlation between the structure of vascular tissue and CI development in fruit, and between ethylene and CI decay, which are very useful for post-harvest storage of astringent persimmons for agricultural use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persimmon is a fruit that contains sugars, vitamins, phenolic compounds, and various other nutrients. The aim of this study was to explore the structure of carboxymethylated persimmon polysaccharide (CM-PFP) and its interaction with the human gut microbiota. Carboxymethyl modification of the persimmon polysaccharide (PFP) increased both the Mw and Mn, enhanced dispersion stability, and decreased thermal stability. Both PFP and CM-PFP promoted the proliferation of Lactobacillus while inhibiting the proliferation of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. In the simulated fecal fermentation, the pH of PFP- and CM-PFP-containing media decreased, the content of short-chain fatty acids increased, and the abundance of intestinal flora at the phylum and genus levels changed. The relative abundance of harmful intestinal bacteria was significantly reduced in both PFP and CM-PFP groups. Furthermore, it was found that CM-PFP was more easily metabolized than PFP, glucose, and fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) and had a proliferation increase effect on Lactobacillus. Therefore, CM-PFP has a significant positive effect on both Lactobacillus proliferation and the human gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Deep neural network (DNN) techniques, as an advanced machine learning framework, have allowed various image diagnoses in plants, which often achieve better prediction performance than human experts in each specific field. Notwithstanding, in plant biology, the application of DNNs is still mostly limited to rapid and effective phenotyping. The recent development of explainable CNN frameworks has allowed visualization of the features in the prediction by a convolutional neural network (CNN), which potentially contributes to the understanding of physiological mechanisms in objective phenotypes. In this study, we propose an integration of explainable CNN and transcriptomic approach to make a physiological interpretation of a fruit internal disorder in persimmon, rapid over-softening. We constructed CNN models to accurately predict the fate to be rapid softening in persimmon cv. Soshu, only with photo images. The explainable CNNs, such as Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-Class Activation Mapping (CAM)) and guided Grad-CAM, visualized specific featured regions relevant to the prediction of rapid softening, which would correspond to the premonitory symptoms in a fruit. Transcriptomic analyses to compare the featured regions of the predicted rapid-softening and control fruits suggested that rapid softening is triggered by precocious ethylene signal–dependent cell wall modification, despite exhibiting no direct phenotypic changes. Further transcriptomic comparison between the featured and non-featured regions in the predicted rapid-softening fruit suggested that premonitory symptoms reflected hypoxia and the related stress signals finally to induce ethylene signals. These results would provide a good example for the collaboration of image analysis and omics approaches in plant physiology, which uncovered a novel aspect of fruit premonitory reactions in the rapid-softening fate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Storage & Process is the property of Tianjin Academy of Agricultural Sciences and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

[Objective] This study explored components and composition of soluble sugars in different persimmon germplasm resources to provide basis for rational conservation and effective utilization of persimmon resources. [Method] Fructose, sorbitol, glucose and sucrose contents in 41 mature fruits of persimmon germplasm resources and one hard-ripened persimmon fruit treated with CO2 desiccation were determined using high performance liquid chromatography. The diversity of sugar contents of persimmon fruit was investigated using dispersion analysis, correlation analysis and cluster analysis. [Result] All 41 persimmon germplasm resources contained four sugar components. Sorbitol and sucrose contents were low, fructose and glucose contents were high, and their ratios to total sugar differed greatly. Correlation analysis showed that total sugar was significantly and positively correlated with all four sugar components, sorbitol was significantly and positively correlated with fructose, glucose and sucrose, and sweetness values were significantly correlated with total sugars, fructose and glucose. The clustering analysis divided the 41 persimmon germplasm into three groups at a genetic distance of 15, and the first group was divided into subgroups I-a and I -b at a genetic distance of 5. Subgroup I -b was fructose accumulating, while the rest was hexose accumulating. Based on the diversity analysis of sugar components and contents, Xiuning Bi-antashi, Shu Huangshi and Tian Baogai with high total sugar content as well as Xiuning Biantashi and Zhi-gan Bayuehuang with high sweetness value were selected. The fructose, glucose, total sugars and sweetness values of the CO2-treated fruit were significantly higher than those of naturally soft-ripened fruits. [Conclusion] The diversity of persimmon sugar content and composition was rich and the selected specific resources could provide parents for crossbreeding new species with flavor diversification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cover image: Long‐tailed mealybug Pseudococcus longispinus and its main parasitic wasp in Mediterranean persimmon, Anagyrus fusciventris. Non‐crop habitats reduced the abundance of the mealybug in persimmon orchards by an increased parasitism. (pp. 292–303).Photo: © Ángel Plata.. [Extracted from the article]

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) fruit size variation is abundant. Studying the size of the persimmon fruit is helpful in improving its economic value. At present, the regulatory mechanism of persimmon fruit size formation is still unclear. In this study, the mechanism of fruit size formation was investigated through morphological, cytological and transcriptomic analyses, as well as exogenous ethrel and aminoethoxyinylglycine (AVG: ethylene inhibitor) experiments using the large fruit and small fruit of ‘Yaoxianwuhua’. The results showed that stages 3–4 (June 11–June 25) are the crucial morphological period for differentiation of large fruit and small fruit in persimmon. At this crucial morphological period, the cell number in large fruit was significantly more than that in small fruit, indicating that the difference in cell number is the main reason for the differentiation of persimmon fruit size. The difference in cell number was caused by cell division. CNR1, ANT, LAC17 and EB1C, associated with cell division, may be involved in regulating persimmon fruit size. Exogenous ethrel resulted in a decrease in fruit weight, and AVG treatment had the opposite effect. In addition, LAC17 and ERF114 were upregulated after ethrel treatment. These results indicated that high ethylene levels can reduce persimmon fruit size, possibly by inhibiting cell division. This study provides valuable information for understanding the regulation mechanism of persimmon fruit size and lays a foundation for subsequent breeding and artificial regulation of fruit size.

The growing trend in fruit wine production reflects consumers’ interest in novel, diverse drinking experiences and the increasing demand for healthier beverage options. Fruit wines made from kiwi, pomegranates, and persimmons fermented using S. bayanus Lalvin strain EC1118 demonstrate the versatility of winemaking techniques. Kiwifruit, persimmon, and pomegranate wines were analyzed using HPLC and GC-TOFMS analyses to determine their concentrations of phenolic acids and volatile compounds. These results were supported by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to characterize and compare chemical shifts in the polyphenol regions of these wines. The wines’ characterization included an anti-inflammatory assay based on NO, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 production in the RAW 264.7 macrophage model. FTIR spectroscopy predicted the antioxidant and phenolic contents in the wines. In terms of polyphenols, predominantly represented by chlorogenic, caffeic, and gallic acids, pomegranate and kiwifruit wines showed greater benefits. However, kiwifruit wines exhibited a highly diverse profile of volatile compounds. Further analysis is necessary, particularly regarding the use of other microorganisms in the fermentation process and non-Saccharomyces strains methods. These wines exhibit high biological antioxidant potential and health properties, providing valuable insights for future endeavors focused on designing healthy functional food products.

The main units of persimmon proanthocyanidins (PAs) are composed of flavan-3-ols including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and gallocatechin gallate (GCG). Precise quantification of GCG is challenging due to its trace amounts in persimmon. In this study, to establish the optimal UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS technique for the determination of PAs monomer composition in persimmon fruit flesh of different astringency types, mass spectrometry and chromatographic conditions were optimized. The results showed that when operating in negative ion mode, using a T3 chromatographic column (a type of C18 column with high-strength silica), acetonitrile as the organic phase, a 0.1% mobile phase acid content, and a mobile phase flow rate of 0.2 mL/min, the chromatographic peak shape and resolution of the PAs monomer composition improved. Additionally, there was no tailing phenomenon observed in the chromatographic peaks. At the same time, the intra-day and inter-day precision, stability, and recovery of the procedure were good. The relative standard deviation (RSD) of stability was less than 5%. The intra-day precision was in the range of 1.14% to 2.36%, and the inter-day precision ranged from 1.03% to 2.92%, both of which were less than 5%. The recovery rate ranged from 94.43% to 98.59% with an RSD less than 5%. The results showed that the UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap/MS technique established in this study can not only be used for the quantification of EGCG and GCG in persimmon fruit flesh but also be suitable for analyzing other PAs monomer compositions, providing robust support for the related research on persimmon PAs.

Since persimmon is a pressure-sensitive fruit and it is difficult to store this fruit in warehouses, in this research, an attempt has been made to examine the parameters affecting the reduction of changes in its physical properties. The samples were loaded at 150 and 250 N, three types of foam container packaging with polyolefin film, polyethylene-terephthalate, and ordinary box, and four types of polyamine putrescine coating with concentrations of 1 and 2 mM, distilled water and uncoated. Properties such as Physiological Weight Loss, volume, and the density of persimmon fruit, as well as the firmness of this fruit in the prepost-storage stage were examined. The results showed, the highest firmness was obtained in the treatment of putrescine at a concentration of 1 mM and a foam container with polyethylene film with a value of 6.5 N, which was almost three times the firmness of uncoated fruits. The lowest Physiological Weight Loss, volume, and density were obtained in the same type of coating and packaging. The values of these parameters were 2.458%, 1.82, and 0.833%, respectively, compared to the first day of storage. Overall, the use of polyamine treatment showed a significant effect on changes in the physical properties of persimmon fruit, and foam containers with polyolefin film emerged as the optimal packaging option, resulting in the least amount of change among the different types of packaging used.

IntroductionTannin content and postharvest quality characteristics of persimmon fruit are often determined by the destructive analysis that consumes time, does not allow the acquisition of data from the same fruit continuously, and requires expensive high-performance equipment. This research was done to investigate the potential for non-destructive estimation of astringency and quality parameters in persimmon fruit based on visible/near-infrared (VNIR) spectra.MethodsVNIR spectra readings, the reference tannin content, and quality parameters were measured from fruits of “Cheongdo-Bansi” and “Daebong” persimmon cultivars at harvest and throughout the ripening/deastringency period. The spectra readings from half of the total fruit were utilized for the calibration set, while the other half readings were used for the prediction set. To develop models correlating the spectra data to the measured reference parameters data, the partial least square regression (PLSR) method was utilized.Results and discussionIn the case of ‘Daebong’, the coefficients of determination (R2) between VNIR spectra and the actual measured values of TSS, firmness, simple sugars, and tannin content were (0.95, 0.94, 0.96, and 0.96) and (0.93, 0.89, 0.96, and 0.93), for the calibration and prediction sets, respectively. Similarly, the R2-values of (0.86, 0.93, 0.79, and 0.81) and (0.83, 0.91, 0.75, and 0.75) were recorded in ‘Cheongdo-Bansi’ for the calibration and prediction sets, respectively. Additionally, the acquired data were divided into two sets in a 3:1 ratio to develop predictive models and to validate the models in multiple regressions. PLSR models were developed in multiple regression to estimate the tannin content of both cultivars from firmness and simple sugars with R2-values of 0.83 and 0.79 in ‘Cheongdo-Bansi’ for the calibration and prediction sets, respectively, whereas, R2-values of 0.80 and 0.84 were recorded in ‘Daebong’ for the calibration and prediction sets, respectively. The overall findings of this study showed the possibility of using VNIR spectra for the prediction of postharvest quality and tannin contents from intact persimmon fruit with quick, chemical-free, and low-cost assessment methods. Also, the multiple regression using physicochemical parameters could fairly predict the tannin content in persimmon fruit though destructively but save time and low-cost.

The present study investigates the quality parameters of dried persimmon (Diospyros kaki) fruit slice by the application of intermittent microwave convective drying (IMCD) method. For the experiment four microwave power 200, 300, 400 and 500 W and three pulse ratio cycle (PR) 1:5, 1:10 and 1:15 were used. Total of 12 experimental runs were conducted with different combinations of selected microwave power and PR to reduce the moisture content of persimmons fruit slice from 90±2% (w.b.) to a safer limit of around 9.86±1.62% (w.b.). Out of all the experimental runs the sample dried at microwave power of 500 W and PR of 1:5 found to have shorter drying time of 66 min and the longer drying time of 208 min was observed for the sample dried at 200 W and PR of 1:15. The functional properties such as total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant activity and total flavonoid content (TFC) decreased as drying progressed whereas the physical quality parameter change in color was increased with increase in drying time. The functional properties were fitted with first and second order kinetic model, and second order kinetic model found to predict the data with higher accuracy when compared with first order kinetic model. The change in color followed zero order kinetic model with parameter ranging from 0.105 to 0.323min−1. Overall, persimmon fruit slice dried at IMCD condition with power 500 W and PR 1:5 had the highest functional property with lower change in color.

Persimmon fruit has a high nutritional value and significantly varies between pollination-constant astringent (PCA) and pollination-constant non-astringent (PCNA) persimmons. The astringency type affects sugar, flavonoids, and tannin accumulation and is well known in persimmon fruit. However, the impact of the fruit astringency type on ascorbic acid (AsA) accumulation is limited. In this study, typical PCA varieties ('Huojing' and 'Zhongshi5') and PCNA varieties ('Yohou' and 'Jiro') of persimmon fruit were sampled at four developing stages (S1–S4) to provide valuable information on AsA content variation in PCA and PCNA persimmon. Persimmon fruit is rich in ascorbic acid; the AsA content of the four varieties 'Zhongshi5', 'Huojing', 'Jiro', and 'Youhou' mature fruit reached 104.49, 48.69, 69.69, and 47.48 mg/100 g. Fruit of the same astringency type persimmon showed a similar AsA accumulation pattern. AsA content was significantly higher in PCA than PCNA fruit at S1–S3. The initial KEGG analysis of metabolites showed that galactose metabolism is the major biosynthetic pathway of AsA in persimmon fruit. There were significant differences in galactose pathway-related metabolite content in developing PCA and PCNA fruit, such as Lactose, D-Tagatose, and D-Sorbitol content in PCA being higher than that of PCNA. Combined gene expression and WGCNA analyses showed that the expression of the GME (evm.TU.contig4144.37) gene was higher in PCA-type than in PCNA-type fruit in S1–S3 and exhibited the highest correlation with AsA content (r = 690 **, p < 0.01). Four hub genes, including the DNA methylation gene, methyltransferase gene, F-box, and Actin-like Protein, were identified as potential regulators of the GME gene. These results provide basic information on how astringency types affect AsA accumulation and will provide valuable information for further investigation on AsA content variation in persimmon fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruits and berries of pumpkin, quince, persimmon, and rose hips, widely distributed in most regions of Azerbaijan, are environmentally friendly food produce. Their composition is rich in nutritional components beneficial to the human body. The objects of the study were the fruits and berries of ecologically clean varieties of pumpkin, widespread in Azerbaijan: Palov- Kodu-268, Perexvatka-69; Yellow quince; Xiakume persimmon; and rose hips. During the study, a variety of juices were prepared that are beneficial for the human body, rich in nutritional components for functional purposes, natural, without additives, by mixing (blending) pumpkin juice with the juice of quince, rose hips, and persimmons separately. To achieve the goal, quality indicators were studied in the production technology of juices from pumpkin, quince, and persimmon fruits in a ratio of 50:30:20; juices from pumpkin, rosehip, and quince fruits, 50:30:20; juices from fruits and berries of pumpkin, rosehip, persimmon, 50:30:20. As a result of the study, it was established that natural juices prepared by blending fruits and berries are of high quality and nutritional value. These fruit juices contained large amounts of aliphatic organic acids and vitamin C. However, juices prepared from a mixture of fruits and berries contain less total sugar than individual juices, including glucose and fructose. Therefore, they are recommended to be used as a functional, dietary juice in the treatment of certain diseases (diabetes, etc.). As a result of the tasting, it was found that juices prepared from fruits and berries were rated at 7.8÷8.5 points. However, natural juices without chemical additives, prepared by blending using a special technology, are estimated at 9.2÷9.8 points. The recommendations reported here could be used by small and medium-sized juice production enterprises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, persimmon powder (PP) was substituted in concentrations of 0, 5 and 10% per 100 g of einkorn flour (EF) in Turkish noodle production. Quince seed mucilage (QSM) was used as an egg replacer at levels of 20, 30 and 40%. The cooking properties, chemical composition, color values, texture characteristics, and sensory properties of Turkish noodles were determined. The lowest cooking time (8.33 min) was found in Turkish noodles substituted with 10% PP. When 40% QSM was added to the formulation, both volume increase and water absorption values increased. Turkish noodles produced with a higher concentration of PP resulted in increased ash, crude fiber, mineral contents, especially in potassium, and total phenolic content. The lowest firmness and work of shear were obtained when PP and QSM substitutions were increased up to 10% and 40%, respectively. The sensory evaluation indicated that Turkish noodles substituted with 10% PP were greatly appreciated by the panelists in terms of taste, odor, and overall acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Proanthocyanidins (PAs) are specialized metabolites that influence persimmon fruit quality. Normal astringent (A)‐type and non‐astringent (NA)‐type mutants show significant variation in PA accumulation, but the influencing mechanism remains unclear. In this study, among the six identified DTXs/MATEs proteins associated with PA accumulation, we observed that allelic variation and preferential transport by DkDTX5/MATE5 induced variation in PA accumulation for A‐type and NA‐type fruit. The expression pattern of DkDTX5/MATE5 was correlated with PA accumulation in NA‐type fruit. Upregulation and downregulation of DkDTX5/MATE5 promoted and inhibited PA accumulation, respectively, in the NA‐type fruit. Interestingly, transporter assays of Xenopus laevis oocytes indicated that DkDTX5/MATE5 preferentially transported the PA precursors catechin, epicatechin, and epicatechin gallate, resulting in their increased ratios relative to the total PAs, which was the main source of variation in PA accumulation between the A‐type and NA‐type. The allele lacking Ser‐84 in DkDTX5/MATE5 was identified as a dominantly expressed gene in the A‐type and lost its transport function. Site‐directed mutagenesis revealed that DkDTX5/MATE5 binds to PA precursors via Ser‐84. These findings clarify the association between the transporter function of DkDTX5/MATE5 and PA variation, and can contribute to the breeding of new cultivars with improved fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water kefir is a non‐dairy probiotic beverage. It is obtained by fermentation of water kefir grains with a sugar solution. This study aims to determine the properties of water kefir beverages obtained by fermentation of mandarin and persimmon‐containing water for 42 h. According to microbiological results, both fruits containing water samples provided a high number of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts. Moreover, after fermentation, pH, Brix, and dry matter content did not significantly differ. On the other hand, fructose, maltose, and acetic acid contents of mandarin water kefir are significantly higher than persimmon water kefir (p <.05). Persimmon water kefir had higher total phenolic contents, twice as much as mandarin water kefir (p <.05). Both water kefirs had good color properties. The organoleptic acceptability of the fruit water kefirs was promising. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new persimmon tannin-modified graphene oxide/chitosan microsphere (PGC) was prepared by the mixed crosslinking method, and the effective adsorption behavior of U(VI) in an aqueous solution was discussed. The study shows that at the temperature of 30 °C, pH of 5, time of 120 min, and the an initial uranium concentration of 10.00 mg/L, the maximum adsorption capacity of PGC microspheres for U(VI) reached 199.13 mg/g, with a removal rate of 98.2%. The adsorption process of U(VI) by PGC microspheres conforms to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model and the Freundlich isothermal adsorption model. The adsorption mechanism of U(VI) by PGC microspheres is electrostatic interaction and chelation reaction. Meanwhile, PGC microspheres have excellent adsorption selectivity and recycling, and they have a good adsorption effect in the uranium treatment of rare earth real wastewater. Therefore, PGC microspheres can be used as a promising material to treat uranium-containing rare earth wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recent research suggests that persimmon leaf extract (PLE) has an effect on inflammatory skin diseases. Previously, PLE is revealed to inhibit not only nitric oxide production but also inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) expression levels in mouse macrophages in vitro. Moreover, it significantly reduced IL‐6 production and 5α‐reductase expression in human follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs). This study aimed to determine whether the PLE‐containing BLH308 complex improves hair growth in clinical trials. Materials and Methods: A total of 88 participants were recruited, and were instructed to orally take BLH308 or the placebo twice a day for 24 weeks. The mean age of the test group was 38.52 ± 7.98 years and that of placebo group was 38.98 ± 8.80 years. The study was conducted for 24 weeks, and hair density, thickness, and gloss were evaluated. All participants completed a satisfaction survey questionnaire. Results: The test group showed significantly increased hair density and hair diameter at week 24 compared with the placebo group (p = 0.0015 and p = 0.0001, respectively). Although not statistically significant, the degree of gloss also showed higher improvement in the test group compared to the placebo group. Conclusions: Our data demonstrated that oral consumption of the BLH308 complex containing PLE significantly increased hair density and thickness compared to the placebo group, showing its possible role in promoting hair growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to identify each of (the working characteristics of the farmers in question, the satisfaction of the farmers in question regarding the economic return from the persimmon Fruit, the extension services provided by agricultural extension to persimmon growers, and the trends of the farmers in question towards continuing to produce the persimmon Fruit). The research also aimed to determine the relationship between Farmers’ knowledge of the production and marketing practices of the persimmon Fruit and satisfaction with the persimmon Fruit, the extension services provided by agricultural extension to persimmon growers, and the trends of the farmers surveyed towards continuing to produce the persimmon Fruit), and determining the relationship between the farmers’ implementation of the productive and marketing practices of the persimmon Fruit and both satisfaction. About the persimmon Fruit, the extension services provided by the agricultural extension to persimmon growers, the trends of the farmers surveyed towards continuing the production of the persimmon Fruit), and measuring the impact of aspects of satisfaction with the persimmon Fruit on the average acre productivity of the persimmon Fruit, and measuring the impact of the extension services provided by the agricultural extension agency. To grow the persimmon Fruit on the average acre productivity of the persimmon Fruit, measure the effect of the degrees of farmers’ trends towards continuing the production of the persimmon Fruit on the average acre productivity of the persimmon Fruit, and identify the problems facing the persimmon growers and their proposals for solving them. This research was conducted in Dakahlia Governorate, and the Aga Center was chosen as one of the leading centers in persimmon fruit cultivation in the governorate. The village of Fisha was chosen as the largest village in terms of the area cultivated persimmons, as the number of persimmon growers in it reached about 940 farmers, and the sample size after implementing the law reached 90 farmers. The study relied on descriptive and analytical statistical measurement methods to achieve the study objectives. Represented in frequencies, percentages, and the simple Pearson correlation coefficient, the use of the Dummy Variables model in estimating the relationship between the average productivity of an acre of persimmon Fruit as dependent variables on the one hand and a group of variables. The results showed that 15.56% of them had a low level of knowledge about the productive and marketing practices of the persimmon Fruit, while 22.22% of them had an average level of knowledge, while 62.22% of them had a high level of knowledge. It also showed that there was a significant correlation between the farmers’ knowledge of the productive and marketing practices of the persimmon Fruit and both farmer satisfaction. About the Fruit and extension services provided by agricultural extension to persimmon growers and the trends of the farmers surveyed towards continuing to produce the persimmon Fruit. The results also showed that 21.11% of them had a low level of implementation of productive and marketing practices for the persimmon Fruit, while 31.11% of them had an average level of implementation, while it was 47.78%. Among them, their level of implementation is high, and it was found that there is a positive, significant correlation between the farmers’ implementation of the productive and marketing practices for the persimmon Fruit and both (satisfaction with the persimmon Fruit, the extension services provided by agricultural extension to persimmon growers, and the attitudes of the farmers studied towards continuing the production of the persimmon Fruit). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smoothies are becoming an increasingly popular product as a healthy alternative to snacks. The consumer expects from this product that, apart from its nutritional value, it will also be qualitatively stable during storage. Therefore, in this study, original smoothies obtained with persimmon fruit puree and apple juice (Dk/Md) enriched with Arbutus unedo fruits, Myrtus communis purple berry extract, Acca sellowiana, and Crocus sativus petal juice were evaluated for their polyphenol composition, antioxidant activity, and inhibition on targeted digestive enzymes, over six months of storage. The amount of polyphenols evaluated by UPLC-PDA analysis decreased in six months from 23.5% for both Dk/Md and enriched C. sativus smoothies to 42.5% for enriched A. sellowiana, with anthocyanins the most sensitive compounds (71.7–100% loss). Values of antioxidant assays generally strongly decreased during the first three months (up to ca. 60%) and to a lesser extent in the following three months (0.4–27%). In addition, inhibitory activity on α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and pancreatic lipase, especially on the last two enzymes, was negatively affected by time storage. The outcome of this study indicates that persimmon fruit is a good option for producing smoothies, and enrichment with other plant extracts can enhance the bioactive compound content and biological activities. It is recommended that appropriate storage strategies to preserve the properties of those smoothies should be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean fruit fly, Ceratitis capitata (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is an important pest on persimmon fruits in Turkey. The study was conducted in 2016-2018 to determine comparison of food-based synthetic attractants for capture of Ceratitis capitata on persimmon fruits in Dörtyol and Antakya districts of Hatay province. The Decis and Maxitrap traps baited with various attractants impregnated in paper handkerchief dispensers were used. As a result of two years of investigations, efficacy of various attractants varied in each of the sampling year. In 2016, the highest mean of C. capitata were observed by the combination of ammonium acetate + ammonium carbonate attractant traps, while the lowest mean of C. capitata was observed by a single of ammonium carbonate attractant traps. In 2018, the highest mean of C. capitata were observed by a single of ammonium carbonate and ammonium bicarbonate attractant traps, while the lowest mean of C. capitata was observed by the combination of ammonium acetate + trimethylamine + putrescine and ammonium acetate + trimethylamine + cadaverine attractant traps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persimmons (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) are a characteristic Chinese fruit and account for a large planting area in China. The evaluation and selection of persimmons that are astringent without softening play an important role in modern breeding programs. However, the phenotypic variability and diversity of some representative traits in the natural population of persimmon germplasm without softening are still unclear. In this study, 56 traits from 150 samples of D. kaki collected in East Asia were used to evaluate phenotypes and correlations using principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis. The results show that the mean coefficient of variation for the persimmon germplasm traits was 26.19%, and significant variations in phenotypic traits were observed. The frequency distribution maps of most of the characteristics showed obvious normal distribution characteristics. The analysis of the correlations between the traits showed that the most significant positive correlations had correlation coefficients close to 0.7. For example, seed width was highly and significantly correlated with fruit longitudinal and transverse width (0.796 and 0.786), and pith height was highly and significantly correlated with seed length (0.816). Moreover, the correlations between fruit traits and support traits, such as those related to the fruit handle and sepals, were significant, and the coefficients of the correlations between sepal width and fruit traits were 0.671 to 0.739. Fruit water content was negatively correlated with the soluble solids content (−0.623). Principal component analysis reduced 38 traits to 8 principal components, explaining 82.459% of the total variations, which were related to fruit size, seed, pith, color, fruit hardness, and soluble solid content; thus, persimmon germplasm could be divided into three major categories according to the sizes and shapes of the traits, and the first cluster was divided into two subcategories. The first subclass of fruits is medium size and shape; the second subclass of fruits is small in all traits; the second cluster is of high-quality and large fruits, optimal in all traits; and the third cluster is of medium to high-quality and oblate fruits. The results of this study are important for genetic improvement, diversity conservation, and resource utilization regarding persimmons and further research in this regard. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopies were applied to characterize and compare the chemical shifts in the polyphenols' regions of some fruit wines. The obtained results showed that FTIR spectra (1800–900 cm−1) and 1H NMR (δ 6.5–9.3 ppm) of different fruit wines can be used as main indices of the year of vintage and quality of fruit wines. In addition to the classical determination of antioxidant profiles and bioactive substances in wines, fluorometric measurements were used to determine the interactions of wine substances with the main human serum proteins. The results showed relatively high binding properties of wines with the highest one for pomegranate, followed by kiwifruit and persimmon wines. The interactions of vitamin C, catechin and gallic acid with human serum albumin (HSA) were also examined by docking studies. The docking calculations showed that gallic acid has a stronger binding affinity compared to catechin and vitamin C. The stronger binding affinity of gallic acid may be due to three hydrogen bonds and pi–pi interactions. The fluorescence and docking studies proved that only the bioactive compounds of wines and not the amount of alcohol have high binding properties to human serum proteins. The emphasis in this report was made on the utility of FTIR, NMR and fluorescence of wines as a mean of wine authentication and its fingerprint. The findings, based on polyphenols from fruits and fruit wines, their bioactivity and health properties, offer valuable insights for future endeavours focused on designing healthy food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The involvement of effectors and transcriptional regulators in persimmon fruit maturation has been mostly approached by the literature under postharvest conditions. In order to elucidate the participation of these genes in the on-tree fruit maturation development, we have collected samples from seven persimmon germplasm accessions at different developmental stages until physiological maturation. This study has focused on the expression analysis of 13 genes involved in ethylene biosynthesis and response pathways, as well as the evolution of important agronomical traits such as skin colour, weight, and firmness. Results revealed different gene expression patterns, with genes up- and down-regulated during fruit development progression. A principal component analysis was performed to correlate gene expression with agronomical traits. The decreasing expression of the ethylene biosynthetic genes DkACO1, DkACO2, and DkACS2, in concordance with other sensing (DkERS1) and transduction genes (DkERF18), provides a molecular mechanism for the previously described high production of ethylene in immature detached fruits. On the other side, DkERF8 and DkERF16 are postulated to induce fruit softening and skin colour change during natural persimmon fruit ripening via DkXTH9 and DkPSY activation, respectively. This study provides valuable information for a better understanding of the ethylene signalling pathway and its regulation during on-tree fruit ripening in persimmon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persimmon fruits (Diospyros kaki L.) attract the attention of researchers due to their high nutritional and medicinal value. The composition of persimmon is rich in nutrients. The object of research is the storage technology of persimmon. Fully ripe persimmon varieties Khachia and Khiakume were used as research material. If the activity of enzymes is inhibited or reduced during refrigerated storage using a controlled gas environment, then the consumption of nutrients for respiration will decrease, and the fruits will retain their original appearance. The persimmon varieties used were stored in refrigerators for 5 months in five variants. In persimmon fruits of both varieties, quantitative changes in the main indicators during refrigerated storage were studied. The regularities of changes in the activity of enzymes of the oxidoructase class depending on the composition of the controlled gas medium and the content of phenolic compounds were considered. As a result of the analyzes, a rational regime for storing persimmon varieties in a refrigerator under CGE conditions with a gas composition of 3–4 % CO2 and 2–3 % O2, a temperature of ‒2...–3 °C and an air humidity of 90–95 % was determined. During the storage period, the activity of all enzymes, except for ascorbate oxidase, completely ceased (except for the catalase enzyme in the Khachia variety). During long-term storage of the Khachia variety in a refrigerator, the activity of the enzyme ascorbate oxidase decreased by 94 %, o-diphenol oxidase and peroxidase decreased by 100 %, catalase by 95.5 %. Ascorbate oxidase activity decreased by 94.5 % in persimmon fruits of the Khiakume variety, and the activity of other enzymes was completely inhibited. To achieve this result, it is important that the activity of oxidoreductases decreases or passes into an inhibitory state. The results make it possible to regulate the quality indicators of persimmon varieties depending on their storage modes and use them to provide people with fresh fruits not seasonally but for a long time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine the vitamin C content and antioxidant activity in different types of fruit: cornelian cherry (Cornus mas L.), service tree (Sorbus domestica), medlar (Mespilus germanica L.), pawpaw (Asimina triloba L.), persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.). The aim of the work was to compare these used methods. The fruit's vitamin C content was determined by HPLC system Waters Separations Module 2695 with UV detector 2996. The content of vitamin C reached values from 72.238 µg. g-1 (Diospyros kaki L.) to 1114.61 µg.g-1 (Sorbus domestica). The antioxidant activity (DPPH) was determined spectrophotometrically. DPPH radical scavenging activity values were 2.28 (Mespilus germanica L.) - 12.34 µmol TE.g-1 DW (Cornus mas L.). Spearman's test showed a positive relationship between both monitored parameters. The content of vitamin C in the studied species showed a positive relationship with antioxidant activity. Due to the high content of vitamin C and antioxidant activity, future analyses should focus on the determination of other bioactive substances in these fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of alcohol hangover relief drinks by adding persimmon vinegar was investigated in this study. This study aimed to develop and investigate the physicochemical characteristics of a hangover relief drink, derived from persimmon vinegar, that may have health benefits. Persimmon vinegar was added at concentrations of 0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10 and 12.5%. The higher the concentration of persimmon vinegar, the lower the pH, °Brix and reducing sugar content of the product. In contrast, higher titratable acidity, turbidity and tannin values were obtained with increasing concentrations of persimmon vinegar. The addition of 12.5% persimmon vinegar induced the highest alcohol dehydrogenase and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase activities at 160.91 and 117.14%, respectively. The L value also decreased as persimmon vinegar concentration increased. The addition of persimmon vinegar at high concentrations decreased fructose, glucose and maltose content but increased the sucrose content of the drink. Ca, K and Na were the most abundant minerals in the drink. Some organic acids, such as oxalic, malic, lactic, acetic, citric and succinic acids, were also detected in the developed alcohol hangover relief drink. This study suggests that adding 7.5% of persimmon vinegar improves the physicochemical characteristics, especially the Alcohol dehydrogenase and aldehyde dehydrogenase activities. This finding indicates that this formulated drink with 75% persimmon vinegar may be beneficial against oxidative stress.

Abstract:Introduction: Bezoars are non-dissolved hard masses of undigested or partially digested food or foreign material that are trapped in the gastrointestinal tract. Bezoars are broadly classified into four groups, viz; phytobezoars, trichobezoar, lactobezoars, and pharmacobezoars. One of the common sub-types of phytobezoars is amlookobezoar (diospyrobezoar). Aims: To describe the clinical profile and treatment outcome of a series of patients of amlookobezoar presenting with small bowel obstruction.Methods: This prospective observational case-series study includes five patients of both sexes presenting with small bowel obstruction (SBO) caused due to amlookobezoar. All patients were evaluated with respect to detailed history, physical examination and radiological assessment to confirm the diagnosis. Radiological assessment included X-ray abdomen, USG and CECT abdomen. Results: We had total of five cases of SBO caused due to amlookobezoars. The age of these patients ranged from 8-years to 22-years with male-female ratio of 4:1. All the 5 patients in this series presented with the features of SBO in the autumn months. None of our patients had any other significant predisposing factor for bezoar formation except that all of these patients had taken significant amount of amlooks (persimmon fruit) 3-10days earlier. Four patients eventually required the exploratory laparotomy. All the four patients had soft to firm bezoars stuck up in distal or mid-ileum. Fortunately in all these 4 patients, we were able to manually breakdown the amlookobezoars and milk them down beyond the ileocaecal level without the need for any enterotomy, gut resection or creation of stoma. In all of the 4 operated patients, the postoperative period was almost uneventful. Conclusion: Though uncommon, but amlookobezoars should be considered as differential diagnosis in a case of small bowel obstruction. Amlookobezoars commonly affects young adolescent males in the autumn months and often needs a laparotomy with fragmentation and milking down of amlookobezoars.

Purpose: One of the most important subtropical fruits in Iran is Japanese persimmon. Persimmon is a climacteric fruit and continues to ripening after the harvest. One of the main quality components in persimmon fruit is its appearance due to the presence of different carotenoid pigments. Persimmon has also high antioxidant capacity. The use of LED lights is one of the most important commercial techniques to increase the quality and postharvest life of the fruits. In the present study, the effect of LED lights on the coloring and antioxidant capacity of persimmon fruit was studied. Research method: The Karaj genotype of persimmon was harvested at commercial stage and exposed to white and red LED lights (at intensity of 40-60 candle/W) up to 21 days at 10°C and 80% RH, as the control fruit was stored at dark conditions. Findings: The results showed that the samples of red LED light had higher color index and lower hue° and L * values as compared to control or white LED light samples. Therefore, the red light induced the coloring in persimmon fruit, but the white light did not show such an effect. Also, both white and red LED lights have resulted in better preservation and increased antioxidant capacity in persimmon fruit as compared to control. Research limitations: No limitations were encountered. Originality/Value: based on the results of this experiment, LED lights are effective treatments in maintaining and increasing the quality of Japanese persimmon at the postharvest stage, and have potential to further investigation and commercialization.

Fruit shape is an important external feature when consumers choose their preferred fruit varieties. Studying persimmon (Diospyros kaki Thunb.) fruit shape is beneficial to increasing its commodity value. However, research on persimmon fruit shape is still in the initial stage. In this study, the mechanism of fruit shape formation was studied by cytological observations, phytohormone assays, and transcriptome analysis using the long fruit and flat fruit produced by ‘Yaoxianwuhua’ hermaphroditic flowers. The results showed that stage 2–3 (June 11–June 25) was the critical period for persimmon fruit shape formation. Persimmon fruit shape is determined by cell number in the transverse direction and cell length in the longitudinal direction. High IAA, GA4, ZT, and BR levels may promote long fruit formation by promoting cell elongation in the longitudinal direction, and high GA3 and ABA levels may be more conducive to flat fruit formation by increasing the cell number in the transverse direction and inhibiting cell elongation in the longitudinal direction, respectively. Thirty-two DEGs related to phytohormone biosynthesis and signaling pathways and nine DEGs related to cell division and cell expansion may be involved in the persimmon fruit shape formation process. These results provide valuable information for regulatory mechanism research on persimmon fruit formation.