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Previous observations demonstrate New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract to alter cardiovascular responses at rest without prior exercise. However, the prolonged effects of NZBC on blood pressure and heart rate variability following exercise are not known. Participants (n15 [five women], age: 31 ± 9 years, maximal oxygen uptake: 44 ± 9 ml·kg−1·min−1) undertook a control condition of 2 hr of lying supine rest. Subsequently, in a double-blind, placebo (PLA)-controlled, randomized crossover design participants completed 1 hr of treadmill exercise at 50% maximal oxygen uptake followed by 2-hr supine rest with blood pressure and heart rate variability measurement following a 7-day intake of NZBC and PLA. With NZBC, there was an increase in average fat oxidation (NZBC: 0.24 ± 0.11 vs. PLA: 0.17 ± 0.11 g/min, p =.005), and larger high-frequency relative power during the exercise (p =.037). In the 2-hr rest period, delta change for systolic pressure was larger with NZBC than PLA (Control vs. NZBC: −5.6 ± 6.4, Control vs. PLA: −3.5 ± 6.0 mmHg, p =.033) but was not different for diastolic or mean arterial pressure. There were no alterations in heart rate variabilities during the 2 hr following the exercise with NZBC. A 7-day intake of NZBC causes a larger postexercise hypotension response in young, physically active men and women following 1 hr of treadmill exercise at 50% maximal oxygen uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSIONS ‘Xynisteri’ is considered as the reference white grape cultivar in Cyprus with remarkable adaptation to adverse edaphoclimatic conditions and appreciable oenological properties that renders it as an appropriate cultivar for studies within a global context due to climate change. To this aim, two distinct non‐irrigated plots with different climatic conditions, soil properties and levels of rainfall were selected; Koilani [KO, altitude 800 m, 76% calcium carbonate (CaCO3) content, pH 7.97, average temperature: 16.5 °C, rainfall: 229 mm] and Kyperounda (KY, altitude 1200 m, CaCO3‐free soil, pH 6.47, average temperature: 14.9 °C, rainfall: 658 mm). An array of physiological, biochemical and qualitative indices during successive developmental stages (BBCH 75–89) were determined. During the advanced on‐vine developmental stages (BBCH 85–89), the aromatic profile of grapes was assessed with the employment of gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Such analysis was complemented with non‐destructive chemometric analyses.Berry ripening process substantially differed on the examined plots; BBCH 89 stage reached at 267 and 303 Julian days for KO and KY, respectively. Results indicated that berry weight, soluble solids content (SSC) and α‐amino nitrogen were higher in KO than in KY, with exception made for ammonium nitrogen content. A total of 75 compounds, including aliphatic alcohols, benzenic compounds, phenols, vanillins, monoterpenes and C13‐norisoprenoids were identified and quantified. The variations of mesoclimatic conditions affected the volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles at the fully‐ripe stage, showing a considerable rise in glycosylated aroma compounds, especially monoterpenes and benzenic compounds. In particular, the higher amount of glycosylated aroma compounds were obtained in KY berries up to mid‐ripe, whereas KO showed higher glycosylated aroma compounds at fully‐ripe stage. Results reported herein indicate that aroma profile of ‘Xynisteri’ grapes varied substantially in the examined terroirs. Interestingly, the limited rainfall in KΟ non‐irrigated vine did not compromise qualitative and aromatic properties of berries.The present study aimed at dissecting the impact of terroir on bush‐trained, non‐irrigated grapevines of a cultivar appropriate for extreme climate change scenarios. The volatilome fingerprint was highly variable among the examined plots; such results can be further exploited at vinification level towards production of single vineyard premium end products. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Backround: In recent years, with the increasing demand for seedless grape varieties that have lower production costs, are disease resistant/tolerant and require less chemical pesticides, the embryo recovery technique has begun to be used more in table grape breeding studies. However, the desired high success rate has not yet been achieved in these studies. Although there are different reasons for this, especially the grape varieties selected for cross-breeding and the timing of transferring the embryos to medium are among the most important reasons. In this study, focusing on these two important factors, the embryos obtained from different hybridization combinations were transferred to agar medium at different weeks for 4 years and the most successful combination and time were determined. In addition, seedless and large berry grape varieties and some seeded varieties that are resistant/tolerant to fungal diseases were selected as parents because they can provide resistance to disease infections in vitro and thus increase the success rate. Results: The results obtained from the study showed that the selected variety and combination significantly affected the success rate in embryo rescue. Especially in combinations with the 'Yalova Seedless' variety as the female parent, more successful results were obtained compared to combinations of other varieties. When 'Yalova Seedless' variety was pollinated with pollen of 'Red Globe', 'Muscat Bailey A' and 'Exalta' varieties, more seedlings were obtained with the help of embryo rescue. The results obtained over four years showed that the best sampling time after pollination was the eighth week and then the seventh week. Conclusions: According to the results obtained, it has been shown that the selected varieties and the sampling time significantly affect the success rate in embryo rescue studies. Therefore, higher success rates can be achieved in comprehensive breeding studies in which they will be included as pollinators, especially in different seeded varieties that are resistant to diseases and have larger berry size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context Current osteoporosis pharmacological treatment has undesirable side effects. There is increasing focus on naturally derived food substances that contain phytonutrients with antioxidant effects in promoting health and regulating immune response. Objective This review aims to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of anthocyanin-rich foods on bone remodeling biomarkers in middle-aged and older adults (≥40 y old) at risk of osteoporosis. Data Sources Randomized controlled trials were searched on 8 bibliographic databases of PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Food Science and Technology Abstracts, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest. Data Extraction and Analysis Thirteen studies were included in the meta-analysis. Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) is exhibited from osteoblastic cells that gathered osteoclasts to bone sites for bone resorption, accelerating bone loss. Anthocyanin-rich food consumption showed statistically nonsignificant effects, with no substantial heterogeneity on bone remodeling biomarkers. However, there was a significant increase in lumbar spine L1–L4 bone mineral density. Mild-to-small effects were seen to largely favor the consumption of anthocyanin-rich foods. Berries (d = –0.44) have a larger effect size of RANKL than plums (d = 0.18), with statistically significant subgroup differences. Random-effects meta-regression found body mass index, total attrition rate, total energy, and dietary carbohydrate and fat intake were significant covariates for the effect size of RANKL. All outcomes had low certainty of evidence. Conclusion Anthocyanin-rich foods may improve bone health in middle-aged and older adults at risk of osteoporosis. This review contributes to the growing interest in nutrient-rich foods as a low-cost and modifiable alternative to promote human health and reduce disease burden. Future high-quality studies with larger sample sizes and longer treatment durations are required to fully understand the effect of anthocyanin-rich foods on bone health. Systematic Review Registration PROSPERO registration no. CRD42022367136. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many epidemiological studies have shown the beneficial effects of a largely plant-based diet, and the strong association between the consumption of a Mediterranean-type diet with healthy aging including a lower risk of cognitive decline. The Mediterranean diet is characterized by a high intake of olive oil, fruits and vegetables and is rich in dietary fiber and polyphenols – both of which have been postulated to act as important mediators of these benefits. Polyphenols are large molecules produced by plants to protect them from environmental threats and injury. When ingested by humans, as little as 5% of these molecules are absorbed in the small intestine with the majority metabolized by the gut microbiota into absorbable simple phenolic compounds. Flavan-3-ols, a type of flavonoid, contained in grapes, berries, pome fruits, tea, and cocoa have been associated with many beneficial effects on several risk factors for cardiovascular disease, cognitive function and brain regions involved in memory formation. Both preclinical and clinical studies suggest that these brain and heart benefits can be attributed to endothelial vascular effects and anti-inflammatory properties among others. More recently the gut microbiota has emerged as a potential modulator of the aging brain and intriguingly polyphenols have been shown to alter microbiota composition and be metabolized by different microbial species. However, there is a need for well controlled studies in large populations to identify predictors of response, particularly given the vast inter-individual variation of human gut microbiota. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The system-forming element of national security is food security, which guarantees effective management of the food system, ensuring the food needs of the appropriate quantity and quality of each country's citizen. Despite the significant potential of the agricultural sector, which forms the basis of food security, the need to analyse the state of food security in the current situation is due to military operations on the territory of Ukraine, which led to its negative global results. In this regard, the need to develop effective strategies and legal regulation is essential to ensure national and global food security, which in turn requires coordination of efforts of all countries and international organisations through international cooperation. The study aims to establish a pattern regarding the current state of food security by analysing the impact of availability, access, usefulness and stability of food supply on food security. Research methods: comparative analysis; taxonomic analysis; systematisation, generalisation. The survey found that Ukraine's position in the Global Food Security Index (FSI) among 113 countries in 2022 worsened by 13 points, where the worst indicators for domestic food security are sustainability and adaptability (43.5 points out of 100 and 94th place globally) and economic affordability of food (48.1 points out of 100 and 93rd place in the world). It was found that the actual consumption of vegetables, melons, potatoes, and oil in 2021 was slightly higher than the rational norm, indicating sufficient consumption of these products, while the actual consumption of products that are lower than the rational norm includes meat and meat products, milk and dairy products, fish and fish products, and fruits, berries, and grapes. It has been determined that since 2016, the number of kilocalories in the daily diet of the population of Ukraine has not reached the minimum norm of consumption of basic foodstuffs for the working population. It has been established that in 2020 and 2021, the value of the taxonomic indicator for assessing the level of food security (I) has been decreasing, i.e. the distance to the reference vector has been increasing, which indicates a decrease in the level of food security. The forecasting results suggest a downward trend in the food security index for the period 2022–2027, and there is an urgent need to take measures to eliminate this trend and improve the value of the index, which is extremely important for the security of the state, especially in times of war. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides valuable information on the keeping, breeding, and rearing of North American Wood Turtles. It describes their appearance, habitat, feeding habits, and mating system. The author shares personal experiences in caring for these turtles, including information on their husbandry and feeding. The article also includes data on the size and weight of Wood Turtles in various settings, which can be useful for researchers studying their biology and conservation. [Extracted from the article]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION Genetic breeding is essential to develop grapevine genotypes adapted to warm climates and resistant to pathogens. Traditionally cultivated Vitis vinifera is susceptible to biotic and abiotic stresses. Winemakers and consumers, however, perceive wines from non‐vinifera or hybrid cultivars as inferior. In this study, sensory analyses and comprehensive metabolite profiling by targeted and untargeted approaches were used to investigate the oenological potential of wines from grapes of genotypes developed throughout four breeding cycles to improve climate adaptation, sugar contents and berry color.Novel genotypes had higher yields and the wines exhibited increased contents of polyphenols, including anthocyanins. Volatile monoterpenes in the wines decreased throughout breeding cycles in the absence of selective pressure. Polyphenol contents were higher in intermediate wines, with hydroxytyrosol contents reaching up to three times reported values. Mouthfeel attributes astringency, leafy taste, flavor and body, and persistency showed significant correlation with untargeted features. Supervised model‐based analyses of the metabolome effectively discriminate wines from distinct genetic origins.Taken together, the results demonstrate the potential of novel grapevine genotypes to a more sustainable viticulture and quality wine production in warm climates. Comprehensive metabolite profiling of the wines reveals that genotype clustering is dependent on the chemical class and that traits not submitted to selective pressure are also altered by breeding. Supervised multivariate models were effective to predict the genetic origin of the wines based on the metabolic profile, indicating the potential of the technique to identify biomarkers for wines from sustainable genotypes. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complexity of the interaction between the necrotrophic pathogen Botrytis cinerea and grape berries (Vitis vinifera spp.) can result in the formation of either the preferred noble rot (NR) or the loss-making grey rot (GR), depending on the prevailing climatic conditions. In this study, we focus on the functional gene set of V. vinifera by performing multidimensional scaling followed by differential expression and enrichment analyses. The aim of this study is to identify the differences in gene expression between grape berries in the phases of grey rot, noble rot, and developing rot (DR, in its early stages) phases. The grapevine transcriptome at the NR phase was found to exhibit significant differences from that at the DR and GR stages, which displayed strong similarities. Similarly, several plant defence-related pathways, including plant-pathogen interactions as hypersensitive plant responses were found to be enriched. The results of the analyses identified a potential plant stress response pathway (SGT1 activated hypersensitive response) that was found to be upregulated in the GR berry but downregulated in the NR berry. The study revealed a decrease in defence-related in V. vinifera genes during the NR stages, with a high degree of variability in functions, particularly in enriched pathways. This indicates that the plant is not actively defending itself against Botrytis cinerea, which is otherwise present on its surface with high biomass. This discrepancy underscores the notion that during the NR phase, the grapevine and the pathogenic fungi interact in a state of equilibrium. Conversely the initial stages of botrytis infection manifest as a virulent fungus-plant interaction, irrespective of whether the outcome is grey or noble rot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavonoids play an important role in forming wine grapes and wine quality characteristics. The flavonoids of three winter red wine grapes, Yeniang No. 2 (YN2), Marselan (Mar), and Guipu No. 6 (GP6), were analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-QQQ-MS). Furthermore, the flavonoids in GP6 grapevines using two types of training systems, namely, trellis (T) and espaliers (E), were also compared in this study. Overall, 196 flavonoid metabolites, including 96 flavones, 38 flavonols, 19 flavanones, 18 polyphenols, 15 anthocyanins, 7 isoflavones, and 3 proanthocyanidins, were identified. The flavonoid profiles were remarkably different among these three grape varieties, while they did not change much in the GP6 managed on trellis and espaliers. Grape varieties with different genetic backgrounds have their own unique flavonoid profiles. Compared with Mar-T, isoflavones and flavonols presented higher contents in GP6-T and YN2-T, which mainly contain glycitein, genistin, calycosin, kaempferide, isotrifoliin, and ayanin. The anthocyanin content was significantly higher in YN2-T than in the other two varieties. YN2 and GP6-T present a more stable color, with significantly more acetylated diglucosides and methylated anthocyanins in YN2-T and GP6-T than in Mar-T. Notably, GP6 had more varied flavonoids and the better characteristics to its flavonoid profile out of these three varieties, due to it containing a higher number of anthocyanins, flavone, and flavonols and the greatest number of different flavonoid metabolites (DFMs), with higher contents than YN2 and Mar. Compared with the trellis training system, the espaliers training system increased the content of flavonoids detected in GP6 grape berries; however, the composition of flavonoids strictly depends on the grape variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural products received much attention as an environmentally beneficial solution for pest management. Therefore, the extracts of invasive silverleaf nightshade (Solanum elaeagnifolium Cav.) weeds using their berries parts (seeds, peels and mucilage) supported by bioassay-guided fractionation were tested against both the greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) and Erwinia carotovora pv. carotovora causes of the blackleg of potatoes. The seeds and peels of S. elaeagnifolium were successively extracted by maceration using dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), and ethanol (EtOH), respectively. While, its mucilage was extracted using EtOAc. The successive EtOH extract of the plant seeds had promising inhibition efficacy and the best minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) of 50 µg/ml against E. Carotovora amongst other extracts (DCM and EtOAc of the plant berries parts). Depending on dose response activity, EtOH extract had G. mellonella larval mortality and pupal duration rates (LC50; 198.30 and LC95; 1294.73 µg/ml), respectively. Additionally, this EtOH extract of seeds was fractionated using preparative TLC to three characteristic bands. The insecticidal and bacterial activities of these isolated bands (SEA, SEB, and SEC) were evaluated at a dose of 100 µg/ml, causing mortality by 48.48, 62.63 and 92.93% (G. mellonella larvae) and inhibition by 15.22, 0.00 and 31.66 mm (E. carotovora), respectively. Moreover, the separated major three bands were tentatively identified using LC-ESI-MS analysis revealing the presence of two phenolic acids; chlorogenic acid (SEA) and dicaffeoyl quinic acid (SEB) in addition to one steroidal saponin (SEC) annotated as borassoside E or yamoscin. Finally, the plant seeds' successive EtOH extract as well as its active constituents, exhibited potential broad-spectrum activity and the ability to participate in future pest management initiatives. A field study is also recommended to validate its bio-efficacy against selected pests and to develop its formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Natural pigments extracted from plant species are used in foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. This study evaluates the comprehensive biological activities of anthocyanins isolated from Andean blueberry (Vaccinium floribundum Kunth) and Andean blackberry (Rubus glaucus Benth), focusing on their antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumoral, anti-inflammatory, and hemolytic properties. Chemical characterization revealed significant anthocyanin content with complex mass spectrometric profiles indicating diverse glycosylation patterns that may influence their bioactivity. The antimicrobial assays showed that the extracts were particularly effective against Gram-positive bacteria, with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) as low as 1 mg/mL for Rubus glaucus, indicating strong potential for therapeutic use. The antioxidant capacity of the berries was substantial, albeit slightly lower than that of ascorbic acid. The extracts also exhibited notable antitumoral activity in various cancer cell lines, showing promise as adjunctive or preventive treatments. The anti-inflammatory effects were confirmed by inhibiting nitric oxide production in macrophage cells, highlighting their potential in managing inflammatory diseases. In terms of hemolytic activity, Rubus glaucus exhibited dose-dependent effects, potentially attributable to anthocyanins and phenolics, while Vaccinium floribundum demonstrated no significant hemolytic activity, underscoring its safety. These findings suggest that anthocyanins from Andean berries possess potent biological activities, which could be leveraged for health benefits in pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications. Further studies are needed to isolate specific bioactive compounds and investigate their synergistic effects in clinical and real-world contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Betaine is a useful compound that has various activities and is the marker compound of Lycium chinense fruit in Korean Pharmacopoeia. we seek to support the stable production of medicinal goji berries, which have significant potential in the pharmaceutical industry due to their high values, and to provide foundational data for consistent quality control. This study's purpose was to examine the correlation among betaine content, environmental variables, and the growth characteristics of L. chinense fruits. The fruits were collected from 25 cultivation sites across South Korea. We investigated five growth characteristics and betaine contents in L. chinense fruits and twelve soil physicochemical properties, and seven meteorological data at cultivation sites. The fruit's growth characteristics included a length of 15.62–26.49 mm, a width of 7.09–11.38 mm, a fresh weight of 0.73–1.62 g, and a sugar content of 11.10–19.62 Brix°. Its betaine content ranged from 0.54% to 0.97%. The betaine content was positively correlated with electrical conductivity (0.327 **), exchangeable potassium (0.314 **), and sodium (0.259 *) and negatively correlated with annual average minimum temperature (−0.256 *) and annual average temperature (−0.242 *). Also, betaine showed a positive correlation with the length of the fruit (0.294 *) and the fresh weight of the fruit (0.238 *). These results can be used to find the best cultivation method and to manage quality control for the highly economical L. chinense fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The co-application of N and Fe can improve wine grape composition and promote the formation of flavor compounds. To understand the effects of foliar co-application of N and Fe on wine grape quality and flavonoid content, urea and EDTA-FE were sprayed at three different developmental stages. Urea and EDTA-Fe were sprayed during the early stage of the expansion period, at the end of the early stage of the expansion period to the late stage of the veraison period, and during the late stage of the veraison period. The results demonstrated that the co-application of urea and EDTA-Fe, particularly N application during the late stage of the veraison period and Fe application during the early stage of the berry expansion period (N3Fe1), significantly improved grape quality. Specifically, the soluble solid content of berries increased by 2.78–19.13%, titratable acidity decreased by 6.67–18.84%, the sugar-acid ratio became more balanced, and yield increased by 13.08–40.71%. Further, there was a significant increase in the relative content of amino acids and flavonoids. In conclusion, the application of Fe and N fertilizers at the pre-expansion and late veraison stages of grapes can significantly improve the quality and yield of berries; ultimately, this establishes a foundation for future improvement in the nutritional value of grapes and wine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study evaluated the effect of powder fractionation based on particle size on the chemical composition of macronutrients such as proteins and sugars, on the phytochemical properties (total content of polyphenolic compounds, vitamin C, and antioxidant activity), on preservation capacity (water activity), powder functional properties (water absorption capacity and water solubility index), and physicochemical properties (particle size distribution and moisture content) of blackthorn berry (Prunus spinosa) powders. The fruits were separated from the plant material and seeds, dried, and then ground using an universal mill for dry materials. Eight fractions were obtained after sieving on sieves with different mesh sizes, such as 1 mm, 0.8 mm, 0.630 mm, 0.450 mm, 0.315 mm, 0.200 mm, and 0.125 mm. The grinding/sieving procedure was effective in separating Prunus spinosa powder into sufficiently different size classes. The maximal moisture content and water activity were 5.61% and 0.250, respectively, showed good preservation from a microbiological point of view, and ensured the prevention of oxidation of biologically active compounds of blackthorn berry powders. For samples with reduced particle sizes, the powder functional properties were greatly improved. The total phenolic content, carbohydrates, and antioxidant activity showed significantly different values for some particle size classes compared to the un-sieved sample. A considerable content of vitamin C was presented in the fraction with large particle sizes, precisely because they did not undergo intense degradation processes. Therefore, the technique of grinding and successive sieving proved effective in enhancing the physicochemical and functional characteristics of powdered blackthorn berries, particularly for smaller particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil is the basis of the existence of fruit tree and soil nutrients plays a crucial role in plant growth and berry quality. To investigate the characteristics and interrelationships between soil nutrients and berry quality in Cabernet Gernischet vineyards, this study focused on seven representative vineyards in the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountains. Fifteen soil physicochemical factors and 10 berry quality factors were measured, followed by variation analysis, correlation analysis, multiple linear regression (MLR), partial-least squares regression (PLSR), principal component analysis (PCA), and systematic cluster analysis. We identified the main soil nutrient indicators influencing berry quality and developed linear regression equations. Utilizing PCA, a comprehensive evaluation model for berry quality was constructed, which enabled the calculation and ranking of integrated berry quality scores. The results indicated that soil nutrients in the vineyards of the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountains are relatively deficient and alkaline. The coefficient of variation for soil nutrient factors ranged from 3.19 to 118.08% and for berry quality factors 2.41-26.37%. Correlation analysis revealed varying degrees of correlation between soil nutrient indicators and fruit quality indicators. PCA extracted four principal components with a cumulative contribution rate of 91.506%. Based on the scores of these components and their corresponding weights, a comprehensive model for evaluating the quality of Cabernet Gernischet berries was established. The vineyards were ranked from the highest to the lowest combined scores as Zhenbeibu (ZBB), Yuquanying (YQY), Dawukou (DWK), Beihaizi (BHZ), Shuxin (SX), Huangyangtan (HYT), and Hongde (HD). These findings provide insights into soil nutrient management and comprehensive quality assessment of vineyards in the eastern foothills of the Helan Mountains. In conclusion, this study offers a theoretical foundation for vineyard managers to enhance grape berries quality through soil nutrient management. This will aid in the diagnosis of vineyard soil nutrition and the efficient use of fertilizers, with critical practical and theoretical implications for the meticulous management of vineyards and the production of high-quality wines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Societal Impact Statement Summary Dust seeds, which are minute and contain minimal energy reserves, are often associated with heterotrophy (plants that obtain carbon without photosynthesis). Consequently, previous studies have mainly focused on the relationships between dust seeds and heterotrophy. However, dust seeds are also found in green plants. This manuscript focuses on the seed ecology of the apparently autotrophic shrub Rhynchotechum discolor that produces dust seeds. Using time‐lapse photography, feeding experiments, and germination tests, we show that camel crickets effectively disperse the seeds of this autotrophic shrub. This is the first study to document insect‐mediated internal seed dispersal of an autotrophic plant in regions inhabited by terrestrial mammals, offering new insights into the evolutionary ecology of dust seeds. Although angiosperms exhibit a wide range of seed sizes, the mechanisms driving these differences are poorly understood. The evolution of dust seeds, which contain minimal energy reserves, is traditionally linked to heterotrophy, in which external carbon sources are provided to the embryo or seedling. Dispersal by small animals may be another important but underexplored evolutionary driver of minute seed size. However, insect endozoochory has been documented only in the seeds of heterotrophic species and autotrophic species in New Zealand (i.e., in communities without native terrestrial mammals). Here, we investigate this seed dispersal mechanism in the Japanese shrub Rhynchotechum discolor (Gesneriaceae), which produces white berries with numerous tiny ellipsoid seeds, using time‐lapse photography, feeding experiments, and germination tests, particularly focusing on potential interactions with insect internal seed dispersers. Our time‐lapse photography indicated that camel crickets predominantly feed on fallen fruits of R. discolor. Field sampling revealed that camel crickets excreted numerous intact R. discolor seeds. Feeding experiments confirmed that some camel crickets excreted a high proportion of intact seeds, many of which successfully germinated into autotrophic seedlings. The present study provides the first evidence of insects acting as endozoochorous seed dispersers in fully autotrophic plants within regions inhabited by terrestrial mammals. Our findings suggest that orthopteran‐mediated seed dispersal is more widespread than previously thought, and that dust seeds can evolve from selective pressures beyond heterotrophy, specifically through insect‐mediated seed dispersal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Here we present the palynological composition of a single sample of the elusive purple honey collected in southern North Carolina and discuss how it fits within a nearby statewide South Carolina melissopalynological study. 302 samples were collected by nineteen beekeepers participating in this year-long project, submitting honey samples while honeybees were actively collecting nectar. The absence of pollen of Pueraria (kudzu) in the purple honey dismisses the often-suggested link between the unique tint of the purple honey and kudzu's purple pollen. A second hypothesis hinting that the tint could be linked to ripened berries is not reinforced by our investigation as pollen of Ericaceae (eg blueberries) and Rosaceae (eg blackberries) were not found in the purple honey sample but were commonly found in classic golden honey analyzed. The presence of Vitis pollen supports the possibility that bees forage on wild muscadine grapes (Vitis rotundifolia) which was available in the foraging area. This study cannot discredit the possibility that bees were foraging on berry juices or other sugar sources containing purple pigments because these sources contain little or no pollen. A third hypothesis proposes a link between purple honey and the sourwood tree, Oxydendrum arboretum. This hypothesis is supported by this investigation as the dominant pollen type recovered in the purple honey was sourwood, with 19% in relative abundance, a significant percentage for this plant. We suggest chemical analysis of purple honey samples be conducted to determine if berry juice or sourwood is the more likely source of the pigmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schinus terebinthifolius is a medicinal plant with biological in vitro activity against clinically relevant parasites such as Leishmania amazonensis and L. chagasi. Considering its antiparasitic activity, this work aimed to investigate the in vitro effects of S. terebinthifolius fractions against P. falciparum using SYBR fluorescence tests, its cytotoxicity towards monkey kidney cells and efficacy against malaria in a murine model of P. berghei infection. For the first time, screening results with several extracts and fractions are reported herein. Five out of 16 fractions obtained from leaves, flowers, unripe and ripe berries with dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and butanol solvents used in plant extraction were active against P. falciparum. Two ethyl acetate fractions with no cytotoxicity in vitro presenting selectivity indexes of ≥111 and ≥167 exhibited no antimalarial activity in mice at 500 mg/kg. Preliminary LCMS analysis of the ethyl acetate subfractions showed antiplasmodial effect in vitro with high specific index suggesting that such activity is related to polyphenolics in the fractions, mainly flavonoids. Additional studies should be undertaken to identify the compound(s) with anti-malaria activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sour rot (SR) is a disease complex that affects grape berries during ripening and can cause severe yield losses and deterioration of wine quality. The etiology and epidemiology of the disease remain uncertain, which has severely limited the development of specific, targeted management strategies. In this study, a network meta-analysis was applied to data collected through a previous systematic literature review for statistically comparing the efficacy of different methods for the control of SR and some filamentous fungi isolated from rotten berries. Use of either synthetic fungicides (CHEM) and natural compounds or biocontrol microorganisms (BIO) provided partial and variable control of SR; however, the efficacy of BIO was similar to, or higher than, that provided by CHEM. Agronomic practices (AGRO) had a significant but lower effect on SR. The integration of different control methods (IPM) provided better and less variable disease control than any single method. Natural compounds, such as zeolites and bicarbonates, and microorganisms (e.g., yeasts Candida and Aureobasidium) are also promising alternatives to synthetic fungicides in SR control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Given the growing popularity of plant‐based diets, this study investigated the dietary habits and self‐reported health outcomes of health‐conscious adults consuming plant‐based diets. Methods: A cross‐sectional online survey (n = 315) was distributed to members of Plant‐Based Health Professionals UK, a community interest company. Dietary intake was assessed through a food frequency questionnaire. Data were summarised descriptively. Dietary habits among respondents following a whole food plant‐based (WFPB) and vegan diet were compared using hypothesis tests. Results: Respondents reported following a WFPB (61%), vegan (28%) and semi plant‐based (11%) diet. Median time on current dietary pattern was 5 years. Daily or more frequent consumption was reported for the following foods: fruits 77%, berries 51%, green vegetables 48%, cruciferous vegetables 45%, other vegetables 64%, beans/legumes 41%, whole grains 62%, nuts and all seeds 63%. Consumption of ultra‐processed foods and plant‐based meat alternatives was low. About 93% of those on a WFPB or vegan diet supplemented with vitamin B12 and 61% with vitamin D. The median body mass index was 22.4 kg/m2. Fifty per cent of participants reported weight loss after adopting a plant‐based diet, with a median loss of 6.4 kg. Thirty‐five per cent reported reversing or improving an underlying health condition, and 15% were able to stop or reduce prescribed medication use as a result of dietary changes. Conclusions: This study suggests that a well‐planned plant‐based diet is achievable and sustainable in a community setting and can be associated with health benefits. How to best encourage such sustainable diets among the broad population requires further research. Key points: Dietary intakes were consistent with a high‐quality diet, with a variety of whole plant foods consumed and minimal ultraprocessed foods, refined grains, sugar‐sweetened beverages and meat alternatives.Whole food plant‐based (WFPB) participants followed, on average, healthier diets than vegan participants and engaged in more physical activity.In this plant‐based population, there were indicators of favourable health outcomes such as low body mass index (BMI) and low levels of common chronic conditions.Participants reported improvements in a range of health conditions and a reduction in medication as a result of adopting plant‐based diets, with some requiring further research.This study suggests that a well‐planned plant‐based diet is achievable and sustainable in a community setting and can be associated with health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium is an essential mineral for both humans and animals. Around 0.5-1 billion individuals globally suffer from selenium deficiency, which can result in a range of illnesses. Hence, the cultivation of selenium-enriched agricultural items can serve as a potent strategy to mitigate selenium deficiency. This study aimed to examine the effect of selenium on the quality, and phytochemical and mineral content of red currant (Red Lake) and jostaberry. The study was conducted in 2022 and 2023. Different doses of selenium (0, 4, and 8 mg·kg-1) were sprayed on the fruits three times with 10-days intervals starting from the first formation of the fruits after flowering. Upon completion of the study, various factors were assessed including cluster and berry properties, water-soluble dry matter content, pH levels, titratable acid content, ascorbic acid levels, antioxidant activity, and total phenolics content. The mineral composition of the fruit peel, pulp, and seed was also measured. In jostaberry, the highest values of cluster weight, cluster height, and 100-berry weight were obtained with 8 mg·kg-1 selenium application. As the selenium dosage increased, the levels of ascorbic acid, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content increased, with the highest values determined to be 0.063 mg·mL-1, 63.23% DPPH, and 3752.22 mg·g-1, respectively, at 8 mg·kg-1. In the Red Lake variety, it has been determined that the 4 mg·kg-1 dose is effective in terms of cluster weight, cluster width, and cluster height attributes. The highest values for ascorbic acid, antioxidant activity, and total phenolic content were determined to be 0.029 mg·mL-1, 53.42% DPPH, and 3117.17 mg·g-1, respectively, at the 4 mg·kg-1 dose. The selenium content was found to be highest in the peel and pulp of jostaberry at 8 mg·kg-1, and in Red Lake, it was obtained at the 4 mg·kg-1 application. As a result, an 8 mg·kg-1 dose of selenium could be recommended for jostaberry, and a 4 mg·kg-1 dose could be recommended for Red Lake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have shown outstanding potential for new devices based on their interesting electrical properties beyond conventional 3D materials. In recent years, new concepts such as the valley degree of freedom have been studied to develop valleytronics in hexagonal lattice 2D materials. We investigated the valley degree of freedom of GaX and Janus GaXY (X, Y = S, Se, Te). By considering the spin–orbit coupling (SOC) effect in the band structure calculations, we identified the Rashba-type spin splitting in band structures of Janus Ga2SSe and Ga2STe. Further, we confirmed that the Zeeman-type spin splitting at the K and K' valleys of GaX and Janus Ga2XY show opposite spin contributions. We also calculated the Berry curvatures of GaX and Janus GaXY. In this study, we find that GaX and Janus Ga2XY have a similar magnitude of Berry curvatures, while having opposite signs at the K and K' points. In particular, GaTe and Ga2SeTe have relatively larger Berry curvatures of about 3.98 Å2 and 3.41 Å2, respectively, than other GaX and Janus Ga2XY. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, the production and demand of berries in the world have gradually increased, but the infection of fungal pathogens has become one of the important factors restricting the production and sales of fresh berries. It has been found that Alternaria can cause a variety of plant diseases and fruit rot worldwide. This review introduces the effect of Alternaria infection on berry quality, including physical, chemical and physiological aspects, and discusses the possible infection mechanisms. In addition, Alternaria produces toxins during infections and seriously threatens the safety of berries and consumer health. Therefore, the prevention and control measures of Alternaria are systematically summarized. This review provides the basis for further optimization of postharvest preservation technology and fruit quality, to prolong the shelf life of berries. We can realistically expect to control plant diseases with increasing efficiency, which is conducive to improving the quality and safety of postharvest berry fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding the physical and phytochemical characteristics of grape cultivars across different berry development stages is crucial for optimizing grape production and quality in the agricultural and viticultural industries. The study, therefore, investigated the physical characteristics and phytochemical composition of 'Italia' and 'Bronx Seedless' grape cultivars harvested across six distinct periods. In grape cultivars displayed an intriguing journey in terms of resveratrol, ranging from 5.96 mg/kg in Period I to 11.59 mg/kg in Period VI. These vital compounds known for contributing to grape color and potential health benefits showed substantial variation across the grape cultivars and harvest periods. In addition, significant variations in phytochemical compositions were observed between 'Italia' and 'Bronx Seedless' grape cultivars, with 'Italia' generally exhibiting higher concentrations of key compounds such as resveratrol, pterostilbene, anthocyanidins, and flavonoids. The longitudinal analysis across six berry developmental periods highlighted a progressive increase in the concentrations of these phytochemicals in cultivar, indicating a dynamic evolution of grape biochemistry over time. Particularly, delphinidin-3-O-glycoside, cyanidin-3-O-glycoside, and petunidin-3-O-glycoside showed marked increases, indicating significant growth in anthocyanin content from Period I to Period VI. Utilizing PCA biplots and a hierarchical clustering heatmap, the study visually represented the relationships and variances among various phytochemical components. The insights revealed how certain compounds clustered together, suggesting similarities and dissimilarities. The positioning of compounds on these plots indicated their significance in characterizing grape cultivars and their maturation over time. In summary, the data underlined the strong influence of berry development time on phytochemical composition, emphasizing the importance of strategic grape harvesting to attain desired phytochemical profiles for wine or other grape products. The findings provide valuable insights for grape growers, winemakers, and researchers aiming to exploit the full potential of these compounds in grape-based products and for those interested in understanding the dynamics of grape phytochemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers are exploiting natural food sources to fight against various diseases. Traditionally, numerous medicinal products have been derived from natural food compounds with therapeutic properties. As a natural food source, berries and their bioactive components have a pivotal role in gastrointestinal (GI) health. Among others, polyphenols are responsible for many of the beneficial properties attributed to berries. Purposely, this review is aimed to summarize the recent literature regarding the impact of berries-derived polyphenols on gut microbiota, gut motility, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), colon cancer, and overall intestinal health. Moreover, efforts have been made to identify the knowledge gaps for future work. Overall, the data suggest that phenolic compounds aid in the improvement of gastric health. Anthocyanins and phenolic acids are successful in reducing metabolic changes and inflammation by inhibiting inflammatory factors. Owing to their fiber content and antioxidant potential, berries are considered a functional remedy to minimize the risks of GI disorders. Additionally, berries support the growth of beneficial bacteria, easing several GI disorders. Yet, the evidence regarding gut motility and IBS is not conclusive. To better understand the mechanisms and their potential in preventing and managing GI problems, further interventions are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Menopause is a critical stage in a woman's life in which cardiometabolic alterations appear, such as insulin resistance or a predisposition to visceral fat deposits, leading to an increased risk of cardiometabolic diseases (R-CMBs). New strategies to reduce the R-CMBs in postmenopausal women using natural compounds without adverse effects are desirable. In this sense, plant-based diets rich in fruits and vegetables could play a fundamental role due to the high content of bioactive compounds found in these diets, such as (poly)phenols, known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and vasodilator properties. The aim of this research was to carry out a dietary trial to evaluate the effect of the daily intake of different (poly)phenol-rich foods (PP-rich foods) for 2 months on the modulation of the main cardiometabolic risk biomarkers of postmenopausal women. The results showed a slight improvement in blood pressure (BP), lipid profile and oxidative stress, endothelial function and inflammatory biomarkers. These findings suggest that daily consumption of PP-rich foods alleviated the R-CMBs of postmenopausal women by reducing the oxidative stress and, thus, the risk of cardiovascular events; however, the magnitude of the cardioprotective effect of (poly)phenols depends on inter-individual variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thanks to several Vitis vinifera backcrosses with an initial V. vinifera L. × V. rotundifolia (previously Muscadinia rotundifolia) interspecific cross, the MrRUN1/MrRPV1 locus (resistance to downy and powdery mildews) was introgressed in genotypes phenotypically close to V. vinifera varieties. To check the consequences of introgressing parts of the V. rotundifolia genome on gene expression during fruit development, we conducted a comparative RNA-seq study on single berries from different V. vinifera cultivars and V. vinifera × V. rotundifolia hybrids, including 'G5' and two derivative microvine lines, 'MV102' (resistant) and 'MV32' (susceptible) segregating for the MrRUN1/RPV1 locus. RNA-Seq profiles were analyzed on a comprehensive set of single berries from the end of the herbaceous plateau to the ripe stage. Pair-end reads were aligned both on V. vinifera PN40024.V4 reference genome, V. rotundifolia cv 'Trayshed' and cv 'Carlos', and to the few resistance genes from the original V. rotundifolia cv '52' parent available at NCBI. Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) led to classifying the differentially expressed genes into 15 modules either preferentially correlated with resistance or berry phenology and composition. Resistance positively correlated transcripts predominantly mapped on the 4–5 Mb distal region of V. rotundifolia chromosome 12 beginning with the MrRUN1/MrRPV1 locus, while the negatively correlated ones mapped on the orthologous V. vinifera region, showing this large extremity of LG12 remained recalcitrant to internal recombination during the successive backcrosses. Some constitutively expressed V. rotundifolia genes were also observed at lower densities outside this region. Genes overexpressed in developing berries from resistant accessions, either introgressed from V. rotundifolia or triggered by these in the vinifera genome, spanned various functional groups, encompassing calcium signal transduction, hormone signaling, transcription factors, plant–pathogen-associated interactions, disease resistance proteins, ROS and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. This transcriptomic insight provides a foundation for understanding the disease resistance inherent in these hybrid cultivars and suggests a constitutive expression of NIR NBS LRR triggering calcium signaling. Moreover, these results illustrate the magnitude of transcriptomic changes caused by the introgressed V. rotundifolia background in backcrossed hybrids, on a large number of functions largely exceeding the ones constitutively expressed in single resistant gene transformants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Eugenia calycina and Eugenia stigmatosa, native Brazilian berries, were explored regarding their proximal composition, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities. The edible parts of both fruits presented a low content of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates, resulting in a low caloric value (<70 kcal/100 g fw). E. stigmatosa fruit showed a high total fiber content (3.26 g/100 g fw), qualifying it as a source of dietary fiber. The sugar profile was mainly monosaccharides (glucose, fructose, and rhamnose). Significant contents of total phenolics and flavonoids, monomeric anthocyanins and, condensed tannins, were observed in both fruits. E. calycina contains a high level of anthocyanins, primarily cyanidin-3-glucoside (242.97 µg/g). Other phenolic compounds were also found, the main ones being rutin and ellagic acid. In contrast, E. stigmatosa is mainly composed of rutin and gallic acid. Furthermore, these fruits showed expressive antioxidant activity, evidenced by ORAC, FRAP, and ABTS. These Eugenia fruits are promising sources of bioactive compounds and have a low caloric and high dietary fiber content, making them interesting options for inclusion in a balanced diet, contributing to the promotion of health and the valorization and conservation of Brazilian biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study uses a modified electrode made of Molecularly Imprinted Polymers (MIPs) and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) to provide a unique method for the extraction and electrochemical detection of cyanidin in berry fruits. The special pairing of MIPs with MWCNTs improves the sensors' sensitivity and selectivity, allowing for accurate cyanidin detection and quantification. The electropolymerization procedure was used to create the electrode, and TEM, XRD, and Raman studies were used to confirm its structure. Using Differential Pulse Voltammetry (DPV), the electrochemical response of the MIP/MWCNTs/GCE sensor was investigated. With a detection limit of 0.14 mg/mL, the sensor showed a linear range of 0.5 mg/mL to 242 mg/mL, demonstrating good sensitivity and adaptability. Real samples (berry fruits, human urine, and tap water) were used to further validate the sensor's performance, and the results revealed a strong correlation with the UPLC technique. The DPV approach showed excellent accuracy and suitability with low relative standard deviation values (less than 4.66%) and adequate recovery values (97.00–99.50%). Excellent selectivity, repeatability, and stability characterize the suggested MIP/MWCNTs/GCE sensor, which makes it a viable instrument for real-world uses in the food and environmental industries. This work advances the field by offering a more selective and sensitive way to identify cyanidin in berry fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berries are nutritious and valuable, but their thin skin, soft flesh, and fragility make harvesting and picking challenging. Manual and traditional mechanical harvesting methods are commonly used, but they are costly in labor and can damage the fruit. To overcome these challenges, it may be worth exploring alternative harvesting methods. Using berry fruit-picking robots with perception technology is a viable option to improve the efficiency of berry harvesting. This review presents an overview of the mechanisms of berry fruit-picking robots, encompassing their underlying principles, the mechanics of picking and grasping, and an examination of their structural design. The importance of perception technology during the picking process is highlighted. Then, several perception techniques commonly used by berry fruit-picking robots are described, including visual perception, tactile perception, distance measurement, and switching sensors. The methods of these four perceptual techniques used by berry-picking robots are described, and their advantages and disadvantages are analyzed. In addition, the technical characteristics of perception technologies in practical applications are analyzed and summarized, and several advanced applications of berry fruit-picking robots are presented. Finally, the challenges that perception technologies need to overcome and the prospects for overcoming these challenges are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Spring frost damage is a common phenomenon that occurs in Southern Chile that considerably affects vine productivity and grape quality. (2) Methods: A field trial was conducted in order to study vine phenology and berry physicochemical parameters in Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir ungrafted and grafted (onto 101-14 Mgt rootstock) grapevines after a spring frost. This event killed the totality of primary bud shoots when the vines reached the phenological stage of unfolded leaves. (3) Results: From budburst, to flowering of secondary bud shoots, ungrafted Sauvignon Blanc grapevines presented an advanced phenology, whereas 101-14 Mgt rootstock tended to advance the maturity of Pinot Noir grapevines from flowering to ripening of berries. At harvest, berries from secondary buds of vines grafted onto 101-14 Mgt rootstock showed higher soluble solids than the ones from ungrafted Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc vines. High total phenolic content was found in berries from secondary buds of the grafted vines, compared to the ones from the ungrafted vines. Berry soluble solids variability tended to statistically decrease toward harvest in the studied plant materials, and the maximum coefficient of variation for soluble solids, berry weight, berry firmness and berry size reached 9.5%, 25.9%, 18.6% and 8.9%, respectively. (4) Conclusions: These preliminary results may be interesting for the Southern Chilean viticulturists since it seems that 101-14 Mgt rootstock could affect phenology and grape berry maturity of grapevines established in the Cautín Valley after spring frost damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article introduces the Special Issue on horticulture, which explores how genetic and environmental factors influence small fruit production and quality amid rapid changes in the industry. Topics include the impact of new technologies such as genome sequencing and automation on horticulture, the effects of genetic and environmental conditions on berry quality, and the role of soil management practices and advanced measurement tools in optimizing fruit production.

The incidence of common gynecological malignancies remains high, with current treatments facing multiple limitations and adverse effects. Thus, continuing the search for safe and effective oncologic treatment strategies continues. Resveratrol (RES), a natural non-flavonoid polyphenolic compound, is widely found in various plants and fruits, such as grapes, Reynoutria japonica Houtt., peanuts, and berries. RES possesses diverse biological properties, including neuroprotective, antitumor, anti-inflammatory, and osteoporosis inhibition effects. Notably, RES is broadly applicable in antitumor therapy, particularly for treating gynecological tumors (cervical, endometrial, and ovarian carcinomas). RES exerts antitumor effects by promoting tumor cell apoptosis, inhibiting cell proliferation, invasion, and metastasis, regulating tumor cell autophagy, and enhancing the efficacy of antitumor drugs while minimizing their toxic side effects. However, comprehensive reviews on the role of RES in combating gynecological tumors and its mechanisms of action are lacking. This review aims to fill this gap by examining the RES antitumor mechanisms of action in gynecological tumors, providing valuable insights for clinical treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents two methods for topological analysis of the complex Hermitian Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) model using the quantum geometric tensor: Berry phase and topological data analysis. We demonstrate how both methods can effectively generate topological phase diagrams for the model, revealing two distinct regions based on the relative magnitudes of the parameters | v | and | w | . Specifically, when | v | > | w | , the system is found to be topologically trivial, whereas for | v | < | w | , it exhibits topologically non-trivial behavior. Our results contribute to building the groundwork for topological analysis of more complicated SSH-type models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of gall midge associated with the leaves of Leea indica (Burm.fil.) Merr. (Vitaceae) is described and illustrated. Two species of Lasioptera have been reported from the plant genus Leea so far and the present species is the third one, known to cause galls on the leaves of Leea indica. The type specimens are deposited in the National Zoological Collection, Zoological Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, Pune, India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractSalmonberry (Rubus spectabilis) and thimbleberry (Rubus nutkanus) are important native berry plants for Indigenous communities and restoration sites in the coastal region of British Columbia (BC). Compared to cultivated berry plants, information on the diseases impacting native berry plant species is limited. In late August 2022, powdery mildew symptoms and signs were observed on field plots of salmonberry and thimbleberry plants at the Agassiz Research and Development Centre, BC. The disease symptoms progressed until the end of September. The morphology of conidiophores and conidia when examined under a compound and scanning electron microscope showed they matched with those of Podosphaera aphanis. DNA from diseased foliage was subjected to PCR amplification with primers representing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region of rDNA followed by sequencing. The corresponding sequences from both hosts showed >99% similarity to P. aphanis in GenBank and grouped with several accessions of P. aphanis following phylogenetic analysis. In artificially inoculated trials conducted in the greenhouse, powdery mildew symptoms developed within 3−4 weeks post-inoculation and P. aphanis isolates from salmonberry and thimbleberry were cross-pathogenic to each host. To our knowledge, this is the first study characterizing the powdery mildew pathogen infecting salmonberry and thimbleberry and demonstrating cross-pathogenicity to both hosts. The outcomes from this study provide insight into the biology of the powdery mildew pathogen infecting native Rubus spp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is crucial for winegrowers to make informed decisions about the optimum time to harvest the grapes to ensure the production of premium wines. Global warming contributes to decreasing acidity and increasing sugar levels in grapes, resulting in bland wines with high contents of alcohol. Predicting quality in viticulture is thus pivotal. To assess the average ripeness, typically a sample of one hundred berries representative for the entire vineyard is collected. However, this process, along with the subsequent detailed must analysis, is time consuming and expensive. This study focusses on predicting essential quality parameters like sugar and acid content in Vitis vinifera (L.) varieties 'Chardonnay', 'Riesling', 'Dornfelder', and 'Pinot Noir'. A small near-infrared spectrometer was used measuring non-destructively in the wavelength range from 1 100 nm to 1 350 nm while the reference contents were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. Chemometric models were developed employing partial least squares regression and using spectra of all four grapevine varieties, spectra gained from berries of the same colour, or from the individual varieties. The models exhibited high accuracy in predicting main quality-determining parameters in independent test sets. On average, the model regression coefficients exceeded 93% for the sugars fructose and glucose, 86% for malic acid, and 73% for tartaric acid. Using these models, prediction accuracies revealed the ability to forecast individual sugar contents within an range of ± 6.97 g/L to ± 10.08 g/L, and malic acid within ± 2.01 g/L to ± 3.69 g/L. This approach indicates the potential to develop robust models by incorporating spectra from diverse grape varieties and berries of different colours. Such insight is crucial for the potential widespread adoption of a handheld near-infrared sensor, possibly integrated into devices used in everyday life, like smartphones. A server-side and cloud-based solution for pre-processing and modelling could thus avoid pitfalls of using near-infrared sensors on unknown varieties and in diverse wine-producing regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sour rot (SR) is one of the major diseases affecting grapevine berries, causing severe yield losses and deterioration of wine quality. SR is caused by an etiologic complex of microorganisms, including yeasts, bacteria, and filamentous fungi. This systematic review focuses on the etiology, epidemiology, and control of SR. A total of 74 papers published between 1986 and 2023 were assessed in this review. Description of disease symptoms was quite consistent across the papers, including oxidation of the grape skin, disaggregation of the internal tissues, and detachment of the rotten berries from the pedicel. The affected bunches are characterized by the smell of acetic acid and ethyl acetate that attracts fruit flies (Drosophila spp.). However, several knowledge gaps and/or inconsistencies were identified with respect to SR etiology, epidemiology, and control. Overall, 146 microorganisms were isolated from the affected berries (44.5% yeasts, 34.3% bacteria, and 21.2% filamentous fungi); however, the selected papers could not definitively clarify which species are primarily involved in the etiology of the disease. A general inconsistency was also observed in the methods used to assess the incidence and severity of SR in vineyards, making inter-study comparisons extremely challenging. Inconsistencies were also found in the methods used for pathogenicity assessment in artificial inoculation studies. Furthermore, gaps were detected in terms of SR epidemiology, with a focus on environmental conditions affecting the disease development. The SR management options are limited, and efficacy trials often result in poor, variable, and inconsistent levels of control, which might be attributed to the lack of knowledge on disease epidemiology. These knowledge gaps and inconsistencies were analyzed in this review to inform future research activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycium ruthenicum Murray (LR), known as "black goji berry" or "black wolfberry", is widely utilized in chinese herbal medicine. LR fruit showed its antioxidant and/or anti-inflammation activity in treating cardiac injury, experimental colitis, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, fatigue, and aging. Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness. Besides elevated intraocular pressure (IOP), oxidative stress and neuroinflammation were recognized to contribute to the pathogenesis of glaucoma. This study investigated the treatment effects of LR water extract (LRE) on retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) threatened by sustained IOP elevation in a laser-induced chronic ocular hypertension (COH) mouse model and the DBA/2J mouse strain. The antioxidation and anti-inflammation effects of LRE were further tested in the H2O2-challenged immortalized microglial (IMG) cell line in vitro. LRE oral feeding (2 g/kg) preserved the function of RGCs and promoted their survival in both models mimicking glaucoma. LRE decreased 8-hydroxyguanosine (oxidative stress marker) expression in the retina. LRE reduced the number of Iba-1+ microglia in the retina of COH mice, but not in the DBA/2J mice. At the mRNA level, LRE reversed the COH induced HO-1 and SOD-2 overexpressions in the retina of COH mice. Further in vitro study demonstrated that LRE pretreatment to IMG cells could significantly reduce H2O2 induced oxidative stress through upregulation of GPX-4, Prdx-5, HO-1, and SOD-2. Our work demonstrated that daily oral intake of LRE can be used as a preventative/treatment agent to protect RGCs under high IOP stress probably through reducing oxidative stress and inhibiting microglial activation in the retina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The well-established anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of red fruits leave room for a biological pathway of improved muscle health promoted by berries in the diet. Our objective was to systematically review the number of trials conducted on human and animal species around the relationship between a berry diet and muscle health outcomes. Two independent examiners conducted a search for studies that utilized keywords associated with muscle health outcomes and a berry-based diet in both human and animal trials, in accordance with the PRISMA statement guidelines. The literature was searched through six electronic databases until December 2023. Screening of 152 retrieved articles resulted in a final selection of 16 reports investigating the effect of exposure to a berry-based diet and skeletal muscle health outcomes. The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42023479682). Among the selected studies, nine involved humans and seven animal models (rats and mice). Overall, most of the studies reported positive effects on performance or muscle health. Specifically, five studies investigated the possible effects of blackcurrant on active human subjects or athletes; three studies focused on blueberry and presented results on running performance (human sample) and muscle health (rat models). The rest of the studies involved raspberries (two studies, rat models), aronia (one study, rat models), elderberry (one study, rat models), and a mixed compound (one study, rat models). In conclusion, there is some early evidence that a berry-rich diet may increase performance or muscle health, but more research is needed to fully understand the underlying biological trajectories, and thus, no firm conclusions can yet be drawn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the differences between mulberry wine and mulberry fruit in terms of the phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds in mulberry fruit, dry wine and liqueur were performed with HPLC-ESI-MS/MS. It was found that, anthocyanin-3-glucoside and anthocyanin-3-rutinoside were detected in mulberry fruit, dry wine and liqueur. Pelargonidin-3-rutinoside and 4-pyruvate-anthocyanidin-3-glucoside were detected only in mulberry dry wine and liqueur. The content of anthocyanin-3-glucoside and anthocyanin-3-rutinoside in both mulberry dry wine and mulberry liqueur was significantly lower than that in mulberry fruit. In addition, of the eight non-anthocyanidin phenolic compounds identified in mulberry fruit, only four were present in dry wine and liqueur. Compared to the mulberry fruit, mulberry dry wine and liqueur showed significantly higher contents of protocatechin, taxfolin and quercetin. The DPPH free radical scavenging activity of mulberry fruit was between mulberry dry wine and liqueur. In conclusion, there are significant differences between phenolic compounds and antioxidant activities in mulberry fruit and mulberry wine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND RESULTS CONCLUSION To extract anthocyanins with high efficiency, a hypothesis for high‐speed shear homogenization extraction (HSHE) method was established through a combination of solvent and ultrasonic‐assisted extractions. The efficacy of this hypothesis was demonstrated by performing qualitative and quantitative analyses of 16 anthocyanins extracted from five northern vegetables, and five berry fruits using ultra‐high‐performance Q‐Exactive Orbitrap tandem mass spectrometry. Single‐factor experiments were conducted by varying ethanol concentration, temperature, pH and extraction cycles to determine the optimal conditions for this method.Optimal extraction conditions (ethanol 70–80%, 40–50 °C, pH 3–4, performed twice) were determined using an HSHE (5 min, 10 000 rpm, 25 °C) assisted shaker (60 min) and ultrasonication (40 kHz, 160 W cm−2, 30 min, 25 °C) procedure. Compared to the traditional non‐HSHE method, the total anthocyanin content obtained through HSHE extraction showed a significant increase, ranging from 1.0 to 3.9 times higher, with purple cabbage exhibiting the most pronounced enhancement in content. More types of anthocyanins were detected in blueberry (9), black bean (7) and raspberry (5), of which malvidin was the major anthocyanin (0.426 g kg−1) in blueberry, having an amount five times than previously obtained.The established HSHE method has been proven to be a superior technique for anthocyanin extraction, with higher extraction efficiency and concentrations. This technique also provides a new avenue for extracting bioactive compounds from diverse food sources, with potential applications in improving the functional properties of food products. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of berries, one of which is the blueberry, is a topic that has become relevant over time, due to the increase in the popularity of this strawberry. Every day, its use extends to more markets; The fact that their production requires specific geographical conditions and care restricts their supply on the international market. It is noteworthy that Michoacán has the appropriate characteristics for planting and harvesting. Therefore, the objective of this work is to determine the profitability and comparative advantage of Mexican blueberry production in Michoacán for the year 2023 through the Policy Analysis Matrix (MAP). A limitation of the work is the selected period of time, which in this case corresponds to the year 2023. Among the main conclusions, it stands out that with a value of 0.73 and another of 0.41, it can be deduced that blueberry production is a competitive activity and with an advantage for Michoacan producers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Grape is widely consumed all over the world for its rich nutritious and health‐promoting effects. While grape berries are prone to quality deterioration after harvest. This study aimed to investigate the effect of eugenol treatment on the quality of grape berries based on the transcriptome. Harvested grape berries were treated with eugenol, and then collected for nutrient component determination and transcriptomics analyses. As a results, treatment with eugenol enhanced the berries firmness, increased the contents of soluble sugars, organic acids and phenolic compounds, improved the antioxidant capacity, and altered gene expression levels of related pathways. Transcriptome analysis revealed 699 differentially expressed genes by 100 mmol L−1 eugenol‐treated berries. Among these DEGs, the transcriptional levels involved in the cell wall, sugar and acid metabolism, phenylpropane metabolism, antioxidant enzymes, and WRKY, MYB family transcription factors were significantly regulated. This study will help to promote the application of eugenol for quality improvements in grape berries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) pose a serious threat to human health and incidence is increasing gradually. Nutrition has an important impact on the prophylaxis and progression of CVD. In this article, general attention is drawn to the possible positive effects of berries on CVD. Polyphenols have beneficial effects on the vascular system by inhibiting low-density lipoprotein oxidation and platelet aggregation, lowering blood pressure, improving endothelial dysfunction, and attenuating antioxidant defense and inflammatory responses. This review provides an overview of the effects of berries for the prevention and treatment of CVDs. Berries contain several cardioprotective antioxidants, vitamins, and numerous phytochemicals, such as phenolic compounds, that have antioxidant properties and antiplatelet activity. Phytochemical compounds in their structures can modulate dissimilar signaling pathways related to cell survival, differentiation, and growth. Important health benefits of berries include their antioxidant roles and anti-inflammatory impacts on vascular function. The effectiveness and potential of polyphenols primarily depend on the amount of bioavailability and intake. Although circulating berry metabolites can improve vascular function, their biological activities, mechanisms of action, and in vivo interactions are still unknown. Analyzing human studies or experimental studies to evaluate the bioactivity of metabolites individually and together is essential to understanding the mechanisms by which these metabolites affect vascular function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional detergent formulations contain either petroleum‐derived or synthetic chemicals. Hence, the replacement of these chemicals with natural products such as enzymes is considered a green technology. Among these enzymes, protease is renowned in detergent formulations. Therefore, the objective of this study was to explore and characterize a new protease from Phytolacca dodecandra, because the plant is traditionally known for detergency purposes. Enzyme extraction was performed with Glycine/NaOH buffer, pH = 10.0. Gelatin hydrolysis and agar well diffusion tests were implemented as qualitative assays, whereas the enzyme assay technique was applied for the quantitative investigation of the new protease from plant extracts. The crude enzyme was partially characterized concerning temperature and pH tolerance, washing performance, detergent compatibility, and stability. The finding of this study revealed that Phytolacca dodecandra contains protease and is characterized by 1418.84 U/mL of enzyme activity, where 1 unit (U) of enzyme activity refers to the amount of enzyme required to liberate 1 μg of tyrosine/mL/min under the defined assay conditions. The enzyme showed maximum activity at pH 10.5 and 45°C. The enzyme was stable and maintained 99.52% activity at 40°C and 91.73% at pH 10.0 after 2 h pre‐incubation. The enzyme showed excellent wash performance and could potentially remove blood stains completely within 3 min. After 2 h of pre‐incubation the enzyme maintained 69.06% and 54.88% of its activity in the presence of Azzy and Sunlight, respectively. The enzyme maintained 71.99% of its residual activity after 60 days of storage. If further studies are conducted, all these properties of the newly investigated protease can make the enzyme applicable in detergent formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potassium (K) is essential for the development of grapevines (Vitis vinifera), accumulating into berries during maturation. Elevated K has been associated with high sugar and low acidity in juice. Characterising the accumulation patterns of K and other components in pericarps treated with various experimental factors may indicate potential regulators of berry K levels. A soil fertiliser trial using nutrient solutions with two K supply rates was conducted on potted Shiraz vines during berry ripening. Doubled-K supply increased L-malic acid content in the early-ripening phase, and increased K and magnesium concentrations in the late-ripening phase. Doubled-K supply reduced the ratio of K to sodium in later ripening phases, suggesting that the accumulation of K relative to sodium was limited in more mature berries supplied with extra K. Pericarp water percentage, sugar, K and ATP were correlated in both treatments, indicating links between hydration, solute transport and energy in maturing berries. In a separate rootstock trial over the two growing seasons, Shiraz scions grafted onto 420-A rootstock produced berries with lower K concentration and content than those grafted onto Ramsey or Ruggeri-140 rootstocks and own-rooted vines. This study demonstrated that the K supply and berry ripening phase impacted the berry K level. Increased potassium (K) concentration in grape (Vitis vinifera) berries is associated with loss of acidity and high sugar content in juice. This study demonstrated that the K supply to Shiraz and berry ripening phase could impact the berry attributes and chemical composition at harvest, associated with the linkages between water, sugar, K and ATP. From this study, we suggest that grape berry maturation and composition management may be beneficial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a list of references to scientific articles that discuss the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using plant extracts. The articles explore different plant sources and their effects on the synthesis and properties of the nanoparticles. The studies investigate the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities of the synthesized nanoparticles. The document also includes information on the potential applications of these nanoparticles in various fields, such as dermopharmaceuticals, food packaging, and nanotechnology. [Extracted from the article]