High Fruit Research Articles

Urinary Metabolite Profiles of Participants with Overweight and Obesity Prescribed a Weight Loss High Fruit and Vegetable Diet: A Single Arm Intervention Study

Background/Objectives: Thus far, no studies have examined the relationship between fruit and vegetable (F and V) intake, urinary metabolite quantities, and weight change. Therefore, the aim of the current study was to explore changes in urinary metabolomic profiles during and after a 10-week weight loss intervention where participants were prescribed a high F and V diet (7 servings daily). Methods: Adults with overweight and obesity (n = 34) received medical nutrition therapy counselling to increase their F and V intakes to national targets (7 servings a day). Data collection included weight, dietary intake, and urine samples at baseline at week 2 and week 10. Urinary metabolite profiles were quantified using 1H NMR spectroscopy. Machine learning statistical approaches were employed to identify novel urine-based metabolite biomarkers associated with high F and V diet patterns at weeks 2 and 10. Metabolic changes appearing in urine in response to diet were quantified using Metabolite Set Enrichment Analysis (MSEA). Results: Energy intake was significantly lower (p = 0.02) at week 10 compared with baseline. Total F and V intake was significantly higher at week 2 and week 10 (p < 0.05). In total, 123 urinary metabolites were quantified. At week 10, 21 metabolites showed significant changes relative to baseline. Of these, 11 metabolites also significantly changed at week 2. These overlapping metabolites were acetic acid, dimethylamine, choline, fumaric acid, glutamic acid, L-tyrosine, histidine, succinic acid, uracil, histamine, and 2-hydroxyglutarate. Ridge Classifier and Linear Discriminant Analysis provided best prediction accuracy values of 0.96 when metabolite level of baseline was compared to week 10. Conclusions: Urinary metabolites quantified represent potential candidate biomarkers of high F and V intake, associated with a reduction in energy intake. Further studies are needed to validate these findings in larger population studies.

Signaling pathways mediating the induction of preharvest fruit drop in litchi

Certain litchi varieties, such as “Nuomici”, are highly susceptible to preharvest fruit drop, which leads to significant losses in fruit yield and economic value. However, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying this issue are not yet fully understood. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the signaling pathways that facilitate preharvest fruit drop in litchi, using “Nuomici” and “Huaizhi” cultivars as examples, which demonstrate high and low preharvest fruit drop rates, respectively. Our findings revealed that “Nuomici” experienced a substantial preharvest fruit drop, with a cumulative rate of 41.68%, significantly higher than the 1.44% observed in “Huaizhi”. Cellulase activity assays showed a significant increase in cellulase activity in the abscission zone of “Nuomici”, which coincided with the occurrence of preharvest fruit drop, in contrast to the relatively low levels in “Huaizhi”. Phytohormone assays indicated lower indole-3-acetic acid content in the pericarp, aril, and seeds of “Nuomici” during the preharvest stage compared to “Huaizhi”, coupled with higher abscisic acid levels in the seeds of “Nuomici”. Furthermore, transcriptomic analysis identified 180, 282, 655, and 241 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the pericarp, aril, seed, and abscission zone, respectively, between the two cultivars during preharvest fruit drop. These DEGs are intricately involved in the generation and transmission of abscission signals from fruit tissues, encompassing PIN, PIN-LIKES, LAX, and SAUR genes related to polar auxin transport, ethylene diffusion, as well as perceiving these signals and activating the abscission process within the abscission zone. This includes ACO and ILR genes involved in hormone biosynthesis and signal transduction, regulation by WRKY, NAC, and bHLH transcription factors, AAO genes involved in response to reactive oxygen species, and EXP, EG, and PG genes involved in cell wall degradation in the abscission zone. Based on these comprehensive findings, we propose a model for preharvest fruit drop triggered by a series of molecular events in litchi, providing valuable insights into the complex mechanisms governing this phenomenon.

Components of High-Yielding Cotton Grown in Rain-Fed Conditions in the Brazilian Cerrado

Brazil leads globally in achieving high lint yields for rain-fed cotton in large-scale fields, with about 92% of its cotton area unirrigated. This study hypothesized that cotton could achieve high yields when favorable climate conditions and management practices favor high fruit load. The objective was to analyze the impact of these factors on cotton yields by examining two commercial fields in Brazil in the same climatic zone (Aw, Koppen)—one in Sapezal (SPZ) and the other in Riachão das Neves (RN). The SPZ field (cv. TMG 47B2RF) spanned 20 hectares, while the RN field (cv. FM 974GLT) covered 90 hectares. The soils of both fields were classified as oxisols, with SPZ possessing a clayey texture and RN a sandy loam texture. The findings indicate that the high lint cotton yields—3111 kg·ha⁻1 in SPZ and 3239 kg·ha⁻1 in RN—were achieved through a combination of ideal weather conditions, high-quality soil, and effective management practices, which favored boll retention, and an optimal plant architecture with short stature (<1.1 m), 19–22 nodes, and ~165 bolls m−2. Boll weights averaged 1.85–1.91 g of lint, and fruit retention rates were 61.6% in SPZ and 66.2% in RN. The study reveals a significant yield gap compared to Brazil’s average lint cotton yield (~1900 kg·ha⁻1) and other high-yield commercial fields (~3500–3900 kg·ha⁻1 of lint). The results underscore that bridging this gap—ranging from 1200 to 2000 kg·ha⁻1—could enhance the sustainability of cotton farming in Brazil by maximizing existing cultivated areas. Ultimately, the insights from this study highlight the role of combining climate suitability, management practices, and soil quality improvement to achieve higher cotton productivity and reduce environmental pressures from agricultural expansion.

Longitudinal associations between fruit and vegetable intakes and depressive symptoms in middle-aged and older adults from four international twin cohorts

Beneficial associations between higher fruit and vegetable intakes and risk of depression appear to exist but few studies have focused on adults aged 45 + years and the potential that associations are due to residual confounding has not been tested. This longitudinal study of twins (n = 3483, age 45–90 years) from Australia, Denmark, Sweden and USA, assessed the associations between baseline fruit/vegetable intake and depressive symptoms over 5–11 years using linear mixed effects models. Intakes from food frequency questionnaires were trichotomized. Depressive symptoms were assessed using validated measures. The co-twin method was used to examine familial confounding. Compared with low intakes, both high fruit and high vegetable intakes were associated with lower depressive symptoms (fruit: β -.007 [95%CI − .014, < − .001], p = .040; vegetables: β − .006 [95%CI -.011, -.002], p = .002); whereas only moderate vegetable intakes, were associated with lower depressive symptoms (vegetables: β − .005 [95%CI − .009, − .001], p = .014). No familial confounding was found for vegetables, while the results for fruit were inconclusive, likely due to smaller sample size and the marginal significance of the main result. Higher fruit and vegetable intakes may protect against depressive symptoms, presenting another argument for increasing intakes in adults aged 45 + years.

Physicochemical characteristics of sawo belanda (Pouteria Campechiana) flour with blanching process and drying techniques

Introduction: Sawo belanda fruit (Pouteria campechiana), a tropical fruit abundantly found in Southeast Asia, is highly productive and particularly thrives in the warm climates of Malaysia and Indonesia. However, the high fruit output of sawo belanda contrasts with its limited consumption in Indonesia. The process of converting sawo belanda into flour can significantly enhance its lifetime. The application of blanching methods and proper drying techniques can be a solution to avoid damage to the characteristics of the flour. This study aimed to determine the physicochemical characteristics of sawo belanda flour that has been treated with blanching and drying techniques. Methods: The parameters observed were moisture content (%), hygroscopicity (%), colour, antioxidant content (ppm), and carotenoid content (µg/g) with blanching and various drying techniques. Results: Microwave blanching and food dehydrator technique (C1) produced the best characteristics: moisture content of 7.82%, hygroscopicity of 8.04%, colour values of L* 84.0, a* 8.22, and b* 50.5, as well as functional characteristics including antioxidant content of 142 ppm and carotenoid content of 92.4 µg/g. Conclusion: Sawo belanda with C1 treatment had a significant impact on the water content, hygroscopicity, colour, antioxidant and total carotenoid contents of sawo belanda flour. The antioxidant content and incredibly high carotenoid content grant the sawo belanda flour an additional functional value when added to food ingredients.

A Metabolome Wide Association Study of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption and Associations with Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: The International Study of Macro-/Micronutrients and Blood Pressure (INTERMAP) Study

BackgroundEpidemiologic evidence linking blood pressure (BP) and body weight-lowering effects with fruit and vegetable consumption mostly relies on self-reported dietary assessment prone to misreport and under- or overestimation of relationships. We characterized objective 24-h urinary metabolites and a derived metabolite score associated with fruit and vegetable intake and assessed their associations with BP and BMI, with validation across cohorts. Objectives. MethodsWe used untargeted proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H NMR) of 2 timed repeated 24-h urine collections from free-living participants from the US (n = 2032) and the UK (n = 449) of the cross-sectional International Study of Macro-/Micronutrients and Blood Pressure (INTERMAP). We evaluated correlations between fruit and vegetable intake assessed by 24-h dietary recalls with 7100 1H NMR features, adjusted for confounders and multiple testing. We related identified metabolites and a metabolite score with BP and BMI using extensively adjusted multiple linear regression models. ResultsWe characterized 11 1H NMR-derived 24-h urinary metabolites related to fruit and vegetable intake, reproducible across multiple 24-h urine collections of both cohorts. Proline betaine, citrate, N-methylproline, scyllo-inositol, 2-hydroxy-2-(4-methyl cyclohex-3-en-1-yl) propoxyglucuronide, and proline were associated with fruit intake, specifically with Rutaceae intake, whereas S-methyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide and S-methyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide metabolite were associated with Brassicaceae intake. The metabolite score, explaining 39.8% of fruit and vegetable intake, was inversely associated with systolic BP [−1.65 mmHg; 95% confidence interval (CI): −2.68, −0.62; P < 0.002] and BMI (−1.21 kg/m2; 95% CI: −1.62, −0.78; P < 0.0001). These associations were, to a large extent, explained by urinary citrate excretion. ConclusionsWe identified 1H NMR-derived urinary metabolites associated with fruit and vegetable consumption, consistent and reproducible between urine collections and across populations. A higher fruit and vegetable-related metabolite score showed associations with lower systolic BP and BMI, mainly mediated by citrate, but would need confirmation in further studies.

FS2 encodes an ARID-HMG transcription factor that regulates fruit spine density in cucumber

Fruit spine density is an important commercial trait for cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.). However, most North China-type cucumbers, which are grown over large areas, have a dense-spine phenotype, which directly affects the appearance quality, storage, and transportation of fruits. Here, we isolated a novel few spines mutant (fs2) from the wild-type (WT) inbred line WD1, a North China-type cucumber with high density fruit spines, by ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) mutagenic treatment. Genetic analysis revealed that the phenotype of fs2 was controlled by a single recessive nuclear gene. We fine-mapped the fs2 locus using F2 and BC1 populations (1802 and 420 individuals, respectively) and showed that the candidate gene of FS2 (Csa4G652850) encoded an ARID-HMG transcription factor containing an A/T-rich interaction domain (ARID) and a high mobility group box domain (HMG). One SNP (C to T) and one InDel (a 40-bp deletion) in the coding region of FS2 resulted in amino acid variation and premature translation termination in the fs2 mutant, respectively. FS2 was highly expressed in the apical buds and young ovaries. In addition, the experiments suggest that FS2 participates in the regulation of fruit spine initiation by activating the expression of the Tril gene in cucumber. This work not only provides an important reference for understanding the molecular mechanisms of fruit spine development but also provides an important resource for fruit appearance quality breeding in cucumber.

Evaluation of Yield, Fruit Chemistry, and Firmness of Seven Strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) Cultivars in an Eastern North Carolina Greenhouse

The combination of increasing costs, climate change, and disease- and pest-related issues present large challenges for the strawberry (Fragaria ×ananassa) industry in the United States. This is especially true for the Southeast, where rain, frost, and a range of foliar, fruit, and soil-borne diseases are prevalent, leading to significant losses every year. Simultaneously, niche winter markets open the opportunity to extend the harvest season, leading to an industry push to use protected culture strawberry production. Tabletop soilless strawberry greenhouse production has the advantage of avoiding soilborne issues while at the same time mitigating weather-related impacts on strawberry yield and quality. The use of long-day cultivars, originally bred for the Central Coast region of California, is currently the industry standard because of desired winter yields. However, short-day cultivars bred for Florida production might also have the potential to produce in winter. In this study, we evaluated the growth, yield, fruit chemistry, and fruit firmness of seven strawberry cultivars that are commonly grown in protected culture in North Carolina: Albion, Brilliance, Camino Real, Fronteras, Monterey, Florida Sensation, and Sweet Charlie. Experiments were conducted in a randomized complete block design in a commercial tabletop greenhouse in eastern North Carolina over two growing seasons (2022–23 and 2023–24). Our results showed that Florida cultivars Brilliance and Florida Sensation produced more consistently yields in winter compared with long-day cultivars Albion and Monterey and produced similar yields over the entire season. ‘Brilliance’ especially showed high fruit firmness across both years, and high sweetness in one of the two years. Additionally, the short-day cultivar Fronteras showed high yields in early spring and could serve as a late-season crop for direct-to-consumer producers. Our study showed that ‘Brilliance’ and ‘Florida Sensation’ could be alternatives to ‘Albion’, and that ‘Monterey’ can be used to produce a winter crop in a soilless tabletop production system in the Southeast.

Analysis of molecular genetic diversity of Nephelium lappaceum L. plant in North Sumatra using RAPD markers

Abstract Achieving high fruit production requires development with quality superior seeds and good management professional. In fact, it is very difficult to identify the advantages of perennial plants such as rambutan which are only based on morphology because it has a long lifespan, so identification with molecular marker technology is needed. This study aimed to obtain achieve data about genetic diversity and molecular characterization of genetic banding pattern of Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.) in North Sumatra using RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) markers. Research was conducted at Molecular Genetics Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara, Medan from January 2024 to March 2024. Based on nine plant samples from 3 districts in North Sumatra, namely: Binjai (BJ), Deli Serdang (DS), and Langkat (LG) where from each 3 different samples accessions were taken from each district. Determine of band size use a UVITEC Cambridge FireReader computer software and determine of genetic sameness relationship use Multivariate Statistical Package (MVSP ver 3.2) online software. Base on 9 samples isolated of rambutan and amplify use primers OPK-16, OPK-7, OPK-19 and OPD-8, obtained band sizes range from 100-4,600 bp and base on phylo-genetic UPGMA results were divided into two groups. Group I consist of LG 1 and Group II consisted of LG 2, DS 2, BJ 2, LG 3, BJ 1, BJ 3, DS 3, DS 1 with genetically similar points range from 0.48-1.

Dietary trajectory profiles of French adults over time: Multicriteria analysis of sustainability

Abstract Despite the urgent need for sustainable dietary transitions, few studies have examined current dietary trajectories using longitudinal data. This study aimed to identify dietary consumption trajectory profiles over an 8-year period (2014-2022) while assessing their sustainability in a multicriteria approach. Consumption data from NutriNet-Santé cohort participants were collected using FFQs in 2014, 2018 and 2022. Dietary trajectory profiles were modeled using group-based multi-trajectory based on factors from Principal Component Analysis on energy-adjusted consumption data (n = 17,187). Profiles were analyzed for sustainability (environmental and nutritional dimensions) using multi-adjusted mixed-effects models. Six trajectory profiles (P) were identified. P0 (considered as reference) had average consumption for all food groups, with increased plant-based intake over time. In comparison, P1 had the highest baseline alcohol (+301%) and offal intake, increasing processed meat (+74%) and decreasing offal over time. P2 had higher milk (+187%) and sweet drinks intake, increasing animal substitutes (+1737%) and whole-grain products. P3 had higher nuts (+680%) and legumes intake, increasing egg (+166%) and reducing fruit juice. P4 had high fish (+39%) and fruit intake, increasing butter (+53%) and reducing alcohol. P5 had higher pork (+143%) and red meat intake, increasing fish (+31%) and reducing dairy. Initially, P3 and P4 had the lowest GHG emissions (-18%, -49% vs. P0), best nutritional profiles, and higher organic food consumption. P5 had the greatest environmental impact (+51%) and the lowest nutritional scores. Over time, P0 reduced GHG emissions and improved nutritional scores. P3 and P4 showed minimal changes, while P5 had the greatest GHG emissions decrease (-14%) and nutritional quality improvements. Identifying ongoing dietary transition trajectories, our findings contribute to optimizing targeted actions aimed at promoting sustainable dietary consumption habits. Key messages • Regardless of initial dietary preferences, French adults exhibit an overall trend over time towards increased intake of plant-based foods and decreased intake of red meats, at varying scales. • French adults exhibit varying degrees of transition towards more sustainable diets, with an overall decrease in GHG emissions from food consumption and an improvement in their nutritional profiles.

A Theory of Food Exploration with Gender Differences: Childhood Eating Habits and Implicit Food Attitudes.

The growing interest in nutritional psychology has sparked explorations into how eating habits impact one's emotional, cognitive, and physical health. The Theory of Food (ToF) posits that childhood eating patterns shape food choices in adulthood, influenced by cognitive and associative representations formed early in life. This study explores the relationship between specific childhood eating habits-fruit and snack consumption-and implicit attitudes toward these food groups in adulthood. It also investigates whether this relationship differs by gender. One hundred and nineteen participants completed a recall questionnaire about their childhood eating habits and an Implicit Association Test (IAT) to assess implicit attitudes toward food groups. The primary hypotheses were that greater fruit consumption in childhood would lead to more positive attitudes toward fruits, and higher snack consumption would result in more favourable attitudes toward snacks. The results did not support the initial hypotheses, indicating no direct relationship between the consumption of fruits or snacks in childhood and implicit attitudes in adulthood. However, further analyses revealed a significant difference in implicit attitudes toward fruits below versus high childhood fruit consumption participation, particularly among women. These findings highlight the complexity of the relationship between childhood eating habits and implicit food attitudes. While no direct associations were found for the overall sample, the significant differences in attitudes based on childhood fruit consumption in women suggest gender-specific patterns. These results emphasize the need for further research to unravel the intricate connections between early eating behaviours and later food attitudes.

Seasonal Climatic Variation and Flowering Intensity of Garcinia kola (Heckel) in a Humid Forest Plantation

Aim of study: The study designed to assess seasonal climatic variation and flowering intensity in G. kola in a humid forest plantation. Area of study: The study was conducted in the mono-plantation of Garcinia kola in the Swamp Forest Research station of the Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria, Onne, Rivers state, Nigeria. The plantation consists of 103 trees at 5×5m spacing. Material and methods: Climatic data were sourced from meteoblue.com. Flowering intensity was determined by the estimation of the total flower production per tree: total number of flower buds per inflorescence was determined by visual counting and then extrapolated for the total number of inflorescences per twig, total number of twigs per branch and total number of branches per tree to determine the average flowering intensity per tree. A total of 9 trees and twenty-five inflorescences per tree, were sampled. Data was analysed using covariance and analysis of variance. Main results: Rainfall, wind speed, and flowering intensity varied significantly (p ≤ 0.05) between seasons; seasonal rainfall variation influence on flowering intensity varied with tree gender. Research highlights: Rainfall is the flowering cue of the plantation; we recommend that farmers target low to moderate rainfall seasons for high fruit and seed yields.

First Report of Rugonectria rugulosa Causing Dieback of Prunus salicina "Banbianhong" in China.

Banbianhong (Prunus salicina) is a valuable fruit crop cultivated in the southwestern regions of China for its high quality fruit and substantial economic benefits (Wang et al. 2021). In July 2023, dieback disease was observed in Banbianhong in Suijiang County, Zhaotong, Yunnan Province, with an incidence of up to 10%. The disease caused brownish nodules in the cortex of the infected plant, leading to dry cracking, and exposing grayish-brown xylem, which caused the plant to wither and die. Upon longitudinal cutting of twigs, lesions were evident and characterized by browning and necrosis of the cauline bundle and pith within the tissue. The diseased tissues were sectioned into 2 mm2 pieces and surface disinfected with 70% ethanol and 1% NaClO and rinsed with double distilled water. The tissue fragments were plated onto potato dextrose agar (PDA), and incubated for 7 days at 28°C. A total of six isolates were obtained, and two isolates (WG2-1 and WG2-3) were selected for morphological, molecular identification and pathogenicity testing. On PDA, the colony diameter of WG2-1 and WG2-3 were recorded as 5.50±0.56 mm/day and 6.08±0.37 mm/day, respectively. The microconidia of both isolates were zero-septate, smooth, greenish, subglobose to ellipsoidal, and measured 5 to 10 × 1.5 to 3 µm (n = 50) in size. However, macroconidia were not observed. The internal transcribed spacer rDNA (ITS) and β-tubulin 2 (TUB2) genes were amplified using the primer pairs ITS1/4 (White et al. 1989) and Bt2a/2b (Glass and Donaldson 1995). BLAST analysis of the obtained ITS sequences (accession Nos. PP581792) and TUB2 sequences (accession Nos. PP2815212) sequences showed 100% identity with Rugonectria rugulosa (accession nos. MG991753 for ITS and KM232007 for TUB2). Based on these characteristics, the isolates have been identified as R. rugulosa and have been deposited in the Agricultural Environment and Resource Research Institute plant pathogen lab at Yunnan Academy of Agricultural Sciences. In this study, Pathogenicity tests were conducted on one-year-old Prunus salicina "Banbianhong" twigs to complete Koch's postulates. The twigs were wounded using a 1-mm sterile corking borer and 14-day-old mycelium plugs of isolate (WG2-1) were inoculated and covered with sealing films. Sterile PDA plugs were placed into the wounds of control twigs. Eighteen healthy twigs were inoculated with isolates or PDA plugs (n = 6 twigs/treatment, the size of the twigs: 8 cm length and diameter about 0.7 cm, with three replications) and were placed in a closed sterile tray with the wet filter papers in a thermostatic incubator (type, HYC-260) at 28°C, respectively. The twigs inoculated with the isolates exhibited brown lesions site of inoculation, whereas the controls remained asymptomatic. R. rugulosa was successfully reisolated from the lesions but not from these control wounds and was identified by the methods described above. R. rugulosa has been reported to be associated with the die-back disease of Falcataria moluccana in China (Wang et al. 2019). The occurrence and spread of R. rugulosa in growing areas of Prunus salicina "Banbianhong" in Suijiang county have caused severe economic losses. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the die-back disease of Prunus salicina "Banbianhong" caused by R. rugulosa. These results confirm the pathogenicity of R. rugulosa in Prunus salicina "Banbianhong" and provide valuable insights for developing disease management and prevention strategies.

Specialty Melons Grown under High Tunnel Conditions Yield Good to Excellent Internal Quality

Interest in local foods, especially locally grown fruit, is increasing. High tunnel vegetable growers are strategically poised to meet this demand by growing specialty melons (Cucumis melo). Although specialty melons are commonly grown in high tunnels in other parts of the world, it is an uncommon practice in the midwestern United States. The objectives of this study were to evaluate 10 specialty melon cultivars for high tunnel production and measure fruit yield and internal quality. Fruit of the cultivar Eden’s Gem yielded the greatest number of marketable fruits per plant; however, these melons are small and have a loose cavity. Fruit of the cultivars Honey Orange and Divergent yielded the largest marketable fruit per plant with tighter cavities; however, the cavities were large. All cultivars had good to excellent internal quality in terms of sugar content. The production of specialty melons in the high tunnel was successful, resulting in the production of melons with good to excellent internal quality, and several yielded three to four marketable fruit per plant. Implementing a strong pest management plan for cucumber beetle (Diabrotica undecimpunctata howardi) and powdery mildew (Erysiphe cichoracearum, Sphaerotheca fuliginea) is recommended to prevent yield loss, especially in locations such as the Midwest, where cucumber beetles often vector bacterial wilt (Erwinia tracheiphila).

Trend Analysis of the Burden of Hypertensive Heart Disease in China from 1990 to 2021

Objective: To quantitatively analyze the burden of hypertensive heart disease (HHD) in China and provide a scientific basis for prevention and control strategies. Methods: Data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 database were used to assess the disease burden, deaths, years lived with disability (YLDs), and risk factors for HHD in the Chinese population from 1990 to 2021. Results: From 1990 to 2021, HHD cases in China increased from 1.5 million to 3.9 million, with an average annual growth rate of 2.83%. Prevalence rose from 127.76/100,000 to 259.00/100,000, while age-standardized prevalence decreased by 0.68% annually. HHD deaths increased from 232,478 to 320,247, with a mortality rate rise from 19.76/100,000 to 22.56/100,000, though age-standardized mortality decreased by 2.68% annually. YLDs rose from 124,386 to 301,426, with the rate increasing by 2.20% annually, while age-standardized YLDs decreased by 0.67% annually. High sodium intake and low fruit consumption were key risk factors for HHD deaths. Deaths related to low vegetable intake decreased until 2005 and then rose, while deaths from lead exposure showed a similar pattern. Conclusion: HHD cases and prevalence increased significantly, but age-standardized prevalence and mortality rates declined, reflecting the impact of an aging population and improved health interventions. The rise in YLDs highlights the long-term impact on patients’ quality of life. Key risk factors included high sodium intake and low fruit consumption, emphasizing the importance of dietary improvements in HHD prevention. HHD remains a significant public health challenge in China, requiring continuous research and targeted prevention strategies.

Food craving, vitamin A, and menstrual disorders: A comprehensive study on university female students.

Menstrual disorders, influenced by dietary habits like high fat intake and low fruit and vegetable consumption, are a global public health issue. This study assessed the prevalence of dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and irregular menstrual cycle (IMC) among female university students in Bangladesh, focusing on food cravings and low vitamin A intake as risk factors. In this comprehensive study, data from randomly selected female university students were collected using a structured questionnaire. The associations were analyzed through chi-square tests and multivariable logistic regression, reported as adjusted odds ratios (AOR). The most prevalent menstrual disorder was dysmenorrhea (68.3%) followed by PMS (33.8%), and IMC (24.3%). Food cravers for high-fat and sweet foods were likely to experience dysmenorrhea (AOR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.5-3.9, P<0.001), suffer from PMS (AOR: 3.9, 95% CI: 2.3-6.6, P<0.001), and have IMC (AOR: 3.0, 95% CI: 1.6-5.3, P<0.001) vs. subjects who didn't. Subjects consuming vitamin A-rich plant foods had 40% (AOR: 0.6, 95% CI: 0.4-0.9, P < 0.01) and 60% (AOR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2-0.6, P<0.001) less likely suffering from dysmenorrhea and IMC vs. who didn't. Both underweight and overweight/obese subjects experienced more than 2-fold dysmenorrhea vs. normal-weight peers. The chance of IMC was nearly 3-fold among overweight/obese subjects. However, lower physical activity was associated with PMS and IMC whereas family history was associated with dysmenorrhea and PMS. Among the socio-demographic factors, maternal education, place of residence, and earlier menarche (≤12 years) were associated with dysmenorrhea while marital status was associated with IMC. This study indicates that increasing the intake of vitamin A-rich plant foods and reducing high-fat, sweet foods can lower the risk of dysmenorrhea and IMC. Additionally, it highlights the need for regular exercise to mitigate the increased risk of PMS and IMC.

MORPHOLOGICAL AND YIELD-RELATED POMOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF INTRODUCED OLIVE (OLEA EUROPEA) CULTIVARS IN RAINFED AREA OF POTHOWAR PUNJAB

This study aims at pomological characterizing of 09 olive cultivars planted in the field area of Barani Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Chakwal to estimate genetic variability in Ottobratica, Hamdi, FS-17, Gerboi, Arbequina, Persia, Nabali, Koroneiki and Earlik. Following pomological traits: fruit and stone weight (g), fruit and stone size (cm), fruit and stone shape index (length/width) and flesh to stone ratio were studied. Data for studied traits were collected in 2019 according to the International olive council descriptor. A significant genetic difference was noticed in the morphological characteristics of both fruit and stone. Different pomological characters were expressed by each cultivar. A wide range of variation was noticed in fruit weight (1.33-5.57g), stone weight (0.20-0.63g) and flesh/stone ratio (0.90-4.96). Based on their fruit shape, studied cultivars were classified into two groups i.e., ovoid and elongate. However, no significant difference was recorded for the stone shape, as all the studied cultivars had the same elongated stone shape. Concerning the fruit size, high fruit size (4-6g) was observed in FS-17, Hamdi, Earlik and Persia whereas Koroneiki, Nabali and Gerboi had the smallest ones (&gt;2g). Based on our results, Earlik, Hamdi and FS-17 are suggested to be more appropriate for table olive production. Thus, an evaluation of genetic diversity through this study can help in the varietal development of olive for table and oil purposes.

Jasmonate and salicylic sprays improve cherry tomato fruit productivity and quality in unheated greenhouses

Introduction. Arable regions often have insufficient soil nutrients, which means that fertilizers must be used. However, using fertilizers excessively can harm the environment, human health, and food safety. Natural growth regulators derived from plants are environmentally friendly and reasonably priced. Salicylic acid (SA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) phytohormones are crucial for enhancing plant biomass, quality, productivity, and resistance to environmental stresses. Objective. To evaluate the foliar effect of MeJA and SA on fruit quality and production of cvs. colorful tomato under greenhouse conditions. Materials and methods. The trial was carried out in the University of Diyala, Iraq, from 1 December, 2022 to 5 June 2023. Foliar of 0, 200 mg/L SA and or 200 mg/L MeJA was evaluated to determine effects on fruit quality and production of colorful cherry tomato cultivars indeterminate: LA4013, LA353, LA2921, LA3899 and IQ2, with a randomized complete block design with each treatment having three replicates. Results. The cv. IQ2 had the heaviest fruit (82.13 g), highest yield (4.56 kg/plant), total yield (4.56 t/house) and highest treatable acidity (0.62 %). The cv. LA4013 had a higher fruit number (612.88 fruit/plant) and the highest total soluble solids (2.933 %). Foliar of SA at 200 mg/L had the highest chlorophyll index (36.68 SPAD) highest fruits per plant (373.73), highest yield (3.15 kg/plant) and total yield (3.93 t/house). Conclusion. When considering all variables together, the best genotypes were IQ2 and LA4013, which were found to be superior to the other genotypes in quality and yield trials. The 200 mg/L foliar SA improved the yield and quality of cherry tomatoes under greenhouse conditions.

Multivariate Analysis and Optimization Scheme of the Relationship between Leaf Nutrients and Fruit Quality in ‘Bingtang’ Sweet Orange Orchards

Citrus trees require a balanced and adequate supply of macronutrient and micronutrient elements for high yield and fruit quality. Foliar nutrient analysis has been widely used in fruit-tree nutrient diagnosis and fertilization calculation. However, there is no information on ways to produce optimal fruit quality in sweet oranges. In the present study, fruit and leaf samples were collected from 120 ‘Bingtang’ sweet orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck] orchards during four consecutive years (2019–2022). Parameters of leaf nutrition and fruit quality were analyzed based on these samples. Diagnostic results based on leaf classification standards indicated that the most deficient elements were Ca, Mg, and B, followed by N and Zn. Fruit quality, determined by single fruit weight (SFW), fruit shape index (FSI), total soluble solids (TSS), titratable acidity (TA), vitamin C (Vc), and maturation index (MI = TSS/TA) during fruit maturation, exhibited inconsistent responses to leaf mineral nutrition concentrations. The leaf-nutrient optimum values for high quality of the ‘Bingtang’ sweet orange fruit were ranges of 2.41–4.92% N, 0.10–0.28% P, 1.30–2.11% K, 2.99% Ca, 0.26–0.41% Mg, 340–640 mg/kg S, 89.65–127.46 mg/kg Fe, 13.48–51.93 mg/kg Mn, 2.60–13.84 mg/kg Cu, 15.59–51.48 mg/kg Zn, and 53.95 mg/kg for B. These results suggest the leaf-nutrient optimum values for diagnosis can be used not only to identify the nutrient constraints but also to provide guidance for the establishment of fertilization regimes in citrus cultivation.

Body Mass Gain in Wild Brown Capuchins (Sapajus apella) in Relation to Fruit Production and Social Dominance.

In ecological contexts natural selection might favor individuals with a larger body mass to monopolize resources; however, there is wide variation in body mass within populations and potential factors. In this study, we evaluated whether fruit production limits body mass in one group of Sapajus apella, its effects on behavior, and whether there is a relationship between social status and body mass. We recorded activity patterns using focal follows (20 min), body mass (using a modified Ohaus scale), and community wide fruit production estimates (from 60 fruit traps). Body mass remained relatively stable during periods of food scarcity, but in periods of abundance most individuals gained weight, as indicated by their relative growth rates (RGR). Subordinate subadults showed the highest RGR, as expected by their age. In periods of high fruit production activities as traveling, grooming, and playing were more frequent than during fruit scarcity, suggesting energy maximization and potential energetic constraints. We found differences in behavior within the group, as the alpha male was observed feeding more frequently (and for longer periods of time), was more aggressive (e.g., feeding trees), and received more grooming than other individuals. In addition, the alpha male was 60% heavier than the group's average body mass. Our study supports the hypothesis that body weight gain is related to fruit abundance and that body size is associated with social dominance; however, large individuals (both males and females) seem to incur in high metabolic or reproductive costs, as they do not gain much weight as smaller individuals.