Round Fruit Research Articles

Diversity Analysis in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) Genotypes Using Microsatellite Markers

Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is commonly called as eggplant or aubergine. It is one of the most important commercial solanaceous vegetable crops grown widely in Asian and African countries. It is popular among people of all social strata and is rightly called a vegetable of masses [1, 2]. It is of substantial economic importance in Asia, Africa, and the subtropics (India, Central America), and it is also grown in some warm temperate regions (Mediterranean area, Southern USA) [3, 4]. It is an old world species and native to Indo-Chinese centre of origin [5]. The genus Solanum is morphologically hypervariable and highly diverse in number of species [6] and ecogeographical distribution [7]. Despite the economic and nutritional importance of eggplant, breeding efforts in this crop have been limited compared to other solanaceous crops, such as tomato and potato [8, 9]. In the present study 30 solanaceae specific microsatellite markers were used of which 29 showed good amplification in the 4 checks used viz state check for round and oblong to long fruit, national check for round fruit and national check for oblong to long fruit. Of these 29, primer set emi04J02 and emk03O04 did show amplification in the other genotypes. Finally, 27 markers were used for analysis. Of these 23 showed monomorphic pattern (85.1%) whereas only 4 showed some polymorphism (14.8 %). The most informative marker was eme01D03 which showed presence of 3 alleles. The low degree of polymorphism indicated a high degree of homogeneity in the genotypes which could be due to a narrow genetic base.

Phenotypic and Molecular-Markers-Based Assessment of Jamun (Syzygium cumini) Genotypes from Pakistan

Jamun plant displays enormous diversity throughout Pakistan, which necessitates its screening, evaluation, and validation to document elite genotypes having better traits for the benefit of the fruit industry and farmers. Surveys were made in natural Jamun habitats across Punjab, Pakistan, and genotypes were marked based on visual diversity of trees and fruits. In total, 60 Jamun genotypes were selected for characterization based on phenotypic and genetic markers. Phenotypic characters related to trees, leaf, and flower along with fruit qualitative traits were assessed in situ. Results revealed significant diversity with high (>25%) coefficient of variance values and the first two components of correspondence analysis exhibited 41.71% variation among genotypes. A strong association was observed among traits like upright tree and round fruit shape (0.74), bluish-colored fruit and pinkish pulp (0.85), and elliptic-shaped fruit with low fruit waxiness (−0.72). Leaves of phenotypically characterized plants were brought to Wheat Biotechnology Lab., University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan, where Jamun genotypes were investigated genetically using Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) markers. A total of 132 bands were scored, of which 108 were polymorphic, corresponding to almost 81% polymorphism among collected genotypes. High polymorphism information content values were observed against RAPD (0.389) and ISSR (0.457) markers. Genotypes were compared in relation to genetic markers, which exhibited that almost 86% of genetic variability was attributed to differences among accessions, while 14% of variation was due to differences between collections of different areas. Findings of this study confirmed wide phenotypic and genetic distinctness of Jamun in Pakistan that can aid breeders for marker-assisted selection and germplasm enhancement for future crop improvement programs.

Eugenia pyriformis Cambess-Myrtaceae: An Unexplored Brazilian Species with Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential

Background: Eugenia pyriformis produces a round fruit with a sweet and aromatic flavor known as uvaia and contains a range of nutrients and bioactive compounds with potential for industrialization. Objective: This literature review addresses the nutritional composition, chemical and biological activities of uvaia (seeds and leaves), in addition to listing important factors for the post-harvest and industrialization of uvaia. Results: A wide range of studies describe the chemical and nutritional composition of fruits and seeds. Among these studies, one considers the residue after processing the fruit and two evaluate leaves. The pulp and peel have a high content of carbohydrates, fibers and sugars with low caloric value and high content of vitamin C. Fruits contain phenolics, flavonoids and carotenoids and the leaves have flavonoids, volatile compounds and tannins. Fruit can be eaten fresh; however, because it is highly perishable and difficult to handle postharvest, industrialization seems to be an interesting alternative to prolong shelf life. Conclusion: E. pyriformis fruits have excellent attributes for consumer health, but industrialization may be necessary to extend their shelf life. Fruits and leaves have a high antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial potential against bacteria, fungi and protozoa. Essential oils from leaves and trunks have antiproliferative, antileishmanial and anti-inflammatory potential. Mainly fruits and leaves have the potential for use in the pharmaceutical and food industry.

BIOESTIMULANTE Y TIEMPOS DE IMBIBICIÓN SOBRE LA GERMINACIÓN DE SEMILLAS DE MARACUYÁ (Passiflora edulis S., Passifloraceae

<p><strong>Background: </strong>Passion fruit (<em>Passiflora edulis</em> S.) is a tropical fruit of socio-economic interest in Peru, used as an ingredient in the food industry, esthetics and medicine. However, this crop has a low germination power, so it is necessary to carry out pre-germination treatments to increase the germination percentage and the initial development of the seedlings. <strong>Objective:</strong> to evaluate the effect of different biostimulants at 12 h and 24 h of hydration on passion fruit seed germination. <strong>Methodology: </strong>passion fruit seeds of large and round fruits, free of pathogens, were collected. The aryl-free seeds were treated: T0 (distilled water), T1 (sulfur 25 g/10 L), T2 (sulfur 50 g/10 L), T3 (biol 3%), T4 (biol 5%), T5 (cinnamon 25%), T6 (cinnamon 50%), T7 (buttermilk 25%) and T8 (buttermilk 50%) for 12 h and 24 h imbibition. The variables evaluated were: water absorbed, imbibition rate (IR), germination percentage (GP), germination speed (GS), germination index (GI), first day of germination (FDG). <strong>Results:</strong> The highest water absorption occurred in the first 9 hours. Treatments T4, T5 and T6 significantly improved the GP, GS, GI, FDG at 12 h imbibition. However, at 24 h imbibition these values decreased. GP presented a high positive correlation with GS and GI. Likewise, GS presented a high negative correlation with FDG. <strong>Implications: </strong>The use of biostimulants increases germination. <strong>Conclusions:</strong> Cinnamon extract at 25% and 50%, and biol 5% at 12 h of imbibition have significantly improved the variables evaluated compared to imbibition at 24 h. The positive correlation between the variables indicates a direct relationship between them.</p>

Agro-morphological characterization and genotypic diversity of chilli (Capsicum. frutescens) landraces of Bangladesh

Samples of 82 chilli (Capsicum spp.) genotypes grown during the Rabi season of 2016-17 were characterized based on 28 qualitative and 7 quantitative agro-morphological markers. The genotypes were collected and conserved in the Plant Genetic Resources Centre (PGRC) of the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI). The Chi-square (χ 2) tests and the Shannon Diversity Index (H´) were used for the genetic diversity study. All the characters under study were distributed independently except cotyledon leaf shapes and leaf pubescence density. The values of H´ of the genotypes varied widely, the maximum values being observed for the cotyledon leaf shape, leaf density, and anthocyanin leaf spot on the fruit. In contrast, the lowest values were recorded for pigmentation of node and leaf color. The estimated coefficient of variation was the highest while it was the lowest for one thousand seed weights. No variation was observed for calyx annular constriction of fruit. Analytical functions of DIVA-GIS (Geographic Information System) mapping localized the accessions into 10 districts and marked the areas of insufficient collection. Accession AMA-248 belonging to Mymensingh was almost round fruit. Accessions RAI-232 and RAI-80 belonging to Chattogram, AMA-335 belonging to Sherpur, AMA-361 belonging to Jamalpur, RAI-80 belonging to Chattogram, and AHI-01 belonging to Jhenaidah were elongated fruit. Germplasms collected from Chattogram showed the maximum variation in traits of cotyledon leaf color and stem color at the seedling transplanting age. The variation observed in different characters could be important characters in selecting parents for breeding programs.

Evaluation of Small Sized Watermelon Varieties for the Bhutanese Market

Watermelon is one of the important emerging cash crops in Bhutan contributing to the generation of farmer’s income. However, a major challenge in watermelon farming in Bhutan is the lack of varieties with fruit sizes preferable to the consumers. Therefore, this research aimed to evaluate new hybrid watermelon varieties with smaller sized fruits for commercial cultivation in Bhutan. This study was conducted in four different locations in three research centres (ARDC Wengkhar, ARDC Bajo and ARDC Samteling). Six hybrid varieties namely, PPS 142, PPS 304, PPS 313, PPS 315, PPS 317 and Sugar Baby (check) were evaluated with two replications following completely randomized design. Fruit weight, diameter, height, Total Soluble Solids (TSS), fruit colour, flesh colour and yield per plot were recorded from the sample fruits. In addition, market and consumer preference surveys were conducted involving 11 vendors and 20 consumers in Mongar to evaluate the acceptability of varieties by vendors and consumers. The results showed that there was no significant difference in fruit weight, TSS, crop duration and yield among the six varieties. However, significant location-based variation was observed in the fruit weight and yield. All the varieties fell within the medium- sized category, commonly referred to as the “icebox” type in Lingmethang, Bajo and Panbang while it fell under “personal” type in Samtenling. The consumer and market preference survey indicated a preference for medium-sized, round fruits with a dark green colour, which aligns with the characteristics observed in the evaluated varieties. This result of this study provides varietal choices to farmers to produce and market suitable varieties and for consumers to obtain optimum fruit size varieties for consumption.

Comprehensive quality evaluation of different types of Gardeniae Fructus (Zhizi) and Shuizhizi based on LC-MS/MS.

Gardeniae Fructus (Zhizi) serves as both a medicinal and edible substance and finds widespread use in various industries. There are often two kinds of medicinal materials in the market: Zhizi and Shuizhizi. Typically, Zhizi with small, round fruit is used for medicinal purposes, while Shuizhizi, characterized by large, elongated fruit, is employed for dyeing. Market surveys have revealed a diverse range of Zhizi types, and modern research indicates that Shuizhizi contains rich chemical components and pharmacological activities. In this study, we collected 25 batches of Zhizi and Shuizhizi samples, categorizing them based on appearance into obovate and round fruits, with seven length grades (A-G). Using the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QQQ-MS/MS) method, we simultaneously quantified 13 main chemical components in fruits of Gardenia species. In addition, we compared the weight percentage of the pericarp, flesh, and seeds parts of samples with different traits, and quantified 13 chemical components in different parts. Results indicated that, aside from a few instances of overlapping fruit size ranges, Shuizhizi generally exhibits larger and longer dimensions than Zhizi. The weight proportion of the Shuizhizi pericarp is often higher than that of the Zhizi pericarp. Quantitative results highlighted significant differences in the chemical component content between Zhizi and Shuizhizi, with Shuizhizi generally containing higher levels of iridoids. The PCA and OPLS-DA analysis distinctly divided Shuizhizi and Zhizi, among which three iridoids, two organic acids, and one flavonoid made significant contributions to their classification. Cluster heatmap analysis also demonstrated complete separation between Zhizi and Shuizhizi, with clear distinctions among Zhizi samples from different origins. The distribution of the 13 chemical components in different Zhizi and Shuizhizi parts remained consistent, with iridoids and pigments concentrated in the seeds and flesh, and two organic acids and one flavonoid enriched in the pericarp. In summary, this study contributes valuable insights for classifying Zhizi and offers guidance on the rational use of Shuizhizi and the different parts of Zhizi.

Opportunities and challenges for strawberry cultivation in urban food production systems

Societal Impact StatementCultivation of strawberry plants in urban production systems, whether in green open‐air spaces or under some form of protected horticulture such as vertical farming, has demonstrated to be challenging to new farmers and businesses. Commercial strawberry producers have an advanced understanding of strawberry plant physiology, enabling them to grow the crop successfully and profitably. Lack of knowledge exchange between commercial growers and new urban farmers seems to result in the abandonment of strawberries as crop of choice in urban systems. This review will confront the specific plant science challenges urban growers need to address to incorporate this nutritional crop into their revolutionary urban growing systems, whilst achieving good quality produce with high yields.SummaryTo ensure a sustainable future of farming, urban horticulture (UH) will need to be a key part of our everyday life. There are increasing demands for higher productivity and more locally produced food, even close to densely populated urban areas, to address environmental pressures and accelerate the resilience of modern food systems. UH is a broad term and can include numerous cultivation methods; rooftop gardens, public spaces, vertical walls, indoor vertical farms, as well as an array of crops including, salads, soft fruits and trees. Crops such as strawberries are expected to soon make a significant contribution to UH. Urban strawberry production promises all‐year round fruit availability, reduced reliance on imports, increased self‐sufficiency, lower food miles, a supply of high‐quality fresh fruits from hyper‐local spaces, increased employment opportunities, welfare benefits and an opportunity to promote a sense of community. Strawberry is a complex perennial crop with agronomical challenges, which requires specialist knowledge that is not always available to new urban farmers. Achieving an urban version of a strawberry field will require knowledge exchange between the commercial rural strawberry producers and the newly entered urban growers. Plant physiology, management of plant pathogens, choice of propagation material, fertigation, pollination and environmental requirements are the most common challenges for urban strawberry production. This review aims to consolidate the common bottleneck challenges of UH for new urban strawberry facilities.

Radial grid reflectance correction for hyperspectral images of fruits with rounded surfaces

Over the last two decades, the viability of hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology as a tool for determining food quality has been established. This technology has been successfully combined with chemometric tools and image-processing techniques to enhance its effectiveness. Despite the advances in imaging technology, significant challenges related to non-uniformity caused by object geometry still need to be addressed. The inappropriate processing of non-uniform food products can significantly affect subsequent calculations, including accurate measurements and precise analysis. A popular method used to face up non-uniformity is the Lambertian surface correction, which assumes spherical surfaces of food products; however, it presents some issues with non-spherical shapes. This work proposes a generalized reflectance correction method for HSI of rounded fruits that are not necessarily spherical. The method is based on the correlation between the pixel’s position and its reflectance. For proof of concept, a case study was designed considering the HSI of mango fruits (Mangifera indica L) Kent variety. For comparison, each image was corrected using both the Lambertian surface correction and the proposed method. Results show a strong correlation between the standard deviation of the spectral profiles of images and the roundness of the fruit, which is more evident in the case of the proposed radial grid correction method. Hence, the proposed radial correction method produced a more uniform texture in corrected hyperspectral images.

Physical Attributes of Bael (Aegle marmelos L.) Fruit and Suitability for Commercialization and Processing

The present experiment entitled “Studies on physical attributes of bael (Aegle marmelos L.) fruit suitable for commercialization and processing” was conducted at Horticulture laboratory of the Department of Applied Plant Science during 2011-12. Matured fruits procured from well established bael orchard and investigation was carried out Completely Randomized Block Design with three replications. The observations were recorded on fruit shape, skull colour, pulp colour, fruit weight, skull thickness, fruit length, fruit width, pulp content and seed content. Flattened round fruit shape, greenish skull colour and pale yellow in pulp colour was found in NB-7. Minimum skull thickness 3.10 mm, seed content 2.42 per cent, whereas maximum fruit weight 2.00 kg, fruit length 16.20 cm, fruit width 17.20 cm and pulp content 79.20 per cent was found in cv. Narendra Bael-7. Result indicated that on the basis of physical attributes NB-7 varieties was found best for commercialization and processing.

Plant Type and Antidesiccants Influence Longevity of Cut Pepper Stems for Floriculture Applications

In the floriculture trade, cut pepper (Capsicum annuum) stems are typically grown for their fruit to add color contrast to the foliage and blossoms of conventional floral arrangements. Stems are commonly stripped of foliage because leaves wilt rapidly. Three divergent plant types and commercial hydration protection spray products were evaluated to identify effective vase life treatments and new pepper lines that combine both fruit and foliar interest with an acceptable postharvest cut stem life. Three inbred US Department of Agriculture pepper breeding lines with a tall vigorous growth habit and black foliage were selected for evaluation as cut stems. Line 190-2 produced upright, tabasco-like fruit; 191-1 produced upright, clustered, round fruit; and 196-1 was fruitless. Three commercial spray treatments Crowning Glory (FLCG), Finishing Touch, and Aqua Finish Clear (AFC) were evaluated on treated cut stems stored at 10 and 23 °C. The pepper breeding line had the greatest influence on cut stem foliage and fruit vase life. The fruitless line, 196-1 exhibited an extended vase life in comparison with fruited lines. Cold storage extended the vase life of cut stems. FLCG reduced foliage vase life at 23 °C, and AFC extended foliage vase life of the fruitless line 196-1. Relative to foliage, fruit exhibited greater resistance to desiccation, with glossier fruit of 191-1 desiccating more rapidly than fruit of 190-2. Similar trends were noted when cut stems were stored at 10 °C for 7 days and moved to 23 °C. However, in 2022 trials, the vase life of 190-2 was shortened, and those of 191-1 and 196-1 were extended, highlighting the influence of preharvest factors on vase life. The results demonstrate that cut stems of new pepper lines with vigorous upright growth habits and black-pigmented foliage, together with diverse fruit morphology, provide innovative possibilities for stunning cut flower arrangements.

Reference Guided De Novo Genome Assembly of Transformation Pliable Solanum lycopersicum cv. Pusa Ruby.

Solanum lycopersicum cv. Pusa Ruby (PR) is a superior tomato cultivar routinely used as a model tomato variety. Here, we report a reference-guided genome assembly for PR, covering 97.6% of the total single-copy genes in the solanales order. The PR genome contains 34,075 genes and 423,288 variants, out of which 127,131 are intragenic and 1232 are of high impact. The assembly was packaged according to PanSol guidelines (N50 = 60,396,827) with the largest scaffold measuring 85 megabases. The similarity of the PR genome assembly to Heinz1706, M82, and Fla.8924 was measured and the results suggest PR has the lowest affinity towards the hybrid Fla.8924. We then analyzed the regeneration efficiency of PR in comparison to another variety, Pusa Early Dwarf (PED). PR was found to have a high regeneration rate (45.51%) and therefore, we performed allele mining for genes associated with regeneration and found that only AGAMOUS-LIKE15 has a null mutation. Further, allele mining for fruit quality-related genes was also executed. The PR genome has an Ovate mutation leading to round fruit shape, causing economically undesirable fruit cracking. This genomic data can be potentially used for large scale crop improvement programs as well as functional annotation studies.

Capacidade produtiva de seis genótipos superiores de pitaia sob as condições edafoclimáticas do Distrito Federal

Abstract The Embrapa Cerrados pitaya breeding program developed five superior genotypes of different species. The objective of this work was to evaluate the yield capacity of these five pitaya genotypes under the edaphoclimatic conditions of the Federal District. The experiment was carried out at the Embrapa Cerrados in Planaltina, DF. The five selected pitaya genotypes were evaluated, as well as a parent genotype used in the breeding program. Length (CF), diameter (DF) and mass (MF) of all fruits were evaluated, as well as the length/diameter ratio (CF.DF-1), number of fruits per plant (NF.PL-1), production per plant (kg.PL-1) and estimated productivity (t.ha-1). BRS Luz do Cerrado and BRS Lua do Cerrado presented larger and heavier fruits, while BRS Minipitaya do Cerrado presented the smallest fruits. CPAC Roxa and BRS Granada do Cerrado presented more rounded fruits. BRS Granada do Cerrado had the highest yield capacity in the two evaluated crops. The results obtained prove the importance of genetic breeding and the selection of superior genotypes more adapted to the region of cultivation, in order to guarantee greater profitability and products of better quality to rural producers and consumers.

Phenotypic diversity assessment of Moroccan loquat using multiple correspondence analysis

The loquat fruit has a very important commercial value due to its benefits for human health. However, there is very limited scientific research on this species in Morocco. In this regard, a set of 35 genotypes was collected from the Zegzel valley (Berkane). The phenotypic variability was evaluated using nine traits related to fruit and leaf. The results revealed a coefficient of variation ranging from 13.02 to 42.21%, implying a large phenotypic variation in Moroccan loquat, especially for the characteristics associated to the fruit shape. Regarding the multiple correspondence analysis, the first two axes explained 62.57% of the total variance. The major traits that made it possible to distinguish between the genotypes were those related to fruit size. Therefore, the Mekerkba genotype in the Zegzel region is not a single variety, but rather genotypes with a round fruit shape. In addition, the 35 genotypes studied were divided into three main groups regardless of their geographical origin. The results indicate that the geographical proximity did not play an important role in the structure of genotypes, implying a weak adaptation of the genotypes to the environment. The findings of this study could be used in conventional breeding and in situ conservation programs for Moroccan loquat.

PENGARUH PENAMBAHAN NaOH TERHADAP UJI KUALITAS SABUN MANDI PADA EKSTRAK BUAH CIPLUKAN (PHYSALIS ANGULATA L)

Ciplukan is a plant that has round fruit and is yellow-orange in color and has thin skin resembling petals, and usually grows in rice fields or river banks. The content of Flavonoids and vitamin C in ciplukan fruit is one of the natural antioxidant compounds that can be used as natural active substances in the manufacture of solid bath soap. One of the most important ingredients in the manufacture of solid body soap is NaOH, the volume of NaOH added to the formulation of solid body soap can affect the quality of the soap, namely pH, free alkali and water content. This study aims to determine the optimum volume of NaOH in the manufacture of solid soap. ciplukan fruit extract according to SNI.
 The research method that was carried out included several stages, namely sample preparation, making solid bath soap formulations with varying volumes of 10% NaOH (3 mL, 6 mL, 9 mL, 12 mL, 15 mL), and testing the quality of soap (testing water content, PH and foam stability). Based on the results of the soap quality test, a solid bath soap formulation of ciplukan fruit extract with a volume of 10% NaOH of 9 mL was obtained in accordance with SNI (water content 2.4%, pH 10, and foam stability 64.4%)

Agronomic potential, pest resistance, and fruit quality in BC1F3 dwarf round tomato populations

Combining broad pest resistance, high yield, and nutritional quality of fruit in the same hybrid is a challenge for round tomato breeders. Thus, development of a dwarf round tomato line for obtaining hybrids may be an excellent alternative for achieving such objectives. The aim of this study was to evaluate the agronomic potential, fruit quality, and pest resistance of BC1F3 dwarf round tomato populations. We evaluated 13 treatments and 4 replications. Treatments consisted of 10 BC1F3 dwarf populations originating from self-fertilization of dwarf populations selected in BC1F2, plus both parents (recurrent and donor) and a commercial hybrid. The traits evaluated were yield, number of fruit, mean weight, number of locules, shape, pulp thickness, longitudinal and transverse diameter of the fruit, precocity index, and soluble solids, β-carotene, lycopene, and acylsugar content. The data were analyzed through the means test. In general, there was an increase of up to 1035% in average fruit weight of the dwarf populations in relation to the donor parent. In addition, some dwarf populations had fruit with 49% more lycopene compared to the commercial hybrid, as well as greater acylsugar content in the leaves (273%). The UFU-DW22 dwarf population stood out with good agronomic potential, higher lycopene content in the fruit, and high acylsugar content, which provides pest resistance. To continue this research, a second backcross is suggested in order to obtain lines and, posteriorly, hybrids with round fruits and compact plants, pest resistance and nutritional quality of fruit.

An Overview on Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Traditional aspects of Muntingia calabura

Muntingia, or Jamaica Cherry, is a small, rapidly growing tree at full maturity that can reach up to 40 ft tall. The soft leaves are evergreen, with alternative phyllotaxy. The leaves on top are dark green and underneath are light green. The small, white flowers are centered with yellow stamens. The small, round fruits are abundant, and have a red or yellow color depending on the variety. The fruits are raw edible or made into jam. The fruit had a potent anti-inflammatory action. The flowers, made into medicinal teas, are antiseptic and antispasmodic. The Muntingia calabura (M. Calabura) leaves exhibited anti-proliferative and antioxidant potential activities. The present Muntingia research is to provide a description of the common applications and pharmacological potential. In conclusion, this review is hoped to serve as an incentive for others to further explore the pharmacological potential of M. calabura is designed to develop as a new therapeutic agent.

Ethylene plays a dual role in sex determination and fruit shape in cucurbits

Shapes of vegetables and fruits are the result of adaptive evolution and human selection. Modules controlling organ shape have been identified. However, little is known about signals coordinating organ development and shape. Here, we describe the characterization of a melon mutation rf1, leading to round fruit. Histological analysis of rf1 flower and fruits revealed fruit shape is determined at flower stage 8, after sex determination and before flower fertilization. Using positional cloning, we identified the causal gene as the monoecy sex determination gene CmACS7, and survey of melon germplasms showed strong association between fruit shape and sexual types. We show that CmACS7-mediated ethylene production in carpel primordia enhances cell expansion and represses cell division, leading to elongated fruit. Cell size is known to rise as a result of endoreduplication. At stage 8 and anthesis, we found no variation in ploidy levels between female and hermaphrodite flowers, ruling out endoreduplication as a factor in fruit shape determination. To pinpoint the gene networks controlling elongated versus round fruit phenotype, we analyzed the transcriptomes of laser capture microdissected carpels of wild-type and rf1 mutant. These high-resolution spatiotemporal gene expression dynamics revealed the implication of two regulatory modules. The first module implicates E2F-DP transcription factors, controlling cell elongation versus cell division. The second module implicates OVATE- and TRM5-related proteins, controlling cell division patterns. Our finding highlights the dual role of ethylene in the inhibition of the stamina development and the elongation of ovary and fruit in cucurbits.

Chemical Constituents of Functional Food Amomum villosum to Combat Human Diseases

Background: Amomum villosum is an important medicinal and edible plant owing to its valuable compositions of volatile and non-volatile compounds. Objective : The study was conducted to reveal the chemical constituents and medicinal values of A. villosum against various diseases. Methods : A critical and comprehensive data mining from 2004 to 2021 was performed based on CNKI, PubMed, and Google. Results: 120 Compounds have been reported collectively in seeds, peels, and rhizomes of A. villosum, 10 compounds were common however the content of bornyl acetate was maximum in seeds and peels. Similarly, Amomi fructus of China and Vietnam showed 59 different types of volatile compounds while 13 were common, the round large black fruits (1.56% bornyl acetate and 4.05% volatile oil) and long small red fruits type (1.64% bornyl acetate and 3.04% volatile oil) from China showed good quality and high medicinal values. In addition, Amomi fructus manifested 30-40 kinds of nonvolatile compounds, i.e., phenolic, polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoid, vanillic acid, catechin, epicatechin, polydatin, isoquercitrin, quercitrin, glycosides, inorganic and organic acids. Conclusion: A. villosum is widely used as anti-inflammatory, gastrointestinal protection, antiobesity, anticancer, antioxidant, analgesic, bacteriostasis, antidiabetic and anti-COVID-19, etc. So, it is manifested that the fruit, flowers, roots, stems, and leaves of A. villosum can be used as a medicine, especially fruit (Amomi fructus=Sharen), as the best functional food for the COVID-19 treatment and gastrointestinal protection as well as prevention of other diseases.

A Roundness Detection Algorithm of Non-Standard Discontinuous Circle Based on the Curvature Change of Discrete Edge Points

In the practical application scene of image detection, it is of great significance to detect the circle in the image and judge the roundness of the circle. Because the edges of real objects are often discontinuous due to occlusion, roundness detection of discontinuous circles is a common task. Traditional circle detection algorithms mainly include voting/clustering algorithm based on edge points, optimization algorithm and arc segment-based algorithm. For discontinuous circles, because the integrity of the circle edges is different, the voting results of edge points are difficult to be used as the basis for roundness detection. When the algorithms based on optimization and arc segment detect nonstandard circles, a large number of overlapping misjudgments are easy to occur, and the overlapping of objects before and after will lead to maximum suppression, which is difficult to achieve good results. In this paper, the geometric properties of the circle itself are used to classify the edge points, so that the roundness of the discontinuous circle can be calculated and the size of the circle can be judged. In this paper, taking the photos of mutually blocked round fruits as an example, an algorithm is constructed to detect the roundness of non-standard discontinuous round objects. The results show that this algorithm has a good effect on roundness detection of non-standard discontinuous circles.