Search Results (216)

Background/Objectives: Obesity represents a significant global health challenge. Although alternate-day fasting (ADF) has been shown to effectively improve metabolic parameters, long-term adherence to this regimen remains limited. This study aimed to investigate whether highly polymerized persimmon tannin (DP31) could serve as a practical alternative to ADF for the prevention of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity in mice. Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice (n = 10 per group) were subjected to an HFD for 11 weeks, during which they concurrently received either DP31 or ADF. Body weight, fat mass, serum lipid levels, glucose tolerance, fasting glucose, and insulin levels were assessed. Additionally, hepatic transcriptomics, Western blotting, 16S rRNA sequencing, and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) analysis were conducted. Results: DP31 demonstrated comparable efficacy to ADF in reducing body weight gain and improving lipid profiles, while exhibiting superior effects on glucose tolerance and fasting glucose levels (p < 0.05). Both interventions effectively reversed HFD-induced hepatic gene dysregulation, leading to the upregulation of genes involved in processes related to steroid metabolism. In addition, both treatments activated the hepatic AMPK-mTORC1-Lpin1 axis, suppressed lipogenesis, upregulated PGC1α, and increased β-hydroxybutyrate levels, indicating enhanced fatty acid oxidation (p < 0.05). Notably, DP31 outperformed ADF in enriching beneficial gut genera, such as Akkermansia, and boosting SCFAs production, which may elucidate its superior glycemic control. Overall, DP31 exhibits comparable effects to ADF in preventing obesity-related metabolic disorders, while demonstrating superior effects on glucose homeostasis. Full article

This review examined the technological evolution and raw material diversification in non-grape fruit sparkling wines to address climate-induced challenges in the traditional wine industry. A total of 16 peer-reviewed articles published between 2015 and 2025 were selected through a comprehensive literature search based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results indicated that apple-based cider research remained dominant, accounting for approximately 62.5% of the selected studies; however, a significant trend toward diversification utilizing regional specialty fruits, such as persimmon, guava, and melon-derived by-products, was observed. Technologically, the industry was observed to shift from basic feasibility assessments to “precision enology.” The application of non-conventional yeasts (e.g., Torulaspora delbrueckii) and native microbiomes substantially enhanced aromatic complexity and terroir expression. Furthermore, metabolomic and chemometric analyses demonstrated that fermentation methods (Traditional vs. Charmat) substantially modulated flavor profiles, particularly ester formation. These findings suggest that non-grape substrates provide a sustainable pathway for high-value sparkling wine production and show potential to emerge as an independent industrial category driven by advanced fermentation strategies. Full article

Background: Oxidative liver damage, fibrosis, cirrhosis and liver failure are caused by reactive oxygen species and inflammatory responses triggered by bile retention during prolonged cholestasis. Pomegranate and persimmon fruits, which are loaded with bioactive compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, were evaluated separately for their efficacy in preventing oxidative stress and inflammation in cholestasis. Methods: Pomegranate and persimmon juices were analyzed for their vitamin C, carotenoids and organic acid levels, phenolic profile, and antioxidant activity. Liver protection against oxidative stress and inflammation brought on by cyclosporine-induced cholestasis in rats was verified by biochemical measurements, metabolite identification, and histopathologic examination. To forecast the mechanism of pomegranate and persimmon anti-inflammatory action, an in silico assessment was also carried out. Results: Vitamin C levels in pomegranate and persimmon juices were 99.55 and 51.75 µg/g, respectively. In both pomegranate and persimmon juices, gallic acid was the most prevalent phenolic compound (123.20 and 50.69 µg/g, respectively). Pomegranate and persimmon juices significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the rise in liver values of MDA, NO, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and TLR4, as well as serum values of total and direct bilirubin caused by cyclosporine. Additionally, the alteration of metabolites, particularly amino acids, demonstrated the inhibitory effect of pomegranate and persimmon juices on liver damage. Gallic acid’s and catechin’s substantial binding affinities with target inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and TLR4) were further validated by molecular docking. Conclusions: These results showed that pomegranate and persimmon juices mainly modulated inflammation and oxidative stress to provide hepato-protective benefits against cyclosporine-induced cholestatic liver injury. Full article

Persimmon polyphenols (PP) are natural polyphenols with high reactivity and strong deodorization potential; however, their practical application in odor control is limited by their poor solubility. In this study, natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs) were employed for the green extraction of PP, and the capabilities of extracts on the removal of ammonia (NH₃) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) were investigated. In addition, the underlying mechanisms were explored by integrating spectroscopic analysis, molecular dynamics simulations, and quantum chemical calculations. The results showed that chloride-citric acid (CC-CA) was the optimal system in both PP extraction and sustained NH₃ removal, while the betaine-urea (B-U) system was more effective for H₂S removal. NH₃ removal was governed by acid-base neutralization, with the resulting ammonium species being further stabilized within the PP-regulated NADES hydrogen-bond network. In contrast, H₂S interacted with the solvent network not only through acid-base neutralization but also via Van der Waals forces and hydrophobic contacts. Our data supported that NADESs enhanced the deodorization performance of PP through cooperative microenvironment regulation rather than irreversible chemical conversion. This work highlighted that NADESs could not only function as highly efficient extraction media for polyphenols, but also active platforms for enhancing selective gas-capture capability for polyphenols. Furthermore, it provided a new strategy for the rational design of green, persimmon-derived deodorants. Full article

Active packaging using edible coating could be an essential and sustainable alternative solution to preserve the properties of fruits and to prevent food loss and food waste. Chitosan, a linear polysaccharide obtained by deacetylation of chitin, has been widely used as an edible coating of fruits. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a chitosan-based edible coating incorporated with Aloe vera and beeswax. Edible coatings were formulated with the following proportions: (% V/W: chitosan: Aloe vera: beeswax) as F1 (chitosan 79.5%: Aloe vera extract 19.5%: beeswax 1%), F2 (chitosan 79.2%: Aloe vera extract 19.2%: beeswax 1.5%), and F3 (chitosan 79%: Aloe vera extract 19%: beeswax 2%). After characterization, films were applied to Musa paradisiaca (banana) and Diospyros kaki (persimmons) varieties: Hychia and Fuyu, respectively, of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. The film containing a higher concentration of beeswax, F3, attained the lowest moisture content (22.12% ± 0.57). The edible coatings, especially (F3) treated fruits, improved significantly in the quality attributes of banana and persimmon as: % weight loss (95.11 ± 0.023, 158 ± 0.81), pH (5.3 ± 0.005, 5.67 ± 0.005), titratable acidity (0.521% ± 0.05, 0.692% ± 0.002), total antioxidant capacity (34.6%, 49.2%), decay incidence (30%, 45%). Chitosan and Aloe vera extract incorporated with a beeswax edible coating had a significant effect on all the studied characteristics and there was an increased shelf life for both M. paradisiaca and D. kaki. Our findings demonstrated that a coating enriched with Aloe vera extract and beeswax is an efficient bioformulation to improve shelf life, preserve the properties of fruit, and prevent food loss. Full article

Global warming and international trade are accelerating biological invasions, making the Mediterranean basin a hotspot for alien arthropods. Two invasive species, the drosophilid Zaprionus tuberculatus and the wax scale Ceroplastes ceriferus, were recently detected in central-southern Italy. Surveys conducted between 2023 and 2024 detected Z. tuberculatus across several sites in Campania and Lazio, and C. ceriferus in Campania. Zaprionus tuberculatus was reared from ten host plants, including three new records, and reached its highest abundance on persimmon. Laboratory assays showed that Z. tuberculatus adults reproduced only on intact fig fruits and blueberry, indicating a limited risk for most crops. Ceroplastes ceriferus was found on four hosts, confirming its polyphagy and establishment in southern Italy. Molecular analyses revealed two COI haplotypes in the Italian populations of both species, while three haplotypes were detected globally in Z. tuberculatus and seven in C. ceriferus. Sequence divergences were moderate, indicating limited but appreciable mitochondrial differentiation among geographic populations. In Z. tuberculatus, the COII haplotype detected in Italy did not match available African sequences, underscoring gaps in reference data and complicating the reconstruction of invasion routes. Despite contrasting ecological traits and dispersal strategies, both species achieved successful establishment in Italy, showing that ecological plasticity and human-mediated transport can offset reduced genetic diversity. These records expand the known European range of both species and highlight the need for coordinated surveillance, genetic monitoring, and preventive measures to limit further introductions in the Mediterranean region. Full article

Integrated landscape (bioregional, territorial) management (ILM) is a model for place-based planning and development that integrates values of healthy nature, regenerative economies, human well-being, and social solidarity. This review paper analyzes the support system for ILM to achieve transformative change, highlighting 20 dimensions in five support sub-systems. Though landscape partnerships (LPs) are now widespread, they have little coordinated support to form and have weak capacities, inadequate long-term operational funding, and limited cultural resonance. Landscape programs have proliferated and gained notable system-level support, but LP coalitions and alliances are just emerging, and there is little coordinated provision of LP support services. Despite widespread developments in the knowledge base, methods, and tools for local ILM design, there is little coordinated system support and limited dedicated work on data and IT, impact assessment, or strategic research. Landscape finance tools and business engagement with LPs are being explored, but economic valuation is inadequate, and little financing has shifted to coordinated landscape investments. In public policy, professional planners and international policy frameworks are adopting ILM, but government policies and tenure systems provide sparse support. High-leverage actions can accelerate progress in each dimension. But to fully realize the transformative potential of ILM will require more coherent support strategies. Full article

Faced with the challenge of reducing food waste, transforming discarded fruit into functional ingredients useful for the food industry is a valuable solution. Ingredients from fruit such as persimmons, which are rich in indigestible carbohydrates and bioactive compounds with antiradical capacity, could positively impact on the health of certain population groups due to their potential prebiotic effect. This study aimed to select the most suitable drying conditions and milling intensity for obtaining powdered persimmon ingredients with a prebiotic-like effects observed in vitro for postmenopausal women, and to evaluate this effect by considering the stimulation of health-promoting bacterial growth and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) production. First, the effect of the drying method (hot air drying at 60 and 70 °C, and freeze-drying) and grinding intensity on antiradical capacity, particle size, and the release of bioactive antiradical components into the intestinal lumen after an in vitro gastrointestinal digestion was determined. Next, the effect of these conditions on the microbiota composition of postmenopausal women was preliminary assessed in a batch colonic fermentation experiment for 24 h. The results showed that the ingredient dried with air at 70 °C had the highest phenol and flavonoid content, suffered the least degradation during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion and promoted the differential growth of fiber-degrader genera. Consequently, this was the ingredient selected as the most suitable. Lastly, the impact of this ingredient on the microbiota composition of 4 postmenopausal women has been evaluated in a long-term study using the Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem (SHIME^®) coupled to high throughput sequencing. The growth stimulation of health-associated bacteria, such as Akkermansia muciniphila, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii or Phascolarctobacterium faecium, and the promotion of beneficial metabolic pathways, such as the sugar uptake-specific phosphotransferase system, sugar metabolism and propionate and isobutyrate production, were detected along 14 days of persimmon powder supplementation. A holistic framework for promoting human health while advancing environmental sustainability is represented by the combination of sustainable by-product valorization and microbiota-targeted functional food development. Full article

To promote sustainable food production, the effective valorization of agricultural byproducts is essential. This study investigated the potential of underutilized chestnut inner skin (CIS) and thinned young persimmon fruit (YPF) extracts as functional ingredients in pudding gels, selected as a complex model system utilizing heat-induced egg gelation with milk and sugar. Puddings were prepared by replacing water with 10% or 50% CIS or YPF extracts. We comprehensively evaluated the physicochemical properties (texture, color, viscosity), microstructure (SEM), and sensory quality. Additionally, immunoreactive allergenic proteins (ovalbumin, casein, β-lactoglobulin) were quantified using ELISA, and antioxidant activity was measured via DPPH and H-ORAC assays. Results indicated that while high extract concentrations (50%) negatively impacted texture by increasing hardness and forming air pockets, the 10% YPF treatment yielded a smooth, homogeneous microstructure comparable to the control. Crucially, the 10% YPF extract significantly reduced the concentration of detectable allergenic proteins, attributed to the formation of insoluble tannin–protein complexes, without compromising sensory acceptance. Furthermore, the addition of these extracts significantly enhanced the antioxidant activity of the puddings in a concentration-dependent manner. These findings demonstrate that 10% YPF is a promising candidate for developing sustainable, hypoallergenic, and antioxidant-rich functional food products. Full article

Fisetin is a naturally occurring flavonoid, a type of polyphenol found in fruits and vegetables such as strawberries, apples, persimmons, and onions. It has gained increasing attention for its antioxidant properties (enhancement of SOD1 and CAT activity and reduction of ROS), anti-inflammatory effects (suppression of NF-κB signaling), and senotherapeutic activity (senolytic and senomorphic effects). Although numerous studies have examined fisetin in the context of aging and chronic diseases, its role in women’s reproductive health has not been systematically explored. Mechanistically, fisetin regulates several pathophysiological processes, including ovarian aging, fibrosis, angiogenesis, and hormonal regulation, suggesting its potential relevance to female reproductive health and disease. Indeed, emerging evidence indicates that fisetin may support ovarian function and hormonal balance, modulate fibrosis and metabolism in benign gynecologic conditions, and suppress cell growth in gynecologic cancers. Early-phase clinical studies in non-gynecologic conditions suggest an acceptable safety profile, although evidence in reproductive health remains absent. This review summarizes current experimental and clinical evidence, identifies critical gaps in mechanistic understanding, and discusses future directions for advancing fisetin as a promising non-hormonal therapeutic option in reproductive health and diseases. Full article

This study explores the virome of fifteen peanut cultivars in Korea. Through RNA sequencing, 305 viral contigs associated with cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), peanut mottle virus (PeMoV), bean common mosaic virus (BCMV), and brassica yellows virus (BrYV) were identified, with CMV notably prevalent across samples. Evaluation of viral abundance using viral reads and TPM values revealed CMV dominance in reads and PeMoV prominence in normalized values in select samples. Complete genomes of BCMV, PeMoV, BrYV, and CMV segments were assembled, enabling phylogenetic analysis that uncovered genetic relationships among viral isolates. RT-PCR confirmed BCMV, CMV, and PeMoV presence. Genetic diversity within BCMV was evident through single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) analysis, displaying diverse patterns and correlations with viral reads. This study discusses the implications for peanut cultivation, stressing the importance of ongoing research to manage viral diseases. It forms a foundational resource for future investigations into peanut virology, guiding strategies for disease management in peanut crops. Full article

Scientific research, within the framework of a circular and sustainable economy, has increasingly focused on wild plants and agricultural by-products as valuable sources of bioactive compounds for innovative applications. In this study, the plant species selected for extract preparation and evaluation of their dyeing properties included Isatis tinctoria L., Castanea sativa, Juglans regia L., Rumex crispus L., Arbutus unedo L., and Punica granatum L. Each extract was analyzed to assess its dyeing performance on cotton and other cellulosic fabrics. Cellulose pads dyed with peels of P. granatum extract (PPGE) proved to be versatile and effective, showing potential for use in extending the shelf life of various fruits such as strawberries, apples, cherries, and persimmons. The optimum dyeing condition for cellulose and cotton fabrics was found to be 6% w/v dye. These findings support the development of natural, multifunctional materials suitable for food packaging applications aimed at preserving fresh produce, as well as for sustainable textile dyeing. Full article

Sodium alginate (SA) is widely used as an edible coating for fruit preservation, but its weak water barrier and antibacterial properties limit broader application. In this study, quaternary ammonium lignin–cinnamaldehyde (QKC) composite particles were incorporated into SA as multifunctional fillers to construct antibacterial coatings. Electrostatic and hydrogen-bonding interactions between cationic QKC and anionic SA yielded a uniform, stable network with improved hydrophobicity and UV-shielding capacity. At 5 wt% QKC loading (SA5), the tensile strength increased from 11.53 to 24.42 MPa (111.8% higher than SA0), while water vapor permeability decreased by 35.4%. SA coatings also exhibited strong antioxidant activity, and the ABTS radical scavenging rate increased to 70.22% at 7 wt% QKC, with SA5 offering a favorable balance between antioxidant, barrier, and mechanical properties. SA5 showed pronounced antibacterial efficacy, giving inhibition rates of 96% against Staphylococcus aureus and 65% against Escherichia coli. Coating trials on persimmons and tangerines demonstrated that SA5 reduced weight loss, delayed firmness decline, and mitigated decay during storage. In addition, calcium-crosslinked SA/QKC hydrogel beads markedly delayed visible mold growth on blueberries. These results indicate that QKC-reinforced SA coatings provide a promising strategy for enhancing the postharvest quality and shelf life of fresh fruit. Full article

Pollination-constant non-astringent (PCNA) persimmons have significant commercial value due to their natural de-astringency trait. The Chinese PCNA (C-PCNA) type is particularly valuable for genetic improvement because this trait is controlled by dominant genes. However, the regulatory mechanism underlying this trait remains unclear. Our previous research identified ALDH2 (acetaldehyde dehydrogenase 2, a key gene downstream of acetaldehyde metabolism) as being negatively correlated with natural de-astringency in C-PCNA persimmon, and revealed its interaction with DkBPC1, a transcription factor from the BBR/BPC (BARLEY B RECOMBINANT/BASIC PENTA CYSTEINE, abbreviated as the BPC protein family) family whose function had not been experimentally validated. The full-length cDNA of DkBPC1 was isolated from ‘Luotian Tianshi’ (C-PCNA type). A dual-luciferase assay demonstrated that DkBPC1 significantly enhances the promoter activity of DkALDH2b. Subcellular localization conducted in tobacco confirmed that DkBPC1 is localized in the nucleus. Transient overexpression of DkBPC1 in C-PCNA leaves and fruit discs resulted in a significant increase in soluble tannin content, a significant decrease in insoluble tannin content, and a notable upregulation of DkALDH2b gene expression. Conversely, transient knockdown of DkBPC1 expression in C-PCNA leaves led to a dramatic drop in soluble tannin content and a significant increase in insoluble tannin content. These results indicate that BPC1 can increase the conversion of soluble tannins to insoluble tannins by downregulating the expression of the DkALDH2 gene, thereby promoting natural de-astringency in C-PCNA persimmon. Full article

In the Mediterranean region, the persimmon cultivar ‘Rojo Brillante’ may experience up to four waves of fruit drop. The first is a physiological event during fruit set that is common in woody species, while the subsequent waves are induced by rising temperatures and prolonged summer water stress. These summer drops represent the main limiting factor, leading to yield losses of up to 90%. Organ abscission is a complex process regulated by genetic, hormonal, nutritional, and environmental factors. We hypothesise that calcium (Ca) plays a protective role in the abscission zone (AZ) by inhibiting cell wall-degrading enzymes such as polygalacturonase (PG) and pectin methylesterases (PMEs). Calcium applications every 15 days from anthesis onwards significantly reduced fruit drop. Treatments preserved polar auxin transport—through DkPIN1 expression—and inhibited stage C of the abscission process, decreasing the relative expression of the DkIDL6 gene in the AZ. Moreover, PME and PG activities were significantly lower in Ca-treated fruits, confirming the stabilising effect of calcium on AZ integrity. In summary, pre-anthesis calcium sprays reduced premature fruit drop by about 30% under heat–drought stress by down-regulating key abscission genes (DkIDL6, DkPG20, DkPME41) and preserving cell wall integrity and fruit firmness, supporting the use of Ca treatments as a climate-smart approach to stabilise persimmon yield. Full article