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Durian seeds (Durio zibethinus murr) have gotten less attention in the past. Therefore, it is necessary to treat them as culinary items like flour. The durian used in flour production was a local durian from Tolitoli and Donggala Regencies. This research method consisted of sample preparation, preparation of standard solutions, analysis of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and determination of the levels of Mn and Zn in durian seed flour. The results showed that the composition of durian seeds flour from the Tolitoli regency obtained was 59,2% for carbohydrates, 3,24% for lipids, 8,75% for proteins, 10,1 mg/kg for Mn, and 6,30 mg/kg of Zn. While durian seed flour from Donggala Regency obtained 41,76% of carbohydrates, 3,24% of lipids, 10,93% of protein, 7,1 mg/kg of Mn, and 1,22 mg/kg of Zn. According to these results and the National Standardization Agency of Indonesia, durian seed flour can be used as an alternative local food ingredient to fulfill the body's demands for carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, manganese, and zinc. Furthermore, durian seed flour, when processed as a food ingredient, can be used as a replacement for wheat flour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on identifying and analyzing spending trend profiles and developing the per capita consumption models to forecast the fresh agro-food per capita consumption in Malaysia. Previous published works have looked at statistical and machine learning methods to forecast the demand of agro-food such as ARIMA and SVM methods. However, ordinary least squares (OLS) and neural network (NN) methods have shown better results in modelling time series data. For that reason, the primary objective of this study is to model and forecast the consumption per capita (PCC) of several selected fresh agro-food commodities in Malaysia using the OLS and NN methods. The secondary objectives of the paper include investigating the performance of OLS against NNs with three different topologies, discussing the correlation between Malaysia GDP per capita and the agro-food commodity PCC, and finally assessing whether the PCC data are increasing over time or decreasing over time and whether the trend in either direction is statistically significant by using the Mann–Kendall statistical test. Based on the results of the agro-food consumption per capita (PCC) forecasting, several critical agro-food commodities are also identified in this work. The material of the study consists of the per capita consumption of thirty-three (33) agro-food items that can be categorized into rice, livestock, vegetables, fisheries, and fruits, total gross domestic product (GDP) per capita, and the total population of Malaysia between 2010 and 2017. Based on the results obtained, the neural network ( N N T 1 ) model was found to produce the lowest total MSE of 17.95, for all 33 fresh agro-food investigated in this study. Several agro-food commodities have been identified as having significant positive (e.g., rice, spinach, cabbage, celery cabbage, eggplant, cucumber, poultry, lamb, squid, tuna, star fruit, jackfruit, durian, sweet corn, and coconut) or negative (e.g., pork, mackerel, papaya, guava, mangosteen, pineapple, banana, rambutan, and watermelon) trends using the Mann–Kendall trend test. This study also demonstrated that the production of critical agro-food commodities (e.g., rice, chili, cabbage, celery cabbage, poultry (chicken/duck), beef, lamb, crab, mango, and coconut) should be improved to ensure self-sufficiency ratios (SSRs) of more than 100% to accommodate the increased projected consumption in Malaysia by the year 2025. This paper concludes that neural network methods produce better prediction, and future works include forecasting agro-food demand based on other independent variables such as weather conditions, disease outbreak, and stock market trends. There is a need to explore further the capability of ensemble models or hybrid models based on deep learning methods using multi-source data, as these have been shown to improve the performance of the base model. With these ensemble models combined with multi-source data, a more comprehensive analysis of the PCC can be obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

More than 200 different cultivars of durian exist worldwide but Durio zibethinus or Musang King (MK) is the most premium and prized durian fruit among the recommended varieties. Early identification of this premium variety is critical to protect from non-authentic MK durian cultivars. However, the MK variety's morphological traits are nearly identical to other varieties. Currently, the identification of durian varieties is mostly performed via evaluation of leaf shape, fruit shape, aroma, taste and seed shape and this requires trained personnel for the morphology observation. To enable the rapid identification of the MK variety, PCR amplification of ten durian varieties using six gene candidates from the chloroplast genome was first performed to obtain DNA probes that were specific to the MK durian variety. PCR amplification of ten durian varieties using primers designed confirmed that the nadhA gene sequence showed an obvious difference in the MK variety from other durian varieties. The unique sequence of MK was used as a DNA probe to develop an electrochemical biosensor for the direct identification of the MK durian variety. The electrochemical biosensor was based on the hybridization response of the immobilized DNA probe with the target DNA from the MK variety and was monitored via differential pulse voltammetry technique. Under optimal conditions, the DNA electrochemical biosensor showed a low detection limit at 10% of MK genomic DNA concentration with a wide linear calibration range of 0.05–1.5 µM (R2 = 0.9891) and RSD value of 3.77% (n = 3). The results of the developed DNA biosensor provide high promise for the development of portable sensors employed in the determination of MK variety in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The issues of petroleum-based plastics are increasing day by day, causing environmental and health impacts. One of the alternative ways to reduce these issues is to introduce a new biocomposite material in order to replace the commercial plastics. Poly(lactic) acid (PLA)/durian husk fiber (DHF) biofilms with different DHF contents (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt%) were prepared via a simple solvent casting method. The tensile, water absorption, and biodegradation properties of the PLA/DHF biofilms were investigated. The results revealed that the tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of the PLA/DHF biofilms increased with increasing DHF content from 5 wt% to 10 wt%. However, the opposite results were shown in elongation at break. The tensile strength and modulus of elasticity of the PLA/DHF biofilms decreased as compared to neat PLA film due to the plasticized effect that happened in the biofilms. However, the enzymatic degradation with α-amylase and water absorption properties of the PLA/DHF biofilms increased with increasing of DHF content. Furthermore, alkali treatment with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) was carried out on the DHF. The NaOH treatment enhanced the tensile strength and water resistance of the biofilms, but reduced the enzymatic degradation of the biofilms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Odor hedonic perception (pleasant/unpleasant character) is considered as the first and one of the most prominent dimensions in olfaction and is known to depend on several parameters. Among them, the relation between the odorant concentration and the hedonic estimation has been widely studied. However, few studies have considered odor hedonic ratings (OHR) in relation to individual detection thresholds (IDT). Thus, the aim of this study was to determine olfactory detection thresholds and to describe hedonic rating variations from individual thresholds to higher concentrations. IDT were performed for two pleasant (apple and jasmine) and two unpleasant (durian and trimethylamine) odorant stimuli. The experimenter presented one by one in a randomized order, the different odorant concentrations above IDT. Participants rated odor hedonic valence of these stimuli on a visual analog scale. Results showed, except for trimethylamine, the same relationship between hedonic ratings and stimulus concentration, i.e., an increase of pleasantness (apple and jasmine)/unpleasantness (durian) ratings at low and middle concentrations followed by a plateau at high concentrations. Correlations between OHR and concentrations as well as between OHR and threshold steps were always significant. Moreover, comparisons between both conditions showed that the correlation coefficient was significantly higher for trimethylamine (and a trend for apple) when IDTs were considered, while no difference was found for jasmine and durian. Overall, results suggested that the relationship between OHR and IDT is odor specific. These findings contribute to explain the large variability of the hedonic tone (i.e., weakly vs. very pleasant, weakly vs. very unpleasant) at specific concentration in the general population and could serve future research in this field (e.g., olfactory preferences in nutrition studies, anhedonia in psychiatric disorders...). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytophthora palmivora is a destructive plant pathogenic oomycete that has caused lethal diseases in a wide range of hosts. It is a pan-tropical distributed pathogen that can infect plants at all growth stages. Extensive studies have linked P. palmivora to severe diseases in several crops, such as black pepper, rubber, cocoa, and durian, causing global economic losses. This review covers the following topics in depth: (i) P. palmivora as phytopathogen; (ii) identification and infection mechanism in rubber, cocoa, and durian; and (iii) management and control applied for P. palmivora diseases. Effective management strategies were studied and practiced to prevent the spread of P. palmivora disease. Genetic resistance and biocontrol are the best methods to control the disease. A better understanding of P. palmivora infection mechanisms in our main crops and early disease detection can reduce the risk of catastrophic pandemics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The durian (genus Durio) has aroused curiosity among botanists for centuries, and influenced local culture across Southeast Asia for millennia. Of the 30 described species of Durio, about a third produce edible fruits, yet just one (Durio zibethinus) is grown on a commercial scale. Several new species have been described recently, which may be a reservoir of important genetic resources. Meanwhile, unregulated durian cultivation triggered by rapidly growing demand and a high return on investment may pose a threat to natural forests. Here we review recent findings in the genus with a focus on Malaysia and Indonesia. We suggest that further research into obscure wild relatives and local cultivars, will be important in the context of growing international demand for durian, coupled with an increasing reliance on commercial cultivars of this economically and culturally important fruit. Finally we suggest greater attention should be given to the potential threat to biodiversity posed by illegal durian plantations in one of the most biodiverse regions of the planet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a green, highly efficient and low energy consumption preparation method of cellulose nanofiber (CNF) was developed by using agricultural and forestry waste durian rinds as raw materials. The power of ultrasonic treatment was successfully reduced to only 360 W with low molecular weight liquid DMSO. The obtained durian rind-based CNF had a diameter of 8–20 nm and a length of several micrometers. It had good dispersion and stability in water, and could spontaneously cross-link to form hydrogel at room temperature when the concentration was more than 0.5%. The microscopic morphology and compressive properties of CNF aerogels and composite cellulose aerogels prepared from durian rind-based CNF were evaluated. It was found that CNF could effectively prevent the volume shrinkage of aerogel, and the concentration of CNF had a significant effect on the microstructure and mechanical properties of aerogel. The CNF aerogel with 1% CNF exhibited a sheet structure braced by fibers, which had the strongest compression performance. The porosity of CNF aerogels was high to 99%. The compressive strength of the composite cellulose aerogel with durian rind-based CNF was effectively enhanced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic is a source of pollution both on land and sea that can disrupt balance of the ecosystem. The characteristic of plastic as a material is difficult to decompose causing problems for environment. Various research needed to produce bioplastics that easily biodegradable in about 60 days. Biodegradable plastics are made from organic materials in the form of starch. Durian seed starch is one of the potential raw materials that can be used as bioplastics. Durian fruit is one of the typical fruits in Indonesia, at present seeds of durian had not been used as raw materials to produce object with economic values. It is necessary to combine the processing of durian seeds through a recovery approach in the form of processing into bioplastics. The aim of study is to analyze the effect of adding PEG 400 as a plasticizer plus calcium carbonate as a solidifier. Tests were carried out on swelling ability, acid and base resistance, tensile strength and biodegradation. The variation of the addition of PEG 400 is 4%; 30%; 50% and 70% were carried out to analyze the effect of different concentrations of plasticizers. None of the tensile test results met SNI 7188-11:2018 but all variations had biodegradation values according to SNI 7188-11:2018. Swelling test resulted from 4% and 30% are 1.2% and 2.1% respectively.

Abstract Background Durian (Durio zibethinus L.) is a tropical fruit crop which is popular in Southeast Asia but recently gaining popularity in other parts of the world. In this study, we analyzed the resistance gene analogs (RGAs) of durian through mining of the currently available reference genome of its ‘Musang King’ cultivar (PRJNA400310). Results A total of 2586 RGAs were identified in the durian genome consisting of 47 nucleotide binding site proteins (NBS), 158 NBS-leucine rich repeat proteins (NL), 400 coiled-coil NBS-LRR (CNL), 72 toll/interleukin-1 receptor NBS-LRR (TNL), 54 coiled-coil NBS (CN), 10 toll/interleukin-1 receptor NBS (TN), 19 toll/interleukin-1 receptor with unknown domain (TX), 246 receptor-like proteins (RLP), 1,377 receptor-like kinases (RLK), 185 TM-CC, and 18 other NBS-containing proteins with other domains. These RGAs were functionally annotated and characterized via gene ontology (GO) analysis. Among the RGAs with the highest copies in durian genome include the putative disease resistance RPP13-like protein 1, disease resistance protein At4g27190, disease resistance protein RPS6, Probable disease resistance protein At4g27220, and putative disease resistance protein RGA3, while 35 RGAs were found to be novel. Phylogenetic analyses revealed that the genome-wide RGAs were broadly clustered into four major clades based on their domain classification. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the most comprehensive analysis of durian RGAs which provides a valuable resource for genetic, agronomic, and other biological research of this important tropical fruit crop.

Global water pollution by various pollutants is becoming an urgent problem. The conversion of durian fruit waste into adsorbents can help to mitigate this issue. Transforming durian waste into adsorbents can reduce pollution risk from waste discharged directly into the environment, while also effectively eliminating existing contaminants. Here, this work explores the potential of durian fruit waste and supplies insights into the synthesis and application of durian fruit waste-derived adsorbents such as biosorbents, modified-biosorbents, biochars, activated carbons, and composites. Several factors affecting the adsorption process of pollutants and the mechanism how pollutants can be adsorbed onto durian fruit waste-derived adsorbents are elucidated. This review also analyzes some aspects of limitations and prospects of biosorbents derived from durian fruit waste. It is anticipated that the promising properties and applications of durian fruit waste-derived adsorbents open up a new field for water waste treatment. [Display omitted] • Sustainable and effective bioasorbents can be produced from durian fruit waste. • Chemical activation is the most critical step to increase surface area and porosity. • Durian fruit waste-adsorbents can easily remove dyes, heavy metals, and antibiotics. • Prominent reusability of durian fruit waste-adsorbents was obtained, with 5–6 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shrimp head by-product (SHP) has been increasingly studied for applications in bacterial fermentation and the production of secondary metabolites. In this work study, Bacillus velezensis EB.KN15 was grown via fermentation using SHP as a novel substrate on a large scale and its potential fungicidal effect against durian pathogen fungi was evaluated. SHP was found rich in protein content (29.18%) and several mineral elements suitable for EB.KN15 fermentation. The appropriate cultural medium for B. velezensis EB.KN15 growth in the small-scale fermentation using 250 mL-Erlenmeyer flask included 2% SHP/LB (7/3), 0.05% MnSO4, and 0.1% KH2PO4 at 34 °C, pH 7 for 36 h. When scaling up fermentation in a 14 L-bioreactor system, this strain exhibited better productivity (1.2 × 1012 CFU/mL) in a shorter fermentation time (only 10 h). Anti-fungal activity tests revealed for the first time, that EB.KN15 has potential fungicidal effect against Fusarium incarnatum, Phytophthora palmivora, and Fusarium solani with high inhibition values of 70%, 78.95%, and 80%, respectively. Gas chromatography mass spectrometry could identify 11 major volatiles produced by B. velezensis EB.KN15 in the supernatant. The molecular docking indicated effective interaction of these major volatiles with the target protein responsible for F. solani inhibition with good binding energy (DS ≤ 7.1 kcal/mol) and an acceptable root-mean-square deviation value (1.05–1.96 Å). This study suggests that SHP is a new substrate for the fermentation of B. velezensis EB.KN15 and recorded this strain as a novel potential candidate to effectively manage durian pathogen fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While durian shell is often discharged into landfills, this waste can be a potential and zero-cost raw material to synthesize carbon-based adsorbents with purposes of saving costs and minimizing environmental contamination. Indole (IDO) is one of serious organic pollutants that influence aquatic species and human health; hence, the necessity for IDO removal is worth considering. Here, we synthesized a magnetic composite, denoted as MFOAC, based on activated carbon (AC) derived from durian shell waste incorporated with MnFe 2 O 4 (MFO) to adsorb IDO in water. MFOAC showed a microporous structure, along with a high surface area and pore volume, at 518.9 m2/g, and 0.106 cm3/g, respectively. Optimization of factors affecting the IDO removal of MFOAC were implemented by Box–Behnken design and response surface methodology. Adsorption kinetics and isotherms suggested a suitable model for MFOAC to remove IDO. MFOAC was recyclable with 3 cycles. Main interactions involving in the IDO adsorption mechanism onto MFOAC were clarified, including pore filling, n-π interaction, π-π interaction, Yoshida H-bonding, H-bonding. • MnFe 2 O 4 /activated carbon was produced from a low-cost, available durian shell waste. • MFOAC obtained a high surface area (S BET = 518.9 m2/g) and mesoporous structure. • Indole removal was optimized by response surface methodology and Box-Behnken design. • Main mechanisms for indole adsorption by MFOAC were clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CuCoFe-LDO/BCD was successfully synthesized from CuCoFe-LDH and biochar derived from durian shell (BCD). Ciprofloxacin (CFX) degraded more than 95% mainly by O 2 •− and 1O 2 in CuCoFe-LDO/BCD(2/1)/PMS system within 10 min with a rate constant of 0.255 min−1, which was 14.35 and 2.66 times higher than those in BCD/PMS and CuCoFe-LDO/PMS systems, respectively. The catalytic system exhibited good performance over a wide pH range (3–9) and high degradation efficiency of other antibiotics. Built-in electric field (BIEF) driven by large difference in the work function/Fermi level ratio between CuCoFe-LDO and BCD accelerated continuous electron transfer from CuCoFe-LDO to BCD to result in two different microenvironments with opposite charges at the interface, which enhanced PMS adsorption and activation via different directions. As a non-radical, 1O 2 was mainly generated via PMS activation by C=O in BCD. The presence of C=O in BCD resulted in an increase in atomic charge of C in C=O and redistributed the charge density of other C atoms. As a result, strong adsorption of PMS at C atom in C=O and other C with a high positive charge was favorable for 1O 2 generation, whereas an enhanced adsorption of PMS at negatively charged C accounted for the generation of •OH and SO 4 •−. After adsorption, electrons in C of BCD became deficient and were fulfilled with those transferred from CuCoFe-LDO driven by BIEF, which ensured the high catalytic activity of CuCoFe-LDO/BCD. O 2 •−, on the other hand, was generated via several pathways that involved in the transformation of •OH and SO 4 •− originated from PMS activation by the transition of metal species in CuCoFe-LDO and negatively charged C in BCD. This study proposed a new idea of fabricating a low-cost metal-LDH and biomass-derived catalyst with a strong synergistic effect induced by BIEF for enhancing PMS activation and antibiotic degradation. [Display omitted] • Durian peel-derived biochar enhances CFX degradation in CuCoFe-LDO/BCD/PMS by 1.48 times. • The role of C=O in BCD for PMS activation and 1O 2 generation is confirmed by DFT calculations. • A new pathway for 1O 2 generation via PMS activation by C=O is proposed. • Built-in electric field between CuCoFe-LDO and BCD accelerates electron transfer and enhances PMS activation. • CFX degradation is contributed mainly by both radical (O 2 •−) and non-radical (1O 2). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The expression pattern of 40 DzMYB s in durian pulp at five stages was profiled and the most expressed DzMYB during postharvest ripening was characterized. • Transient expression of DzMYB1 raised flavonoids in tomato. • DzMYB1 binds promoters of early flavonoid genes: pCHS, pCHI, and pF3H. • DzMYB1 forms a homodimer and binds DzbHLH1's homodimer. Flavonoids are phenolic substances and exhibit strong antioxidant properties. The biosynthesis of flavonoids is regulated by various transcription factors (TFs), with MYB TFs playing a key role in controlling essential genes within this pathway. In this study, we identified candidate MYB TFs from our pulp transcriptome database of durian 'Monthong' cultivar. MYBs exhibiting upregulation during the ripe stage were considered transcriptional activators, due to their positive correlation with flavonoid gene expression and flavonoid accumulation in ripe durian pulps. One candidate MYB activator, DzMYB1, which was highly expressed at the ripe stage, was selected for functional characterization. Studies involving transient expression of DzMYB1 in Solanum lycopersicum cv. Micro-Tom fruit demonstrated increased flavonoid content, as analyzed by LC–MS/MS, compared with the GFP control. Moreover, we showed that DzMYB1 controls flavonoid biosynthesis by interacting with the promoters of various flavonoid biosynthetic genes, including chalcone synthase, chalcone isomerase, and flavanone 3-hydroxylase, resulting in their transcriptional activation. Additionally, we found that DzMYB1 functions as a homodimer and binds to a homodimerized DzbHLH1 in the intricate regulation of flavonoid biosynthesis. These findings provide comprehensive insights into the functional roles of MYB protein in the regulation of the flavonoid pathway within durian pulps. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for fresh-cut durian tends to increase as customer lifestyles have changed with more demand for convenience in usage and a reduction in the waste generated in the home. This study aimed to find a new sorting method for the ripened durian pulp. Raman spectra from lab-based and portable Raman spectroscopy showed a similar spectra pattern. The important Raman spectra bands for starch were presented on day 1–3 of storage. Bands associated with sugar were observed after day 4, whereas the starch was reduced. Durian pulp compositions during the ripening, especially firmness and weight loss decreased until the end of the storage. Major sulfur-containing compounds such as ethanethiol, diethyl disulfide, diethyl trisulfide and 3,5-dimethyl-1,2,4-trithiolane (isomer I, II) were emitted high amounts on day 4. The principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) and k-means clustering score plot of Raman spectra allowed the separation of ripeness for whole fruit after harvesting in three distinct stages; unripe stages on day 1–3, the ripen stages on days 4 and 5 and the overripe stages on days 6 and 7. Pearson's correlation coefficient exhibited a closed relationship between the Raman PC scores (106–1800 cm−1) and physico-chemical and volatile profile of durian fruit. Raman spectroscopy could be a useful new alternative technique to sort the ripeness and eating quality of durian pulp, substituting for traditional practices in fresh-cut industry. [Display omitted] • Raman spectroscopy could be used as an alternative tool for sorting durian ripeness. • Raman spectra related to physicochemical and volatile changes during the ripening. • Correlation sorted durian ripeness after harvested into unripe, ripe and overripe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durian (Durio zibethinus L.) is an economically important crop in the southern and eastern parts of Thailand. The occurrence of die-back disease caused by plant pathogenic fungi poses a serious threat to the quality and quantity of durian products. However, the identification of causal agents has been a subject of mixed information and uncertainty. In this research, we conducted a comprehensive investigation of die-back disease in nine durian plantations located in Thailand. By analyzing a total of 86 Fusarium isolates obtained from infected tissues, we aimed to provide clarity and a better understanding of the fungal pathogens responsible for this economically significant disease. Through a combination of colony characteristics, microscopic morphology, and a multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) of the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) region, translation elongation factor 1-α (TEF1-α) gene, and RNA polymerase II gene (RPB2) sequences, we were able to identify and categorize the isolates into three distinct groups, namely, Fusarium incarnatum, F. solani, and F. mangiferae. Koch’s postulates demonstrated that only F. incarnatum and F. solani were capable of causing die-back symptoms. This research represents the first report of F. incarnatum as a causal agent of die-back disease in durian in Thailand. Additionally, this study uncovers the association of ambrosia beetles and F. solani, highlighting the potential involvement of E. similia in facilitating the spread of die-back disease caused by Fusarium in durian.

Abstract Background Fruit ripening is an intricate developmental process driven by a highly coordinated action of complex hormonal networks. Ethylene is considered as the main phytohormone that regulates the ripening of climacteric fruits. Concomitantly, several ethylene-responsive transcription factors (TFs) are pivotal components of the regulatory network underlying fruit ripening. Calmodulin-binding transcription activator (CAMTA) is one such ethylene-induced TF implicated in various stress and plant developmental processes. Results Our comprehensive analysis of the CAMTA gene family in Durio zibethinus (durian, Dz) identified 10 CAMTAs with conserved domains. Phylogenetic analysis of DzCAMTAs, positioned DzCAMTA3 with its tomato ortholog that has already been validated for its role in the fruit ripening process through ethylene-mediated signaling. Furthermore, the transcriptome-wide analysis revealed DzCAMTA3 and DzCAMTA8 as the highest expressing durian CAMTA genes. These two DzCAMTAs possessed a distinct ripening-associated expression pattern during post-harvest ripening in Monthong, a durian cultivar native to Thailand. The expression profiling of DzCAMTA3 and DzCAMTA8 under natural ripening conditions and ethylene-induced/delayed ripening conditions substantiated their roles as ethylene-induced transcriptional activators of ripening. Similarly, auxin-suppressed expression of DzCAMTA3 and DzCAMTA8 confirmed their responsiveness to exogenous auxin treatment in a time-dependent manner. Accordingly, we propose that DzCAMTA3 and DzCAMTA8 synergistically crosstalk with ethylene during durian fruit ripening. In contrast, DzCAMTA3 and DzCAMTA8 antagonistically with auxin could affect the post-harvest ripening process in durian. Furthermore, DzCAMTA3 and DzCAMTA8 interacting genes contain significant CAMTA recognition motifs and regulated several pivotal fruit-ripening-associated pathways. Conclusion Taken together, the present study contributes to an in-depth understanding of the structure and probable function of CAMTA genes in the post-harvest ripening of durian.

Durian (Durio zibethinus L.) is a crop of economic and health importance globally. Efforts are being made to revamp China's only successful commercial-scale durian plantations in Hainan; however, their genetic base is unknown. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to assess the genetic base and population structure of 32 genotypes in durian plantation sites in Hainan, China, and develop simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers by whole genome sequencing through restriction site-associated DNA sequencing technology to facilitate germplasm conservation and breeding. The results from identity by state (IBS), phylogenetic tree, population structure, and principal component analysis grouped the 32 genotypes into two clusters/sub-populations. Based on IBS, genotypes in Cluster I are largely duplicated genotypes; however, results from the model-based population structure demonstrated that most of the genotypes in Sub-population II shared a common genetic background with those in Sub-population I/Cluster I. The results revealed that the core durian collection in the plantation sites in Hainan include D24, D101, MSW, JH, D163, HFH, and NLX-5. In addition, we developed a total of 79,178 SSR markers with varied lengths and amplicon sizes. The genetic diversity and population structure reported in this study will be useful for durian conservation and utilization. In addition, the discovered and developed SSR markers will lay the foundation for molecular breeding via marker-assisted selection, quantitative trait loci mapping, and candidate gene discovery and validation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durian fruit puree (DFP) is a nutrient-dense food, but it has a short shelf life. Presently, little research has been undertaken on extending the shelf life of DFP. Hence, it is necessary to develop treatment methods that can prolong the shelf life of DFP. In the present study, thermal processing (TP), high-pressure processing (HPP), and CO2-assisted HPP (CO2 + HPP) treatments are used for DFP, and their influences on quality properties of DFP during storage (35 days, 4 °C) are investigated. Compared to other treatments, the CO2 + HPP treatment had a lower pressure and a shorter time to achieve the same effect of inactivating the microorganisms of DFP. During storage, CO2 + HPP treated DFP showed higher retention rates of sugars, total soluble solids, color, bioactive components, and antioxidant capacity in comparison with other treated DFPs. Moreover, after 35 days of storage, the microbial count of (CO2 + HPP)-treated DFP (3.80 × 103 CFU/g) was much lower than those of TP (4.77 × 105 CFU/g) and HPP (8.53 × 103 CFU/g)-treated DFPs. The results of this study reveal that CO2 + HPP treatment could not only better preserve the quality of DFP, but also effectively extend the shelf life of DFP, providing an effective method for the processing of DFP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Concurrent adsorptive removal of methylene blue (MB) and rhodamine B (RhB) onto durian rind (DR) agricultural waste, from an aqueous binary solution as a model of wastewater containing multiple synthetic dyes, was investigated. The concurrent adsorption of the dyes followed pseudo-second-order kinetics. The adsorption isotherm was well simulated by the Langmuir model, implying a monolayer adsorption to the surface with a homogeneous binding energy. The adsorption process was governed by external mass transfer through two-step intraparticle diffusion of the dyes onto the adsorbent surface. The adsorption efficiency of MB (96.4%) is much higher than that of RhB (56.3%). This is attributed to the higher rate constant for the adsorption of MB (0.348 g mg−1 min−1) as compared to that of RhB (0.151 g mg−1 min−1). The adsorption behavior suggested that the two cationic dyes in the binary solution diffused and adsorbed independently and randomly onto the DR surface. The adsorption capacity of MB and RhB in the binary solution (47.4 mg g−1 and 32.9 mg g−1, respectively) is lower than those of their single solute solutions (93.3 mg g−1 and 62.8 mg g−1, respectively), suggesting a competitive effect in their concurrent adsorption. This was confirmed based on the adsorption characteristics of the binary solution with different molar ratios. The competitive effect was attributed to either non-interactive or repulsive electrostatic interactions between the positively charged dyes in the binary system. The domination of MB is attributed to its smaller molecular size, higher planarity, and faster adsorption kinetics compared with RhB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growth of durian agrotourism has a significant impact on the well-being of rural communities or farmers. From old to new agrotourism in Ban Nai Wong Tai District, management innovation research to boost durian growth was investigated. A quantitative approach was used by purposively selecting 210 participants using a non-probability sampling (convenience sampling) technique. The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings revealed that the farm owners in charge of the agrotourism durian operations went through various stages of management innovation to add value to the community-based agrotourism. The control and management, community, organisation, and management, coordination and cooperation with stakeholders, and power distribution, control, and ownership with which farmers participate in counseling effect the farmers' decision to manage innovation in the development of durian agrotourism. The findings of this study suggest that policymakers in emerging economies should promote management innovation aspects to increase the value added of creative and experimental community-based agrotourism in emerging economies, particularly Thailand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of various types of process innovations (technological change, communication, coordination, and information, trained human resources, and Information) to enhance the value added performance of agrotourism in Thailand. Argo - tourism is a common method of farm diversification that aims to generate revenue through tourism. Examining the correlations between the value-added performance indicators is part of the evaluation of agritourism innovations. Previous agrotourism research has not used quantitative data to identify and address the associated forms of process innovation and value-added performance. The survey method is being used to determine the role of various types of innovation in improving the value-added performance of agrotourism in Thailand. We distributed 250 questionnaires and received 210 for data Analysis. SPSS 23.0 software was used to test the proposed hypotheses. According to the findings, various aspects of process innovation are critical in achieving value-added performance in Thailand's agrotourism sector. The finding implies that the characteristics that could drive sustainable agritourism include the expansion and application of an agritourism-specific plan, as well as the creation of a value chain for the local industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durio oxleyanus (Griff) of Malvaceae is considered a natural heritage by the countries that produce it, including Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, and Borneo. Even though the species is regarded as a commercially valuable fruit, cultivation of this species is uncommon. The dwindling population of this species in the wild has put its survival in jeopardy. Conservation efforts are required for this species, which are limited. In this study, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of D. oxleyanus was assembled and characterized as a genomic resource for conservation programs. The complete cp genome size was 164,831 bp in length, with a pair of inverted repeats of 23,782 bp each, separating the 96,446-bp large and the 20,823-bp small single copies. A total of 135 genes were predicted, which consisted of 90 protein-coding, 37 tRNA, and eight rRNA genes. The overall GC content was 35.8%. The phylogenetic analysis based on the maximum-likelihood and Bayesian inference methods revealed that D. oxleyanus is closely related to D. zibethinus. The genomic data obtained will be useful for future studies of Malvaceae's phylogenetics and evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to safety restrictions, plant-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) need optimization to be consumed beyond preservatives. Herein, 175 GASA-domain-containing snakins were analyzed. Factors including charge, hydrophobicity, helicity, hydrophobic moment (μH), folding enthalpy, folding heat capacity, folding free energy, therapeutic index, allergenicity, and bitterness were considered. The most optimal snakins for oral consumption as preservatives were from Cajanus cajan , Cucumis melo , Durio zibethinus , Glycine soja , Herrania umbratica , and Ziziphus jujuba. Virtual digestion of snakins predicted ACE1 and DPPIV inhibitory as dominant effects upon oral use with antihypertensive and antidiabetic properties. To be applied as a therapeutic in parenteral administration, snakins were browsed for short 20-mer encrypted fragments that were non-toxic or with eliminated toxicity using directed mutagenesis yet retaining the AMP property. The most promising 20-mer AMPs were Mr-SNK2-1a in Morella rubra with BBB permeation, Na-SNK2-2a(C18W), and Na-SNK2-2b(C16F) from Nicotiana attenuata. These AMPs were cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), with a charge of +6, a μH of about 0.40, and a Boman-index higher than 2.48 Kcalmol–1. Na-SNK2-2a(C18W) had putative activity against gram-negative bacteria with MIC lower than 25 μgml−1, and Na-SNK2-2b(C16F) was a potential anti-HIV with an IC 50 of 3.04 μM. Other 20-mer AMPs, such as Cc-SNK1-2a from Cajanus cajan displayed an anti-HCV property with an IC 50 of 13.91 μM. While Si-SNK2-3a(C17P) from Sesamum indicum was a cationic anti-angiogenic CPP targeting the acidic microenvironment of tumors, Cme-SNK2-1a(C11F) from Cucumis melo was an immunomodulator CPP applicable as a vaccine adjuvant. Because of combined mechanisms, investigating cysteine-rich peptides can nominate effective biotherapeutics. [Display omitted] • GASA domain containing snakins are surveyed for food and pharmaceutical applications. • Safety issues such as hemolysis, allergenicity, and toxicity are considered. • Identifying 20-mer snakin-derived peptides with antimicrobial-anticancer properties. • A double cysteine (CC dipeptide) composition is the source of toxicity in 20-mer AMPs. • Using a single mutation is adequate for toxicity removal and retaining the effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The paper presents the sound absorption coefficient of acoustic absorbers fabricated from natural durian husk fibers, which are currently still considered as agricultural wastes, especially in Malaysia. Samples were fabricated with different fiber densities and thicknesses and the sound absorption performance was measured using the impedance tube method. The results reveal that the durian husk fibers can have absorption coefficient of more than 0.5 above 1 kHz for a minimum thick sample of 20 mm and with minimum density of 160 kg/m3. The optimised macroscopic parameters for various densities were calculated using the inverse method employing the well-known Johnson-Champoux-Allard (JCA) model for porous material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The green synthesis of Ag/AgCl nanocomposite using the durian shell extract was carried out under the sunlight illumination at room temperature, showing the face-centered cubic crystalline structures of both Ag and AgCl with nanosizes in the range of 15-25 nm. The high negative potential value of the Ag/AgCl solution (-21.1 mV) established the high dispersion of Ag/AgCl, long-term stability, and good colloidal nature. The antibacterial activity of Ag/AgCl nanocomposite against methicillinresistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) bacteria was highly appreciated with average inhibition zone diameter of 12.0 mm, minimum inhibitory concentration of 8.27 mg/L, and minimum bactericidal concentration of 66.1 mg/L. The present work designed a cost-effective, convenient, eco-friendly protocol to synthesize Ag/AgCl nanocomposite and its efficient antibacterial activity against MRSA was evidenced as well. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Single-cell RNA sequencing trades read-depth for dimensionality, often leading to loss of critical signaling gene information that is typically present in bulk data sets. We introduce DURIAN (Deconvolution and mUltitask-Regression-based ImputAtioN), an integrative method for recovery of gene expression in single-cell data. Through systematic benchmarking, we demonstrate the accuracy, robustness and empirical convergence of DURIAN using both synthetic and published data sets. We show that use of DURIAN improves single-cell clustering, low-dimensional embedding, and recovery of intercellular signaling networks. Our study resolves several inconsistent results of cell–cell communication analysis using single-cell or bulk data independently. The method has broad application in biomarker discovery and cell signaling analysis using single-cell transcriptomics data sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Volatile aroma compounds in durian (Musang King) were comprehensively analyzed by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME), solvent-assisted flavor evaporation (SAFE), gas chromatography–olfactometry (GC-O), and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Twenty-seven odorant active compounds were identified by GC-O, and 56 volatile aroma compounds were identified by GC–MS. There were 21 compounds with odor activity value (OAV) greater than 1. Diethyl disulfide (OAV: 1,726,977.8–4,180,425.2), ethyl mercaptan (OAV: 16,973.2), propane mercaptan (OAV: 240,891.5), ethyl 2-methylbutanoate (OAV: 49,640.1–82,369.9), and 2-propyl methyl butyrate (OAV: 2310.4–2384.1) were considered to be important contributors to the aroma of durian samples. Ethyl propyl sulfide, dipropyl sulfide, methyl propyl trisulfide, and hexyl hexanoate were detected in durian for the first time. Feller's addition model and OAV were selected to study five sulfide interactions. Among the 10 binary mixtures, seven binary mixtures exhibited masking effect, two binary mixtures exhibited synergistic effect, and one binary mixture exhibited addition effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durio zibethinus Murray, or durian fruit, is considered the “King of fruit” in various parts of Southeast Asia. It is classified in the Durio genus, which has been reported to be beneficial in the medical and pharmaceutical industry. The objective of this study was to investigate the physicochemical properties, biological activities, and cosmetic applications of the polysaccharide extractions from the green (GH) and white (WH) fruit-hulls and the ethanolic extracts from the pulp (P) and seeds (S) of D. Zibethinus. The extracts were developed as cosmetic products, and skin irritation was assessed by volunteers. P, S, GH, and WH extracts gave percentage yields of 12.13, 4.01, 1.60, and 1.18, respectively. The morphological structure of GH was highly porous, while the surface of WH was flattened, with no porosity observed. The seed extract showed the highest total phenolic content and antioxidant activity (DPPH) of 0.33 ± 0.01 mg GAE/g and IC50 0.08 ± 0.00 mg/mL, respectively, while no anti-tyrosinase activity was detected in any individual extract. The total phenolic content, DPPH assay, and anti-tyrosinase activity after blending the extracts were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than in the individual extracts. Combining extracts such as SGH and SGWH gave IC50 values of anti-tyrosinase activity at 8.69 ± 1.82 mg/mL and 0.067 ± 0.00 mg/mL, respectively. No durian extracts exhibited growth inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Cutibacterium acnes. A gel formulation containing durian extract was prepared by a cold process. It had good stability, with no skin irritation reported by the volunteers. Both crude durian and polysaccharide extracts showed promise as active ingredients in cosmetic products.

During 2017–2019, we observed Trichothecium spp. causing fruit rot in the field and in storage. This study was conducted to examine morphological differences of the species from different hosts, reveal the species' potential host range, and evaluate the efficacy of five fungicides. Six strains of Trichothecium spp. isolated from nectarine, peach and walnut were selected. Although the colony morphology, mycelial growth rate and spore size differed among hosts, phylogenetic analysis based on the internal transcribed spacer and part of the 5ʹ end of the β‐tubulin gene showed that all tested strains belonged to Trichothecium roseum. For its host range, 23 kinds of fruit were examined using T. roseum strain YT‐1 as an inoculum; 10 kinds of fruit, including pear, apple, mango, Chinese chestnut, pepino melon, fig and durian, were susceptible to T. roseum, with minimum inoculation concentrations ranging from 104 to 105 spores/ml. The fungicides that most effectively inhibited the six isolates were fluazinam and fludioxonil, with EC50 values of 0.07–0.1 and 0.01–0.04 μg/ml, respectively, followed by difenoconazole (0.81–2.96 μg/ml), boscalid (5.43–13.51 μg/ml) and azoxystrobin (9.18–27.25 μg/ml). Improvement of the shelf life of nectarines held in plastic trays was explored using allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) against T. roseum YT‐1. The application of 10 μl/L AITC significantly suppressed disease symptoms. The findings provide useful information for future disease emergency management in the field and for food preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Jelebu is one of Negeri Sembilan districts of Malaysia, famous for its wide variety of D. zibethinus. It is also recognized as the top hotspot area for consumers looking for genuine Durian Kampung. This study aimed at discovering and recording significant morphological data in identification and classification of D. zibethinus fruit in Jelebu. Methods: Fifty-three accessions of durian were observed from January 2020 to September 2020 in accordance with Malaysia's Department of Agriculture guidelines. Result: Forty-one parameters were compiled and divided into two primary morphological data sets: external and internal structures. Size, shape, color and aril characteristics of fruits were several engrossing parameters for identifying and classifying D. zibethinus varieties. Fruit weight varies between 665 g and 2.7 kg, depending on size. The results also revealed six different variants in the fruit shape and color. Aril characteristics included a variety of aril color and thickness ranging from 0.23 cm to 1.17 cm. Therefore, this research revealed that external and internal morphological data from durian fruits were valuable for recognizing and categorizing D. zibethinus Jelebu variants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive Sulfur Species (RSS), such as allicin from garlic or sulforaphane from broccoli, are fre-quently associated with biological activities and possible health benefits in animals and humans. Among these Organic Sulfur Compounds (OSCs) found in many plants and fungi, the Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs) feature prominently, not only because of their often-pungent smell, but also because they are able to access places which solids and solutions cannot reach that easily. Indeed, inorganic RSS such as hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and sulfur dioxide (SO2) can be used to lit-erally fumigate entire rooms and areas. Similarly, metabolites of garlic, such as allyl methyl sulfide (AMS), are formed metabolically in humans in lower concentrations and reach the airways from inside the body as part of one's breath. Curiously, H2S is also formed in the gastrointestinal tract by gut bacteria, and the question of if and for which purpose this gas then crosses the barriers and enters the body is indeed a delicate matter for equally delicate studies. In any case, nature is surprisingly rich in such VSCs, as fruits (for instance, the infamous durian) demonstrate, and therefore these VSCs represent a promising group of compounds for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This research evaluated the effects of process conditions on the physiochemical properties of vacuum‐fried durian chips. Ripened durians were sliced and fried at 90, 100, 110 and 120°C under 8‐kPa absolute pressure. From this study, microwave heating (MWH) during vacuum frying (VF) significantly reduced the frying time by 20% compared to VF (P < 0.05) with the effective moisture diffusivity for VF, pre‐treatment before vacuum frying (P+VF) and VF+MWH at 110°C determined to be 3.63 × 10−09, 4.30 × 10−09 and 4.84 × 10−09 m2 s−1, respectively. VF+MWH produced chips with significantly lower shrinkage, more yellowness (P < 0.05) and higher crispiness (consistent with the microstructure from scanning electron microscopy (SEM)). In addition, VF+MWH drastically decreased oil absorption by 10%, while P+VF yielded the lowest specific energy consumption (SEC). From sensory evaluation, the overall acceptability of VF+MWH chips rose from 5.83 to 6.07 (seven‐point hedonic scale), thus making the product fall into the 'Good' to 'Very Good' range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological illness with few effective treatments. Thus, ameliorating the effects of AD using natural products has attracted global attention with promising efficacy and safety. In this study, ten tropical fruits including Ananas comosus 'Phulae', Ananas comosus 'Pattavia', Carica papaya 'Khaekdum', Carica papaya 'Khaeknuan', Durio zibethinus 'Monthong', Durio zibethinus 'Chanee', Psidium guajava 'Kimju', Psidium guajava 'Keenok', Mangifera indica 'Kaew' and Mangifera indica 'Namdokmai' were screened for their inhibitory activities against the key enzymes, cholinesterases and β-secretase (BACE-1), involved in AD pathogenesis. The top three fruit extracts with promising in vitro anti-AD activities were further investigated using rat pheochromocytoma PC-12 neuronal cell line and Drosophila AD model. Data showed that M. indica 'Kaew', M. indica 'Namdokmai' and P. guajava 'Kimju' reduced Aβ1–42-mediated neurotoxicity by promoting glutathione-dependent enzymes, while M. indica 'Namdokmai' limited Aβ1–42 peptide formation via BACE-1 inhibition and amended locomotory behavior of the Drosophila AD model. Results indicated the potential anti-AD properties of tropical fruits, particularly M. indica 'Namdokmai' in the prevention of Aβ1–42-mediated neurotoxicity and as a BACE-1 blocker. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durio zibethinus parts (leaves, stem bark, and root) used to treat malaria fever, vermifuge, diabetes, jaundice, inflammation, and oxidative stress management prompted the investigation of their total phenolic contents and anti-lipooxygenase activities. The total phenolic concentration of D. zibethinus parts was determined spectrophotometrically after collection and extraction. The anti-inflammatory activity was estimated using a lipooxygenase assay. Total phenolic content measured in gallic acid equivalent (GAE) gave the highest levels of 6.88 ± 1.54, 23.32 ± 1.73, and 29.00 ± 3.43 mg GAE/g sample weight leaves stem bark, and root extracts, respectively. The plant extracts showed lower antilipooxygenase activity in leaves (IC50 µg/mL-1.464) and stem bark (IC50 µg/mL-1.203), but had significant activity in root (IC50 µg/mL-1.400) compared to standard indomethacin (IC50 µg/mL-1.660). The plant extract's declining order of anti-lipooxygenase activity follows the same trend with the phenolic contents, indicating that the extract's magnitude of anti-lipooxygenase activity is comparable with the quantity of phenolic compounds present in the extracts. Hence, the D. zibethinus extracts are a potential candidate for a plant-derived anti-inflammatory agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Durian or Durio zibethinus of variety Musang King is growing in popularity and with high international demands. With the ever-increasing demands for fruits, growers are exploring ways to maximize production by looking at the feasibility of planting single or mono varieties in a planting area. Previous investigations revealed that many durian varieties are self-incompatible, and the condition varies from one variety to another. Against this background, the present study evaluated Musang King's compatibility status in fruit sets. The study was conducted in Raub, Pahang, from 2017 through 2018 with five different pollination treatments. Crossing Musang King with D24 showed the highest fruit set rate of 16.28% at harvest and suggested this variety is self-incompatible. Observations on the flowering process revealed that Musang King possessed herkogamy condition, which posed a morphological barrier to self-pollination. The study proposes that Musang King is best planted in a multi-variety planting system instead of mono-variety to achieve a higher rate of fruit sets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The postharvest decay of durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) increases rapidly when the storage time is extended, which seriously limits the commercial value. In this research, the effects of appropriate periodical SO2 fumigation and different CO2‐enriched atmospheres (3% O2 + 10%–13%, 14%–17%, or 18%–21% CO2) on the storage quality of durian stored at 14°C were investigated. Results showed that SO2 fumigation in combination with enriched CO2 atmosphere (14%–17%) could maintain firmness (16.37 N), retard weight loss (10.24%), reduce decay rate (11%), and inhibit the production of ethylene (9.2 μl kg−1 h−1) and malondialdehyde (12.10 μmol/g). Moreover, the treatment consolidated the disease resistance of durian by, first, enhancing peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities, and, second, by restraining polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, which helped to maintain the cell integrity structures. More importantly, this treatment retained a high sensory score (41.35) and extended the storage life up to 60 days. Therefore, a combination of 1,500 mg/L SO2 fumigation and controlled atmosphere storage (3% O2 + 14%–17% CO2) was the more effective method to delay maturation and senescence and improve the storage quality of durian. Novelty impact statement: Durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) is susceptible to rapid water loss, softening, browning, and chemical deterioration after harvest, which greatly limits the storage quality and commercial value of fruits. Automatic periodical SO2 fumigation of 1,500 mg/L in conjunction with CO2‐enriched controlled atmosphere storage (3% O2 + 14%–17% CO2) will be a promising postharvest strategy to reduce decay and extend the storage life of fresh durian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biofilters, commonly called rain gardens, are becoming increasingly popular among best-management practices (BMPs). They have recently sparked significant interest due to their ability to control stormwater quality. These systems face challenges in manipulating dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus species. This study reports the results of the removal of nitrogen and phosphorus in two modified bioretention systems. The performance of modified bioretention with coconut and durian was compared. The modified bioretention system was evaluated as a single and a series. Sequencing these systems in a series maintained the continuity of nutrient removal. Both series efficiently removed NH3-N (97% in TC5, 95% in TD5), while the removal of NO3-N was moderate (65% inTC5, 67% in TD5). Good removal efficiencies of TP were observed in two series (84% in TC5, 81% in TD5). However, the PO4 removal was equalized in all series (98%). The TN and ON removal were poor and fluctuated with time and column number in TC5, the overall removal efficiencies were (69% and 43%), respectively, while in TD5 a significant fraction of TN and ON were removed (86% and 78%), respectively. As compared with coconut husk, durian peel is considered a promising material that can enhance the water quality in bioretention systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The local implementation of Thailand's public good agricultural practices (GAP) certification standard was investigated by examining its effectiveness in raising farmers' awareness, lowering pesticide use, and thus improving food safety and quality assurance. A total of 98 certified and 100 uncertified farms were surveyed in two Thai provinces, Chanthaburi and Nakhon Si Thammarat, respectively. Considering durian (Durio zibethinus Murr.) cultivation, the economic size of farming in the former region is relatively larger and production more market-oriented, while in the latter region, the farming scale is smaller. It was observed that knowledge and understanding of GAP is much higher among the certified as compared to the uncertified farmers, although the effectiveness of GAP in lowering pesticide use remains unconfirmed. The comparison between the two regions also suggests that farmers' pesticide use could be affected by other contextual factors to a greater extent than the GAP. Results from a multivariate linear regression analysis highlighted the critical importance of training on Q-GAP and pesticide use in reducing pesticide use among certified farmers. This suggests that GAP applicant farmers should be encouraged to participate in training on those subjects as an integral part of their Q-GAP application or renewal procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to facilitate hydrological restoration, initiatives have been conducted to promote tree growth in degraded and rewetted peatlands in Indonesia. For these initiatives to be successful, tree seedlings need to be able to survive flooding episodes, with or without shade. We investigated the survival rates and the formation of adventitious roots in the case of four tree species exposed to combinations of different shading and water levels under controlled conditions in a nursery, with artificial rainwater and with peat soil as the medium. The research focused on the following questions (i) whether trees can grow on flooded peat soils; and (ii) which plant traits allow plants to cope with inundation, with or without shade. The four tree species compared (Shorea balangeran, Cratoxylum arborescens, Nephelium lappaceum and Durio zibethinus) include two natural pioneer and two farmer-preferred fruit trees. The experiment used a split-split plot design with 48 treatment combinations and at least 13 tree-level replicates. The study found that S. balangeran and C. arborescens had relatively high survival rates and tolerated saturated condition for 13 weeks, while N. lappaceum and D. zibethinus required non-saturated peat conditions. S. balangeran and C. arborescens developed adventitious roots to adapt to the inundated conditions. D. zibethinus, S. balangeran and N. lappaceum grew best under moderate (30%) shading levels, while C. arborescent grew best in full sunlight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Minor tropical fruits are grown on a small scale and provide income to smallholder farmers. The cultivation of these fruit crops indirectly contributes to the economy of producing countries as well as to food and crop security. Dragon fruits, guava, passionfruit, lychee, longan, mangosteen, durian, and rambutan are common minor fruit crops. In recent years, the international trade of some of these minor tropical fruits, particularly dragon fruit, passionfruit, guava, and lychee, has increased due to their nutritional value, with various health benefits. Similar to other crops, minor fruit crops are susceptible to fungal and oomycete diseases. These diseases negatively affect the yield and quality of fruit crops, leading to substantial losses. In this context, the knowledge of disease types and causal pathogens is fundamental to develop suitable disease management practices in the field as well as appropriate post-harvest treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]