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Apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) is the most important fruit in the EU. The total yield is more than 11 million tons.year-1, 15% of which is that of the early apple varieties. Several papers have already been published on the efficacy of crown and fruit thinning in the 20th century. Nowadays, hybrid varieties and intensive crown types are used in modernized systems. Our research was carried out in a Hungarian orchard during two cultivation periods. We studied two early apple varieties (Idaho, Gala Must) to determine how fruit thinning affected the quantity and quality of fruits. We found that the effectiveness of non-thinned technology is similar or slightly better compared to fruit thinning, after the second harvest. The average yield of Idaho apples per tree per harvest was 35.9 vs. 24.8 kg, while that of Gala Must was 50.8 vs. 59.2 kg (with thinning vs. without thinning). To assess quality, we measured water-soluble sugars, NO3-, NO2 and vitamin C content. Immediately, after the harvest, a surprisingly high vitamin C content was found in the fruits (4.4 mg.100 g-1 on average), which, however, decomposed after 3 months of storage. We also determined the pathway of the decomposition of vitamin C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple replant disease (ARD) is primarily caused by biotic factors that seriously inhibits the development of apple industry. Therefore, the use of biological control measures to inhibit the main pathogens (such as Fusarium spp.) that cause ARD is of great significance to the sustainable development of the apple industry. Trichoderma virens 6PS-2, which exhibited antagonism toward a variety of pathogens, was screened from the rhizosphere soils of healthy apple trees (Malus robusta) in different replanted orchards in the Yantai and Zibo Cities, Shandong Province, China. Its fermentation extract inhibited the growth of pathogenic Fusarium proliferatum f. sp. Malus domestica MR5, which was proportional to the concentration. These substances also increased the hairy root volume and growth of Arabidopsis thaliana lateral roots. The phenotype of Malus hupehensis seedlings and microbial community structure in rhizosphere soils in greenhouse experiment using Highthroughput sequencing were analyzed, and the field experiment with grafted apple trees were used for further verification. Compared with the application of potato dextrose broth (PDB) medium, application of 6PS-2 spore suspension directly to replanted soils could improve the growth of M. hupehensis seedlings as well as the elongation of grafted apple trees. Concomitant decreases in the gene copy number of Fusarium and increases in the culturable bacteria/fungi were also observed in the greenhouse and field experiments. The abundance of Trichoderma, Bacillus, and Streptomyces increased significantly, but that of Fusarium, Pseudarthrobacter, and Humicola decreased. The content of esters, phenols, furans, and amino acids in root exudates of M. hupehensis seedlings increased, which significantly inhibited the multiplication of Fusarium, but was positively correlated with Bacillus and Trichoderma. In summary, T. virens 6PS-2 not only directly inhibits the activity of pathogenic Fusarium but also secrets secondary metabolites with antifungal and growth-promoting potential. In addition, 6PS-2 spore suspension can also promote the growth of plants to a certain extent, and change the soil microbial community structure of rhizosphere soils. It is believed that T. virens 6PS- 2 has the potential for the alleviation of apple replant disease (ARD) in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Balancing nutrient application is crucial for plant growth. However, excessive fertilizer use, especially imbalanced applications of macronutrients such as phosphate (P), can hinder plant uptake of micronutrients. Balanced P and zinc (Zn) are vital for apple yield and quality, and apple trees are highly sensitive to deficiencies in these nutrients. Therefore, this study was conducted in May 2022, employed a sand culture experiment to investigate the effects of varying P and Zn levels on the growth phenotype, photosynthetic capacity, antioxidant enzyme activity, sugar composition, endogenous hormone levels, and nutrient absorption and utilization of M9-T337 seedlings. Three levels of P (low, medium, high) and three levels of Zn (low, medium, high) were combined to create a total of nine distinct treatment. Results: The results indicate that combined P and Zn fertilization at various levels exerts either synergistic or antagonistic effects on the growth, nutrient absorption, and utilization of M9-T337 seedlings. Compared to low and medium levels of P, a combination of high P (4 mmol·L−1) and an adequate amount of Zn significantly enhanced plant growth, root system development, and the microstructure of leaves. Notably, seedlings treated with high P and low Zn (HPLZn) reached a height 1.54 times that of the medium P and medium Zn (MPMZn, control). Physiological indicators under HP conditions revealed significant increases in antioxidant enzyme activity, leaf water retention, photosynthetic pigment concentration, osmotic adjustment substances, and the contents of glucose, sucrose, fructose, endogenous hormones, as well as P and Zn accumulation in the leaves, compared to the control. However, an increase in Zn application led to a declining trend in these parameters. Specifically, the HPLZn treatment exhibited substantial increases in Net photosynthetic rate (Pn), Total chlorophyll (Chl a + b), glucose, fructose, sucrose, and Auxin(IAA), with increments of 7.12%, 27.32%, 11.40%, 23.20%, 16.67%, and 55.11%, respectively, compared to the control. Conclusion: Based on the comprehensive ranking from principal component analysis, the combination of HP (4 mmol·L−1) and LZn (0.5 µmol·L−1) was found to be the most effective in enhancing the antioxidant capacity, sugar accumulation, osmotic regulation ability, photosynthetic capacity, endogenous hormone levels, as well as P and Zn nutrient absorption and utilization in M9-T337 seedlings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Viruses significantly affect global health. The few available viricidal and antiviral therapies are expensive and often associated with unwanted side effects. Functional foods as plant extracts (nutraceuticals) are epigenetically active, and multi-target antiviral compounds that affect several steps of the viral life cycle and host proteins. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) post-transcriptionally regulate host and viral gene expression and are responsible for the fine-tuning of gene expression by controlling the expression of their target messenger RNAs (mRNA) in host cells and viruses. Several plant ingredients have been proven to be active against RNA virus infections. Obviously, miRNAs play a central role in the regulation of gene transcription in viral replication and host immune defense. A healthy diet and nutraceuticals can support the fine-tuning of miRNAs. Objectives: The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of epigenetic active phytoceuticals and/or functional foods on immune relevant miRNAs and mRNAs in a healthy human study population. Methods: In a 2-month human intervention study (n=80), a mix of plant extracts (sage extract, green tea extract, berberine, apple extract, onion extract, elderberry extract, and grape skin extract) with proven activity against RNA viruses were examined for the change of miRNA and mRNA patterns involved in virus response systems. Lifestyle and nutritional behavior, including self-reported stress levels, as well as infection frequency as potential cofounders have been raised. Results: The intervention with secondary plant extracts could modulate the expression of miRNAs involved in the virus defense (miR-30e, miR-877, miR-150) and the expression of NF-κB. The intervention also increased miRNA expression patterns associated with a positive lifestyle. The intervention adapted miRNAs that correlate with an increased risk of infection, smoking, stress, and processed meat products. Conclusion: Plant extracts can enhance the beneficial effects of a healthy nutrition and lifestyle by modulating miRNAs. MiRNAs are promising drug targets for maintaining immune homeostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apples often exhibit bitter pits in response to metabolic disorders during ripening and storage; however, the mechanisms underlying the bitter pit (BP) development remain unclear. Here, metabolome and transcriptome analyses were performed to investigate BP pulp of 'Fuji'. Two auxin-response genes, MdGH3.1 and MdSAUR36, were screened. Their expression as well as the auxin content in BP pulp were found to be higher than those in healthy pulp (P < 0.01). In the field, excess CO(NH2)2 increased the incidence of BP. Moreover, the auxin content and MdGH3.1 expression increased in apples after nitrogen fertilization. On Day 30 before harvest, the two genes were transiently transferred to the fruit, and 20.69% and 23.21% of BP fruits were harvested. After 10 μmol.L-1 auxin was infiltrated at low pressure into postharvest fruit, the increase in MdGH3.1 expression occurred earlier than that in MdSAUR36. MdGH3.1 increased the expression of MdSAUR36, but MdSAUR36 did not increase expression of MdGH3.1. Therefore, we suggest that MdGH3.1 acts upstream of MdSAUR36 during BP formation and that these genes induce BP formation by regulating auxin and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-rooted apple stock is widely used for apple production. However, the shallowness of the adventitious roots in self-rooted apple stock leads to poor performance in the barren orchards of China. This is because of the considerable difference in the development of a gravitropic set-point angle (GSA) between self-rooted apple stock and seedling rootstock. Therefore, it is crucial to study the molecular mechanism of adventitious root GSA in self-rooted apple stock for breeding self-rooted and deep-rooted apple rootstock cultivars. An apple auxin response factor MdARF19 functioned to establish the adventitious root GSA of self-rooted apple stock in response to gravity and auxin signals. MdARF19 bound directly to the MdPIN7 promoter, activating its transcriptional expression and thus regulating the formation of the adventitious root GSA in 12-2 self-rooted apple stock. However, MdARF19 influenced the expression of auxin efflux carriers (MdPIN3 and MdPIN10) and the establishment of adventitious root GSA of self-rooted apple stock in response to gravity signals by direct activation of MdFLP. Our findings provide new information on the transcriptional regulation of MdPIN7 by auxin response factor MdARF19 in the regulation of the adventitious root GSA of self-rooted apple stock in response to gravity and auxin signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple (Malus domestica) is a reliable source of nutrients to increase the bioactive compounds intake in the human body. In the market, the development of apple is still growing, not only in the hybridization of new cultivars, but also in the functional food products, based on apple's bioactive compounds. In this paper, we review the recent studies about the chemical composition of apples, including carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, dietary fibers, minerals, vitamins, phenolics, and other compounds, from various cultivars, grown in different countries or regions. Among the bioactive compounds in apple, the phenolic compounds, including hydroxybenzoic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, flavanols and their oligo- and polymeric structure, flavonols, dihydrochalcones, and anthocyanins, majorly contribute to beneficial biological impacts. Therefore, the extraction process might be the most critical step to recover all the phenolics from apple and could be used in various food product developments. In this paper, the comparison of conventional and developed phenolic extraction methods is also reviewed in various apple products (flesh, peel, pomace, pulp, etc.). The selection of food grade and green solvents in the optimal phenolic extraction methods could reduce the environmental issues, thus supports sustainability and can be safer for consumers. To sum up, this paper may help the readers, both at general household and industrial levels, to understand the nutritional composition of various apple cultivars from different regions and to select the optimum conditions for apple's phenolic extraction, based on recent studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alterations in cell wall composition imply in new structural and functional traits in gall developmental sites, even when the inducer is a sucking exophytophagous insect with strict feeding sites as the aphid associated to Malus domestica Borkh. This host plant is an economically important, fruit-bearing species, susceptible to gall induction by the sucking aphid Eriosoma lanigerum Hausmann, 1802. Herein, the immunocytochemical detection of arabinogalactan-proteins (AGPs), pectins, and hemicelluloses using monoclonal antibodies was performed in samples of non-galled roots and stems, and of root and stem galls on M. domestica. The dynamics of these cell wall components was discussed under the structural and functional traits of the galls proximal, median, and distal regions, according to the proximity of E. lanigerum colony feeding site. In the proximal region, the epitopes of AGPs and homogalacturonans (HGs) are related to cell growth and divisions, which result in the overproduction of parenchyma cells both in root and stem galls. In the proximal and median regions, the co-occurrence of HGs and arabinans in the cell walls of parenchyma and secondary tissues favors the nutrient flow and water-holding capacity, while the xylogalacturonans and hemicelluloses may function as additional carbohydrate resources to E. lanigerum. The immunocytochemical profile of the cell walls support the feeding activity of E. lanigerum mainly in the gall proximal region. The similarity of the cell wall components of the gall distal region and the non-galled portions, both in roots and stems, relates to the decrease of the cecidogenetic field the more distant the E. lanigerum colony is. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Defatted wheat germ is a highly nutritious protein, which contains about 30% protein. In this study, defatted wheat germ (DWG) protein was used to form coacervate with apple pectin. Structural transition during coacervate formation was evaluated by ζ-potential, spectrophotometry, and light scattering as a function of pH (2.0-6.0), protein to polysaccharide ratio (DWG protein-Pectin, R=1:1, 2:1 and 4:1) and total biopolymer concentration (0.5 and 1%). Furthermore, the phase changes of DWG protein-pectin complex coacervate was studied by checking the turbidity during the time. The best ratio of DWG protein/pectin for complex coacervation was found 4:1 (Pr:Ps). The critical pH affiliated with forming of soluble and insoluble complexes (respectively pHc and pHf1) at the optimum DWG protein/pectin ratio were found 6.0 and 4.9, respectively. The most interaction, the most turbidity, was found at pH=4.0. The inconsistency and liquidation of DWG protein/pectin complex coacervates initialized at pH=2.0. Particles size of DWG protein/pectin (R=4:1, CT=1 %) measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS) at critical pH values, provided further insight into the segregate and associative processes during complex coacervation. The findings can be contributed to the development of DWG protein/pectin complex coacervates as delivery systems for volatile aromas, or bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apples are a healthy and environmentally friendly snack, but the consumption of apples in many countries, including Norway, has decreased in the last fifteen years. This trend has a potential negative impact on public health and the environment. In this paper, we use a consumer survey and a random effect ordered logistic regression model to find out what is most important for people when they buy apples. Ten different values are considered and ranked according to individual's importance. We find that taste and safety are the most important values for the average individual's choice of apples, while the appearance and type of apple rank third. The least important values are wrapping size and regional origin. Everyday apple eaters are more concerned about pesticide use and less concerned about price than the average consumers. Furthermore, compared to the average consumer, those with low levels of trust in apple producers and authorities care more about pesticides and environmentally friendly production methods, while consumers with a high level of trust care less about these aspects. Our results indicate that to increase the consumption of Norwegian apples, it is important to maintain or improve their reputation as being tasty and safe to eat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patulin (PAT) is a toxic class of mycotoxins, which is produced by fungi mainly by Penicillium expansum. Samples of apples (740 samples from Amri, Gacha, Kala Kulu, and Golden cultivars) and of apple juices (740 samples) available domestically in Pakistan were analysed for PAT contamination using HPLC with a UV detector. The results have shown that 67.5% and 61.6% samples of apples and juices were found to be positive with PAT, respectively. The highest averages levels 310.8 ± 21.5 μg/kg and 290.8 ± 14.6 μg/kg were found in samples of golden apples and juices, respectively. The findings have shown that 44.8% samples of apples were found levels higher than the European Union (EU) permissible limit (i.e. 50 µg/kg). Furthermore, 41.0% samples of apple juices have amount of PAT higher than the recommended limit of EU. The artificially inoculated apple with Penicillium expansum, a level 5080 ± 230.4 μg/kg was found in the decayed section. The maximum dietary intake of PAT was estimated to be 15.7 and 17.93 µg/kg bw/day in males and female individuals. The results have shown that even removing the decayed portion of apples, a considerable amount of PAT penetrates during the process of making juices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Apples have always been considered a healthy product able to provide curative properties to consumers. In Italy, there is a long tradition of apple consumption and production both as a fresh product and as processed food. However, as with many other products, the consumption of fruits and vegetables and, more specifically apples, has been drastically affected by the first lockdown in 2020. In this project, the authors investigate whether the change in consumption habits had long-lasting consequences beyond 2020 and what are the main eating motivations, food-related behavior and socio-demographic affecting the consumption of fruits and vegetables after the pandemic. Design/methodology/approach: The authors ran two online surveys with 1,000 Italian consumers across a year (from October 2021 to December 2022). In the study, participants answered questions about their consumption habits and their eating motives. Out of 1,000 consumers, the authors included in the final analysis only the participants who answered both surveys, leaving a final sample of 651 consumers. Findings: The results show that participants have allocated more budget to fruit and vegetables after the lockdown than before it. Moreover, consumers reported an average increase in the consumption of apples. However, the increase was more pronounced for people aged between 30 and 50 years old and identified as female. After showing the difference across time, a cluster analysis identified three main segments that differ in their eating motives, place of purchase and area of residence. Practical implications: Overall, the results contribute to a better understanding of how the global pandemic is still affecting people's daily life. Moreover, the findings can be used to guide the marketing and communication strategies of companies in the food sector. Originality/value: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study that investigates changes in the consumption of fruits and vegetables, and, more specifically, apples, in Italy more than one year after the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, the study proposes a classification of consumers based on their habits in a time frame during which the COVID-19 wave was at its bottom which is not currently present in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Annotating entities and relationships have been found with the high cost in the joint extraction tasks of entity relationship. There is the strong correlation with the professional fields. It is crucial to improve the extraction performance of the model in the scenarios of low resource. In this study, the reinforcement learning-based joint extraction model was proposed for the entity relationship. Two modules were consisted of: entity recognition and relationship extraction. The extraction efficiency and generalization were improved to jointly extract the entities and relationships in the low resource scenarios. The feature extractor was used to convert the text into feature representations with the richer semantics, which were shared by entity recognition and relationship extraction modules. Entity recognition was realized to utilize the CRF for sequence labeling. The output entity labeling sequence was traversed to locate the entity boundaries, and then connect the entity features for the entity embedding vectors. The limited labeled and abundant unlabeled data was considered in the low resource scenarios. Reinforcement learning was used to train the relationship extraction module. The input of the relationship extraction module included [sentence features, entity embeddings, and relationships] for the labeled data, and [sentence features, and entity embeddings] for the unlabeled data. The improved model was trained to simulate the pseudo labels that generated by unlabeled data in the gradient direction of labeled data, in order to maximize the similarity of the average gradients between them. There was the increase in the diversity and richness of the data, particularly for the better generalization with the less risk of overfitting. Meanwhile, the generated pseudo labels were reduced the dependence on a large amount of labeled data and lower annotation costs. More importantly, the gradient simulation was also balanced the sample distribution of different relationship categories in the dataset, especially in the cases of imbalanced relationship categories. The effectiveness of the model was verified to compare the mainstream models of low resource relationship extraction in the apple cultivation corpus (ATC). The results showed that the F1 score of the model was 88.71%, when the proportion of labeled data reached 30%, indicating the significantly improved model than the rest baselines. In addition, the entity relationships model was effectively extracted from the public dataset TACRED in the low resource scenarios. The proportion of unlabeled data was changed in the ATC and TACRED datasets. The experiments showed that the F1 performance varied on the fixed 10% labeled data and 10%, 30%, 50%, 70%, and 90% unlabeled data. The improved performance was achieved to add the unlabeled data for training. The optimal F1 performance was consistently achieved in the different proportions of unlabeled data. The effectiveness of the gradient simulation module was verified through ablation experiments. The relationship extraction model without gradient simulation module was basically the same as the Self-TrainedBERT model. There was an average F1 decrease of 6.12% in the Self-TrainedBERT model using different proportions of labeled data. The improved performance of the relationship extraction module was attributed to the gradient simulation module, which was improved the quality of pseudo labels. Finally, principal component analysis was used to demonstrate the gradient descent direction of the relationship extraction module for the labeled and pseudo labeled data, representing the quality of pseudo labeled data. The gradient simulation module was also added to gradually approach the ideal local minimum, although the optimization direction of pseudo label data initially fluctuated greatly. The effectiveness of the gradient simulation module was further proved to generate the high-quality pseudo labels. Therefore, the proposed model can effectively extract the entity relationships in the low resource scenarios, indicating the high generalization and performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated an ecofriendly peracetic acid delignification process to extract holocellulose from various fiber rich plant‐based byproducts (coconut palm spathe/leaf, apple pulp, wine grape pomace, hazelnut shell, and hemp fiber/hurd), and evaluated their physicochemical, morphological, and thermophysical properties in comparison with commercial cellulose nanofibers produced from wood. Holocellulose from coconut palm spathe has long fiber (~846.7 μm), whereas that from wine grape pomace and hazelnut shell exhibits a cylinder shape of particles with short fiber length (~123.8 and ~ 71.1 μm, respectively). Biofilms cast from apple pulp and hemp fiber holocellulose have higher degradation temperature (361 and 358°C, respectively) than biofilms from other materials, thus more thermally stable. All biofilms demonstrate high UV absorbance, and the biofilm cast from apple pulp holocellulose is transparent with smooth surface. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analysis confirms the presence of cellulose and hemicellulose as the main components in the biofilms, along with traces of residual lignin that remained after the extraction process. This study demonstrates that holocellulose with varied cellulose morphology and polymeric characteristics could be extracted depending on the type of byproducts and be employed to produce sustainable packaging materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seeking to promote the earliness traits in apples (Malus × domestica Borkh.), this study evaluated 246 half-sib descendants of their mature trees for pheno-morphology, pomological, and sensory attributes. From a productivity criterion, the gene pool performance ranked in 12 resistance and susceptibility classes to spring frost. The two selected groups comprised five and 23 descendants, assigned by high and moderate tolerance in 2019. In the following season, assessing 246 progenies for bloom intensity led to the selection of 80 outstanding hybrids. The earliness traits showed a high promotion of the appearance of new classes of earliness. The ripening time distribution of the bearing progenies consisted of six categories, namely, four extra-early (June 5 to 17), 18 far-early (June 22 to 30), 22 very early (July 2 to 9), 21 very early-early (July 11), nine early plus to control (July 19), and six progenies (July 25). Subsequent pomological and sensory analyses led to the choice of 18 progenies for high fruit set, well-formed fruits, different colors, and superior organoleptic qualities. The results authenticated the efficiency of breeding methods, supported by heritability and morphological markers to predict the earliness traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted exploit the proteins of the pods of some types of plants, such as Prosopis juliflora pods, that are considered by -products in many countries and considered a good source of protein in the preparation of protein hydrolysers and evaluating their effect on inhibiting brown discoloration of apple slices and compared with anti -browning agents (ascorbic acid, acetic acid, and sodium chloride) when stored in the refrigerator for 0, 5 and 8 days. The chemical composition of the moisture, protein, fat, ash, and carbohydrate of the P. juliflora pods was estimated, then the hydrolysis process was carried out using the enzymes trypsin and papain for 300 minutes. Amino acids and FTIR analysis of protein hydrolysates were determined. Significant changes (p≤0.05) in pH, total soluble solids, and non - significant changes in titration acidity of apple slices treated with protein hydrolysis and anti -browning agents were studied and significantly decreased (p≤0.05) in the activity of polyphenol oxidase until the end of the storage. The brown coloration decreased when treated with protein hydrolysates compared to other treatments, but non -significant changes. As a result, apple slices can be preserved with protein hydrolysers for several days in the refrigerator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Glomerella leaf spot (GLS), caused by the fungus Colletotrichum fructicola, is considered one of the most destructive diseases affecting apples. The VQ‐WRKY complex plays a crucial role in the response of plants to biotic stresses. However, our understanding of the defensive role of the VQ‐WRKY complex on woody plants, particularly apples, under biotic stress, remains limited. In this study, we elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying the defensive role of the apple MdVQ37‐MdWRKY100 module in response to GLS infection. The overexpression of MdWRKY100 enhanced resistance to C. fructicola, whereas MdWRKY100 RNA interference in apple plants reduced resistance to C. fructicola by affecting salicylic acid (SA) content and the expression level of the CC‐NBS‐LRR resistance gene MdRPM1. DAP‐seq, Y1H, EMSA, and RT‐qPCR assays indicated that MdWRKY100 inhibited the expression of MdWRKY17, a positive regulatory factor gene of SA degradation, upregulated the expression of MdPAL1, a key enzyme gene of SA biosynthesis, and promoted MdRPM1 expression by directly binding to their promotors. Transient overexpression and silencing experiments showed that MdPAL1 and MdRPM1 positively regulated GLS resistance in apples. Furthermore, the overexpression of MdVQ37 increased the susceptibility to C. fructicola by reducing the SA content and expression level of MdRPM1. Additionally, MdVQ37 interacted with MdWRKY100, which repressed the transcriptional activity of MdWRKY100. In summary, these results revealed the molecular mechanism through which the apple MdVQ37‐MdWRKY100 module responds to GLS infection by regulating SA content and MdRPM1 expression, providing novel insights into the involvement of the VQ‐WRKY complex in plant pathogen defence responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the vulnerabilities of the global food system, underscoring the need for a sustainable transformation of the food system. With the advent of new digital technologies emerging as critical tools for achieving the agricultural shift, it is important to understand farmers' adoption decisions better. This study aims to systematically uncover and delineate the varied forms of experiences farmers have with new digital technologies and investigate how these experiences impact the organizational adoption decisions on the farm. In this study, twenty interviews with apple growers, wine makers, and intermediaries from a German region encompassing Saxony, Thuringia, and Saxony–Anhalt were conducted and analyzed. Through the lens of the modified adaptive capacity wheel and alongside the interview data, five relevant types of experiences were identified. These types of experiences are closely related to farmers' adaptation motivation (AM) and adaptation belief (AB), potentially influencing their future decisions about the adoption of digital technologies. This study highlights the importance of creating meaningful experiences with technologies to strengthen farmers' AM and AB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Convective drying is a method of preserving fruit. Due to the low energy efficiency of the dryers, it is also one of the most energy intensive. For this reason, modern drying techniques are being sought. They are required to be energy efficient, sustainable and produce high quality products. The aim of this work was to determine the effect of ultrasound on the kinetics and energy consumption of convective drying of apples and the quality of the products. The convective drying process and two US-convective processes with different ultrasonic power were tested. Three apple varieties were dried. Drying kinetics, energy consumption, and product quality (water activity and color change) were compared for the tested processes. Drying kinetics was mathematically modeled. The use of ultrasound accelerated the process in each case. The drying time was reduced and the speed of the process increased. This increase was mainly due to the vibration effect, which caused an increase in the mass transfer coefficient. The use of ultrasound resulted in a decrease in the water activity of the product and a decrease in the color change of the dried material compared to that obtained by the convection method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we optimized the composition of the browning inhibitor for apples and established a prediction model for the browning inhibitor concentration in mass‐processed fresh‐cut apples based on electrical conductivity measurements. The "Fuji" apples that were harvested in Chungju, Korea, were used for this study. Vitamin C mixture (VCM) and trehalose (Tre) were used as browning inhibitors at a 4% ratio. The browning reaction under Δ3 of BI (browning index) for 5 days was defined as the target shelf‐life of the apple flesh. The ΔBI of VCM and Tre was lower than that of VCM by 4%. It is revealed that the electrical conductivity of the browning inhibitor was highly correlated with its concentration and the number of soaked apples. Finally, the regression of the conductivity was fitted as Y = −0.0024 (number of soaked apples) + 0.5111 (R2 = 0.9931). In the validation test, the conductivity must be maintained at 0.4373 S/m or higher to maintain the target anti‐browning level of Δ3 or less, which corresponded to ∼80% of the initial qualitative level after manufacture. The conductivity measurement of the browning inhibitor is suitable for monitoring and predicting its concentration in the mass processing of fresh‐cut apple production due to the convenience of this method. Practical Application: The conductivity measurement of browning inhibitors can be applied not only to the mass processing of apple production but also to the anti‐browning treatment of other fruits and vegetables, due to the convenience of this method. From these research results, it is expected to derive a formula that can predict the concentration of browning inhibitors through simple experiments for other fruits or vegetables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The power of Bayesian multilevel modeling and contrast analysis for food research is illustrated by meta-analysis of weight–diameter relations of apples (first level) at the factors cultivar, orchard site, year of harvest and tree (second level). Contrast analysis compares the effect of factors. Multilevel modeling connects levels, prevents over- and underfitting and accounts for dependencies in measurements/observations. A nonlinear power–law relation of weight-diameter is derived with parameters for spherical approximation and density. Literature data were analyzed in three ways: i) completely pooled (ignoring variation between groups), ii) per factor (no-pooling, ignoring similarities between groups) and iii) partially pooled (acknowledging variation and similarities, i.e. multilevel modelling). The power–law relation was obeyed at tree, orchard, harvest year and cultivar level. Very small differences were found per tree, orchard site and year of harvest, but differences between cultivars were more substantial. Parameter estimates from multilevel modeling differed between complete pooling and no-pooling. Spherical approximation of apples appeared reasonable, whereas apple densities differ considerably per cultivar. Bayesian analysis appears very suitable for model building, validation, predictive capacity and visualisation of parameter uncertainties. The approach can be applied in a much wider context and more complicated relations than considered here for apple characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple fruit can be stored for long periods of time, especially with the use of controlled atmosphere storage, but like many fruits and vegetables are susceptible to water loss. Water loss can result in compromised appearance such as skin shriveling, as well as loss of firmness, and reduced saleable weight, which in turn affect the income of growers and other industry stakeholders. Preharvest factors that can influence water loss in apples during the postharvest period include climate, cultivar, fruit size, tree age, orchard practices, and harvest maturity. Postharvest factors such as the storage temperature, relative humidity, storage type, and duration can also affect water loss in apple fruit during storage. The mechanisms of cuticle biosynthesis in water permeance, the role of stomata and lenticels, microcracking, crosstalk with mechanical injuries, storage disorders, and decay incidence during the storage of apples are reviewed. Additionally, the review summarizes: preharvest and postharvest factors influencing water loss; recent management strategies including pre-cooling, cold storage, controlled atmospheres, packaging, and anti-senescence chemicals; the use of edible coatings, as well as other non-chemical approaches for modulating water loss and maintaining storage quality. The review also provides direction for the industry to manage this destructive problem in the postharvest supply chain of apple fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2019, Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir was changed from an autonomous region to a union territory by the Indian government. On August 5, 2019 India cut off all internet and phone communication into and out of Kashmir and restricted movement into and out of the country. The shutdown occurred during the height of the apple harvest, and as apples rotted on trees and the harvest was lost, signs of resistance to the shutdown were written on the apples themselves. In this article we explore how apples translate as identity and resistance in the postcolonial context of Indian Occupied Kashmir. Using the communication blackout and ongoing occupation of Kashmir as a focal point, we examine how narratives about apples can be translated as a cultural discourse of agency, even as structured spaces for and means of resistance are increasingly eliminated by the Indian state. Central to our analysis are theoretical frames of translation, postcoloniality, and food system sovereignty and communication. We utilize dialogical narrative analysis as methodology to understand how the meanings of apples, a mundane but central part of everyday life for many, have communicated resistance, identity and agency during the last several years since the shutdown. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple-picking robot can promote the development of smart agriculture, and accurate object recognition in complex natural environments using deep learning algorithms is critical. However, research has shown that changes in illumination and object occlusion remain significant challenges for recognition. In order to improve the accuracy of apple apple-picking robot's identification and positioning of apples in natural environment, a method using YOLOv5 (You Only Look Once, YOLO) combined with fast-guided filter is proposed. By introducing a fast-guided filtering module, the ability to extract image features is improved, and the problem of inaccurate occlusion targets and edge detection is solved; K -means clustering algorithm is introduced in improving YOLOv5, which can realize automatic adjustment of image size and step size; BiFPN structure is introduced in Neck network to add weighted feature fusion to highlight the detailed features. The results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper can well remove noise information such as occlusion edge blurring in apple images in a natural light environment. In the real orchard environment, the apple recognition accuracy rate reached 97.8%, the recall rate was 97.3% and the recognition rate was about 26.84 fps. The results show that this research based on YOLOv5 and fast-guided filtering can realize fast and accurate identification of apple fruits in natural environment, and meet the practical application requirements of real-time target detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The prevention of obesity represents a major health and socio-economic challenge. Nutraceuticals are regularly highlighted for their beneficial effects in preventing the metabolic disturbances associated with obesity. However, few studies have described the combined action of nutraceutical mixtures combining polyphenols with alkaloids. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of long-term dietary supplementation with a mixture of Berberine, Citrus and Apple extracts (BCA) in the primary prevention of obesity and its metabolic and vascular complications in the obese Zucker rat, a spontaneous model of genetic obesity and insulin resistance. Methods: Sixteen 8-week-old obese Zucker male rats were randomly divided into two groups: all rats received oral gavage daily either with water, untreated obese (U-ObZ) or BCA (BCA-ObZ) mixture for thirteen weeks. Morphological and metabolic parameters were measured along the study. Cumulative concentration-response curves to insulin, acetylcholine and phenylephrine were determined on isolated thoracic aorta. Colon permeability measurements were performed using the Ussing chamber technique. Fecal samples collected at the beginning and the end of the protocol were used as a template for amplification of the V3-V4 region of the 16S rDNA genes. Results: BCA supplementation reduced weight gain (p<0.05) and food intake (p<0.05) in the BCA-ObZ group rats compared to the U-ObZ group rats. It also improved glucose tolerance (p<0.001) and decreased fasting insulin and Homeostasis model assessment index (p<0.05). Through ex vivo experiments, the BCA mixture enhanced significantly aortic insulin relaxation (p<0.01), reduced α1-adrenoceptor-mediated vasoconstriction (p<0.01), and decreased distal colon permeability. Moreover, short-chain fatty acid producers such as Bacteroides, Blautia, and Akkermansia were found to be increased by the BCA mixture supplementation. Conclusion: The results showed that a 13-week-supplementation with BCA mixture prevented weight gain and improved glucose metabolism in obese Zucker rats. We also demonstrated that BCA supplementation improved vascular function, colonic barrier permeability and gut microbiota profile. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractApple (Malus domestica) is the third most produced fruit worldwide. It is a well-known source of bioactive compounds mainly represented by hydroxycinnamic acids, flavan-3-ols, dihydrochalcones, dehydroascorbic acid, carotenoids, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, and phloridzin. Due to the lack of a recent evaluation of the clinical trials associated with apple consumption, this review investigated the effects of this fruit on metabolic conditions related to inflammation and oxidative stress and reviewed the applications of apple waste on food products. Thirty-three studies showed that apples or its derivatives exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions, improve blood pressure, body fat, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and reduce cardiovascular risks. Apples have a great economic impact due to its several applications in the food industry and as a food supplement since it has impressive nutritional value. Dietary fiber from the fruit pomace can be used as a substitute for fat in food products or as an improver of fiber content in meat products. It can also be used in bakery and confectionary products or be fermented to produce alcohol. Pomace phytocompounds can also be isolated and applied as antioxidants in food products. The potential for the use of apples and by-products in the food industry can reduce environmental damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) stands out as a globally significant fruit tree with considerable economic importance. Nonetheless, the orchard production of 'Fuji' apples faces significant challenges, including delayed flowering in young trees and inconsistent annual yields in mature trees, ultimately resulting in suboptimal fruit yield due to insufficient flower bud formation. Flower development represents a pivotal process influencing plant adaptation to environmental conditions and is a crucial determinant of successful plant reproduction. The three gene or transcription factor (TF) families, C2H2, DELLA, and FKF1, have emerged as key regulators in plant flowering regulation; however, understanding their roles during apple flowering remains limited. Consequently, this study identified 24 MdC2H2, 6 MdDELLA, and 6 MdFKF1 genes in the apple genome with high confidence. Through phylogenetic analyses, the genes within each family were categorized into three distinct subgroups, with all facets of protein physicochemical properties and conserved motifs contingent upon subgroup classification. Repetitive events between these three gene families within the apple genome were elucidated via collinearity analysis. qRT-PCR analysis was conducted and revealed significant expression differences among MdC2H2-18, MdDELLA1, and MdFKF1-4 during apple bud development. Furthermore, yeast two-hybrid analysis unveiled an interaction between MdC2H2-18 and MdDELLA1. The genome-wide identification of the C2H2, DELLA, and FKF1 gene families in apples has shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying apple flower bud development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphids regularly infest apple orchards and are considered as one of the most damaging species, especially in humid conditions. In 2021-2023, the collection of different species and the rate of infestation by aphids on different apple varieties were studied in the region of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. Among the four aphid species identified in the apple orchard, Aphis spiraecola and Dysaphis plantaginea were predominant, followed by Aphis pomi and Dysaphis devecta. The rate of infestation varied significantly among the apple varieties. The Gala Resistant was the most infested by the aphids with a population coefficient (K) 302.5, followed by the Crimson Crisp – 124, the Pinova – 91, and the Red del Mestar – 52.5. The least infested variety was the Super Chief – 0.9, followed by the Modi – 2.2, the Fujion – 2.8, the Enterprise – 7.2 and the Rosella – 19. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetative and reproductive characteristics of five resistant apple cultivars budded on ‘М9-Т337’ rootstock were compared in the intensive orchard, planted at the density of 2380 trees per hectare (3.5 × 1.2 m) in the period 2017-2023. Trees were formed as tall spindle, under an insecticidal net against hail. Trees were grown under drip irrigation and sod-mulch system was applied. The cultivars FUJIONpbr and ENTERPRISE demonstrate greater trunk-cross section area, higher trees and greater crown volume to the tested cultivars. The smallest trees were noted in Cultivar GEMINI*. The lowest yield per unit area was obtained on cultivar FUJIONpbr. There was no significant difference among other cultivars. Despite of generally good characteristics the cultivar GEMINI* has relatively small fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biological efficacy of chemical insecticides, from different chemical classes, recommended for the control of the apple aphid Aphis pomi in apple orchards in Bulgaria. The experiment was carried out in 2023 in the experimental field of Agricultural University-Plovdiv. The insecticides tested were spirotetramat (Movento 100 SC), flonikamid (Teppeki) and acetamiprid (Mospilan 20 SG). The insecticides were applied at the concentrations recommended for the control of this and other pests. All the tested chemical insecticides showed very high biological efficacy, therefore they can be recommended as suitable for efficient control of Aphis pomi on apple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits are one of the main components of a healthy diet. They have many benefits and are recommended for regular consumption as part of a varied healthy diet. However, they are seasonal fruits, some need to be processed to ensure more extended storage and consumption throughout the year. The research aims to analyse the economic indicators of three apple cultivars (Golden Delicious, Florina and Freedom) dried by four methods (sun-died, shade-dried, dehydration, lyophilization). The methodological framework of the study includes: (1) Theoretical overview of apple drying methods; (2) Analysis of the economic indicators of apple drying – gross output, production and additional costs, net income, and rate of return; (3) Determining the benefits and drawbacks of drying apple products. It was found that the drying methods – sun-dried, shade-dried, and lyophilization–have a higher rate of profitability, while dehydration has a lower rate. The lyophilization method is the most profitable for production with Florina, followed by Freedom and Golden Delicious. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• In this study, the Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene was identified for the first time in 14 different Rosaceae species. • Their evolutionary relationships were revealed using current bioinformatics methods. • Its expression was measured in two different rootstocks of apple, a model plant of the Rosaceae family, under salt, drought and waterlogging stresses. Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) is the catalytic subunit of the telomerase enzyme and TERT expression affects the telomerase activity. The RNA subunit of TERT serves as the template for reverse transcription in the elongation of telomeres. However, the evolutionary history and characteristics of the TERT gene in the Rosaceae family remain largely unclear to date. In this study, 23 TERT gene homologous were identified in 14 Rosaceae species. Phylogenetic analysis showed that these TERT genes clustered into six groups within the Plantae kingdom. Gene structure analysis indicated that Rosaceae TERT genes within the same groups showed similar exon numbers and contained similar motifs. Several cis -elements related to light, hormones, and abiotic stress responses were predicted in the Rosaceae TERT promoters. Purifying selection was involved in the evolution of TERT genes in Rosaceae family. The gene ontology of Rosaceae TERTs revealed that these genes are involved in various biological processes beyond telomere biology, which aligns with the network analysis of MdTERT. Expression analysis based on transcriptomic data revealed that MdTERT exhibited different expression patterns in response to growth, development and abiotic stresses. The RT-qPCR results demonstrated that MdTERT responded to salt, drought, and waterlogging stresses in two different apple rootstocks. Overall, these findings provide a valuable resource for understanding the molecular evolution of TERT genes in the Rosaceae family and for future functional characterization analyses with MdTERT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The dynamics of the physiological adaptability of plants and the rhizosphere soil environment after waterlogging remain unclear. Here we investigated the mechanisms regulating plant condition and shaping of the rhizosphere microbiome in a pot experiment. In the experiment, we added melatonin to waterlogged plants, which promoted waterlogging relief. The treatment significantly enhanced photosynthesis and the antioxidant capacity of apple plants, and significantly promoted nitrogen (N) utilization efficiency by upregulating genes related to N transport and metabolism. Multiperiod soil microbiome analysis showed the dynamic effects of melatonin on the diversity of the microbial community during waterlogging recovery. Random forest and linear regression analyses were used to screen for potential beneficial bacteria (e.g., Azoarcus, Pseudomonas and Nocardioides) specifically regulated by melatonin and revealed a positive correlation with soil nutrient levels and plant growth. Furthermore, metagenomic analyses revealed the regulatory effects of melatonin on genes involved in N cycling in soil. Melatonin positively contributed to the accumulation of plant dry weight by upregulating the expression of nifD and nifK (N fixation). In summary, melatonin positively regulates physiological functions in plants and the structure and function of the microbial community; it promoted the recovery of apple plants after waterlogging stress. Summary Statement: The application of melatonin to waterlogged plants significantly enhanced photosynthesis and antioxidant capacity, promoted nitrogen utilization efficiency and regulated the diversity and function of the rhizosphere microbial community, ultimately facilitating the recovery of apple plants after waterlogging stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promalin (Valent BioSciences, Libertyville, IL, USA) is a proprietary mixture of gibberellin A4+7 and 6-benzyladenine that is widely used in apple production to improve the fruit shape, size, and skin quality. Promalin typically increases fruit size and length. However, the increased growth likely increases the strain in the fruit skin, which may exacerbate microcracking of the cuticle and, consequently, russeting. This study aimed to monitor the growth-stimulating effect of Promalin in three different regions of fruits and investigate whether Promalin affects cuticular microcracking via effects on the deposition of cuticular components or via the accumulation of strain in the cuticle. Four Promalin sprays (20 mg.L-1) were applied to runoff; the first was applied at full bloom, and the remaining sprays were applied at approximately weekly intervals thereafter. Fruit surface areas and fruit surface area growth rates of the Promalin-treated fruits were higher than those of the untreated control fruits. Promalin increased the fruit length, but it had no effect on the fruit equatorial diameter. In Promalin-treated fruits, the base of each sepal extended, thickened, and became fleshy as early as 15 days after full bloom (DAFB). Allometric growth analyses revealed higher constant differential growth ratios of the pedicel and calyx length (before 36 DAFB) in Promalin-treated fruits than in control fruits. After 36 DAFB, the difference in constant differential growth ratios between Promalin-treated fruits and control fruits decreased. Cuticle mass per unit area increased with time in all regions of the fruit surface and was slightly (+3.3%) but significantly higher in fruits treated with Promalin than in control fruits. Additionally, the biaxial strain release was slightly and significantly lower in Promalin-treated fruits than in control fruits. When the isolated, cuticle was ablated from the inner surface and dewaxed, strain relaxation in the control fruits was higher than that in the Promalin-treated fruits. It was concluded that Promalin treatment increases the length of the fruit by increasing the lengths of the pedicel and calyx regions early during fruit development. Promalin only slightly increased cuticle deposition and fixation of cuticular strain. Promalin had no effects on microcracking or russeting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Carotenoids are photosynthetic pigments and antioxidants that contribute to different plant colors. However, the involvement of TOPLESS (TPL/TPR)‐mediated histone deacetylation in the modulation of carotenoid biosynthesis through ethylene‐responsive element‐binding factor‐associated amphiphilic repression (EAR)‐containing transcription factors (TFs) in apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) is poorly understood. MdMYB44 is a transcriptional repressor that contains an EAR repression motif. In the present study, we used functional analyses and molecular assays to elucidate the molecular mechanisms through which MdMYB44‐MdTPR1‐mediated histone deacetylation influences carotenoid biosynthesis in apples. We identified two carotenoid biosynthetic genes, MdCCD4 and MdCYP97A3, that were confirmed to be involved in MdMYB44‐mediated carotenoid biosynthesis. MdMYB44 enhanced β‐branch carotenoid biosynthesis by repressing MdCCD4 expression, whereas MdMYB44 suppressed lutein level by repressing MdCYP97A3 expression. Moreover, MdMYB44 partially influences carotenoid biosynthesis by interacting with the co‐repressor TPR1 through the EAR motif to inhibit MdCCD4 and MdCYP97A3 expression via histone deacetylation. Our findings indicate that the MdTPR1‐MdMYB44 repressive cascade regulates carotenoid biosynthesis, providing profound insights into the molecular basis of histone deacetylation‐mediated carotenoid biosynthesis in plants. These results also provide evidence that the EAR‐harboring TF/TPL repressive complex plays a universal role in histone deacetylation‐mediated inhibition of gene expression in various plants. Significance Statement: MdMYB44 regulated carotenoid biosynthesis partially by interacting with co‐repressor TPR1 via EAR motif to inhibit MdCCD4 and MdCYP97A3 expression through histone deacetylation, providing evidence that the EAR‐harboring TF/TPL repressive complex has a universal role in histone deacetylation‐mediated gene expression inhibition in various plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Drought stress is one of the dominating challenges to the growth and productivity in crop plants. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms of plants responses to drought stress is fundamental to improve fruit quality. However, such molecular mechanisms are poorly understood in apple (Malus domestica Borkh.). In this study, we explored that the BTB‐BACK‐TAZ protein, MdBT2, negatively modulates the drought tolerance of apple plantlets. Moreover, we identified a novel Homeodomain‐leucine zipper (HD‐Zip) transcription factor, MdHDZ27, using a yeast two‐hybrid (Y2H) screen with MdBT2 as the bait. Overexpression of MdHDZ27 in apple plantlets, calli, and tomato plantlets enhanced their drought tolerance by promoting the expression of drought tolerance‐related genes [responsive to dehydration 29A (MdRD29A) and MdRD29B]. Biochemical analyses demonstrated that MdHDZ27 directly binds to and activates the promoters of MdRD29A and MdRD29B. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo assays indicate that MdBT2 interacts with and ubiquitinates MdHDZ27, via the ubiquitin/26S proteasome pathway. This ubiquitination results in the degradation of MdHDZ27 and weakens the transcriptional activation of MdHDZ27 on MdRD29A and MdRD29B. Finally, a series of transgenic analyses in apple plantlets further clarified the role of the relationship between MdBT2 and MdHDZ27, as well as the effect of their interaction on drought resistance in apple plantlets. Collectively, our findings reveal a novel mechanism by which the MdBT2‐MdHDZ27 regulatory module controls drought tolerance, which is of great significance for enhancing the drought resistance of apple and other plants. Significance Statement: Collectively, our findings clearly decipher a novel regulatory network for drought tolerance in the apple plant, which centers on the regulatory module MdBT2‐MdHDZ27 and its roles in transcriptional regulation and post‐transcriptional modification, which will be useful for improving the drought tolerances of apple and other economically important plant species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

SUMMARY: Poor management and excess fertilization of apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) orchards are causing increasingly serious soil acidification, resulting in Al toxicity and direct poisoning of roots. Strigolactones (SLs) are reported to be involved in plant responses to abiotic stress, but their role and mechanism under AlCl3 stress remain unknown. Here, we found that applying 1 μm GR24 (an SL analoge) significantly alleviated AlCl3 stress of M26 apple rootstock, mainly by blocking the movement of Al through cell wall and by vacuolar compartmentalization of Al. RNA‐seq analysis identified the core transcription factor gene MdWRKY53, and overexpressing MdWRKY53 enhanced AlCl3 tolerance in transgenic apple plants through the same mechanism as GR24. Subsequently, we identified MdPMEI45 (encoding pectin methylesterase inhibitor) and MdALS3 (encoding an Al transporter) as downstream target genes of MdWRKY53 using chromatin immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (ChIP‐seq). GR24 enhanced the interaction between MdWRKY53 and the transcription factor MdTCP15, further increasing the binding of MdWRKY53 to the MdPMEI45 promoter and inducing MdPMEI45 expression to prevent Al from crossing cell wall. MdWRKY53 also bound to the promoter of MdALS3 and enhanced its transcription to compartmentalize Al in vacuoles under AlCl3 stress. We therefore identified two modules involved in alleviating AlCl3 stress in woody plant apple: the SL‐WRKY+TCP‐PMEI module required for excluding external Al by blocking the entry of Al3+ into cells and the SL‐WRKY‐ALS module allowing internal detoxification of Al through vacuolar compartmentalization. These findings lay a foundation for the practical application of SLs in agriculture. Significance Statement: We identified two modules involved in alleviating AlCl3 stress in woody plant apple: the SL‐WRKY+TCP‐PMEI module required for excluding external Al by blocking the entry of Al3+ into cells and the SL‐WRKY‐ALS module allowing internal detoxification of Al through vacuolar compartmentalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple is easily damaged in the process of the mechanical harvesting, which reduces the fruit's quality. It is of great significance to study the damage principle of apple in the transport process of picking platform. In this study, the apple compression test was carried out. The compression and drop process of the fruit was analyzed by the finite element analysis (FEA). The experimental platform of apple harvesting was designed, the conveying process of apple was analyzed. The results of compression finite element analysis showed that when the compression force is greater than 15.0 N, both radial compression and axial compression will be damaged. The results of drop finite element analysis showed that when the drop direction is axial, the maximum contact stress of the peel and kernel decreases with the increase of drop angle, the maximum contact stress of the pulp increases first and then decreases. When the drop direction is radial, the maximum contact stress between pulp and kernel decreases with the increase of drop angle, the maximum contact stress of the peel first decreases and then increases. The simulation results of the harvesting platform transportation showed that the damage rate of apples is less than 10 % when the sub-conveyor belt speed is 0.02 m–0.04 m/s. This study can provide theoretical guidance for the design of the harvesting test platform and the reduction of the damage of apples during transportation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The study aimed to select apple varieties suitable for allergy sufferers and people with diabetes. The total polyphenol content, sugar content, acidity, and antioxidant activity of the apple fruit juices were determined using spectrophotometric techniques. The allergenic content in the apple juices was also measured. The strength of sensitisation was assessed using the ELISA method. Given their minimal content of both profilins and Bet v 1 homologues, Koksa Pomarańczowa (4.24 ± 0.08 µg/g Bet v 1 and 4.49 ± 0.82 ng/g profilins) and Książę Albrecht Pruski (5.57 ± 0.07 µg/g Bet v 1 and 3.34 ± 0.09 ng/g profilins) were identified as suitable for people with allergies. For people with diabetes, the most suitable apple variety was found to be Jakub Lebel, providing large doses of antioxidants and polyphenols (41.10 ± 0.20 and 5.16 ± 0.42, respectively) and a relatively low sugar content (9.06 g/100 g). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apples are rich in phytochemicals useful for human health. However, environmental factors can greatly affect the accumulation of these compounds. To face this problem, the callus culture technique was used to obtain large quantities of phytochemicals. Specifically, two callus cultures were obtained from ripe Annurca apple pulp (Malus pumila cv Miller) and cultivated under different light conditions: darkness and an 18-h photoperiod. The hydro-alcoholic extracts from the calli underwent analysis using GC-MS, GC-FID, and HPLC-DAD-ESI-MSn to determine the qualitative and quantitative content of phenolic and triterpenic acids. The study revealed the predominant presence of triterpenic compounds in both calli. Furthermore, we investigated their radical scavenging and antioxidant activities through DPPH, ABTS, ORAC assays, and lipoxygenase inhibition activity. Genoprotection was evaluated via nicking assay, and the anti-inflammatory effect was investigated via Griess assay on LPS-injured murine macrophages. All the analyses performed were compared with peel and pulp hydroalcoholic extracts. The results showed that both calli primarily show anti-inflammatory activity and moderate antioxidant effect and can protect DNA against oxidative stimuli. This data encouraged further research aimed at utilizing callus as a bioreactor to produce secondary metabolites for use in preventive and therapeutic applications to combat acute or chronic age-associated diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pH of the solution in the rhizosphere is an important factor that determines the availability and mobility of nutrients for plant uptake. Solution pH may also affect the root distribution and architecture of apple rootstocks. In this study, we evaluated the effect of solution pH on root system development of apple rootstocks using an aeroponics system designed and developed at Cornell AgriTech Geneva, USA. Four Geneva® apple rootstocks (G.210, G.214, G.41, and G.890) were grown in an aeroponic system under nutrient solution misting featuring continuously adjusted pH levels to three pH treatments (5.5, 6.5, and 8.0). Root development was monitored for 30 days and evaluated regularly for distribution and root mass. Images of the developed roots grown in the aeroponic system were collected at the end of the experiment using a high-resolution camera and analyzed using GiA Roots® software, which generates root architecture parameter values in a semi-automated fashion. The resulting root architecture analysis showed that the Geneva® rootstocks were significantly different for two architecture parameters. The length-to-width ratio analysis represented by two GiA Roots parameters (minor-to-major ellipse ratio and network width-to-depth ratio) showed that G.210 was flatter than G.890, which had a greater tendency to grow downward. Rootstocks G.214 and G.41 displayed similar growth values. The solution pH affected most root architecture parameter measurements where overall root growth was higher at pH 8 than at pH 5.5 and 6.5, which showed similar growth. In general, the average root width tended to decrease at higher pH values. While there were no significant differences in the leaf nutrient concentrations of P, K, Ca, Mg, S, B, Zn, Cu, and Fe within the four rootstocks, the pH level of the solution had a significant effect on P, Ca, and Mn. This study is the first of its kind to investigate the effect of pH on root architecture in a soil-free (aeroponic) environment and may have implications for apple root behavior under field conditions where pH levels are different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Apple Replant Disease (ARD) is common in major apple-growing regions worldwide, but the role of rhizosphere microbiota in conferring ARD resistance and promoting plant growth remains unclear. Results: In this study, a synthetic microbial community (SynCom) was developed to enhance apple plant growth and combat apple pathogens. Eight unique bacteria selected via microbial culture were used to construct the antagonistic synthetic community, which was then inoculated into apple seedlings in greenhouse experiments. Changes in the rhizomicroflora and the growth of aboveground plants were monitored. The eight strains, belonging to the genera Bacillus and Streptomyces, have the ability to antagonize pathogens such as Fusarium oxysporum, Rhizoctonia solani, Botryosphaeria ribis, and Physalospora piricola. Additionally, these eight strains can stably colonize in apple rhizosphere and some of them can produce siderophores, ACC deaminase, and IAA. Greenhouse experiments with Malus hupehensis Rehd indicated that SynCom promotes plant growth (5.23%) and increases the nutrient content of the soil, including soil organic matter (9.25%) and available K (1.99%), P (7.89%), and N (0.19%), and increases bacterial richness and the relative abundance of potentially beneficial bacteria. SynCom also increased the stability of the rhizosphere microbial community, the assembly of which was dominated by deterministic processes (|β NTI| > 2). Conclusions: Our results provide insights into the contribution of the microbiome to pathogen inhibition and host growth. The formulation and manipulation of similar SynComs may be a beneficial strategy for promoting plant growth and controlling soil-borne disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histone methylation is an important type of histone modification that regulates gene expression in plants. In this study, we identified 14 arginine methylationrelated genes (Protein Arginine Methyltransferase, MdPRMT) and 32 demethylation-related genes (JmjC Domain-Containing Family, MdJMJ) in apple. Furthermore, we investigated the phylogenetic relationship, chromosome distribution, gene structure, motif analysis, promoter sequence analysis, and expression patterns of MdPRMT and MdJMJ genes. Homology analysis showed a high degree of conservation and homology between PRMT and JMJ genes in Arabidopsis and apple. We identified the types of duplicated genes in the MdJMJ and MdPRMT gene families, found a large number of whole-genome duplicates (WGD) gene pairs and a small number of tandem duplicates (TD) pairs, transposed duplication (TRD) gene pairs as well as proximal duplicates (PD) pairs, and discussed the possible evolutionary pathways of the gene families from the perspective of duplicated genes. Homology analysis showed a high degree of conservation and homology between PRMT and JMJ genes in Arabidopsis and apple. In addition, the promoter regions of MdPRMT and MdJMJ contain numerous cis-acting elements involved in plant growth and development, hormone response, and stress responses. Based on the transcriptional profiles of MdPRMT and MdJMJ in different tissues and developmental stages, it was found that MdPRMT and MdJMJ may play multiple roles in apple growth and development, for example, MdJMJ21 may be involved in the regulation of apple endosperm formation. MdPRMT and MdJMJ exhibit different expression patterns in response to hormone signaling in apple, MdJMJ3, MdJMJ18, MdJMJ30, MdPRMT2, MdPRMT13, and MdPRMT14 may play roles in apple response to drought stress, while the expression of MdJMJ13, MdPRMT3, MdPRMT4, and MdPRMT6 is affected by cold stress. Our study provides a foundation for determining the functional roles of MdPRMT and MdJMJ genes in apple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 'Red Fuji' apple (Malus domestica), is one of the most important and popular economic crops worldwide in the fruit industry. Using PacBio HiFi long reads and Hi-C reads, we assembled a high-quality haplotype-resolved genome of 'Red Fuji', with sizes of 668.7 and 668.8 Mb, and N50 sizes of 34.1 and 31.4 Mb. About 97.2% of sequences were anchored in 34 chromosomes. We annotated both haploid genomes, identifying a total of 95,439 protein-coding genes in the two haplotype genomes, with 98% functional annotation. The haplotype-resolved genome of 'Red Fuji' apple stands as a precise benchmark for an array of analyses, such as comparative genomics, transcriptomics, and allelic expression studies. This comprehensive resource is paramount in unraveling variations in allelic expression, advancing quality improvements, and refining breeding efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Data from mechanistic studies suggest flavonoids may benefit glucose metabolism, but their associations with type 2 diabetes (T2D) remain unclear. This study examined the prospective associations of dietary intake of total, classes, and individual flavonoids, as well as their source foods, with T2D in the CArdioVascular disease Association Study (CAVAS). Methods: A total of 16,666 Korean men and women were enrolled at baseline, and 953 were newly diagnosed with T2D over a median follow-up of 5.96 years. Intake of flavonoids was cumulatively averaged using all food frequency questionnaires before the censoring events. A Poisson regression model was used to estimate incidence rate ratios (IRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Women with higher total flavonoid, flavonol, isoflavone, and proanthocyanidin intake had a lower risk of T2D (fourth vs. first quartile, IRR 0.62; 95% CI 0.44–0.89; P for linearity and non-linearity < 0.05 for total flavonoids), while in men, flavanones, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins, but not total flavonoids, were inversely associated with T2D risk (all P interaction for sex > 0.05). The key source foods contributing to flavonoid intake were also different between men and women, except for apples: tangerines and strawberries in men and green leafy vegetables and soy products in women. Conclusions: A higher intake of total flavonoids, particularly from vegetables, soybeans, and apples, may be associated with lower risk of T2D in women. However, flavonoids from fruits, rather than total flavonoids, may be inversely associated in men. The association between flavonoid intake and the risk of T2D may be contingent upon the dietary sources of flavonoids consumed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To mitigate problems concerning small-sized spots on apple leaves and the difficulties associated with the accurate detection of spot targets exacerbated by the complex backgrounds of orchards, this research used alternaria leaf spots, rust, brown spots, gray spots, and frog eye leaf spots on apple leaves as the research object and proposed the use of a high-accuracy detection model YOLOv5-Res (YOLOv5-Resblock) and lightweight detection model YOLOv5-Res4 (YOLOv5-Resblock-C4). Firstly, a multiscale feature extraction module, ResBlock (residual block), was designed by combining the Inception multi-branch structure and ResNet residual idea. Secondly, a lightweight feature fusion module C4 (CSP Bottleneck with four convolutions) was designed to reduce the number of model parameters while improving the detection ability of small targets. Finally, a parameter-streamlining strategy based on an optimized model architecture was proposed. The experimental results show that the performance of the YOLOv5-Res model and YOLOv5-Res4 model is significantly improved, with the mAP0.5 values increasing by 2.8% and 2.2% compared to the YOLOv5s model and YOLOv5n model, respectively. The sizes of the YOLOv5-Res model and YOLOv5-Res4 model are only 10.8 MB and 2.4 MB, and the model parameter counts are reduced by 22% and 38.3% compared to the YOLOv5s model and YOLOv5n model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]