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This study aimed to evaluate the biochemical content of 15 jujube genotypes with superior characteristics from the Denizli/Çivril region over a two-year period. Significant differences were found among the genotypes regarding their biochemical properties. Genotypes 10, 11, and 13 consistently exhibited higher total phenolic content compared to the others in both years. Additionally, genotypes 10, 2, and 11 showed higher total flavonoid content than the other genotypes. Genotypes 2, 10, and 1 demonstrated greater total antioxidant content, while genotypes 10, 2, and 11 had elevated vitamin C levels. Overall, genotypes 10, 11, and 2 consistently exhibited higher biochemical values compared to the others across both years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common gastrointestinal (GI) disorder characterized by chronic inflammation. Current treatments primarily focus on symptom management, but they have inherent limitations. Global attention is increasingly directed towards exploring herbal remedies as complementary approaches. This study aims to investigate the effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of jujuba on an experimental model of ulcerative colitis. In this study, 15 male BALB/c mice were divided into three experimental groups. The first group served as the untreated UC model, acting as the positive control (PC). The second group received treatment with the hydroalcoholic extract of Ziziphus jujuba, while the third group was treated with mesalamine. UC was induced by injecting 100 μL of 4 % acetic acid (AA) intra-rectally several times. Treatment commenced after the onset of symptoms such as diarrhea and bloody stools. The mice were eventually euthanized ethically, and their spleen and intestinal tissues were collected for analysis. Evaluations included the Disease Activity Index (DAI), myeloperoxidase activity (MPO), nitric oxide (NO) levels, cytokine levels (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), and gene expression (iNOS, COX-2, and cytokines). The hydroalcoholic extract of the jujuba plant significantly reduced MPO, NO, the DAI, and the production and expression of inflammatory cytokines, as well as the genes iNOS and COX-2, in the group receiving this extract compared to the positive control group (p<0.05). The study demonstrates that the hydroalcoholic extract of Ziziphus jujuba significantly reduces inflammation markers such as TNF-α, NO, MPO, IL-1β, and IL-6 in a mouse model of ulcerative colitis. Additionally, it downregulates the expression of pro-inflammatory genes, including iNOS and COX-2. These findings suggest that Z. jujuba extract has potential as an effective anti-inflammatory treatment for managing ulcerative colitis symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Fruit size is a crucial economic trait that impacts the quality of jujube (Ziziphus jujuba), however, research in this area remains limited. This study utilized two jujube cultivars with similar genetic backgrounds but differing fruit sizes to investigate the regulatory mechanisms affecting fruit size through cytological observations, transcriptome sequencing, and heterologous overexpression. Results The findings reveal that variations in mesocarp cell numbers during early fruit development significantly influence final fruit size. Comparative transcriptome sequencing identified 16,778 differentially expressed genes across five developmental stages. Co-expression network analysis identified 16 co-expression modules. KEGG enrichment analysis of these modules indicated the significant role of plant hormone-related pathways in fruit development. A detailed analysis of the ‘sky blue’ module revealed candidate genes associated with the regulation of mesocarp cells, leading to the construction of a regulatory network. Heterologous overexpression of the candidate gene ZjZOG in tomato confirmed its positive role in fruit size enhancement. Transcriptomic analysis of these overexpression lines further validated the regulatory network and identified reliable candidate genes for fruit size control. Conclusion This study provides valuable insights into the regulatory mechanisms of fruit size, which may facilitate the breeding of larger jujube cultivars.

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) fruit has been routinely used as a food, additive, and flavoring agent for thousands of years due to its rich nutritional contents. Mounting evidence proves the therapeutic benefits of Ziziphus jujuba, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, antioxidant, immune-stimulating, neuroprotective, and hepato- and gastro-protective properties, which are due to its main biologically active components: phenolics, triterpenic acids, flavonoids, α-tocopherol, β-carotene, cerebrosides, and polysaccharides. It is also used in conventional health care, for treating anorexia, fatigue, and diarrhea. Therefore, a deep focus on clinical studies and the phytochemical definition of jujube fruits will be critical for following research efforts. The current work aimed to cover all existing in vitro and in vivo discoveries linked to the therapeutically beneficial effects of Z. jujuba bioactive substances and the underlying molecular mechanisms. To write this review, the data were collected from valid scientific databases, including Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2014-2024). These findings could provide several lines of evidence for the medicinal uses of jujube as supplementary products for the prevention or treatment of several diseases such as cancer and other immune disorders.

Ziziphus jujuba plant belongs to Rhamnaceous family and grows mainly in Europe, southern and eastern Asia, and Australia. Recent phytochemical investigation of plants provided some information on their biological effects, such as the hepatoprotective, immunostimulating, anti-obesity, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. The current study investigated 34 phytocompounds from Z. jujuba and three anti-cancer drugs against three lung cancer target proteins. Drug likeliness screening revealed that two compounds dodecanoic acid and 7,9-di-tert-butyl-1-oxaspiro[4,5]deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione possess zero violation, and compound azelaic acid possesses single violation against five drug rules. Molecular docking study reveals that 34 phytocompounds from Z. jujuba and three anti-cancer drugs showed docking score values in the range of −3.9 to −10.2 kcal/mol and −7.2 to −9.0 kcal/mol against three significant lung cancer target proteins. Furthermore, in silico screening top scored three phytocompounds campesterol, stigmast-5-en-3-ol, 7,9-di-tert-butyl-1-oxaspiro[4,5]deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione and three anti-cancer drugs etoposide, paclitaxel, and doxorubicin utilized. Pharmacokinetic profile of three phytocompounds from Z. jujuba showed excellent absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity profile than standard drugs. Furthermore, bioactivity and density functional theory analysis showed that phytocompounds from Z. jujuba possess better bioactivity scores and molecular electrostatic potentials than standard drugs. Molecular dynamics simulation results revealed that campesterol with CDK2 (PDB ID 1GII) and MDM2/P53 (4HFZ) target proteins possess better simulation trajectories and binding affinity than standard drugs. Further clinical trials of compounds (campesterol, stigmast-5-en-3-ol, 7,9-di-tert-butyl-1-oxaspiro[4,5]deca-6,9-diene-2,8-dione) are needed to check clinical pertinence toward lung cancer target proteins to commercialize these novel drug molecule in the drug industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Seventy-eight metabolites were annotated in two Ziziphus species collected from different localities by UPLC-MS/MS. • Samples' segregation in OPLS model was relied on their species type rather than their origin. • The Chinese Z. jujuba was more efficient than piroxicam in downregulating TNF-α levels. • OPLS coefficient plots resulted in identifying the anti-inflammatory biomarkers. Ziziphus is a cosmopolitan genus that has several traditional applications. One of them is alleviation of inflammation. However, Ziziphus mechanisms and exact biomarkers in charge of this effect are not extensively studied. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the phytochemical variability between the leaves' extracts of two Ziziphus species gathered from diverse geographic localities, scrutinizing their in vitro anti-inflammatory effects, identifying the mechanisms and exact biomarkers accountable for these effects utilizing UPLC-MS/MS along with an in vitro multivariate statistical approach. Seventy-eight metabolites were annotated by UPLC-MS/MS. These metabolites were found to belong to different chemical classes such as alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed that samples' segregation was relied on their species type rather than their origin. Then, testing the effects of the studied extracts on the gene expression of four pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and INF-γ) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) showed that Z. jujuba extract originating from China downregulated TNF-α to levels less than those caused by piroxicam, indicating its higher efficacy. The Orthogonal Projection to Latent Structures (OPLS) coefficient plots indicated that zizybeoside I, zizyphine G and lotusine G were among the most potential metabolites downregulating the inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. However, ebelin lactone, oxyphylline B and zizyvoside I were from the more prominent biomarkers responsible for the downregulation of IL-1β. Furthermore, zizyphursolic acid, oxyphylline B and mauritine H, were strongly correlated with the downregulation of IFN-ɣ and IL-6. This study is the first attempt to decipher the anti-inflammatory metabolites from different Ziziphus species, valorizing their significance as a valuable traditional medicine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Oral acute and subchronic toxicities of Ziziphus jujuba were evaluated in rats. • No major signs of toxicity were observed in the liver and kidney. • Repeated oral administration is safe at up to 1000 mg kg-1 bw over a 28-day period. • Ziziphus jujuba bark is relatively safe at lower dose. Ziziphus jujuba is a medicinal botanical with various pharmacological properties against cardiovascular diseases, respiratory system diseases, gastrointestinal problems, dysentery, and diarrhea. Despite its exhaustive use for medicinal aims, no study has yet been directed to evaluate this plant's potentially toxic profile. The present work focused on the acute and subchronic toxicity of Z. jujuba bark extract. The acute oral toxicity was performed using the OECD guideline 425; Z. jujuba bark extract was administered to female rats at a single dose of 5000 mg kg-1 body weight. The subchronic acute oral toxicity was carried out according to OECD guidelines 407; Z. jujuba bark extract was administered to male and female rats at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg kg-1 bw; after 28 days of Z. jujuba bark extract daily administration, the animals were sacrificed. Hematological parameters, serum and urinary biochemical parameters, and histological sections of the liver and kidneys were assessed. Administration of the single-oral dose of Z. jujuba bark methanolic extract did not cause any death in rats, and the LD 50 was found to be greater than 5000 mg kg-1 bw. The repeated administration of Z. jujuba bark methanolic extract at 250, 500, and 1000 mg kg-1 bw did not induce any significant perturbation of the white blood cells, lymphocytes, red blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets in rats as compared to the controls. For the lipid parameters, namely triglycerides and cholesterol, no significant difference was recorded between the profiles of the treated and untreated groups of animals. Likewise, we registered non-significant changes in renal parameters such as creatinine, urea, and proteins; this was confirmed by the histological sections, which showed a normal kidney structure. Besides, we did not observe any significant modification in the values of liver parameters, ALT and AST. This finding was further confirmed by the histological examination of the liver, which revealed the organ's normal structure. Finally, for single-oral administration, Z. jujuba bark extract is almost non-toxic. For repeated oral administration, Z. jujuba bark extract is safe at doses up to 1000 mg kg-1 bw over a 28-day period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) fruit has been routinely used as a food, additive, and flavoring agent for thousands of years due to its rich nutritional contents. Mounting evidence proves the therapeutic benefits of Ziziphus jujuba, including anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiobesity, antioxidant, immunestimulating, neuroprotective, and hepato- and gastro-protective properties, which are due to its main biologically active components: phenolics, triterpenic acids, flavonoids, a-tocopherol, ß-carotene, cerebrosides, and polysaccharides. It is also used in conventional health care, for treating anorexia, fatigue, and diarrhea. Therefore, a deep focus on clinical studies and the phytochemical definition of jujube fruits will be critical for following research efforts. The current work aimed to cover all existing in vitro and in vivo discoveries linked to the therapeutically beneficial effects of Z. jujuba bioactive substances and the underlying molecular mechanisms. To write this review, the data were collected from valid scientific databases, including Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar (2014-2024). These findings could provide several lines of evidence for the medicinal uses of jujube as supplementary products for the prevention or treatment of several diseases such as cancer and other immune disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZiZiphus jujuba, which is native to China, has become one of the main crops widely planted in the western Loess Plateau because of its drought and flood-tolerance, adaptability, and higher nutritional value of the fruit. The irrigation water infiltration in Z. jujuba gardens is complex, and understanding its mechanisms is essential for efficient water use and sustainable agriculture. This knowledge helps ensure the long-term success of jujuba cultivation. This paper describes a field experiment that investigates the infiltration process of irrigation water from Z. jujuba garden and quantifies the contribution of irrigation water to soil water at different depths using the MixSIAR model. According to the FC (Field water holding Capacity) of Z. jujuba, irrigation experiments with three volumes of 80% FC, 60% FC, and 40% FC are set up in this study. The study finds that water retention is better in Z. jujuba garden soils with a higher proportion of coarse gravel in the soil particle composition. Soil water content exhibits a gradient change after irrigation, with deeper wetting front transport depth observed with increased irrigation water. Additionally, there is correlation between soil temperature and soil water content. The soil water in Z. jujuba garden generally exhibits a preferential flow signal in the 0–40 cm range. Below 40 cm, a piston flow pattern dominates. The rate of soil water infiltration increases with the amount of irrigation water. In the 0–40 cm range of the soil vertical profile, irrigation water was the main contributor to soil water. Z. jujuba demonstrated flexibility in water uptake, primarily absorbing soil water at depths of 0–40 cm. For optimal growth of Z. jujuba at this stage, 40% FC irrigation is recommended. The results are expected to be valuable future irrigation practices and land use planning for Z. jujuba garden in arid zones, supporting sustainable agricultural development and water management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ziziphus jujuba has been used since ancient times in traditional Eastern medicine. It is widely cultivated in numerous countries between the tropical and temperate climatic zones due to its high ecological plasticity and resilience to adverse weather. The different classes of chemical compounds contained in the plant are the reason for its medicinal properties. Research shows that every part of Ziziphus jujuba, the leaves, fruits and seeds, demonstrate therapeutic properties. This review focuses on the chemical composition in order to establish the relationship between the plant and its clinical use. Various biological effects are summarized and discussed: anticancer, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, gastrointestinal, etc. Apart from medicinal uses, the fruits of Ziziphus jujuba are edible and used in fresh and dried form. This literature review reveals possible medical applications of Ziziphus jujuba and its great potential for improving the diet of people in areas where the plant is abundant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dengue infection has become one of the most important mosquito-borne diseases worldwide and is caused by the dengue virus (DENV). Recently, neither patent drug, phytopharmaceutical medicine, nor standardized herbal medicine has been officially available against DENV. Dried red jujube fruit (Ziziphus jujuba) ethanol extract has been proven to have an antiviral effect, anti-inflammatory efficacy, and antioxidant properties, which have potential activity against DENV infection. This research was conducted to analyze the antiviral activity of dried red jujube fruit ethanol extract against DENV-2 in vitro. The halfmaximal cytotoxic concentration (CC50) and half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) were examined on Vero cells by a 3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, whereas the halfmaximal effective concentration (EC50) was determined using luminescence assay. The selectivity index (SI) value was determined from the ratio of CC50 and EC50. Dried red jujube fruit ethanol extracts inhibited DENV-2 in 24.59%, 22.39%, 17.98%, 14.5%, 6.42%, and 1.28% at 80 μg/mL, 40 μg/mL, 20 μg/mL, 10 μg/ mL, 5 μg/mL, and 2.5 μg/mL, respectively. The extract exhibited antiviral activity against DENV-2, showing a CC50 of 67.73 μg/mL, an IC50 value of 166.18 μg/mL, and an EC50 of 64.87 μg/mL, with an SI of 1.04. The LD50 value was 707.95 mg/kg. Dried red jujube fruit ethanol extract could be a potential candidate for developing an antiviral against DENV-2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, and among all types of cancer, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) has one of the worst prognoses. The repeated use of chemotherapeutic drugs often leads to drug resistance, complicating treatment outcomes. This study aimed to investigate the effect of jujube alkaloid-rich extract on drug sensitivity and its antitumor effects on paclitaxel-resistant MDA-MB-231 cells in vitro. Materials and methods: This study utilized the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line and its paclitaxel-resistant variant. Cell viability was measured using the XTT assay, while apoptosis was detected through Annexin-PI assays. Various concentrations of jujube extract, alone and combined with paclitaxel, were assessed for synergistic effects in 2D and 3D culture models. Results: The presence of alkaloids in the jujube seed extract was confirmed via the Dragendorff test, with 0.395 g of alkaloids present in 5 g of jujube seed powder. A combination of paclitaxel and jujube extract exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxic effects on paclitaxel-resistant MDA-MB-231 cells. The combination of jujube extract and paclitaxel significantly decreased IC50 from 541.3 μg/ml to 124.3 μg/ml, and the IC20 decreased from 92.1 μg/ml to 23.9 μg/ml when combined with paclitaxel in 2D culture model. The cytotoxicity of the combination was reduced in the 3D culture model. Apoptosis rates were 0.75% in the control group, 13.89% in the alkaloid-rich extract group, 2.59% in the paclitaxel group, and 42.90% in the combination group. Conclusion: Combining alkaloid-rich jujube seed extract with paclitaxel regenerates the cytotoxicity and apoptotic ability of paclitaxel in the paclitaxel-resistant MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells in both 2D and 3D culture models. This suggests that such combinations might be a viable strategy to overcome drug resistance in TNBC treatments.

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt • This study explores the antibacterial properties of Ziziphus jujuba leaf extracts against clinically significant pathogens, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Salmonella species. • By demonstrating potent antibacterial activity and determining precise MIC and MBC values, the research provides critical evidence supporting the traditional use of Ziziphus jujuba as a medicinal plant. • The findings suggest that Ziziphus jujuba leaf extracts could serve as a promising source for developing new antibacterial agents targeting these pathogens. Full Abstract Ziziphus jujuba is a common medicinal plant traditionally utilised in tropical and subtropical regions for its various biological functions, such as antibacterial, antifungal, and antidiarrheal properties. This study aimed to investigate the antibacterial activity of Ziziphus jujuba leaf extracts against clinical isolates of Streptococcus pneumonia and Salmonella species using the agar well diffusion method. Phytochemical screening, Minimum Inhibitory, and Minimum Bactericidal Concentration Assays (MIC/MBC) were also carried out using standard procedures. The results of phytochemical screening showed that tannins, phenols, saponins, quinines, terpenoids, and steroids were present in ethanolic extract. Similarly, Tannins, saponins, phenols, steroids, phytosteroids, and terpenoids were present in aqueous extract. Salmonella species were sensitive to the aqueous and ethanolic extracts at 500 and 125 mg/mL, respectively, compared to the 250 and 125mg/mL obtained against Streptococcus pneumoniae, respectively. The MIC values of the ethanolic extract were 62.5 and 125 mg/mL for Salmonella species and Streptococcus pneumoniae, while the aqueous extract exhibited MIC values of 62.5 and 125mg/mL for Streptococcus pneumoniae and Salmonella species, respectively. Regarding the MBC values, 125 and 62.5 mg/mL were obtained for the aqueous extract against Streptococcus pneumoniae and Salmonella species, compared to the 62.5 and 125 mg/mL for the aqueous extract. The antibacterial activity exerted by the extract against the test isolates suggests that Ziziphusjujuba leaf can be explored as a source of effective antibacterial medications targeting the test bacteria.

Summary: Purpose: Previous studies have reported that Ziziphus jujuba has beneficial effects on wellness, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as improving the lipid profile. However, the evidence in this field is unclear. The current systematic study and meta-analysis aim to investigate the effect of Ziziphus jujuba on metabolic factors, including BMI, FBG, TG, TC, LDL, and HDL. Methods: We searched for randomized clinical trials on online resources such as PubMed, Scopus, and ISI Web of Science until October 2022. Four eligible articles were included in the current investigation. Results: The results of the current research revealed that the consumption of Ziziphus jujuba significantly reduces BMI (WMD: -1.03 kg/m2; 95% CI, -1.77 to -0.29, p=0.006), TG (WMD: -24.64 mg/dl; 95% CI, -33.64 to -15.64, p

Phytoplasmic SAP11 effectors alter host plant architecture and flowering time. However, the exact mechanisms have yet to be elucidated. Two SAP11‐like effectors, SJP1 and SJP2, from 'Candidatus Phytoplasma ziziphi' induce shoot branching proliferation. Here, the transcription factor ZjTCP7 was identified as a central target of these two effectors to regulate floral transition and shoot branching. Ectopic expression of ZjTCP7 resulted in enhanced bolting and earlier flowering than did the control. Interaction and expression assays demonstrated that ZjTCP7 interacted with the ZjFT‐ZjFD module, thereby enhancing the ability of these genes to directly bind to the ZjAP1 promoter. The effectors SJP1 and SJP2 unravelled the florigen activation complex by specifically destabilising ZjTCP7 and ZjFD to delay floral initiation. Moreover, the shoot branching of the ZjTCP7‐SRDX transgenic Arabidopsis lines were comparable to those of the SJP1/2 lines, suggesting the involvement of ZjTCP7 in the regulation of shoot branching. ZjTCP7 interacted with the branching repressor ZjBRC1 to enhance suppression of the auxin efflux carrier ZjPIN3 expression. ZjTCP7 also directly bound to and upregulated the auxin biosynthesis gene ZjYUCCA2, thereby promoting auxin accumulation. Our findings confirm that ZjTCP7 serves as a bifunctional regulator destabilised by the effectors SJP1 and SJP2 to modulate plant development. Summary statement: Efectors SJP1 and SJP2 interact with and destabilise the bifunctional regulator ZjTCP7 to modulate flowering‐related ZjFT‐ZjFD pathway and branching signalling controlled by ZjBRC1 in jujube, suggesting a novel regulatory mechanism mediated by JWB phytoplasmas to modulate host plant development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This case describes a patient with anaphylaxis caused by traditional Chinese medicine. Skin prick test with the traditional Chinese medicine decoction indicates that he was allergic to Suan Zao Ren. The patient had pollinosis and had never taken Suan Zao Ren before, thus we need to think the possibility of pollen food allergy syndrome. This paper also proposes a procedure for doctors to identify the specific culprit of traditional Chinese medicine decoction.

Phytoplasmas manipulate host plant development to benefit insect vector colonization and their own invasion. However, the virulence factors and mechanisms underlying small-leaf formation caused by jujube witches' broom (JWB) phytoplasmas remain largely unknown. Here, effectors SJP1 and SJP2 from JWB phytoplasmas were identified to induce small-leaf formation in jujube (Ziziphus jujuba). In vivo interaction and expression assays showed that SJP1 and SJP2 interacted with and stabilized the transcription factor ZjTCP2. Overexpression of SJP1 and SJP2 in jujube induced ZjTCP2 accumulation. In addition, the abundance of miRNA319f_1 was significantly reduced in leaves of SJP1 and SJP2 transgenic jujube plants and showed the opposite pattern to the expression of its target, ZjTCP2 , which was consistent with the pattern in diseased leaves. Overexpression of ZjTCP2 in Arabidopsis promoted ectopic leaves arising from the adaxial side of cotyledons and reduced leaf size. Constitutive expression of the miRNA319f_1 precursor in the 35S::ZjTCP2 background reduced the abundance of ZjTCP2 mRNA and reversed the cotyledon and leaf defects in Arabidopsis. Therefore, these observations suggest that effectors SJP1 and SJP2 induced small-leaf formation, at least partly, by interacting with and activating ZjTCP2 expression both at the transcriptional and the protein level, providing new insights into small-leaf formation caused by phytoplasmas in woody plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, the angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory activity, antioxidant capacity, total polyphenol contents (TPC), and phytochemical profiles of polar and non-polar extracts of dried Ziziphus jujuba fruits were investigated, along with the statistical determination of the main components responsible for ACE inhibitory activity. The non-polar extract expressed the strongest ACE inhibitory activity (99.81%) among the extracts. The non-polar extract also exhibited the highest DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 of 30.63), linoleic acid/β-carotene bleaching capacity (89.31%), and TPC (59.47 mg GAE/g). The phenolic profiles of the extracts were identified by LC-MS/MS, and the presence of seven triterpenoid species in the extracts was examined using GC-MS techniques. The principal constituents included 19 phenolics, 2 organic acids, and 4 triterpenoids. A Pearson correlation and principal component analysis were conducted to find the correlation between individual phenolic compounds and ACE inhibitory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Mustafa Kemal University Journal of Agricultural Sciences / Mustafa Kemal Üniversitesi Tarım Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Mustafa Kemal University, Faculty of Agriculture and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Here, the chemical modification of Ziziphus jujuba stones (ZJS) treated with ortho-phosphoric acid (ZJS-H3PO4) is investigated to enhance its adsorption properties for organic dyes. The physicochemical properties of ZJS-H3PO4 reveal increased porosity (87.29%), slightly higher bulk density (0.034 g mL−1), and enhanced acidity (31.42 m eq g g−1) compared to untreated ZJS. XRF analysis confirms the successful incorporation of orthophosphoric acid during treatment due to a significant increase in phosphorus content. The maximum adsorption capacity of methylene blue on ZJS-H3PO4 is found to be 179.83 mg g−1, demonstrating its efficacy as a potential adsorbent for organic dyes. These findings suggest that modifying ZJS with orthophosphoric acid could be a promising strategy to enhance its adsorption performance in various environmental applications. Furthermore, Gaussian process regression (GPR) is employed to model MB adsorption by ZJS-H3PO4. Optimization of the GPR model involves evaluating different kernel functions and meticulously adjusting parameters to maximize its ability to capture complex relationships in the data. The obtained GPR model demonstrates remarkable performance with high correlation coefficients (R) and low root mean square errors (RMSEs) across all study phases. Model validation is performed through residual analysis, confirming its effectiveness and accuracy in predicting MB adsorption. Finally, a user-friendly interface is developed to facilitate the usage of the GPR model in future applications, representing a significant advancement in environmental process modeling and ecosystem management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

This study was designed to reveal the relationship among browning, polyphenol degradation, Maillard reaction (MR) and flavor variation in jujube fruit (JF) during air-impingement jet drying (AIJD). Five kinds of JFs were dried by AIJD at 60 °C and vacuum freeze drying. Colorimeter and chemometric analysis found that AIJD induced color changes of JF pulp and peel. AIJD also reduced the total polyphenols content and total flavonoids levels in JF. The Fe3+ reducing capacity and 2,2′-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate) cationic radical scavenging capacity of JF were reduced by 31.6% and 8.2%, respectively. Seven polyphenols were identified in JF, and epicatechin was found related to change of JF pulp color by sparse partial least square (sPLS). sPLS revealed that 3-deoxy glucosone, N-ε-carboxymethyl-l-lysine and 5-hydroxymethylfurfural associated with JF color. sPLS found that MR generated 3-methyl-butanoic acid and cyclobutanone during AIJD of JF. Chemometrics is an effective tool to disclose mechanism of color changes in food.

Ziziphus jujuba has been used since ancient times in traditional Eastern medicine. It is widely cultivated in numerous countries between the tropical and temperate climatic zones due to its high ecological plasticity and resilience to adverse weather. The different classes of chemical compounds contained in the plant are the reason for its medicinal properties. Research shows that every part of Ziziphus jujuba, the leaves, fruits and seeds, demonstrate therapeutic properties. This review focuses on the chemical composition in order to establish the relationship between the plant and its clinical use. Various biological effects are summarized and discussed: anticancer, anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, gastrointestinal, etc. Apart from medicinal uses, the fruits of Ziziphus jujuba are edible and used in fresh and dried form. This literature review reveals possible medical applications of Ziziphus jujuba and its great potential for improving the diet of people in areas where the plant is abundant.

The nutritional and medicinal significance of jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) has led to persistent efforts in genomics to accelerate the utilization of its germplasm resources. However, the absence of accurate genetic identity of existing germplasm limits these studies. In the United States, different names were frequently given to the same jujube cultivars because the pedigrees of the imported germplasm are unclear. The present study selected a panel of 147 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers distributed across the jujube genome to examine genetic identity, genetic diversity, and population structure in 177 jujube cultivars sampled from different locations in the United States. SNP profile multilocus matching reported a total of 23 synonymous groups including 116 samples that were identical to at least one other sample. This led to the detection of 74 unique genotypes for subsequent diversity analysis. Model-based genetic structure analysis divided the distinctive genotypes into three major groups, with some admixtures among the groups. The genetic differentiation among these groups was further validated by analysis of molecular variance (Fst = 0.199, P value < 0.001), principal coordinate analysis, and clustering analysis. Morphological traits were studied in some of the genetically identical commercial cultivar groups, (i.e., Li, Lang, and Jinsi). Results demonstrated significant morphological differences within genetically identical cultivars in the Jinsi group, indicating phenotypic variation resulting from mutations in these clones.

Despite being cultivated in China for millennia, the Chinese jujube is mostly unknown to Western consumers. The fruits are borne from vigorous trees that are tolerant to drought and other stresses, as well as disease. A number of cultivars have been demonstrated to produce in Florida. This publication is a review of jujube genetics and management as this crop gains favor among growers on small farms and home growers.

This study was conducted at the Biotechnology Research Center in 2013 with the aim of developing a micropropagation protocol for locally grown Chinese jujube ( Ziziphus jujuba L.). In this study, both: the effect of the type of cytokinin (Benzyl adenine (BA), Kinetin (Kin) and Zeatin (Zea) and concentration (0.0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 μmol) on the micropropagation of Chinese jujube plants were studied. Using shoot tips to multiply them, and then rooting the resulting shoots using auxins Indole butyric acid (IBA) and Naphtalene acetic acid (NAA). The results showed that there were no significant differences between the type of cytokinins (BA, Kin and Zea) on the number of developing shoots. Regarding the length of shoots, the growth regulator Zea outperformed both BA and Kin, with an average of 2.47 cm. regarding the number of leaves, Zea and BA exceeded Kin, while in the number of developing nodes, and some significant differences were observed for cytokinin concentrations. The results related to the rooting of the shoots showed that the control treatment was superior in rooting percentage and root length, but when using auxins at a concentration of 2.68 μmol (the general mean); it gave the best number of roots with an average of 1.55 roots per explant. The results also showed that the best growth medium for the success of the plants obtained from the experiment consists of peat moss and soil (at a ratio of 1:2 v/v). The plants were acclimatized with a success rate of 61%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Today, water pollutants such as heavy metals and dyes are serious dangers to nature. Metals such as lead, chromium, mercury, and arsenic are examples of heavy metals which are toxic to living things, even sometimes at the lowest concentrations. Magnetic nanoparticles are considerable compounds because of their advantages such as high efficiency, fast recovery capability, high surface area, easy transportation, and inexpensiveness. We presented an easy and eco-friendly method for the synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles using Ziziphus jujuba extract. In order to determine the physical, chemical and optical properties of the synthesised samples, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Raman analyses were deployed. The PXRD results showed that the synthesised nanoparticles have a maghemite form of (γ-Fe2O3). The results showed that the synthesised nanoparticles were capable of removing 96% of lead at pH = 7 and 1 mg/L loading of nanoparticles. Adsorption isotherms of lead on nanoparticles as adsorbents were determined based on Freundlich and Langmuir adsorption isotherm models. The results showed that the best model of adsorption isotherm was Langmuir model. The photocatalytic activity of γ-Fe2O3 NPs was studied on methylene blue (MB) dye; as a result, MB at pH = 7 and 1 gr dosage of γ-Fe2O3 had the highest removal percentage (92.8%) during 160 minutes using γ-Fe2O3 which calcined at 400 °C. The reusability results showed that after four cycles of using the γ-Fe2O3-400, the obtained degradation of methylene blue was about 87.1%. Therefore, synthesised γ-Fe2O3 NPs can be a good alternative for removing heavy metals and industrial dyes from contaminated waters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Ziziphus jujuba (Z. jujuba) leaf hydroalcoholic extract on the prevention/treatment of kidney stones. Materials and Methods: Thirty-six male Wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, Sham (kid- ney stone induction (KSI) by ethylene glycol 1% + ammonium chloride 0.25% through drinking water for 28 days), Prevention groups 1, 2 (KSI and Z. jujuba leaf (250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively) through gavage for 28 days), and Treatment groups 1, 2 (KSI and Z. jujuba leaf (250 and 500 mg/kg, respectively) from the 15th day). On the 29th day, the rats’ 24-hour urine was assessed, the animals were weighed, and blood samples were taken. Finally, after nephrectomy and weighing the kidneys, tissue sections were prepared to examine the number of cal- cium oxalate crystals and tissue changes. Results: The results indicated a significant increase in kidney weight and index, tissue changes, and the number of calcium oxalate crystals in the Sham group compared to the control; using Z. jujuba leaf considerably reduced them in experimental groups compared to the Sham. Body weight decreased in the Sham and experimental groups (except the prevention 2 group) compared to the control, while this observed reduction was lower in all experimen- tal groups compared to the Sham. The mean urinary calcium, uric acid, creatinine, and serum creatinine in Sham and experimental groups (except the prevention 2 group) indicated a substantial increase compared to the control and decreased significantly in all experimental groups compared to the Sham. Conclusion: Hydroalcoholic extract of Z. jujuba leaf is effective in the reduction of calcium oxalate crystals form- ing, and its most effective dose was 500mg/kg. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. The natural plant resources are products with high added value, used in various fields for the manufacture of a wide variety of products. Objective. The purpose of this study was the physicochemical and chromatographic characterization of Ziziphus jujuba seeds vegetable oil, and the evaluation of their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Material and methods. Seeds oil extraction was done by soxhlet. Fatty acid content was determined by gas chromatography (GPC). Organoleptic and physicochemical characteristics were determined, and antioxidant activity was evalua-ted by diphenyl-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) test and -carotene bleaching. Anti-inflam-matory activity was essayed using carrageenan-induced plantar edema model in mice. Results. Extracted seeds oil had an extraction yield of 3.4%. GPC characterization sho-wed the presence of 12 fatty acids with a predominance of oleic acid (47.02%), and linoleic acid (37.40%). Physicochemical parameters of Ziziphus jujuba seeds oil showed an acidity of 2.05%, a saponification value of 198.17 mg KOH/mL, and refractive index of 1.471±0.00. This oil expressed a significant antiradical activity for the DPPH test, and low for that of β-carotene. In vivo study of edema induction in mice showed that oil had a maximum effective effect in inhibiting oedema (55.89±0.03%), at the first hour, compared to Diclofenac (19.88±0.12%), at the same hour. Conclusion. These results highlight the fatty acids richness of Ziziphus jujuba seeds oil with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties make it possible to predict its use in biotech-nology and cosmetology. [Résumé Introduction. Les ressources naturelles végétales sont des produits à forte valeur ajoutée, utilisés dans divers domaines pour la fabrication d’une large variété de produits. Objectif. Le présent travail a pour but la caractérisation physico-chimique et chromatographique de l’huile végétale des graines de Ziziphus jujuba Mill., et l’évaluation de leur activité antioxydante et anti-inflammatoire. Matériel et méthodes. L’huile des graines extraite par soxhlet est caractérisée sur le plan organoleptique et physicochimique. La teneur en acides gras est déterminée par une analyse chromato-graphique en phase gazeuse (CPG). L’activité antioxydante est évaluée par le test diphe-nyl-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) et le test de blanchiment. L’activité anti-inflammatoire est déterminée à l’aide du modèle de l’œdème plantaire induit chez la souris par la carra-génine. Résultats. L’huile présente un rendement d’extraction de 3,14%. La caracté-risation par la CPG montre la présence de 12 acides gras avec une prédominance de l’acide oléique (47,02%) et l’acide linoléique (37,40%). Les paramètres physico-chimi-ques ont montré une acidité de 2,05%, un indice de saponification de 198,17mg KOH/mL, un indice de réfraction de 1,471±0,00. L’huile végétale testée exprime une activité anti-radicalaire importante pour le test de DPPH et forte pour celui de β-carotène. L’induction d’œdème chez les souris a montré un effet efficace maximal de l’huile dans l’inhibition de l’œdème à la première heure, par rapport au Diclofénac à la même heure. Conclusion. Les résultats de cette étude font ressortir la richesse de l’huile des graines de Ziziphus jujuba en acides gras dotés d’un effet antioxydant et anti-inflammatoire. Ces propriétés permettent de prévoir son utilisation en biotechnologie et en cosmétologie.]

The Ziziphus jujuba’s fruit, popular as jujube or red date, is used as a health supplement worldwide. In the present study, an approach is proposed for the classification of three varieties of Ziziphus jujuba Mill decocts, grown in a farm on the territory of Bulgaria, via ultrasonic acquisition of primary information followed by subsequent processing of image recognition methods. The presented results prove the possibility for the decoct’s classification with different duration of extraction and variety diversity, via classifiers working according to k- nearest neighbors (kNN) method with features of synthesis with fast discrete wavelet transformation (DWT) based on Haar wavelet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese jujube (also called Chinese date, Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) is an economically important tree in China and provides a rich source of sugars, vitamins, and bioactive components, all of which are indispensable and essential for the composition and participation in life processes of the human body. However, the location of these metabolites in jujube fruits has not been determined. This study applied matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) to investigate the spatial distribution of sugars, organic acids, and other key components in jujube fruits at different developmental periods. Soluble sugars such as hexoses and sucrose/maltose significantly increase with fruit ripening, while organic acids show an overall trend of initially increasing and then decreasing. Procyanidins and rutin exhibit specific distributions in the fruit periphery and peel. These findings suggest that MALDI-MSI can be used to study the spatial distribution of nutritional components in jujube fruits, providing insights into the changes and spatial distribution of substances during jujube fruit development. This technique offers a scientific basis for jujube breeding, utilization, and production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: In this study, we have investigated the binding affinity, ADME, and toxicity analysis of various phytocompounds which are present in Ziziphus jujuba on different receptors related to cardioprotective activity by performing molecular docking studies. Determination of binding affinity of phytocompounds of Z. Jujuba with different receptors involved in the cardioprotective activity. AutoDock Vina, PyMol, Discovery Studio, AutoDock tools, ChemDraw, Swiss ADME, PROTOX-II. Methods: Molecular docking. Results: The binding results of the selected plant compounds and target proteins, namely 108a, 7Q29, 5JMY, 4DLI, 2YCW, and 1CX2, showed that the selected phytochemicals from Z. Jujuba had good binding affinity and good receptor binding mode selected target. However, among all plant compounds, Jujuboside-B has the lowest binding energy with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) (binding energy – 11.2 Kcal/mol), ACE and neutral endopeptidase inhibitors (binding energy – 10.9 Kcal/mol). Neprilysin receptor (binding energy – 10.4 Kcal/mol), COX-2 receptor (binding energy – 10.9 Kcal/mol), Spinosyn with β-1 adrenergic receptor (binding energy – 9.3 Kcal/mol), 3-O-methylellagic acid-3'-rhamnoside has superior binding affinity (−9.4 Kcal/mol) to the P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase receptor compared to the standard synthetic compound nebivolol. Conclusions: The present work was an attempt to computationally identify phytocompounds from Z. Jujuba which can bind to the various targets of cardiovascular disease. The docking scores, analysis of the interactions of the compounds suggest that most of the compounds have the ability to bind to multiple targets involved in cardiovascular disease. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity and toxicity prediction showed various phytocompounds such as rutin, jujuboside-A, B, epicatechin could be used as potential candidate against cardiovascular disease.

This study aims to investigate the immune response and intestinal microbiota in immunosuppressed mice treated with acetylated jujube polysaccharide (Ac-JP), which exhibited superior water solubility compared to the original jujube polysaccharide (JP). Our study demonstrates that Ac-JP can enhance thymus and spleen indices, increase white blood cells (WBC), red blood cells (RBC), and platelets (PLT) levels in serum, as well as promote the production of immune-related cytokines (including interferon-γ (IFN-γ), interleukin-4 (IL-4), immunoglobulin A (Ig-A), immunoglobulin G (Ig-G), and immunoglobulin M (Ig-M)) in the serum of cyclophosphamide (CTX)-treated mice. Notably, the administration of Ac-JP significantly increased the relative abundances of Alloprevotella and Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, as well as the concentration of acetic acid in the intestinal contents. Meanwhile, it led to a decrease in the relative abundance of Desulfovibrio. These findings indicate the potential of Ac-JP as a promising immunomodulator.

In this study, changes in angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitory, a-amylase inhibitory and antioxidant activities, total phenolic content (TPC), total monomeric anthocyanin content (TMAC) of ultrasonic phenolic extracts from pulp and seed of Ziziphus jujuba were investigated during in vitro digestion. Bioaccessible fractions of phenolics in seed and pulp extracts were calculated as 23.24±4.46% and 9.43±0.24%, respectively. Moreover, bioaccessibility for TMAC in seed extracts (147.83±9.20%) was higher than pulp (15.76±3.89%) (P<0.05). A decrease in the antioxidant activity of the extracts occurred after in vitro digestion (P<0.05). The ACE inhibitory activity of undigested extracts from seed (86.04±0.00%) was higher than that of the undigested pulp extract (42.74±8.57%) (P<0.05). The a-amylase inhibitory activity of seed and pulp extracts was determined as 49.18±0.35% and 36.07±5.83%, respectively. The results of the study showed that ACE inhibitory activity and a-amylase inhibitory activity of the polyphenolics from pulp increased after in vitro digestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In this study, we have investigated the binding affinity, ADME, and toxicity analysis of various phytocompounds which are present in Ziziphus jujuba on different receptors related to cardioprotective activity by performing molecular docking studies. Determination of binding affinity of phytocompounds of Z. Jujuba with different receptors involved in the cardioprotective activity. AutoDock Vina, PyMol, Discovery Studio, AutoDock tools, ChemDraw, Swiss ADME, PROTOX-II. Methods: Molecular docking. Results: The binding results of the selected plant compounds and target proteins, namely 108a, 7Q29, 5JMY, 4DLI, 2YCW, and 1CX2, showed that the selected phytochemicals from Z. Jujuba had good binding affinity and good receptor binding mode selected target. However, among all plant compounds, Jujuboside-B has the lowest binding energy with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) (binding energy - 11.2 Kcal/mol), ACE and neutral endopeptidase inhibitors (binding energy - 10.9 Kcal/mol). Neprilysin receptor (binding energy - 10.4 Kcal/mol), COX-2 receptor (binding energy - 10.9 Kcal/mol), Spinosyn with β-1 adrenergic receptor (binding energy - 9.3 Kcal/mol), 3-O-methylellagic acid-3'-rhamnoside has superior binding affinity (-9.4 Kcal/mol) to the P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase receptor compared to the standard synthetic compound nebivolol. Conclusions: The present work was an attempt to computationally identify phytocompounds from Z. Jujuba which can bind to the various targets of cardiovascular disease. The docking scores, analysis of the interactions of the compounds suggest that most of the compounds have the ability to bind to multiple targets involved in cardiovascular disease. Absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity and toxicity prediction showed various phytocompounds such as rutin, jujuboside-A, B, epicatechin could be used as potential candidate against cardiovascular disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a local Algerian agricultural waste biomass, Ziziphus jujuba, was valorized into a new low-cost biochar (JB). The biochar was produced by a simple pyrolysis at 700°C for 1 h under an inert atmosphere and was used as a low-cost adsorbent to remove Indigo carmine dye (IC) from aqueous solution. The JB biochar was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman, pHpzc, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller physico-chemical techniques. Adsorption studies were conducted using a batch process to study the effects of contact time, adsorbent amount, initial IC dye concentration, initial pH, ionic strength, and temperature. The Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherm models were used to analyze equilibrium adsorption data, while the pseudo-firstorder, pseudo-second-order, Elovich, and intraparticle diffusion models were used to analyze kinetic data. The equilibrium data was well fitted to the Freundlich isotherm with an R² value of 0.974. The theoretical maximum adsorption capacity was found to be 166.46 mg/g at 20°C according to the Langmuir model. The adsorption kinetic was found to follow the pseudo-first-order kinetic model. Thermodynamic study showed that the adsorption of IC onto JB biochar was feasible, spontaneous and endothermic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil aggregates play an important role in affecting the structural stability of the soil, and it is important to understand the relationship between soil aggregate stability and crop yield in herbage-fruit tree intercropping systems. In this study, we determined the optimal spacing configurations for improving aggregate stability while increasing crop yields in alfalfa-jujube intercropping systems. The treatments included three intercropping patterns, i.e., the distances between alfalfa and jujube at 0.5 m (IP0.5m), 1 m (IP1m), and 1.45 m (IP1.45m), along with monoculture alfalfa (CKAL) and jujube (CKJU). The results showed that IP0.5m, IP1m, IP1.45m, and CKJU effectively improved soil aggregate structure compared to CKAL. The IP1m spacing significantly increased the amounts of macro-aggregates (8.2%), and improved soil mechanical properties and aggregate stability among the other treatments, which was partly attributable to increased mean weight diameter (13.6%) and decreased soil aggregate destruction rate of water-stable aggregates (2.9%). The results of the principal component analysis showed that IP1m treatments had a positive effect on PC1. The one-meter spacing of jujube-to-alfalfa intercropping optimized the soil structure while improving the yield (8.3%); thus, it can be considered the most suitable intercropping spacing configuration for growing alfalfa in jujube plantations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted during the two successive seasons, 2017 and 2018, at King Saud University, Saudi Arabia, to investigate the effects of foliar sprays on Ziziphus jujuba trees by yeast extract at 1% and 2% and potassium nitrate (KNO3) at 1% and 2%. All treatments were foliar applied twice (December 15 - January 15) in both seasons. Yield and fruit quality were studied. Treatments significantly improved yield, physical fruit and fruit chemical characteristics, moisture content, chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophyll by most tested treatments in both seasons than the control (water only). Yeast spray treatments significantly decreased juice content vitamin C (mg/100 g), while KNO3 spray treatments increased juice content vitamin C in both seasons. It can be concluded that foliar application with KNO3 at 2% recorded the best treatment to obtain the highest yield, fruit weight, flesh weight, fruit volume, fruit length and fruit diameter, while yeast extract at 2% treatment gave the highest TSS% and total sugar contents in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cell number and size are essential factors in determining the final size of the fruit. However, studies on the cellular changes and molecular mechanisms of jujube fruit size development are still unclear. In this study, changes in fruit length, width, weight, and corresponding mesocarp cells were measured during jujube fruit development. The results showed that cell division and cell expansion jointly participated in the first rapid growth stage of fruit size, and cell expansion was the main factor in the second rapid growth stage of fruit size. In a further study, transcriptome sequencing was used to analyse the expression profile of fruit size's first rapid growth stage. Most of these DEGs were assigned to seven significant trends. Three genes related to the auxin signal transduction pathway and three genes related to the brassinosteroid biosynthesis signal transduction pathway were detected to be directly related to cell enlargement and cell division, respectively, which may regulate the first rapid growth of fruit size. In conclusion, candidate genes were provided for regulating fruit size in this study, which is beneficial for analysing the molecular mechanism of fruit size and lays a foundation for breeding large-fruit jujube cultivars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pharmacological treatments against Alzheimer disease provide only symptomatic relief and are associated with numerous side effects. Previous studies showed that a concoction of Ziziphus jujuba leaves possesses anti-amnesic effects in scopolamine-treated rats. More recently, an aqueous macerate of Z. jujuba leaves has been shown to reduce short-term memory impairment in D-galactose-treated rats. However, no study on the effect of an aqueous macerate of Z. jujuba on long-term memory impairment was performed. Therefore, this study evaluates the effect of an aqueous macerate of Z. jujuba on long-term spatial memory impairment in D-galactose-treated rats. Long-term spatial memory impairment was induced in rats by administering D-galactose (350 mg/kg/day, s.c.), once dailyfor 21 days. On the 22nd day, the integrity of this memory was assessed using the Morris water maze task. Rats that developed memory impairment were treated with tacrine (10 mg/kg, p.o.), or aspirin (20 mg/kg, p.o.), or extract (41.5, 83, and 166 mg/kg, p.o.), once daily, for 14 days. At the end of the treatment, memory impairment was once more assessed using the same paradigm. Animals were then euthanized, and some pro-inflammatory cytokine markers were analyzed in the hippocampus or blood. The extract at all doses significantly reduced the latency to attain the platforming of the water maze test. The extract (83 mg/kg) also increased the time spent in the target quadrant during the retention phase. The extract markedly reduced the concentration of pro-inflammatory cytokine markers in the hippocampus and blood. Together, these results suggest that this aqueous extract Z. jujuba reduces long-term spatial memory impairment. This effect may be mediated in part by its anti-inflammatory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted in one of the orchards of Basra province, where 27 jujube trees were selected. The study included two factors: the first factor (the factor of soil conditioners), as it uses decomposed sheep's residues by adding it to the soil at an amount of 25 kg/tree. The industrial enhancer used a salinity processor (salt-fighter-700) at a concentration of 1 L per 100 L of irrigation water. The second factor (irrigation water quality factor) included river water as a control (3 ds.m-1) and (8 ds.m-1) and (12 dm.m-1). The results of the study showed that the use of soil conditioners, especially the salt fighter, improved the growth traits of jujube trees, which was positively reflected in the physiological and anatomical traits of jujube fruits. The salt fighter treatment significantly excelled on the organic fertilizer treatment and the control treatment, and the highest average was recorded for most of the studied traits (the percentage of fruit set 13.42%, the thickness of the epidermal layer was 27.96 m, the thickness of the sub-epidermal layer was 120.10 m, the diameter of stone cells was 19.36 m, and the thickness of the mesocarp layer was 523.95 m. The interaction between the treatment of salt fighter and irrigation with river water gave the highest rates for the same traits above, and gave the lowest average of fruit drop 84%, the thickness of the cuticle layer 3.44 µm and the diameter of the tannin cells 21.22 µm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increased popularity of jujube (Ziziphus jujuba) combined with the difficulty of grafting have limited supplies of grafted trees in the United States. From 2011 to 2020, grafting was practiced for cultivar amplification after importation and cultivar trials in frost-prone northern New Mexico. Grafting success was related to not only grafting techniques but also climate factors. Bark grafting, whip/tongue grafting, and cleft grafting were commonly used in nurseries. Low temperatures had a critical role in jujube grafting success in marginal regions and were more important than the grafting technique. If frost occurs before or near the leafing time, then grafting should be delayed until the rootstocks are determined to be healthy and alive. If frost occurs after grafting, then grafting failure and/or thin and small plant percentages increased. If only branchlets appear after grafting, then pinching branchlets could stimulate new shoot growth.

The present study was conducted during the two successive seasons, 2017 and 2018, at King Saud University, Saudi Arabia, to investigate the effects of foliar sprays on Ziziphus jujuba trees by yeast extract at 1% and 2% and potassium nitrate (KNO3) at 1% and 2%. All treatments were foliar applied twice (December 15–January 15) in both seasons. Yield and fruit quality were studied. Treatments significantly improved yield, physical fruit and fruit chemical characteristics, moisture content, chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophyll by most tested treatments in both seasons than the control (water only). Yeast spray treatments significantly decreased juice content vitamin C (mg/100 g), while KNO3 spray treatments increased juice content vitamin C in both seasons. It can be concluded that foliar application with KNO3 at 2% recorded the best treatment to obtain the highest yield, fruit weight, flesh weight, fruit volume, fruit length and fruit diameter, while yeast extract at 2% treatment gave the highest TSS% and total sugar contents in this study.

Chinese jujube (also called Chinese date, Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) is an economically important tree in China and provides a rich source of sugars, vitamins, and bioactive components, all of which are indispensable and essential for the composition and participation in life processes of the human body. However, the location of these metabolites in jujube fruits has not been determined. This study applied matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI) to investigate the spatial distribution of sugars, organic acids, and other key components in jujube fruits at different developmental periods. Soluble sugars such as hexoses and sucrose/maltose significantly increase with fruit ripening, while organic acids show an overall trend of initially increasing and then decreasing. Procyanidins and rutin exhibit specific distributions in the fruit periphery and peel. These findings suggest that MALDI-MSI can be used to study the spatial distribution of nutritional components in jujube fruits, providing insights into the changes and spatial distribution of substances during jujube fruit development. This technique offers a scientific basis for jujube breeding, utilization, and production.