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Papaya is one of the most important fruit trees cultivated throughout the tropical and subtropical regions and its production is rising worldwide. Its edible part has a high nutritional and sensory value and a great commercial potential. Mature papaya is consumed fresh and has been used in food processing and cosmetic industries. Along with some other parts such as leaves, seeds or skin, papaya has been used in traditional medicine in various countries. In fact, numerous studies have reported the presence of bioactive compounds with diverse biological properties in the papaya by-products, which has motivated the expansion of their applications. Papaya by-products have been demonstrated to exert a wide range of activities (e.g.; antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-dengue, anti-malarial, anti-fertility, diabetes prevention, insecticidal, anti-AIDS) that could be useful in pharmaceutical industry. They could be used in food industry, as a source of functional compounds and in innovative active packaging strategies, and in different cosmetic products, among other applications. Although this scenario indicates that the papaya industry could diversify and increase its economic value, there are two problems that significantly affect it: the spread of pathogens and the highly perishable nature of this fruit. On the one hand, genetic tools have been used to obtain transgenic varieties resistant to pathogens, while new preservation technologies have been explored. This review focuses on the main bioactive compounds, important physiological functions and applications of different papaya parts and also in the current development of genetically modified papaya in the industry and the research progress on storage and preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fopius arisanus (Sonan) is an ovo-pupal parasitoid used as biocontrol agent against the oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel). The effectiveness of this parasitoid in the natural agro-ecosystems depends partly on the quality of its mass rearing system. Preparation of the imported hydrolysate yeast-based diet usually results in high costs as the hydrolysate yeast is very expensive. We therefore assessed some local protein-rich products including powders of moringa, cassava leaves, and soybean flour as substitutes to the expensive imported hydrolysate yeast. The results revealed that eggs hatchability of B. dorsalis on moringa diet was higher while the adult emergence rate was lower. Cassava leaves-based diet did not differ from the deactivated hydrolysate yeast diet in eggs hatchability, pupal recovery, and emergence rate of adult B. dorsalis. However, F. arisanus-parasitized B. dorsalis egg hatchability on moringa leaves- and cassava leaves-based diets were higher than on the other diets. Pupal recovery from cassava leaves-, papaya- and soybean flour-based diets were lower than from the control. Parameters such as larval duration, larval survival rate and sex ratio did not differ significantly between treatments for any of the two insect species. The emergence rate of F. arisanus did not differ from one treatment to another. The best cost-effective local protein-based diet, available for local use and which offered performances close to those of the control diet, was the cassava leaves-based diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Schistosomiasis is a neglected tropical disease caused by a parasitic, trematode blood fluke of the genus Schistosoma. With 20 million people infected, mostly due to Schistosoma haematobium, Nigeria has the highest burden of schistosomiasis in the world. We review the status of human schistosomiasis in Nigeria regarding its distribution, prevalence, diagnosis, prevention, orthodox and traditional treatments, as well as snail control strategies. Of the country's 36 states, the highest disease prevalence is found in Lagos State, but at a geo-political zonal level, the northwest is the most endemic. The predominantly used diagnostic techniques are based on microscopy. Other methods such as antibody-based serological assays and DNA detection methods are rarely employed. Possible biomarkers of disease have been identified in fecal and blood samples from patients. With respect to preventive chemotherapy, mass drug administration with praziquantel as well as individual studies with artemisinin or albendazole have been reported in 11 out of the 36 states with cure rates between 51.1 and 100%. Also, Nigerian medicinal plants have been traditionally used as anti-schistosomal agents or molluscicides, of which Tetrapleura tetraptera (Oshosho, aridan, Aidan fruit), Carica papaya (Gwanda, Ìbẹ́pẹ, Pawpaw), Borreria verticillata (Karya garma, Irawo-ile, African borreria), and Calliandra portoricensis (Tude, Oga, corpse awakener) are most common in the scientific literature. We conclude that the high endemicity of the disease in Nigeria is associated with the limited application of various diagnostic tools and preventive chemotherapy efforts as well as poor knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). Nonetheless, the country could serve as a scientific base in the discovery of biomarkers, as well as novel plant-derived schistosomicides and molluscicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food loss and waste is a major issue affecting food security, environmental pollution, producer profitability, consumer prices, and climate change. About 1.3 billion tons of food products are yearly lost globally, with China producing approximately 20 million tons of soybean dregs annually. Here, we review food and agricultural byproducts with emphasis on the strategies to convert this waste into valuable materials. Byproducts can be used for animal and plant nutrition, biogas production, food, extraction of oils and bioactive substances, and production of vinegar, wine, edible coatings and organic fertilizers. For instance, bioactive compounds represent approximately 8–20% of apple pomace, 5–17% of orange peel, 10–25% of grape seeds, 3–15% of pomegranate peel, and 2–13% of date palm seeds. Similarly, the pharmaceutical industry uses approximately 6.5% of the total output of gelatin derived from fish bones and animal skin. Animals fed with pomegranate peel and olive pomace improved the concentration of deoxyribonucleic acid and protein, the litter size, the milk yield, and nest characteristics. Biogas production amounts to 57.1% using soybean residue, 53.7% using papaya peel, and 49.1% using sugarcane bagasse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papain (an enzyme from the latex of Carica papaya) is an interesting natural bioactive macromolecule used as therapeutic alternative for wound healing due to debridement action in devitalized or necrotic tissues. However, its use in high doses can induce potential skin irritation and side effects. In this study, experiments explored the ability of chitosan membrane to immobilize papain, consequently improving enzymatic activity and controlling enzyme release. Papain-loading capacity was tested via experiments of force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM-FEG), and X-ray diffraction analyses. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and thermal analyses assessed the enzyme interactions with the copolymer. The investigation of the feasibility of membranes included pH on the surface, elasticity, and breaking strength measurements. The surface wettability and swelling capacity of different formulations revealed the best formulation for in vitro papain release experiments. The membranes had a transparent, rough, crystalline characteristic, which was homogeneous with the membrane within the neutrality. The immobilization of papain in the chitosan membrane resulted in a decrease in the vibration band characteristic of pure papain, suggesting a displacement in the vibration bands in the FTIR spectrum. The presence of papain decreased hydrophobicity on the surface of the membrane and disturbed the membrane's ability to swell. Chitosan membranes containing papain 2.5% (0.04 g) and 5.0% (0.08 g) preserved feasible properties and improved the enzymatic activity compared (0.87 ± 0.12 AU/mg and 1.59 ± 0.10 AU/mg) with a free papain sample (0.0042 ± 0.001 AU/mg). Concentrations of over 10% (0.16 g) led to phase separation into membranes. Chitosan membranes exhibited a slow papain release behavior adjusted via the Higushi model. The experimental achievements suggest a novel and promising method for the enhancement of papain. The results indicate the potential for prolonged bioactivity for use on wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While fibrinolytic enzymes and thrombolytic agents offer assistance in treating cardiovascular diseases, the existing options are associated with a range of adverse effects. In our previous research, we successfully identified ficin, a naturally occurring cysteine protease that possesses unique fibrin and fibrinogenolytic enzymes, making it suitable for both preventing and treating cardiovascular disorders linked to thrombosis. Papain is a prominent cysteine protease derived from the latex of Carica papaya. The potential role of papain in preventing fibrino(geno)lytic, anticoagulant, and antithrombotic activities has not yet been investigated. Therefore, we examined how papain influences fibrinogen and the process of blood coagulation. Papain is highly stable at pH 4–11 and 37–60 °C via azocasein assay. In addition, SDS gel separation electrophoresis, zymography, and fibrin plate assays were used to determine fibrinogen and fibrinolysis activity. Papain has a molecular weight of around 37 kDa, and is highly effective in degrading fibrin, with a molecular weight of over 75 kDa. Furthermore, papain-based hemostatic performance was confirmed in blood coagulation tests, a blood clot lysis assay, and a κ-carrageenan rat tail thrombosis model, highlighting its strong efficacy in blood coagulation. Papain shows dose-dependent blood clot lysis activity, cleaves fibrinogen chains of Aα, Bβ, and γ-bands, and significantly extends prothrombin time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Moreover, the mean length of the infarcted regions in the tails of Sprague–Dawley rats with κ-carrageenan was shorter in rats administered 10 U/kg of papain than in streptokinase-treated rats. Thus, papain, a cysteine protease, has distinct fibrin and fibrinogenolytic properties, suggesting its potential for preventing or treating cardiovascular issues and thrombosis-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A model defining kinetics of papaya seed triglyceride PST transesterification heterogeneously catalyzed with calcined banana peel ash (CBPA) in papaya seed triglyceride methyl ester PSTME synthesis was established. The model was based on the reverse-basic reaction mechanism RB of transesterification. The transesterification reaction was performed at the optimum conditions of methanol to oil molar ratio 9:1, CBPA catalyst amount 2.5 wt%, stir- speed 600 rpm within a time range of 0–2 h at varying temperatures of 50 °C, 55 °C and 60 °C. The concentration vicissitudes of reactants/products reached its maximum at 1 h and remained constant across the temperature readings. Elevated temperature was noted to favor the reaction. The rate expression based on tri-glyceride to di-glyceride conversion as rate-controlling step in the reverse-basic reaction mechanism was established as the most dependable description of the experimental data. The activation energy and frequency factor were determined to be 61.7 kJ/mol and 9.8E9h−1 respectively. The enthalpy change ∆H, entropy change ∆S, and Gibb's free energy ∆G of the process were determined as 61.7 kJ/mol, 19.1 kJ/mol K and − 60.75 kJ correspondingly. The estimation capacity of the model was verified by fixing the experimental data which indicated satisfactory relationship. [Display omitted] • CBPA is highly effective in papaya seed triglyceride transesterification. • Kinetic model on triglyceride to diglyceride defined the process satisfactorily. • The activation energy, ∆S, ∆G are 61.7 kJ/mol, 19.1 kJ/mol K, − 60.75 kJ respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flavor enhancer is a food additive that's designed to enhance flavor. This research aims to determine the effect type (papaya, crown flower, and mixed protease) and percentage addition (1%, 2%, and 3%) of enzyme on the characteristics of flavor enhancer based on moringa leaves and tempeh. The design used in this study was a completely randomized design in factorial pattern. The variables observed included the degree of hydrolysis, moisture content, soluble protein content, maillard product, water solubility index, oil absorption, and glutamic acid content. Data were analyzed by Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and followed by Duncan's test. The results showed that the interaction between the type and percentage addition of enzyme had a very significant effect on the degree of hydrolysis, maillard product, and glutamic acid content, significantly affected the soluble protein content and water solubility index, and had no significant effect on water content and oil absorption. The treatment type and percentage addition of enzyme had a very significant effect on the degree of hydrolysis, soluble protein content, maillard product, water solubility index, oil absorption and glutamic acid content, and had no significant effect on water content. Hydrolysis using mixed protease enzymes with an addition percentage of 3% produced flavor enhancer that had the best characteristics based on the highest glutamic acid content of 30.583 mg/g glutamic acid equivalent with a degree of hydrolysis of 65.781%, moisture content of 5.096%, soluble protein content of 1.529 mg/g tyrosine equivalent, maillard product of 0.221 AU, water solubility index of 0.0980 g/mL, and oil absorption of 1.55 mL/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Gastro-intestinal parasitism is an important worldwide animal ailment causing heavy production losses in grazing animals and it is more prevalent in developing countries like India, mainly due to warm temperature in association with poor management practices and inadequate control measures. It can affect production through weight loss, diarrhoea, anaemia, reduction in milk and wool production, reproduction changes and mortality in case of heavy infestations. The current study was planned to evaluate the in vivo anthelmintic activity of extracts of Carica papaya seeds in naturally-infested goats. Methods: Twenty-four helminth-infested goats of either sex were randomly divided into four treatment groups (T1 -T4 ); each having six goats and T1 served as untreated control while T2 received a single dose of albendazole @ 7.5 mg/kg body weight on day zero. Group T3 and T4 were respectively treated with aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Carica papaya seeds @ 100 mg/kg body weight orally daily for 30 days. Faecal egg count, haematological estimations and biochemical estimations were conducted on the zero, 10th, 20th and 30th day of the experiment. Result: Group T2, T3 and T4, showed a significant reduction in EPG count following treatment. All treated animals showed a significant increase in Hb, TEC, PCV and lymphocytes and a significant decrease in TLC, neutrophil and eosinophil levels on the 20th and 30th days of the experiment. The results indicated possession of good anthelmintic activity by both extracts with better results from the alcoholic extract of Carica papaya seeds. These herbal extracts can be a safe and therapeutically efficacious alternative to standard chemical drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The study aimed to identify the viral pathogen of Capsicum annuum L. in Baise, Guangxi province and the results would provide theoretical basis for the effective prevention and control of the pepper viral disease. [Method] Four samples of C. annuum L. with leaf rolling and crinkling symptoms were collected from Baise, Guangxi province in 2022. The samples were identified and analyzed by polymerase chain reaction(PCR), gene cloning, nucleotide comparison, phylogentic tree construction. [Result] The PCR amplicons with expected size of 570 bp were obtained from 4 samples, the PCR products were sequenced and the sequences were analyzed in GenBank, the four sequences showed high nucleotide identities with tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) and papaya leaf curl China virus (PaLCuCNV) isolates avilable in GenBank, respectively, and the results above confirmed that all of the four samples were infected by begomoviruses. To obtained the whole genome of the virus, two pairs of primers were designed based on the TYLCV (GenBank No. : MG904859 and KY783940) and PaLCuCNV (GenBank No. : KU892661 and MW779523) isolates available in GenBank. The PCR products were purified and cloned into the pMD18T vector, positive clones were selected for gene sequencing. Three whole genome sequences were obtained from two positive samples. Two of the three sequences had 91 % nucleotide identities with some of isolates of TYLCV available in GenBank, and one sequence had 91 % nucleotide identities with the some of isolates of PaLCuCNV available in GenBank. Following the guidelines of the classification of begomoviruses, the viruses infecting pepper in Guangxi were identified as TYLCV and PaLCuCNV. Phylogenetic tree analysis showed that the TYLCV Guangxi pepper isolate BS66-l branched with TYLCV SGl (Accession No. : MT969010, host: tomato) isolate, indicating their close evolutionary relationship; and BS67-1 branched with GX isolate and BS3 isolate (Accession No. : MW389934 and MT375610, host: tomato), indicating their close evolutionary relationship; The PaLCuCNV Guangxi pepper isolate BS66-2 clustered with PaLCuCNV GX0l (Accession No. : MW779523, host: tomato) isolate in a small branch, indicating their close evolutionary relationship. [Conclusion] TYLCV and PaLCuCNV are the pathogens that infect C. annuum (L.) in Guangxi. And this is the first report of the begomoviruses infecting C. annuum L. in Guangxi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Future revolution in photovoltaics will be hinged mainly on cost, health implication, and material stability and performance. Based on these criteria, lead-based inorganic photovoltaics, organic–inorganic hybrid, and silicon photovoltaics are screened-out. According to the literature, the lead-free inorganic perovskite solar cell is favorably disposed to cost and safe-health. However, the simultaneous solution to material stability, high defect density, and low power conversion efficiency (PCE) still remains a mystery that has not been solved. This research proposed the green-based modifiable CaZnBr4 as a potential candidate for lead-free solar cell application based on the principle of A-site cation with green-based additive incorporation. The green-based additive was obtained from Kola Nitida, Carica Papaya, Ficus Exasperata, and Musa paradisiaca. The elemental characterization of the green-based additives was performed using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy (XRF). The optical, crystalline, and electronic properties were characterized using ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) spectroscopy, X-ray diffractometry, Quantum Espresso, scanning electron microscopy and SCAPS-1D. The green-base-modified CaZnBr4 showed significant PCE improvement by 3% with significant film and crystallinity formation. The stressed state of the parent compound CaZnBr4 shows that it may be better suited for thermovoltaics application. It is recommended that better results could be obtained when different synthetic routes and green-based additives are used to initiate the defect passivation protocols. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Translocation of endangered plant species and facilitating in situ regeneration require knowledge of the factors that define suitable habitat characteristics. Four approaches were employed to define how antecedent and contemporary plant identity influenced Cycas seedling growth and survival in Guam, Yap, and the Philippines. Cycas micronesica K.D. Hill or Cycas nitida K.D. Hill & A. Lindstr. seedlings growing beneath the canopy of the maternal parent tree reached 100% mortality in 4 to 8 year. Cycas micronesica seedlings planted beneath a conspecific male adult tree reached 68% mortality in two years while seedlings planted away from a conspecific individual exhibited 100% survival. Cycas micronesica seedlings planted beneath monostands of invasive Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit or Vitex parviflora Juss. reached 40% mortality in two years while seedlings planted in adjacent native forest cover exhibited 100% survival. Cycas micronesica seedlings planted in soil conditioned for 9 months by conspecifics, heterospecific native species, Carica papaya L., L. leucocephala, or V. parviflora exhibited the greatest growth in the soils conditioned by heterospecific natives and the least growth in the soils conditioned by the three invasive species. The seedlings growing in soil conditioned by conspecifics exhibited the most coralloid roots and the greatest shoot:root ratio. These studies confirmed that the identity of antecedent and competitive plants strongly influenced the longevity and growth of Cycas seedlings. Conservationists may improve outcomes by avoiding degraded forests that have experienced invasive plant species when positioning translocation projects. Planting Cycas seedlings in biodiverse native forest but away from a conspecific individual may lead to the greatest success in population recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document explores the adoption and effectiveness of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies in tropical crop production. It focuses on specific crops like cowpea, African eggplant, and cacao, and includes reviews and research articles on pest management strategies. The authors discuss progress made in managing insect pests in cowpea in Africa, identifying the cause of wilt disease in African eggplant, and managing cacao pests in the Philippines. The research is supported by USAID funding and the authors have no conflicts of interest. [Extracted from the article]

Dengue is the most common virus-borne illness transmitted by mosquitoes. Globally, the incidence of dengue increased from 30,668,000 in 1990 to 56,879,000 in 2019. It is a significant issue for global public health, especially in the subtropical and tropical regions. Over 2.5 billion people live in regions where there is a 40% chance of getting dengue virus as reported by the World Health Organization. Tropical regions are been more frequently visited by pregnant women and adults of reproductive age. Consequently, they are being exposed to particular arboviral illnesses like dengue, which may affect both current and future pregnancies. A 24-year-old primigravida with 35 + 2 weeks gestational age was referred to the hospital with eclampsia with thrombocytopenia with dengue IgM positive (mildly) in the emergency department. An emergency lower-segment cesarean section was performed. A 2 kg of male baby was delivered. The patient received conservative care for 10 days, and after that, she was discharged with her baby. There are more incidences of infection during pregnancy, due to the rising occurrence of dengue during adulthood. Conservative therapy should be used, if there are no complications. Early detection and treatment are necessary for dengue during pregnancy. Any pregnant lady with a fever during an epidemic requires a high degree of clinical suspicion. The lack of evidence-based data about the treatment of dengue, especially for pregnancy, necessitates further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhynchophorus palmarum is one of the most important pests for the coconut palm industry in Mexico. Although its biological cycle is closely related to palms, there is increasing evidence that indicates the use of other host plants to complete its development. This report describes the use of collapsed papaya stems as plant material in which the development of R. palmarum could be evidenced in Armería, Colima, Mexico. Rhynchophorus palmarum es una de las plagas más importantes para la industria de la palma de coco en México. Aunque su ciclo biológico está íntimamente relacionado a las palmas, cada vez surge evidencia que apuntan el uso de otras plantas hospederas para completar su desarrollo. En el presente documento se reporta el uso de tallos de papayo derrumbados como material vegetal en el que se pudo evidenciar el desarrollo de R. palmarum en Armería, Colima, México. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) treatment at two concentrations (1 mM or 5 mM) on papaya fruit stored at 4°C and 80%-90% relative humidity for 5 weeks was investigated. The application of GABA at 5 mM apparently inhibited chilling injury, internal browning, electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), polyphenol oxidase (PPO), phospholipase D (PLD), and lipoxygenase (LOX) activities of papaya fruit. Fruit treated with 5 mM GABA enhanced the activities of ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutamate decarboxylase (GAD), and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL). In addition, GABA treatment significantly displayed higher levels of proline, endogenous GABA accumulation, phenolic contents, and total antioxidant activity than the nontreated papaya. The results suggested that GABA treatment may be a useful approach to improving the chilling tolerance of papaya fruit by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing the defense system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seed dormancy is one of the most important adaptive mechanisms in plants, optimizing germination, seedling emergence, and establishment to ensure these processes occur when environmental conditions are favorable for plant survival and growth. Endemic to rocky environments of the southern Atacama Desert, the Austral papaya (Carica chilensis) is the papaya species with the southernmost distribution within the Caricaceae, thriving in the most extreme environmental conditions. This threatened plant exhibits low natural regeneration, primarily attributed to low germination, yet no information regarding seed dormancy release is available. In this study, we investigated the dormancy-break and germination requirements of C. chilensis. We hypothesized that if C. chilensis seeds exhibit physiological dormancy, then seeds with reduced moisture content and those treated with chemicals or growth hormones would exhibit higher germination percentages and faster germination than control seeds akin to other members of Caricacea. Our results confirmed this prediction and revealed that ultra-drying (< 3% moisture content) and treating seeds with sulfuric acid, gibberellic acid, or potassium nitrate are the most effective methods for germinating C. chilensis. Consequently, we suggest using these treatments to propagate this threatened papaya species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality across the globe. Emerging evidence suggests that consumption of a well-balanced diet containing a wide variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can prevent the development of, halt, or reverse cancer progression. Carica papaya L. (papaya) has a wide distribution throughout many countries. Although the fruits of C. papaya are primarily consumed as food, various parts of this tree, including the bark, fruits, latex, seeds, and roots, have been used in traditional medicine for health promotion and disease mitigation. While numerous individual studies have investigated anticancer efficacies of various products and constituents of C. papaya, an up-to-date, comprehensive, and critical evaluation of available research data covering its role in the prevention and intervention of various human malignancies has not been conducted according to our knowledge. The purpose of this review is to present a systematic, comprehensive, and critical analysis of the cancer-preventive potential of C. papaya extracts, fractions, and isolated phytochemicals with a special emphasis on the cellular and molecular mechanisms of action. Moreover, the bioavailability, pharmacokinetics, and safety profiles of individual phytochemicals of C. papaya, as well as current limitations, challenges, and future directions of research, have also been discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex segregation increases the cost of Carica papaya production through seed-based propagation. Therefore, in vitro techniques are an attractive option for clonal propagation, especially of hermaphroditic plants. Here, we performed a temporal analysis of the proteome of C. papaya calli aiming to identify the key players involved in embryogenic callus formation. Mature zygotic embryos used as explants were treated with 20 μM 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid to induce embryogenic callus. Total proteins were extracted from explants at 0 (zygotic embryo) and after 7, 14, and 21 days of induction. A total of 1407 proteins were identified using a bottom-up proteomic approach. The clustering analysis revealed four distinct patterns of protein accumulation throughout callus induction. Proteins related to seed maturation and storage are abundant in the explant before induction, decreasing as callus formation progresses. Carbohydrate and amino acid metabolisms, aerobic respiration, and protein catabolic processes were enriched throughout days of callus induction. Protein kinases associated with auxin responses, such as SKP1-like proteins 1B, accumulated in response to callus induction. Additionally, regulatory proteins, including histone deacetylase (HD2C) and argonaute 1 (AGO1), were more abundant at 7 days, suggesting their role in the acquisition of embryogenic competence. Predicted protein–protein networks revealed the regulatory role of proteins 14-3-3 accumulated during callus induction and the association of proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation and hormone response. Our findings emphasize the modulation of the proteome during embryogenic callus initiation and identify regulatory proteins that might be involved in the activation of this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aquaporins (AQPs), a type of intrinsic membrane proteins that transport water and small solutes across biological membranes, play crucial roles in plant growth and development. This study presents a first genome-wide identification and comparative analysis of the AQP gene family in papaya (Carica papaya L.), an economically and nutritionally important fruit tree of tropical and subtropical regions. A total of 29 CpAQP genes were identified, which represent five subfamilies, i.e., nine plasma intrinsic membrane proteins (PIPs), eight tonoplast intrinsic proteins (TIPs), seven NOD26-like intrinsic proteins (NIPs), two X intrinsic proteins (XIPs), and three small basic intrinsic proteins (SIPs). Although the family is smaller than the 35 members reported in Arabidopsis, it is highly diverse, and the presence of CpXIP genes as well as orthologs in Moringa oleifera and Bretschneidera sinensis implies that the complete loss of the XIP subfamily in Arabidopsis is lineage-specific, sometime after its split with papaya but before Brassicaceae–Cleomaceae divergence. Reciprocal best hit-based sequence comparison of 530 AQPs and synteny analyses revealed that CpAQP genes belong to 29 out of 61 identified orthogroups, and lineage-specific evolution was frequently observed in Brassicales. Significantly, the well-characterized NIP3 group was completely lost; lineage-specific loss of the NIP8 group in Brassicaceae occurred sometime before the divergence with Cleomaceae, and lineage-specific loss of NIP2 and SIP3 groups in Brassicaceae occurred sometime after the split with Cleomaceae. In contrast to a predominant role of recent whole-genome duplications (WGDs) on the family expansion in B. sinensis, Tarenaya hassleriana, and Brassicaceae plants, no recent AQP repeats were identified in papaya, and ancient WGD repeats are mainly confined to the PIP subfamily. Subfamily even group-specific evolution was uncovered via comparing exon–intron structures, conserved motifs, the aromatic/arginine selectivity filter, and gene expression profiles. Moreover, down-regulation during fruit ripening and expression divergence of duplicated CpAQP genes were frequently observed in papaya. These findings will not only improve our knowledge on lineage-specific family evolution in Brassicales, but also provide valuable information for further studies of AQP genes in papaya and species beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The consumption of fruits is an important source of vitamins and micronutrients. Despite their health benefits, fruits have been linked to food-borne infections, particularly when untreated animal excreta are used in their cultivation and not properly washed before consumption. This study aimed to evaluate the parasitological, fungal, and bacteriological quality of some fresh-cut ready-to-eat fruits sold in markets and bus terminals in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana. A total of 270 fresh-cut ready-to-eat fruits, including pineapples, watermelon, pawpaw, sugarcane, and tiger nuts, were sampled from both stationary vendors and hawkers from six different locations in the Kumasi Metropolis. Samples were analysed for the presence of bacteria, fungi, and intestinal parasites using the Microbial Methods in the Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM) of the United States Food and Drugs Administration (2001). The pour plate technique was used to culture and grow bacteria and fungi, while the most probable number (MPN) table was employed for bacteria and fungi count. The total coliform counts ranged from 2.32 to 3.15 log cfu/g; faecal coliform counts ranged from 1.58 to 2.58 log cfu/g; enterococci count ranged from 1.06 to 1.90 log cfu/g; and fungal count ranged from 2.57 to 3.73 log cfu/g. There was a significant difference in the mean faecal coliform and enterococci counts for all fruit samples. Tiger nut had the most bacteria, while watermelon was the most fungi contaminated fruit. Shigella spp. was the commonest bacteria contaminates of fresh-cut ready-to-eat fruits sold in Kumasi. Giardia lamblia was the most abundant parasite detected. Fresh-cut ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables sold in markets and bus terminals in the Kumasi Metropolis, Ghana, are contaminated with bacteria, parasites, and fungi. These findings emphasize the need for public awareness and proper hygiene practices to reduce the risk of food-borne illnesses associated with the consumption of fresh-cut fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is a climacteric fruit with a resilient and distinctive aroma. The consumption of the fruit is global due to its high nutritive and medicinal values. However, there has been low production of quality papaya fruits due to unavailability of crucial mineral elements in the soils. The current study therefore, focuses on the effect of indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) as a biofertilizer on the quality of papaya fruits. In order to verify AMF effectiveness on papaya fruits, four treatments were used: AMF inoculum only, composted farm yard manure (FYM) only, combination of AMF inoculum and compost FYM and control where only soil and sand media were used at a ratio of 1:1. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) and Malkia papaya hybrids were used. The papaya seeds from JKUAT and Malkia papaya hybrids were sown in trays and transplanted at 3 leaves stage into 5 litre pots within a green house. The AMF spores were bulked using sorghum plants to obtain the AMF inoculum. The treatments were added into the soil media of the papaya plantlets at a ratio of 1:3, every 4 weeks after first transplanting until they were 20 weeks old. They were then transplanted to 100 litre containers, where completely randomized design was used and replication of six papaya plants for each treatment and hybrid. Watering, weeding and cooling the green house with water fumes was carried out when necessary; as the papaya plants grew until the fruits attained physiological maturity. The fruits were separately harvested and ripened to a predetermined stage. They were then analysed for moisture content, crude fibre, minerals (nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc), ascorbic acid, total carotenoids and total polyphenols. Data obtained was subjected to twoway ANOVA at p = 0.05 significance level; means were separated using Tukey's HSD test in Genstat's 15th edition. JKUAT hybrid with AMF inoculum treatment had 3.07%crude fibre and 8.42mg/100g phosphorous content while JKUAT hybrid with both AMF inoculum and manure treatments had 4.9 % crude fibre and 9.88 mg/100g phosphorous content. Malkia and JKUAT hybrids with compost FYM treatment had potassium content of 98.31mg/100g and 109.4 mg/100g respectively while the controls had 31.58 mg/100g and 35.32mg/100g respectively. Incorporating soil media with manure and AMF inoculum improved the nutritive quality of papaya fruits and this was contingent on papaya hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the spermicidal activity of papaya seed oil (Carica papaya L) from local Bali varieties against Wistar rat spermatozoa by evaluating sperm quality and the correlation between the percentage of motility and viability spermatozoa to identify its active compounds. Papaya seed oil was obtained by extracting papaya seeds using n-hexane solvent. The study was designed as follows; group of spermatozoa Wistar rat were treated with NaCl 0.9% (control, P0), with Sodium carboxy methyl cellulose (NaCMC) 0.5% (P1), with n-hexane extract 0.1%(b/v) (P2), with n-hexane extract 0.3%(b/v) (P3), and with n-hexane extract 0.5%(b/v) (P4). Column chromatography was used to separate the n-hexane extract into two fractions, A and B. The spermicide test for fractions A and B followed the same design as the test for n-hexane extract but until the P7 group. The result showed that fraction B exhibited higher spermicidal activity, with 23.3% motility and 33.8% of viability sperm at 100 ppm. The identification of fraction B by LCMS showed at least 12 mixture compounds were venoterpine, vitamin K5, 5-phenyl-2-pyridinamine, harmalan, styrylquinoline, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-benzoyl-2-methyl-4-phenylamino-quinoline, calcitroic acid, siderol, N-benzyl-linoleamide, (3β)-3-(diisopropylamino)androst-5-en-17-one, pipereicosalidine, and 25-azacholesterol. Spermicidal activity may be a synergistic effect of several compounds that have a cytotoxic activity such as styrylquinoline, 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1-benzoyl-2-methyl-4-phenylamino-quinoline, siderol, and pipereicosalidine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Supplementing poultry diets with certain natural phytogenic additives has positive impacts on performance parameters like feed intake, egg production and quality of layer hens. Objectives: The study aimed to examine how supplementing papaya seed as phytogenic feed additive (PFA) to the diets of layer chickens affected their egg production, quality and blood serum biochemical parameters. Methods: One hundred twenty 28‐week‐old Bovans brown laying hens were randomly assigned to one of four treatments with varying levels of papaya seed supplementation at 0 g/kg (T1), 5 g/kg (T2), 10 g/kg (T3) and 15 g/kg (T4) in a complete randomized design. Result: Layer chickens supplemented with 0.5% (T2), 1% (T3) and 1.5% (T4) papaya seed as a PFA had significantly (p < 0.05) improved dry matter intake, egg production%, egg mass and feed conversion. On the other hand, papaya seed supplementation decreased (p < 0.05) the bodyweight gain of laying hens. Papaya seed supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) increased egg weight, length, width, yolk height and yolk colour compared to the control group. Serum total protein on T4 and liver enzyme of alkaline phosphatase on T3 were significantly greater (p < 0.05) than in the control group. However, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in serum albumin, glucose, total cholesterol, triglyceride and aspartate aminotransferase levels among treatments laying hens. Conclusion: Papaya seed can be a potential candidate as a PFA at 5–15 g/kg of the basal diet to improve egg‐laying performance and quality without deteriorating effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: For enhanced nutritional and health benefits, yoghurts have been fortified with plant‐based ingredients. In this study, functional yoghurts were formulated by incorporating banana resistant starch (BRS) and green papaya powder (GPP) into partially skimmed milk (2%). These yoghurts were analysed for various parameters over a 21‐day storage period at 5 °C, including pH, titratable acidity (TA), firmness, viscosity, water activity (aw), water‐holding capacity (WHC), colour, probiotic viability, protein and dietary fibre content, antioxidant activity (AA), and total phenolic content (TPC). The results demonstrated that the optimal addition of BRS and GPP significantly enhanced the WHC, nutritional, antioxidative, and TPC properties of the yoghurts (P < 0.05). Total dietary fibre was 73% higher, and TPC and AA were increased by 320.6% and 274%, respectively, in yoghurt containing a higher proportion of GPP than the control. During the storage period, the viable total lactic acid bacteria (LAB) counts in yoghurts were above 8 log CFU mL−1. However, the formulated yoghurts exhibited decreased firmness and viscosity, as well as a darker colour (reduced L*) compared to the control, which significantly affected consumer preference (P < 0.05). Overall, the incorporation of plant‐based ingredients like BRS and GPP can effectively enhance the nutritional and functional values of yoghurts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The knowledge of dielectric properties of organic materials at microwave frequencies is important for different applications in agriculture, food, or other similar research areas. The method of the low-cost disturbed cylindrical cavity resonator is a common measurement technique that considers resonant frequency shift when inserting samples of materials inside the cavity. Frequency shifts together with the knowledge of the complex permittivity of a reference material allow the estimation of the permittivity of a material under test. In this paper, the complex permittivity, and the loss tangent of dried and powdered agricultural wastes from the state of Colima in Mexico are obtained at 1.2853. The materials under test are coir and skins of rice, banana, lemon, watermelon, pineapple, and papaya since they are one of the most abundant agricultural wastes in the state of Colima in Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of cultivation conditions on the texture of unripe papaya fruit 'Khak Nual' were investigated. Fruit from papaya cultivated using raised bed conditions were crisper than those cultivated under open field conditions. Conversely, fruit cultivated under open field conditions were firmer. In all cases, mesocarp cells and intercellular spaces were larger in papaya fruit cultivated in raised beds, reflecting the higher relative humidity (RH) of the cultivation conditions and greater water availability. At harvest, TIP2–1, TIP4–1, SIP1 and PIP1–3 expression was significantly higher in fruit cultivated under raised bed conditions, which correlated with the larger cells of the mesocarp, the RH and the ready availability of water. There also appeared to be a link between aquaporin gene expression and crispness in papaya fruit from both conditions. Expression of TIP2–1 and TIP4–1 correlated with papaya fruit under open field conditions while SIP1 and PIP2–5 correlated with papaya fruit under raised bed conditions. The results clearly demonstrate the effect of cultivation conditions on fruit texture, with water availability being critical in the production of market-preferred crisp fruit with the optimal conditions. These conditions are reflected in the higher expression of the water transport aquaporins which likely control crispness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining a robust immune system and safeguarding the liver from toxins are crucial for overall health. The study aimed to investigate the immunostimulant effects of papaya seed-enriched cakes (CPS) in countering carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced immunocytotoxicity in rats (n = 48). The rats were divided into six groups (8 each): a control group (Group 1), rats fed cakes containing 15% papaya seeds (Group 2 — CPS), rats exposed only to CCl4 (Group 3 — CCl4), rats injected with CCl4 and administered silymarin (Group 4 — CCl4 + S), rats receiving both CCl4 and cakes with papaya seeds (Group 5 — CCl4 + CPS), and rats receiving both CCl4 and silymarin with papaya seed-enriched cakes (Group 6 — CCl4 + CPS + S). HPLC analysis of papaya seeds revealed the presence of ten polyphenol compounds, with quercetin, apigenin, and catechin identified as major flavonoids, along with pyrogallol, ellagic, and gallic acid as predominant phenolic acids. These compounds displayed potent antioxidant activity, attributed to the seeds' high total phenolic and flavonoid content. The administration of CCl4 significantly affected hematological parameters, liver enzymes, hepatic oxidative stress, levels of TNF-α, IL-6, IgG, as well as IgM. However, rats fed with CPS exhibited mitigation of CCl4-induced toxic effects on hematological parameters and hepatotoxicity. CPS consumption enhanced the antioxidant system, improved inflammatory markers, and immune parameters, restoring them to normal levels. Histopathological analysis confirmed CPS's ability to reduce CCl4-induced hepatocellular necrosis. Immunohistochemical assessment further revealed reduced immunoreactivity against cleaved caspase-3 expression and increased COX2 immunoreactivity, indicating hepatocellular regeneration in CPS. The combination of CPS and silymarin demonstrated even more notable improvements, suggesting augmented protective impacts against CCl4-induced immunosuppression and hepatotoxicity. In conclusion, CPS exhibited antioxidant properties and effectively protected against CCl4-induced immunotoxicity and hepatotoxicity, with additional benefits observed when combined with silymarin. These findings emphasize the potential health advantages of incorporating papaya seeds into food products, promoting immune system health, and safeguarding against liver damage induced by hazardous agents like CCl4. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] This study clarified pathogen species causing anthracnose of papaya in Guangdong and screened suitable chemical agents for prevention and control of anthracnose to provide basis for the diagnosis and effective control of papaya anthracnose. [Method] Diseased fruit samples of papaya showing anthracnose symptoms were collected from Guangzhou. Strains were isolated and purified using the traditional issue separation method, and the pathogenicity of strains was determined. The pathogen was identified based on morphological characteristics, polygene sequence analysis and phylogenetic analysis. The indoor toxicity of 8 fungicides to the pathogen was determined by the mycelia growth rate method. [Result] Five strains (C1-C5) with similar morphological characteristics were obtained from diseased samples, and C1 was randomly selected as the representative strain for pathogenicity tests. The isolated strain could infect papaya fruit and cause typical anthracnose symptoms in 2 days. The pathogen was obtained from the location with symptoms. Morphological observation found that the primary hyphae of C1 were white and radiant, and then turned grayish white. The mycelium was covered with some orange-red conidia discs, the spore peduncles were transparent. Conidia were transparent, unicellular, with smooth cell walls, rounded ends, regular cylindrical shape, thin walls, and granular inclusions. The size of conidia was 13.2 µm x 5.1 µm, These morphological characteristics were consistent with Colletotrichum brevisporum. Molecular biology identification revealed that the test strain gene sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS), glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), α-tubulin (TUB 2) and actin (ACT) displayed 100%, 93%, 98% and 100% nucleotide identity to the respective gene sequences of C. brevisporum BCC 38876. C1 and C. brevisporum clustered together in the phylogenetic tree. Combined with morphology, molecular biology, pathogenicity and pathogenesis characteristics, it was determined that the pathogen causing papaya anthracnose in Guangdong was C. brevisporum. The virulence test of 8 fungicides to C. brevisporum differed greatly with the best inhibitory effect from 45% prochloraz water emulsion and the EC50 was 0.082 0 mg/L. The fungicides with good virulence included 250 g/L propiconazole emulsifiable and 40% difenoconazole suspension with EC50 of 0.263 5 mg/L and 9.714 3 mg/L. [Conclusion] This study inly identified that C. brevisporum caused papaya fruit anthracnose in Chinese mainland and found that 45% prochloraz water emulsion, 250 g/L propiconazole emulsifiable and 40% difenoconazole suspension could inhibit the growth of its mycelium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate outstanding and adapted papaya lines derived from selection to conserve desirable characteristics. Design/methodology/approach: 23 lines of the 'Maradol' type were evaluated at Antunez Michoacan, Mexico. Initially, the plants' height, stem circumference, number of leaves, and first fruit height were recorded. During their development, outstanding plants were identified, and their self-pollinating was promoted. In the fruits, their polar and equatorial circumference, shape index, weight, width and pulp firmness, and soluble solids were assessed. Results: The plants' development was different, their variability between lines allowed identifying morphological characteristics of interest. Only 10 lines had this condition. The number of fruits formed over covered flower buds and collected fruits on formed fruits was reduced. The fruits' characterization, except for their soluble solids, showed differences. Multivariate analysis indicated variability associated with each principal component. Limitations on study/implications: Currently in Mexico, there are few papaya varieties, the 'Maradol' variety being dominant, and vulnerable to phytosanitary problems over time. However, developing varieties and seed production is challenging and the pollination control of the plants necessarily intervenes. Findings/conclusions: Out of 23 assessed papaya lines, only 43.48% reported outstanding plants. Inside these lines, between 5 and 10% of the plants were chosen. In the developmental progress from the covered flower buds' stage to formed and collected fruits, only 28% of fruits were obtained. The selected lines showed fruit variability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Papaya fruit was known to have papain enzymes that are able to break down the protein that makes up plaque, where extrinsic stains attach to teeth. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of papaya fruit extract (Carica papaya L.) on color change of denture elements due to coffee extrinsic stain. Materials and Methods: This study was an experimental laboratory using pre-test and post-test designs. The specimens used in this study were elements of the maxillary central incisor (24 acrylic resin dentures) that have been stained by coffee, totaling 6 specimens per group. The specimens were immersed for 9 days in papaya fruit extract with a concentration of 40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%. Measurement of the specimen color change was done visually before and after soaking papaya extract using Shade Guide Vita 3D Master. Statistical test was carried out with a confidence level of 95%. Results: The results showed that there was a significant color change of the denture elements after soaking papaya extract. The value color dimension changes to be brighter, while the hue and chroma have no significant changes. In the comparison test of four treatment groups with extract concentration (40%, 60%, 80%, and 100%). This study showed that the 60% concentration group had a greater influence on the change in color dimension value. Conclusion: Papaya fruit extract can affect the color change of acrylic resin denture elements that have undergone coffee staining. Immersion of denture elements in papaya fruit extract with a concentration of 60% had a greater effect on color brightness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper addresses the crucial task of identifying tree species, which is often intricate, time-consuming, and reliant on expert knowledge. To tackle this challenge, it employs cutting-edge technologies such as deep learning, particularly focusing on the convolution mixer model, and leverages unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) images for the identification process. The study concentrates on five distinct tree species such as banana, coconut, mango, oil palm, and papaya. The research uses a dataset of 4200 images, with 80% used for training and the remaining 20% used for testing, and compares the performance of the convolution mixer with other well-known deep learning models like VGG16, MobileNetV2, InceptionV3, and ResNet50. The performance of each model is obtained in terms of mean precision, mean recall, mean F1-score, and overall accuracy. Significantly, the convolution mixer emerges as the standout performer, achieving an impressive overall accuracy rate of 98.22%. This remarkable accuracy highlights the convolution mixer's potential to revolutionize the field of tree species identification, especially when applied to UAV images. It not only streamlines the process but also ensures high accuracy, promising to aid conservation efforts, biodiversity studies, and sustainable forestry practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The papaya plant (Carica papaya L.) is tree-like fruit plant cultivated throughout the tropics and subtropics. The aim of this study was to compare the physicochemical properties, fatty acid, sterols, and triterpenic alcohols composition of Carica papaya L. seed oils grown in a typical geographical location and Carica papaya L. seed oils grown in an untypical geographical location in greenhouse conditions (Saratov Region, Russia). The oils were extracted from the seeds of Carica papaya L. fruits collected in Kenya, the Dominican Republic, Angola, Ghana, and Brazil, as well as from the seeds of fruit plants grown in a similar environment (Russian Federation, Saratov). Parameters such as the oil yield, refractive index, peroxide value, iodine value, saponification value, and acid value of the extracted Carica papaya L. seed oils were determined. The qualitative and quantitative chemical compositions of the seed oils were determined by a combination of mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. The profiles as well as the content of fatty acids, sterols, triterpenic alcohols, and benzyl isothiocyanate were established. The saponifiable fraction of the oils is mainly represented by triglycerides (98.7–99.4%), while di-(0.4–1.1%) and monoglycerides (0.1–0.3%) are also present but in smaller amounts. The content of sterols and triterpene alcohols was (537.5–918.2) mg/100 g of oil (0.54–0.92%), and up to 75% of the fraction was represented by β-sitosterol (55.9–66.7%) and its saturated analogue-sitostanol (11.0–15.7%). The physicochemical properties and the fatty acid, sterol, and triterpenic alcohol composition of seed oils from Carica papaya L. fruits, cultivated in Russia, is in the quantitative range of other samples, which suggests that Carica papaya L. can be grown in Russia for obtaining the seed oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Coprolites, or mummified feces, are valuable sources of information on ancient cultures as they contain ancient DNA (aDNA). In this study, we analyzed ancient plant DNA isolated from coprolites belonging to two pre-Columbian cultures (Huecoid and Saladoid) from Vieques, Puerto Rico, using shotgun metagenomic sequencing to reconstruct diet and lifestyles. We also analyzed DNA sequences of putative phytopathogenic fungi, likely ingested during food consumption, to further support dietary habits. Our findings show that pre-Columbian Caribbean cultures had a diverse diet consisting of maize (Zea mays), sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), chili peppers (Capsicum annuum), peanuts (Arachis spp.), papaya (Carica papaya), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and, very surprisingly cotton (Gossypium barbadense) and tobacco (Nicotiana sylvestris). Modelling of putative phytopathogenic fungi and plant interactions confirmed the potential consumption of these plants as well as edible fungi, particularly Ustilago spp., which suggest the consumption of maize and huitlacoche. These findings suggest that a variety of dietary, medicinal, and hallucinogenic plants likely played an important role in ancient human subsistence and societal customs. We compared our results with coprolites found in Mexico and the United States, as well as present-day faeces from Mexico, Peru, and the United States. The results suggest that the diet of pre-Columbian cultures resembled that of present-day hunter-gatherers, while agriculturalists exhibited a transitional state in dietary lifestyles between the pre-Columbian cultures and larger scale farmers and United States individuals. Our study highlights differences in dietary patterns related to human lifestyles and provides insight into the flora present in the pre-Columbian Caribbean area. Importantly, data from ancient fecal specimens demonstrate the importance of ancient DNA studies to better understand pre-Columbian populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bell pepper plant leaves showing typical begomovirus-like symptoms (crumpling, mosaic, and stunting) were collected from Jalandhar region of Punjab, India. Total DNA was isolated from symptomatic plant leaves, and species-specific primers were used to amplify and detect begomovirus. The full-length genome was amplified using the rolling circle amplification method, cloned into the pBluescript II KS (+) vector, and sequenced. A BLAST search of the current DNA-A isolate revealed the highest percentage of identity (98.83%) with other isolates. Betasatellite sequences on BLAST search showed a close similarity of 98.10% with other isolates. Phylogenetic analysis with other distinct begomovirus species revealed that the virus's current DNA-A was closely related to the Papaya leaf crumple virus and the Chenopodium leaf distortion virus. For the present isolates of DNA-A and betasatellite, no major recombination event was found. In the present study, molecular identification and characterization of the Papaya leaf crumple virus with Papaya leaf curl betasatellite adds another host, and to the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the present virus infecting the bell pepper plant worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papaya (Carica papaya) is one of the plants that represent a major source of bioactive substances that are cheaper and non-toxic, such as antibiotics. It is globally used as a supplement diet for positive effects in pharmacological activities. In this regard, the current study sheds light on the possible roles of papaya seed methanolic extract (PSE) as a dietary supplement to improve growth performance, sexual maturity, carcass composition, immunity responses, histological structure of gonads, and anti-pathogenic activity (Aeromonas hydrophila) at the end of a feeding trial extend for ten days of Nile tilapia, with special reference to its potential effect as resistance against parasitic (Cichlidogyrus tilapiae). Four experimental groups with four replications of Nile tilapia fry (0.5 ± 0.1 g as 20 fish per replication) were fed (0, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 g/kg PSE in diets) for 20 weeks. Results showed that fish dietary supplementation with PSE had a significantly positive (P < 0.05) effect on growth performance, feed utilization, digestive enzyme, carcass composition, antioxidant, immunity responses, and hematological and biochemical indices, especially PSE 2.0 g/kg than control diet. Furthermore, PSE had a positively affected fish mortality after injection with A. hydrophila and in vitro positive efficacy against C. tilapiae. Fish fed with dietary PSE increased the sex ratio in favor of male fish by achieving a 77% male phenotype. Conclusively, this study declared that PSE extract, specifically 2 g/kg, could enhance growth and health through the modulation of innate immunity and a positive effect against disease in fish. Additionally, it reduced the reproductive performance of Nile tilapia by reducing GSI, which subsequently affected the gonadal histology leading to infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The high productivity potential of sweet potato is restricted by myriads of insect pests that reduce the quantity and quality of its yield. This study investigated the insect pests of Ipomoea batatas and evaluated extracts from four botanicals namely: Carica papaya, Azadirachta indica, Chromolaena odorata and Moringa oleifera for the control of insect pests of the crop. The vines of two varieties of I. batatas (Shaba and SPK004) were used for the experiment. Aqueous extracts of the botanicals were prepared at 10% w/v and applied as from 4 weeks after planting (WAP) and subsequently at weekly intervals till 10 WAP. Five insect pests infested sweet potato crop in both planting seasons. In the early planting season, the number of insect pests in the plots of Shaba variety of I. batatas treated with plant extracts of C. odorata, C. papaya, M. oleifera and A. indica was 0.7, 0.25, 1.67 and 0.7 respectively and they were significantly (p <.05) lower than the number of insect pests (3.08) in untreated plots. Similarly result was obtained for the effects of other botanicals on the number of insect pests in both early and late planting seasons. The yield of sweet potato (16.14 kg) was highest in the plots of sweet potato treated with extract of C. papaya and it was significantly higher than the yield (2.60 kg) from the untreated plots. The yield from other plots treated with the other extracts were also significantly (p <.05) higher than the yield from the plots not treated with botanicals. The study concluded that the plant extracts can be applied on sweet potato to reduce insect infestation and enhance yield of storage roots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several reports have shown that about 25% of harvested fruits globally are lost to spoilage by microorganisms. The study determined the quantitative metabolites and bioactivities of Aspilia africana extracts on fungi from spoiled Cucumis sativus and Carica papaya fruits. The fungi from spoiled C. sativus and C. papaya fruits were obtained using mycological techniques. The quantitative metabolites and bioactivities of the aqueous (ALEAA) and ethanol (ELEAA) extracts of A. africana were determined using the standard protocol and disc diffusion technique, respectively. The fungal genera obtained were Aspergillus, Penicillium, Mucor, Fusarium, and Rhizopus. There were variations in percentage yields, physical appearances, and pH of the extracts. The results of quantitative estimation of metabolites showed that ALEAA had mean protein, carbohydrate, and lipid contents of 15.36 ± 0.32%, 60.97 ± 1.14%, and 6.66 ± 0.04%, respectively. Alkaloids showed a positive correlation with protein (r = 0.2028) and carbohydrate (r = 0.421), and a negative correlation with lipid (r = -0.6556) at p < 0.05. The ELEAA exhibited more inhibitory effects on test fungal isolates, with mean zones of inhibition (IZs) ranging from 9.3 ± 0.1 to 18.8 ± 0.3 mm, than the ALEAA, with mean IZs ranging between 9.4 ± 0.4 and 16.0 ± 1.0 mm. The R coefficients of the extracts and IZs as exhibited by the fungi ranged from 0.5985 to 0.9936. The results have revealed quantitative metabolites and antifungal activities of the extract and also provided rationale for its utilization as a preservative for fruits against spoilage by fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Papaya Calina (Carica papaya L.) is one of the main commodities in Cidolog Village, Cidolog District, Sukabumi Regency. Since 2020, Papaya plantation in Cidolog has remained static, and production has even decreased in 2020-2021 while national production increased. The research was conducted in December 2021 to identify the internal and external conditions in papaya agribusiness in Cidolog, and formulate strategies to develop the business. Internal and external environment mapping was obtained through observation and in-depth interviews with the farmer group. Assessment of the IFE and EFE matrices, and strategy formulation using SWOT Matrix, were obtained from interviews with five experts. Environment analysis shows that the papaya agribusiness in Cidolog Village has prospects for further development with an IFE value of 2.51 and an EFE of 2.64. The position of Calina's papaya agribusiness in IE matric is in cell 5 with a “guard and sustain” strategy. SWOT Matrix formulates 8 strategies namely 1) Expansion of land, 2) Increasing the role and dynamics of farmer groups, 3) Strengthening capabilities and access to networking, 4) Processing of inferior papaya into processed products, 5) Expansion of information and promotion of Papaya Calina Cidolog on the village website, District website, social media, and exhibitions, 6) Training on pest and plant disease control and cultivation practices in general, 7) Proposing road repairment to the relevant local government, and 8) opening the new market to supermarkets and a fruit shop. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Potential evapotranspiration (PET) indicates if a cultivation area is suitable for planting. Currently, site-specific PET models that are based on large geographic regions are vulnerable to inaccurate predictions as a result of climate change and sudden changes in the environmental abiotic stressors that affect plant growth. For the aim of promoting the papaya Sinta F1 cultivar, the study optimized the standard Thornthwaite PET model by integrating three advanced physics-based metaheuristics and evolutionary computing, namely atom search (ASO), differential evolution (DE), and multiverse (MVO) optimizers. The PET value was optimized through minimization as a function of air temperature, light intensity, heat index, and extended heat index. As the PET value approaches 0, it indicates that there is more soil-water content that can be absorbed by plants. Based on the four cultivation treatments (uncontrolled, ASO, DE, and MVO) exposed in three replicates within 90 days, the ASO-optimized Thornthwaite PET-treated (ASOTh) papaya plants resulted in the highest chlorophyll a and b concentrations, densest stomatal density, concentrated root and stem xylem and phloem vessels, considerable root and stem length, most formed leaf count, and strongest action potentials coming from stem membrane for both light and dark periods. This proves the applicability of the intelligent process in modifying the Thornthwaite model for plant growth promotion. Also, through the developed ASOTh, the stem length and thickness ratio was improved for mechanical stability to facilitate more branching leaves and potential fruits during the fruiting stage, and the chlorophyll a and b ratio was enhanced, which naturally extended the light energy band for photosynthesis. Overall, the newly developed ASOTh model may be used to grow papaya seedlings year-round anywhere on Earth if there is a control system to regulate the environmental setting inside the growth chamber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carica papaya L. is an economically significant crop in tropical and subtropical regions, with a gross production value of $6.2 × 109 in 2020. However, various biotic and abiotic stresses threaten crop productivity. To enhance stress resistance, genetic engineering and traditional breeding have been employed. Unfortunately, these methods are limited by the scarcity of innate disease resistance genes in the genome and the poor fertility of interspecific hybrids. Therefore, to circumvent these limitations, we developed a papaya protoplast-based gene editing system. By optimizing protoplast isolation, 28% higher yields were achieved from older (≥75 d) plants at 1.11 × 108 ± 0.069 protoplasts per gram-fresh-weight. Protoplast viability was 89.87 ± 2.02%,. We established an efficient genetic transfection method and verified proper expression, cellular function and localization of GFP and PDI-mCherry fusions in the protoplasts. Using preassembled CRISPR-Cas9 ribonucleoprotein complexes, we successfully edited a mutant GFP transgene, resulting in a frame-shift restoration efficiency of 27.88 ± 1.65%. Next, the CpPDS and CpMLO6 genes were targeted, creating knockouts in three different papaya cultivars. The average CpPDS mutant frequency obtained was 42.31 ± 1.90%, of which 31.25 ± 1.46% were frame-shift knockouts, while 11.05 ± 1.37% were in-frame protein variants. The average CpMLO6 mutant frequency was 16.20 ± 1.53%, of which 13.71 ± 1.67% were frame-shift knockouts and 2.50 ± 0.26% were in-frame variants. Taken together, a DNA-free CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system was successfully demonstrated in papaya protoplasts on multiple target genes for use in papaya crop improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]