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Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the reduced calorie kiwi jam production under the effect of the independent variables including apple juice (X1), stevia (X2), and low methoxyl pectin (LMP) (X3). The effect of these independent variables on physicochemical properties (brix, total acidity, pH), color values, total phenolic content (TPC), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), sugar profile, 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content, textural properties and sensorial acceptability of jam samples studied using Box-Behnken Design. Additionally the bioaccessibility of TPC and TAC for kiwi fruit and jam products was evaluated using standardized in vitro digestion model. Jam processing led to a significant reduction in TPC (51.38%–79.92%), and TAC for DPPH (85.59–96.97%), CUPRAC (60.10–82.79%), and FRAP (78.50–95.59) (p < 0.05). The TPC of all jam samples increased significantly, ranging from 1.14 to 2.67 times higher after in vitro digestion (p < 0.05), despite the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) showing variable results. The results also indicated that the addition of apple juice and stevia significantly enhanced the bioaccessibility of phenolic compounds (p < 0.05). The relationship between the responses (including brix, total acidity, pH, L*, a*, and b* values, firmness, stickiness, viscosity index, HMF, sucrose, TPC, CUPRAC, FRAP, and overall acceptability) and the variables was most accurately described using quadratic, reduced quadratic, and reduced cubic models with high R2 values, as determined by RSM. The optimal condition for all responses with composite desirability of 0.877 was: 398.5 g of apple juice, 20.2 g of stevia, and 0.45 g of LMP. This study provides valuable insights into the formulation of healthier, low-calorie kiwi jams with enhanced nutritional and sensory properties, offering a promising approach for the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Karaelmas Science & Engineering Journal / Karaelmas Fen ve Mühendislik Dergisi is the property of Karaelmas Science & Engineering Journal 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.)

Featured Application: The valorization of kiwi and kiwi by-products' bioactives as ingredients in the application of functional foods and cosmetics with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant health benefits. Kiwi's increased popularity as a healthy fruit with several agro-food applications has increased the amount of bio-waste produced like leaf, peel, and seed by-products, usually combined to form a kiwi pomace, which increases the environmental footprint of kiwi fruit and waste management costs. The aim of the present study is to thoroughly review and outline the nutritional content and bioactive components of both kiwi fruit and its by-products, as well as the innovative approaches to obtain and valorize kiwi's bioactives, phytochemicals, vitamins, and nutrients in several functional food products, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics applications with health-promoting properties. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and mechanisms of action of the extracted polyphenols, flavonoids, flavones, organic acids, and other bioactive components in both the fruit and in its functional products are also elucidated. Emphasis is given to those bioactive ingredients and extracts from kiwi by-products that can be valorized in various functional foods, supplements, nutraceuticals, nutricosmetics, cosmeceuticals, and cosmetics-related applications, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory health-promoting properties. Characteristic examples with reported health benefits are the functional kiwi fruit jelly (FKJ),fermented kiwi fruit products like wine, starchy kiwi fruit flour (SKF), and kiwi-derived functional protein bars, cheese and flour, as well as several nutraceuticals and functional cosmetics with kiwi bioactives improving their antioxidant, antiaging, and photoprotective properties, collagen synthesis, skin density, hydration, elasticity, and the wound healing process, while beneficially reducing skin roughness, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, keratinocyte death, and DNA and cell damage. The limitations and future perspectives for these kiwi bioactive-based applications are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern approaches to the development of high-quality pickled game semi-finished products are based on a deep understanding of the chemical and biochemical processes that occur during pickling. The use of vegetable ingredients with a high content of organic acids, such as kiwi, in the technology of marinating game meat allows to significantly improve the structural, mechanical and taste qualities of the finished products. Studies have shown that optimal results are achieved when marinating wild boar meat for 24-27 hours using a marinade containing 20-30 % kiwifruit. This concentration is able to ensure the maximum quality and profitability of meat semi-finished products, as indicated by the results of the product yield study after pickling, heat treatment and organoleptic evaluation. The conducted structural and mechanical studies testify to the effectiveness of the developed marinades for improving the texture and juiciness of game meat, as well as emphasizing its unique flavor and aroma profile. It has been studied that the use of fermented pickles from cucumbers and cabbage as marinades for small pieces of semi-finished products from wild boar meat leads to high yields of finished products after heat treatment, which emphasizes their economic suitability for commercial production. Conducted research on the content of essential amino acids in the developed products showed a high balance of marinated semi-finished products from wild boar meat, and proved that a successful selection of components for marinating meat can positively affect the biological value of finished products. Thus, modern pickling methods, including the use of natural enzymes and organic acids, make it possible to create high-quality, safe and economically competitive pickled game semi-finished products. This opens up new opportunities for producers of meat products, contributing to the expansion of the assortment and satisfaction of the growing needs of consumers for healthy and organoleptically high-quality food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early and accurate disease diagnosis is pivotal for effective phytosanitary management strategies in agriculture. Hyperspectral sensing has emerged as a promising tool for early disease detection, yet challenges remain in effectively harnessing its potential. This study compares parametric spectral Vegetation Indices (VIs) and a nonparametric Gaussian Process Classification based on an Automated Spectral Band Analysis Tool (GPC-BAT) for diagnosing plant bacterial diseases using hyperspectral data. The study conducted experiments on tomato plants in controlled conditions and kiwi plants in field settings to assess the performance of VIs and GPC-BAT. In the tomato experiment, the modeling processes were applied to classify the spectral data measured on the healthy class of plants (sprayed with water only) and discriminate them from the data captured on plants inoculated with the two bacterial suspensions (108 CFU mL−1). In the kiwi experiment, the standard modeling results of the spectral data collected on nonsymptomatic plants were compared to the ones obtained using symptomatic plants' spectral data. VIs, known for their simplicity in extracting biophysical information, successfully distinguished healthy and diseased tissues in both plant species. The overall accuracy achieved was 63% and 71% for tomato and kiwi, respectively. Limitations were observed, particularly in differentiating specific disease infections accurately. On the other hand, GPC-BAT, after feature reduction, showcased enhanced accuracy in identifying healthy and diseased tissues. The overall accuracy ranged from 70% to 75% in the tomato and kiwi case studies. Despite its effectiveness, the model faced challenges in accurately predicting certain disease infections, especially in the early stages. Comparative analysis revealed commonalities and differences in the spectral bands identified by both approaches, with overlaps in critical regions across plant species. Notably, these spectral regions corresponded to the absorption regions of various photosynthetic pigments and structural components affected by bacterial infections in plant leaves. The study underscores the potential of hyperspectral sensing in disease diagnosis and highlights the strengths and limitations of VIs and GPC-BAT. The identified spectral features hold biological significance, suggesting correlations between bacterial infections and alterations in plant pigments and structural components. Future research avenues could focus on refining these approaches for improved accuracy in diagnosing diverse plant–pathogen interactions, thereby aiding disease diagnosis. Specifically, efforts could be directed towards adapting these methodologies for early detection, even before symptom manifestation, to better manage agricultural diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the protease activity of freeze‐dried kiwifruits as affected by the various colours and the antioxidant activities of protein hydrolysates from pork loin protein (sarcoplasmic and myofibrillar proteins) containing different freeze‐dried kiwifruit powder during incubation times. The protease activity of freeze‐dried kiwifruit powders was determined using casein and meat protein as substrates. Gold and green kiwifruit powders showed higher protease activity than red kiwifruit powders. Each type of kiwifruit showed different hydrolysis degrees for myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic proteins. The myofibrillar and sarcoplasmic proteins with kiwifruit powder showed increased antioxidant activity compared to the control. The protein hydrolysates obtained from pork loins treated with green and gold kiwifruit powders increased antioxidant activity with increased incubation time. These results suggested that the protein hydrolysates of pork loins containing freeze‐dried kiwifruit powders had potential antioxidant activity, resulting in maintaining meat product quality during storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The production and use of kiwifruit, and their derived products, has seen rapid growth in the food industry with some 4 467 099 tonnes produced in 2021. A key area of development has been the increased use of kiwifruit waste streams to support sustainable food production systems. However, kiwifruit is emerging as a common elicitor of food allergy worldwide. Therefore, the present research focuses on summarising the current literature on kiwifruit‐induced human food allergy. Of the available information, a total of 7098 titles were found and 107 articles were included in the current study following full‐text screening. Most research concentrated on the prevalence of allergenicity and was performed within Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, South America and Oceania. Food allergy to kiwifruit ranged from oral allergy syndrome to anaphylaxis in humans. Few studies considered the need for labelling or public education. Given the increased usage of kiwifruit across a range of food streams, further research is required due to the greater focus on utilisation of these products in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kiwi’s increased popularity as a healthy fruit with several agro-food applications has increased the amount of bio-waste produced like leaf, peel, and seed by-products, usually combined to form a kiwi pomace, which increases the environmental footprint of kiwi fruit and waste management costs. The aim of the present study is to thoroughly review and outline the nutritional content and bioactive components of both kiwi fruit and its by-products, as well as the innovative approaches to obtain and valorize kiwi’s bioactives, phytochemicals, vitamins, and nutrients in several functional food products, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics applications with health-promoting properties. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and mechanisms of action of the extracted polyphenols, flavonoids, flavones, organic acids, and other bioactive components in both the fruit and in its functional products are also elucidated. Emphasis is given to those bioactive ingredients and extracts from kiwi by-products that can be valorized in various functional foods, supplements, nutraceuticals, nutricosmetics, cosmeceuticals, and cosmetics-related applications, with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory health-promoting properties. Characteristic examples with reported health benefits are the functional kiwi fruit jelly (FKJ),fermented kiwi fruit products like wine, starchy kiwi fruit flour (SKF), and kiwi-derived functional protein bars, cheese and flour, as well as several nutraceuticals and functional cosmetics with kiwi bioactives improving their antioxidant, antiaging, and photoprotective properties, collagen synthesis, skin density, hydration, elasticity, and the wound healing process, while beneficially reducing skin roughness, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, keratinocyte death, and DNA and cell damage. The limitations and future perspectives for these kiwi bioactive-based applications are also discussed.

Kiwifruit canker disease seriously affects the yield and quality of "Guichang" kiwifruit in Xiuwen County, Guizhou Province. In order to scientifically, safely, greenly and efficiently prevent and control the disease, theory was combined with prevention and control techniques to optimize existing prevention and control techniques, so as to improve the production yield and quality of kiwifruit. Specifically, biocontrol strains targeting local kiwifruit canker disease were screened, and reduced and mixed use of agrochemicals with improved efficiency was studied; and the effects and application techniques of disease resistance inducers and bioorganic fertilizers in inducing systemic disease resistance in kiwifruit trees were explored, and finally, an integrated green prevention and control scheme for kiwifruit canker disease that is suitable for kiwifruit production areas in Guizhou Province and has strong operability was proposed. This study provides technical support for green, efficient, standardized production technical services and sustainable and healthy development of kiwifruit industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Science & Engineering Research is the property of Ataturk University Coordinatorship of Scientific Journals 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.)

Abstract Clinically, activated EGFR mutation associated chemo-drugs resistance has severely threaten NSCLC patients. Nanoparticle based small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy representing another promising alternative by silencing specific gene while still suffered from charge associated toxicity, strong immunogenicity and poor targetability. Herein, we reported a novel EGFR-mutant NSCLC therapy relying on edible and cation-free kiwi-derived extracellular vesicles (KEVs), which showed sevenfold enhancement of safe dosage compared with widely used cationic liposomes and could be further loaded with Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 interfering RNA (siSTAT3). siSTAT3 loaded KEVs (STAT3/KEVs) could be easily endowed with EGFR targeting ability (STAT3/EKEVs) and fluorescence by surface modification with tailor-making aptamer through hydrophobic interaction. STAT3/EKEVs with a controlled size of 186 nm displayed excellent stability, high specificity and good cytotoxicity towards EGFR over-expressing and mutant PC9-GR4-AZD1 cells. Intriguingly, the systemic administration of STAT3/EKEVs significantly suppressed subcutaneous PC9-GR4-AZD1 tumor xenografts in nude mice by STAT3 mediated apoptosis. This safe and robust KEVs has emerged as the next generation of gene delivery platform for NSCLC therapy after multiple drug-resistance. Graphical Abstract

This is a retrospective review of 7398 deliveries under the direct care of the author over 25 years, from data input on personal handheld computers at the time of delivery. A more detailed look at 409 deliveries over 2.5 years where all the case notes were studied was also undertaken. The rate of cesarean section is outlined. For the last 10 years of the study, the rate of cesarean section was maintained at 19%. This was in quite an elderly population. Two main factors seemed responsible for the relatively low rate of cesarean: vaginal births after cesarean (VBACs) and rotational Kiwi deliveries. Synopsis: This is a reflective article, summarizing a 25‐year obstetrical career. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water scarcity is a major concern in agriculture worldwide. Fruit trees are severely affected by water deprivation in terms of growth, fruit yield, and quality. Plant monitoring combined with efficient irrigation is pivotal to achieve good quality standards and improve agricultural sustainability. This study reports the use of in vivo sensing technology to monitor fruit tree species continuously, in real time and in vivo, through an Organic Electrochemical Transistor (OECT)-based biosensor called Bioristor. The sensor was applied to grapevines, apples, and kiwis, revealing its capability to trace the plant water status for the whole productive cycle. A correlation between the sensor response index (R) and environmental parameters such as air humidity and temperature were recorded for fruit species. The day/night oscillation of the ionic content in the transpiration stream varies during plant growth and fruit maturation and during severe drought stress. Bioristor promptly detected the occurrence of drought stress. The gate current (Igs) trend supports the reduction in the saturation of the system due to the lower water availability. The use of Bioristor-acquired indices can be used to improve precision irrigation techniques according to the real plant needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kumaun Himalaya harbors a number of temperate fruits crops such as apple, peach, apricot, plum, pear and kiwi that support the fruit growers of the Uttarakhand state. The present study was conducted in temperate fruit orchards located in hills of Nainital district of Kumaun Himalayan region of Uttarakhand state. Information on the distribution of insect pollinators led to many important details. A total of 92 species insect pollinators under 59 genera of 25 families and four orders were recorded. Lepidoptera was the most dominant order whereas Coleoptera was the least dominant. The results revealed that Apis cerana F. was the most abundant species. As per Margalef’s index, species richness of pollinators was observed to be maximum in apple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine and assess causes of mortality of kiwi (Apteryx spp.) submitted to Massey University between 2010 and 2020 across the five recognised species according to location, age group and captivity status in New Zealand. Post-mortem reports were obtained from the Massey University/Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa School of Veterinary Science/Wildbase Pathology Register. Inclusion criteria were all species of kiwi with a date of post-mortem examination between August 2010 and August 2020. Data from each report was exported, categorised and compared using Microsoft Excel. Of a total of 1,005 post-mortem reports, there were 766 North Island brown kiwi (NIBK; A. mantelli), 83 tokoeka (A. australis), 73 rowi (A. rowi), 49 great spotted kiwi (A. haastii), and 34 little spotted kiwi (A. owenii). This comprised 19 eggs/embryos, 125 neonatal, 473 juvenile, 153 subadult, and 235 adult kiwi. There were 615 kiwi from wild populations, 148 from sanctuary populations, 238 from captivity, and four from unspecified locations. The leading cause of death was trauma, affecting 322 (32.0 (95% CI = 29.2–35.0)%) kiwi including 289 (37.3 (95% CI = 26.0–31.7)%) NIBK. Nearly half of these died from predation by mustelids, with losses recorded from neonates to adults and clustered in the central to southern North Island. Predation by dogs was the second most common cause of death, killing 84 (8.4 (95% CI = 6.7–10.2)%) kiwi, of which 65.5% came from the northern districts of the North Island. Non-infectious disease killed 214 (21 (95% CI = 18.8–24.0)%) kiwi, and included developmental deformities, gastrointestinal foreign bodies and predator trap injuries. Infectious disease killed 181 (18.0 (95% CI = 15.7–20.5)%) kiwi and the proportion decreased with age, with common diagnoses including coccidiosis, bacterial septicaemia, avian malaria, and fungal respiratory disease. Starvation affected 42 (4.2 (95% CI = 3.0–5.6)%) kiwi, comprised of mainly neonatal or juvenile individuals from wild or sanctuary populations, with a higher percentage seen in tokoeka (11/83; 13.3%) compared to other species (min 0%, max 5.9%). The cause of death was undetermined in 246 (24.5 (95% CI = 21.8–27.3)%) cases, which was most often due to poor preservation of remains. This included 33/73 (46%) rowi and 32/83 (39%) tokoeka, and affected mainly birds from sanctuary and wild populations. This study enhances our understanding of causes of mortality in captive, wild and sanctuary populations of all kiwi species and age groups within contemporary New Zealand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinically, activated EGFR mutation associated chemo-drugs resistance has severely threaten NSCLC patients. Nanoparticle based small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapy representing another promising alternative by silencing specific gene while still suffered from charge associated toxicity, strong immunogenicity and poor targetability. Herein, we reported a novel EGFR-mutant NSCLC therapy relying on edible and cation-free kiwi-derived extracellular vesicles (KEVs), which showed sevenfold enhancement of safe dosage compared with widely used cationic liposomes and could be further loaded with Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 interfering RNA (siSTAT3). siSTAT3 loaded KEVs (STAT3/KEVs) could be easily endowed with EGFR targeting ability (STAT3/EKEVs) and fluorescence by surface modification with tailor-making aptamer through hydrophobic interaction. STAT3/EKEVs with a controlled size of 186 nm displayed excellent stability, high specificity and good cytotoxicity towards EGFR over-expressing and mutant PC9-GR4-AZD1 cells. Intriguingly, the systemic administration of STAT3/EKEVs significantly suppressed subcutaneous PC9-GR4-AZD1 tumor xenografts in nude mice by STAT3 mediated apoptosis. This safe and robust KEVs has emerged as the next generation of gene delivery platform for NSCLC therapy after multiple drug-resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) is a bait poison used for the control of several introduced predators in Australia and New Zealand. In highly susceptible species (e.g., feral cats, red foxes and stoats), small doses of PAPP reduce the ability of haemoglobin to carry oxygen, resulting in rapid unconsciousness and death. Determining the degree to which different wildlife species may be susceptible to PAPP normally requires the use of lethal trials. Instead, we developed a non-lethal method to estimate the doses of PAPP that would be fatal to high conservation value birds such as takahē, weka and kiwi. Using a series of small but sequentially increasing PAPP doses, we monitored progressive changes in a number of blood markers, enabling us to predict the dose required to achieve a lethal threshold. This approach also allowed us to define the largest PAPP dose that produced no observed shift in the blood values, as well as the lowest dose associated with adverse effects. Because our blood sampling methods were refined to be minimally invasive, we monitored the progress of birds for at least 72 h and were able to define PAPP doses associated with protracted adverse effects. Para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) is a methaemoglobin (MetHb) forming compound used for the lethal control of invasive carnivores and mustelids. By measuring the dose-dependent inhibition of O2 transport arising from the oxidation of haemoglobin (HbFe2+) to MetHb (HbFe3+), we determined the sensitivity of nine bird species to PAPP. A methaemoglobinaemia absorbance index (MAI) was validated in five common bird species to determine thresholds associated with a 99% probability of survival (ST99) and a 50% probability of mortality (LT50). Dose–response trials in high conservation value birds sought MAI values below the ST99 threshold, projecting the LT50 value and avoiding the need for lethal outcomes. Black-backed gull (LT50 = 1784.7) and eastern rosella (LT50 = 1074 mg kg−1) were the most tolerant species, while brown kiwi (LT50 = 8.4 mg kg−1) and weka (LT50 = 9.3 mg kg−1) were the most sensitive. Takahē were of intermediate acute sensitivity (LT50 = 51 mg kg−1), although protracted impacts on haemoglobin were observed in takahē up to 72 h later and associated with PAPP doses as low as 25.6 mg kg−1. In pukeko (LT50 = 138.4 mg kg−1), protracted declines in haemoglobin 72 h later occurred at doses as low as 29.5 mg kg−1, while at higher doses (253 and 112 mg kg−1), deaths resulted after 4–6 days. Based upon PAPP doses that caused acute and protracted responses, we provide estimates for the lowest observable adverse effect level (LOAEL) and no observable effects level (NOEL) for nine bird species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on the day-time roost areas of North Island brown kiwi (NIBK) (Apteryx mantelli), particularly post-translocation, is limited. This study aimed to determine the day-time roost areas of newly translocated NIBK and compare these with birds that had established from a translocation in the previous year. Radio telemetry was used to monitor sub-adult NIBK in the first three weeks post-translocation simultaneously with birds released in the previous year. The data from 15 birds (nine translocated in 2014 and six translocated in 2013) were used to calculate the area over which roost sites were distributed. Areas were estimated using Minimum Convex Polygon (MCP, Ha) and 50 percentile kernel density estimation (KDE, Ha). No significant difference in MCP was determined between newly translocated 2014 birds (21.3 Ha, SE 7.92) and those translocated in 2013 (22.85 Ha, SE 10.84) or between KDE50 for 2013 birds (16.30 Ha, SE 7.44) compared with 2014 birds (20.66 Ha, SE 8.29). Within the first three weeks post-translocation, most of the 2014 birds remained within the vicinity of their release site, which may be due to a combination of suitable habitat/roost sites and the 'anchoring' effect of previously established 2013 birds. This study provides new information on roost areas of newly translocated NIBK and highlights the importance of post-translocation monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Food & Dairy Sciences is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) 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.)

Sampling bias can have dire consequences for research. One potential source of bias is combining different sampling methods in the same study. However, combining methods can be unavoidable, for instance, when sampling method selection depends upon factors such as population density or terrain. A case at hand is the use of night-time encounter catching by people or daytime catching using certified dogs for studies of Apteryx mantelli, North Island brown kiwi, in Aotearoa New Zealand. Here, we compare these sampling methods to determine whether (1) combining them risks inducing a demographic bias to the sample set, and (2) they differ in regards to blood parameters used for comparing populations (packed cell volume, glucose, plasma protein, haemoglobin). Sixty-five birds were caught during the day from their roosts using a certified dog, and 62 birds were caught at night while foraging. The results suggest that both methods capture a comparable subset of a population, with the potential exception that more very young juveniles were caught using the day method. Furthermore, no physiological effects were evident from comparing haematological parameters. We also found no difference in blood sampling success between night and day, but observed that blood extraction was more difficult at night. Hence, we demonstrate that either method, or a combination of both, can be considered for future studies. Notably, we found that night-time encounter catching had a superior success rate in very highdensity populations. Since this method also negates dependency on the limited number of certified dogs, we suggest that benefits may exist through increasing the utilisation of night-time encounter catching in A. mantelli research. We suggest that future studies should consider measuring the stress levels caused by each of the methods, and quantify the effects of habitat type and terrain on sampling success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Toxoplasma gondii has been reported as a cause of morbidity and mortality in New Zealand's native avifauna, including the ground-dwelling Kiwi (Apteryx spp.). To better understand the extent of T. gondii infection in Little Spotted Kiwi (Apteryx owenii), a prevalence survey of kiwi living inside a 200-ha predator-proof mainland ecosanctuary (Zealandia Te Māra a Tāne, Wellington, New Zealand) was undertaken. Antibodies to T. gondii were detected by a latex agglutination test (LAT) with a cutoff positive titer of ≥1:64, and T. gondii DNA was detected by PCR. In total, 16/19 (84.2%) birds tested were positive for T. gondii by LAT (10/11), PCR (10/19), or both (4/11). Antibody titers ranged from 1:32 to ≥1:2,048. These results suggest widespread exposure of T. gondii in this population of Little Spotted Kiwi and, in conjunction with earlier reports of toxoplasmosis causing mortality in kiwi, raise important questions as to the effect this parasite may be having on this rare endemic species. Further information on the epidemiology of T. gondii infections within free-living and managed kiwi populations is urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kiwi is one of the best natural sources of vitamin C and has wide applications. During October–November 2021, small brown spots were examined on the Kiwi leaves. The diseased leaf samples were collected and placed on potato dextrose agar nutrient media for diagnosis. Morphological, anatomical, and molecular studies revealed this disease-causing agent to be Rhizopus oryzae. Molecular characterizations of the isolated pathogen were performed by using actin translation elongation factor (EF-1α) and ribosomal deoxyribose nucleotide inter transcribed sequence (rDNA ITS ITS1/ITS4) and elongation factors (EFl-F/EFl-R) primers. A BLAST study of the resultant ITS1/ITS4 sequence showed > 99% resemblance with R. oryzae (MT603964.1), while the EF-1α sequence revealed 100% similarity with translation elongation factor-1α gene of R. oryzae (MK510718.1). The obtained ITS1/ITS4 sequence was submitted to NCBI (MW603842.1). Koch's postulates established the pathogenicity of isolated R. oryzae and proved it to be the brown spot pathogen of Kiwi. For the environmentally-friendly management of Kiwi leaf spot, maize biochar-Zinc Oxide (MB-ZnO) nanocomposite was used. The prepared nanocomposite was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermo gravitational analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. After successful preparation, MB-ZnO was assessed for its possible antifungal potential against R. oryzae. MB-ZnO displayed substantial growth inhibition, and the highest growth inhibition (79%) was observed at a 19 mg/mL dose rate of nanoparticles. These excellent findings propose that Ball-milled synthesis is a fast, economical, and environmentally friendly method for nanocomposite in the near future. The nanocomposite is used as a nominal substitute for chemical fungicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Avian malaria refers to the parasitic blood infection caused by species of Plasmodium. Plasmodium spp. have a worldwide distribution and records of mortality extend across a range of bird orders and species. In wild bird populations, infection is maintained within reservoir hosts, which are able to tolerate a chronic, low level of parasitism generally without severe health consequences. The introduction of these adapted avian species and their malarial parasites to naïve bird populations has resulted in devastating impacts on some non-adapted bird species, with the demise of Hawaiian amakihi as a pertinent example. In New Zealand, avian malaria was first recorded in introduced blackbirds (Turdus merula) in the 1920s, and reports of mortality in endemic and native bird species have been sporadic over the last three decades. Of the five species of kiwi, four are considered at risk or threatened by conservation standards. Here, we aim to describe the pathology of avian malaria as a cause of mortality in kiwi (Apteryx spp.) and the species of Plasmodium involved to further our understanding of this disease in arguably the most iconic of New Zealand's endemic birds. Avian malaria caused by Plasmodium species is a known cause of mortality in avifauna worldwide, however reports within New Zealand kiwi (Apteryx spp.) are scant. Postmortem reports from kiwi were obtained from the Massey University/Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa School of Veterinary Science Pathology Register from August 2010–August 2020. Gross lesions were described from postmortem reports, and archived H.E.-stained slides used for histological assessment. Nested PCR testing was performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples to assess the presence of Plasmodium spp. and Toxoplasma gondii DNA and cases with a PCR-positive result were sequenced to determine the lineage involved. Of 1005 postmortem reports, 23 cases of confirmed or suspected avian malaria were included in this study. The most consistent gross lesions included splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, and interstitial pneumonia with oedema. Histological lesions were characterised by severe interstitial pneumonia, pulmonary oedema, interstitial myocarditis, hepatic sinusoidal congestion and hypercellularity, and splenic macrophage hyperplasia and hyperaemia/congestion with numerous haemosiderophages. Cytoplasmic meronts were consistently found within endothelial cells of a variety of tissues, and within tissue macrophages of the liver, lung and spleen. A diagnosis of avian malaria was confirmed via PCR testing in 13 cases, with sequencing revealing P. matutinum (LINN1) and P. elongatum (GRW6) as the species involved. This is the largest case series describing the pathology of avian malaria as a cause of mortality in endemic New Zealand avifauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a novel approach to multi-criteria sustainability performance assessment of horticultural crops. The crops are ranked by the decision-making method ELECTRE IV with environmental, energy and technological criteria. In total eight indicators are taken into consideration and calculated based on primary data collected from over 260 farms in northern Iran. Additionally, Data Envelopment Analysis is used to calculate the technical efficiency and potential for energy saving by different management of the production units. The novel contribution of this study is the comparison of several horticultural products (oranges, kiwis, persimmons and tangerines), when most of the previous studies have focused on one product. Moreover, novel calculations of the carbon footprint are presented for oranges, tangerines and persimmons. This paper also includes the first study on the environmental impact of persimmon fruit's production. The obtained results show that energy efficiency for orange, tangerine, kiwi and persimmon products: 1.1, 0.84, 0.53 and 1.22, respectively. In each hectare of kiwi orchards, the amount of CO2 emissions of 1219 kg and the ecological footprint of 3.21 hectares have been calculated, which is statistically significant compared to orange, tangerine and persimmon. The chemical and fuel inputs have the greatest potential for reducing energy consumption in the studied products. Results of ELECTRE IV showed that kiwi is the most sustainable selection for the studied region followed by orange, persimmon and tangerine, respectively. Kiwi has also relatively low technical efficiency. This means that this product has the greatest potential for a reduction of energy consumption, while maintaining the same amount of crop. It is recommended to include the development of kiwi orchards in the policies of Guilan, but with more careful management of the production inputs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Actinidia genus comprises 54 species and 21 varieties of which A. chinensis var. chinensis and A. chinensis var. deliciosa are the most commercialized ones. The nutritional properties of kiwifruit have prompted their global production to nearly reach the value of 4.5 million tons per year, with Asia being one of the top producers. This increment in their production has raised a parallel augment of associated organic wastes, especially when kiwifruits are used for processed products. The most abundant by-products obtained include skins, seeds and discarded fruits. This biomass has a huge potential for its high content of bioactive compounds, such as dietary fiber or polyphenols. Therefore, it has been targeted by the food industry as a sustainable and cost-effective source of natural ingredients, highly demanded by consumers. Indeed, kiwi skins and seeds have been pointed out as a relevant source of pectin followed by the kiwi pulp. Pectin is a recognized ingredient due to the organoleptic properties it may confer but also for its prebiotic capacities. The recovery of pectin has been mainly performed via the application of extraction techniques that implied the use of chemical reagents such as acids. Nowadays, the use of chemicals is negatively regarded for their associated side effects. Indeed, customers’ claims for chemical-free food ingredients have triggered the development and application of green extraction techniques: ultrasonic, microwave, enzyme, supercritical fluid or electrical pulse. Pectin has been successfully extracted with these green techniques both in terms of yield and quality, improving results obtained with traditional extraction techniques. Therefore, the main objective of this work is to review the wide variability of green techniques applied to extract pectin along with the comparison of the optimal parameters as a basis for the future development of an optimized extraction method. In addition, this work also aims to disclose the potential of kiwifruit by-products as a source of pectin and their industrial applications for the development of functional foods, nutraceuticals, food additives or cosmetics.

The potential of hyperspectral UV–VIS–NIR reflectance for the in-field, non-destructive discrimination of bacterial canker on kiwi leaves caused by Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) was analyzed. Spectral data (325–1075 nm) of twenty kiwi plants were obtained in vivo and in situ with a handheld spectroradiometer in two commercial kiwi orchards in northern Portugal over 15 weeks, resulting in 504 spectral measurements. The suitability of different vegetation indexes (VIs) and applied predictive models (based on supervised machine learning algorithms) for classifying non-symptomatic and symptomatic kiwi leaves was evaluated. Eight distinct types of VIs were identified as relevant for disease diagnosis, highlighting the relevance of the Green, Red, Red-Edge, and NIR spectral features. The class prediction was achieved with good model metrics, achieving an accuracy of 0.71, kappa of 0.42, sensitivity of 0.67, specificity of 0.75, and F1 of 0.67. Thus, the present findings demonstrated the potential of hyperspectral UV–VIS–NIR reflectance for the non-destructive discrimination of bacterial canker on kiwi leaves.

Uttarakhand, a state in the northern region of India which is traversed by the Himalayas, grows a variety of horticultural crops (e.g., fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers) and is experienced with large-scale horticulture production at the national and/or international levels. Due to the wide variation in the climatic conditions and growing patterns, its pattern varies from harvest to harvest and from one province to another in terms of range, production, and yield. One of the most lucrative industries in Uttarakhand's hilly areas is horticultural cultivation. It substitutes for the neighborhood economy and helps farmers make a living. According to the literature, no work on the supply chain management of fruits in the hilly areas of Uttarakhand has yet been documented to analyze the growth of horticulture cultivation. Thus, the primary objective of this paper is to focus on the supply chain management of kiwi fruit, a type of major growing fruit in Uttarakhand's Bageshwar area. Additionally, this paper will offer a business plan for small-scale farmers to boost employment, economic development, and benefits. This study contributes to the discussion of the problems with the Himalayan fruit supply chain that is specific to the kiwi fruit and how a sustainable business model like horti-tourism can enable greater revenue generation for farmers while also resolving the problems with the Himalayan produce supply chain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater and plays a critical role in addressing global water scarcity. While numerous studies have focused on the water footprint (WF) of various agricultural products, little attention has been paid to changing cropping patterns and their impact on WF. Here, we investigate the impact of conversion from hazelnut fields to kiwi orchards on green, blue, and gray WF between 2010 and 2021 in Ordu, Turkey. Our results show a total increase of 803,901 tons WF for all green, blue, and gray WF. Compared to the previous situation, changing the agricultural product and growing kiwifruit on previously established hazelnut fields increases green WF by 372,106 tons and blue WF by 334,167 tons. Thus, the change of cultivation pattern could significantly contribute to the water scarcity in the area, and at the same time, the increase in WF. Although kiwi cultivation might be advantageous economically, this economic benefit might be an ecological disadvantage as kiwi production is highly dependent on limited blue water resources. Therefore, it is suggested to further promote the rain-fed product, the hazelnut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background An allergy to kiwi is rare in Poland. Most (65–72%) of the patients who are allergic to kiwi report symptoms of an oral allergy syndrome (OAS); however, systemic manifestations (18–28%) have also been reported. Case report A 27-year-old male patient, previously not suffering from chronic diseases, exercised in the gym. He began with isometric training and then continued with aerobic exercise on a treadmill. After exercise, he ate 2 kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) fruits. He experienced a swelling of the lips after eating the fruit, followed by an itchy scalp and a swollen face. Approximately 60 min later, the symptoms worsened: the patient suffered from generalized hives, general weakness and a "rumbling" sensation in ears. The patient's condition improved upon the consumption of antihistamines. However, the swelling of the face persisted for 24 h despite previously eating a kiwi without any side effects. By means of diagnostics based on allergen components, an allergy to grass allergen components, especially timothy grass—Phl p 1, Phl p 2 and Phl p 5, was confirmed. The presence of IgE that is specific for Act d 2 kiwi was also found. The patient had an oral food challenge with kiwi fruit at rest and after exercise provocation test. The challenge was negative at rest and positive after exercise. A food-dependent exercise-induced anaphylaxis gathered with a kiwi sensitization was diagnosed. Conclusion To our knowledge, this case is the first report of a kiwi-allergic patient in whom exercise was a necessary cofactor to induce an anaphylactic reaction.

Conventional insect pest control methods and approaches are being used in agroecosystem management. However, some pest control methods affect human health and are unsustainable. Consumption of some insect pests as food by humans can be incorporated in a sustainable manner to manage the pest species, which locally provide some positive outputs. The traditional and sustainable ethno-entomophagy practice of the Apatani tribe, inhabiting primarily the Ziro valley of Arunachal Pradesh, North East India, can be considered a prime example of such practices. They consume three species of chafer beetles locally known as Jojer, Dikang-Diilang and Sanko-Tapu, i.e. Anomala sp., Phyllophaga sp. and Lepidiota sp. respectively. It is also known that the adults of these species are pests of the kiwi plant (Actinidia deliciosa) and chestnut tree species (Castanopsis spp.). In this study, we unravel the practice of entomophagy of these beetles by the Apatanese and understand its implications for the sustainable management of agroecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

En una plantación de kiwi situada en Balcarce (provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina), se evaluó el efecto de la fertilización nitrogenada y potásica sobre el crecimiento de la planta durante la etapa de implantación, en la temporada 2008 - 2009. Los tratamientos fueron T: control sin fertilizar, N: fertilizado con nitrógeno (48 kg/ha N), K: fertilizado con potasio (60 kg/ha K) y NK: fertilizado con nitrógeno y potasio (48 kg/ha N - 60 kg/ha K). Se realizaron muestreos periódicos de: longitud de tallo, longitud del último entrenudo y área foliar. Se determinó el diámetro del tallo a fin de temporada y la distribución de raíces en el perfil de suelo en plena dormición. Se efectuaron análisis foliares de macronutrientes, así como N mineral, N anaeróbico (NAN) y carbono orgánico (CO) en el suelo. El suelo correspondió a un Argiudol, con niveles de NAN entre 85 - 100 mg/kg y de CO de 45 - 50 g/kg en los primeros 30 cm. Los resultados obtenidos, en cuanto al crecimiento de la parte aérea de la planta, no constituyen evidencia suficiente para justificar la fertilización con N y K bajo las condiciones experimentales del estudio. Aun en el T, los niveles foliares de N y K se mantuvieron dentro de los estándares normales. El sistema radical, observado durante el reposo, se habría visto beneficiado por la fertilización nitrogenada. En el estrato de suelo comprendido entre 10 y 20 cm se determinó un promedio de 61 raíces/100 cm2, en el tratamiento N, 40 en el tratamiento combinado NK, 28 en el tratamiento K, y 19 en el testigo.

Se realizó un ensayo durante tres años consecutivos con el fin de monitorear la evolución del tamaño y del peso de los frutos de una plantación comercial de kiwi variedad Hayward ubicada en la provincia de Córdoba. El objetivo fue determinar la evolución del peso y del tamaño del fruto durante la etapa final de crecimiento. Se seleccionaron doce plantas representativas y se realizaron cosechas durante cuatro semanas en tres años sucesivos desde el 4/3 al 24/3, a partir de que los frutos alcanzaron 5° Brix. Las variables evaluadas fueron: peso del fruto, longitud del fruto, diámetro mayor y menor al momento de la cosecha y luego de seis días a temperatura ambiente. El peso del fruto se incrementó desde un valor mínimo de 83,71 g a 121,1 g. La pérdida de peso luego de seis días fue desde un mínimo de 3,11 g a un máximo de 6,01 g. La longitud pasó de 54,73 mm a 64,20 mm. El diámetro mayor pasó de 52,12 mm a 59,7 mm, presentando una disminución después de seis días de un mínimo de 0,27 mm a un máximo 7,12 mm. El diámetro menor pasó de 42 mm a 54,41 mm entre la primera y la cuarta cosecha. Todas las variables presentaron un incremento en la medida en que atrasaba la cosecha, lo que justifica una cosecha más tardía, en función del tamaño de los frutos.

Los frutos climatéricos, como el kiwi, deben cosecharse una vez que alcanzan la madurez fisiológica, a fin de no comprometer su calidad gustativa. El propósito del presente trabajo fue determinar la instancia del desarrollo cuando los frutos del cv. 'Hayward' alcanzaron la madurez fisiológica, mediante la medición de índices de madurez objetivos. Para tal fin, un lote comercial de kiwi cv 'Hayward' situado en el sudeste de la provincia de Buenos Aires (Argentina) s e c o s e c h ó s e m a n a l m e n t e d e s d e l a s 11 semanas después de plena floración (sdpf) hasta la cosecha comercial, a las 18 sdpf. La fruta fue analizada a la cosecha y después de un período de almacenamiento (53 días a 2°C) y maduración (7 días a 20°C). A cosecha, el contenido de materia seca de la fruta, la firmeza de la pulpa y la acidez titulable del jugo no sufrieron cambios significativos a partir de las 16 sdpf. Al final del período de almacenamiento y maduración, los sólidos solubles y la acidez titulable, así como la pérdida de peso de los frutos, no variaron significativamente en frutos cosechados a partir de las 16 sdpf. Estos resultados sugieren que la madurez fisiológica se alcanzó dos semanas antes de la cosecha comercial. Con mayores exigencias protocolares de contenido de materia seca, la madurez comercial se habría logrado recién a las 18 sdpf. A madurez fisiológica, los índices de madurez registraron los siguientes valores: 5,4% sólidos solubles, 1,18% acidez titulable, 14,2% materia seca y 49% semillas negras.

Introduction. Canning requires thermophysical calculations for thermal or cold processing. These calculations are based on thermophysical characteristics of raw materials. The research objective was to analyze the thermophysical characteristics of tropical fruits. Study objects and methods. The study featured kiwi, papaya, avocado, and figs. Their thermal conductivity was analyzed with the help of stationary fiber plate method. The cryoscopic temperature was determined from the flat area of the thermogram obtained during freezing. The heat capacity and the amount of frozen moisture were determined by calculation based on the available data on the chemical composition of the fruits. The density was defined by using the hydrostatic weighing method, the sugar content – by the refractometric method, the moisture content – by drying to constant mass. Results and discussion. The research revealed the physicochemical parameters of kiwi, avocado, papaya, and figs. Papaya demonstrated the highest moisture content – 86.32 ± 0.02%, while kiwi appeared to have the highest density – 1,065 ± 1 kg/m3. Figs had the highest sugar content – 16.0 ± 0.1%. The thermal conductivity coefficient of fresh and frozen tropical fruits was determined experimentally and increased after freezing. Frozen avocado showed only a slight increase in thermal conductivity coefficient because of its low moisture content while frozen figs demonstrated a significant increase in the thermal conductivity coefficient – by 3.3 times. This product possessed the highest thermal conductivity: 0.63 ± 0.02 W/(m·K) for the fresh samples and 2.06 ± 0.02 W/(m·K) for the frozen samples. The thermal conductivity coefficient of kiwi and papaya increased by 2 and 4.2 times, respectively. The experiment also examined the effect of protective plastic wrap and ripeness on the thermal conductivity coefficient. The film proved to have a negative effect on the reliability of thermophysical analysis. The cryoscopic temperature was determined empirically. Such thermophysical properties as heat capacity, thermal diffusivity, and frozen moisture were based on the available chemical composition. Conclusion. The research revealed the physicochemical parameters of kiwi, avocado, papaya, and figs. It included a set of experiments on the thermal conductivity coefficient of fresh and frozen tropical fruits. The obtained values can be used to develop the optimal parameters of thermal processing, refrigeration, and thermal treatment of new products. They can also be useful for fortifying dairy and bakery products with exotic fruits.

Water scarcity is a major concern in agriculture worldwide. Fruit trees are severely affected by water deprivation in terms of growth, fruit yield, and quality. Plant monitoring combined with efficient irrigation is pivotal to achieve good quality standards and improve agricultural sustainability. This study reports the use of in vivo sensing technology to monitor fruit tree species continuously, in real time and in vivo, through an Organic Electrochemical Transistor (OECT)-based biosensor called Bioristor. The sensor was applied to grapevines, apples, and kiwis, revealing its capability to trace the plant water status for the whole productive cycle. A correlation between the sensor response index (R) and environmental parameters such as air humidity and temperature were recorded for fruit species. The day/night oscillation of the ionic content in the transpiration stream varies during plant growth and fruit maturation and during severe drought stress. Bioristor promptly detected the occurrence of drought stress. The gate current (Igs) trend supports the reduction in the saturation of the system due to the lower water availability. The use of Bioristor-acquired indices can be used to improve precision irrigation techniques according to the real plant needs.

Abstract Background Kiwi (Apteryx spp.) are flightless ratites from New Zealand whose numbers and distributions have declined following human arrival. Some of the kiwi species are known to hybridise but the extent of hybridization is unknown. Methods We reviewed hybridisation in kiwi (Apteryx spp.) and present new genetic data examining the extent of hybridisation between Rowi (A. rowi) and Little Spotted Kiwi (A. owenii) at Okarito, the location of the only remaining natural population of the threatened Rowi. We also genetically examined the syntype specimens of A. haastii Potts, 1872, collected from near Okarito in the 1870s, which have unusual morphologies. Results We found evidence of recurrent hybridisation between Rowi and Little Spotted Kiwi over the last 150 years, including one F1 hybrid found in the last 15 years, despite Little Spotted Kiwi’s likely extinction on the mainland in the 1970s. However, we found little evidence of introgression of Little Spotted Kiwi alleles into the extant Rowi population. The syntype specimens of A. haastii were also found to be hybrids between Little Spotted Kiwi and Rowi. Conclusions Our genetic analyses indicate that, although we detected multiple instances of hybridisation between Rowi and Little Spotted Kiwi, it does not appear to be an ongoing threat to Rowi. Because the syntype specimens of A. haastii are hybrids and therefore not representative of the prevailing usage of the name for the Great Spotted Kiwi (A. haastii), we resurrect the nomen oblitum A. maxima Sclater and Hochstetter, 1861 for the large spotted kiwi species.

Actinidia latifolia and Actinidia deliciosa (kiwifruit) are two species with many applications in food and medicine. They are capable of growing and developing in Lam Dong province and similar temperate climates. This study assesses the effect of three plant growth regulators (NAA, IBA, and IAA) on the root formation of Actinidia latifolia cuttings. At the same time, seed germination and the effect of various soil and coir mixtures on the growth of kiwifruit seedlings were tested in the nursery. The results for the Actinidia latifolia cuttings after 60 days showed that NAA and IBA at 1.00% concentration gave the best results, with a rooting percentage of 76.67%, number of roots/cutting of 3.91, and length of roots/cutting of 5.65 cm for NAA. For IBA at 1.00% concentration, the rooting percentage was 66.67%, the number of roots/cutting was 2.43, and the length of roots/cutting was 4.42 cm. When using IAA, the concentration of 1.50% brought the best results, with a rooting percentage of 66.67%, number of roots/cutting of 2.81, and length of roots/cutting of 4.34 cm. The germination percentage of kiwifruit reached 81.00% after 25 days. The best growth of Actinidia deliciosa seedlings was in a media mixture of 25.00% soil and 75.00% coconut coir, with survival percentage, height of seedlings, and number of leaves/seedling of 96.00%, 5.02 cm, and 7.17 leaves, respectively, after 45 days.

Fruit is a kind of plant food which is rich in nutrients and immune-regulating ingredients. A meta-analysis has demonstrated that fruits have a protective effects against asthma. On the other hand, clinical syndromes of allergic reactions to fruits manifest as an oral allergy syndrome. We aimed to investigate the patterns and associated factors of fruit allergen-specific IgE (sIgE) sensitization among patients with suspected clinical symptoms. Data were extracted from the Chang Gung Research Database. Fruit sensitization in Taiwan was evaluated using the presence of IgE antibodies against specific fruits. The overall prevalence of positive sIgE responses to fruit allergens in Taiwan, in order of decreasing importance, was pineapple, kiwi, banana, and papaya. Children aged 0–18 had a higher positive rate of allergic responses to pineapple, kiwi, banana, and papaya than adults over the age of 18. Positive specific IgE for kiwi, banana, or papaya was more frequent in younger than in older children and children with a higher total IgE of both logarithmic (log) and arithmetic values. The analysis of log IgE for pineapple positive vs. negative children determined an optimal cutoff value, log IgE 2.2, with both sensitivity (0.9) and specificity (0.5). Dermatitis was significantly more prevalent in children with positive IgE for pineapple, kiwi, banana, and papaya than negative specific IgE. The highest positive rate of sIgE against fruits was pineapple among children. Even in older children, the positive rate of pineapple allergens was high. IgE discriminates with and without sIgE for pineapple, with an optimal cutoff of 158.5 U/mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kiwifruit, a temperate plant, is becoming one of the most important crops in tropical regions with high altitudes in Limpopo Province, South Africa. During a survey on plant-parasitic nematodes in five kiwifruit orchards, eight nematode species were identified from the soil and root samples across the orchards in Limpopo Province. Out of the 75 soil samples, the most prevalent nematodes encountered were Helicotylenchus species, followed by Meloidogyne hapla and Scutellonema brachyurus, with 26.83, 17.07, and 9.76% frequency of occurrence, respectively. Prominence Values (PVs) of Helicotylenchus (2719.34), and Meloidogyne (2169.28) were higher when as compared to those of other plant-parasitic nematode species. The results indicated no significant correlation between the plant-parasitic nematode species associated with kiwi and pH. However, Ca% had a significant positive correlation with Nanidorus minor, Tylenchorhynchus, Scutellonema brachyurus, Xiphinema vuittenezi, M. hapla, and Paratylenchus straeleni. In contrast, Helicotylenchus dihystera and Ca% exhibited a significant negative correlation, but Ca% did not correlate with Rotylenchus brevicaudatus. Besides, soil density had no correlation with H. dihystera but a significant negative correlation with R. brevicaudatus. In conclusion, the high altitude-kiwifruit-producing regions suggested the existence of a considerable range of plant-parasitic nematodes, with the highest nematode diversity in Nooyenskopje orchards. Thereby suggests the need to assess the damage potential of the identified nematode species on kiwifruit trees. The attended management strategies for further studies are required to evaluate the crop damage caused by plant-parasitic nematodes on the kiwifruit orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2013 there was an outbreak of crusting ventral dermatitis among a group of juvenile rowi (Apteryx rowi), a species of the endangered New Zealand kiwi, that were being raised on an off-shore island sanctuary. Biopsies taken at the time found nematodes migrating within the epidermis of affected skin but the specific identity and origin of the organisms was not established, and sporadic cases of similar skin disease continue to occur on the island. On examination of additional sections from the original skin biopsies, adult nematodes and eggs were identified, the histomorphology of which was consistent with Capillaria sensu lato. PCR was performed on DNA extracted from archived formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue blocks of skin from eight affected rowi, using primers targeting the 18S region of nuclear ribosomal DNA and the COI gene of mitochondrial DNA of capillarid nematodes. The 18S sequences from all rowi samples were identical and matched sequences from members of the genus Eucoleus. In contrast, two distinct capillarid COI sequences were obtained, in one case both from the same rowi skin biopsy. While there were no close matches, both COI sequences also aligned nearest to sequences identified as Eucoleus spp. It is considered unlikely that two different nematode species are involved in the rowi skin lesions and the possible amplification of a COI pseudogene or “numt” is discussed. A species-level identification of the capillarid nematodes causing skin disease in rowi was not obtained, however based on histological evaluation the infections include reproductively-active adult nematodes. This finding indicates the possibility of perpetuation of the skin disease in the absence of the original source, as well as raising potential for the transfer of infection from the island when the juvenile rowi are translocated to their new habitats.

Identification of allergen proteins by using wet-lab technology is a time-consuming and also costly process. In recent years, thanks to the developments in the field of bioinformatics, it is now possible to estimate the allergen proteins by using in silico tools. In the present study, it is aimed to find kiwellin-like proteins from different fruits samples by using bioinformatics tools. According to the results of the study, six proteins from Corchorus olitorius, Cucumis sativus, Capsicum chinense, Carica papaya, Morus notabilis and Jatropha curcas were defined as the allergens. In conclusion, in silico tools developed under the field of bioinformatics can provide a big contribution to the estimation of unknown allergen proteins in different fruits. Based on the in silico results, physicians can suggest people who have allergenicity to kiwellin not to consume the fruits that contain kiwellin-like proteins.

This paper contains theoretical and practical information that has allowed the experimental setup of an effective working protocol for obtaining food sprouts in peas (Pisum sativum L.), as well as obtaining mango (Mangifera indica L.) or kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa) sorbet. In order to create a new product, mango or kiwi sorbet were combined with pea sprouts. The experimental results obtained after performing a sensory analysis of the final products, as well as an online questionnaire filled by the panelists are presented in the paper based on charts, which are demonstrating the influence of pea sprouts on consumers preferences and its purchasing behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sliced fruits (apple and kiwi) were dried under atmospheric freeze-drying (AFD) and/or low-temperature drying (LTD) conditions, and the drying kinetics, resultant degree of shrinkage, and vitamin C retention were evaluated. The air temperature programs were set in the range of −20 to 10 °C, and the impact of the sub-zero temperature setting was investigated. As expected, shortening the sub-zero temperature time and increasing the air temperature led to a shorter total drying time. Notably, the application of freezing had an effect to reduce the drying time. The application of the LTD condition without freezing significantly increased the total drying time compared with that of the drying condition with freezing. When the temperature was increased stepwise from −20 to 10 °C, the total drying time was effectively reduced when the sub-zero temperature was maintained for a relatively long time. This was the most practical drying program for maintaining product quality. It was found that drying at sub-zero temperatures has advantages in reducing product shrinkage; however, the impact was not remarkable. The application of sub-zero temperature conditions was advantageous for vitamin C retention for both apple and kiwi drying. However, if the negative effect of freezing on quality is significant, simple LTD conditions may be a good compromise for balancing total drying time and product quality.

Periods of transition between phenological phases in different kiwi plant varieties: one of the most widely grown fruits today, kiwis are grown extensively in many subtropical and temperate nations. Kiwi farming has recently piqued the curiosity of many fruit producers and landowners in our nation. In order to study the morpho-biological traits of the growth and development of these fruit plant varieties in the soil and climate conditions of Uzbekistan and to scientifically support the possibilities of establishing industrial kiwi gardens on this basis, it is necessary to conduct special scientific research on this plant. In the article, the duration of phenological phases of Kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa (A.Chev.)) varieties Hayward, Monty, Bruno, and pollinator Matua were observed in the climatic conditions of Tashkent region at the Extension center of Tashkent State Agrarian University in Uzbekistan. The sum of active temperatures above 10 °C was calculated for the growth phases of kiwifruit cultivars.

Kiwi is one of the best natural sources of vitamin C and has wide applications. During October–November 2021, small brown spots were examined on the Kiwi leaves. The diseased leaf samples were collected and placed on potato dextrose agar nutrient media for diagnosis. Morphological, anatomical, and molecular studies revealed this disease-causing agent to be Rhizopus oryzae. Molecular characterizations of the isolated pathogen were performed by using actin translation elongation factor (EF-1α) and ribosomal deoxyribose nucleotide inter transcribed sequence (rDNA ITS ITS1/ITS4) and elongation factors (EFl-F/EFl-R) primers. A BLAST study of the resultant ITS1/ITS4 sequence showed > 99% resemblance with R. oryzae (MT603964.1), while the EF-1α sequence revealed 100% similarity with translation elongation factor-1α gene of R. oryzae (MK510718.1). The obtained ITS1/ITS4 sequence was submitted to NCBI (MW603842.1). Koch’s postulates established the pathogenicity of isolated R. oryzae and proved it to be the brown spot pathogen of Kiwi. For the environmentally-friendly management of Kiwi leaf spot, maize biochar-Zinc Oxide (MB-ZnO) nanocomposite was used. The prepared nanocomposite was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, thermo gravitational analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis. After successful preparation, MB-ZnO was assessed for its possible antifungal potential against R. oryzae. MB-ZnO displayed substantial growth inhibition, and the highest growth inhibition (79%) was observed at a 19 mg/mL dose rate of nanoparticles. These excellent findings propose that Ball-milled synthesis is a fast, economical, and environmentally friendly method for nanocomposite in the near future. The nanocomposite is used as a nominal substitute for chemical fungicides.