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In pregnant women, the Energy-adjusted Dietary Inflammatory Index (E-DII) is adopted to measure the inflammatory potential of the diet, but it does not predict the quality of the diet. Our hypothesis is that a more pro-inflammatory diet during pregnancy is also a poorer quality diet. Thus, the objective of this study is to verify the association of the E-DII with the Diet Quality Index Adapted for Pregnancy (DQI-P) and the nutrient intake from the diet in terms of the second and third gestational trimesters. This is a cross-sectional study that took place in Brazil (2018–2019), with eligible adult women up to 72 hours' postpartum and in good health. Socioeconomic, gestational, anthropometric, and food consumption data were collected, enabling the calculation of E-DII, DQI-P, and nutrient intake. The sample (n = 260) had a median E-DII of 0.04 (–1.30 to 1.90) and DQI-P of 68.82 (18.82–98.22). There was no relevant difference between E-DII tertiles by sociodemographic, gestational, and anthropometric characteristics. The E-DII and the DQI-P showed agreement (55.7%) and inverse correlation (r = –0.53; P <.001). Each 1-unit increase in DQI-P, iron, iodine, magnesium, pyridoxine, and vitamin E decreased the E-DII score (P <.05). An increase of 1 unit in protein, saturated fatty acids, and vitamin C increased the E-DII score (P <.05). Thus, the results suggest that the E-DII can predict diet quality during pregnancy, with the added benefit of measuring the inflammatory potential of the diet. In a cross-sectional study with Brazilian pregnant women (n = 260), we found that the E-DII and the DQI-P showed concordance and inverse correlation. Increasing DQI-P, iron, iodine, Mg, and vitamins B 6 and E decreased E-DII. The opposite occurred for PTN, SFA, and vitamin C. Image source: Canva/Flaticon. Abbreviations: B 6 , pyridoxine; DQI-P, Diet Quality Index Adapted for Pregnancy; E-DII, Energy-adjusted Dietary Inflammatory Index; Mg, magnesium; PTN, proteins; SFA, saturated fatty acids. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus orchards in northeastern Brazil are mostly rainfed and comprised basically of 'Pera CNPMF D6' sweet orange budded on 'Rangpur' lime, for the drought tolerance and productivity imparted by this rootstock. Therefore, the selection of new varieties is needed to broaden the genetic basis of citrus cultivated in this region. Accordingly, this study compared vegetative, productive, and fruit quality traits of eight sweet orange scions grafted on 'Rangpur' lime over eleven years under the tropical rainfed conditions of northeastern Brazil. 'Kona' trees excelled in yield performance associated with bulk canopy, precocity, sweet fruit with intermediate acidity, and high vitamin C contents in spite of proneness to alternate yields and low ratio (maturity index). 'Valencia Montemorelos' and 'Rubi' trees, in turn, had high yield performances coupled with intermediate canopies, sweet fruit, intermediate acidity ('Rubi') and vitamin C contents, low propensity for yield fluctuation ('Valencia Montemorelos'), and high precocity ('Rubi'), albeit low ratio. Overall, our results emphasize 'Kona,' 'Valencia Montemorelos,' and 'Rubi' as superior sweet orange varieties for diversification of tropical rainfed orchards for their outstanding yield performance and good fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pitaya, originally from Central America, has in recent years become one of the most produced and commercialized tropical fruits across the Brazilian Cerrado small scale commercial family farms. However, despite the economic value, production in Brazil is still incipient. The same is true of the fruit's nutritional value information. In this study, a throughput physical-chemical analysis with emphasis on the antioxidant potential and the identification of volatile compounds, of pitaya fruits at different ripening stages was conducted. Results showed that vitamin C variables, total phenolics, and total antioxidant activity had their values significantly reduced across ripening stages. In total, 12 volatile compounds were detected in the flesh of pitaya, of which, esters appeared to be more expressive, followed by aldehydes and alcohols. The ripe pulp of the fruit can be characterized as having a low caloric value, in addition to significant levels of potassium, magnesium, calcium, sodium and iron. Thus, pitaya has potential for use in the food industry, in addition to being nutritionally rich, and can effectively contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases and in the human diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is sensitive to the salinity of water and soil, a common abiotic stress in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil; however, such sensitivity is variable with water management in the soil-plantatmosphere system. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the fertilization with nitrogen-potassium combinations in okra cultivated under salt stress. Photosynthetic pigments, gas exchange, growth and fruit quality were evaluated. Fertilization with N1:K1 (40% N + 40% K2O) reduced the damage caused by salt stress and increased the chlorophyll contents, while the application of N4:K4 (130% N + 100% K2O) decreased the damage caused by salt stress and increased the carotenoid contents. The combination of N:K fertilization did not affect gas exchange, however, salt stress decreased these variables. Fertilization with N2:K2 (70% N + 60% K2O) reduced the damage caused by salt stress and increased the leaf area of okra. In addition, salt stress decreased the number of fruits and increased the fresh mass of okra fruits. The N:K fertilization also reduced the damage caused by salt stress and in the soluble solids content, titratable acidity, SS/TA ratio, and ascorbic acid content. Thus, N:K fertilization can be seen as an important agronomic strategy to improve the performance of okra quality subjected to saline conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unlike most animals, most bats cannot synthesize vitamin C endogenously. Consequently, this vitamin must be obtained from the diet. Among the bat species, there are several food groups, such as frugivorous, nectarivorous, insectivorous, and hematophagous. In this work, we measured and compared vitamin C levels in different organs of four species of bats, all collected in southern Brazil. When analyzing and comparing the levels of vitamin C in the four bat species, (regardless of the organ), no significant differences were observed. However, when analyzing and comparing the levels of vitamin C in the four organs (regardless of the species), significant differences were observed, with the highest concentrations in the heart, followed by the liver and brain, while the lowest concentration was measured in the kidneys. Additional differences in the levels of Vitamin C were only observed when each organ was analyzed according to the species/diet. These results indicate a high degree of metabolic homeostasis in bats despite the marked difference in the type of diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underused crops have been expanding in the market due to their nutritional and antioxidant characteristics. Lulo, or naranjilla, can be considered an underused crop because it is grown on a small scale in Colombia and has high nutritional value. The edaphoclimatic conditions of cultivation of this fruit can influence its post-harvest characteristics. Thus, the objective of the work was to evaluate the antioxidant activity and the physicochemical characteristics of lulo fruit obtained from cultivation in Brazil. The post-harvest variables analyzed were antioxidant activity by ABTS, DPPH, FRAP methods, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, lycopene, β-carotene, ascorbic acid, and physicochemical characteristics of acidity, soluble solids, and ratio. Twenty replicates were used for each variable, including three replicates for antioxidant analyses and two replicates for carotenoids; each replicate consisted of one fruit. The mean and standard deviation were calculated. The FRAP antioxidant activity method showed 81.40 mg Ferrous Sulfate g-1 (dry mass), ABTS 57.00 mg Trolox g-1 (dry mass) and DPPH 14.40 mg Trolox g-1 (dry mass). The flavonoids contents were 1.00 mg Quercetin g-1 (dry mass), which is considered low. Lulo fruit showed to be a good source of β-carotene (7.00 mg 100 g-1), lycopene (3.57 mg 100 g-1) and ascorbic acid (57.71 mg 100 g-1). The fruit is acidic (2.29 g Citric Acid 100 mL-1), with low soluble solids content (5.12%) and low ratio (2.25). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jambolan is a fruit with a sweet taste, slightly bitter and astringent, with a purple color. Acerola is a popular fruit in Brazil, rich in vitamin C. Both stand out for the high content of antioxidant compounds, whose importance has generated growing interest. In view of this, the present work was carried out with the objective of elaborating formulations with the mixed pulp of jambolan and acerola, incorporating foam promoting additives for drying by the foam-mat drying method and evaluating them for the beat time, density, volumetric expansion (overrun) and foam stability according to the beat time and physicochemical characteristics. Three formulations were made with the mixed pulp, all containing 1% albumin combined with 0.5% xanthan gum, 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose and 0.5% guar gum. The formulations were analyzed for stability, density, volumetric expansion, beating time, between 5 and 30 minutes, layer thickness, water content and volume drained at temperatures of 50 to 80 ºC. All the elaborated foams were suitable for drying by the foam-mat process; the best results of density, beating time, overrun, stability (volume drained), drying time and yield were obtained with the albumin/guar gum combination, followed by albumin/CMC; the incorporation of additives and the foaming mixture changed the composition of the formulations in relation to the mixed pulp (control), increasing the TSS/TTA ratio, the protein content and reducing the levels of ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids and carotenoids, yield, shorter drying time, water content in dry base and wet base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jambolan is a fruit with a sweet taste, slightly bitter and astringent, with a purple color. Acerola is a popular fruit in Brazil, rich in vitamin C. Both stand out for the high content of antioxidant compounds, whose importance has generated growing interest. In view of this, the present work was carried out with the objective of elaborating formulations with the mixed pulp of jambolan and acerola, incorporating foam promoting additives for drying by the foam-mat drying method and evaluating them for the beat time, density, volumetric expansion (overrun) and foam stability according to the beat time and physicochemical characteristics. Three formulations were made with the mixed pulp, all containing 1% albumin combined with 0.5% xanthan gum, 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose and 0.5% guar gum. The formulations were analyzed for stability, density, volumetric expansion, beating time, between 5 and 30 minutes, layer thickness, water content and volume drained at temperatures of 50 to 80 ºC. All the elaborated foams were suitable for drying by the foam-mat process; the best results of density, beating time, overrun, stability (volume drained), drying time and yield were obtained with the albumin/guar gum combination, followed by albumin/CMC; the incorporation of additives and the foaming mixture changed the composition of the formulations in relation to the mixed pulp (control), increasing the TSS/TTA ratio, the protein content and reducing the levels of ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids and carotenoids, yield, shorter drying time, water content in dry base and wet base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spondias tuberosa is a tree fruit native to the Caatinga biome in Brazil whose fruits (umbu) are usually consumed fresh, in regional recipes or in the form of pulp. Grown in Brazilian low-income regions, S. tuberosa fruits present high sociocultural importance in the Semiarid region of Brazil, acting as a source of livelihood for various family groups in these regions. In this sense, the aim of this work was to develop an integrative review of the nutritional and biological attributes of S. tuberosa fruits using a systematic approach. We searched on four databases: CABI, Pubmed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Twenty-four studies were included after the review protocol was applied. The results showed that umbu exhibits low carbohydrate and protein content, varying according to the maturation stage and fruit part. Both the pulp and peel of umbu presented low lipid content whereas the highest lipid content was found in the seeds, which also presented the highest fiber content. The fruits presented considerable amounts of vitamin C and minerals. Bioactive phenolic compounds and carotenoids are concentrated mainly in the fruit peel and seeds. The studies presented promising findings, which reinforce the importance of considering the consumption of this fruit due to its potential for health benefits and increase of its socioeconomic value. • Umbu (Spondias tuberosa) is a fruit native from Brazilian semi-arid (Caatinga). • Low concentration of carbohydrates and lipids are found in Spondias tuberosa. • High concentrations of dietary fiber and minerals are found in Spondias tuberosa. • The fruit's peel presents high carotenoid concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Refrigeration and coating of active biopolymers are two potential approaches to extending the shelf life of fresh fruits. Thus, the aim of this study was to test the influence of storage temperature (5 and 10 °C ± 1 °C) and whey concentration (edible coating), on functional, physical-chemical and microbiological characteristics of acerola stored for 12 days. Edible coatings were produced using whey (30% and 60%) and glycerol. Samples were compared to a control (no coating), during storage at both temperatures. Storage at 10 °C improved the maintenance of the acerola colour, while storage at 5 °C increased the stability of vitamin C and decreased microbial growth (p =0.05). The application of edible coating reduced the total colour variation and degradation (a*) at both temperatures. The concentration of whey influenced significantly (p=0.05) on the vitamin C content (A10-60), and on the mesophilic (A5-60 and A10-60) and psychrotrophic bacteria (A10-60) counts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acerola (Malpighia emarginata DC.) is one of the most important fruit produced in the São Francisco Valley, a Semi-arid region in the Northeast of Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical quality of thirty-five acerola genotypes produced during two growing seasons in a Semi-arid region and to identify the best ones with potential for fresh consumption based on a multivariate selection index. Fruit of each genotype were harvested during two growing seasons at the maturity stage red-ripe, characterized by full red skin color. After harvest, the fruit were evaluated for diameter, mass, flesh firmness, soluble solids (SS), titratable acidity (TA), SS/TA ratio, ascorbic acid content and skin color. A multivariate selection index (SI) was applied for scoring and ranking the genotypes for fresh consumption based on red-ripe fruit physicochemical quality. According to the results, all physicochemical attributes had high variability among genotypes. The SI was a powerful tool for identifying genotypes with high potential for fresh consumption, since it allowed selecting genotypes with multiple desirable traits. In the first and second growing seasons, the SI identified the genotypes PROG 052 (SI = 76.1 and 78.9), BRS Rubra (SI = 74.1 and 99.5), Cabocla (SI = 72.3 and 70.7), Costa Rica (SI = 61.2 and 73.8) and PROG 069 (SI = 68.1 and 72.4) as the most promising ones for fresh consumption due to the presence of multiple desirable traits such as high diameter, mass, flesh firmness, SS, and SS/AT ratio, as well as lower acidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Caçari is a fruit tree that is native to the Amazon region of Brazil. The fruit is considered to have the highest vitamin C content of any edible fruit (13.757 mg 100 g-1 dry weight). The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of 2,4-D and 6-BAP alone or in combination on in vitro callus induction and pro-embryogenic mass formation in caçari stem segments in different culture media as a precursor for caçari micropropagation. The experiment consisted of two culture media (MS and WPM) and combinations of four concentrations of 2,4-D (0, 1, 2 and 4 mg L-1) and BAP (0, 0.25, 0.5 and 1 mg L-1). The results showed that the highest percentage of callus formation (99%) was obtained in WPM supplemented with 4 mg L-1, 2,4-D and 1 mg L-1 BAP, and this combination resulted in 93% pro-embryogenic mass formation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pineapple (Ananas comosus L.), originally from South America, is the third most produced fruit in Brazil. The potassium nutrient plays a fundamental role on the fruit quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of potassium doses applied to the soil on fruit yield and on the physical and chemical characteristics of the Pérola pineapple cultivar. The design used randomized block design with four repetitions; the treatments consisted of five doses of K2O: 0; 222; 444; 666 and 888 kg ha−1 applied in the form of potassium chloride, divided into two applications, after floral induction. The evaluated variables were: fruit yield per hectare and pulp, fruit and crown fresh mass, fruit diameter, fruit and crown lengths, titratable acidity, soluble solids, vitamin C, juice pH and soluble solids/titratable acidity ratio. Potassic fertilization increased the yield of both fruit and pulp per hectare, the fruit and crown fresh mass, the diameter of the fruit, the lengths of the fruit and crown, titratable acidity, soluble solids, vitamin C and decreased the ratio of soluble solids to titratable acidity in the juice. The rise in potassium nutrition improves the quality and yield aspects of the pineapple 'Pérola' fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Pera' orange is a scion variety widely grown in commercial orchards of various citrus-producing regions in Brazil due to the good acceptance of its fruits by the consumer market, both for fresh consumption and industrial processing. The development of clones or selections occurs by genetic mutations within genetic improvement studies with the different varieties, consisting of the selection of plants with superior quality and production characteristics to the variety of origin. In this perspective, this study aimed to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics of four 'Pera' orange selections ('D9', 'D12', 'D25', and 'C21') grafted on two rootstocks (Rangpur lime (Citrus limonia Osbeck) and 'Volkamer' lemon (Citrus volkameriana Tan. and Pasq.), under the semi-arid conditions of the São Francisco Valley, Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized, in a 4 x 2 factorial arrangement, with the first factor corresponding to the orange selections ('Pera D9', 'Pera D12', 'Pera D25', and 'Pera C21') and the second factor corresponding to the Rangpur lime and 'Volkamer' lemon rootstocks, using five replications of 10 fruits. The physical characteristics evaluated were: fruit mass (g), diameter, and length (mm); fruit firmness (Lb), peel thickness (mm), number of seeds, and juice yield (%). The chemical parameters were determined through the contents of vitamin C, soluble solids (°Brix), and titratable acidity (g of citric acid 100 mL-1), also calculating the maturation index (SS/TA ratio). The interaction between rootstock varieties and orange scions (selections) induced differences in the physical and chemical attributes of fruits, with the Rangpur lime rootstock inducing better fruits for the orange selection 'Pera D-9', which showed the highest values of fruit mass and diameter, associated with thicker peels, lower soluble solids content, lower acidity, and higher vitamin C content, while inducing higher values of fruit length and soluble solids content in the fruits of the orange selection 'Pera C-21', and lower number of seeds and higher juice yield for the orange selection 'Pera D-12'. Based on these results, under these conditions, the physical and chemical characteristics observed in the fruits of the 'Pera' orange selections meet the standards required by the market of fresh fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant activity of and the content of bioactive compounds in camu-camu fruits harvested at different maturation stages and stored. The fruits were harvested in the municipality of Cantá, Roraima State, Brazil. The experimental design was completely randomized, with three replications, in a factorial arrangement consisting of three different maturation stages (immature, semi-mature and mature) and eight days of storage (3 x 8). The fruits were analysed every day regarding total vitamin C, carotenoids, anthocyanins, flavonoids, total phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activity (FRAP and DPPH). According to the results obtained, the interaction of maturation stages x eight days of storage had a significant effect according to the F test at 5% probability. The highest antioxidant activity (FRAP) was observed in the fruits harvested in the semi-mature stage, providing a longer shelf life. The carotenoid pigment, flavonoid, anthocyanin, and vitamin C contents were higher in the fruits harvested in the mature stage, and this stage was the most suitable for obtaining these functional biocompounds. Additionally, in mature fruits, the highest mean content of total phenolics and antioxidant activity (DPPH) were observed during storage. It was concluded that the mature stage is the most recommended for the extraction of pigments and antioxidant biocompounds from camu-camu fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the relative validity of a FFQ developed for the Pelotas Birth Cohort Studies.Design: Participants completed a ninety-two-food-item FFQ and then answered two 24-h recalls (24HR), one in-person interview and a second one by telephone, administered 14-28 d apart. Median and relative differences of energy, fifteen nutrients and eleven food groups were estimated based on the FFQ and the average of two 24HR. Nutrients were log-transformed and energy-adjusted using residual method. Validity was assessed by crude, energy-adjusted and de-attenuated Pearson and Lin's concordance correlation coefficients. Agreement of quartiles and weighted κ were performed. Differences in energy and nutrient estimations between methods were plotted in Bland-Altman graphs.Setting: Pelotas, southern Brazil.Participants: Two hundred fifty-four participants randomly selected from the 1993 Pelotas Birth Cohort during the 22-year follow-up (2015).Results: The FFQ overestimated energy and most nutrients and food groups compared with the two 24HR. Energy-adjusted and de-attenuated Pearson correlation coefficients ranged from 0·21 to 0·66. The highest energy-adjusted and de-attenuated concordance correlation coefficients were observed for Ca (0·48), niacin (0·32), Na (0·29), vitamin C (0·28) and riboflavin (0·25). The percentage of nutrients classified into the same and opposite quartiles ranged from 36·5 to 60·3 %, and from 4·8 to 19·1 %, respectively. Weighted κ was moderate for Ca (0·51), beans and legumes (0·50) and milk and dairies (0·49).Conclusions: The FFQ provides a reasonable dietary intake assessment for habitual food consumption. However, the relative validity was weak for specific nutrients and food groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Centralizing chemical composition data for biodiverse foods is an important strategy in promoting their consumption. To support this strategy, a dataset of foods based on Brazilian biodiversity was created. The set was based on data for foods produced or commercialized in Brazil; these data were previously compiled for the Brazilian Food Composition Table (TBCA), according to international guidelines. Inclusion criteria were based on the following indicators: (i) foods with description below species level; (ii) wild foods; and (iii) underutilized foods. The dataset contains 1,305 food entries, and the majority correspond to raw plant foods. Nutrient content in foods identified below species level exhibited a wide range of values. Underutilized foods presented similar or higher selected nutrient contents than commonly consumed foods. For instance, depending on the cultivar of sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas), vitamin A content ranged from a negligible amount to high content (0.33‐ to 3,637‐μg retinol equivalents per 100‐g edible portion on a fresh weight basis [EP]). Camu‐camu (Myrciaria dubia), a fruit from Amazon, was identified as the richest source of vitamin C (2,300 mg of ascorbic acid per 100‐g EP), corresponding to 48‐fold the content of orange. The dataset provides evidence to promote nutrient‐rich foods that may be integrated into more effective programmes and policies on nutrition and food security in Brazil. It can be accessed online, free of charge on the TBCA platform. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Petit‐Suisse goat cheese with multifunctional properties associated with acerola pulp and a potentially probiotic autochthonous strain of Lactobacillus plantarum were developed. The effect of incorporating acerola pulp into the cheese on the viability and survival of Lb. plantarum to in vitro gastrointestinal conditions, antioxidant capacity, and sensory features were studied. The freeze‐dried culture of Lb. plantarum exhibited high viability (8.34 log CFU/g), which remained above 8 log CFU/g in the cheeses. Acerola pulp incorporation did not affect in vitro survival of the probiotic (73% at 14 days), and enriched the Petit‐Suisse cheese with antioxidant compounds, increasing concentrations of ascorbic acid, and polyphenols (up to 132.73 mg.100/g and 255.08 mg.100/g, respectively), and EC50 values of DPPH● and ABTS●+ (up to 6,331.74 g/g DPPH● and 7.91 µM Trolox/g, respectively). The cheese showed high sensory acceptance. Practical applications: Petit‐Suisse cheese flavored added by acerola pulp is promising as a multifuncional food product. The use of acerola pulp is an interesting option, as the fruit is well accepted and Brazil is one of the largest producers in the world. In this study, acerola pulp (10%) and potentially probiotic Lb. plantarum CNPC003 were used to develop Petit‐Suisse goat cheese. The effect of acerola pulp on physicochemical, probiotic, and antioxidant properties were evaluated. Acerola pulp can provide remarkable antioxidant activity without affecting the viability and in vitro survival of the potentially probiotic strain, indicating that the developed cheese may have dual function of antioxidant and probiotic potential, thus making it more attractive to consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The skin is the largest and most exposed organ of the human body, therefore subject to diseases and alteration of its appearance. Among these alterations, the cutaneous hyperchromia may be cited. Currently, the market offers numerous products with depigmenting action to the treatment of such disorders. The aim of this work was to analyze depigmenting products commercialized in establishments in the city of Bento Gonçalves (RS, Brazil) and websites of cosmetic companies. It was found 45 products with depigmenting action and, from these, 59 different active agents were identified. The main active compounds found were kojic acid, arbutin, ascorbic acid, hydroquinone and glycolic acid. Another observed data was that in 78% of the studied products the active substances were being used in combination. The most used vehicles were also studied as a reference to the use of sunscreen in the treatment of cutaneous hyperchromia. The present work had identified in the market a variety of products with depigmentation action and, because of this, it aims to serve as a reference to the healthcare professionals, especially at the prescribing moment, looking for the best results, with regards to treatment efficiency and safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of frozen fruit pulp is an agroindustrial activity that has become an important segment of the productive chain, favoring fruit consumption and guaranteeing the use of the surplus produced. However, despite the considerable increase of this production, it is still possible to find pulps with changes in their physico-chemical characteristics, due to problems associated with the lack of processing and/or storage. In view of this, the objective of this work was to perform the chemical characterization of the main frozen fruit pulps marketed in the southwestern region of Piauí, in view of their adequacy to the standards of identity and quality (PIQ) established by the legislation. The selection of pulps was carried out based on research in the retail trade in the city of Bom Jesus (Piauí, Brazil), to which the pulps of acerola, cashew, guava and mango were selected. The analyzed parameters were: soluble solids (SS), total acidity (AT), pH and total vitamin C. The values of SS/AT in the pulps of acerola, cashew, guava and mango were 5.2°/1.02%, 8.2°/0.45%, 4.8°/0.2% and 11°/0.51%, respectively. The pH in the pulps of acerola (3.0) and cashew (3.8) followed the legislation, while guava (2.72) and mango (3.1) were characterized below that proposed by legislation. When at vitamin C content, the acerola pulps 1015.42 mg 100 g-1, cashew 152.42 mg.100 g-1, guava 29.0 mg 100 g-1 and mango 82.02 mg 100 g-1 were as required in legislation. From the results obtained, it can be concluded that some parameters do not meet the minimum required by the legislation, being necessary to adapt them to reach a production of quality fruit pulps, through the adoption of Good Manufacturing Practices and standardization of raw materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to identify and evaluate the bioactive compounds, as well as the antioxidant potential, present in mature fruits of cambuizeiro (Myrcia multiflora) from the Chapada do Araripe, Brazil. In the fruits were evaluated: vitamin C, total anthocyanins, yellow flavonoids, total polyphenols, total antioxidant activity by the FRAP, DPPH and ABTS methods, and the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activity. Cambui had an average vitamin C content of 56.40 mg/100 g, 2869.44 mg/100 g total anthocyanins 2858.50 mg/100 g yellow flavonoids and 1007.64 mg EAG/100 g of total polyphenols. While the total antioxidant activity according to FRAP method was 123.94 µM ferrous sulphate/g, DPPH was 1805.66 g/g EC50, and ABTS was 32.62 µM trolox/g. The enzymatic activity of SOD was 846,203 AU/g, while CAT did not read. These results indicate that the mature fruits of cambuizeiro present high antioxidant potential, corroborating to the idea that their consumption may result in benefits to human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Importance of non-conventional edible plants in food security. • Identification of carotenoids, vitamins, and minerals in non-conventional plants. • A. spinosus leaves were shown to be sources of minerals, fibers, and β-carotene. • C. benghalensis were shown to be sources of minerals, ascorbic acid, and β-carotene. Caruru (Amaranthus spinosus L) and trapoeraba (Commelina benghalensis) are NCEPs introduced into Brazil and are widely used by certain communities. Given the lack of information on carotenoids, vitamins, and minerals present in A. spinosus and C. benghalensis grown in Brazil, this study aimed to determine the proximate composition and the micronutrient profile of these two NCEPs obtained from family farming in the Middle Doce River (Médio Rio Doce) region in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The proximate composition was evaluated using AOAC methods, vitamin E by HPLC with fluorescence detection, vitamin C and carotenoids by HPLC-DAD, and minerals by atomic emission spectrometry with inductively coupled plasma. In summary, the leaves of A. spinosus exhibited a high content of dietary fiber (10.20 g.100 g−1), potassium (708.8 mg·100 g−1), iron (4.0 mg·100 g−1) and β-carotene (6.94 mg·100 g−1), while the leaves of C. benghalensis were sources of potassium (1399.31 mg·100 g−1), iron (5.7 mg·100 g−1), calcium (163 mg·100 g−1), zinc (1.3 mg·100 g−1), ascorbic acid (23.61 mg·100 g−1), and β-carotene (31.33 mg·100 g−1). It was therefore concluded that C. benghalensis and A. spinosus , especially, presented excellent potential as important nutritional sources for human consumption, highlighting the gap existing between the available technical and scientific material, thus making them an important and necessary axis of research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propolis is a complex bioactive mixture produced by bees, known to have different biological activities, especially in countries where there is a rich biodiversity of plant species. The objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition and evaluate the antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of Brazilian propolis from the species Plebeia droryana and Apis mellifera found in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. In the ethanolic extracts of P. droryana propolis (ExEP-P) and A. mellifera (ExEP-A) acids, phenolic compounds, terpenes and tocopherol were identified as major compounds. Both extracts presented antioxidant activity against the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical, the maximum activities being 500 μg/mL (ExEP-P) and 300 μg/mL (ExEP-A). However, only ExEP-A was able to inhibit lipid peroxidation induced by the oxidizing agent 2,2'-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH), which inhibited oxidative hemolysis and reduced the levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) in human erythrocytes for 4 h of incubation. The extracts also reduced the cell viability of the K562 erythroleukemia tumour line, with a predominance of necrotic death. Thus, it is concluded that the propolis produced by P. droryana and A. mellifera contain important compounds capable of minimizing the action of oxidizing substances in the organism and reducing the viability of erythroleukemia cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoid and ascorbic acid content was determined in peppers of two red cultivars and three yellow lineages of “Jalapeño” ( Capsicum annuum L.) plus a “sweet red biquinho” and a “red bode” cultivar ( C. chinense Jacquin) from the Brazilian Breeding Program. Capsanthin (68 ± 3 to 177 ± 2 μg/g) was found to be the main carotenoid in the red peppers, and violaxanthin (34 ± 3 to 100 ± 17 μg/g) was the main carotenoid in the yellow jalapeño peppers. Red jalapeño peppers grown in the field (in summer) showed higher zeaxanthin (29 ± 0 and 31 ± 2 μg/g), β-cryptoxanthin (11 ± 1 and 7 ± 0 μg/g), provitamin A (161 ± 2 and 81 ± 2 μg/g) and ascorbic acid (132 ± 2 and 129 ± 2 μg/g) than peppers grown in the greenhouse. Peppers of one yellow jalapeño lineage ( C. annuum ) and of the red “bode” cultivar ( C. chinense ) also stood out for their very high levels of zeaxanthin (36 ± 6 and 53 ± 7 μg/g), besides nutritional compounds, provitamin A (222 ± 17 and 299 ± 32 retinol activity equivalents/100 g) and vitamin C (152 ± 5 and 123 ± 1 mg/100 g). These results indicate that the selected peppers presented compounds that are beneficial for human health and that they could be used in the Brazilian pepper breeding programs to develop new commercial hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress aggravates several long-term complications in diabetes mellitus. We evaluated the effectiveness of the oral administration of antioxidants (vitamins E and C, 40 and 100 mg/kg b.w., respectively) on skin wound healing acceleration in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Mice were wounded 30 days after the induction of diabetes. Antioxidants were effective in preventing oxidative stress, as assessed by TBARS. The enzymes catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, and superoxide dismutase were increased in diabetics on the 3rd day post-wounding; catalase and glutathione peroxidase remained still augmented in diabetics after 14th day postwounding, and the treatment with vitamins restored their activities to control. After 3 days, diabetic mice showed lower infiltration of inflammatory cells (including CD11b+ and Ly6G+ cells) and reduced levels of KC, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-12 p40 when compared with control mice. The treatment restored cytokine levels. After 14 days, diabetic mice showed late wound closure, persistent inflammation and delayed reepithelialization, accompanied by an increase in MIG+/CD206− macrophages whereas CD206+/MIG− macrophages were decreased. Cytokines IL-12p40, TNF-α, IL-1β, and KC were increased and normal levels were restored after treatment with antioxidants. These results suggest that oxidative stress plays a major role in diabetic wound healing impairment and the oral administration of antioxidants improves healing by modulating inflammation and the antioxidant system with no effect on glycemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) seems to be associated with reducing risk of diseases. However, data about the influence of the DTAC on oxidative stress parameters are scarce. The aim of this study was to estimate the DTAC and its influence on plasma total antioxidant capacity (PTAC), and damage to lipids, proteins and DNA in healthy women. It was found a positive correlation between DTAC and PTAC in young and healthy subjects, where presumably the endogenous defenses are fully functional. DTAC and PTAC were positively correlated with the intake of known antioxidants, including vitamin C and polyphenols. The DTAC exhibited a negative correlation with lipid oxidative damage, while PTAC showed a negative correlation with DNA damage. This data contributes to better understanding of the recommended dietary antioxidant intake for promoting health. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of extracts from aracá ( Psidium cattleianum ), butiá ( Butia eriospatha ), and pitanga ( Eugenia uniflora ) fruits with different flesh colors (i.e., purple, red, and orange), and blackberries ( Rubussp. ;cv.Xavante and Cherokee)collected in the southern region of Brazil.Thecontentof ascorbic acid, total carotenoids, and phenolics were determined. The profile of the phenolic compounds wasassessedbyhigh-performance liquid chromatography combined with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). The antioxidant activity was determined using the ferric- reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay, 2,2-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl hydrate (DPPH) assay, total reactive antioxidant potential(TRAP) assay,and total antioxidantreactivity (TAR) assay. The Xavante blackberry and purple-fleshed pitanga showed the highest total phenolic content [816.50 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100g and 799.80 mg GAE/100g, respectively]. The aracá and red-fleshed pitanga showed the highest carotenoid content (6.27 ug β -caro- tene/g and 5.86 ug β-carotene/g, respectively). The fruits contained several phenolic com- pounds such as quercetin derivatives, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, and cyanidin derivatives, which may contribute differentially to the antioxidant capacity. The highest scavenging activityintheDPPHassaywasfoundforpurple-fleshedpitanga(IC50 36.78mg/L),blackberries [IC50 44.70 (Xavante) and IC50 78.25 mg/L (Cherokee)], and aracá (IC50 48.05 mg/L), which also showed the highest FRAP, followed by orange- and red-fleshed pitanga. Our results revealed that some fruits grown in southern Brazil such as purple-fleshed pitanga, blackberries, and aracá are rich sources of phenolic compounds and have great antioxidant activity [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Neutrophils provide the first line of defense of the innate immune system by phagocytosing, killing and digesting bacteria and fungi. During this process, neutrophils produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in excess, can damage the cells themselves and surrounding tissues. The carotenoid fucoxanthin (Fc) has been studied concerning its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Vitamin c (Vc) also demonstrates potent antioxidant action. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of Fc (2 μM) in association with Vc (100 μM) on functional parameters of human neutrophils in vitro. Materials and methods: We evaluated the migration and phagocytic capacity, intracellular calcium mobilization, ROS production (O, HO, HOCl), myeloperoxidase activity, profile of antioxidant enzymes, phosphorylation of p38 MAPK and p65 NFκB subunit, GSH/GSSG ratio and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) in neutrophils under different stimuli. Results: We verified an increase in phagocytic capacity for all treatments, together with an increase in intracellular calcium only in cells treated with Fc and Fc + Vc. ROS production was reduced by all treatments, although Vc was a better antioxidant than Fc. Phosphorylation of the p-65 subunit of NFκB was reduced in cells treated with Fc + Vc and release of TNF-α and IL-6 was reduced by all treatments. These findings indicate that the regulation of inflammatory cytokines by neutrophils is not exclusively under the control of the NFκB pathway. Fc reduced the activity of some antioxidant enzymes, whereas Vc increased GR activity and the GSH/GSSG ratio. Conclusion: In conclusion, the results presented in this study clearly show an immunomodulatory effect of the carotenoid fc alone or in combination with Vc on the function of human neutrophils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Neglected and underutilized edible species (NUS) are important food sources. • Optimization resulted in extracts with promising antioxidant capacities against ROS. • O. gratissimum extracts effectively inhibited S. Choleraesuis growth. • P. oleracea presented the most promising cytostatic effect against tumor cell lines. • O. gratissimum and E. foetidum inhibited nitrosation reaction. This study investigated the vitamin C content, total phenolic compounds (TPC), and the potential bioactivities (antioxidant, antiproliferative, antibacterial activities, and inhibition capacity against N -nitrosation) of seven neglected and underutilized species (NUS): culantro (Eryngium foetidum) , false roselle (Hibiscus acetosella) , roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa) , tree basil (Ocimum gratissimum) , Barbados Gooseberry (Pereskia aculeata) , purslane (Portulaca oleracea), and tannia (Xanthosoma sagittifolium). Phenolic-rich extracts were obtained by a sequential optimization strategy (Plackett-Burman and Central Composite Design). O. gratissimum presented the highest TPC and X. sagittifolium the greater total vitamin C content. Overall, the plant extracts presented promising bioactive capacities, as scavenging capacity against HOCl, H 2 O 2 and ROO• induced oxidation. P. oleracea demonstrated the highest cytostatic effect against ovarian and kidney tumor cells. O. gratissimum effectively inhibited S. Choleraesuis growth. Maximum inhibition on n -nitrosation was showed by O. gratissimum and E. foetidum. These results highlight the studied NUS as sources of potential health-promoting compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of inadequate micronutrient intake and excess sodium intake among adults age 19 years and older in the city of São Paulo, Brazil. Twenty-four–hour dietary recall and sociodemographic data were collected from each participant (n=1,663) in a cross-sectional study, Inquiry of Health of São Paulo, of a representative sample of the adult population of the city of São Paulo in 2003 (ISA-2003). The variability in intake was measured through two replications of the 24-hour recall in a subsample of this population in 2007 (ISA-2007). Usual intake was estimated by the PC-SIDE program (version 1.0, 2003, Department of Statistics, Iowa State University), which uses an approach developed by Iowa State University. The prevalence of nutrient inadequacy was calculated using the Estimated Average Requirement cut-point method for vitamins A and C, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, copper, phosphorus, and selenium. For vitamin D, pantothenic acid, manganese, and sodium, the proportion of individuals with usual intake equal to or more than the Adequate Intake value was calculated. The percentage of individuals with intake equal to more than the Tolerable Upper Intake Level was calculated for sodium. The highest prevalence of inadequacy for males and females, respectively, occurred for vitamin A (67% and 58%), vitamin C (52% and 62%), thiamin (41% and 50%), and riboflavin (29% and 19%). The adjustment for the within-person variation presented lower prevalence of inadequacy due to removal of within-person variability. All adult residents of São Paulo had excess sodium intake, and the rates of nutrient inadequacy were high for certain key micronutrients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: It is hypothesized that apples of 2 Brazilian cultivars with different content of sugars and antioxidant compounds promote similar effects on the antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation in human serum after acute intake. Nine healthy women ingested 300 mL of Golden Delicious or Catarina apple juice (AJ) or water, and blood samples were collected before and 1 hour after intake. After intake of both AJ, a similar and significant increase in serum antioxidant capacity and ascorbic and uric acid levels and a significant decrease in serum lipid peroxidation was observed. The increase in serum antioxidant capacity after consumption of both AJ was correlated directly with the uric acid levels and inversely with serum lipid peroxidation. In summary, the acute intake of AJ of 2 cultivars promoted a similar effect on the antioxidant status and lipid peroxidation in human blood serum. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Introduction: The prevalence of malnutrition upon diagnosis, together with reduced food intake secondary to disease and treatment, make the periodic assessment of nutritional status (including the intake of antioxidant nutrients) of considerable importance to the follow up of patients with cancer.Objectives: Assess the nutritional status and frequency of inadequate vitamin C levels among children and adolescents with cancer at the beginning of treatment and determine associated factors.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out with 30 patients under 18 years. Nutritional status was assessed using laboratory methods and anthropometric measurements. Vitamin C adequacy was assessed through its serum concentration and dietary intake.Results: In the sample, 10% were short for their age and 13.3% were underweight. The triceps skinfold measurement revealed fat depletion in 68% and the arm muscle circumference measurement revealed muscle depletion in 32.0%. Seventy percent of the patients had vitamin C deficiency and had greater weight loss, lower Z scores for all anthropometric indicators analyzed, lower serum albumin and higher C-reactive protein than those without vitamin C deficiency, but these differences were not statistically significant.Conclusions: Children with cancer may have nutritional deficits upon diagnosis. Further studies are needed on the association between serum levels of antioxidant and nutritional status in order to offer safe, effective nutritional support. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Araçá or strawberry guava (Psidium cattleianum Sabine) is an attractive tasty small fruit native to temperate zones of Brazil. In this study, functional chemical constituents and the nutraceutical and therapeutic potential of aqueous and acetone extracts of red and yellow accessions of araçá were characterised. While carotenes, ascorbic acid, and anthocyanins were present as minor constituents, araçá fruit presented high levels of phenolic compounds (up to 768mg 100g−1 fresh fruit pulp, ffp), particularly (−)-epicatechin (up to 2.7mgg−1 ffp), which were in general more efficiently extracted with acetone. Abundance of phenolic compounds was positively correlated with antioxidant activity, antimicrobial and antiproliferative effects. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Foods rich in antioxidants play an essential role in the prevention of diseases. The present study compared contents of phenolics, vitamin C, anthocyanin and antioxidant activity of 11 fresh exotic fruits, cultivated in the northeastern part of Brazil. The antioxidant activities were evaluated using two antioxidant systems 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), expressed as TEAC (Trolox Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity) and VCEAC (Vitamin C Equivalent Antioxidant Capacity) values. The results indicated that the above fruits, such as murici and mangaba, were good sources of antioxidants. The phenolic contents showed positive correlations with total antioxidant by ABTS (R=0.94, P≤0.001) and DPPH (R=0.88, P≤0.001) assays. However, this correlation was not noticed when examining vitamin C and anthocyanins contents. The 11 fruits studied had comparable antioxidant activity in both, ABTS and DPPH assays. These methods are recommended as useful tools for the evaluation of the total activity antioxidant in fruits. Our results indicated promising perspectives for the development and usage of fruits species studied with considerable levels of antioxidant activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The physical characteristics (diameters, height and mass), chemical composition (tritratable acidity, soluble solids, pH, moisture, ash, protein, lipids and total dietary fiber), occurrence and content of vitamin C (ascorbic acid and dehydroascorbic acid), carotenoids (α-carotene, β-carotene, β-cryptoxanthin and lycopene), vitamin E (α-, β-, γ- and δ-tocopherol and tocotrienol) and folates (tetrahydrofolate, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate and 5-formyltetrahydrofolate) were evaluated in the cagaita obtained from the Cerrado of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The analyses of vitamin C and carotenoids were performed by HPLC-DAD and vitamin E and folates by HPLC with fluorescence detection. The cagaita pulp presented high content of moisture (91.56g100g−1), vitamin C (34.11mg100g−1) and folates (25.74μg100g−1). The presence of protein (0.63g100g−1), ash (0.18g100g−1), lipids (0.57g100g−1), carbohydrates (5.54g100g−1), dietary fiber (1.54g100g−1) and carotenoids (0.77mg100g−1) was observed in its composition. Vitamin E isomers were not detected. Consumption of cagaita (100g) contributed significantly to supply the daily requirements of vitamin C (on average 71.0%), vitamin A (on average 7.5%) and folates (on average 7.9%). The cagaita showed high pulp yield, reduced total energy value and was considered a source of vitamin C, which play important role in human health. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: This study compared the concentration of vitamin C (ascorbic acid, AA, and dehydroascorbic acid, DHA) and carotenoids (lycopene and β-carotene) between three fruits produced by organic and conventional farming. Vitamin C and carotenoids were analysed by high-performance liquid chromatography. The Student t-test (α =5%) was applied to determine differences between the organic and conventional production systems. AA content was significantly higher in organic acerola (4023.39mg/100g) compared to its conventional production (2294.53mg/100g). Conversely, AA content was significantly higher in conventional strawberries (42.45mg/100g) than the organic ones (30.74mg/100g). The conventional production also showed significantly higher contents of DHA (persimmon: 7.50mg/100g vs. 0.96mg/100g) and β-carotene (acerola: 6130.24μg/100g vs. 2486.38μg/100g) than the organic fruits. Lycopene was only detected in persimmons, but no significant difference was observed between farming systems. There was no evidence of the nutritional superiority of the organically grown fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cashew apple is native to Brazil, but there is insufficient information regarding the nutritional properties of this fruit. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of high pressure processing (HPP) at room temperature (25 °C) on phenolic compound and ascorbic acid contents and antioxidant capacity of cashew apple juice. This study showed that HPP at 250 or 400 MPa for 3, 5 and 7 min did not change pH, acidity, total soluble solids, ascorbic acid or hydrolysable polyphenol contents. However, juice pressurized for 3 and 5 min showed higher soluble polyphenol contents. Antioxidant capacity, measured by the ferric-reducing antioxidant power method, was not altered by HPP, but when treated at 250 MPa for 3 min, it resulted in an increased value when 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl was used. These data demonstrate that HPP can be used in the food industry for the generation of products with higher nutritional quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant activity, ascorbic acid and phenolic content were studied in 10 exotic fruits from Brazil: abiu, acerola, wax jambu, cashew, mamey sapote, carambola or star fruit, Surinam cherry, longan, sapodilla and jaboticaba. The ascorbic acid was determined by 2,6-dichloroindophenol titrimetic methods and total phenols were measured colorimetrically using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. The antioxidant activity was investigated with three different methods: hypochlorous acid scavenging activity, 2,2-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical cation decolorization assay, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging method. The highest content of vitamin C (1,525.00 mg/100 g pulp) occurred in acerola. The total phenol content was higher in abiu, acerola, Surinam cherry and sapodilla. In relation to antioxidant activity, acerola has showed the great values in all three different methods tested. It was found that the fruits have a significant antioxidant effect when tested by each method, respectively, and these antioxidant capacities are promising. The sample concentration also influenced its antioxidant power. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The kiwi (Actinidia deliciosa; Actinidaceae) is an exotic fruit to Brazil, introduced from southeastern China. The kiwi fruit presents a high nutritional value, rich mainly in vitamin C and fibers, calcium, iron and phosphorus, which give it an excellent nutritional value. Its quality attributes and flavor has lead to acceptance in consuming markets, mainly among children. The objective of this work was to formulate a non-alcoholic sweetened drink based on kiwi fruits, to submit the drink to gamma radiation using increasing doses: 0 (control), 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0kGy, and to evaluate changes in physical and chemical quality attributes. We found that no significant difference was observed between treatments relative to the control. So we could conclude that for the doses tested significant alterations in the physiochemical characteristics of the kiwi nectar were introduced. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The objective of this work was to characterize exotic fruits (cambuci, araça-boi, camu-camu, jaracatia, araça) and commercial frozen pulps (araça, cambuci, umbu, coquinho, pana, native passion fruit, cagaita) from Brazil in relation to their bioactive compounds contents and antioxidant capacity. Camu-camu (Myrciaria dubia) presented the highest vitamin C and total phenolics contents (397 and 1797 mg/100 g f.w., respectively) and the highest DPPH• scavenging capacity. Coquinho (Butia capitata) also showed a significant vitamin C content (43 mg/100 g f.w.). Among the commercial frozen pulps, cagaita presented the higher DPPH scavenging activity and inhibition of β-carotene bleaching. A good correlation between total phenols and DPPH scavenging activity was found for fruits (r=0.997) and commercial frozen pulps (r=0.738). However, no correlation was found for total phenols and inhibition of β-carotene bleaching. Quercetin and kaempferol derivatives were the main flavonoids present in all samples and cyanidin derivatives were detected only in camu-camu. Camu-camu and araça (Psidium guineensis) showed the highest total ellagic acid contents (48 and 63.5 mg/100 g f.w.). All commercial frozen pulps presented lower contents of bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity than their respective fruits. According to our results, camu-camu and araça might be sources of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tapioca is a traditional product with great acceptability, especially in Brazil. As a starch-based food, its nutritional quality is limited to carbohydrates. The aim of this work was to evaluate the contribution of tropical fruit pulps and soy extract to tapioca's nutritional and sensory characteristics. The products were formulated with dried tapioca starch (63%) supplemented by acerola or mango fruit pulps or by soy extract in selected combinations (37%). The mixtures were homogenised and roasted for starch gelatinisation. The final product was submitted to vitamin C and protein determinations and sensory analysis (appearance, flavour, texture and overall acceptance). Vitamin C content of the acerola tapioca products was significantly increased. Protein content was increased by supplementation with soy but the absolute levels were still quite low. Acceptability by sensory attributes of formulated tapiocas was similar to, or in some cases higher than, the traditional product. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Acerola harvested at the green stage with density < 1 g cm−3 turn red after harvest. • 'Flor Branca' acerola should be harvested at the green stage and stored at 10 °C. • 'Junco' acerolas should be harvested at the green stage and stored at 12 °C. Acerola (Malpighia emarginata D.C.) is native to Central and Northern South America and is considered a super-fruit due to its high vitamin C content. Acerola postharvest life is highly dependent on the maturity stage at harvest and storage temperatures. The objectives of this study were to determine the ideal harvest maturity and storage temperature for 'Flor Branca' and 'Junko' acerolas produced in the São Francisco Valley in the Northeast of Brazil. Acerolas 'Flor Branca' and 'Junko' were harvested at maturity stages green (green skin color at 18 days after full bloom), turning (initial skin color changes from green to red at 20 days after full bloom) and red (red skin color at 22 days after full bloom) and were stored at 8, 10 and 12 °C with RH of 90–95% for 14 days. Green fruit with density lower than 1 g cm−3 were used due to the capacity to change skin color from green to red after harvest. Fruit harvested at maturity stage green showed better storage potential than fruit harvested at more advanced stages. Storage temperatures of 10 °C for 'Flor Branca' and 12 °C for 'Junko' acerolas harvested at maturity stage green maintained fruit quality without chilling injury, keeping the fruit greener with higher ascorbic acid content and flesh firmness during 14 days of storage. Lower storage temperatures resulted in chilling injury incidence in 'Flor Branca' and 'Junco' acerolas. In both acerola cultivars, harvest at maturity stage green resulted in lower fruit decay incidence and weight loss during 14 days of storage. According to the results, 'Flor Branca' and 'Junco' acerolas should be harvested the maturity stage green with density lower than 1 g cm−3 and stored at 10 °C and 12 °C, respectively, in order to maintain high fruit quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arrabidaea chica (Brazilian name = pariri) is a plant species that belongs to the Bignoniaceae family, occurring in tropical America and widespread in the Amazonian region of Brazil. In this study, the phenolic compound and carotenoid profiles of A. chica leaves were determined by HPLC-DAD-MS. Scutellarin was identified as the main phenolic compound (15,147.22 μg/g, dry basis, d.b.) and lutein (204.28 μg/g, d.b.), β-carotene (129.5 μg/g, d.b.) and α-carotene (79.86 μg/g, d.b.) as the major carotenoids. Moreover, A. chica leaves presented 152.7 μg/g of ascorbic acid (fresh weight). For the first time, the carotenoid profile and ascorbic acid contents were reported for A. chica leaves. Regarding the antioxidant capacity, A. chica extract was able to scavenge ABTS radical (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid)), and for the first time, the protective effect against singlet oxygen (1O 2) was reported. The A. chica extract was efficient as ABTS radical scavenger (86.81 μM Trolox/g of fresh leaves) and inhibited the degradation of tryptophan by 1O 2 in a concentration-dependent manner with an IC 50 at 177 μg/mL. Thus, A. chica leaves can be exploited as a promising source of bioactive compounds that may be useful to human health or food systems against oxidative damage. Unlabelled Image • Scutellarin was the major phenolic compound identified in A. chica leaves. • A. chica can be seen as a source of antioxidant compounds for the food industry. • First report of carotenoid profile and ascorbic acid content of A. chica leaves. • Lutein, β-carotene and α-carotene were the major carotenoids of A. chica leaves. • Extracts of A. chica leaves showed high antioxidant capacity against singlet oxygen. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]