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ABSTRACT: Orange-fleshed non-netted honeydew melon has high nutritional and economic potential, being widely appreciated as a refreshing sweet fruit. Therefore, evaluating commercial samples of such relevant products for the fresh fruit market is of great importance. This study investigated the antioxidant capacity, quality parameters, and chemical composition of honeydew melons from the Brazilian market. The values of pH and °Brix determined for melon samples were 6.5 ± 0.30 and 9.2 ± 0.80 g/100 g (fresh weight), respectively, which agree with the results expected for high-quality melons. The chromatography analysis revealed sucrose (49% of total sugar) as the main sugar, followed by fructose (30%) and glucose (21%). Carotenoids, which are directly linked to the characteristic orange color, showed a total level of 270.59 µg/g (dry weight). Additionally, the higher b* value compared to a* value indicates the highest yellow contribution. Regarding the antioxidant assays, in addition to presenting antioxidant capacity for both methods applied, DPPH and FRAP, levels ranging from 16.40 ± 0.21 µmol ascorbic acid equivalent/g to 56.98 ± 0.80 µmol Trolox equivalent/g (dry weight) were reported in melon extracts. Moreover, the results were higher in terms of FRAP than DPPH. Therefore, the results underscore the evaluated honeydew melons as valuable sources of bioactive compounds, such as carotenoids and phenolics, which contribute to their antioxidant properties. Besides, analyses of color, pH, and total soluble solids content also reflect the quality attributes.

ABSTRACT Lutein and zeaxanthin are the major xanthophyll pigments found in corn kernels. These pigments provide the orange-red color of the broiler chicken skin and of the egg yolk. Therefore, knowing the corn xanthophyll content is important for the poultry feed producer. The objective of this study was to determine the lutein and the zeaxanthin content in corn cultivated in Colombia and in corn imported to Colombia from the United States, Argentina, and Brazil. Large differences in total lutein plus zeaxanthin content were found among the corn samples analyzed, with the highest mean level found in Colombian corn (2,758µg/100g), followed by Argentina (1,861µg/100g), United States (1,041µg/100g) and Brazil (947µg/100g). Large differences in lutein plus zeaxanthin content were also found among different corn hybrids cultivated in Colombia. Differences among geographical regions might be due to differences in UV-B radiation or in the light hours received by the crop during its growth. The differences among different corn hybrids might probably be due to genetic differences. Corn growers might be interested in cultivating hybrids higher in lutein and zeaxanthin as these pigments are very important in poultry production and human eye health.

In recent years, Colombia has seen an increase in the demand for peach fruits, but despite having adequate areas for peach production, neither production nor quality has increased because these fruits have a short post-harvest life and low firmness, which makes them susceptible to manipulation. The nutritional element Silicon affects the quality of these fruits when applied in fertilization, increasing firmness values, improving color, and favoring the concentration of metabolites. Therefore, the objective was to evaluate the edaphic application of different doses of silicon in the postharvest behavior of 'Dorado' peach fruits to maintain quality during storage for a longer time. A completely randomized block design with two blocks (stratum 1 and stratum 2) and five treatments (0, 300, 600, 900, or 120 kg ha-1 of silicon) was evaluated. The fruits from plants fertilized with 1200 kg ha-1 of Si showed more firmness and total soluble solids (TSS); however, the application of Si did not affect the other parameters. Fruits from stratum 1 had higher firmness and TSS than those from stratum 2, while the total carotenoids were not affected by stratum. The total titratable acidity and luminosity of the fruits decreased during postharvest, while the TSS only showed a slight increase. The respiratory rate presented the highest value ​​at 11 days of storage.

Abstract BRS Manicoré cultivar is an interspecific hybrid between Elaeis oleifera and Elaeis guineensis(ISH OxG). It has shown high yield potential and genetic resistance to phytosanitary problems in cultivation in Brazil. Studies have indicated differences in the composition of ISH OxG and palm oils, as well as the influence of genotype and environment on palm oil characteristics. The aim of this study was to assess the distribution of fatty acids, carotenoids, and tocochromanols in the olein and stearin fractions of the oil produced by the ISH OxG cultivated in municipality of Una, state of Bahia, Brazil by liquid and gas chromatography. There were significant differences for fatty acids, carotenoids and total tocochromanols between olein and stearin (p

Pumpkin is a product has phenolic compounds in its composition, both in the skin and in the pulp, and therefore, it can be an alternative for incorporation into a food matrix poor in this type of nutrient, such as yogurt. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the content of carotenoids from the processing by-product (dry peel, at 55 °C / 24 h), from cabotiá squash (Cucurbita maxima x Cucurbita moschata), aiming its application in natural yogurt. For the initial analysis, the concentrations of 1 and 2% flour were added to the yogurt, I1% and I2%, respectively, and the amount of carotenoids present after 0, 14 and 28 days was evaluated, in the absence and presence of light, in order to verify if these compounds suffer significant degradation. The pumpkin peel flour showed a concentration of 14.252 mg carotenoids / 100 g of flour. Formulations I2% underwent changes in the concentration of these compounds from day 14, whereas I1% did not show significant difference in the evaluated time. The total phenolic content was higher in the pumpkin peel flour (2.47 mg EAG / g) followed by the formulation of I2% (0.079 mg EAG / g) and I1% (0.051 mg EAG / g). When performing the sensory analysis, the attributes flavor, texture and overall appearance, did not show significant difference (p < 0.05), whereas texture and aroma showed significant difference (p < 0.05), but both formulations (I1% and I2%) had an acceptance rate above 77%. Thus, it can be said that the use of the by-product, pumpkin peel, as a source of nutrients in yogurt by up to 2%, can be an alternative that will please consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This work aimed to investigate the physicochemical and functional composition of bee pollen produced in different municipalities in the state of Rio Grande do Norte/Brazil (RN) and commercial samples produced in other places. To perform these experiments, samples of dehydrated bee pollen were crushed and subjected to physicochemical evaluation, instrumental color, fatty acid profile, evaluation of the presence of bioactive compounds [Total Phenolic Compounds (TPC), carotenoids] and antioxidant activity (reduction of DPPH radical). The pH of the pollen samples varied from 4.55 to 5.08, the protein from 19.01% to 29.71%, and the ash from 2.44% to 4.27%. All pollen samples showed a yellowish-red hue (a* and b* positive), and the pollen produced in Touros/RN/BR stood out with a lighter color (L* = 32.91). The pollen produced in Touros/RN/BR showed a higher (p < 0.05) percentage of saturated fatty acids (41.60%), whereas the pollen collected in Taipu/RN/BR had a higher percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids (7.44%). Pollen samples showed a low concentration of Total Carotenoid Content (TCC) (0.81 to 22.82 µg/g), as well as a high content of TPC (1.79 to 2.28 mg GAE/g) and antioxidant activity (1.40 to 5.70 µmol TE/g) when compared with the consulted literature. According to the obtained results, we could infer that pollen samples from different locations showed variations in physicochemical composition, coloration, fatty acid profile, TPC and antioxidant activity which reflects the geographic diversity inherent to the production sites.

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ABSTRACT This study evaluated the effects of including Moringa oleifera (moringa) leaf meal on performance, carcass yield and characteristics, and relative organ weights of broilers from 10 to 42 days of age. We distributed 420 male Cobb 500 chicks in a completely randomized design with five treatments and six replicates with 14 birds each. Treatments consisted of five experimental diets in which the moringa leaf meal was included at 0, 1.5, 3.0, 4.5, and 6.0% in the diets. The following performance variables were evaluated: weight gain, feed intake, and feed conversion; weights and yields of carcass, carcass traits, organs, and abdominal fat; and feet color. Significant differences between the treatment means were analyzed by Dunnett’s test. The meal inclusion levels did not affect performance, carcass characteristics and yield, or organs weight. However, feet pigmentation increased linearly, and abdominal fat was greater only at the 1.5% level when compared with the control group. Moringa leaf meal can be included in the diet of broilers from 10 to 42 days of age, up to the level of 6%, without compromising performance or carcass yield of these birds.

ABSTRACT In the Amazon region, agroforestry systems (AFSs) are recommended as a sustainable production alternative for local communities. A common component in Amazonian AFSs are tropical fruit trees, which can form the canopy or grow in the understory. In this study, we evaluated the effect of high radiation on photosynthesis, growth and seedling survival of four Amazonian fruit-tree species: Theobroma cacao, Eugenia stipitata, Inga edulis and Psidium guajava. Growth, chlorophyll fluorescence, gas exchange, and leaf pigments were measured in seedlings of each species grown for 12 months inside shade houses with low (8%), medium (30%) and high relative illumination (100%). Eugenia stipitata and T. cacao had the lowest acclimation capacity to high solar radiation, followed by I. edulis. Therefore, these species must be grown under intermediate light levels in early growth stages, to protect them from direct sunlight. In contrast, P. guajava seedlings demonstrated high tolerance to elevated radiation, therefore, this species can be planted under full sunlight.

ABSTRACT Physalis pubescens L. is a UFP (unconventional food plant) that produces high quality fruits; however, in Rio Grande do Sul it is still considered a rare species. There is only few information regarding the characterization of these fruits in Brazil, and the main reports of this species are mainly focused on the pharmacology and agronomic conditions of the plant. The aim of this study was to analyze the physical and chemical composition, including bioactive compounds, of Physalis fruits obtained from a spontaneous culture of the southern region of Rio grande do sul. Soluble solids, total titratable acidity, vitamin C, moisture, ash, crude fiber, crude protein, lipids, carbohydrates, total caloric value, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and phenolic acids from pulp and seed were evaluated. It was observed that the fruit has acid characteristics (4.8%), in addition to a considerable presence of lipids (1.96%) and carbohydrates (10.85%), containing high content of carotenoids (171.36 µg β-carotene.g-1), phenolic compounds (142.83 mg.EAG.100g-1) and phenolic acids (38.55 mg EAC.100g-1). It was possible to observe that the fruits of Physalis pubescens are nutritious, presenting light acidity and they are a rich source of bioactive compounds.

ABSTRACT Chlorophylls and carotenoids are the main photosynthetic pigments in plants, and photosynthetic potential can be used to determine the nitrogen fixation or cycling capacity of cover crops. Therefore, this study quantified and compared the content of photosynthetic pigments in Raphanus sativus and Vicia sativa by using two different methods, namely the extraction method and measurements with a portable chlorophyll meter, and determined whether the results of these two methods showed a significant correlation. Photosynthetic pigments were measured, using both methods, in a greenhouse and laboratory, at four developmental stages: the vegetative stages I (30 days after sowing [DAS]), II (60DAS), and III (90DAS), and the reproductive stage (150DAS). The determination of the photosynthetic pigment content in R. sativus and V. sativa, obtained from the extraction method and chlorophyll index, revealed significant differences depending on the developmental stage in both species. Furthermore, the contents of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids determined using the extraction method showed high coefficients of correlation with the total chlorophyll index determined using the portable chlorophyll meter. Therefore, the portable chlorophyll meter can be used for the accurate evaluation of the photosynthetic potential of Raphanus sativus and Vicia sativa, which also saves time and reagents.

Buriti pulp has an elevated nutritional value and commercial potential, mainly because of its significant amounts of bioactive compounds. The objective of this research was to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics, the antioxidant capacity, and bioactive compounds of buriti pulps and sweets obtained from the Brazilian states of Goiás, Tocantins and Para. The fruits obtained from Tocantins and Para presented greater lipid and energy contents. After processing, the sweets showed reductions in the protein, lipid, fiber and bioactive compound contents. The antioxidant activities and total phenolic compound contents were more significant in the pulp and sweets from Goiás. There was a strong correlation between the phenolic compounds and the antioxidant activity. The total carotenoid content was greater in the buriti pulp and sweet from Tocantins but an 80% reduction in the bioactive compounds was observed in all the sweets produced. Thus, it was concluded that the origin of the fruit influenced its chemical composition and the antioxidant activity. However fruits and sweets can still be considered good dietary sources of bioactive compounds especially carotenoids.

Objective: to define the action of lycopene under CT, HDL, LDL and TG and to analyze which sufficient dosages have a positive effect on metabolic markers. Methodology: The investigation was based on the effect of products containing lycopene and its effect on serum metabolic markers of total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. For analysis of in vivo studies, studies that met intervention criteria with controlled design, diet or manipulated controlled by crossed or parallel placebo, randomized clinical trial with standardized dosage of lycopene in the treatment and control group and intervention 2= weeks that included total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides were included.. Results: It was seen that lycopene plays an important role on metabolic markers, due to its ability to reduce the mechanism of HMG-Coa reductase, decreasing the synthesis of cholesterol and its antioxidant capacity under LDL. Lycopene also modulated the activity of PPAR and LXR, modulating the action of ABCA1, Apoa1 and caveolins, improving HDL synthesis and cholesterol efflux. Dosages with a positive cholesterol effect vary, but are around 26.5 mg of lycopene per day, reported in in vivo studies with cholesterol supplementation. Conclusion: The review suggests the efficacy of lycopene in reducing metabolic markers, thus reducing the risk of atherosclerotic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dyes are defined as substances that give color to foods and beverages, and can be of natural or synthetic origin. The use of natural dyes is growing due to greater consumer demand, as they attribute several health benefits. Native fruits, in addition to being beneficial, are considered excellent sources of natural pigments and can be included in the diet, resulting in a diverse and colorful diet. Carotenoids are phenolic compounds, which belong to the natural pigment class, and are found in fruits, in yellow, orange and red tones. The present study is a review of the scientific literature on the importance of carotenoids, considered sources of natural pigments and from fruits native to Brazil, specifically acerola (Malpighia emarginata), guabiroba (Campomanesia xanthocarpa), passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) and pitanga (Eugenia uniflora L.) as well as the beneficial effects that these fruits bring to health. Several studies show that the consumption of native fruits, sources of pigments have functional properties. Thus, it is concluded that the native fruits source of carotenoids, in addition to being used as natural dyes, also confer several nutraceutical effects, with a daily dose ranging from 9,000 to 18,000 µg / day, which can be used for prevention and treatments of several pathologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the inclusion of synthetic pigment (Cantaxanthin 10%) combined with levels of natural and synthetic pigment supplementation in the diet of commercial laying hens in diets based on sorb. We used 150 commercial laying hens with 67 weeks of age of the Hisex Brown strain, distributed in a completely randomized design with five treatments, six replicates of five birds/repetition. The treatments evaluated were: 25 g/t carophyll yellow 10% + 20 g/t red carophyll (T1); 300 g/t of Marigold 2% + 10 g/t of Cantaxanthin 10% (T2); 300 g/t of Marigold 2% + 20 g/t of Cantaxanthin 10% (T3); 300 g/t of Marigold 2% + 30 g/t of Cantaxanthin 10% (T4); 300 g/t of Marigold 2% +20 g/t red carophyll (T5). The Tukey test was applied at the level of 5% probability for the various performance and quality of eggs. There was a difference between treatments only for yolk staining, where the increase in color was reflected according to the increase in pigmenting levels in the diets, and the other variables were not affected. The supplementation level of 300 g.t-1 of natural yellow pigment + 30 g.t-1 of industrial red pigment in diets based on sorb for laying hens provided better yolk color index. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT - The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of including annatto seed by-product (ASB) in diets containing sorghum on nutrient utilization, performance and characteristics of the eggs of laying hens. A total of 288 Lohman Brown laying hens, 34 weeks of age, were distributed in completely randomized design with six treatments and six replications of the eight birds each other. The treatments consisted of a diet with corn as an energy source and other with sorghum and inclusion of 0, 25, 45, 65 and 85 g/kg of ASB. Comparing the results, increasing levels of RSU did not affect the metabolizability of nutrients, and utilization the energy of the feed. It was also observed there was no effect on the performance and parameters egg quality, except for yolk color. There was a significant linear increase in yolk colour with inclusion of ASB. We concluded that the annatto seed by-product can be used at levels up to 85 g/kg in laying hen diets containing sorghum as the main source of energy, with the possibility of reducing yolk pigmentation problems, caused by the total substitution of corn by sorghum, with the inclusion of ASB from 25 g/kg.

ABSTRACT Microalgae have been researched as a sustainable source of bioactive compounds for the food and pharmaceutical industries. The objectives of this work were the extraction and the characterization of fatty acids of Scenedesmus obliquus and to separate, quantify, and evaluate the antioxidant capacity of carotenoids and phenolic compounds of this microalga. The microalga cells were disrupted by using ultrasound. The centesimal composition of lyophilized cells was determined. Fatty acids of the oil were converted into methyl esters and analyzed by gas chromatography (flame ionization detector) to obtain the fatty acid profile. Acetone, petroleum ether, and hexane were the solvents applied to extract the carotenoids and ethanol was used to separate the phenolic compounds. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined by the DPPH method. The amount of polyunsaturated fatty acids corresponded to 47.31% of the total for unsaturated, with the predominance of linolenic acid (16.74%) and approximately 9.70% of omega-6. The content of extracted carotenoids was higher by using hexane. Total phenolics concentration of 1.12 g 100 g-1 microalga was found. High percentages of oxidation inhibition were observed for the extracts of carotenoids (>88%) and phenolic compounds (>72%). Therefore, Scenedesmus obliquus presents itself as an alternative, natural, and sustainable source of bioactive compounds.

ABSTRACT The present study aimed to compare the changes in the bioactive compounds, color parameters and to determine consumer opinions through sensory analysis of the pumpkin using different cooking methods (boiling, steaming, microwaving and sous vide). The cooking methods reduced the ascorbic acid content (49.73-50.42%) and polyphenols (49.68-64.94%). Microwaving increased the carotenoid content by 24.58%. The brightness (L*), red color (a*) and yellow color (b*) were reduced and there was also the loss of vivid color (chroma). The color of samples was affected after cooking process. All cooking methods were well accepted by the tasters, representing different market niches and many consumers expressed the intention of purchasing these products. The main component analysis also indicated the acceptance of different treatments for three distinct groups of assessors, one formed by boiling and steam treatments and two others formed by sous vide and microwave alone. Pumpkins contain high levels of functional components, and microwaving is the preferred cooking method to promote their retention, which can be performed with enough guarantees that the product will always be purchased by consumers.

The Tarocco orange is one of the varieties of red oranges that have in its composition pigments of the anthocyanins class, which present a reddish coloration, besides the carotenoids that are commonly found in oranges, and are responsible for the yellow coloration. The extraction of these pigments is traditionally performed with organic solvents, which can be harmful to health and to the environment. Due to the disadvantages of using organic solvents for the extraction of fruit pigments, this work aimed to verify if microwave hydrodiffusion and gravity promotes the removal of Tarocco orange pigments without adding solvents. Despite not completely removing the orange pigments, a satisfactory concentration of pigments was extracted (12.03% of total monomeric anthocyanins and 29.37% for total carotenoids), considering that no solvent was added in the process. The best sample preparation was for the refrigerated sample, where four times more total carotenoids were extracted (0.38 ± 0.03 mg of ß-carotene/100 g), and twice as many total monomeric anthocyanins were found (0.16 ± 0.04 mg of cyanidin-3-glycoside/100 g) compared to the frozen sample, which gave the extract a redder hue. Therefore, MHG shows as a promising sustainable extraction method as it can remove the Tarocco orange pigments without the addition of solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Silicon is a beneficial element for the plant, with the primary role in increasing plant resistance to heavy metals' toxicity and considering the importance of phytoremediation to remove heavy metals from contaminated soils. It could be used for the exogenous application for alleviating the harmful effects of heavy metals on the plant. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the role of Silicon in balancing the destructive effects of aluminum on Glycyrrhiza glabra L. Methods: the seedlings were grown under a hydroponic system using Long Ashton nutrient solution; the 15-day-old seedlings were exposed to Silicon (0, 0.5, 1.5 mM) for 110 days and afterward stressed by interactions of aluminum chloride (AlCl3.6H2O; 0, 100, 250, and 400 M). Result and Discussion: the interactive effects of Silicon significantly ameliorated the negative consequences of aluminum toxicity. The combination of Si 1.5 mM and Al 400 μM produced the highest biomass in shoots (45.67 g). The simple effect of Si 1.5 mM (12.14 g) made the highest shoot dry weight. On the other hand, the highest quantity of root fresh and dry weight (12.52 and 3.22 g, respectively) was observed in Si 1.5 mM. Among the treatments, Si 0.5 mM + Al 100 μM had the most stem height (38 cm) among interaction treatments. Similarly, photosynthetic pigments affected by Silicon, Al 250 μM + Si 1.5 mM had the highest content of chlorophyll a (1.91 μg/g FW), while Al 400 + 1.5 mM indicated the most increase in chlorophyll b (0.78 μg/g FW) among interaction effects. This treatment by producing 0.663 μg/g FW yielded the highest carotenoid content. The highest proline content in shoots and roots (69.54 and 81.46 μg/g FW, respectively) were observed in the interaction of Al 400 μM and Si 1.5 mM. Additionally, this treatment was observed to have the highest concentration of catalase (1.22 U/mg protein). The lowest malondialdehyde content was marked in Si 1.5 mM + Al 100 μM (0.702 nM/g FW). Conclusion: overall, Glycyrrhiza Glabra L. seems to have high Al phytoremediation potential that can be enhanced with the exogenous application of a moderate Silicon level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT: Meloidogyne javanica is a plant-parasitic nematode that infects a wide range of vegetables. Its negative effects on crop yield and value are well documented. However, few studies have investigated the impact of the parasite on the nutritional value of vegetables. This study aimed to assess the effect of M. javanica parasitism on the vegetative characteristics, nematological parameters, chemistry composition and antioxidant activity of carrots. Seedlings were inoculated with 0 (control), 1000, 2500, or 5000 eggs and eventual second-stage juveniles (J2) of M. javanica. At 60 days after inoculation, plants were harvested and evaluated. Plants inoculated with 2500 eggs and J2 of M. javanica had higher root and tuber fresh weight than the control. Gall number increased with increasing inoculum density. The number of nematodes in the roots increased until 3000 specimens, decreasing thereafter. Proximate analysis revealed that plants inoculated with 1000 eggs and J2 of M. javanica or more had higher protein content in roots. In contrast, inoculation with 1775 nematodes or more resulted in a decrease in carotenoid content. There was no effect of inoculation on total phenolic content or antioxidant activity. Although, M. javanica infection did not have a marked impact on the nutritional quality of carrots, gall formation resulted in deformed roots of low commercial value.

ABSTRACT The objective of the present study was to evaluate production and egg quality as well as the intestinal morphometry of laying hens fed diets supplemented with marine microalga Dunaliella salina. Six hundred laying hens were allocated based on a completely randomized design into five treatments (0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, and 1% inclusion of D. salina biomass) with 12 replicates of 10 hens per treatment. The experiment was divided into three periods of four weeks each, totaling 84 days. During this period, the productive performance of laying hens, the physical-chemical quality of the eggs, and the morphometric alterations of the small intestine and liver were determined. The inclusion levels of D. salina biomass had a linear effect on the performance (egg weight, egg mass, and feed conversion), qualitative parameters (yolk weight and yolk index), and physicochemical parameters of eggs (total carotenoids, TBARS, and yolk color). At the same time, villi lengths and the villus:crypt ratio of the duodenum and ileum segments and the metabolization of carotenoids in the liver were increased as an effect of Dunaliella salina dietary supplementation. Thus, the inclusion of marine microalgae D. salina biomass in experimental diets for laying hens improves the performance, the intestinal health, the physical-chemical quality of the eggs, and at the same time increases carotenoid content and improves egg oxidative stability.

Abstract One of the most important classes of nutritional biomolecules is the oleaginous compounds group, which specially includes the oil-lipids, the carotenoids and the fatty acids. These biocompounds present a wide range of industrial applications because their ability to act as an energy source, antioxidants and metabolic agents for the human body. Therefore, the food industry, mainly focusing on food supplementation, is always searching for new sources of them. In this context, the present study evaluated the total lipids, carotenoids and fatty acids simultaneous production by the Rhodotorula mucilaginosa CCT3892 yeast, using residual sugarcane molasses as carbon source. The results obtained demonstrated that the cultivation of yeast in molasses medium (MC) produced the same content of total lipids and carotenoids (16.50% ± 0.68% and 0.053 ± 0.001 mg g-1, respectively) as the obtained from a synthetic medium (SC) (15.36% ± 1.36% and 0.051 ± 0.001 mg g-1 0.005). Concerning the fatty acids biosynthesis, the MC cultivation generated the most interesting profile once it presented a greater content of oleic acid (74.05%), an unsaturated compound with high nutritional value. The cultivation carried out with the molasses and yeast extract supplementation (MYEC) did not provide an improvement in microbial oil production, what indicated that in this condition there was a predominance of others sorts of substrate metabolization by the yeast cells, as confirmed by the microbial kinetics study.

For peach trees produced in southern Brazil, information about the influence of potassium fertilization on fruit quality remains scarce. This study set out to determine the physicochemical properties and bioactive compounds of peaches treated with different doses of potassium applied to the soil for three consecutive crop years. The experiment examined the Sensação cultivar in a commercial orchard in the municipality of Morro Redondo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, during the 2016, 2017, and 2018 crop years. Peach trees of the Sensação cultivar were fertilized with potassium (K); doses of 0, 40, 80, 120, and 160 kg ha-1 of K2O in the form of potassium chloride were applied to the soil surface. After harvest, an assessment was made of the soluble solids (SS) content, titratable acid (TA) content, SS/TA ratio, pH levels, flesh color, skin and flesh firmness, total carotenoid content, total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity. The peaches' skin firmness, SS/TA ratio, and concentration of carotenoids responded to potassium fertilization, but only in some production cycles. Their color, flesh firmness, soluble solids, juice pH levels, total phenols, and antioxidant activity did not change with the application of potassium in the soil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Citrus paradisi Macfad are an excellent source of nutrients and important phytochemicals for a healthy diet. In this context, the knowledge of the chemical composition of foods is fundamental to evaluate the nutrient contents and their health benefits. However, one of the problems related to the consumption of pomelo is the bitter taste that comes from the naringin present in the peel, making it important to develop a flour with a reduced content of bitter taste. The determinations were made in the peel, flavedo, and albedo, in the flour obtained by thermal processing of 48 hours, flour by thermal processing of 72 hours, flour processed and washed in cold water and crushed flour, washed in cold water and processed. To determine ascorbic acid, the titration method was used, and the other bioactives were determined by spectrophotometry. Aqueous, hydroacetonic, and ethanolic extracts were used to determine the total phenolic compounds, total tannins. Antioxidant activity was determined by the photocolorimetric method of the stable free radical DPPH. The flour with 72-hour thermal processing had decreased its concentration of bioactive, and the flour that has been obtained by the peel and albedo before being processed had the highest concentrations; thereof, highlighting discrepant increase of ascorbic acid relative to the other. The carotenoid content showed no significant differences between the samples. Among all treatments, the flour obtained by cold water processing, not being crushed before being processed, had reduced the bitterness of naringin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The skin cells continuously produce, through cellular respiration, metabolic processes or under external aggressions, highly reactive molecules oxidation products, generally called free radicals. These molecules are immediately neutralized by enzymatic and non-enzymatic systems in a physiological and dynamic balance. In situations where this balance is broken, various cellular structures, such as the cell membrane, nuclear or mitochondrial DNA may suffer structural modifications, triggering or worsening skin diseases. several substances with alleged antioxidant effects has been offered for topical or oral use, but little is known about their safety, possible associations and especially their mechanism of action. The management of topical and oral antioxidants can help dermatologist to intervene in the oxidative processes safely and effectively, since they know the mechanisms, limitations and potential risks of using these molecules as well as the potential benefits of available associations.

ABSTRACT: The pre-treatment of rice seeds with sodium nitroprusside (SNP) was used to investigate the effect of exogenous nitric oxide on the pigment content and the activity of antioxidant enzymes during the inhibition of the 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway by the herbicide clomazone. The seeds were soaked in SNP solution (200 mM) for one and 10 hours and sprayed with clomazone, at post-seeding and at the needle-point, with 612 (experiment 1) and 1,224 g a.i. ha-1 (experiment 2). The control of both factors received distilled water. Carotenoids, chlorophylls a, b and total, superoxide dismutase (SOD), guaiacol peroxidase (POD) and the correlation between the variables were evaluated in the shoot of the plants. When compared to the control (no SNP), the imbibition for one hour increased carotenoid and total chlorophyll content by 24 and 54%, respectively, in experiment 1, where clomazone was applied in post-seeding. In the absence of the herbicide, the values were 37 and 59% higher. The SOD and POD activity, respectively, was increased by 48 and 51%, when the seeds were soaked for 10 hours and exposed to 612 g a.i. ha-1 of clomazone in post-seeding application. In a similar condition, in experiment 2, there were no changes in enzyme activity. Seed pretreatment with SNP increases the carotenoid and chlorophyll contents in rice plants, even with the inhibition of the MEP pathway by clomazone. The behavior of the SOD and POD activity indicates that other mechanisms besides the increase in the photosynthetic pigment contents are involved in the detoxification of the reactive oxygen species induced by the mode of action of clomazone.

ABSTRACT The study was carried out to evaluate the effect of AAT-deletion mutation at codon 248 of the BCO2 gene on the content of lutein, β-carotene, retinol, and α-tocopherol in the liver and fat of crossbred rabbits. The experimental animals comprised 90 rabbits, produced by reciprocal crossing between ins/del heterozygous parents of Flemish Giant, New Zealand Red, and Termond White breeds. All rabbits in the litter were genotyped, given the same diet, and finally slaughtered at 140 d of age. It was found that regardless of the mating scheme employed, all del/del homozygotes had the yellow fat trait, whereas heterozygous and homozygotes animals without the AAT deletion (ins/ins) developed white fat. Lutein concentration in fat was over 13-fold higher in rabbits carrying a homozygous AAT-deletion than in the remaining animals. A codon deletion in the BCO2 gene also contributes to an increase in the concentrations of β-carotene and α-tocopherol in the adipose tissue of rabbits. However, no differences were observed in the content of the analyzed components between heterozygous and homozygous rabbits without the deletion.

Resumo O trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar a estabilidade físico-química, química e antioxidante de polpa de Physalis peruviana L., não pasteurizada e pasteurizada, durante 120 dias de armazenamento a -18 °C. Foram avaliados pH, acidez total titulável (ATT), sólidos solúveis totais (SST), relação SST/ATT, umidade, cinzas, glicídeos redutores, coloração, vitamina C, carotenoides totais, compostos fenólicos totais e capacidade antioxidante. As análises físico-químicas e químicas realizadas demonstraram que o armazenamento sob congelamento não ocasionou perdas significativas de qualidade das polpas para as variáveis de pH, ATT, SST e glicídeos redutores. Na polpa não pasteurizada, observou-se aumento significativo no teor de umidade e diminuição significativa no teor de cinzas, durante o armazenamento. A aplicação da pasteurização promoveu variações significativas para os SST e glicídios redutores, ao final do período de armazenamento, observando-se maiores teores. A cor foi afetada negativamente pela aplicação do tratamento térmico, observando-se valores de a* inferiores e valores do ângulo da tonalidade (°h) superiores. Quanto à estabilidade dos compostos antioxidantes, verificou-se redução nos teores de vitamina C, carotenoides, compostos fenólicos totais e da capacidade antioxidante, ao longo do armazenamento a -18 °C, nas polpas não pasteurizada e pasteurizada. Foram observadas perdas de 82,38% e 88,88% para vitamina C, de 66,29% e 66,51% para os carotenoides, e 22,26% e 31,31% para os compostos fenólicos totais nas polpas não pasteurizadas e pasteurizadas, respectivamente. Conclui-se que o armazenamento durante 120 dias sob congelamento das polpas de Physalis peruviana L. pasteurizada e não pasteurizada promoveu perdas significativas dos compostos antioxidantes para ambas as polpas e que a pasteurização afetou as características físico-químicas e químicas avaliadas.

ABSTRACT: The effect of atrazine, mesotrione, and joint activity of atrazine plus mesotrione on pigment, lipid peroxidation, and antioxidant enzyme activity was studied. Atrazine and mesotrione treatments significantly reduced chlorophyll a (Chl a), chlorophyll b (Chl b), carotenoid concentrations, and protein content in bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon L.) plants, whereas they significantly enhanced lipid peroxidation. The treatment of atrazine plus mesotrione caused greater phototoxic effect on bermudagrass than either herbicide alone, which was evident from the significantly decreased membrane stability noted as a function of the enhanced singlet oxygen and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents, as well as from the greater reduction in Chl a, Chl b, and carotenoid contents. Although bermudagrass activated the antioxidant enzymes catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and glutathione S-transferase (GST), it was significantly injured after the herbicide treatments. Thus, results suggested that the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants of bermudagrass was overloaded after the treatment of atrazine plus mesotrione, and the reactive oxygen species (ROS) subsequently caused lipid peroxidation, pigment and protein degradation, as well as other cellular constituent damage.

The use of fruits in the development of products aims to insert in the market foods with a greater contribution of nutrients, thus stimulating, healthier life habits. The Cerrado fruits have great economic and nutritional potential, however, it is necessary to search for alternatives for a better use and conservation of these fruits. The objective of this work was to characterize the chemical composition of bocaiuva jelly (Acrocomia aculeata) and passion fruit (Passiflora edulis), using soluble solids, titratable acidity, pH, Aw, total solids, total phenols, antioxidant activity, tannins, carotenoids and ascorbic acid. The pulp of bocaiuva used in the elaboration of the jelly was also characterized due to the different morphotypes found in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. The jelly of bocaiuva with passion fruit presents 106,01 mg g-1 of total phenols, 466,55 g g- 1 DPPH, 4.94 mg 100g-1 tannins, 11.44 mg 100g-1 carotenoids. The bocaiuva pulp shows 240.8 mg g -1 total phenols, 261.14 g g -1 DPPH, 10.66 mg 100 g -1 tannins and 58.29 mg 100 g -1 carotenoids. The bocaiuva jelly with passion fruit retained the compounds considered bioactive in their composition, derived from the pulp of bocaiuva and passion fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Nutraceuticals have been highlighted due its health benefits in, preventing and assisting the treatment of diseases. The polyunsaturated fatty acids (PFA), carotenoids, flavonoids and isoflavones are among the most consumed. Objective: The aim was to investigate definitions, regulations, efficacy, types of treatment and adverse reactions of nutraceuticals. Results: PFA have healing and tissue regeneration properties, as well, immunoregulatory, anti-inflammatory properties and in regulating the lipid profile. Beta-carotene prevents cancer, cardiovascular disease, protection of renal function but in smokers it can increase the incidence of lung cancer. Among the flavonoids, quercetin stands for their antioxidant and protective effects on renal, cardiovascular and hepatic functions. However, it should be avoided by hypotensive patients. Isoflavones are useful in symptoms of menopause, including depression. Conclusion: The use of nutraceuticals related to health benefits, however its use should be evaluated in each case. In addition, there is the need for a specific legislation for standardization of these products, which would enhance more studies to ensure their effectiveness and safe treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study associates blood antioxidants like copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn), β-carotene, lycopene and vitamins (A and E) to sociodemographic features and seasonality in communities from the Tapajós River region, Brazilian Amazon. We observed increased Mn, Se and Zn levels compared to the average Brazilian population, whereas this is only the case for β-carotene in the rainy season. Lycopene levels fall within the reference range, although lower than those found in other Brazilian regions. Cu, Se, Zn, β-carotene, lycopene and vitamin E levels vary among seasons. β-carotene, Mn and Se vary among communities. Se and Zn vary with smoking habits and sex, respectively. In addition, β-carotene and vitamins (A and E) are altered by alcohol consumption. Villagers who both farmed and fished present higher Cu and lower β-carotene levels than participants with a single occupation. Vitamin E levels depend upon the individual state of origin. These data provide important baseline information for antioxidant status in this Amazonian riparian population.

Abstract Some foods constituents are subject to change during thermal and/or industrial processing. In the fruit processing industry, guava pulp is used during guava off season to obtain guava paste, produced with the addition of sugar and citric acid, subjected to various thermal processes. This study evaluated the effect of industrial processing to obtain guava paste on the content of ascorbic acid, total carotenoids, total phenolic and total flavonoid present in guava ‘Paluma’ cv. The results showed that there was an increase of antioxidants in guava pulp (15% ascorbic acid, 59% total carotenoids, 8% total phenolics and 54.5% total flavonoids), probably due to their increased concentration as a result of water loss during processing. There was areduction in the contents of antioxidants compounds in guava paste (42, 13, 31 and 6.5% respectively). The antioxidant capacity was evaluated by the DPPH method, and the results showed that guava ‘Paluma’ cv. and its byproducts have an important antioxidant capacity, with moderate positive correlation among guava anti-radical DPPH• activity with the contents of acid ascorbic, carotenoids and phenolics and, for the guava paste anti-radical DPPH• activity, there was very high positive correlation with the content of carotenoids and high positive correlation with total content of phenolic compounds.

Abstract Pequi pulp oil, Caryocar brasiliense, is rich in carotenoids, antioxidant compound easily oxidized by the presence of heat, light and oxygen. In order to improve its stability, pequi oil was microencapsulated by complex coacervation using gelatin and Arabic gum as encapsulating agents. Twenty formulations were prepared using a 23 central composite rotational design. The influence of temperature, stirring velocity and core material in the oil coacervation were evaluated, aiming to preserve carotenoids present in the oil. The best yield values and carotenoids content were obtained at the midpoint of the design (7.5g core, 15.000rpm and 50°C). Particles showed asymmetric distribution, with diameter ranging from 15 to 145 µm and the efficiency of the encapsulation process, obtained by the retention of oil in the microcapsule, ranged from 66.58 to 96.50%, thus demonstrating the encapsulation efficiency of this method.

This study evaluated the effect of adding annatto as agent pigmentation on the staining characteristics of the skin, muscle and productive performance of Carassius auratus, reared in 0.15 m3 (dimensions 0.50 x 0.50 x 0.65 m) hapas disposed within a circular masonry tank of 25 m3. We used 336 C. auratus fingerlings completely randomized design in 28 hapas with seven treatments and four replicates with 12 fish per unit. The addition of annatto levels were 0.0, 0.25, 0.50, 1.00, 2.00, 4.00 and 8.00%. Fish with an average initial weight of 1.12 ± 0.18 g and length of 4.31 ± 0.44 cm, were fed the 08, 11, 14 and 17 hours. The b * colorimetric characteristics (yellow) showed significant at 96 and 141 days in the Hunter coordinate system with the addition of 2.0 and 1.0% annatto in the diet, respectively, and the coordinate system of CMYK and 96 days for C (cyan), and 141 days for the Y (yellow), with the addition of 8.0 to 2.0% annatto in the diet, respectively. We observed differences (P

the use of herbicides to control weeds in maize is widely used in the conventional Brazilian cultivation system. However, the crop may present symptoms of toxicity, which may compromise plant development and reduce yield. Therefore, this work aimed to evaluate the response of 55 maize lines to the application of mesotrione and to study the genetic control linked to the tolerance of the lines to the herbicide. The experiments were conducted at the experimental unit of the company COODETEC in the Cascavel, in the agricultural year of 2014/15 and in the 2016. The experimental adopted was a randomized complete block design with three replications. The evaluated traits were carotenoid content, chlorophyll content and chlorophyll meter reading. The evaluations were made at the stages maize of development of V3 and V6. In the characterization experiment the symptoms presented by the plants were evaluated and 14 lines showed tolerance to the herbicide. Was observed genetic variability between strains for SPAD and carotenoid contents in the V3 and V6 stages. The CD11 and CD33 lines are indicated for studies on genetic control. The additive genetic factors are more important than the deviations of dominance, indicating the possibility of obtaining homozygous plants tolerant to the herbicide. The observed herdability estimates allow the achievement of satisfactory gains through selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resumo Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito do armazenamento a 6 °C nas características do suco de umbu pasteurizado. A pasteurização foi realizada a 86 °C por 25 s em um pasteurizador de superfície raspada, sendo o suco de umbu mantido a 6 °C por 90 dias. O suco pasteurizado atendeu ao padrão estabelecido pela legislação brasileira com contagem

Embrapa Amazônia Oriental owns and active bank of peppers with different genotypes of the genus Capsicum, which have not been analyzed for their functional characteristics and antioxidant capacity yet. This study aimed to determine the contents of ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, total carotenoids and total antioxidant activity in iµMature and mature fruits of Capsicum peppers genotypes. The levels of vitamin C (100.76-361.65 mg 100 g-1 in iµMature fruits and 36.70-157.76 mg 100 g-1 in mature fruits) decreased with fruit maturity. Total carotenoids were not detected in iµMature fruits, however, values of 73.801349.97 mg g-1 were observed for mature fruits, according to the genotype. The contents of phenolic compounds increased in mature fruits (147.40-718.64 mg GAE 100 g-1) for eight out of nine genotypes evaluated. The pepper fruits showed significant antioxidant activity (55.02-92.03 µM trolox g-1 in iµMature fruits and 39.60-113.08 µM trolox g-1 in mature fruits). It was concluded that the degree of fruit maturation affected the contents of bioactive compounds of the genotypes evaluated. IAN-186301 and IAN-186324, for total carotenoids; IAN-186301, IAN-186311, IAN-186312 and IAN-186313, for ascorbic acid; IAN-186304 and IAN-186311, for phenolic compounds; and IAN-186311, for antioxidant activity, were considered the most promising genotypes, with potential to be used in breeding programs.

The use of nutraceuticals in veterinary medicine is growing and is assumed that they could aid in clinical treatment. This review aims to describe some nutraceuticals that act on the immunity of dogs and cats and show the possible benefits as an adjuvant treatment for some diseases. The action of some yeast derivates as immunomodulators, especially the beta-glucan fraction, was already proved to occur in dogs and cats, being beneficial as an adjuvant therapy in many clinical conditions. Omega-3 polyunsatured fatty acids, possibly the mostly used nutraceuticals, can improve the condition in some diseases, such as hypertension, renal, cardiac, gastrointestinal and autoimmune diseases, arthritis and cancer. Vitamin E has antioxidant and immunomodulatory action and can aid in the treatment of dermatologic and hepatobiliar conditions. The use of carotenoids, which have similar action to vitamin E, can be of interest for being potent antioxidants and might be helpful for enhancing immune response against microorganisms and also act preventing tumors. Despite it are still needed clinical trials to better understand the real benefits of nutraceuticals supplementation in each specific disease, the comprehension of the mechanisms by which they act indicates they are promising for clinical use.

Chlorophylls and carotenoids are the main photosynthetic pigment in plants. In the weeds, the greatest amount of photosynthetic pigments can result in high competitiveness of the species. The aim of this study was to quantify the content of photosynthetic pigments in biotypes of fleabane (Conyza bonariensis) susceptible and resistant to glyphosate, by two different methods, as well as a correlation between chlorophyll content obtained by portable and classical methodology (extractable chlorophyll). An experiment was conducted in greenhouse and laboratory, 2 x 5 factorial scheme, where factor A was equivalent to biotypes of fleabane (resistant and susceptible to glyphosate) and factor B to developmental stages plants (rosette vegetative I, II and III and reproduction). At all stages of development, fleabane plants were evaluated with the portable determiner (chlorophyll content) and then the same leaves were subjected to classical methodology laboratory (extractable pigments). The resistant biotype of fleabane showed higher contents of chlorophyll a, b, and total carotenoids, inferring a greater competitive potential regarding the susceptible population to the herbicide. The portable determiner of chlorophyll showed high correlation with the classical method of determination of photosynthetic pigments, and can thus be used to accurately assess this, saving time and reagents.

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