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This article examines the impact of storage on the quality of local bread made with sourdough and potato puree. The study found that as the bread was stored for longer periods, there was a decrease in its physical characteristics such as mass, height, width, crust thickness, total volume, and specific volume. The quantity of ß-carotene and phenolic compounds in the bread also decreased with increasing storage time. However, sensory evaluation showed that the breads maintained desirable crust color, crumb texture, porosity, aroma, and overall acceptance throughout the storage period. The study concludes that local bread made with sourdough has a longer shelf life and provides valuable information on its nutritional value and sensory properties. [Extracted from the article]

The present work evaluated ß-carotene content, colour (L*, a*, b*), and consumer preference for egg yolks from chicken, guinea fowl, and quail, sampled from intensive or semi-intensive rearing systems in Ghana. The ß-carotene content of guinea fowl yolk was almost seven times greater (p < 0.001) than that of chicken and quail yolks. The yellowness of guinea fowl yolk (82.18; p < 0.01) was approximately 1.5 and 1.3 times greater than that of chicken and quail yolks, respectively. A consumer preference test showed a significantly greater score (5; p < 0.001) for guinea fowl than for the other egg types. The yellowness of egg yolks had strong positive relationship with ß-carotene content (r = 0.943; p = 0.216) and consumer preference (r = 0.995; p = 0.064). Therefore, enhancing the yellowness of egg yolks on the Ghanaian market, especially those from chicken, could lead to increased egg consumption in Ghana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lipids are an important group of compounds that provide several biological functions such as: energy storage, cell membrane structure, and signaling. This study has the aims to investigate the total lipid content of fruits belonging to temperate nut crops like walnut (Juglans regia L.), pecan (Carya illinoinensis), and hazelnut (Corylus avellana L.) using the extraction method based on different solvents. The analyzed kernels were collected from six walnut accessions ('Valcor', 'Jupâneşti', 'VL 51 B', 'Payne', 'Lara', and 'Franquette'), one pecan hybrid selection (H 21-13 - 2008) and six hazelnut cultivars ('Valcea 22', 'Romavel', 'Ennis', 'Daviana', 'Du Chilly', and 'Purple Filbert'), all from the germplasm collections of Fruit Growing Research and Extension Station (SCDP) Valcea. The FTIR spectroscopy using attenuated total reflectance and suitable variables (absorbance values at certain wavenumbers) of nut oil samples was utilized at frequency regions of 4000-400 cm-1. The colorimetric sulfo-phospho-vanillin method developed by Van Handel (1985) was used in order to determinate the total lipid content. The results obtained after analyzing the nut kernels emphasized inter- and intraspecific variation depending on the genotype and the solvent used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dates are an excellent source of polyphenols which makes them a valuable avenue for pharmacological properties. However, there are underutilized date fruits in Oman. In this study, four commonly grown Omani date cultivars, namely Barni, Fard, Khalas and Madloki at Tamar stages, were investigated for their total phenolic contents, phenolic and flavonoid compounds, vitamin C, ß-carotene, tannins and saponins. The acidic-aqueous and alcoholic extracts were obtained from the dried powder of date varieties. Total phenolic contents were determined spectrophotometrically by using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Phenolic acids, flavonoids, ß-carotene and vitamin C, were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography. Tannins and saponins were analyzed qualitatively. The results showed that there were differences among date cultivars in terms of total phenolic and flavonoids compounds. Madloki date powder exhibited the highest concentration of vitamin C and total phenolic compounds. Fard date powder had the highest concentration of flavonoid compounds, though it showed a lower concentration of ß-carotene. A comparatively higher concentration of quercetin was observed in Madloki dates. The study results provide evidence that the investigated Omani date fruits possess potential nutraceutical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orange sweet potato (Ipomoea batata L., Convolvulaceae) roots are an attractive source of ß-carotene and other carotenoids. These compounds (allelochemicals) are used in the pharmaceutical, medicinal and food industries. In this study, the extraction of carotenoidallelochemicals from roots of orange sweet potato cultivar 'pushu 32' was optimized by response surface methodology (RSM) in aqueous two-phase systems (ATPS) based on polymer/salt mixtures. Preliminary tests yielded higher contents of carotenoids in ATPS, based on sodium sulfate-PEG than on ammonium sulfate-PEG. Hence the effects of PEG-4000 concentration, sodium sulfate concentration, liquid-to-solid ratio and ultrasonic time were further investigated on carotenoids yield in single factor experiments. Four factors were used in a 3-level Box-Behnken design (BBD) of response surface model (RSM) to find the best conditions for carotenoid yield. Optimum carotenoids yield was obtained with 35.96 % (w/w) PEG-4000; 15.40 % (w/w) sodium sulfate; an ultrasonic time applied for 31.84 min and a liquid-to-solid ratio of 25.96:1 (v/w). Under these conditions, carotenoids yield was 0.594 mg/g which was very close to the predicted value (0.597 mg/g). The new proposed extraction method is promising for higher recovery of carotenoids from roots of orange sweet potatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant activity (AA) and color degradation were monitored in tomato quarters (Rio Grande) during hot air drying in a cabinet drier at five temperatures (60, 70, 80, 90 and 100°C) at an airflow rate of 0.2 m/s and 20% relative humidity. AA values of fresh tomatoes determined by total phenolic content (TPC), FRAP and DPPH assays were 85.3 mg GAE, 26.2 µmol TE and 31.3 µmol TE/100g dm, respectively. Increasing drying temperature resulted in a reduction in Hunter Lab and a/b color values of tomatoes as well as their AA values. During hot air drying, the degradation of AA and color values of tomatoes followed a first-order reaction. Activation energy values for AA degradation determined by TPC, FRAP and DPPH assays were 24.36, 22.91 and 23.67 kJ/mol, respectively. High correlations were found among the TPC, DPPH and FRAP values and lycopene and ß-carotene contents of tomatoes during hot air drying. Degradation kinetic data revealed that color values and tomatoes AA are susceptible to drying temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduction of orange flesh tomato in Nigeria climatic conditions through characterization is the best way to understand its adaptability and fight against the lack of ß-carotene in the landraces and improved varieties currently cultivated in the country. This study was aimed to evaluate7 tomato varieties comprised of 4orange-fleshed tomato imported from New Zealand and 3 local varieties for their morphological, agronomic and chemical composition and fruit quality characters. Phenotyping was used to assess the morphological and agronomic traits and while biochemical assays was used for fruit quality characters. The four orange fleshed tomato varieties were indeterminate and the 3 local varieties were determinate. There were significant variability and differences in plant height (54.93 cm to 72.23 cm), leaf number (14 to 24), leaf length (24.10 cm to 28.53 cm), length width (15.13 cm to 16.93 cm), internode length (2.41 cm to 3.29 cm), root collar (3.46 cm to 4.53 cm), days to 1% flowering (20 to 23), days to maturity (34 to 42), number of clusters per plant (5 to 10), fruits per cluster (4 to 6), fruit weight (72.64 g to 488.58 g), fruit length (27 mm to54.89 mm), fruit diameter (23.67 mm to 28 mm), transverse fruit section (1 mm to 3 mm), moisture content (92.30 to 95.33%), protein (0.15 to 1.02%), fat (0.15 to 1.02%), fibre (0.92 to 2.37%) and carbohydrate (1.86 to 6.41%). At the time the local varieties senesced they showed higher yields than the introduced varieties, but as indeterminate they were better than the local ones because they continued fruiting after the local ones died off. Flesh color of pericarps and ripened fruit color ranged from orange to red while fruit shape varied from highly rounded to cylindrical (long oblong). Fruit size showed variation from small to moderate size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

In this research, the antioxidant and antibacterial characteristics of edible cellulose-based film (CBEF) coating incorporated with β-carotene, Hesperedin and Propolis on the quality of the white cheese at 4°C were investigated. Samples evaluated were: Control, CBE films with 8 different contents containing natural or non-natural antimicrobial agents for 15 days at 5 day intervals. The antimicrobial effects of edible cellulosic films prepared with antimicrobial agents against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, which are important food pathogens, were directly evaluated with artificially contaminated food samples under cold storage conditions. Fresh white cheese samples, which are one of the semi-hard traditional Turkish cheeses, were used for artificial contamination. The antimicrobial activity of the tested antimicrobial substances was measured by the paper disc method. The DPPH free radical scavenging activities, the total phenolic content, and the characteristics (FT-IR, DSC and TGA) of the CBEFs were investigated. All of the samples significantly reduced E. coli, S. aureus and total viable counts, as compared with control during the storage time. Specifically, it was determined that hesperidin sprayed films showed an antimicrobial effect on E.coli growth and carotene sprayed films showed an antimicrobial effect on S. aureus growth. Growth of both bacterial species was highly inhibited (>50%) in the presence of 20% propolis. It was concluded that β-carotene, hesperidin and propolis can be substituted as natural preservatives in white cheese. With this advanced packaging technology, food safety can be ensured, the shelf life of the product can be extended and food losses in this sector can be reduced. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Batch growth and β‐carotene production of Dunaliella salina CCAP19/18 was investigated in flat‐plate gas‐lift photobioreactors with a light path of 2 cm, operated in physically simulated outdoor conditions. Dunaliella salina CCAP19/18 showed robust growth with respect to pH 8.0‐9.0 and 15–35°C at increasing salinity, simulating the evaporation of open photobioreactors. The highest β‐carotene concentration of 25 mg L‐1 (3 mg gCDW−1) was observed in batch processes at pH 8.5, 15–30°C and increasing salinity up to 110 g L‐1, simulating a typical Mediterranean summer climate. Intracellular β‐carotene accumulation of D. salina CCAP19/18 was shown to be independent of light availability, although nutrient limitation (K2HPO4, MgSO4, and/or ammonium ferric citrate) seems to enable stable β‐carotene content in the algal cells despite increasing cell densities in the photobioreactor. Fully controlled, lab‐scale photobioreactors simulating typical climate conditions of any region of interest are valuable tools for enabling a realistic characterization of microalgae on a laboratory scale, for production processes projected in open photobioreactor systems (e.g. thin‐layer cascade photobioreactors).

This study aimed at investigating the use of wheat, Bambara nut and orange fleshed sweet potato composite flours in the production of cookies. Enriched cookies were produced using wheat, Bambara nut and Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato flour blends in the ratios: 100:0:0, 90:5:5, 90:0:10, 80:10:10 and 80:5:15 and were labeled BVB, ACC, LVG, BCN and CFC respectively. Sample BVB (100% wheat flour) served as the control. The functional properties of the flour blends were determined, as well as the proximate and beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A) composition of the cookies. Also, the physical parameters and sensory qualities of the enriched cookies were evaluated. The moisture content, protein, fat, fibre, ash and carbohydrate ranged from 5.70 to 8.57%, 9.62 to 11.93%, 11.02 to 13.02%, 2.33 to 4.03%, 1.23 to 1.54% and 63.33 to 68.79% respectively. The energy value ranged from 405.46 to 420.03 k/cal. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in the functional properties of the flour blends. The result also revealed that the ß-carotene (pro-vitamin A) increased with increase in substitution of orange fleshed sweet potato. The results showed significant differences (p<0.05) in physical properties of the cookies in weight, diameter, break strength, density and volume while there were no significant differences (p>0.05) in thickness and spread ratio. The sensory analysis indicated that all the samples had high level of acceptability in their sensory attributes, but sample BVB and ACC had the best overall acceptability ratings of 7.50 and 7.10 respectively. Therefore, enriched cookies produced from the blends were acceptable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomatoes have been widely used in nutrition, as well as in nutritional medicine. Red tomatoes are used for the treatment of anaemia, they contain the antioxidant lycopene, and the high concentration of organic acids promotes digestion. Yellow tomatoes have valuable amounts of ß-carotene, the pigment that gives orange and yellow tomatoes their colour, and helps to neutralise free radicals that may damage cells. The size of brown tomatoes is smaller than an average tomato, but they are sweeter, due to higher concentration of fructose. Cherry tomatoes are among the smallest tomatoes commercially available, but they are known for being rich in carotenoids, lycopene and phenolic compounds. The aim of the study was to evaluate how the concentration of biologically active substances differs depending on the tomato growing season. The study examined four varieties of tomatoes (Bolzano F1 — yellow, Chocomate F1— brown, Encore F1 — red, Strabena F1— red cherry) grown in an industrial greenhouse "Mežvidi" (Latvia) using additional light. The concentration of biologically active substances (lycopene, ß-carotene, total phenolic compounds, and soluble solids) was determined in two vegetation periods — autumn (November) and spring (March). The obtained results showed that tomatoes harvested in autumn contained more biologically active substances than in spring, as many biological processes in plants occur more rapidly at the beginning rather than in the middle or at the end of the vegetation season. Therefore, the concentration of secondary metabolites in tomatoes is higher at the end of the season. In autumn, cherry tomatoes Strabena contained the highest amount of pigments, total phenols, and soluble solids, and therefore the taste index of this variety also was the highest. In spring, pigment concentration was significantly lower (on average by 20–30%), and phenols and soluble solids concentration (oBrix) was not significantly lower — on average by 2–4%. Of the large-fruit tomatoes, at the beginning of vegetation season (autumn), the highest amounts of pigments were in red tomatoes (Encore) — lycopene concentration 4.63 ± 0.04 mg·100 g−1; yellow tomatoes Bolzano were rich in phenolic compounds — 128.46 ± 3.25 GAE mg·100−1, and brown tomatoes Chocomate had the highest soluble solids concentration — 4.48 ± 0.05 oBrix. In spring, the concentration of biologically active substances was lower on average by 10–15%, regardless of the colour and variety of the tomato. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate four wild edible fruits of Sikkim Himalaya viz., Baccaurea sapida, Diploknema butyracea, Machilus edulis and Spondias axillaris for their mineral content, phytochemicals (ascorbic acid, ß-carotene, flavonoids, lycopene and total phenolic contents) and antioxidant property. The total phenolic and lycopene contents were found maximum in S. axillaris subsequently in M. edulis, D. butyraceae and B. sapida. S. axillaris also showed the highest antioxidant activities and contains significantly higher concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium and iron. The amount of ascorbic acid was observed highest in D. butyracea, followed by S. axillaris, B. sapida and M. edulis, whereas ß-carotene was found to be highest in M. edulis. Results reinforce the promotion of these underutilized wild edible fruits, especially, S. axillaris and M. edulis as natural sources of phytochemicals, minerals and antioxidant compounds for food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Weaning is an important stage in the life of young mammals, which is associated with intestinal inflammation, gut microbiota disorders, and even death. ß-Carotene displays anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can prevent the development of inflammatory diseases. However, whether ß-carotene can affect intestinal microbiota remains unclear. Methods: Twenty-four piglets were distributed into four groups: the normal suckling group (Con), the weaning group (WG), the weaning+ß-carotene (40 mg/kg) group (LCBC), and the weaning+ß-carotene (80 mg/kg) group (HCBC). The serum, jejunum, colon, and faeces were collected separately from each group. The effects of ß-carotene on the phenotype, overall structure, and composition of gut microbiota were assessed in weaning piglets. Results: The results showed that ß-carotene improved the growth performance, intestinal morphology and relieved inflammation. Furthermore, ß-carotene significantly decreased the species from phyla Bacteroidetes and the genus Prevotella, and Blautia, and increased the species from the phyla Firmicutes and the genera p-75-a5, and Parabacteroides compared to the WG group. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that Prevotella and Blautia were positively correlated, and Parabacteroides and Synergistes were negatively correlated with the levels of interleukin-1ß (IL-1ß), IL-6, and tumour necrosis factor-a (TNF-a), while p-75-a5 showed negative correlation with IL-6 in serum samples from piglets. Conclusion: These findings indicate that ß-carotene could alleviate weaning-induced intestinal inflammation by modulating gut microbiota in piglets. Prevotella may be a potential target of ß-carotene in alleviating the weaning-induced intestinal inflammation in piglets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there is a great deal of attention for natural products due to its possible medicinal values. Its effectiveness has been proved through a several studies in defeating some diseases. The present study aimed to investigate the antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal activities of Urtica urens from Western Algeria. Leaves and roots were extracted with 80 % Ethanol and water. The 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ß-carotene bleaching tests were used to assess the antioxidant activity in addition to polyphenols analysis, while the agar well diffusion were used to screen the antimicrobial activity against some Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and the fungi. Among the studied extracts, hydroalcoholic extracts of leaves and roots presented the highest total phenolic values (26.2 and 20.9 mg GAE/g), flavonoids with (15.7 and 12.2 mg quercetin/g) and condensed tannins with (56.4 and 30.1 mg GAE/g), compared to the water extracts. Once again, the 80 % ETOH leaves exhibited the highest antioxidant capacity with an IC50 of 2.59 mg/ml, followed by the water leaves with an IC50 of 6 mg/ml. On the other hand, the hydroalcoholic extracts exhibited the highest inhibition of ß-carotene bleaching with 42.6 % to the roots and 37.9 % to the leaves. The ETOH leaves and ETOH roots of U. urens were the most effective extracts being able to repress the growth of the pathological tested strains including fungi. Therefore, it is recommended the use of U. urens that has been poorly recognized for a long time by the population of the selected region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-ion irradiation is a technique for trait improvement in the microalgae, but the underlying mechanisms that how it altered the biomass, and photosynthetic pigments accumulation were unclear. One mutant (DS240G-1) was obtained from Dunaliella salina by heavy ion irradiation mutagenesis. Compared to the wild type, the biomass accumulation and maximum growth rate of DS240G-1 were increased by 34% and 55% respectively, and its ß-carotene content was 21% higher than the wild type. Subsequent analysis of the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters indicated that higher ß-carotene productivity was likely owing to the improved maximum quantum efficiency (Fv/Fm) and decreased thermal dissipation of photosynthesis in DS240G-1 than that of wild type during cultivation. In addition, the result of this study revealed that high content of ROS may induce ß-carotene accumulation in mutant DS240G-1. Also, the total fatty acid (TFA) content in mutant DS240G-1 was 79% higher than that in wild type. Owing to its high ß-carotene productivity and total fatty acid content, DS240G-1 could be considered as a promising candidate for microalgae ß-carotene and biodiesel production. This work provided the first insight into the biological effects involved in carbon-ions irradiation on the photosynthetic activity of D. salina. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Batch growth and β‐carotene production of Dunaliella salina CCAP19/18 was investigated in flat‐plate gas‐lift photobioreactors with a light path of 2 cm, operated in physically simulated outdoor conditions. Dunaliella salina CCAP19/18 showed robust growth with respect to pH 8.0‐9.0 and 15–35°C at increasing salinity, simulating the evaporation of open photobioreactors. The highest β‐carotene concentration of 25 mg L‐1 (3 mg gCDW−1) was observed in batch processes at pH 8.5, 15–30°C and increasing salinity up to 110 g L‐1, simulating a typical Mediterranean summer climate. Intracellular β‐carotene accumulation of D. salina CCAP19/18 was shown to be independent of light availability, although nutrient limitation (K2HPO4, MgSO4, and/or ammonium ferric citrate) seems to enable stable β‐carotene content in the algal cells despite increasing cell densities in the photobioreactor. Fully controlled, lab‐scale photobioreactors simulating typical climate conditions of any region of interest are valuable tools for enabling a realistic characterization of microalgae on a laboratory scale, for production processes projected in open photobioreactor systems (e.g. thin‐layer cascade photobioreactors). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Cientifica de la Facultade de Veterinaria is the property of Universidad del Zulia, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The objective of this review was to collect, contrast and analyse the conventional and non-conventional extraction techniques to obtain ß-carotene from carrot (Daucus carota L.), by conducting a bibliometric analysis of different recent studies and investigations where different approaches, techniques, and findings converge. Similarly, the contribution of green solvents to the extraction process is established to determine its applicability at an industrial scale. Carrots are rich in carotenoids, and especially in ß-carotene, a source of provitamin A used as a natural coloring in the food and pharmaceutical industry. Microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), enzyme-assisted extraction (EAE), and Supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) have been evaluated using the carrot and have been compared to conventional solvent extraction techniques (CSE), showing similar and even higher extraction yields and efficiencies. However, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) shows successful and considerably higher results (157.0 mg b-carotene/100 g DB) compared to other non-conventional techniques. Further investigations are required to optimize the extraction conditions and parameters, as well as the evaluation of suitable preservation conditions for both the raw material and the final extract that ensure a higher stability of the end-product, and thus providing a higher extraction yield. Green alternatives should be considered to reduce environmental impact in future extraction processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Background: evidence indicates a role of vitamin A in the regulation of fat mass influencing obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Material and methods: a cross-sectional study in 200 women, paired by age and by the recommended dietary intake of vitamin A. Subjects were divided into four groups according to body mass index (BMI): 80 eutrophic (E), 40 overweight (OW), 40 class I obesity (OI) and 40 class II obesity (OII). Lipid and glycemic profiles were measured and oxidative stress was evaluated through serum concentrations of uric acid, glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Results: the cutoff points for deficiency of serum retinol and β-carotene levels were < 1.05 µmol/L and 40 µg/dL, respectively. For the recommended dietary intake of vitamin A it was 700 µg/day. Retinol and β-carotene deficiency was found in the E group at 5 % and 15 %, respectively, reaching 77.5 % and 82.5 % in the OII group. Conclusions: a correlation was observed between serum concentrations of retinol and β-carotene and glycemic, lipid, and markers of oxidative stress profiles in the groups studied. It was observed that OI and OII subjects who had retinol and β-carotene deficiency presented a risk that was 16 and 20.7 times greater, respectively, of having a diagnosis with DM2 as compared to E subjects with adequate concentrations of vitamin A. Increased demand of vitamin A may be related to increased BMI, body adiposity, and oxidative stress even when a recommended intake of vitamin A is reached. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of pre-treatment methods on ß-carotene retention, physico-chemical properties and functional properties of high quality cassava flour (HQCF) from yellow-fleshed cassava root were investigated. The flours were prepared from peeled and sliced yellow-fleshed cassava roots. The first sample(untreated) served as the control, the second sample was blanched while the three other samples were treated using 1.0% sodium metabisulphite (NaHSO3), 1% w/v Calcium chloride (CaCl2), 1%w/v citric acid solution respectively. The ß-carotene retention, physico-chemical properties and functional properties of yellow cassava flour were analyzed using appropriate methods. Data obtained were subjected to Analysis of Variance and compared using Duncan Multiple Comparison Test. There existed significant (p=0.05) difference in the ß-carotene content and L*a*b* colour analysis of the yellow cassava flour which ranged from 7.08-8.97 µg/g and 86.15 to 87.20, -3.08 to -2.33, 16.95 to 21.49 respectively. The citric acid pre-treated flour had the highest ß-carotene content while the control had the lowest. The water absorption capacities, oil absorption capacities, pH and HCN content were significantly different while other parameters determined were not significantly different. The pH and HCN content of the flour ranged from 5.25-6.26 and 2.95-3.52 mg HCN eqv/kg, the HCN content were within the values recommended by SON (<10 mg HCN eqv/kg). However, the best quality yellow cassava flour in terms of ß-carotene retention was obtained from citric acid pre-treated yellow cassava roots. Increased ß-carotene (pro vitamin A) retention in turn will minimize occurrence of vitamin A deficiency (VAD) among consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ß-carotene is a robust modulator of mucosal barriers, and it can amplify the immunoglobulin A (IgA) response via the retinoic acid (RA)-mediated pathway. We investigated the influence of ß-carotene on intestinal barriers in layer-type cockerels. In this study, ß-carotene has a positive influence on growth performance and intestinal morphology. ß-carotene remarkably enhanced serum secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) levels, jejunal mucosal sIgA, and IgA concentrations. ß-Carotene significantly enhanced mRNA expression levels of IgA, CC chemokine receptor-9 (CCR9), polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR), and retinoic acid receptor a (RARa) in the ileal tissues and pIgR in the jejunal tissues. ß-Carotene improves mRNA expression of intestinal barrier-related proteins including: mucin-2 (MUC-2), zonula occludens-2 (ZO- 2), occludins (OCLN), and zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) in the ileal tissues. Moreover, ß-carotene decreased the levels of Escherichia coli and elevates the levels of Lactobacillus. The results indicate that ß-carotene can promote growth performance and contribute to the gradual development of intestinal barriers in Hyline Brown chicks. This study enriches our knowledge about the effects of ß-carotene on intestinal barrier and highlights a theoretical basis of ß-carotene application in the poultry industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to determine the effects of chicken compost and KCl fertilizer application on the growth, yield, post-harvest quality of sweet corn (Zea mays L. var. saccharata), soil respiration and microbial population. The research was arranged according to a Factorial Random-Block Design consisting of two factors and three replications. The first factor was the dose of chicken compost (0 and 15 t/ha) and the second the dose of KCl fertilizer (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg/ha). The results showed that chicken compost stimulated the growth, yield, postharvest quality of sweet corn, respiration, and microbial activity of soil. KCl fertilizer increased SPAD values linearly and quadratically chlorophyll pigment, ß-carotene, yield components, and yield. KCl fertilizer did not affect soil respiration, fungi, or bacteria populations. The use of chicken compost reduced the need for KCl fertilization by 25%. Therefore, the integration of organic and inorganic fertilizers are recommended to be applied by farmers in the tropics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The new allelic variant found in CsaV3_7G029170 (CsaYf) linked to yellow endocarp in the PI200815 (CS-C) line via high-throughput sequencing. • A missense mutation in CsaYf changed the original Aspartic acid (D) in the JEF, KWSA, and CS-A (MEJ) line to Asparagine (N) in the CS-C line. • Concordant phenotype and genotype results suggest a 3:1 ratio and denote a single recessive gene inheritance for the yellow fruit flesh trait. • Downregulation of the CsaYf gene is inversely correlated with ß-carotene accumulation in the CS-C line's meso and endo carp tissues, indicating a need for further investigation. Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) is a globally valued and widely cultivated vegetable crop. However, most commercially available cucumbers contain white or green fruit flesh color, which has very low ß-carotene and other carotenoids. Conversely, orange or yellow-fleshed cucumbers are rich in carotenoids and offer significant dietary and nutritional benefits. To generate cucumber varieties with carotenoid-enriched fruit flesh, we conducted high-throughput sequencing of a yellow-fleshed cucumber PI200815 (CS-C) and white-fleshed cucumbers JEF, and KWSA, to identify the genomic region responsible for yellow-fleshed fruit. Building on the previous report by Lu et al. (2015), we identified seven unique DNA variations in five genes specific to the CS-C line using HiSeq2000 and genomic mapping to 'Chinese-Long v3′. Further, based on the Sanger gene sequencing, among the five candidate genes, we found the CsaV3_7G029170 (encodes for an ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporter C family member 4 [ CsaYf ]) gene with a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) variation in the third exon resulted in a missense mutation caused an amino acid change from Aspartic acid (Asp) to Aspargine (Asn) in the CS-C line. Accordingly, the gene segregation analysis based on the SNP variation revealed that the CsaYf gene confers the yellow endocarp trait in the CS-C line through recessive Mendelian single-gene inheritance. Notably, we observed a negative correlation between the downregulation of CsaYf gene expression and the accumulation of ß-carotene in meso and endo carp tissues in the CS-C line, suggesting a further investigation into the underlying molecular mechanism. This finding provides a novel genetic basis for breeding cucumbers with enriched carotenoid content to enhance their nutritional value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beta-carotene (ßC), a lipid-lowering agent, has been proposed to be a lipid-soluble antioxidant that functions as a precursor of vitamin A. The aim of this study is to evaluate ß-carotene-induced effects on hepato-biochemical parameters of Wistar rats exposed to dietary fats. Thirty Wistar rats were divided into six groups. Group A received rat chow, Group B received a high-fat diet, Group C received 300mg/kg body weight (b.wt) of ßC, Group D received a high-fat diet for twelve weeks then 300mg/kg b.wt of ßC for two weeks, Groups E received 300mg/kg b.wt of ßC for two weeks followed by a high-fat diet for twelve weeks while Group F received a high-fat diet for twelve weeks followed by 150mg/kg b.wt of ßC for two weeks. At the end, the animals were sacrificed; the blood and liver were collected for analyses while some tissues were fixed for histological studies. The results showed that the level of liver enzymes and bilirubin were increased in Group B compared with the Control (P<0.05). The histological examination showed the liver with fatty accumulation, infiltration by inflammatory cells and fatty vacuolation in the experimental Groups compared to the Control. The results suggest that the ß carotene extract can be effective in treating the fatty liver disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the amounts of vitamins A, E, C, ß-carotene, lycopene, ghrelin, reduced and oxidized form of glutathione (GSH, GSSG) with malondialdehyde (MDA) in ripe fruits of Diospyros kaki L. plant were determined by using HPLC. The amount of vitamins A, E, C, ß-carotene, lycopene, ghrelin, GSH, GSSG and MDA in Diospyros kaki L. plant were found to be 0.40±0.06 - 0.92±0.08; 0.63±0.09 - 1.34±0.14; 47.00±0.80 - 65.61±1.56; 2.08±0.18 - 3.36±0.30; 0.69±0.08 - 1.42±0.13; 2.14±0.65 - 7.98±1.06; 398.25±34.23 - 527.90±23.36; 23.67±8.89 - 42.43±4.81 and 5.63±0.35 - 7.28±0.42 µg/g, respectively. It can be said that Diospyros kaki L. plant fruits are a good source of vitamin C, lycopene, ghrelin and glutathione. Findings suggest that the fruit of this plant may be a useful source of antioxidants. Differences in the amount of parameters in the Diospyros kaki L. fruit are thought to be due to the growth medium, climate, and environmental conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Essential oil of Iraqi growing Ocimum basilicum (Thia basil) was studied for their chemical components investigation and antioxidant activity. Methods: Essential oils of leaves and stems of Ocimum basilicum were collected using hydrodistillation by Clevenger apparatus. Components of the collected essential oils were examined by the techniques such as Gas chromatography and Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: The analysis showed that the major components of essential oils were linalool (48.69%), 1,8-cineole (14.00%), trans-a-bergamotene (8.23%) and eugenol (6.64%). The antioxidant investigation was achieved using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) as a radical scavenger and bleaching of ß-carotene/linoleic assay. The essential oil displayed strong inhibition with 110.8% against autoxidation of linoleic acid, while the scavenging of DPPH radical gave a value of IC50 145.35 µg/mL. Conclusion: The results signify that essential oils of O. Basilicum could be used for pharmaceutical studies and preservative in the food industry. This is the first study of the essential components of new cultivate of Thai basil in Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Cordyceps militaris (L.) Link has become popular as a medicinal mushroom. Here, we explored the mushroom C. militaris for possible bioactive molecules by studying its biological activities. Antioxidant activity of the methanolic extracts was tested using DPPH. Antibacterial activity was evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Minimum inhibitory concentrations of the extracts were estimated using broth microdilution method. Observed IC50 value was 0.72 mg/mL compared with standard L-ascorbic acid (IC50= 0.062 mg/mL).The MIC's of the extracts ranged from 1.25 to 10 mg/mL against S. aureus and 0.625 to 5 mg/mL against E. coli. Additionally, cytotoxicity was also investigated towards cancer cell line HEp-2 using MTT. C. militaris extracts reduced HEp-2 cells viability with IC50 value 20 µg/mL. Bioactive components (phenols, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, ß-carotene, and lycopene) were estimated spectrophotometrically. Present study revealed that C. militaris has significant antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer effects which may be the scientific basis of its medicinal use by herbal practitioners. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cerrado presents an exuberant flora adapted to the most varied types of phytophysiognomies, where the cerradão presentes numerous species that constitute the Brazilian flora. The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of phenolic compounds, antioxidant activity, ß-carotene, lycopene and provitamin A in foliar ethanolic extracts of seventeen plant species collected in a Cerrado fragmente in the municipality of Rio Verde - GO, characterized as cerradão. The results presented significant levels of total phenolics and antioxidant activity, except for A. humile, B. intermedia and K. lathrophytum that there was no antioxidant activity, as well as significant amounts of beta-carotene and provitamin A, for some of them. High levels of lycopene were also observed in all leaf extracts evaluated. The Cerrado plant species characterize important phytochemical material for the production of drugs and foods rich in chemical compounds important for human and animal health and welfare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with intestinal fat malabsorption and urolithiasis are particularly at risk of acquiring fat-soluble vitamin deficiencies. The aim of the study was to evaluate the vitamin status and metabolic profile before and after the supplementation of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K (ADEK) in 51 patients with fat malabsorption due to different intestinal diseases both with and without urolithiasis. Anthropometric, clinical, blood and 24-h urinary parameters and dietary intake were assessed at baseline and after ADEK supplementation for two weeks. At baseline, serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity was higher in stone formers (SF; n = 10) than in non-stone formers (NSF; n = 41) but decreased significantly in SF patients after supplementation. Plasma vitamin D and E concentrations increased significantly and to a similar extent in both groups during intervention. While plasma vitamin D concentrations did not differ between the groups, vitamin E concentrations were significantly lower in the SF group than the NSF group before and after ADEK supplementation. Although vitamin D concentration increased significantly in both groups, urinary calcium excretion was not affected by ADEK supplementation. The decline in plasma AST activity in patients with urolithiasis might be attributed to the supplementation of ADEK. Patients with fat malabsorption may benefit from the supplementation of fat-soluble vitamins ADEK.

This study was carried out to obtain information on fortificants (vitamin A and ß-carotene) stability in fortified palm oil. Four types of fortified palm oils were used in this research: palm oil fortified with red palm oil or RPO (containing ß-carotene) 47.08 IU/g, vitamin A (Retinyl palmitate) 56.59 IU/g, combination A (targeted concentration of 30 IU ß-carotene RPO and 15 IU vitamin A) 45.65 IU/g and combination B (targeted concentration of 15 IU ß-carotene RPO and 30 IU vitamin A) 45.95 IU/g. These fortified oils were then used for shallow frying and sautéing (stir frying). Tofu was used in shallow frying and the oil was reused three times each day for several days. Meanwhile, bean sprout was used for sautéing. The used oils after shallow frying was then analyzed for vitamin A and ß-carotene retention, as well as its other characteristics such as peroxide value and free fatty acid (FFA) content. The sauted sprouts was also analyzed for its fortificants retention. The capacity of oil to retain vitamin A and ß-carotene decreased over the repeated use in frying. During the first frying, the retention of fortificants was not significanly differrent (P=0.05). In the second and third frying, ß-carotene was less retained than the vitamin A. Fortificant combination A and B had similar stability. The peroxide value of the oils increased until the second frying, then decreased. Starting the fourth use, the FFA percentage has not increased much hardly increased. The highest yield of fortificant in sautéed sprouts was vitamin A (63.37%), followed by combination B (53.42%), combination A (50.60%), and RPO (34.86%). Sautéed sprout (150 g) contained fortificant contributing to the fulfillment of vitamin A adequacy of 32.71-92.93%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to explore the effect of Moringa oleifera pods meal (MPM) on growth performance, blood metabolites, chemical composition, meat quality and immunity of broilers. For the purpose, two hundred (Hubbard classic) broiler birds having weight 40.4±3.02 g, were assigned to four treatments with five replicates and ten birds per replicate in a completely randomized design. Starter and finisher diets were added with four levels (0, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5% of MPM) over and above. Results of this study showed that growth performance was improved as feed conversion ratio (FCR) and feed intake (FI) were decreased with the increase in supplementation level (P=0.05). Dressing percentage was lowered, whereas giblet weights were improved with the MPM supplementation levels (P=0.05). ß-carotene, Quercetin and Selenium content of breast meat was linearly increased resulting in higher values of di-phenyl picryl hydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging and improved shelf life. Serum biochemical compounds like serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), Creatinine, Glucose and meat cholesterol level was significantly decreased and was recorded lowest in 1.5% MPM supplemented diet (P=0.05). At the end of the trial it was concluded that Moringa pods may positively affect the growth and chemical composition of broiler meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ovarian cysts are commonly observed pathologies, which interfere with normal cyclic activity and adversely affect fertility in cows. Beta-carotene is effective in the reduction of reproductive problems by inducing the natural defence mechanisms of the body. There are several methods that can be used for the treatment of ovarian cysts. The separate and combined use of GnRH and PGF2á commonly uses in the treatment of ovarian cysts. Therefore, in the presented study the effects of Beta-carotene (âC) addition for the treatment of ovarian cysts either with GnRH solely or GnRH and PGF2á in combination on the fertility parameters of dairy cows were investigated. Materials, Methods & Results: Seventy-six Holstein Friesian cows having ovarian cysts diagnosed by ultrasonography (USG) were divided into three groups. Cows in Group I (GI, n = 27), were injected with GnRH (Buserelin acetate, 5 mL, im), PGF2á (Tiaprost-trometamol, 5 mL, im) and âC (20 mL/cow, into 4 regions by im route). In Group II (GII, n = 25) GnRH (Buserelin acetate, 5 mL, im) and PGF2á (Tiaprost-trometamol, 5mL, im) were administrated while GnRH (Buserelin acetate, 5 mL, im) solely in Group III (GIII, n = 24). Cysts were monitored via USG, and blood samples were collected on the on day of treatment (day 0) and on the 7th and 14th days following the administrations. Cows shoving oestrous were inseminated and pregnancy diagnoses were performed on the 40th day following insemination. Treatment results showed that there were statistically no significant differences between GI and GII (P > 0.05). Only numerical difference obtained in time from therapy to pregnancy and overall pregnancy index (P > 0.05). Overall pregnancy rate (85 %), first service pregnancy rates (40 %) and overall pregnancy index (2.11) in GI were found significantly higher than GIII (53.3 %; 20 %; 4.12) [P < 0.05]. No significant difference was observed in progesterone (P4) levels between the groups (P > 0.05). It was found that âC administrations significantly increased âC levels in GI than GII and GIII on the 7th and 14th days (P < 0.05). Discussion: One of the most common problems encountered in modern dairy production is the development of ovarian cysts. Treatments for ovarian cyst are numerous and variable, and have changed considerably over the years. In the present study, GnRH and PGF2á were administered together as a combination, and as a result of this combined use, higher percentages were obtained for both pregnancy rate and fertility parameters in GI and GII, in comparison to the group administered with GnRH alone (GIII). Better outcome from combination therapy (GnRH and PGF2á) may be due to the fact that luteal thickening in the walls of cysts was determined by ultrasonography, but P4 values were not identified immediately and the treatments were not categorized in accord with these values. No statistically significant differences were determined between GI and GII concerning the fertility parameters investigated, however numerical and proportional differences were observed. âC levels were significantly higher on day 7 and 14 after treatment in GI which were administered âC additionally to the treatment protocol for ovarian cysts. This statistical difference suggests that administration of âC in combination therapy is also effective in the treatment of ovarian cysts. In conclusion, it was determined that high pregnancy rates were obtained by the combined treatment of ovarian cysts (GnRH + PGF2á) and number of inseminations per conception were at desired limits. Better percentile and numerical fertility parameters were achieved in the group, which additionally received âC, high numbers of infertility cases, âC supplementation could be a viable option for treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Beta carotene is provitamin essential role for vitamin A formation. Most of vitamin A sources are ß-carotene. In the body, ß-carotene will be converted into vitamin A. Chilies are considered as one of the essential food. Chillies are known as very good sources of ß-carotene. Therefore, it is important to conduct a research in order to observe the content of ß-carotene in the chillies using visible spectrophotometry. Fresh chillies were extracted with a mixture of hexane:acetone:ethanol (2:1:1) v/v using a maceration method. After the extraction process was complete, aquabidest was added. The extraction result was non-polar phase. It was separated and evaporated. The residue was further subjected to qualitative and quantitative analysis 102 Pharmaҫiana, Vol. 4, No. 2, 2014: 101-109 obtained. Qualitative analysis by using Carr-Price method. Determination of ß-carotene was conducted using visible spectrophotometry method at 452,4 nm. The qualitative test results showed that the Capsicum annuum L. Var. abreviatum Fingerhuth, Capsicum annuum L. Var. Longum sendt) and Capsicum frutescens L. contain ß-carotene. From the research, it was obtained that the average levels of ß-carotene on the Capsicum annuum L. Var. abreviatum Fingerhuth was (10,54±0,07) mg/100g, Capsicum annuum L. Var. Longum sendt was (5,57±0,13) mg/100g and Capsicum frutescens L. was about (0,36±0,01) mg/100g. Statistical analysis using LSD test of ß-carotene levels in the Capsicum annuum L. Var. abreviatum Fingerhuth, Capsicum annuum L. Var. Longum sendt) and Capsicum frutescens L. were significantly different at P of 0.05.

The effect of ammonia and iron concentration in Bold Basal Medium and mixed wastewater (including pretreated piggery wastewater and acid mine drainage) on biomass production and biochemical content (lipid and ß-carotene) of microalgae (Uronema sp. KGE 3) was investigated. Addition of iron to the Bold Basal Medium enhanced the growth, lipid, and ß-carotene of Uronema sp. KGE 3. The highest dry cell weight, lipid content, and lipid productivity of KGE 3 were 0.551 g L−1, 46% and 0.249 g L−1 d−1, respectively, at 15 mg L−1 of Fe. The highest ß-carotene was obtained at 30 mg L−1 of Fe. The biomass production of KGE 3 was ranged between 0.18 to 0.37 g L−1. The microalgal growth was significantly improved by addition of acid mine drainage to pretreated piggery wastewater by membrane. The highest dry cell weight of 0.51 g L−1 was obtained at 1:9 of pretreated piggery wastewater by membrane and acid mine drainage for KGE 3. The removal efficiencies of total nitrogen and total phosphate was ranged from 20 to 100%. The highest lipid and ß-carotene content was found to be 1:9. Application of this system to wastewater treatment plant could provide cost effective technology for the microalgae-based industries and biofuel production field, and also provide the recycling way for pretreated piggery wastewater and acid mine drainage.

Biosynthesis of carotenoids, including ß-carotene, is an area of continuous scientific research due to their valuable pro-health properties and high coloring power. This paper presents an overview of the Rhodotorula spp. culture, esp. methods and conditions applied in carotenoids' production. In this paper the influence of combined cultures, pH, temperature, carbon sources, the proportion of carbon atoms to nitrogen, concentrations of micro- and macronutrient sources, oxidative stress, UV and VIS radiation as well as culturing methods for carotenogenesis in yeast cells of Rhodotorula spp. was characterized. The list of yeast species from the genus Rhodotorula, which naturally synthesize carotenoids, was presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lycopene and ß-carotene were extracted as oleoresin from a Tunisian industrial tomato peels by-product using supercritical CO2. Experiments were conducted at temperatures of 50-80 °C, pressures of 300-500 bar and flow rates of 3-6 g CO2/min for 105 min extraction time. The relative extraction yields varied from 32.02% to 60.85% for lycopene and from 28.38% to 58.8% for ß-carotene and only the extraction temperature had a statistically significant effect on the process. The supercritical fluid extraction of lycopene from tomato peels by-product was compared to conventional maceration extraction using hexane, ethyl acetate and ethanol. Besides, the influence of the supercritical CO2 extraction conditions on the extract antioxidant capacity was evaluated using the quenching activity of the free chromogenic radical, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Important correlation coefficients and models were determined to predict the oleoresin, lycopene and ß-carotene extraction yields and the relevant DPPH quenching activity as function of the SFE operation parameters. Interestingly, the supercritical CO2 extracted oleoresin exhibited competitive antiradical activity with the synthetic antioxidant, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Results showed that the Tunisian industrial tomato peels by-product is a potential source of high antioxidative, solvent free and lycopene and ß-carotene-enriched oleoresin with promising applications in food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present investigation we ascertained the stability of lycopene, ß-carotene, ascorbic acid, polyphenolic compounds and total antioxidant capacity (AC) during the process of concentrating tomatoes into two tomato pastes (10 and 15ºBrix). Thermal processing increased the content of lycopene, total phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, and the individual phenolic compounds quercetin, rutin, chlorogenic and cafeic acids, whereas it decreased the other analysed compounds. However, lycopene in the 15ºBrix-tomato paste decreased due to the extension of thermal processing, which led to degradation. The AC of aqueous and organic extracts was measured and different AC values were observed depending on the antioxidant profile of the extract and assay used (TEAC and FRAP). AC expressed in dry matter decreased as result of ascorbic acid losses. Overall, thermal processing enhanced the nutritional value of tomatoes, mainly by increasing the lycopene and phenolic antioxidants, but the extension of treatment must be controlled to prevent lycopene degradation.En el presente trabajo hemos estudiado la estabilidad del licopeno, ß-caroteno, ácido ascórbico, compuestos fenólicos y capacidad antioxidante total (AC) durante el procesado de concentración del tomate en dos pastas de tomate (10 y 15ºBrix). El tratamiento térmico incrementó el contenido de licopeno, compuestos fenólicos totales, flavonoides totales y el contenido de quercetina, rutina y ácido clorogénico y cafeíco, disminuyendo el contenido de los otros compuestos analizados. Sin embargo, el contenido de licopeno en la pasta de tomate de 15ºBrix disminuyó debido al tratamiento térmico como consecuencia de la degradación térmica. La AC de los extractos acuosos y orgánicos de las muestras proporcionaron diferentes resultados dependiendo del perfil de antioxidante extraído y del método de análisis utilizado (TEAC y FRAP). La AC expresada en material seca disminuyó como resultado de las pérdidas de ácido ascórbico. En general el procesado térmico incrementa el valor nutricional del tomate , debido principalmente al incrmento de licopeno y compuestos fenólicos, pero la extensión del tratamiento en tiempo y temperatura debe ser controlado para prevenir la degradación del licopeno.

Background: Photosynthetic organisms can be used for renewable and sustainable production of fuels and high-value compounds from natural resources. Costs for design and operation of large-scale algae cultivation systems can be reduced if data from laboratory scale cultivations are combined with detailed mathematical models to evaluate and optimize the process. Results: In this work we present a flexible modeling formulation for accumulation of high-value storage molecules in microalgae that provides quantitative predictions under various light and nutrient conditions. The modeling approach is based on dynamic flux balance analysis (DFBA) and includes regulatory models to predict the accumulation of pigment molecules. The accuracy of the model predictions is validated through independent experimental data followed by a subsequent model-based fed-batch optimization. In our experimentally validated fed-batch optimization study we increase biomass and ß-carotene density by factors of about 2.5 and 2.1, respectively. Conclusions: The analysis shows that a model-based approach can be used to develop and significantly improve biotechnological processes for biofuels and pigments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of UVA and VIS radiation on the β-carotene biosynthesis by yeast Rhodotorula mucilaginosa was studied. The impact of radiation characteristic on biomass growth, substrate consumption and β-carotene production in submerged batch culture in bioreactor was studied. Three different types of light sources were used in the experiment: VIS - 15 W, wavelength range from 400 to 800 nm, the largest emission at 420 nm; UVA - 18 W, blue light, wavelength range of 350 to 430 nm, the largest emission at 370 nm; UVA - 20 W, wavelength range from 350 to 575 nm, the largest emission at 350 nm. In cultures conducted with UVA - 18 W radiation the highest β-carotene and carotenoids cellular concentration were achieved, respectively 63.20 µg/gd.w. and 0.97 mg/gd.w.. In cultures subject to VIS radiation a lower β-carotene concentration at 43.60 µg/gd.w. and the total carotenoids concentration at 0.83 mg/gd.w. was obtained. The ultraviolet radiation with the emission peak of radiation at 370 nm promoted the β-carotene and carotenoids production in yeast Rhodotorula mucilaginosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has been suggested that iron overload may be carcinogenic. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of plasma and prostate carotenoid concentration on oxidative DNA damage in 12-week-old Wistar rats treated with intraperitoneal (ip) ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe-NTA) (10 mg Fe/kg). Plasma ß-carotene and lycopene concentrations were measured as a function of time after ip injection of carotenoids (10 mg kg-1 day-1 ß-carotene or lycopene) in rats. The highest total plasma concentration was reached 3 and 6 h after ip injection of lycopene or ß-carotene, respectively. After 5 days of carotenoid treatment, lycopene and ß-carotene were present in the 0.10-0.51 nmol/g wet tissue range in the prostate. Using a sensitive method to detected 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodGuo) by HPLC/EC, the level of 8-oxodGuo in rat prostate DNA was significantly higher (6.3 ± 0.6 residues/10(6) dGuo) 3 h after Fe-NTA injection compared with control rats (1.7 ± 0.3 residues/10(6) dGuo). Rats supplemented with lycopene or ß-carotene for 5 days prior to Fe-NTA treatment showed a reduction of about 70% in 8-oxodGuo levels to almost control levels. Compared with control rats, the prostate of Fe-NTA-treated animals showed a 78% increase in malondialdehyde accumulation. Lycopene or ß-carotene pre-treatment almost completely prevented lipid damage. Epidemiological studies have suggested a lower risk of prostate cancer in men reporting a higher consumption of tomato products. However, before associating this effect with tomato sauce constituents, more information is required. The results described here may contribute to the understanding of the protective effects of carotenoids against iron-induced oxidative stress.