Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The increase of the prevalence of type-2 diabetes as a consequence of overweight and obesity has stimulated public health authorities worldwide to develop strategies for its risk management and prevention. Among them, a reduction on the content of sugar in sugar-sweetened foods and beverages has been suggested, which led the food industry to replace partially sucrose with food additives, such as low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS). As a consequence, there has been an increase of their consumption, which has made regulatory agencies to evaluate their exposure and possible consequences. At the same time, speculations about adverse effects, such as carcinogenicity, preterm delivery and metabolic changes involving appetite, weight increase and glucose intolerance, have been published. This scenario led ILSI Brasil to organize a meeting to update scientific knowledge on the safety of LNCS and to promote discussions among academia, regulatory bodies and food industries to clarify currently controversial information. The results of this initiative are presented in this review. It is suggested that LNCS, when used according to recommendations provided by scientific committees and regulatory authorities are considered safe. Further studies are required to evaluate the current level of exposure in general population and specific ones as children.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The aim of this research was compare methods for pigments extraction and color determination in different tomato for processing cultivars, and choose the most promising materials for the industry. The tomatoes for processing studied were of the IT761, H9992, H9553, AP533, Advance, N901, BRSena, U2006, HY26, HY37 and HY68 cultivars. The extraction yields of lycopene and β-carotene using acetone and the mixture of ethanol, acetone and hexane (10:10:20) were determined, and the parameters of color were determined by colorimetric and digitals image methods (Cielab and Hunterlab), besides other physicochemical characteristics. The mixture of solvents is more efficient in the extraction of lycopene and β-carotene than acetone on its own. The methods of assessing the color through image presented higher levels of luminosity and chrome a* and b* than the instrumental method, given that the Hunterlab is closer to the colorimeter method, than Cielab. The analysis through digital images indicates that the procedure is promising, and it can be used as a instrument for analysing tomato colors. Considering that the level of TSS is fundamental to industrial performance, the IT761, BRSena, AP543, and H9992 cultivars stand out, moreover these cultivars have higher levels of lycopene and darker red color.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Traditional fermented soybean contains a variety of microflora. To obtain a comprehensive and accurate understanding of the microbial community structure and metabolic potential of fermented soybean, comparative metagenomics and metatranscriptomics were performed on a sample of fermented soybean in Yunnan Province. Metagenomic DNA and metatranscriptomic RNA were sequenced using Illumina HiseqTM2500, which yielded a total of 92,192,276 reads, with an average read length of 150 bp and 38,798,262 paired-end sequences, with an average length of 151 bp. The results show that Providencia stuartii was the most abundant species and the genes of carbohydrates (2296, 13.30%), protein metabolism (1530, 8.86%), and amino acids and amino acid derivatives (1423, 8.24%) were dominant. The expression levels of the genes belonging to amino acid transport and metabolism processes were the highest according to the reads per length of transcript in kilo-bases per million mapped reads (RPKM) values, followed by energy production and conversion and carbohydrate transport and metabolism. The metabolic pathways were primarily associated with carbohydrates, proteins and amino acids, which might be in accordance with the high levels of proteins and other nutrients in soybeans. Overall, these findings provide insights into the community structure and metabolic potential of the fermented soybean microbiome.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract As the demand for probiotic foods continues to increase and lactose intolerance is common, it is necessary to develop a range of non-milk probiotic beverages. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the preparation process of fermented probiotic beverages using various vegetables as raw materials, and to evaluate the chemical and organoleptic properties of the mixed fermented vegetable juices. The mixed fermented vegetable juice was a beverage obtained by mixing the vegetable juice (purple cabbage, tomato and carrot) fermented by Lactobacillus plantarum and the yam juice fermented by the yeast in an appropriate ratio. During lactobacillus fermentation (48 hours at 30 °C), the cell count of Lactobacillus plantarum increased from 7.49 ± 0.21 log CFU/mL to 9.13 ± 0.19 log CFU/mL (p < 0.05), the glucose decreased from 8.924 g/L to 5.528 g/L, and the pH decreased from 5.03 to 3.62. Oxidation activity slightly decreased. The lactic acid and titratable acid/total acid content increased, and the trend of change was similar. During the yeast fermentation (28 °C, 24h), the glucose was almost depleted and ethanol was accumulated. GC-MS analysis showed that microbial fermentation had a significant effect on volatile components. The sensory evaluation results showed that the proper mixing of fermented vegetable juice and fermented yam juice had a significant increase in taste, odor and overall acceptance of the product. The mixed fermented vegetable juice has the potential to adapt to the consumer groups and has in-depth research value.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract A Box-Behnken design was employed to optimize ultrasound-assisted enzymatic extraction of polysaccharides from perilla leaves. Four independent variables, namely, liquid-to-solid ratio, enzymatic time, enzymatic temperature, and ultrasonic power were investigated. Under the optimal liquid-to-solid ratio of 41:1, enzymatic time of 40 min, enzymatic temperature of 49 °C, and ultrasonic power of 204 W, the experimental polysaccharide yield was 3.84% (n = 3), which was close to the value predicted by response surface methodology (3.9%). Four polysaccharides (PLP1, PLP2, PLP3, and PLP4) were obtained with DEAE-cellulose-52 and Sephadex G-100 chromatography, and their antioxidant activities were investigated with various antioxidant assays in vitro. All the four polysaccharides possessed good antioxidant properties in a concentration-dependent manner, and PLP3 presented the highest antioxidant activity. Thus, the novel polysaccharides extracted from perilla leaves could be promising bioactive macromolecules that can be applied as potential antioxidants in medical and food industries.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The preference of consumers of ham sausages is mainly determined on its texture. A method of determining hedonic score of texture and distinguishing different grades of ham sausages based on artificial neural network was established in this study. The topological texture of the artificial neural network was developed on the basis of analyzing the hardness, springiness, cohesiveness and adhesiveness measured by a texture analyzer and the hedonic score of texture measured by a sensorial test. The simulation result indicated that the hedonic score of texture predicted by the artificial neural network was well correlated with that obtained by the sensorial test and they were not significantly different from each other. Particularly, cluster analysis proved that the hedonic score of texture predicted by the neural network well discriminated different grades of ham sausages.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The interaction of the aqueous extract of green propolis with the bacterial envelope was investigated using atomic force microscopy on E. coli and S. aureus, as Gram-negative and Gram-positive model microorganisms. The bacteria were incubated in the extracts with variable proportions of water/ethanol, i.e., in different concentrations of total phenolic and flavonoids, for 4 and 12 hours. All extracts exhibited antibacterial action with higher activity (lower MIC) for full ethanolic extract (100% alcohol) against both strains, what was attributed to a synergistic interaction of ethanol and phenolic compounds presented in greater concentration in this extract. According to AFM analysis, it was evidenced the propolis main mechanism of action as rupture and lysis of bacterial cells. Changes in bacterial morphology following treatment indicate membrane imbalances with the internal contents leaking out accompanied by cell swelling, due to possible water uptake through cell lysis. The intensity of such damage was found to be time and specie dependent.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Sucrose is important in the production of chocolates because it contributes to its texture and sensory acceptance. The aim was to evaluate the effect of adding bulking agents and a non-caloric sweetener in the preparation of a sucrose-free milk chocolate. One control sample (with sucrose) and 11 treatments were taken varying the ratio between bulking agents (maltitol, polydextrose, inulin) and non-caloric sweetener (stevia), preserving the sweetness of control. Sensory acceptance of each treatment was evaluated by preference tests and taste profile. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that formulations with maltitol and stevia (F7); and maltitol, polydextrose, inulin and stevia (F10) were the most similar to control in their sensory and quality properties. Polydextrose concentration at levels higher than 25% negatively affected the product texture. F10 showed higher fiber contribution due to the presence of inulin.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Immobilization process is used to facilitate the enzyme recovery and reusability. The aims of this study were to evaluate the effect of different amounts of chitosan on immobilization efficiency of Glucose Oxidase (GOX), pH effect on enzyme activity and changes of kinetic characteristics of enzyme immobilized on Magnetic Chitosan Nanoparticles (MCNP). GOX was immobilized on MCNP with cross bonds and Schiff base covalent connections. The sample with 0.3 g of chitosan had the highest immobilization efficiency (41.30%). Morphology of nanoparticles was investigated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Immobilization of GOX on magnetic nanoparticles was verified with Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR). The effect of pH on enzyme activity was similar on both immobilized enzyme (IE) and free enzyme (FE). The evaluation of kinetic parameters for IE and FE has showed that the effectiveness factor was 0.45. Generally, it could be concluded that magnetic nanoparticles with 0.3 g chitosan could provide a suitable medium for immobilization of GOX.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study evaluated the role of dry fruits as a source of fungal contaminants or functional compounds. Dry apple, apricot, candied fruits, prune, and white and black raisin were evaluated regarding patulin and ergosterol content, centesimal composition, pH, acidity, pectin, and phenolic profile. The ergosterol was detected in 38% of the samples and patulin (PAT) in 89%, the apricot samples stood out most by contaminant level. Apricot, candied fruit, and prunes presented moisture values beyond the other dry fruits. The pH ranged from 3.8 to 4.6; acidity from 0.1 to 1.0%; sugar content from 1.7 to 5.5%; and levels of soluble and insoluble pectin from 1.6 to 5.1% and 10.9% to 27.3%, respectively. The apples showed a higher content of free phenolic compounds (6.6 mg of gallic acid/g) with a predominance of gallic and protocatechuic acids. Pearson's correlation showed a significant positive correlation between patulin and ergosterol content (0.99) and soluble pectin (0.78); a significant negative relation between total sugars (-0.66) and free phenolic compounds (-0.63). Fungal contamination and the occurrence of PAT show that this mycotoxin is present and, therefore, the evaluation of fungal toxins in dry fruits is recommended before claiming them to be a source of functional compounds.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the effects and mechanisms of water-soluble Semen cassiae polysaccharide (SCP) on retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in rats. One hundred rats were randomly divided into control, model, and 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg SCP groups. The 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg SCP groups were treated with 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg SCP for 5 days, respectively. On the sixth day, the model, and 50, 100 and 200 mg/kg SCP groups were treated with N-nitroso-N-methylurea (MNU). After 12 h and 5 days, the electroretinogram, retinal thickness, apoptosis of retinal photoreceptor cells, and expressions of apoptosis related protein in retina tissue were determined. Results showed that, after 12 h and on 5 days from MNU treatment, compared with model group, the a-wave and b-wave amplitude and retinal thickness in SCP groups were significantly increased, the apoptosis rate of retinal photoreceptor cells was significantly decreased, the Bcl-2 protein expression level in retinal tissue was significantly increased, and the Bax and Caspase-3 protein level were significantly decreased (all P < 0.05). In conclusion, SCP has obvious protective effects on RP in rats. The mechanism may be related to it regulation of Bcl-2, Bax and Caspase-3 protein expression in retina tissue.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Effects of different concentrations of aqueous 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) on Rosa sterilis D. shi fruits were investigated. The fruits were harvested at commercial maturity stage and treated with 1-MCP treatment at 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 μL L-1 for 20 h at 25 °C in an air tight chamber along with control sample to evaluate the effect of 1-MCP concentration on its quality during storage. The result showed that postharvest treatment with 1.0 μL L-1 1-MCP suppressed the respiration rate, ethylene production rate and POD activity in Rosa sterilis D. shi fruits, inhibited the transport of reducing sugar and the increase of cellulose, delayed the increase in PPO activity, and retarded the decrease in ascorbic acid. The regulation of fibrosis process with postharvest 1.0 μL L-11-MCP treatment could be used to maintain the quality of Rosa sterilis D. shi fruits.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The shelf life (SL) of freshly extracted sugarcane juice is limited to a few hours, and the use of hurdle technology is a strategy to ensure its safety and stability. The SL of standardized cane juice (19.4 °Brix, 0.085% acidity and pH 4.35), pasteurized at 95 °C/30 s and stored under refrigeration, was estimated. Ideal (4 °C), commercial (8 °C) and abusive (12 °C) conditions were tested. Microbiological and sensory assays were carried out on the newly processed juice (time zero) and overtime to estimate the SL. Counts of psychrotrophic bacteria and molds and yeasts equivalent to 4 and 3 logCFU mL-1, respectively, were set as acceptable maximum levels to establish the SL. Average scores greater than 5 (in the 9-point hedonic scale) and percentages of approval greater than 60% were both used as threshold values for juice´s appearance and flavor. The juice´s SL stored at 4, 8 and 12 °C were 94, 74 and 26 days, respectively. The combination of multiple technologies applied in this study was effective in obtaining a product with high sensory acceptance and a SL compatible with possible demands of the consumer market.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the physicochemical, volatile components and fatty acids profile of Erzincan Tulum cheeses, produced using different probiotic bacteria and packaging materials, during the ripening period. Erzincan Tulum Cheese, which is the most popular and highly consumed cheese species in Turkey. Tulum cheese were ripened in skin bag (Tulum), appendix and small intestine. The ripening time influenced the pH, ripening index, FFA, CLA and volatile components of samples. The short chain FFA varied between 16.36% and 21.76%, while medium-chain FFA varied between 37.44% and 39.43%, and long chain FFA between 32.61% and 37.48% during the ripening periods. The highest CLA value was determined as 0.82% for the samples produced with Lactobacillus acidophilus bacteria and stuffed into the small intestine. All volatile components were increased, moreover the highest content of ester, ketones, aldehydes, terpenes, alcohols were 3-methyl-1-butanol acetate, 2-Pentanone, hexanal, α-Pinene, 3-methyl-1-butanol. All sensory evaluation scores decreased during storage. According to the general acceptance values, the most favoured sample was TCMA with 7.34, whereas the least favoured was TCBS with 4.82 score (P<0.05).

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Antioxidant capacity (AC) was determined by the ABTS method and DPPH, and total phenol content (TPC) in dehydrated plant material, in infusions and in residues (plant material after preparing the infusion) of white, black, red, green, spearmint, stevia, lemon grass and chamomile teas to which stevia leaves were added or not added; addition of processed stevia powder was also tested. Three independent experiments were set up: with dehydrated plant material, with infusions and with residues. For the case of dehydrated plant material, white tea had the highest TPC (10813.5 mg GAE/100g) and AC by the ABTS method (1183.3 µM TE/g) and DPPH method (1525.0 µM TE/g). In infusions, black tea had higher TPC (180.82 µg GAE/ml) and AC by the methods ABTS and DPPH (0.6114 and 2.5983 µM TE/ml, respectively). In residues, TPC was higher in white tea, while green tea had the highest AC values. AC of dehydrated plant material increased when stevia leaves were added, according to the DPPH and ABTS methods, but not in residues by ABTS. Addition of stevia leaves in infusions increased AC in white, lemon grass, chamomile and stevia teas by the ABTS method and in spearmint, black, red, and green teas with the DPPH method.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Twelve typical polyphenols in raspberry leaf powder (RLP), raspberry leaf extract 1 (RLE) and raspberry leaf extract 2 (RLE-H) were analyzed by HPLC-MS. The sum of their contents in three samples were in the following order: RLP (8.6 mg g-1) < RLE (35.0 mg g-1) < RLE-H (44.1 mg g-1). Ellagic acid and quercetin-3-O-glucuronide were the principal compounds in the samples and accounted for more than 75% of the sum content. A gelled mixture of RLE, pectin, and sodium alginate administrated to mice via gavage resulted in reduced weight gain and adiposity percentage, increased teste percentage, prolonged exhaustion time, furthermore alleviated intestinal flatulence possibly induced by RLE or RLE-H alone. These results could help in making rational use of this high polyphenol extract from raspberry leaves.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Low fat fresh goat sausages based on chitosan (LMWC) and derivative chitosan (LMWC-Glc) were developed aiming to produce a functional food product evaluating the effect of inclusion of these compounds on quality, stability and shelf life. Goat sausages (10% pork fat) were formulated with 2% (w/w) of LMWC or LMWC-Glc and stored at 4 °C during 21 days. Results indicated that incorporation of LMWC-Glc and LMWC is technologically feasible, originating a potential functional product with low fat content, besides the positive impact on microbial safety. The modified LMWC (towards better solubility and lower adstringency) incorporated at 2% as functional ingredient maintained positive effect on antimicrobial, nutrional, textural and sensory performance. The results also proved that derivative chitosan may also be a promising strategy for improving the quality and extending the shelf life of low fat goat sausage.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Biofortified staple food crops have become an effective tool by which to address micronutrient deficiencies in many at-risk populations. The effect of these food crops on the micronutrient status has been evaluated, however there is no studies investigating their protein quality, neither by themselves or in a food combination. Thus, this study investigated the effect of combinations of beans and rice, target for biofortification, with high carotenoids content crops (sweet potato and pumpkin) on protein quality, intestinal function and glycemia. Eight groups were evaluated (n=6): 1) rice + Caupi bean (RCB); 2) rice + Pontal bean (RPB); 3) rice + Caupi bean + pumpkin (RCBP); 4) rice + Pontal bean + pumpkin (RPBP); 5) rice + Caupi bean + sweet potato (RCBS); 6) rice + Pontal bean + sweet potato (RPBS); 7) casein (positive control); and 8) nitrogen free (negative control). Tested groups showed high protein quality, and groups containing Caupi bean showed higher true digestibility. Groups containing Pontal bean had a greater reduction of blood glucose compared to casein. Tested groups showed higher fecal excretion of lipids. Combination of food target for biofortification showed high protein quality, and the combinations containing Pontal beans showed hypoglycemic effect.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Staphylococcus aureus is the leading cause of intoxications in humans. Also, methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) is an emerging problem in food-producing animals. The presence of MRSA in milk may create a risk to public health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the presence of MRSA in bulk tank milk samples. One hundred and twenty bulk tank milk samples were analyzed using the convenient sampling method. The isolates were confirmed by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) targeting nuc and mecA gene in S. aureus. Antibiotic resistance profiles of the isolates were tested by disc agar diffusion method. In the current study, S. aureus was detected in 44 (36.66%) of the samples. The presence of the mecA gene was found to be positive in 40 (75.4%) of the 53 S. aureus isolates. As a result of the study, a high incidence of MRSA was detected in bulk tank milk samples. Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are at risk of being transferred to humans via milk. For safe and healthy milk consumption, uncontrolled use of antibiotics in dairy cows should be avoided.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Beer is a fermented beverage made from barley malt and hops under the action of a suitable yeast. The main function of hops in the brewing process is to provide bitterness, characteristic flavours and aromas to the beverage. However, hops only began to be added to the formulation of this beverage starting in the ninth century. Therefore, the use of other bitter plants as a substitute for hops may be a viable alternative. This study aimed at evaluating the use of artichoke as a total substitute for hops in American lager craft beer production. The substitution of hops with up to 2 g⋅L-1 artichoke resulted in a beer with a quality similar to that of the American lager beer traditionally found in the market. So, artichoke was confirmed to be a viable alternative for hops, having satisfactory physicochemical characteristics and good sensorial acceptance.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract In order to optimize the performance of chitosan-tea polyphenols composite films, effects of glycerol and Tween on the antioxidative activities and physical performance of chitosan composite films were evaluated. The results indicated that both flexibility and water vapour permeability of chitosan/tea polyphenols films were improved with the addition of glycerol, meanwhile the solubility and swelling degree decreased. Moreover, the release time of antioxidants from films was delayed with the addition of glycerol. The presence of Tween 20 had no significant effect on the tensile strength of films, but changed the DPPH radical scavenging activity depending on the blend ratio of glycerol and Tween. DSC, FTIR and X-ray analysis showed strong interaction among chitosan, tea polyphenols, glycerol and Tween. The optimum ratio was 0.5% tea polyphenols, 1.2% glycerol and 0.1% Tween. This study provided a reference that an optimized chitosan/tea polyphenols composite film could be obtained by the regulation of glycerol and Tween.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The consumption of fish in Brazil is below the world average. In order to change this scenario, considering the high nutritional value of this meat, one of the strategies is to turn fish into a convenient product, such as burgers. Since fish burgers are not yet established in the market, it requires investigation of the shelf life. To that end, survival analysis and cut-off point (COP) methodologies access the perception of consumers and trained panels. Thus, the objective of this study was to estimate the shelf life of grass carp burgers, by means of the survival analysis and cut-off point. A trained sensory panel and consumers evaluated the burgers during a refrigerated storage of 30 days. Simultaneously, the pH and the reactive substances of thiobarbituric acid (TBARS) were evaluated. The TBARS results corroborated rancidity observed both with exponential growth and with correlation coefficients above 0.98. The survival analysis determined the end of the shelf life of the fish burgers after 21 days, with the COP technique indicating 17 days. Both methodologies were efficient in estimating the shelf life of the product analyzed, considering the lower result from COP adequate, since it establishes the value were the acceptability begins to decrease.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The enhancement of antioxidant activity of fermented okara was investigated using fungal solid-state fermentation. The initial fungal concentration and water activity were found to influence the enhanced antioxidant capacity of fermented okara. Extracellular enzymes, especially proteases and carbohydrases might facilitate the hydrolysis of okara protein that yielded antioxidative amino acids and peptides, as well as the release of isoflavones-derived components. Fermentation of okara with R. oligosporus with 1.04×10-3 gDCW/gokara as initial concentration, water activity of 0.931 was found to yield the highest antioxidant strength. Whereas for A. Oryzae, 1.6×10-3 gDCW/gokara was optimum as the initial concentration with water activity of 0.913. With these optimum conditions, solid-state fermentation of okara could enhance the antioxidant activity up to 2.6- and 5.5-fold, respectively for R. oligosporus and A. oryzae. Besides having an enhanced antioxidant activity, the fermented okara also had higher protein content, amino nitrogen content, and protein digestibility.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) slices were dried in a hot air dryer at three temperatures (45, 55 and 65 °C). The sorption isotherm of dried samples in the water activity (aw) range of 0.556-0.970 was also determined at three temperature levels. Moisture desorption isotherms were obtained from changes in water activities of oyster mushroom slices during drying, and the fitness of GAB, BET, Oswin, Henderson and Halsey isotherm equations to sorption data was calculated. The effect of temperature on color change kinetics of oyster mushroom slices was also investigated during drying. GAB model was the best equation for the prediction of the desorption moisture content of samples. Mathematical modeling of color change kinetics indicated that both zero and first order kinetic models were adequate to describe the browning index (BI) value; however, total color change (ΔE) followed zero-order kinetics. The values of the reaction rate constant, found after the drying at 45, 55 and 65 °C, of the ΔE value were respectively 0.058, 0.065 and 0.089.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract We investigate the impact of yacon syrup consumption on glycemic, lipid and metabolic endotoxemia in healthy subjects. Thus, 32 healthy were randomized into two groups that consumed 40 g of yacon syrup/day (= 8.74 g FOS/day) or a placebo, for 2-weeks. Anthropometric assessments, gastrointestinal effects, glycemic and lipid profile, and LPS were performed at the beginning and at the end of the study. The results obtained shown that the 2-weeks consumption of yacon syrup does not promote serum LPS alteration in healthy volunteers. Moreover, the glycemic and lipid profile were also similar between the groups before and after the intervention. Yacon syrup did not affect blood lipid, glucose or metabolic endotoxemia. However, it is possible that positive effects of yacon syrup will turn evident only in a long-term intervention. Further studies are needed to assess the long-term effect of yacon syrup consumption, and its use in obese and diabetic individuals.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and prebiotic effect of a beverage composed by tropical fruits and yacon in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. To obtain the beverage, a Response Surface Methodology was used, with concentration of yacon extract (x1) and the sweetener (x2) added to a mixture of tropical fruits as independent variables, and the sensorial acceptance as response. The optimized beverage showed higher values for antioxidant capacity, measured by ABTS, FRAP and DPPH assays. Thus, the fructooligosaccharides content (2.32 ± 0.65 g FOS/100 g), total phenolic (126.83 ± 9.48 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g) and ascorbic acid (171.64 ± 7.31 mg/100 g) shows that the beverage contains high levels of these bioactive compounds. In addition, the beverage was tested in vivo, using male Wistar rats, divided into five groups (control, non-treated diabetic, and diabetic treated with 100, 200 or 400 mg of lyophilized beverage/kg/day). The results showed a promotion of the growth of lactobacilli in cecal material and an increase in catalase activity in the liver, in a dose-dependent manner, showing the prebiotic and antioxidant effects of the beverage in the diabetic model.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The objective of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effects of tanshinone IIA on human bladder cancer BIU-87 cells and the xenograft in nude mice. BIU-87 cells were treated with tanshinone IIA with concentration of 0.5, 1, 2 and 4 g/L. The cell proliferation, cycle and apoptosis were detected. The nude mice with BIU-87 cell xenograft were treated with normal saline (control), 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg tanshinone IIA, respectively. The animal body weight and growth of tumor were measured. The expressions of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2), Caspase-3 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) protein in xenograft were detected. The apoptosis index of cells was determined. Results showed that, tanshinone IIA inhibited the proliferation of BIU-87 cells, promoted their apoptosis, and arrested more cells in G0/G1 phase. Tanshinone IIA significantly inhibited the growth of xenograft in nude mice and promoted the apoptosis of tumor cells in xenograft. Tanshinone IIA down-regulated Bcl-2 and PCNA expression and up-regulated Caspase-3 expression in xenograft. In conclusion, tanshinone IIA has inhibitory effects on human bladder cancer BIU-87 cells, and can inhibit the BIU-87 cells xenograft in nude mice.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Unconventional food plants (UFPs) are by definition little known and infrequently consumed by population, although are recognized as having high nutritional value and economic potential. The objective was to assess the knowledge about UFPs by the population in the southwestern region of the state of Paraná, Brazil; and more particularly to evaluate the holistic perception of an ice cream prepared with the UFP ora-pro-nóbis, a plant that is gaining attention in recent years We applied a questionnaire to assess knowledge of several UFPs; check-all-that-apply questions to evaluate the knowledge, habits and perceptions regarding UFPs; and word association (WA) and acceptance tests for holistic and hedonic evaluation of the ice cream. The results revealed that the best known UFP species were taro and roselle, followed by ora-pro-nóbis and lamb’s ear. They also revealed that among participants, the majority (63%) had heard of UFPs, but only 19.4% stated they had the custom of eating these plants. The respondents also indicated interest in buying UFPs, but stated it was not easy to find them for sale. In the WA test, ice cream was described mainly in the categories tasty, innovation, sweet taste, plant flavor, smooth and creamy, and the acceptance index was 74%.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The difficulty in understanding food labels demands their reformulation. The objective was to elaborate a proposal of nutritional labeling and to compare its understanding with current labels. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016. Socioeconomic and health data were collected and questionnaires were used to evaluate reading and comprehension of the current label (Group A) and the proposed label (Group P). Student's t test and chi-square test (p <5%) were applied. A total of 980 consumers participated at supermarkets in a Brazilian capital, with 38.2 ± 13.9 years old, predominantly women, high school, family income of 2 to 4 minimum wages, without chronic disease, and Body Mass Index of 25,6 ± 4.7 kg/m2. Reading and comprehension were satisfactory for 54.1% and 36.1% of Group A and for 93.3% and 96.9% of Group P, respectively. Among the interviewees, 36.5% reported that the current label helped and 97.5% for the proposed label. All the answers had differences when comparing the groups (p <0.05) and the comprehension of the proposed label was higher (p = 0.026). Conclusion: the understanding of the proposed label was better than that of the current label, reinforcing the need for its reformulation.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The buffalo’s reproductive seasonality determines the decrease in milk and cheese production generating economic losses on the production system. Among various food process, we find the spray-dryer as an essential tool which helps food conservation. We achieved the milk powder in three replicates and each repetition processed 10 L of buffalo milk. After obtaining the final product, three samples (200 g) were packaged for each evaluated storage time (0, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 days at room temperature). In this context, we assessed the effects of drying buffalo’s milk by atomization (spray dryer) and storage time effects on the milk fat. We observed that the spray drying did not alter the fatty acid content and nutritional indices evaluated, except the ratio DHA / EPA. Also, the storage time did not change the lipid content (fatty acid) and nutritional indices assessed. The processing of buffalo milk by a spray dryer and the milk powder hermetically stored can be used as a strategy for mitigating the economic losses caused by reproductive seasonality.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The present study was aimed to determine the effect of different types of milk and kefir grains or starter cultures on the chemical properties, and microorganism counts of kefir samples. The type of milk had a significant effect on the acidity, dry matter, protein, and CO2 values. Acidity and CO2 values increased during storage period, while dry matter, fat and protein contents decreased. However, the type of milk had no significant effect on Lactobacillus, Leuconostoc and yeast counts. In the samples produced using starter culture microorganism counts except those of L. acidophilus of the samples increased (p < 0.05) during the 14 days of storage. Higher Lactobacilli (8.52 log cfu/ml) and Lactococci (8.84 log cfu/ml) was found in kefir produced using buffalo milk and starter culture in 21 days of storage, while higher L. acidophilus (6.41 log cfu/ml) was found in kefir produced using cow milk and starter culture. In general, due to the higher dry matter and protein content and yeast population, kefir made from buffalo milk may be preferred.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The Mammee apple (Mammea americana L.) is a widely grown fruit, popular in tropical areas, which is mainly consumed fresh. Refractance Window (RW) drying is used to produce food films, flakes, and powders, and may be an alternative to commercially used dry food production methods. The aim of this study was to obtain a dehydrated product from the pulp of mammee apple using RW. The dehydrated product presented a homogeneous microstructure and good mechanical (TS = 1.15 Mpa, %E = 13.93) and technological properties (hygroscopicity = 21.46 g.100 g-1, water solubility index = 32.73 ± 0.67 g.100 g-1). RW drying was found to be a viable and low-cost method for edible film production, generating products with adequate technological characteristics and high nutritional value. Its dehydrated products can be consumed directly or used as ingredients in the development of food products.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract The antimicrobial effect of chitosan on Penicillium expansum, a major postharvest pathogen of pome fruit, and the possible mechanisms involved in its effect were examined in this study. Chitosan strongly inhibited spore germination and hyphal growth of P. expansum. Light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy observations revealed that chitosan also caused morphological changes in hyphae and conidia, such as abnormal branching and vacuolation. Proteomic changes in P. expansum after chitosan treatment were analyzed by two-dimensional electrophoresis (2-DE) and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis, and 26 proteins were ambiguously identified and categorized based on their putative biological function. Proteins related to DNA or protein biosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism and energy production were decreased in relative protein abundance, while proteins involved in antibiotics resistance and defense response increased in relative protein abundance. Changes in abundance of these identified proteins were in accordance to the observed physiological and morphological changes of the fungi cells. Altogether, these experimental results provide a detailed illustration of the responses to chitosan in P. expansum, and widen our knowledge on the potential antifungal mechanisms of chitosan.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Ultrasound is a process studied intensively for different products due to the increasing interest in non-thermal technologies. Sirkencubin syrup contains honey and vinegar and is a functional beverage maintaining health. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of the ultrasound process (pH, titratable acidity, brix, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, antioxidants, total sugar, HMF, sensory evaluation andmicrobiological) on ultrasonic and functional sirkencubin syrup. Ultrasound treatments (26 kHz frequency, 60% amplitude, all samples 200 mL, 80 W power) with different times (2, 5, 8, 10 and 15 minutes) were applied using an ultrasonic processor. The increase in ultrasound time increased most bioactive compounds compared to control samples (untreated). Significant decreases in microbiological load were also recorded. The results of this study show that the ultrasound process can be used as a suitable technique for processing sirkencubin syrup by increasing the bioactive compounds and maintaining safety and quality standards with general acceptance by panelists.

Resumo em Inglês:

Abstract Cachaça is a highly consumed Brazilian spirit, which still needs studies on its agroindustrial processing. We can highlight the effects of infestation of pest insects in the sugarcane, and the chemical-physically characteristics of the drink. So, the aim of the study was to evaluate the consequences of the infestation of the sugarcane borer (Diatrea saccharalis) on the quality of the cachaça. The borer infestation results in less stalks productivity per hectare, and higher rates of acidity and phenol in juice and must. However, the borer did not affect the Brix, Purity, Total Reducing Sugars and pH of raw material. The cellular viability of infested stalks is less than of not infested stalks. The chemical-physical characteristics of the cachaça for both treatments meet the Brazilian legislation. However, the acetic acid is higher for infested stalks.