Chemical characterization, antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of sugar-apple (Annona squamosa L. ) pulp extract / Caracterización química, actividad antimicrobiana y antioxidante del extracto de pulpa de manzana de azúcar (Annona squamosa L. )

Synthetic preservatives are widely present in processed foods, but most of them have carcinogenic potential, requiring the development of new natural alternatives such as fruit extracts, for microbial control. The objective of the study was to evaluate the chemical characterization, antioxidant, and antimicrobial activity of the sugar apple pulp (Annona squamosa L.). Physicochemical characteristics were evaluated, an extract was prepared, and its antioxidant activity by DPPH method and antimicrobial by disk diffusion. Minimal inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration against strains of Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus were evaluated. The physicochemical analysis revealed that sugar apple pulp had 75.0% moisture, 3.0% ash, 4.0% protein, 0.2% lipids, 3.3% fibers, and 14.5% carbohydrates. The antioxidant activity of the extract by the DPPH method was 20.6%. The pulp extract from the sugar apple had inhibition zone for Staphylococcus aureus, satisfactory inhibitory effect against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella Typhimurium, but did not present a bactericidal effect. Sugar apple pulp presents adequate levels of nutrients and potential for food application due to its microbiological activity and antioxidant properties.

Los conservantes sintéticos están ampliamente presentes en los alimentos procesados, pero la mayoría tienen potencial carcinogénico, lo que requiere el desarrollo de nuevas alternativas naturales para el control microbiano, como los extractos de frutas. El objetivo del estudio fue evaluar la caracterización química, la actividad antioxidante y antimicrobiana de la pulpa de manzana de azúcar (Annona squamosa L.). Se evaluaron las características fisicoquímicas, y se evaluó su actividad antioxidante mediante el método DPPH y antimicrobiano por difusión en disco, concentración inhibitoria mínima y concentración bactericida mínima contra cepas de Salmonella Typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes y Staphylococcus aureus. El análisis fisicoquímico reveló que la pulpa de manzana de azúcar tiene 75.0% de humedad, 3.0% de cenizas, 4.0% de proteínas, 0.2% de lípidos, 3.3% de fibras y 14.5% de carbohidratos. La actividad antioxidante del extracto por el método DPPH fue del 20.6%. El extracto de pulpa de la manzana de azúcar tenía zona de inhibición para Staphylococcus aureus, efecto inhibidor satisfactorio contra Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes y Salmonella Typhimurium, pero no presenta efecto bactericida. La pulpa de manzana de azúcar presenta niveles adecuados de nutrientes y potencial para la aplicación de alimentos debido a su actividad microbiológica y propiedades antioxidantes.

Physicochemical and nutritional aspects of babassu coconut almond and oil (Orbignya phalerata Mart. ) / Aspectos fisicoquimicos y nutricionales del almendra y aceite de coco de babassu (Orbignya phalerata Mart. )

The potential use of babassu (Orbignya phalerata Mart.) in several activities is large. In view of these facts, this study aimed to determine the physicochemical composition of the babassu almond (OpAM) and evaluate the chemical, physical and physicochemical aspects of babassu coconut oil isolated by different methods of extraction. Babassu nut oil was removed by extraction with a hot solvent (Soxhlet) (OpS), hydraulic pressure (OpHP) and cold extraction (Blight and Dyer) (OpBD). Two artisanal samples from the states of Pará (OpP) and Maranhão (OPM) were also tested. OpAM presented 2% protein, 49.5% fat, 42.4% carbohydrates and water activity of 0.670. No statistical differences were found between the babassu coconut extraction techniques which presents saturated fatty acids as major oil fatty acids, especially lauric (41.6%), myristic (14.6%) and unsaturated oleic (15.7%). No samples tested positive in the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances test, and they also showed low levels of acidity. Babassu coconut oil showed good oxidative stability with a high induction period. The samples tended to green and yellow colors, and the babassu oil extracted by Soxhlet was less viscous than the others.

El uso potencial de babassu (Orbignya phalerata Mart.), en varias actividades es amplio. En vista de esto, este estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar la composición fisicoquímica de la almendra de babassu (OpAM) y evaluar los aspectos químicos, físicos y físicoquímicos del aceite de coco de babassu aislado mediante diferentes métodos de extracción. El aceite de coco de babasú se aisló mediante extracción con un disolvente caliente (Soxhlet) (OpS), mediante presión hidráulica (OpHP) y utilizando un disolvente frío (Blight and Dyer) (OpBD). También se analizaron dos muestras artesanales de los estados de Pará (OpP) y Maranhão (OPM). OpAM presentó 2% de proteína, 49,5% de grasa, 42,4% de carbohidratos y una actividad de agua de 0,670. No se encontraron diferencias estadísticas entre las técnicas de extracción de babassu de coco que presentan ácidos grasos saturados como los principales ácidos grasos oleosos, especialmente láurico (41,6%), mirístico (14,6%) y oleico insaturado (15,7%). Ninguna muestra resultó positiva en la prueba de sustancias reactivas al ácido tiobarbitúrico, y también mostraron niveles bajos de acidez. El aceite de coco Babassu mostró una buena estabilidad oxidativa con un alto período de inducción. Las muestras tendían a los colores verde y amarillo, y el aceite de babassu extraído por Soxhlet era menos viscoso que los otros.

Growth Kinetics of Nanofrustulum Shiloi Under Different Mixing Conditions in Flat-plate Photobioreactor

Abstract Diatoms are the major group of microalgae which have been utilized by the potential applications as food industries, aquatic feeds, cosmetics, biofuels, and pharmaceuticals. In this study, current approaches were made in order to determine growth rate, biomass productivity, protein, carbohydrate, lipid and fatty acid composition for Nanofrustulum shiloi cultures using both aeration and mixing conditions in flat-plate photobioreactor (PBR). Physical (the intensity of aeration, mixing, light intensity etc.) and chemical (nutritional materials) factors are affecting the growth and bioproduct contents of a diatom. Biomass and lipid productivities of N. shiloi were measured as 31.29 and 36.9622±0.0598 mg L-1 day-1 in flat-plate PBR having the combination of aeration and stirring system, respectively. A slightly higher amount of saturated fatty acids was detected in PBR having only bubbling system while the increase of mono- and poly- unsaturated fatty acids were found in PBR having the combination of aeration and stirring system. Flat-plate PBR design was also investigated for improving not only biomass but also the lipid productivity of N. shiloi.

Avaliação do teor de lactose em leite UHT zero lactose / Evaluation of lactose content in UHT zero lactose milk

O leite é rico em carboidratos, e desses carboidratos o principal é a lactose, no entanto algumas pessoas não conseguem hidrolisar, causando sintomas de diarreias e gases. Para atender esse público que possui esse problema, alternativas de produtos com a lactose já previamente hidrolisada estão sendo inseridas no mercado. Neste trabalho teve-se como objetivo, verificar se alguns produtos no mercado estão isentos de lactose, e comparar a eficiência dos métodos entre si. Foram utilizados os métodos de Lane-Eynon e DNS, além disso e foram verificados os parâmetros de cor. Os resultados obtidos mostram que ambos os métodos tiveram resultados parecidos. Ao obter resultados de um alto teor de lactose em produtos que deveriam ser isentos, se faz necessário uma maior conscientização das indústrias produtoras e uma fiscalização mais rígida.

Milk is rich in carbohydrates, and of these carbohydrates the main one is lactose, however some people cannot hydrolyze, causing symptoms of diarrhea and gas. To meet this public who has this problem, alternatives to lactose products previously hydrolyzed are being introduced in the market. In this work we aimed to verify if some products on the market are lactose-free, and to compare the efficiency of the methods with each other. The Lane-Eynon method and the DNS method were used in addition and the color parameters were checked. The results show that both methods had similar results. By obtaining results of a high lactose content in products that should be exempted, it is necessary a greater awareness of the producing industries and a more rigid inspection.

Effect of different sources of non-fiber carbohydrate on ruminal pH and in vitro digestibility of tropical forage / Efeito de diferentes fontes de carboidratos não-fibrosos sobre o pH ruminal e digestibilidade in vitro de forragens tropicais

The present study aimed to evaluate non-fiber carbohydrates (NFC) in sugarcane-based diets on rumen pH, and forage digestibility, and to describe NFC degradation curves. The study consisted of two trials. For the first trial, three rumen cannulated steers, BW of 350 ± 15 kg (mean ± SE), were assigned in a 3×3 Latin Square (LS) design. They were fed diets containing finely-ground (0.9 mm average particle size) corn (GC), steam-rolled corn (SRC), or pelleted citrus pulp (PCP). Each period had 14 d, with the first 12 for adaptation. The 13th d was for serial measurement of rumen pH, and the14th for rumen fluid collection and in vitro incubation for DM and NDF digestibility (IVDMD and IVNDFD) of bermudagrass hay (Hay), corn (CS), and sugarcane (SS) silages. In the second trial, rumen fluid of a cannulated bull, fed corn silage and a regular concentrate, was collected for in vitro digestion of NFC for multiple time points. The incubation results were used to adjust the NFC degradation curves, and calculate lag-time, feed fractions, and degradation rate. Data from first trial was analyzed in a 3×3 LS. The model for the digestibility parameters included fixed effects of forage (Feed), diets with NFC (Diet), and their interaction (Feed × Diet), and random effect of animal and period. The model for rumen pH included fixed effect of diet, time as repeated measures, animal and period as random effects. The significance was considered at probability ≤ 5% (α = 0.05). The NFC degradation curves were adjusted using the PROC NLIN procedure from SAS, and equation parameters compared using confidence intervals. There was a Diet × Time interaction on rumen pH (P = 0.04), where SRC decreased pH compared to PCP and GC diets at the time 6 h, only. There was no Feed × Diet interaction effect (P > 0.05) for any digestibility parameter. There was a Feed effect on both IVDMD and IVNDFD, either after 30 or 48 h incubation (P < 0.01). The CS had the greatest IVDMD, followed by SS and Hay, after 30 and 48 h of incubation. The CS had the greatest IVNDFD after 30 h, compared to SS and Hay. However, for IVNDFD after 48 h, CS presented the greatest mean, followed by SS and Hay. The rumen fluid from animals fed SRC decreased both IVDMD and IVNDFD (P < 0.05) of all roughages after 48 h. Results from the second trial showed that the PCP had lower Lag Time, B fraction and greater kd compared to both corn sources, and SRC had greater kd than GC. In conclusion, the SRC diet decreased rumen pH 6 h after feeding and, consequently, decreased fiber digestibility of the tropical forage sources evaluated. Although the PCP had lower lag time, and faster rate of degradation of B fraction, it did not negatively affect rumen pH or fiber digestibility of forage.(AU)

O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os carboidratos não-fibrosos (CNF) em dietas à base de cana-de-açúcar sobre o pH ruminal e digestibilidade da forragem, e descrever as curvas de degradação dos CNF. O estudo foi composto de dois ensaios. No primeiro, três novilhos canulados no rúmen, com peso vivo de 350 ± 15 kg (Média ± DP), foram alocados em um quadrado latino (QL) 3×3, e alimentados com dietas contendo: milho moído (MM, tamanho de partículas 0,9 mm), laminado a vapor (MLV) ou polpa cítrica peletizada (PCP). Cada período tinha 14 d, sendo os primeiros 12 para adaptação e o 13º para a medição seriada do pH e o 14º para a coleta de líquido ruminal e incubação in vitro para digestibilidade da MS e FDN (DIVMS e DIVFDN) de feno de bermudagrass (Feno) e silagens de milho (SM) e cana (SC). No segundo ensaio, coletou-se fluido ruminal de um touro canulado, alimentado com silagem de milho e concentrado padrão, para digestão in vitro dos CNF em vários tempos. Esses resultados foram utilizados para ajustar as curvas de degradação dos CNF e calcular o tempo de colonização, frações alimentares e taxa de degradação. Os resultados do primeiro ensaio foram analisados em um QL 3×3. O modelo dos parâmetros de digestibilidade incluiu efeito fixo de forragem (Alimento), dieta com CNF (Dieta) e interação (Alimento × Dieta), e efeito aleatório de animal e período. O modelo para pH incluiu efeito fixo de Dieta, Tempo como medida repetida, animal e período como aleatórios. Foi considerada a probabilidade significativa de ≤ 5% (α = 0,05). As curvas de degradação dos CNF foram ajustadas pelo PROC NLIN do SAS, e parâmetros de equação comparados por intervalo de confiança. Houve interação Dieta × Tempo no pH ruminal (P = 0,04), onde o MLV diminuiu o pH comparado com PCP e MM apenas no tempo 6 h. Não houve interação Alimento × Dieta (P > 0,05) para nenhum parâmetro de digestibilidade. Houve efeito de Alimento sobre a DIVMS e DIVFDN, após 30 e 48 h de incubação (P < 0,01). A SM teve a maior DIVMS, seguido por SC e Feno, após 30 e 48 h de incubação. A SM teve a maior DIVFDN após 30 h, comparado com SC e Feno. No entanto, para DIVFDN após 48 h, a SM teve maior média, seguida da SC e Feno. O fluido ruminal de animais alimentados com MLV diminuiu a DIVMS e DIVFDN (P < 0.05) de todas as forragens, após 48 h. Resultados do segundo ensaio mostram que PCP diminuiu o tempo de colonização, fração B e aumentou a kd comparado com os dois milhos, e MLV apresentou maior kd que o MM. Em conclusão, a dieta com MLV diminuiu o pH ruminal no tempo 6 h e, consequentemente, diminuiu a DIVFDN das forragens avaliadas. Embora PCP tenha apresentado menor tempo de colonização e maior taxa de degradação da fração B, não afetou negativamente o pH do rúmen nem a digestibilidade da fibra das forragens. (au)

Individual study of anthropometric variation, energy and macronutrients intakes in Paralympic Track and Field athletes in different phases of the season

a) to measure individual variations in body mass (BM), sum of skinfolds (SSF) and energy intake of Paralympic track and field athletes b) to evaluate whether individual consumption of macronutrients meets recommended levels in three distinct periods of training. Methods: Ten Paralympic track and field athletes were evaluated during three periods: 1) end of season, 2) after vacation, and 3) preparation for the Paralympic Games London 2012. Food history and the 24-hour Dietary Recall methods provided information on daily food intake. To assess changes in body composition, we measured skinfolds and BM. Descriptive statistics were utilized to describe individual results. Results: BM varied among athletes and phases, but most (n=8) had higher SSF after vacation. Four athletes reported an increase in energy intake of more than 500 kcal during their vacation period, while eight athletes reported maintaining their intake in the preparatory phase for the competition. Carbohydrate intake was adequate for most athletes in the end of season period and in the preparatory phase for competition, and most athletes had reduced lipid intake after vacation and in the preparatory phase. Conclusion: We observed important variations in BM and SSF, in food intake and macronutrients between the three evaluated periods. The nutritional status of the athletes suggests that inadequacies that might affect the performance of sprinters and middle-distance runners are more likely to occur during the preparatory period before competitions.(AU)

Fibra dietaria: nuevas definiciones, propiedades funcionales y beneficios para la salud: revisión / Dietary fiber: new definitions, functional properties and health benefits

En los últimos diez años hubo importantes modificaciones en la definición de la fibra dietaria bajo la dirección de la Comisión del CODEX Alimentarius. El más importante fue la inclusión de los carbohidratos no digeribles de 3 a 9 unidades de grado de polimerización dentro de la definición química, la que fue adoptada algunos países y en otras están en proceso de evaluación tal como los Estados Unidos; lo que hace que no exista un consenso global. Donde sí hay un consenso es en la definición fisiológica de la fibra dietaria, considerada como grupo de carbohidratos resistentes a la digestión por las enzimas del intestino delgado y fermentado en forma parcial o total en el colon, con efectos favorables en la salud. La Association of Official Analytical Chemist (siglas en Inglés: AOAC), en armonía con la nueva definición del CODEX Alimentarius, establecieron los métodos AOAC 2009.01 y 2011.25, diseñado para cuantificar la fibra dietaria solubles, fibra dietaria insoluble y la fibra dietaria total. En este contexto, se vienen desarrollando investigaciones in vitro e in vivo (en animales y humanos) para demostrar los efectos fisicoquímicos, funcionales y fisiológicos que van orientados hacia la prevención y tratamiento de algunas enfermedades no transmisible (ENTs). La presente revisión, pretende informar de las nuevas definiciones y los métodos de análisis, las propiedades funcionales y fisiológicas de la fibra dietaria y sus efectos en la salud humana(AU)

In the last ten years there have been important changes in the definition of dietary fiber under the leadership of the CODEX Alimentarius Commission. The most important was the inclusion of non-digestible carbohydrates of 3 to 9 units of degree of polymerization within the chemical definition, which was adopted in some countries and in others are in the process of evaluation such as the United States which indicates that does not exist a global consensus. Where there is a consensus is in the physiological definition of dietary fiber, considered as a group of carbohydrates resistant to the digestion by enzymes of the small intestine and fermented partially or totally in the colon, with favorable health effects. The Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), in line with the new definition of CODEX Alimentarius, established the AOAC 2009.01 and 2011.25 methods, designed to quantify soluble dietary fiber, insoluble dietary fiber and total dietary fiber. In this context, In Vitro and In Vivo research (in animals and humans) are being carried out to demonstrate the physicochemical, functional and physiological effects that are directed towards the prevention and treatment of some non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This review aims to inform the new definitions and methods of analysis, the functional and physiological properties of dietary fiber and their effects on human health(AU)

Soluble amino acid profile, mineral nutrient and carbohydrate content of maize kernels harvested from plants submitted to ascorbic acid seed priming

ABSTRACT Both the scientific community and society have shown interest in improving the content of amino acids, carbohydrates and mineral nutrients in maize because it represents an important staple food in many developing countries. Earlier studies demonstrated that the treatment of seeds using ascorbic acid (AsA-seed priming) enhanced soluble carbohydrates, proteins and soluble amino acids for other species. AsA seed priming in maize showed the potential for reducing abiotic stresses. The effects on grain quality have not been previously demonstrated. This study investigated the impacts of AsA seed priming on maize kernel quality of seeds produced by the plants generated from the primed seeds, based on the amino acid profile and carbohydrate and mineral nutrient contents. AsA seed priming improved the maize kernel quality with respect to the ascorbate content, boron allocation, total carbohydrate content and increased soluble amino acid levels, including serine, tyrosine, alanine, valine, glutamate, arginine, proline, aspartate, lysine and isoleucine, whereas soluble methionine was decreased. Therefore, AsA seed priming can represent a potential technique for improving maize grain quality.

Evaluation of the impact of orally administered carbohydrates on postprandial blood glucose levels in different pre-clinical models

ABSTRACT We developed a pre-clinical model in which to evaluate the impact of orally administered carbohydrates on postprandial blood glucose levels. For this purpose, we compared the effects of different carbohydrates with well-established glycemic indexes. We orally administered (gavage) increasing amounts (0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0 g/kg) of sucrose and lactose to rats which had been fasted for 6 h or 15 h, respectively. In part of the experiments we administered frutose (gavagem). Three different models were compared for measuring postprandial blood glucose levels: a) evaluation of interstitial glucose concentrations by using a real time continuous glucose monitoring system; b) evaluation of glucose levels in blood obtained from the rat tail; c) evaluation of serum glucose levels in blood collected after decapitation. Our results showed that blood obtained from the tails of 15-h fasted rats was the best model in which to evaluate the effect of carbohydrates on postprandial blood glucose levels.

Seasonal behavior of Thalassia testudinum (Hydrocharitaceae) metabolites / Comportamiento estacional de los metabolitos de Thalassia testudinum (Hydrocharital: Hydrocharitaceae)

Abstract:The marine angiosperm Thalassia testudinum, commonly known as turtle grass, is a dominant sea- grass that grows in the Caribbean Sea shelf associated to Syringodium filiforme. The hydroalcoholic extract of T. testudinum is rich in polyphenols; the most abundant metabolite in this extract is thalassiolin B, a glycosilated flavonoid with skin damage repairing properties, and antioxidant capacity among others. The present study aimed at generating information about the seasonal behavior of secondary metabolites, as well as to study the antioxidant capacity of the T. testudinum leaves extract, collected monthly during 2012 from the Northeast coastline of Havana, Cuba. For this study, spectrophotometric methods were used to determine the concentrations of polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, soluble carbohydrates and proteins, chlorophylls a and b, and antioxidant activity of the extracts. In general, results demonstrated seasonal variations of the analyzed parameters. Extracts prepared from the vegetal material collected in October and November showed the highest values of polyphenols (58.81 ± 1.53 and 52.39 ± 0.63 mg/g bs, respectivally) and flavonoids (44.12 ± 1.30 and 51.30 ± 0.67 mg/g dw, respectively). On the contrary, the lowest values of polyphenols were found in extracts of leaves collected in July and August (15.51 ± 0.84 and 13.86 ± 0.48 mg/g, respectively). In accordance with these results, the lower value of Inhibitory Concentration (IC50) was obtained to get a 50 % of maximal effect on free radical scavenging activity with the extracts prepared from leaves collected in October and November, and less significant IC50 was obtained from the extract prepared from leaves collected in August (5.63 mg/mL). A negative correlation (r= -0.694) was observed in this study between the content of polyphenols and the IC50 necessary to get the half of its antioxidant maximal effect. The high correspondence between the maximum values of polyphenols, flavonoids, carbohydrates and proteins in October and November, revealed a close relationship between these metabolites found in the extract of T. testudinum. Our hypothesis about the annual variation in the concentration of these metabolites was validated; and these results will support the correct harvesting of T. testudinum leaves for biotechnology and industrial purposes. Rev. Biol. Trop. 64 (4): 1527-1535. Epub 2016 December 01.

Resumen:La angiosperma marina Thalassia testudinum, comúnmente conocida como "hierba tortuga", es un pasto marino dominante que crece en el Mar Caribe asociada a Syringodium filiforme. El extracto hidroalcohólico de T. testudinum es rico en polifenoles; el metabolito más abundante en este extracto es thalassiolina B, un flavonoide glicosilado con propiedades para la reparación de daños en la piel y la capacidad antioxidante, entre otros. El objetivo del presente estudio fue conocer el comportamiento estacional de los metabolitos secundarios, así como la capacidad antioxidante del extracto de hojas de T. testudinum recolectadas mensualmente durante el 2012, en la costa noreste de La Habana, Cuba. Para este estudio fueron empleados métodos espectrofotométricos para la determinación de la concentración de polifenoles, flavonoides, carbohidratos y proteínas solubles, clorofilas a y b y la actividad antioxidante del extracto. En sentido general, los resultados demostraron las variaciones estacionales de los parámetros analizados; los extractos preparados a partir de material vegetal recolectado en octubre y noviembre mostraron los mayores valores de polifenoles y flavonoides (44.12 ± 1.30 y 51.30 ± 0.67 mg/g bs respectivamente) y se encontraron los valores más bajos en los extractos de hojas recolectadas en julio y agosto. (15.51 ± 0.84 y 13.86 ± 0.48 mg/g respectivamente). De acuerdo con los resultados, se obtuvo el valor más bajo de la concentración inhibitoria (CI50 ) necesaria para obtener un 50 % de efecto máximo en la actividad de captación de radicales libres con los extractos preparados a partir de las hojas recolectadas en octubre y noviembre y la CI50 menos significativa se obtuvo a partir del extracto preparado a partir de las hojas recolectadas en agosto (5.63 mg/ml). Se observó una correlación negativa (r= -0,694) entre el contenido de polifenoles y la CI50 necesaria para obtener la mitad del efecto antioxidante máximo. La alta correspondencia que existe entre los valores máximos de polifenoles, flavonoides, carbohidratos y proteínas en octubre y noviembre reveló una estrecha relación entre estos metabolitos, encontrados en el extracto de T. testudinum. La hipótesis de la variación anual de la concentración de estos metabolitos fue validada. Estos resultados se tendrán en cuenta con el fin de seleccionar el momento de recolecta de las hojas de T. testudinum para su uso con fines biotecnológicos e industriales.

Training adolescents with type 1 diabetes to carbohydrate counting without parents' help / Capacitação de adolescentes com diabetes tipo 1 para a contagem de carboidratos sem a ajuda dos pais

ABSTRACT Objective: To develop and evaluate the effectiveness of a nutrition education program to enable adolescents with type 1 diabetes to count carbohydrates without the parents' help. Methods: Nineteen adolescents with type 1 diabetes from a diabetes center participated in four fortnightly meetings of one hour, with lectures and discussions about healthy nutrition, importance of nutrients for blood glucose, portion sizes, food replacements, and carbohydrate counting therapy. All meetings ended with exercises to check the learning. Adolescents were followed for one year after the intervention. Results: All participants were 100% successful in all the steps of the program and started carbohydrate counting in the main meals. Nutritional status and total daily insulin doses before and after the study did not differ. After 12 months, 68% of the adolescents counted carbohydrates at all times, 16% did so in extra snacks, and 16% were suspended from the new therapy. Eighty percent of the parents were satisfied with the program, believing teenagers were trained in the new therapy. Conclusion: A short nutrition education program successfully trained adolescents to count carbohydrates without the parents' help.

RESUMO Objetivo: Desenvolver e avaliar a eficácia de um programa de educação nutricional para capacitar adolescentes com diabetes tipo 1 na contagem de carboidratos sem ajuda dos pais. Métodos: Dezenove adolescentes com diabetes tipo 1 de um centro de diabetes participaram de quatro encontros quinzenais de uma hora, com palestras e discussões sobre alimentação saudável, importância dos nutrientes na glicemia, tamanho das porções, substituições de alimentos e contagem de carboidratos. Todos os encontros foram finalizados com exercícios para verificar o aprendizado. Os adolescentes foram acompanhados por um ano após a intervenção. Resultados: Todos os pacientes tiveram 100% de sucesso em todas as etapas do programa e começaram a contagem de carboidratos nas refeições principais. Não houve diferença no estado nutricional e doses totais diárias de insulina antes e depois do estudo. Após 12 meses, 68% dos adolescentes contavam carboidratos em todas as refeições, 16% nos lanches extras, e 16% tinham interrompido a nova terapia. Oitenta por cento dos pais estavam satisfeitos com o programa e acreditavam que os adolescentes estavam capacitados para nova terapia. Conclusão: Após um programa de educação nutricional, de curta duração, foi possível capacitar adolescentes na contagem de carboidratos sem a presença constante dos pais.

Soluble carbohydrate content variation in Sanionia uncinata and Polytrichastrum alpinum, two Antarctic mosses with contrasting desiccation capacities

BACKGROUND: Cryptogamic vegetation dominates the ice-free areas along the Antarctic Peninsula. The two mosses Sanionia uncinata and Polytrichastrum alpinum inhabit soils with contrasting water availability. Sanionia uncinata grows in soil with continuous water supply, while P. alpinum grows in sandy, non-flooded soils. Desiccation and rehydration experiments were carried out to test for differences in the rate of water loss and uptake, with non-structural carbohydrates analysed to test their role in these processes. RESULTS: Individual plants of S. uncinata lost water 60 % faster than P. alpinum; however, clumps of S. uncinata took longer to dry than those of P. alpinum (11 vs. 5 h, respectively). In contrast, rehydration took less than 10 min for both mosses. Total non-structural carbohydrate content was higher in P. alpinum than in S. uncinata, but sugar levels changed more in P. alpinum during desiccation and rehydration (60-50 %) when compared to S. uncinata. We report the presence of galactinol (a precursor of the raffinose family) for the first time in P. alpinum. Galactinol was present at higher amounts than all other non-structural sugars. CONCLUSIONS: Individual plants of S. uncinata were not able to retain water for long periods but by growing and forming carpets, this species can retain water the longest. In contrast individual P. alpinum plants required more time to lose water than S. uncinata, but as moss cushions they suffered desiccation faster than the later. On the other hand, both species rehydrated very quickly. We found that when both mosses lost 50 % of their water, carbohydrates content remained stable and the plants did not accumulate non-structural carbohydrates during the desiccation prosses as usually occurs in vascular plants. The raffinose family oligosaccarides decreased during desiccation, and increased during rehydration, suggesting they function as osmoprotectors.

A rapid preparative-TLC/GC-MS methodology for discriminating between two filmy ferns (Hymenophyllaceae) native from the temperate rain forest of Southern Chile based on their soluble carbohydrates / Una metodología de CCF-preparativa/CG-EM rápida para discriminar entre dos helechos película(Hymenophyllaceae) nativos del bosque templado del sur de Chile basada en sus hidratos de carbono

Filmy ferns are a conspicuous epiphytic component of the temperate rain forest of southern Chile and the more abundant genus is Hymenophyllum represented by 19 species, they are a primitive fern family sharing their limited water lost control (poikilohydricity) with lower non-vascular plants, such as bryophytes and lichens. Because, carbohydrate accumulation is a desiccation tolerance mechanism proposed for desiccation-tolerant vascularized plants, the aim of this investigation was to propose a methodology for soluble carbohydrate analysis in native ferns. Preparative- TLC showed to be a simple and rapid technique for separating Hymenophyllum sugars. GC-MS analysis allowed identifying glucitol (2.0 percent), sucrose (2.0 percent), alpha or beta-melibiose (5.0 percent) and salidroside (4.4 percent) in H. cruentum carbohydrate profile from H. dentatum showed significant differences presenting only two sugars sucrose (1.4 percent) and alpha or beta-melibiose (3.2 percent). Furthermore, salidroside, an antioxidant compound, was identified only in H. cruentum. Our results suggest that H. cruentum, has higher preventive mechanisms than H. dentatum; that would allow delay the effects of desiccation (prevent a rapid dehydration) and thus survive to short periods of drought present in the study area. Due to the presence of salidroside in H. cruentum this species should be more resistant to oxidative stress that H. dentatum.

Los helechos película se pueden encontrar en el bosque templado lluvioso del sur de Chile, siendo el género más abundante Hymenophyllum representado con 19 especies. Son una familia de helechos primitivos que comparten la limitación de control de pérdida de agua (poiquilohidrícos) con plantas no vasculares, tales como briófitas y líquenes. Como el contenido de hidratos de carbono ha sido asociado a la protección de la planta durante la desecación, su análisis es una herramienta importante para dilucidar el mecanismo asociado a este fenómeno. El objetivo de esta investigación fue proponer una metodología fácil y rápida para el análisis de hidratos de carbono en helechos nativos. La CCF-preparativa permitió la separación de hidratos de carbono presentes en plantas del género Hymenophyllum. El análisis por GC-MS logró identificar glucitol (2,0 por ciento), sacarosa (2,0 por ciento), alfa o Beta-melibiosa (5.0 por ciento) y salidrosido (4,4 por ciento) en H. cruentum. El perfil de hidratos de carbono de H. dentatum mostró diferencias significativas, mostrando sólo dos compuestos sacarosa (1,4 por ciento) y alfa o beta- melibiosa (3.2 por ciento). Además, salidrosido, un compuesto antioxidante, sólo fue identificado en H. cruentum. Nuestros resultados sugieren que ante la menor tolerancia a la desecación observada previamente en H. cruentum, esta especie presenta mecanismos que le permitirían retardar los efectos de la desecación (prevención de una rápida pérdida de agua) y así sobrevivir a los periodos cortos de sequía presentes en la zona de estudio. Debido a La presencia de salidrosido en H. cruentum, esta especie debería ser más resistente al estrés oxidativo que H. dentatum.

Comparative study on the nutritional and antioxidant properties of two Mexican corn (Zea mays) based meals versus processed cereals / Estudio comparativo sobre las propiedades nutricionales y antioxidantes de dos alimentos mexicanos basados en maíz (Zea mays) en comparación con cereales procesados

The present study was conducted to analyze the chemical composition, total phenolics content and antioxidant capacity of two whole corn (Zea mays) based meals traditional from Mexico: “traditional pinole” and “seven grain pinole”; and compare it with information available from ready to eat cereal products based on refined corn and whole grain cereals. Proximate analyses (moisture, ash, fat, protein and fiber) were carried out according to the procedures of AOAC, sugars content was determined by HPLC method; calcium and iron were quantified using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Total phenolic compounds were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu spectrophotometric method; the antiradical capacity was determined by DPPH colorimetric method and total antioxidant capacity was determined by FRAP method. Traditional and seven grain pinole presented higher energy content and nutrient density (protein and fat) than processed cereals. Calcium content was higher in processed cereals than pinole; seven grain pinole presented the highest conentration of iron. Polyphenolic concentration was higher in both kinds of pinole compared to processed cereals; traditional pinole presented the highest antioxidant activity measured by DPPH and FRAP methods. The results provide evidence about the important nutrient and antioxidant content of traditional and seven grain pinole compared to processed cereals based on corn and other grains. It is recommended their incorporation in to regular diet as a healthy food, with a good protein level, low sugar content and good antioxidant capacity.

En el presente estudio se analizó la composición química, el contenido de compuestos fenólicos totales y la capacidad antioxidante de dos alimentos elaborados a base de granos enteros de maíz (Zea mays) típicos de México: "pinole tradicional" y "pinole de los siete granos"; y se comparó con la información nutricional ya disponible de dos cereales procesados. El análisis proximal se realizó de acuerdo a los procedimientos de la AOAC, el contenido de azúcares se determinó por HPLC; el calcio y hierro se cuantificaron utilizando espectroscopía de absorción atómica. Los compuestos fenólicos totales se determinaron espectrofotométricamente por el método de Folin-Ciocalteu; la capacidad antirradical se determinó por el método colorimétrico del DPPH, y la capacidad antioxidante total se determinó por el método FRAP. El pinole tradicional y el pinole de los siete granos presentaron una mayor densidad de nutrientes (proteína y grasa) y mayor contenido calórico en comparación con los cereales procesados. El contenido de calcio fue mayor en los cereales procesados; el pinole de los siete granos presentó la mayor concentración de hierro. La concentración de compuestos fenólicos fue mayor en ambos tipos de pinole comparado con los productos procesados; el pinole tradicional presentó la mas alta actividad antioxidante medida por los métodos de DPPH y FRAP. Los resultados muestran evidencia sobre el importante contenido de nutrientes y compuestos antioxidantes del pinole tradicional y pinole de los siete granos; se recomienda su consumo regular, por ser alimentos con un buen nivel de proteína, bajo contenido de azúcar y con una buena capacidad antioxidante.

Caracterización química y cuantificación de fructooligosacáridos, compuestos fenólicos y actividad antirradical de tubérculos y raíces andinos cultivados en el noroeste de Argentina / Chemical characterization and quantification of fructooligosaccharides, phenolic compounds and antiradical activity of Andean roots and tubers grown in Northwest of Argentina

Existe un creciente interés por consumir alimentos que además de aportar los componentes básicos para una buena nutrición provean otros compuestos benéficos para la salud. El objetivo del trabajo fue determinar la composición química de alimentos autóctonos de la región andina y cuantificar algunos componentes funcionales. Se determinó composición centesimal, contenido de vitamina C y compuestos fenólicos totales, actividad antirradical (DPPH) en cáscara y pulpa, fibra dietaria soluble e insoluble, fructooligosacáridos (FOS), almidón total y resistente (en tubérculos y raíces crudos, hervidos y hervidos y almacenados) de 6 variedades de Ocas (Oxalis tuberosa), 4 clones de Mandiocas (Manihot esculenta Crantz) y Yacón (Smallanthus sonchifolius). Los resultados mostraron mayor cantidad de compuestos bioactivos y actividad antirradical en la cáscara de ocas. En todos los casos el contenido de fibra insoluble fue mayor que la soluble. Las mandiocas tuvieron mayor contenido de almidón total que las raíces y tubérculos andinos. El proceso de ebullición disminuyó el contenido de almidón resistente en ocas y mandiocas pero cuando éstas se almacenaron por 48h a 5°C, el contenido de almidón resistente aumentó nuevamente. El contenido de FOS en ocas fue similar para todas las variedades (Aproximadamente 7%). El principal componente de los carbohidratos del yacón fueron los FOS (8,89%). Se puede concluir que las raíces y tubérculos estudiados, además de aportar nutrientes, contienen compuestos funcionales que les confieren un valor adicional como alimentos útiles para la prevención de algunas enfermedades no trasmisibles.

There is great interest in consuming foods that can provide the nutrients for a good nutrition and other health beneficial compounds. The aim of this work was to determine the chemical composition of native foods of the Andean region and to quantify some functional components. Proximal composition, vitamin C, total phenolic compounds, antiradical activity (DPPH) in peel and pulp, dietary fiber soluble and insoluble, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), total and resistant starch (in tubers and raw roots, boiled and boiled and stored) of 6 varieties of Oca (Oxalis tuberosa), 4 clones of manioc (Manihot esculenta Crantz) and yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius were determined. The results showed greater amount of bioactive compounds and antiradical activity in the skin of these products. The highest content was found in the oca peel. In all cases, the content of insoluble fiber was greater than the soluble. The manioc had higher total starch than Andean roots and tubers. The boiling process decreased the resistant starch content of ocas and maniocs, but when these are stored for 48 h at 5 ° C, the resistant starch content increased. The FOS content of the ocas was similar for all varieties (7%). The main component of yacon carbohydrates were FOS (8,89%). The maniocs did not contain FOS. It can be concluded that the roots and tubers studied, in addition to provide nutrients, contain functional compounds that confer additional helpful value for preventing no communicable diseases.

Utilization of molasses and sugar cane bagasse for production of fungal invertase in solid state fermentation using Aspergillus niger GH1

Agro-industrial wastes have been used as substrate-support in solid state fermentation for enzyme production. Molasses and sugarcane bagasse are by-products of sugar industry and can be employed as substrates for invertase production. Invertase is an important enzyme for sweeteners development. In this study, a xerophilic fungus Aspergillus niger GH1 isolated of the Mexican semi-desert, previously reported as an invertase over-producer strain was used. Molasses from Mexico and Cuba were chemically analyzed (total and reducer sugars, nitrogen and phosphorous contents); the last one was selected based on chemical composition. Fermentations were performed using virgin and hydrolyzate bagasse (treatment with concentrated sulfuric acid). Results indicated that, the enzymatic yield (5231 U/L) is higher than those reported by other A. niger strains under solid state fermentation, using hydrolyzate bagasse. The acid hydrolysis promotes availability of fermentable sugars. In addition, maximum invertase activity was detected at 24 h using low substrate concentration, which may reduce production costs. This study presents an alternative method for invertase production using a xerophilic fungus isolated from Mexican semi-desert and inexpensive substrates (molasses and sugarcane bagasse).

Improvement of yield of the edible and medicinal mushroom Lentinula edodes on wheat straw by use of supplemented spawn

The research evaluated the interactions of two main factors (strain / types of spawn) on various parameters with the purpose to assess its effect on yield and biochemical composition of Lentinula edodes fruiting bodies cultivated on pasteurized wheat straw. The evaluation was made with four strains (IE-40, IE-105, IE-124 and IE-256). Different types of spawns were prepared: Control (C) (millet seed, 100%), F1 (millet seed, 88.5%; wheat bran, 8.8%; peat moss, 1.3%; and CaS0(4), 1.3%) and F2 (the same formula as F1, but substituting the wheat bran with powdered wheat straw). Wheat straw was pasteurized by soaking it for 1 h in water heated to 65 °C. After this the substrate (2 kg wet weight) was placed in polypropylene bags. The bags were inoculated with each spawn (5% w/w) and incubated in a dark room at 25 °C. A proximate analysis of mature fruiting bodies was conducted. The mean Biological Efficiency (BE) varied between 66.0% (C-IE-256) and 320.1% (F1-IE-124), with an average per strain of 125.6%. The highest mean BE was observed on spawn F1 (188.3%), significantly different from C and F2. The protein content of fruiting bodies was high, particularly in strain IE-40-F1 (17.7%). The amount of fat varied from 1.1 (F1-IE-40) to 2.1% (F2-IE-105) on dry matter. Carbohydrates ranged from 58.8% (F1-IE-40) to 66.1% (F1-IE-256). The energy value determined ranged from 302.9 kcal (F1-IE-40) to 332.0 kcal (F1-IE-256). The variability on BE observed in this study was significantly influenced by the spawn's formulation and genetic factors of the different strains.

Bioprocessing of some agro-industrial residues for endoglucanase production by the new subsp.; Streptomyces albogriseolus subsp. cellulolyticus strain NEAE-J

The use of low cost agro-industrial residues for the production of industrial enzymes is one of the ways to reduce significantly production costs. Cellulase producing actinomycetes were isolated from soil and decayed agricultural wastes. Among them, a potential culture, strain NEAE-J, was selected and identified on the basis of morphological, cultural, physiological and chemotaxonomic properties, together with 16S rDNA sequence. It is proposed that strain NEAE-J should be included in the species Streptomyces albogriseolus as a representative of a novel sub-species, Streptomyces albogriseolus subsp. cellulolyticus strain NEAE-J and sequencing product was deposited in the GenBank database under accession number JN229412. This organism was tested for its ability to produce endoglucanase and release reducing sugars from agro-industrial residues as substrates. Sugarcane bagasse was the most suitable substrate for endoglucanase production. Effects of process variables, namely incubation time, temperature, initial pH and nitrogen source on production of endoglucanase by submerged fermentation using Streptomyces albogriseolus subsp. cellulolyticus have been studied. Accordingly optimum conditions have been determined. Incubation temperature of 30 ºC after 6 days, pH of 6.5, 1% sugarcane bagasse as carbon source and peptone as nitrogen source were found to be the optimum for endoglucanase production. Optimization of the process parameters resulted in about 2.6 fold increase in the endoglucanase activity. Therefore, Streptomyces albogriseolus subsp. cellulolyticus coud be potential microorganism for the intended application.

Efeito da dexametasona e melatonina exógenas sobre parâmetros sanguíneos, progesterona, carboidratos totais e histomorfometria de órgãos em ratas prenhes / The effect of dexamethasone and exogenous melatonin on blood parameters, progesterone, total carbo hydrates and histomorphometry of organs in pregnant rats

A dexametasona é utilizada em casos de gestação com risco de prematuridade; porém, doses suprafisiológicas podem afetar a embriogênese. A melatonina tem demonstrado prevenir efeitos deletérios dos glicocorticoides. Assim, avaliamos a influência da melatonina sobre efeitos da dexametasona em ratas prenhes através dos seguintes parâmetros: 1. Hemograma e perfil glicídico; 2. Níveis de progesterona; e 3. Histomorfometria e histoquímica. Foram utilizadas 20 ratas divididas nos grupos: I - ratas prenhes que receberam placebo (Controle); II - ratas prenhes tratadas com dexametasona (0,8mg/kg); III - ratas prenhes tratadas com melatonina (0,5mg/kg); IV - ratas prenhes tratadas com dexametasona e melatonina. Todos os tratamentos foram iniciados 10 dias após confirmação do acasalamento até o final da prenhez. O sangue foi coletado no 7º, 14º e 21º dia de prenhez. As dosagens de carboidratos e progesterona foram realizadas pelo método antrona e ELISA, respectivamente. O fígado, rins e adrenais foram analisados histoquímica e morfometricamente. No 7º dia de prenhez, não houve alteração significativa nos parâmetros analisados. Porém, no 14º dia de prenhez, houve aumento significativo do volume de hematócrito, redução do número total de hemácias e leucócitos, neutrofilia, linfopenia, eosinopenia e redução do diâmetro das hemácias nas matrizes tratadas com dexametasona. Esses efeitos permaneceram no 21º dia de prenhez, exceto para o hematócrito, o qual reduziu. Verificou-se ainda redução significativa dos níveis de glicose (21º dia de prenhez) e progesterona (14º e 21º dia de prenhez). Não houve alteração nos parâmetros morfométricos e histoquímico no fígado, rins e adrenais. A dexametasona na dosagem de 0,8mg/kg, administrada a partir do terço médio da prenhez, produz alterações hematológicas, bioquímicas e hormonais em ratas, sendo prevenidas pela melatonina; porém não afeta o fígado, rins e adrenais quanto aos parâmetros morfométricos e histoquímicos.

Dexamethasone is used in cases of pregnancy with prematurity risk. However, it may affect the embryogenesis when used in supraphysiological doses. Melatonin has been shown to prevent the deleterious effects of glucocorticoids. Therefore, the influence of melatonin on the effects of dexamethasone on pregnant rats was evaluated through the following parameters: 1. Hemogram and glucose profile; 2. Progesterone levels; 3. Histomorphometry and histochemistry analyses. Twenty female rats were divided into the following groups: I - rats that received placebo (Control); II - rats treated with dexamethasone (0.8mg/kg); III - rats treated with melatonin (0.5mg/kg); IV - rats treated with dexamethasone and melatonin. All treatments started 10 days after confirmation of mating and lasted until the end of the pregnancy. Blood samples were collected on the 7th, 14th, and 21st day. Carbohydrate and progesterone levels were determined with the antrona and ELISA method, respectively. The liver, kidneys, and adrenal glands were analyzed morphometrically and histochemically. On the 7th day of pregnancy there were no significant changes in the parameters analyzed. However, at 14 days of pregnancy there was a significant increase of hematocrit, reducing the total number of erythrocytes and leukocytes, neutrophilia, lymphopenia, eosinopenia and reduced diameter of red blood cells in rats treated with dexamethasone. These effects remained on the 21st of day of pregnancy, except for the hematocrit, which was reduced. There was also a significant reduction in glucose levels (21st day) and progesterone (14th and 21st days). There was no change in the histochemical and morphometric parameters in the liver, kidneys and adrenals. Dexamethasone at a dosage of 0.8mg/kg administered from the middle third of pregnancy produces hematological, biochemical and hormonal changes in rats, being prevented by melatonin, but does not affect the liver...

Profiling carbohydrate composition, biohydrogen capacity, and disease resistance in potato

Background: Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is one of the most important sources of carbohydrates in human diet. Because of its high carbohydrate levels it recently has also received attention in biohydrogen production. To exploit the natural variation of potato with respect to resistance to major diseases, carbohydrate levels and composition, and capacity for biohydrogen production we analyzed tubers of native, improved, and genetically modified potatoes, and two other tuberous species for their glucose, fructose, sucrose, and starch content. Results: High-starch potato varieties were evaluated for their potential for Caldicellulosiruptor saccharolyticus-mediated biohydrogen production with Desirée and Rosita varieties delivering the highest biohydrogen amounts. Native line Vega1 and improved line Yagana were both immune to two isolates (A291, A287) of Phytophthora infestans. Conclusions: Our data demonstrate that native potato varieties might have great potential for further improving the multifaceted use of potato in worldwide food and biohydrogen production.