Optimization of ethanol reflux extraction process of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen- Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus based on network pharmacology combined with response surface methodology / 中国中药杂志

The present study optimized the ethanol extraction process of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen-Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus drug pair by network pharmacology and Box-Behnken method. Network pharmacology and molecular docking were used to screen out and verify the potential active components of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen-Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus, and the process evaluation indexes were determined in light of the components of the content determination under Ziziphi Spinosae Semen and Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia(2020 edition). The analytic hierarchy process(AHP) was used to determine the weight coefficient of each component, and the comprehensive score was calculated as the process evaluation index. The ethanol extraction process of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen-Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus was optimized by the Box-Behnken method. The core components of the Ziziphi Spinosae Semen-Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus drug pair were screened out as spinosin, jujuboside A, jujuboside B, schisandrin, schisandrol, schisandrin A, and schisandrin B. The optimal extraction conditions obtained by using the Box-Behnken method were listed below: extraction time of 90 min, ethanol volume fraction of 85%, and two times of extraction. Through network pharmacology and molecular docking, the process evaluation indexes were determined, and the optimized process was stable, which could provide an experimental basis for the production of preparations containing Ziziphi Spinosae Semen-Schisandrae Sphenantherae Fructus.

Antibacterial and hemolytic activity of extracts and compounds obtained from epicarps and seeds of Garcinia madruno(Kunth) Hammel / Actividad antimicrobiana y hemolítica de extractos y compuestos obtenidos del epicarpio y las semillas de Garcinia madruno (Kunth) Hammel

This paper describes the evaluation of the antimicrobial and hemolytic activity of the hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and methanol extracts from seeds and epicarps of Garcinia madruno; as well garcinol, morelloflavone and volkensiflavone isolated from the same species. In the preliminary test of bacterial susceptibility, hexane extracts from seeds and epicarps and the three compounds tested only displayed inhibitory growth effect against Gram-positive bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of extract and compounds ranging from 86.6 to 1253.4 µg/mL. The hemolytic activity was assessed; however, except for the methanol extract from seeds, none of the samples studied induced hemolysis. Thus, our results suggest that extracts and compounds from G. madruno have the potential to be used in the control of pathologies associated to Gram-positive bacteria. This is the first report of the antimicrobial and hemolytic activity of extracts of different polarity obtained from seeds and epicarps of this edible species.

El presente artículo describe la evaluación de la actividad antimicrobiana y hemolítica de los extractos de hexano, diclorometano, acetato de etilo y metanol, obtenidos de la semilla y el epicarpio de Garcinia madruno; así como de garcinol, morelloflavona y volkensiflavona; aislados de la misma especie. En el ensayo de susceptibilidad bacteriana, tanto el extracto de hexano obtenido a partir de la semilla y el epicarpio, y los tres compuestos aislados, únicamente mostraron actividad inhibitoria del crecimiento contra bacterias Gram-positivas. La concentración mínima inhibitoria presentó valores entre 86.6 y 1253.4 µg/mL. También se estableció la actividad hemolítica; sin embargo, con excepción del extracto metanólico obtenido a partir de las semillas, ninguna de las muestras evaluadas indujo hemólisis. Por lo tanto, los resultados sugieren que los extractos y compuestos de G. madruno tienen el potencial de ser usados en el control de bacterias Gram-positivas asociadas a diversas patologías. Este es el primer reporte de actividad antimicrobiana y hemolítica de extractos de diferente polaridad obtenidos de las semillas y epicarpios de esta especie comestible.

Mobilization of seed storage proteins is crucial to high vigor in common bean seeds / Mobilização das proteínas de reserva é crucial para o alto vigor em sementes de feijão

Seed germination is a complex process controlled by many factors, in which physical and biochemical mechanisms are involved and the mobilization of reserves is crucial for this process to occur. Although, seed reserve mobilization is usually thought to be a post-germination process, seed reserve proteins mobilization occurs during germination. This study quantified seed proteins of bean genotypes during different hydration times, in order to understand the process of protein mobilization and whether there is relationship of this biochemical component with seed vigor. This study was conducted using seeds with different levels of vigor, genotypes with highest (13, 42, 55 and 81) and lowest (07, 23, 44, 50, IPR-88-Uirapurú and Iapar 81) physiological quality. High vigor genotypes showed greater efficiency in hydrolysis and mobilization of protein component, because they presented low globulins content in cotyledons at radicle protrusion in relation to low vigor genotypes (07, 23 and 50). The protein alpha-amylase inhibitor, observed in all genotypes, is involved with the longer time needed for radicle protrusion, according to the band intensity difference in genotypes 07, 44 and Iapar 81.

A germinação de sementes é um processo complexo controlado por muitos fatores, nos quais mecanismos físicos e bioquímicos estão envolvidos e a mobilização de reservas é decisiva para que esse processo ocorra. Embora a mobilização de reservas de sementes seja considerada um processo pós-germinativo, a mobilização das proteínas de reserva de sementes ocorre durante a germinação. Este estudo teve como objetivo quantificar as proteínas de sementes de genótipos de feijão durante os diferentes tempos de hidratação, a fim de compreender o processo de mobilização proteica e se há relação desse componente bioquímico com o vigor das sementes. Este estudo foi realizado utilizando sementes com diferentes níveis de vigor, genótipos com maior (13, 42, 55 e 81) e menor (07, 23, 44, 50, IPR-88-Uirapurú e Iapar 81) qualidade fisiológica. Os genótipos de alto vigor apresentaram maior eficiência na hidrólise e mobilização do componente proteico, pois apresentaram baixo teor de globulinas nos cotilédones na protrusão radicular em relação aos genótipos de baixo vigor (07, 23 e 50). A proteína inibidora da alfa-amilase, observada em todos os genótipos, está envolvida com o maior tempo necessário para a protrusão da radícula, de acordo com a diferença de intensidade da banda nos genótipos 07, 44 e Iapar 81.

Water migration and kinetics of Arecae Semen during moistening process / 中国中药杂志

In this study, low-field nuclear magnetic resonance(LF-NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) were employed to analyze the water distribution, status, and migration in the moistening process of Arecae Semen. Peleg model was adopted to study the water absorption kinetics of Arecae Semen moistened at different water temperatures(10, 30, and 50 ℃). The Arecae Semen samples soaked at different water temperatures all contained four water states: binding water T_(21), non-flowing water T_(22), free water T_(23), and unbound water T_(24). Non-flowing water had the largest increase in peak area during the moistening process, followed by free water. The peak areas of non-flowing water, free water, and total water were correlated with the water content(P<0.01). Therefore, LF-NMR can quickly and non-destructively predict the water content of Arecae Semen during moistening. The peak area of non-flowing water and the content of free water were correlated with the content of arecoline in the soaking solution(P<0.01), which indicated that the faster flow of non-flowing water and more free water corresponded to more arecoline dissolved. The MRI images showed that the water migration pathway varied at different soaking temperatures, and the moistening degree obtained by this means was consistent with that obtained based on traditional experience. The rate constant K_1 fitted by Peleg model decreased with the increase in water temperature, while the capacity constant K_2 showed an opposite trend. The Arrhenius equation fitting of K_1 with temperature showed that the activation energy of Arecae Semen in the moistening process was 32.98 kJ·mol~(-1). LF-NMR/MRI can be used to analyze the water status and content and determine the end moisturing point of Arecae Semen. Peleg model can accurately describe the water absorption properties of Arecae Semen in the moistening process. The findings of this study can guide the moistening optimization and mechanism research of other seed Chinese medicinal materials.

Effective substance and mechanism of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen extract in treatment of insomnia based on serum metabolomics and network pharmacology / 中国中药杂志

This study aims to study the effective substance and mechanism of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen extract in the treatment of insomnia based on serum metabolomics and network pharmacology. The rat insomnia model induced by p-chlorophenylalanine(PCPA) was established. After oral administration of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen extract, the general morphological observation, pentobarbital sodium-induced sleep test, and histopathological evaluation were carried out. The potential biomarkers of the extract in the treatment of insomnia were screened by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry(UHPLC-MS) combined with multivariate analysis, and the related metabolic pathways were further analyzed. The "component-target-pathway" network was constructed by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-Exactive mass spectrometry(UHPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS) combined with network pharmacology to explore the effective substances and mechanism of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen in the treatment of insomnia. The results of pentobarbital sodium-induced sleep test and histopathological evaluation(hematoxylin and eosin staining) showed that Ziziphi Spinosae Semen extract had good theraputic effect on insomnia. A total of 21 endogenous biomarkers of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen extract in the treatment of insomnia were screened out by serum metabolomics, and the metabolic pathways of phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, and nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism were obtained. A total of 34 chemical constituents were identified by UHPLC-Q-Exactive-MS/MS, including 24 flavonoids, 2 triterpenoid saponins, 4 alkaloids, 2 triterpenoid acids, and 2 fatty acids. The network pharmacological analysis showed that Ziziphi Spinosae Semen mainly acted on target proteins such as dopamine D2 receptor(DRD2), 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1 A(HTR1 A), and alpha-2 A adrenergic receptor(ADRA2 A) in the treatment of insomnia. It was closely related to neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, serotonergic synapse, and calcium signaling pathway. Magnoflorine, N-nornuciferine, caaverine, oleic acid, palmitic acid, coclaurine, betulinic acid, and ceanothic acid in Ziziphi Spinosae Semen may be potential effective compounds in the treatment of insomnia. This study revealed that Ziziphi Spinosae Semen extract treated insomnia through multiple metabolic pathways and the overall correction of metabolic disorder profile in a multi-component, multi-target, and multi-channel manner. Briefly, this study lays a foundation for further research on the mechanism of Ziziphi Spinosae Semen in treating insomnia and provides support for the development of innovative Chinese drugs for the treatment of insomnia.

Seed oil of Brucea javanica induces apoptosis through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway in acute lymphocytic leukemia Jurkat cells / 中国天然药物

Brucea javanica oil emulsion (BJOE) has been used to treat tumor in China for more than 40 years. However, its components and effectiveness in the treatment of acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) and its mechanism of anti-cancer activity remain unknown. In the current study, high-performance liquid chromatography-evaporative light scattering detector (HPLC-ELSD) was used to analyze the components of BJOE. Then, the anti-leukemia effects of BJOE were examined both in vitro and in vivo using ALL Jurkat cells and the p388 mouse leukemia transplant model, respectively. The primary ALL leukemia cells were also used to confirm the anti-leukemia effects of BJOE. The apoptotic-related results indicated that BJOE induced apoptosis in Jurkat cells and were suggestive of intrinsic apoptotic induction. Moreover, BJOE inhibited Akt (protein kinase B) activation and upregulated its downstream targets p53 and FoxO1 (forkhead box gene, group O-1) to initiate apoptosis. The activation of GSK3β was also involved. Our findings demonstrate that BJOE has anti-leukemia effects on ALL cells and can induce apoptosis in Jurkat cells through the phosphoinositide3-kinase (PI3K) /Akt signaling pathway.

Evaluación de la harina de chachafruto como ingrediente para la elaboración de un producto libre de gluten / Evaluation of chachafruto flour as an ingredient for the elaboration of a gluten-free product

Introducción: los productos de panificación utilizan harina de trigo la cual contiene gluten. Algunas personas son intolerantes específicamente a las proteínas del gluten que generan enfer-medades como colon irritable y problemas gastrointestinales.El chachafruto es el fruto del árbol llamado Erythrina edulis, planta catalogada como leguminosa y su fruto como legumbre. Esta le-gumbre se considera un alimento esencial ya que posee nutrientes y proteínas, y es una opción de alimentación porque no contiene gluten. Su contenido de grasa es bajo y de proteínas alto. Objetivos: evaluar la utilización de la harina de chachafruto en la elaboración de un producto libre de gluten. Materiales y métodos: la harina de chachafruto se consigue al separar las semillas de la vaina, luego se lavan y desinfectan para eliminar impurezas y se llevan a escaldado con agua caliente du-rante 5 minutos. Posteriormente se realiza el pelado mecánico y se remueve la testa manualmente; después se cortan las semillas en forma de rodaja en la cortadora con un espesor de 3 mm y se pasan a un deshidratador de bandejas. El secado se lleva acabo a temperaturas de 50 y 60°C aproximadamente por 12 horas. Resultados: la adición de harina de chachafruto cambió consi-derablemente algunos parámetros de las mezclas para 15% ha-rina de chachafruto y 85% harina de amaranto en las proteínas con 8,00±2,52% y cenizas con 1,80±0,02%, y para la mezcla de 15% harina de chachafruto y 85% harina de arroz cambió 7,38±2,16% y 1,39±0,00% respectivamente. Conclusiones: este estudio demostró que el empleo de harina de chachafruto puede utilizarse efectivamente como reempla-zante de la harina de trigo dado que los resultados obtenidos favorecen la fabricación de productos para reemplazar total-mente la harina de trigo por harinas sin gluten.

Avaliação dos Efeitos Cardíacos de Lectina Solúvel em Água (WSMoL) de Sementes de Moringa Oleifera / Evaluation of the Cardiac Effects of a Water-Soluble Lectin (Wsmol) from Moringa Oleifera Seeds

Resumo Fundsamento As sementes de Moringa oleifera , que são utilizadas para clarificação de água, contêm uma lectina chamada WSMoL que tem mostrado atividade antibacteriana e imunomoduladora in vitro . Devido ao seu valor nutritivo e potencial terapêutico, as folhas e as sementes dessa árvore são consumidas em algumas comunidades. Algumas lectinas de plantas não são tóxicas para mamíferos, mas tem sido relatado que outras são prejudiciais quando ingeridas ou administradas por outros meios. Objetivo Como um dos passos necessários para determinar a segurança de WSMoL, nós avaliamos os possíveis efeitos cardiotóxicos desta proteína purificada. Métodos Durante 21 dias consecutivos, a WSMoL foi administrada a camundongos por gavagem. Foram investigadas as funções eletrofisiológicas, mecânicas e metabólicas in vivo e ex vivo por meio de registros eletrocardiográficos, ressonância magnética nuclear e respirometria de alta resolução. Resultados O tratamento com WSMoL não induziu alterações nos níveis de glicose no sangue ou peso corporal em comparação com o grupo controle. Adicionalmente, as relações peso cardíaco/peso corporal e peso cardíaco/comprimento tibial estavam semelhantes em ambos os grupos. A ingestão de lectina também não modificou a tolerância à glicose ou resistência à insulina. Não foram observadas alterações nos parâmetros eletrocardiográficos ou na duração do potencial de ação cardíaco. Os corações dos camundongos dos grupos controle e WSMoL mostraram função ventricular esquerda preservada. Além disso, a WSMoL não induziu alterações na função mitocondrial (em todos os casos, p > 0,05). Conclusões A administração de WSMoL demonstrou ter um perfil de segurança cardíaca. Estes resultados contribuem à avaliação de segurança do uso de sementes de M. oleifera para tratar água, visto que essa lectina está presente na preparação empregada por algumas populações com esse fim. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Abstract Background Moringa oleifera seeds, which are used for water clarification, contain a lectin named WSMoL which has shown in vitro antibacterial and immunomodulatory activity. Due to their nutritional value and therapeutic potential, the leaves and seeds of this tree are eaten in some communities. Some plant lectins are non-toxic to mammals, but others have been reported to be harmful when ingested or administered by other means. Objective As one of the steps needed to define the safety of WSMoL, we evaluated possible cardiotoxic effects of this purified protein. Methods: WSMoL was administered for 21 consecutive days to mice by gavage. Electrophysiological, mechanical, and metabolic cardiac functions were investigated by in vivo and ex vivo electrocardiographic recordings, nuclear magnetic resonance, and high-resolution respirometry. Results The treatment with WSMoL did not induce changes in blood glucose levels or body weight in comparison with control group. Moreover, the heart weight/body weight and heart weight/tibia length ratios were similar in both groups. Lectin ingestion also did not modify glucose tolerance or insulin resistance. No alterations were observed in electrocardiographic parameters or cardiac action potential duration. The heart of mice from the control and WSMoL groups showed preserved left ventricular function. Furthermore, WSMoL did not induce changes in mitochondrial function (in all cases, p > 0.05). Conclusions The administration of WSMoL demonstrated a cardiac safety profile. These results contribute to the safety evaluation of using M. oleifera seeds to treat water, since this lectin is present in the preparation employed by some populations to this end. (Arq Bras Cardiol. 2020; [online].ahead print, PP.0-0)

Bird-plant interactions on the edge of a forest fragment in southwestern Brazilian Amazonia

Seed dispersal is one of the principal ecological processes that determine the richness and distribution of plants in tropical forests. Birds play an important role in the zoochoric dispersal of seeds in these forests.The present study investigated the bird-plant interactions involving the ingestion and dispersal of seeds by the birds found in the edge habitat of an isolated forest fragment on the Catuaba Experimental Farm in eastern Acre, in southwestern Brazilian Amazonia. The birds were captured using mist nets, and the seeds were collected from fecal samples obtained during the handling of the animals. These seeds were sorted and identified. The bird and the plant species identified during the study were used to calculate the connectivity and nestedness of the bird-plant interactions. We captured 82 species of birds, with a total sampling effort of 203,180 h.m². Fecal samples obtained from 19 of the bird species contained a total of 2,086 seeds, representing 23 plant species. The interaction network had an intermediate connectance, and significant nestedness. Ramphocelus carbohad the highest importance index and was the bird with the largest number of plant interactions, while Cecropia latilobawas the plant with the highest importance index, followed by Schefflera morototoni. Most of the seed-dispersing birds identified in the present study are generalists found in both the forest core and its edge. The results of the study indicated that the community of generalist-frugivore birds interacts extensively with the plant community of the fragment, providing seed dispersal services that include the deforested areas adjacent to the fragment.

In vitro screening for acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibition and antimicrobial activity of chia seeds (Salvia hispanica)

BACKGROUND: Chia seeds are gaining increasing interest among food producers and consumers because of their prohealth properties. RESULTS: The aim of this work was to evaluate the potential of chia seeds to act as acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitors. The highest inhibitory activity against AChE and BChE was observed for colored seed ethanol extracts. A positive correlation was found between the presence of quercetin and isoquercetin as well as protocatechuic, hydroxybenzoic, and coumaric acids and the activity of extracts as AChE and BChE inhibitors. It has also been shown that grain fragmentation affects the increase in the activity of seeds against cholinesterases (ChE). Furthermore, seeds have been shown to be a source of substances that inhibit microbial growth. CONCLUSIONS: It was found that the chia seed extracts are rich in polyphenols and inhibit the activity of ChEs; therefore, their use can be considered in further research in the field of treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases.

Pumpkin seeds (Cucurbita maxima): a review of functional attributes and by-products / Semillas de calabaza (Cucurbita máxima): una revisión de sus propiedades funcionales y sub-productos

ABSTRACT The need to obtain nutritious foods from new sources and lower waste in industry has created a high interest in studying different parts of plants or foods that today are considered waste, but could be considered by-products with high nutritional value with potential use in human diets. Pumpkin seeds are commonly considered as waste but they have a high content of fatty and amino acids, which when used as a by-product or ingredient can add value to food products. The aim of this work was to perform a wide review of the nutritional and functional properties of Cucurbita maxima seeds and their potential medicinal influence.

RESUMEN La necesidad de obtener alimentos nutritivos de nuevas fuentes y menores desperdicios en la industria ha generado un gran interés en el estudio de diferentes partes de plantas o alimentos que hoy en día se consideran desechos, pero que podrían considerarse subproductos con alto valor nutricional y uso potencial en alimentación humana. Las semillas de calabaza se consideran comúnmente como desechos, pero tienen un alto e importante contenido de ácidos grasos y aminoácidos, que cuando se utilizan como subproducto o ingrediente pueden aportar un alto valor agregado a los productos alimenticios. El objetivo de este trabajo es realizar una amplia revisión de las propiedades nutricionales y funcionales de las semillas de Cucurbita maxima y su potencial influencia medicinal asociada a ellas.

Tempeh & soybean seed coat: the alternative sources of trans-resveratrol as neuroprotective agents / Tempeh y cubierta de semillas de soja: fuentes alternativas de trans-resveratrol como agentes neuroprotectores

Resveratrol is a stilbenoid, a type of natural phenol, and a phytoalexin produced by several plants in response to injury or attack by fungi. The underutilization of soybean seed coat (Glycine max (L.) Merrill.) and tempeh, cheap Indonesia fermented food thus opens up a new opportunity for developing a Resveratrol-based medicine for Plants-Derived Neuroprotective Agents purposes. In this study, it was isolated from tempeh, ordinarily well-known as Indonesian soybean fermented food, and soybean seed coat. The finding of this compound was confirmed by TLC and HPLC analysis applying fluorescence detection. From this, the Rf-value for transresveratrol is 0.64. As eluent, a mixture of chloroform, ethyl acetate, and formic acid (2.5+1+0.1, v/v) was selected. In addition, retention time for tempeh was 14.467 and for soybean seed coat was 11.977. The extraction yield of resveratrol was 65.15 % in tempeh and 55.35 % in soybean seed coat. Resveratrol isolated from Tempeh and Soybean seed coat gave prevents some reaction by modulating intracellular signaling pathways: protein kinase C (PKC), a family of 12 serine/ threonine kinases and providing a new lead molecule for neuroprotective affects in addition to has prevented cell death by apoptosis.

El resveratrol es un estilbenoide, un tipo de fenol natural, y fitoalexina producida por varias plantas en respuesta a una lesión o ataque de hongos. La subutilización de la cubierta de la semilla de soja (Glycine max (L.) Merrill.) y el tempeh, alimento fermentado barato de Indonesia, abren una nueva oportunidad para obtener un medicamento a base de resveratrol para propósitos de desarrollo de agentes neuroprotectores derivados de plantas. En este estudio, se aisló el resveratrol del tempeh, generalmente conocido como alimento fermentado de soja de Indonesia y de la cubierta de la semilla de soja. El hallazgo de este compuesto se confirmó mediante análisis de TLC y HPLC aplicando detección de fluorescencia. A partir de esto, el valor de Rf para trans-resveratrol es 0,64. Como eluyente, se seleccionó una mezcla de cloroformo, acetato de etilo y ácido fórmico (2,5 + 1 + 0,1, v / v). Además, el tiempo de retención para el tempeh fue de 14,467 y para el revestimiento de semilla de soja fue de 11,977. El rendimiento de extracción del resveratrol fue del 65,15 % en tempeh y del 55,35 % en la cubierta de la semilla de soja. El resveratrol aislado de tempeh y de la cubierta de la semilla de soja previno reacciones mediante la modulación de ciertas vías de señalización intracelular: proteína quinasa C (PKC), una familia de 12 serina/treonin quinasas, proporcionando una nueva molécula de plomo con efectos neuroprotectores, además de prevenir la muerte celular por apoptosis.

Análise bromatológica da castanha-do-Maranhão (Bombacopsis glabra) / Bromatological analysis of castanha-do-Maranhão (Bombacopsis glabra)

A castanha-do-Maranhão (Bombacopsis glabra) é uma espécie ornamental arbórea, com sementes oleaginosas (amêndoas) comestíveis e popularmente apreciadas no interior do Maranhão. O objetivo do trabalho foi elaborar a composição centesimal das amêndoas. As análises de umidade, cinzas, proteínas, lipídeos e carboidratos foram feitas em triplicata e consoantes às Normas do Instituto Adolfo Lutz (2010). Estimou-se além do valor calórico das amêndoas os seguintes valores médios (g/100g): umidade 2,85±0,09; cinzas, 4,80±0,08; proteínas 10,20±0,07; lipídeos 52,40±0,08 e carboidratos 29,70±0,07. O valor energético foi de 631,20±0,06 Kcal/100g. Constatou-se que as sementes da castanha-do-Maranhão possuem um relevante valor calórico, quando comparada com outras oleaginosas, podendo ser utilizada pela população como suplemento na alimentação.

Influência da torrefação no rendimento de óleo de sementes de melão obtido por extração assistida por ultrassom / Influence of roasting on the yield of melon seeds obtained by ultrasound-assisted extraction

Os resíduos do processamento de frutas, como o melão, têm se tornado um problema para as agroindústrias, pois são gerados em grandes quantidades e podem provocar danos ao meio ambiente quando descartados inadequadamente. Diante disto, o objetivo deste trabalho foi estudar a influência da torrefação no rendimento de óleo das sementes de melão obtido por extração assistida por ultrassom. Para tanto, as sementes foram caracterizadas físico-quimicamente, e o rendimento de óleo foi estudado em relação à temperatura e o tempo de torrefação, utilizando um fatorial 22 com blocos casualizados. Os resultados mostraram que a temperatura e o tempo de torrefação influenciaram no rendimento do óleo de sementes de melão, sendo que os maiores rendimentos de óleo foram obtidos nas condições de 89 ºC por 53 minutos e de 131 ºC por 17 minutos.

Potencial de sementes de granadilla (Passiflora ligularis) como fonte de compostos bioativos / Potential of granadilla seeds (Passiflora ligularis) as source of bioative compounds

A granadilla (Passiflora ligularis) é uma fruta exótica de regiões tropicais do mundo, o seu consumo vem crescendo no Brasil e é obtida através de importação. Além da importância em termos de economia, é conhecida pelos seus benefícios nutricionais. É consumida in natura ou em forma processada, como, polpa e sorvetes. Após o processamento, o resíduo é geralmente descartado em lixos ou destinado para alimentação animal, o que pode ocasionar em problemas ambientais, tornando importante o seu estudo para reutilização. Dessa maneira, o presente estudo objetivou determinar a composição físico-química e o teor de compostos bioativos (fenólicos totais e flavonoides totais) em sementes de granadilla (Passiflora ligularis). As análises realizadas foram: umidade, cinzas totais, carboidratos, lipídios, proteína bruta, flavonoides totais e fenólicos totais. A farinha das sementes de granadilla continha 5,5% de umidade, 3,6% de cinzas, 14,6% de proteínas, 20,2% de lipídios e 56,0% de carboidratos. Diferentes extratos da farinha do resíduo foram obtidos com água destilada, acetona, metanol e etanol nas concentrações de 40 e 80%. Os extratos obtidos demonstraram teores de compostos fenólicos totais entre 656,0 e 2.455,8 mg EAG/100g de resíduo em base seca e flavonoides totais entre 280,0 e 666,4 mg QCA/100 g de resíduo em base seca. Os resultados indicaram perspectivas promissoras para o reaproveitamento das sementes de granadilla como fonte de compostos bioativos.

Anatomical and biochemical changes associated with thedevelopment and germination of Araucaria angustifolia seeds

This study aimed at assessing the cell cycle, and anatomical and biochemical changes that the embryonic axis of Araucaria angustifolia undergoes during development, focusing on the maturation stage. During all development, cells exhibited intense metabolic activity with an abundance of mitochondria, lipid bodies, and vacuolated cells. The continued accumulation of starch and protein was observed by LM and TEM and indicated by spectra of FTIR. Cell differentiation of the procambium was observed with a thickening of the cell wall and the formation of resiniferous ducts. At Stage III and IV, cells exhibited structural changes such as altered or elongated mitochondria and presence of plastoglobules. These results suggest that there is a gradual transition from developmental metabolism to germination metabolism. Such changes can contribute to the rapid germination of seeds right after their dispersion, making it an ecological strategy to reduce post-dispersal exposure to predators and to avoid damage from reduced moisture.

Influence of Silver Nitrate on Somatic Embryogenesis Induction in Arabica Coffee (Coffea arabica L)

Abstract The influence of silver nitrate (AgNO3), benzyladenine (BAP), and indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) on low frequency somatic embryogenesis (LFSE) induction in Caturra and Catuaí arabica coffee was evaluated. For the Caturra cultivar, the production of somatic embryos was significantly increased by adding AgNO3 to the semisolid culture medium. The highest average number of somatic embryos for this cultivar was obtained using 6.6 μM BAP, 2.85 μM IAA, and 40 μM AgNO3. In contrast, for the Catuaí cultivar, the highest average number of somatic embryos was obtained using semisolid medium supplemented with 8.8 μM BAP, and 2.85 μM IAA. Using these protocols, somatic embryos were directly induced using leaf sections of in vitro plants of both coffee cultivars within 8 weeks. The somatic embryos developed into rooted plants with a 100% survival rate upon transfer to the greenhouse.

Perfil fitoquímico e atividade gastroprotetora dos frutos de Eugenia mattosii / Phytochemical profile and gastroprotective activity of eugenia mattosii fruits

ABSTRACT BACKGROUND: Extracts obtained from plants and fruits provide a relatively safe and practical alternative for the conventional medicine of gastrointestinal diseases. The specie Eugenia mattosii, popularly known in Brazil as "cerejinha", belongs to Myrtaceae family. Species of this family present pharmacological properties, and can be used in the treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the phytochemical profile and evaluate the gastroprotective activity of Eugenia mattosii fruits. METHODS: Phytochemical analysis was carried out by thin layer chromatography and gastroprotective assays were performed using two experimental models: acute ulcer model induced by ethanol/HCl and acute ulcer model induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (indomethacin). Total lesion area (mm2) and relative lesion area (%) were determined. RESULTS: The results of the phytochemical analysis indicated that the bark and pulp and seeds of E. mattosii present phenolic compounds, terpenes and/or steroids. In gastric ulcer model induced by ethanol was evidenced significant reduction of damaged areas for doses of 50 and 250 mg/ kg of seeds methanol extract, while in the indomethacin-induced ulcer model, all parts of the fruit presented defense capability of the gastric mucosa by reducing lesions at doses of 50, 125 and 250 mg/kg. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate that the specie E. mattosii has bioactive compounds that provide gastroprotective activity, presenting possible therapeutic potential.

RESUMO CONTEXTO: Extratos obtidos de plantas e frutos fornecem uma alternativa relativamente segura e prática para os remédios convencionais de doenças gastrointestinais. A espécie Eugenia mattosii, popularmente conhecida no Brasil como "cerejinha", pertence à família Myrtaceae. Espécies desta família apresentam propriedades farmacológicas e podem ser utilizadas no tratamento de distúrbios gastrointestinais. OBJETIVO: O objetivo deste estudo foi determinar o perfil fitoquímico e avaliar a atividade gastroprotetora dos frutos de Eugenia mattosii. MÉTODOS: A análise fitoquímica foi realizada por cromatografia em camada delgada e dois modelos experimentais foram utilizados para avaliação da atividade gastroprotetora em camundongos: modelo de úlcera gástrica induzida por anti-inflamatório não-esteroidal (indometacina) e modelo de úlcera gástrica induzida por etanol/HCl. RESULTADOS: Os resultados da análise fitoquímica indicaram que a casca e polpa e as sementes de E. mattosii apresentam compostos fenólicos, terpenos e/ou esteroides. No modelo de úlcera gástrica induzido pelo etanol, foi evidenciada redução significativa de áreas danificadas para doses de 50 e 250 mg/kg do extrato das sementes, enquanto no modelo de úlcera induzida por indometacina, todas as partes do fruto apresentaram capacidade de defesa da mucosa gástrica ao reduzir as lesões nas doses de 50, 125 e 250 mg/kg. CONCLUSÃO: Os resultados demonstram que a espécie E. mattosii possui compostos bioativos com atividade gastroprotetora, apresentando possível potencial terapêutico.

The Effect of Ferrous Nano-oxide Particles on Physiological Traits and Nutritional Compounds of Soybean ( Glycine max L) Seed

ABSTRACT Soybean (Glycine max L.) seed contains amounts of protein, lipid, carbohydrate and mineral elements, which protein and lipid have been known as a main part for soybean's trade value. In this study, in order to investigate the effect of ferrous nano-oxide particles on nutritional compounds of soybean seed, an experiment with 5 treatments and 3 replications was conducted as a randomized complete block design. Treatments were 5 concentrations of ferrous nano-oxide particles including 0, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1 g L-1 which were sprayed 3 times at 4 and 8 leaves stage and pod initiation. Lipid and protein contents, fatty acids profile, some of mineral elements such as Fe, Mg, Ca and P, chlorophyll a, b and total chlorophyll content were determined. Results showed that solution containing ferrous nano-oxide particles had significant effect on nutritional compounds of soybean seed (P<0.01) compared to control. The highest content of lipid and protein (25.4 and %33.8, respectively) observed by applying 0.75 g L-1 of ferrous nano-oxide and the lowest content was also in control. Changes in the trends of fatty acids profile (palmitic, oleic, linoleic and linolenic acids), some of mineral elements (Fe, Mg, Ca and P) and chlorophyll contents were similar to lipid and protein levels which by increasing in concentration of ferrous nano-oxide from 0 to 0.75 g L-1 all measured parameters also increased, but reduction in all parameters was observed in concentration from 0.75 to 1 g L-1. In conclusion, application of 0.75 to 1 g L-1 ferrous nano-oxide had the best effect on the nutrient composition of soybean seed.

Phenolic profile and antioxidant activity from peels and seeds of melon (Cucumis melo L. var. reticulatus) and their antiproliferative effect in cancer cells

Melon (Cucumis melo L.) has high economic value and in recent years, its production has increased; however, part of the fruit is wasted. Usually, inedible parts such as peel and seeds are discarded during processing and consumption. Extracts of melon residues were prepared and their phenolic compounds, antioxidants and antiproliferative activities were evaluated. Total phenolic compounds were found in hydroethanolic, hydromethanolic, and aqueous extracts, especially for melon peel (1.016 mg gallic acid equivalent/100 g). Flavonoids total content found for melon peel aqueous extract was 262 µg of catechin equivalent (CA)/100 g. In all extracts of melon peel significant amounts of gallic acid, catechin, and eugenol were found. For total antioxidant capacity, reported as ascorbic acid equivalent, the hydroethanolic and hydromethanolic extracts in peels and hydromethanolic in seeds were 89, 74, and 83 mg/g, respectively. Different extracts of melon showed iron and copper ions chelating activity at different concentrations, especially melon peel aqueous extract, reaching values of 61% for iron and 84% for copper. The hydroethanolic extract of melon peel presented a significant ability for hydroxyl radicals scavenging (68%). To assess the antiproliferative potential in human cancer cell lines, such as kidney carcinoma, colorectal carcinoma, cervical adenocarcinoma and cervical carcinoma, MTT assay was performed. The proliferation was inhibited by 20-85% at extracts concentrations of 0.1-1.0 mg/mL in all cancer cell lines. The results suggest that melon residues extracts display a high antioxidant activity in in vitro assays and have effective biological activity against the growth of human tumor cells.