Greek yogurt with added sorghum flours: antioxidant potential and sensory acceptance / Yogurt griego adicionado de harinas integrales de sorgo: potencial antioxidante y evaluación sensorial

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate the antioxidant characteristics and sensory acceptance of Greek yogurt with added whole sorghum flours (WSF) from genotypes BRS305 (tannin) and BR501 (tannin-free). Five formulations were elaborated: 1) Control (without WSF); 2) 2% BR501; 3) 4% BR501; 4) 2% BRS305 and 5) 4% BRS305 and evaluated for antioxidant capacity, total anthocyanins, total phenols, condensed tannins, sensory acceptance and purchase intention. The 4% BRS305 formulation presented higher antioxidant properties, but lower sensory acceptance. No significant difference was observed for: color, flavor and overall acceptability between the control and 2% BR501; nor for texture and overall acceptability between the control and 4% BR501. Principal component analysis explained that all variables associated with antioxidant properties were positively correlated with the first major component (PC1: 82.7%). The 2% and 4% BR501 formulations were more highly correlated with PC1 (92.7%), as well as the control in relation to sensorial characteristics. The addition of WSF BRS305 improved the antioxidant properties of yogurts and the addition of WSF BR501 did not interfere with the sensory acceptance of the formulations. The similarity of the sensory acceptance of the yogurt containing WSF from the BR 501 genotype to the control, opens perspectives for the insertion of sorghum in human food, using dairy products as suitable matrices, adding potential functionality to this type of product.

RESUMEN El trabajo tuvo como propósito desarrollar y evaluar las características antioxidantes y la aceptación sensorial de yogurt griego con adición de harinas integrales de sorgo (HIS) de los genotipos BRS305 (con taninos) y BR501 (sin taninos). Cinco formulaciones fueron elaboradas: 1) Control (sin HIS); 2) 2% BR501; 3) 4% BR501; 4) 2% BRS305 y 5) 4% BRS305. Las formulaciones fueron evaluadas en función de su actividad antioxidante, antocianinas totales, fenólicos totales, taninos condensados, aceptación sensorial e intención de compra. La formulación 4% BRS305 presentó más propiedades antioxidantes, pero menor aceptación sensorial que las otras formulaciones. No se observó diferencia significativa entre el control y el 2% BR501 para el color, sabor e impresión global, ni tampoco para textura e impresión global en relación al 4% BR501. El análisis de componente principal ha explicado que todas las variables asociadas a las propiedades antioxidantes han sido positivamente correlacionadas con el primer componente principal (PC1: 82,7%). Las formulaciones 2% y 4% BR501 se han correlacionado más con el PC1 (92,7%), así como el control con las características sensoriales. La adición de HIS BRS305 ha mejorado las propiedades antioxidantes de los yogurts y la adición de HIS BR501 no ha interferido en la aceptación sensorial de las formulaciones. La similitud de la aceptación sensorial del yogurt que contiene el HIS del genotipo BR501 con el control, abre perspectivas para la inserción del sorgo en la alimentación humana, utilizando productos lácteos como matrices adecuadas, agregando funcionalidad potencial a este tipo de producto.

Contenido de oligoelementos y factores antinutricionales de hojas comestibles nativas de Mesoamérica / Content of trace elements and antinutritional factors in edible leaves native to Mesoamerica

Los oligoelementos son importantes constituyentes nutricionales de las hierbas comestibles. Se colectaron 11 especies, nueve nativas (Amaranthus hybridus, Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, Crotalaria longirostrata, Dysphania ambrosioides, Lycianthes synanthera, Sechium edule, Solanum americanum, S. nigrescens, S. wendlandii) y dos introducidas (Moringa oleifera, Spinacea oleracea) en dos regiones de Guatemala. Se prepararon muestras de la hierba seca, cocida y de caldo de hierba fresca. Se cuantificaron por espectrofotometría de absorción atómica los macro (N, P, K) y oligoelementos (Ca, Mg, Na, Cu, Zn, Mn), taninos por espectrofotometría y oxalatos por permanganimetría. El contenido de oligoelementos es diverso, para Zn, la hierba control S. oleracea contienen buena cantidad (90-140 ppm); de las nativas D. ambrosioides (130-160 ppm) y A. hybridus (70-80 ppm) tienen la mayor cantidad. Respecto a Fe las hierbas control tienen buena composición (S. oleracea, 220-280 ppm y M. oleifera, 105-135 ppm); de las nativas A. hybridus (90-240 ppm), C. aconitifolius (75-185 ppm) y L. synanthera (75-140 ppm) tienen buenas concentraciones. Se encontraron niveles elevados de oxalatos en S. oleracea (67.30 (5.51) mg/g), L. synanthera (56.30 (9.67) mg/g) y S. nigrescens (33.6 (5.48) mg/g); en las demás hierbas se encontraron niveles menores. Los niveles de taninos fueron bajos (0.1-0.8 mg/g) para todas las especies. Se demuestra que cuatro especies nativas tienen un buen contenido de oligoelementos y presentan valores menores de antinutricionales que los controles.

Trace elements are important nutritional constituents from edible herbs. Eleven species were collected in two regions of Guatemala, nine native (Amaranthus hybridus, Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, Crotalaria longirostrata, Dysphania ambrosioides, Lycianthes synanthera, Sechium edule, Solanum americanum, S. nigrescens, S. wendlandii) and two introduced (Moringa oleifera, Spinacea oleracea). Dry, cooked and broth samples were prepared. By atomic absorption spectrometry, macro (N, P, K) and trace elements (Ca, Mg, Na, Cu, Zn, Mn) were quantified, tannins by spectrophotometry, and oxalates by permanganometry. Trace elements content is diverse, for Zn, control herb S. oleracea contained high quantity (90-140 ppm); from the natives D. ambrosioides (130-160 ppm) and A. hybridus (70-80 ppm) contained high amounts. For Fe, control herbs had high composition (S. oleracea, 220-280 ppm, M. oleifera, 105-135 ppm); from the natives A. hybridus (90-240 ppm), C. aconitifolius (75-185 ppm) and L. synanthera (75-140 ppm) had the highest amounts. High levels of oxalates were demonstrated in S. oleracea (67.30 (5.48) mg/g), L. synanthera (56.30 (9.67) mg/g), and S. nigrescens (33.6 (5.48) mg/g); from the others levels.

Composição química e estudo da atividade antibacteriana de Bowdichiavirgilioides Kunth (Sucupira) – Fabaceae – Papilonoidae / Study on the chemical composition and antibacterial activity of Bowdichia virgilioides kunth (Sucupira) - Fabaceae - Papilonoidae

Bowdichia virgilioides (Fabaceae - Papilionoidea), popularly known as Sucupira-preta, is a Brazilian native tree used in the traditional medicine against throat infections. Due this fact and due the interest to validate the traditional use, the objective of this work was evaluates the in vitro antibacterial activity of extracts and fractions of the stem and heartwood of the plant. The phytochemical profile revealed the presence of tannins and flavonoids in the stem and heartwood, and only alkaloids in the stem.The HPLC analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acids, natural products with several biological activities, including the modifying antibiotic activity. All microrganisms were inhibited only with MIC > 1024 microgramo/mL. However, when associated with aminoglycosides, was demonstrated a potentiation of these antibiotics when associated with almost all products assayed and against one bacterium at least.

Bowdichia virgilioides (Fabaceae - Papilionoidea), popularmente conhecida como Sucupira-preta, é uma espécie arbórea nativa do Brasil utilizadas na medicina popular para infecções de garganta. Com base nessas evidências, e com o interesse para justificar o uso popular, este trabalho teve como objetivo verificar a atividade antibacteriana in vitro de extratos brutos e fracionados de cascas e cerne da planta. Observou-se pela conclusão do levantamento fitoquímico a presença de taninos e flavonóides nas cascas e no cerne, e alcalóides apenas encontrados na casca. A análise por HPLC revelou a presença de flavonóides e ácidos fenólicos, produtos naturais, com diversas atividades biológicas, incluindo a atividade modificadora antibiótica. Todos os microorganismos foram inibidos apenas com o CIM > 1024 ug/mL. No entanto, quando associado a antibióticos aminoglicosídeos, foi demonstrada potenciação destes em quase todos os produtos testados e em pelo menos uma bactéria foi observada uma atividade moduladora significativa.

Phytochemical and toxicological investigations of crude methanolic extracts, subsequent fractions and crude saponins of Isodon rugosus

BACKGROUND: Isodon rugosus is used traditionally in the management of hypertension, rheumatism, tooth-ache and pyrexia. Present study was arranged to investigate I. rugosus for phytoconstituents, phytotoxic and cytotoxic activities to explore its toxicological, pharmacological potentials and to rationalize its ethnomedicinal uses. Briefly, qualitative phytochemical analysis of the plant extracts were carried out for the existence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, oils, glycosides, anthraquinones, terpenoids, sterols and tannins. Plant crude methanolic extract (Ir.Cr), its subsequent fractions; n-hexane (Ir.Hex), chloroform (Ir.Chf), ethyl acetate (Ir.EtAc), aqueous (Ir.Aq) and saponins (Ir.Sp) in different concentrations were tested for phytotoxic and cytotoxic activities using radish seeds and brine shrimps (Artemia salina) respectively. The phytotoxic activity was determined by percent root length inhibition (RLI) and percent seeds germination inhibition (SGI) while the cytotoxicity was obtained with percent lethality of the brine shrimps. RESULTS: Ir.Cr was tested positive for the presence of alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, oils, terpenoids, saponins, tannins and anthraquinones. Among different fractions Ir.Sp, Ir.Chf, Ir.EtAc, and Ir.Cr were most effective causing 93.55, 89.32, 81.32 and 58.68% inhibition of seeds in phytotoxicity assay, with IC50 values of 0.1, 0.1, 0.1 and 52 µg/ml respectively. Similarly, among all the tested samples, Ir.Sp exhibited the highest phytotoxic effect causing 91.33% root length inhibition with IC50 of 0.1 µg/ml. Ir.Sp and Ir.Chf were most effective against brine shrimps showing 92.23 and 76.67% lethality with LC50 values of 10 and 12 µg/ml respectively. CONCLUSIONS: It may be inferred from the current investigations that I. rugosus contains different secondary metabolites and is a potential source for the isolation of natural anticancer and herbicidal drug molecules. Different fractions exhibited phytotoxic and cytotoxic activities, thus providing pharmacological basis for ethnomedicinal uses of this plant.

Assessment of the phytochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of a bloom forming microalgae Euglena tuba

BACKGROUND: Unstable generation of free radicals in the body are responsible for many degenerative diseases. A bloom forming algae Euglena tuba growing abundantly in the aquatic habitats of Cachar district in the state of Assam in North-East India was analysed for its phytochemical contents, antioxidant activity as well as free radical scavenging potentials. RESULTS: Based on the ability of the extract in ABTS•+ radical cation inhibition and Fe3+ reducing power, the obtained results revealed the prominent antioxidant activity of the algae, with high correlation coefficient of its TEAC values to the respective phenolic and flavonoid contents. The extract had shown its scavenging activity for different free radicals and 41.89 ± 0.41 µg/ml, 5.83 ± 0.07 µg/ml, 278.46 ± 15.02 µg/ml and 223.25 ± 4.19 µg/ml were determined as the IC50 values for hydroxyl, superoxide, nitric oxide and hypochlorous acid respectively, which are lower than that of the corresponding reference standards. The phytochemical analysis also revealed that the phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins and carbohydrates are present in adequate amount in the extract which was confirmed by HPLC analysis. CONCLUSIONS: The results showed that 70% methanol extract of the algae possesses excellent antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties.

Compositional studies and biological activities of some mash bean (Vigna mungo (L) Hepper) cultivars commonly consumed in Pakistan

BACKGROUND: In recent years, the desire to adopt a healthy diet has drawn attention to legume seeds and food products derived from them. Mash bean is an important legume crop used in Pakistan however a systematic mapping of the chemical composition of mash bean seeds is lacking. Therefore seeds of four mash bean (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper, family Leguminoseae) cultivars (NARC-Mash-1, NARC-Mash-2, NARC-Mash-3, NARC-Mash-97) commonly consumed in Pakistan have been analyzed for their chemical composition, antioxidant potential and biological activities like inhibition of formation of advanced glycation end products (AGE) activity and tyrosinase inhibition activity. RESULTS: The investigated cultivars varied in terms of biochemical composition to various extents. Mineral composition indicated potassium and zinc in highest and lowest amounts respectively, in all cultivars. The amino acid profile in protein of these cultivars suggested cysteine is present in lowest quantity in all cultivars while fatty acid distribution pattern indicated unsaturated fatty acids as major fatty acids in all cultivars. All cultivars were found to be rich source of tocopherols and sterols. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) fingerprints of seed flour and extracts indicated major functional groups such as polysaccharides, lipids, amides, amines and amino acids. Results indicated that all investigated cultivars possessed appreciable antioxidant potential. CONCLUSIONS: All cultivars are rich source of protein and possess sufficient content of dietary fiber, a balanced amino acid profile, low saturated fatty acids and antioxidant capacity that rationalizes many traditional uses of seeds of this crop besides its nutritional importance. The collected data will be useful for academic and corporate researchers, nutritionists and clinical dieticians as well as consumers. If proper attention is paid, it may become an important export commodity and may fetch considerable foreign exchange for Pakistan.

Dinámica de polifenoles y estudio anatomo-histoquímico en Schinus longifolius (Lindl.) Speg. (Anacardiaceae) en respuesta a la infección por Calophya mammifex (Hemiptera – Calophyidae) / Dynamics of polyphenols and anatomical and histochemical study in Schinus longifolius (Lindl.) Speg. (Anacardiaceae) in response to infection by Calophya mammifex (Hemiptera - Calophyidae)

Total phenols, total tannins, proanthocyanidins, total flavonoids and total hydroxycinnamic acids of healthy leaves and galls of Schinus longifolius (Lindl.) Speg. (Anacardiaceae) infected by Calophya mammifex (Hemiptera - Calophyidae) were analized. The gall presents a qualitative and quantitative change in the polyphenols analysed, with a reduction of phenols, tannins, flavonoids and hydroxycinnamic acids and an increased content of proanthocyanidins, whose monomer yielded cyanidin after acid cleavage. An anatomical survey was performed and clusters of sclereids and an increased vascular development respect of the healthy leaf were found. An histochemical survey showed a differential expression of polyphenolic compounds in their tissues. C. mammifex could use the gall as a shelter against adverse weather conditions and predators, and also provide food with less potentially harmful compounds in the early stages of its development.

Se analizaron los fenoles totales, taninos totales, proantocianidinas, flavonoides totales y ácidos hidroxicinámicos totales de hojas sanas y agallas de Schinus longifolius (Lindl.) Speg. (Anacardiaceae) infectado por Calophya mammifex (Hemiptera - Calophyidae). La agalla presenta una variación cuali-cuantitativa de los polifenoles estudiados, con una disminución de los fenoles, taninos, flavonoides y ácidos hidroxicinámicos y un aumento en el contenido de proantocianidinas, cuyo monómero se transforma en cianidina luego del clivaje ácido. Se realizó además un análisis anatómico de la agalla donde se encontraron acúmulos de esclereidas y un mayor desarrollo vascular respecto de la hoja sana y un ensayo histoquímico que mostró una expresión diferencial de metabolitos polifenólicos en sus tejidos. C. mammifex utiliza la agalla como refugio contra las condiciones climáticas adversas y predadores y provee además de alimento con menos compuestos potencialmente perjudiciales en las etapas tempranas de su desarrollo.

Efecto del procesamiento sobre la capacidad antioxidante de la ciruela criolla (Prunus domestica)

Las frutas son consideradas fuentes de compuestos antioxidantes, cuyas propiedades pudieran desmejorar debido al procesamiento. El objetivo de esta investigación fue determinar el efecto del escaldado y la deshidratación osmótica sobre el contenido de polifenoles totales, taninos y la capacidad antioxidante de la ciruela criolla (Prunus domestica) en sus variedades amarilla y roja. La concentración de los polifenoles totales se determinó mediante el método Folin-Ciocalteu, los taninos por el método de la vanilina y la capacidad antioxidante por la eficiencia antirradical (EA) y el método de poder reductor férrico (FRP). El contenido de polifenoles totales y los taninos fueron mayores en la ciruela roja que en la amarilla. En las dos variedades, el mayor contenido de polifenoles se encontró en la pulpa, mientras que los taninos se encontraron en mayor proporción en las cáscaras. La ciruela roja presentó mayor capacidad antioxidante, siendo la EA baja y de cinética lenta para las dos variedades. Se observó una correlación lineal entre los polifenoles y los taninos con la eficiencia antirradical, sin embargo, con el poder reductor no hubo correlación. El escaldado incrementó el contenido de polifenoles, mientras que los taninos y la EA disminuyeron, el poder reductor no se vio afectado por los tratamientos. Para la deshidratación osmótica se obtuvo una disminución significativa de los taninos y la eficiencia antirradical, mientras que los polifenoles y el poder reductor no se vieron afectados por el procesamiento. Se recomienda el escaldado como alternativa de consumo y conservación en la ciruela criolla.

Effect of processing on the antioxidant capacity of the plum (Prunus domestica). Fruits are considered sources of antioxidant compounds whose properties could impair due to processing. The objective of this work was to determine the effect of blanching and osmotic dehydration on the total polyphenols content, tannins and antioxidant capacity of plums (Prunus domestica) in yellow and red varieties. The total phenolic content in plums was determined according to the Folin-Ciocalteu assay and tannins were determined by vanillin assay. The antiradical efficiency (AE) and ferric reducing power (FRP) were used to estimate the total antioxidant capacity. The content of total polyphenols and tannins were higher in the red plum. The content of polyphenols in the pulp was higher that the peel while for tannins the opposite was observed in both varieties. The red plum had higher antioxidant capacity. The AE was low and slow kinetics for the two varieties. There was a linear correlation between polyphenols and tannins with antiradical efficiency; however, there was no correlation with the reducing power. The total polyphenols content was increased with blanching, while the tannins and the AE decreased, ferric reducing power is unaffected. For osmotic dehydration, the tannins and the AE were decreased, while the total polyphenols content and ferric reducing power are unaffected.It is recommended the blanched as an alternative to consumption and conservation in the plum.

Caracterización física, química y compuestos bioactivos de pulpa madura de tomate de árbol (Cyphomandra betacea) (Cav.) Sendtn.

El tomate de árbol (Cyphomandra betacea) es apreciado por sus cualidades nutritivas y ser fuente de compuestos antioxidantes, calcio, fósforo, potasio y hierro, azúcares, ácidos orgánicos, pectinas y flavonoides. En este estudio se determinaron parámetros físicos (peso, tamaño, fuerza compresión, humedad) y químicos (°Brix, acidez titulable, pH, proteína, fibra dietaria, cenizas, minerales y bioaccesibilidad de minerales, pectina, compuestos antioxidantes) del fruto procedente del Estado Aragua, Venezuela, como una contribución para incentivar y diversificar su consumo. La caracterización reflejó que los frutos estaban en estado de madurez para su consumo (°Brix 10,51, pH 3,5, acidez 0,02 g/100 ml y fuerza de compresión 4,32 Kgf/cm2), con rendimiento de pulpa del 74%. Los resultados del análisis de la pulpa madura reflejan un aporte de 30 Kcal/100g, fibra dietaria (4,10g/100g) y valores de fósforo, calcio, magnesio potasio y hierro de 331,32; 21,25; 21,18; 17,03; 7,44 mg/100g respectivamente. Se obtuvo 6,71 y 1,86 % de bioaccesibilidad para calcio y hierro. La pectina extraída (1,00 g/100g) resultó ser de alto metoxilo y alto grado de esterificación. La capacidad antioxidante de la pulpa madura (EC50 de 165 g /g DPPH y poder reductor de 0,07 mmol Fe +2/100g) pudiera atribuirse a la presencia de ácido ascórbico (23,32 mg/100g), licopeno (1,22 mg/100g), compuestos fenólicos (1,39 mg EAG/ g), antocianinas (0,29 mg cianidina/g) y taninos (0,40 mg catequina/ 100g). Los resultados obtenidos pueden ser utilizados para promover los beneficios sobre la salud y sugerir su uso como ingrediente funcional en el desarrollo de productos.

Physical, chemical and bioactive compounds of tree tomato (Cyphomandra betacea). Tree tomato (Cyphomandra betacea) is appreciated for its excellent nutritional qualities, being considered a good source of antioxidants compounds, calcium, phosphorus, potassium and iron, sugars, organic acids, pectins and flavonoids. In this study, were evaluated physical parameters (weight, size, compression strength and humidity) and chemical (°Brix, titratable acidity, pH, protein, dietary fiber, ash, minerals and their bioaccesibility, pectin, antioxidants compounds) of the fruit from the Aragua State, Venezuela, as a contribution to stimulate and diversify the consumption of the tree tomato. The characterization showed that the fruits were at the ripening stage for consumption (°Brix 10.51, pH 3.5, acidity 0.02 g/100ml and 4.32 Kgf/cm2 compression strength) gave a yield of 74% pulp. The analytical results of the ripped pulp showed a content of 30 Kcal/100g, dietary fiber (4.10g/100g), and minerals such as phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, potassium and iron (331.32, 21.25, 21.18, 17.03 and 7.44 mg/100g, respectively). Bioaccesibility values of 6.71 and 1.86% were reported for calcium and iron. The extracted pectin (1.00 g/100g) was classified as high methoxyl with high degree of esterification. The antioxidant capacity of the ripped pulp (EC50 of 165.00 g /g DPPH and reducing power of 0.07 mmol Fe +2/100g), could be attributed to the presence of ascorbic acid (23.32 mg/100g), lycopene (1.22 mg/100 g), and phenolic compounds (1.39 mg GAE/g), anthocyanins (0.29 mg cyanidin/ g) and tannins (0.40 mg catechin/100g).The results obtained encourage the nutritional benefits and suggest applications as a functional ingredient in food product development.

Edge effect and phenology in Erythroxylum tortuosum (Erythroxylaceae), a typical plant of the Brazilian Cerrado / Efeito de borda e fenologia em Erythroxylum tortuosum Mart. (Erythroxylaceae), uma planta típica do Cerrado brasileiro

The edge of a forest fragment can be considered a zone of transition between the interior of the fragment and the surrounding habitat matrix. Plants along the edge are more exposed to disturbance and microclimate variation than interior plants, resulting in the so-called edge effect. In this study, we compared leaf area, fluctuating asymmetry and chemical (water, nitrogen and tannins) leaf traits between Erythroxylum tortuosum plants inhabiting the edge with those growing in the interior of a cerrado fragment in Brazil. We also describe the temporal variation in the vegetative and reproductive phenological events of E. tortuosum plants throughout the season. Nitrogen, leaf area and fluctuating asymmetry did not differ between the two plant groups. Young leaves of the edge plants had significantly higher levels of tannins and lower levels of water than those of interior plants. We suggest that differences in leaf chemical concentrations between edge and interior plants may occur due to factors such as light intensity, wind, temperature and leaf age rather than plant stress. With respect to plant phenology, most reproductive events occurred during the spring. Leaf buds and young leaves prevailed during the rainy season. In the dry season, however, the vegetative events decreased due to leaf senescence followed by leaf abscission.

A borda de um fragmento florestal pode ser considerada uma zona de transição entre o interior do fragmento e a matriz de habitat. As plantas localizadas na borda estão mais expostas a distúrbios e variações microclimáticas do que as plantas do interior, resultando no chamado efeito de borda. Neste estudo, a área foliar, a assimetria flutuante e os caracteres químicos das folhas (água, nitrogênio e taninos) foram comparados entre plantas de Erythroxylum tortuosum situadas na borda e no interior de um fragmento de cerrado brasileiro. A variação temporal de eventos fenológicos vegetativos e reprodutivos de E. tortuosum também foi investigada durante o período de estudo. Nitrogênio, área foliar e assimetria flutuante não diferiram entre os dois grupos de plantas. As folhas jovens das plantas localizadas na borda apresentaram, significativamente, níveis mais altos de taninos e menores níveis de água do que as plantas do interior. Sugere-se que as diferenças nos conteúdos químicos foliares entre as plantas da borda e do interior devem ter ocorrido em razão de fatores como intensidade luminosa, vento, temperatura e idade foliar e não por causa do nível de estresse da planta. Com relação à fenologia, a maioria dos eventos reprodutivos ocorreu durante a primavera. Os botões foliares e as folhas novas prevaleceram durante a estação chuvosa. No entanto, na estação seca, os eventos vegetativos decresceram por causa da senescência das folhas, seguida pela abscisão foliar.

Fermentation and enzyme treatments for sorghum

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor Moench) is the fifth most produced cereal worldwide. However, some varieties of this cereal contain antinutritional factors, such as tannins and phytate that may form stable complexes with proteins and minerals which decreases digestibility and nutritional value. The present study sought to diminish antinutritional tannins and phytate present in sorghum grains. Three different treatments were studied for that purpose, using enzymes tannase (945 U/Kg sorghum), phytase (2640 U/Kg sorghum) and Paecilomyces variotii (1.6 X 10(7) spores/mL); A) Tannase, phytase and Paecilomyces variotii, during 5 and 10 days; B) An innovative blend made of tanase and phytase for 5 days followed by a Pv increase for 5 more days; C) a third treatment where the reversed order of B was used starting with Pv for 5 days and then the blend of tannase and phytase for 5 more days. The results have shown that on average the three treatments were able to reduce total phenols and both hydrolysable and condensed tannins by 40.6, 38.92 and 58.00 %, respectively. Phytase increased the amount of available inorganic phosphorous, on the average by 78.3 %. The most promising results concerning tannins and phytate decreases were obtained by the enzymes combination of tannase and phytase. The three treatments have shown effective on diminishing tannin and phytate contents in sorghum flour which leads us to affirm that the proposed treatments can be used to increase the nutritive value of sorghum grains destined for either animal feeds or human nutrition.

Polifenoles y actividad antioxidante en Equisetum giganteum L. (Equisetaceae) / Polyphenols and antioxidant activity in Equisetum giganteum L. (Equisetaceae)

Equisetum giganteum L. (Equisetaceae) is a species native to South America and Central America, which is used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and in treating of various diseases. The aim of this paper was to study the polyphenol profile and antioxidant activity of extracts obtained from lateral branches and main stem of the plants. Quali- and quantitative differences were detected with higher contents of phenols, tannins, condensed tannins, flavonoids and hydroxicinnamic acids in the lateral branches. The proanthocyanidins propelargonidin and procyanidin only were detected in lateral branches. These extracts showed the highest antioxidant activity. Due to their higher concentration and chemical composition, lateral branches could be considered as a sort of source of compounds that would act as antioxidant.

Equisetum giganteum L. (Equisetaceae) es una especie nativa de Sudamérica y América Central, que es empleada en la medicina tradicional como diurético y en el tratamiento de diversas patologías. El objetivo de este trabajo fue estudiar el perfil de polifenoles y la actividad antioxidante de extractos obtenidos de las ramas laterales (tallos finos), tallos entrenudos y tallos basales. Se detectaron diferencias cuali-cuantitativas, con mayor contenido de fenoles, taninos, taninos condensados, flavonoides y ácidos hidroxicinámicos en las ramas laterales. Las proantocianidinas propelargonidina y procianidina sólo se detectaron en las ramas laterales. En estos extractos se detectó la mayor actividad antioxidante. Debido a la alta concentración y composición química, los tallos laterales podrían ser empleados como fuente de compuestos con actividad antioxidante.

Dinámica de polifenoles de “Cedrón” (Aloysia citrodora Palau -Verbenaceae-) en relación al desarrollo foliar / Polyphenol dinamics on “cedrón” (Aloysia citrodora Palau -Verbenaceae-) according to leave development

Leaf infusions from Aloysia citrodora Palau –Verbenaceae-, known as “cedrón” were analyzed in order to establish the possible influence of their development on polyphenols profile. Chromatographic fingerprints of infusions from young and full expanded leaves were performed and total phenols, total tannins, total flavonoids and total hydroxycinnamic acids were quantified. Young leaves had significative higher total phenols, total flavonoids and total hydroxycinnamic acids concentrations than full expanded leaves. This research suggest that the analyzed parameter should be considered when elaborating products from “cedrón” leaves, as the variation in compound concentration may translate in different biological activities.

Se analizaron las infusiones realizadas a partir de las hojas de Aloysia citrodora Palau –Verbenaceae-, conocida vulgarmente como “cedrón”, con el objeto de establecer la influencia del grado de desarrollo foliar en el perfil de polifenoles. Se obtuvieron los perfiles cromatográficos y se cuantificaron los fenoles totales, taninos totales, flavonoides totales y ácidos hidroxicinámicos totales provenientes de los extractos acuosos de las hojas jóvenes y adultas. Se observaron diferencias cuali-cuantitativas en el perfil de polifenoles cuando se comparan las hojas jóvenes con las hojas adultas. En las hojas jóvenes, las concentraciones de fenoles totales, flavonoides totales y ácidos hidroxicinámicos totales resultaron ser significativamente superiores a las determinadas en las hojas adultas. Los estudios realizados sugieren que la variable aquí analizada debe ser considerada al momento de elaborar productos en base a hojas de cedrón, dado que las diferentes concentraciones detectadas podrían traducirse en diferentes actividades biológicas.

Relationship of biometric parameters on the concentration of tannins in two medicinal plants: a case study / Relación de los parámetros biométricos sobre la concentración de taninos en dos plantas medicinales: un estudio de caso

The Northeast region of Brazil has long been neglected because it mostly consists of semi-arid climate vegetation. However, this biome has an immense diversity, including various plants used for medicinal purposes. Two species widely used by local populations are Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão and Sideroxylon obtusifolium (Humb. ex Roem. & Schult.) T.D. Penn. In order to identify parameters that could assist the pharmaceutical industry and local collectors in collecting samples with high yields of tannin, this study raised the following question: Do biometric parameters (diameter at breast height (DBH), bark thickness and height) relationship the concentrations of tannins in these species? The radial diffusion method was used to measure the tannin levels in all samples, and some were selected also measured using the method of Folin-Ciocalteu in order to compare results between methods. None of the biometric parameters evaluated showed any relationship on the concentration of tannins by either species. The radial diffusion method presented is safe and effective. Since it does not require sophisticated equipment and is inexpensive to implement, it is ideal for studies that use large numbers of samples.

La región nordeste de Brasil consiste fundamentalmente de una vegetación de clima semi-árido. Sin embargo, este bioma tiene una inmensa diversidad, incluyendo diversas plantas utilizadas empleadas para fines medicinales. Dos especies, ampliamente utilizadas por las poblaciones locales, son Myracrodruon urundeuva Allemão y Sideroxylon obtusifolium (Humb. ex Roem. & Schult.) TD Penn. Con el fin de analizar los parámetros que pueden ayudar a la industria farmacéutica y los coleccionistas locales en la recogida de muestras de corteza con una alta producción de tanino, este estudio plantea la cuestión siguiente: ¿los parámetros biométricos (diámetro a la altura del pecho (DAP), grosor de la corteza y la altura) presentan relación con las concentraciones de taninos en las especies? El método de difusión radial fue empleado para medir la concentración de taninos en todas las muestras, y algunas fueron seleccionadas también para análisis por el método de Folin-Ciocalteu a fin de comparar los resultados entre los métodos. Ninguno de los parámetros biométricos evaluados mostraron asociación con la concentración de taninos para cualquiera de las especies. El método de difusión radial se presenta seguro y efectivo.

Compuestos fenólicos presentes en las hojas de la especie colombiana Polygonum segetum Kunth / Fenolic compounds in the leaves of Polygonum segetum Kunth

The flavonoids 5-hydroxy-7,8,4'-trimethoxy isoflavone and 5,3',4'-trihydroxy-7-methoxyflavanon ,the tannin derivate Ethyl gallate and lignang homoegonol 5-(3''-Hydroxypropyl)-7-methoxy-2-(3',4'-dimethoxyphenyl)benzofuran were isolated and purified from Polygonum segetum Kunth leaves using column chromatography and thin layer chromatography methods. These substances were identified on the basis of their physical properties (melting point and Rf value), qualitative chemical reactions and spectroscopic techniques UV and NMR (experiments 1H, 13C, 1H-1H COSY, HMQC) and spectrometric techniques GC-MS according to their complexity.

El presente estudio se encaminó a determinar los metabolitos secundarios presentes en las hojas de la especie vegetal: Polygonum segetum Kunth, colectada del humedal Juan Amarillo (Bogotá-Colombia). Como resultado se aislaron e identificaron a partir de propiedades físicas y técnicas espectroscópicas de UV, 1HRMN, COSY, DEPT 135, HMQC y APT, la 5-hidróxi-7,8,4´-trimétoxi isoflavona, el galato de etilo (derivado de taninos) y la 5,3´,4´-trihidróxi-7-metóxi flavanona. Además, por análisis GC-MS se identifico el lignano 5-(3,4-dimetóxifenil)-7-metóxibenzofuranpropanol homoegonol.

Chemical variation of tannins and triterpenes in Brazilian populations of Maytenus ilicifolia Mart. Ex Reiss / Variabilidade química de taninos e triterpenos em diferentes populações naturais de Maytenus ilicifolia Mart. Ex Reiss

Maytenus ilicifolia and Maytenus aquifolia species are widely used as a cicatrisation agent, an anti-spasmodic, contraceptive, antiulcerogenic, diuretic and analgesic. Considering the importance of these species in popular medicine, this work is focused on the determination of the chemical content of tannins and the triterpenes friedelan-3-one, friedelan-3-ol and friedelin in 15 native populations of Maytenus ilicifolia distributed in the south and mind-west regions of Brazil. Correlation of the concentration of these compounds with the environmental parameters such as average annual temperature, climate, vegetation, geomorphology, latitude and altitude was determined using Pearson's coefficient. Results showed that average annual temperature and climate have significant effect on tannin content at a 95% confidence level. The highest tannin concentration was found in Ponta Porã population, and for the triterpenes investigated, a significant correlation between their concentrations with the environmental variables studied was not verified.

As espécies de Maytenus ilicifolia e Maytenus aquifolia são utilizadas como antiespasmódico, contraceptivo, antiulcerogênico, diurético, cicatrizante e analgésico. A ação antiulcerogênica dos extratos de Maytenus ilicifolia possuem relação com a presença de taninos e com os triterpenos friedelan-3-ona, friedelan-3-ol e friedelin. Este trabalho está focado na determinação do teor de taninos e dos triterpenos friedelan-3-ona, friedelan-3-ol e friedelin em 15 populações nativas de Maytenus ilicifolia distribuídas nas regiões Sul e Centro-Oeste do Brasil. A correlação entre a concentração destes compostos com variáveis ambientais, tais como temperatura média anual (TMA), clima segundo Koeppen, vegetação, geomorfologia, latitude e altitude foi determinada através do emprego da correlação de Pearson. Os resultados mostraram que as variáveis temperatura média anual e clima apresentaram influência significativa ao nível de confiança de 95% sobre a concentração de taninos. O maior teor de taninos foi encontrado na população de Ponta Porã, a qual possui uma temperatura média anual de 23 °C. Para os triterpenos estudados, friedelan-3-ona, friedelan-3-ol e friedelin, não foi evidenciada correlação significativa entre a concentração destes compostos com as variáveis ambientais estudadas.

Determinação quantitativa de taninos em três espécies de stryphnodendron por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência / Quantitative determination of tannins in three species of stryphnodendron by high performance liquid chromatography

Um método de separação e quantificação por cromatografia líquida de alta eficiência (CLAE) em fase reversa foi desenvolvido usando água (0,05 por cento de TFA):acetonitrila (0,05 por cento de TFA) como fase móvel, em sistema gradiente para a análise dos flavan-3-óis presentes em extrato semipurificado das cascas de Stryphnodendron adstringens, Stryphnodendron polyphyllum e Stryphnodendron obovatum. A CLAE foi realizada com a fração acetato de etila (FAE) sendo submetida à extração em fase sólida (cartucho C18-E) com metanol:água (2:8), filtrada por membrana de porosidade 0,5 μm; a pré-coluna e coluna empregadas foram Phenomenex® Gemini C-18 (5 μm), com esta última mantida a 30 ºC, com vazão de 0,8 mL/min e detecção a 210 nm. Utilizaram-se soluções dos padrões de ácido gálico e galocatequina para a obtenção da curva analítica. O método proposto foi validado de acordo com a resolução RE nº 899/2003 da ANVISA. A análise quantitativa da FAE das três espécies mostrou que existe similaridade no teor de galocatequina. S. adstringens possui ácido gálico em uma proporção superior a 60 por cento em relação às outras duas espécies. A metodologia desenvolvida mostrou-se viável à aplicação em plantas ricas em taninos, como nos casos de S. adstringens, S. polyphyllum e S. obovatum.

A method of separation and quantification by reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was developed, using water (0.05 percent TFA):acetonitrile (0.05 percent TFA) as the mobile phase in a gradient system. Flavan-3-ols present in a semipurified extract from the stem bark of Stryphnodendron adstringens, Stryphnodendron polyphyllum and Stryphnodendron obovatum were analyzed. The HPLC was performed with the ethyl-acetate fraction (EAF) using a solid-phase extraction on cartridges C18-E with methanol:water (2:8), filtered through a membrane of 0.5 μm pore size; the column was Phenomenex® Gemini C-18 (5 μm) at 30 ºC, with a flow rate of 0.8 mL/min. The analysis was done at 210 nm. Gallic acid and gallocatechin solutions were used as calibration standards. The proposed method was validated by resolution RE No. 899/2003 of the National Health Surveillance Agency. Quantitative analysis of the EAF showed high contents of flavan-3-ols in the stem bark of all three species. This study demonstrated that it is possible to determine the concentration of individual substances in tannin-rich plants. The system developed can be used as a chromatographic profile for the semipurified fraction of S. adstringens, S. polyphyllum, and S. obovatum.

Determinação de polifenóis (taninos) em produtos alimentícios (chás) usando biossensor de Polifenol oxidase, obtida de extrato bruto da casca de banana nanica (Musa acuminata) e caracterização desse biossensor / Determination of polyphenols (tanines) in foods products (teas) using a biosensor of Polyphenol oxidase, obtained of crude extract of banana nanica peel (Musa acuminata) and characterization this biosensor

Introdução - Extrato bruto da casca de banana nanica (Musa acuminata); melhor fonte de enzima Polifenol oxidase (PFO) [EC.1.14.18.1] foi estudado como material biocatalítico para a oxidação aeróbica de substratos fenólicos. Materiais e Métodos - O extrato bruto de PFO foi obtido como em Perone et al.14 (2000). A atividade da enzima PFO e proteína total foram determinadas nesse extrato. Foi construído um biossensor desse extrato bruto da casca de banana nanica com 75 unidades de PFO, imobilizada com reagente glutaraldeído. Resultados - Esse biossensor, sensível a polifenóis, foi caracterizado e apresentou pH ótimo de imobilização da enzima igual a 6,5 e sensibilidade acentuada para o substrato catecol. Também foi utilizado no estudo da determinação da concentração de taninos em amostras de diversos tipos de chás. Conclusões - Foi verificado que a porcentagem de erro comparando com o método espectrofotométrico apresentou valores menores que 1,0% estando, portanto, de acordo com o procedimento padrão oficial. Comparando os resultados obtidos com esse biossensor e o de extrato bruto da polpa de banana nanica observamos, melhor tempo de armazenamento das membranas com a casca do que com a polpa, e uma diminuição significativa na quantidade de extrato imobilizado. Assim, conclui-se que o extrato de PFO da casca é melhor fonte de enzima do que a polpa e, portanto, será usado na construção dobiossensor. A vantagem do método amperométrico apresentado é possuir baixo custo, rapidez nas determinações e boa sensibilidade comparado com métodos cromatográficos.

Introduction - Crude extract of banana nanica (Musa acuminata); the best source of enzyme Poliphenol oxidase (PPO) [EC.1.14.18.1] was studied as biocatalytic material to the aerobic oxidation of phenolics substrates. Materials and Methods - The crude extract of I was done the same as at Perone et al.14 (2000). The activity from the enzyme PPO and total protein were determined in this extract. It has been built a biosensor of this crude extract from the peel of stunded banana with 75unities of PPO immobilized with glutaraldeyde reagent. Results - This biosensor, sensitive to poliphenol, was characterized and presented immobilizing optimium pH of the enzyme equal to 6.5and acute sensibility to its catechol substrate. It was also used at the study of the determination of tanines concentration in samples of many kinds of tea. Conclusions - It was verified that percentage of error comparing with the spectrophotometric method, has presented lower than 1,0% values according to the standard methods. Comparing the results obtained with this biosensor and the crude extract of the pulp of banana nanica, it was observed the better stock time of the membranes with the peel than with the pulp, and significative diminishing of the amount of immobilized extract. So, we conclude that the extract of PPO from the peel is better source of enzyme than the pulp and it will be used at the construction of the biosensor. The advantage of the amperometrics methods presented is to obtain low cost, fast determination and good sensibility compared to cromatographics methods.

Microbial flora associated with submerged mangrove leaf litter in India

We studied the microbial flora in decomposing mangrove leaves in relation to changes in nitrogen and tannin levels, and in penaeid prawn assemblages. Senescent leaves of two mangrove species (Rhizophora apiculata and Avicennia marina) kept in nylon bags, were separately immersed for 80 days in five tanks full of mangrove water. A known amount of decomposing leaves was collected every ten days from each tank for microorganism counts, total nitrogen and tannin measurement, and juvenile penaeid prawn counts. Five genera of total heterotrophic bacteria (THB), three species of azotobacters and 19 species of fungi were identified. The azotobacters showed a significant peak around 40-50 days after the beginning of of decomposition, similar to the trend for total nitrogen and for prawn assemblages. Rev. Biol. Trop. 55 (2): 393-400. Epub 2007 June, 29.

Se estudió la flora microbiana en hojas en descomposición de mangles, considerando nitrógeno, taninos y camarones peneidos jóvenes. Colocamos hojas viejas de dos especies de mangle (Rhizophora apiculata y Avicennia marina) en bolsas de nylon y las sumergimos en agua de manglar durante 80 días usando cinco tanques separados. Cada diez días extrajimos una cantidad conocida de hojas en descomposición de cada tanque. Hallamos cinco géneros de bacterias heterotróficas totales (THB), tres especies de azotobacterias y 19 especies de hongos. Las azotobacterias presentaron un pico significativo de abundancia alrededor de los 40-50 días de descomposición, un patrón similar a los del nitrógeno total y los camarones.

Caracterización del acai o manaca (Euterpe olerdcea Mart. ): un fruto del Amazonas / Characterization of the acai or manaca (Euterpe oleracea Mart. ): a fruit of the Amazon

The objective of this study was to determine the proximal composition, the fatty acid profile, the content of minerals, tannins, polyphenols, anthocyanins, the antioxidant capacity and the color of the acai pulp (Euterpe oleracea Mart) collected in the Venezuelan Amazon from 2 harvests of the year 2005. For the proximal analysis, the official methods were used and the minerals were analyzed by the induced plasma technique. Polyphenols, tannins and anthocyanins were determined by spectrophotometric methods and the antioxidant capacity was analyzed by DPPH method. Results in dry basis indicated that acai has a high lipids content (49.4% and 33.1%), proteins (13.8% and 9.3%), ash (5.2% and 2.2%) and total dietary fiber (27.3% and 18.0%). It stands out that 71% of the acai fat is oleic acid and that the Fe content of the first and second harvest was 0.023 and 0.015 mg/100g, respectively; polyphenols 5.02 and 2.20 g/100 g; tannins 0.70 and 1.37 g/100g; anthocyanins 0.73 and 1.60 g/100g and the antioxidant capacity 88.03 and 87.87%, respectively. It is concluded that the acai or manaca collected in the Venezuelan Amazon has a high nutritional value and contains antioxidant compounds which suggests the need to industrialize it to take advantage to the maximum of its properties.