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Olive (O. europaea L.) is an expanding crop in the south of Brazil. Blossom blight and typical anthracnose symptoms on fruit were observed in olive trees in an orchard in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Fungi were isolated from symptomatic flowers. Fungal isolates were confirmed as pathogenic after Koch’s postulates were fulfilled. Blossom blight and typical anthracnose symptoms with salmon conidial masses were observed in flowers of cultivars Arbosana and Arbequina, at 96 h after inoculation (hai), and on fruits of cultivar Arbosana, at 120 hai. The identification of the pathogens was carried out using a polyphasic analysis approach, combining morphological and molecular characters of specific genomic regions (ITS, GAPDH, ACT, HIS3, and TUB2). Morphological characters and phylogenetic analyses revealed the isolates as Colletotrichum acutatum and Colletotrichum nymphaeae. Until now, the species C. nymphaeae had not been identified as causing anthracnose in olive trees in Brazil.

Plants synthesize specialized metabolites to defend themselves against pathogens. These active compounds, when isolated and identified, can be used as template for fungicide development. Based on field observations, Heteranthera reniformis (kidney leaf mudplantain) could potentially synthesize compounds with antifungal activity. The goal of this study was to evaluate the fungicidal activity of H. reniformis leaf extracts on Bipolaris oryzae development. The activities of hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts of H. reniformis leaves were tested on mycelial growth, sporulation, and colony morphology. Due to the highest inhibition of B. oryzae sporulation, methanol extract was chosen for concentration tests. The effect of methanol extract on B. oryzae spore length and germination was also evaluated. Methanolic extract was the most active in inhibiting B. oryzae sporulation. The morphology of the colonies is altered when the fungus grows in medium containing H. reniformis leaf extracts. Higher concentration of methanol extract stimulates mycelial growth and suppresses B. oryzae sporulation. There are reductions in length and number of germinated B. oryzae spores caused by methanol extract of H. reniformis leaves. Methanolic extract has compounds with antifungal activity and should be subjected to bioassay-guided isolation for purification and identification of these active compounds.

Objetivou-se avaliar os compostos bioativos das folhas de genótipos de maracujazeiros tradicionalmente produzidos no Brasil. O experimento foi conduzido e avaliado entre 2015 e 2016. Os tratamentos foram estabelecidos de acordo com os genótipos: Catarina Roxo, Urussanga, BRS Rubi do Cerrado, Catarina e BRS Sol do Cerrado. As variáveis avaliadas foram: compostos fenólicos totais, teor de flavonoides e capacidade antioxidante (DPPH e ABTS). Os genótipos Catarina e BRS Rubi do Cerrado demonstram maiores teores de fenóis totais em relação aos demais genótipos, para esta variável os menores teores foram observados em folhas dos genótipos Urussanga e Catarina Roxo. O genótipo BRS Rubi do Cerrado foi destaque para a variável flavonoides, diferenciando-se estatisticamente dos demais, a menor média foi observada para o genótipo Catarina Roxo, não se diferenciando estatisticamente do BRS Sol do Cerrado. As folhas do genótipo Urussanga demonstraram maior capacidade antioxidante, tanto para o sequestro do radical DPPH quanto para o radical ABTS. Conclui-se que os genótipos avaliados, tradicionalmente produzidos no Brasil, demonstram compostos bioativos nas folhas, com potencial para exploração.

Tannat wine trees are well characterized in Uruguay and the French region of Madiran for their high colour and phenolic concentrations. In addition to the cultivar, the rootstock, clone and region of production can influence the phenolic concentrations of wines. In this context, this study evaluated the rootstocks 'SO4' (Vitis berlandieri x Vitis riparia), 'Gravesac' ('161-49C' x '3309C') and '3309C' (Vitis riparia x Vitis rupestris) grafted with Tannat cultivar clones ('Californian', '944', '717', '398' and '794') to assess the physicochemical, phenolic and sensorial composition of the wine produced in the Campanha Gaúcha (RS) region, Southern Brazil, in a subtropical climate region. A vineyard planted in 2007 was used in this study (for 3 years during 2015, 2016 and 2017). The wine composition and the sensorial profile were evaluated as dependent variables. This study showed that the rootstocks and the Tannat clones did not influence the dependent variables evaluated and that the genetic materials and their combinations presented high oenological potential, providing wines with high alcohol content, colour and phenolic compound concentrations. This study suggests the diversification of rootstocks and clones as a way of increasing genetic variability, avoiding the cultivation of a single rootstock and clone.

Aim: This study investigated the effects of polar Butia odorata fruit extract on metabolic, inflammatory, and oxidative stress parameters in rats submitted to a hyperlipidaemia condition induced by...

We aimed to evaluate the chemical, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antifungal activities of hydroalcoholic extracts of native plants from Southern Brazil: Schinus terebinthifolia (SCH), Persicaria hydropiperoides (PER), Eugenia uniflora (EUG) and Equisetum hyemale (EQU). Ethyl gallate, quercetin, and quinic acid were prevalent compounds identified by LC-MS. For total phenolic/flavonoid contents and the antioxidant potential against ABTS/DPPH radicals, the ascending order was EQU 75%) at concentrations up to 12.5 mg/mL (MTT assay). By M38-A2/M27-A3 (CLSI) against 68 clinical isolates of animals and strains of Malassezia pachydermatis, Sporothrix brasiliensis, Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, all extracts (MIC/MFC ≤3.13–100 mg/mL) were active, except EUG. SCH inhibited and killed S. brasiliensis (MIC/MFC50/90 3.12–12.5 mg/mL) and dermatophytes (MIC/MFC 6.25–25 mg/mL) resistant to ketoconazole and itraconazole. These findings support the promising use of the selected plant extracts as antifungal agents.

OBJECTIVE HIV infection and antiretroviral therapy (ART) have both been linked to dyslipidemia and increased cardiovascular disease (CVD). The relationships among the lipidome, immune activation, and subclinical vascular disease in children with perinatally acquired HIV (PHIV) have not been investigated. METHODS Serum lipid composition, including 13 lipid classes constituting 850 different lipid species were measured by direct infusion-tandem mass spectrometry in samples from 20 ART-treated PHIV and 20 age-matched and sex-matched HIV- Ugandan children. All participants were between 10 and 18 years of age with no other known active infections. PHIVs had HIV-1 RNA level 50 copies/ml or less. In addition, common carotid artery intima--media thickness (IMT), as well as plasma marker of systemic inflammation (hsCRP, IL6, sTNFRa I), monocyte activation (soluble CD14 and CD163), and T-cell activation (expression of CD38 and HLA-DR on CD4+ and CD8+) were evaluated. RESULTS Median age (Q1, Q3) of study participants was 13 years (11, 15), 37% were boys, 75% were on an NNRTI-based ART regimen. The concentrations of cholesterol ester, LCER, phosphatidylcholines, and sphingomyelin lipid classes were significantly increased in serum of PHIV compared with HIV (P≤0.04). Biomarkers associated with CVD risk including hsCRP, sCD163, and T-cell activation were directly correlated with lipid species in PHIV (P ≤ 0.04). Contents of free fatty acids including palmitic (16 : 0), stearic (18 : 0), and arachidic acid (20 : 0) were positively correlated with IMT in PHIV. CONCLUSION Serum lipidome is altered in young virally suppressed PHIV on ART. A direct association between inflammation and lipid species known to be associated with CVD was observed.

The objectives of this study were to characterize zein fibers and capsules prepared by electrospinning and electrospraying techniques, respectively, and then use them to encapsulate folic acid. Folic acid containing fibers and capsules (0.5, 1.0, and 1.5%, w/v) were submitted to thermal treatment (100, 140, and 180 °C) and ultraviolet A light (UVA) irradiation to evaluate the resistance of folic acid. Zein fibers and capsules containing folic acid showed high encapsulation efficiency (>80%). Unencapsulated folic acid showed a reduction in folic acid content from 17.17 μg/mL to 5.44 μg/mL (approximately 70%) when exposed to 180 °C. Photodegradation of unencapsulated folic acid lowered its concentration from 17.17 μg/mL to 12.58 μg/mL (~26% of reduction), when exposed for 1 h to UVA irradiation. However, folic acid concentration when encapsulated in fibers (1.5%) was maintained or only slightly reduced from 9.73 μg/mg to 8.88 μg/mg after thermal treatment at 180 °C. The capsules containing 1.5% of folic acid also presented a slight reduction in folic acid concentration from 8.84 μg/mg to 7.88 μg/mg when exposed to 24 h of UVA irradiation. Zein fibers and capsules containing folic acid present promising characteristics for application in foods that require thermal processing or exposure to irradiation.

Pepper (Capsicum spp.) cultivars resistant to anthracnose are not commercially available and depending on conducive environmental conditions the crop faces significant yield losses. Pepper genotypes from a germplasm collection were screened for resistance to anthracnose. Unripe and ripe mature fruit of selected genotypes were inoculated post-harvest with Colletotrichum sp. Plant disease resistance-associated parameters were evaluated, and complete resistance was not observed in any genotype. Genotype P27 (Capsicum baccatum) showed the most disease resistance, while P175 (Capsicum chinense) showed the greatest disease susceptibility. These contrasting individuals for disease response were further investigated in an attempt to better understand pepper defense mechanisms. A response to disease common to both resistant and susceptible genotypes involved changes in threitol, carotenoids, and soluble solids contents, and ascorbate peroxidase enzyme activity. Disease incidence and severity was dependent on ripening stage and involved the accumulation of polar compounds butane-2,3-diol, fructose, and phenolics, and superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities.

The changes in phenolic acid and isoflavone profile of soybean genotypes ( Nidera 5909 RR and BMX Força RR) dried at different temperatures and stored for 12 months were investigated. In both cultivars, there was a reduction of the germination capacity and an increase of fungal incidence with the increase of drying temperature and storage time. Multivariate analysis of phenolic acids allowed for the differentiation among treatments. Cultivar Nidera 5909 RR, dried at 110 °C, showed an interaction with characters of greater relevance for differentiation, being influenced by the increase of bound coumaric, and syringic, and free-hydroxybenzoic, syringic, and coumaric acids. Multivariate analysis of isoflavones showed a strong affinity of the aglycone isoflavones (genistein, glycitein, and daidzein) within the Nidera 5909 RR cultivar at all drying temperatures and with BMX Força RR cultivar at the highest temperatures. These results indicate that the release and interconversion of isoflavone malonyl-β-glucosides and β-glucosides into aglycone forms are simultaneous reactions during storage.

Paclitaxel is an important diterpenoid commonly used as an anticancer drug. Although the paclitaxel biosynthetic pathway has been mostly revealed, some steps remain to be elucidated. The difficulties in plant transformations and the scarcity of the precursor of paclitaxel, (+)-taxa-4(5), 11(12)-diene (taxadiene), have hindered the full comprehension of paclitaxel biochemistry and, therefore, its production by biotechnological approaches. One solution is to use the budding yeast, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, as a platform to elucidate the paclitaxel biosynthesis. As taxadiene is a diterpenoid, its common precursor, geranylgeranyl pyrophosphate (GGPP), needs to be increased in yeast. In this study, we screened various GGPP synthases (GGPPS) to find the most suitable GGPPS for taxadiene production in yeast. We also optimized the taxadiene production by increasing the flux toward the terpenoid pathway. Finally, to remove selection markers, we integrated the required genes using a CRISPR/Cas9 system in the yeast genome. Our result showed that a titer of 2.02 ± 0.40 mg/L (plasmid) and 0.41 ± 0.06 mg/L (integrated) can be achieved using these strategies. This platform strain can be used to readily test the gene candidates for microbial paclitaxel biosynthesis in the future.

We evaluated the chemical composition, toxicity, and antibacterial activity of Schinus terebinthifolia (SCH), Eugenia uniflora (EUG), Persicaria hydropiperoides (PER), Equisetum hyemale (EQU), Solidago chilensis (SOL), and Baccharis trimera (BRA). These plants were tested (7.5–0.01 mg/mL) against Gram-positive (G+; n = 32) and Gram-negative (G–; n = 26) isolates from animals (M07-A9, CLSI). Antibiogram (disk diffusion), chromatographic analysis (UPLC), and toxicity assay (HET-CAM) were also performed. A high incidence of resistance was noted, in which 18.4% (07/38) of G+ (Staphylococcus intermedius/Enterococcus faecium) and 17.7% (06/34) of G– (Pseudomonas aeruginosa/Escherichia coli/Proteus mirabilis) were multidrug-resistant. All bacteria were sensitive (MIC50) to SCH (both 3.75 mg/mL), EUG (3.75 mg/mL and 7.5 mg/mL, respectively) and PER (both 7.5 mg/mL). SCH/EUG/PER highlighted as antibacterial, probably due to the major compounds (ethyl gallate, quinic acid, quercetin). These extracts showed normal embryonic development (SCH/EUG: 7.5–0.94 mg/mL). These findings highlighted the promising use of native plants for therapeutic purposes.

Drought is the main constrain for crops worldwide, however, the effects of recurrent water deficit remain still hidden. We analysed two rice genotypes, 'BRS-Querencia' (lowlands) and 'AN-Cambara' (uplands), after 7 days of recurrent drought followed by 24 h of rehydration, hypothesising that genotypes grown in regions with different water availabilities respond differently to water deficits, and that a previous exposure to stress could alter abscisic acid (ABA) metabolism. The results showed that both genotypes reduced stomatal conductance and increased ABA concentration. After rehydration, the ABA levels decreased, mainly in the plants of BRS-Querencia subjected to recurrent stress. However, the levels of ABA were higher in plants in recurrent water deficit compared to non-recurrent stress plants in both genotypes. Remarkably in the lowland genotype, the ABA glucosyl-ester (ABA-GE) concentration increased after recovery in the plants under recurrent stress. Regarding of gene expression, the genes associated in ABA biosynthesis with the highest expression levels were NCED2, NCED3, NCED4 and AAO2. However, 'AN-Cambara' showed less transcriptional activation. Taking into account the genes involved in ABA catabolism, ABAH1 appears to play an important role related to the recurrent stress in upland plants. These results indicate that one of the factors that can promote greater tolerance for the upland genotype is the tradeoff between ABA and ABA-GE when plants are subjected to water deficits. In addition, they indicate that abscisic acid metabolism is altered due to the genotype (upland or lowland) and pre-exposure to stress can also modify adaptive responses in rice varieties (recurrent stress).

Itraconazole is the first drug of choice for the treatment of sporotrichosis and it is available at different concentrations for veterinary patients. However, therapeutic failure has been reported, limiting clinical treatment. This study evaluated the in vitro efficacy of brand-name and compounded itraconazole formulations against Sporothrix brasiliensis and estimated the itraconazole content in each tested formulation. Oral capsules were acquired from two brand-name products for human (H-IND) and veterinary (V-IND) uses, and three from compounding pharmacies in Pelotas, RS, for human (H-COMP1/H-COMP2) and veterinary (V-COMP) uses. Capsule purity was analyzed by liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS). Antifungal activity was determined against 29 Sporothrix brasiliensis by the M38-A2 guideline of CLSI. H-IND/H-COMP1/H-COMP2 had high efficacy against S. brasiliensis (approximately 70% of total isolated susceptible), V-COMP showed moderate efficacy (51.7%), and V-IND was the least effective formulation (37.9%). Thirty-four percent of the total isolates were resistant to all formulations. Furthermore, itraconazole content did not match the concentration indicated by the manufacturers, ranging from 387.70 to 7.81 μg/mg (H-COMP2 > V-COMP > H-IND > H-COMP1 > V-IND). Therefore, it is possible that the formulations showed different in vitro efficacy due to the difference in their itraconazole contents. Given the emergence of antifungal resistance for all formulations, the choice product to be used must follow susceptibility testing. Stringent quality control measures are recommended for product manufactures to assure drug content uniformity.

The rice grain metabolome encompasses all small molecules present in the grain at a certain time under a specific condition. Grain chemical composition is directly linked to food quality, and a number of analytical approaches have been applied to address the challenge of chemical complexity of grain matrix. These approaches have been utilized in order to achieve specificity, sensitivity, and coverage. In many instances, a combination of different analytical platforms, followed by multivariate data analysis, has been utilized to assess rice quality attributes. Metabolomics approaches for sample profiling, compound identification, and quantification include compound separation either by capillary electrophoresis (CE), gas chromatography (GC), or liquid chromatography (LC), or direct infusion or ionization without prior separation such as used in matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) followed by mass spectrometry (MS) or nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analyses. The analytical platform employed will depend on the research goal and on the analytes of interest and may require specific sample preparation steps accordingly. General aspects of each metabolomic platform and details regarding data acquisition, processing, analysis, and interpretation are discussed within the context of different applications to the quality of rice grain and rice-derived products.

Commercially available sea asparagus of the genera Salicornia and Sarcocornia have shoots rich in minerals and bioactive compounds. However no selection of varieties with desirable nutritional shoot properties are available. In the present study, three biotypes of the sea asparagus Sarcocornia ambigua (Michx.) M.A.Alonso & M.B.Crespo cultivated with saline effluent from a shrimp tank were evaluated for total and individual phenolic compounds, l -ascorbic acid, chlorophyll content and antioxidant capacity (ABTS assay) of fresh vegetative and reproductive (with seeds) segments of their shoots. Total phenolic content of biotypes ranged, on average, from 745 to 1586 mg GAE 100 g− 1 fw. The flavonoids kaempferol and quercetin, followed by gallic acid and other hydroxybenzoic acids were the major phenolic compounds found in S. ambigua. Highest individual contents of phenolic compounds occurred in the reproductive segments of the red biotype (ranging from 186 to 365 mg 100 g− 1 fw). The green biotype showed higher average values of Chl a and Chl a + b (up to 223 and 283 μg g− 1 fw, respectively) than the other biotypes. Biotypes showed similar contents of l -ascorbic acid with higher concentration in vegetative tissues (46 to 65 mg 100 g− 1 fw). Shoot antioxidant activity ranged between 3.4 and 4.9 mmol TEAC 100 g− 1 fw, and was positively correlated with the gallic acid content (r = 0.752) and total phenolic acids (r = 0.670). Within biotype, reproductive tissues were richer in total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity. Different colour biotypes of S. ambigua rich in bioactive compounds may be selected with desirable shoot properties for potential for use as additives in the food industry.

Tan spot caused by Pyrenophora tritici‐repentis is a disease present in all wheat‐producing countries and silicon (Si) treatment of wheat plants has been shown to increase plant resistance to tan spot. In this study, the effect of phenylpropanoid metabolism on resistance to tan spot was evaluated and some phenolic compounds that accumulated in response to P. tritici‐repentis attack were identified. Furthermore, the effect of Si on phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL) activity and phenolic compound accumulation were determined in situ. Antifungal activity of differentially accumulated phenolic compounds was also evaluated in in vitro tests. Results showed that the increase in concentration of phenolic compounds was greatest at the onset of infection, and that some compounds showed fungitoxic effects including fungal tip swelling, granulation of germ tube and hyphae, and hyphal hyperbranching. Silicon‐induced reduction in both lesion size and tan spot disease progression were associated with activation of phenylpropanoid metabolism. PAL activity and accumulation of antifungal phenolic compounds were greater in pathogen‐inoculated plants supplied with Si. In these plants, fluorescence indicative of accumulation of phenolic compounds occurred early in epidermal cells and its intensity increased during the evaluation period, showing higher numbers of fluorescent cells around infected cells. Thus, the combined responses of cell fluorescence at sites of infection, increased PAL activity and accumulation of phenols indicate that Si strengthened wheat defence responses to infection by P. tritici‐repentis, reducing the severity of tan spot.

Phytohormones are important plant components that are involved in a signaling cascade in plant development. In strawberry, the influence of abscisic acid (ABA) and its different forms [phaseic acid (PA), dihydrophaseic acid (DPA), and ABA glucose ester (ABA-GE)] on the process of fruit maturation is not yet completely understood. Quantification of phytohormones is currently performed by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) due to its sensitivity and specificity. However, the sample matrix and the extraction procedure will influence the analysis. Thus, this study aimed to optimize a simple extraction method and validate the LC-MS quantification of ABA as well as the identification and quantification of ABA derivatives (PA, DPA, and ABA-GE) in strawberry fruit. Hormone extraction was performed using either methanol (80% v/v—S1) or acetone:water:acetic acid (80:19:1 v/v—S2) solutions with or without the use of sonication. The most efficient extraction was obtained using S1 without sonication, and LC-MS validation parameters for ABA were within acceptable scores.

The changes in cooking quality and phenolic composition of whole black and red rice grains stored during six months at different temperatures were evaluated. Brown rice with known cooking quality properties and low phenolic levels was used for purposes comparison. All rice genotypes were stored at 13% moisture content at temperatures of 16, 24, 32, and 40°C. Cooking time, hardness, free and bound phenolics, anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, and free radical scavenging capacity were analysed. The traditional rice with brown pericarp exhibited an increase in cooking time and free phenolics content, while rice with black pericarp exhibited a reduction in cooking time after six months of storage at the highest studied temperature of 40°C. There as increases in ferulic acid levels occurred as a function of storage temperature. Red pericarp rice grains showed decreased antioxidant capacity against ABTS radical for the soluble phenolic fraction with increased time and storage temperature.

In addition to providing nourishment, functional foods have the potential to promote consumer health benefits. Novel fish (Oligosarcus robustus and Loricariichthys anus) pâtes containing prebiotic fructooligosaccharides and probiotic Lactobacillus acidophilus LAFTI L10 were developed. Acidity and pH analyses were carried out right after the preparation of the pates (0 day) and on the 7th, 15th, 30th, and 45th days of refrigerated storage, while the other physicochemical and sensory analyses were performed on the 30th day of refrigerated storage. Finished products had high protein (above 11.0%), and low carbohydrate (0.18%) contents, considerable amounts of minerals (above 5.5%) and dietary fibers (10.0%), and a lipid profile with more than 83% unsaturated fatty acids, predominantly oleic (ω-9) and linoleic (ω-6) acids. Lactobacillus acidophilus counts were greater than 6 Log CFU g−1 for up to the 34th day of refrigerated storage. In addition, color, texture, and flavor attributes of both formulations received high acceptance and purchase intent scores, which suggest strong market potential.

The aim of this study was to characterize the food safety aspects and enzymatic profile of Staphylococcus xylosus LQ3 in vitro and its influence in the curing process and antioxidant capacity in dried cured sausage. S. xylosus LQ3 isolate was susceptible to all antimicrobials tested and did not show any antimicrobial resistance genes. LQ3 was negative for hemolytic and DNase activities. Moreover, no genes encoding for alpha and beta hemolysis or for classical staphylococcal enterotoxins were identified. Enzymatic tests showed that S. xylosus LQ3 presented lipolytic, proteolytic, nitrate reductase (25 °C and 37 °C), and superoxide dismutase activities. The sausage with S. xylosus LQ3 (T1) was lighter and redder in color than the control without S. xylosus (C1). LQ3 treated sausage (T1) presented lower lipid oxidation in comparison to C1. S. xylosus LQ3 demonstrated potential to be used as starter culture for the production of fermented sausage, because it showed microbiological and toxicological safety and a relevant enzymatic profile. Moreover, it contributed to the formation of the typical coloration of cured products and limited lipid oxidation in situ.

Butia odorata is a palm tree native to southern Brazil whose fruit (known as butia) and leaves are used to make many food products and crafts. Butia contain several biologically active compounds with potential health benefits. However, processing conditions can alter quality attributes including bioactive compound content. This study evaluated the stability of bioactive compounds in butia pulp upon pasteurization, during 12 months of frozen storage, and in butia nectar after a 3-month storage period. Pulp pasteurization resulted in a reduction in phenolic, flavonoid, carotenoid, and ascorbic acid contents. After a 12-month frozen storage period, flavonoid, phenolic, and ascorbic acid contents decreased while carotenoid content remained unaltered. Carotenoid, ascorbic acid, and phenolic contents were unaffected by the 3-month storage of butia nectar; however, flavonoid content and antioxidant potential were reduced. Despite bioactive compound degradation upon heat treatment and storage, butia nectar remained rich in phenolics, especially (−)-epicatechin, rutin, and (+)-catechin.

Introduction In order to conserve the biodiversity of Capsicum species and find genotypes with potential to be utilised commercially, Embrapa Clima Temperado maintains an active germplasm collection (AGC) that requires characterisation, enabling genotype selection and support for breeding programmes. Objective The objective of this study was to characterise pepper accessions from the Embrapa Clima Temperado AGC and differentiate species based on their metabolic profile using an untargeted metabolomics approach. Material and Methods Cold (˗20°C) methanol extraction residue of freeze-dried fruit samples was partitioned into water/methanol (A) and chloroform (B) fractions. The polar fraction (A) was derivatised and both fractions (A and B) were analysed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Data from each fraction was analysed using a multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) with XCMS software. Results Amino acids, sugars, organic acids, capsaicinoids, and hydrocarbons were identified. Outlying accessions including P116 (C. chinense), P46, and P76 (C. annuum) were observed in a PCA plot mainly due to their high sucrose and fructose contents. PCA also indicated a separation of P221 (C. annuum) and P200 (C. chinense), because of their high dihydrocapsaicin content. Conclusions Although the metabolic profiling did not allow for grouping by species, it permitted the simultaneous identification and quantification of several compounds complementing and expanding the metabolic database of the studied Capsicum spp. in the AGC. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) has anti-Sporothrix spp. activity, including against strains that are resistant to antifungal drugs. As the studies are limited to the essential oil, the aim of this study was to evaluate the chemical, antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of polar oregano extracts and their anti-Sporothrix brasiliensis activity. Aerial plant parts were used in the preparation of 10 min (INF10) and 60 min (INF60) infusions, a decoction (DEC) and a hydroalcoholic extract (HAE). Six phenolic acids and four flavonoids were identified and quantified through liquid-chromatography (LC-MS). Extracts in increasing order of total phenolic and flavonoid contents were HAEINF60INF10DEC and HAEDECINF60INF10, respectively. All extracts showed DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging potential (HAEINF60DECINF10). HAE showed the least toxicity toward MDCK and CRFK cell lines in the MTT colorimetric assay. The antifungal potential against 29 S. brasiliensis isolates obtained from cats and dogs was evaluated following the CLSI M38-A2 protocol adapted to natural products. Minimum inhibitory concentration for 50% of the isolates (MIC50) was 5 mg/ml for all extracts, and minimum fungicidal concentration for 50% of the isolates (MFC50) was 20 mg/ml for INF10 and 40 mg/ml for the remaining extracts. MIC90 was 10 mg/ml for all extracts, except for DEC (20 mg/ml). MFC90 was 40 mg/ml for INF10 and 40 mg/ml for the other extracts. This is the first report of oregano extracts showing antifungal activity against S. brasiliensis. Its use in the treatment of sporotrichosis may be considered upon toxicity and safe-use conditions are tested.

Liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry analysis of selected food samples using silica hydride stationary phases allowed for the identification and quantification of common mycotoxins including aflatoxin B1, B2, G1, G2, ochratoxin A, and fumosinin B1. Phenyl and C18 columns showed relatively similar selectivity based on hydrophobicity but the phenyl phase provides an additional mechanism, π-π interaction. The most hydrophobic of the analyzed compounds was more strongly retained on the C18 column and also has fewer unsaturated sites, which limited the interaction with the phenyl phase. Bean, maize, rice, and wheat samples were harvested and stored under conditions conducive to fungal development, and all samples presented toxin contamination exceeding the maximum tolerable limits.

This study aimed to evaluate the chemical composition and cytotoxic activity of brown Brazilian propolis and its in vitro activity against itraconazole-resistant Sporothrix brasiliensis from animal sporotrichosis. Propolis was acquired commercially and prepared as a hydroalcoholic extract. Chemical analysis was evaluated by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry of ultra-efficiency. The cell viability was evaluated by MTT test in MDBK cells of 50 to 0.09 μg/mL. For antifungal tests, twenty isolates of Sporothrix brasiliensis from dogs (n = 11) and cats (n = 9) with sporotrichosis were tested to itraconazole (16-0.0313 μg/mL) and to propolis (3.125-0.09 mg/mL) by broth microdilution technique (CLSI M38-A2), adapted to natural products. The results were expressed in minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC). Itraconazole showed activity between MIC values of 0.25 to greater than 16 μg/mL, and 88.9% (08/09) and 72.7% (08/11) of S. brasiliensis from cats and dogs, respectively, were considered itraconazole-resistant. All Sporothrix brasiliensis were sensitive to brown propolis between MIC values of 0.19-1.56 mg/mL, including the itraconazole-resistant isolates, whereas the MFC values of propolis were from 0.78 to greater than 3.125 mg/mL. Propolis maintained a medium to high cell viability between concentration of 0.78 to 0.09 μg/mL, and p-coumaric acid was the major compound. Brown Brazilian propolis is a promising antifungal candidate against sporotrichosis and more studies need to be undertaken to evaluate its safe use to understand its efficacy.

The addition of fruit with bioactive properties such as Butia odorata , henceforth called butia, and probiotic bacteria may improve the nutritional and functional value of ice cream. In this study, butia ice cream supplemented with Bifidobacterium lactis (Bl-04) was developed and characterized. Butia ice cream showed 71.2 g 100 g −1 of overrun, a density of 575 g cm −3 , and a pH of 4.7. During 90 days of frozen storage (−18 °C), a 10% reduction in total phenolic content and a 5% reduction in l -ascorbic acid content were observed. Carotenoids and flavonoids increased during frozen storage. Probiotic bacteria B . lactis (Bl-04) remained viable (above 10 6 CFU g −1 ) in butia ice cream during storage, confirming the probiotic characteristic of the product. Sensory analyses showed that butia ice cream had high acceptability (6.8–7.8) and purchase intent (above 80%). The combination of B . lactis and butia fruit attributed functional characteristics to the ice cream.

Background Plants activate defense mechanisms to cope with adverse environmental conditions, leading to the accumulation and / or depletion of general and specialized metabolites. In this study, a multiplatform untargeted metabolomics strategy was employed to evaluate metabolic changes in strawberry fruit of cv. Camarosa grown under osmotic stress conditions. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) data from strawberries grown under two water-deficit conditions, irrigated at 95% crop evapotranspiration (ETc) and 85% ETc, and one excess salt condition with a 80 mmol L-1 NaCl solution, were analyzed to determine treatment effects on fruit metabolism. Results Multivariate principal component analysis, orthogonal projections to latent structures - discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA), and univariate statistical analyses were applied to the data set. While multivariate analyses showed group separation by treatment, T-tests and fold change revealed 12 metabolites differentially accumulated in strawberries from different treatments - among them phenolic compounds, glycerophospholipids, phytosterols, carbohydrates, and an aromatic amino acid. Conclusion Untargeted metabolomic analysis allowed for the annotation of compounds differentially accumulated in strawberry fruit from plants grown under osmotic stress and non-stressed plants. The metabolic disturbance in plants under stress involved metabolites associated with the inhibition of reactive oxygen species and cell-wall and membrane lipid biosynthesis, which might serve as osmotic stress biomarkers. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

International audience; Ultraviolet C (UV-C) radiation is known for preventing fungal decay and enhancing phytochemical content in fruit when applied postharvest. However, limited knowledge is available regarding fruit responses to preharvest application of UV-C radiation. Thus, the effects of UV-C radiation on photosynthetic efficiency, dry matter accumulation and partitioning, fruit yield and decay, phytochemical content, and relative transcript accumulation of genes associated with these metabolic pathways were monitored in strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) cv. Camarosa. A reduction in photosynthetic efficiency was followed by a decrease in light harvesting complex LhcIIb-1 mRNA accumulation as well as a decrease in yield per plant. Phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity, phenolic, anthocyanin, and L-ascorbic acid contents were higher in UV-C treated fruit. In addition, preharvest UV-C treatment reduced microorganism incidence in the greenhouse and on the fruit surface, increased the accumulation of β-1,3-Gluc and PR-1 mRNA, and prevented fruit decay.

A uvaia apresenta curta vida pos-colheita e a obtencao de frutas em po adicionadas de gomas visam aumentar a sua estabilidade. Portanto, estudou-se a influencia do metodo de desidratacao e da aplicacao de gomas (maltodextrina e goma arabica) sobre a estabilidade dos compostos da polpa de uvaia em po, avaliando-se: higroscopicidade, solubilidade, cor, retencao de carotenoides, acido ascorbico e parâmetros fisico-quimicos. A liofilizacao preservou a cor amarela intensa da polpa, bem como, o acido ascorbico. A adicao das gomas foram eficientes em aumentar a solubilidade dos pos obtidos tanto por liofilizacao quanto por secagem em estufa a 70oC e diminuir a higroscopicidade destes ultimos, enquanto os pos sem tratamento apresentaram a menor solubilidade.

Honey contains compounds with antioxidant and antibacterial capacities, such as phenolic compounds and carotenoids. Current analysis evaluates the antioxidant and antibacterial activity and determines the phenolic compounds and carotenoids content in 24 honey samples from the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Total content of phenolic compounds (from 11.37 to 54.01mgGAE∙100 g −1 ), flavonoids (from 2.97 to 10.46 mgQE∙100 g −1 ), phenolic acids (from 0 to 65.47mgCAE∙100 g −1 ) and carotenoids (from 0.56 to 6.19 mg β-carotene∙Kg −1 ) were found, and the antioxidant activities measured by ABTS (between 8.24 and 111.48 mgtrolox∙100 g −1 ) and by DPPH (between 2.48 and 17.21 mgQEA∙100 g −1 ) differed significantly. All samples showed antibacterial activity, where the H5 and H23 showed the best results (MIC: 10 mg mL −1 ) against the four pathogenic bacteria tested. A significant and positive correlations between the carotenoids and phenolic compounds content was found; likewise, between antioxidant activity (ABTS) and carotenoids content and between color and flavonoids content.

Rhizomania, caused by Beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) is an economically important disease of sugar beet. Management includes the use of single resistance (Rz) genes. However, strains with the ability to overcome the widely used Rz1 resistance gene have already been reported. The mechanisms associated with these genes are unknown, therefore increased understanding of the host defense response may lead to more durable sources of rhizomania resistance. Non-targeted metabolome profiling, coupled with targeted phytohormone quantification, was applied to characterize the metabolic and signaling pathways associated with BNYVV infections in sugar beet. Clear differences in metabolites were identified following pathogen infection independent of plant genotype particularly those associated with host lipid composition or other membrane associated functions.

Araca fruits (Psidium cattleianum Sabine) have been reported to have several biological activities, including the inhibition of the digestives enzymes. Nevertheless, the compounds responsible for these activities are not known. This study evaluated the potential of araca phenolic fractions to inhibit the activity of α-glucosidase and α-amylase and related it to their phenolic composition. Extracts of edible portions (pulp-peel and seeds) of fruits from three araca genotypes were purified and fractionated. Total phenolic content was determined using a spectrophotometric method, and individual phenolic compounds were quantified using HPLC-MS. Their enzyme inhibition and antioxidant potential were measured using in vitro assays. Higher amounts of total phenolic content were observed in pulp-peel than in seeds. These results were partially associated with the slightly higher enzyme inhibition of pulp-peel fractions. In general, araca phenolic fractions were more active towards α-glucosidase than α-amylase when compared to acarbose, the current drug used to inhibit α-glucosidases. The antioxidant potential was dependent on accession, part of the fruit and fraction. Moreover, compounds present in the crude and purified extracts, and fractions III (quercetin, ellagic acid and p-coumaric acid) and IV (cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and malvidin-3-O-glucoside) for some samples resulted in significant inhibition of the two enzymes.

Six olive oils extracted from the cultivars Arbequina, Arbosana, Coratina, Frantoio, Koroneiki, and Picual from 2017 and 2018 harvests, cultivated in Pinheiro Machado, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, are evaluated for standard oil composition parameters and bioactive constituents (pigments, tocopherols, and phenolic compounds). Multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) and univariate ANOVA and Fisher's LSD test are used to verify the effect of cultivar and harvest year on oil composition. Olive oil composition met extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) standard parameters and is influenced by both cultivar and harvest year. EVOO produced in 2018 has greater chlorophyll, caffeic acid, ligstroside aglycone, hydroxyoleuropein aglycone, syringic acid, and hydroxytyrosol acetate contents than the EVOOs from 2017. Linoleic acid, ferulic acid, ligstroside aglycone, and hydroxytyrosol acetate are the variables whose contents most contributed to the differentiation of oils by cultivar in both harvest years. Chemical characterization analyses allow for the differentiation of oil composition based on harvest year and cultivar. Metabolic quality data obtained here support the establishment of a local EVOO profile and the compounds that most contributed to treatment differentiation may serve as markers that can be utilized in determining origin, cultivar, and harvest year. Practical Applications: Olive production in Brazil is recent and is based on European cultivars which have not been bred for the local environmental conditions. Therefore, the measurement of olive oil metabolic quality will determine cultivar adaptability to local edaphoclimatic conditions as well as assist in the establishment of a standard of identity for the product and promote the development of its market. Olive oil produced in Southern Brazil shows high quality, and is especially rich in phenolic compounds. Although harvest year influences oil composition, oil from both harvests meet EVOO standards and cultivar specific metabolic markers are observed. This study provides the foundation for olive producers in Southern Brazil to seek authentication of the geographical origin of olive oil.

Lesões térmicas configuram um tipo diferenciado de ferida cutânea, necessitando de atenção adequada. Sendo assim, objetivou-se avaliar a ação terapêutica de extratos de Bixa orellana L. e Triticum aestivum como ativos em formulações tópicas frente a lesões térmicas de 2º grau em modelo experimental. Primeiramente, identificou-se os compostos do óleo de urucum. No ensaio, feridas induzidas experimentalmente foram tratadas diariamente com: fórmula contendo óleo de urucum e extrato aquoso de trigo (LCFT 2001), fórmula com óleo de urucum e extrato etanólico de trigo (LCFT 2002), pomada comercial (CP), ausência de tratamento (CN). Aos dois, cinco, oito, 14 e 25 dias, avaliou-se clinicamente a presença de exsudato, edema, necrose, crosta, granulação e epitelização. Também, determinou-se a área de lesão, e amostras de pele foram coletadas para avaliação histológica e tensiométrica. Clinicamente, aos oito dias, as fórmulas apresentaram menor percentual de crosta que os grupos controle e ainda LCFT 2001 demonstrou maior percentual de granulação. Histologicamente, aos cinco dias o LCFT 2002 apresentou angiogênese semelhante ao CP, porém menor inflamação. Aos oito dias, as fórmulas continham angiogênese em arcos, enquanto os grupos controle angiogênese fina e o LCFT 2001 demonstrou inflamação exuberante, enquanto o CP com inflamação moderada. Conclui-se que formulações contendo extratos de trigo e urucum, estimulam a cicatrização de lesões térmicas.

The development of standardized and safe food products with the typical characteristics of each region is highly desirable and can be obtained by using native starter cultures that influence the flavor, texture, and color of fermented foods. Therefore, scientists have been employing various techniques for screening and characterizing native bacteria (lactic acid bacteria and Gram-positive catalase-positive cocci) for application in fermented meat sausage. The present review outlines in vitro assays that evaluate the potential application and safety aspects of native isolates and introduces emerging omics technologies applied to the microbiology of fermented meat sausage. Results from current research are presented, and the strengths and limitations of each assay are provided, with references indicating where further details can be obtained. In choosing the most appropriate in vitro method, it is necessary to consider the available analytical infrastructure, the sensitivity and selectivity of the assay, the time it takes to get the results, the ease of the assay, and the costs involved.

UV-C treatment applied during postharvest to control fruit decay has been shown to interfere with several aspects of fruit quality. In this study, strawberry fruit (Fragaria × ananassa Duch., cv ‘Aromas’) harvested at the 75% red stage of ripening were treated with UV-C (4.35 kJ m−2) and postharvest compounds indicative of quality, as well as related gene transcripts, were measured. UV-C effect in two allergenic proteins was also evaluated. After treatment, fruit was stored for six days at 20 ± 2 °C and 80 ± 5% relative humidity (RH). UV-C treated fruit maintained flesh firmness and showed lower pectate lyase transcript accumulation than control fruit. UV-C treatment increased total anthocyanin and phenolic compounds, including gallic acid, hydroxybenzoic acid, ρ-coumaric acid, quercetin and (+)-catechin. UV-C treatment also increased l -galactose dehydrogenase, l -galactono-1,4-lactone dehydrogenase, alcohol dehydrogenase and alcohol acetyl transferase transcript accumulation, and resulted in strawberries with higher l -ascorbic acid content and higher volatile compound production. In conclusion, UV-C treatment induces a variety of changes in the strawberry primarily via gene activation, resulting in firmer fruit with higher levels of bioactive molecules, as well as a stronger aroma. However, UV-C also induced accumulation of the putatively allergenic protein Fra a1.

In order to conserve the biodiversity of Capsicum species and find genotypes with potential to be utilised commercially, Embrapa Clima Temperado maintains an active germplasm collection (AGC) that requires characterisation, enabling genotype selection and support for breeding programmes.The objective of this study was to characterise pepper accessions from the Embrapa Clima Temperado AGC and differentiate species based on their metabolic profile using an untargeted metabolomics approach.Cold (-20°C) methanol extraction residue of freeze-dried fruit samples was partitioned into water/methanol (A) and chloroform (B) fractions. The polar fraction (A) was derivatised and both fractions (A and B) were analysed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Data from each fraction was analysed using a multivariate principal component analysis (PCA) with XCMS software.Amino acids, sugars, organic acids, capsaicinoids, and hydrocarbons were identified. Outlying accessions including P116 (C. chinense), P46, and P76 (C. annuum) were observed in a PCA plot mainly due to their high sucrose and fructose contents. PCA also indicated a separation of P221 (C. annuum) and P200 (C. chinense), because of their high dihydrocapsaicin content.Although the metabolic profiling did not allow for grouping by species, it permitted the simultaneous identification and quantification of several compounds complementing and expanding the metabolic database of the studied Capsicum spp. in the AGC. Copyright © 2017 John WileySons, Ltd.

International audience; UV-C radiation, widely known for preventing decay and increasing fruit quality, was applied to ‘Camarosa’ strawberries during cultivation (preharvest) and harvested fruits were divided into external and internal tissue portions. UV-C promoted increase in total polyphenolic and volatile organic content, mostly in proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins and esters in external tissues. UV-C treatment increased vitamin C, but did not affect significantly SS, AT and, firmness. In contrast, furane and mesifurane, important volatile compounds for the aroma character of strawberry, decreased upon UV-C treatment.

Butia is a genus of palms (Arecaceae), autochthonous to South America with great potential for income generation. In order to better utilize and maintain the currently available genetic resources, it is necessary to pursue studies directed towards the taxonomic and systematic characterization (morphological, phenotypic, molecular, chemical, and reproductive) and conservation of Butia spp. Despite the long use of this plant, a limited number of scientific studies and publications are available on Butia spp., with a significant proportion of the literature written in Portuguese. This review intends to compile all the available information on the genus, covering several aspects of the plant and its potential applications.

[PT]: O mirtileiro possui frutos com alto potencial antioxidante e nutracêutico. Este potencial pode ser influenciado pela severidade da poda nas plantas, principalmente em função do impacto na produção e dos efeitos do aumento da radiação solar incidente sobre os frutos. O objetivo do presente trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da intensidade da poda seca sobre a produção e os atributos de qualidade dos frutos de mirtileiro das cultivares Clímax, Bluegem e Powderblue, produzidas na mesorregião de Pelotas-RS. Para tal, foi conduzido um experimento no município de Morro Redondo-RS, durante a safra de 2012/2013, sendo utilizadas as cultivares grupo >Rabbiteye>, Clímax, Bluegem e Powderblue. A poda foi realizada em três níveis de remoção de ramos: normal, média e leve, no dia 20 de julho de 2012. A intensidade de poda seca exerceu influência sobre a produção e o teor de fitoquímicos dos frutos de mirtileiros. A produção das plantas submetidas a poda leve foi maior que as submetidas a poda média e normal, sendo o mesmo observado em relação ao teor de compostos fenólicos das cvs. Bluegem e Powderblue, enquanto para o teor de antocianinas, a intensidade de poda teve efeito distinto sobre os atributos de qualidade físico-química das diferentes cultivares., [EN]: Blueberry plants possess fruit with high antioxidant and nutraceutical potential. This potential can be influenced by pruning severity, especially due to the impact in production and the effects of increased solar radiation on the fruit. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effect of dry pruning intensity on the production and quality attributes of blueberry fruit from cultivars, Clímax, Bluegem and Powderblue, produced in the mesoregion of Pelotas, RS. For such, an experiment was conducted in Morro Redondo, RS during the growing season 2012/2013, using cultivars of the "Rabbiteye" group, Clímax, Bluegem and Powderblue. Pruning was performed at three intensity, normal, average e light levels on July 20th 2012. Dry pruning intensity influenced production and phytochemical content of blueberry fruit. The production of plants applied the light intensity pruning was higher than the production of plants applied medium and normal intensity, the same was observed in relation to the phenolic content of cv. Bluegem and Powderblue. For anthocyanin content, and other quality attributes pruning intensity had a distinct effect on the quality attributes of the different cultivars., Os autores agradecem ao Programa de Pós-graduação em Agronomia (PPGA - UFPel) e ao Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPq), pela concessão da bolsa de Doutorado do primeiro autor.