High-Throughput Molecular Modeling and Evaluation of the Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Açaí Constituents against NLRP3 Inflammasome.

The search for bioactive compounds in natural products holds promise for discovering new pharmacologically active molecules. This study explores the anti-inflammatory potential of açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) constituents against the NLRP3 inflammasome using high-throughput molecular modeling techniques. Utilizing methods such as molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation, binding free energy calculations (MM/GBSA), and in silico toxicology, we compared açaí compounds with known NLRP3 inhibitors, MCC950 and NP3-146 (RM5). The docking studies revealed significant interactions between açaí constituents and the NLRP3 protein, while molecular dynamics simulations indicated structural stabilization. MM/GBSA calculations demonstrated favorable binding energies for catechin, apigenin, and epicatechin, although slightly lower than those of MCC950 and RM5. Importantly, in silico toxicology predicted lower toxicity for açaí compounds compared to synthetic inhibitors. These findings suggest that açaí-derived compounds are promising candidates for developing new anti-inflammatory therapies targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome, combining efficacy with a superior safety profile. Future research should include in vitro and in vivo validation to confirm the therapeutic potential and safety of these natural products. This study underscores the value of computational approaches in accelerating natural product-based drug discovery and highlights the pharmacological promise of Amazonian biodiversity.

In vitro assessment of the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of clarified açai (Euterpe oleracea MART) extract in a gastric cancer cell line (AGP01 cells).

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea MART) is a fruit of great importance for the Amazon region in nutritional, cultural and socioeconomic terms. In recent years, açaí has been the subject of several studies due to its beneficial properties for health, including effects against tumor cells. Therefore, the present work aimed to evaluate in vitro the genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of the clarified extract of açaí juice in a human metastatic gastric cancer cell line (AGP01 cells). For comparison purposes, a non-transformed cell line of African green monkey renal epithelial cells (VERO cells) was used. The viability assay by resazurin reduction, the comet assay, the determination of cell death by differential fluorescent dyes and the wound healing migration assay were performed. A reduction in viability was observed only in the AGP01 line within 72 h. There was no genotoxic damage or cell death (through apoptosis or necrosis) in any of the cell lines. However, açaí extract induced motility reduction in both cell lines. The reduction in cell viability and the induction of the anti-migratory effect in the AGP01 cell line opens perspectives for exploring the potential of açaí as an adjuvant in the treatment of gastric cancer.

Amazonian Fruits for Treatment of Non-Communicable Diseases.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The Amazon region has a high biodiversity of flora, with an elevated variety of fruits, such as Camu-Camu (Myrciaria dúbia), Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.), Tucumã (Astrocaryum aculeatum and Astrocaryum vulgare), Fruta-do-conde (Annona squamosa L.), Cupuaçu (Theobroma grandiflorum), Graviola (Annona muricata L.), Guarana (Paullinia cupana Kunth var. sorbilis), and Pitanga (Eugenia uniflora), among many others, that are rich in phytochemicals, minerals and vitamins with prominent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. RECENT FINDINGS: Studies evaluating the chemical composition of these fruits have observed a high content of nutrients and bioactive compounds. Such components are associated with significant biological effects in treating various non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and related complications. Regular intake of these fruits from Amazonas emerges as a potential therapeutic approach to preventing and treating NCDs as a nutritional strategy to reduce the incidence or mitigate common complications in these patients, which are the leading global causes of death. As studies remain largely unexplored, this narrative review discusses the possible health-beneficial effects for patients with NCDs.

Mites associated with açaí palm trees (Euterpe oleracea: Arecaceae) in native and cultivated areas of the state of Pará (Eastern Amazon, Brazil).

The objective was to quantify and analyze the diversity of mites associated with native and cultivated açaí palms crops, as well as their distribution in the dry and rainy seasons in the municipalities of Bragança and Augusto Corrêa, state of Pará. Rarefaction curves were generated for diversity values using the statistical programming language R, rarefaction curves for estimates of richness and equitability, and analysis of variance with permutations. A total of 2069 mites from 28 families were sampled, being most representative Phytoseiidae (32.4%), Phytoptidae (13%), Cunaxidae (7.7%), Tetranychidae (5.6%) and Tydeidae (4.9%). Among predators, the most abundant species were Amblyseius sp. 1, Armascirus amazoniensis Wurlitzer & Silva, Iphiseiodes zuluagai Denmark & Muma, Scutopalus tomentosus Rocha, Skvarla & Ferla, and the phytophagous mites Acaphyllisa sp., Davisella sp., Oligonychus sp. and Retracus johnstoni Keifer. In the rainy season, more mites were sampled (n = 1176) than in the dry season (n = 893). The greatest richness was observed in the dry period (73 species) and diversity was also greater in this period. In the municipality of Bragança there was greater richness (78 species) and the cultivated açaí trees had greater acarine abundance (74.7%) than the native ones. However, natives had slightly higher wealth (6%) than those cultivated. The diversity and richness of predatory mites show the potential of the Amazon biome to be used in applied biological control.

The Development of a One-Step RT-qPCR for the Detection and Quantification of Viable Forms of Trypanosoma cruzi in Açai Samples from Areas at Risk of Chagas Disease through Oral Transmission.

Currently, approximately 70% of new cases of Chagas disease (CD) in Brazil are attributed to oral transmission, particularly through foods such as açaí, bacaba, and sugarcane juice, primarily in the northern and northeastern regions of the country. This underscores the imperative need to control the spread of the disease. The methods utilized to conduct quality control for food associated with outbreaks and to assess the potential for the oral transmission of CD through consuming açaí primarily rely on isolating the parasite or inoculating food into experimental animals, restricting the analyses to major research centers. While there are existing studies in the literature on the detection and quantification of T. cruzi DNA in açaí, the evaluation of parasites' viability using molecular methods in this type of sample and differentiating between live and dead parasites in açaí pulp remain challenging. Consequently, we developed a molecular methodology based on RT-qPCR for detecting and quantifying viable T. cruzi in açaí pulp samples. This protocol enables the stabilization and preservation of nucleic acids in açaí, along with incorporating an exogenous internal amplification control. The standardization of the RNA extraction method involved a simple and reproducible approach, coupled with a one-step RT-qPCR assay. The assay underwent validation with various T. cruzi DTUs and demonstrated sensitivity in detecting up to 0.1 viable parasite equivalents/mL in açaí samples. Furthermore, we investigated the effectiveness of a bleaching method in eliminating viable parasites in açaí samples contaminated with T. cruzi by comparing the detection of DNA versus RNA. Finally, we validated this methodology using açaí pulp samples positive for T. cruzi DNA, which were collected in a municipality with a history of oral CD outbreaks (Coari-AM). This validation involved comparing the detection and quantification of total versus viable T. cruzi. Collectively, our findings demonstrate the feasibility of this methodology in detecting viable forms of T. cruzi in açaí pulp samples, emerging as a crucial tool for monitoring oral outbreaks of Chagas disease resulting from açaí consumption.

A polyphenol-rich açaí seed extract protects against 5-fluorouracil-induced intestinal mucositis in mice through the TLR-4/MyD88/PI3K/mTOR/NF-κBp65 signaling pathway.

Açaí seed extract (ASE) is obtained from Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí) plant (Amazon region) has high nutritional and functional value. ASE is rich in polyphenolic compounds, mainly proanthocyanidins. Proanthocyanidins can modulate the immune system and oxidative stress by inhibiting the toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4)/myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. A great deal of evidence suggests that inflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress contribute to the pathogenesis of intestinal mucositis, and these events can lead to intestinal dysmotility. We hypothesized that ASE acts as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound in intestinal mucositis induced by 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) through modulation of the TLR-4/MyD88/phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase α/mechanistic target of rapamycin/NF-κBp65 pathway. The animals were divided into linear 5-FU (450 mg/kg) and 5-FU + ASE (10, 30, and 100 mg/kg) groups. The weight loss of the animals was evaluated daily. Samples from duodenum, jejunum, and ileum were obtained for histopathological, biochemical, and functional analyses. ASE reduced weight loss, inflammatory parameters (interleukin-1ß; tumor necrosis factor-α; myeloperoxidase activity) and the gene expression of mediators involved in the TLR-2/MyD88/NF-κB pathway. ASE prevented histopathological changes with beneficial effects on gastrointestinal transit delay, gastric emptying, and intestinal absorption/permeability. In conclusion, ASE protects the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier by inhibiting the TLR/MyD88/PI3K/mechanistic target of rapamycin/NF-κBp65 pathway.

Safety Assessment of Palm-Derived Ingredients as Used in Cosmetics.

The Expert Panel for Cosmetic Ingredient Safety (Panel) reviewed the safety of 8 palm tree (Euterpe edulis (juçara) and Euterpe oleracea (açaí))-derived ingredients as used in cosmetic products; these ingredients are reported to function mostly as skin conditioning agents. The Panel reviewed relevant data relating to the safety of these ingredients in cosmetic formulations. Industry should continue to use good manufacturing practices to limit impurities. The Panel concluded that palm tree (açaí and juçara)-derived ingredients are safe in cosmetics in the present practices of use and concentration described in this safety assessment.

Açaí (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) green synthesis of silver nanoparticles: antimicrobial efficacy and ecotoxicological assessment.

The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is usually based on expensive methods that use or generate chemicals that can negatively impact the environment. Our study presents a simple one-step synthesis process for obtaining AgNP using an aqueous extract of Amazonian fruit açai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) as the reducing and stabilizing agents. The bio-synthesized AgNP (bio-AgNP) were comprehensively characterized by diverse techniques, and as a result, 20-nm spherical particles (transmission electron microscopy) were obtained. X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) confirmed the presence of crystalline AgNP, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) suggested that polyphenolic compounds of açaí were present on the surface. The bio-AgNP showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Acinetobacter baumannii. In Caenorhabditis elegans exposed to 10 µg/L bio-AgNP for 96 h, there were no significant effects on growth, reproduction, or reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration; however, there was an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) enzymatic activity. In contrast, when worms were exposed to chemically synthesized AgNP (PVP-AgNP), an increase in ROS, SOD, and GST activity and a reduction in oxidative stress resistance were observed. In conclusion, our study not only showcased the potential of açaí in the simple and rapid production of AgNP but also highlighted the broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity of the synthesized nanoparticles using our protocol. Moreover, our findings revealed that these AgNPs exhibited reduced toxicity to C. elegans at environmentally realistic concentrations compared with PVP-AgNP.

Spatial distribution of acute cases of Chagas disease reported from 2010 to 2020 in the State of Amazonas / Distribuição espacial dos casos agudos de doença de Chagas notificados de 2010 a 2020 no Estado da Amazônia / Distribución espacial de los casos agudos de enfermedad de Chagas notificados de 2010 a 2020 en el Estado Amazónico

This study aimed to investigate the epidemiology of acute cases of Chagas disease notified in the State of Amazonas between the period from 2010 to 2020. Data were obtained from the portal of the Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação- SINAN, considering the number of cases per municipality of notification. 140 cases of Acute Chagas Disease were notified, distributed in 23 of the 62 municipalities of the State of Amazonas, 82 (59%) were male individuals, with a greater predominance in the age group of 20-39 years old, having 45 (32.1%) cases. As for the race/color variable, the highest number was among brown people with 101 (72.1%) notifications. The oral route prevailed as the main form of disease transmission with 93 (66.4%) records. Infection by the oral route of T. cruzi is the most important route of transmission of CD in the State of Amazonas, the occurrence of transmission is associated in most cases with the consumption of foods such as açaí juice and has been reported frequently over the years between municipalities.

este estudo se propôs a investigar a epidemiologia dos casos agudos de Doença de Chagas notificados no Estado do Amazonas no período de 2010 a 2020. Os dados foram obtidos no portal do Sistema de Informação de Agravos de Notificação - SINAN, considerando o número de casos por município de notificação. Foram notificados 140 casos de Doença de Chagas Aguda, distribuídos em 23 dos 62 municípios do Estado do Amazonas, 82 (59%) eram indivíduos do sexo masculino, com maior predominância na faixa etária de 20-39 anos de idade com 45 (32,1%) casos. Quanto a variável raça/cor, a maior registro foi entre pardos com 101(72,1%) notificações. A via oral, prevaleceu como a principal forma de transmissão da patologia com 93 (66,4%) registros. A infecção pela via oral do T. cruzi, é a mais importante via de transmissão de DC no Estado do Amazonas, a ocorrência da transmissão está associada na maioria das vezes ao consumo de alimentos como o suco de açaí, e tem sido reportada com frequência ao longo dos anos entre os municípios.

Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar la epidemiología de los casos agudos de la enfermedad de Chagas notificados en el Estado de Amazonas en el período de 2010 a 2020. Los datos fueron obtenidos del portal del Sistema de Información de Enfermedades de Notificación - SINAN, considerando el número de casos por municipio de notificación. Se notificaron 140 casos de Enfermedad de Chagas Aguda, distribuidos en 23 de los 62 municipios del Estado de Amazonas, 82 (59%) fueron individuos del sexo masculino, con mayor predominio en el grupo etario de 20 a 39 años con 45 (32,1%) casos. En cuanto a la variable raza/color, el mayor número fue entre los morenos con 101 (72,1%) notificaciones. La vía oral predominó como principal vía de transmisión de la enfermedad con 93 (66,4%) registros. La infección por vía oral de T. cruzi es la vía de transmisión más importante de la EC en el Estado de Amazonas, la ocurrencia de la transmisión está mayoritariamente asociada al consumo de alimentos como el jugo de açaí, y ha sido reportada con frecuencia a lo largo de los años entre municipios.

Neuroprotective potential of the Amazonian fruits Euterpe oleracea Mart. and Paullinia cupana Kunth

Abstract Acai (Euterpe oleracea Mart.) and guarana (Paullinia cupana Kunth) are native species from the Amazon Forest that in folk medicine are used to treat several diseases due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This review brings together findings from different studies on the potential neuroprotective effects of acai and guarana, highlighting the importance of the conservation and sustainable exploitation of the Amazon Forest. A bibliographic survey in the PubMed database retrieved indexed articles written in English that focused on the effects of acai and guarana in in vitro and in vivo models of neurodegenerative diseases. In general, treatment with either acai or guarana decreased neuroinflammation, increased antioxidant responses, ameliorated depression, and protected cells from neurotoxicity mediated by aggregated proteins. The results from these studies suggest that flavonoids, anthocyanins, and carotenoids found in both acai and guarana have therapeutic potential not only for neurodegenerative diseases, but also for depressive disorders. In addition, acai and guarana show beneficial effects in slowing down the physiological aging process. However, toxicity and efficacy studies are still needed to guide the formulation of herbal medicines from acai and guarana.

Diversity and genetic structure of natural populations of the palm tree Euterpe precatoria (Arecaceae) / Diversidad y estructura genética de poblaciones naturales de la palmera Euterpe precatoria (Arecaceae)

Abstract Introduction: The natural ecosystems of northern Mato Grosso, Brazil, are in process of fragmentation, mainly due to population growth and the expansion of agriculture. This endangers the palm Euterpe precatoria (locally known as açaí), used for construction, palm hearts, juices and ice cream. Objective: To evaluate the local diversity and genetic structure in native populations of E. precatoria. Methods: We collected leaves from 106 fruiting palms from five populations in Mato Grosso State, for analysis of microsatellite markers with Polymerase Chain Reaction. Results: The five SSR loci revealed a total of 30 alleles, ranging from 5 (EE23 and EE43) to 7 (EE2 and EE15), with an average of 6 alleles per locus. The mean PIC was 0.74 and confirmed low heterozygosity and inbreeding. The UPGMA dendrogram produced two groups and molecular variance revealed greater genetic differentiation within populations. The high levels of homozygous microsatellite loci indicate low genetic diversity. Conclusions: These populations have low gene diversity, high average number of alleles per locus, and rare and exclusive alleles. We recommend the establishment of permanent conservation units with corridors among them.

Resumen Introducción: Los ecosistemas naturales del norte de Mato Grosso, Brasil, están en proceso de fragmentación, principalmente debido al crecimiento de la población y la expansión de la agricultura. Esto pone en peligro la palma Euterpe precatoria (localmente conocida como açaí), utilizada para la construcción, extracción de palmito, preparación de jugos y helados. Objetivo: Evaluar la diversidad local y estructura genética en poblaciones nativas de E. precatoria. Métodos: Recolectamos hojas de 106 palmas fructíferas de cinco poblaciones en el estado de Mato Grosso, para análisis de marcadores microsatélites con el método de Reacción en Cadena de la Polimerasa (PCR). Resultados: Los cinco loci SSR revelaron un total de 30 alelos, que van desde 5 (EE23 y EE43) hasta 7 (EE2 y EE15), con un promedio de 6 alelos por locus. El PIC medio fue de 0.74 y confirmó baja heterocigosidad y endogamia en las poblaciones. El dendrograma UPGMA produjo dos grupos y la varianza molecular reveló una mayor diferenciación genética dentro de las poblaciones. Los loci de microsatélites presentaron un alto nivel de homocigotos lo que indica una baja diversidad genética. Conclusiones: Estas poblaciones tienen baja diversidad genética, alto promedio de alelos por locus y alelos raros y únicos. Recomendamos el establecimiento de unidades de conservación permanentes con corredores entre ellas.

Influence of NaHCO3 powder on color and roughness of the composite submitted to bleaching and euterpe oleracea / Influencia del polvo de NaHCO 3 en el color y rugosidad del composite sometido a blanqueo y euterpe oleracea

Aim: This study aims to evaluate the surface roughness and susceptibility to staining of bleached composite resin with 22% carbamide peroxide, as well as the effect of subsequent prophylaxis with NaHCO3 powder. Material and Methods: Forty disk-shaped (2 × 6 mm) specimens of composite resin (Z250 XT) were prepared. Half of the specimens were subjected to bleaching with 22% carbamide peroxide, and the other half were stored in artificial saliva. In sequence, all specimens were immersed in acai juice (Euterpe oleracea) for 4 h for 14 days, and subdivided into two groups. Group 1 samples were subjected to prophylaxis treatment, while group 2 samples were subjected to treatment with artificial saliva. Surface roughness (Ra) and color (ΔE*) were measured after polishing (T0), bleaching (T1), immersion in acai juice (T2), and application of NaHCO3 powder (T3) using a profilometer and a spectrophotometer. Results: Statistical analyses (analysis of variance and Tukey's test, p≤0.05) revealed that regarding color there was statistically significance for the factors in isolation, except for the factor bleaching. For both color and surface roughness there was statistically significant difference for the interaction, except for the interaction between NaHCO3 power and bleaching. Conclusion: The NaHCO3 air-powder polishing decreases the staining of the composite resin; however, it increases the surface roughness. With respect to the color variable, the whitening factor had no significant effect on the tested material; however, it increases surface roughness.

Objetivo: Este estudio tiene como objetivo evaluar la rugosidad de la superficie y la susceptibilidad a la tinción de la resina compuesta blanqueada con peróxido de carbamida al 22%, así como el efecto de la profilaxis posterior con polvo de NaHCO3. Material y Métodos: Se prepararon cuarenta especímenes en forma de disco (2 × 6 mm) de resina compuesta (Z250 XT). La mitad de los especímenes se sometieron a blanqueo con peróxido de carbamida al 22% y la otra mitad se almacenó en saliva artificial. En secuencia, todos los especímenes se sumergieron en jugo de acai (Euterpe oleracea) durante 4h durante 14 días, y se subdividieron en dos grupos. Las muestras del grupo 1 se sometieron a tratamiento profiláctico, mientras que las muestras del grupo 2 se sometieron a tratamiento con saliva artificial. La rugosidad de la superficie (Ra) y el color (ΔE*) se midieron después del pulido (T0), el blanqueo (T1), la inmersión en jugo de acai (T2) y la aplicación de polvo de NaHCO3 (T3) utilizando un perfilómetro y un espectrofotómetro. Resultados: Los análisis estadísticos (análisis de varianza y prueba de Tukey, p≤0.05) revelaron que en relación al color hubo significancia estadística para los factores en forma aislada, excepto para el factor blanqueamiento. Tanto para el color como para la rugosidad de la superficie hubo una diferencia estadísticamente significativa para la interacción, excepto para la interacción entre el poder de NaHCO3 y el blanqueo. Conclusión: El pulido al aire con polvo de NaHCO3 disminuye el manchado de la resina compuesta; sin embargo, aumenta la rugosidad de la superficie. Con respecto a la variable color, el factor de blanqueamiento no tuvo efecto significativo sobre el material ensayado; sin embargo, aumenta la rugosidad de la superficie.

Effect of açai supplementation (Euterpe Oleracea Mart) associated with exercise in animals and human: a scoping review / Efeitos da suplementação com açaí (Euterpe Oleracea Mart) associada ao exercício físico em animais e humanos: revisão de escopo

ABSTRACT Objective This scoping review aimed to map evidence on açai supplementation combined with exercise in animal and/or human experimental studies. Methods The search considered six electronic databases and screening of relevant references. The selection process and data extraction were performed by two independent authors. The study characteristics, and AS (e.g., form, intervention time, amount ingested) and exercise (e.g., types, intensity, and duration) strategies were summarized, as well as their reported results. Results From an initial total of 342 studies identified; 11 (5 with animal and 6 with human models) were eligible. In animals, açai supplementation and exercise led to benefits in exercise tolerance and improvements in several hemodynamic parameters, as well as significant improvements in liver markers and glucose metabolism. In humans, açai supplementation indicated positive results in increasing exhaustion time to 90% of VO2max and increasing intensity at the anaerobic threshold. Conclusion We conclude that future research involving animals and humans should examine açai supplementation and exercise with (a) obesity models to test the effect of adiponectin on body composition with analysis of histological and histochemical parameters; (b) eccentric injury protocols with the incorporation of muscle quality variables to assess recovery; (c) chronic açai supplementation and strength training; (d) comparison of different forms of açai supplementation in exercise protocols.

RESUMO Objetivo Esta revisão de escopo teve como objetivo mapear evidências sobre a suplementação com açaí combinada com exercícios físicos em estudos experimentais em animais e / ou humanos. Métodos A busca considerou seis bases de dados eletrônicas além da triagem de referências relevantes. O processo de seleção e extração de dados foi realizado por dois autores independentes. As características do estudo, estratégias de suplementação de açaí (forma, tempo de intervenção, e quantidade ingerida) e exercícios (tipos, intensidade e duração), seus resultados foram resumidos. Resultados Um total de 342 estudos foram inicialmente alcançados e somente 11 foram elegíveis (5 com animais e 6 com humanos). Em animais, a suplementação de açaí e os exercícios indicaram benefícios na tolerância ao exercício e melhorias em vários parâmetros hemodinâmicos, bem como melhorias significativas nos marcadores hepáticos e no metabolismo da glicose. Em humanos, a suplementação de açaí indicou resultados positivos no aumento do tempo de exaustão para 90% do VO2máx e no aumento da intensidade correspondente ao limiar anaeróbio. Conclusão Concluiu-se que pesquisas futuras envolvendo animais e humanos devem examinar a suplementação de açaí e exercícios com (a) modelos de obesidade para testar o efeito da adiponectina na composição corporal por meio de parâmetros histológicos e histoquímicos (b) protocolos de dano muscular excêntrico com incorporação de variáveis de qualidade muscular para avaliação da recuperação; (c) suplementação crônica de açaí e treinamento de força; (d) comparação das diferentes formas de suplementação de açaí em protocolos de exercícios.

Análise da pigmentação de cerâmicas odontológicas submetidas a diferentes corantes / Analysis of the pigmentation of dentistry ceramics submitted to different dyes

Objetivo: É mérito deste estudo avaliar a pigmentação de cerâmicas odontológicassubmetidas a diferentes tratamentos de superfície e imersasem soluções corantes.Métodos: Foram confeccionadas 60 amostras de cerâmica, divididas em seis grupos. Os grupos G1, G2 e G3 receberam aplicação prévia de glaze, enquanto G4, G5 e G6 foram submetidos a desgastes e polimento. Os grupos foram mantidos em água destilada, açaí e café por um período de 30 dias. Foram realizadas fotografias digitais, seguidas da mensuração de cor da superfície com o programa mColorMeter, com base no sistema CIELab, antes da imersão, após 15 e 30 dias. Para avaliação quantitativa da variação de cor foi utilizada fórmula de ∆E, onde foram obtidos média e desvio padrão de cada grupo. Os dados foram submetidos à análise estatística ANOVA de dois fatores. Resultados: Após a realização da análise estatística, foram estabelecidos as médias e desvios-padrão para variância de cor (∆E) e foi constatado que não houve resultado estatisticamente significativo, em que p ≤ 0,05, para pigmentação em nenhum dos grupos de cerâmicas. Conclusão: Nesse contexto, infere-se que as substâncias café e açaí não promoveram alterações de cor significativas, bem como o glaze e o polimento mostraram-se igualmente eficientes na manutenção da estabilidade de cor das cerâmicas.

Aim: The present study sought to evaluate the pigmentation of dental ceramics submitted to different surface treatments and immersed in staining solutions. Methods: Sixty ceramic samples were manufactured and divided into six groups. Groups G1, G2, and G3 received a prior glaze application, while groups G4, G5, and G6 were submitted to wear and polishing. The groups were maintained in distilled water, açaí, and coffee for a period of 30 days. Digital photographs were taken, followed by color measurement of the surface with the mColorMeter program, based on system CIELab, before immersion, after 15 and 30 days. For quantitative evaluation of color variation, a formula from ∆E was used, where mean and standard deviation of each group were obtained. The data were submitted to ANOVA statistical analysis of two factors. Result: After the statistical analysis, the means and standard deviations for color variance (∆E) were established, and it was found that there were no statistically significant results, with p ≤ 0.05, for pigmentation in any of the groups of ceramics. Conclusion: Therefore, it can be inferred that coffee and açaí substances did not promote significant color changes. Glaze and polishing also proved equally efficient in maintaining the color stability of the ceramics.

Morphoagronomic and molecular characterization of Euterpe oleraceaaccessions from eastern Brazilian Amazon

Açaí (Euterpe oleraceaMart.) -a common tropical palm has high social, economic, and environmental importance in the Amazon region. In the light of increasing exploration to obtain the fruit and heart of this palms, comprehensive studies are warranted for conservation and genetic improvement. Here, we characterized açaí accessions using phenological, morphological, and agronomic descriptors and random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD)molecular markers for joint selection of accessions with greater productivity. Hundred accessions were analyzed using 18 morphoagronomic descriptors and 13 RAPD markers. The spathe and inflorescence emission phases during flowering and fruiting showed seasonality. Based on the coefficient of variation and mean squared error, the accessions exhibited high variability in the tested morphoagronomic descriptors and were distributed into seven groups. Fruit, seed, and pulp weights were important descriptors for the distinction of accessions and identification of those with greater productivity. The accessions presented >85% similarity, and 85 accessions, distributed in nine subgroups, could not be differentiated using RAPD markers. There was no correlation between grouping based on morphometric descriptors and RAPD markers. Panicle weight was 3.9-9.0 kg in 15 accessions and 100-fruit pulp weight was 35-50 g in six accessions. Therefore, accessions with high productivity could be selected.

Genetic diversity of Euterpe edulis martius based on fruit traits / Diversidade genética de Euterpe edulis martius com base em características de frutos

Juçara (Euterpe edulis Martius) is a palm species from the Atlantic Forest whose fruits are important as a source of food to several individuals from the fauna of the region. Despite its ecological importance, juçara is found in the list of endangered species, due to the fragmentation of the forests and the illegal extraction of the heart of palm. We aimed to evaluate the inter- and intra-populational genetic diversity of E. edulis based on fruit and seed traits in forest fragments of the Espírito Santo State in Brazil. The aim was to generate information to be used in E. edulis breeding programs, or in the delineation of more efficient management and reforestation strategies. The study was carried out in 20 forest fragments and 198 fruit plants were sampled. Positive genetic association was observed between the evaluated traits, with the longitudinal diameter of the fruit (LDF) and the seed mass (SM) greatly affecting fruit mass (FM). The existence of inter- and intra-populational genetic divergence was proved. The genetic divergence found in E. edulis suggests that there is genetic material that can be explored in breeding programs and this information may also contribute to management strategies that can increase the species genetic diversity

Juçara (Euterpe edulis Martius) é uma espécie de palmeira da Mata Atlântica, que é importante como fonte de alimento para vários indivíduos da fauna. Apesar de sua importância ecológica, juçara é encontrada na lista de espécies ameaçadas à extinção, devido à fragmentação florestal e à extração ilegal do palmito. Nós tivemos como objetivo avaliar a diversidade genética inter e intra populacional de E. edulis com base em caracteres de frutos e sementes, em fragmentos florestais do Estado do Espírito Santo no Brasil, com o objetivo de gerar informações a serem utilizadas nos programas de melhoramento de E. edulis ou na delimitação de estratégias de manejo e reflorestamento mais eficientes. O estudo foi realizado em 20 fragmentos florestais e 198 plantas frutíferas foram amostradas. Foi observada uma grande associação genética positiva entre os caracteres avaliados, com as características diâmetro longitudinal dos frutos (LDF) e massa de sementes (SM) apresentando efeitos maiores do que a massa característica da fruta (FM). A existência de divergência genética inter e intrapopulacional foi comprovada. A divergência genética encontrada neste trabalho para E. edulis sugere a presença de material genético que vale a pena ser explorado em programas de melhoramento e essa informação também pode contribuir com estratégias de manejo para aumentar a diversidade genética das espécies.

Preparing multicomponent snack bars based on tapioca flour, Brazil nut, and regional fruits / Preparación de barras multicomponentes a base de harina de tapioca, castaña de brasil y frutos regionales

ABSTRACT This study aimed to develop and assess the physicochemical, sensory parameters, and shelf life estimation of multicomponent snack bars based on tapioca flour, Brazil nut, and açaí or cupuassu pulp. The physicochemical composition of açaí- and cupuassu-flavored snack bars had, respectively, 0.92 and 0.99% ash, 19.22 and 17.02% lipids, 3.02 and 3.03% protein, 1.06 and 1.69% fiber, and 448 and 436 kcal/100 g energy value. The shear stress test showed the consumer needs to bite more strongly to break the açaí-flavored bar. The opposite was observed in the hardness test, in which the bite compression force during mastication was greater for the cupuassu-flavored bar. The bars had water activity below 0.6, which denotes microbiological stability. The sensory analysis ranked the bars between "liked slightly" and "liked very much," which was confirmed by the acceptability index above 75% for all attributes assessed. According to the results a significant increase in water activity over storage was observed suggest the packaging used in the tests did not present a satisfactory barrier to water vapor permeability. Only water activity was used to estimate shelf life, which was determined as 58 days and 49 days for the açaí- and cupuassu-flavored bars, respectively. Thus, the snack bars represent an alternative for athletes as well as individuals with celiac disease since they are gluten free.

RESUMEN El objetivo de este trabajo fue desarrollar y evaluar los parámetros físicos, físico-químicos, microbiológicos, sensoriales y la vida útil en estante de barras a base de harina de tapioca, castaña de Brasil y pulpa de açaí o cupuaçu. En cuanto a la composición físico-química, las barras multicomponentes sabor açaí y cupuaçu presentaron, respectivamente, 0,92 y 0,99% de cenizas, 19,22 y 17,02% de lípidos, 3,02 y 3,03% proteínas, 1,06 y 1,69% de fibras y 448 y 436 kcal/100g de valor energético. La prueba de cizallamiento y dureza mostraron que el consumidor necesita una fuerza de mordida mayor para romper la barra sabor açaí. El comportamiento contrario fue observado en la prueba de dureza donde la fuerza de compresión de la mordida, durante la masticación, fue mayor en la barra sabor cupuaçu. Para el análisis sensorial se observó que las barras evaluadas recibieron notas situadas entre las categorías "me gustó ligeramente" y "me gustó mucho", resultado comprobado por el índice de aceptabilidad con valores superiores al 75% para todos los atributos evaluados. De acuerdo con los resultados, se observó un aumento significativo en la actividad de agua durante el almacenamiento, lo que sugiere que el embalaje utilizado en las pruebas no presentó una barrera satisfactoria para la permeabilidad al vapor de agua. Para la estimación de vida de estante sólo la actividad de agua fue utilizada para los cálculos, siendo el tiempo de vida de estante determinado en 58 días para la barra sabor açaí y 49 días para la barra sabor cupuaçu. Así, las barras multicomponentes elaboradas representam una alternativa para atletas, así como para portadores de la enfermedad celíaca, visto la ausencia de gluten en su composición.

Euterpe Oleracea Mart. (Açaí) Reduces Oxidative Stress and Improves Energetic Metabolism in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats / Euterpe Oleracea Mart. (Açaí) Reduz o Estresse Oxidativo e Melhora o Metabolismo Energético da Lesão de Isquemia-Reperfusão Miocárdica Em Ratos

Abstract Background: Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí) is a fruit with high antioxidant capacity and could be an adjuvant strategy to attenuate ischemia-reperfusion injury. Objective: To evaluate the influence of açaí in global ischemia-reperfusion model in rats. Methods: Wistar rats were assigned to 2 groups: Control (C: receiving standard chow; n = 9) and Açaí (A: receiving standard chow supplemented with 5% açaí; n = 10). After six weeks, the animals were subjected to the global ischemia-reperfusion protocol and an isolated heart study to evaluate left ventricular function. Level of significance adopted: 5%. Results: There was no difference between the groups in initial body weight, final body weight and daily feed intake. Group A presented lower lipid hydroperoxide myocardial concentration and higher catalase activity, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase than group C. We also observed increased myocardial activity of b-hydroxyacyl coenzyme-A dehydrogenase, pyruvate dehydrogenase, citrate synthase, complex I, complex II and ATP synthase in the A group as well as lower activity of the lactate dehydrogenase and phosphofructokinase enzymes. The systolic function was similar between the groups, and the A group presented poorer diastolic function than the C group. We did not observe any difference between the groups in relation to myocardial infarction area, total and phosphorylated NF-kB, total and acetylated FOXO1, SIRT1 and Nrf-2 protein expression. Conclusion: despite improving energy metabolism and attenuating oxidative stress, açai supplementation did not decrease the infarcted area or improve left ventricular function in the global ischemia-reperfusion model.

Resumo Fundamento: Euterpe oleracea Mart. (açaí) é uma fruta com alta capacidade antioxidante e pode ser uma estratégia adjuvante para atenuar a lesão de isquemia-reperfusão. Objetivo: Avaliar a influência do açaí no modelo global de isquemia-reperfusão em ratos. Metodologia: Ratos Wistar foram divididos em 2 grupos: Controle (C: recebendo ração padrão; n = 9) e Açaí (A: recebendo ração padrão suplementada com 5% de açaí; n = 10). Após seis semanas, os animais foram submetidos ao protocolo global de isquemia-reperfusão e a estudo do coração isolado para avaliar a função ventricular esquerda. Nível de significância adotado: 5%. Resultados: Não houve diferença entre os grupos quanto ao peso corporal inicial e final, e a ingestão diária de ração. O grupo A apresentou menor concentração miocárdica de hidroperóxido lipídico e maior atividade de catalase, superóxido dismutase e glutationa peroxidase do que o grupo C. Também observamos aumento da atividade miocárdica da b-hidroxiacil coenzima-A desidrogenase, piruvato desidrogenase, citrato sintase, complexo I, complexo II e ATP sintase no grupo A, bem como menor atividade das enzimas lactato desidrogenase e fosfofructoquinase. A função sistólica foi semelhante entre os grupos, e o grupo A apresentou função diastólica pior que C. Não foram observadas diferenças entre os grupos em relação à área de infarto do miocárdio, e expressão proteica de NF-kB total e fosforilado, e das proteínas FOXO1, SIRT1 e Nrf-2. Conclusão: apesar de melhorar o metabolismo energético e atenuar o estresse oxidativo, a suplementação de açaí não diminuiu a área infartada nem melhorou a função ventricular esquerda no modelo global de isquemia-reperfusão.

Milk with Juçara (Euterpe edulis Martius) Pulp: Fermentation by L. reuteri LR92 and Reuterin Production in Situ

Abstract This study aimed to develop and evaluate fermented milk by Lactobacillus reuteri LR92 with addition of juçara pulp (FMJ) and reuterin production in situ. The fermentation process was analyzed for 24 hours and the storage of FMJ for 30 days at 4 °C. During the fermentation, there was consumption of 25% (w / v) of lactose and increase of 0.01 to 0.85% (w / v) of lactic acid. The FMJ presented 0.43 ± 0.01 mM of reuterin, inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus strains under in vitro test. For the carbohydrates, the percentages (g.100g-1) found were 7.31 ± 1.07; 9.19 ± 0.82; 1.60 ± 0.50 and 0.08 ± 0.00 for sucrose, lactose, galactose and fructose respectively. The survival of L. reuteri, present in FMJ, was 2.47 log CFU / mL after 6 hours of gastrointestinal simulation. In sensory analysis FMJ received a grade 7 for global acceptance indicating good acceptance of the product.