Morphophysiological changes of Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) saplings under shade gradient / Alterações morfofisiológicas em mudas de Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) sob gradiente de sombreamento

Abstract Understanding morphological and physiological changes under different light conditions in native fruit species in juveniles' stage is important, as it indicate the appropriate environment to achieve vigorous saplings. We aimed to verify growth and morphophysiological changes under shade gradient in feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) to achieve good quality saplings adequate to improve cultivation in orchards. The saplings were grown for twenty-one-month under four shading treatments (0%, 30%, 50%, and 80%). Growth, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchanges, chlorophyll fluorescence, and leaf anatomy parameters were evaluated. Saplings under full sun and 30% shade had higher height and diameter growth and dry mass accumulation due to higher photosynthesis rate. As main acclimatization mechanisms in feijoa saplings under 80% shade were developed larger leaf area, reduced leaf blade thickness, and enhanced quantum yield of photosystem II. Even so, the net CO2 assimilation and the electron transport rate was lower and, consequently, there was a restriction on the growth and dry mass in saplings under deep shade. Therefore, to obtain higher quality feijoa saplings, we recommend that it be carried out in full sun or up to 30% shade, to maximize the sapling vigor in nurseries and, later, this light environment can also be used in orchards for favor growth and fruit production.

Resumo A verificação de mudanças morfológicas e fisiológicas sob diferentes condições luminosas em espécies frutíferas nativas em estágio juvenil é importante, uma vez que indicam o ambiente adequado para a formação de mudas com alto vigor. Objetivou-se verificar o crescimento e as alterações morfofisiológicas sob gradiente de sombreamento em mudas de feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) para obter mudas de boa qualidade, adequadas para fomentar os plantios da espécie em pomares. As mudas foram cultivadas por vinte e um meses sob quatro tratamentos de sombreamento (0%, 30%, 50% e 80%). Foram avaliados parâmetros de crescimento, pigmentos fotossintéticos, trocas gasosas, fluorescência da clorofila e anatomia foliar. Mudas a pleno sol e 30% de sombra apresentaram maior crescimento em altura, diâmetro e acúmulo de massa seca, devido à maior taxa de fotossíntese. Como principais mecanismos de aclimatação sob 80% de sombra, as mudas desenvolveram maior área foliar, redução da espessura do limbo foliar e aumento do rendimento quântico do fotossistema II. Mesmo assim, a assimilação líquida de CO2 e a taxa de transporte de elétrons foram menores e, consequentemente, houve restrição ao crescimento e acúmulo de massa seca das mudas no maior nível de sombreamento. Portanto, para a obtenção de mudas de feijoa de maior qualidade, recomendamos que seja realizada a pleno sol ou até 30% de sombra, para maximizar o vigor das mudas em viveiros e, posteriormente, este ambiente de luz também pode ser utilizado em pomares para favorecer o crescimento e a produção de frutos.

Responses of tomato hybrid cultivars to soil application of humic acid under greenhouse conditions

Abstract Responses of three tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) hybrids viz. 'Luanova', 'Savarona' and 'Tessera' to various doses (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 g L-1) of soil application of humic acid (HA) were evaluated in terms of plant growth, productivity and quality of fruits, under greenhouse conditions, during 2011-12 and 2012-13. In addition to improved quality characteristics, higher values for yield and yield components were recorded for tomato fruits harvested from plants of 'Tessera' cultivar compared to those harvested from other hybrids tested, regardless of growing seasons. Plants from 'Luanova' cultivar were, however, earlier in fruiting with higher number of fruits per plant. Soil application of HA presented positive effects on yield and physicochemical quality of tomato fruits irrespective of the dose of HA and the cultivar investigated, in both seasons. Soil application of HA at higher dose 1.5 g L-1 exhibited better results in all the three tomato cultivars tested, in terms of their vegetative and reproductive growth, and significantly improved the physicochemical quality of their fruits. Conclusively, the tomato hybrid 'Tessera' was found suitable for cultivation under greenhouse conditions while soil application of aqueous solution of HA @ 1.5 g L-1 substantially resulted in higher production of quality tomato fruits.

Resumo Respostas de três híbridos de tomate (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) viz. 'Luanova', 'Savarona' e 'Tessera' para várias doses (0, 0,5, 1,0, 1,5 e 2,0 g L-1) de aplicação de ácido húmico (AH) no solo foram avaliadas em termos de crescimento da planta, produtividade e qualidade de frutas, em casa de vegetação, durante 2011-12 e 2012-13. Além das características de qualidade melhoradas, valores mais elevados para o rendimento e os componentes do rendimento foram registrados para frutos de tomate colhidos de plantas do cultivar 'Tessera' em comparação com aqueles colhidos de outros híbridos testados, independentemente das estações de cultivo. As plantas do cultivar 'Luanova', no entanto, frutificaram mais cedo com maior número de frutos por planta. A aplicação de AH no solo apresentou efeitos positivos sobre a produtividade e a qualidade físico-química dos frutos de tomate, independentemente da dose de AH e do cultivar investigado, nas duas safras. A aplicação de HA no solo na dose maior de 1,5 g L-1 apresentou melhores resultados nos três cultivares de tomate testados, quanto ao crescimento vegetativo e reprodutivo, e melhorou significativamente a qualidade físico-química dos frutos. Conclusivamente, o híbrido de tomate 'Tessera' foi considerado adequado para cultivo em casa de vegetação, enquanto a aplicação no solo de solução aquosa de HA @ 1,5 g L-1 resultou substancialmente em maior produção de frutos de tomate de qualidade.

Morphophysiological changes of Acca sellowiana (Myrtaceae: Myrtoideae) saplings under shade gradient

Abstract Understanding morphological and physiological changes under different light conditions in native fruit species in juveniles stage is important, as it indicate the appropriate environment to achieve vigorous saplings. We aimed to verify growth and morphophysiological changes under shade gradient in feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) to achieve good quality saplings adequate to improve cultivation in orchards. The saplings were grown for twenty-one-month under four shading treatments (0%, 30%, 50%, and 80%). Growth, photosynthetic pigments, gas exchanges, chlorophyll fluorescence, and leaf anatomy parameters were evaluated. Saplings under full sun and 30% shade had higher height and diameter growth and dry mass accumulation due to higher photosynthesis rate. As main acclimatization mechanisms in feijoa saplings under 80% shade were developed larger leaf area, reduced leaf blade thickness, and enhanced quantum yield of photosystem II. Even so, the net CO2 assimilation and the electron transport rate was lower and, consequently, there was a restriction on the growth and dry mass in saplings under deep shade. Therefore, to obtain higher quality feijoa saplings, we recommend that it be carried out in full sun or up to 30% shade, to maximize the sapling vigor in nurseries and, later, this light environment can also be used in orchards for favor growth and fruit production.

Resumo A verificação de mudanças morfológicas e fisiológicas sob diferentes condições luminosas em espécies frutíferas nativas em estágio juvenil é importante, uma vez que indicam o ambiente adequado para a formação de mudas com alto vigor. Objetivou-se verificar o crescimento e as alterações morfofisiológicas sob gradiente de sombreamento em mudas de feijoa (Acca sellowiana (O. Berg) Burret) para obter mudas de boa qualidade, adequadas para fomentar os plantios da espécie em pomares. As mudas foram cultivadas por vinte e um meses sob quatro tratamentos de sombreamento (0%, 30%, 50% e 80%). Foram avaliados parâmetros de crescimento, pigmentos fotossintéticos, trocas gasosas, fluorescência da clorofila e anatomia foliar. Mudas a pleno sol e 30% de sombra apresentaram maior crescimento em altura, diâmetro e acúmulo de massa seca, devido à maior taxa de fotossíntese. Como principais mecanismos de aclimatação sob 80% de sombra, as mudas desenvolveram maior área foliar, redução da espessura do limbo foliar e aumento do rendimento quântico do fotossistema II. Mesmo assim, a assimilação líquida de CO2 e a taxa de transporte de elétrons foram menores e, consequentemente, houve restrição ao crescimento e acúmulo de massa seca das mudas no maior nível de sombreamento. Portanto, para a obtenção de mudas de feijoa de maior qualidade, recomendamos que seja realizada a pleno sol ou até 30% de sombra, para maximizar o vigor das mudas em viveiros e, posteriormente, este ambiente de luz também pode ser utilizado em pomares para favorecer o crescimento e a produção de frutos.

Factors associated with the consumption of fruits and vegetables in latin american university students

Objective: Explore the association between compliance with recommended consumption (5-a-day) of fruits and vegetables (F&V) with sociodemographic factors of university students of Latin America. Subjects: We conducted an analytical cross-sectional study in which 4,880 university students from 10 Latin American countries completed a self-administered online survey. Methods: F&V consumption and other sociodemographic variables were measured according to a validated survey. Body mass index was self-reported. Ordinal logistic regression models were applied. Results: Regarding the consumption of F&V, 4.7% of men complied with the recommendation, while in women this value reached 7.7%. In the adjusted model, having a normal weight (OR= 0.59; 95% CI 0.44-0.7; p=<0.001), being female (OR= 0.67; 95% CI 0.49-0.89; p=<0.01), being enrolled in a health-related degree program (OR= 0,60; IC95% 0,45-0,78; p<0.001), having professional parents (OR= 0.75; 95% CI 0.60-0.95; p=<0.05) and practicing physical activity (OR= 0.34; 95% CI 0.27-0.42; p=<0.001) were associated with compliance to F&V consumption recommendations. In the analysis by country, physical activity was the variable most associated with F&V consumption. Conclusion: We observed a low consumption of F&V in university students. The variables associated with compliance to the F&V recommendation were being normal weight, female, being enrolled in a health-related degree program, having professional parents, and practicing physical activity, the latter being the most important variable.

Objetivo: Explorar la asociación de la frecuencia de cumplimiento de las recomendaciones de consumo (5 al día) de frutas y verduras (F&V) con factores sociodemográficos de estudiantes universitarios de América Latina. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio transversal analítico con 4.880 estudiantes universitarios de 10 países de América Latina, quienes completaron una encuesta en línea autoadministrada. Se midió el consumo de F&V y otras variables sociodemográficas según una encuesta previamente validada. El índice de masa corporal fue autoinformado. Se aplicaron modelos de regresión logística ordinal. Resultados: En cuanto al consumo de F&V, en los hombres el 4,7% cumple con la recomendación, mientras que en las mujeres este valor alcanza el 7,7%. En el modelo más ajustado, presentar normopeso (OR= 0,59; IC 95% 0,44-0,7; p=<0,001), ser mujer (OR= 0,67; IC 95% 0,49-0,89; p=<0,01), estar matriculado en carrera relacionada con la salud (OR= 0,60; IC95% 0,45-0,78; p<0,001), tener padres profesionales (OR= 0,75; IC 95% 0,60-0,95; p=<0,05) y realizar actividad física (OR= 0,34; IC 95% 0,27-0,42; p=<0,001) fueron las variables asociadas al cumplimiento del consumo de F&V. En el análisis por país, la actividad física fue la variable más asociada al consumo de F&V. Conclusión: Se observa un bajo consumo de F&V en estudiantes universitarios, y entre las variables asociadas al cumplimiento de la recomendación de F&V se encuentran estar normopeso, sexo femenino, estar cursando una carrera relacionada con la salud, tener los padres y la práctica de actividad física, siendo esta última la variable más importante.

Intake of Fruits and Vegetables as Self Prescribed Weight Reducing and DASH Diets among Obese-Hypertensive Individuals Attending Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital Irrua, Edo State, Nigeria

Background: Five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, along with relatively unprocessed whole grains or legumes with each meal, are essential for reducing the risk of obesity, hypertension and other related non communicable diseases. While being low or relatively low in calories, fruits and vegetables include a large amount of dietary fiber and a range of micronutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals which are all essential for health. Aims: To investigate the intake of fruits and vegetables as self prescribed weight reducing and DASH (Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension) diets among obese - hypertensive individuals attending Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital Irrua, Edo State. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study design was used with a sample size of 440 obese hypertensive individuals (with body mass index of = or > 30Kg/m2 and blood pressure of = or > 140/90mmHg). Questionnaires, personal interviews and anthropometric measurements were used to collect data using purposive sampling technique. Data collected were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM SPSS) 22 Version. Results: A total of 440 respondents were used in the study and data were elicited from all of this number giving a 100% response rate. A total of 242 (55.0%) and 215 (48.9%) of the respondents consumed fruits and vegetables only one to two days per week with only 36 (8.2%) and 26 (5.9%) consuming fruits and vegetables every day. Conclusion: It can be concluded based on the key findings of this study that there is statistically significant mean difference in fruits and vegetables consumption amongst obese - hypertensive individuals attending Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, Nigeria (p<0.05).

Determinación social del consumo de frutas y verduras en Florida (Valle del Cauca, Colombia) / Social Determinants of Fruit and Vegetable Consumption in Florida, Valle del Cauca ­ Colombia / Determinação social do consumo de frutas e verduras na Flórida, Valle del Cauca, Colômbia

Introducción: el consumo de frutas y verduras como proceso protector de la salud se ha analizado principalmente desde la perspectiva de los estilos de vida individuales; sin embargo, procesos de tipo estructural como los modelos de producción de alimentos y las políticas de alimentación determinan su producción, disponibilidad y acceso. Se planteó como objetivo analizar los procesos de determinación social del con- sumo de frutas y verduras en el municipio de Florida (Valle del Cauca, Colombia). Materiales y métodos: estudio cualitativo, tipo estudio de caso, con enfoque de determinación social. Incluyó revisión documental de políticas alimentarias y grupos de discusión con actores clave; el análisis de contenido permitió explicitar mensajes y discursos. Resultados: en la dimensión general, resaltan como procesos críticos de determinación, que limitan la producción y el acceso de frutas y verduras, el uso y tenencia inequitativa de la tierra y la explotación de las fuentes hídricas, y unas políticas que desde la lógica de libre mercado reducen cada vez más las estrategias locales de autosostenimiento y autoconsumo. En la dimensión particular, el conflicto armado (como proceso crítico adverso) y los ejercicios de soberanía alimentaria (como proceso crítico favorable al consumo de frutas y verduras). Conclusiones: la política alimentaria nacional y local reconoce, de manera discursiva, las determinaciones sociales de la seguridad alimentaria, pero en la práctica privilegia estrategias focalizadas y contingentes que no apuntan a la solución de condiciones estructurales que limitan la producción, disponibilidad, acceso y, por ende, el consumo de frutas y verduras

Introduction: Fruit and vegetable consumption as a preventive health measure depends mainly on the perspective of individual lifestyle. The structural processes such as food production models and food policies determine their production, availability, and access. This study aimed to analyze the social determinants of fruit and vegetable consumption in the municipality of Florida, Valle del Cauca, Colombia. Materials and Methods: This is a qualitative case study using a social determination approach. This study includes a documentary review of food policies and discussion groups among key stakeholders. A content analysis was conducted to allow an explicit analysis of the messages and speeches. Results: In the general dimension, deemed as critical processes of determination, the unequal use and possession of land and the exploitation of water sources and policies, from the logic of the free market, increasingly reduce the local strategies for self-support and self-consumption and limit the production and access of fruits and vegetables. In the particular dimension, a critical adverse process includes the armed conflict. However, the exercise of food sovereignty favors the consumption of fruits and vegetables. Conclusion: Food policy at the national and local level discursively recognizes the social determinants of food security; however, in practice, contingent strategies that do not aim at addressing the structural conditions that limit produc- tion, availability, access and, therefore, the consumption of fruits and vegetables, should be evaluated.

Introdução: o consumo de frutas e verduras como processo de proteção à saúde tem sido analisado principalmente na perspectiva dos estilos de vida individuais, porém processos estruturais como modelos de produção de alimentos e políticas alimentares determinam sua produção, disponibilidade e acesso; o objetivo do estudo foi analisar os processos de determinação social do consumo de frutas e verduras no município da Flórida, Valle del Cauca, Colômbia. Materiais e métodos: estudo qualitativo, do tipo estudo de caso, com enfoque na determinação social; incluiu uma revisão documental de políticas alimentares e grupos de discussão com atores-chave; a análise de conteúdo permitiu explicitar mensagens e discursos. Resultados: na dimensão geral, destacam-se o uso e posse desigual da terra e a exploração dos recursos hídricos como processos determinantes críticos que limitam a produção e o acesso a frutas e verduras; e políticas que, baseadas na lógica do livre mercado, reduzem cada vez mais as estratégias locais de autossustentabilidade e autoconsumo. Na dimensão particular, destaca-se o conflito armado como processo crítico adverso, e o exercício da soberania alimentar, como processo crítico favorável ao consumo de frutas e verduras. Conclusões: a política alimentar a nível nacional e local reconhece, de forma discursiva, as determinações sociais da segurança alimentar, mas na prática privilegia estratégias focalizadas e contingentes que não visam resolver condições estruturais que limitam a produção, a disponibilidade, o acesso e, portanto, o consumo de frutas e verduras.

Assessment of Spoilage and Pathogenic Bacteria in Selected Fruits and Vegetables from Retail Sources and Home-gardens

Consumption of fruits and vegetables which are known to be highly nutritious has been linked to foodborne disease outbreaks which constitute food safety and public concern. This study aimed to assess the safety of selected fruits and vegetables from fruit markets and home gardens, within the South-West region of Nigeria. A total of fifty-three (53) samples of watermelon, cucumber, tomatoes and garden eggs were collected and subjected to microbiological analysis. Isolated bacteria were screened for their pathogenicity and spoilage potential using haemolysis and amylase production tests respectively. A total of 146 bacteria were isolated, 75 (45.7%) were from retail samples and 71 (43.3%) from the home garden. The genera: Bacillus (15.9%), Corynebacterium (11.0%), Lactobacillus (1.2%), Listeria (1.8%), Staphylococcus (12.8%), Enterococcus (1.2%), Micrococcus (1.2%), Acinetobacter (3.7%), Aeromonas (2.4%), Alcaligenes (0.6%), Brucella (0.6%), Vibrio (0.6%), and the family Enterobacteriaceae (36.0%) were identified. Isolates with haemolytic potentials were 51 (31%) while 49 (30%) could cause spoilage. The overall microbiological quality and safety of fruit and vegetable samples analysed in this study is low, as they were contaminated by diverse pathogenic, and spoilage microorganisms. The presence of these pathogens in retailed and home garden fruits and vegetables is a pointer to public health risks and food safety threats. Hence, the need for improved hygienic practice through training handlers along the supply chain.

Enumeration of Salmonella Species Isolated in Ready–to–Eat Fruits Vended in Bukuru Market, Jos South, Plateau State

Background: Despite control measures to curtailed salmonella fruit contamination over the years, pathogenic disease outbreaks caused by the ingestion of Salmonella contaminated fresh-cut-fruits pose a significant problem to human health by the consumption of fresh and minimally processed fruits. This study aimed to enumerate and determine the prevalence of Salmonella species isolated in ready-to-eat fruits vended in Bukuru Market Jos South, Plateau state. Methodology: A total of seventy-eight ready-to-eat vended fruit samples were purchased and cultured for the enumeration of bacterial isolates according to National Food Safety Standard for Microbiological Examination. Pulp pH value of each fruit was obtained by immersing litmus paper into the pulp and results recorded. Results: Of the 78 fruits specimen, 22 (28.2%) were Salmonella positive. The prevalence rates of salmonella isolated were found to be higher (22.7%) in both coconut and avocado followed by watermelon (18.2%) and sweetmelon (13.6%) as compared with other fruits in the study area. Lower rates of 4.5% were found in banana, pawpaw, and dates with a rise in apple with 9.1% respectively. Conclusion: The study showed a high p<0.05 (7.811) prevalence of pathogenic Salmonella species isolated in ready-to-eat fruits in the study area revealing that the spread of salmonella is not independent of fruits thereby suggestive of contamination made available by fruit vendors in this part of the world. Thus, epidemiological traceability and significant measures must be taken to check the safety of these vended products before consumption.

O fruto proibido, um caso de alergia oral / The forbidden fruit, a case of oral allergy

Trinta a 60% das alergias alimentares em adolescentes e adultos são associadas à alergia ao pólen e estão incluídas na síndrome pólen-frutas (SPF). Esta síndrome é caracterizada por sintomas alérgicos provocados pela ingestão de frutas ou vegetais frescos em pacientes com rinite/rinoconjuntivite alérgica sazonal. Os autores apresentam o caso clínico de um adolescente que após sensibilização primária através de pólens de gramíneas e oliveira manifestou posteriormente, por reatividade cruzada, sintomas de alergia oral com a ingestão de frutas frescas. Após recurso ao método de diagnóstico Immuno-Solid-Phase Allergen Chip (ISAC) verificou-se que as profilinas foram as proteínas responsáveis pela reatividade cruzada.

In adolescents and adults, 30% to 60% of food allergies are associated with pollen allergy and are included in the pollen-food syndrome (PFS). This syndrome is characterized by allergic symptoms elicited by the ingestion of fresh fruits or vegetables in patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis/rhinoconjunctivitis. The authors present the clinical case of an adolescent who, after primary sensitization to grass and olive tree pollens, subsequently manifested by cross-reactivity symptoms of oral allergy with the ingestion of fresh fruit. After diagnostic workup with the Immuno- Solid-phase Allergen Chip (ISAC) assay, profilins were identified as the proteins responsible for the cross-reactivity.

Psychosocial aspects related to fruit and vegetable consumption in adolescents / Aspectos psicossociais relacionados ao consumo de frutas e hortaliças em adolescentes

Abstract This study aimed at assessing the association between psychosocial aspects and fruit and vegetable consumption in adolescents. Cross-sectional study developed with 327 adolescents from a public school in Brazil. A questionnaire developed for adolescents was applied to assess the influence of self-efficacy, family, peers, and body image on the consumption of fruits and vegetables. Specific questions assessed the intake frequency of fruits and vegetables, and the mean consumption was estimated using two 24-hour recalls. Scores related to psychosocial aspects were described as mean and median and the weight status was classified based on the body mass index. The average daily consumption of fruits and vegetables was 36.2 g and 45.4 g, respectively. Self-efficacy and the influence of peers were associated with an increase in the amount and frequency of fruits and vegetables consumption. Adolescents with higher scores of self-efficacy had greater average consumption of fruits and vegetables when compared to those with lower scores. The same was observed for the influence of peers. Self-efficacy and the influence of peers were the factors that most influenced the consumption of fruits and vegetables in adolescents.

Resumo O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar a associação entre aspectos psicossociais e o consumo de frutas e hortaliças em adolescentes. Estudo transversal desenvolvido com 327 adolescentes de uma escola pública do Brasil. Um questionário desenvolvido para adolescentes foi aplicado para avaliar a influência da autoeficácia, família, pares e imagem corporal sobre o consumo de frutas e hortaliças. Questões específicas avaliaram a frequência de ingestão de frutas e hortaliças e o consumo foi estimado por meio de dois recordatórios de 24 horas. Os escores relacionados aos aspectos psicossociais foram descritos por média e mediana e a condição de peso foi classificada com base no índice de massa corporal. O consumo diário médio de frutas e hortaliças foi de 36,2 g e 45,4 g, respectivamente. A autoeficácia e a influência dos pares associaram-se ao aumento da quantidade e da frequência de consumo de frutas e hortaliças. Os adolescentes com maiores valores no escore para autoeficácia apresentaram maior média de consumo de frutas e hortaliças quando comparados àqueles com menores escores. O mesmo foi observado para a influência dos pares. A autoeficácia e a influência dos pares foram os fatores que mais influenciaram o consumo de frutas e hortaliças em adolescentes.

Antibacterial Activities of Extracts from four Wild Food Fruits

Aims: This study aimed to assess the in vitro antibacterial effects of extracts from four wild food fruits: Balanites aegyptiaca, Saba senegalensis, Ziziphus mauritiana, and Raphia sudanica. Place and Duration of Study: The samples of plant material were collected at Banamba and Sikasso, Mali between January and May 2018. The bacterial strains were collected at Research Centre for Biological Food and Nutritional Sciences (CRSBAN), University Professor Joseph Ki-Zerbo; Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso. The experimental parts were also carried out at CRSBAN from October 2019 to January 2020. Methodology: The fruit extracts were screened for antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, S. aureus, B. cereus, and L. monocytogenes strains. The diameters of the inhibition zones (ID), the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) as well as the minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) were evaluated using agar diffusion method. Results: The findings revealed that these parameters have varied as a function of fruit species and/or their zones of provenances. All fruit extracts showed significant growth reducing effect against all the tested bacteria. The extracts from R. sudanica have exhibited the strongest growth-inhibiting activity specifically against E. coli (ID = 15.33±0.58 mm) and Salmonella typhi (ID = 18.00±1.00 mm) with lower MIC (from 2.08±1.44 to 5.83±1.44 mg/mL). Moreover, the MBC/MIC ratios revealed that the extracts from the studied fruits possess mainly bacteriostatic effects towards the tested strains. Conclusion: These findings support local therapeutics properties attributed to these fruits. They also demonstrate that, in addition to their nutritional values, these edible fruits could be used for developing antibiotics to treat infectious diseases and food poisoning.

Preliminary study on the material basis for expectorant and cough relief effects of the fruits of Phellodendron chinense var. glabriusulum Schneid / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To explore the material basis and mechanism of expectorant and cough relief effects of the fruits of Phellodendron chinense var. glabriusulum Schneid. METHODS The expectorant and cough relief effects of volatile oil and water decoction of the fruits of P. chinense var. glabriusulum Schneid. were studied by ammonia water cough induction and drug expectorant model mice experiments； GC-MS and UPLC-MS technologies were used to identify its volatile oils and non-volatile components of the fruits of P. chinense var. glabriusulum Schneid. The active ingredients， core targets and pathways of expectoration and cough relief were analyzed by network pharmacology. RESULTS The volatile oil （0.8， 0.2 g/kg， calculated by volatile oil） and water decoction （12， 3 g/kg， calculated by crude drug） of the fruits of P. chinense var. glabriusulum Schneid. both had obvious expectorant and cough relief effects， and showed obvious dose-dependent relationship. A total of 38 volatile oil components were identified from the medicinal herbs， and the relative percentage contents of 8 components were greater than 1%， such as α -pinene， myrcene， β -caryophyllene， germanene D， isospathulenol； a total of 69 non-volatile oil components were identified， mainly including phenolic compounds， alkaloids， and flavonoids. The active ingredients screened from the identified components included 13 compounds such as α-pinene， myrcene， chlorogenic acid， luteolin， berberine. There were a total of 55 intersection targets with diseases， and the core targets were tumor necrosis factor （TNF）， epidermal growth factor receptor （EGFR）， vascular endothelial growth factor A （VEGFA）， serine/threonine kinase proteins （AKT1） and Toll-like receptor 4 （TLR4）. The molecular docking results showed that the active ingredients and the core targets had good binding ability. GO functional analysis found that the targets were significantly enriched in biological processes such as the reaction affecting lipopolysaccharides， the positive regulation of peptidyl serine phosphorylation， and the positive regulation of the biosynthesis process of nitric oxide. KEGG pathway enrichment analysis found that the targets were significantly enriched in the signaling pathways such as cancer， non-small cell lung cancer， proteoglycans in cancer. CONCLUSIONS Fruits of P. chinense var. glabriusulum Schneid. have obvious expectorant and cough relief effects， and its material basis may be α-pinene， myrcene， chlorogenic acid， luteolin， berberine， etc.， and mainly act on TNF， EGFR， VEGFA， AKT1， TLR4 and its significantly enriched signaling pathway.

Chemical constituents from fruits of Morinda citrifolia and their inhibitory effects on proliferation of synoviocytes in vitro / 中国中药杂志

The chemical constituents from the fruits of Morinda citrifolia were systematically explored by chromatographic fractionation methods including silica gel, octadecylsilyl(ODS) gel, Sephadex LH-20 gel, and preparative high performance liquid chromatography(pre-HPLC). The chemical structures of all isolated compounds were identified on the basis of their physicochemical properties, spectroscopic analyses, as well as the comparisons of their physicochemical and spectroscopic data with the reported data in literature. As a result, 22 isolated compounds from the 90% ethanol extract of the fruits of M. citrifolia were identified, which were moricitritone(1), 2'-deoxythymidine(2), cyclo-(L-Pro-L-Tyr)(3), methyl-5-hydroxy-2-pyridinecarboxylate(4), methyl pyroglutamate(5), bisbenzopyran(6), epipinoresinol(7), 3, 3'-bisdemethyl pinoresinol(8), 3, 3'-bisdemethyltanegool(9), trimesic acid(10), crypticin B(11), kojic acid(12), vanillic acid(13), protocatechoic acid(14), 5-hydroxymethyl furfural(15), blumenol A(16), 1-O-(9Z, 12Z-octadecadienoyl) glycerol(17), mucic acid dimethylester(18), methyl 2-O-β-D-glucopyranosylbenzoate(19), 2-phenylethyl-O-β-D-glucoside(20), scopoletin(21), and quercetin(22). Among them, compound 1 was a new pyrone derivative, compounds 2, 4-7, 10-12, and 17 were isolated from the plants belonging to Morinda genus for the first time, and compound 18 was obtained from M. citrifolia for the first time. Moreover, on the basis of testing the activities of all isolated compounds on inhibiting the proliferation of synovial fibroblasts in vitro by MTS assay, the anti-rheumatoid arthritis activities of all isolated compounds were initially evaluated. The results showed that compounds 1-6, 9, 19, and 20 exhibited remarkable anti-rheumatoid arthritis activities, which displayed the inhibitory effects on the proliferation of MH7A synovial fibroblast cells with the IC_(50) values in the range of(3.69±0.08) to(168.96±0.98) μmol·L~(-1).

Phytochemical Analysis and Evaluation of Antifungal and Antioxidant Activities of Essential Oil of Fruits from Juniperus oxycedrus L. Obtained from Morocco

Abstract The present study was aimed at conducting phytochemical analysis and evaluating the in vitro antifungal and antioxidant activities of the essential oil obtained from the fruits of J. oxycedrus L. Hydro-distillation was used to extract the essential oil from the fruits of Juniper oxycedrus. The essential oil was analyzed using gas chromatography with a flame ionization detector (GC-FID) and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The antioxidant activity of the essential oil against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals was determined in vitro using varying concentrations of the essential oil and vitamin C as a standard antioxidant compound. A disc diffusion test was employed to evaluate the antifungal activity of the essential oil against two test fungal strains, Penicillium citrinum, and Aspergillus niger. The results revealed that 49 constituents were identified in fruit oil, representing 91.56% of the total oil and the yield was 1.58%. Juniper fruit oil was characterized by having high contents of ß-pinene (42.04%), followed by limonene (15.45%), sabinene (9.52%), α-pinene (5.21%), (E)-caryophyllene (3.77%), ρ-cymene (1.56%), caryophyllene oxide (2.02%), and myrcene (1.02%). The radical scavenging activity (% inhibition) of the essential oil was highest (81.87± 2.83%) at a concentration of 200 µg/mL. The essential oil of J. oxycedrus exhibited antifungal activity against A. niger and P. citrinum with minimum inhibitory concentration values (MIC) ranging from 2.89 to 85.01 µl/mL. The findings of the study reveal that the antioxidant and antifungal properties of J. oxycedrus essential oil and their chemical composition are significantly correlated

Variação da percepção do consumo de frutas em adolescentes: um ensaio comunitário controlado randomizado em Duque de Caxias - RJ / Variation in Adolescent Fruit Consumption Perception: a randomized controlled community trial in Duque de Caxias - RJ

Resumo Introdução A autoavaliação do consumo é um dos fatores determinantes para adoção de uma alimentação adequada e saudável. Objetivo Avaliar o efeito de uma intervenção nutricional na percepção do consumo de frutas em adolescentes. Método Trata-se de um ensaio comunitário randomizado controlado de base escolar. A intervenção consistiu em ações integradas de prevenção primária (nas escolas) e secundária (nos domicílios). Os participantes foram classificados em otimistas e não otimistas em relação à percepção do consumo de frutas combinando duas variáveis: frequência de consumo e autoavaliação da quantidade consumida. O efeito da intervenção foi testado por modelo de regressão logística com efeitos aleatórios. Resultados A frequência de otimistas na linha de base foi 19,1% e 18,5% nos grupos controle e intervenção, e 17,5% e 17,6% pós-intervenção, respectivamente (p=0,743 para interação grupo*tempo, e p=0,802 no modelo ajustado pela cor da pele). A prevalência de otimistas foi maior entre os meninos, entre aqueles que avaliaram sua alimentação como excelente/muito boa, com menor frequência de consumo de refrigerante e de biscoito, e entre aqueles que relataram realizar café da manhã ou almoço com os pais nunca ou quase nunca. Conclusão Não houve efeito da intervenção na mudança de percepção quanto ao consumo de frutas.

Abstract Background Self-perception about food consumption plays an important role in moving toward a healthy diet. Objective To assess the effect of a nutritional intervention on the perception of fruit consumption in adolescents. Method A community-based randomized trial was carried out. The intervention consisted of integrated actions of primary prevention (at school) and secondary prevention (at home), both encouraging the participants to adopt healthy eating habits through playful activities. The participants were classified as either "optimistic" or "non-optimistic" according to their reported fruit consumption and self-perception about the amount of fruit consumption. The intervention effect was tested using random-effects logistic regression. Results The frequency of optimistic individuals at baseline was 19.1% and 18.5% in the control and intervention groups, and 17.5% and 17.6% at the end of the study (p = 0,743 for the group*time interaction and 0,802 when adjusted for race). The prevalence of optimism was higher in males, in participants who considered their overall diet quality very good or excellent, among those with the lowest frequency of soda and cookie consumption, and in participants who rarely reported sharing mealtime with their parents. Conclusion The school-based intervention did not affect the change in perception regarding fruit intake.

Effect of date palm cultivars on chemical and phytochemical properties of date vinegars

@#Introduction: Phoenix dactylifera, commonly known as date or date palm, is a flowering plant species in the palm family Arecaceae, cultivated for its edible sweet fruit called dates. Dates are high in dietary fibre and antioxidant compounds, known for preventing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This research studied the chemical properties, antioxidant activities, and total phenolic content of fermented date vinegars from Phoenix dactylifera L. fruits, which had three cultivars - Barhi, Siam S1, and KL1. Methods: The first step was making date wines by using Saccharomyces cerevisiae (0.75% v/v of date juice content) to produce alcohol; the second step was making date vinegars by using Acetobacter pasteurianus (10% v/v of inoculum). Thereafter, the wines and vinegars were analysed for their chemical properties [high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC)], antioxidant activities [2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay], and total phenolic content (folin ciocalteu method). Results: Results showed that the highest alcohol content was 9.35% (v/v) in Siam S1 wine. The highest acetic acid was 7% (v/v) in Siam S1 vinegar. From the phytochemical analysis of vinegars, the highest antioxidant activity was found to be 24.96 mg/mL in Siam S1 vinegar, while the highest total phenolic content was found to be 208.35 mg GAE/L in KL1 vinegar. Conclusion: This novel research showed that the Siam S1 date had the highest acetic acid and antioxidant activity in vinegar. Thus, this cultivar could be processed to make new, healthy products that can further lead to income generation for the people in Thailand.

Monitoring of foodborne pathogens in some ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables in Shanghai in 2021 / 上海预防医学

ObjectiveThe contamination of foodborne pathogens in ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables in Shanghai was analyzed to provide a scientific basis for food safety， risk assessment and related supervision. MethodsFrom June to September 2021， a total of 143 batches of12 kinds of ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables such as lettuce， chicory， and cherry tomatoes were collected from farmers’ markets， supermarkets， and e-commerce platforms. The total number of bacterial colonies， Salmonella， Listeria monocytogenes， Staphylococcus aureus， Cronobacter spp. and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli in the samples were tested according to National Food Contamination and Harmfulness Risk Monitoring Manual. ResultsAmong the 143 batches， foodborne pathogens were detected in 68 batches， with a total detection rate of 47.55% （68/143）. A total of 79 strains of foodborne pathogens were detected. The detection rate of Staphylococcus aureus was the highest （32.87%， 47/143）， followed by Cronobacter spp. （20.98%， 30/143）， Salmonella （0.70%， 1/143）， Listeria monocytogenes （0.70%， 1/143）， Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli （0.00%）. Furthermore， the detection rate was higher in different ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables： chicory （17.33%）， cucumber （17.14%）， cherry tomatoes （16.00%）， and honeydew melon （15.38%）， respectively. Meanwhile， the contamination rate of pathogens in ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables from farmers’ markets， supermarkets， and e-commerce platforms was relatively high. ConclusionReady-to-eat fruits and vegetables in Shanghai are contaminated by foodborne pathogens. The prevention and control of the contamination of post-harvest fruits and vegetables should be strengthened to reduce the risk of foodborne disease outbreaks.

A Critical Review on Physiological Changes during Growth Maturation and Ripening of Citrus Fruits

Citrus is one of the major fruit crops in the world and widely recognized by their nutritional, organoleptic and health-related benefits of fresh fruit. The genetic diversity among the genus and independent changes in peel and pulp, make the definition of standard maturity indexes of fruit quality. Commercial maturity indexes in the citrus industry are usually based on peel coloration, soluble solids, pH but their relevance may differ among varieties and the specific requirements of the markets. Citrus fruits are excellent source of many phytochemical, including ascorbic acid, antioxidant, tannin, etc., which greatly contribute to the health-related benefits of citrus fruits. Criteria and definition of the main maturity indexes for citrus fruit worldwide are described, as well as changes during fruit maturation in key components affecting organoleptic and nutritional properties. Citrus fruits were analyzed at different maturity stages. This review is aimed to characterize the physiological maturity of the fruit across the different developmental stage which has not been well reported in literature till now.

Pathogenicity of Fungi Isolated from Spoilt Sweet Oranges (Citrus sinensis) and from the Air in the Environment of the Orange Section of the Gamboru Market in Maiduguri, Nigeria

Aim: Though Oranges are very important crops for man both economically and in terms of nutrition, they have a short life span due to poor handling during harvesting, transporting, and storage. The ubiquitous nature of fungi makes them ready contaminants for these oranges especially when their skin is broken. The aim of this study is to isolate, identify and determine the pathogenicity of fungi responsible for spoilage in sweet oranges and investigate the presence of fungi in the air of the environment where these oranges are sold. Place and Duration of Study: Department of Microbiology Faculty of Science University of Maiduguri between September and October 2020. Methodology: A total of 100 samples of ripe oranges with signs of spoilage (n=100) were collected randomly from 10 selling points in the Gamboru fruit market in Maiduguri, Borno state of Nigeria, and analyzed for fungal isolates using morphometric techniques. Two mycological media Potato Dextrose Agar and Malt Extract Agar (PDA and MEA) were used for isolation, by deploying direct plating method. Petri dishes containing prepared PDA and MEA were also exposed to the air in the shops for some minutes. Morphometric analysis was carried out to identify the fungal isolates using macroscopic and microscopic observed features. Pathogenicity tests were carried out to ascertain the ability of these isolates to cause spoilage. Results: The results of the morphometric characterization revealed the presence of seven (Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus niger, and Penicillium oxalicum, Rhizopus oryzae, Cladiosporium sphaerospermum and Scopulariopsis brevicaulis) different fungi from the air and from the deteriorating oranges. Four of the isolates which were also positive for pathogenicity and observed to be responsible for causing spoilage in the oranges were also found to be the same as those isolated from the air, while three other organisms isolated from the air in the sales environment were not isolated from the spoilt oranges. Penicillium oxalicum was isolated from 41% of the oranges making it the most predominant organism causing spoilage in the oranges while Aspergillus fumigatus was isolated from only 10% of the samples. Conclusion: The findings of this study showed that fungal contaminants were responsible for the spoilage of oranges in this market and many of them were present in the air in the shops where these oranges were sold and stored leading to serious economic losses for both farmers and consumers.

Impact of Climate Change on Microbiological Hazards in Food and Drinking Water in Sweden

Objective and scope: To increase our knowledge on how climate change can affect microbiological food safety in Sweden, during this century, a risk profile was developed. The focus of the report is to identify existing and emerging microbiological hazards (pathogenic microorganisms and toxins) that may be of concern and may affect the safety of food and water consumed in Sweden. Specific issues addressed are how the different stages in the food chain can be affected, and which hazards are most relevant for different food groups. The report is based on published scientific literature and governmental reports. Climate change scenarios: Human emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases affect a range of climate-related factors and lead to changes beyond those natural variations that have always occurred. These climate changes are already evident and will, according to various scenarios, continue during the rest of the century. The scenario assessed in the report was RCP8.5. Globally, this means higher annual average temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, reduced access to freshwater in many regions, rising sea levels, and acidification of the oceans. In Sweden, the climate will become warmer compared to today, especially in winter. Rainfall will generally increase, mostly in winter and spring, especially in the northern parts of Sweden. In the southeastern part of the country, increased drought and water shortages are expected. Climate change is also expected to lead to more frequent extreme weather, for instance floods and heat waves. Impact on food safety: A changed climate will have several effects on the environment and society that can affect food safety. Examples of such effects are changing conditions for crop production, livestock production, infrastructure, energy supply, and water availability. Climate change can influence food safety in different ways and through different routes along the entire food chain. Much of the impact occurs at the first stage, primary production, and can then propagate in the rest of the chain. Two scenarios were highlighted in the report, both of which are relevant for all stages of the food chain, although they may be of varying importance depending on the stage and type of operation considered: The first scenario includes the impact on food safety due to a change in the normal conditions with higher average temperature, increased precipitation or drought, and milder winters. The second scenario includes an increased frequency of extreme events such as torrential rains, floods, and dry periods, with potential consequences such as power failures and other disruptions of infrastructure that can have a major impact on the food chain and, in turn, on food safety. Climate change adaptations: In order to address the challenges associated with new “normal conditions”, climate change adaptation is needed in the production chains of food and drinking water. The normal conditions in Sweden may become similar to the current situation in southern Europe. This description of the new potential situation in this scenario is useful for communication purposes, and gives the stakeholders an idea of what adaptation measures may be needed. Additionally, an increased preparedness is needed to prevent and manage extreme events in the second scenario that can lead to an increased occurrence of pathogens and toxins in the raw materials and in drinking and process water as well as to increased frequency of disturbances in infrastructure. To some extent, changed conditions in primary production can be addressed through the application of Good Agricultural Practice and/or certification standards. However, despite these frameworks, the challenges in this first stage of the food chain can be expected to be particularly high. It is more difficult to implement direct management measures here than at later stages of the food chain. There, HACCP-based procedures and PRPs such as good hygiene practices and good production practices have been used with good results. Microbiological hazards: Assessing the impact of climate change on microbiological hazards is complex. This is partly because the changes that will take place are interrelated and can affect our environment in several different ways. It is also due to the fact that the available studies on which the assessment is based vary greatly, both in terms of the hazards that are studied and in terms of scope and methodological designs. Bacteria that are likely to increase in the environment, water, animals, plants, and/or food raw materials due to a changing climate, and for which the level of evidence is considered high, are Bacillus anthracis, Francisella tularensis, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and Vibrio spp. Potentially, all food-borne viruses are expected to increase in occurrence due to climate change. However, the level of evidence is intermediate for noroviruses and low for hepatitis A virus and hepatitis E virus. Most parasites will potentially increase in occurrence due to climate change, but the level of evidence is low for most. For Cryptosporidium spp., Giardia intestinalis, and Toxoplasma gondii, the level of evidence is intermediate. Among the mycotoxins, it is estimated that all Fusarium toxins addressed (DON, T2/HT2, ZEN, and fumonisins) will increase, of which the evidence level is highest for DON and fumonisins. Further, aflatoxins are expected to increase with a high level of evidence. In addition to the microbiological hazards listed, several other species of bacteria, viruses, and parasites as well as types of mycotoxins are also considered likely to increase, but due to a lack of data and in some cases conflicting indications, these assessments are uncertain. None of the microbiological hazards discussed in the report have been assessed likely to decrease in occurrence due to climate change. However, it should be noted that some climatic factors may influence microbiological hazards in both positive and negative directions. At the local level, it may thus be the case that certain hazards that have been assessed as potentially increasing instead remain unchanged or even decrease in occurrence. The final outcome also depends on the effectiveness of measures taken to address the challenges of climate change. Microbiological hazards and food groups: The microbiological hazards increasing in importance due to a changing climate are likely to vary for different food groups. The pathogenic microorganisms and toxins judged potentially to increase in occurrence and of relevance in different food groups due to a changed climate have been compiled (Table 1). It has not been possible, on the basis of existing data, to rank the hazards. The assessment suggests that it is of greatest importance to consider which pathways and types of hazards (properties, resistance) may be relevant in the different food groups because the control measures will in most cases be similar for different types of hazards. Capture4.PNG Concluding remarks: Many sources of uncertainty for the assessments were identified. The main sources include knowledge gaps associated with data on the extent to which the climate will impact on microbiological hazards, difficulties in identifying causal relationships based on correlations, knowledge gaps associated with the methodology of carrying out this type of complex assessment against uncertain future scenarios, and knowledge gaps regarding the future climate and its effects. A further contributing uncertainty is knowledge gaps on potential feedback mechanisms between climate change and its effects. Despite the uncertainties, the increased food safety challenges qualitatively identified in this report are considered likely. These challenges are the consequences of the impacts that climate change under the RCP8.5 scenario may have on several of the microbiological hazards in terms of increased or potentially increased occurrence in the environment, water, animals, plants, and/or food raw materials. Conclusions on the change of specific microbiological hazards, the extent of the impact, and the rate of change are subject to significantly greater uncertainty. This is not least because the impact of climate change depends on the accuracy of the climate scenarios and on what measures are put in place. The risk profile is an initial and general compilation of knowledge that can form a basis for further and more detailed studies and activities in the various sectors in the food chain. The complete report can be downloaded from: L 2021 — No 19 — Microbiological hazards (livsmedelsverket.se).