Groundnut and tree nuts: a comprehensive review on their lipid components, phytochemicals, and nutraceutical properties.

The health benefits of nut consumption have been extensively demonstrated in observational studies and intervention trials. Besides the high nutritional value, countless evidences show that incorporating nuts into the diet may contribute to health promotion and prevention of certain diseases. Such benefits have been mostly and certainly attributed not only to their richness in healthy lipids (plentiful in unsaturated fatty acids), but also to the presence of a vast array of phytochemicals, such as polar lipids, squalene, phytosterols, tocochromanols, and polyphenolic compounds. Thus, many nut chemical compounds apply well to the designation "nutraceuticals," a broad umbrella term used to describe any food component that, in addition to the basic nutritional value, can contribute extra health benefits. This contribution analyses the general chemical profile of groundnut and common tree nuts (almond, walnut, cashew, hazelnut, pistachio, macadamia, pecan), focusing on lipid components and phytochemicals, with a view on their bioactive properties. Relevant scientific literature linking consumption of nuts, and/or some of their components, with ameliorative and/or preventive effects on selected diseases - such as cancer, cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurodegenerative pathologies - was also reviewed. In addition, the bioactive properties were analyzed in the light of known mechanistic frameworks.

Sustainable and Biomimetic Methodology for Extraction of High-Value-Added Compounds in Almond Hulls.

Almond trees are the most cultivated nut tree in the world. The production of almonds generates large amounts of by-products, much of which goes unused. Herein, this study aimed to develop a green chemistry approach to identify and extract potentially valuable compounds from almond by-products. Initially, a screening was performed with 10 different Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs). The mixture lactic acid/glycerol, with a molar ratio 1:1 (1:50 plant material to NADES (w/v) with 20% v/v of water) was identified as the best extraction solvent for catechin, caffeoylquinic acid, and condensed tannins in almond hulls. Subsequently, a method was optimized by a Design of Experiment (DoE) protocol using a miniaturized extraction technique, Microwave-Assisted Extraction (MAE), in conjunction with the chosen NADESs. The optimal conditions were found to be 70 °C with 15 min irradiation time. The optimal extraction conditions determined by the DoE were confirmed experimentally and compared to methods already established in the literature. With these conditions, the extraction of metabolites was 2.4 times higher, according to the increase in total peak area, than the established literature methods used. Additionally, by applying the multiparameter Analytical Greenness Metric (AGREE) and Green Analytical Process Index (GAPI) metrics, it was possible to conclude that the developed method was greener than the established literature methods as it includes various principles of green analytical chemistry.

Daily intake of baru (Dipteryx alata Vog.), a Cerrado native almond, promotes changes in the intestinal microbiota of individuals with obesity: A pilot study.

The Brazilian Cerrado biome is rich in plant biodiversity, with fruits that have unique sensory characteristics and high nutritional quality. Among the various fruits, baru (Dipteryx alata Vog.) has attracted the attention of researchers because of its high lipid, protein, carbohydrate, fiber, and micronutrient (minerals and vitamins) contents. The present study evaluated the effects of regular consumption of baru almonds for over 60 days on the biochemical and anthropometric profiles and fecal microbiota of obese individuals. A pilot study was conducted on 15 individuals with obesity who were instructed to consume a 20-gram portion of baru almonds throughout the day. The body composition was assessed using anthropometric measurements. Blood pressure, glucose levels, lipid profile, serum insulin and iron contents, and fecal microbiota composition were determined at baseline (day 0) and after 60 days. Baru almond consumption contributed to changes in biochemical parameters, improved HDL cholesterol levels, and reduced total and LDL cholesterol levels. Some positive changes in the microbiota composition after consuming baru almonds include a decrease in the Faecalibacterium family and an increase in the Provotella genus. Therefore, ingesting baru almonds can modulate gut microbiota of individuals with obesity.

High-intensity ultrasound influences the probiotic fermentation of Baru almond beverages and impacts the bioaccessibility of phenolics and fatty acids, sensory properties, and in vitro biological activity.

High-intensity ultrasound (HIUS, 20 kHz, 450 W, 6 min) was used as an alternative to the pasteurization of a water-soluble Baru almond extract (WSBAE). Then, probiotic fermented beverages (Lacticaseibacillus casei) were processed and evaluated during storage (7 °C, 28 days). Four formulations were prepared: RAW (untreated [no pasteurization or ultrasound] and unfermented WSBAE), PAST (pasteurized WSBAE fermented with probiotic), U-BEF (WSBAE added with probiotic, submitted to ultrasound, and fermented), and U-AFTER (WSBAE submitted to ultrasound, added with probiotic, and fermented). PAST and HIUS-treated beverages had similar microbiological quality. The PAST formulation showed decreased monounsaturated fatty acids, compromised health indices, and had the lowest consistency. U-AFTER showed higher concentrations of lactic and acetic acids, lower bioaccessibility for most phenolics and fatty acids, and reduced consumer acceptance. U-BEF had the fermentation time reduced by 13.64%, higher probiotic survival during storage and simulated gastrointestinal conditions, and higher bioaccessibility of phenolics and fatty acids during storage. Furthermore, it presented higher in vitro antidiabetic properties and improved consistency and stability. Finally, U-BEF had improved volatile compound composition, resulting in increased sensory acceptance and improved sensory properties. Our results indicate that the HIUS applied after probiotic addition may be a suitable alternative to pasteurization in the processing of fermented beverages, resulting in reduced fermentation times and improved technological, sensory, and biological properties.

Metabolite Profiling of Pleurotus ostreatus Grown on Sisal Agro-Industrial Waste Supplemented with Cocoa Almond Tegument and Wheat Bran.

Pleurotus ostreatus is an edible fungus with high nutritional value that uses industrial and agricultural lignocellulosic residues as substrates for growth and reproduction. Understanding their growth metabolic dynamics on agro-industrial wastes would help to develop economically viable and eco-friendly biotechnological strategies for food production. Thus, we used UHPLC/MS/MS and GNPS as an innovative approach to investigate the chemical composition of two strains of P. ostreatus, coded as BH (Black Hirataki) and WH (White Hirataki), grown on sisal waste mixture (SW) supplemented with 20 % cocoa almond tegument (CAT) or 20 % of wheat bran (WB). Metabolite dereplication allowed the identification of 53 metabolites, which included glycerophospholipids, fatty acids, monoacylglycerols, steroids, carbohydrates, amino acids, and flavonoids. This is the first report of the identification of these compounds in P. ostreatus, except for the steroid ergosterol. Most of the metabolites described in this work possess potential biological activities, which support the nutraceutical properties of P. ostreatus. Thus, the results of this study provide essential leads to the understanding of white-rot fungi chemical plasticity aiming at developing alternative biotechnologies strategies for waste recycling.

Development of candy "paçoca" from pequi almond / Desenvolvimento de doce de paçoca de amêndoa de pequi

The pequi has an almond with interesting chemical characteristics, such as considerable proportions of proteins and lipids that can be applied in several products aiming to use this agro-industrial residue. This research tookadvantage of the almond for the development of sweet paçoca with different concentrations of pequi almond, containing 0% (PA), 25% (P1), 50% (P2), 75% (P3), and 100% (P4) in place of peanuts. The paçocas were evaluated for proximate parameters and water activity, mineral content, color parameters, microbiological characteristics, and texture profile. The results for aw ranged from 0.48 to 0.52. In the proximate composition, it was observed that with the increase of the almond flour there was a difference in the ash, moisture, and protein contents. Due to the almond roasting process, the paçocas of pequi presented the darkest color. Pequi almond paçocas showed better protein value than peanut paçoca and higher levels of P and Mg. In addition, they present better elasticity, chewability, and cohesiveness.

O pequi possui uma amêndoa com características químicas interessantes, como proporções consideráveis de proteínas e lipídios que podem ser aplicadas em diversos produtos visando o aproveitamento desse resíduo agroindustrial. O objetivo deste trabalho foi aproveitar a amêndoa para o desenvolvimento de paçoca doce com diferentes concentrações de amêndoa de pequi, contendo 0% (PA), 25% (P1), 50% (P2), 75% (P3), e 100% (P4). As paçocas foram avaliadas quanto aos parâmetros centesimais e atividade de água, teor de minerais, parâmetros de cor, características microbiológicas e perfil de textura. Os resultados para aw variaram de 0,48 a 0,52. Na composição centesimal, observou-se que com o aumento da farinha de amêndoa houve diferença nos teores de cinzas, umidade e proteína. Devido ao processo de torrefação da amêndoa, as paçocas de pequi apresentaram cor mais escura. A paçoca de amêndoa de pequi apresentou melhor valor proteico que a paçoca de amendoim e maiores teores de P e Mg. Além disso, apresentaram melhor elasticidade, mastigabilidade e coesividade.

The effects of different particle film applications on almond trees / Os efeitos de diferentes aplicações de filmes de partículas em amendoeiras

Particle film applications have become common in agriculture today given the understanding of the effects of limiting high temperatures and solar radiation on plant physiology. This study was conducted to compare the effects of different particle materials on some physiological and fruit quality attributes of almonds. To achieve this, two non-transparent white solid and three transparent aqueous particle film materials were applied by foliar spraying on deficit irrigated almond trees (cv. Ferragnes). Membrane injury (MI), relative water content (RWC), the SPAD chlorophyll index, leaf temperature and some macro- and micro-nutrient contents were examined in addition to fruit sizes, weights, total oils and fatty acid compositions. The applied treatments significantly influenced the evaluated parameters, which indicated reduced stress and improved fruit quality. MI was found to be from 42.8 to 73.9%, RWC varied from 76.8 to 92.9%, and the K/Na ratio ranged between 103.3 and 521.0. As a result of this study, it was concluded that the observed improvements were due to the effects of the evaluated materials and that particle film applications can be beneficial in alleviating heat, light and water stress in almond trees.

As aplicações de filmes de partículas tornaram-se comuns na agricultura hoje, devido ao entendimento dos efeitos da limitação de altas temperaturas e radiação solar na fisiologia das plantas. Este estudo foi conduzido para comparar os efeitos de diferentes materiais particulados em alguns atributos fisiológicos e de qualidade de frutas. Para isso, dois sólidos brancos não transparentes e três materiais de filme de partículas aquosas transparentes foram aplicados por pulverização foliar em amendoeiras com irrigação deficiente (cv. Ferragnes). A lesão da membrana (MI), o conteúdo relativo de água (RWC), o índice de clorofila SPAD, a temperatura da folha e alguns teores de macro e micronutrientes foram examinados, além do tamanho dos frutos, pesos, óleos totais e composições de ácidos graxos. Os tratamentos aplicados influenciaram significativamente os parâmetros avaliados, os quais indicaram redução do estresse e melhora na qualidade dos frutos. O MI foi encontrado entre 42,8 e 73,9%, o RWC variou de 76,8 a 92,9% e a razão K / Na estava entre 103,3 e 521,0. Como resultado deste estudo, concluiu-se que as melhorias observadas foram devidas aos efeitos dos materiais avaliados e que as aplicações de filmes de partículas são benéficas no alívio do calor, luz e estresse hídrico em amendoeiras.

Characterization and in vitro evaluations of Baru pulp from almond production waste ensiled with different additives.

The silage process is an efficient way of storing nutrients for animal nutrition. Our hypothesis was that the Baru pulp can be preserved in the form of silage, regardless of the use of additives to aid the process. Silages of Baru pulp containing different additives were evaluated through in vitro analysis, fermentation parameters, and composition and thermal analysis including differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry. The treatments consisted of (1) silage with Baru pulp (BP) in natura without additive; (2) BP in natura with acetic acid; (3) BP in natura with formic acids; and (4) BP in natura added with microbial inoculums in a randomized experimental design with three replications per treatment and analyzed in duplicate. The ensiled material was kept in anaerobic conditions for a period of 30 days. BP before and after the silage process presented averages of 67.31 and 66.24% for in vitro digestibility of DM (IVDMD). Microbial inoculant additive was the most effective in reducing pH, followed by acetic acid and formic acid. There were effects of additives on silages for all degradation parameters in ruminal liquid in vitro. It was observed that BP before ensiling had the highest A fraction (7.9 mL gas/100 mg DM), without differing from the silage treated with formic acid (7.1 mL gas/100 mg DM). Similar effects were observed on mass loss (TG) and heat flux (DSC) between the silages. Our findings suggest that Baru pulp with formic acid is more efficient in the conservation and preservation of fermentable carbohydrates as well as in silage production.

Effects of the amendment with almond shell, bio-waste and almond shell-based biochar on the quality of saline-alkali soils.

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of the amendment with almond shell bio-waste (AS) and almond shell-based biochar (ASB), in different mass ratios (5, 10, and 15%), on the physicochemical properties of three different saline soils, using the growth of arugula seedlings as a bioindicator of the enhancement achieved. Data were analyzed based on a completely randomized design in a factorial arrangement with four replications. The results showed that the low-salinity soil (T1) presented the best physicochemical characteristics and growth parameters. The addition of AS and ASB in low proportions to the saline soils reduced the pH and electrical conductivity values. An increase in the amendment proportion led to an increase in these variables. Moisture, organic matter, and organic carbon increased, and the cation exchange capacity decreased, generating positive effects on soil quality. The values of exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) showed that T3 presented the highest sodicity, followed by T2 and T1. The treatment with 5% ASB produced better results regarding total plant length, fresh and dry weights, leaf area, and leaf chlorophyll content. Finally, linear regression models were applied to describe the dependence of the agronomic variables on the ratio of biochar added.

Development of a facial biocosmetic containing levan, almond and cinnamon oils with antioxidant and moisturizing properties

The addition of natural molecules such as microbial exopolysaccharides in cosmetics is a trend in the current market, adding properties and improving the product quality. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a facial biocosmetic formulation containing microbial levan, almond and cinnamon oils. The centroid-simplex design was used to evaluate the spreadability, antioxidant activity, moisture retention capacity and viscosity of formulations. Since it is a facial cosmetic, the formulation was optimized using the intermediate viscosity. The optimized formulation with intermediate viscosity was 75% (0.75 g) levan and 25% (2 mL) almond oil, without the addition of cinnamon oil. This formulation was submitted to 90 days under different exposure conditions, and the results showed a spreadability of 805 mm2, pH and density ideal for the facial area, with an antioxidant activity of 72%, hydration capacity of 100.3%, viscosity with no-Newtonian behavior, and normal organoleptic properties when stored at room and low temperature. The formulation with levan associated with almond oil showed potential for application in the facial area, with high antioxidant properties, moisturizing intermediate viscosity and stability for 90 days. The utilization of centroid-simplex design allowed the development of a biocosmetic with desired characteristics just by adjusting the concentrations of the bioactive.(AU)

Unusual host selection in Amblycerus dispar larvae (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Bruchinae) and its potential impact on stored almonds (Prunus dulcis).

We present the first report of Amblycerus dispar (Sharp) attacking stored almonds [Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D. A. Webb] in Argentina. A summarized diagnosis, illustrations, and photographs of the adult and mature larva are provided to facilitate identification. We performed species distribution models for A. dispar and its main host plant Geoffroea decorticans (Gillies ex Hook. & Arn.) Burkart. We include A. dispar into a previous morphological character matrix and conduct a phylogenetic analysis to infer its phylogenetic position. The evolution of host plant associations of the genus Amblycerus is herein re-analyzed. A. dispar and its main host shows high suitability areas especially in central-west Argentina and Chile, whereas for the USA, high suitability areas were found for the south-western which include the area of almond production in this country. Although the presence of A. dispar in the USA region is very unlikely, we recommend some awareness as other bruchines are present in the area. Although A. dispar is unlikely to become an economically important risk, monitoring for early detection is recommended to avoid productivity loss, especially when the native host is nearby cultivated areas. A. dispar is hypothesized to be the sister species of A. schwarzi Kingsolver. The colonization of a Rosaceae species is a novelty for this genus, being host shifts known as an important factor affecting both natural and agricultural systems.

Factors effective on reaching goals and target groups of agricultural supports: a case study in Diyarbakir Province, Turkey / Determinação de fatores eficazes para alcançar as metas e os grupos-alvo dos apoios agrícolas: um estudo de caso na Província de Diyarbakir, Turquia

In this study, factors affecting the willingness to continue organic almond production in Eğil and Dicle districts of Diyarbakır were investigated. A semi-structured interview method was used in data collection. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were used in data analysis. According to the results, it was reported that the association membership status and agricultural supports are very important (P<0.01) and the size of the almond establishment (acres) (p<0.01). Association membership status significantly increases the desire to continue organic production by approximately 11%. Conversely, 24.2 percent of the participants who claim that support is needed for almond production is willing to produce organic. However, one hectare increase in almond plantation reduced the probability of continuing organic almond production in the ceteris paribus by 1%, suggesting that organic farming awareness is not sufficiently developed. It turns out that support payments are the main driving force for farmers to continue organic production, and the underlying reason for association membership is access to support payments.(AU)

Neste estudo foram investigados os fatores que afetam a disposição de continuar a produção orgânica de amêndoas nos distritos de Eğil e Dicle, em Diyarbakır. O método de entrevista semiestruturada foi utilizado na coleta de dados. A estatística descritiva e regressão logística foram utilizados na análise dos dados. De acordo com os resultados, verificou-se que o status de membro da associação e os apoios agrícolas são muito importantes (P<0,01) e o tamanho do estabelecimento de amêndoa (acres) (p<0,01). O status de membro da sociação aumenta significativamente o desejo de continuar a produção orgânica em aproximadamente 11%. Por outro lado, 24,2% dos participantes que afirmam que é necessário apoio para a produção de amêndoas e estão dispostos a produzir produtos orgânicos. No entanto, o aumento de um hectare na plantação de amêndoa reduz a probabilidade de continuar a produção orgânica de amêndoa no ceteris paribus em 1%, sugerindo que a conscientização da agricultura orgânica não é suficientemente desenvolvida. Acontece que os pagamentos de apoio são a principal força motriz para os agricultores continuarem a produção orgânica, e a razão subjacente para a associação é o acesso a pagamentos de apoio.(AU)

Bees increase crop yield in an alleged pollinator-independent almond variety.

Wild pollinators are declining and the number of managed honey bee colonies is growing slower than agricultural demands for pollination. Because of these contrasting trends in pollinator demand and availability, breeding programs for many pollinator-dependent crops have focused on reducing the need for pollinators. Although numerous crop varieties are now available in the market with the label of pollinator-independent, the real dependence of these varieties on pollinators is mostly unknown. We evaluated the hypothesis of pollinator independence in the Independence almond variety, the fastest growing variety in California that is the main almond production region in the world. In this presumed pollinator-independent variety, we measured the effect of honey bees on fruit set, yield, and kernel nutritional quality at tree level. Fruit set was 60% higher in bee-pollinated than bee-isolated trees, which translated into a 20% increase in kernel yield. Despite its effect on almond production, there was no evidence that bee visitation affected almond nutritional quality. Based on these results, we recommend the use of bees, whether they are wild or managed, to maximize yield even in self-fertile almond varieties.

Biological efficiency and nutritional value of Pleurotus ostreatus cultivated in agroindustrial wastes of palm oil fruits and cocoa almonds / Eficiência biológica e valor nutricional de Pleurotus ostreatus cultivados em resíduos agroindustriais de dendê e amêndoa de cacau

The cocoa and palm oil agro-industries active in the state of Bahia, Brazil, generate high quantities of lignocellulosic wastes that could be recycled through their use in the formulation of substrates to cultivate edible mushrooms. Pleurotus ostreatus, also known as oyster mushroom, is the second most cultivated mushroom in the world due to its highly appreciated gastronomic, nutritional, and medicinal characteristics. This work evaluated the vertical mycelium growth, biological efficiency, mushroom yield, and nutritional composition of P. ostreatus produced in substrates formulated with a combination of palm oil fruit mesocarp (POFM) and cocoa almond peels (CAP) processing wastes. The substrates were formulated with the following POFM/CAP proportions (%/%): S1 ­ 86.4/9.6; S2 ­ 76.8/19.2; S3 ­ 67.2/28.8; S4 ­ 57.6/38.4, and S5 ­ 48.0/48.0. Substrates also received 3% powdered charcoal and 1% calcium carbonate. Substrates S1, S2, S3, and S4 were superior for vertical mycelium growth. S2 promoted the best biological efficiency (148.8%) and yield (560.5g·kg-1).The mushrooms produced in all substrates presented good nutritional values, although mushrooms produced using the S2 presented the highest crude protein content. Overall, S1 is the recommended substrate as it results in higher yields of nutrient rich mushrooms. Production of P. ostreatus in substrates composed of POFM and CAP represents a good alternative for recycling these wastes with potential economic and ecological benefits to regions where palm oil and cocoa are grown.(AU)

As indústrias de cacau e óleo de dendê no estado da Bahia, Brasil, geram grandes quantidades de resíduos lignocelulósicos que podem ser reciclados na formulação de substratos para o cultivo de cogumelos comestíveis. Pleurotus ostreatus ou cogumelo ostra é o segundo cogumelo mais cultivado no mundo por apresentar características gastronômicas, nutricionais e medicinais muito apreciadas. Este estudo avaliou o crescimento micelial vertical, a eficiência biológica, a produção e a composição nutricional de P. ostreatus produzido em substratos formulados com a combinação de resíduos do processamento de frutos de dendê (mesocarpo do fruto de dendê ­ MFD) e de amêndoas de cacau (tegumento de amêndoas de cacau ­ TAC). Os substratos foram formulados com as seguintes proporções de MFD e TAC (%/%): S1: 86,4/9,6; S2: 76,8/19,2; S3: 67,2/28,8; S4: 57,6/38,4 e S5: 48,0/48,0. Os substratos também receberam 3% de carvão e 1% de carbonato de cálcio. Os substratos S1, S2, S3 e S4 foram superiores quanto ao crescimento micelial vertical. S2 promoveu os melhores resultados para eficiência biológica (148,8%) e produção (560.5 g·kg-1). Os cogumelos produzidos em todos os substratos apresentaram valores nutricionais promissores. Entretanto, os cogumelos produzidos com o substrato S2 apresentaram o maior conteúdo de proteína bruta. De modo geral, S1 é o substrato recomendado por resultar na maior produção de cogumelos ricos em nutrientes. A produção de P. ostreatus em substratos compostos por MFD e TAC representa uma boa alternativa para a reciclagem desses resíduos com potenciais benefícios econômicos e ecológicos para as regiões produtoras de dendê e cacau.(AU)

Biological efficiency and nutritional value of Pleurotus ostreatus cultivated in agroindustrial wastes of palm oil fruits and cocoa almonds / Eficiência biológica e valor nutricional de Pleurotus ostreatus cultivados em resíduos agroindustriais de dendê e amêndoa de cacau

The cocoa and palm oil agro-industries active in the state of Bahia, Brazil, generate high quantities of lignocellulosic wastes that could be recycled through their use in the formulation of substrates to cultivate edible mushrooms. Pleurotus ostreatus, also known as oyster mushroom, is the second most cultivated mushroom in the world due to its highly appreciated gastronomic, nutritional, and medicinal characteristics. This work evaluated the vertical mycelium growth, biological efficiency, mushroom yield, and nutritional composition of P. ostreatus produced in substrates formulated with a combination of palm oil fruit mesocarp (POFM) and cocoa almond peels (CAP) processing wastes. The substrates were formulated with the following POFM/CAP proportions (%/%): S1 ­ 86.4/9.6; S2 ­ 76.8/19.2; S3 ­ 67.2/28.8; S4 ­ 57.6/38.4, and S5 ­ 48.0/48.0. Substrates also received 3% powdered charcoal and 1% calcium carbonate. Substrates S1, S2, S3, and S4 were superior for vertical mycelium growth. S2 promoted the best biological efficiency (148.8%) and yield (560.5g·kg-1).The mushrooms produced in all substrates presented good nutritional values, although mushrooms produced using the S2 presented the highest crude protein content. Overall, S1 is the recommended substrate as it results in higher yields of nutrient rich mushrooms. Production of P. ostreatus in substrates composed of POFM and CAP represents a good alternative for recycling these wastes with potential economic and ecological benefits to regions where palm oil and cocoa are grown.(AU)

As indústrias de cacau e óleo de dendê no estado da Bahia, Brasil, geram grandes quantidades de resíduos lignocelulósicos que podem ser reciclados na formulação de substratos para o cultivo de cogumelos comestíveis. Pleurotus ostreatus ou cogumelo ostra é o segundo cogumelo mais cultivado no mundo por apresentar características gastronômicas, nutricionais e medicinais muito apreciadas. Este estudo avaliou o crescimento micelial vertical, a eficiência biológica, a produção e a composição nutricional de P. ostreatus produzido em substratos formulados com a combinação de resíduos do processamento de frutos de dendê (mesocarpo do fruto de dendê ­ MFD) e de amêndoas de cacau (tegumento de amêndoas de cacau ­ TAC). Os substratos foram formulados com as seguintes proporções de MFD e TAC (%/%): S1: 86,4/9,6; S2: 76,8/19,2; S3: 67,2/28,8; S4: 57,6/38,4 e S5: 48,0/48,0. Os substratos também receberam 3% de carvão e 1% de carbonato de cálcio. Os substratos S1, S2, S3 e S4 foram superiores quanto ao crescimento micelial vertical. S2 promoveu os melhores resultados para eficiência biológica (148,8%) e produção (560.5 g·kg-1). Os cogumelos produzidos em todos os substratos apresentaram valores nutricionais promissores. Entretanto, os cogumelos produzidos com o substrato S2 apresentaram o maior conteúdo de proteína bruta. De modo geral, S1 é o substrato recomendado por resultar na maior produção de cogumelos ricos em nutrientes. A produção de P. ostreatus em substratos compostos por MFD e TAC representa uma boa alternativa para a reciclagem desses resíduos com potenciais benefícios econômicos e ecológicos para as regiões produtoras de dendê e cacau.(AU)

Baru Almonds Increase the Activity of Glutathione Peroxidase in Overweight and Obese Women: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial.

BACKGROUND: Obesity-induced inflammation is frequently associated with higher oxidative stress. In vitro and experimental studies have considered baru almonds (Dipteryx alata Vog) as a legume seed with high antioxidant capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether baru almonds are capable of improving the inflammatory and antioxidant status in overweight and obese women. METHODS: In a parallel-arm, randomized placebo-controlled trial, 46 overweight and obese women (age: 40 ± 11 years; body mass index: 33.3 ± 4.3) were randomly assigned to receive advice to follow a normocaloric and isoenergetic diet with placebo (PLA, n = 22) or similar advice plus 20 g baru almonds (BARU, n = 24) for 8 wk. Malondialdehyde (MDA), adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, interleukin-10, antioxidant enzymes activities (catalase-CAT; glutathione peroxidase-GPx; superoxide dismutase-SOD), and minerals were analyzed in plasma samples. RESULTS: At baseline, groups were similar regarding the body composition, oxidative, and inflammatory parameters. The BARU group increased the activity of GPx (+0.08 U/mg, 95%CI + 0.05 to +0.12 vs. -0.07, 95%CI -0.12 to -0.03, p < 0.01) and plasma copper concentration (p = 0.037) when compared to the PLA group. No differences were observed between groups in CAT and SOD activity or MDA and cytokines concentrations. CONCLUSIONS: Baru almond supplementation increased the GPx activity in overweight and obese women.

Potential of Whole Pequi (Caryocar spp.) Fruit-Pulp, Almond, Oil, and Shell-as a Medicinal Food.

Pequi (Caryocar) pulp, the most consumed component of pequi fruit, is one of the richest Brazilian carotenoid sources, and the most important carotenoid food source native to the Cerrado. However, there are considerable differences among pequi species regarding total carotenoids content and carotenoids profile. Caryocar brasiliense Camb. pulp presents higher content of total carotenoids than Caryocar villosum (Aubl.) Pers. Regarding the carotenoids profile, few studies are available in the literature, mainly with C. brasiliense. Pequi pulp also has high contents of lipids, dietary fiber, zinc, and magnesium, and is source of calcium and polyphenols. Pequi almond presents high energy, lipid, protein, dietary fiber, and ash contents. Pequi oil (pulp and almond) has high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, especially oleic acid, and relatively high contents of saturated fatty acids, mainly palmitic. Pequi shell (exocarp and external mesocarp) is the largest component of the fruit and a solid residue of the pequi processing, which is rich in dietary fibers, including soluble fibers, and phenolic compounds, mostly gallic acid, ellagic acid, and quercetin. Pulp oil is the pequi byproduct most investigated in in vivo studies. Research with pequi pulp oil in animal models has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antigenotoxic, and anticarcinogenic effects. In humans, there are evidences supporting anti-inflammatory, cardioprotective, and antigenotoxic effects. Studies on carotenoids profile of pequi pulp in different fruit species are recommended, and in vivo studies are necessary to better explore the potential health benefits of pequi fruit components, mainly the pequi pulp and shell.

Desenvolvimento de produto em pó de extrato vegetal de oleaginosas por spray dryer / Development of product in extract powder vegetable of oleaginous by spray dryer

A pesquisa consistiu na produção de extratos vegetais em pó (EVP) de oleaginosas por meio de secagem por atomização (Spray dryer). Foram realizados experimentos com e sem a presença do adjuvante maltodextrina (MTD). Foram realizados testes físico-químicos e de rendimento. Não foi possível obter o extrato em pó de castanha-do-brasil com ou sem MTD e coco sem MTD nas temperaturas utilizadas de 120°C e 140°C, sendo satisfatório para castanha-de-caju e amêndoa. Todos os pós obtidos com adição de maltodextrina aparentaram coloração levemente mais clara quando comparada ao sem maltodextrina bem como rendimento maior. Os resultados do pH, umidade e acidez mantiveram-se dentro dos valores quando comparados a leite de vaca, extrato vegetal e farinhas, já que não existe ainda uma legislação especifica para o produto específico.

A baru almond-enriched diet reduces abdominal adiposity and improves high-density lipoprotein concentrations: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

OBJECTIVES: Nut consumption is associated with reduced risks of cardiovascular disease. Baru almonds have a high protein content and high quantities of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of a baru almond-enriched diet on body composition and markers of lipid metabolism in overweight and obese women. METHODS: A randomized, placebo-controlled, 8-wk clinical trial of 46 overweight and obese women was conducted. Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 normocaloric and isoenergetic diets: baru almond-enriched diet or baru almond-free diet. Both groups received dietary instructions. Body composition was assessed by anthropometry and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Blood pressure, glucose levels, lipid profile, and plasma fatty acids, as well as apolipoproteins, angiopoietin-like-3, and cholesteryl ester transfer protein expression, were determined at the beginning and end of the study. RESULTS: The consumption of baru almonds reduced waist circumference (-2.45 cm; 95% confidence interval [CI], -3.90 to -0.23; P = 0.03), cholesteryl ester transfer protein expression (-0.23 mcg/mL; 95% CI, -1.24 to-0.08; P = 0.03), and increased high-density lipoprotein concentrations (+4.82 mg/dL; 95% CI, 0.03-8.88; P = 0.04) compared with baru almond-free diet. CONCLUSIONS: A baru almond-enriched diet for 8-wk reduced abdominal adiposity and improved high-density lipoprotein in overweight and obese women. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as RBR-2 wpryx.

Identification and characterisation of the proteins bound by specific phage-displayed recombinant antibodies (scFv) obtained against Brazil nut and almond extracts.

BACKGROUND: Almonds and Brazil nuts are widely consumed allergenic nuts whose presence must be declared according to food labelling regulations. Their detection in food products has been recently achieved by ELISA methods with recombinant antibodies (scFv) isolated against complete Brazil nut and almond protein extracts. The screening of phage-scFv libraries against complete protein extracts confers a series of advantages over the use of purified proteins, as recombinant proteins might alter their native folding. However, using this strategy, the nature of the target detected by phage-displayed antibodies remains unknown, and requires further research to identify whether they are nut allergens or other molecules present in the extract, but not related to their allergenic potential. RESULTS: Electrophoretic, chromatographic, immunological and spectrometric techniques revealed that the Brazil nut (BE95) and almond (PD1F6 and PD2C9) specific phage-scFvs detected conformational epitopes of the Brazil nut and almond 11S globulins, recognised by WHO/IUIS as Ber e 2 and Pru du 6 major allergens. Circular dichroism data indicated that severe heat treatment would entail loss of epitope structure, disabling scFv for target detection. CONCLUSIONS: The presence of important Brazil nut and almond allergens (Ber e 2 and Pru du 6) in foodstuffs can be determined by using phage-display antibodies BE95, PD1F6 and PD2C9 as affinity probes in ELISA. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.