Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / Due to the scarce amount of studies on the physicochemical composition and antioxidant capacity of pitanga fruits (Eugenia uniflora L.) this study was performed, with objective of increase data on pitanga fruits from Rio Grande do Sul state (Brazil) by determining the composition and antioxidant capacity of flesh and seeds from pitanga. We analyzed pitanga fruits with different flesh colors (purple, red and orange) from tree selections cultivated at Embrapa Clima Temperado (RS-Brazil). The quality parameters of pitanga fruits (pH, brix, acidity) were within the legal limits established for frozen pulp and only slight differences were observed in these parameters and in the proximate and fatty acid composition among fruits with different flesh color. Orange fleshed pitanga had higher carotenoid content than red samples. The extracts from purple fleshed color pitanga had the highest total phenolic and anthocyanin content along with the highest antioxidant capacity. Antioxidant capacity (DPPH and FRAP assay) of methanolic pitanga extracts was highly correlated to the total phenolic content, but in ethanolic extracts anthocyanin content was correlated only to FRAP antioxidant capacity. These results indicate that pitanga cultivated in the Rio Grande do Sul state, specially the purple fleshed fruits, can be considered sources of bioactive compounds. Pitanga seeds had antioxidant capacity that was partially correlated to their high phenolic content and showed some variation according to the pitanga flesh colors. Accordingly, we suggest that this low value waste of pitanga processing, could be used as a source of natural antioxidants. No relevant differences were found in the proximate composition among seeds from pitanga of different colors. Results revealed that pitanga seeds are a good source of dietary fiber, which could be explored for use in animal and/or human nutrition. However, more studies are necessary to determine if some antinutritional factor like cyanogenic glycosides could be a limit for this application. / Devido à escassa quantidade de trabalhos sobre a composição físico-química de frutos de pitanga (Eugenia uniflora L.), este estudo teve como objetivo a caracterização de pitangas do Rio Grande do Sul (Brasil) através da determinação da composição e capacidade antioxidante da polpa e das sementes de pitanga. Foram analisadas pitangas de diferentes colorações de polpa (roxa, vermelha e laranja) de seleções que estão sendo cultivadas na Embrapa Clima Temperado (RS-Brasil). Os parâmetros de qualidade das pitangas (pH, brix e acidez) ficaram dentro dos limites estabelecidos pela legislação brasileira para polpas congeladas. Foram observadas apenas pequenas diferenças nestes parâmetros, na composição centesimal e de ácidos graxos entre as frutas com diferentes colorações de polpa. As pitangas de cor laranja apresentaram maior conteúdo de carotenóides que as de cor vermelha. Os extratos de pitangas roxas apresentaram o maior conteúdo de fenólicos totais e de antocianinas, bem como, a maior capacidade antioxidante. A capacidade antioxidante (valores de DPPH e FRAP) dos extratos metanólicos de pitanga apresentou alta correlação com o conteúdo de fenólicos totais, mas nos extratos etanólicos o conteúdo de antocianinas correlacionou-se apenas com a capacidade antioxidante avaliada pelo método de FRAP. Os resultados indicam que as pitangas cultivadas no Rio Grande do Sul, especialmente as de cor roxa, podem ser consideradas fontes de compostos bioativos. As sementes de pitanga apresentaram também capacidade antioxidante, que foi parcialmente correlacionada com o alto teor de fenólicos, apresentando variação de acordo com a coloração das pitangas. Assim, sugere-se que este resíduo de baixo valor do processamento da pitanga, poderia ser usado como uma fonte natural de antioxidantes. Não foram encontradas diferenças relevantes na composição de sementes de pitanga de diferentes colorações. Os resultados revelaram que a pitanga é uma boa fonte de fibra dietética, que poderia ser explorada para uso na nutrição animal e/ou humana. No entanto, mais estudos são necessários para determinar se a presença de algum fator antinutricional como glicosídios cianogênicos poderia limitar esta aplicação.

O presente trabalho avaliou o crescimento da microalga Dunaliella tertiolecta pela biofixação do CO2 liberado pela produção de cerveja, reciclando um dos gases responsáveis pelo efeito estufa, reduzindo custo da matéria-prima CO2 e agregando valor ao produzir lipídeos e carotenoides naturais. Para isso a microalga foi cultivada em sistemas integrados entre fotobiorreatores e fermentadores. A diferença nos cultivos foi o tipo e a quantidade de CO2 produzida pelas fermentações. Inicialmente se fez fermentações com meio YPD (Yeast Peptone Dextrose) em fermentadores de 2 L acoplados a cada 24 h aos fotobiorreatores em 4 condições distintas, sendo o último fermentador colocado sempre em 144 h de cultivo de microalgas: 30 g L-1 de dextrose a partir de 72 h de cultivo de microalgas, 60 g L-1 de dextrose a partir de 72 h de cultivo de microalgas, 30 g L-1 de dextrose a partir de 24 h de cultivo de microalgas e variando a concentração de (10 à 60) g L-1 de dextrose a partir de 24 h de cultivo de microalgas (YPD (10-60)/24). Os maiores valores para biomassa, carotenoides, produtividades e lipídeos foram obtidos na condição YPD (10-60)/24. Para reproduzir a essa condição utilizando mosto de cerveja, foi calculada a conversão de substrato em produto para, então, acoplar diariamente volumes diferentes de mosto de cerveja em cultivos de microalgas. Os valores obtidos para os cultivos com CO2 desprendidos por estas fermentações foram 1,10 ± 0,05 g L-1 de biomassa, 0,18 ± 0,01 g L-1 d-1 de produtividade de biomassa, 0,58 ± 0,06 d-1 foi a velocidade específica de crescimento, 4,74 ± 0,59 mg g-1 de carotenoides por biomassa, 0,86 ± 0,06 mg L-1 d-1 de produtividade de carotenoides e 13,5 ± 0,4 % (em massa) de lipídeos. Estes valores foram praticamente o dobro dos valores obtidos para o cultivo com CO2 do ar atmosférico, demonstrando que a integração entre fermentadores e fotobiorreatores é uma boa alternativa para indústria alimentícia. Todos cultivos com D. tertiolecta apresentaram o mesmo perfil de carotenoides representado por 46,7 ± 2,0 % de luteína, 22,5 ± 1,6 % de β-caroteno, 9,50 ± 0,66 % de zeaxantina, 1,10 ± 0,16 % de α-caroteno e 20,2 ± 3,0 % para outros. / This study evaluated the growth of microalgae Dunaliella tertiolecta for CO2 biofixation released by brewing, recycling one of the greenhouse gases, reducing cost of raw material CO2 and adding value to produce lipids and natural carotenoids. For this, microalgae were cultivated in integrated systems between photobioreactors and fermenters. The difference in the cultures was the culture medium and the amount of CO2 produced. Initially, fermentation with medium YPD (Yeast Peptone Dextrose) in 2 L fermenters were coupled every 24 h to photobioreactors in 4 different conditions: 30 g L-1 of dextrose from 72 h culture of microalgae; 60 g L-1 of dextrose from 72 h culture of microalgae; 30 g L-1 of dextrose from 24 h culture of microalgae; and ranging dextrose concentration of (10 to 60) g L-1 from 24 h culture of microalgae (YPD (10-60)/24). The highest values for biomass, carotenoids, productivities and lipids were obtained in the condition YPD (10-60)/24. To reproduce this condition using beer wort, the substrate to product yield was determined and different volumes of beer wort where daily coupled to microalgae cultivations. The values obtained for cultures with CO2 released from these fermentations were 1.10 ± 0.05 g L-1 of biomass, 0.18 ± 0.01 g L-1 d-1 of biomass productivity, 0.58 ± 0.06 d-1 for the specific growth rate, 4.74 ± 0,59 mg g-1 of carotenoids per biomass, 0.86 ± 0.06 mg L-1 d-1 of carotenoids productivity and 13.5 ± 0.4 % (mass fraction) of lipids. These values were almost twice the values observed in the cultivation with CO2 of atmospheric air, showing that the integration between fermenters and photobioreactors is a good alternative to increase microalgae growth. All cultures with D. tertiolecta showed the same profile of carotenoids represented by 46.7 ± 2.0 % of lutein, 22.5 ± 1.6 % of β-carotene, 9.50 ± 0.66 % of zeaxanthin, 1.10 ± 0.16 % of α-carotene and 20.2 ± 3.0 % for others.

O presente trabalho avaliou o crescimento da microalga Dunaliella tertiolecta pela biofixação do CO2 liberado pela produção de cerveja, reciclando um dos gases responsáveis pelo efeito estufa, reduzindo custo da matéria-prima CO2 e agregando valor ao produzir lipídeos e carotenoides naturais. Para isso a microalga foi cultivada em sistemas integrados entre fotobiorreatores e fermentadores. A diferença nos cultivos foi o tipo e a quantidade de CO2 produzida pelas fermentações. Inicialmente se fez fermentações com meio YPD (Yeast Peptone Dextrose) em fermentadores de 2 L acoplados a cada 24 h aos fotobiorreatores em 4 condições distintas, sendo o último fermentador colocado sempre em 144 h de cultivo de microalgas: 30 g L-1 de dextrose a partir de 72 h de cultivo de microalgas, 60 g L-1 de dextrose a partir de 72 h de cultivo de microalgas, 30 g L-1 de dextrose a partir de 24 h de cultivo de microalgas e variando a concentração de (10 à 60) g L-1 de dextrose a partir de 24 h de cultivo de microalgas (YPD (10-60)/24). Os maiores valores para biomassa, carotenoides, produtividades e lipídeos foram obtidos na condição YPD (10-60)/24. Para reproduzir a essa condição utilizando mosto de cerveja, foi calculada a conversão de substrato em produto para, então, acoplar diariamente volumes diferentes de mosto de cerveja em cultivos de microalgas. Os valores obtidos para os cultivos com CO2 desprendidos por estas fermentações foram 1,10 ± 0,05 g L-1 de biomassa, 0,18 ± 0,01 g L-1 d-1 de produtividade de biomassa, 0,58 ± 0,06 d-1 foi a velocidade específica de crescimento, 4,74 ± 0,59 mg g-1 de carotenoides por biomassa, 0,86 ± 0,06 mg L-1 d-1 de produtividade de carotenoides e 13,5 ± 0,4 % (em massa) de lipídeos. Estes valores foram praticamente o dobro dos valores obtidos para o cultivo com CO2 do ar atmosférico, demonstrando que a integração entre fermentadores e fotobiorreatores é uma boa alternativa para indústria alimentícia. Todos cultivos com D. tertiolecta apresentaram o mesmo perfil de carotenoides representado por 46,7 ± 2,0 % de luteína, 22,5 ± 1,6 % de β-caroteno, 9,50 ± 0,66 % de zeaxantina, 1,10 ± 0,16 % de α-caroteno e 20,2 ± 3,0 % para outros. / This study evaluated the growth of microalgae Dunaliella tertiolecta for CO2 biofixation released by brewing, recycling one of the greenhouse gases, reducing cost of raw material CO2 and adding value to produce lipids and natural carotenoids. For this, microalgae were cultivated in integrated systems between photobioreactors and fermenters. The difference in the cultures was the culture medium and the amount of CO2 produced. Initially, fermentation with medium YPD (Yeast Peptone Dextrose) in 2 L fermenters were coupled every 24 h to photobioreactors in 4 different conditions: 30 g L-1 of dextrose from 72 h culture of microalgae; 60 g L-1 of dextrose from 72 h culture of microalgae; 30 g L-1 of dextrose from 24 h culture of microalgae; and ranging dextrose concentration of (10 to 60) g L-1 from 24 h culture of microalgae (YPD (10-60)/24). The highest values for biomass, carotenoids, productivities and lipids were obtained in the condition YPD (10-60)/24. To reproduce this condition using beer wort, the substrate to product yield was determined and different volumes of beer wort where daily coupled to microalgae cultivations. The values obtained for cultures with CO2 released from these fermentations were 1.10 ± 0.05 g L-1 of biomass, 0.18 ± 0.01 g L-1 d-1 of biomass productivity, 0.58 ± 0.06 d-1 for the specific growth rate, 4.74 ± 0,59 mg g-1 of carotenoids per biomass, 0.86 ± 0.06 mg L-1 d-1 of carotenoids productivity and 13.5 ± 0.4 % (mass fraction) of lipids. These values were almost twice the values observed in the cultivation with CO2 of atmospheric air, showing that the integration between fermenters and photobioreactors is a good alternative to increase microalgae growth. All cultures with D. tertiolecta showed the same profile of carotenoids represented by 46.7 ± 2.0 % of lutein, 22.5 ± 1.6 % of β-carotene, 9.50 ± 0.66 % of zeaxanthin, 1.10 ± 0.16 % of α-carotene and 20.2 ± 3.0 % for others.

Made available in DSpace on 2014-07-29T15:12:42Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Dissertacao Fernanda Dias Silva.pdf: 112667 bytes, checksum: 9ef746769100aea66ac5ebc1d67874c6 (MD5) Previous issue date: 2006-03-17 / The production of industrial foods derived from tomato generates high levels of rejects that are composed basically of seeds and tomato peels. This reject it is rich in carotenoids, especially lycopene and β-carotene, which are pigments whose ingestion is directly linked to the decrease of the risk of chronic-degenerative diseases. The present study has as objective develops simplified and efficient extraction and analysis methods of lycopene and β-carotene starting from this reject using palm oil as coadjutant, seeking the subsequent use of this extract for enrichment of products of easy access to classes economically inferior of the population and as a vehicle of medicines. Initially it was developed the chromatographic analysis method for three columns of RP-HPLC: C18 Chromolith SpeedROD (50 mm x 4,6 mm), C18 Nova-Pack (300 mm x 3,9 mm x 4 µm) and C30 YMC Carotenoid (250 mm x 4,6 mm x 5 µm). All the columns present a considerable reduction in the time of analysis and efficient separation between lycopene and β-carotene, when compared to the analysis reported on scientific literature. Later it was done a study of the thermal stability of the pigments by means of TG, DSC and RP-HPLC seeking to evaluate the maximum temperature which the reject can be heated without the occurrence of considerable losses of the pigments. The thermogravimetric curves demonstrated that the loss of mass happens to temperatures higher than those observed by the degradations of the pigments by RP-HPLC. It means that occurs the transformation of lycopene and β-carotene in intermediary compounds which are volatilized in higher temperatures. For the development of the extraction method several variables were tested being obtained the following optimized condition: 25 g of sample was dissolved in 50 mL of hexane and 0.1 mL of palm oil, shaking by 90 minutes under 50ºC. The proposed method demonstrated to be viable once it happens in only one stage, with the use of only an solvent which can be used again after the process. The time of extraction is completely acceptable, as well as the amount of solvent used, being all the parameters compatible with industrial implementation. The oily extract was still characterized with regard to the tocopherols and tocotrienols levels in the palm oil as well as the fatty acid and triacylglicerol compositions. It was obtained the prevalence of y-tocotrienol, oleic and palmitic acids and POO and POP triacylglicerides. / A produção de alimentos industriais derivados do tomate gera elevados níveis de rejeitos que são compostos basicamente de sementes e cascas de tomate. Este rejeito é extramente rico em carotenóides, especialmente licopeno e β-caroteno, pigmentos cuja ingestão está diretamente ligada à diminuição do risco de doenças crônico-degenerativas. O presente estudo tem como objetivo desenvolver métodos de extração e análise simplificados e eficientes de licopeno e β-caroteno a partir deste rejeito utilizando azeite de dendê como coadjuvante, visando a posterior utilização deste extrato para enriquecimento de produtos de fácil acesso ás camadas economicamente inferiores da população e como veículo de medicamentos. Inicialmente, foi desenvolvido o método cromatográfico de análise para três colunas de RP-HPLC: C18 Chromolith SpeedROD (50 mm x 4,6 mm), C18 Nova-Pack (300 mm x 3,9 mm x 4 µm) e C30 YMC Carotenoid (250 mm x 4,6 mm x 5 µm). Todas as colunas apresentaram uma redução considerável no tempo de análise e eficiente separação entre licopeno e β-caroteno, quando comparadas as análises publicadas na literatura científica. Posteriormente, foi realizado um estudo da estabilidade térmica dos pigmentos através de TG, DSC e RP-HPLC visando avaliar a máxima temperatura na qual o rejeito pode ser aquecido sem que ocorram perdas consideráveis de pigmentos. As curvas termogravimétricas demonstraram que o inicio da perda de massa ocorre à temperaturas muito superiores aquelas observadas para a degradação dos pigmentos via RP-HPLC. Isso significa que ocorre a transformação do licopeno e β-caroteno em compostos intermediários que serão volatilizados somente em temperaturas superiores. Para o desenvolvimento do método de extração foram testadas diversas variáveis sendo obtida a seguinte condição otimizada: 12,5 g de amostra solubilizada em 25 mL de hexano e 0,1 mL de azeite de dendê, com agitação de 90 minutos à 50ºC. O método proposto demonstrou ser viável uma vez que ocorre em uma única etapa, e com a utilização de um único solvente passível de reutilização após o processo. O tempo de extração é completamente aceitável, assim como a quantidade de solvente utilizada, sendo todos os parâmetros compatíveis com a implementação industrial. O extrato oleoso foi ainda caracterizado com respeito aos teores de tocoferóis e tocotrienóis no azeite de dendê, bem como sua composição em ácidos graxos e triacilglicerídeos. Obteve-se o predomínio de y-tocotrienol, ácidos oléico (O) e palmítico (P) e triacilglicerídeos POO e POP.

As perdas pós-colheita de alimentos hortícolas justificam a adoção de técnicas de conservação. Uma vez beneficiados, esses produtos permitem agregar valor à produção primária e se tornam de conveniência ao consumidor. Essa pesquisa teve como objetivo definir as metodologias do processamento mínimo de cenoura, pimentão e salada mista (batata e vagem), quanto ao tipo e intensidade de adoção das técnicas de barreiras e monitorar o processamento, via controle microbiológico, sensorial, físico-químico e nutricional. As hortaliças foram lavadas em água corrente, descascadas e cortadas com facas afiadas de aço inoxidável. Para a sanificação, foram imersas por 15 min em água refrigerada (± 7ºC) com 100 mg L-1 de cloro livre a pH ajustado para 7,0; a seguir foram centrifugadas a 550-900 G, por 5 min. As hortaliças foram acondicionadas, manualmente, em sacos plásticos de filme multicamada laminado, do tipo BOPP/PEBD (polipropileno biorientado/polietileno de baixa densidade). As embalagens foram fechadas em seladora modelo AP-500, marca Tec Maq, sob ar atmosférico, vácuo e atmosfera modificada (2% de O2, 10% CO2 e 88% de N2) e a seguir foram armazenados sob refrigeração a 1ºC ± 1ºC. A vitamina C não foi afetada em nenhum dos tratamentos nos três produtos. Os teores de b-caroteno mantiveram-se praticamente constantes em cenoura e salada mista; no pimentão, após a primeira semana de armazenamento, sofreram um decréscimo, permanecendo praticamente inalterados ao longo do armazenamento. Quanto à análise sensorial, os resultados para a cenoura e salada mista, foram satisfatórios até 21 dias de armazenamento para todos os tratamentos; exceto para o pimentão. Os três produtos obtiveram em todos os tratamentos, contagens para psicrotróficos variando de 10 2 a 10 5 UFC/g, 10 1 a 10 3 UFC/g e 10 3 a 10 6 UFC/g, respectivamente. Anaeróbios mesófilos e coliformes totais, foram constatados em pimentões minimamente processados. Porém, as baixas contagens obtidas, em todos os tratamentos, mostraram que a vida útil destes prolongou-se até o 14º dia de armazenamento. Para a cenoura e salada mista minimamente processadas, não foram constatados coliformes totais e fecais, anaeróbios mesófilos e Salmonella em nenhum dos tratamentos. / The postharvest losses of horticultural products justify the adoption of preservation techniques. Once these products are processed, they add value to the primary products and they become convenient to the consumer. This research had the purpose of defining the methodologies for minimal processing of carrot, green pepper and mixed salad of potato and string bean in relation to the type and intensity of adoption of the barrier techniques. In addition, it was our objective to monitor the processing, through by microbiological, sensory, physical-chemical and nutritional evaluation. The vegetables were washed in running water, peeled and cut with sharp stainless steel knives. For the sanitization they were submerged, for 15 min, in cold water (± 7ºC) with 100 mg L -1 of free chlorine at pH 7,0; next, they were centrifuged at 550-900 G, for 5 min. The product was hand packed in plastic bags BOPP/LDPE (biorientated polypropylene/low-density polyethylene). The packages were sealed under air, vacuum and modified atmosphere (2% O2, 10% CO2 and 88% N2) and stored under refrigeration at 1ºC±1ºC. The vitamin C content was not affected in any of the treatments. The values for b-carotene remained stable for carrot and mixed salad. For the green pepper, the values decreased after the first week of storage. In relation to the sensory analysis, carrot and mixed salad were considered satisfactory until 21 days of storage for all treatments; but for green pepper. In all treatments, counts for the three products ranged psychrotrophic ranging from 10 2 to 10 5 UFC g -1 , 10 1 to 10 3 UFC g -1 , 10 3 to 10 6 UFC g -1 , respectively. Anaerobic mesophiles and total coliforms were observed in minimally processed green peppers. However, the low count obtained in all treatments indicated a shelf life of 14 days. For the minimally processed carrot and mixed salad, no total or fecal coliforms, anaerobic mesophiles and Salmonella were observed in any of the treatments.

Este trabalho, buscou comparar a biodisponibilidade do &#946;-caroteno sintético e de fonte natural (couve-manteiga), e verificar os efeitos da fibra alimentar (pectina cítrica) sobre a biodisponibilidade do &#946;-caroteno, dentro de 2 experimentos diferentes (ratos e coelhos). No Experimento I (ratos), um grupo de animais recebeu ração com &#946;-caroteno e isenta de pectina cítrica (GC) e outro recebeu ração com &#946;-caroteno e adição de pectina cítrica (GE). No Experimento II (coelhos), um grupo de animais recebeu ração com &#946;-caroteno sintético (GCP), outro recebeu &#946;-caroteno de fonte natural (couve-manteiga) (GV) e ainda outro não recebeu de &#946;-caroteno (GCN); todos os grupos de coelhos receberam pectina cítrica. Após 30 dias de experimento, os animais foram sacrificados para determinações plasmáticas e hepáticas de vitamina A e &#946;-caroteno, por HPLC. Dos resultados obtidos no estudo em ratos pode-se verificar que o grupo de animais que recebeu pectina (GE), apresentou menor (p<0,05) concentração hepática total de vitamina A (&#181;g/peso de fígado) (retinol: GC =47,61 ± 24,24 e GE =23,44 ± 9,68 e palmitato de retinila: GC =935,30 ± 428,19 e GE =282,34 ± 98,86) e &#946;-caroteno (&#181;g/peso de fígado) (GC =9,64 ± 3,07 e GE =1,01 ± 0,66) que o grupo que não recebeu pectina (GC). E dos resultados obtidos no experimento em coelhos, verificou-se que o grupo que recebeu &#946;-caroteno de fonte natural (GV), obteve concentração hepática total de vitamina A (mg/peso de fígado) (retinol: GV = 2,30 ± 0,67, GCP =2,07 ± 0,57 e GCN = 0,11 ± 0,08; palmitato de retinila: GV =4,42 ± 2,17, GCP =2,77 ± 0,73 e GCN =0,04 ± 0,02) e &#946;-caroteno (mg/peso de fígado) (GV =0,04 ± 0,01, GCP =0,03 ± 0,01 e GCN =não detectado), maior (p<0,05) que o grupo que recebeu &#946;-caroteno sintético (GCP). Conclui-se que no Experimento I (ratos), a pectina cítrica provavelmente interferiu na absorção do p-caroteno, e no Experimento II (coelhos), que o &#946;-caroteno de fonte natural (GV), foi melhor absorvido comparando-se com o &#946;-caroteno sintético, na presença de pectina cítrica. / This work, looked for to compare the bioavailability of synthetic p-carotene and of natural source (kale), and to verify the effects of the alimentary fiber (citrus pectin) on the bioavailability of &#946;-carotene, inside of 2 different experiments (rats and rabbits). In the Experiment I (rats), a group of animals received diet with &#946;-carotene and it exempts of citrus pectin (CG) and another received diet with &#946;-carotene and addition of citrus pectin (EG). In the Experiment II (rabbits), a group of animals received diet with synthetic &#946;-carotene (PCG), another received &#946;-carotene of natural source (kale) (VG) and still another didn\'t receive from &#946;-carotene (NCG); all the groups of rabbits received citrus pectin. After 30 days of experiment, the animals were sacrificed for determinations plasmatics and vitamin liverworts A and &#946;-carotene, by HPLC. Of the results obtained in the study in rats it can be verified that the group of animals that received pectin (EG), it presented smaller (p <0,05) concentration hepatic vitamin total A (liver mg/weight) (retinol: CG = 47.61 ± 24.24 and EG = 23.44 ± 9.68 and retinyl palmitate: CG = 935.30 ± 428.19 and EG = 282.34 ± 98.86) and &#946;-carotene (liver mg/weight) (CG = 9.64 ± 3.07 and EG = 1.01 ± 0.66) that the group that didn\'t receive pectin (CG). And of the results obtained in the experiment in rabbits, it was verified that the group that received &#946;-carotene of natural source (VG), obtained concentration hepatic vitamin total A (liver mg/weight) (retinol: VG = 2.30 ± 0.67, PCG = 2.07 ± 0.57 and NCG = 0.11 ± 0.08; retinyl palmitate: VG = 4.42 ± 2.17, PCG = 2.77± 0.73 and NCG = 0.04 ± 0.02) and &#946;-carotene (liver mg/weight) (VG = 0.04 ± 0.01, PCG = 0.03 ± 0.01 and NCG = not detected), larger (p <0,05) that the group that received synthetic &#946;-carotene (PCG). Ended that in the Experiment I (rats), the citrus pectin probably interfered in the absorption of the p-carotene, and in the Experiment II (rabbits), the &#946;-carotene of natural source (VG), it was absorbed being compared with the synthetic &#946;-carotene better, in the presence of citrus pectin.

No description available.

This diploma thesis deals with the natural antioxidants present in cereals, especially in barley (Hordeum vulgare). A close attention is paid to the study of carotenoids determination was conducted. In the experimental part, the method of beta-carotene determination was optimized using high-performance liquid chromatography, diode array detector and mass detector (HPLC/DAD/APCI-MS). The method was used for the beta-carotene and lutein determination in the samples of barleycorn, malt and green barley. This method involves the sample saponification, extraction by diethylether, followed by separation on ODS Hypersil 250x4,6 mm, 5m column, using MTBE/MeOH (20:80) as mobile phase and spectrophotometric detection (450 nm). Quantitative analysis was implemented in the HPLC/DAD system. The MS detector was used for identification of analytes. A number of still unpublished data about the content of beta-carotene and lutein in several varieties of malting barley, malt and green barley are stated in this thesis. The highest content of beta-carotene was found in the green barley sample of variety Malz, harvested in first grow phase (8,49 mg/kg of the dry matter). The content of beta-carotene in barleycorn is relatively low (0,07-0,14 mg/kg of the dry matter). The content of beta-carotene is several times higher in the malt produced from barleycorn (0,24-0,56 mg/kg of the dry matter). The diploma thesis was implemented in the Research Institute of Brewing and Malting, Plc. in Brno.

Selected methods of Raman spectroscopy, like surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy and single molecule Raman spectroscopy, are described in this diploma work. The basis of two methods for numerical modelling of optical properties of micro- and nanoparticles are prefaced. The methods are Discrete Dipole Approximation and Finite Difference Time Domain. Micro- and nanoparticles are used in surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy and other nanospectroscopic methods. Further, the main instrumentation needed for Raman spectroscopy is described. The first part of experimental section of this work is numerical modelling of photonic nanojet that occures behind dielectric microparticles. This phenomenon leads to a new technique of confocal microscopy with Raman spectra measuring. The second experimental section contains results of Raman spectra measurement with beta-carotene and surface-enhanced Raman spectra of beta-carotene in silver-sol solution.

PhD (Agric) (Food Science and Technology) / Department Food Science and Technology / In recent years, there has been a lot of interest in orange fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] cultivar, as a cheaper source of vitamin A. In Southern Africa, reports have shown that one in every three children has deficiency in vitamin A. This study investigated the variations in β-carotene (vitamin A precursor) content among selected OFSP cultivars grown in Limpopo Province, South Africa. In addition, the study investigated the effects of location on functional properties, total carotenoids and antioxidant profile of the sweet potato flour as well as their physicochemical, functional and nutritional properties. Four (4) sweet potato cultivars [Dagga, Bophelo, Impilo (orange fleshed) and Mvuvhelo (cream fleshed)] were obtained from two locations, namely, University of Venda (Univen) agricultural experimental farm and Tshiombo irrigation scheme (Tshiombo) and analysed for pasting, functional, physicochemical and nutritional properties. The sweet potato flours from these two locations were also analysed by computed tomographic (CT) scans for flour particle density. Mineral and microstructure of OFSP flours were analysed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). All measurements, except the tristimulus L* a* b* and other colour parameters from five replicates, were performed in triplicate. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way analysis of variance and means were separated using Duncan’s multiple range test; P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to determine the correlation among functional, physicochemical, nutritional and pasting properties of sweet potato flour. β-carotene content varied significantly between the two locations from 70.98 ± 0.8 μg/g (Tshiombo) to 86.09 ± 2.0 μg/g (Univen), among cultivars from 1.71 ± 0.0 μg/g (Mvuvhelo) to 201.50 ± 1.0 μg/g (Dagga) and among orange fleshed (Dagga, Bophelo and Impilo) flours from 28.38 ± 0.2 μg/g (Impilo) to 201.50 ± 1.0 μg/g (Dagga). There was a similar trend in the contents of α-carotene to that of β-carotene from the two locations, which ranged from 0.63 ± 0.0 mol/L (Tshiombo) to 1.01 ± 0.0 mol/L (Univen). Mvuvhelo had significantly the lowest α-carotene content (0.50 ± 0.0 mol/L) and Impilo the highest (1.28 ± 0.0 mol/L). The total carotenoids was highest for Impilo (7.56 μg/g) and lowest for Mvuvhelo (1.33 ± 0.1 μg/g) but did not vary significantly (P > 0.05) between ii the locations. The antioxidant activity, based on 2, 2-diphenyl-1picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, was significantly highest in Bophelo (63.37 ± 0.8 mMAAE ml-1) and lowest in Dagga (26.93 ± 1.4 mMAAE ml-1) flours. The ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) varied significantly across the locations and among the cultivars and ranged from 14.45 ± 0.3 μMTE ml-1 (Tshiombo) to 17.40 ± 1.1 μMTE ml-1 (Univen). FRAP was significantly highest in Impilo (21.12 ± 2.1 μMTE ml-1) and lowest in Mvuvhelo (8.16 ± 2.0 μMTE ml-1). Total carotenoid content positively correlated with DPPH (0.486*), FRAP (0.830**), β-carotene (0.370*), and α-carotene (0.424*). The antioxidant content and the radical scavenging activity were significantly correlated (0.563**). Vitamin A content was significantly lowest (6.88 ± 0.38 μg/g retinol) in Dagga flour and highest (7.97 ± 0.25 μg/g) in Impilo flour. Protein content varied significantly across the two locations and ranged from 4.23% (Tshiombo) to 7.16% (Univen). Dagga had significantly the lowest (3.47%) protein content while Impilo had the highest (7.53%). The fat content of the flours varied significantly between the two locations ranging from 0.63% (Tshiombo) to 1.01% (Univen). The protein content was positively correlated 0.594** and 0.421* to vitamin A and fat contents respectively. The Bophelo colour luminosity was significantly lower (L* 76.2) than the other two OFSP, Dagga (L* 83.51) and Impilo (L* 82.07). Bophelo a* (14.09) also differed significantly across all sweet potato cultivars. All cultivars differed significantly in b* values. Colour intensity (ΔE*) ranged from 15.87 to 38.48 for Mvuvhelo and Bophelo, respectively. Chroma ranged from 87.52 to 84.95 for Dagga and Mvuvhelo respectively. Total starch content was significantly different in all sweet potato cultivars and ranged from 244.07 μg/100 g (Bophelo) to 325.04 mg/g (Dagga). Resistant starch differed significantly in all sweet potato cultivars ranging from 1.21 μg/100 g dwb (Bophelo) to 7.07 μg/100 g dwb (Impilo). Ash content was significantly different in all cultivars and ranged from 3.17% (Dagga) to 3.79% (Bophelo). Water holding capacity (WHC) varied significantly across the two locations and ranged from 1.44 g H2O/g DM (Tshiombo) to 1.72 g H2O/g DM (Univen). Bophelo had significantly the lowest (1.27 g H2O/g DM) WHC and Impilo the highest (1.99 g H2O/g DM). The ash content negatively correlated to total starch (-0.928**) but positively iii correlated to WHC (0.654**). Peak viscosity differed significantly across all cultivars under study and ranged from 126.54 RVU (Bophelo) to 302.36 RVU. (Dagga). There was significant difference in trough viscosity across all cultivars ranging from 55.97 RVU (Impilo) to 280.78 RVU (Dagga). There were significant differences in the final viscosity across all cultivars ranging from 78.99 RVU (Impilo) to 319.26 (Dagga). Peak time viscosity varied significantly across all cultivars ranging from 3.87 min (Impilo) to 8.47 min. (Bophelo). Dagga cultivar had significantly the highest pasting temperature (94.16oC) and Bophelo the lowest (77.75oC). The setback viscosity was significantly highest 51.10 RVU (Mvuvhelo) and lowest 23.01 RVU (Impilo). All cultivars from the two locations consistently showed high potassium content ranging from 0.46% (Impilo) to 1.38% (Dagga) as compared to other minerals such as magnesium, calcium and chlorine which ranged from 0.16% (Impilo) to 0.34%. (Dagga). The CT scans revealed that there was a possibility of evaluating the effect of location on the density of granules of sweet potato flour and also the inherent differences in granular distribution of various sweet potato cultivars. SEM revealed high amounts of potassium, magnesium and chlorine. A profile of physicochemical and functional properties of flour of some of the OFSP cultivars produced in Limpopo province, South Africa has been drawn. This study also highlights the nutritional quality of the flour from four sweet potato cultivars and provides a ranking of flour to help the producers in the selection process. Bophelo flour was ranked the highest in terms of β- and, α-carotenes, total carotenoids and antioxidant capacity while Impilo was ranked highest in terms of functional properties and ash content. This study has highlighted significant differences in a number of parameters measured among the sweet potato cultivars. Therefore, in order to derive the maximum benefit from aIn recent years, there has been a lot of interest in orange fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] cultivar, as a cheaper source of vitamin A. In Southern Africa, reports have shown that one in every three children has deficiency in vitamin A. This study investigated the variations in β-carotene (vitamin A precursor) content among selected OFSP cultivars grown in Limpopo Province, South Africa. In addition, the study investigated the effects of location on functional properties, total carotenoids and antioxidant profile of the sweet potato flour as well as their physicochemical, functional and nutritional properties. Four (4) sweet potato cultivars [Dagga, Bophelo, Impilo (orange fleshed) and Mvuvhelo (cream fleshed)] were obtained from two locations, namely, University of Venda (Univen) agricultural experimental farm and Tshiombo irrigation scheme (Tshiombo) and analysed for pasting, functional, physicochemical and nutritional properties. The sweet potato flours from these two locations were also analysed by computed tomographic (CT) scans for flour particle density. Mineral and microstructure of OFSP flours were analysed by scanning electron microscope (SEM). All measurements, except the tristimulus L* a* b* and other colour parameters from five replicates, were performed in triplicate. Statistical analysis was performed using a one-way analysis of variance and means were separated using Duncan’s multiple range test; P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used to determine the correlation among functional, physicochemical, nutritional and pasting properties of sweet potato flour. β-carotene content varied significantly between the two locations from 70.98 ± 0.8 μg/g (Tshiombo) to 86.09 ± 2.0 μg/g (Univen), among cultivars from 1.71 ± 0.0 μg/g (Mvuvhelo) to 201.50 ± 1.0 μg/g (Dagga) and among orange fleshed (Dagga, Bophelo and Impilo) flours from 28.38 ± 0.2 μg/g (Impilo) to 201.50 ± 1.0 μg/g (Dagga). There was a similar trend in the contents of α-carotene to that of β-carotene from the two locations, which ranged from 0.63 ± 0.0 mol/L (Tshiombo) to 1.01 ± 0.0 mol/L (Univen). Mvuvhelo had significantly the lowest α-carotene content (0.50 ± 0.0 mol/L) and Impilo the highest (1.28 ± 0.0 mol/L). The total carotenoids was highest for Impilo (7.56 μg/g) and lowest for Mvuvhelo (1.33 ± 0.1 μg/g) but did not vary significantly (P > 0.05) between ii the locations. The antioxidant activity, based on 2, 2-diphenyl-1picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity, was significantly highest in Bophelo (63.37 ± 0.8 mMAAE ml-1) and lowest in Dagga (26.93 ± 1.4 mMAAE ml-1) flours. The ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) varied significantly across the locations and among the cultivars and ranged from 14.45 ± 0.3 μMTE ml-1 (Tshiombo) to 17.40 ± 1.1 μMTE ml-1 (Univen). FRAP was significantly highest in Impilo (21.12 ± 2.1 μMTE ml-1) and lowest in Mvuvhelo (8.16 ± 2.0 μMTE ml-1). Total carotenoid content positively correlated with DPPH (0.486*), FRAP (0.830**), β-carotene (0.370*), and α-carotene (0.424*). The antioxidant content and the radical scavenging activity were significantly correlated (0.563**). Vitamin A content was significantly lowest (6.88 ± 0.38 μg/g retinol) in Dagga flour and highest (7.97 ± 0.25 μg/g) in Impilo flour. Protein content varied significantly across the two locations and ranged from 4.23% (Tshiombo) to 7.16% (Univen). Dagga had significantly the lowest (3.47%) protein content while Impilo had the highest (7.53%). The fat content of the flours varied significantly between the two locations ranging from 0.63% (Tshiombo) to 1.01% (Univen). The protein content was positively correlated 0.594** and 0.421* to vitamin A and fat contents respectively. The Bophelo colour luminosity was significantly lower (L* 76.2) than the other two OFSP, Dagga (L* 83.51) and Impilo (L* 82.07). Bophelo a* (14.09) also differed significantly across all sweet potato cultivars. All cultivars differed significantly in b* values. Colour intensity (ΔE*) ranged from 15.87 to 38.48 for Mvuvhelo and Bophelo, respectively. Chroma ranged from 87.52 to 84.95 for Dagga and Mvuvhelo respectively. Total starch content was significantly different in all sweet potato cultivars and ranged from 244.07 μg/100 g (Bophelo) to 325.04 mg/g (Dagga). Resistant starch differed significantly in all sweet potato cultivars ranging from 1.21 μg/100 g dwb (Bophelo) to 7.07 μg/100 g dwb (Impilo). Ash content was significantly different in all cultivars and ranged from 3.17% (Dagga) to 3.79% (Bophelo). Water holding capacity (WHC) varied significantly across the two locations and ranged from 1.44 g H2O/g DM (Tshiombo) to 1.72 g H2O/g DM (Univen). Bophelo had significantly the lowest (1.27 g H2O/g DM) WHC and Impilo the highest (1.99 g H2O/g DM). The ash content negatively correlated to total starch (-0.928**) but positively iii correlated to WHC (0.654**). Peak viscosity differed significantly across all cultivars under study and ranged from 126.54 RVU (Bophelo) to 302.36 RVU. (Dagga). There was significant difference in trough viscosity across all cultivars ranging from 55.97 RVU (Impilo) to 280.78 RVU (Dagga). There were significant differences in the final viscosity across all cultivars ranging from 78.99 RVU (Impilo) to 319.26 (Dagga). Peak time viscosity varied significantly across all cultivars ranging from 3.87 min (Impilo) to 8.47 min. (Bophelo). Dagga cultivar had significantly the highest pasting temperature (94.16oC) and Bophelo the lowest (77.75oC). The setback viscosity was significantly highest 51.10 RVU (Mvuvhelo) and lowest 23.01 RVU (Impilo). All cultivars from the two locations consistently showed high potassium content ranging from 0.46% (Impilo) to 1.38% (Dagga) as compared to other minerals such as magnesium, calcium and chlorine which ranged from 0.16% (Impilo) to 0.34%. (Dagga). The CT scans revealed that there was a possibility of evaluating the effect of location on the density of granules of sweet potato flour and also the inherent differences in granular distribution of various sweet potato cultivars. SEM revealed high amounts of potassium, magnesium and chlorine. A profile of physicochemical and functional properties of flour of some of the OFSP cultivars produced in Limpopo province, South Africa has been drawn. This study also highlights the nutritional quality of the flour from four sweet potato cultivars and provides a ranking of flour to help the producers in the selection process. Bophelo flour was ranked the highest in terms of β- and, α-carotenes, total carotenoids and antioxidant capacity while Impilo was ranked highest in terms of functional properties and ash content. This study has highlighted significant differences in a number of parameters measured among the sweet potato cultivars. Therefore, in order to derive the maximum benefit from a given cultivar careful selection of sweet potato cultivars would be necessary.