Fruit Pulp Research Articles

Rationalizing the crosslinking reaction of an α,β unsaturated carbonyl of clovamide from Adansonia digitata L. and the cysteine residue of HIV-1 integrase enzyme

In this study, clovamide was identified for the first time in Adansonia digitata L. fruit pulp using the UHPLC-q-TOF-MS. The inhibition potential of the naturally occurring clovamide, specifically in the SE and SZ configurations and their yet to be identified enantiomers (RE and RZ) on HIV-1 integrase (HIV-1 INT) were investigated using molecular docking studies. The results revealed that all the four stereoisomers of clovamide bind to key residues crucial for the catalytic activity of HIV-1 INT (ASP64, ASP116 and GLU152) as well as other significant residues including, LYS152 and LYS159. This indicates that clovamide has the potential to inhibit this enzyme and possibly slow down HIV-1 replication. Interestingly, the docking results showed that CYS65 was in close proximity to ASP64, allowing nearly all isomers of clovamide to interact with this residue. This suggested a potential crosslinking reaction via Michael addition between clovamide and CYS65. The consistent proximity of all ligands to CYS65 in the studied protein throughout the entire molecular dynamics simulation period also showed the potential of permanent covalent bonds formation via a Michael addition reaction. Density functional theory modelling confirmed that the α,β-unsaturated carbonyl group of clovamide and cysteine interact, forming a clovamide-integrase adduct, potentially leading to irreversible inhibition of HIV-1 INT. This study not only highlighted the potential of clovamide as an inhibitor of HIV-1 INT but also demonstrated that clovamide possesses various functional groups that can be exploited in different biological activity studies. Findings of this study suggest that clovamide and its stereoisomers could be valuable candidates for the development of new antiretroviral therapies, offering a novel approach to overcoming drug resistance through multiple inhibition mechanisms.

Comparison of physical-chemical parameters of fresh and dehydrated amazonian fruits pulps from different regions

The Amazon forest has several native species of fruit plants that have economic, technological and functional potential. The fruits tucumã, buriti and peach palm, although well known regionally, are economically underutilized. For prospecting the fruits valorization in the Amazon and its industrialization, it is necessary to address the variation in the chemical composition of the fruits which contribute to many desirable qualities of foods, including attributes of texture, structure, mouthfeel, flavor, and color. This work contributes with data on the physicochemical characterization, including the proximate composition, pH, acidity, water activity, and colorimetric parameters, in the pulp and flour of tucuma, buritit and pupunha fruits collected in three regions of the state of Amazonas. The results obtained demonstrated significant differences between the same fruits from different regions mainly in relation to macronutrients lipids, protein and carbohydrates and also to color parameters, which contribute to many desirable quality attributes of foods. Considering the lipid content, in the tucumã pulp it varied from 22 % to 32.91%, in the buriti pulp from 20.31% to 27.72% and in the peach palm pulp from 2.12% to 5.55%. For the other parameters analyzed, significant differences were also observed in the fruits collected in different regions. To use these fruits in new business opportunities related to food production, the variability in the chemical composition on pulps and flours reported here should be taken into account and mitigated for production of standardized food on an enlarged scale.

Characterizations of Pectin from Choerospondias axillaris Fruit Pulp: Comparison of Different Extraction Methods

Generally, the extraction method has a great influence on the quality of pectin. However, there is little study on the effect of extraction method on the properties of Choerospondias axillaris fruit pulp pectin (CAPP). Accordingly, the physicochemical, structural, and functional properties of CAPP extracted by hot water (HWE), hydrochloric acid (HAE), ultrasound (UAE), and ultrahigh pressure (UPE) were investigated. Among these four CAPPs, UPE had the highest yield (15.79%) and GalA content (60.44%). UAE showed the most abundant side chains and RG-I region (55.12%). The lowest molecular weight (233.13 kDa) and yield (8.64%) were found in HAE. Though HWE exhibited better yield than HAE, its Mw was the highest. Different from physicochemical characteristics, the extraction method had a small effect on the structure of CAPP. The crystalline structure and functional group composition of different CAPPs were similar, while the surface structure of UAE and UPE had irregular circular holes in comparison with HWE and HAE. Furthermore, the extraction method also showed a great impact on the function. Compared with HWE and HAE, UAE and UPE presented better thermal stability and emulsifying properties. Meanwhile, HAE and UAE showed better antioxidant ability and prebiotic properties among these four CAPPs. The above results indicated that UAE showed better yield and functional properties. Hence, ultrasound extraction could be used as an effective method to extract CAPP.

THE EFFICACY OF THE AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF ADANSONIA DIGITATA AGAINST PLASMODIUM BERGHEI INFECTION IN MICE

The prevalence of malaria remains a significant threat in Sub-Saharan Africa. The occurrence of drug-resistant strains of Plasmodium in Nigeria underscores the urgent need for novel antimalarial medications. This research aims to assess the effectiveness of Adansonia digitata fruit pod extract against Plasmodium berghei infection in mice; determining the oral median lethal dose (LD50) and identifying phytochemical components using Lorke's and Evan's methodologies. The extract was assessed for its antiplasmodial activities against P. berghei-berghei in two murine malaria replicas using both suppressive and curative assays. Statistical analysis was conducted using one-way ANOVA. The LD50 of the extract through oral administration exceeded 5000 mg/kg. The extract contains alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, phenols, tannins, and anthraquinones. The aqueous fruit pulp extract of A. digitata, when administered at 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg of doses, exhibited a dose-dependent suppression of parasitemia by 25.70%, 42.57%, and 49.39% respectively compared to the control group, parasitaemia clearance rates was 31.76%, 43.34%, and 56.65% respectively. The parasitaemia clearance with a dosage of 1000 mg/kg was found to be statistically significant (p < 0.05).The reference drug (Chloroquine) administering a dosage of 5 mg/kg yielded a significant result (p < 0.05) parasitaemia clearance of 74.76%. Analysis of the Packed Cell Volume (PCV) levels revealed that those treated with the aqueous fruit pulp extracts of A. digitata at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg maintained normal PCV values throughout suppressive and curative experiments. However, the PCV in the control groups was markedly diminished (p < 0.05) after both trials.

Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) as a remedy to human livelihood challenges: a review

Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) is a unique plant predominant in different ecosystems in Africa. This review assessed its value in relation to human nutrition, health, and related aspects. Our synthesis shows that baobab leaves, seed oil, and fruit pulp were utilised in different forms. Baobab tree products such as fruit pulp, leaves, and seed oil contain high levels of macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins, carbohydrates, and proteins. Therefore, promoting the utilization and processing of baobab products for improved human nutrition is key. However, the determination of optimal parameters through elemental traceability as well as the relationship between geographical locations and nutrient composition of the baobab plant is required. Altogether, promoting innovative utilization of baobab products by exploring processing techniques to develop novel food and product formulation from Adansonia digitata tree products sheds a green light to sustain human livelihoods.

Melatonin maintains the quality and cell wall structure of plum fruits under low temperature storage

To enhance the quality of plum fruits under low temperature storage, the impact of melatonin (MT) treatment (100 μmol L−1) on the quality and cell wall structure of plum fruits under low temperature storage (at 4 °C for 28 days) was examined. The results showed that the contents of total soluble solids, total sugar, titratable acid, and vitamin C in plum fruits treated with MT were higher than control under low temperature storage, and MT helped to prevent pulp browning and maintained the overall quality of the fruits. In addition, MT inhibited the conversion of ion-binding pectin and covalently-bound pectin of plum fruits into water-soluble pectin under low temperature storage. It also decreased the activities of pectin methylesterase, polygalacturonase, β-galactosidase, and endo-β-1, 4-glucanase, while increasing the activities of xyloglucan endotransglycosylase/hydrolase and α-l-arabinofuranosidase. Correlation analysis showed that the fruit hardness and pulp hardness were positively correlated with the covalently-bound pectin content, hemicellulose content, and cellulose content, and negatively correlated with the water-soluble pectin content, ion-binding pectin content, pectin methylesterase activity, β-galactosidase activity, and endo-β-1, 4-glucanase activity. Moreover, the cell structure of plum fruits treated with MT remained more intact and tightly arranged under low temperature storage, with slower degradation of the middle lamella and higher cell wall thickness. This was beneficial for maintaining the integrity of the cell wall structure and inhibiting the increase of intercellular spaces. In conclusion, MT can maintain the quality and cell wall structure of plum fruits, inhibit cell wall degradation, and slow down the decrease in fruit hardness under low temperature storage.

Development And Evaluation Of A Vegetable Drink Based On Rice Milk, Quinoa And Passion Fruit Pulp

A portion of the Brazilian population has an inability to digest, metabolize, or absorb food or some of its nutrients. Lactose intolerance is a disorder that occurs at all ages. Lactose-free products are a necessity to meet the needs of individuals who suffer from this disorder. Due to the demand for lactose-free foods, a plant-based beverage based on rice milk, quinoa, and flavored with passion fruit was developed as a nutritional beverage option. Formulations (F1, F2, and F3) were developed by varying the amounts of rice and quinoa and fixing the amounts of passion fruit pulp, water, and sucrose. The physicochemical analysis followed the physicochemical methods for food analysis of the Adolfo Lutz Institute and the microbiological analysis followed the Manual of Methods for Microbiological Analysis of Foods. In order to verify whether there were significant differences, the ANOVA analysis of variance was applied using the SISVAR program version 5.6. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was performed with the PAST software. The plant-based beverage made from rice milk, quinoa and passion fruit pulp had a low lipid index and low ash concentration, an acidic pH and 4.01% of the daily protein intake required for individuals aged 4 to 8 years. It was produced naturally, without stabilizers, thickeners or industrial emulsifiers. Its production could be a feasible technological possibility for small manufacturers. The rice and quinoa beverage flavored with passion fruit pulp could be a viable alternative for people seeking a balanced, nutritious diet or for people who are lactose intolerant or allergic to animal milk or soy proteins

1H NMR Sensor for Nondestructive Characterization of Organic and Inorganic Materials

Nuclear magnetic resonance relaxation of the proton spins of liquid molecules and their evolution during processes such as drying, fluid flow, and phase change of a sample can be monitored in a nondestructive way. A unilateral 1H NMR sensor made with a permanent magnet array, inspired by the NMR MOUSE, with an RF coil tuned to 11.71 MHz was developed. This creates a sensitive homogeneous measuring volume parallel to the sensor surface and located 14 mm from its surface, allowing contactless measurements from the sample’s interior. As this sensitive volume is moved across the sample using a semi-automatic linear displacement mechanism with millimetric precision, spatial T2 lifetime and signal intensity 1D profiles can be obtained. To characterize the sensor’s sensitive volume, eraser samples were used. To evaluate the sensor’s ability to characterize different materials, cement paste samples containing ordinary and white Portland cement were prepared and measured at seven days of age. In addition, measurements were made on organic samples such as a Hass avocado and beef steak. Based on the results, a 1 mm spatial resolution of the sensor was achieved. The sensor was able to detect differences in T2 lifetimes in eraser specimens composed of layers of three different erasers. Also, a clear difference in T2 lifetimes and signal intensities was observed in cement pastes composed of white and ordinary Portland cement. On the other hand, it was possible to obtain signals from the peel and pulp of the avocado fruit, as well as from the fat and meat in a beef steak in a nondestructive way. The T2 lifetimes of the different materials agreed with those obtained using a commercial NMR spectrometer.

Influence of Varying Drying Air Temperatures on Physico-chemical and Nutritional Characteristics of Bael (Aegle marmelos) Pulp

Drying is a critical process for preserving fruits, but the nutrients in fruits are highly sensitive to temperature. Finding an optimal drying temperature is crucial to maximizing the retention of nutritional and physico-chemical properties. This study investigated the effects of different drying air temperatures on properties of Bael fruit (Aegle marmelos) pulp. Fresh pulp (1000 g) was dried at 55°C, 65°C, and 75°C, and the resulting pulp was analyzed for physical, chemical, and nutritional changes compared to the fresh pulp. Statistical analysis was conducted through one-way ANOVA was done by Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) method. The results showed that drying at 65°C retained the most nutrition while preserving color and other physical properties. Color analysis indicated darkening and increased redness at higher temperatures. Chemical properties such as pH and ash content increased with drying, while titratable acidity was highest at 65°C. Nutritionally, protein content peaked at 65°C, while fat content increased steadily with drying air temperature. Fiber and ascorbic acid levels decreased as drying air temperatures rose. The Bael powder obtained by drying at 65oC could be very well used for making cookies and other value-added products.

Impact of crown architecture on light availability, gas exchange, flowering and fruiting in jamun (Syzygium cumini [L.] Skeels)

Experiments were conducted to assess the impact of crown architecture on light availability beneath the trees, flowering, fruiting, yield and quality of jamun (Syzygium cumini [L.] Skeels). Trees were maintained as control, palmette and open centre crown. Impact was evaluated for three consecutive years, i.e. 2017–2019. Diffuse light beneath the trees ranged from 69.7 ± 2.22 to 45.9 ± 1.45%, whereas direct light varied from 30.4 ± 0.97 to 54.1 ± 1.78%. At flowering and fruit development stage (June), photosynthesis rate (A) in control trees was 12.5 ± 0.43 μmol CO2/m2/s; however, at fruit maturity and dormancy (August), it was only 9.5 ± 0.35 μmol CO2/m2/s. Similarly, in palmette and open centre trees, photosynthesis rate at flowering and fruit development stage was 13.5 ± 0.46 and 15.7 ± 0.54 μmol CO2/m2/s, respectively; whereas at fruit maturity and dormancy, photosynthesis rate dropped to 10.5 ± 0.39 and 11.7 ± 0.43 μmol CO2/m2/s, respectively. Substantial variation in stomatal conductance (gs), vapour pressure deficit (VPD) and transpiration rate (E) was also found. Days to start flowering ranged from 92 ± 0.33 to 98 ± 0.33. Similarly, days to end flowering varied from 99 ± 0.07 to 107 ± 0.36, days to fruit set 132 ± 0.33 to 139 ± 0.33 and days to fruit maturity 176 ± 0.48 to 184 ± 0.63. Significant variation in fruit length, fruit width and fruit weight was also found. Total soluble solids in fruit pulp varied from 9.0 ± 0.15 to 12.2 ± 0.149°Brix and fruit yield 62.3 ± 1.5 to 86.7 ± 1.33 kg per tree. Noteworthy variation in fruit quality traits was also recorded. This study illustrates that crown architecture has considerable impact on gas exchange parameters, flowering, fruiting, yield and quality of jamun.

QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF NUTRITIONAL AND BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS IN FRUITS OF KIWANO (CUCUMIS METULIFERUS E. MEY) TEMPUS CULTIVAR

Locally-grown kiwano fruits, Tempus cultivar, were evaluated for their content in some main classes of nutritional organic compounds. With 448/98 mg/kg DW (pulp/peel) total carotenoid content was average when compared to other Cucurbitaceae. Among identifiable carotenoids, lycopene was the only one in notable amounts, in peel (12% of total carotenoids). With 51,751/37,624 mg/kg, total phenolic inventory was extremely rich. Flavonoids were clearly dominant (78/49%). Hydroxycinnamic acids were found in significant proportions (11/27%). Fruit pulp also showed some amounts of tannins (5.9%) and stilbenes (2%), while coumarins were found in low amounts. Ascorbic acid was abundant, 20,140 mg/kg in pulp and 7,689 mg/kg in peel. Soluble sugars were 15,915 /6,634 mg/kg while lipids were 5,556 /2,721 mg/kg.

Combined influence of vanadium doping and rGO composite partnering on the photocatalytic ability of TiO2

Nowadays, the presence of noxious organic azo dye molecules in the industrial effluents is a pervasive and significant global concern as it severely affects both human and ecological well-being. In this context, vanadium-doped titanium oxide/reduced graphene oxide (TiO2:V)/rGO nanocomposite was prepared using a soft-chemical method using Cassia fistula fruit pulp extract via green synthesis and its photocatalytic dye degradation ability was investigated against a cationic (Rhodamine-B (Rh-B)) and an anionic (Eosin Yellow (EY)) dye. The nanocomposite exhibits superior dye degrading efficiency of 95% and 97% for Rh-B and EY, respectively compared to TiO2, TiO2:V, and rGO. The structural, morphological and surface elemental composition results confirm the formation of the nanocomposite. This nanocomposite TiO2:V/rGO can be used as a heterojunction photocatalyst for cost-effective dye waste removal and commercial dye detoxification processes.

Widely Targeted Metabolomics Reveal the Distribution of Metabolites in Shatian Pomelo Fruit.

Using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) technology in multiple reaction monitoring mode, a widely targeted metabolomics approach was employed to identify metabolites in five tissues (exocarp, endocarp, segment membrane, pulp, and seeds) of the Shatian pomelo fruit. The differences in metabolite composition and abundance among different tissues were analyzed using multivariate statistical analysis methods. The results showed that a total of 1722 metabolites were identified from the five tissues of the Shatian pomelo, including 413 flavonoids and 277 amino acids and their derivatives. Flavonoid metabolites accumulate the most abundantly in the exocarp and seeds, while amino acids and their derivatives are primarily accumulated in the exocarp and pulp. A total of 649 key differential metabolites were screened, including flavonoids, amino acids, and their derivatives, indicating the presence of tissue-specific accumulation of metabolites in the Shatian pomelo. This study systematically investigated the metabolite distribution in different tissue parts of the Shatian pomelo, and validated the feasibility of widely targeted metabolomics technology in pomelo quality analysis. It provided a theoretical reference for metabolic research on the Shatian pomelo and other citrus fruits, and offered a theoretical basis for the efficient utilization of pomelo resources.

Influence of different semiarid zones of Hidalgo in wild xoconostle prickly pear morphometry

The transcendence of wild xoconostle prickly pear species -wild or cultivated in semi arid zones- dates to its Mexican origin, historical, gastronomic, cultural and medicinal customs and potentially a product of interest for rural areas due to its demand in regional and international markets. A few studies have been carried out on climate influence and arid conditions on fruit quality and no regulations exist, which allows more competitive advantages in the market. The objective of this study was to know the impact of different characteristics of arid zones, specially on morphometric differentiation in wild xoconostle prickly pear species. The study was performed in three cardinal points, Northeastern, Southern and Western of Mezquital Valley, Hidalgo, Mexico. A total of 1,000 fruits were collected, 25 and 10 per location with four replications. The morphometric variables evaluated were fruit shape and weight, equatorial and longitudinal diameter, shell thickness, areole density, developed seed number, fruit surface color uniformity, juiciness and pulp color. Three main xoconostle variants were found geographically and identified according to the region. In the northeast, Opuntia matudae (cv. Blanco) predominates in spherical prickly pear shape; in the West, a greater O. matudae (cv. Cuaresmeño) abundance is observed with predominant characteristics from elongated to ovoid shapes; in the South, more predominant O. joconostle (burrona type) is observed with a typical elliptical fruit shape. The morphometric characteristics in fruit showed significant differences among sites (P ? 0.01); O. joconostle had higher values in quantitative variables, unlike O. matudae Blanco and Cuaresmeño. The semi-arid zone impact in Valle del Mezquital have influenced the morphometric characterization of wild xoconostle prickly pear species.

Phytochemical characterization, toxicity and pharmacological profile of the central effects of the fixed fruit pulp oil of Mauritia flexuosa L.F. (buriti)

Anxiety and depression are mental disorders that have been exponentially increasing over the last decades. Psychopharmacology emerged to try to alleviate the symptoms of these disorders; however, the side effects and the time it takes to achieve the desired effect are factors that decrease the search for and adherence to treatment. To remedy this situation, new compounds capable of improving the performance of these medications and reducing their adverse effects have been sought. The use of medicinal plants has been widely employed for this purpose. Mauritia flexuosa F.L., a palm tree with high incidence in Brazil, has been heavily targeted as all its parts are usable. The objective of this study is to evaluate the effects of fixed oil from the fruit of the buriti palm in models of depression and anxiety. The phytochemical profile of this oil and its toxicity were also investigated. The experiments conducted included the open field, rotarod, forced swim, and elevated plus maze tests. As a result, it was observed that the fixed oil from buriti palm presented 18 compounds, with elaidic acid being the major one, and showed no signs of toxicity. However, it demonstrated a possible stimulating activity in the open field test and had no effect on the motor system in the rotarod test. Furthermore, it exhibited an antidepressant-like effect in the forced swim test but an anxiety-like effect in the elevated plus maze test. Therefore, buriti oil may potentially be used in new formulations to assist in the treatment of anxiety and depression.

Contribution of agromorphological and qualitative traits to the study of the diversity of the caprifig (Ficus carica L.) in traditional agroecosystems in northern Morocco

Morocco is founded to be as one of the substantial leading fig tree producers. Caprification plays a crucial role in fig production regions as the primary factor that significantly influences both the yield and quality of fig production. Our study focuses on characterizing caprifig varieties in the Bni Ahmed region (northern Morocco) and emphasizing their phenotypic potential in the context of climate change. Using 34 agromorphological and qualitative traits (IPGRI), the study examined 40 caprifig trees belonging to four local varieties of caprifig. The varietal characterization was completed by the collecting and analyzing fruit and leaf samples in the laboratory. Qualitative traits indicated morphological variability among the varieties investigated. All quantitative parameters, except fruit skin thickness, showed significant differences. Analysis of simple correlation coefficients indicated strong relationships between the measured variables. The analysis of the simple correlation coefficients revealed strong correlations between the measured variables. A remarkable phenotypic variety was identified among the caprifig accessions studied. The principal component analysis showed that the first two components explain 60% of the total variability. Weight, fruit dimensions, neck diameter, fruit pulp thickness, number of Blastophaga, length, width, leaf area, and central lobe length contribute significantly to the total variation. Analysis of the Hierarchical Ascending Classification revealed the existence of three varieties: L’morr, l’louizi, and l’hlou. The variety L’morr has shown a very high potential in terms of fruit characters and pollinating insects. Thus, a genetic analysis can confirm the agromorphological results and breeding programs should consider these unknown genetic resources, such as the L’morr variety, to provide better quality caprifigs.

Accumulation of mineral nutrients in fruit peel and pulp of loquat (Eriobotrya japonica) cultivars during fruit developmental stages

The experiment was conducted during 2023 at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab to assess the changes of mineral nutrients in peel and pulp of loquat cultivars at four developmental stages to explore its nutraceutical potential. During the development of loquat fruits, K and Zn content both in peel and pulp showed increasing trend from 60–92 DAFS. Similarly, Ca content in loquat peel, Fe and Mn content in pulp also exhibited increasing trend. While P, Cu and Mg content showed a decreasing trend in both peel and pulp. Likewise, Ca content in loquat pulp, Fe and Mn content in peel decreased from 60–92 DAFS. This study provides an insight regarding the accumulation of mineral nutrients in fruit peel and pulp in loquat cultivars during four fruit developmental stages which could be helpful for exploring its nutraceutical potential.

Optimization of Ultrasonication Probe-Assisted Extraction Parameters for Bioactive Compounds from Opuntia macrorhiza Using Taguchi Design and Assessment of Antioxidant Properties

Opuntia macrorhiza, commonly referred to as red prickly pear, is a type of cactus fruit. The Opuntia macrorhiza (OM) fruit is rich in polyphenols and contains a high amount of ascorbic acid and betalains. The fruit peels have demonstrated many biological abilities, including antioxidant, antifungal, and antibacterial activities. Ultrasound probe-assisted extraction (UPAE) is a highly promising method for efficiently extracting valuable molecules from natural sources. The objective of this study is to optimize the parameters of UPAE, including the appropriate solvent, liquid-to-solid ratio, extraction duration, and pulsation level. The aim is to maximize the yield of bioactive compounds (polyphenols, betalains, and ascorbic acid) from OM fruits (pulps and peels) and assess their antioxidant activities using Taguchi design. The optimal extraction conditions through the partial least squares method for OM pulp were determined to be aqueous extraction for 12 min with a liquid-to-solid ratio of 60 mL/g and 48 pulses/min, while for OM peels they were determined to be aqueous extraction for 20 min with a liquid-to-solid ratio of 60 mL/g and a pulsation of 48 pulses/min. The optimum UPAE conditions were compared with the values obtained from the optimum extraction under stirring extraction (STE). Overall, UPAE exhibited higher yields than STE. The obtained total polyphenol content ranged from 10.27 to 13.07 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dry weight, while the betalain content ranged from 974 to 1099 μg/g dry weight. Overall, these fruits demonstrated potential as new components for food and medicinal uses due to their good health effects and lack of toxicity.

Phenotypic Diversity of Morphological Traits of Pitahaya (Hylocereus spp.) and Its Agronomic Potential in the Amazonas Region, Peru

Pitahaya (Hylocereus spp.) is an economically significant cactus fruit in Peru, renowned for its rich nutritional profile and antioxidant properties while exhibiting wide biological diversity. This study aimed to morphologically characterize seven pitahaya accessions using qualitative and quantitative descriptors related to the cladodes, flowers, and fruits. Univariate and multivariate (FAMD, PCA, MCA, and clustering) analyses were employed to identify and classify the accessions based on their morphological traits. The analyses revealed three distinct groups: one consisting solely of AC.07; another with AC.02, AC.04, and AC.06; and a third including AC.01, AC.03, and AC.05. The first group exhibited superior characteristics, particularly in fruit traits such as the stigma lobe count (23.3), number of bracts (26.5 mm), and length of apical bracts (15.75 mm). The second group recorded the highest spine count (3.21), bract length (16.95 mm), and awn thickness (5.12 mm). The third group had the highest bract count (37) and an average locule number (23.65). These findings highlight the significant morphological diversity among the accessions, indicating the potential for classification and selection in pitahaya cultivation. The potential of AC.07 stands out in terms of its agronomic qualities, such as its fruit weight (451.93 g) and pulp weight (292.5 g), surpassing the other accessions.

Enhancing the functionality of yogurt: Impact of exotic fruit pulps addition on probiotic viability and metabolites during processing and storage

The effect of exotic fruit pulp (araçá, cagaita, cambuci, grumixama, blueberry, and uvaia) on probiotic viability during storage and after gastrointestinal tract (GIT) simulation, in vitro biological activity, total phenolics (TPC) and flavonoids content, and the production of metabolic products of microbial in probiotic yogurt were investigated. During the storage period (28 days), probiotic strain populations remained high (above 6 log CFU/g), while after the GTI simulation, L. acidophilus and B. animalis survival rates were higher when adding grumixama, blueberry, and uvaia pulp. Fermentation increased the antioxidant activity of yogurt containing araçá (12.87 ± 0.32 to 17.46 ± 1.79 μg Trolox/mg) and blueberry pulp (12.05 ± 1.43 to 17.49 ± 1.68 μg Trolox/mg) for ORACH for example. However, the total phenolic content increased in all samples after fermentation (ranging from 1.80 ± 0.26 μg gallic acid/mg (Uvaia) to 2.42 ± 0.08(Grumixama)), and there was no significant difference among treatments for total flavonoids. Thirty-eight metabolic compounds, mainly free amino acids, were detected, indicating a high degree of proteolysis in samples. Exotic fruit pulps positively impacted the probiotic yogurt parameters and are a potential alternative in functional food processing.