Avocado

Farmers face gender differentiated unique social and economic circumstances which may in part determine their time allocation behavior. Using primary survey data from Murang'a County, Kenya, this study employs the double hurdle and Tobit models to investigate gendered patterns of labor allocation in avocado production under contract and non-contract scenarios, non-farm activities as well as the intensity of time use. Results show that while avocado commercialization through contract farming has to some extent altered traditional gender roles in farming, there is still limited participation of women in avocado marketing under contract farming. Hence, interventions aimed at enhancing smallholder avocado production should incorporate mechanisms that will enable women participate at all levels of the avocado value chain.

Context: Indonesia is a tropical country with high UV rays. UV rays can increase melanin synthesis in the skin and cause the skin to become darker and hyperpigmented. One way to overcome this problem is the use of skin lightening agents through the mechanism of tyrosinase inhibition. Flavonoids have antioxidant activity and inhibit the process of melanogenesis.  Also, avocado seeds contain secondary metabolites of flavonoids in the form of catechin.

Aims: To determine the potential and activity of catechin as skin lightening agent against the target protein, tyrosinase, by in silico test using molecular docking method and in vitro test compared to kojic acid.

Methods: In silico assay was carry out using a computational method with autodock 4.2 program to demonstrate the affinity of active compound (catechin) with tyrosinase as the target protein by evaluating the binding energy value. Inhibition of tyrosinase is one way to inhibit the formation of melanin, so the skin becomes brighter. Spectrophotometry method was conducted to measure the absorbance of dopachrome and calculate the percentage of tyrosinase inhibition to be altered as IC50.

Results: The energy values ​​of catechin and kojic acid in tyrosinase enzymes were -7.64 kcal/mol and -5.03 kcal/mol, respectively. The energy value of the catechin bond was smaller than kojic acid in the tyrosinase. The bond energy value showed that catechin had greater potential than kojic acid as a skin lightening agent by inhibiting tyrosinase in silico using the molecular docking method. The IC50 value from ethyl acetate extract of avocado seeds disrupt the tyrosinase using the in vitro test was 93.02 ± 1.98 mg/mL, while IC50 kojic acid was 48.67 ± 0.1 mg/mL.

Conclusions: Avocado seeds extract containing catechin has a potential activity as a lightening agent by inhibiting the tyrosinase. Further research must be done to fractionation the extract to get a significant effect.

The study focused on the Characterization of Flour from Avocado Seed Kernel. Based on the findings of the study the percentages of crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, total carbohydrates, ash and moisture were 7.75, 4.91, 0.71, 74.65, 2.83 and 14.05 respectively. On the other hand the falling number was 495 seconds while gluten was below the detection limit of the method used. Moreover, the sensory evaluation in terms of color, texture and aroma in 0% proportion of Avocado seed flour was moderate like and slight like for 25% and 50% proportions of Avocado seed flour. On the otherhand, the taste of the biscuits prepared with 0% Avocado seed flour was moderate like, in 25% proportion of Avocado seed flour were slight like and in 50% proportion was neither liked nor disliked. The overall acceptability results for 0% proportion of Avocado seed flour was moderate like and slight like for 25% and 50% proportions of Avocado seed flour. Furthermore, the computed p values for the comparison of the level of acceptability in terms of color, texture, aroma, taste and overall acceptability of biscuits using 0%, 25%, and 50% avocado seed flour were lower than 0.05. Thus the null hypothesis is rejected.

Consumption of avocado (Persea americana Mill) has increased worldwide in recent years. Part of this food (skin and seed) is lost during processing. However, a high proportion of bioactive substances, such as polyphenols, remain in this residue. The primary objective of this study was to model the extraction of polyphenols from the avocado pits. In addition, a further objective was to use the extract obtained to evaluate the protective power against oxidation in food systems, as for instance oil in water emulsions and meat products. Moreover, the possible synergy between the extracts and egg albumin in the emulsions is discussed. In Response Surface Method (RSM), the variables used are: temperature, time and ethanol concentration. The results are the total polyphenols content (TPC) and the antiradical power measured by Oxygen Radical Antioxidant Capacity (ORAC). In emulsions, the primary oxidation, by Peroxide Value and in fat meat the secondary oxidation, by TBARS (Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), were analyzed. The RSM model has an R 2 of 94.69 for TPC and 96.7 for ORAC. In emulsions, the inhibition of the oxidation is about 30% for pure extracts and 60% for the combination of extracts with egg albumin. In the meat burger oxidation, the formation of TBARS is avoided by 90%.

Fruit juice becomes a demanded product in the modern world. The processing of fresh fruit juice is a huge challenge for the fruit juice industry. Consumers tend to consume fruit juices with the best quality of the fruit; the quality depends on the processing method and process parameters of the fruit juice processing plant. When considering the process parameters; the high-temperature fruit juice processing methods can affect the nutritional quality of the fruit juice. Application of the freeze-drying method to develop this instant juice cube can result in the best quality with the best nutritional components. Instant products obtain high demand in these days. Therefore, the protection of the main components is the main target of this developed product. This product is more useful for modern people who has busy lifestyles. Avocado fruit is highly nutrious fruit with high production. Hence the main focus of this research paper is developing a new product from Avocado fruit to overcome the problems of post-harvest loss and developing the instant product with multi-nutritional value.

"Саагун Б. де., Куприенко С. А.

Общая история о делах Новой Испании. Книги X-XI: Познания астеков в медицине и ботанике / Бернардино де Саагун, С. А. Куприенко. — Киев : Видавець Купрієнко С. А., 2013. — 218 с. : ил. — (Месоамерика. Источники. История. Человек).

ISBN 978-617-7085-07-1



В предлагаемом Вашему вниманию издании впервые осуществлен перевод на русский язык X и XI книг фундаментального труда францисканского монаха Бернардино де Саагуна (1498 или 1500–1590). Данные книги, в основном, посвящены вопросам медицины и ботаники. Для написания такого медицинского трактата автор использовал в качестве информаторов индейских лекарей, предоставивших львиную долю сведений о местных растениях, болезнях, лекарствах и методах лечения.

В отечественной науке до сих пор отсутствовали какие-либо исследования по истории медицины или ботаники астеков, поэтому публикация столь важного исторического источника должна будет восполнить этот пробел и пробудить живой интерес к наследию одной из месоамериканских цивилизаций. В своей «Истории» сам Саагун дал описания 123 лекарственным травам, в то время, как в текстах его информаторов упоминаются 266 растений. В целом же, в его книгах упоминаются 724 растения, из которых можно идентифицировать 328 видов, относящихся к 101 семье. Примечательно, что автор дал, фактически, первые описания таким растениям: кукуруза, чиа, авокадо, амарант, фасоль, тыква, агава, гуайява, черимойя, перец красный острый, табак, батат, какао, маниок, капулин, лукума, опунция, хикама, сапота, томат, ваниль, юкка и многим другим.

Книга рассчитана на студентов, аспирантов и преподавателей исторических, филологических, биологических факультетов и медицинских вузов, а также всех тех, кто интересуется доколумбовыми цивилизациями.



УДК 94(399.7)(093) +572+581.6+581.9+582+615.1+615.8+811.822

ББК Е5г + Р28г + Р.г(7) + Т3(7)213 + Ш177.16""

Harvest maturity of avocado fruit is currently determined using indices such as mesocarp oil content, dry matter (DM) or moisture content (MC), both measured destructively using representative samples of a batch in an orchard. Although useful, destructive techniques are time-consuming and results reflect properties of specific produce evaluated. In this study, the feasibility of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as a rapid non-destructive method for predicting maturity parameters of individual avocado fruit was evaluated. NIRS prediction results showed that MC and DM were predicted accurately, with residual pre-dictive deviation (RPD) of 2.00 and 2.13 respectively. However, models for predicting oil content, though promising, were not accurate, with RPD value of less than 1.0. The good prediction statistics between NIRS predicted MC and DM content demonstrated the potential of this system for non-destructive evaluation of avocado fruit maturity status. The stability and accuracy of models developed over two seasons, 2013 and 2014, to predict maturity parameters of avocado fruit demonstrated model robustness. NIRS combined with PLS models developed in this study are recommended for non-destructive evaluation of individual avocado fruit maturity status.

RESUMEN La resistencia de las plantas a las bajas temperaturas es el producto de una selección natural en este sentido. Los principales factores que influyen en la susceptibilidad al frío son la protección física de la planta y la capacidad de no colapsarse bioquimicamente. Dicha capacidad es definida especialmente por la composición de la bicapa lipídica de las membranas, y por la aptitud para anular los efectos de los agentes oxidantes y radicales libres. Es interesante la aplica-ción de clormequat para combatir los efectos del frío.

ABSTRACT Revision of the cold damages in plants: Avocado tree. The resistance of plants at low-temperatures is a result of natural selection. The mean factors that influence their susceptibility to cold are the plant's physical protection and the capacity to avoid a biochemical collapse. This capacity especially depends on the composition of double lipid layer of membranes, and the ability to nullify the effects of oxidant agents and free radicals. The aplication of chlormequat to reduce the effects of cold is recommended.

Edible film adalah lapisan tipis yang digunakan untuk melapisi makanan (coating), dan berfungsi sebagai pembawa bahan tambahan makanan. Penggunaan pati biji alpukat dalam membuat edible film menambah nilai limbah biji alpukat. Pati biji alpukat mengandung amilosa dan amilopektin yang bisa membentuk lapisan tipis. Namun, ada beberapa kelemahan pada film edible seed starch edible. Kitosan adalah bahan yang menjanjikan yang dapat digunakan untuk pengembangan pelapis dan film yang dapat dimakan pada tingkat industri karena karakteristik pembentuk filmnya, biodegradable, tidak beracun, dan antimikroba.Tujuan dari pekerjaan ini adalah
untuk mengevaluasi pengaruh konsentrasi kitosan (2%, 3%, dan 5%) pada sifat-sifat film edible starch seed edible. Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan 4 formulasi dan 3 kali pengulangan setiap pengujiannya. Formulasi dalam penelitian ini antara lain; K1 (kitosan 2%), K2 (kitosan 3%), K3 (kitosan 5%), dan K4 (kitosan 0%). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa konsentrasi chitosan yang digunakan berbeda-beda mempengaruhi derajat ketebalan, ketahanan air, dan laju transmisi uap air. Perlakuan terbaik dalam penelitian ini adalah perlakuan K2 (kitosan 3%) dengan tingkat ketebalan 0,126 mm, ketahanan air 48.0%, laju transmisi uap air 0,01 g / (cm2 jam), dan kemampuan sebagai penghalang terbaik untuk buah melon jika dibandingkan dengan keuda formulasi lainnya.

El trabajo que presentamos es un intento por conocer la problemática en la comercialización de lo pequeños productores de manzana y aguacate.  Para el primer caso, se estudiaron las organizaciones de las comunidades de Laguna de Sánchez y San José de las Boquillas, en el municipio de Villa de Santiago, N.L; para el segundo, la investigación giró en torno a dos organizaciones, de los municipios de Aramberri y Zaragoza, también del estado de Nuevo León.

Aging is defined as a genetic physiological process associated with morphological and functional changes in cellular and extracellular components aggravated by injury trough out life and resulting in a progressive imbalance of the control regulatory systems of the organism, including hormonal, autocrine, neuroendocrine and immune homeostatic mechanisms. Nutrition has solid potential in preserving youth and vitality. Calcium & Vitamin-D prevents osteoporosis and maintain healthy bones, Vitamin B12 to build red blood cells and maintain healthy nerves, Zinc to help compensate for lowered immunity due to ageing,

The natural process of fruit ripening is a combination of physiological, biochemical and molecular processes which can be activated or accelerated artificially by using different chemical agents. This study was carried out to examine the effects of three ripening process on the quality of avocado and mango fruits. Freshly unripe mango and avocado fruits were treated with calcium carbide powder, kerosene fumes and ripening in woven polypropylene bags. Calcium carbide treated fruits were stored for 48 hrs and all the samples were fully ripened except avocado fruit. The kerosene fumed fruits were stored for 24 hrs and then exposed to open air for another 24 hrs. Fruits ripened in empty plastic rice got ripened within 4 and 5 days for mango and avocado, respectively. The fruits were then analyzed for their physicochemical properties and sulphide and sulphate distributions using standard methods. The result revealed a decrease in TTA, pH, carbohydrate and vitamin C contents on ripening. ...

— For social and economic reasons Avocado is an important crop; however, some arthropods, of which mites are especially important, can limit its production, as is the case in the state of Guerrero. In order to determine which treatment is the best for controlling these pests, an experiment was carried out in Filo de Caballos, Guerrero, where five treatments were applied, together with an absolute control. Sampling was continuous, and the mites found in each treatment were counted. The treatment was applied when the economic threshold of 10 mites/leaf/tree was reached. The best treatments for controlling mites were T1 (abamectin and azadirachtin), and T3 (abamectin and imidacloprid), with 8 and 10 applications each. The population of thrips never reached the economic threshold; their densities were low throughout the experiment. Treatments 4, 1, 3, 2, and 5 had higher weights and they were classified into the " Extra " caliber. The fruits with the greatest length were those from treatments 4, 1, 3, 2 and 5, ordered decreasingly according to their size. Regarding fruit quality, the differences were not well marked among the treatments. The choice of control to be used is left to the farmers; however, it is necessary to remember that there are alternatives to the control of mites and thrips that help to increase caliber, size, and fruit quality.

The extraction efficacy of avocado fruit peels (AP) and seeds (AS) with the use of vacuum microwave-assisted aqueous extraction (VMAAE) was optimized in this study, with regard to extract’s total phenolic content (TPC), maximum antioxidant activity and minimal operational cost. Temperature (79.64 and 78.11 °C for AP and 43.90 and 45.26 °C for AS), time (11.89 and 11.75 min for AP, 10.18 and 10.28 min for AS), ratio of water to raw material (16.45% and 10.02% for AP, 38.73% and 37.65% for AS) and microwave power (5708.04 and 5699.10 W for AP, 5549.08 and 4797.29 W for AS) were estimated statistically as the optimal conditions in order to achieve high rates of extracts with high TPC and antioxidant activity using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH●) scavenging radical methods, respectively. VMAAE performed under these conditions resulted in received extracts with TPC (0.352 gallic acid equivalent-GAE/g fresh AP/min and 0.124 GAE/g fresh AS/min). Furthermore, it was calculated the...

Work on global food systems has focused on the livelihoods of farmers directly affected as growers of agricultural export goods and has paid less attention to those who are left behind by new patterns of production and consumption. The connections between pre-existing agricultural livelihoods and the new systems of provision associated with fashionable products are poorly understood. Global trends in food culture have wide ranging local impacts. In this paper, we argue that researchers need to look beyond linear commodity chains and the goods that travel from producers in one country to consumers in another and expand global food systems analysis to understand what regional livelihoods are modified or displaced by globalized agriculture. Avocados are a popular health food among millennials. Colombia is experiencing a boom in exports. Avocados have long been grown in the Santander region, but global demand has turned them into a politically important crop. Using food systems analysis, our field research illuminates how new opportunities for capital accumulation are transmitted through global markets and shape regional agricultural practices. Large investors have profited, while small-scale farmers have been impoverished. We demonstrate how the interplay of requirements for homogenous fruit from local supermarkets, demand for the export Haas variety, as well as the government's export-oriented policies have modified local livelihoods.Our contribution examines the broader social space in which agriculture is located. We argue for the need to study food systems beyond the vertical relations that constitute linear supply chains and examine the horizontal context of systems of provision.

Pollination of avocado flowers is essential for fruit production and is facilitated by various insect taxa. Currently, there
is limited information available on the community structure of the pollinators of avocado crops in East Africa. We duly
present the distinct groups of insects visiting avocado flowers across two most important avocado producing countries in
the East African region. Insects were swept from avocado flowers along transects and sorted by morphological features
that classified them into orders, families, and genera. Five common orders were identified, namely: Coleoptera, Diptera,
Heteroptera, Hymenoptera, and Lepidoptera. The relative abundance of Hymenoptera and Diptera were highest (49% and
22% respectively) hence we further identified them to the families and genera taxonomic groups. Three Dipteran families were
found (Calliphoridae, Muscidae, and Syrphidae) from which we recognized five genera: Chrysomya, Spilogona, Eristalinus,
Phytomia and Syritta. Hymenoptera on the other hand were placed into two general groups; bees and wasps. For bees, family
Apidae was represented by Apis, Ceratina, Meliponula, and Xylocopa whereas seven diverse wasp families (Braconidae,
Philanthidae, Vespidae, Ichneumonidae, Eumeninae, Thynnidae and Pompilidae) were also noted. The occurrence of
Coleoptera and Lepidoptera varied across the three orchards while the rest of the orders remained unaffected. We further
recorded the insect’s potential pollinator functions and concluded that the main pollinators of avocado flowers in the region
are members of Syrphidae and Apidae families. This information serves as a foundation for avocado pollination studies in
the East African region that are important for improving pollination services and insect pollinators’ conservation.

Aging is defined as a genetic physiological process associated with morphological and functional changes in cellular and extracellular components aggravated by injury trough out life and resulting in a progressive imbalance of the control regulatory systems of the organism, including hormonal, autocrine, neuroendocrine and immune homeostatic mechanisms. Nutrition has solid potential in preserving youth and vitality. Calcium & Vitamin-D prevents osteoporosis and maintain healthy bones, Vitamin B12 to build red blood cells and maintain healthy nerves, Zinc to help compensate for lowered immunity due to ageing, Potassium is needed especially in the presence of high blood pressure, Folic acid & Vitamin-B, help in DNA and red blood cells formation ,can lower the levels of haemocysteine(associated with heart disease), Fiber prevents constipation, Omega-3 fatty acids prevents cardiac death by blocking fatal heart rhythms and keeps arteries healthy and reduces the sickness of platelets in the blood, vitamin-C and E & the phytochemicals; lutein, zeaxanthin & beta-carotene prevent or slow the onset of age-related macular degeneration and Alzheimer's disease, water keeps the body hydrated and cleansed. Avocado, Berries, Cruciferous vegetables, garlic, ginger, nuts, soya, watermelon, salmon, yogurt, turmeric, grapes, broccoli, whole grains, olive oils, tomatoes, fish, green tea, dark chocolates, red wine, pomegranates are some top anti aging foods.

Avocado and soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) constitute vegetable extracts made from fruits and seeds of avocado and soybean oil. Characterized by its potent anti-inflammatory effects, this ASU mixture is recommended to act as an adjuvant treatment for osteoarthritic pain and slow-acting symptomatic treatment of hip and knee osteoarthritis; autoimmune diseases; diffuse scleroderma and scleroderma-like states (e.g., morphea, sclerodactyly, scleroderma in bands). Besides, it was reported that it can improve the mood and quality of life of postmenopausal women in reducing menopause-related symptoms. This article aims to summarize the studies on biological effects of the avocado–soybean unsaponifiable, its chemical composition, pharmacotherapy as well as applications in autoimmune, osteoarticular and menopausal disorders. Finally, we will also discuss on its safety, toxicological and regulatory practices.

Well known as the green gold, the mexican avocado is one of the most appreciated agricultural products in the world. Its annual demand allows Mexico to commercialize more than 635 thousand tons of the product among the countries of practically the whole world. That is something that for Luis Doporto Alejandre, the mexican businessman in charge of the Golden Stone and Guacamolito enterprises, is a clear example of the chain of value that exists between the mexican countryside, the producers and the international trade. Nonetheless, Doporto Alejandre is conscious that the real value lies in the hands of hundredths of avocado producers who live in the state of Michoacan, the main producer of avocado for its exportation and the only state with a certificate from the Department of Agriculture of the United States. With its main goal being the supply of the best of the mexican countryside to the world, without intermediaries, Doporto Alejandre created Golden Stone and Guacamolito, two important mexican marketers of fresh and frozen avocado. "Golden Stone and Guacamolito started in Michoacán, a mexican state that has always produced the best hass avocado. Since the beginning, it has been very clear what we want to do: bring the avocado of the best quality, taste and freshness to the whole world, while promoting social responsibility and supporting the mexican economy at the same time. So that is what we did." explains Luis Doporto Alejandre in the midst of the interview. The production of this fruit has served as a vital connection between Mexico and the international trade for more than 30 years. It is not in vain that the mexican avocado competes with the one that is produced in countries like Peru, Colombia and Chile, which despite having increasing exports, they have not surpassed the ones made by Mexico. Even if the United States is the main consumer of this mexican product-taking over 80 per cent of the total annual tons produced in the country-Mexico has succeded in amplifiying its market, reaching countries like Canada, China, Japan, Germany, France and Spain, which held control of 16 percent of the product´s world exports. In a market that has been on the rise since 15 years, the estimates are encouraging for Mexico, since it has been calculated that the mexican fruit will reach exports of up to two million tons in the year of 2030. "Our job will always be focused on keeping the transparency and rentability with the mexican producers, whereas we represent the best and the most selective parts of the mexican countryside. We want to be the best option and the connection par excellence between producers and global buyers. We are well headed towards this goal, so we will keep representing Mexico in the best way." noted Luis Doporto Alejandre.

Los cultivos del café en Brasil en el siglo XIX y del aguacate en México en el siglo XX y XXI, han recibido el nombre de “oro verde”. En su época han ganado este apelativo por su esplendidez económica pero han tenido también fuertes consecuencias socioecológicas. En un estudio de contraste analizamos las características similares entre los casos: a) sustitución del bosque por un monocultivo perenne, b) concentración de la producción mundial a nivel regional y c) degradación del ambiente. Extrayendo lecciones de la historia ambiental, finalizamos con propuestas que buscan un futuro más sustentable para la región aguacatera.

La importancia económica de la agricultura mexicana se refleja en las exportaciones de productos agroalimentarios, las cuales llegaron en el año 2017 a 31 mil millones de dólares y permitieron al país obtener divisas que superan a las conseguidas por remesas (por 14%), productos derivados del petróleo (por 42%) y turismo extranjero (por 56%). El crecimiento del PIB agroalimentario (3.5%) superó el crecimiento de la economía nacional, que fue del 2.3 % en el 2016. Desde el año 2015 el saldo de la Balanza Comercial Agroalimentaria de México es positivo, los principales productos agrícolas exportados son frutas y hortalizas. En términos de Valor de la Producción Nacional, Michoacán es el primero en la producción agrícola y encabeza la producción hortifrutícula de aguacate, fresa, zarzamora, durazno, pera, frambuesa y brócoli. En los últimos 10 años (2007-2016) el PIB de Michoacán creció en 77,912 millones de pesos (a precios constantes de 2013), eso significa el 24%. ¿Cuáles sectores económicos tienen el mérito de haber impulsado tal desarrollo económico?

Zilkah, S. and Klein, I., 1987. Growth kinetics and determination f shape and size of small and large avocado fruits cultivar 'Hass ' on the tree. Scientia Hortic., 32: 195-202. The shape and size of detached avocado fruit (Persea mericana cultivar 'Hass') were analysed throughout the growing season. Formulae and procedures developed from this analysis were used to calculate growth kinetics of small and large fruits on the tree. The spatial shape factor (M) of the fruit was calculated from the volume ratios of the sampled fruit and its circumferential cylin-der. This spatial shape factor of the fruit remained almost constant throughout all the stages of fruit growth, including the early one, when fruit length increased relatively more than fruit diam-eter. The growth of small and large fruits expressed on a logarithmic scale was found to be in close fit (coefficient of determination R 2 = 0.99) to the hyperbolic function Y = (A + B)/X. Extrapo-lation of the growt...

The present study was designed to investigate the possible therapeutic effects of Balanites aegyptiaca (Heglig dates), Persea Americana (Avocado fruit) and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) water extracts on some biochemical parameters such as ALAT, ASAT, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, total lipids and risk ratio 1&2 in streptozotocin diabetic rats. The results of the current study recorded a significant increase in serum ALAT, ASAT and ALP enzymes activities in diabetic group in comparison with the negative control group. Also a significant increase was observed in serum triglycerides, cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, total lipids level and risk ratio 1 &2. On contrast, a significant decrease was recorded in serum ACP enzyme activity, HDL-cholesterol level in diabetic group. Rats treated with Balanites aegyptiaca, Persea Americana and AFA alone or mixed together showed an improvement in these parameters.

The study focused on the Characterization of Flour from Avocado Seed Kernel. Based on the findings of the study the percentages of crude protein, crude fiber, crude fat, total carbohydrates, ash and moisture were 7.75, 4.91, 0.71, 74.65, 2.83 and 14.05 respectively. On the other hand the falling number was 495 seconds while gluten was below the detection limit of the method used. Moreover, the sensory evaluation in terms of color, texture and aroma in 0% proportion of Avocado seed flour was moderate like and slight like for 25% and 50% proportions of Avocado seed flour. On the otherhand, the taste of the biscuits prepared with 0% Avocado seed flour was moderate like, in 25% proportion of Avocado seed flour were slight like and in 50% proportion was neither liked nor disliked. The overall acceptability results for 0% proportion of Avocado seed flour was moderate like and slight like for 25% and 50% proportions of Avocado seed flour. Furthermore, the computed p values for the comparis...

The problems of agricultural fields in the world seem to have the same origins: green revolution, crop monocultures, loss of water resources and soil degradation. The multifunctional capacity of the soil depends on its health, thus, there should be methods related to promoting and supervising soil health. This research focuses in a detailed description of the current state of the soil and is linked to the local perspective, addressing the capitals of sustainability. The study area is located in Michoacán, Mexico, in the municipality of Uruapan. It has an altitude between 500 and 3,300 m. To diagnose the soils, an experimental farmland was selected based on: landscape representation, conventional management and 40 years or more of age of the trees. Three edaphic profiles were described. With the field and laboratory data, each profile was classified and graphs were designed to understand its properties. Closed structured surveys were applied and 33 key informants were selected in order to address the local perspective of sustainability. The data obtained from the interviews was analyzed with spider graphs in order to observe the informers’ main ideas and perceptions. Three groups of soil were identified: Andosol, Luvisol and Leptosol. Biological properties were more diverse in Leptosol. In respect to macronutrients, the three types of soil had the same behavioral distribution. Micronutrients showed an excess of Zn, B and Cu in the farmland. According to the type of climate, two types of interviewees were identified. The most relevant variables of the capitals of sustainability and its way to get there are climatic conditions and suitability of the soils. However, at list 50% of the interviewees considered that the main setback was the lack of economic resources.

Avocado and soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) constitute vegetable extracts made from fruits and seeds of avocado and soybean oil. Characterized by its potent anti-inflammatory effects, this ASU mixture is recommended to act as an adjuvant treatment for osteoarthritic pain and slow-acting symptomatic treatment of hip and knee osteoarthritis; autoimmune diseases; diffuse scleroderma and scleroderma-like states (e.g., morphea, sclerodactyly, scleroderma in bands). Besides, it was reported that it can improve the mood and quality of life of postmenopausal women in reducing menopause-related symptoms. This article aims to summarize the studies on biological effects of the avocado–soybean unsaponifiable, its chemical composition, pharmacotherapy as well as applications in autoimmune, osteoarticular and menopausal disorders. Finally, we will also discuss on its safety, toxicological and regulatory practices.

The present study aimed to assess the antimicrobial properties of encapsulated lyophilized powdered extracts of pomegranate peels (PP), avocado peels (AP) and avocado seeds (AS) in vitro and in vivo. Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimal Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) methods, optical density measurement, and well diffusion assay were used to determine antimicrobial activity against food borne bacteria (Gram− Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Campylobacter jejuni, Pseudomonas putida), (Gram+ Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes, Clostridium perfringens, Lactobacillus plantarum), and fungi (Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus niger) based on a mixture design model. Additionally, the most effective powder was studied in vivo in yogurt, cream cheese, and minced meat burger. The samples that contained high polyphenol content also exhibited higher antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antifungal activity. From the results of the well diffusion, the MIC/MBC, and...

Persea schiedeana, a close relative of avocado (Persea americana), is an important part of agroforestry systems and diets in parts of Mesoamerica, particularly in the coffee growing areas of southeastern Mexico and Guatemala, where it is known as chinene, coyo, and yas. Little research attention has been given to this species, other than as a rootstock for avocado. Research carried out in six villages composing the Comité de Recursos Naturales de la Chinantla Alta (CORENCHI) in Oaxaca, Mexico shows that Persea schiedeana has potential as a supplement to avocado production in subsistence systems and as a potential oil crop in more market oriented agroforestry systems. This survey of Persea schiedeana in the Chinantla area reports on the ethnoecology and management of chinene, as well as on the morphological diversity of the fruit in the area. High morphological diversity for fruit characters was noted and it is suggested that artificial selection has occurred and been modestly successful for desired fruit characters. Superior fruiting trees, identified during village level "chinene fairs" were targeted for vegetative propagation as part of a participatory domestication project. Such superior genotypes hold potential for addressing food security and creating marketable products in tropical areas around the globe.

One approach micropropagation avocado rootstock is the multiplication of commercial interest. In the present study aimed to identify the suitable culture medium for the stages of establishment and induction of buds of cultivars Huevo de Toro and butter, for which settled internodal segments with axillary buds (micropiles) in the media MS, DCR and Yasuda culture, added with 2 mg L-1 of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP), 0.3 mg L-1 indolbutirico acid (AIB), 2 g L-1 of oxytetracycline and 2 g L-1 benomyl. The variables contamination, oxidation and viability of the explants were evaluated 14 days after sowing. The culture medium was Yasuda stage suitable for aseptic accommodation which induced the most viable explants (> 40%). These were subcultured in mass seedlings induction, MS, DCR and Yasuda supplemented with 20% coconut water (AC), 2 mg L-1 BAP, 0.5 mg L-1 of gibberellic acid (AG3) and 0.01 mg L-1 indoleacetic acid (AIA) (M1, M2 and M3); 2 g L-1 casein hydrolyzate (CH), 1 mg L-1 BAP and 0.3 mg L-1 AIB (M4, M5 and M6). The number of seedlings s per explants, seedlings length and number of leaves at 60 and 90 days subculture was evaluated. In the growing Huevo de Toro, M1 and M2 are satisfactory means for the proliferation of seedlings values 1.19-1.5, 1.07-1.09 cm seedlings length, and the number of sheets 1.21. For the cultivar butter, M3, was the best for the variables: number of seedlings (1.89-214), seedlings length (1.21-1.23 cm) and number sheets (1.21-2.38).

This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of pectin-based edible emulsion coating on activity and disease severity of Lasiodiplodia theobromae in avocados, and their subsequent influence on the fruit quality. In order to assess the influence of coating and disease, avocados were sorted and devided into four equal lots and all were incubated at 20°C for up to 4 days. The first and second lots constituted samples which were stored as coated and uncoated, respectively, without fungal inoculation. The third and fourth lots were coated and un-coated fruits inoculated with the fungal disease. For coating, a previously standardized pectin-based emulsion was used. The incubated fruits were examined for the spread of disease, respiration rate and quality parameters, color and texture. As the incubation time increased, the volume of disease (VDS) increased, which in turn influenced the respiration rate (RR) in both coated and uncoated fruits. However, the coated fruits sustained a significantly slower rate of disease spread and RR. Similarly, the associated quality changes (texture and color) were much lower in coated fruits as compared with the control. Thus, the pectin based coating was effective in controlling the spread and severity of stem end rot in avocados. Changes in physical and physiological parameters of coated and uncoated fruits were well described by some form of semi-logarithmic models and were related to the VDS as well as case dependent incubation time.

Avocado and soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) constitute vegetable extracts made from fruits and seeds of avocado and soybean oil. Characterized by its potent anti-inflammatory effects, this ASU mixture is recommended to act as an adjuvant treatment for osteoarthritic pain and slow-acting symptomatic treatment of hip and knee osteoarthritis; autoimmune diseases; diffuse scleroderma and scleroderma-like states (e.g., morphea, sclerodactyly, scleroderma in bands). Besides, it was reported that it can improve the mood and quality of life of postmenopausal women in reducing menopause-related symptoms. This article aims to summarize the studies on biological effects of the avocado–soybean unsaponifiable, its chemical composition, pharmacotherapy as well as applications in autoimmune, osteoarticular and menopausal disorders. Finally, we will also discuss on its safety, toxicological and regulatory practices.

The extraction efficacy of avocado fruit peels (AP) and seeds (AS) with the use of vacuum microwave-assisted aqueous extraction (VMAAE) was optimized in this study, with regard to ex-tract's total phenolic content (TPC), maximum antioxidant activity and minimal operational cost. Temperature (79.64 and 78.11 °C for AP and 43.90 and 45.26 °C for AS), time (11.89 and 11.75 min for AP, 10.18 and 10.28 min for AS), ratio of water to raw material (16.45% and 10.02% for AP, 38.73% and 37.65% for AS) and microwave power (5708.04 and 5699.10 W for AP, 5549.08 and 4797.29 W for AS) were estimated statistically as the optimal conditions in order to achieve high rates of extracts with high TPC and antioxidant activity using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH •) scavenging radical methods, respectively. VMAAE performed under these conditions resulted in received extracts with TPC (0.352 gallic acid equivalent-GAE/g fresh AP/min and 0.124 GAE/g fresh AS/min). Furthermore, it was calculat...

This article has as its central theme the process of peasant subjectivation in Sonson, Antioquia, between 1997 and 2020, within the neoliberal context of capital accumulation. It problematizes the formation of a subaltern subjectivity in the peasantry, appealing to two theories about social relations of power and inequality, both structural and cultural: the concepts of hegemony and subalternity, according to Antonio Gramsci, and that of accumulation by dispossession, as developed by David Harvey. The methodological approach used was qualitative with a mainly ethnographic method, complemented by documentar y analysis and review. The research shows that the model of accumulation developed in Sonsón around the avocado agroindustry has implied dispossession relations, internalized by the peasants as a subaltern subjectivity of proletarianization and entrepreneurship.

Abstract Harvest maturity of avocado fruit is currently determined using indices such as mesocarp oil content, dry matter (DM) or moisture content (MC), both measured destructively using representative samples of a batch in an orchard. Although useful, destructive techniques are time-consuming and results reflect properties of specific produce evaluated. In this study, the feasibility of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) as a rapid non-destructive method for predicting maturity parameters of individual avocado fruit was evaluated. NIRS prediction results showed that MC and DM were predicted accurately, with residual predictive deviation (RPD) of 2.00 and 2.13 respectively. However, models for predicting oil content, though promising, were not accurate, with RPD value of less than 1.0. The good prediction statistics between NIRS predicted MC and DM content demonstrated the potential of this system for non-destructive evaluation of avocado fruit maturity status. The stability and accuracy of models developed over two seasons, 2013 and 2014, to predict maturity parameters of avocado fruit demonstrated model robustness. NIRS combined with PLS models developed in this study are recommended for non-destructive evaluation of individual avocado fruit maturity status.