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Acacia nilotica L., also known as babul, belonging to the Fabaceae family and the Acacia genus, is typically used for ornamental purposes and also as a medicinal plant found in tropical and subtropical areas. This plant is a rich source of bioactive compounds. The current study aimed to elucidate the hypoglycemic, anti‐inflammatory, and neuroprotective potential of A. nilotica's crude methanolic extract. The results of the in vitro antidiabetic assay revealed that methanolic extract of A. nilotica inhibited the enzyme α‐glucosidase (IC50: 33 μg mL−1) and α‐amylase (IC50: 17 μg mL−1) in a dose‐dependent manner. While in the anticholinesterase enzyme inhibitory assay, maximum inhibition was shown by the extract against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) (637.01 μg mL−1) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) (491.98 μg mL−1), with the highest percent inhibition of 67.54% and 71.50% at 1000 μg mL−1, respectively. This inhibitory potential was lower as compared to the standard drug Galantamine that exhibited 82.43 and 89.50% inhibition at the same concentration, respectively. Moreover, the methanolic extract of A. nilotica also significantly inhibited the activities of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) and 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LOX) in a concentration‐dependent manner. The percent inhibitory activity of 5‐LOX and COX‐2 ranged from 42.47% to 71.53% and 43.48% to 75.22%, respectively. Furthermore, in silico, in vivo, and clinical investigations must be planned to validate the above‐stated bioactivities of A. nilotica. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the Mediterranean diet, olive oil serves as the predominant fat source and has been linked to a decreased risk of mortality related to cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Still, there is no conclusive evidence correlating olive oil consumption to CVD. The aim of this study is to assess the global research, current research trends, and knowledge mapping related to the correlation between the consumption of olive oil and CVD using bibliometric analysis. On August 19, 2023, a title‐specific literature search was conducted on the Scopus database using the search terms "olive oil" and "cardiovascular disease" with a date range of the past 50 years. Subsequently, bibliometric tools such as VOSviewer and Bibliometrix were employed to analyze and evaluate the obtained documents. The search yielded (n = 429) publications and showed an upward trend in the annual publication count over the last five decades. The publication number exhibited a gradual increase with a rate of 5.55%. The results also indicated that 2530 authors, 759 institutions, 47 countries, and 223 journals have publications in this research domain. The present bibliometric study will be a valuable research reference for describing the worldwide research patterns concerning the relationship between olive oil and CVD during the past 50 years. In the future, the application of olive oil for the treatment of CVDs may be an emerging research trend. Apart from this, collaborations among authors, countries, and organizations are expected. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced under normal physiological conditions and may have beneficial and harmful effects on biological systems. ROS are involved in many physiological processes such as differentiation, proliferation, necrosis, autophagy, and apoptosis by acting as signaling molecules or regulators of transcription factors. In this case, maintaining proper cellular ROS levels is known as redox homeostasis. Oxidative stress occurs because of the imbalance between the production of ROS and antioxidant defenses. Sources of ROS include the mitochondria, auto‐oxidation of glucose, and enzymatic pathways such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate reduced (NAD[P]H) oxidase. The possible ROS pathways are NF‐κB, MAPKs, PI3K‐Akt, and the Keap1‐Nrf2‐ARE signaling pathway. This review covers the literature pertaining to the possible ROS pathways and strategies to inhibit them. Additionally, this review summarizes the literature related to finding ROS inhibitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allergy is an abnormally extended and evolved sensitivity to specific substances, whereas asthma is constriction of the airways of the lungs due to swelling of internal walls of the airways. Dietary consumption of omega-3 and omega-6 supplementation may help in the prevention of allergies and asthma. The objective of this investigation was to assess the effectiveness of omega 3 and 6 supplementation on patients who were suffering from asthma or any allergy. A cross-sectional study on 100 patients with asthma and different types of allergies was conducted at different hospitals in Lahore. They were given a questionnaire to accumulate input about their dietary practices, understanding, and awareness. Data was analyzed by using SPSS 22.0. Results showed that 40% of patients had mild improvement in symptoms, 28% exhibited good responses, and 32% had no progress in their symptoms at all. About 27% of patients took omega 3 and 6 supplementations weekly, while 36% used to take them daily, and 37% never took the supplementation. It was concluded that most of those patients who took the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids supplementations showed mild improvement as compared to those who were not taking supplements. People taking omega 3 and 6 food sources such as fish, nuts, legumes, and meat faced fewer symptoms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decade, the gut microbiota has emerged as an important frontier in understanding the human body's homeostasis and the development of diseases. Gut flora in human beings regulates various metabolic functionalities, including enzymes, amino acid synthesis, bio-transformation of bile acid, fermentation of non-digestible carbohydrates (NDCs), generation of indoles and polyamines (PAs), and production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Among all the metabolites produced by gut microbiota, SCFAs, the final product of fermentation of dietary fibers by gut microbiota, receive lots of attention from scientists due to their pharmacological and physiological characteristics. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying the role of SCFAs in the interaction between diet, gut microbiota, and host energy metabolism is still needed in-depth research. This review highlights the recent biotechnological advances in applying SCFAs as important metabolites to treat various diseases and maintain colonic health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saffron (Crocus sativus L., family Iridaceae) is used traditionally for medicinal purpose in Chinese, Ayurvedic, Persian and Unani medicines. The bioactive constituents such as apocarotenoids, monoterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids and phytosterols are widely investigated in experimental and clinical studies for a wide range of therapeutic effects, especially on the nervous system. Some of the active constituents of saffron have high bioavailability and bioaccessibility and ability to pass the blood-brain barrier. Multiple preclinical and clinical studies have supported neuroprotective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, learning and memory-enhancing effect of saffron and its bioactive constituents (safranal, crocin, and picrocrocin). Thus, this plant and its active compounds could be a beneficial medicinal food ingredient in the formation of drugs targeting nervous system disorders. This review focuses on phytochemistry, bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of phytochemicals in saffron. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of saffron against different nervous system disorders has also been discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Present study was aimed to assess the effect of microwave assisted extraction on total phenolic contents (TPC), total flavonoid contents (TFC), in-vitro antioxidant characteristics and identification of major volatile components of black cumin seeds extracted using different solvents (ethanol, n-hexane and water). Variation in TPC (28.72 - 37.15 mg GAE/g) and TFC (24.96 - 32.13 mg QE/g) of microwave assisted black cumin extracts (MABCEs) using different solvents was observed. Concurrently, the in-vitro antioxidant capacity varied from 63.34 to 82.12%, 119.82 to 168.0 µM Fe (II)/100mg, and 30.73 to 52.46% as analysed by DPPH, FRAP and β-carotene bleaching assays, respectively. Microwave-assisted extraction showed significantly higher results of TPC, TFC, and in-vitro antioxidant characterization as compared to control (non-microwave assisted). Depending upon the results of these in-vitro analyses, n-hexane extract was further employed to Gas Chromatographic analysis. Among all the 25 phenolic compounds identified, p-cymene, thymoquinone, carvacrol, α- thujene, 4-isopropyl-9-methoxy-1methyl-1-cyclohexene and longifolene were reported to be 26.97%, 35.91%, 2.19%, 8.26%, 5.45% and 4.98%, respectively. Therefore, it is concluded that microwave assisted extraction technique is more efficient as compared to conventional extraction techniques keeping in view the antioxidant properties and volatile profiling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main aim of this study was to evaluate hypocholesterolemic potential of microwave-assisted black cumin (Nigella sativa) extracts (MABCEs) in a rat bioassay. Efficacy trial in this study comprised of 25 male albino rats which were divided into 5 groups having 5 rats each. Out of these 25 rats, 20 were hypercholesterolemic and 5 were normal rats. Hypercholesterolemia was induced by providing high cholesterol diet for 15 days, and after the onset of hypercholesterolemia these rats were administered with different concentrations of the MABCE i.e. 150, 300 & 450 mg/kg B.W. for a period of 28 days. The administration of extract displayed significant lowering in the lipid profile of the experimental rats. The 300mg/kg B.W. dose of black cumin MAE provided the optimum results giving cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-c content lowered by 14.9%, 11.32% and 12% and value of HDL-c elevated by 12.88% compared to the hypercholesterolemic control. Similarly, there was a percent elevation in levels of SOD and CAT by 19.83% and 13.97%. The current study concluded that MABCEs have hypocholesterolemic effect thus can be used for its therapeutic property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was conducted to investigate the hypolipidemic properties of Microwave assisted extracts (MAE) obtained from different parts (whole fruit, leaves, seeds and roots) of Citrullus colocynthis on hyperlipidemic experimental rats. The trial consisted of 30 male rats that were divided into six groups each having 5 rats whereas, out of these 25 were hyperlipidemic and 5 were normal rats. After the induction of high cholesterol for 15 days, 20 rats were fed with microwave assisted extract of different parts at a concentration of 200mg/kg/B. W for 28 days. The administration of the extracts reported considerable reduction in the lipid profile parameters of the hypercholesterolemic rats. The MAE of seed of Citrullus colocynthis displayed the optimum results showing reduced levels of cholesterol, triglyceride and LDL-c by (10.33%), (22.50%) and (15.70%) while an elevation of (16.75%) in HDL-c content compared to the hypercholesterolemic control. Likewise, the percent increase in the concentrations of CAT and SOD by (6.92%) and (18.47%). The study concluded that the MAE of Citrullus colocynthis showed a positive effect on hypercholesterolemia thus providing therapeutic benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The research was aimed to determine the hypocholesterolemic property of microwave assisted defatted flaxseed extract (MADFEs) on rat model under study. The study trial included 25 male rats which were separated into 5 groups having 5 rats in each group. Twenty rats out of 25 were hypercholesterolemic and remaining 5 were normal rats. High cholesterol diet was administered for 15 days in order to induce hypercholesterolemia, and after the induction these rats were administered different concentrations of MADFEs (150, 300 & 450mg/kg B.W.) for a time interval of 28 days. A significant reduction was observed in the levels of lipid profile parameters by the administration of extracts. The extract at a dose of 300mg/kg B.W. was shown to have provided optimal results displaying lowered cholesterol content, triglyceride and LDL-c by 16.79%, 15.41% and 12.68%, while the level of HDL elevated by 14.71% in comparison to the control Fo group. Likewise, the percent increase in the concentrations of catalase and SOD by 10.89% and 29.38%. The study determined that MADFEs displayed hypocholesterolemic effect and can be utilized for its therapeutic benefits. The lignin present in defatted flaxseed provide with the potential against diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apple‐grape juice blend (50:50) were subjected to blanching (thermal), high temperature‐short time (72°C: 15 s), ultra‐sonication (5 & 10 min), thermo‐ultrasound (5 min, 40°C; 10 min, 40°C), and thermo‐ultrasound (5 min, 50°C; 10 min, 50°C) and were compared to control treatment for the antioxidant indices. Furthermore, one best treatment each from ultra‐sonication (10 min), thermo‐ultrasound at 40°C (5 min), and thermo‐ultrasound at 50°C (5 min) was analyzed through high performance liquid chromatography diode array detector (HPLC‐DAD) for the quantification of individual phenolic acids, flavanols, stilbenes, and anthocyanins. Polyphenolic profile (HPLC‐DAD) of apple‐grape juice blends treated with ultra‐sonicated (10 min), thermo‐ultrasound (5 min; 40°C), and thermo‐ultrasound (5 min: 50°C), resulted in identification of 23 polyphenols (9 phenolic acids; 6 flavanols; 1 stilbene; 7 anthocyanins). Results of HPLC characterization revealed a significant (p <.05) effect of tested treatments on all the polyphenols. Among phenolic acids, chlorogenic acid was observed to be highest (422.12 mg/L) in ultra‐sonicated juice blend (TU‐10:10 min) followed by caftaric, gallic, syringic, vanillic, caffeic, ferulic, and cinnamic acids. While, content of resveratrol (stilbene), epigallocatechin gallate (flavanol), and Malvidin 3, 5‐diglucoside (anthocyanin) were also found to be maximum (33.08, 386.32, and 70.25 mg/L, respectively) in ultra‐sonicated (10 min) apple‐grape juice blend samples. Keeping in view the polyphenolic profile and consumer preferences, ultra‐sonication could be employed industrially as an alternative substitute of thermal processing techniques to enhance the quality of apple‐grape juice blend. Practical application: For years, several nonthermal techniques are used for the preservation and quality improvement of fresh juices mainly by preventing the microorganisms and enzymes. Among these technique, single nonthermal treatment has a capacity to reduce the amount of microorganism and enzymes while a combined technique such as thermo‐ultrasound has a better effect than single treatment, which have been investigated in this study. Therefore, this article would encourage the juice industrialists by applying these techniques for commercialization of juice and juice products in a more effectual manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer, characterized as one of the leading causes of death owing to its heterogeneity and complexity, hence poses a significant challenge to health care system across the globe. Current therapies for cancer curtailment are considered to have associated side effects, therefore discovery of novel alternative approaches is need of the time. In this context, natural products have attained an essential spot in the scientific community for the development of novel cancer treatments. Among others, Diospyrin, a bis‐hydroxy‐naphthoquinonoid, is a vital bioactive component present in various Diospyros and Euclea species. The bioactivity associated with Diospyrin's makes it a promising “lead molecule” for new chemotherapy. In this review, biosynthesis of Diospyrin and its analogues along with their anticancer activities has been discussed. Moreover, this review briefly discusses probable modes of action of Diospyrin and its analogues by targeting the molecular signal transduction pathways. This review also highlights the toxicological and clinical implications of diospyrin and its derivatives. Further pharmacological and pharmacogenetic studies are required to better understand the anticancer potential of Diospyrin and its analogues at the molecular and genetic levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are produced under normal physiological conditions and may have beneficial and harmful effects on biological systems. ROS are involved in many physiological processes such as differentiation, proliferation, necrosis, autophagy, and apoptosis by acting as signaling molecules or regulators of transcription factors. In this case, maintaining proper cellular ROS levels is known as redox homeostasis. Oxidative stress occurs because of the imbalance between the production of ROS and antioxidant defenses. Sources of ROS include the mitochondria, auto-oxidation of glucose, and enzymatic pathways such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate reduced (NAD[P]H) oxidase. The possible ROS pathways are NF-κB, MAPKs, PI3K-Akt, and the Keap1-Nrf2-ARE signaling pathway. This review covers the literature pertaining to the possible ROS pathways and strategies to inhibit them. Additionally, this review summarizes the literature related to finding ROS inhibitors., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2023 The Authors. Food Science & Nutrition published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

In the Mediterranean diet, olive oil serves as the predominant fat source and has been linked to a decreased risk of mortality related to cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Still, there is no conclusive evidence correlating olive oil consumption to CVD. The aim of this study is to assess the global research, current research trends, and knowledge mapping related to the correlation between the consumption of olive oil and CVD using bibliometric analysis. On August 19, 2023, a title-specific literature search was conducted on the Scopus database using the search terms "olive oil" and "cardiovascular disease" with a date range of the past 50 years. Subsequently, bibliometric tools such as VOSviewer and Bibliometrix were employed to analyze and evaluate the obtained documents. The search yielded ( n  = 429) publications and showed an upward trend in the annual publication count over the last five decades. The publication number exhibited a gradual increase with a rate of 5.55%. The results also indicated that 2530 authors, 759 institutions, 47 countries, and 223 journals have publications in this research domain. The present bibliometric study will be a valuable research reference for describing the worldwide research patterns concerning the relationship between olive oil and CVD during the past 50 years. In the future, the application of olive oil for the treatment of CVDs may be an emerging research trend. Apart from this, collaborations among authors, countries, and organizations are expected., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest., (© 2023 The Authors. Food Science & Nutrition published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)