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Clematis ispahanica Boiss. is a rare species belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. Clematis ispahanica is highly valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties. The specific traditional uses of Clematis ispahanica in traditional medicine may include curing neurological disorders, syphilis, malaria, rheumatism, gout, diarrhea, and asthma. In this study, leaves of C. ispahanica were collected from collected from Boanat, Kerman Province, Iran. Essential oil isolated from the leaves of C. ispahanica was evaluated for its chemical composition for the first time. GC/MS analyzed the essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation. The chemical analysis of the oil from Clematis ispahanica Boiss. revealed the identification of 50 compounds, accounting for 92.5% of the total oil composition. In the leaves oil, the main components detected were phthalic acid, heptacosane, pentadecanoic acid, methyl ester, and apinene with amounts of 51.1 %, 5.8 %, 3.9 %, and 2.9 %, respectively. The analysis of various extracts from Clematis ispahanica Boiss. revealed a significant difference among all of them in Antioxidant activity (AA), Total phenol content (TPC) and Total flavonoid content (TFC) (p≤0.01, p≤0.05). For the antioxidant activity, the results obtained showed that the highest radical scavenging activity was observed in the extract of hexane with IC50 122 μg/ml, and the lowest activity was found in acetone extraction with IC50 170 μg/ml. The highest TPC value was 15.0 mg GAE/g DW in the extract of hexane. The highest TFC belongs to the extract of hexane and methanol with 7.3 mg QE/g and 7.2 mg QE/g. The analysis between TPC (r= 0.708, p≤0.01) and TFC (r= 0.786, p≤0.01) of C. ispahanica and its antioxidant properties were found to have a strong correlation. C. ispahanica exhibits a relatively high level of antioxidant potency and contains a significant amount of total phenolic compounds when extracted with a hexane solvent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the inheritance of natural durability of Acacia mangium Willd., wood-color parameters (Y [lightness], x [red to green], and y [yellow to blue]), mass loss by a white-rot fungus (Trametes versicolor) and brown-rot fungus (Fomitopsis palustris), and three different extracts (methanol extract, total phenol, and total flavanol content) were measured using the inner and outer heartwood of 10-year-old trees from 20 half-sib families in the third-generation A. mangium in Indonesia. The broad-sense heritability (H2) values were moderate to high for the wood-color parameters and mass loss by white- and brown-rot fungi (H2 = 0.210–0.851) and low to moderate for three different extracts (H2 = 0.000–0.576). Significant negative phenotypic correlations were found between the three different extracts and mass loss by T. versicolor and F. palustris. In addition, negative correlations were found between the wood-color parameters and three different extracts. Similar results were found between the total phenol content and y and between the total flavanol content and Y in genetic correlations. Therefore, A. mangium families with lower Y and y in heartwood could produce progenies with higher total phenol and total flavanol content, leading to higher natural decay resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clematis ispahanica Boiss. is a rare species belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. Clematis ispahanica is highly valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties. The specific traditional uses of Clematis ispahanica in traditional medicine may include curing neurological disorders, syphilis, malaria, rheumatism, gout, diarrhea, and asthma. In this study, leaves of C. ispahanica were collected from collected from Boanat, Kerman Province, Iran. Essential oil isolated from the leaves of C. ispahanica was evaluated for its chemical composition for the first time. GC/MS analyzed the essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation. The chemical analysis of the oil from Clematis ispahanica Boiss. revealed the identification of 50 compounds, accounting for 92.5% of the total oil composition. In the leaves oil, the main components detected were phthalic acid, heptacosane, pentadecanoic acid, methyl ester, and a-pinene with amounts of 51.1 %, 5.8 %, 3.9 %, and 2.9 %, respectively. The analysis of various extracts from Clematis ispahanica Boiss. revealed a significant difference among all of them in Antioxidant activity (AA), Total phenol content (TPC) and Total flavonoid content (TFC) (p≤0.01, p≤0.05). For the antioxidant activity, the results obtained showed that the highest radical scavenging activity was observed in the extract of hexane with IC50 122 μg/ml, and the lowest activity was found in acetone extraction with IC50 170 μg/ml. The highest TPC value was 15.0 mg GAE/g DW in the extract of hexane. The highest TFC belongs to the extract of hexane and methanol with 7.3 mg QE/g and 7.2 mg QE/g. The analysis between TPC (r= 0.708, p≤0.01) and TFC (r= 0.786, p≤0.01) of C. ispahanica and its antioxidant properties were found to have a strong correlation. C. ispahanica exhibits a relatively high level of antioxidant potency and contains a significant amount of total phenolic compounds when extracted with a hexane solvent.

AbstractThe market for olive leaf dietary supplements is expanding rapidly and is valued at $437.15 million today. However, information on the control of these products is sketchy and the origin and variety of olives are rarely stated. The aim of this research was to validate a simple and rapid screening method for oleuropein determination in olive leaf dietary supplements. A matrix blank was prepared by removal of oleuropein from a mixture of dietary supplements and the matrix was then spiked with known concentrations to create a spiked matrix calibration curve in the range 5 - 40% oleuropein. Five replicate extractions and analyses of the matrix standards were carried out over 10 days. Precision was less than 6% RSD and linearity was demonstrated by the Fischer test. Extraction recovery was > 90% and there was a strong linear relationship between authentic and matrix standards. All tested products conformed to the label claim which was strongly correlated with total polyphenols measured by the Folin-Ciocalteau method. Antioxidant activity was measured by the DPPH assay and was found to be strongly correlated with total phenol content and oleuropein concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was carried out to evaluate endophytic biocontrol agents (eBCA) in inducing corn plant resistance to downy mildew Peronosclerospora spp. In this context, the estimation of total phenolic content and peroxidase (POD) enzyme activity was carried out in contrast to control without induction treatments. Corn seed treatment using three eBCA II.D2.2, DC.5, and AC.3 on susceptible and tolerant cultivars in a screenhouse and field showed variation in downy mildew reduction. The results showed that Trichoderma asperellum AC.3 treatment suppressed downy mildew by 2.7–23.0% in the screen house. In the field, resistance induction by applications of Bacillus cereus II.D2.2, Fusarium verticillioides DC.5, and T. asperellum AC.3 suppressed the infection from 23% to 79% on susceptible cultivars. However, the T. asperellum AC.3 treatment reported the highest suppression of 55–79% on tolerant and susceptible cultivars. Resistant induction with F. verticillioides DC.5 increased POD enzyme activity by 300.5% and suppressed the infection by 63% in the field. The pathogen suppression ability through the induction with eBCA was related to triggering the increase of total phenolic content and POD enzyme activity in plant tissues. Applications of B. cereus II.D2.2, F. verticillioides DC.5, and T. asperellum AC.3 suppressed downy mildew infection in the field through the induction of total phenolic content and POD enzyme activity in corn. Meanwhile, the best treatment using T. asperellum AC.3 was lower by 30–70% than the application of synthetic fungicide as control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The market for dried wild edible mushrooms is characterized by quality discrepancies and species disorganization, which are a matter of concern. The feasibility of using fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy with chemometrics to predict the total phenol content and identify species was investigated in dried bolete. For the determination of total phenolic content, FT-NIR spectral acquisition, and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) image acquisition, five common species of dried edible bolete (n = 144) were utilized. The results showed that partial least squares regression (PLSR) combined with Fourier transform near-infrared spectroscopy could predict the total phenol content of dried boletes, with the best prediction coefficient of determination (R2p) = 0.79. The partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) model accurately identified Phlebopus portentosus, with Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), Precision (PRC), Sensitivity (SEN), and Specificity (SPE) all being 1. The support vector machines (SVM) model is performed optimally to identify processing edible bolete (Lanmaoa asiatica) with an accuracy of 100 % in the test set. 2DCOS images combined with the residual convolutional neural networks (ResNet) model demonstrated the feasibility of FT-NIR full spectral bands (10,000–4,000 cm−1) and characteristic spectral bands (6,500–4,000 cm−1) for species identification of boletes. The method applies to the case of consistent or inconsistent sample sizes between groups, with an accuracy of 1.00 for both the training and test sets. The study serves as a rapid, non-invasive, and convenient method for real-time evaluation of the quality of dried edible bolete in the market.

Betula pendula Roth. (silver birch) is a pioneer species in the Northern Hemisphere forests. It plays a significant role in various ecosystems, human industries, and biodiversity. Taking all this into account, understanding the genetic diversity within B. pendula populations is crucial for fully exploiting their potential, particularly regarding their production of phenolic compounds and antioxidants. We tested the non-enzymatic and enzymatic antioxidant activity in seven silver birch half-sib family leaves. Spectrophotometric data from leaf extracts showed that there was a significant variation between families in terms of total phenol content (TPC) and antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase (POX), catalase, glutathione reductase, and ascorbate peroxidase) levels. The data were gathered during two consecutive seasons, resulting in a variance in antioxidant production, which generally increased in the tested families during the second year (except for POX) as opposed to the first vegetative season. For example, SOD levels increased in the second year by 15% to 243% and TPC increased by 46%–189%, depending on the half-sib family. A more thorough study of this variation should prove beneficial in various research fields, ranging from climate change to cosmetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Bangladeshi medicinal plant Leea aequata is utilized for many health ailments due to its phenolics and flavonoids; however, its bioactive qualities are unknown. An Ethanolic Extract of Leea aequata (EELA) was tested for antioxidant activity in a controlled lab study. It was also tested on rodents for feelings of depression and anxiety. Hole Board Test (HBT) and Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) assessed anxiolytic activity in intact mice. The Forced Swim Test (FST) and Tail Suspension Test (TST) assessed antidepressant action through immobility. DPPH scavenging, total phenolic, and total flavonoid assays assessed in vitro antioxidant capabilities. In the in vitro DPPH scavenging activity model, the half-Inhibition Concentration (IC50) of the plant sample for free radicals is 323.88 μg/mL, which is significant compared to that of ascorbic acid (759.03 μg/mL). The Total Phenol Content (TPC) of 25.78±3.75 Gallic Acid Equivalent (GAE) mg/g of dry extract and the Total Flavonoid Content (TFC) of 20.19 mg Catechin Equivalent (CAE) per gram of dry extract in the Leea aequata extract were found to be substantial. In the in vivo anxiolytic activity model, EELA showed substantial (p

This study aimed to assess and compare the antioxidant activity and content (total flavonoid levels and total phenolic) of mature and immature okra. The antioxidant activity of okra fruits was assayed using four methods, namely: Aluminium Chloride Colorimetric assay, Folin-Ciocalteu assay, 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and Reducing Antioxidant Power assay (FRAP) assays. The immature, mature, and very mature okra samples (less than 8 days, 10-15 days, and more than 20 days, respectively) were extracted using two different solvents (65% ethanol and water). The sample that was extracted with mature ethanol had the highest Total Phenolic Content (TPC) at 21.564 ± 1.635 mg GAE/g, while the sample that was extracted with extremely mature ethanol had the highest TFC at 54.391 ± 8.224 mg QE/g. The mature 65% ethanolic extracted sample showed the lowest IC50 value of DPPH scavenging activity (0.920± 0.096 mg/ml), and the mature ethanol extracted sample had the highest FRAP value (232.018± 5.337 μmol Fe2+/g). These studies showed that ethanolic extracts of mature Abelmoschus esculentus had higher antioxidant content and activity than okra water extracts. Based on the DPPH Radical Scavenging Assay revealed favourable associations between TPC (r = 0.860), TFC (r = 0.742), and antioxidant activity as evaluated by FRAP, demonstrating that both phenolics and flavonoids contributed to the extract’s antioxidant properties. Both TPC and TFC showed negative correlations with IC50 values (r = -0.766, r = -0.650, respectively). In conclusion, the mature okra fruits extracted with 65% ethanol give higher antioxidant content than the water extracts of okra fruits and potentially be used as a source of antioxidants rather than be discarded.

Artemisia absinthium L., commonly known as wormwood, is a medicinal herb with deep roots in traditional medicine. Wormwood possesses numerous healing properties, including positive effects on the liver, bladder, stomach and intestines. It improves digestion, has the antidiabetic effect and exhibits antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Although wormwood can be used in various forms, the simplest and most accessible method is wormwood tea, prepared from dried raw material. In this study, the antioxidant properties and total phenol content of wormwood teas prepared using different methods and raw materials from different manufacturers were investigated. The DPPH radical scavenging activity, expressed in Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity, ranged from 457 to 623 mg/l, while the total phenol content, expressed in gallic acid equivalents, ranged from 112 to 224 mg/l. The findings suggest that the antioxidant properties of wormwood tea are largely influenced by phenolic compounds. It was found that teas made from wormwood leaves exhibit higher antioxidant activity and phenolic content compared to those made from wormwood stems. The main volatile components of wormwood teas were identified as β-thujone and trans-sabinyl acetate, with ß-thujone content in wormwood teas ranging from 36 to 79 mg/l. Additionally, the thujone content decreases when the tea is brewed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Honey is a natural product that is an excellent source of energy containing mainly carbohydrates and water, as well as small amounts of organic acids, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, and enzymes. Due to the presence of bioactive compounds, it has been shown that honey is beneficial for many diseases, e.g. gastrointestinal diseases, skin diseases, cancer, heart diseases, and neurological degeneration. The study of the physical and chemical properties of honey and the content of bioactive compounds has been increasingly applied in order to determine the quality of honey samples. The aim of this study is to investigate physicochemical properties as well as the total phenol content and antioxidant activity of seven multifloral honey samples from the Herzegovina region. Physicochemical parameters determined in the honey samples (moisture, acidity, electrical conductivity, reducing sugars, sucrose, and insoluble matter) were within the quality standard limits of the Regulation on methods for control of honey and other bee products. Total phenolic content was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method and it ranged from 46.98 ± 6.36 to 152.94 ± 4.95 mg GAE/100 g of honey. To determine the antioxidant activity of the honey samples, two methods, FRAP and ABTS, were used. The total phenolic content of honey correlated positively with its antioxidant activity.

IntroductionWhile grapes are considered as non-climacteric fruits, during the post-harvest stages, due to the softening of the tissue, it is very prone to decay, which shortens its post-harvest life. Today, due to the desire of consumers to use high quality food, the use of biodegradable films and coatings with antimicrobial properties, is a suitable alternative to synthetic preservatives, in order to maintain food security and prevent wastage of significant capital. Edible coatings are edible thin layers that are used to increase the shelf life and quality of fruits. This material increases the quality and health of the product by creating a semi-permeable barrier to water vapor and oxygen and carbon dioxide gases between the product and the environment, and to prevent anaerobic respiration, it absorbs a certain amount of gases and to this Sequence increases product shelf life. One of the most important ways to increase the shelf life and maintain the quality of agricultural products, especially fruits, is the use of edible coatings on the crop surface. Chitosan is one of the most important natural derivatives of chitin, of which about 50% of its acetyl’s groups have been removed. Due to the fact that Aloe vera gel has no taste and odor, can be considered a good option as a cover for fruits after harvest and due to its elasticity and strength solution in water, as a suitable layer on the product. Located and protects the fruit from mechanical damage and moisture loss. Material and Methods In this study, 12-year-old mature grape trees of ‘Asgari’ cultivar in the scaffolding garden of Abestan region of Khorramabad city in 1398 were studied. In the pre-harvest stage, chitosan was sprayed on the tree and in the post-harvest stage, Aloe vera gel was applied by dipping the fruit in Aloe vera gel in the laboratory. After treatment, the fruits were stored in the refrigerator at a temperature of 4 ± 0.5 ° C and were examined at different time stages for quantitative and qualitative characteristics of the fruit. 20 identical grape trees (in terms of fruit size and load, with 50 to 70 annual branches in 8-14 buds) selected and grape clusters with different concentrations of chitosan (control (distilled water), 2 and 3 Percentage of chitosan) at different stages of growth (fruit set), 35 and 50 days later) were sprayed directly with 4 liters per vine, by hand sprayer (2 ml Tween 80% was added as the active surfactant). For this stage, immediately after harvesting the grapes, take them to the laboratory and immerse them in concentrations (zero, 25 and 33%) of Aloe vera gel for 10 to 20 seconds and then in the air. They dried. Then, grape fruits weighing about 360-300 g in each experimental unit were stored for 28 days at 4 ° C and examined. This study was performed as a factorial experiment (2 factors) in a completely randomized design with three replications. The first factor is the effect of the treatments studied in seven levels including: control, 2% chitosan (CTS 2%), 3% chitosan (CTS 3%), chitosan 2% + Aloe vera gel 25% (AVG 25% + CTS 2%), chitosan 3% + Aloe vera gel 25% (AVG 25% + CTS 3%), 2% chitosan + 33% Aloe vera gel (AVG 33% + CTS 2%), chitosan 3% + Aloe vera gel 33% (AVG 33% + CTS 3%) and the second factor was storage time at five levels (zero, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days after harvest). Data analysis was performed using SAS software and a significant difference between treatments for each trait with a minimum significant difference at the probability level = 0.05 α was determined. Results and Discussion The results of analysis of variance showed that the effect of treatment and storage time on the desired traits was significant at the level of one percent. Fruits treated with chitosan and Aloe vera gel had higher texture firmness, taste index, phenolic content, antioxidant activity and titratable acids and caries index and pH were lower than the control. The highest content of phenol, antioxidant, flavor index and titratable acidity in all five measurement times belonged to 2% chitosan treatments with both concentrations of Aloe vera gel (25 and 33%) and the lowest amount belonged to the control treatment. In control treatment, the percentage of caries index increased during storage and in grapes treated with chitosan and Aloe vera gel, the caries process was slower and the lowest rate of caries was observed in 2% chitosan treatment with aloe vera gel on the 14th day. In general, it was observed that pre-harvest application of chitosan and post-harvest Aloe vera gel increase the post-harvest life of ‘Asgari’ grapes and improve its quality traits. Chitosan creates a barrier with selective permeability to oxygen and carbon dioxide gases, and by placing carbon dioxide at a higher level and reducing oxygen, it creates a modified atmosphere around the fruit, which reduces respiration and ethylene production. As a result, it reduces the aging process and reduces the consumption of organic acids and sugars and prevents the increase of pH. Low pH prevents browning of the fruit due to the activity of catechins and chlorogenic acid enzymes. Aloe vera gel coating maintains and increases the antioxidant capacity of the whole fruit by reducing fruit juice loss, reducing respiration, reducing ethylene production and delaying aging. Conclusion The combined treatment of chitosan 2% and Aloe vera gel (25 and 33%) increased fruit firmness, titratable acidity, taste index, total phenol content and antioxidant activity of grapes and reduced pH and caries index. Application of these treatments increased the post-harvest life of ‘Asgari’ grapes by 14 days, so it can be stated that the use of chitosan in the pre-harvest stage and the use of Aloe vera gel in the post-harvest stage as biodegradable and natural compounds to increase Shelf life of ‘Asgari’ grape fruit is recommended.

Medicinal plants have been used in Zambia as folk medicine from time immemorial. Ethnopharmaco-logical studies have indicated that various parts of Paropsia brazzeana have been used to treat various ailments such as Venereal Diseases (VD), gastrointestinal complications, malaria, hernia, and toothaches while also possessing antibacterial, antispasmodic, antiamoebic activity and aphrodisiac potential. In the present study, we report the qualitative phytochemical screening, Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) phytochemical profiling, Global Natural Product Social (GNPS) and (METLIN) Gen 2 Database assisted molecular mining, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, in vitro antioxidant activity of crude root bark extract, and molecular docking analysis of selected phytochemicals of Paropsia brazzeana. Qualitative phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, carbohydrates, tannins, terpenoids, and steroids. Phytochemical profiling revealed the presence of therapeutic compounds such as d-allose, vanillic acid, 2,5-diphenyloxazole, linoelaidic acid, beta-sitosterol, and many other molecules. Total phenol content was estimated to be 403.7165 ± 6.4771 mg GAE/kg, while total flavonoid content was found to be 587.15 ± 2.4768 mg QE/kg. The root bark extract of P. brazzeana showed strong antioxidative potential with IC50 value of 42.37 mg/l, while for ascorbic acid (standard), IC50 was 23.19 mg/l. Furthermore, the identified compounds could potentially have anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-obesity, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory properties while also having the ability to ease cramps, and thus it can be used as a potential nutraceutical. Molecular docking analysis and its results indicated that beta-sitosterol outperformed the anti-inflammatory drug, ibuprofen when bound to the Cyclooxy-genase 2 (COX2) enzyme. With a binding energy of -11.43 kcal/mole and an inhibition constant of 4.18 nM, beta-sitosterol exhibited stronger binding affinity, outperforming Ibuprofen, which displayed a binding energy of -6.88 kcal/mole and an inhibition constant of 9.10 µM. Consequently, beta-sitosterol emerges as a promising candidate for further investigations in anti-inflammatory drug development. The findings of this study are promising for advancing future drug development initiatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) from agriculture residues has gained a lot of attention in recent years for its conversion to useful by-products. The one drawback that the conversion of biomass faces is its recalcitrant nature which can be overcome by effective pretreatment technology. One such process is the EnZolv, a novel pretreatment technique used for delignification of biomass and it was recognized as an eco-friendly approach. The main objective of our present study is to optimize the novel EnZolv process parameters for enhanced release of reducing sugar from banana fiber. Banana fiber pre-optimization for EnZolv pretreated at 100% moisture content, incubated at 40 °C temperature, with an enzyme load of 50 U·g−1 of biomass for an incubation time of 5 h at a shaking speed of 100 rpm yielded enhanced sugar release of 1.7 mg·mL−1. The effect of pretreatment on proximate composition results in a decrease in the volatile matter (53%) and moisture percentage (1.07%) and an increase in the other parameters such as ash content (12%) and fixed carbon content (34%) under the optimized condition. A significantly higher release of phenol content 1264 µg·mL−1 equivalent to gallic acid suggests that EnZolv pretreatment confirms the degradation of lignin content in the biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing number of older adults necessitates tailored food options that accommodate the specific diseases and nutritional deficiencies linked with ageing. This study aims to investigate the influence of age-related digestive conditions in vitro on the phenolic profile, antioxidant activity, and bioaccessibility of minerals (Ca, Fe, and Mg) in two types of unfermented, fermented, and fermented dried quinoa and lentils. Solid-state fermentation, combined with drying at 70 °C, significantly boosted the total phenolic content in Castellana and Pardina lentils from 5.05 and 6.6 to 10.5 and 7.5 mg gallic acid/g dry weight, respectively, in the bioaccessible fraction following the standard digestion model, compared to the unfermented samples. The phenolic profile post-digestion revealed elevated levels of vanillic and caffeic acids in Castellana lentils, and vanillic acid in Pardina lentils, while caffeic acids in Castellana lentils were not detected in the bioaccessible fraction. The highest antioxidant potency composite index was observed in digested fermented dried Castellana lentils, with white quinoa samples exhibiting potency above 80%. Mineral bioaccessibility was greater in fermented and fermented dried samples compared to unfermented ones. Finally, the digestive changes that occur with ageing did not significantly affect mineral bioaccessibility, but compromised the phenolic profile and antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the influence of different rootstocks (Gisela 6, Pi-Ku 1, and SL 64) on various parameters, including total phenol content, total anthocyanin content, individual phenol content, and antioxidant activity in the fruits of two sweet cherry cultivars, namely Early Lory and Prime Giant. The determination of total phenolic content was carried out using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and spectrophotometric method, resulting in a range of 34.77±1.76 to 88.58±8.83 mg GAE/100 g FW, depending on the specific combination of cultivar and rootstock. The concentration of total anthocyanins, determined through the pH-differential method, varied from 1.08±0.07 to 18.62±0.66 mg CGE/100 g FW. Among the different combinations, the highest levels of total phenolic content and total anthocyanin concentration were found in Early Lory cultivar grafted onto Pi-Ku 1 rootstock. Using HPLC analysis, neochlorogenic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid and quercetin-3-O-glucoside were detected as individual phenols, exhibiting significant variation among sweet cherry fruits grafted on different rootstocks. The lowest content of the investigated individual polyphenols was observed in Early Lory grafted onto Pi-Ku 1 rootstock. Furthermore, the ferric reducing antioxidant power assay indicated higher antioxidant activity in Early Lory cultivar compared to Prime Giant. A statistically significant correlation was observed between total phenolic content and antioxidant activity (0.978 p<0.01), as well as between anthocyanins and antioxidant activity (0.956 p<0.01). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Browning, as the most important problem to be solved in callus differentiation, occupies an important position in tissue culture. In this study, plant regeneration was induced using leaves from germinated Isatis indigotica Fortune seedlings and mature plants as explants. Activated carbon (AC) and a solidification agent (Phytagel) were added simultaneously to inhibit browning. We measured the total phenol content and the PPO and POD activities in callus-induced seedling leaves and mature plant leaves of different ploidy at various stages. The results demonstrated that single plant growth regulators could induce calli with higher rooting and browning rates. Despite the addition of AC and phytagel to the medium, half of the mature plant calli turned yellow and eventually died. The total phenol content and POD activity in calli from mature leaves showed significant differences within 0–4 weeks (P < 0.05) but were still higher than the biochemical parameters in calli induced from seedlings, while the PPO activity did not differ significantly (P > 0.05). Mature materials of different ploidy yielded similar results. The addition of 2 mg·L−1 BAP, 0.1 mg·L−1 NAA, and 1.5 mg·L−1 AC and solidification with 0.2% phytagel in MS medium resulted in the highest callus regeneration rate and the lowest browning rate. During dedifferentiation, the browning of the two may be associated with PPO activity and total phenol content. Key message: The regeneration system of Isatis indigotica Fortune was optimized and the browning problem was solved. The browning of callus is related to PPO activity and the total phenol content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to present the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles through natural tetraploid Trifolium pratense L. containing high amounts of phenolic compounds and glycosidic bioactive macromolecules. Combinatorial optimization of AgNPs was achieved thanks to the stabilizing and reducing properties of the natural tetraploid T. pratense L. flowering herb extract. The biologically synthesized AgNPs were visualized by color change in UV-Vis spectroscopy. UV-Vis spectroscopy proved to be a fast and simple method to determine the synthesis of AgNPs. In addition, TEM, XRD, and FTIR analyses were performed to confirm and characterize the formation of crystalline silver nanoparticles. It was shown by the TEM analysis that AgNPs changed their size and shape when biosynthesized in different conditions. It was determined that smaller AgNPs were spherical and larger AgNPs had a truncated octahedron shape. The XRD analysis proved the presence of Ag0 in nanoparticles and showed its crystal structure and faced cubic shapes for AgNPs. Interactions between the plant bioactive compounds and the AgNPs were distinctly visible in the FTIR spectra. The biosynthesized AgNPs showed strong antioxidant activity against DPPH and ABTS; furthermore, the total phenol content was also high.

To reveal the characteristic chemicals of walnuts from different origins, we analyzed fatty acid composition, tocopherols, phytosterols and total phenolic content (TPC) of walnuts from three main producing regions in China. The results showed that walnuts were rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, and the ratio of ω-6 to ω-3 fatty acids was close to the recommendation of Chinese Nutrition Society. Moreover, walnuts contain high contents of tocopherols (331.20–414.71 ​mg/kg), phytosterols (97.17–110.35 ​mg/100 ​g) and phenols (38.51–48.08 ​mg GAE/kg). Significant chemical differences exist among walnuts from three production regions. The highest content of polyunsaturated fatty acids was found in walnuts from the northern China, the highest content of tocopherols in walnuts from southwest China, and the highest contents of phytosterol and TPC in walnuts from northwest China. However, there was no significant difference in the tocopherol, phytosterol and TPC content of walnuts between the Northern China and Northwest China. The above results provide important references for manufacturers and consumers to select suitable walnut scientifically and reasonably.

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Dutch) is a widely grown fruit crop in the world due to its high aroma, taste, and nutritional value. In this study, the effect of foliar application of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on phytochemical modifications of strawberry cv. Sabrina under deficit fertigation conditions was investigated. The interaction effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (0, 6 and 12 mg L-1) and deficit fertigation (90, 110 and 130 mL) on some morphological, antioxidant and phytochemical factors of strawberry cv. Sabrina, such as fruit width, length, weight and yield, total phenol and flavonoid content, total antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzyme activity, acid ascorbic content, total anthocyanin, iron and zinc content were investigated. Results showed that the interaction of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and the amount of nutrient solution on vitamin C content, antioxidant enzymes activity and iron content was significant. The highest fruit width (4.73. cm), fruit length (3.71 cm), fruit fresh weight (52.2 g), fruit yield (527 g) and vitamin C content (51.1 mg 100 mL-1) were observed in the presence of 130 mL of deficient fertigation and 12 mg L-1 titanium dioxide nanoparticles treatments. In contrast, the highest catalase (1.96 u/g FW), guaiacol peroxidase (2.42 u/g FW) and ascorbate peroxidase (2.29 u/g FW fruit) were observed upon exposure to 90 mL of deficient fertigation and 12 mg L-1 titanium dioxide nanoparticles treatments. In conclusion, deficit fertigation conditions along with the use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles improves morphological and phytochemical properties of strawberries

This study sought to produce a functional drink using green tea and ginger extracts. The mixing ratios used for the Tea- Ginger blends are: Tea 100% (T1), Ginger 100% (G1), TeaGinger 50%: 50% (T1G1), TeaGinger 33.33%: 66.67% (T1G2) and TeaGinger 66.67: 33.33 (T2G1). The assays carried out include Total Phenols Content (TPC), Total Flavonoids Content (TFC), Condensed Tannins Content (CTC), FRAP Assay, ABTS Radical scavenging assay, %DPPH Radical scavenging assay and Plasma Protein Carbonyl Concentration (PC). Results obtained shows that G1 exhibited the lowest antioxidant property for %ABTS, and FRAP. T1 and T1G2 exhibited the highest antioxidant property for %DPPH and PC, while G1 and T2G1 exhibited the lowest effect for %DPPH, and G1 & T2G1 exhibited the lowest effect for PC. T1 exhibited the lowest antioxidant effect for CTC, while the other samples exhibited high antioxidant effect for CTC. G1 and T2G1 exhibited lowest antioxidant effect for TPC, while T1G2 and T1 exhibited the highest effect. T1 exhibited the highest effect for TFC, while G1, T1G1 and T2G1 exhibited the lowest effect. This study contributes to a better understanding of how a combination of potentially anti-oxidative food materials like tea and ginger might influence the potency of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was conducted with an objective of optimizing extraction conditions for achieving maximum recovery of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and antioxidant potential in terms of radical scavenging activity (RSA) from ethanolic extracts of callus cultures and leaf tissues of three citrus species i.e. sweet orange (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck), mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco) and pummelo (Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr.). The callus was obtained from the seeds germinated under in vitro conditions. The extracts from callus cultures and leaf tissues were prepared in ethanol solutions (25%, 50% and 75%) by ultrasound-assisted extraction at different temperatures (30, 50 and 70 °C) and extraction times (10, 20 and 30 min). The results revealed that the extraction conditions of ethanol: water ratio of 50% at 50 °C for 30 min were the best in recovering maximum amounts of TPC, TFC and RSA. Analysis of variance was performed to identify various optimization conditions. A correlation analysis was performed to effect the interaction of phenols and flavonoids on antioxidant potential of callus cultures and leaf tissues in three citrus species. It was concluded that callus and leaves of the citrus species possess great potential for their use in production of bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, pulp from ripe bael fruits was dried in the open sun, solar, greenhouse and hot air (50°C, 60°C, 70°C and 80°C) at three levels of thickness (2, 4 and 6 mm). Maximum antioxidant activity of 107.62 and 108.09 mg/100 g, total phenol content of 41.95 and 43.79 mg/100 g and overall acceptability scores (8.33 and 8.11) were found in bael powder dried using natural (greenhouse) and mechanical (50°C) drying methods respectively, with 2 mm of pulp thickness. The Page model was found to be the best fitted for drying bael pulp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aboveground and root parts of Onosma mutabilis were extracted using subcritical water and the process was optimized with response surface methodology. The composition of the extracts was determined by chromatographic methods and compared to that of conventional maceration of the plant. The optimum total phenolic contents for the aboveground part and the roots were 193.9 and 174.4 μg/g, respectively. These results were achieved at a subcritical water temperature of 150 °C, an extraction time of 180 min, and a water/plant ratio of 0.1, for both parts of the plant. Principal component analysis revealed that the roots contained mainly phenols, ketones, and diols, with the aboveground part mostly alkenes and pyrazines, whereas the extract from maceration contained mainly terpenes, esters, furans, and organic acids. The quantification of selected phenolic substances showed that subcritical water extraction compared favorably to maceration, especially with respect to pyrocatechol (1062 as compared to 10.2 μg/g) and epicatechin (1109 as compared to 23.4 μg/g). Furthermore, the roots of the plant contained twice as much of these two phenolics compared to the aboveground part. Subcritical water extraction of O. mutabilis is an environmentally friendly method that can extract selected phenolics at higher concentrations compared to maceration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oak bark is a rich niche for beneficial bioactive compounds. It is known that the amount of the compounds found in plant tissues can depend on species, genotype, growth site, etc., but it is unclear whether oak phenology, i.e., late or early bud burst, can also influence the amount of phenols and antioxidants that can be extracted. We tested two Quercus robur populations expressing different phenology and five half-sib families in each population to see how phenology, genotype, as well as extrahent differences (75% methanol or water) can determine the total phenol, total flavonoid content, as well as antioxidant activity. Significant statistical differences were found between half-sib families of the same population, between populations representing different oak phenology and different extrahents used. We determined that the extraction of flavonoids was more favorable when using water. So was antioxidant activity using one of the indicators, when significant differences between extrahents were observed. Furthermore, in families where there was a significant difference, phenols showed better results when using methanol. Overall, late bud burst families exhibited higher levels in all parameters tested. Thus, we recommend that for further bioactive compound extraction, all these factors be noted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to maximize the dependent variables [total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant (DPPH and ABTS), and anticancer activities (against HepG2 and MCF-7 cells)] from P. schimperi aerial parts by optimizing three independent variables (extraction temperature, extraction time, and liquid-to-solid ratio) of ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) using the Box–Behnken design (BBD) of response surface methodology (RSM). For each of the dependent variables, the projected quadratic models were found to be very significant (p < 0.001). The extraction temperature and extraction time had a significant impact on the TPC extraction, antioxidant, and anticancer properties (p < 0.05). The best conditions were identified as an extraction temperature of 54.4 °C, extraction time of 48 min, and liquid-to-solid ratios of 20.72 mL/g for the simultaneous extraction of the TPC, antioxidant, and anticancer properties of P. schimperi. The experimental results and the expected values agreed under these circumstances. Regarding the high extraction effectiveness and antioxidant and anticancer effects at comparably low extraction temperature and duration, UAE demonstrated considerable benefits over conventional solvent extraction (CSE). This improved UAE approach has shown a potential use for effective polyphenolic antioxidant extraction from P. schimperi aerial parts in the nutraceutical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of irrigation intervals was studied on physiological, morphological, and antioxidant traits of two marigold (Calendula officinalis L.) cultivars in Karaj, Iran, in a split-plot experiment based on a randomized complete block design with three replications. The experimental treatments included irrigation at three levels of I1 (irrigation interval of 3 days), I2 (irrigation interval of 5 days), and I3 (irrigation interval of 7 days) as the main plot and cultivar at two levels of V1 (cv. 'sparse petal') and V2 (cv. 'compact petal') as the sub-plot. The results based on the comparison of the means showed that the increase in irrigation interval from 3 to 7 days decreased the leaf area index, crop growth rate, relative growth rate, and net assimilation rate by 73.53, 85.76, 93.47, and 94.81%, respectively. It also decreased the flower yield, plant height, flower number, and leaf number by 71.92, 41.84, 99.31, and 58.67%, respectively. The interaction between irrigation and cultivar revealed that I3V1 had the highest total phenol content (3013.59 g gallic acid 100 g−1 tissue) and antioxidant capacity (60.8%). It can be inferred that the treatment of I1 and cv. 'compact petal' give the best results for flower yield and physiological and morphological traits, and the treatment of I3 and both cultivars provide the best results for antioxidant traits in the climatic conditions of the Karaj region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(1) Background: Wild Edible Plants (WEPs) are plants that grow without human help, by simply using the available resources. These types of plants are undervalued, because there is a lack of knowledge about their bioactive composition and nutritional/functional potential. (2) Scope and Approach: The main aim of this review is to fully identify the potential uses and importance of WEPs in certain regions based on (i) their sustainability, because they grow with their own resources, (ii) their content of bioactive compounds and consequently nutritional and functional value, (iii) their socio-economic relevance, and (iv) their ability to be useful in the agri-food industry in the short term. (3) Results: This review found evidence that a consumption of between 100 and 200 g of some of these WEPs can cover up to 50% of the recommended daily intake of proteins and fiber, being also a natural source of macro- and micro-minerals. Regarding their bioactive composition, most of these plants contain phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which determine their antioxidant capacity. (4) Conclusions: These reported results clearly demonstrate the high potential of the WEPs from a nutritional, economic and social point of view; although further studies are needed to gather deeper scientific information about their potential role in the socio-economic sustainability of specific groups of farmers worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The application of coatings is a strategy for maintaining the freshness of highly perishable fruits. This research aimed to evaluate the quality indices of strawberries (Amaou) coated with new coatings based on the sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and cellulose nanofibres (CNF) with incorporated mandarin peel extract (ME) or 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) during storage at 20 days at 5 °C and 85% relative humidity (RH). Dissolving the coating solution containing ME in 1-MCP maintained its colour for up to 50 days. Coatings enhanced with ME and/or 1-MCP maintained fresh strawberries more effectively than the control, reducing weight loss and maintaining firmness, total soluble solids (TSS), citric acid, colour, and total phenolic content. The CCM2–2 coating solution showed superior effects on the weight loss and relative percentages of strawberry metabolites compared to the other coatings, as confirmed by the different components. [Display omitted] • Diluting of 1-MCP in coatings helped to maintain the coating colour up to 50 days • Coatings containing 1-MCP showed significant absorption values in spectra peaks • Mandarin peel extract indicated significant changes in the roughness values of films • Coatings had a marked effect on weight loss, firmness, and metabolic profiles [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] The market for dried wild edible mushrooms is characterized by quality discrepancies and species disorganization, which are a matter of concern. The feasibility of using fourier transform near-infrared (FT-NIR) spectroscopy with chemometrics to predict the total phenol content and identify species was investigated in dried bolete. For the determination of total phenolic content, FT-NIR spectral acquisition, and two-dimensional correlation spectroscopy (2DCOS) image acquisition, five common species of dried edible bolete (n = 144) were utilized. The results showed that partial least squares regression (PLSR) combined with Fourier transform near-infrared spectroscopy could predict the total phenol content of dried boletes, with the best prediction coefficient of determination (R2p) = 0.79. The partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) model accurately identified Phlebopus portentosus , with Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), Precision (PRC), Sensitivity (SEN), and Specificity (SPE) all being 1. The support vector machines (SVM) model is performed optimally to identify processing edible bolete (Lanmaoa asiatica) with an accuracy of 100 % in the test set. 2DCOS images combined with the residual convolutional neural networks (ResNet) model demonstrated the feasibility of FT-NIR full spectral bands (10,000–4,000 cm−1) and characteristic spectral bands (6,500–4,000 cm−1) for species identification of boletes. The method applies to the case of consistent or inconsistent sample sizes between groups, with an accuracy of 1.00 for both the training and test sets. The study serves as a rapid, non-invasive, and convenient method for real-time evaluation of the quality of dried edible bolete in the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation aimed to shed light in the volatile and non-volatile secondary metabolites of Ajuga orientalis L. from Jordan. GC/MS and GC/FID analysis of the hydrodistilled essential oil obtained from aerial parts of the plant revealed tiglic acid (18.90 %) as main constituent. Each of the methanol and butanol fractions of A. orientalis were screened for their total phenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity determined by DDPH and ABTS methods. The extracts were then analyzed by LC-ESI-MS/MS to unveil their chemical constituents, especially phenols and flavonoids. Results showed that the AO-B extract had the highest TPC (217.63 ± 2.65 mg gallic acid/g dry extract), TFC (944.41 ± 4.77 mg quercetin /g dry extract), highest DPPH and ABTS antioxidant activity ((4.00 ± 0.20) × 10-2; (3.00 ± 0.20) × 10-2 mg/mL, respectively) as compared to the AO-M extract. LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis of both extracts revealed the presence of several phenolics, flavonoids and nonphenolic acids.

In this study, an environmentally friendly and efficient method based on natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES) in combination with ultrasound-assisted extraction was used for the recovery of phenolic compounds from apple pomace. Acidic, alkaline, sugar-based and polyol-based NADESs were examined for extraction of total phenolic content from apple pomace under different conditions.NADES type, biomass percentage, extraction temperature, extraction time and water content were the testing parameters. NADES type and water content of the solvent were the most important parameters that affected the extraction yield. The most effective NADESs were sugar-based NADESs, which were followed by acidic NADESs. Up to 9.47 mgGAE/gapple pomacewas recovered from apple pomace with glucose:sucrose:water. The highest total flavonoid content was obtained with choline chloride:urea as 17.30 mgEPE/gapple pomace. On the other hand, NADES composed of choline chloride – lactic acid was found to exhibit a significant antioxidant activity. The novelty of this article is the investigation of acidic, alkaline, sugar-based and polyol-based NADESs in the recovery of phenolic compounds from apple pomace using ultrasound-assisted extraction, for the first time in the literature. The antioxidant activity of extracts were also explained in combination with that of NADESs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Dutch) is a widely grown fruit crop in the world due to its high aroma, taste, and nutritional value. In this study, the effect of foliar application of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on phytochemical modifications of strawberry cv. Sabrina under deficit fertigation conditions was investigated. The interaction effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (0, 6 and 12 mg L-1) and deficit fertigation (90, 110 and 130 mL) on some morphological, antioxidant and phytochemical factors of strawberry cv. Sabrina, such as fruit width, length, weight and yield, total phenol and flavonoid content, total antioxidant capacity, antioxidant enzyme activity, acid ascorbic content, total anthocyanin, iron and zinc content were investigated. Results showed that the interaction of titanium dioxide nanoparticles and the amount of nutrient solution on vitamin C content, antioxidant enzymes activity and iron content was significant. The highest fruit width (4.73. cm), fruit length (3.71 cm), fruit fresh weight (52.2 g), fruit yield (527 g) and vitamin C content (51.1 mg 100 mL-1) were observed in the presence of 130 mL of deficient fertigation and 12 mg L-1titanium dioxide nanoparticles treatments. In contrast, the highest catalase (1.96 u/g FW), guaiacol peroxidase (2.42 u/g FW) and ascorbate peroxidase (2.29 u/g FW fruit) were observed upon exposure to 90 mL of deficient fertigation and 12 mg L-1 titanium dioxide nanoparticles treatments. In conclusion, deficit fertigation conditions along with the use of titanium dioxide nanoparticles improves morphological and phytochemical properties of strawberries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Habenaria intermedia (D. Don) Szlach is a rare orchid species of broad spectrum medicinal importance. It is commonly known as 'Riddhi' in the ayurvedic system of medicine. Pseudobulbs of this species are used in the ayurvedic formulations such as ' Chyawanprash '. The edible tubers are used for the treatment of several chronic diseases such as asthma, leprosy, skin diseases, memory loss, and as an aphrodisiac, depurative, anthelmintic, rejuvenating, and also as a general tonic. In the present work, the pharmacognostic, physiochemical, phytochemical, nutraceutical and antioxidant potencies of H. intermedia have been presented. In pharmacognostic evaluation, we studied sensory, macroscopic, and histochemical parameters. The physicochemical parameters evaluated were total ash (2.5 ± 0.2%), acid insoluble ash (1 ± 0.1%) , water-soluble ash (2 ± 0.2%), foreign matter (nil), loss on drying (0.4 ± 0.2 %), foaming index (less than 100), swelling index (20 ml ± 2%), pH, and crude fibre content (1 ± 0.01%.). In phytochemical evaluation, qualitative and quantitative analyses were performed. For qualitative phytochemical analysis, benzene, chloroform, ethyl acetate, ethanol and aqueous extracts were used. The phytochemical & nutraceutical analysis showed the presence of carbohydrates, amino acids, gums, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, proteins, saponins, phenols, resins, and alkaloids. In quantitative analysis, total phenolic content (TPC) was found 8.91 ± 1.13 µg/ml (Gallic acid equivalents/gm extract). Total flavonoids content (TFC) was 16.03 ± 2.04 µg/ml against the standard quercetin. The total sugar content was 34.3 ± 4.27 µg/ml against the standard of glucose, and total resin content was 4.5 ± 0.21%. Tannin content was 0.03 ± 0.1% in pseudobulbs whereas fats content was 1 ± 0.12%. In antioxidant assays, aqueous extract showed higher antioxidant potency in terms of % radical scavenging activity (RSA) as compared to hydroalcoholic extracts. The above parameters provide critical information for setting quality parameters of crude drugs used in various formulations and will contribute significantly to orchid research. These findings encourage the potential use of this plant in disease management & treatments, which justify its usage in traditional systems of medicines. Research is required in the isolation of potent compounds and their clinical trials. [Display omitted] • Habenaria intermedia (D. Don) Szlach is a rare medicinal orchid, the edible tubers are used in various ayurvedic formulations. • Pseudobulbs are used to treat asthma, leprosy, skin diseases, memory and as aphrodisiac, depurative, anthelmintic, rejuvenating and general tonic. • Pharmacognostic, physiochemical, phytochemical and nutraceutical potency have been studied quantitatively and qualitatively. • Antioxidant assays (Total antioxidant activity and FRAP) were performed and showed promising results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was aimed to present the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles through natural tetraploid Trifolium pratense L. containing high amounts of phenolic compounds and glycosidic bioactive macromolecules. Combinatorial optimization of AgNPs was achieved thanks to the stabilizing and reducing properties of the natural tetraploid T. pratense L. flowering herb extract. The biologically synthesized AgNPs were visualized by color change in UV–Vis spectroscopy. UV–Vis spectroscopy proved to be a fast and simple method to determine the synthesis of AgNPs. In addition, TEM, XRD, and FTIR analyses were performed to confirm and characterize the formation of crystalline silver nanoparticles. It was shown by the TEM analysis that AgNPs changed their size and shape when biosynthesized in different conditions. It was determined that smaller AgNPs were spherical and larger AgNPs had a truncated octahedron shape. The XRD analysis proved the presence of Ag0 in nanoparticles and showed its crystal structure and faced cubic shapes for AgNPs. Interactions between the plant bioactive compounds and the AgNPs were distinctly visible in the FTIR spectra. The biosynthesized AgNPs showed strong antioxidant activity against DPPH and ABTS; furthermore, the total phenol content was also high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthocyanin pigments, which the peel of eggplant is rich in, contribute to food quality because of their function in color, appearance, and nutritional advantages. For the first time, this study aimed to optimize the composition of the extracting solvent as three factors: factor A (ratio of ethanol to methanol 0–100% v/v), factor B (ratio of water to alcohol 0–100% v/v), and factor C (citric acid in the final solvent 0–1% w/v) using response surface methodology (RSM), central composite design (CCD) with α 2, and two repeats in axial and factorial points and four central points, for maximum total phenolic content, total anthocyanin content, extraction yield, antioxidant activity in terms of DPPH radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay of the eggplant peel dry extract assisted by ultrasound (200 watts power, frequency of 28 kHz) in 60 °C for 45 min has been investigated. The best optimal formulas determined using RSM for the final solvent comprised optimal formula 1 (i.e., ethanol-to-methanol ratio 59% and water-to-alcohol ratio 0%, and citric acid in final solvent 0.47%), and optimal formula 2 (i.e., ethanol-to-methanol ratio 67% and water-to-alcohol ratio 0%, and citric acid in final solvent 0.56%). In general, an alcoholic–acidic extract of eggplant peel made with an ethanol–methanol solvent including citric acid can be used in the food industry as a natural source of antioxidants and pigment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the applicability of a microwave–convective dryer (MCD) to the processing of pumpkin slices considering the influence of process variables such as air temperature and microwave power on some thermal (drying time and specific energy consumption (SEC)), quality (rehydration ratio (RR), shrinkage (S), color, and vitamin C content), and bioactive (total phenol (TPC) and antioxidant contents (AC)) features. The impacts of temperature and microwave power were explored on the thermal, quality, and bioactive properties using the the response surface method (RSM). In each experiment, 100 g of the pumpkin samples was dried at an airflow of 1 m/s and various air temperatures (50, 60, and 70 °C) and microwave powers (180, 360, and 540 W). The results indicated that the temperature and microwave power can significantly affect the drying time and SEC (p ≤ 0.01) such that increasing the temperature and microwave power decreased the drying time and SEC. The highest RR, AC, TPC, and vitamin C, as well as the lowest color variation and shrinkage, were observed at microwave power of 360 W and temperature of 60 °C. The optimal drying of the pumpkin samples involved the temperature of 63.66 °C and microwave power of 426.94 W. The predicted response for the mentioned condition included the drying time of 47.38 min, SEC of 30.87 MJ/kg, S of 25.44%, color of 12.74, RR of 5.21, TPC of 658.24 MgGA/100 gdw, AC of 82.11%, and VC of 4.78 mg/g DM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The main objective of this research was to identify plant species with possible bioactivities based on their total phenol content, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Therefore, different parts of 42 plant species grown in the Mediterranean region were extracted with aqueous ethanol solutions to prepare extracts with antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, mainly resulting from their total phenol contents. No detailed laboratory data on the flora of this area exists regarding their total phenol contents and total antioxidant activities. Results: Yields of extraction for each plant material were determined. Extracts were characterized based on their total phenol contents, total antioxidant (both hydrophilic and lipophilic), and antimicrobial activities using Folin–Ciocalteu, Photochemiluminescence, disc diffusion, and microdilution methods, respectively. The extract of Hypericum empetrifolium had the relatively highest total water‐soluble and lipid‐soluble antioxidant activities. Sarcopoterium spinosum extract had relatively high total phenol content. Preliminary screening study was conducted with the disc diffusion method to evaluate the extracts' antimicrobial activities. 26 out of 42 plant species showed significant antimicrobial activities against the growth of microorganisms. Microdilution assays were performed to evaluate the most active plant species with their minimum inhibition concentrations. H. empetrifolium, Pistacia terebinthus, Arbutus unedo, and Cistus parviflorus were the most antimicrobial plant species among those investigated. CONCLUSION: The new potential sources for the isolation of bioactive natural compounds from specific plant species could be possible with the help of this present screening study. Isolated bioactive natural compounds can be utilized as raw materials in cosmetics, nutraceuticals, food supplements, and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pulp of hog plum (Spondias pinnata L. f. kurz) has been documented as a potential source of nutritional, physiological, and pharmacological purposes due to its phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity. However, an optimal extraction condition for hog plum pulp remains elusive. Optimization of extraction process conditions using Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) technique has recently attracted research interest. Objectives: The present study focused on optimizing the UAE extraction conditions of TPC and antioxidant activities (DPPH and FRAP) from hog plum pulp by using response surface methodology (RSM). Methods: The RSM with a three-factor-three-level Box-Behnken design (BBD) was used to optimize the extraction conditions. The BBD was used to investigate the effects of three independent variables, X1: ultrasonic temperature (40–60 °C), X2: ultrasonic time (30–60 min), and X3: ethanol concentration (40–80%) on TPC, DPPH and FRAP assays. Fifteen experimental trials have been carried out to optimize the UAE extraction conditions. A second-order polynomial model was used for predicting the responses. Statistically, the model was validated using an analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results: The ANOVA results revealed that UAE extraction temperature, time, and ethanol concentration had a significant (p < 0.01) influence on the TPC, DPPH, and FRAP, suggesting that all extraction parameters included in this investigation were crucial to the optimization process. For TPC, DPPH, and FRAP, the R2 values were 0.9976, 0.9943, and 0.9989, respectively, indicating that the models developed based on second-order polynomials were satisfactorily accurate for analyzing interactions between parameters (response and independent variables). RSM analysis showed that the optimal extraction parameters which maximized TPC, DPPH, and FRAP were 52.03 °C temperature, 30 min, time, and 79.99% ethanol. Under optimal conditions, experimental values for TPC, DPPH, and FRAP were 370 ± 26 mg GAE/100g DM, 57 ± 7%, and 7650 ± 460 mg AAE/100 g DM, respectively. The experimental values showed a good agreement with the predicted values with residual standard error values below 0.2% under optimum conditions. Pearson's correlation coefficients (r) demonstrate that the TPC showed a weak positive correlation with DPPH (r = 0.3508) and moderate correlation with FRAP (r = 0.3963). Conclusion: The experimental results agreed with the predicted values, confirming the model's appropriateness and RSM's efficacy in optimizing the UAE extraction conditions. This optimized UAE extraction method may be effective in the industrial extraction process; moreover, further research should be conducted to determine the efficacy of these extracts when applied to food.

The present study provides an analysis of physicochemical, biochemical, and rheological properties of four types of monofloral honey: Ziziphus, Thymus, Astragalus, and Alfalfa. Physicochemical (palynology, moisture, pH, free acidity, insoluble solid, ash, conductivity, hue, and minerals), biochemical (sucrose, Hydroxymethylfurfural, diastase activity, antioxidant properties, total flavonoid, and total phenol) and rheological parameters were measured. The results of the palynology (pollen) test confirmed that the honey samples were monofloral. Hydroxymethylfurfural was 0.64±0.34 mg/kg for Ziziphus, 1.09±0.37 mg/kg for Thymus, 4.98±0.37 mg/kg for Astragalus, and 2.94±0.52 mg/kg for Alfalfa. The results showed that sucrose content for Ziziphus, Thymus, Astragalus, and Alfalfa was 0.89±0.34, 3.66±1.79, 2.17±1.10, and 4.14±0.97%, respectively. Diastase activity was 18.06±0.17 DN for Ziziphus, 16.36±2.08 DN for Thymus, 15.21±0.31 DN for Astragalus, and 2.94±0.09 DN for Alfalfa. Antioxidant activity was 13.64±3.34% for Ziziphus, 29.52±2.52% for Thymus, 29.51±3.30% for Astragalus, and 57.77±4.79% for Alfalfa. The results of the present study showed that monofloral honey samples in Iran have an appropriate level of sucrose and can be a good dietary option for people with diabetes. Moreover, total phenol and total flavonoid contents in our samples were lower than other types in other countries. DPPH free radical scavenging activity of our samples was comparable to other types and can be exported to other countries. The results showed that Iranian monofloral honey has the potential to compete with other countries’ honey in terms of quality and nutritional value.

Lobularia libyca (L. libyca) is a traditional plant that is popular for its richness in phenolic compounds and flavonoids. The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the phytochemical profile by liquid chromatography, electrospray ionization and tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-MS), the mineral contents and the biological properties of L. libyca methanol extract. L. libyca contains significant amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids. Thirteen compounds classified as flavonoids were identified. L. libyca is rich in nutrients such as Na, Fe and Ca. Moreover, the methanol extract of L. libyca showed significant antioxidant activity without cytotoxic activity on HCT116 cells (human colon cancer cell line) and HepG2 cells (human hepatoma), showing an inhibition zone of 13 mm in diameter. In silico studies showed that decanoic acid ethyl ester exhibited the best fit in β-lactamase and DNA gyrase active sites; meanwhile, oleic acid showed the best fit in reductase binding sites. Thus, it can be concluded that L. libyca can serve as a beneficial nutraceutical agent, owing to its significant antioxidant and antibacterial potential and due to its richness in iron, calcium and potassium, which are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]