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Background and Objectives. It is known that the oxidation of chia seeds is minimal or absent, due to the presence of bioactive compounds, having a great potential in the foods and pharmacological industry. This investigation was done to estimate the nutrition values and anti-oxidant activity of chia seed extracts. Materials and Methods. The protective effects of chia seed extract against complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) rheumatoid arthritis in rats were investigated with 100, 200, 300, and 400 ppm/kg BW rat/day chia seeds aqueous extract for 4 weeks. Results. The results obtained revealed that chia seed extract contained high proportions of protein and total dietary fiber values of 21.35% and 27.24%, respectively. Moreover, the results reported that the mineral contents were the greatest in phosphorous, potassium, magnesium, calcium, and sodium (450.09, 410.46, 245.22, 218.69, and 120.34 mg/100 g, respectively). Meanwhile, iron, zinc, and copper were the lowest in chia seeds (9.26, 4.67, and 3.66 mg/100 g, respectively). Besides, vitamins C and E reported 1.65 and 0.82 mg/100 g, respectively. Chia seed extracts were effective in vitro for the bioactive components such as phenolics, flavonoids, and anti-oxidant activities. The biomarkers of complete blood picture, lipid profile, anti-oxidant enzymes, TNF-α, and IL-10 had been improved. Histopathological examination of the rat knee confirmed health amelioration, revealing that chia seed extract consumption can lower pathological changes in injured rheumatoid arthritis rats. Conclusion. It could be seen that the chia seed extracts alleviated the harmful effect of rheumatoid arthritis CFA-induced rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to develop and examine the potential effect of Amla essential oil‐based nano‐coatings at different concentrations 0.0, 2.5, 5.0, 7.5, and 10.0% (v/v) on Amla fruits stored in the room conditions (29 ± 2°C and 45%RH) for 15 days. Nanoemulsions were formulated by ultrasonication with Amla essential oil along with modified corn starch (2% w/v) and Tween 80 (5% v/v). All the shelf‐life parameters were analyzed at an interval of 3 days. Results have shown that nano‐coatings have a positive and significant effect on delaying browning and total yeast and mold count. Fruits having nano‐coatings effectively retained their antioxidant activity along with bioactive components in comparison with the uncoated fruits. Particle size, Zeta potential, and polydispersity index of the best‐performed nano‐coating having 10% (v/v) of Amla essential oil were also evaluated. Thus, our findings suggest that Amla essential oil‐based nano‐coatings had a promising effect on enhancing the shelf life of Amla fruits. Novelty impact statement: The fruits coated with nanoemulsions maintained good fruit quality with a lower decay percentage, the least degradation of ascorbic acid and chlorophyll, and high retention of antioxidant activity and bioactive compounds. The application of Amla essential oil‐based nano‐coatings had a promising effect on fungal decay, weight loss, firmness, browning index, and other color attributes of fruits. Amla essential oil‐based nano‐coatings had a promising effect on enhancing the shelf life of Amla fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the process parameters such as rotational speed, time, membrane pore size (MPS) and transmembrane pressure were chosen for centrifugation and microfiltration, respectively. The artificial neural network‐genetic algorithm technique was followed to achieve the optimized process parameters for centrifugation (7532 rpm rotational speed and 52.6 min time). Likewise, the optimum process conditions for microfiltration were obtained as 0.2 μm MPS and 138 kPa TMP. At this optimum condition, 88% tannin content, 97% turbidity, and 95% color have been removed, and 87% ascorbic acid content and 97% TSS have been preserved in the clarified juice. Besides, a high steady‐state permeate flux of 74.87 L/m2.h was also achieved at this optimum condition. Furthermore, a resistance‐in‐series model was developed which can accurately represent the flux behavior of the microfiltration system. Hence, microfiltration coupled with centrifugation can be effectively utilized to remove tannin from cashew apple juice, the primary reason behind consumer acceptability. Novelty impact statement: The novelty and significance of this work is the development of a nonthermal clarification technology with optimum process parameters for the reduction of tannin, turbidity, and retention of ascorbic acid content using centrifugation and microfiltration.The clarified juice at the optimum conditions had low astringency (tannin content: 15.31 mg tannic acid/100 ml) and haziness (turbidity: 1.89 NTU, color intensity:0.05 abs and clarity: 99.51 T), with maximum retention of ascorbic acid content (227 mg/100 ml).This study does not involve thermal treatment or addition of any preservatives/additives and hence could assist the food industries to commercially develop a turbid‐free, astringent‐less, and highly nutritious cashew apple juice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prickly pear (Opuntia ficus‐indica L.) is a plant belonging to the Cactaceae family. Due to its high sugar content, fruits can be used as raw materials in many products from fresh or jam to alcoholic beverages by end consumers. This study aims to determine some phytochemical and physical properties of prickly pear collected at different harvest time in Turkey. The fruit characteristics evaluated are color, moisture, ash, some pomological properties, total soluble solids, titratable acidity, sugar composition, total antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, total flavonoid, and total ascorbic acid content. August was preferred more than the others in terms of total soluble dry matter, TSS/acidity value and lightness, redness, and color intensity. However, fruits harvested early and late reached higher phytochemical content than August and September. Especially October was considered more remarkable in terms of total antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, total flavonoid, and total ascorbic acid content. Novelty impact statement: Prickly pear fruits harvested in August should be preferred in terms of total soluble dry matter, TSS/acidity value and lightness, redness, and color intensity. October is more preferable harvest time with regard to total antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, flavonoid, and ascorbic acid content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to concentrate orange juice using the microwave vacuum evaporation (MVE) and the rotary evaporation (RE) at different absolute pressures (20, 31, and 47 kPa) and investigate the effects of two different concentration techniques on the degradation kinetics of vitamin C, total phenolic content (TPC), total carotenoid content (TCC), and color values. The MVE significantly raised the evaporation rate compared to the RE (p <.05). It was determined that the MVE and the RE at 80℃ required concentration‐time 21 and 42 min, respectively. Total soluble solid changes during the MVE and the RE processes were fitted to six different empirical models with an R2 range between 0.915 and 0.998. The results showed that degradation rate constants for vitamin C, TPC, and TCC of orange juices concentrated using the RE were higher significantly than the MVE (p <.05). It was determined that the degradation rate constants of the L*, a*, b*, and ΔE orange juices concentrated using MVE were lower than the RE (p <.05). Novelty impact statement: Orange juices were concentrated using MVE and RE.The MVE significantly increased the evaporation rate compared to the RE.The MVE protected bioactive compounds (values vitamin C, TPC, and TCC) and color values (L*, a*, b*, and ∆E) in comparison with the RE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of packaging atmosphere and storage conditions on the quality of dried orange slice samples were investigated. Significant reductions in the ascorbic acid amounts were observed during the 3 months of storage in connection with the applied packaging techniques. While the maximum reduction was observed with a rate of about 43% in the package containing normal atmosphere and exposed to light (CL), the least decrease was observed in the nitrogen‐containing package and stored in dark conditions (N2D) with a rate of about 17%. The total amount of carotenoids in dried orange slices (0 day storage) was determined as 2.59 mg/100 g. After 3 months of storage under light conditions, about 80% carotenoid loss was observed for CL while only 38% was computed for N2D samples. Nitrogen‐containing package stored under dark conditions was seen to preserve color quality, ascorbic acid, and total carotenoid content; moreover, it can contribute to the saving of aroma quality of the product. Practical application: Recently, the production of dried orange slices increased and many scientific studies that apply different drying techniques were published. Dried orange slices can be consumed plain or can be included as an ingredient of many confectionery products and formulated foods. In this study, the alternative packaging methods of dried orange slices were described and the storage stability at different conditions were investigated. The quality analysis of slices packaged with different techniques and stored at different conditions provide accurate information for industry and academia about their stability. The results showed that the use of nitrogen gasses in packaging atmosphere and the storage at dark conditions had better properties to maintain some quality attributes of the dried orange slices. The present study represents a model for dried orange slices producers to package their products and extend their shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rosemary extracts are natural antioxidants, which can be considered an alternative for synthetic antioxidants in the food industry. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the oxidation stability and shelf-life of rosemary extracts combined with vitamin C (VC) and ascorbyl palmitate (AP) in peanut oil stored at 65°C. Peanut oil with tertbutyl hydroquinone (TBHQ) and without additives served as positive and negative controls, respectively. The peroxide value (POV), thiobarbituric acid reactant (TBARs), conjugated diene (CD), and conjugated triene (CT) values of the peanut oil samples were evaluated during accelerated storage every 48 h. Among them, 0.23 g/kg rosemary extracts combined with 0.13 g/kg VC and 0.07 mg/kg AP exhibited the best oxidative stability. Additionally, the oxidation kinetics model predicated that the rosemary extracts combined with VC and AP could effectively prolong the shelf-life of peanut oil. In accelerated storage, the rosemary extracts combined with VC and AP not only inhibited peanut oil oxidation like chemical antioxidants, but also were safer than chemical antioxidants. Therefore, the rosemary extracts combined with VC and AP were an effective alternative to chemical antioxidants, which could improve the oxidation stability and shelf-life of peanut oil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ototoxic hearing loss results from hair cell death via reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction and consequent apoptosis. We investigated the effects of vitamin C (VC) on neomycin-induced HEI-OC1 cell damage, as well as the mechanism of inhibition. HEI-OC1 cells were treated with neomycin or with vitamin C (VC). The results indicated that VC had a protective effect on neomycin-induced HEI-OC1 cell death. Mechanistically, VC decreased neomycin-induced ROS generation, suppressed cell death, and increased cell viability. VC inhibited neomycin-induced apoptosis, ameliorated neomycin reduced antiapoptotic Bcl-2 expression, and suppressed neomycin increased expression of proapoptotic Bax, caspase-3 cleavage and caspase-8. TUNEL labeling demonstrated that VC blocked neomycin-induced apoptosis. Further study revealed that the effect of VC on neomycin-induced hair cell death was through interference with JNK activation and p38 phosphorylation. These results indicate that VC via suppressed ROS generation, which inhibited cell death by counteracting apoptotic signaling induced by neomycin in cells. Hence, VC is a potential candidate for protection agent against neomycin-induced HEI-OC1 cell ototoxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Psychotria densinervia hydro-ethanolic leaf extract (PHELE) and bark extract (PHEBE) were evaluated for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and inhibition of digestive enzymes activities. The antioxidant activity was characterized by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) assays. The anti-inflammatory activity was characterized by protein denaturation and antiproteinase tests, while the inhibition of the enzymes was assessed using α-amylase, α-glucosidase, lipase, and cholesterol esterase activities. PHELE presented low (p < 0.001) IC50 (59.09 ± 5.97 μg/ml) for DPPH compared with ascorbic acid (71.78 ± 6.37 μg/ml) and PHEBE (115.40 ± 1.21 μg/ml). The IC50 of PHELE (262.4 ± 4.46 μg/ml) and PHEBE (354.2 ± 1.97 μg/ml) was higher (p < 0.001) than that of catechin (33.48 ± 2.02 μg/ml) for ABTS. PHELE had high (p < 0.001) FRAP (341.73 ± 21.70 mg CE/g) than PHEBE (150.30 ± 0.32 mg CE/g). PHELE presented (p < 0.001) high TPC (270.05 ± 7.53 mg CE/g) and TFC (23.43 ± 0.032 mg CE/g) than PHEBE (TPC: 138.89 ± 0.91 and TFC: 20.06 ± 0.032 mg CE/g). PHELE showed antiprotein denaturation with IC50 (257.0 ± 7.51 μg/ml) (p < 0.001) and antiproteinase activity (74.37 ± 1.10 μg/ml) lower than PHEBE (316.1 ± 6.02 μg/ml and 177.6 ± 0.50 μg/ml), respectively. Orlistat inhibited lipase (p < 0.001) activity with IC50 (37.11 ± 4.39 μg/ml) lower than PHELE and PHEBE (50.57 ± 2.89 μg/ml and 62.88 ± 1.74 μg/ml, respectively). PHELE inhibited cholesterol esterase with IC50 (34.75 ± 3.87 μg/ml) lower than orlistat (54.61 ± 2.56) and PHEBE (80.14 ± 1.71 μg/ml). PHELE inhibited α-amylase IC50 (6.07 ± 4.05 μg/ml) lower than PHEBE (19.69 ± 6.27 μg/ml) and acarbose (20.01 ± 2.84 μg/ml). Acarbose inhibited α-glucosidase (p < 0.001) activity with IC50 (4.11 ± 3.47 μg/ml) lower than PHELE (24.41 ± 2.84 μg/ml) and PHEBE (38.81 ± 2.46 μg/ml). PHELE presented better antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and enzyme inhibition activity than PHEBE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Conventional treatment of sapodilla pulp yields very viscous, turbid, and low juice recovery. Sapodilla processing for juice requires liquefying enzyme that leads to rectifying flow of juice. This study was conducted to optimize the enzymatic pectolytic conditions of sapodilla fruit processing to extract maximum juice using a central composite design (CCD). The effect of processing variables on recovery of juice, total soluble solids (TSS), viscosity, clarity, and L-value along with physicochemical analysis was investigated. The optimized processing conditions were pectinase concentration (0.120%) at 42.02°C for 167.83 min resulting in juice recovery (62.08 ± 0.38%), viscosity (4.81 ± 0.02cP), TSS (21.48 ± 0.19 °Brix), clarity (0.72 ± 0.05%T), and L-value (28.79 ± 0.96). Optimized sapodilla juice showed higher filterability (24.16 ± 1.04 min−1), conductivity (69.46 ± 0.30 S/m), total phenolic content (35.86 ± 0.60 mg/100 mL), ascorbic acid (6.38 ± 0.58 mg/100 mL), moisture content (84.85 ± 0.21% WB), and titratable acidity (0.143 ± 0.0% citric acid) as compared to control sample (60.5 ± 1.80 min−1, 30.43 ± 0.35 S/m, 30.68 ± 0.85 mg/100 mL, 4.64 ± 0.0 mg/100 mL, 83.69 ± 0.18%, and 0.130 ± 0.0%). Optimized sapodilla juice was lower in sedimentation index (0.73 ± 0.11%), turbidity (13.73 ± 1.10 NTU), ash (0.57 ± 0.031%), and β-carotene (0.173 ± 0.008 μg/100 mL) as compared to control sample (1.07 ± 0.02%, 79 ± 0.75 NTU, 0.65 ± 0.031%, and 0.306 ± 0.007 μg/100 mL). The flow behavior index (n) was closer to 1 in both juice samples, which indicated Newtonian-like flow behavior. Conclusively, sapodilla juice extraction at optimal condition (0.120% of pectinase concentration) and 42.02°C/167.83 min would be potentiated to the beverage industry. The use of pectinase might reduce membrane fouling and facilitates processing operation efficiently. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post acne scars following sebaceous injury and abnormal wound healing during the course of acne is a prevalent and challenging to treat condition To evaluate microneedling by dermapen with topical vitamin C versus microneedling with topical insulin in treating atrophic post‐acne scars. A split‐face comparative study included 30 subjects with atrophic post‐acne scars. Human insulin was topically applied to the left side of the face and on the right side, vitamin C serum was applied. Scars were assessed via the Acne Scar Assessment Scale (ASAS) and Scar quartile grading scale (SQGS). After 1 month of 4 treatments, a statistically significant mean improvement in ASAS value was reported on both split sides of the face (2.13 and 1.83) compared to baseline (3.03 and 2.93) (p = 0.005; p = 0.001 respectively). When compared to baseline, the mean ASAS value improved significantly with a slight more improvement on the vitamin c treated side. Topical insulin and vitamin c combined with microneedling, may both achieve comparable significant improvement for treating post acne scars. Insulin can be a promising novel anti‐scarring therapy pending larger controlled studies to verify its efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the interaction between lotus rhizome polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and ascorbic acid (AA) was discussed from the aspects of inhibitory activity, thermodynamics, and conformation. Results showed that PPO was purified from lotus rhizome by DEAE‐52 anion exchange chromatography and Sephadex G‐100 gel filtration chromatography, with its optimum substrate being determined as pyrogallic acid. Spectrophotometric and polarographic assays demonstrated that AA exhibited strong inhibitory activity against PPO. Thermodynamics, fluorescence, and circular dichroism spectral analysis showed that hydrophobic interactions caused the formation of AA–PPO complex, leading to the remarkable fluorescence quenching and conformational change of PPO. Atomic force microscopic analysis revealed that binding to AA induced significant changes in the surface morphology and molecular aggregation of PPO molecules. In this study, the interaction mechanism between PPO and AA was proposed for the first time, which provided a theoretical basis for AA to inhibit lotus rhizome browning. Practical applications: Lotus rhizome, an aquatic vegetable, is prone to enzymatic browning in processing operations, which leads to a decrease in market value and economic loss. At present, ascorbic acid (AA) is widely used in industries as an excellent antioxidant because of its good antibrowning effect and relatively low cost. However, the interaction between the enzymatic browning‐related polyphenol oxidase (PPO) from lotus rhizome and ascorbic acid has not been clearly studied. Understanding the mechanism of inhibiting PPO will help to prevent vegetable browning, especially fresh‐cut products. The inhibitory effect of AA on PPO in lotus rhizome favors simultaneous use with other types of PPO inhibitors because of their likely synergistic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the ameliorative dietary effect of vitamin‐C against sodium fluoride (NaF)‐induced toxicity on growth and haemato‐biochemical parameters in Amur carp. A total of 150 fish (average body weight 169 ± 0.69 g) were randomly distributed into five groups (with three triplicates) including G1 (control); G2 (NaF exposure @100 ppm); G3 (vitamin‐C supplemented diet @100 ppm); G4 (both NaF exposure @100 ppm and vitamin‐C supplemented diet @100 ppm) and G5 (NaF exposure @100 ppm for 60 days and then vitamin‐C supplemented diet @200 ppm for last 30 days). Results revealed that growth and hemato‐biochemical profile was best in G3 in comparison with G1, whereas groups G2, G4 and G5 have shown retarded growth, a decrease in Hb, TEC, PCV, MCV, MCH and MCHC. Serum‐biochemical parameters were found optimum in G3 as compared with G1 and in groups of G2, G4 and G5, total serum protein, albumin, globulin, glucose, and triglyceride levels decreased significantly, whereas creatinine, AST and ALT levels increased significantly. In G4, toxicity was less severe in comparison with G2, whereas in G5, after the dietary supplementary of vitamin‐C, parameters have shown a bend towards the normal values. Thus, it can be concluded that vitamin‐C has ameliorative action against fluoride toxicity in fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effects of ascorbic acid (VC), reduced glutathione (GSH), sulfur dioxide (SO2), chitosan, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid disodium (EDTA‐2Na) on the color parameters of Dangshan pear wine during storage were investigated. The different addition amounts of VC and EDTA‐2Na increased the browning degree of pear wine, and chitosan had a weak inhibitory effect on the browning of pear wine. The addition of 0.01%, 0.05%, and 0.10% GSH reduced the browning degree of pear wine by 8.80%, 13.82%, and 5.02%, respectively; 0.05% GSH decreased the color saturation and increased the brightness during the storage of pear wine. Adding 0.05% and 0.10% SO2 reduced the browning degree of pear wine by 14.73% and 21.05%, respectively, the inhibitory effect for browning was significant, 0.10% SO2 reduced the brightness of pear wine during storage. This result showed that GSH and SO2 were the most effective candidate inhibitors for Dangshan pear wine browning. Novelty impact statement: The addition of 0.05% GSH reduced the browning degree of pear wine by 13.82%.Adding 0.10% SO2 reduced the browning degree of pear wine by 21.05%.GSH and SO2 were the most effective inhibitors for Dangshan pear wine browning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, high‐intensity ultrasound (HIU), antibrowning chemicals (calcium chloride and ascorbic acid), water bath were used to avoid the browning of kiwifruit pieces, and the shelf‐life of fresh‐cut was measured (two weeks). The treated fresh‐cut kiwi samples were evaluated in terms of color, enzyme activities, bioactive compounds, microbial, and sensory studies. The study has shown that HIU treatment restricted (p <.05) the microbial growth (bacteria, yeast, and mold) in fresh‐cut kiwi samples at 4°C. Moreover, kiwi samples exposed to HIU exhibited significant (p <.05) enhancements in bioactive metabolites as well as improvements in the physical features with the comparison of all other applications. Similarly, the lowest browning index values were observed for kiwifruit samples by HIU at the end of storage (180.04). Furthermore, the lowest scores for decay (0.5/3.0 and 0.9/3.0 on days 7 and 14, respectively) and off‐odor (1/7 and 2/7 on days 7 and 14, respectively) were determined for the fresh‐cut kiwifruit subjected to HIU. It has been proposed that HIU application is a possible choice to take the place of chemical and physical approaches to extend the product life and maintain quality characteristics in fresh‐cut kiwifruit at cold storage conditions. Novelty impact statements: A significant improvement in the quality of HIU‐treated fresh‐cut kiwifruits with the comparison of other chemical and physical treatments was achieved.This study contributed a novel method to develop HIU‐treated fresh‐cut fruit and vegetables with enhanced product quality and extended shelf life.In overall, processing of fresh‐cut kiwifruits with a HIU treatment might be applied to get a high‐quality and browning‐free product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The temperature and time for the pasteurization of jambolan/camu‐camu juice blend (37.5:12.5%, w/w) were determined based on their enzymatic activities (peroxidase, polyphenoloxidase, and pectin methylesterase), bioactive compounds contents (anthocyanins, total phenolic compounds, and ascorbic acid), and microbial counts (thermotolerant coliforms, aerobic mesophilic bacteria, and fungi). Moreover, the stability of the pasteurized blend was monitored for 35 days at room temperature. Response surface methodology and desirability function defined 75°C and 90 s as the best pasteurization conditions to provide a juice blend with safe microbial counts, inactivation of all deteriorative enzymes, 24.18 mg anthocyanins.100 ml−1, 325.83 mg total phenolic compounds.100 ml−1 and 1862.4 mg ascorbic acid.100 ml−1. Furthermore, the degradation kinetics of anthocyanins and ascorbic acid showed half‐life times of 18 and 126 days, respectively, during storage at room temperature, evidencing the effectiveness of the applied thermal treatment on the retention of bioactive compounds of the studied juice blend. Novelty impact statement: Jambolan and camu‐camu fruits are high anthocyanins and vitamin C sources, respectively, but no industrialized food products, such as blend juices, are available on the market. Here, for the first time, the optimal condition for the pasteurization of jambolan and camu‐camu juice blend was successfully defined to stimulate food industries to exploit the promising health potential of both fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explored the effects of 1‐MCP combined with TPC treatment on bioactive compounds, odor, and ultrastructure of cherry tomatoes during postharvest storage. The results showed that the three treatments could all maintain the firmness, soluble solids, and titratable acidity content. It was noteworthy that TPC applied to cherry tomatoes had positive effects on removing off‐flavors and reducing accumulation of malondialdehyde, and it can better retain the lycopene content compared with 1‐MCP in the later storage period. In addition, the combined treatment was more effective than the control check, single 1‐MCP and single TPC, which can inhibit the respiration and ethylene production of cherry tomatoes, maintain the ascorbic acid content, and sustain the integrity of peel and pulp cell structure during postharvest storage. Our study concluded that 1‐MCP + TPC was a feasible technology that can enhance the effect of single 1‐MCP treatment and make up for the limitations of single treatment. Practical applications: The moisture content of cherry tomatoes is higher than 90% so that cherry tomatoes are prone to softening, rot, and quality deterioration after harvest. They are typical climacteric fruits with obvious respiratory peaks. In the process of postharvest transportation and storage, intricate physiological and biochemical reactions occur in cells. A growing number of studies had shown that 1‐Methylcyclopropene had certain limitations. We used combined treatment, in order to enhance the effect of single 1‐Methylcyclopropene treatment and better guarantee the edible value and commodity value of postharvest cherry tomatoes. Our research showed that 1‐Methylcyclopropene combined with titanium dioxide photocatalytic treatment may become an advanced preservation technology, and can provide a new idea for improving the storage quality of postharvest cherry tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Grape is well known to all as nutritious but perishable so to achieve extension in its keeping terms with maintained nutritional profile, oil dehydration is successfully implemented herewith. Present investigation, grapes are dried using independent variables, that is, blended oil (1:1 ratio of olive and clove oil) and temperature, further generating responses in terms of drying time, acidity, total sugars, ascorbic acid, and phenols. Besides this, optimization is performed using RSM (Design Expert 11) through 13 different turns. The optimum conditions were found to be: blended oil concentration was 11% and drying temperature was 63.4°C with drying time, acidity, total sugars, ascorbic acid, and phenols to be 22.80 hrs., 1.26%, 64.2%, 5.60 mg, and 924 mg, respectively. In the present concern, explored novelties relies in the processing parameter where no doubt elevated drying time is cope‐up with the minimized temperature keeping in mind to retain nutritional and other physico–chemical traits. Practical applications: Maintenance of nutritional quality and long lasting shelf stability of fresh harvest is the challenging job for food technologist and scientists for the present time. Here, preparation of minimally processed raisin by novel means of oil dehydration and drying is itself unique. Moreover selection of red grape variety to work upon adds extra advantage to run with as is full on phenolics. In addition to this, involvement of statistical modeling is advantageous owe to get better success rate, shelf stable fruits (raisin) that even explore new horizons for oil dehydration applicability to other fruits and vegetables of immense nutrition and least shelf stability concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to analyse the suitability of the frequency and amount of microsprinkler irrigation under plastic film technology (MSPF) in a greenhouse. This study was aimed at determining the effects of different irrigation frequency and irrigation amount of the MSPF on the quality, yield (Y), and water use efficiency (WUE) of tomato, and the optimal irrigation period and irrigation amount of tomato with MSPF were determined by spatial analysis method. Irrigation frequency was set 3 levels, 3 d (F1), 5 d (F3), and 7 d (F3), respectively. Irrigation amount was set 3 levels, 0.7 E pan (I1), 1.0 E pan (I2), and 1.2 E pan (I3) ( E pan is the diameter of 20 cm standard pan evaporation, mm), respectively. The results show that increase in the single fruit weight (SFW), transverse diameter (TD), vertical diameter (VD), total soluble solids (TSS), total soluble sugar (TSU), soluble solid content (SSC), sugar-acid ratio (SAR), soluble protein (SP), vitamin C (VC), lycopene (L), Y, and WUE of spring and autumn tomatoes was observed initially with decreasing irrigation frequency; however, decrease in all these variables was observed thereafter. Similarly, SFW, TD, VD, and SAR of spring and autumn tomatoes first added and then reduced with increasing irrigation amount, whereas TSS, SP, TSU, VC, L, and WUE exhibited an overall decreasing trend. On the basis of spatial analysis, the comprehensive score, Y, and WUE of F2I2 tomato were predicted to simultaneously reach more than 95% of the maximum, which is consistent with the earlier studies on comprehensive evaluation of yield and WUE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a low-cost, sensitive, and efficient voltammetric method based on anthraquinone modified carbon paste electrode was developed for determination of ascorbic acid in cabbage samples. After cyclic voltammetry was used to investigate the electrochemical behavior of ascorbic acid and to study dependence of oxidative peak current on scan rate and pH, square wave voltammetric method was developed for direct determination of ascorbic acid in cabbage samples. In contrast to the unmodified carbon paste electrode, a remarkable enhancement in oxidative peak current at anthraquinone modified carbon paste electrode confirmed electrocatalytic property of the modifier towards oxidation of ascorbic acid. A better correlation coefficient for the dependence of peak current on the square root of scan rate ( R 2 = 0.9963) than on the scan rate ( R 2 = 0.9781) indicated that the oxidation of ascorbic acid at anthraquinone modified carbon paste electrode is predominantly governed by diffusion-controlled process. Square wave amplitude, square wave step potential, and square wave frequency are optimized for the investigation of AA in cabbage. The optimized values are 30 mV, 7 mV, and 35 Hz, respectively. Under the optimized method and solution parameters, an excellent linear response was observed between square wave voltammetric peak current of AQMCPE and concentration of ascorbic acid in the range 5 × 10 − 5 to 4 × 10 − 3 M with a better correlation coefficient ( R 2 = 0.9993) and detection limit (LOD = 1.84 × 10 − 6 M). The ascorbic acid content of the three cabbage samples from three different cabbage growing areas was found in the range 3.686 ± 0.026 – 8.298 ± 0.011 mg/g of powdered cabbage. Excellent recovery results between 95.042 and 96.139% for spiked ascorbic acid in cabbage samples confirmed the potential applicability of the developed method based on AQMCPE for the determination of ascorbic acid in real samples like cabbage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allium species including garlic and leek exhibits a broad range of medicinal and nutritional properties. Therefore, this study investigates the physicochemical and biological activities of garlic (Allium sativum L.) and leek (A. ampeloprasum L. var. Porrum) oil extracts. The result indicated that physicochemical properties indicated that significantly higher oil yield (21.25%), ACV (2.66 mg/g), FFA (1.34%), and PV (4.10 meq/kg) and also antioxidant activities with respect to 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, DPPH (27.60 ± 1.55%), hydrogen peroxide (12.35 ± 0.92%) free radical scavenging activities, and ascorbic acid content (25.30 ± 3.25%) were obtained for leek leaf oil extract. Stronger antibacterial activity with a maximum zone of inhibition (16.00 mm), minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) (0.20 µg/ml), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) (0.40 µg/ml) was recorded for leek oil extract against S. pyogenes. However, garlic oil has presented stronger antifungal activity with a maximum zone of inhibition (13.50 mm), MIC (0.40 µg/ml), and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) (0.75 µg/ml) against Candida albicans. It is concluded from the results of this investigation that oils extracts of garlic bulb and leek leaves demonstrated significant biological activities that can be used as sources for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical ingredients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive compounds are secondary metabolites synthesized by plants for maintaining homeostasis; however, they also modulate metabolic processes and demonstrate valuable effects in the human body. The fig was cherished as food and for its pharmaceutical properties. The presence of a wide range of biologically active compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, phenols, and vitamin C is obligated for their functional properties as well as their technological capability as a dietary supplement is responsible for most health impacts. Owing to the rich and diversified composition of biologically active compounds these compounds possess different biological properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective activity that implies those bioactive substances might be used in the creation of novel culinary and medicinal products. Fig fruit should be widely recognized as a natural functional product. This systematic and comprehensive review gives the notion of developing figs species as a viable and innovative component for its varied food and nonfood applications as a remarkable and primitive source of medication and nourishment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A gingival depigmentation is a periodontal plastic procedure that is performed in order to remove melanocytic pigmentation. A variety of different modalities have been proposed for removing hyperpigmentation involving surgical scraping, gingival autograft, cryotherapy, electrosurgery, and lasers. However, the microneedling technique is a nonsurgical procedure that creates microholes to facilitate the penetration of topical medications across the connective tissues. Case Description. A healthy female patient aged 25 years with a pigmented gingiva seeking gingival depigmentation. On examination, a dark brown ribbon of hyperpigmentation was observed within the mandibular attached gingiva. The case was diagnosed as physiological moderate gingival pigmentation (pigmentation index score = 3). The patient was interested in achieving aesthetic results with minimally invasive, nonexpensive procedures. Based on the patient's concerns, the microneedling technique using vitamin C was suggested and consented. We used a dermapen device to microneedle the gingiva until bleeding pinpoints were observed; then, topical ascorbic acid was applied. After 3 days, our outcomes revealed an excellent aesthetic pink gingival appearance. Conclusions and Practical Implications. Compared to other minimally invasive techniques, our technique is less expensive and more risk-free. Our novel technique of using dermapen and topical ascorbic acid has shown promising results to our case which gives new perspectives for its application in gingival depigmentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is the main cause of liver damage mediated by the excretion of toxic active drug metabolites. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects that could offer protection against oxidative stress and liver damage. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effect of omega-3 and vitamin C alone as well as in a combined form in methotrexate- (MTX-) induced acute liver injury in mice. Male ICR mice of seven groups (7 mice per group) were used. Groups 1 (control group) and 2 (MTX) received 0.9% saline/day (po) for 9 days. Groups 3 and 4 received 100 and 200 mg/kg bw/day omega-3 (po), respectively, for 9 days. Groups 5 and 6 received 100 and 200 mg/kg bw/day vitamin C (po), respectively, for 9 days, while group 7 received omega-3 (100 mg/kg bw/day) and vitamin C (100 mg/kg bw/day) (po) for 9 days. All animals in groups 2 to 7 received 20 mg/kg/day MTX (I.P.) once on the 10th day. Our results revealed that MTX significantly induced the elevation of transaminases, alkaline phosphates (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and malonaldehyde (MDA) while depleting the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) when compared to the control group. Treatment with omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin C significantly attenuated the antioxidants and biochemical alterations in a dose-independent manner. Our molecular docking study of ligand-receptor interaction revealed that both ascorbic acid and omega-3 docked well to the binding cavity of LDH with high binding affinities of –5.20 and –4.50 kcal/mol, respectively. The histopathological features were also improved by treatment with omega-3 and vitamin C. The combined form of omega-3 and vitamin C showed a remarkable improvement in the liver enzymes, oxidative stress biomarkers, and the histopathological architecture of the mice. Conclusively, the combination of omega-3 and vitamin C demonstrated a synergistic therapeutic effect against MTX-intoxicated mice, hence representing a potential novel strategy for the management of drug-induced liver disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Balanites aegyptiaca L. Delile (B. aegyptiaca) is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of memory impairment. This work aims to evaluate the antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential of BA fruit pulp extract on excitotoxicity induced by monosodium glutamate (MSG). MSG was administered 30 minutes after treatment with B. aegyptiaca aqueous fruit pulp extract (50, 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg) and vitamin C (100 mg/kg) for 30 days. The negative control group received only MSG, while the control group was given distilled water daily. Behavioral tests parameters (using the novel object recognition, Y-maze, and Barnes maze tests), oxidative stress biomarkers (malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and catalase), nitric oxide, and acetylcholinesterase activity and hippocampal architecture were evaluated. Results obtained revealed that different doses of B. aegyptiaca significantly reversed the deleterious effect of MSG on memory. This was displayed by a significant (p < 0.05) increment in the percentage of spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test and a significant (p < 0.001) increase in discrimination index in novel object recognition observed with 500 mg/kg extract dose. Moreover, the extract (250 and 500 mg/kg doses) significantly (p < 0.001) increased direct search strategy and significantly decreased (p < 0.01) the time taken to find the target hole in the Barnes maze. A modulation of hyperactivity was observed after administration of all extract doses compared to the negative control group in the open arena. Furthermore, the highest dose of the extract caused a significant (p < 0.001) improvement in antioxidant enzymes activity, associated with a significant (p < 0.001) decrement in nitric oxide and malondialdehyde concentrations and a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in acetylcholinesterase activity. Treatment with the extract also restored normal hippocampal cell architecture. B. aegyptiaca fruit pulp extract could thus confer neuroprotection through its antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nonalcoholic Palm Nectar from Cocos nucifera (NPNC), a bio‐refresher obtained from the juvenile inflorescence of coconut palm; is prominent as a nutritional health drink. The aim of this study was to investigate the nutritional and medicinal properties of NPNC and its products; sugar (NPNCS) and honey (NPNCH). The collected samples were subjected to physicochemical evaluations such as pH, Titrable Acidity, Total Soluble Solids, and Ash value, using standard techniques. The analysis revealed the suitability of NPNC as a natural health drink over conventionally available beverage. The elemental compositions of the samples were determined by using Inductive Coupled Plasma—Atomic Emission Spectrometry and demonstrated that NPNCH is enriched with iron and NPNCS with calcium. Vitamin C present in the samples was determined by using 2,6‐Dichlorophenol indophenol redox titration method. Hydrolysable polyphenols, tannins, and flavonoids are determined by Folin‐Ciocalteu, by Folin‐Denis's technique and by aluminium chloride colorimetric methods, respectively. In NPNC, the dominance of Vitamin C as antioxidant is observed. Diuretic activity of samples was determined by Lipschitz method, and the results revealed that NPNC exhibited significant diuretic activity, comparable with furosemide. Immunomodulatory activities of the samples were evaluated by using indirect hemagglutination test and by using delayed type hypersensitivity (DTH) response. NPNC, NPNCS, and NPNCH exhibited stimulatory effect on humoral and cell‐mediated immunity, which is comparable with that of standard immunomodulator levamizole. Subacute toxicity studies of selected samples were done in Wistar rats and the results proved the boicompatibility of the samples without systemic toxic effects. Practical applications: The use of commercially available carbonated beverages and energy drinks in young adults are associated with negative health outcomes with increased incidence of diabetes, sleep disturbances, and dental problems. Even though, such complications are there, the energy drink industries have grown dramatically accounting for major percentage of market sale. Researchers are in search for natural health drinks with some medicinal value to avoid the negative impact on consumers' health. Nonalcoholic Palm Nectar from Cocos nucifera (NPNC) is considered as zero alcoholic natural health drink. The focus of this study is to reveal the potential medicinal properties of NPNC and its products; honey (NPNCH) and sugar (NPNCS). If the nutritional and medicinal values of the selected preparations from natural sources can be proved with scientific evidence, its ability to beat commercially available carbonated beverages and energy drinks with negative health consequences may get widespread acceptance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we used enzymatic chemistry, histology and molecular biology to systematically study the effects of vitamin C (VC) in feed on haemocyte number and haemolymph activity in Cherax quadricarinatus. We also compared the effects of VC on the number of haemocytes, the haemocyte microstructure and the ultrastructure of C. quadricarinatus haemocytes after White spot syndrome virus (WSSV) infection. When feed was supplemented with 800 mg/kg VC (C5 group), the number of haemocytes increased by 42.26% compared with the control group (C1 group); and the haemolymph of the C5 group had the highest agglutination activity and anti‐bacterial rate, which was significantly higher than that of the C1 group (p < 0.05). WSSV infection significantly reduced the total number of haemocytes, and the number of haemocytes was significantly higher in the C1 group than in the than C5 (p < 0.05) for up to 96 h. At 96 h, transmission electron microscopy revealed crushed perinuclear material, cell lysis, and damaged cell membranes in the C1 group, and large apparently damaged particles in the C5 group, with clear cell swelling and small particles, although the cell structure was intact. These results showed that VC enhanced the immune function of crayfish to a certain extent, maintained the integrity of the haemocyte structure and conferred an immunoprotective effect on C. quadricarinatus against WSSV infection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to elucidate the physicochemical properties and sensory acceptability of pineapple drinks with different concentrations (0%–6%) of dried sour plum. The physicochemical properties (pH, total soluble solids [TSS], turbidity, color, minerals, vitamin C) were determined, and sensory evaluations were conducted. The results showed that the addition of dried sour plum contributed to a significant increase in turbidity (0.47–0.59), TSS (9.47–13.94°Brix), and minerals (potassium, calcium) (p <.05). However, pineapple drinks with dried sour plum incorporation showed decreased pH (3.93–3.02) values, with no significant difference in vitamin C. Furthermore, pineapple drinks with 4% dried sour plum scored the highest in sensory acceptability. Therefore, it can be concluded that dried sour plum is a potential natural food additive to improve the physicochemical properties and sensory properties, in addition to introducing a new taste and flavor to pineapple drink. Practical applications: The introduction of pineapple drink with the incorporation of dried sour plum would contribute to the beverage industry as a new drink with a new taste using natural food additives. Dried sour plum as a potential natural food additive also would be able to improve the physicochemical and sensory properties of the pineapple drink. These findings reveal the potential of new markets for pineapple products. The addition of dried sour plum in the pineapple drinks can give a new flavor which can increase the commercialization of the pineapple drinks. The use of dried sour plum in pineapple drinks can act as a natural food additive and provide several benefits to the human body besides it has good flavor. Moreover, the most common composition of dried sour plum are minerals, vitamins, organic acids, antioxidants, and phenolic compounds which can value‐add the pineapple juice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Daylily is an edible flower in China. Daylily powder is prepared from the flowered or damaged by‐products during its processing, which accounts for 10% of the total amount. In order to optimize the drying methods, the powder properties, internal structure, nutrition, and color of daylily powder prepared by natural air drying (ND), hot air drying (HD), vacuum freeze‐drying (FD), and spray drying (SD) were studied and compared. The results showed that different drying methods had no effects on the internal structure of daylily powder. The diameter, bulk density, water holding capacity, oil holding capacity, and resting angle of daylily powder treated by four drying methods were significantly different. The nutrient indexes and color of daylily powder were significantly changed after different drying methods. HD prepared daylily powder can keep higher total protein, total sugar, and vitamin C; ND and FD prepared daylily powder had higher amino acid content and better flavor retention, while SD prepared daylily powder had smaller particle size, larger specific surface area, lighter color, and strong water and oil retention, which is more favorable for its use as a food additive. Compared with the other three methods, SD has obvious advantages and can be used as the optimal drying technology of daylily powder. The development and utilization of the waste daylily resources could be improved by using the pulverizing technology. This paper provided theoretical and technical support for the full utilization of daylily resources. The purpose of the study was to grow the daylily industry chain, Putting discarded daylily to comprehensive use. Novelty impact statement: Powder processing is currently the best way to make full use of the abandoned damaged and flowered daylily resources and improves the added value.SD has obvious advantages and can be used as the optimal drying technology of daylily powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the infection and treatment of the SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, age and comorbidities play a major role in the successful management of COVID-19. The nutritional status changes which occur in the body vary with the age and underlying conditions and has a vital role in the functioning of the immune system and cellular membrane integrity, thus minimizing the vulnerability to the infection. Considering the data already published by eminent researchers, a few micronutrients have shown outstanding results as supportive therapies in the treatment of viral infections. Micronutrient like zinc improves the membrane barrier integrity, has anti-inflammatory activity, and is involved in antibody production. Vitamin A supports the phagocytic activity of macrophages, while vitamin C reduces the worsening of respiratory tract infections by restoring the dysfunctional epithelial barrier of the lungs. Vitamin D, vitamin E, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acid metabolites play a major role in immunomodulation and in the inhibition of proinflammatory cytokine production. Magnesium is involved in the synthesis of antibodies, while copper, vitamin B12, and folate have significant effects on immune cells. A few researchers suggest that iron supplementation has reduced the risk of acquiring respiratory tract infections in children. As the age of the patient increases, the need for micronutrients increases, thus leading to an imbalanced nutritional status which in turn increases the risk and fatality of the infections. The use of micronutrients in modulating the inflammatory, immune responses, and the epithelial barrier integrity is explored during the treatment of viral infections for faster recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examined the secondary metabolite content and the antioxidant activities of hydromethanolic P. lentiscus L. leaves extracts at different altitudes. The results indicated that the contents of polyphenols and flavonoids were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) high in the low altitude, unlike the Chl (chlorophyll), tannins, and ascorbic acid, which were reported to have higher content in the high altitude. These results showed that the P. lentiscus L. is more adaptable to higher elevations than low elevation, where the plant was probably stressed. On the other hand, the analyses of correlation between the antioxidant activity and phytochemical content affirmed that the antiradical activity (DPPH) correlated with the content of polyphenols; however, the total antioxidant activity is correlated with the flavonoid content. These results revealed the importance of P. lentiscus L. leaves as a natural antioxidant and gave an idea of the altitude effect on the biochemical parameters of leaves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Immune system disorders and increased inflammation in the male reproductive system can lead to fetal risk in the early stages of development and implantation. Antioxidants such as vitamin C can play a protective role against sperm inflammatory reactions. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of vitamin C on the expression of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine genes in the male partners of couples with recurrent pregnancy loss. In this randomized clinical trial, twenty male partners of couples with RPL were examined for sperm parameters and expression profile of some inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine genes before and after treatment with vitamin C. There was a statistically significant higher rate of normal morphology and sperm concentration in each patient before and after treatment with vitamin C p ≤ 0.05 . The mRNA levels of interleukin 6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha were significantly decreased in the sperm of patients after treatment with vitamin C compared to before treatment. In contrast, the gene expression levels of interleukin 4 and transforming growth factor-beta showed a significant increase in the sperm of patients after treatment with vitamin C. Oral daily administration of vitamin C may be effective in the fertility potential of male partners of couples with RPL not only through the improvement of the sperm parameters but also by modulating the expression profile of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory genes. Further studies on protein levels are needed to clarify the role of TNF-⍺ and IFN-γ as a prognostic value in evaluating the recurrent abortion risk in infertile male partners. This trial is registered with IRCT20180312039059N1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Chard is a valuable vegetable and is considered a beneficial functional food. Fortification of bread with chard could increase the nutraceutical and functional food consumption. Objective. In this study, we performed a chemical analysis of chard and performed rheological analyses and sensory attribute evaluations of pan breads fortified with 5% and 10% chard powder. Design. The gross chemical composition of chard, some minerals, vitamin C, and total phenolic and flavonoid compounds were estimated. The rheological properties of doughs fortified with 5% and 10% chard powder and the chemical composition and sensory attributes of control, 5% chard and 10% chard pan bread samples were determined. Results. Chard contains carbohydrate, protein, and ash in addition to essential minerals and antioxidants such as vitamin C, phenols, and flavonoids. The chemical composition of 5% chard pan bread was significantly higher in ash and fiber, while the chemical composition of 10% chard pan bread was significantly higher in protein, ash, fiber, and moisture and significantly lower in fat, carbohydrate, and energy level than that of control pan breads. Compared with the control pan bread, the pan bread with increased chard powder content (10%) had significantly increased water absorption percentage, arrival time, dough development, elasticity, and proportional number ratio but significantly decreased stability time, softening degree, and extensibility. Pan bread fortified with 10% chard had the lowest specific volume among the tested breads. Sensory attribute evaluation further showed that increasing the amount of chard to 10% in the bread dough formulation produced lower overall acceptability scores. Conclusions. Pan bread containing 5% chard had better rheological scores and sensory attributes than the other formulations, in addition to good nutritional quality values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuous monitoring of Listeria spp., particularly Listeria monocytogenes, in foods is a mandatory task for food safety and microbiology sectors. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance patterns of L. monocytogenes in milk and dairy products retailed in Egypt. Furthermore, an experimental trial was conducted to investigate the antilisterial effects of some phytochemicals. A total of 200 samples (market raw milk, Kareish cheese, Damietta cheese, and plain yoghurt, 50 each) were collected and examined for detection of Listeria spp. The results revealed that 8, 12, 1, and 0 samples of market raw milk, Damietta cheese, Kareish cheese, and plain yoghurt were contaminated with Listeria spp., respectively. Antimicrobial sensitivity testing revealed that all L. monocytogenes isolates (15) were resistant to streptomycin and erythromycin. Molecular analysis revealed that 86.67% of L. monocytogenes harbored hylA virulent gene. Use of rosmarinic acid, ascorbic acid, thyme, and clove essential oils significantly (P < 0.05) reduced L. monocytogenes growth in soft cheese—artificially contaminated with L. monocytogenes throughout a 4-week incubation period. In conclusion, strict hygienic conditions should be adopted during the preparation and distribution of dairy products. In addition, rosmarinic acid, ascorbic acid, clove, and thyme essential oils are good candidates as food preservatives with antilisterial activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vitamin C is essential for wound healing. However, there are no reports concerning the effect of a different dose of vitamin C on extraction wound size clinically. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different oral vitamin C doses on extraction wound healing. A split-mouth, double-blind randomized clinical trial was performed in 42 patients who underwent symmetric bilateral noninfected premolar extraction. The patients were randomly divided into 3 groups, namely, P/600, P/1,500, and 600/1,500 (14 patients for each group); P/600: placebo vs. 600 mg vitamin C/d, P/1,500: placebo vs. 1,500 mg vitamin C/d, and 600/1,500: 600 mg vitamin C/d vs. 1,500 mg vitamin C/d. Patients were prescribed placebo or/and vitamin C three times a day for 10 days after each tooth extraction. Extraction wound size and pain score were evaluated. The wound assessment was performed on day 0, 7, and 21; and then the tooth on the other side was extracted using the same protocol. Pain score was recorded on the first three days after extraction. The reduced size of mesiodistal extraction wound in percentage reduction between day 0 and 7 of teeth receiving vitamin C 600 mg/d was more than that in placebo (P < 0.05). Pain scores on day 1–3 of teeth receiving vitamin C 600 mg/d were significantly lower than the placebo side (P < 0.05). Taking oral vitamin C 600 mg/d over three doses for 10 days after tooth extraction enhances extraction wound healing by reducing mesiodistal extraction wound and reduces postoperative pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bone tissue provides support and protection to different organs and tissues. Aging and different diseases can cause a decrease in the rate of bone regeneration or incomplete healing; thus, tissue-engineered substitutes can be an acceptable alternative to traditional therapies. In the present work, we have developed an in vitro osteogenic differentiation model based on mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), to first analyse the influence of the culture media and the origin of the cells on the efficiency of this process and secondly to extrapolate it to a 3D environment to evaluate its possible application in bone regeneration therapies. Two osteogenic culture media were used (one commercial from Stemcell Technologies and a second supplemented with dexamethasone, ascorbic acid, glycerol-2-phosphate, and BMP-2), with human cells of a mesenchymal phenotype from two different origins: adipose tissue (hADSCs) and dental pulp (hDPSCs). The expression of osteogenic markers in 2D cultures was evaluated in several culture periods by means of the immunofluorescence technique and real-time gene expression analysis, taking as reference MG-63 cells of osteogenic origin. The same strategy was extrapolated to a 3D environment of polylactic acid (PLA), with a 3% alginate hydrogel. The expression of osteogenic markers was detected in both hADSCs and hDPSCs, cultured in either 2D or 3D environments. However, the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs was obtained based on the culture medium and the cell origin used, since higher osteogenic marker levels were found when hADSCs were cultured with medium supplemented with BMP-2. Furthermore, the 3D culture used was suitable for cell survival and osteogenic induction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects of hydroalcoholic extracts of mango peel and pulp on oxidative damage in a naproxen‐induced gastric injury rat model. The extracts were assessed for antioxidant activity (ABTS and FRAP methods), and the phenolic profile was investigated with UPLC‐QToF‐MSE. Gastric damage was evaluated in vivo by assessing the membrane lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde (MDA) content), myeloperoxidase (MPO) enzyme activity, and glutathione (GSH) content. Mango peel and pulp contained high contents of bioactive compounds, particularly phenolics (69.50–5.287.70 mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g), carotenoids (651.30–665.50 μg/100 g), and vitamin C (21.59–108.19 mg/100 g). UPLC‐QToF‐MSE analysis identified 17 phenol compounds, including gallotannins, glycosylated flavonoids, and xanthone. The hydroalcoholic extracts of mango peel and pulp (LPe and LPu, respectively) significantly reduced the MPO activity and MDA content. In addition to preventing naproxen‐induced GSH decline, LPe (30 mg/kg) and LPu (10 mg/kg) restored its content to normal levels. LPe and LPu neutralized the oxidizing agents triggered by naproxen and reduced the severity of gastric lesions owing to their antioxidant properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sweet corn kernels are easily perishable because of their high amount of moisture content. Microwave blanching was applied at the power level of 180–900 W for 30–70 s to inactivate the enzymes of sweet corn kernels. The increase in microwave power level and processing time reduced the length from 11.13 to 10.78 mm, width from 9.54 to 9.24 mm, thickness from 4.01 to 3.71 mm, true density from 1052.07 to 1012.03 kg/m3, porosity from 37.43 to 24.54%, moisture content from 70.00% to 68.93% on a wet basis, total soluble solid from 22.3 to 18.7 °Brix, total sugar from 8.80% to 6.67%, ascorbic acid from 8.04 to 5.92 mg/100 g, and peroxidase activity up to 1.37% in sweet corn kernels, but it increased the bulk density from 658.23 to 763.6 kg/m3 and total color difference up to 14.55. Novelty impact statement: The microwave blanching was found adequate for processing sweet corn kernels at the power level of 720 W for a short duration of 40 s to achieve a 90% reduction in peroxidase activity. The ascorbic acid, total sugar, overall acceptability after the microwave blanching were 6.86 mg/100 g, 7.87%, and 8.21, respectively, indicating 85, 89, and 94% retention of fresh samples properties. The total plate count was 9.1 log cfu/g in fresh kernels, which was also reduced to 1.8 log cfu/g in kernels blanched at the power level of 720 W for 40 s duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this work was ultrasound‐assisted extraction of red quinoa carotenoid, and antioxidant effect of the purified carotenoid on soybean oil stability was compared with that of commercial carotenoid. Red quinoa carotenoid was extracted using 50 ml ethanol as the solvent in an ultrasonic bath at 45 ± 1°C and 20 kHz for 3 min. After the carotenoid purification, its effect on the oxidative stability of soybean oil was compared with that of commercial β‐carotene during 8 days of storage at 60°C. Peroxide value (PV), conjugated diene value (CV), thiobarbituric acid (TBA) value, and color parameters were measured. 100 mg/kg of the commercial and natural carotenoids was the best concentration to decrease the TBA value during the 8 days of storage, compared with the other concentrations (200 and 300 mg/kg). On the last day, the samples containing 100 mg/kg of the commercial and natural carotenoids had the lowest CV, and TBA value, and lowest PV was in samples containing 200 mg/kg. In addition, the lowest PV (7.8 meq/kg) was obtained on the eighth day, owing to the performance of β‐carotene at 200 mg/kg, while the samples free of the carotenoids had the highest PV, CV, and TBA value. The samples containing the commercial antioxidant had higher b* values than those with the natural antioxidant because the commercial β‐carotene was yellower than the natural carotenoid. The samples containing the commercial carotenoid had lower a* values than those containing the natural one. Carotenoid extracted from red quinoa could influence the oxidative stability of soybean oil. Practical applications: The oxidation of fats and oils can be inhibited by using natural and synthetic antioxidants. Antioxidants, which are considered food additives, are used in the food industry to extend the shelf‐life and prevent the oxidation and degradation of edible oils. The legally allowed antioxidants to be used in edible oils are carotenoids, ascorbic acid, and tocopherol, which are more accepted by consumers than synthetic ones. Red quinoa is a rich source of carotenoids with high antioxidant activity. In this work, high‐intensity ultrasound was used as a non‐thermal and non‐destructive method to improve the extraction rate and efficiency of carotenoids from red quinoa. This technique can be used extensively in the food industry with high economical efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of processing (pre‐treatments and drying temperatures) on yellow sweet pepper was evaluated in terms of drying kinetics, physico‐chemical (non‐enzymatic browning index and color), and bioactive (carotenoids, ascorbic acid, phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant activity) components. Drying at 60°C results in a significant increase in drying rate (540 min) and decrease in the moisture (6.36%) of the final product. All the pre‐treatments enhanced the drying kinetics relative to the control sample. The Page model was found to be the best appropriate model for explaining the slices drying behavior. Drying temperature at 60°C showed the highest retention of phenolics (706.59 mg/100 g), flavonoids (363.41 mg/100 g) and antioxidant activity (178.13 nmol/L). Sample treated with combined pre‐treatment retained maximum bioactive compounds. These results were also clearly justified by Principal Component Analysis. This study revealed that combined pre‐treatment at 60°C lowered the drying time, better bioactive retention and best preservation of color. Practical applications: Yellow sweet peppers are abundant in bioactive compounds, which have nutritional and medicinal importance. However, sweet pepper is highly perishable and not easy to store for long time. Drying is most preferable and economical method to improve shelf life of peppers. This study showed that higher drying rate, lower drying time, combined pre‐treatment resulted in the good product quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study explored the effect of ultrasonication to extract ascorbic acid, protein, and total antioxidants from cashew apple bagasse. The process was designed and optimized using three independent variables and the response values were predicted individually using both response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network‐genetic algorithm (ANN‐GA). The ascorbic acid, antioxidant activity and protein content extracted using RSM were 6.61 mg/g, 90.98% and 338.48 mg/g respectively whereas using ANN‐GA were 8.81 mg/g, 94.97% and 369.10 mg/g respectively at individual optimized conditions. These yields were comparatively higher in ANN‐GA than RSM. Also, the ascorbic acid, antioxidant activity and protein content were predicted using ANN‐GA around 8, 2 and 8 times higher than those of conventional solvent extraction. Further, the coefficient of determination (R2) for every response was higher and other statistical parameters were lower in ANN‐GA. Thus, the ANN‐GA is superior to the RSM in optimizing the extraction. Practical applications: The cashew apple byproducts are being underutilized by food process industries discarding as waste. Due to this, these industries are facing environmental pollution problems. Besides, the byproducts are nutritious as it has a significant amount of protein, vitamins as well as antioxidants. The ultrasound process provides the extraction of those bioactive compounds in the least usage of solvent, time and temperature. Hence, this research represents the optimum conditions of extraction of bioactive compounds from cashew apple bagasse using this green technology; it will be favorable for industries to develop value‐added products by dissipating waste disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. There are still controversies about the curative effect of vitamin C in treating HIE, and its mechanism of action is not entirely clear. This study is designed to explore the potential molecular mechanism of vitamin C in treating neonatal hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Methods. The effect targets of vitamin C and the pathogenic targets of neonatal HIE were obtained via retrieval of public databases to screen out the molecular targets of vitamin C acting on neonatal HIE. Gene Ontology (GO) functional annotations and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis were performed on the main targets. Vitamin C and the optimum target structural components are subjected to molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation analysis via computer software so as to verify their binding activity and stability. Result. Based on 16 overlapping targets of vitamin C and HIE, seven main targets were identified in this study. According to GO and KEGG analysis, molecular functions (top 25 items) and signal pathways (21 items) related to inflammatory reaction, immune response, and cell transcriptional control may be potential pathways for vitamin C to treat neonatal HIE. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation were adopted to definitively determine the 4 optimum core target spots. Conclusion. The efficacy of vitamin C on HIE is involved in the immunoregulation and inflammation-related functional processes and signal pathways. These molecular mechanisms, including core targets, will contribute to the clinical practice of neonatal HIE in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A simple and low-cost and highly calibrated probe sonication method was used to prepare bismuth oxide nanoparticles (Bi2O3 NPs). The formation of a well-crystalline sample at the end of the product has been further calcined at 600°C for 2 hrs. The powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) patterns of the NPs substantiated the monoclinic structure (space group P21/c), and the average crystallite size was found to be 60 nm, which was also confirmed by transmission electron microscopic (TEM) studies. Scanning electron microscopic (SEM) images depicted highly porous Bi2O3 NPs with little agglomeration. Utilizing diffused reflectance spectra (DRS) data, the energy bandgap ( E g ) value of 3.3 eV was deduced for Bi2O3 NPs, and their semiconductor behavior has been confirmed. Two dyes, methylene blue (MB) and acid green (AG) were utilized for degradation studies using Bi2O3 NPs under UV light irradiation (from 0 to 120 min). The photocatalytic degradation was found to be maximum for MB (93.45%) and AR (97.80%) dyes. Cyclic voltammetric (CV) and sensor studies using the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were performed. The specific capacitance value of 25.5 Fg-1 was deduced from the cyclic voltammograms of the Bi2O3 electrode in 0.1 N HCl with a scan rate of 10 to 50 mV/s. From the obtained EIS data, the Bi2O3 electrode showed pseudocapacitive characteristics. The prepared electrodes also exhibited high sensitivity towards the detection of ascorbic acid and lead. Hence, sonochemically synthesized Bi2O3 NPs are possibly hopeful for excellent photocatalytic and electrochemical sensing of biomolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate peel extract is rich of interesting bioactive chemicals, principally phenolic compounds, which have shown antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidative properties. The aim of this work was to improve extract' bioactivity through the adsorption on calcium carbonate nanocrystals. Nanocrystals revealed as efficient tools for extract adsorption reaching 50% of loading efficiency. Controlled release of the contained metabolites under acidic pH has been found, as it was confirmed by quantitative assay and qualitative study through NMR analysis. Specific functionality of inorganic nanocarriers could be also tuned by biopolymeric coating. The resulting coated nanoformulations showed a great antimicrobial activity against B. cinerea fungus preventing strawberries disease better than a commercial fungicide. Furthermore, nanoformulations demonstrated a good antiproliferative activity in neuroblastoma and breast cancer cells carrying out a higher cytotoxic effect respect to free extract, confirming a crucial role of nanocarriers. Finally, pomegranate peel extract showed a very high radical scavenging ability, equal to ascorbic acid. Antioxidant activity, measured also in intracellular environment, highlighted a protective action of extract-adsorbed nanocrystals twice than free extract, providing a possible application for new nutraceutical formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The assessment of the signs of photoaging in mexametric (melanin and erythema index), corneometric (hydration level), and cutometric (elasticity) examination after the treatment with ascorbic acid and ferulic acid. This study was conducted in a group of 20 women aged 39–61 (mean age 54), with Fitzpatrick skin types II and III. The study included a series of eight treatments performed once a week. Two layers of peeling, based on 14% ferulic acid (left half of the face) and 12% l‐ascorbic acid serum (right half of the face) were applied. To determine skin parameters: moisture, elasticity, melanin level, and erythema intensity, the Multi Probe Adapter Systems (Courage + Khazaka electronic GmbH, Köln, Germany) were used. Additionally, before and after the series of treatments, photographs were taken with the standardized photographic system Fotomedicus (Elfo®). The results of mexametric measurement for melanin level and erythema intensity were statistically significant (p < 0.0001) for both acids. Slightly greater lightening of the skin was demonstrated for ascorbic acid. The results of corneometric measurement of hydration level for ferulic acid and ascorbic acid were both statistically significant (p < 0.0001). First beneficial changes in improved elasticity could be observed as early as after 8 weeks but the increase in flexibility grew with time (after 12 weeks). These changes affected both acids and all measurement points. The changes in parameters were highly statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Based on the conducted research, it is not possible to state which of the tested acids is more effective in reducing the symptoms of photoaging. Both acids (ascorbic and ferulic), which have a high antioxidant potential, affect the measurable parameters of the skin: pigmentation (melanin index), erythema (erythema index), skin hydration, and elasticity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melasma is a common esthetic problem affecting the face with a lot of risk factors being incriminated. Although several treatment options are available, none of them is satisfactory. This split face prospective study aimed to compare the efficacy of microneedling with vitamin C versus with platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) in the management of mixed melasma. Ten females with bilateral mixed facial melasma were treated with six sessions of microneedling. After the needling vitamin C was applied on the right side of the face and PRP was applied on the left side. Clinical, dermoscopic, and histological assessment of the used treatments was done 1 month after the last session. The clinical and dermoscopic clearance of melasma was proved significantly on both sides of the face but was more significant with vitamin C (P = 0.005). Reduction of epidermal melanin and dermal melanophages was more observed with vitamin C. Moreover, MART‐1 stain revealed a more significant reduction in the epidermal, dermal, and the total MART‐1 positive cells with vitamin C (P = 0.044, 0.039, and 0.035, respectively). Microneedling with vitamin C was more efficient in treating mixed melasma than with PRP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hippophae tibetana is valuable wild edible berry, which is utilized as a supplement of food, traditional‐folk medicine system by rural populace of the Johar valley, Pithoragarh district India. The study focused on quantitating the nutrient composition, polyphenols, and free radical scavenging activities of the specie (in different solvent extracts). Results represented a various concentration range of polyphenolics and antioxidants among studied solvents, and fresh berries exhibited good sources of polyphenols (phenolics 1.64; tannins 5.87; proanthcyanidins 1.47; flavonoids 5.74; flavonols 0.62 mg/g), antioxidants, and free radical scavenging activities (FRAP 9.55; DPPH 1.35; NO·1.14; ABTS 4.10; OH· 0.69 mM AAE/100 g), nutrients (carbohydrates 2.05; proteins 0.67; methionine 0.73; proline 1.03; sodium 0.37; potassium 3.0.25 mg/g) and vitamins (vitamin C 1.03; vitamin E 0.87; Vitamin A 0.59 mg/g), respectively, followed by dry berries and pomace. Outcomes of the study revealed that acetone and methanol are good for extraction for harnessing maximum potential from the species. Practical applications: H. tibetana has emerged as a potential source of nutritional and bioactive constituents, and moderate polarity solvents (acetone and methanol) are best for extraction and acetone should be prioritized for commercial utilization.In the present scenario, several communities worldwide are focused to consume natural antioxidant compounds for improving their health, immunity, and reducing the deficiency of malnutrition. The fresh berries of H. tibetana and their processed foodstuffs can be considered an option for fulfilling the basic requirements of nutrients in the future and will be helpful for reducing deficiency of malnutrition in the Himalayan populace.Present study highlighted that berries of H. tibetana are rich sources of various nutrients, polyphenols, and antioxidant contents and for harnessing maximum potential from the species their mass scale cultivation is required. Therefore, sensitization workshops and capacity‐building programs (for skill development) should be organized in the higher Himalayas for the promotion of cultivation practices/large‐scale plantation of H. tibetana in their suitable habitat (cold desert) through participatory approaches, also required to strengthen the sub help groups (SHG). This approach will fulfill the major issues of biodiversity conservation, wasteland reclamation, and generate employment opportunities for the local communities of Himalayas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mangoes are rich in vitamins, carotenes, organic acids (OA), and minerals. Sun, convective, microwave, and freeze‐drying have been adopted for mango leather processing. Raw mango pulp (RMP) was found superior in vitamin A (1.52 ± 0.06 mg/100 g) and ascorbic acid (41.58 ± 1.36 mg/100 g) content. Vitamin D was not detected in the raw or dried product. Citric acid is found highest in the RMP (633.70 ± 2.05 mg/100 g). Drying significantly affects the vitamin (decrement of 20.32%–92.69% for vitamin A, 16.58%–61.31% for tocopherols, 29.94%–143% for vitamin C), and carotene content (3.17%–87.99% decrease). An increase of 5.62% and 15.16% in propionic acid content was observed for microwave and sun‐dried products respectively, while a decrease of 6.48% to 9.98‐fold was there for other OA. Crystal formation was observed in all samples except microwave dried. Microwave drying was found the best method in terms of nutrient retention may be due to the requirement of a relatively shorter drying time. Novelty impact statement: Mango leather is a traditional snack product with high nutritional value. The in‐depth vitamins and mineral composition is studied in different processing methods along with its microstructural changes that may take place in different drying processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An attempt has been made for drying of Bauhinia variegata flowers along with retaining its quality attributes. The effect of various pre‐treatments namely, steam blanching (0–6 min), potassium metabisulfite (KMS) (0–3,000 ppm), citric acid (0%–1%), and dipping time (0–45 min) was evaluated on physico‐chemical as well as phytochemical potential of dried B. variegata flowers. The optimized conditions (blanching time 1.20 min, KMS 1,031 ppm, citric acid 0.35%, and dipping time 18.72 min) for the pre‐treatment of B. variegata flowers resulted in desirable retention of the quality attributes (moisture: 14.34%, ash: 3.50%, phenolic: 407.67 mg/100 g, ascorbic acid: 66.38 mg/100 g, protein: 24.18 mg/100 g, tannins: 301 mg/100 g, antioxidant activity: 87.40%, flavonoids: 280.73 mg/100 g, and overall acceptability: 7.57). Cluster analysis revealed that all variables have significant and equal effect on the quality attributes of dried B. variegata flowers. Analysis through FTIR and HPLC counter confirmed the significant effect of the variables. Novelty impact statement: The Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata) is not only distributed throughout the India but has its roots throughout the world. It has gained popularity as a medicinal tree traditionally and is being utilized for curing different diseases. Despite of its composition and various health benefits, its commercial utilization is limited because of its availability at limited places for limited time. At various locations, the optimised conditions will aid in obtaining the joy of this nutritive flower for a much longer period of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In tomato drying, degradation in final quality may occur based on the drying method used and predrying preparation. Hence, this research was conducted to evaluate the effect of different predrying treatments on physicochemical quality and drying kinetics of twin-layer-solar-tunnel-dried tomato slices. During the experimental work, tomato slices of var. Galilea were used. As predrying treatments, 0.5% calcium chloride (CaCl2), 0.5% ascorbic acid (C6H8O6), 0.5% citric acid (C6H8O7), and 0.5% sodium chloride (NaCl) were used. The tomato samples were sliced to 5 mm thickness, socked in the pretreatments for ten minutes, and dried in a twin layer solar tunnel dryer under the weather conditions of Jimma, Ethiopia. Untreated samples were used as control. The moisture losses from the samples were monitored by weighing samples at 2 h interval from each treatment. SAS statistical software version 9.2 was used for analyzing data on the physicochemical quality of tomato slices in CRD with three replications. From the experimental result, it was observed that dried tomato slices pretreated with 0.5% ascorbic acid gave the best retention of vitamin C and total phenolic content with a high sugar/acid ratio. Better retention of lycopene and fast drying were observed in dried tomato slices pretreated with 0.5% sodium chloride, and pretreating tomatoes with 0.5% citric acid resulted in better color values than the other treatments. Compared to the control, pretreating significantly preserved the overall quality of dried tomato slices and increased the moisture removal rate in the twin layer solar tunnel dryer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]