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This work reports the development of low-cost and rapid multiplexed colorimetric assay of antioxidants (total phenolics, antioxidant capacity, flavonoids and anthocyanins) in wines at daisy-shaped fluidic paper-based analytical devices (PADs). The desired fluidic patterns were formed on paper by pen drawing and colorimetric reagents were immobilized at the 6 peripheral test zones. The sample was added at the central sample zone, migrated to the test zones and reacted with the immobilized reagents producing characteristic colors that were captured and analyzed. The paper-based approach was applied to the analysis of several wine samples and the results were statistically correlated to standard solution-based colorimetric assays, indicating that it could be reliably used for ranking wines according to their antioxidants content. In addition, the paper-based analytical methodology is simple, instrument-free, portable, cost-effective, rapid and environment friendly. [Display omitted] • Daisy-shaped paper-based analytical devices (PADs) were fabricated by pen drawing. • The PADs were used for a sextuple antioxidant/phenolics/anthocyanins/flavonoids assay. • Reagents were added to the 6 peripheral test zones and sample was added to the central sample zone. • The results of the assay for 18 wines correlated well with those of solution-based assays (R2 > 0.97). • The paper-based analytical methodology is simple, instrument-free, portable, cost-effective, rapid and environment friendly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Shipin Kexue/ Food Science is the property of Food Science Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Clostridium butyricum is an anaerobic heterotrophic Gram-positive Bacillus, which can produce butyric acid and lactic acid. As a kind of probiotics, Clostridium butyricum is widely found in the intestinal tract of humans and animals. The characteristics of Clostridium butyricum are safety, high temperature resistance, gastric acid resistance, bile salt resistance, and so on. Adding proper amount of Clostridium butyricum in diet can improve animal growth performance, enhance animal immunity and antioxidant function, improve livestock and poultry product quality, adjust intestinal microecological balance, and promote intestinal health. Compared with antibiotics, Clostridium butyricum can effectively reduce drug residue, which has the advantages of green environmental protection and no drug resistance. It is an ideal substitute for dietary antibiotics. The paper reviews the characteristics, biological functions and mechanism of Clostridium butyricum, and summarizes the applications of Clostridium butyricum in poultry production, in order to provide a reference for reasonable application of Clostridium butyricum in poultry production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, berberine hydrochloride-loaded liposomes-in-gel were designed and developed to investigate their antioxidant properties and therapeutic effects on the eczema model of the mouse. Berberine hydrochloride-liposomes (BBH-L) as the nanoparticles were prepared by the thin-film hydration method and then dispersed BBH-L evenly in the gel matrix to prepare the berberine hydrochloride liposomes-gel (BBH-L-Gel) by the natural swelling method. Their antioxidant capacity was investigated by the free radical scavenging ability on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and H2O2 and the inhibition of lipid peroxides malondialdehyde (MDA). An eczema model was established, and the efficacy of the eczema treatment was preliminarily evaluated using ear swelling, the spleen index, and pathological sections as indicators. The results indicate that the entrapment efficiency of BBH-L prepared by the thin-film hydration method was 78.56% ± 0.7%, with a particle size of 155.4 ± 9.3 nm. For BBH-L-Gel, the viscosity and pH were 18.16 ± 6.34 m Pas and 7.32 ± 0.08, respectively. The cumulative release in the unit area of the in vitro transdermal study was 85.01 ± 4.53 μg/cm2. BBH-L-Gel had a good scavenging capacity on DPPH and H2O2, and it could effectively inhibit the production of hepatic lipid peroxides MDA in the concentration range of 0.4–2.0 mg/mL. The topical application of BBH-L-Gel could effectively alleviate eczema symptoms and reduce oxidative stress injury in mice. This study demonstrates that BBH-L-Gel has good skin permeability, excellent sustained release, and antioxidant capabilities. They can effectively alleviate the itching, inflammation, and allergic symptoms caused by eczema, providing a new strategy for clinical applications in eczema treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the influence of poly-glutamic acid (PGA) on ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH) metabolism in leaves of wheat seedlings under cadmium (Cd) stress. The results showed that Cd stress enhanced ascorbate peroxidase, dehydroascorbate reductase, monodehydroascorbate reductase, glutathione reductase, gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase and L-galactono-1,4-lactone dehydrogenase activities, and increased AsA and GSH contents. Whereas Cd reduced AsA/dehydroascorbic acid (DHA) and GSH/oxidised glutathione (GSSG) ratios and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) content and electrolyte leakage (EL). Meanwhile, Cd stress improved Cd accumulation and nonphotochemical quenching (qN) and decreased soil and plant analyser development (SPAD) value, net photosynthetic rate (Pn), maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Fm), photochemical quenching (qP), quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry (ΦPSII), wheat height and dry biomass. Compared to Cd alone, PGA plus Cd stress reinforced AsA and GSH metabolism via the above enzymes and increased AsA and GSH contents and their redox status. PGA plus Cd stress also decreased MDA content and EL. Besides, PGA plus Cd stress decreased Cd accumulation and increased SPAD value, Pn, qN, Fv/Fm, qP, ΦPSII, wheat height and dry biomass. Moreover, PGA alone showed positive effects on the indicators mentioned above. Our results clearly indicated that PGA enhanced wheat Cd tolerance by preventing Cd uptake and enhancing AsA and GSH metabolism. Therefore, PGA can be applied to enhance wheat Cd tolerance in production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polyphenol was a type of compound existing in natural plants. Due to the advantages of easy preparation, high activity and positive regulation on the body, it was widely used in food, health products and other fields. In recent years, studies have shown that adding appropriate doses of polyphenols to feed can effectively improve the antioxidant capacity and immune performance of aquatic animals, and play a positive role in their growth performance and disease prevention. Therefore, from the aspects of the source, classification, structure and impact on aquatic animals, this paper will summarize the recent research status of polyphenol compounds in aquatic animal feed and present expectation, so as to provide references for subsequent related researches. We are looking forward to realizing the industrialized application of polyphenol compounds in aquaculture as soon as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Lycopene (LYC), a carotenoid found in abundance in ripe red fruits, exhibits higher singlet oxygen quenching activity than other carotenoids. However, the stability of LYC is extremely poor due to its high double-bond content. In this paper, a nano-encapsulation strategy based on highly stable marine-derived ferritin GF1 nanocages was used to improve the thermal stability and oxidation resistance of LYC, thereby boosting its functional effectiveness and industrial applicability. RESULTS: The preparation of GF1-LYC nanoparticles benefited from the pH-responsive reversible self-assembly of GF1 to capture LYC molecules into GF1 cavities with a LYC-to-protein ratio of 51 to 1. After the encapsulation of the LYC, the reassembled GF1 nanocages maintained intact morphology and good monodispersity. The GF1-LYC nanoparticles incorporated the characteristic LYC peaks in spectrograms, and their powder form contained the crystalline form of LYC. Molecular docking revealed that LYC bound with the inner triple-axis channel areas of GF1, interacting with VAL139, LYS72, LYS65, TYR69, PHE129, HIS133, HIS62, and TYR134 amino acids through hydrophobic bonds. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy also demonstrated the bonding of GF1 and LYC. In comparison with free LYC, GF1 reduced the thermal degradation of encapsulated LYC at 37 °C significantly and maintained the 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-scavenging ability of LYC. CONCLUSION: As expected, the water solubility, thermal stability, and antioxidant capacity of encapsulated LYC from GF1-LYC nanoparticles was notably improved in comparison with free LYC, indicating that the shell-like marine ferritin nanoplatform might enhance the stable delivery of LYC and promote its utilization in the field of food nutrition and in other industries. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Food Research & Development is the property of Food Research & Development Editorial Department and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The present work aimed to analyze the drying kinetics and color degradation of moringa leaves in selected drying methods. Also, quantitatively analyze the retention of phytochemicals and antioxidant capacity. Moringa leaves were dried using three methods, namely, freeze‐drying (−42 ± 2°C, 0.024 ± 0.001 mbar), microwave drying (200, 400, and 600 W), and hot air oven drying (55, 65, and 75°C). Drying kinetics revealed that the drying of moringa leaves occurred in the falling rate period, which means the diffusion process controlled the moisture removal from leaves. The color degradation was most minor in freeze‐dried leaves, followed by microwave‐dried leaves at 200 W. The value of total phenolic content was found maximum (57.42 ± 2.49 mg GAE/g dm) under microwave drying at 200 W, while the same was found least in quantity (24.62 ± 1.10 mg GAE/g dm) for samples dried under hot air oven drying at 65°C. A similar pattern was observed for total flavonoid content. The antioxidant capacity of the samples dried in the freeze dryer was highest at 5.94 ± 0.25 mg GAE/g dm. This research revealed that microwave drying at 200 W is best regarding the overall quality attributes of moringa leaves. Practical Applications: Drying is one of the essential processes in the food industry, for example, drying is crucial for the production of herbal medicines, nutritional supplements and extracts, leaf‐based culinary ingredients, aroma and essential oils, natural dyes and pigments, etc. It is used to increase the shelf‐life of agricultural produce; it facilitates the transportation and storage of food products. This paper may help in the selection of the drying method and condition for leaves drying to have desired characteristics in the final product like color, bioactive compounds, or antioxidant properties; May help in the trade‐off among quality, time, and cost of the production. Moreover, it may be helpful in the designing of the multi‐mode dryer which may produce superior quality products with great energy efficiency in less time. Which further facilitates the manufacturing of nutritionally rich food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Central European Agriculture is the property of Journal of Central European Agriculture and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

One of the most significant dried foods is raisin, used directly as ingredients in confectionary and in the form of raisin paste used in sauces, fillings, baked goods, microwaveable coatings, and other culinary products to color them naturally. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of ultrasound pretreatment (53 kHz, 300 W, 30 °C, 300 s, in a mixture of 5% K2CO3+ 1% OO solution) and drying air temperatures (40–60 °C) on the drying behavior, color values, physicochemical properties (moisture content, VCC, TPC, RSC, and antioxidant capacity (DDPH)) and rehydration capacity of Sultani Çekirdeksiz grapes. Both the drying kinetic (drying time, drying rate, and effective moisture diffusivity) and the quality characteristics of grapes were significantly improved by ultrasound pretreatment (p < 0.05). In addition, the vitamin C (0.75–3.86 mg/g) and total phenolic content (1.31–1.80 mg GA/kg) of raisins were highly protected with the high drying temperature and ultrasound pretreatment. The antioxidant capacity (1.15–5.50 mM Trolox) of samples increased with drying temperature whereas the antioxidant capacity decreased with ultrasound application. The rehydration time of all samples was found around 800 min. As a result of this study, it can be said that the ultrasound application may be used successfully for drying grapes and that a greater degree of the nutritional value of the grapes can be maintained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It has been proven that natural apricot gum and the functional sour milk drink "Narine" fermented by L. helveticus MDC 9602, possess health-promoting and healing properties. The combined use of L. helveticus and apricot gum in dairy fermentation can create a new functional product with enhanced healing and organoleptic properties. Objective: To create a new functional fermented milk product by combining Apricot gum (AG) and L. helveticus, with improved health-promoting and sensory properties. Methods: For joint fermentation, 0.125%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1.0% of raw AG were dissolved in milk preheated to 60°C, pasteurized at 85°C for 15 minutes, and cooled to 45°C. Subsequently, the samples were inoculated with L. helveticus culture at a concentration of 5% and incubated at 37°C. The clotted samples were then transferred to 5°C for ripening. Analysis of the samples was carried out at 1, 14, and 28 days of storage. Antioxidant capacity was determined by the DPPH-scavenging assay. The total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were quantified by the Folin-Ciocalteu and AlCl3 colorimetric methods, respectively. Results: Apricot gum significantly stimulates the growth of the probiotic L. helveticus starter culture in microbiological medium and in milk. The stimulation of L. helveticus growth leads to a significant increase in the rate of coagulation and acidification of milk, improving the consistency and viscosity of Narine. The addition of AG extends the shelf life of the product in refrigerated storage, maintains a high viability count of the starter culture, and reduces syneresis and acidification. AG also significantly increases the antioxidant activity, which correlates with the viable cell count of L. helveticus. A synergistic increase in the viscosity of milk enriched with AG was discovered, depending on the degree of acidification. Conclusions: The high total phenolic content plays a key role in the biological activity of raw apricot gum. Most of the AG-induced changes, such as increased milk coagulation rate, enhanced antioxidant activity, and improved acidity, were found to be due to the promotion of starter culture growth. Raw AG can be used to increase the yield of bioactive peptides in LAB cultures and to improve the functional and sensory properties of yogurts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a pseudocereal originally grown in the Andean region of South America. This study focused on investigating the changes in phenolic profile and antioxidant capacity in white and red quinoa varieties after short-term fermentation with Lactiplantibacillus plantarum 299v®. During fermentation, pH and lactic acid formation were monitored every three hours until pH was below 4.6. The quinoa phenolic profile was quantified via LC–UV–MS. Total polyphenol content (TPC) and total antioxidant capacity (DPPH and FRAP) were determined via spectrophotometric methods. The findings showed that fermentation resulted in a significant increase (p < 0.001) in TPC from 4.68 to 7.78 mgGAE·100 g−1 for the white quinoa and from 5.04 to 8.06 mgGAE·100 g−1 for the red quinoa variety. Gallic acid was the most abundant phenolic acid detected in unfermented quinoa samples (averaging 229.5 μg·g−1). Fermented white quinoa showed an 18-fold increase in epicatechin, while catechin was found only in fermented red quinoa (59.19 μg·g−1). Fermentation showed a significantly positive impact on the iron-reducing antioxidant capacity (FRAP) of quinoa (p < 0.05). Red quinoa had a higher FRAP antioxidant capacity than the white variety; a similar trend was observed with the DPPH assay. There was a significant correlation (r > 0.9, p < 0.05) between TPC and antioxidant capacity. In conclusion, short-time lactic fermentation effectively increased phenolic content and antioxidant capacity in both quinoa varieties. Overall, red quinoa showed higher polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity compared to the white variety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light is one of the important factors in Chinese soft-shelled turtle culture. The study investigated the effects of light intensity on growth performance, stress, immune-related parameters, and antioxidant enzyme activities of Chinese soft-shelled turtles under the light environment of lighting the basking area in intensive farming. Four degrees of light intensities with three replicates were used, including LL (low light intensity, 6.56 ± 0.14 W/m2), ML (medium light intensity, 18.11 ± 0.54 W/m2), HL (high light intensity, 37.81 ± 2.85 W/m2), and control group (0 W/m2). The experimental photoperiod was fixed as 12 L: 12 D, and the water temperature was controlled at 30 ± 2 °C. After 152-day rearing, it was found that the growth performance of Chinese soft-shelled turtles in the LL group was significantly higher than that in the HL group. The serum cortisol level of turtles in the LL group was significantly lower than that in the HL group, indicating lower stress in the LL group compared to other groups. The content of lysozyme (LZM) was highest in the LL group, the content of acid phosphatase (ACP) in the LL group was significantly higher than that in the control group and the HL group, and the content of nitric oxide (NO) in the LL group was significantly higher than that in the HL group, implying that turtles in the LL group had the best immune performance. The superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX) activity in the liver of turtles in the LL group were significantly lower than that in the control and HL groups. Further, the catalase (CAT) activity of turtles in the LL group was the lowest among the treatments. Malonaldehyde (MDA) content was significantly lower in the LL group than in the control and HL groups. Therefore, considering the growth performance and physiological status of Chinese soft-shelled turtles, it is recommended to provide a low intensity of light when lighting the basking area only, and the optimum light intensity for the growth of Chinese soft-shelled turtles is between 7.07 and 11.50 W/m2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sechium edule (Jacq.) Swartz is a perennial herbaceous climbing plant with tendrils and tuberous roots belonging to the Cucurbitaceae family. Its fruits ("chayote"), stems, roots, and leaves are edible and are commonly ingested by humans. It has shown medicinal properties attributed to its bioactive compounds (vitamins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, triterpenoids, polyphenolic compounds, phytosterols, and cucurbitacins), which together have been associated with the control and prevention of chronic and infectious diseases, highlighting its antibacterial, anti-cardiovascular/antihypertensive, antiepileptic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, antiproliferative, and antioxidant activities. The objective of the study was to determine the antigenotoxic potential of two types of fresh chayote juice (filtered (FChJ) and unfiltered (UFChJ)) against DNA damage produced by benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) using an in vivo mouse peripheral blood micronucleus assay (MN). The juices were consumed freely for 2 weeks. A negative control, a control group of each juice, a positive batch [B[a]P], and two combined batches (B[a]P plus FChJ or UFChJ) were included. Blood smears were stained and observed under a microscope to quantify the number of micronucleated normochromic erythrocytes (MNNEs). The results indicate: (a) B[a]P increased the frequency of MNNEs and reduced the rate of PEs; and (b) no juice produced toxic effects or induced MN. On the contrary, both juices were genoprotective. However, the most significant effect was presented by UFChJ at the end of the experiment (70%). It is suggested that UFChJ has a greater amount of fiber and/or phytochemicals that favor the therapeutic effect. Possibly, the genoprotection is also related to its antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chicken breasts and burgers (88% breast and 12% backfat) were evaluated for physicochemical characteristics, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and antioxidant capacity during storage in vacuum or atmosphere conditions for 18 days at 4 °C using the following two formulations: one without incorporating white pomace seasoning (WPS) and another with 3% WPS. The WPS was obtained from white grape skins, a byproduct resulting from the elaboration of white wine. The addition of the WSP decreased the L* values and increased the a* values, resulting in a significant turning toward brown tones in the chicken products. The addition of 3% of WSP led to higher values of ABTS and FRAP, regardless of the type of packaging. Both types of packaging significantly increased the levels of TBARS, although vacuum packaging proved more effective in protecting against lipid oxidation compared to modified atmosphere package (MAP). Additionally, the WSP improved the oxidative stability regarding the TBARS values. In conclusion, the WSP could be a viable alternative to chemical antioxidants and would lead to healthier and innovative chicken products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The yacon roots are rich in fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and highly perishable. Drying is crucial for food quality and extending shelf life. However, preserving thermosensitive compounds, such as FOS, poses a challenge in conventional drying methods. In this regard, microwave drying and ethanol pretreatment (ET) have emerged as promising solutions for maintaining nutrients and reducing drying time (DT). The objective of this study was to assess how ET and sample temperature affect quality and process parameters during intermittent microwave drying of yacon. Drying at 52°C treated with ethanol was the one that stood out for presenting the highest fructan retention (64.1%), low DT, lower energy consumption (EC) (364.00 ± 5.03 kWh kg water−1), higher retention of antioxidant capacity (73.9%) and total phenolic content (77.5%), and slight variation in color parameters. Therefore, microwave drying with a controlled temperature of yacon pretreated with ethanol effectively reduces DT and EC by maintaining quality parameters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to analyze the chemical profile of extracts from different fruit parts of the perennial arborescent cactus Opuntia leucotricha by applying ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography–high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) and to evaluate their biological properties (antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory capacities). Extracts were obtained from the fruit pulp (without or with seeds), seeds, and peel by ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) using the conventional solvent methanol 50% and two Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADESs) (glycerol:urea, 1:1 and citric acid:sorbitol, 1:2). A total of 33 compounds were identified, including phenolics, fatty acids, and others. Phenolic acids were the most abundant class of phenolics identified in all fruit parts, with the highest concentration observed in the methanol extracts from peel (593.02 µg/gDW), followed by seed-containing pulp (69.03 µg/gDW), pulp (57.83 µg/gDW), and seeds (39.97 µg/gDW). The second most effective extractant was NADES 1 (glycerol:urea, 1:1), which was also successful in extracting compounds with antioxidant capacity. Overall, the extracts demonstrated considerable enzyme inhibitory activities, with the greatest effects observed against α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The results indicate that O. leucotricha fruits could be a promising source of bioactive compounds, and NADES a viable alternative to organic solvents for their industrial exploitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Improving the productivity of medicinal and aromatic species via eco-friendly approaches is imperative worldwide because of their therapeutic impacts. Biostimulants have been recognized among the best cultural practices in the last few decades. Among them, bee honey (BH) and ginger extract (GE) are new sources of multifunctional biostimulants that positively influence plant growth and development. However, there are currently no detailed reports on the impacts of BH or GE as promising growth and yield enhancers for medicinal and aromatic species. Also, the mechanism involved in stimulating growth and essential oil content with BH or GE is still unidentified. This work was, therefore, undertaken to analyze the impact of BH and GE on the growth, productivity, and essential oil content of sage plants (Salvia officinalis L.). Sage plants were sprayed monthly for three months with the same volume of BH (0, 5, 10, and 15 g L−1), GE (0, 5, 10, and 15 mg L−1), or tap water, which was used as a control. BH or GE application improved the plant height, branch number, herb yield, total chlorophyll content, total phenolics, and antioxidant capacity relative to the controls, more so with GE. Intriguingly, the essential oil percentage, oil yield, and oil constituents were enhanced by BH and GE. In this respect, the highest levels of biostimulants, particularly GE, were more effective. On a percentage basis, the essential oil yield per hectare was largely increased by 127.91 and 138.89% with GE (10 g L−1) in both seasons relative to the controls. The contents of IAA, GA3, and CK in THE sage leaves were substantially increased by BH and GE, and higher levels of both biostimulants and GE were more effective. The nutrient levels of N, P, K, Fe, Zn, and Mg were also elevated by BH and GE compared with the untreated plants. These results suggest that BH or GE application could be a promising biostimulant for improving the productivity of sage and provide a new understanding of their mechanisms in this aspect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eco-friendly functional alginate films with plant extracts (chokeberry pomace (ChP) or lemon balm (LB) herb) were obtained. Moreover, deep eutectic solvents (DESs) based on choline chloride, glucose, and betaine were used to acquire the active substances from plant materials. The films were tested regarding the antioxidant, mechanical, and color properties. The results revealed that the films' antioxidant capacities (AC) depended on the extract type and DES used, namely AC values for alginate films with LB were higher than those with ChP. Moreover, the results of the films' mechanical properties depended only on the DES, which acted as a plasticizer in most cases. Furthermore, the color analysis of the studied films showed a dependence on the type of extract and DES. The lightness (L*) was influenced only by the DES type, while the solvent and extract type affected the a* and b* values. Our results show that the films can be applied as active packaging for food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the influence of different tea extract substrates on the biological activities of kombucha beverages was investigated. The variations in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and flavonoids and their potential health-promoting properties represented by antioxidant activity were analyzed. Our findings shed light on the diverse effects of tea substrates on the production of bioactive compounds and their subsequent impact on the biological activities of kombucha, providing valuable insights for optimizing kombucha production and its potential health benefits. The new tea substrate for kombucha, called horchata, an Ecuadorian tea, shows a similar trend but with a low content of phenolics (4.511 ± 0.111 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g dry weight (DW)) and flavonoids (1.902 ± 0.0455 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g DW), and antioxidant activity (DPPH—33.569 ± 1.377 µmol TROLOX/g DW, ABTS—20.898 ± 2.709 µmol TROLOX/g DW, FRAP—34.456 ± 2.0618 Fe2+ mM/100 g DW compared to black and green tea as substrates for kombucha. Through HPLC-DAD, several polyphenols were registered, and homovanillic acid showed the highest concentration (74.45 mg/100 g). Horchata kombucha scored the highest in sweetness and smell, reflecting its popularity among the tasters, making it a valuable candidate as a kombucha substrate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetable oils are rich in health-beneficial compounds, including fatty acids, phenolic compounds, natural antioxidants, and fat-soluble vitamins. However, oil extraction methods can influence their composition. This study aims to understand the chemical basis for developing a green process to extract oils from two Andean seeds, cañihua (Chenopodium pallidicaule) and tarwi (Lupinus mutabilis). Ethanol, considered a green solvent, is compared to petroleum ether used at the laboratory level and hexane used at the industrial scale for extracting oils. The extraction efficiency is assessed in terms of yield, fatty acids profile, polar and neutral lipids, tocopherols, phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity. The chemical composition of edible commercial oils, such as sunflower, rapeseed, and olive oils, was used as a reference. Hexane had the highest extraction yield, followed by petroleum ether and ethanol. However, the oils extracted with ethanol having yields of tarwi 15.5% and cañihua 5.8%, w/w showed the significatively superior content of tocopherols (α, γ, and δ); phenolic compounds; and antioxidant capacity. In addition, ethanol-extracted (EE) oils have higher levels of polar lipids, such as phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylinositol, than those extracted with the other solvents. Remarkably, EE oils presented comparable or slightly higher levels of monounsaturated fatty acids than those extracted with hexane. Finally, compared to the commercial oils, tarwi and cañihua EE oils showed lower but acceptable levels of oleic, linoleic and palmitic acids and a wider variety of fatty acids (10 and 13, respectively). The composition of tarwi and cañahua oils extracted with ethanol includes compounds associated with nutritional and health benefits, providing a sustainable alternative for oil production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fallopia japonica (FJ), commonly known as Japanese knotweed, is now recognized as one of the most invasive plants in Europe and globally. Despite its widespread presence in Europe and its significant nectar production, there is currently limited scientific data on the unique unifloral honey derived from it. This study examines the physicochemical composition of Fallopia japonica honey (FJH) samples collected from various regions in Romania. Additionally, the nutritional and antioxidant profiles of FJH were assessed. The sensory analysis revealed a honey with a brown-caramel color and an intense flavor, characterized by fine, consistent crystals during crystallization. The results indicated that FJH has a high carbohydrate content (fructose: 35.12–40.65 g/100 g; glucose: 28.06–37.79 g/100 g); elevated electrical conductivity (387–692 µS/cm), diastase activity (9.11–17.01 DN), and acidity (21.61–42.89 meq/kg); and substantial total phenolic (89.87–120.08 mg/100 g) and flavonoid (18.13–39.38 mg/g) contents. These findings highlight FJH's favorable nutritional properties, aligning with the standard codex for honey. The antioxidant profile of FJH demonstrated strong DPPH and ferric reduction antioxidant power (FRAP) activities, comparable to those of buckwheat honey, underscoring its potential health benefits and commercial value. These results provide new insights into how this invasive plant can be harnessed as a valuable resource for sustainable beekeeping practices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focused on the oil extraction from freeze-dried maqui (Aristotelia chilensis) by supercritical fluid extraction with carbon dioxide (SFE-CO2). The basic objective was to optimize the oil yield and the tocopherol concentration. A Box/Behnken experimental design was developed with three processing variables: supercritical pressure (74, 187, and 300 bar), temperature (35, 48, and 60 °C), and extracting time (30, 135, and 240 min). Multiple optimizations, based on the combination of factor levels at 274 bar, 240 min, and 60 °C, led to the highest oil yield and tocopherol values. The validation of the optimized conditions of maqui oil extraction led to an oil yield of 8% and values of 735, 53, and 97 (mg·kg−1 oil) for α-tocopherol, α-tocotrienol, and γ-tocopherol, respectively. A higher concentration of tocopherol compounds was observed when compared to the employment of the conventional extracting method. The optimized SFE-CO2 method led to an oil extract exhibiting higher Hydrophilic-Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (H-ORAC) assay and total phenol content (22 μmol Trolox equivalents·g−1 oil and 28 mg gallic acid equivalents·g−1 oil) than the oil obtained by the conventional procedure. A practical and accurate oil extraction is proposed for obtaining tocopherol-enriched oil including high concentrations of valuable lipophilic antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Both the soybean variety and processing method affect the end soybean product's characteristics. This study's objective was to characterize the effects of four extraction methods (variations of soaking and grinding) combined with cooking on the content and composition of phenolic substances and the antioxidant and anti-DU145 prostate cancer cell proliferation properties of soymilks prepared from a yellow soybean of the ProSoy variety, which is a high-protein variety. The results showed that the soymilk processing yield was the greatest using method 4, although method 2 gave the highest solid and protein yields by about 14 and 12%, respectively. Method 4, a two-step grinding method, also gave increased yields (8 and 7% for solids and proteins, respectively), and in all but one instance produced higher total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), condensed tannin content (CTC), and total isoflavone content values in both raw and cooked soymilks as compared to method 1. Cooking the soymilks reduced 14–17% of their total phenolic substances. Cooking reduced the anti-cancer capacity of the phenolic extracts from the soymilk prepared using method 4 by increasing the IC50 value from about 4.9 mg/mL to 6.8 mg/mL. The increases in phenolic compounds and antioxidants produced in the Prosoy soymilks using methods 2 and 4, with simultaneous increases in product and solid yields, are of significant benefit to the soymilk industry and consumer health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The textile industry causes heavy environmental pollution owing to the use of synthetic dyes and/or finishing agents; bioactive compounds extracted from agricultural or food wastes can provide a sustainable alternative. One such waste is aronia leaves (AL), and as Aronia plants have medicinal properties, AL can be used for textile coloring as well as for improving the properties of the treated fabrics. Hence, in this study, Aronia melanocarpa fruit (AF) and AL were used as coloring and/or functionalizing agents in the sustainable processing of wool and cotton fabrics. The AF and AL extracts were prepared under non-toxic aqueous conditions and applied to fabrics using an exhaustion method. The coloring properties and functionalities of the treated fabrics, including antibacterial, antioxidant, and UV-protective properties, were determined. Mordanting with the AL extract enhanced the coloring and colorfastness of the wool fabric when dyed with the AF extract. However, cotton was verified to be a more suitable substrate than wool in terms of functionalities owing to its higher antibacterial ability (≥99.9% bacterial reduction against both Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae), antioxidant capacity (75.9%), and UV-protective properties (98.2%). The study can provide a basis for exploring and identifying alternatives to the potentially harmful coloring and functionalizing agents currently used in textile production to reduce water pollution sourced from the textile industry. Highlights: The utility of Aronia melanocarpa leaves and fruits to dye and functionalize fabrics is investigated. Wool and cotton fabrics were biomordanted with Aronia leaf extract and dyed with Aronia fruit extract. Treated fabrics were analyzed to identify their coloring and functionalizing properties. Treated fabrics exhibit strong antibacterial, antioxidant and UV-protective properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Global warming due to increasing greenhouse gas emissions intensifies frequency and duration of extreme high temperature which has become a primary threat to cool-season crops worldwide. Aim of this study was to examine root adaptability to high temperature regulated by γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) associated with changes in antioxidant metabolism, root vitality, osmotic balance, and global metabolites remodeling in roots. Methods: A cool-season creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera) plants were pretreated with or without the 0.5 mM GABA before being subjected to heat stress (35/30 °C) or optimal temperature condition (23/19 °C) for 15 days. Roots were sampled to analyze changes in physiological parameters and metabolomics. Results: Heat stress significantly induced reactive oxygen species production in roots resulting in oxidative damage to proteins and cell membranes. However, the GABA could effectively alleviate heat-induced decline in total antioxidant capacity and also improve multiple antioxidant enzyme activities, root vitality, and osmotic adjustment ability in roots. Metabolomic analysis found that a total of 71 metabolites were jointly or differentially regulated by heat stress or heat stress together with the GABA application in roots. In response to heat stress, the GABA improved the accumulation of multiple amino acids, sugars, organic acids, and other metabolites (urea, putrescine, myoinositol, arbutin, campesterol, and stigmasterol) in roots. Conclusions: GABA could effectively increase antioxidant capacity, root vitality, and osmotic adjustment associated with improved root adaptability to heat stress. In addition, the GABA-regulated metabolites remodeling could be attributed to better energy metabolism, osmotic balance, antioxidant capacity, and cellular structures in roots under heat stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heliotropium thermophilum (Boraginaceae) plants have strong antioxidant properties. This study investigated the effectiveness of the antioxidant system in protecting the photosynthetic machinery of H. thermophilum. Plants were obtained from Kızıldere geothermal area in Buharkent district, Aydın, Turkey. Plants in the geothermal area that grew at 25–35°C were regarded as the low temperature group, while those that grew at 55–65°C were regarded as the high temperature group. We analysed the physiological changes of these plants at the two temperature conditions at stage pre-flowering and flowering. We meaured the effect of high soil temperature on water potential, malondialdehyde, cell membrane stability, and hydrogen peroxide analysis to determine stress levels on leaves and roots. Changes in antioxidant enzyme activities, ascorbate and chlorophyll content, chlorophyll fluorescence, photosynthetic gas exchange parameters, and photosynthetic enzymes (Rubisco and invertase) activities were also determined. Our results showed minimal changes to stress levels, indicating that plants were tolerant to high soil temperatures. In general, an increase in antioxidant enzyme activities, ascorbat levels, and all chlorophyll fluorescence parameters except for non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) and F v/ F m were observed. The pre-flowering and flowering stages were both characterised by decreased NPQ, despite F v/ F m not changing. Additionally, there was a rise in the levels of photosynthetic gas exchange parameters, Rubisco, and invertase activities. High temperature did not affect photosynthetic yield because H. thermophilum was found to stimulate antioxidant capacity, which reduces oxidative damage and maintains its photosynthetic machinery in high temperature conditions and therefore, it is tolerant to high soil temperature. Heliotropium thermophilum did not exhibit significant stress parameters under high soil temperature conditions, and it was a highly tolerant plant to high temperature. In the measurements taken at pre-flowering and flowering, plants in the pre-flowering stage were slightly more tolerant to high temperatures. The protection of PSII function in plants at higher temperatures could be linked to an increase in antioxidant activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]