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For utilizing biodegradable waste as a natural source for nanofabrication, this study was designed to highlight a simple, sustainable, safe, environmentally friendly, and energy consumption reduction waste management approach using hot aqueous extract of Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel waste (PPE) to biosynthesize silver nanoparticles (PPE‐AgNPs). The fabrication of biosynthesized nanosilver was confirmed by UV–visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and atomic force microscope (AFM). The initial pale brown color change upon adding silver nitrate to PPE confirmed bioreduction. For PPE, the absorption spectrum for UV–vis spectroscopy in the visible light region was 230–290 nm, while for PPE‐AgNPs, the graph shows that surface plasmon resonance (SPR) spectrum for nanosilver at 360–460 nm. The XRD analysis proved that the PPE‐AgNPs were crystalline in nature. The SEM micrograph revealed that silver nanoparticles were sphere‐shaped, homogenous accumulations with particle size in the range of 21.63–30.97 ± 0.4 nm. The EDX data analysis also proved the presence of a sharp peak of silver element with 8.83% weight at 3 keV. The 3D AFM images of Ag nanoparticles illustrated that the diameter is around 7.20–14.80 nm with a median of 7.16 ± 1.3 nm and the root mean square (RMS) value corresponds to 1.40 ± 0.4 nm. The PPE‐AgNPs efficiently exhibited a potent antioxidant and dose‐dependent DPPH inhibition action. Visual and microscopic observations of fresh human blood when treated with 25, 50, 75, and 100 μg/mL of PPE‐AgNPs were proven to be biocompatible with no morphological changes and no coagulation. This study predicts that PPE can be utilized to synthesize biocompatible nanosilver. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates an environmentally conscious method for synthesizing silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by employing extracts from pomegranate peel (PgP) and pineapple peel (PnP). This green synthesis approach offers a sustainable alternative to traditional chemical methods, thereby reducing the ecological footprint associated with nanoparticle production. The PgP and PnP extracts serve as both reducing and capping agents during the synthesis process, enhancing the biocompatibility of the resultant AgNPs. Various characterization techniques, including UV-Vis spectroscopy, Raman analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), dynamic light scattering (DLS), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), were utilized to analyze the synthesized AgNPs. UV-Vis spectroscopy confirmed the formation of AgNPs through characteristic surface plasmon resonance peaks, while FTIR examined the interaction between biomaterial components and the oxidation and coating of silver nanoparticles. Raman analysis elucidated the functional groups responsible for reducing and stabilizing AgNPs, while XRD provided insights into their crystalline structure. TEM images revealed the size and morphology of the nanoparticles, while DLS characterized their average size and morphology. In addition, the synthesized AgNPs were utilized in a bioelectrochemical cell to leverage their unique properties for enhanced electrochemical performance, showcasing their potential application in energy storage and conversion systems. Overall, this study demonstrates the feasibility of utilizing agricultural waste products such as PgP and PnP for sustainable AgNP synthesis, offering promising prospects for environmentally friendly nanotechnology advancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. There is curiosity in the use of substances that can stop cell damage. Antioxidants are substances that can prevent free radicals from damaging cells, and they can be used to treat and avoid a wide variety of illnesses. Objectives. The current investigation set out to evaluate the histological changes brought on by a single high dose of methotrexate in the submandibular glands of rats treated with green tea and pomegranate peel extract, both are well-known as antioxidants. Materials and Methods. Forty-eight healthy Albino rats were used in the current study. Animals were divided into six groups. Group 1: Vehicle group which is control group, Group 2: methotrexate treated group, Group 3: green tea control group, Group 4: pomegranate peel extract control group, Group 5: green tea + methotrexate group, and Group 6: pomegranate peel extract + methotrexate group. Rats of all groups were left 1 week after the end of the treatment. Cervical dislocation was used to kill all of the rats. Samples were gained from the rats' submandibular salivary glands of different groups for histological and immunohistochemical evaluation. Results. Green tea + methotrexate group showed improvement in the histological picture of the submandibular salivary gland compared to methotrexate group and the pomegranate peel extract + methotrexate group. Conclusion. The antioxidant activity of green tea is more potent than that of pomegranate peels extract in blocking methotrexate that induced cytotoxicity in the submandibular salivary glands of rats. As a result, it can be administered to people undergoing cancer treatment as a safeguard for their salivary glands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hand sanitizer usage has proven to be a common and practical method for reducing the spread of infectious diseases which can be caused by many harmful pathogens. There is a need for alcohol-free hand sanitizers because most hand sanitizers on the market are alcohol-based, and regular use of them can damage the skin and can be hazardous. India is the world's largest producer of fruits and one of the major problems after fruit consumption is their peels, causing waste management problems and contributing to the formation of greenhouse gases leading to air pollution and adding to the problem of climate change. Valorization of such wastes into other value-added products and their incorporation into formulations of eco-friendly alcohol-free hand sanitizers would solve these issues, save the environment, benefit the society, and help in achieving the sustainable development goals. Thus, this research focuses on formulating an effective natural alcohol-free hand sanitizer that harnesses the antimicrobial properties of the various types of bioactive components found in fruit peels of pomegranate, sweet lime, and lemon. The peel extracts and the formulated sanitizer proved considerable antimicrobial activity against the pathogenic Escherichia coli and hand microflora. Molecular docking was also applied to examine ligand-protein interaction patterns and predict binding conformers and affinity of the sanitizer phytocompounds towards target proteins in COVID-19, influenza, and pneumonia viruses. The binding affinities and the protein-ligand interactions virtual studies revealed that the sanitizer phytocompounds bind with the amino acids in the target proteins' active sites via hydrogen bonding interactions. As a result, it is possible to formulate a natural, alcohol-free hand sanitizer from fruit peels that is effective against pathogenic germs and viruses using the basic structure of these potential findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Punica granatum Linn has been known for its nutritional and medicinal value since ancient times and is used in the treatment of various pathologies owing to its antibacterial properties. This review reports the results of the most recent studies on the antibacterial effects of P. granatum and its isolated compounds on bacteria of clinical interest. A search in the PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct, and Science Citation Index Expanded (Web of Science) databases was performed, which included articles that evaluated the antibacterial activity of P. granatum extracts and excluded articles that analyzed other microorganisms or nonpathogenic bacteria, as well as theses, dissertations, duplicate articles, and those not fully available. The literature suggests that P. granatum extracts can act on bacteria, such as methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MSSA), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), Streptococcus mutans, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. In addition, fruit peel was the most commonly used pharmacogen and methanol, ethanol, and water were the most common solvents for the extraction of bioactive compounds. The antibacterial potential of the methanolic extract of pomegranate peel could be attributed to the presence of active compounds, such as 5-hydroxymethylfurfural, punicic acid, gallic acid, and punicalagin. Thus, there is evidence that these plant extracts, having high polyphenol content, can disrupt the bacterial plasma membrane and inhibit the action of proteins related to antimicrobial resistance. P. granatum shows antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with great potential against multidrug-resistant strains. Further research is needed to clarify the mechanism of action related to this biological activity and investigate the isolated substances that may be responsible for the antibacterial effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chemical compositions of juice and peel from 37 cultivars of pomegranates grown in China were identified using UPLC-Q TOF MS. The total phenolic contents and antioxidant activities of pomegranate juice and peel samples were also determined to make comparisons of their potential nutraceutical values. A total of 20 and 25 compounds were tentatively identified from the juice and peel samples. For the antioxidant activities of juice samples, No. 32 from Italy showed greatest abilities in scavenging DPPH and ABTS free radicals, and a registered novel cultivar No. 24 showed greatest value in scavenging oxygen radical. For the peel samples, No. 8 from Anhui Province of China showed generally greater values in all the three assays. All these results showed that different cultivars of pomegranate have different amounts of bioactive components and antioxidant activities, and development about the byproduct of these pomegranates after industrial processing should be focused in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is aimed at estimating the possibility of using pomegranate peel extracts as a natural food preservative which was investigated in fish samples. All the extracts (cold water, hot water, and 70% methanol) have been tested against five bacteria (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella Typhi, Bacillus megaterium, and Bacillus subtilis) using the agar disc diffusion method. Hot water extract showed the best result against B. megaterium. The zone of inhibition (ZOI) for hot water extract as crude was taken 20 μl/disc was 25 mm. Total antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (TPC) were determined for different extracts. The results of a test for TPC showed that 70% methanolic extract (MeOH) and cold water extract, respectively, comprised 263.59 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g and 197.99 mg GAE/g of total phenolics. In addition, MeOH had a total antioxidant activity of 67.55 ± 5.58 mg ascorbic acid equivalent (AAE)/g while hot water extract had a total antioxidant activity of 66.86 ± 3.55 mg AAE/g. The extracts were applied to Ompok pabda fish, and the fish were preserved in prepared extracts for 24 hours in the open air. Total volatile nitrogen (TVN) and sensory parameters were evaluated at regular intervals of 0, 4, 12, 18, and 24 hours. The TVN value of the prepared extracts was found in order of hot water> MeOH> cold water. Fish preserved in hot water extract was in the acceptable range even after 24 hours. Methanol extract and hot water yielded superior outcomes in preserving the fish. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sepsis is an organ dysfunction syndrome associated with high mortality. To date, no effective treatment is available to combat this disease. Punica granatum L. is a potential alternative treatment due to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of a hydroalcoholic crude extract from the peels of P. granatum (HCEPg) in mice with lethal sepsis. Lethal polymicrobial sepsis was induced in female Swiss mice via cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). Initially, the animals were divided into three groups: Sham (false-operated), CLP-control (phosphate-buffered saline), and CLP-HCEPg (single dose, 5 mg/kg, subcutaneous administration). Treatment was initiated immediately after the induction of sepsis, and survival was evaluated every 12 hr for 5 days. Those who survived were euthanized. Serum cytokine levels were measured using a cytometric bead array Mouse Inflammatory Cytokine Kit. The number of colony-forming units, as well as the number of cells in the lymphoid organs and their activation markers, were analyzed. Results showed that treatment with HCEPg increased lifespan and reduced bacterial counts in the peritoneum, bloodstream, and spleen. HCEPg also decreased hydrogen peroxide secretion by phagocytes and augmented serum IL-10 levels, indicating its systemic anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, treatment with HCEPg attenuated infection-induced lung hemorrhage. Overall, P. granatum extract improved the lifespan of septic mice, possibly due to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, thereby regulating bacterial load and translocation, as well as controlling the systemic inflammation induced by sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pomegranate peel, an agricultural by-product or waste, is a rich source of bioactive compounds. In the current study, the addition of different concentrations of pomegranate peel hydromethanolic extract (PPE) into tahini was investigated. The hydromethanolic extract of pomegranate peel in the ratio of 1 : 1 was prepared, and the PPE yield was evaluated. The HPLC and Folin-Ciocalteu methods were used to determine phenolic compounds and total phenolic content of PPE, respectively. The antioxidant activity of PPE was investigated by DPPH and FRAPS assays. Then, the different concentration of PPE (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1, and 2%) was added to tahini. Thereafter, peroxide value, TBARS, and sensory analyses were determined during 6 months of storage. The PPE yield was reported at 18.90%. Gallic acid, ellagic acid, and punicalagin were identified as the most abundant phenolic compounds in PPE. The total phenolic content, DPPH, and FRAP antioxidant assay of PPE were evaluated as 1577.65 mg/g GAE, 54 μg/ml, and 483.24 mM, respectively. It was shown that by the addition of PPE in tahini, the increase in peroxide value and TBARS was controlled. The concentrations 1 and 2% act better to inhibit lipid peroxidation. Overall, the general acceptance of samples containing 1 and 2% PPE was recorded better than other samples. The PPE showed a good function as a natural antioxidant in tahini to retard oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-altitude disease (HAD) describes the failure to adapt to the lack of oxygen found at high altitudes and therapeutic antioxidant effects have been attributed to pomegranate peel (PP) extract. Network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation were used to study mechanisms responsible for the alleviation of HAD by PP. The aim was to establish a reference for future research and aid technological development, particularly in clinical settings. Network pharmacology analysis showed that PP affected many targets in HAD via the active ingredients, luteolin 7-O-glycoside, punicalagin, and ellagic acid. HNRNPA1, HSPA1B, HSPA1A, CUL4B, CLTC, PPP1CA, PARP1, RACK1, NEDD8, and MAP3K1 were all targets, responsible for effects on ribosomes, apoptosis, cell cycle, mRNA surveillance pathway, and the MAPK signaling pathway. PP had an antiapoptosis effect on H9c2 cells damaged by hypoxia, as shown by annexinV-FITC/PI double staining. Practical Applications. HAD comprises a group of diseases caused by failure to adapt to a low-oxygen environment. PP extract has previously been shown to have antioxidant effects. PP attenuated damage to H9c2 cells and reduced the apoptosis rate. The current results lay the foundation for further experimental investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation applied a new coating (taro starch‐casein composite enriched with micellar pomegranate peel extract (MPPE)) to mature plum (Prunus salicina L.) fruits in a randomized factorial design with five replicates. Results showed that, during storage of 20 days at 5 and 23°C, a recognizable reduction in weight and firmness loss with a stable respiration rate of coated plums than uncoated ones (4.5% and 8.4% at 5 and 23°C respectively) were noticed. The coating provided appealing optical properties with exceptionally controlled changes in pH and acidity of plums. The coating significantly reduced the change in total soluble solids (TSS) at the end of storage which was 9 and 11.67°brix compared to uncoated fruits (11.83 and 13.08°brix) at 5°C and 23°C, respectively. Moreover, the loss of bioactives (polyphenols, flavonoids, antioxidant capacity, and ascorbic acid) was arrested due to bioactive coating. A slight rise in total anthocyanins, carotenoids, and reducing sugars was observed at 23°C. However, they were efficiently suppressed in coated fruits stored at 5°C. Microbial growth was also effectively controlled in coated plum fruits. Overall, the results suggested that applying MPPE starch‐casein composite coating on plum fruits exhibited a noticeable shelf life of ≥20 and 14 days at 5 and 23°C, respectively, over uncoated fruits (about 12 and 8 days). Novelty impact statement: Plum fruit is a nutritionally rich climacteric fruit. However, it is very prone to deterioration and thus a quick loss in its quality. Many postharvest practices, such as irradiation, controlled and modified atmosphere storage, and chemical and thermal treatment have been used. However, these methods affect the nutritional value of fruits. The biodegradable bioactive coating is one of the cost‐effective ways for the shelf‐life extension of fruits. In this regard, natural bioactive and antioxidant‐rich MPPE enriched starch‐casein composite acts as a barrier against moisture loss and gas exchange and provides a glossy appearance to the fruits. Moreover, the bioactive coating provides excellent pathogen resistance with effective retention of bioactive compounds. Using the finding of this study, the application of MPPE enriched starch‐casein composite coating to plum fruits stored at ambient (23°C) and cold (5°C) storage can extend the postharvest shelf‐life of plum, save cost and energy, and open the global marketing window for plum fruits. MPPE‐taro starch‐casein composite coating was successfully used to prolong the postharvest life of plum fruits as well as to minimize fruit processing industrial waste by utilizing pomegranate peel as a source of a bioactive ingredient. Physical (color, firmness, and weight loss), chemical (pH, acidity, and TSS), and bioactive (polyphenols, ascorbic acid, carotenoids, and anthocyanins) properties of plums were found to be retained with the application of coatings during storage. The composite coating containing natural bioactive compounds can be used as an effective alternative to synthetic preservatives with an eco‐friendly approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shelf life of tomato is limited due to its perishable nature. The fruit is highly susceptible to fungal attack such as Fusarium oxysporum. The edible coating has been used to enhance the postharvest life of different food products. The present study was designed for the development of edible antifungal coating on tomato fruit using pomegranate peel extract in combination with chitosan. Pomegranate peel extract was obtained from pomegranate peel using water distillation method. The antifungal coating was prepared with different concentrations of pomegranate peel extract (To, T1, T2, T3, T4, T5 for 0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0%, and 2.5%) respectively. Coated tomatoes were subjected to physicochemical, microbial, and sensory analysis during storage. The firmness and lycopene content were decreased during storage. However, the coated tomatoes have more firmness and lycopene content than uncoated tomatoes. Maximum weight loss was observed for To (6.22 ± 0.07%) after 21 days. Lycopene content of coated tomato were improved during storage as compare with uncoated samples. Maximum total plate count was observed for To (6.11 ± 0.07 CFU/g) and minimum was observed for T5 (2.11 ± 0.08 CFU/g). All the treatments were significantly effective to control total plate count and mold count in comparison with the control. The coating materials did not affect the sensory profile of tomatoes. Pomegranate peel extract was proved effective antimicrobial coating material for tomatoes. The study will pave way for the researchers to use coating material for fruits based on the fruit waste. Practical applications: Fruit waste‐based edible coating can prevent postharvest losses in fruits and vegetables. Pomegranate peel extract and chitosan have shown potential to reduce postharvest losses in tomatoes. PPE‐based coating has antimicrobial activity against Fusarium oxysporum. The edible coating can help to reduce qualitative and safety issues in tomatoes during storage. It may be used as a replacement of synthetic preservatives in tomatoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study evaluated the potential of chitosan‐based melatonin (CH‐MT) composite coating to maintain quality and delay senescence of minimally processed pomegranate aril‐sacs during refrigerated storage. Mature pomegranate fruit (cv. Wonderful) without physical defects were processed into aril‐sacs. Subsequently, the following treatments were applied; distilled water (control), CH 0.5% (w/v), CH+0.1 mM MT, CH+0.4 mM MT, CH+0.8 mM MT, and CH+1 mM MT. Each treatment was applied by immersing the aril‐sacs in the coating solution for 3 min and allowed to dry at room temperature. Aril‐sacs were then packed in polyethene terephthalate punnets (three to four aril‐sacs/punnet) and stored at 5°C and 85% RH for 21 days. Aril color, weight loss, respiration rate, ascorbic acid content, total anthocyanins, browning index, and antioxidant capacity were monitored during storage at 3 days intervals. The study results showed that the CH‐MT coating treatments significantly (p < 0.05) delayed the increase in aril‐sacs weight loss and respiration rate. These treatments also retained higher aril chroma, ascorbic acid, anthocyanin content, DPPH‐radical scavenging activity, and aril‐sacs antioxidant power (FRAP). In addition, surface browning development was significantly suppressed in the coated aril‐sacs compared with control sacs. However, the effectiveness of CH‐MT treatments in maintaining the quality of aril‐sacs was concentration‐dependent, with CH+0.8–1 mM MT treatments showing the best results. Therefore, CH+0.8–1 mM MT treatments are recommended to suppress the development of physiological disorders and maintain the quality of minimally processed pomegranate aril‐sacs. Novelty Impact Statement: This study focuses on the development and application of chitosan‐melatonin composite coating (CH‐MT) as an active and functional formulation to maintain quality and extend the storage life of minimally processed pomegranate aril‐sacs. The results showed that incorporating melatonin with chitosan improved the effectiveness of chitosan base coating. This was demonstrated by the CH‐MT coating's enhanced retention of ascorbic acid, anthocyanins, radical scavenging activity, and antioxidant power. Further, delaying the increase in aril‐sacs surface browning, weight loss, and respiration rate. The study findings are valuable in the commercial adoption of safe preservation technologies to maintain the quality and maximize the storability of minimally processed products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the applicability of novel colorimetric paper‐based pH‐sensitive indicator labels for monitoring the shelf life of the chicken breast fillets packaged under air oxygen until 10 days at 4°C. The color changes of the indicator labels were observed using the mobile phone after storage for days 0, 5, and 10. The result revealed that the indicator labels could be used to determine the freshness of the product as a part of intelligent packaging since the color of all indicators changed, depending on the pH changes of the chicken breast fillets. However, the synthetic and the red cabbage‐based indicator labels are found more sensitive to color changes compared to other selected natural‐based indicators. Moreover, the indicator labels have no toxic effect and are reliable and easy to use for monitoring the shelf life of meat and meat products. Novelty impact statement: A novel freshness indicator was developed based on natural (pomegranate, red cabbage, and turnip juice) and synthetic dye (bromocresol green, and methyl red) to detect physicochemical and microbiological changes in the chicken breast fillet for consumers as an alternative to the expiry date.The color of the indicator labels has changed depending on changes in the pH value of the chicken breast fillet packaged under air oxygen.It is considered that the developed indicator labels will contribute to new scientific research about intelligent packaging systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based nanoparticles (NPs) have many advantages over physical and chemical methods and featured with several medicinal and biological applications. In this study, zinc oxide NPs (ZnO-NPs) were synthesized using pomegranate peel aqueous extract, under mild and ecofriendly conditions. The ZnO-NPs structure, morphology, and optical properties were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), and ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis). Antibacterial activity against Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains were evaluated using the disk diffusion method. The effect of extract concentration (20, 30, and 40 mL) on the final properties of NPs, as well as the NPs concentration used for antibacterial test (50, 100, and 200 mg/mL), were also studied. The results indicate a hexagonal structure with particle size increases as extract concentration increase (D = 18.53, 29.88, and 30.34 nm), while the optical bandgap was decreased (Eg = 2.87, 2.80, and 1.92 eV). The antibacterial activity of ZnO-NPs indicated high efficiency, similar or even higher than that of the control azithromycin, more against S. aureus, increased with NPs concentration, and preferred when NPs prepared from high extract concentration. Such promising physicochemical properties support the usefulness and efficacy of the reported bio-route for production of ZnO-NPs and may encourage its application for large-scale production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study was performed to evaluate the preventive effect of pomegranate peel extract on sodium‐induced cataract in rats. Sprague–Dawley suckling male rats were divided into four groups: group C: rats received no treatment, group P: rats received pomegranate peel aqueous extract (PPE) orally, group Se: rats received an injection of sodium selenite, group Se + P: rats received PPE and sodium selenite concomitantly. After 4 weeks, rats were sacrificed, and their lenses were homogenized and evaluated for biochemical parameters and sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis. In the Se group, developed cataract with significant lens opacity was observed. Other changes in enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidants, oxidative parameters, solubility of proteins, in NO and Ca levels and the electrophoresis pattern of proteins were observed in lenses of the Se group compared to control groups. After the preventive administration of PPE, most of these parameters were normalized due to antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities of the extract. Practical applications: Cataract is one of the leading causes of vision impairment among the elderly, and surgery is the major therapeutic step taken to cure it. However, surgery has its limitations and complications. Therefore, prevention of cataract development, especially in high‐risk individuals, can be better than cure. Pomegranate peel extract has a high potential to prevent cataract in these people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Light‐emitting diode (LED) technology is a novel non‐targeted processing technique that uses light energy for the disinfection of food products. It has been known for antimicrobial efficacy by aiding the principle of photosensitization to deactivate the microorganisms causing food spoilage without altering organoleptic and nutritional assets. Pomegranate juice is a rich source of polyphenolics, which are prone to degradation in thermal pasteurization. The current research develops a non‐thermal pasteurization method for pomegranate juice using blue LED at 470 nm wavelength, at different temperatures (5, 15, and 25°C) and exposure gaps (2, 5, 8 cm). The sub‐lethal injury for Escherichia coli was around 91.7% at 5°C, and 94.87% at 15°C. The LED exposure at 25°C significantly increased the sublethal injury from 15.4% at 2 h to 34.59 at 4 h and 84.63% at 10 h time. The total flavonoids compounds for the 5°C/2 cm sample showed a significant increase of 1.66 times higher than the control. Novelty impact statement: The loss of organoleptic properties due to thermal pasteurization treatments of fruit products has increased the applications for non‐targeted process methods like light‐emitting diodes (LED). The LED treatment of pomegranate juice has shown a sub‐lethal injury rate of 94.87% at 15°C storage temperature. The total flavonoids have been elevated 1.66 times after treatment at 5°C at a 2 cm exposure gap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Bone healing is a complex and dynamic process that represents a well-orchestrated series of biological events of cellular recruitment, proliferation, and differentiation. The use of medicinal plants in bone healing has attracted increasing interest because of their lower side effects. Punica granatum seed oil (PSO) contains high levels of phenolic compounds, promotes osteoblast function, and plays an important role in bone remodeling. A gelatin sponge (Spongostan) is a hemostatic agent that is extensively applied as scaffolds in engineering and as drug carriers in the medical field. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of PSO for bone healing enhancement. Twenty adult male New Zealand rabbits, weighing an average of 1.5–2 kg, were used in this study. Three intrabony holes were created in the tibiae of each animal, which were filled with a gelatin sponge (GS group) and combined gelatin sponge and PSO (GS/PSO group). Holes without material application were designated as the control group (C group). The animals were sacrificed at the healing duration (2–4 weeks) to prepare bone specimens for histological and histomorphometric analyses. Results. Histological findings indicated that the bone defects in the GS/PSO group showed more bone formation, mineralization, and maturation compared with the C and GS groups. Multiple group differences for bone cells showed a highly significant difference among all groups in the 2- and 4-week healing periods except for the C/GS and GS/GS/PSO groups at 4-weeks duration. Furthermore, highly significant results were obtained between both durations regarding the trabecular area, trabecular number, and bone marrow area. Conclusion. The study revealed that the combined application of GS and PSO was more effective in enhancing bone regeneration and accelerating bone healing compared with the other groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate peel (CPP), enriched with bioactive constituents, had potent antioxidant features. Therefore, it is worth finding out functional and antioxidant features of the nanoscale pomegranate peel. The nanoscale of pomegranate peel was prepared by ultrafine grinding in a ball mill for 45 min (NPP45) and 90 min (NPP90). The physical (SEM, TEM, FTIR, and XRD) and chemical characteristics (phenolics, flavonoids, DPPH scavenging activity, FRAP, and reducing power) of nanoparticles were studied. The quality aspects of cold stored (5 ± 2°C) meatballs formulated with 0.5% (W/W) of nano-peel powder were evaluated. Similarly, FTIR spectra and XRD patterns were recorded for nano and crude pomegranate peel samples. Generally, grinding the crude peel for 45 and 90 min enhanced its scavenging activity, reducing power, FRAP, total phenolic, and flavonoid by a range of 12.58 to 20.37 and 20.57% to 35.18%, respectively. The addition of crude/nanosized peel to the meat ball diminish (p < 0.05) formation of thiobarbituric acid (TBARS), peroxide (PV), and volatile nitrogen and kept the sensory attributes up to 9 days of cold storage. No significant differences were noticed in PV and TBARS of meatballs formulated with 0.5% NPP90 and 0.1% BHT, which suggests the potential use of nanoscale pomegranate peel as natural substitutes to BHT in meat products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Punica granatum (Pomegranate fruit) and its constituents are proven effective against various cancer types. However, a kinome‐wide screening for the active phytochemicals against kinases is not reported. This study aims in validating pomegranate fruit extract (PFE) against acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells, and computationally identifying the phytochemicals interacting with active kinases. PFE was made with Soxhlet extractor using absolute ethanol. Gas‐chromatography–mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) for phytochemical identification and MTT assay for cytotoxicity in AML (THP‐1, TF‐1 and HL‐60) cells were performed. Apoptosis, CDK5 and CDK8 were assessed with flow cytometry. Kinase profiling was performed using In silico kinome screening. GC–MS analysis revealed 38 bioactive phytochemicals in PFE including pyrazoles, aldehydes, phenols, esters, pyranosides, and octadecadienoic acids. The extract inhibited the AML cell proliferations with GI50 values of 195.5 μg/ml, 289.1 μg/ml, and 353.5 μg/ml in THP‐1, THP‐1, and HL‐60 cells, respectively. PFE also exhibited a dose‐responsive increase in apoptotic cell populations when treated to the AML cells. Computational screening and modeling predicted three critical constituents, viz., Deoxyartemisinin, 3‐Methyl‐3‐phenyl‐3H‐indazole, and 8‐fluoro‐5,6‐dimethoxy‐3,4‐dihydro‐2H‐naphthalen‐1‐one of pomegranate extract to interact mainly with cyclin‐dependent kinases, including CDK5 and CDK8. Proteinand ligand docking predicted binding energies, and binding pose for top candidate lead molecules. In vitro assay exhibited the anticancer properties of PFE in AML cells. Computational kinome screening predicted top three PFE constituents targeting CDKs which may be responsible for the demonstrated anticancer efficacy of the extract against AML. This hypothesis further aligned with observed efficacy of PFE to inhibit CDK5 and CDK8 in all AML cells tested. Practical applications: Though Punica granatum (Pomegranate fruit) and its constituents are proven effective against various cancer types, a kinome‐wide screening for the active phytochemicals against kinases is not reported. In this study, we have conducted GC/MS characterization of the active phytochemicals of PFE and have performed a kinome‐wide screening for all the 38 identified compounds toward 310 active kinases commonly expressed in cancers. These observations warrant isolation and further evaluation of these phytochemicals or their analogues as effective CDK inhibitors against AML proliferation. Further, the computational methods used in this study will throw light on literature for new options of kinome panel screening of active phytochemicals or small molecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nutraceutical properties of Punica granatum L. are not restricted to the edible portion of the fruit but also to the peels and seeds, flowers, leaves, and tree bark. The recovery and valorization of the peel and seeds (ca. 50% of the whole fruit), besides the positive environmental impact, can be viewed as a source of natural bioactive compounds. Thus, the bioactive properties of extracts of pomegranate peel and seeds from Acco and Wonderful known cultivars, as well as of the novel Big Full cultivar, were evaluated. The dried and ground pomegranate by-products were submitted to a conventional solid/liquid extraction with ethanol/water mixtures (0%, 25%, 50%, and 75% of EtOH, v/v). The obtained extracts were characterized in terms of total phenolic compounds (TPC), total flavonoids (TF), and antioxidant activity (AA), determined by the DPPH radical scavenging activity and expressed as IC50 (half maximum inhibitory concentration). With the exception of the Acco cultivar, the extraction yield (EY) was higher for peels, whose extracts showed higher TPC, TF, and IC50 (lower AA). The extracts obtained from the by-products of the Big Full cultivar had a statistically higher overall bioactive potential (TPC: 0.36 mg GAE/mg extract; TF: 0.031 mg CATE/mg extract; IC50: 0.51 mg/mL) compared to the other two studied cultivars. Furthermore, the EY was enhanced by solvents richer in ethanol (50-75%), allowing obtaining extracts richer in TPC and TF with higher AA. Finally, it was shown that EY combined with bioactive data allowed a satisfactory principal component unsupervised differentiation of the pomegranate extracts according to the type of by-product used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Different formulations of chitosan (1%, 2%, or 3%) with the incorporation of cinnamon oil (0.25% or 0.50%) were prepared for the preservation of pomegranate aril cv. Bhagwa. Six combinations of chitosan-cinnamon oil formulations along with one control (untreated) were applied to the freshly extracted arils using the dipping application method. All treatments were found to be effective in enhancing the shelf life, improving the postharvest characteristics, and reducing microbial populations on pomegranate arils during a 15-day storage period at 4 ± 1°C. The treated pomegranate arils exhibited excellent resistance to microbial decay, moisture loss, respiration rate, preservation of phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidants activity, among other characteristics. Chitosan 2% + cinnamon oil 0.25% edible coating has a high potential to enhance the storage life and biochemical properties and reduce the microbial population of arils. This treatment recorded a higher total phenolic content (18%) and antioxidant activity (16%) than the control sample, respectively, at the end of storage. In addition, the treatment also helped to decrease the microbial activity by 45% compared to the control sample. The present investigation proposed an alternative method to prolong the shelf life of pomegranate arils during the 15 days of storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of substituted wheat flour with pomegranate peel powder (PPP) at different ratios 5, 10, 15, and 20% on chemical composition, physical properties, color appearance, staling, and the sensory evaluation of the high-fibre cupcake was evaluated. The obtained results revealed that a slight increase in ash of cake samples with all levels of PPP was found. The highest value of ash was 1.92% given by cupcakes with 20% PPP. It was observed that a gradual significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in dietary fibre of prepared cupcakes with PPP compared to control cake. The dietary fibre values ranged from 2.73% for the control cake to 17.00% with 20% of PPP; it may be due to the high content of ash and dietary fibre in PPP. Also, using PPP in cupcake manufacturing had a lowered effect on their volume and specific volume, where control cupcake recorded 48.00 cm3 and 1.40 cm3/g for volume and specific volume, respectively. In addition, a gradual significant (p ≤ 0.05) decrease in L value (lightness) with incorporated different levels of PPP was found. The control cupcake had the highest lightness value (65.97) with a significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase compared to all other cupcake samples that ranged between 37.67 and 30.18 by 5% and 20% of PPP, respectively. The results indicated that the highest value of taste was 18.75, which was given by cupcake with 5% PPP. While increasing the percentage of PPP in cupcake, the taste is less acceptable by panelists, and perhaps, this decreases in taste due to the high ratio of fibre in PPP. The highest staling was given by cupcake replaced with PPP at 20% after the ninth day of storage. Finally, it can be concluded that PPP can be used in cupcake production to raise its dietary fibre and mineral content up to a substitution rate of 10% PPP while retaining acceptable organoleptic properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate peel (PP) is a by‐product in the processing of pomegranate products, which is usually discarded as a waste. However, a large number of researches have shown that pomegranate peel extract (PPE) is rich in a variety of phenolic substances, among which ellagic acid (EA), as one of the main active components, has significant biological activities, such as anti‐oxidation, anti‐tumor, anti‐inflammatory, neuroprotection, anti‐viral, and anti‐bacterial. We analyzed the mechanism of EA's biological activity, and discussed its application in the food industry, for instance, food preservation, food additives, and functional foods. Combined with the research status of PPE, we discussed the limitations and development potential of PPE, in order to provide theoretical reference and scientific basis for the development and utilization of pomegranate by‐products. Practical applications: Pomegranate peel (PP), the inedible part of the fruit, is usually treated as waste. In recent years, researchers have been committed to exploring various bioactive ingredients in PP and exploring its potential benefits to human health, which has far‐reaching significance. In this paper, the chemical constituents of polyphenols in PP were reviewed, mainly focusing on the biological activity and mechanism of ellagic acid (EA). We reviewed the applications and invention patents of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) in food field, including food preservation, food additive, and functional foods, providing reference for the recycling and reuse of PP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Saprolegniasis is considered as one of the most problematic fish diseases, causing high mortality and significant economic losses in fish farms especially Oreochromis niloticus hatcheries. Chemotherapeutic treatment of fungal fish diseases with chemicals and malachite green was proved to possess carcinogenic and teratogenic effects in fish and human health. Hence, the current study aimed to investigate antifungal activities of three plant extracts against the causative agent of saprolegniasis, Saprolegnia parasitica, as an alternative fungicides. Disc diffusion assay was conducted for the preliminary antifungal bioassay of the most effective plant extracts. Acute fish toxicity and phytochemical analysis of the functional plant extracts were performed to ensure their safety for application and detect their phytoactive components. Ethanolic extracts of Syzygium aromaticum and Punica granatum showed a potential efficiency in preventing mycelial growth of S. parasitica at a concentration of 0.5 mg/ml recording inhibition zone diameters of 18.35 and 16.5 mm respectively. The clove extract exhibited the highest anti‐sparolegnial potency recording minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 100 ppm, which was significantly higher than that of concentration 50 ppm at p ≤ 0.05. Acute fish toxicity of the potential plant extracts revealed that both P. granatum and S. aromaticum exhibited low toxicity to experimental fish, O. niloticus, recording LC50 ranging from 1600 to 1330 ppm and no mortalities were recorded even at 400 ppm. Regarding their low toxicity, it can be suggested that the effective concentrations of clove and pomegranate extracts could be considered as a safe, eco‐friendly and applicable measure for saprolegniasis control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As an agro‐food by‐product, pomegranate peel is a potential source of bioactive compounds with preservative properties. Ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) is a green extraction method that is useful in increasing extraction yields and reducing extraction time without using toxic solvents. This study aimed to optimize the UAE of a pomegranate peel for its use as a preservative using water as the solvent, maximizing its antioxidant potential for its particular application to chicken burgers. A Box–Behnken design was applied using extraction time, extraction temperature, and ultrasound amplitude as independent variables. The response surface methodology (RSM) results showed that the highest concentration of the phenolic compound is obtained at amplitude—50%, temperature—38°C, and time—15 min. The extracts with RSM conditions at a concentration of 0.8% indicated that the extracted preservative exerts the ability to delay meat oxidation on days 1, 2, 4, and 7, even better than ascorbic acid. Practical applications: The waste and elimination of agro‐industrial by‐products generate significant environmental impacts and critical economic losses. Today, a sustainable paradigm it seeks to add extra value to these by‐products by giving them a new application in the production chains, thus favoring the circular economy. The ultrasound‐assisted process is an excellent tool to obtain green compounds that cover the recent concern from the industry and consumers for healthier foods. In this case, the application of the pomegranate peel extract is presented as an alternative to synthetic preservatives due to its great antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of chitosan nanoparticles (ChNPs), UV‐C lights alone, and their combination on inactivating foodborne pathogens (Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Listeria monocytogenes) was evaluated in vitro and in pomegranate juice (PJ). As well as study the effect of these treatments on the microbial quality and health‐related components in PJ. ChNPs at a concentration of 175 μl ml−1 showed 90% and 100% inhibition of E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes, respectively. Log reductions of 6.1 and 7.22 logs have been achieved for E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes by UV‐C alone after 45 and 35 min, at doses of 0.682 and 0.445 J/cm−2 respectively. Compared with individual treatments, the sequential application with ChNPs (1/2 MIC) and UV‐C at dose of 0.356 J/cm−2 for 30 min, E. coli O157:H7 and L. monocytogenes were completely inactivated in vitro. In PJ, when individual ChNP or UV‐C treatments were used, microbial numbers decreased, and they did not reach more than 4 log CFU ml−1 during the storage period. While, the combined ChNPs (100 μl ml−1) UV‐C (at dose 0.178 J/cm−2) treatment produced a greater microbial reduction than the treatment of each one alone, and complete inactivation of aerobic bacteria, yeast, and mold for 30 days. In ChPNs and UV‐C combination, until the last storage time (30 days) E. coli and L. monocytogenes cells inoculated in the PJ were not determinable. The combination of ChNPs at low concentration (1/2 MIC) and UV‐C with shorter time (20 min at dose 0.178 J/cm−2) had achieved preserving the microbiological quality and safety in PJ for 30 days at 4°C, in addition to retaining the health‐related components (total phenol, vitamin C, anthocyanin content and antioxidant); this, in turn, preserves the functional role of pomegranate juice. The synergistic effect observed in this study allows the possibility to design double treatments with a safe and economical technique for the decontamination of fruit juices. Novelty impact statement: The application of chitosan nanoparticles in combination with UV‐C light technique can be a safe alternative to thermal pasteurization or chemical additives to maintain the microbiological quality and safety in pomegranate juice. The combination of ChNPs with UV‐C light is a promising hurdle for good retention of quality, nutritive value, health‐related components (functional juices) in pomegranate juices. The combinational treatment at a low dose from chitosan nanoparticles with UV‐C for a shorter time has a practical and significant economic return. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cellulose‐based polysaccharide edible film enriched with pomegranate seed oil was characterized and used for the coating of strawberries to determine the effects on their quality over shelf life. Edible bioactive films were prepared with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) which contained different concentrations (0.1, 1, 2, and 3%) of pomegranate seed oil (PSO). It was found that the opacity and roughness of films increased with the increasing concentration of PSO. The FTIR spectra results with a lower transmittance of the –OH stretching band at around 3350 cm−1, showed that the hydrophobic nature of the films increased where the moisture absorption of the bioactive films decreased with the addition of pomegranate seed oil. The weight loss of the coated strawberries decreased 35% less than the control at the end of the 16 d of storage period at 5 ± 1°C. The total phenolic content of the strawberries was preserved with the coating process at the level of 70%. Pomegranate seed oil‐enriched CMC edible coatings showed promise as a tool for quality maintenance of strawberries. Practical applications: Edible films and coatings are bio‐based, environmentally friendly technologies that have the potential to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables, reduce microbial spoilage, and preserve their unique flavor. CMC is a colorless, tasteless, non‐toxic, non‐allergenic, and odorless anionic polysaccharide and is widely used as an edible coating material. Strawberries, which are potential raw materials for edible coating applications, have a very short shelf life. Various applications such as cold storage, chemical preservatives, and modified environmental packaging have been developed to preserve the quality of strawberry fruit and extend its shelf life. However, many of these uses have a detrimental effect on aroma, color, texture, or flavor. For this reason, the use of CMC is an alternative to increase the shelf life of strawberries and to preserve their quality properties during storage. In addition, the use of various essential oils will increase the effectiveness of the application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel has seen a rapid surge in attention as a medical and nutritional product over the last decade. The impact of pomegranate peel methanolic extract monotherapy and combination therapy on the in vitro growth of Babesia (B.) bovis, B. bigemina, B. divergens, B. caballi, and Theileria (T.) equi, as well as B. microti in mice, was investigated in this work. Fluorescence-based SYBR green I assay was used for evaluating the inhibitory antibabesial efficacy of pomegranate (Punica granatum) peel against the growth of several piroplasm parasites in vitro and in vivo. Celltac α MEK-6450 computerized haematology analyzer was used for monitoring the haematological parameters of treated mice every 4 days. Pomegranate peel inhibited the in vitro growth of B. bovis, B. bigemina, B. divergens, T. equi, and B. caballi in a dose-dependent manner, with IC50 values of 154.45 ± 23.11 , 40.90 ± 9.35 , 72.71 ± 14.77 , 100 ± 16.20 , and 77.27 ± 16.94 μ g / ml , respectively. On a B. bovis culture, the in vitro inhibitory effect of pomegranate peel was amplified when it was combined with diminazene aceturate (DA). Combination therapy of pomegranate peel and a low dose of DA (15 mg kg-1) inhibited B. microti growth significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the treatment with the full dose of DA (25 mg kg-1) in B. microti-infected mice. These findings suggest that pomegranate peel might be a potential medicinal plant for babesiosis treatment, especially when combined with a low dosage of DA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pomegranate flower is an ancient herb in traditional Chinese medicine with multiple properties. Recent studies have shown that pomegranate flower extract is beneficial, especially for hyperglycemia. In this experiment, we investigated the diastolic effect of pomegranate flower polyphenol (PFP) extract on the isolated thoracic aorta of rats in both the absence and presence of high glucose levels. Isotonic contractile forces were recorded from aortic rings (about 3 mm in length) from rats using the BL-420F Biological Function Test System. Tissues were precontracted with 60 mM KCl to obtain maximum tension under 1.0 g load for 1 hour before the balance was achieved, and the fluid was changed every 15 minutes. PFP (700 mg/L–900 mg/L) showed a concentration-dependent relaxant effect on the aortic rings; vasodilation in the endothelium-intact was significantly higher than that in the de-endothelialized segments P < 0.01 . The endothelium-dependent vasorelaxant effect of PFP was partially attenuated by K+ channel blockers, tetraethylammonium (TEA), glibenclamide (Glib), and BaCl2, as well as L-NAME (eNOS inhibitor) on the denuded endothelium artery ring. Concentration-dependent inhibition of PFP on releasing intracellular Ca2+ in the Ca2+-free solution and vasoconstriction of CaCl2 in Ca2+-free buffer plus K+ (60 mM) was observed. In addition, PFP (0.1–10 mg/L) showed significant inhibition of acetylcholine-induced endothelial-dependent relaxation in the aorta of rats in the presence of high glucose (44 mmol/L). Nevertheless, the vasodilating effect of PFP was inhibited by atropine and L-NAME. The results indicated that PFP-induced vasodilation was most likely related to the antioxidant effects through enhanced NO synthesis, as well as the blocking of K+ channels and inhibition of extracellular Ca2+ entry. In conclusion, these observations showed that PFP ameliorates vasodilation in hyperglycemic rats. Hence, our results suggest that PFP supplementation may be beneficial for hypertensive patients with diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Heavy metals in excessive levels are hazardous to ecosystems as they can bioaccumulate in organisms, have toxic effects on biota, and even cause mortality in most life forms. Methodology. The present study consists of two studies; initially, different concentrations of copper were biosorbed by using 1 gm powder of various biosorbents such as orange peels (OP), pomegranate peels (POP), and peanut peels (PP). Furthermore, the biosorbed water was used to irrigate soil when the mung beans were cultivated. The growth parameters of plants growing under induced copper stress and treated with different bioabsorbed waters were also evaluated. Results. The results revealed that, among all biosorbents, the copper biosorption capacity of orange peels was maximum (90%), followed by pomegranate peel. The results of the second experiment exhibited that the plants irrigated with biosorbed water did not show metal toxicity. A remarkable increase in shoot length, shoot fresh weight, and shoot dry weight was observed (29.8 cm, 15.4 g, and 14 g, respectively) when exposed to biosorbent water with peanut peels + 200 mg kg−1 (Cu2+). Similarly, pomegranate peel biosorbed water turned out to be an effective treatment to enhance root length, root fresh weight, and root dry weight (6.81 cm, 4.07 g, and 2.66 g, respectively) and resist against induced heavy metal stress conditions at higher concentration (200 mg kg−1). Furthermore, orange peel biosorbed water elevated the total chlorophyll content and soluble sugar content in mung bean (1.56 mg/g and 1.89 mg/g). The highest tolerance index of mung bean plant grown under the stress of Cu2+ metal was induced by orange peel biosorbed water. Conclusion. Biosorption is an environmentally friendly approach to mitigate heavy metals from the water. The studies showed that agricultural wastes have enough bioabsorption potential and should be used to absorb the heavy metal present in water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction. Nephrotic syndrome (NS) is a common chronic kidney disorder during childhood. The most important characteristic of this disease is proteinuria. The Persian medicine (PM) has important dietary recommendations for strengthening the kidney function and treatment of this disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a diet including PM recommendations and general principles of Western medicine. Materials and Methods. Twenty children with nephrotic syndrome were randomly divided into intervention and control groups and monitored for one month. The control group received a diet based on the general principles of Western medicine. In the intervention group, in addition to the Western medicine diet, dietary recommendations of PM were also prescribed including the pomegranate (Cydonia oblonga mill.), quince (Cydonia oblonga mill.), and whole grains (wheat and barley). A 24-hour dietary questionnaire was applied and anthropometric and biochemical indices including spot urine protein (proteinuria), albumin (Alb), urea, creatinine (Cr), total cholesterol (TC), and triglyceride (TG) were measured before and after the study. Results. The amount of protein intake reduced significantly in the diet of both groups but the differences between the two groups were not significant. Proteinuria reduced significantly in both the Western and PM groups; however, proteinuria was significantly lower in the Persian medicine group compared to the control group. TC and Cr levels reduced significantly in the intervention group, although the changes were not significant compared to the control group. Conclusion. The results of this study showed that adding dietary recommendations of the Persian medicine to the general rules of the Western medicine diet reduced proteinuria and improved the combat against nephrotic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

LN18178 (Tesnor®) is a standardized, proprietary composition of aqueous ethanol extracts of Punica granatum fruit rind and Theobroma cacao seeds. The present study demonstrates a broad-spectrum toxicological evaluation of LN18178 utilizing in vitro and in vivo preclinical models following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) guidelines for testing chemicals. Wistar rats did not show any clinical signs of toxicity and morbidity in acute oral and dermal toxicity tests with the median lethal dose (LD50) values of at least 5000 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg body weight, respectively. LN18178 was nonirritating to the skin and eyes of the treated rabbits. In a ninety-day subchronic repeated oral dose toxicity study, the LN18178-treated Wistar rats did not show dose-related signs of toxicity on their body weight, food consumption, organ weights, hematology, and clinical chemistry parameters. The estimated no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of LN18178 in male and female rats was 2500 mg/kg body weight. The observations from the bacterial reverse mutation test, in vitro chromosomal aberration assay, micronucleus assay in mouse bone marrow erythrocytes, and in vitro mouse lymphoma TK+/− gene mutation assay suggest that LN18178 is neither mutagenic nor clastogenic. In summary, the present study demonstrates that oral consumption of the herbal blend LN18178 does not show signs of toxicity; also it does not elicit genetic toxicity in the standard preclinical models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The titanium nanotube array is termed as titanium nanotubes anode (TNTA). Initially, four samples of TNTA were synthesized using electrochemical anodization method. The titanium nanotube arrays (TNAs) were fixed as anode for dye-sensitized solar cell application. The execution of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is found on natural dyes removed out from natural materials. Then, pomegranate dye was exclusively prepared and coated on TNTA samples. These are very affordable and inexpensive and are abundantly available in India. The dye coated TNTAs were distinguished using UV-viewable spectrophotometer and SEM test for their spectral effects. The natural dye showed a wide-ranging absorption performance peak between 300 and 574 nm for the second sample and 300–572 nm for third sample. Their solar absorption property was studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The peel of pomegranate fruit contains antioxidant phytochemicals that may potentiate health benefits but remain under‐explored. We evaluated the antioxidant, nutritional and phytochemical profiles of the peel of the "Wonderful" variety pomegranate and its influence on oxidative metabolic alterations in hepatic tissue. The peel contained appreciable amounts of some beneficial trace minerals and both essential and non‐essential amino acids. Mostly Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids were found. The peel extracts exhibited in vitro radical scavenging and Fe3+ reducing antioxidant activities and dose‐dependently prevented oxidative stress‐induced lipid peroxidation increase and GSH depletion in both Chang liver cells (IC50 = 18.0 ± 1.46 and 11.2 ± 0.99 µg/mL, respectively) and isolated rat liver (IC50 = 96.7 ± 3.34 and 19.4 ± 3.36 µg/mL, respectively). The antioxidant effects were comparable to that of ascorbic and correlated with their phenolic profile. HPLC analysis further identified antioxidant phenolic acids (gallic acid, syringic acid ferulic acid p‐coumaric acid or trans‐4‐hydroxycinnamic acid, etc.). The peel did not cause notable cytotoxicity in liver and kidney cells, which suggest minimal safety concerns. Metabolomics analysis revealed alterations in fatty acid, amino acids, and nucleic acid metabolisms following the induction of oxidative stress. These alterations were improved in the acetone extract‐treated tissues, with concomitant activation of vitamin and selonocompound metabolisms. Data suggest that the fruit peel of "Wonderful" pomegranate may be an underutilized source of functional nutrients and antioxidants phenolic acids for optimum body function and mitigation hepatic oxidative damage and metabolic alterations as well as associated diseases. Practical applications: Although underutilized, documented evidence have shown that the wastes, like peels from fruits contain more phytochemicals than the edible pulp, making them potential sources of bioactive principles. In this study we exposed the nutritional, phytochemical and oxidative stress‐related medicinal benefits of the peel of "Wonderful" pomegranate variety. The peel could ameliorate oxidative hepatic metabolic alterations. The peel of this fruit could be a source of beneficial micro and macro nutrients, as well as bioactive phenolics to improve oxidative health and mitigate oxidative hepatic damage and associated disease states. Medicinally utilizing the fruit's peel could reduce underutilized fruit wastes, increase the value of the fruit and benefit the bioeconomy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rather than the prophylactic vaccination, any effective synthetic, natural, or nutritional therapy or regimen that may cure or remedy, albeit partially, the complications of SARS-CoV-2 should be highly acknowledged. Here, we reviewed and discussed possible beneficial biological effects of pomegranate juice in such diseased condition of viral infection based on the current published evidence (direct and indirect) and owing to the robust evidence that fresh pomegranate juice is highly rich with unique bioactive compounds that are approved in various occasions to be effective in several chronic diseased conditions. All related references that serve our aim are accessed through available electronic databases, particularly PubMed and Scopus. In summary, there is accepted evidence that pomegranate juice may be beneficial in SARS-CoV-2 infection conditions, especially for patients with the clinical history of chronic diseases such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. However, the interventional studies that directly probe and confirm the effectiveness of fresh pomegranate juice in the management of SARS-CoV-2 infection are mandatory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave vacuum drying of pomegranate peel was studied through this work and the drying process was modeled with the aid of response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural network (ANN) method. The drying experimental runs were performed on varied ranges of microwave power (175, 330, and 485 W) and vacuum pressure (10, 15, and 20 kPa) using a face‐centered composite design. The influence of process parameters on five target responses, namely: total hydrolysable tannin (THT), color change (ΔE), maximum temperature evolved (Tmax), effective moisture diffusivity (Deff), and specific energy consumption (SEC) were analyzed. For microwave power and vacuum, the optimal conditions attained with aid of RSM and ANN were 260 W, 15.59 kPa, and 287 W, 19 kPa, respectively. The THT retention, ΔE, Tmax, Deff, SEC determined with RSM and ANN optimized values were 78.51 mg TAE/g of DW, 13.48, 67.02°C, 3.38 × 10−6 m2/s, 20.02 kWh/kg and 90.32 ± 0.35 mg TAE/g of DW, 12.488, 64.83°C, 5.64 × 10−6 m2/s, 20.01 ± 0.33 kWh/kg, respectively. The influence analysis explained that pomegranate peel dried at optimized ANN conditions of microwave power 287 W and vacuum 19 kPa possessed improved physicochemical properties and was efficient in terms of energy consumption compared to peel dried using RSM suggested conditions. Furthermore, the major criterion for evaluation between RSM and ANN tools in this study was the goodness of fit. The value for R2 produced via RSM varied between 0.8354 and 0.9870, whereas subsequent R2 in the case of ANN was considerably greater, varying between 0.9213 and 0.9956. The mean square error value displayed the minimum value in the case of ANN compared to the RSM model. These signified rather greater exactness and predictive capability of the ANN tool. Fourier transform infrared analysis established the existence of peaks between 3,308.92 and 908.89 cm−1 and high‐performance liquid chromatography showed that pomegranate peel produced using microwave vacuum drying contains a good amount of gallic acid and tannic acid derivative compounds. Scanning electron microscopy elucidated that the combined microwave vacuum effect resulted in the formation of bigger pores on the peel surface ensuing in elevated extraction of THT at reduced energy consumption. Practical applications: Shifting into a bio‐economy is unrealistic with no proficient use of agricultural by‐products and food waste. Microwave vacuum drying is a novel technique that would be applied to preserve the product bioactive components while drying. This study has established that drying of waste pomegranate peel using microwave vacuum dryer aided in excellent recovery rate of bioactive compounds particularly hydrolysable tannin (strong antioxidant and antimicrobial agent). This promises pomegranate peel powder obtained using microwave vacuum drying to be utilized in functional and nutraceutical food processing industries as a prospective resource of antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds. The findings also identified that the ANN‐GA (artificial neural network–genetic algorithm) model would be effective for modeling the microwave vacuum drying method of pomegranate peel with preservation of peel quality. The optimal process values attained using coupled ANN‐GA tool could be applied with respect to microwave vacuum‐based industrial dryers to achieve the objective of drying at a considerably quicker rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agro-industrial by-products of fruits have turned into an essential source of bioactive products. This study examined the effect of freeze-drying on apple pomace powder (APP) and pomegranate peel powder (PPP) and their utilization in functional yogurt development at different concentrations. Freeze-dried powders in functional yogurt were investigated by chemical profile and bioactive characterization of total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and antioxidant activity. The highest concentration of TPC (4.64) mg GAE/g, TFC (1.73 ± 0.00) CE mg/g, and antioxidant activity (83.87 ± 0.02) % was investigated in the yogurt sample T6, having the maximum amount of PPP in it, which was significantly higher compared to the treatments having APP. Yogurt samples were analyzed for their sensory attributes, which showed a decline with the increase in both APP and PPP concentrations in contrast by introducing the optimum levels of APP and PPP (3% or 6%); hence, no significant loss in sensory profile was found as compared to the control samples. The results were found to be significant at the level (p < 0.05). In terms of the freeze-dried APP and PPP results, the APP samples had the most complete chemical composition, with the exception of fiber and ash concentration. Treatments of functional yogurt were prepared for their physicochemical profile, which demonstrated a straight proportionate relationship between the proportions of both powders in the meantime. Protein and fat levels were likely to decrease as both dry powder levels increased. Hence, apple pomace and pomegranate peel can be used after freeze-drying as a rich source of bioactive compounds in functional yogurt in the food industry. [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 principal barrier for the eradication of HIV/AIDS is the virus latency. One of the effective strategies so called "shock and kill" is to use latency-reversing agents (LRAs) to activate the latent HIV reservoirs and then combine them with the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) to eradicate the virus. However, most of the current LRAs are too toxic; therefore, they have not been used clinically. Our preliminary data indicated that polyphenols from grape seeds can activate HIV in latently infected Jurkat T cells. Owing to a lot of food containing polyphenols and based on a reasoning whether all of these kinds of polyphenols contain the latency-reversing function, in this study, we screened 22 fruits/vegetables to see whether polyphenols from these can reactivate latent HIV-1 transcription. We finally proved that the polyphenols from grape seeds, apple, pomegranate, and bilberry can reactivate latent HIV-1 transcription. The activation of which can be detected on the level of protein and mRNA. The activation of which is in a dose- and time-dependent manner, while the activated polyphenol extracts have the effects to stimulate Tat-independent HIV-1 transcription. The mechanism shows that polyphenol extracts from grape seeds and apple can stimulate P-TEFb's release from 7SK snRNP to induce HIV gene transcription. These results indicate that using a few food of high-content polyphenols as latent activators and combining HARRT may be of great use for the treatment of HIV/AIDS in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, "sweet pomegranate pekmez" (PP), was produced by three different methods as open pan evaporation (OPE), application of activated carbon prior to open pan evaporation (AC), and vacuum evaporation (VE). The effects of activated carbon treatment and production methods on pH, density, soluble solids, water activity, total phenolic content, HMF formation, mineral content, and texture characteristics were investigated. Textural properties of PP increased with increasing soluble solids content. HMF was not detected in AC and VE products. HMF content of OPE product was measured as 2.77 ± 0.28 mg.100 g. Activated carbon treatment resulted in significant reductions in mineral, HMF, and TPC contents of pekmez samples. HMF formation kinetics of PP was investigated at various accelerated storage temperatures. HMF formation was well described by the zero‐order reaction model among five kinetic models applied. The rate of reaction was determined as highly temperature‐dependent by an Arrhenius equation. Practical applications: In recent years, consumer interest and demand for potentially health‐promoting products has motivated the production of such food products. In this context, in this study, sweet pomegranate pekmez is introduced as a potentially healthy product produced by different methods, and the production stages and conditions that may enlighten the industrial production of this traditional product are provided. In addition, the application of activated carbon used in the production of pekmez has been presented as an alternative method to reduce the potential formation of HMF during heat treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ingredient formulation for the manufacture of fat replaced low‐calorie chhana podo incorporated with Punica granatum peel powder (PPP) was optimized in the current study with sucralose as low‐calorie sweetener, whey protein concentrate (WPC) as fat mimetic and PPP to improve antioxidant activity and health benefits. Computation of the optimized solution was performed with Central Composite Rotatable Design (CCRD) using three variables (PPP, sucralose, WPC) and four sensory responses. The optimum levels of ingredients such as PPP, sucralose, and WPC for maximum sensory attributes were 3.5%, 550 ppm, and 1%, respectively. The optimized product contains 10.77% fat, 26.09% protein, 40.78% moisture, 20.93% carbohydrates, 1.43% ash and 0.24% lactic acid acidity. The expansion volume, antioxidant activity IC50 value, and total polyphenol content of the optimized product were found to be 2.08 mm, 1,522 mg/L, and 0.13%, respectively. Practical applications: Pomegranate peel is a rich source of phenolic compounds that possess proven health benefits like antioxidant, anti‐bacterial, and anti‐mutagenic properties and can be utilized in food preservation, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceutical purposes.Reduced‐calorie and low‐fat products are a growing segment of the food industry. Sucrose substitution by sucralose and partial fat replacement by whey protein concentrate made chhana podo, a high‐calorie product, suitable for all groups of people.WPC can be extensively used in food products as fat replacers due to their high nutritional and functional properties and helps to obtain product with acceptable taste, texture, and mouth‐feel.The developed functional food was successfully optimized using RSM technique. Hence the optimized ingredient combination will be helpful for the industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this study, pomegranate peel (PP) waste was used as an efficient, cost‐effective, and metal‐free catalyst for the methanolysis reaction of sodium borohydride (NaBH4); furthermore, the prepared active material was utilized as a supercapacitor for electricity storage. The effect of several parameters, such as different acid concentrations, burning temperature, and burning times on the catalytic performance of the pomegranate peel catalyst (PP‐H3PO4‐Cat) were examined. Under optimum conditions, the most active catalyst was obtained by burning with 7 M phosphoric acid (H3PO4) solution at 400°C for 45 minutes. The maximum hydrogen generation rate (HGR) obtained from the methanolysis reaction of NaBH4 at 30°C and 60°C was found as 57 200 and 76 228 mL min−1 gcat−1, respectively. The activation energy value for the catalytic methanolysis reaction was calculated as 7.89 kJ mol−1. Furthermore, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), inductively coupled plasma ‐ optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES), X‐ray diffractometer spectroscopy (XRD), Brunauer‐Emmett‐Teller (BET), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) analyses were performed for characterization of the synthesized catalyst. The gravimetric capacitance of the prepared electrode (catalyst material with best results) was calculated as 29 F/g at 0.25 A/g current density. The electrodes made from biomass waste are both cheap and have a good capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pomegranate is an ancient shrub, globally distributed nowadays. It has been used in the middle east as a medicinal food and traditional medicine for thousands of years. Pomegranate peel (PP) constitutes about 50% of the total fruit, however, it has been previously regarded as a waste. Recent research points to PP as a rich source of phenolics (e.g., ellagitannins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins), polysaccharides, in addition to its biotransformed metabolites viz. urolithins making it a valuable waste with promising pharmacological actions. Compared to the pulp and the juice, PP exhibited stronger antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Besides, it inhibited inflammation in several conditions, including colitis, arthritis, hepatitis, contact dermatitis, and lung inflammation. Moreover, it displayed anti‐osteoporosis, anti‐hyperglycemic, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, vasculoprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and immunomodulatory effects. Additionally, it was effective as a prebiotic and in obesity control, besides it promoted wound healing. Furthermore, PP demonstrated anticancer effects against different cancer types, for example, colon, liver, thyroid, uterine, breast, bladder, prostate, leukemia, and osteosarcoma. Despite PP safety, it may interfere with the metabolism of other drugs because it inhibits cytochromes (CYP) changing their bioavailability, effectiveness, and toxicity. PP biowaste valorization not only avoids against its environmental and economic burden but can also provide a promising platform to produce novel or improved nutraceuticals. This study provides a comprehensive overview of PP biological activities with the reported action mechanisms related to its phytochemicals and further biotransformed metabolites inside the body. Future research prospects to unravel the merits of such waste and optimize its use are discussed. Practical application: Pomegranate is widely distributed throughout the world. Although its peel was previously considered a waste, recent research regards it as a rich source of bioactive compounds with promising biological activities. Its recycling not only overcomes the bio‐waste problems, but also provides a source of valuable compounds with several health benefits. In recent years, PP has been demonstrated to exhibit excellent pharmacological bioactivities, for example, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiosteoporosis, antihyperlipidemic, and anticancer activities. Its health‐promoting power is mostly attributed to the phenolic and polysaccharide content, in addition to its amazing biotransformed metabolites. The underlying action mechanisms of such pharmacological activities are discussed and related to its chemical content. This review presents the latest research progress on the role of PP in the prevention and treatment of various chronic diseases, and its protective health effects for future research to be used in nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Osteoporosis is a worldwide disease depicted by the reduced bone mass, an adequate supply of minerals is needed to support bone remodeling, and their deficiency causes bone-related diseases, osteoporosis in particular, and has osteoprotective effects. The aim of this recent research was to quantify the micro- (Mn, Fe, Cu, and Zn) and macroelements (Mg, K, and Ca) in the peel powder of some common fruits (pomegranate, orange, lemon, mango, and grapefruit) by flame atomic absorption spectrometer (FAAS). The extraction of micro- and macroelements in peel powder was done by using dilute acids in an ultrasonic bath. Apple leaves were used as standard reference material (SRM, NIST 1515) to optimize the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method at varied operating parameters. Maximum response was obtained for extracting of minerals in 500 mg SRM at 60°C temperature, setting a vortexing time of 5 min while using 5.0 mL extracting agent HNO3 (0.5 M)-H2O2 (10%) at 90% sonication amplitude of ultrasound bath for 6 min. While analyzing the SRM, the percentage recovery was obtained in a range between 96.8 and 102.7% to assure the accuracy whereas repeatability (n = 10) study in terms of % RSD yielding ≤2.29 supports well the precision of the proposed method, and limits of quantitation (μg/g) were 0.034, 0.061, 0.065, 0.057, 0.017, 0.175, and 0.053 for Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Mg, K, and Ca, respectively. The proposed UAE method was reliable, efficient, and advantageous over the conventionally employed acid digestion method with regard to less consumption of reagents and short analysis time for the determination of micro- and macroelements in fruit peel powder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels that occurs either due to insufficient insulin production or mounting resistance to its action. The purpose of this study was to investigate if methanolic extracts of Lepidium sativum seeds, Ficus carica, and Punica granatum leaves had any effect on blood sugar levels in normal and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats, as well as to explore the most effective extract. Method. Healthy male albino rats weighing 185-266 g were divided into nine groups of eight rats each: normal control, diabetic control, diabetic rats with dietary supplements of L. sativum, F. carica, and P. granatum methanolic extracts, and diabetics treated with insulin. All of the rats were fed on ordinary diet with nutritional pellets and were given water ad libitum. To induce diabetes, all animals were administered with STZ intraperitoneal injection at a dose of 60 mg/kg body weight. For five weeks, the crude plant extracts were given orally to various groups of rats at doses of one hundred and two hundred mg/kg body weight. After that, animal groups were sacrificed and blood samples were taken. Results. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the highest amounts of polyphenolic compounds were present in L. sativum seeds and P. granatum leaves, while leaves of F. carica showed the highest amounts of alkaloid and flavonoid content compared to other extracts. Oral administration of F. carica and L. sativum extracts at the dosage of 100 and 200 mg/kg significantly reduced glucose, lipid profile, kidney, and liver enzyme levels. A significant increase in HbAlc levels was also observed with L. sativum extract at a dose of 200 mg/kg compared to diabetic controls. Mellitus rats supplemented with 100 and 200 mg/kg methanolic extracts of P. granatum had higher serum triglycerides and lower serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) than normal control rats. F. carica extract is more effective than L. sativum and P. granatum extracts in the prevention and control of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a malignancy derived from the glandular epithelial cells in the colon. Patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are more likely to develop CRC. Cancer proliferation is characterized by the loss of inhibition of apoptosis, which involves caspase-3 activation. This study examined the effects of the pomegranate peel extract on the expression of caspase-3 in mice crypt cells induced by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) 2%. Methods. The experimental study was done in six groups. All treatments were done in 42 days. The groups were all induced by DSS through water drinking, except for the normal group, which was only given water. The treatments given included the pomegranate extract in two doses (240 mg and 480 mg/kg bw/day), aspirin, and ellagic acid. The specimens were then fixated and stained for the immunohistochemistry scoring for the expression of caspase-3, which was then analyzed statistically. Results. The H-scores of each treatment group were 213.23 ± 8.32 (DSS group), 243.81 ± 18.69 (normal group), 226.10 ± 12.38 (pomegranate peel extract of 240 mg/kg/d), 238.84 ± 15.81 (pomegranate peel extract of 480 mg/kg/d), 227.47 ± 12.15 (aspirin), and 224.01 ± 18.39 (ellagic acid). Statistical differences were found in one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc analysis among the DSS group, normal group, and dose 2 group (pomegranate peel extract of 480 mg/kg/day). Conclusions. The ethanol extract of pomegranate was able to induce apoptosis, which was demonstrated by the increase of caspase-3 expression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pear fruit is vulnerable to textural softening and quality loss during long‐term storage. Therefore, in the present studies, the effect of chitosan coatings (CH 1% and CH 2%), pomegranate peel extract, and chitosan‐enriched pomegranate peel extract (CH 1%+PPE and CH 2%+PPE) coatings was investigated on pear fruits stored at 0‐1°C and 90%‐95% relative humidity for 67 day. The results revealed that the combination of chitosan coating with pomegranate peel extract (CH 2%+PPE) markedly reduced the mass loss, spoilage, and maintained the firmness of pear fruit during the storage. In addition, the combined CH +PPE coatings resulted in higher sensory quality, soluble solid content (SSC), pH, and solid acid ratio as compared to the control fruit. Further, the CH+PPE coatings resulted in the lower activities of polygalacturonase (PG), pectinmethylestarase (PME), and cellulase enzymes in the stored pear fruits. The lower cell wall metabolism of treated fruits was associated with the reduced membrane permeability as well as the malondialdehyde content (MDA) which contributed to higher fruit firmness during storage. Thus, among all the treatments, CH 2%+PPE was most effective in retaining fruit firmness and quality by lowering the activity of cell wall degrading enzymes during long‐term storage. Practical applications: Pear fruits cv. Punjab Beauty tends to soften and deteriorate rapidly during the long‐term storage. Chitosan coating enriched with pomegranate peel extract has been reported to preserve postharvest quality in fruits. This study reported that combined CH +PPE coatings could be explored as a potential approach for maintaining the fruit firmness and postharvest quality in pears during a low‐temperature storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Punica granatum L. belongs to the Punicaceae family which is distributed around the world. Different parts of pomegranate like seed, peel, juice, and leaves are rich in potential bioactive compounds. These plants have found application in traditional medicine such as in treatment of gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, and endocrine diseases, among others. The present review aimed to summarize the current research on the traditional and scientific applications of P. granatum with regard to the phytochemical content and clinical applications that may be useful for future drug development. Information about P. granatum was obtained from local classic herbal literature and electronic databases, such as PubMed, Scopus, and ScienceDirect. Several phytochemical constituents including polyphenolics, flavonoids, anthocyanosides, alkaloids, lignans, and triterpenes have been reported from the plant. Randomized clinical trials have provided evidence as to the pharmacological activities of pomegranate in several diseases including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, oral cavity disorders, endocrine disorders, and cancer. The present review has provided an insight into the traditional applications of the plants, and some of them have been validated by scientific evidence, particularly their applications as treatment of cardiovascular and endocrine diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the fractal characteristics of the pomegranate biotite schist under the effect of blasting loads, a one-dimensional SHPB impact test was carried out to test the dynamic compressive strength, damage morphology, fracture energy dissipation density, and other parameters of the rocks under different strain rates; besides, sieve tests were conducted to count the mass fractal characteristics of the crushed masses under different strain rates to calculate the fractal dimension of the crushed rock D. Finally, the relationships between fractal dimension and dynamic compressive strength, crushing characteristics, and energy dissipation characteristics were analysed. The results show that under different impact loads, the strain rate effect of the rock is significant and the dynamic compressive strength increases with the increasing strain rate, and they show a multiplicative power relationship. The higher the strain rate of the rock, the deeper the fragmentation and the higher the fractal dimension, and the fractal dimension and rock crushing energy density are multiplied by a power relationship. By performing the comparative analysis of the pomegranate biotite schist, a reasonable strain rate range of 78.75 s-1~82.51 s-1 and a reasonable crushing energy consumption density range of 0.78 J·cm-3~0.92 J·cm-3 were determined. This research provides a great reference for the analysis of dynamic crushing mechanism, crushing block size distribution, and crushing energy consumption of the roadway surrounding rock. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]