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The cherry tomato is a nutritious product commonly used in salads or consumed as a dietary supplement. However, improper storage after harvesting can lead to a decrease in its quality and shelf-life. In this study, we aimed to assess the effects of free essential oil of Mentha × Piperita L. and solid lipid nanoparticles containing free essential oil at concentrations of 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.075%, 0.1%, and 0.2% on the microbial load and post-harvest quality of Solanum lycopersicum cv. Santiago F1 during 28 days of storage at 8°C. Fruits coated with solid lipid nanoparticles containing essential oil at 0.075%, 0.1%, and 0.2% maintained their quality attributes, including firmness at approximately 50%, ascorbic acid at about 80%, phenolic compounds, color parameters, antioxidant activity at around 71%, and sensory properties compared to the control groups or fruits treated with free essential oil of Mentha × Piperita L. This coating also effectively suppressed cellulase and polyphenol oxidase activity, reducing microbial load and weight loss percentages to under 10%. However, it's important to note that fruits coated with free essential oil of Mentha × Piperita L. at 0.1% and 0.2% showed visible tissue damage. Our research demonstrated that the combination of solid lipid nanoparticles and free essential oil of Mentha × Piperita L. resulted in a decrease in microbial load, an extension of shelf-life, and improvements in the quality characteristics of cherry tomato fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eugenia pyriformis Cambess, commonly known as uvaia, is a native Brazilian plant. Among its benefits are the high concentration of vitamin C, carotenoids and sources of phytochemicals such as phenolic compounds. Many of these phytochemicals have been linked to the prevention and management of several chronic and degenerative diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes mellitus, obesity, among other disorders. The uvaia compounds started to be isolated and characterized to provide a better understanding of the chemical mechanisms related to the biological activities of their extracts. As the identification of compounds progresses, studies investigating the potential of extract are receiving more attention. Some biological activities identified in the different uvaia compounds are antioxidants, antimicrobials, and anti-inflammatories. Previous research has pointed out that the uvaia fruit extract can be used as a potent anti-inflammatory for inhibited carrageenan-induced paw edema in rats. In this context, this review summarizes the nutritional composition of uvaia and describes the main biological activities reported for this plant, revealing some of its beneficial effects on health and highlighting how much remains to be elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chinese kale microgreens are gaining interest for its phytochemical compounds and anti-cancer properties mainly from glucosinolates. Zinc is an essential for plant growth and is involved with phytochemicals accumulation. This study investigated the different concentration of ZnSO4 on the enhancement of the phytochemicals and quality of Chinese kale microgreens. Three-day-old seedlings were sprayed with 2 and 4 mM of ZnSO4 until harvesting on days 4, 5, 6 and 7. ZnSO4 significantly decreased the fresh weight of 6 and 7-day-old microgreens and dry weight on the 7th day. The total glucosinolates, total phenolic compounds and total ascorbic acid, gradually rose as the age of microgreens increased. When the 3-day-old microgreens were sprayed at 6, 12 and 18 mM, the fresh and dry weight and hypocotyl length of 7-day-old microgreens significantly decreased as the concentration increases. ZnSO4 at 18 mM was the most effective in enhancing phytochemicals, resulting in increased DPPH radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power. This concentration also induced phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity resulting to an increase in total phenolic compounds. Moreover, ZnSO4 at 18 mM induced H2O2 content but are sufficiently countered with the increase in antioxidant enzymes namely superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase. In conclusion, the 3-day-old microgreen was the most effective age for the start of the daily spraying of ZnSO4 before harvesting at 7-day-old. Higher concentrations of ZnSO4 (6-18 mM) enhanced the phytochemical compounds and enzymatic antioxidant activities but reduced growth. In contrast, lower concentration (< 4 mM) only improved microgreens growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports an evaluation of Annaba city climate impact on phytochemical composition and antiradical power of Tropaeolum majus leaf, flower and fruit extracts. Significant phenolic, flavonoid, tannin and carotenoid levels were registered in leaf extract, whereas flower extract showed higher yield, vitamin C and anthocyanin contents. The 2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl scavenging power was significantly higher in leaf extract. Conversely, hydroxyl antiradical power was significantly higher in fruit fixed oil. These results show that the Mediterranean climate of Annaba City improved Tropaeolum majus leaves and the nutritional qualities of flowers and fruits, enhancing their phytochemical composition as well as antiradical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ozone is a powerful oxidizing agent, so its effect on quality parameters must be considered prior to any potential food application. The effect of gaseous ozone on the quality-related attributes of onion bulbs was examined. Onions were exposed to different ozone concentrations (100, 200, 300 ppm) at pulse mode (i.e., frequency of exposures 1, 2, 3). The pungency imparting pyruvic acid and ascorbic acid contents decreased with an increase in the concentration of ozone and the number of exposures, while total phenol and flavonoid content increased to an effective concentration of 400 ppm of ozone. Higher concentrations inadvertently decreased the antioxidant properties. Ozone treatment resulted in a non-significant decrease in firmness, anthocyanin content, and color of onion. Scanning electron microscopic analysis exhibited structural breakdown in the tunic (outer surface) of ozone-treated onion. At higher concentrations, structural changes were observed up to the first bulb scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elaeagnus latifolia is an underutilized plant of the Elaeagnaceae family. The extraction of E. latifolia pulp was carried out from 30 to 120 min by different environmentally friendly extraction methods: agitation, percolation, Soxhlet, and ultrasound-assisted extraction with ethanol, and hydrodistillation. The extracts were analyzed for their total phenolic compounds, carotenoids and ascorbic acid contents, and antioxidant activity. The highest yield of extract, of 63.5 g/100 g of raw material (RM), in dry basis (db), total phenolic compounds, of 3.3 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g extract, and 2.042 mg GAE/g RM, and carotenoids, of 176.6 mg β-carotene equivalent/kg RM, were obtained by Soxhlet for 120 min. All the extracts presented similar antioxidant activity. Therefore, E. latifolia can be a source of compounds of interest to the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to evaluate the phytonutrient composition, antioxidant activity and nutraceutical potential of peels and seeds of two tomato cultivars. Levels of phytonutrients such as phenolic compounds, carotenoids, chlorophyll, salicylic acid and vitamin C were assessed. Potential in vitro antioxidant activities were evaluated. Tomato has quite interesting levels of phenolic compounds such as total phenols and flavonoids, whose contents varied from 78.41 ± 1.52 to 272.17 ± 53 mg GAE/100 g DM and 13.35 to 139.89 mg QE/100 g DM, respectively. They also contained chlorophyll, which was concentrated in the peels (39 to 78 mg/100 g DM). β-carotene and lycopene contents ranged from 4.63 to 105 mg/100 g DM and 7.51 to 32.45 mg/100 g DM, respectively. Vitamin C level was high in peels with an average content of 27.82 mg/100 g DM. Tomato by-products showed high antioxidant activity with 61% DPPH inhibition and 108.55 to 120.86 µg EAA/g with FRAP method. With this richness in phytonutrients and their strong antioxidant power, tomato by-products have important nutraceutical potentials to be valorized with in vivo experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new compounds calothphenone (1) and 6-methoxy kaempferol 3-O-(6″-E-p-coumaroyl)-β-d-glucopyranoside (6-methoxy tiliroside) (2) along with six known compounds viz gallic acid (3), methyl gallate (4), kaempferol 3-O-(6″-E-p-coumaroyl)-β-d-glucopyranoside (tiliroside) (5), castalagin (6), kaempferol (7) and quercetin (8) were isolated from the ethyl acetate fraction (EAF) of 80% aqueous methanol extract of Calothamnus quadrifidus aerial parts. Their structure was established based on different chemical and spectroscopic techniques (1H-/13C-NMR and 2D NMR). Antioxidant activity for EAF and compounds 1, 2 and 5 was evaluated using DPPH, superoxide radical and nitric oxide (NO) inhibition methods. EAF exhibited strong activity to inhibit DPPH, superoxide and NO radicals. Moreover, all tested compounds demonstrated a close high ability to inhibit superoxide and NO radicals in comparison to ascorbic acid, but they exerted lower activity towards DPPH radical. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fruits of Psidium guajava L., known as guava, are edible. The objectives of the study were to analyse the chemical composition of the skin, flesh, and pulp of two different Indian varieties of guava, e.g., Khaja and Allahabad at different stages of ripening (immature green, mature green, colour turning, ripe, and overripe), and to study the pancreatic lipase (PL) inhibitory properties of the fruit extracts. In total, 86 compounds were identified from different parts of the fruits. The different parts varied chemically with different stages of ripening in two varieties of guava. Major components contributing to the variation were ascorbic acid, catechin, epicatechin, shikimic acid, quinic acid, and some polyols and amino acids. Ascorbic acid content increased in colour turning, ripe, and overripe stages. All the parts inhibited PL, highest activity being shown by the skin extracts. The two varieties were also different in PL inhibitory activities. Thus, the study highlighted the nutritional as well as PL inhibiting activity beneficial to prevent fat absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted with native soil; sewage sludge (SS); horse manure (HM); chicken manure (CM); vermicompost, organic fertilizer and inorganic fertilizer mixed with the native soil. The soil in each of the seven treatments was also mixed with biochar and planted with eggplant. Eggplant fruits were analyzed for vitamin C, total phenols, and soluble sugars. The number and weight of fruits obtained from inorganic treatments were not significantly different from those obtained from organic fertilizer. Concentrations of total phenols were greatest (28 µg g−1 fresh fruits) in fruits of plants grown in vermicompost mixed with biochar compared to SS and HM amendments. Vitamin C was greatest (265 µg g−1 fresh fruits) in fruits of plants grown in soil amended with biochar compared to all other amendments. Plants grown in CM amended soil were 62% and 67% greater in size compared to plants grown in SS-biochar or vermicompost-biochar amended soil, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this paper is to review the effects of several different types of freeze-drying processes on some nutritional properties of foodstuff. Both the vacuum freeze-drying (VFD) process and the atmospheric freeze-drying (AFD) process have been considered, as well as the possibility of accelerating both using ultrasound (US), microwave (MWD), infrared (IR) heating, and other techniques. The effects of these processes on ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds, and total antioxidant capacity have been extensively reviewed in this paper, as these molecules were widely investigated in the literature. Finally, a summary of effects on other less recurrent studied compounds is also presented. It appears that for vitamin C, VFD most of the time gives the best results; MWD and IR combined processes with VFD seem to be able to decrease processing time, while having a mild effect on product quality. With respect to phenolic compounds and total antioxidant capacity, VFD and AFD seem to have fairly similar effects, with a mild effect of IR and US. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although several studies have investigated the cytotoxic effects of different Rosa species, there has been only limited research into the cytotoxic effect of Rosa canina. The purpose of this research was to evaluate the antioxidant properties, phenolic characterization, and cytotoxic effects of R. canina on human lung (A549) and prostate (PC-3) cancer cells and the possible mechanisms involved. The antioxidant properties and phenolic characterization of the extract were determined using spectrophotometric methods and RP-HPLC, respectively. The cytotoxic activity of the extract was determined using the MTT assay. The mechanism involved in the extract's cytotoxic effect was then evaluated in terms of apoptosis, the cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and caspase activity using fluorometric and luminometric methods. The TPC value of the extract was 58.97 ± 2.22 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram sample, and ascorbic acid and p-coumaric acid were detected as major phenolics in the extract. R. canina extract exhibited a selective cytotoxic effect on A549 and PC-3 cells compared to normal fibroblast cells. The extract induced cell cycle arrest at the G1 phase and apoptosis via reduced MMP and increased caspase activity in these cells. Phytomedical applications of R. canina may represent promising approaches in the treatment of cancer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki) leaves contain several bioactive components that have beneficial effects on human health. However, the leaves are mainly consumed in low quantities, as tea and food additives. To increase the intake of persimmon leaves, it is necessary to diversify their processing and preservation methods. This study assessed the effects of different sodium chloride (NaCl) concentrations on the physicochemical properties of brined persimmon leaves. Young leaves of the astringent persimmon trees were harvested, brined in NaCl solutions of different concentrations (1, 5, 10, 15, and 25%), and kept for 30 days at 10°C. A small decrease in the -a* and h° values (more green color) and chlorophyll (a and b) content of the brined persimmon leaves was observed with increasing concentration of the NaCl solutions. Furthermore, with increasing NaCl concentrations, an increase in the salinity, reducing sugars, and phenolic compounds of the brined leaves, as well as the clarity of the brine solutions was observed. The pH, vitamin C content, and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity decreased with increasing concentration. The results suggested that brining affected the properties of the persimmon leaves, and higher NaCl concentrations could help to maintain a more intense green color. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight different Serbian genotypes were analysed for their polyphenol, carotenoid, vitamin C content and evaluated for their antioxidant properties. The highest content of biologically important carotenoids such as lutein (4.58 mg/10 g), lycopene (160.64 mg/10 g) and β-carotene (189.64 mg/10 g) were detected in the genotype S606. Rutin was the most abundant phenolic compound in all tastes samples, but its content is highest in the genotype S615 (1424.30 µg/100 g dw). All tomato samples were the great source of vitamin C, where the sample S615 stood out (68.54 mg AA g-1 of dw). Their content of antioxidant compounds suggested that genotypes S606 and S615 showed the best antioxidant potential. Principal component analysis (PCA) and Partial least squares (PLS) were applied to analyse results. The results obtained in the present study could be of considerable interest for breeding programmes wishing to select tomato genotypes with high biological and nutritional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The medicinal plant Betula alba has been used for prevention and treatment of kidney stones. Betulin is one of the main phytochemicals of Betula alba. The aim of this study is to investigate the antioxidant and antiurolithiatic activity of betulin in vitro and in silico. For antioxidant activity, 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), total reducing capacity, nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging assay, and superoxide radical scavenging assay were studied. Method: In order to study antiurolithiatic activity, three assays such as crystallization, nucleation, and aggregation of oxalate crystal in urine were performed. In silico experiments were performed by using AutoDock 4.2 tools in order to establish affinity of phytochemicals toward antioxidant enzyme and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2 and 9). Results: The results obtained clearly demonstrate the significant scavenging activity of betulin and cystone against DPPH, NO, and superoxide radicals in comparison to standard antioxidant L-ascorbate (L-AA). It has also been observed that betulin has the capacity to inhibit the crystallization, nucleation, and aggregation in comparison to cystone. On the other hand, betulin and L-AA showed strong affinity toward antioxidant enzymes and matrix metalloproteinase as determined by in silico experiments. Conclusions: From this, it may be concluded that the antiurolithiatic activity of betulin is, at least in part, mediated by its antioxidant property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzed the simultaneous heat and mass transfer between acerola residues and the air in a fixed-bed dryer with a thick layer. We used a two-phase model with a set of adequate constitutive equations, which was numerically solved using the method of lines. We compared simulation results with the experimental data obtained in a pilot unit at different positions throughout the bed. The simulated results show a good agreement with experimental data. The proposed model was also able to predict the heterogeneity of the process. The drying conditions in which the content of the main bioactive compounds (ascorbic acid, phenolics, and flavonoids) were in high levels were identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing the value of the waste generated by food processing is a must from an environmental and economic point of view. This paper addresses the influence of drying temperature and ultrasound application on the drying kinetics and quality of apple peel (Royal Gala var.). Samples were dried at −10, 30, 50, and 70 °C without and with (50 W) ultrasound application. Color, antioxidant capacity, total phenolics, and ascorbic acid content were measured. Ultrasound application and drying temperature significantly shortened the drying time and affected the quality parameters. The drying carried out at 30 °C with ultrasound application was a fast process that provided samples with good color and antioxidant attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Humans are exposed to ionizing radiations in medical radiodiagnosis and radiotherapy that cause oxidative damages and degenerative diseases. Airplane pilots, and even more astronauts, are exposed to a variety of potentially harmful factors, including cosmic radiations. Among the phytochemicals, phenols are particularly efficient in countering the oxidative stress. In the present study, different extracts obtained from plant food, plant by-products and dietary supplements, have been compared for their antioxidant properties before and after irradiation of 140 cGy, a dose absorbed during a hypothetical stay of three years in the space. All the dry extracts, characterized in terms of vitamin C and phenolic content, remained chemically unaltered and maintained their antioxidant capability after irradiation. Our results suggest the potential use of these extracts as nutraceuticals to protect humans from oxidative damages, even when these extracts must be stored in an environment exposed to cosmic radiations as in a space station. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to review the studies that evaluated the effect of drying temperature on the content of ascorbic acid (AA), total phenolic (TPC), and total flavonoid contents (TFC) in fruits and vegetables, and quantify whether drying at 40 °C is more favorable than at higher temperatures. For the purpose of this study, AA, TPC, and TFC values for 40 °C were compared with those obtained at 50 °C, 60 °C, and 70-80 °C. A meta-analysis was performed using the weighted response ratio calculated for each experiment. Despite the fact that other variables significantly influenced the nutrient content in individual experiments, the meta-analysis provided a general view on the effect of air-drying temperature on the quality of plant-based food products from outcomes of various studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits are pointed out as natural sources of antioxidants, playing protective roles against aging, and chronic and degenerative pathologies. In this review it is shown that virtually unknown edible tropical fruits present significantly higher antioxidant activity when compared to temperate fruits considered to be good sources of antioxidants. For example, the pulp of fruits native to the Brazilian savanna, consumed widely by local populations, like araticum (Anonna crassiflora) and pequi (Caryocar brasiliense), have shown an antioxidant capacity of 148 (IC50 µg/mL DPPH) and 9.4 µg/mL, respectively. These antioxidant activities are much higher when compared to the antioxidant activity of 672 g/g DPPH reported for blackberries (Rubus fruticosus), temperate fruits thought to be good sources of antioxidants. These remarkably higher antioxidant activities found for some tropical fruits is related to the presence of exceptionally high levels of compounds known for their elevated antioxidant activity. Data provided in this review support recommendation for a broader use of antioxidant-rich tropical fruits for the enrichment of human diet with remarkable amounts of natural antioxidants beneficial to health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context:Ferulago angulata(Schlecht.) Boiss. (Apiaceae) (FASB) is used to treat liver diseases and has been used both as food and therapeutics by many cultures for thousands of years because of the natural antioxidant compounds. Objective:This study determines antioxidant properties of FASB flowers, the levels of minerals and vitamins, and also, evaluates the hepatoprotective effect of flowers againstN-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) induced on liver tissue by assessing antioxidant enzymes and histopathological parameters in Wistar albino rats. Materials and methods:In the study, the rats were divided into six groups of ten. Control, untreated animals were given 0.9% NaCl. Rats were intraperitoneally given NDMA (10 mg/kg) for the first 7 days. FASB methanol extract (150 and 300 mg/kg) was administered orally for 21 days. Results:α-Tocopherol, retinol, ascorbic acid, total antioxidant activity, phenolic and flavonoid contents of FASB were 0.70 ± 0.13, 0.29 ± 0.03 μg/g, 139.32 ± 7.06 μg/100 g, 171.61 ± 6.05 mM ascorbic acid/g, 90.47 ± 4.11 mg GA/g and 37.39 ± 2.85 mg QE/g. DPPH and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity was obtained IC5067.34 ± 4.14 and 64.87 ± 4.68 μg/mL, respectively. Discussion and conclusion:The results of the study indicated that FASB flowers contain high levels of vitamins, minerals, total antioxidant activity, phenolics and flavonoids. Due to the positive effect on significant changes in antioxidant enzymes of liver tissue and histopathological examination, it is thought that the plant could be used as a hepatoprotective. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The objective of the present study was to analyze and compare the phenolic compounds and their antioxidant capacities of new lines of Dacus carota. The selected cultivars showed high variation in the contents of total phenolics (30.26–65.39 mg/100 g FW) and total ascorbic acid (41.12–58.36 mg/100 g FW). Analysis on RP-HPLC revealed that hydroxycinnamic acids and its derivatives were major phenolic compounds present in D. carota extracts, whereas 5-caffeolquinic acid was a major hydroxycinnamic acid (ranged from 30.26 to 65.39 mg/100 g FW). DCP cultivar showed high total antioxidant capacity (77.69 mg/100 g), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging capacity (52.36 mg/100 g), superoxide radical scavenging capacity (53.69 mg/100 g), and hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity (51.91 mg/100 g). A linear relationship was found between total phenolic acid contents and antioxidant capacity. Both phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacities varied significantly (ρ < 0.05) among cultivars. DCP cultivar was found to be a rich source of phenolics and ascorbic acid with high antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to improve antioxidant-linked bioactive properties in oregano and rhodiola, by combination with chitosan oligosaccharide (COS) or vitamin C. Phenolic antioxidant--linked functionalities of these herbs in combination with COS or vitamin C were evaluated using in vitro assays. Combinations of COS separately with each herb enhanced antioxidant activity (3-7%), while combination of vitamin C with oregano improved α-glucosidase enzyme inhibition (1--10%) associated with type 2 diabetes. The improvement of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition in both herbs was confirmed when combined separately with vitamin C (40-50%) and may be targeted against associated hypertension. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the stability of strawberry pulp subjected to three factors, pasteurisation (pasteurised and unpasteurised), freezing method (static air and forced air) and storage time (0, 2, 4 and 6 months). Pasteurisation favoured vitamin C retention during storage but enhanced the total loss of phenolics without affecting anthocyanin levels. Freezing by forced air was more effective in retaining phenolics during the first 4 months of storage, although the freezing method did not affect the anthocyanin levels. Processing and storage reduced the levels of individual phenolics. Freezing by forced air was more effective than static air in retaining antioxidant activity of the pulp. Polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase enzyme levels were relatively stable and independent of pasteurisation, freezing and storage time. Even after 6 months of frozen storage, strawberry pulp is a significant source of nutrients and bioactive compounds and retains high antioxidant capacity independent of pasteurisation and freezing method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flours of four pigmented (from orange to red and dark red) local Italian corns, studied for their soluble, soluble conjugate, and insoluble-bound phenols and flavonoids, showed a prevalence of the insoluble-bound fraction (70–80%). Correlations were found between the flours antioxidant capacity, measured with CUPRAC, FRAP, and DPPH methods, and soluble phenols and flavonoids content. A correlation was also found between ascorbic acid content and flours antioxidant power. Anthocyanins were present in small amounts in the red/dark red seeds; however, acid-alcohol assays and spectral analyses of pericarp extracts indicated the presence of red-brick phlobaphenes in these varieties. Spectrophotometrically quantified total carotenoids were significantly higher in one of the local varieties (Nano); RP-HPLC analyses indicated that the local varieties contained significantly higher amounts of zeaxanthin and β-carotene, and lower amounts of lutein, than a commercial line. Among local varieties, Nano expressed the highest levels of zeaxanthin, β-carotene, and β-cryptoxanthin. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Persia is one of the main origin centers of pomegranate; hence, a diverse germplasm has evolved in the area over the past centuries. This study was conducted to evaluate the physico-chemical properties of fruits of ten Persian pomegranate cultivars. The plants used for this experiment had been collected from different parts of Iran and were established in a repository. Wide variations in the main properties of the ripe fruits of the cultivars were observed. The size, weight, skin thickness and weight, and juice content of the fruits were within the range of 55.14–71.76 mm, 98.55–199.40 g, 1.07–3.93 mm, 28.96–66.95 g, and 2.00–89.33 ml, respectively. Seed weight, Aril numbers, fresh and dry weight of 100 arils were 33.80–72.90 g, 170.70–570.30, 23.16–42.82 g, and 17.22–33.87%, respectively. The levels of total anthocyanin, total soluble solids (TSS), titrable acidity (TA), ascorbic acid, total phenolics, electrical conductivity, and TSS/TA ratio were ranged between 5.91–180.70 mg/100 g, 9.35–13.93 °Brix, 0.16–2.28%, 7.15–1061 mg/100 ml, 3578–5108 mg/100 g, 2.51–4.93 dS/m, and 4.09–80.34, respectively. The results emphasized on the role of plant genotype on fruit taste parameters, bioactive compounds, and yield. The variations in the fruits indicated differences in nutritive quality, which may satisfy diverse consumer acceptance in different areas. Moreover, it provides great opportunities for improving crop yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The article presents a study which examined the antioxidant properties, mycochemial, and phenolic profiling of Termitomyces clypeatus, and edible mushroom from the lateritic region of West Bengal, India.

Drying behavior and change of physicochemical compositions of sweet potato in intermittent microwave drying (IMD) and continuous microwave drying (CMD) combined with or without carbonic maceration (CM) pre-treatment were investigated. A quantity of 100 g of fresh or CM pre-treated samples were dried in IMD at 700 W with power on–off ratio of 1/6 (5 s/30 s,ton/toff) or dried in CMD with power density of 1 W/g. The results indicated that the process of CM + IMD as compared with IMD, CMD, and CM + CMD had the shortest drying time, the lowest activation energy (Ea), and the biggest effective moisture diffusivity (Deff) and exhibited the highest total content of phenols, anthocyanins, flavonoids,β-carotene, ascorbic acid retention rate, as well as scavenging free radical capability 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydracyl of dried product. Meanwhile, color measurements indicated that CM + IMD could get the most desirable color of dried sweet potatoes. Therefore, CM pre-treatment is promising for industrial application. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Application of an edible coating is a technique that can be used to increase fruit storability. Tomato fruit were coated with 0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%Aloe veragel and fruit quality maintenance was examined up to 14 days at 11 °C and 90% relative humidity. Results showed that 10% and 15%A. veracoating reduced fruit ethylene production. The ripening index (total soluble solids/titratable acidity) decreased after 7 days of storage in 10%Aloe-coated fruits, maintaining the overall quality of the tomato fruit. Lycopene andβ-carotene content were reduced with 20%A. verain both examined storage periods. Ascorbic acid content was increased in 10%Aloe-coated fruits. Total phenolics and antioxidative status were increased in 20% coated fruits after 14 days of storage. Fruit firmness, titratable acidity, weight loss, respiration rate and fruit colour (L*,a*,b*) did not differ among treatments. Thus, an edible coating of 10%A. veracould be considered as a promising treatment to maintain tomato quality during postharvest storage. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objectives:The present study was undertaken to evaluate the prophylactic effect of aqueous extract ofEnhydra fluctuans(AEEF) against NaAsO2-induced hepatotoxicity. Methods:The cytoprotective effect of AEEF against NaAsO2(10 µM) toxicity was measured on isolated murine hepatocytes. The effect on lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation, cellular redox markers and signal proteins were measured after incubating the hepatocytes with NaAsO2(10 µM) + AEEF (400 µg/ml). Finally, the prophylactic effect of AEEF (50 and 100 mg/kg) against NaAsO2(10 mg/kg) toxicity was measured byin vivoassay in experimental mice. Results:In vitrobioassay on isolated mouse hepatocytes confirmed cytoprotective effect of AEEF. The NaAsO2treatment significantly (P<0.01) increased the levels of lipid peroxidation, protein carbonylation with concomitant reduction (P<0.01) of antioxidant enzymes and reduced glutathione levels in hepatocytes. In addition, NaAsO2significantly (P<0.05–0.01) altered the expression of intrinsic (Bad↑, Bcl-2↓, cleaved-caspase 3↑ and cleaved-caspase 9↑) and extrinsic (Fas↑, Bid↑, cleaved-caspase 8↑) transcription proteins participating in the apoptotic event. However, AEEF treatment could significantly rescue the aforementioned parameters near-normal levels. Inin vivobioassay, NaAsO2intoxication increased (p<0.01) bioaccumulation of As along with the abnormalities in haematological parameters and redox imbalance in the livers of experimental mice. Treatment with AEEF, however, could significantly (P<0.05–0.01) restore the hematological and redox parameters to the near-normal levels, with histological studies of livers supporting the protective role of AEEF. Discussion:Presence of substantial quantity of ascorbic acid, phenolics and flavonoids in the extract may be responsible for overall protective effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of number of puffing times during explosion puffing drying (EPD) on drying characteristics and qualities of apple chips was studied. Physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant capacity, color, texture, expansion ratio, rehydration ratio, hydroscopicity, and microstructure of apple chips dried by EPD with 0 (vacuum drying, VD), 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 puffing times were analyzed. The apple chips dried by EPD with 3 and 5 puffing times exhibited better color (ΔE7.27–7.70) and texture (hardness 40.5–40.8 N, crispness 8.8–9.3 N/mm), as well as higher expansion ratio (104.4–109.7%) compared to VD and EPD with fewer or more puffing times. The samples dried with 3 and 5 puffing times also showed relatively higher rehydration ratio and hygroscopicity, and acceptable retention of total phenolic content (0.32–0.37 mg/g) and ascorbic acid content (1.66–1.89 mg/100 g), as well as considerable antioxidant abilities (DPPH 79.45–81.17 AEAC µM/g, FRAP 66.54–68.25 TEAC µM/g, ABTS 73.36–79.21 TEAC µM/g) compared to VD dried samples. In conclusion, experiments with apple chips indicated that EPD drying with 3 to 5 puffing times yielded superior overall quality than that with more or fewer puffing times. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lichen-forming fungal proteins haw been seldom searched due to many difficulties in their extraction. Phenols, quinones, proteases, and other components released during cell disruption have been known to be the greatest challenges related to protein extraction from lichens. To overcome these problems and maintain good electrophorelic resolution and high protein concentration, an extraction buffer containing polyvinylpolypyrrolidone, ascorbic acid, Triton X-100, polyethylene glycol, proteinase, and oxidase inhibitors in sodium phosphate buffer was developed. This extraction buffer showed high efficiency for all lichen species tested in the study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the nutritional composition and phytochemical composition of the rosehip seed, and the fatty acid and sterol compositions of the seed oil were investigated. The rosehip seed contained valuable phytochemicals such as phenolic compounds (2554μg/g), carotenoids (2.92μg/g), and ascorbic acid (1798μg/g). Furthermore, the rosehip-seed oil was rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acid (54.05%), linolenic acid (19.37%), and phytosterols, mainlyβ-sitosterol (82.1%). The rosehip seed and seed oil were found to have antioxidant activity measured by trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay. It can be concluded that the rosehip seed and seed oil may be utilized as a source of phytonutrients. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Changes in colour, phenolic composition and ascorbic acid (AA) concentrations in jams made from eight, floricane fruiting, red raspberry genotypes stored for six months at 20°C were investigated. Additionally, the relationship between genotypes and quality parameters was assessed. On average for all genotypes, 83% AA degradation was observed during the first three months of storage. After six months, the concentrations of anthocyanins, total quercetin glycosides and lambertianin C decreased by 80%, 13% and 7%, while ellagic acid conjugates and total phenolics increased by 47% and 8%, respectively. The anthocyanins detected in highest concentrations in fresh jams, that is, cyanidin-3-(2g-glucosylrutinoside), cyanidin-3-sophoroside, cyanidin-3-glucoside and cyanidin-3-rutinoside showed the highest stability during storage, that is, 28%, 21%, 12% and 11% left after six months of storage, respectively. A significant decrease in colour (lightness, chroma and hue) was also observed during storage. The colour changes of stored jams, however, were much slower than the pigment degradation. On average, lightness, chroma and hue decreased by 13%, 29% and 18% during six months of storage, respectively. The lowest anthocyanin degradation was observed in jams characterised by red-bluish colour and high initial anthocyanin content, that is, ‘Veten’, ‘RU024 01003’ and ‘RU974 07002’ with 72–78% degradation after storage for six months, while the highest losses (82–93%) were observed in jams characterised by saturated red-orange colour, high ellagitanin and low initial anthocyanin contents, that is, ‘Glen Magna’, ‘Malling Hestia’ and ‘Octavia’. The results indicate that the genotypes ‘RU024 01003’ and ‘RU974 07002’ might have the potential to replace ‘Veten’, the main cultivar for jam processing in Norway, as new cultivars for industrial processing provided good cultivation qualities and satisfactory taste and flavour of the products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic matter and nutrients in municipal sewage sludge (SS) and chicken manure (CM) could be recycled and used for land farming to enhance fertility and physical properties of soils. Three soil management practices were used at Kentucky State University Research Farm, Franklin County, to study the impact of soil amendments on kale (Brassica oleraceacv. Winterbar) and collard (Brassica oleraceacv. Top Bunch) yields and quality. The three soil management practices were: (i) SS mixed with native soil at 15 t acre−1, (ii) CM mixed with native soil at 15 t acre−1, and (iii) no-mulch (NM) native soil for comparison purposes. At harvest, collard and kale green plants were graded according to USDA standards. Plants grown in CM and SS amended soil produced the greatest number of U.S. No. 1 grade of collard and kale greens compared to NM native soil. Across all treatments, concentrations of ascorbic acid and phenols were generally greater in kale than in collards. Overall, CM and SS enhanced total phenols and ascorbic acid contents of kale and collard compared to NM native soil. We investigated the chemical and physical properties of each of the three soil treatments that might explain variability among treatments and the impact of soil amendments on yield, phenols, and ascorbic acid contents of kale and collard green grown under this practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetable soybean is fast becoming a popular nutritious snack outside South-Eastern countries where its consumption is in vogue since ages. Reports have appeared in the literature concerning the nutritional value of green seeds; however, the information on its antioxidative properties is lacking. In the present investigation, 16 vegetable-type soybeans were evaluated for antioxidant constituents and antioxidative properties at picking stage. Vitamin C, total phenolic content, and total isoflavone were significantly different among different genotypes with ranges of 34.8–88.7 mg/100 g seed, 0.68–1.39 mg gallic acid equivalent/g, and 8.6–33.2 mg/100 g, respectively. ‘Dada-cha 2000’ had the highest total isoflavone followed by ‘ASG328 Sricanan’. Genotypic differences were also observed for antioxidative properties viz. ferric reducing antioxidative power, free radical-scavenging activities, and β-carotene bleaching inhibition. ‘Dada-cha 2000’ showed the highest ferric reducing antioxidative power value (10.9μmoles/g), while ‘Kegone’ showed the lowest (3.95μmoles/g). ‘Dada-cha ma-me’, ‘Dada-cha 2000’, ‘ASG328 Sricanan’, and ‘ASG328 Kohine’ exhibited the highest free radical-scavenging activities. ‘AGS439’ and ‘Dada-cha ma-me’ exhibited the highest values for β-carotene bleaching inhibition followed by ‘ASG328 Sricanan’. Correlation studies revealed significant positive correlation of ferric reducing antioxidative power and free radical-scavenging activities with individual forms of isoflavones and total isoflavone content. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

In the present study, heat pump–assisted drying of salak fruit was optimized by dividing the dehydration process into three distinct phases, namely, the initial, intermittent, and final stages. Drying variables considered for the optimization were the intermittent duration (X 1), intermittent ratio (X 2), and intermittent cycle (X 3); the response variables studied were the total drying time (Y 1), total heating time during intermittent drying (Y 2), total heating time after intermittent drying (Y 3), total color change (Y 4), ascorbic acid content (Y 5), and total phenolic content (Y 6). Response surface methodology was used to determine the best combination of the drying variables that could provide the shortest drying period and premium product quality. Experimental results showed that all of the response variables were improved under the optimized intermittent drying conditions compared to the conventional method using constant drying conditions. The optimized heat pump–assisted intermittent drying reduced the drying time by 36% and improved phytochemicals retention with ascorbic acid and total phenolic content recorded at 18.4 ± 1.8 mg ascorbic acid/100 g dw and 43.3 ± 2.2 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g dw, respectively. The color change of the final product was minimum with a ΔE* value of 7.26 ± 2.03. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Sclerocarya birrea (Anacardiaceae) is a popular African wild tree distributed in many African countries where the leaves, stem bark, root, and fruits are used in food and traditional medicine; the fruit is rich in ascorbic acid. The fruit juice contains sesquiterpene hydrocarbon, which are terpenes found in plants that are reported to have bacteriostatic properties. The fruit contains a hard brown seed. The seed encloses a soft white kernel rich in oil and protein. The oil contains oleic, palmitic, myristic, and stearic acids; the kernel protein contains amino acids, with a predominance of glutamic acid and arginine. The extracts from different parts showed high total phenolic compounds and radical-scavenging capacities and antioxidant activities. Sclerocarya birrea is widely studied with regard to its antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, and antihypertenisve activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Waste obtained from six genotypes of tomato was subjected to evaluation as potential sources of hydrophilic antioxidants on the basis of content of total phenolics (TPh; from 11.7 to 18.6 mg/g), total flavonoids (TFl; from 7.62 to 12.1 mg/g) and ascorbic acid (AA; from 0.51 to 1.89 mg/g), and antioxidant activities. The antioxidant activities of tomato waste extracts were evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, ferrous ion chelating activity (CA) and reducing power (RP) assay. The O2 tomato waste extract was found to have the strongest antioxidant activity in scavenging DPPH radicals (effective concentration, EC50 == 0.18 mg/ml). The Saint Pierre tomato waste extract showed the best performance in RP assay (EC50 == 1.57 mg/ml). The Rutgers tomato waste extract exhibited a strongest CA (EC50 == 1.49 mg/ml). The linear correlation analysis produced moderate-to-high correlation coefficients between the antioxidant activities and TPh, TFl and AA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The antioxidant potential of 42 melon (Cucumis melo) lines including six cultivars grown in Turkey was assessed by measuring total water-soluble antioxidant capacity, phenolic and vitamin C contents. The lines showed significant variability for all three antioxidant parameters with breeding lines having higher antioxidant capacity and phenolic content than some popular cultivars. Different types of melons also showed significantly different antioxidant potentials. Thus, galia and ananas types showed a higher mean antioxidant capacity and phenolic content than the other tested types (yuva, kislik, canary, and charentais). Correlation analysis between antioxidant parameters showed a significant correlation between water-soluble antioxidant capacity and phenolic content. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The bioactive compounds of 16 tomato cultivars, grown in the same field for 2 years (2003 and 2004) were investigated. Lycopene (5.7-26.3 mg kg-1) was the predominant carotenoid, while β-carotene (2.1-11.2 mg kg-1) and a small amount of lutein (0.02-0.49 mg kg-1) were found in all tomato cultivars. Kagome 77, the richest source of total carotenoids and L-ascorbic acid, also showed the highest antioxidant activity. β-Carotene and lutein contents of tomatoes differed between 2 years statistically. Antioxidant activities of tomatoes were found between 48 and 118 μmol TEAC 100 g-1. A significant correlation was only observed between L-ascorbic acid (2.2-13.8 mg 100 g-1) and antioxidant activity using TEAC assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Zizyphus (Indian ber) is an excellent source of several phenolic compounds. The effect of two cell wall degrading enzymes, namely pectinase and viscozyme, on the nutraceutical composition of Zizyphus juice was investigated in the present study. Enzyme assisted processing significantly ( P  <  0.05) improved the juice yield, total soluble solids, total phenolics and total antioxidant activity (AOX). There was significant increase in recovery of antioxidants, to the tune of 70.51%, 66%, and 45% respectively in ascorbic acid, total phenolics and total flavonoids through viscozyme. The in-vitro total AOX of juice extracted via enzyme-assisted processing was 20.9 and 15.59  μμmol Trolox/ml in ferric-reducing antioxidant power and cupric-reducing antioxidant capacity assays, respectively. There was 41% increase in AOX of juice extracted with enzyme over straight pressed juice. Results indicate that enzyme-assisted processing can significantly improve the functional properties of the Zizyphus juice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Municipal sewage sludge (MSS) used for land farming typically contains heavy metals that might impact crop quality and human health. A completely randomized experimental design with three treatments (six replicates each) was used to monitor the impact of mixing native soil with MSS or yard waste (YW) mixed with MSS (YW +MSS) on: i) sweet potato yield and quality; ii) concentration of seven heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Mo, Cu, Zn, Pb, and Ni) in sweet potato plant parts (edible roots, leaves, stem, and feeder roots); and iii) concentrations of ascorbic acid, total phenols, free sugars, and β-carotene in sweet potato edible roots at harvest. Soil samples were collected and analyzed for total and extractable metals using two extraction procedures, concentrated nitric acid (to extract total metals from soil) as well as CaCl2 solution (to extract soluble metals in soil that are available to plants), respectively. Elemental analyses were performed using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Overall, plant available metals were greater in soils amended with MSS compared to control plots. Concentration of Pb was greater in YW than MSS amendments. Total concentrations of Pb, Ni, and Cr were greater in plants grown in MSS+YW treatments compared to control plants. MSS+YW treatments increased sweet potato yield, ascorbic acid, soluble sugars, and phenols in edible roots by 53, 28, 27, and 48%, respectively compared to plants grown in native soil. B-carotene concentration (157.5 μg g-1 fresh weight) was greater in the roots of plants grown in MSS compared to roots of plants grown in MSS+YW treatments (99.9 μg g-1 fresh weight). Concentration of heavy metals in MSS-amended soil and in sweet potato roots were below their respective permissible limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cashew apple is native to Brazil, but there is insufficient information regarding the nutritional properties of this fruit. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of high pressure processing (HPP) at room temperature (25 °C) on phenolic compound and ascorbic acid contents and antioxidant capacity of cashew apple juice. This study showed that HPP at 250 or 400 MPa for 3, 5 and 7 min did not change pH, acidity, total soluble solids, ascorbic acid or hydrolysable polyphenol contents. However, juice pressurized for 3 and 5 min showed higher soluble polyphenol contents. Antioxidant capacity, measured by the ferric-reducing antioxidant power method, was not altered by HPP, but when treated at 250 MPa for 3 min, it resulted in an increased value when 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl was used. These data demonstrate that HPP can be used in the food industry for the generation of products with higher nutritional quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits from five accessions of mulberry (Morussp.) representing Morus nigra, Morus lavigeta, and Morus alba were evaluated for ferric reducing antioxidant potential, diphenyl picryl hydrazyl radical scavenging ability, total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ascorbic acid contents. In fresh fruits, higher antioxidant capacity was found in M. nigra followed by M. lavigeta and the lowest capacity was observed in M. alba. Higher ferric reducing antioxidant potential and diphenyl picryl hydrazyl scavenging capacities were mainly due to higher anthocyanins. Among the black accessions evaluated, Acc. No. 362 and 497 recorded the highest ferric reducing antioxidant potential (4,515.75 and 4,224.24 mg ascorbic acid equivalent antioxidant capacity 100 g-1 dry wt, respectively), diphenyl picryl hydrazyl (IC50 values of 0.124 and 0.116 mg-1, respectively), and anthocyanin (4,255.65 and 4,103.93 mg/100 g-1 dry wt, respectively) content when compared to other accessions. Accession number 249 (M. alba) with white colored fruits recorded the lowest antioxidant capacity. A phenolic acid profile of fruits indicated that these accessions are rich in caffeic and gallic acids. Gentisic and protocatechuic acids were also found in fairly good quantities. Dried fruits also recorded very high antioxidant (0.18-2.32 g ascorbic acid equivalent antioxidant capacity 100 g-1 dry weight) and diphenyl picryl hydrazyl radical scavenging abilities (IC50 of 0.3-2.98 mg, quantity needed for removing 50% of diphenyl picryl hydrazyl radicals). Results indicated that black mulberry fruits could be used for preparation of high antioxidant postharvest products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is well known that Brassica vegetables (e.g., cabbage) contain significant amounts of bioactive compounds with high antioxidant activities. Outer leaves of white cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata), a typical by-product from a cabbage processing plant, have the potential of being transformed into dietary fiber powder with high levels of antioxidants. However, losses of health-beneficial bioactive compounds in cabbage leaves may occur during processing and should first be identified. This work was aimed at studying the effects of various processing steps, that is, sample preparation, which included sample slicing and blanching using either hot water or steam, as well as hot air drying, on the evolutions of various phytochemicals in cabbage outer leaves. The dominant antioxidants, that is, phenolics (measured in terms of the total phenolic content, TPC), vitamin C, β-carotene, α-tocopherol, and their total antioxidant activity (TAA), were assessed both during sample preparation and drying. The results showed that slicing prior to blanching led to higher losses of antioxidants during either hot water or steam blanching. Water blanching led to lower retention of water-soluble antioxidants; namely, TPC and vitamin C. No significant changes in the contents of β-carotene and α-tocopherol were observed after blanching. The results further illustrated that all antioxidants degraded significantly during drying. This resulted in approximately 50% retention in β-carotene and less than 40% retention in TPC, vitamin C, and α-tocopherol. The final powdery products exhibited a TAA, as assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) and β-carotene bleaching assays, of approximately 70%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present research aimed at evaluating the vitamin C, total phenolic content (TPC), phenolic compounds, carotenoids, and chlorophyll contents, as well as antioxidant activity (AAC) of six Actinidia species fruit. Vitamin C, phenolic compounds, carotenoids and chlorophylls were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography. TPC was determined using the Folin–Ciocalteau reagent, and AAC using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The highest concentrations of vitamin C and TPC were found for Actinidia kolomikta fruit (1008.3 and 634.1 mg/100 g fresh weight [FW], respectively). Among phenolic compounds, seven phenolic acids and three flavonoids were identified. The 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid prevailed in A. kolomikta (425.54 mg/100 g FW), while tannic acid dominated in other species (4.63–100.43 mg/100 g FW). The largest amounts of chlorophylls and carotenoids were identified as Actinidia macrosperma (4.02 and 2.09 mg/100 g FW, respectively). The AAC of fruit extracts decreased in the order of A. kolomikta > Actinidia purpurea > Actinidia melanandra > A. macrosperma > Actinidia arguta > Actinidia deliciosa according to the DPPH assay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chemical investigations from a foliar extract of Araucaria excelsa (Lamb.) (Araucariaceae) resulted in the identification of seven phenolic metabolites including one flavananol, one flavananol 3- O-glycoside, four C-glycoside flavonoids, and one phenolic acid. Structures were elucidated by spectral determination including: UV, NMR and MS analysis. Moderate antioxidant activity was observed with a 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging assay in comparison with the reference antioxidant ascorbic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this research was to determinate the influence of harvest time and storage duration on several chemical and physical quality parameters of 'Cripps Pink' apple cultivar. Fruits were harvested 199 (1Ht), 207 (2Ht), and 214 (3Ht) days after full bloom, and analyzed after 0 (1St), 14 (2Sd), and 30 (3Sd) weeks of storage in a controlled atmosphere (2 °C, 95% relative air moisture, 2% CO2, and 1% O2). Fruit firmness, content of starch, total soluble solids, dry matter, as well as vitamin C, and total acids content were decreased after 14 weeks of storage in each harvest time. The same results were obtained after 30 weeks of storage, except that the pH was increased. Total phenol content and non-flavonoid phenolic fraction decreased during storage, unlike fruit color which did not markedly increased or decreased during storage in every harvest time. Results shown influence of harvest time on storage life and quality of apple fruit, which resulted in progressive content decreasing of some compounds in apple fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates the production of gluten-free bread enhanced with polyphenols and related antioxidants derived from a natural aqueous extract from green-fleshed kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa). Puree and four aqueous extracts, produced from ripe green kiwifruit in the absence of artificial preservatives, were subjected to storage stability trials at 4°C, 20°C and 38°C, and were chemically characterized (phenolic, vitamin C and pectic polysaccharide contents). The aqueous extract with good stability and high phenolic and vitamin C contents was used for gluten-free bread-making. The resultant kiwifruit extract-enhanced bread was acceptable to a taste panel, possessing softer and smoother texture than plain gluten-free bread. Thus, the aqueous extract of kiwifruit puree containing health-beneficial constituents can be considered a functional ingredient for gluten-free bread formulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]