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Finding environmentally friendly, effective and residue-free alternatives to antibiotics has become a research priority. This is due to the ban on antibiotics in animal feed. Curcumin is a polyphenol extracted from the rhizome of turmeric that has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Curcumin has been widely demonstrated as a traditional flavoured agent and herbal medicine in the fight against diseases. In recent years, curcumin has been extensively studied in animal production, especially in poultry production. This article reviews the source, structure, metabolism and biological functions of curcumin and focuses on the application of curcumin in poultry production. In terms of production performance, curcumin can improve the growth performance of poultry, increase the egg production rate of laying hens and alleviate the negative effects of heat stress on the production performance of poultry and livestock. In terms of meat quality, curcumin can improve poultry meat quality by regulating lipid metabolism and antioxidant capacity. In terms of health, curcumin can improve immunity. Since mycotoxins have been a major problem in poultry production, this article also reviews the role of curcumin in helping poultry resist toxins. It is hoped that the review in this article can provide a concrete theoretical basis and research ideas for the research and application of curcumin in the field of poultry., (© 2024 Wiley‐VCH GmbH. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

A thiol compound, glutathione, is essential for healthy cell defence against xenobiotics and oxidative stress. Glutathione reductase (GR) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) are two glutathione-related enzymes that function in the antioxidant and the detoxification systems. In this study, potential inhibitory effects of methyl 4-aminobenzoate derivatives on GR and GST were examined in vitro. GR and GST were isolated from human erythrocytes with 7.63 EU/mg protein and 5.66 EU/mg protein specific activity, respectively. It was found that compound 1 (methyl 4-amino-3-bromo-5-fluorobenzoate with K i value of 0.325±0.012 μM) and compound 5 (methyl 4-amino-2-nitrobenzoate with K i value of 92.41±22.26 μM) inhibited GR and GST stronger than other derivatives. Furthermore, a computer-aided method was used to predict the binding affinities of derivatives, ADME characteristics, and toxicities. Derivatives 4 (methyl 4-amino-2-bromobenzoate) and 6 (methyl 4-amino-2-chlorobenzoate) were estimated to have the lowest binding energies into GR and GST receptors, respectively according to results of in silico studies., (© 2023 Wiley-VHCA AG, Zurich, Switzerland.)

The gradual ageing of the world population has been accompanied by a dramatic increase in the prevalence of obesity and metabolic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes. The adipose tissue dysfunction associated with ageing and obesity shares many common physiological features, including increased oxidative stress and inflammation. Understanding the mechanisms responsible for adipose tissue dysfunction in obesity may help elucidate the processes that contribute to the metabolic disturbances that occur with ageing. This, in turn, may help identify therapeutic targets for the treatment of obesity and age-related metabolic disorders. Because oxidative stress plays a critical role in these pathological processes, antioxidant dietary interventions could be of therapeutic value for the prevention and/or treatment of age-related diseases and obesity and their complications. In this chapter, we review the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which obesity predisposes individuals to accelerated ageing. Additionally, we critically review the potential of antioxidant dietary interventions to counteract obesity and ageing., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

Anthocyanins are used for food color, and they are widely distributed in the human diets, suggesting that we ingest considerable amounts of anthocyanins from plant-based daily diets. We have demonstrated that a typical anthocyanin, cyanidin 3-O-beta-D-glucoside (C3G), suppressed the zymosan-induced inflammatory response in rats when it was orally administered. The elevation of the peritoneal exudate NOx, tumor necrosis factor (TNF) alpha interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-6, and the cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant-1 (CINC-1) concentrations were significantly suppressed by the administration of C3G. The zymosan treatment resulted in an increase in the serum alpha2-macroglobulin and decreases in the serum albumin and transferrin levels, which are recognized as acute phase proteins. However, these levels were normalized by the administration of C3G. The inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) protein level in the peritoneal exudate cells was markedly elevated in the control group treated with zymosan. However, the administration of C3G significantly reduced the level of iNOS in the peritoneal exudate cells. Taken altogether, our findings provide a biochemical basis for the use of C3G as a functional food factor and can also have important implications for the prevention of the NO-mediated inflammatory diseases.

We have shown that the orally administered cyanidin 3-O-beta-D-glucoside (C3G) attenuates the hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, which was used as a model for oxidative stress through a decrease in neutrophil chemoattractant production in rats. The rats were subjected to hepatic I/R at 30 min after the administration of C3G (0.9 mmol/kg body weight) or vehicle. I/R treatment resulted in the elevation of oxidative stress marker [liver thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance, Nepsilon-(hexanonyl) lysine and dityrosine] levels in the liver and of the serum activities of marker enzymes for liver injury. The administration of C3G significantly suppressed these elevations, which had been caused by hepatic I/R. Liver myeloperoxidase activity, a useful marker for neutrophil infiltration into tissues, and the plasma and liver concentration of cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant-1 (CINC-1), which has a potent chemotactic activity, were markedly elevated in the control group after hepatic I/R. However, these elevations were significantly suppressed in the C3G group. C3G and its metabolites in the plasma and liver were detected in the C3G group after hepatic I/R. These results suggest that the absorbed C3G and/or its metabolites can act as antioxidants in the blood and liver and scavenge the reactive oxygen species, and brought on a decrease in neutrophil infiltration into the liver through the suppression of CINC-1 production and the tissue damage caused by neutrophils after I/R is attenuated.

Cyanidin 3-O-beta-D-glucoside (C3G) is included in anthocyanins, and expected to have a potency to scavenge active oxygen species in vivo. Rats were fed a diet containing C3G (2 g/kg diet) for 14 days, and then subjected to hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) as an oxidative stress model. I/R treatment elevated the liver thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance concentration and the serum activities of marker enzymes for liver injury, and lowered the liver reduced glutathione concentration. Feeding C3G significantly suppressed these changes caused by hepatic I/R. These results indicate that C3G functions as a potent antioxidant in vivo under oxidative stress. To clarify the mechanism of action of C3G, we investigated the absorption and metabolism of C3G in rats. C3G appeared in the plasma immediately after the oral administration of C3G. Protocatechuic acid, which seems to be produced by the degradation of cyanidin, was also present in the plasma. In the liver and kidneys, C3G was metabolized to methylated form.

We recently reported that feeding cyanidin 3-O-beta-d-glucoside (C3G), a typical anthocyanin pigment, lowered the serum thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance (TBARS) concentration and increased the oxidation resistance of the serum to lipid peroxidation in rats. These results suggest that C3G acts as a potent antioxidant in vivo when acute oxidative stress is encountered. In the present study, we evaluated whether feeding C3G suppresses oxidative injury to the liver caused by hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (I/R), which was used as a model for oxidative stress. Rats were fed a diet containing C3G (2 g/kg diet) for 14 days and then subjected to hepatic I/R. I/R treatment elevated the liver TBARS concentration and the serum activities of marker enzymes (glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, glutamic pyruvic transaminase, and lactate dehydrogenase) for liver injury and lowered the liver reduced glutathione concentration. Feeding C3G significantly suppressed these changes caused by hepatic I/R. Although the liver ascorbic acid concentration was also lowered by hepatic I/R, feeding C3G restored this concentration more quickly compared to the control rats. These results indicate that orally administered C3G suppresses I/R-induced oxidative damage and suggest that C3G functions as a potent antioxidant in vivo under oxidative stress., (Copyright 1999 Academic Press.)

The effect of roasting temperature (70, 120, 140°C) and food processing (soaking, steaming, and roasting) on the content of bioactive constituents (total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total anthocyanin, and γ-oryzanol) and antioxidant activity of processed riceberry were investigated. In addition, the degradation kinetics of bioactive constituents and antioxidant activity during storage were assessed using zero-order and first-order kinetic models. Results showed riceberry roasted at 120°C had the highest total anthocyanin content and antioxidant activity. In addition, riceberry obtained from roasting exhibited the highest bioactive compound and antioxidant activity. Besides, first-order kinetic was confirmed as the best-fitted model to describe degradation of bioactive constituents and antioxidant activity of processed riceberry during storage. This finding suggested that roasting at 120°C was chosen as an optimum condition to maximize the content of bioactive constituents and antioxidant activity and kinetic models provided a better understanding of antioxidant property reduction of processed riceberry during storage. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Riceberry is an abundant source of bioactive constituents with beneficial health effects leading to a development of functional food product. However, processing may negatively affect biological properties of riceberry and bioactive constituent degradation of processed riceberry during storage has not been previously reported. Therefore, different processes were investigated to determine the effect on bioactive constituents and antioxidant activity of riceberry, and the degradation kinetic model of bioactive constituents during storage was also studied. Optimum processing is appropriate to design riceberry containing high concentration of bioactive constituents and antioxidant activity, which could be considered as a functional diet for health-conscious consumer., (© 2022 Institute of Food Technologists®.)

Effects of various concentration of turmeric (Curcuma longa [C longa]) rhizome powder (TRP) supplemented diet on the antioxidant status of selected organs (stomach, liver, kidney, and heart) of indomethacin (Indo)-induced ulcerated wistar rats were investigated in this study. The rats were fed with different percentages of TRP supplemented diet (1% [A], 2% [B], 5% [C], and 10% [D]) for 28 days. It was observed from the results that animals fed on 10% turmeric rhizome supplemented and those in the ulcerogenic group had significant reduction in kidney, cardiac gluthione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and gastric GSH when compared with normal control animals and other pre-treated groups. However, a significant increase was observed in gastric, hepatic, cardiac, and glutathione peroxidase (GPX); kidney and hepatic SOD; cardiac, kidney, hepatic, and gastric CAT of animals pre- treated with TRP supplemented diet (1%-5%) compared with ulcerogenic group. Also, a significant reduction was observed in GPX of animals fed with 10% TRP supplemented diet in comparison with ulcerogenic group. Consumption of TRP in the diet, therefore, should be lesser than 10% of the whole recipe for it to be potent in enhancing antioxidant defensive mechanism of the aforementioned organs and thereby prevent oxidative stress related diseases. It may reduce antioxidant present in those organs which can lead to increase availability of free radical and expose the organs to oxidative stress-related diseases. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Inclusion of turmeric rhizome powder in daily diet has been globally well accepted due to the knowledge of its medicinal values. Nonetheless, the extent at which it should be consumed has been controversial and unclear. Little or no effort has been put in place to educate the populace on the quantity of concentration of C. longa powder which should be in whole recipe or ingredients. Therefore, if turmeric rhizome powder should be included in diet because of its nutritional and medicinal values, this should be with caution and from the results of this study, the concentration should not be up to 100g/kg w/w of the entire recipe., (© 2021 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Amiodarone (AMD) is a widely used antiarrhythmic drug prescribed to treat cardiac tachyarrhythmias; however, AMD has been reported to provoke pulmonary fibrosis (PF) and hepatotoxicity. This study aimed to investigate the influence of alpha lipoic acid (ALA) on AMD-induced PF and hepatotoxicity in male Wistar rats. AMD administration resulted in elevated lung contents of hydroxyproline (Hyp), malondialdehyde (MDA), and increased serum levels of transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1), interferon-γ (IFN-γ), alanine amino transaminase (ALT), aspartate amino transaminase (AST), total cholesterol (TC), and glucose. On the other side, lung content of glutathione reduced (GSH) and serum levels of total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC) were significantly decreased. Histopathologically, AMD caused PF, produced a mild hepatic injury, and increased expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA). Treatment with ALA produced a significant reversal of the oxidative stress, fibrosis, and inflammation parameters with reductions in α-SMA expressions, leading to amelioration of histopathological lesions. ALA might provide supportive therapy in AMD-receiving cardiovascular patients., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus L.) is one of the richest natural sources of anthocyanins which are powerful antioxidants and reported to have antiinflammatory, antidyslipidemic, antihypertensive, and hypoglycemic effects. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of bilberry supplementation on biomarkers of glycemic control, lipid profile, antioxidant, and inflammatory status in patients with type 2 diabetes in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over study. Twenty patients were randomized to receive either bilberry supplementation (1.4 g/day of extract) daily for 4 weeks followed by 6 weeks of washout and then an additional 4 weeks of matching placebo or vice versa. Blood pressure, metabolic parameters, antioxidant status, and oxidative stress were measured before and after each period. Results showed no effect on body weight, blood pressure, or lipid profile. HbA1c was reduced by 0.31 ± 0.58% during bilberry supplementation, but this change was not significantly different from that with placebo. Antioxidant status, oxidative stress, and inflammatory status showed no significant differences across treatments. This short-term study of bilberry supplementation did not show significant effects on cardiovascular risk factors or antioxidant status, but the tendency for improved glycemic control may suggest a longer treatment period may be effective in diabetic patients., (© 2021 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

The therapeutic properties of turmeric essential oil have been extensively documented in both preclinical and clinical studies. Research indicates that its primary active compounds are promising candidates for addressing a wide range of pathologies, exhibiting anticancer, anti-inflammation, antioxidant, cardiovascular, hypoglycemic, dermatological, hepatoprotective, neurological, antiparasitic, antiviral, insecticidal, antifungal, and antivenom activities. While numerous compounds possess similar potential applications, the isolated active constituents of turmeric essential oil stand out due to their unique pharmacological profiles and absence of toxicity. This literature review meticulously compiles and analyzes the bioactivities of these constituents, emphasizing their molecular mechanisms of action, reported pharmacological effects, and potential therapeutic applications. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive synthesis of currently available clinical and preclinical findings related to individual turmeric essential oil compounds, while also identifying critical knowledge gaps. By summarizing these findings, this work encourages further research into the isolated compounds from turmeric oil as viable drug candidates, ultimately contributing to the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits and vegetables are a rich sources of different nutrients, pigments, secondary metabolites and other nutritional components which are beneficial and fundamental components for human health. In recent years, the consumption of coloured fruits and vegetables has increased significantly due to their superior nutritional characteristics. In this context, purple tomato is now gaining importance due to the high content of the pigment anthocyanins. This article provides knowledge on 1) Tomato in general and anthocyanin-rich purple tomato, 2) Benefits of anthocyanins in plants and human diet, 3) Strategies for development of purple tomato, 4) Better postharvest life of purple tomatoes, 5) Purple tomato in India and 6) Health benefits of purple tomato. Purple tomato fruits provide higher nutraceutical value as compared to the classical red tomato as it combines the health benefits of the anthocyanins along with other usual and known phytochemicals as already present in tomato fruit. Due to higher anthocyanins and antioxidative properties, purple tomatoes possess anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-cancerous, cardio-protective, hepto-protective and neuroprotective effects. Regular consumption of purple tomatoes has also been found effective in the prevention of certain chronic diseases of humans as well. The use of conventional breeding and modern transgenic approach is paving the way for higher anthocyanin and other nutraceuticals in tomato fruits. Higher anthocyanin content has also imparted enhanced shelf-life and better storability to purple tomatoes. In the coming time, the availability and popularity of purple tomatoes in India will be beneficial for farmers, processing industries and human health. This will also serve as another step forward towards attaining nutritional security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the effect of dietary supplementation of a mixture of botanical compounds and essential oil (Phyto AquaMeric, PAM) on the growth, immune and antioxidant parameters and environmental benefits in Nile tilapia. Two diets including a control and a PAM-supplemented diet at 0.5 g kg−1 were prepared for the trial. The diets were isonitrogenous (30% crude protein) and isoenergetic (17 MJ kg−1) extruded diets. Nile tilapia weighing initially 74.22 ± 1.96 g fish−1 were stocked in 2 m3 hapas at a density of 20 fish per m3 (40 fish per hapa). Each group was tested in triplicates over 80 days. The antioxidant potential of PAM was compared to vitamin C through KRL test, showing a higher value from 35 to 100 mg. The in vivo trial did not exhibit any significant growth performance improvement. However, the PAM group had a significantly improved feed conversion ratio (FCR) and protein efficiency ratio (PER). Moreover, the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Malondialdehyde (MDA), immune parameters (ACH50, lysozyme, phagocytic and phenoloxidase activities), digestive enzymes and hepatic enzymes were significantly improved in the PAM-fed group. An evaluation of eutrophication potential of PAM supplementation revealed a low input in the system. In conclusion, this mixture of botanicals and essential oil exhibited in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potential, improved health and digestive parameters and contributed to a reduced eutrophication risk in the tilapia production system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) are considered to be the main causes of fibrosis. In turn, fibrosis may lead to the development of hepatocellular carcinoma or advanced cirrhosis, i.e., potentially life-threatening conditions. It is likely that therapy aimed at reducing the risk of developing hepatic steatosis and inflammation could be helpful in minimizing the threat/probability of organ fibrosis. In recent years, increasing attention has been paid to the influence of nutraceuticals in the prevention and treatment of liver diseases. Therefore, the aim of this review was to describe the precise role of selected ingredients such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, omega-3 fatty acids, and curcumin. It is likely that the use of these ingredients in the treatment of patients with MASLD/MASH, along with behavioral and pharmacological therapy, may have a beneficial effect on combating inflammation, reducing oxidative stress, and thereby preventing liver damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malignant tumors are the second most common cause of death worldwide. More attention is being paid to the link between the body's impaired oxidoreductive balance and cancer incidence. Much attention is being paid to polyphenols derived from plants, as one of their properties is an antioxidant character: the ability to eliminate reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, chelate specific metal ions, modulate signaling pathways affecting inflammation, and raise the level and activity of antioxidant enzymes while lowering those with oxidative effects. The following three compounds, resveratrol, quercetin, and curcumin, are polyphenols modulating multiple molecular targets, or increasing pro-apoptotic protein expression levels and decreasing anti-apoptotic protein expression levels. Experiments conducted in vitro and in vivo on animals and humans suggest using them as chemopreventive agents based on antioxidant properties. The advantage of these natural polyphenols is low toxicity and weak adverse effects at higher doses. However, the compounds discussed are characterized by low bioavailability and solubility, which may make achieving the blood concentrations needed for the desired effect challenging. The solution may lie in derivatives of naturally occurring polyphenols subjected to structural modifications that enhance their beneficial effects or work on implementing new ways of delivering antioxidants that improve their solubility and bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of hydrodistillation time on the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of collected essential oils' (EOs') fractions from black pepper fructus for five hydrodistillation periods: I (0-15 min), II (15-30 min), III (30-60 min), IV(60-90 min) and V (90-120 min). In this way, an essential oil with the desired chemical composition and antioxidant activity can be selected. The essential oil was obtained by Clevenger-type hydrodistillation (CHD). The qualitative and quantitative composition of the collected EOs' fractions was determined by GC-MS and GC-FID analysis. The efficiency of EOs' fractions to scavenge DPPH radicals was evaluated spectrophotometrically. Essential oil yield was 3.0 ± 0.050 ml/100 g of plant material after 120 min of CHD. The content of monoterpene hydrocarbons and aromatic compounds decreased, while the content of oxygenated monoterpenes, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated sesquiterpenes increased with the time of CHD. The most abundant compound of EOs' fractions was (E)-caryophyllene, whose content increased with the time of CHD (I-V: 24.9-36.6%). Results indicated that all collected EOs' fractions exhibited antioxidant activity (EC50 values were in the range I-V: 81.27±0.327–8.02±0.044 mg/ml), where fraction V showed the highest activity. This study proved that CHD time and fractionation affect the composition and antioxidant activity of black pepper essential oil. Future research may be extended to examine other biological activities of black pepper EOs' fractions, as well as synergistic effects of other identified active components of the essential oil, in addition to (E)-caryophyllene, that would affect biological activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this research was nutritional evaluation through the phytochemical analysis of blackberry and raspberry leaves, the screening of their biological activity (antioxidant capacity and inhibition of lipid peroxidation), and the investigation of the effect of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (GID) of blackberry and raspberry leaves on the bioaccessibility of polyphenol subclasses. The concentrations of the analyzed liposoluble antioxidants were higher (p < 0.05) in blackberry leaves compared to raspberry leaves, while a significant (p < 0.05) higher content of water-soluble antioxidants was registered in raspberry leaves (with a total polyphenol content of 26.2 mg GAE/g DW of which flavonoids accounted for 10.6 mg/g DW). Blackberry leaves had the highest antioxidant capacity inhibition of the superoxide radicals (O2•−), while raspberry leaves registered the highest inhibition of hydroxyl radicals (•OH), suggesting a high biological potency in scavenging-free radicals under in vitro systems. The maximum inhibition percentage of lipid peroxidation was obtained for blackberry leaves (24.86% compared to 4.37% in raspberry leaves), suggesting its potential to limit oxidative reactions. Simulated in vitro digestion showed that hydroxybenzoic acids registered the highest bioaccessibility index in the intestinal phase of both types of leaves, with gallic acid being one of the most bioaccessible phenolics. The outcomes of this investigation reveal that the most significant release of phenolic compounds from blackberry and raspberry leaves occurs either during or after the gastric phase. Knowledge about the bioaccessibility and stability of polyphenol compounds during digestion can provide significant insights into the bioavailability of these molecules and the possible effectiveness of plant metabolites for human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Delphinium uncinatum Wall. (Ranunculaceae) is a native medicinal plant found on the sub-continent that is utilized to cure various human diseases. Using a total of three different tissue parts i.e., the stem, root, and mixed plant (leaves, stem, and root), methanolic extracts were prepared and evaluated to determine the best candidate for potential bioactivity. Phytochemical constituents in prepared extracts were quantified through high-performance liquid chromatography analysis that demonstrated the presence of four flavonoid compounds, rutoside, nicotiflorin, narcissoside, and violanthin in varying proportions. Strong antibacterial and antioxidant potency but mild α-amylase and cytotoxic potential was elucidated. Highest anti-inflammatory potential was found against PLA2 (36.6 ± 2.08) and 15-LOX (30.33 ± 1.52) followed by COX-1 (25.1 ± 2.02) and COX-2 (19.33 ± 1.52). Anti-aging potential showed strong inhibitory actions toward pentosidine advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and visperlysine AGEs; however, least inhibitory activities were observed against hyaluronidase and elastase. These findings made us aware of further detailed research to determine a novel drug. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Tamarind kernel powder (TKP) was modified using high‐pressure processing (HPP) at different levels of pressure (200, 400, and 600 MPa) and pressurisation time (10, 20, and 30 min). The properties including solubility, water‐holding capacity, oil‐holding capacity, and emulsion stability of HPP‐treated TKP were investigated and compared with untreated TKP. The results found that the properties of TKP markedly improved with HPP treatment, with increasing pressure levels and pressurisation time. The optimal condition was achieved at a pressure of 600 MPa for 10 min. The mechanism behind the improvement of these properties was further supported by the data collected on extraction yield, size‐exclusion chromatography, and FT‐IR spectra. Additionally, the total phenolic content and antioxidant properties in terms of DPPH radical‐scavenging activity and Ferric reducing antioxidant power of HPP‐treated TKP were higher than the untreated TKP. The information from this study indicated that HPP is a promising technique for modifying the techno‐functional properties of TKP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present work was conducted to assess the effect of diets supplementation to heat-stressed buck rabbits with different zinc (Zn) sources on the thermoregulatory and hematobiochemical parameters, and antioxidant status. A total of 24 mature buck rabbits (32–36 weeks of age) were randomly distributed into four groups (6 each). Group 1, non-heat-stressed control (NHSC), was reared in the absence of heat stress (HS) conditions and received the basal diet only. The other three groups (groups 2, 3 and 4) were kept in HS conditions. Group 2, heat-stressed control (HSC), received the basal diet only. The diet supplemented with 75 mg Zn/kg diet either in the inorganic form (Zn sulfate) or in the organic form (Zn picolinate) for groups 3 and 4, respectively. Zn supplementation to rabbits' diets lowered the heat stress-related increase of serum urea, alanine transaminase and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration. These supplementations also increased the concentration of testosterone under HS conditions. Zn picolinate was more effective than Zn sulfate in restoring serum concentrations of urea, testosterone, and MDA. In conclusion, Zn addition to rabbits' diets from different sources, especially Zn picolinate, exhibits an ameliorative effect against the harmful impact of HS on hematobiochemical parameters and antioxidant status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study of keracyanin chloride (KC) electrochemical behavior in an aqueous buffer solution using screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCEs) and glassy carbon electrodes (GCEs) was performed. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and square-wave voltammetry (SWV) were used to analyze the electrochemical response of KC under studied conditions. A clear redox wave was observed for KC, primarily due to the oxidation of the catechol 3′,4′-dihydroxyl group of its ring B, with a minor redox wave from oxidation of the hydroxyl groups in ring A. Compared to GCEs, using modified SPCEs resulted in two-fold amplification in the electrochemical oxidation signal of KC. Using SPCEs as a working electrode could provide high sensitivity in the quantification of KC and the ability to gauge KC quantification to significantly lower detection limits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blueberries (Vaccinium L. spp.) are an economically and medicinally important plant. Their antioxidant properties are well-known for their medicinal value in negating the harmful effects of free radicals. It is very important to develop genotypes that are high in health-promoting factors and economic value to meet present world needs. Estimation of genetic diversity using molecular markers, antioxidant properties, and their association can reveal genotypes with important characteristics and help in berry improvement programs. Wild blueberries are a better source of antioxidant metabolites compared to cultivated ones. Extensive variations are present in molecular and biochemical contents among wild clones and cultivars. The current review provides detailed and updated information on the economic and medicinal importance of blueberries, the application of molecular markers, and biochemical estimation in berry improvement and conservation, filling the gap in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propolis is a sticky natural product produced by honeybees. Research studies have discussed the effectiveness of propolis, directly or indirectly, for ameliorating reproductive toxicity in males; however, this research has not yet been reviewed. The current paper presents an integrative summary of all research studies in Scopus and PubMed that investigated the effects of propolis on semen quality, and hence on male fertility, in conditions of reproductive toxicity. The consensus indicates that propolis ameliorates reproductive toxicity and enhances semen quality in vivo in test animals. These effects may be attributable to the ability of propolis to reduce testicular oxidative damage, enhance testicular antioxidant defense mechanisms, increase nitric oxide production, reduce testicular apoptotic injury, and boost testosterone production. However, to generalize these effects in humans would require further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Narcissus tazetta is an appreciated ornamental plant worldwide with a unique sensory value. Therefore, every new insight into the behavioral aspects is crucial for the improvement of its cultivation process. The present study aimed to evaluate how the application of sodium nitroprusside (SNP), as an exogenous nitric oxide (NO) donor, can favor the flowering process in N. tazetta. Indeed, the application of different SNP concentrations (25, 50, and 100 mM) significantly increased the flowering percent and size of flowers, which was accompanied with improvement of leaf and flower scape anatomical structure. Based on the observed delay in the flowering time of Narcissus only at 100 mM SNP, the inductive late-flowering effect of NO might be dose-dependent. Furthermore, SNP triggered the accumulation of photosynthetic pigments, which was coexisted with high production of sugars. Supplying SNP also increased anthocyanins and phenolic compounds accompanied with advanced total antioxidant property in the leaves and flowers. The obtained data of H2O2, superoxide dismutase, proline, and malondialdehyde suggested no stress-inductive effect of NO in the Narcissus flowering process. Besides, the observed increase in the nitrate reductase activity in the leaves suggesting that NO can regulate diverse mechanisms in the flowering process. Overall, the results revealed the positive role of SNP in the flowering process in N. tazetta. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Simple Summary: Over the years, alternative and complementary medicine have garnered much attention all across the globe. To this end, phytochemicals have intriguing potential against myriads of disease conditions; nevertheless, as of yet, the molecular intricacies for their therapeutic potential is incompletely understood. It is widely acknowledged that proteomics technology has been ex-plored as a reliable approach to understand the molecular intricacies related to phytochemi-cal-based therapeutic interventions. Reckoning with this, the present review provides an overview of the proteomics studies performed to unravel the underlying molecular intricacies of various phytochemicals such as Curcumin, Genistein, and Tanshinone IIA. Phytochemicals possess various intriguing pharmacological properties against diverse pathological conditions. Extensive studies are on-going to understand the structural/functional properties of phytochemicals as well as the molecular mechanisms of their therapeutic function against various disease conditions. Phytochemicals such as curcumin (Cur), genistein (Gen), and tanshinone-IIA (Tan IIA) have multifaceted therapeutic potentials and various efforts are in progress to understand the molecular dynamics of their function with different tools and technologies. Cur is an active lipophilic polyphenol with pleiotropic function, and it has been shown to possess various intriguing properties including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, anticancer, and anti-genotoxic properties besides others beneficial properties. Similarly, Gen (an isoflavone) exhibits a wide range of vital functions including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, pro-apoptotic, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic activities etc. In addition, Tan IIA, a lipophilic compound, possesses antioxidant, anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer activities, and so on. Over the last few decades, the field of proteomics has garnered great momentum mainly attributed to the recent advancement in mass spectrometry (MS) techniques. It is envisaged that the proteomics technology has considerably contributed to the biomedical research endeavors lately. Interestingly, they have also been explored as a reliable approach to understand the molecular intricacies related to phytochemical-based therapeutic interventions. The present review provides an overview of the proteomics studies performed to unravel the underlying molecular intricacies of various phytochemicals such as Cur, Gen, and Tan IIA. This in-depth study will help the researchers in better understanding of the pharmacological potential of the phytochemicals at the proteomics level. Certainly, this review will be highly instrumental in catalyzing the translational shift from phytochemical-based biomedical research to clinical practice in the near future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to compare heat and enzymatic stabilization methods in terms of hydrolytic stability and changes in antioxidant compounds of rice bran during ambient storage. Raw non‐pigmented and black rice bran (RNB and RBB) showed high lipase activity (269.0 and 241.9 U/kg, respectively). Heat‐stabilized non‐pigmented and black rice bran samples (HNB and HBB) and enzymatically stabilized non‐pigmented and black rice bran samples (ENB and EBB) had much lower lipase activity (25.8 to 32.8 U/kg). Lipase activity was not increased in the stabilized samples during 8‐week storage and had high hydrolytic stability. Compared with raw rice bran, tocols, and anthocyanin contents in HNB and HBB decreased significantly, but γ‐oryzanol increased significantly, while all antioxidant compounds in ENB and EBB increased significantly. Antioxidant contents of rice bran decreased during storage following zero‐ and first‐order reaction kinetics. EBB showed the lowest k and the highest t1/2 values, indicating more stability of these antioxidants. Novelty impact statement: In this study, the effects of stabilization processes (including heat and enzymatic methods) on lipase inhibition and antioxidant contents in black rice bran are reported for the first time. Moreover, the changes in antioxidant contents in rice bran have been little studied, with no studies on black rice bran. This work proposes enzymatically stabilized black rice bran with high antioxidant content and high storage stability as a potent source of natural antioxidants suitable for use in the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The purpose of the experiment was to demonstrate a comparison of fertilization with and without biostimulation. A study was carried out in an experimental blueberry field in central Poland (51°55′42.7″ N 20°59′28.7″ E) during the three growing seasons of 2019, 2020 and 2021, on 'Bluecrop' shrubs growing at a distance of 1 × 3 m. The plants were re-planted in the spring of each year and irrigated using drip irrigation. The experiment was conducted using a random block design (four fertilizer treatments × five replications × six bushes). The fruits were tested for antioxidant activity and amount of total polyphenols. Additionally, anthocyanin quantitative and qualitative analysis was performed. The results indicated a significant effect of fertilizer combinations on the values of the evaluated parameters. The positive effect of biostimulants on the content of antioxidant compounds in highbush blueberry fruit was significant. In most of the combinations in which additional biostimulants were used, higher values of the analyzed indicators (antioxidant activity and polyphenol content) were observed. The most noteworthy was the T4 fertilization program, where during treatment, soil and foliar fertilization were carried out with preparations that contained biostimulants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the action of light modifications by different shade nets (pearl, red and blue color nets with a shade index of 50%) in relation to unshaded plants from the open field on the relative effects on changing basil aroma profile and antioxidant activity. The most abundant components were linalool, 1,8-cineole and myrcene. Aqueous extracts were isolated from basil leaves using maceration and ultrasound-assisted extraction. Yield of total extractive matters depends on both the extraction technique applied and the growing conditions used. The highest yield of total extractive matter (30.50 g/100g) was obtained by maceration from open field-grown basil. The highest content of total phenols (106.52 mg GAE/g), flavonoids (19.74 mg RE/g) and antioxidant activity (EC50 - 7 µg/mL) was found under a red net. The isolated water extracts are a source of natural antioxidants with potential application in the food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Propolis, a resinous substance produced by honeybees from various plant sources, has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine for several purposes all over the world. The precise composition of propolis varies according to plant source, seasons harvesting, geography, type of bee flora, climate changes, and honeybee species at the site of collection. This apiary product has broad clinical applications such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer, analgesic, antidepressant, and anxiolytic as well asimmunomodulatory effects. It is also well known from traditional uses in treating purulent disorders, improving the wound healing, and alleviating many of the related discomforts. Even if its use was already widespread since ancient times, after the First and Second World War, it has grown even more as well as the studies to identify its chemical and pharmacological features, allowing to discriminate the qualities of propolis in terms of the chemical profile and relative biological activity based on the geographic place of origin. Recently, several in vitro and in vivo studies have been carried out and new insights into the pharmaceutical prospects of this bee product in the management of different disorders, have been highlighted. Specifically, the available literature confirms the efficacy of propolis and its bioactive compounds in the reduction of cancer progression, inhibition of bacterial and viral infections as well as mitigation of parasitic-related symptoms, paving the way to the use of propolis as an alternative approach to improve the human health. However, a more conscious use of propolis in terms of standardized extracts as well as new clinical studies are needed to substantiate these health claims. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular senescence is an irreversible state of cell cycle arrest occurring in response to stressful stimuli, such as telomere attrition, DNA damage, reactive oxygen species, and oncogenic proteins. Although beneficial and protective in several physiological processes, an excessive senescent cell burden has been involved in various pathological conditions including aging, tissue dysfunction and chronic diseases. Oxidative stress (OS) can drive senescence due to a loss of balance between pro-oxidant stimuli and antioxidant defences. Therefore, the identification and characterization of antioxidant compounds capable of preventing or counteracting the senescent phenotype is of major interest. However, despite the considerable number of studies, a comprehensive overview of the main antioxidant molecules capable of counteracting OS-induced senescence is still lacking. Here, besides a brief description of the molecular mechanisms implicated in OS-mediated aging, we review and discuss the role of enzymes, mitochondria-targeting compounds, vitamins, carotenoids, organosulfur compounds, nitrogen non-protein molecules, minerals, flavonoids, and non-flavonoids as antioxidant compounds with an anti-aging potential, therefore offering insights into innovative lifespan-extending approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anthocyanins are flavonoid containing polyphenolic phytochemicals. They are widely present in plants and accounts for different color shades displayed by the plant organs. A broad range of health-revitalizing effects is attributed to anthocyanins, constituting a vital part of the human diet. They are also accountable for ameliorating the detrimental effects of various lifestyle diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular disorders, neurological disorders, etc. These beneficial impacts highly depend on the bioavailability of anthocyanins, governed by their absorption and metabolism in the human body. The primary goal of this review is to summarize the latest anthocyanin knowledge while focusing on the chemistry, pharmacokinetics, and various biological advantages with anti-cancer, neuroprotective, antidiabetic, antioxidant, cardiovascular protective, vision improvement, antiviral, and antimicrobial effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress is a key underlying factor in cognitive decline and atherosclerosis. Oxidative stress occurs at the cellular level with an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species and a deficiency in antioxidants. Mounting evidence suggests that berry flavonoids may promote cellular health by exerting antioxidant properties. Black currant and various berry extracts were tested in microglia (BV-2) and cardiomyocyte (HL-1) cell lines to study their biological effects. The principal ingredients in black currant and cranberry extract–delphinidin 3-rutinoside (D3R) and cyanidin 3-glucoside (C3G), were also assessed. A menadione-induced oxidative stressor was used, and its output was quantified to detect oxidative stress (CellROXTM). Black currant extract had similar antioxidant effects as N-acetylcysteine (NAC) in HL-1 cells with regard to cellular protection, whereas cranberry extract was ineffective. In contrast, cranberry extract was comparable in effectiveness to black currant extract in BV-2 cells. D3R and C3G also reduced oxidative stress similarly to whole berry extracts, which indicates that these ingredients may confer the antioxidant effects of berries. Black currant and cranberry extracts inhibit oxidative stress in microglial and cardiomyocyte cell lines. Black currant extract was more effective in reducing oxidative stress in the HL-1 cells, whereas cranberry extract was comparable in reducing oxidative stress in the BV-2 cells. The results suggest that berry flavonoids exert neuro- and cardioprotective effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the general beneficial effects of antioxidants-rich foods on human health and disease prevention, there is a continuous interest in plant secondary metabolites conferring attractive colors to fruits and grains and responsible, together with others, for nutraceutical properties. Cereals and Solanaceae are important components of the human diet, thus, they are the main targets for functional food development by exploitation of genetic resources and metabolic engineering. In this review, we focus on the impact of antioxidants-rich cereal and Solanaceae derived foods on human health by analyzing natural biodiversity and biotechnological strategies aiming at increasing the antioxidant level of grains and fruits, the impact of agronomic practices and food processing on antioxidant properties combined with a focus on the current state of pre-clinical and clinical studies. Despite the strong evidence in in vitro and animal studies supporting the beneficial effects of antioxidants-rich diets in preventing diseases, clinical studies are still not sufficient to prove the impact of antioxidant rich cereal and Solanaceae derived foods on human [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the potential health benefits offered by purple corn or Zea mays L. It was found that the corn is rich in anthocyanin, 3-O-beta-D-glucoside, phenolics, antioxidant and free-radical superiority. It highlights research studies which show the role of purple corn in preventing colon cancer and ultraviolet radiation that damage skin cells and cause skin aging. In addition, the color of the corn shows therapeutic effects on metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and obesity.

Purple waxy corn is a good source of antioxidant compounds such as anthocyanins and polyphenols. Promotion of its use requires an appropriate assay to determine antioxidant activity. The aim of this study is to verify compatibility of the antioxidant activity assays by comparing five different assays in daily kernel samples of the fresh purple waxy corn during grain filling. The levels of antioxidants measured by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, ferric reducing antioxidant power, and chemiluminescence showed significant positive correlations with the levels measured by the other assays (r = 0.761–0.893; p < 0.01) and with anthocyanin content (r = 0.798–0.924; p < 0.01). Reducing capacity of 2,2ʹ-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and total phenolic content also showed significant correlations (r = 0.764; p < 0.01). However, during late grain filling, the levels of antioxidants measured by all methods showed strong correlations with each other (r > 0.699; p < 0.05). The inconsistencies among the measurements are largely dependent on the developmental stage of the corn kernel. The combination of at least two assays is required to ensure reliable antioxidant activity estimates, especially for early grain-filling stages. These results will inform efforts to promote fresh purple corn as a source of antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The relevance of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and other polyphenols as the biologically active components of nutraceuticals is pointed out here. The principal analytical approaches to deal with their characterization and quantification have been introduced as well, with liquid chromatography being the technique of choice in most cases. Phenolic compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and stilbenes comprise an enormous family of bioactive molecules with a range of positive properties, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, or anti-inflammatory effects. As a result, plant extracts are often purified to recover phenolic compound-enriched fractions to be used to develop nutraceutical products or dietary supplements. In this article, we review the properties of some remarkable plant-based nutraceuticals in which the active molecules are mainly polyphenols and related compounds. Methods for the characterization of these extracts, the chemical determination of the bioactivities of key molecules, and the principal applications of the resulting products are discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenols react with isocyanates under mild catalyst‐free conditions to generate selenocarbamates in good yield and with high selectivity over potentially competing nucleophilic additions. The methodology enables the incorporation of a wide variety of functional groups providing access to a broad array of densely functionalised selenocarbamates. In the presence of competing heteroatom‐centered nucleophiles, isocyanates selectively couple with selenols. Selenocarbamates exhibited thiol‐peroxidase‐like properties, enabling the reduction of hydrogen peroxide at the expense of thiols, which are converted into the corresponding disulfides. A series of control experiments suggested that the catalytic mechanism proceeds through a pathway, involving a H2O2‐promoted transcarbamoylation reaction leading to a thiocarbamate with concomitant releasing of catalytically active selenolate anions. By undergoing peroxide‐driven thiol‐selenol exchange, selenocarbamates behave as equivalents of selenolate anions with thiol‐peroxidase‐like activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenolic compounds contribute to the antioxidant property of plants and the efficient extraction of plant phenolics could enhance its antioxidant potential. Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers. has been investigated for its pharmacological activities, but comparing its antioxidant activities of phenolics derived from its various parts has a key role in developing natural antioxidants. This study was conducted to standardize the extraction of phenolics from leaves, pods and branches of L. speciosa plant, followed by determination of antioxidant activities of their solvent fractions. Phenolic compounds were extracted from the leaves, pods and branches under different parameters such as temperature, pH, type of solvent and volume of the solvent. The extracted phenolic compounds were subjected to solvent fractions and antioxidant assays were performed. Among the various extraction methods tested, the best method was 50% ethanol +1% HCl, refluxing temperature, 100 ml of solvent and 1 hour extraction time. The best solvent fractions were determined as NaHCO3 + ethyl acetate for pods and ethyl acetate alone for leaves and branches with extracted phenolics content of 150.2 mg/g, 136.2 mg/g and 82.9 mg/g, respectively. The chloroform fraction was best among the fractions with maximum ascorbic acid equivalent (ASE) in all the parts of L. speciosa tested. Ferrous ion chelating capacity indicated that butanol fraction had the highest chelation and the same was recorded in ferric ion chelating assay with an EC50 value of 28.2. Hydroxyl radical scavenging activity of the fractions indicated that NaHCO3 + EtOAc fraction of pods had potential activity. Thus, the phenolic compounds from L. speciosa are excellent sources for future investigation on potent natural antioxidant compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, increased attention is paid to plant raw materials as a source of biologically active substances. As a consequence of this great scientific interest is dog rose (lat. Rosa), a genus of wild plants of the Rosaceae family (Rosales) and it is widely used as a medicinal, vitamin source and food raw material. The species of Rosa genus have rich vitamin content and different chemical structures. Dog rose has medicinal value as a multivitamin remedy. Many works have been devoted to the study of the dynamics of the accumulation of vitamins depending on the forms and types of dog rose, geographic location, meteorological conditions, soil, fertilizer application and other environmental factors. The most economically valuable part of the dog rose is the pulp of the fruit. Rosa is used in official and traditional medicine. They also have anti-inflammatory, choleretic, diuretic properties and a beneficial effect on carbohydrate metabolism and, they regulate the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, enhance tissue regeneration, the synthesis of hormones. In this review article, antioxidant, pharmacological, medical properties and chemical content of the Rosa genus has been discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Shrikhand- an Indian dairy based dessert is high in fat content, hence susceptible to derogatory oxidative changes. In food industry and also in home based preparations, antioxidant compounds are added to readily oxidisable foods. In food industries commercial synthetic antioxidant usage is very common, whereas scientific reports are emerging indicative of the toxicity of these kinds of antioxidants. However due to food safety issues and consumer’s preference on natural food ingredients, natural antioxidants are now being explored for food formulations. In this study antioxidant extracts from tamarind seed has been utilized in shrikhand. Functional, textural, physico chemical and organoleptic properties of the samples have been tested along with their changing profile over a 60 days storage period has also been monitored. The study has been concluded with the remarks that tamarind seed extract can be successfully utilized in food matrix as a source of natural antioxidant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rice may be a main cereal food yield and important nutrition in determined of the emerging countries. Thousands of rice varieties are cultivated; however, their nutritional and medicinal values haven't been thoroughly investigated. Rice bran is that the external a neighborhood of germ and should be a by-product of rice grinding which contains of whole rice grain and an honest common source of several nutrients but has around limits in nutrition application. It comprises several nutrients like protein, carbohydrates, fats, dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals. Rice grain is rich in various bioactive compounds like phenolic compounds, phytosterols, acid, polycosanol, oryzanol, tocopherol, tocotrienols and ferulic acid. The rice bran can individual be done by neutralizing these antinutritional factors particularly lipase which progresses rancidity in rice bran. In various methods are stabilizing rice bran and recover its excellence and possible part in treating life intimidating ailments. It can play an important role in serum lowering cholesterol, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce the biocompatible with the human skin and related fit cosmetic products. Rice bran oil is the product is more important of gamma -oryzanol and other antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tamarind fruits are consumed worldwide and their seeds have an underexploited potential. We assessed the effect of the addition of a freeze-dried aqueous of extract tamarind seed (FAE) at three concentration levels (0.3, 1.15 and 2%) on the antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS, FRAP and ORAC) and concentrations of total phenolic compounds in tamarind pulp. Conditions used to prepare the aqueous extracts were established using multivariate optimization. Moreover, nectars prepared from pulps combined with FAE were subjected to sensory tests. Tamarind fruits from three geographic regions in Brazil (Minas Gerais, São Paulo and Bahia) that were harvested in 2013 and 2014 were used in the study. Generally, the freeze-dried aqueous extracts increased the concentrations of antioxidants in the pulp. The results revealed a positive correlation between the FAE concentration in the pulp and the antioxidant capacity of all samples, particularly samples from Bahia and Minas Gerais, which presented an increase of up to 1,942% in the ABTS method when 2% FAE was incorporated into the pulp, from approximately 40.1 to 209.1 mMTrolox/gdw and 13.4 to 143.4 mMTrolox/gdw, respectively. Sensory tests indicated the satisfactory acceptance and non-distinction between nectar samples to which FAE was or was not added when the FAE concentration was less than 2.3gFAE/L, regardless of the geographic origin of the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Berries have many biological and physiological functions such as antioxidant, antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory, and become a more popular food in China. Water‐soluble polyphenols are their main functional active substances, and aroma components contribute to the flavour. The contents of total phenol and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in ten berries grown in Northeast China were determined. Their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities were also investigated. Ribes rubrum L. and Rubus glaucus showed a higher antioxidant capacity. Ribes rubrum L. and Lonicera caerulea have a broader antibacterial spectrum. There is a correlation between the content of hydroxyl compounds in radical antioxidant activity. The metabolic pathways of polyphenols and VOCs are correlated, indicating a rapid evaluation of the biological activity of berries using the determination of volatile components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Diabetes is regarded as an epidemiological threat for the twenty-first century. Phytochemicals with known pharmaceutical properties have gained interest in the field of alleviating secondary complications of diseases. Such a substance is crocin, a basic constituent of saffron (Crocus sativus). The present study aimed at examining the beneficial effects of per os crocin administration on the antioxidant status, blood biochemical profile, hepatic gene expression and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 activity (PAI-1) in the liver, kidney and plasma (an important marker of pre-diabetic status and major factor of thrombosis in diabetes) of healthy rats, as well as of rats with nicotinamide-streptozotocin-induced diabetes. Results: Diabetes disrupted the oxidation-antioxidation balance, while crocin improved the antioxidant state in the liver by significantly affecting SOD1 gene expression and/or by restoring SOD and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels. In the kidney, crocin improved hydrogen peroxide decomposing activity and TAC. In blood, hepatic transaminases ALT and AST decreased significantly, while there was a trend of decrease regarding blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. The expression of PAI-1 gene was affected in the liver by the dose of 50 mg kg−1. Conclusions: Crocin treatment contributed in restoring some parameters after diabetes induction, primarily by affecting significantly hepatic transaminases ALT and AST, SOD1 and PAI-1 gene expression and nephric H2O2 decomposing activity. In conclusion, crocin did contribute to the alleviation of some complications of diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is focused on the effect of different cooking conditions on the antioxidant content, particularly anthocyanins, of Oryza sativa L. 'Violet Nori', a new black rice cultivar. 10 different cooking tests were performed. The selected cooking conditions allowed to evaluate the effect of boiling, roasting, oven cooking, risotto cooking, and oriental cooking. The total anthocyanins amounts were evaluated by both a spectrophotometric pH differential method and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), together with the Total Phenolic Content (TPC) and the Radical Scavenging Activity (RSA). The obtained results showed that boiling with a low water amount (100 g rice/650 mL water) and oriental cooking, which allows a reduction of boiling times thanks to the lid of the pot, allow effectively saving at least part of their anthocyanins content. Similar results were obtained by boiling if rice was introduced in cold or boiling water, but on the contrary a ratio of 100 g rice/1000 mL water greatly enhanced the loss of antioxidant compounds. Risotto and oven cooking allowed obtaining results that were roughly intermediate between the 'best' and the 'worst' results. A high correlation existed between the amounts of total anthocyanins and both TPCs and RSAs. The 'best' results show that although cooking necessarily decreases the rice content of valuable antioxidants, a careful choice of the operative conditions allows effectively preserving amounts of total anthocyanins higher than 100 mg/100 g rice portion, which are close to or even higher than in other well-known sources of dietetic anthocyanins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer and diabetes are serious threat to human health and more and more aroused people's attention. It is important to find the safe and effective prevention and treatment methods for the three deadly diseases. At present, a generally attention in the possible positive effects of edible berries for the three deadly diseases has been noted. Berry phytochemical compounds regulate different signaling pathways about cell survival, growth and differentiation. They contribute to the prevention and treatment of CVD, cancer and diabetes. This article reviews previous experimental evidence, several common berry phytochemical compounds and their possible mechanisms involved in three deadly diseases were summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Yerba-mate (YM) and blackcurrant (BC) are rich in polyphenols and anthocyanins with proven health benefits therefore they could be used in functional beverage preparation. OBJECTIVE: To (a) develop a palatable powdered beverage with high physicochemical and nutritional quality using YM/BC, (b) determine the effect of in-vitro gastrointestinal digestion on antioxidant content and activity and (c) evaluate beverage's acceptance temporal changes and dynamic profile during multiple intakes. METHODS: We determined powder's water-activity (aw), moisture content, flowability, micro-morphology, color, cold water solubility, glass-transition temperature (Tg), total polyphenols (TP)/anthocyanins (MAC) and ascorbic-acid contents, antiradical activity (DPPH). RESULTS: Powder's aw (0.089) ensured biochemical/microbiological stability. Tg(55.64°C) indicated that YM/BC's vacuum-storage at 20–25 °C was possible without losing glassy state. Powder's cold water's solubility was 90%. 1 L (60 g/L) provided 556.8 mg TP/198.11 mg monomeric-anthocyanins. Ascorbic- acid dose was half the recommended daily intake. In-vitro gastrointestinal digestion reduced total polyphenols/monomeric-anthocyanins 59–70 %, but antiradical activity losses were 9%. Overall-acceptance and Time-Intensity curves results were in the Hedonic scale's "Like moderately to like very much" zone. Berries/Sweet were the only dominant attributes Astringency accumulative effects not detected. CONCLUSIONS: The YM/BC powder had good physical/biochemical/microbiological stability under industrial storage conditions and high antiradical activity after simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Sensory scores suggested that consumer's acceptance could be high. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]