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This study aimed to evaluate the influence of Capsicum baccatum L. Aji Angelo and Bishop crown cultivars to the quality parameters of flavoured olive oils (FOOs) obtained by the addition of both fresh and dried pepper powders (1%) to Dolce di Rossano and Roggianella monovarietal extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs). First, pepper extracts were investigated for their total phenolic, flavonoid, carotenoid content as well as phenolic acids, fatty acid profile, and vitamin C and E content. In order to evaluate the impact of both fresh and dried peppers on the oxidative stability of FOOs, the Rancimat test was applied. 2,2-Azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ?-carotene bleaching (B-CB) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays were used to investigate the antioxidant potential. Bishop crown dried extracts showed the highest phenolic, carotenoid and vitamin content, whereas Aji Angelo had the highest amount of capsaicinoids. Among EVOOs, Roggianella EVOO showed the highest antioxidant activity as well as the highest induction time (39.6 h). Remarkably, FOO obtained by the addition of Bishop crown dried pepper extract to Roggianella EVOO showed a higher induction time (44.9 h) with respect to the corresponding EVOO.

Edible flowers consumption has increased in recent years due to their rich content of healthy phytochemicals. The aim of this study was to analyse the chemical profile of Cucurbita pepo L. flowers, and to explore their antioxidant and hypoglycaemic properties. Moreover, in order to assess in vivo effects, biochemical analysis, Reactive Oxygen Metabolites (d-ROMs) and Biological Antioxidant Potential (BAP) tests were performed on mice serum. High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Diode Array Detection (HPLC-DAD) analyses revealed the presence of (+)-catechin, (−)-epicatechin, rutin, and syringic acid as main constituents. 2,2′-Azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) tests showed interesting results. The extract exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase (IC50 of 144.77 μg/mL). In vivo results confirmed the hypoglycaemic effects, also affecting lipid metabolism but did not revealed benefits on ROS production. These results may add some information supporting the use of C. pepo flowers as functional foods and/or nutraceuticals.

This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory activity of key enzymes linked to type 2 diabetes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase) and the antioxidant properties of non polar (n-hexane) extracts from C...

Carotenoids are widely distributed in nature. They are present in all living organisms, from bacteria, yeast, marine, and freshwater organisms including microalgae, phytoplankton, crustaceans, and fish to higher plants and animals. Naturally occurring carotenoids are important sources of antioxidants, antiinflammatory and antitumor compounds. Epidemiological studies have shown a correlation between a high carotenoid intake in the diet with a reduced risk of colorectal, cervical, ovarian, and breast cancers. The mechanisms of carotenoids for cancer chemoprevention include nuclear receptors, growth factor signaling, effects on gap -junctional intercellular communication, cell cycle progression, differentiation-related proteins, retinoid-like receptors, antioxidant response element, and inflammatory cytokines. The present chapter focuses on the potential role of carotenoids for the treatment of breast cancer.

This study assessed and compared the chemical profile and the antioxidant and anti-proliferative activities of non-polar extracts of Juniperus macrocarpa (Sibth. & Sm.) Ball. and J. oxycedrus L. from Italy. The aerial parts of both Juniperus subspecies were subjected to exhaustive macerations with n-hexane and dichloromethane as solvents. Extracts were investigated for their chemical profile by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Ferric reducing activity power (FRAP), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and β-carotene bleaching assays were applied to study the antioxidant properties. The cytotoxic activity was evaluated using the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay against several cancer human cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, A549, and COR-L23 cells). Monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes mainly characterized n-hexane extracts while diterpenes and fatty acids were the most abundant identified compounds in dichloromethane extracts. The n-hexane and dichloromethane extracts of J. oxycedrus showed the most promising cytotoxic activity against the COR-L23 cell line with IC50 values of 26.9 and 39.3 µg/mL, respectively. J. macrocarpa revealed great radicals scavenging activity. Overall, the obtained results suggest that both Juniperus species are a good source of potential antioxidants and anti-proliferative compounds.

Vicia faba L. (faba bean) (Fabaceae) is cultivated worldwide as a crop for human consumption. In this study, beans and pods were investigated for their phytochemical content and their potential nutraceutical properties as a strategy to counteract metabolic syndrome (MetS). Pods represent a faba bean industrial processing by-product. Pod ethanol extract showed the highest total phenol and flavonoid content. High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analysis revealed that in both pods and bean, (+)-catechin and (−)-epicatechin were the two most abundant compounds. 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid (ABTS), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), β-carotene bleaching were used to test V. faba antioxidant activity. The inhibition of alpha-amylase, alpha-glucosidase, and lipase was studied. Pod extract showed an ABTS radical scavenging ability (IC50 value of 1.5 mg/mL) comparable to ascorbic acid (IC50 value of 1.7 mg/mL) used as a positive control, whereas bean extract was the most active in protecting lipid peroxidation. A promising alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activity was also observed with the edible portion of faba beans (IC50 value of 38.31 mg/mL). Collectively, our results demonstrated the potential health properties of V. faba edible and inedible portions.

The chemical composition of the essential oil from Salvia rosmarinus Spenn. collected in Calabrian Ionian (R1) and Tyrrhenian (R2) coast (Southern Italy) was examined by gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Essential oils are mainly characterized by monoterpene hydrocarbons (39.32&ndash, 40.70%) and oxygenated monoterpenes (36.08-39.47%). The 1,8-cineole, &alpha, pinene, camphor, and trans-caryophyllene are the most representative compounds. S. rosmarinus essential oils were investigated for their antioxidant activity by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2&prime, azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), ferric reducing ability power (FRAP), and &beta, carotene bleaching tests. Additionally, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activity assays were used to screen the neuroprotective effects of S. rosmarinus. R2 showed the highest antioxidant potential as confirmed by relative antioxidant capacity index (RACI) and exhibited a selective activity against AChE (half maximal inhibitory concentration, IC50, value of 41.86 &mu, g/mL). These results suggest S. rosmarinus essential oil as a potential source of bioactive compounds.

STUDY QUESTION Does oral Vitamin D supplementation alter the hormonal milieu of follicular fluid (FF) and the transcriptomic profile of luteinised granulosa cells (GCs) in women with Vitamin D deficiency undergoing IVF? SUMMARY ANSWER A transcriptomic signature relevant to oral Vitamin D supplementation in luteinised GCs was demonstrated, although Vitamin D supplementation did not alter hormone levels in FF. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Vitamin D deficiency is linked to lower live birth rates among women undergoing IVF. It is unclear whether Vitamin D elicits a targeted action in reproductive physiology or is a surrogate marker of overall well-being. Several in-vitro studies, but none in vivo, have examined the impact of Vitamin D on the periovulatory follicle, focusing on GCs as a proxy marker of oocyte competence. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We present a report of secondary outcomes from the SUNDRO clinical trial, which was launched in 2016 to determine whether Vitamin D supplementation can improve the IVF outcomes of women who are deficient in Vitamin D ( PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Two academic infertility units were involved in the recruitment of the participants, who received a single dose of oral 25-hydroxyvitamin D (600 000 IU) or placebo, 2–12 weeks before oocyte retrieval. Women in both groups were deficient in Vitamin D, aged 18–39 years with a normal BMI (18–25 kg/m2) and MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE At oocyte retrieval, FF concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D was 2.8-fold higher (P LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Interpretation of the data is influenced by our intervention strategy (2–12 weeks prior to retrieval). As folliculogenesis may last 5–6 months, our protocol can only examine with confidence the impact of Vitamin D on the final stages of follicular growth. Furthermore, we examined the hormonal profile of the dominant follicle only, while the GC data reflect the transcriptome of all (pooled) follicles large enough to be used for IVF. Luteinised GCs from controlled ovarian stimulation were used in this study, which may be functionally distinct from the GCs of developing follicles. Moreover, the sample size for RNA-sequencing analysis was low (n = 3 per group), regardless of validation by RT-PCR that was performed on a larger cohort, introducing complexity to the IPA analysis, which required an input of data with P-adjusted WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first in-vivo study to show that Vitamin D supplementation alters gene expression in luteinised GCs. In contrast to some in-vitro evidence, no effect of the intervention on expression of genes encoding steroidogenic enzymes was observed. Unlike other studies, our results suggest that supplementation with Vitamin D is unlikely to directly influence hormone availability in FF. Our findings instead reinforce the hypothesis that Vitamin D could be considered one of the gatekeepers in protecting against an exaggerated response to ovarian stimulation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study has been funded by the Italian Ministry of Health (RF-2013-02358757) following peer review in the competitive ‘Bando di Ricerca Finalizzata e Giovani Ricercatori 2013’ for the clinical trial SUNDRO (EudraCT registration number 2015-004233-27). There are no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER EudraCT registration number 2015-004233-27.

In this study, Daphne laureola L., a European–Mediterranean species, was investigated for its antioxidant properties using different in vitro bioassays, namely 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Ferric Reducing Activity Power (FRAP), and β-carotene bleaching assays. The acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activity using Ellman’s method was also examined. The aerial parts of D. laureola were subjected to exhaustive and subsequent macerations with solvents at different polarities, such as methanol, dichloromethane, and n-hexane. Dichloromethane extract was the most promising in DPPH and FRAP tests with IC50 values of 32.2 μg/mL and 71.5 μM Fe(II)/g, respectively. Methanol extract showed the most promising inhibition of lipid peroxidation evaluated by β-carotene bleaching test with an IC50 value of 6.6 μg/mL after 30 min of incubation. This extract was the most active against AChE (IC50 value of 56.9 μg/mL). An interesting result was obtained against BChE by the n-hexane extract, with an IC50 value of 49.7 μg/mL. In conclusion, the results suggest that D. laureola may provide a substantial source of phytochemicals, which act as natural antioxidants and acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, and may be beneficial in the treatment of Alzheimer disease.

BACKGROUND: Berries are worldwide recognized as “superfoods” due to the high content of bioactive compounds and the health benefits deriving from their consumption. OBJECTIVE: The present study was planned to assess and to compare the chemical profile and the in vitro antioxidant, hypoglycaemic, and anti-inflammatory activities of Vaccinium corymbosum L. berries and leaves extracts obtained by different extraction procedures. Ethanol was chosen as solvent because it is a GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) and widely used for the extraction of polar compounds. METHODS: Different extraction techniques such asmaceration, ultrasound-assisted extraction, Soxhlet extractor and decoction, have been applied by using food grade ethanol/water as solvent mixture, selected as environmentally friendly solvents. Extracts obtained from fruits and leaves were chemically investigated by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS) and for their potential in vitro antioxidant, hypoglycaemic, and anti-inflammatory effects. RESULTS: Some iridoids were detected for the first time in V. corymbosum. Dried leaves extracted by decoction and ethanol with Soxhlet apparatus showed the highest 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) radicals scavenging activity with IC50 value of 0.77μg/mL, which is 2.2-time lower than that positive control ascorbic acid. A promising inhibition of the production of nitrate/nitrite, critical mediators of inflammation, was found. The decoction of berries showed the highest activity in counteracting nitric oxide (NO.) production. Furthermore, two leaves extracts (decoction of dried leaves and hydroalcoholic maceration of fresh leaves) were particularly active as α-amylase inhibitors with IC50 values of 16.16 and 20.55 μg/mL, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This work could provide valuable basis for future research on V. corymbosum to improve recovery of specific active compounds such as flavonoids and iridoids

Six Citrus petitgrain oils, namely C. × sinensis (L.) Osbeck., C. × limon (L.) Osbeck., C. × clementina Hort., C. × aurantium L., C. reticulata Blanco and C. × bergamia Risso & Poit. (P1-P6), were characterized by means of gas chromatography equipped with flame ionisation detector (GC-FID) and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and evaluated for their food functional-related properties. Antioxidant and radical-scavenging properties were tested by means of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, β-carotene bleaching test and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) assays. The synergistic interactions on antioxidant efficacy of petitgrain oils in combination were studied. The Relative Antioxidant Capacity Index (RACI) was applied from the perspective of statistics by integrating the antioxidant capacity data determined by all used methods. A high content of monoterpenes and a less representative content of sesquiterpenes characterized Citrus petitgrain oils. In the DPPH ass...

This study aimed at evaluating and comparing the chemical profile as well as the antityrosinase and antioxidant activities of ethanol (EtOH) and methanol (MeOH) extracts of Sambucus nigra L. (Adoxaceae) flowers and leaves in order to discover new candidates for food additives and cosmetic and pharmaceutical products. For this purpose, a novel lower-melting-point ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene (LMP ECTFE) nanofiltration (NF) membrane was employed in order to produce the concentrated fractions of S. nigra. Floral extracts were richer in phytochemicals in comparison to the leaf extracts. The High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) profile revealed rutin, quercetin, protocateuchic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, and neochlorogenic acid as the most abundant compounds. Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2&rsquo, diphenil-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging, and 2,2&rsquo, azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) tests were used to investigate the antioxidant properties. NF retentate fractions of floral ethanol extracts exerted the highest tyrosinase inhibitory activity with an IC50 of 53.9 &micro, g/mL and the highest ABTS radical scavenging activity (IC50 of 46.4 &micro, g/mL). In conclusion, the present investigation revealed the potential benefits of NF application in S. nigra extracts processing, suggesting the use of retentate fractions as a promising source for antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory compounds which could pave the way for future applications

Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) is one of the oldest and known fruits native to Iran and surrounding areas and today widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions. There is a great interest worldwide in this fruit because of its potential health-promoting properties. Numerous studies investigating the health benefits of pomegranate juice have greatly increased interest in this red fruit. Pomegranate juice is a rich source of polyphenols with interesting antioxidant properties. Several in vitro and in vivo studies suggested that pomegranate juice possess antioxidant, antiinflammatory, antihypertensive, and antiatherogenic effects. Thus, promising results against diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other diseases have been reported. This chapter summarizes the most recent (2012–17) in vitro and in vivo studies highlighting the potential role of pomegranate juice as functional beverage.

Glycyrrhiza glabra cultivation and harvesting produces substantial quantities of aerial parts as waste. With the aim to prospect an innovative valorization of these byproducts, the aerial parts were harvested in May and October and analyzed for their chemical profile, antioxidant properties, and effects on viability of five cancer cell lines. Pinocembrin was the main constituent. A significant protection of lipid peroxidation was observed with the May total extract (IC50 of 4.2 ± 0.4 μg/mL at 30 min of incubation). The effects on viability of HeLa, MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, Caco-2, and PC3 human cancer cells were investigated. All samples shown a remarkable activity with IC50 values below 25 μg/mL. Samples from plants harvested in May exhibited greater activity than those harvested in October. MCF-7 and HeLa were the most sensitive cells with IC50 in the range 2.73−3.01 and 3.28−5.53 μg/mL, respectively. G. glabra aerial parts represent a good source of valuable products.

Ruta chalepensis L. (Rutaceae) leaf extract was investigated for its chemical profile and antioxidant and hypoglycaemic properties. The antioxidant effects were investigated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Chi-carotene bleaching, and metal chelating activity assays. The carbohydrate-hydrolysing enzymes inhibition assay was used to test the hypoglycaemic potential. R. chalepensis showed a high content of hesperidin and rutin with values of 591.9 and 266.7 mg/g dry extract, respectively. The extract exhibited a promising protection of lipid peroxidation (IC50 value of 16.9 mu g/mL) and inhibited both alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase enzymes in a concentration-dependent manner. The highest activity was found against alpha-amylase (IC50 value of 69.0 mu g/mL). The obtained results support the use of R. chalepensis leaves as healthy food ingredients.

The aim of this study was to investigate the phytochemical content of Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf. (Rutaceae) and to assess its hypoglycaemic and antioxidant effects. Hesperidin, naringin and chlorogenic acid were the most abundant compounds of the juice. Peel essential oil showed that limonene, myrcene, p-cimene and β-pinene were its main components. The antioxidant activity was studied through different in vitro tests. The hypoglycaemic effects were analysed via inhibition of carbohydrate-hydrolysing enzymes. IC50 values in the range 30.38–39.25 µg/mL were found respectively for juice and peel oil in the DPPH test. Juice inhibited α-amylase and α-glucosidase with IC50 values respectively of 138.14 and 81.27 µg/mL. Polyphenolic compounds identified in the juice were investigated. While neoeriocitrin displayed the strongest antioxidant activity and inhibited α-amylase (IC50 of 4.69 vs 77.45 µM for acarbose), didymin was found to be the most bioactive flavonoid against alpha-glucosidase (IC50 of 4.20 vs 54.99 µM for acarbose).

Dementia is becoming a major public health problem worldwide. The most common form of dementia is Alzheimer's disease (AD), characterized by a deficient cholinergic transmission, deposition of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, and neuro-inflammation that result in progressive degeneration and/or death of nerve cells and cognitive impairment. At present, AD cannot be prevented or cured, so the symptomatic relief obtainable by the use of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors is one of the therapeutic strategies. Accumulated evidence suggests that naturally occurring compounds may potentially improve memory and cognitive function, and prevent neurodegeneration. Even today the search for new neuroprotective agents of natural origin is very active. The neuroprotective effects of medicinal plants covering studies of the last years will be summarized and discussed in this review choosing a family classification with particular emphasis on extracts and isolated compounds as promising new drugs. The search of a multifunctional potential anti-AD agent able to act on different crucial targets, such as galanthamine, quercetin and timosaponin AIII, could be a useful approach to recognizing therapeutics against AD.

Recently, much attention has been directed to the micronutrient content of processed foods. In the present study total phenols, flavonoids, capsaicinoids and antioxidant activity were determined on fresh, boiled and frozen chili peppers cultivars belonging to four Capsicum species (Capsicum annuum, Capsicum baccatum, Capsicum chacoense and C. chinense). The obtained data showed that fresh peppers exhibited the highest phenols, flavonoids and capsaicinoids content. Boiling and freezing process negatively influenced the content of these phytochemicals. Generally, C. annuum cultivars have the greater antioxidant activity relatable to the higher phenols and capsaicinoids content. Considering the attention of consumers in respect of the nutritional properties of the food, it seems necessary to address more carefully the effects of food home processing on the healthy compounds.

This study aims at investigating the contribution of two classes of compounds, flavonoids and iridoids, to the bioactivity of Arbutus unedo L. leaves and fruits. The impact of different extraction procedures on phytochemicals content and hypoglycemic, antioxidant, and nitric oxide (NO) inhibitory activities of A. unedo fresh and dried plant materials was investigated. Ellagic acid 4-O-&beta, D-glucopyranoside, kaempferol 3-O-glucoside, and norbergenin were identified for the first time in this genus by using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS). Three iridoids (gardenoside, geniposide, unedoside) are specifically identified in the leaves. Interestingly, asperuloside was extracted only from dried fruits by ethanol with Soxhlet apparatus. Extracts were screened for their potential antioxidant activities by using the 2,2&prime, azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Ferric Reducing Activity Power (FRAP), and &beta, carotene bleaching tests. Based on the Global Antioxidant Score (GAS) calculation, the most promising antioxidant extract was obtained by hydroalcoholic maceration of dried leaves that showed half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 0.42 and 0.98 &mu, g/mL in ABTS and DPPH assays, respectively. The hypoglycaemic activity was investigated by &alpha, amylase and &alpha, glucosidase inhibition tests. Extracts obtained by ethanol ultrasound extraction of fresh leaves and hydroalcoholic maceration of fresh fruits (IC50 of 19.56 and 28.42 &mu, g/mL, respectively) are more active against &alpha, glucosidase than the positive control acarbose (IC50 of 35.50 &mu, g/mL). Fruit extracts exhibited the highest anti-inflammatory activity.

In this study, we investigated for the first time the anti-proliferative and antioxidant properties of D. mezereum and D. striata. The aerial parts were extracted by maceration with n-hexane, dichloromethane, and methanol. MPLC, GC, and GC-MS were used for the phytochemical study. The anti-proliferative activity was tested against MCF-7, A549, LNCaP, ACHN, and C32 cancer human cells. The antioxidant activity was measured by employing β-carotene bleaching, ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP tests. The Relative Antioxidant Capacity Index (RACI) was applied from the perspective of statistics. D. mezereum dichloromethane extract showed a remarkable anti-proliferative with an IC50 of 6.08 μg/mL against LNCaP cells. Experimental data indicate that Daphne species have interesting anti-proliferative and antioxidant properties that deserve more investigations to develop novel antineoplastic drugs.

Psoriasis is a systemic immunemediated skin disease, characterized by inflammation and joint manifestations with a range of comorbidities that include metabolic and psychological disorders. Despite recent advances in understanding the mechanisms involved in psoriasis, current treatments produce often-varying results. Additionally, the cost of novel synthetic agents makes their use impractical for many patients. Therefore, the request of new antipsoriatic agents with a low profile of adverse effects and convenient cost continues. Natural compounds have been traditionally used since ancient times. Recently, the benefits of some phytochemicals have been demonstrated for skin care. A number of these are currently being developed, used, or considered for use in dermatologic disorders such as psoriasis. In this chapter, we report the most recent studies on flavonoids as bioactive compounds useful in treating psoriasis.

Background: Salvia species are known for their biological properties in many countries and might potentially provide novel therapeutic agents. This review provides an overview of the available literature on the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Salvia species. Methods: Using bibliographic databases, particularly PubMed, this review aims to add new information to the list of Salvia species, including S. ceratophylla, S. chloroleuca, S. fruticosa, S. lachostachys, S. lavandulifolia, S. miltiorrhiza, S. mirzayanii, S. officinalis, S. plebeia, S. verbenaca, and S. virgata, and their main constituents as promising anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents, highlighting their mode of action. Results: Salvia species are sources of health-promoting phytochemicals that comprise polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes and several other constituents. Many studies have indicated that plants from the Salvia genus reduce the oxidative stress and may be able to prevent and/or to treat inflammatory diseases. These potential beneficial effects have been attributed to the presence of compounds that show antioxidant properties and that demonstrated to inhibit the molecular targets of pro-inflammatory mediators in inflammatory responses. Conclusion: Salvia species and their secondary metabolites may be potential agents to improve the quality of life in patients with inflammatory diseases.

This study aimed to investigate the antidiabetic, antilipidaemic and antioxidant activities of Citrus medica cv Diamante (Rutaceae) hydroalcoholic (CD) peel extract in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. The ability of CD to protect against oxidative stress was investigated by using different in vitro assays and in vivo by using the reactive oxygen metabolites-derived compounds (d-ROMs) test and the biological antioxidant potential test (BAP). Two different doses of CD extract (300 and 600 mg/kg/die) were administered at ZDF rats for 4 weeks. CD reduced cholesterol and triglycerides levels. A dose-dependent effect on body weight and serum glucose levels was observed. A decrease of d-ROMs and an increase of BAP were recorded by using the dose of 600 mg/kg. The extract inhibited lipid peroxidation (IC50 value of 0.23 mg/ml). These findings suggest as an efficient phytotherapeutic approach in combating hyperlipidaemic and hyperglycaemic disorders.

We present a 18 m W fiber-coupled single-mode super-luminescent diode with 85 nm bandwidth for application in optical coherence tomography (OCT). First, we describe the effect of quantum dot (QD) growth temperature on optical spectrum and gain, highlighting the need for the optimization of epitaxy for broadband applications. Then, by incorporating this improved material into a multicontact device, we show how bandwidth and power can be controlled. We then go on to show how the spectral shape influences the autocorrelation function, which exhibits a coherence length of < 11 mu m, and relative noise is found to be 10 dB lower than that of a thermal source. Finally, we apply the optimum device to OCT of in vivo skin and show the improvement that can be made with higher power, wider bandwidth, and lower noise, respectively.

The aim of the present study was to investigate the in vitro antioxidant and antitumor effects of Salvia fruticosa Mill subsp. thomasii (Lacaita) Brullo, Guglielmo, Pavone & Terrasi (Lamiaceae). The aerial parts were extracted by maceration with methanol. This extract was partitioned with methanol and n-hexane. Luteolin, luteolin 7-O-glucoside, rutin and salvigenin were isolated from the methanol-soluble fraction. n-Hexane fraction showed viridiflorol, β-pinene, 1,8-cineole, as main components. The methanol-soluble fraction exerted antitumor activity against human breast cancer (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231) and human colorectal carcinoma (RKO and Caco-2) cells. TUNEL test revealed that S. fruticosa subsp. thomasii leads to cells death by apoptosis, with low cytotoxic effects on non-tumoral 3T3-L1 cells. Moreover, it exerted the highest protection of lipid peroxidation and reduced the oxidative stress induced by menadione treatment in 3T3-L1 murine fibroblasts. S. fruticosa subsp. thomasii bioactivity could promote its use not only as food but also in nutraceutical/pharmaceutical industries.

Capsicum annum cultivars Yellow cayenne, Portafortuna, Idealino, Sole, Duemila, Pellegrino, Fantasia, Loco, and Effix were investigated for their antioxidant properties and foodborne pathogens inhibitory activity. The total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, capsaicinoids, carotenoids, ascorbic acid, and vitamin E content were also determined. Duemila and Portafortuna cultivars showed the highest total phenol content with values of 924.3 and 935.0 mg of chlorogenic acid equivalents/100 g dried weight, respectively. Idealino pepper presented the highest capsaicin content (2932.1 μg/g dried weight). The antioxidant capacity was evaluated by using 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid test, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl test, and ferric reducing ability power assay. Both Pellegrino and Idealino samples exhibited a promising radical scavenging ability against 2,2’-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid radical with IC50 values of 45.2 and 45.7 μg/mL, respectively. All the e...

Objective To evaluate if the outcomes of IVF/ICSI in frozen-thawed embryo transfer and fresh embryo transfer cycles differ in relation to cleavage and blastocyst stages. Methods Retrospective cohort study to compare IVF/ICSI outcomes between fresh embryo transfer and frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles, according to the stage of embryo development. Analysis was carried out on 443 consecutive embryo transfer cycles performed between January 1st and December 31st, 2014. Women aged up to 38 and submitted to embryo transfer cycles with fresh (n = 309) or frozen-thawed (n = 134) embryos at a private center for assistance in human reproduction were considered for analysis. Results in each group were stratified according to the stage of embryo development: cleavage stage and blastocyst stage. Main outcome measures were implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, ongoing pregnancy rate and live birth rate per cycle. Results In the fresh embryo transfer group, for cleavage stage versus blastocyst stage, respectively, implantation rates were 22% and 47% (p = 0.0005); clinical pregnancy rates were 34% and 64% (p = 0.0057); the ongoing pregnancy rates were 30% and 61% (p = 0.0046) and live birth rates were 28% and 55% (p = 0.0148). There were no significant differences in the rates between cleavage and blastocyst stages in the frozen-thawed group, neither between fresh and frozen-thawed cleavage embryo transfers nor between fresh and frozen-thawed blastocyst transfers. Conclusion Our results confirm that blastocyst transfer is better than cleavage stage in fresh embryo transfer cycles. In frozen-thawed cycles, cleavage or blastocyst stages seem to offer similar reproductive outcomes.

This work is aimed to investigate the antiproliferative and antioxidant activities of Alhagi maurorum, a legume used as natural sweetener. Diethyl ether (DE) and petroleum ether (PE) extracts were analyzed for their chemical composition by GC–MS analysis. Both extract were further investigated for their potential cytotoxicity against a panel of human cancer cell lines by sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. DE extract, characterized by fatty acids and coumarins as main constituents, showed the strongest activity against C32 melanoma cell line with an IC50 value of 2.7 μg/ml. For antioxidant investigation different in vitro systems, namely 2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS*+), μ-carotene bleaching test, ferric reducing ability power assay (FRAP) and Fe-chelating activity assay were employed. DE extract showed the highest radical scavenging activity against ABTS radical with an IC50 value of 4.7 μg/ml. This extract was also able to reduce the metal transition ion iron with a FRAP value of 69.6 μM Fe(II)/g that is comparable to the positive control butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) (63.2 μM Fe(II)/g). These biological properties may be of interest from a functional point of view and to propose an alternative use of this edible legume.

Sparkling wines (SW) have a special biological ageing on lees that is performed using two distinct methods: in the bottle (Champenoise) or in isobaric tanks (Charmat method). The objective of this study was to compare the levels of phenolic compounds, β-Glucosidase and antioxidant activity during the ageing on lees, in samples of SW produced at industrial scale by both methods. The β-Glucosidase activity has been constant over time, showing a close relationship with all the polyphenols studied (resveratrol, piceid, tyrosol, gallic, caffeic and ferulic acids), which were affected by the sur lie time. With these cross-reactions, the biological properties of the SW were also modulated. The results showed that the long period of ageing decreased the antioxidant potential in all samples. This work demonstrates that the sur lie is more important than the production method itself, due to its ability to modulate the necessary changes to achieve the specific objective.

The aim of this work is to investigate the in vitro acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrycholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activities of essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation from the leaves of Prunus armeniaca and P. domestica in relation to their composition, analysed by Gas Chromatography&ndash, Flame Ionization Detector (GC-FID) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analyses, at different times. Moreover, considering the role of free radicals in the progression of neurodegenerative disorders, the antioxidant properties of essential oils were investigated by using, 2&rsquo, azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and &beta, carotene bleaching tests. The relative antioxidant capacity index (RACI) was used to achieve more comprehensive comparison between analysed antioxidant effects of essential oils. P. armeniaca oils were more active than P. domestica oils against AChE. Against BChE, the most active was the essential oil from P. domestica leaves collected in August with an IC50 value of 95.80 &mu, g/mL. This oil exerted the highest inhibitory activity of lipid peroxidation with IC50 values of 11.15 and 11.39 &mu, g/mL after 30 and 60 min of incubation, respectively. All samples demonstrated a remarkable ABTS radicals scavenging activity, with IC50 values in the range 0.45&ndash, 0.57 &mu, g/mL in comparison to the positive control, ascorbic acid.

Tyrosinase is a multifunctional copper-containing oxidase which catalyses the oxidation of tyrosine to produce melanin. The alteration in melanin biosynthesis occurs in many diseases. The pigment has a protecting role against skin photo-carcinogenesis, but anomalous melanin pigmentation is an aesthetic problem in human beings. Moreover, the formation of neuromelanin in human brain could contribute to the neurodegeneration associated with Parkinson’s disease. Finally, tyrosinase is also responsible for undesired browning in fruits and vegetables. These topics encouraged the search for new inhibitors of this enzyme for pharmaceutical, cosmetic and foods industries. This review is to report recent trends in the discovery of tyrosinase inhibitors from plant sources, to provide a rationale for the continued study of natural tyrosinase inhibitors, and to recognise the potential therapeutic rewards associated with the identification of these agents.

There is currently much interest in pomegranate juice because of the high content of phenolic compounds. Moreover, the interest in the separation of bioactive compounds from natural sources has remarkably grown. In this work, for the first time, the Punica granatum L. (pomegranate) juice—clarified by using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polysulfone (PSU) hollow fiber (HF) membranes prepared in the laboratory—was screened for its antioxidant properties by using different in vitro assays, namely 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), and β-carotene bleaching tests, and for its potential inhibitory activity of the carbohydrate-hydrolysing enzymes, α-amylase and α-glucosidase. The effects of clarification on quality characteristics of the juice were also investigated in terms of total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ascorbic acid. Experimental results indicated that PVDF membranes presented a lower retention towards healthy phytochemicals in comparison to PSU membranes. Accordingly, the juice clarified with PVDF membranes showed the best antioxidant activity. Moreover, the treatment with PVDF membranes produced a clarified juice with 2.9-times fold higher α-amylase inhibitory activity in comparison to PSU (IC50 value of 75.86 vs. 221.31 μg/mL, respectively). The same trend was observed using an α-glucosidase inhibition test. These results highlight the great potential of the clarified juice as a source of functional constituents.

Studies have proven the relationship between cutaneous vasculature abnormalities and dermatological disorders, but to image vasculature noninvasivelyitalicin vivo/italic, advanced optical imaging techniques are required. In this study, we imaged a palm of a healthy volunteer and three subjects with cutaneous abnormalities with photoacoustic tomography (PAT) and optical coherence tomography with angiography extension (OCTA). Capillaries in the papillary dermis that are too small to be discerned with PAT are visualized with OCTA. From our results, we speculate that the PA signal from the palm is mostly from hemoglobin in capillaries rather than melanin, knowing that melanin concentration in volar skin is significantly smaller than that in other areas of the skin. We present for the first time OCTA images of capillaries along with the PAT images of the deeper vessels, demonstrating the complementary effective imaging depth range and the visualization capabilities of PAT and OCTA for imaging human skinitalicin vivo/italic. The proposed imaging system in this study could significantly improve treatment monitoring of dermatological diseases associated with cutaneous vasculature abnormalities.

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory immune-mediated skin disease. It affects most races, does not have any sexual predilections and can manifest at any age of life. Psoriasis is more frequent in certain racial groups and geographical areas. For these reasons, both genetic and environmental factors could be considered. In this review, we discuss promising natural compounds, their molecular targets and mechanisms, which may help the further design of new anti-psoriasis agents. Literature documents the widespread use of herbal remedies worldwide, and the presence of some phytochemicals supports the efficacy of some botanical treatments. The research on natural products has greatly contributed to the progress in the treatment of skin diseases such as psoriasis and many of these compounds are now being used. Understanding the mechanism of these molecules will contribute to the development of more specific preventive strategies for the treatment of psoriasis.

BACKGROUND: The replacement of synthetic antioxidants by safe natural antioxidants fosters research on the screening of vegetables and food as sources of new antioxidants. Moreover, oxidative degeneration of cells is associated with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. On the basis of these considerations this work aimed to investigate the antioxidant properties [by using the diphenyl picryl hydrazyl, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) and ferric reducing ability of plasma assays, and the β-carotene bleaching test] and the anti-cholinesterase activity of Citrus aurantifolia peel and leaves from different areas of growth. RESULTS: Methanol extracts of the peel and leaves demonstrated the strongest radical scavenging activity. A similar trend was observed with the reducing ability, with values from 112.1 to 146.0 µmol L−1 Fe(II) g−1. The relationship between phenol and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity was statistically investigated. Based on analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography, the most abundant flavonoids found in C. aurantifolia extracts were apigenin, rutin, quercetin, kaempferol and nobiletin. n-Hexane fractions of both peel and leaves showed a good acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity with IC50 values in the range 91.4-107.4 µg mL−1. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes as most common components. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study suggest a potential use of C. aurantifolia peel and leaves for supplements for human health. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry

Fruits of Ficus carica cultivar Dottato from Italy were examined to assess how the stage of ripeness influences their chemical composition, antioxidant activity, pancreatic lipase inhibition and antiproliferative properties on C32 melanoma cells. Fruits of the first harvest (June) showed a major content in furanocoumarins and pyranocoumarins whereas the fruits collected in September showed the highest polyphenolic content (11.9 mg/g of dried material). The total 70% ethanol extracts were portioned between methanol/water and n-hexane, dichloromethane and ethyl acetate, successively. Coumarins and fatty acid esters were the most abundant components of the n-hexane fractions. The dichloromethane fractions showed as major components 2 furanocoumarins (rutarenin and pimpinellin). The total extracts of F. carica cv. Dottato exhibited a significant dose-dependent antiradical and inhibition of lipid peroxidation activity, particularly fruits of the first harvest (June) that showed the highest activity with IC50 of 1.64 mg/mL and 0.004 mg/mL, respectively. Among single fractions, the ethyl acetate fraction from the second harvest (July) showed the highest antiradical activity with an IC50 value of 0.05 mg/mL while the dichloromethane fraction showed the best inhibition of lipid peroxidation with an IC50 value of 0.02 mg/mL. Dichloromethane fractions showed the highest photodynamic cytotoxicity with an IC50

The interest in medicinal plant research and in the aroma-therapeutic effects of essential oils in humans has increased in recent years, especially for the treatment of pathologies of relevant social impact such as Alzheimer's disease. The present study was taken up to evaluate the antioxidant capacity and the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activity of the peel essential oils from three Citrus species, C. aurantifolia Swingle, C. aurantium L., and C. bergamia Risso & Poit. Essential oils were analyzed by GC and GC-MS and they contain mainly limonene, α-pinene, β-pinene, γ-terpinene, and linalyl acetate. C. aurantifolia oil showed the highest radical scavenging activity on ABTS assay (IC50 value of 19.6 μg/mL), while C. bergamia exhibited a good antioxidant activity evaluated by the β-carotene bleaching test (IC50= 42.6 μg/mL after 60 min of incubation). C. aurantifolia inhibited more selectively AChE. Obtained data suggest a potential use of Citrus oils as a valuable new flavor with functional properties for food or nutraceutical products with particular relevance to supplements for the elderly. Practical Application: The demonstrated antioxidant activity and procholinesterase properties of Citrus essential oils suggested their use as a new potential source of natural antioxidant to added as extra-nutrient for using in food industries as a valuable new flavor with functional properties for food or nutraceutical products with particular relevance to supplements for the elderly.

The metal chelating activity, antioxidant properties, and the effect on carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes of Ethiopian spice blend Berbere have been investigated. Berbere contains a total amount of phenols corresponding to 71.3 mg chlorogenic acid equivalent per gram of extract and a total flavonoid content of 32.5 mg quercetin equivalent per gram of extract. An increase of the resistance towards forced oxidation was obtained when Berbere was added to sunflower oil. In order to evaluate the bioactivity of the non-polar constituents, an n-hexane extract was obtained from Berbere. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of 19 fatty acids constituents (98.1% of the total oil content). Among them, linoleic acid was the major component (72.0% of the total lipids). The ethanolic extract had the highest ferric-reducing ability power (35.4 μM Fe(II)/g) and DPPH scavenging activity with a concentration giving 50% inhibition (IC(50)) value of 34.8 μg/ml. Moreover, this extract exhibited good hypoglycemic activity against α-amylase (IC(50) = 78.3 μg/ml). In conclusion, Ethiopian spice blend Berbere showed promising antioxidant and hypoglycemic activity via the inhibition of carbohydrate digestive enzymes. These activities may be of interest from functional point of view and for the revalorization of the spice blend in gastronomy also outside the African country.

This study evaluated the in vitro inhibition of carbohydrate-hydrolysing enzymes, the stimulation of insulin secretion, and the in vivo metabolic effects in mice of Citrus medica L. cv Diamante peel extract. The quantitative analysis of selected phytochemicals were determined to investigate their relationship with the biological activities. Citrus extract exhibited an inhibitory activity against both α-amylase and α-glucosidase with IC 50 values of 258.7 and 263.2 μg/ml, respectively. Measurements of the effects of peel extract on the mouse insulinoma MIN6 β-cells indicated that it did exert direct stimulatory effects on the exocytotic release of insulin in a concentration-dependent manner. The supplementation of the C. medica cv Diamante was able to reduce plasma glucose (GLU) concentration and lowered the levels of plasma cholesterol (COL) and triglycerides (TG). The obtained results underline the potential health benefits as a result of consuming C. medica cv Diamante and suggest that it could be used as new potential source with functional properties for food or nutraceutical products.

The object of the present study was to investigate the in vitro antioxidant properties and cholinesterase inhibitory activity of Salvia leriifolia Benth extracts and fractions. The functional role of herbs and spices and their constituents is a hot topic in food-related plant research. Salvia species have been used since ancient times in folk medicine for cognitive brain function and have been subjected to extensive research. Thus, we hypothesize that S leriifolia , because of its functional properties, would be a good candidate to use as a nutraceutical product for improving memory in the elderly or patients affected by Alzheimer disease (ad). To test this hypothesis, we examined the cholinesterase inhibitory activity using the modified colorimetric Ellman's method against acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). The n -hexane exhibited the highest activity, with inhibitory concentration 50% (IC 50 ) values of 0.59 and 0.21 mg/mL, for AChE and BChE, respectively. This extract was fractionated, and 9 of these fractions (A-I) were obtained and tested. Fraction G, characterized by the presence of sesquiterpenes as major components, was the most active against AChE (IC 50 = 0.05 mg/mL). Because oxidative stress is a critical event in the pathogenesis of AD, we decided to screen the antioxidant activity (AA) using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl test, β -carotene bleaching test, and bovine brain peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid) assay. The ethyl acetate extract showed the highest activity, with IC 50 values of 2 and 33 μ g/mL on β -carotene bleaching test and thiobarbituric acid test, respectively. These results suggest potential health benefits of S leriifolia extracts. However, this finding requires additional investigation in vivo.

The objective of this study was to develop a method based on polarization-sensitive optical coherent tomography (PSOCT) for the imaging and quantification of degenerative changes associated with Achilles tendon rupture. Ex vivo PSOCT examinations were performed in 24 patients. The study involved samples from 14 ruptured Achilles tendons, 4 tendinopathic Achilles tendons and 6 patellar tendons (collected during total knee replacement) as non-ruptured controls. The samples were imaged in both intensity and phase retardation modes within 24 h after surgery, and birefringence was quantified. The samples were fixed and processed for histology immediately after imaging. Slides were assessed twice in a blind manner to provide a semi-quantitative histological score of degeneration. In-depth micro structural imaging was demonstrated. Collagen disorganization and high cellularity were observable by PSOCT as the main markers associated with pathological features. Quantitative assessment of birefringence and penetration depth found significant differences between non-ruptured and ruptured tendons. Microstructure abnormalities were observed in the microstructure of two out of four tendinopathic samples. PSOCT has the potential to explore in situ and in-depth pathological change associated with Achilles tendon rupture, and could help to delineate abnormalities in tendinopathic samples in vivo.

The metal chelating activity, antioxidant properties and the effect on carbohydrate-hydrolysing enzyme inhibition of Muscari comosum extracts have been investigated. M. comosum bulbs contain a total amount of the phenols with a value of 56.6 mg chlorogenic acid equivalent per gram of extract and a flavonoid content of 23.4 mg quercetin equivalent per gram of extract. In order to evaluate the non-polar constituents, n-hexane extract was obtained. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis revealed the presence of fatty acids and ethyl esters as major constituents, with different aldehydes and alkanes as minor components. Ethanolic extract had the highest ferric-reducing ability power (66.7 μM Fe(II)/g) and DPPH scavenging activity with a concentration giving 50% inhibition (IC₅₀) value of 40.9 μg/ml. Moreover, this extract exhibited a good hypoglycaemic activity with IC₅₀ values of 81.3 and 112.8 μg/ml for α-amylase and α-glucosidase, respectively. In conclusion, M. comosum bulbs show promising antioxidant and hypoglycaemic activity via the inhibition of carbohydrate digestive enzymes. These activities may be of interest from a functional point of view and for the revalorization of this ancient non-cultivated vegetable of Mediterranean traditional gastronomy.

The study of flow dynamics in complex geometry vessels is highly important in various biomedical applications where the knowledge of the mechanic interactions between the moving fluid and the housing media plays a key role for the determination of the parameters of interest, including the effect of blood flow on the possible rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. Doppler Optical Coherence Tomography (DOCT), as a functional extension of Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), is an optic, non-contact, noninvasive technique able to achieve detailed analysis of the flow/vessel interactions. It allows simultaneous high resolution imaging (∼10 µm typical) of the morphology and composition of the vessel and determination of the flow velocity distribution along the measured cross-section. We applied DOCT system to image high-resolution one-dimensional and multi-dimensional velocity distribution profiles of Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids flowing in vessels with complex geometry, including Y-shaped and T-shaped vessels, vessels with aneurism, bifurcated vessels with deployed stent and scaffolds. The phantoms were built to mimic typical shapes of human blood vessels, enabling preliminary analysis of the interaction between flow dynamics and the (complex) geometry of the vessels and also to map the related velocity profiles at several inlet volume flow rates. Feasibility studies for quantitative observation of the turbulence of flows arising within the complex geometry vessels are discussed. In addition, DOCT technique was also applied for monitoring cerebral mouse blood flow in vivo. Two-dimensional DOCT images of complex flow velocity profiles in blood vessel phantoms and in vivo sub-cranial mouse blood flow velocities distributions are presented.

We have applied a compact low power rapid scanning Doppler Optical Coherence Tomography system to monitor multi-dimensional velocity profiles within the complex vessels and simultaneous real-time non-invasive imaging of skin tissues morphology in vivo, in the wavelength range of 1.3–1.5 nm. Optical clearing of skin tissues has been utilized to achieve depth of OCT images up to 1.7 mm. Current approach enables applying low-power (0.4–0.5 mW) and low-noise broadband near-infrared light sources and obtaining OCT images with down to 12 μm spatial resolution. Two-dimensional time-domain OCT images of complex flow velocity profiles in blood vessel phantom and in vivo subcutaneous human skin tissues are presented. The effect of optical clearing on in vivo images is demonstrated and discussed.

The essential oils of Origanum ehrenbergii and O. syriacum collected in Lebanon were analysed by GC and GC–MS and evaluated for their anticholinesterase, NO production inhibitory activities, and antioxidant properties. O. ehrenbergi essential oil was characterised by the presence of 37 components, representing 94.9% of the total oil of which thymol (19%) and p -cymene (16.1%) were the main abundant compounds. Thirty-six compounds characterised the O. syriacum essential oil, representing 90.6% of the total oil. The most abundant components were thymol (24.7%) and carvacrol (17.6%). O. ehrenbergii demonstrated interesting scavenging effects on DPPH with an IC 50 value of 0.99 μg/ml. In addition, both O. ehrenbergii and O. syriacum oils inhibited oxidation of linoleic acid after 30 min of incubation, as well as after 60 min of incubation with IC 50 values of 42.1 and 33.6 μg/ml, and 46.9 and 58.9 μg/ml, respectively. Interestingly, O. ehrenbergii oil inhibited NO production in the murine monocytic macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 with an IC 50 value of 66.4 μg/ml. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibition was assessed by modifications of the Ellman’s method. O. ehrenbergii exhibited a strong activity against both cholinesterases with IC 50 values of 0.3 μg/ml. The data suggest that O. ehrenbergii and O. syriacum oils could be used as a valuable new flavour with functional properties for food or nutriceutical products with particular relevance to supplements for the elderly.

Doppler Optical Coherence Tomography (DOCT) is a noninvasive optical diagnostic technique, which is well suited for the quantitative mapping of microflow velocity profiles and the analysis of flow-vessel interactions. The noninvasive imaging and quantitative analysis of blood flow in the complex-structured vascular bed is required in many biomedical applications, including those where the determination of mechanical properties of vessels or the knowledge of the mechanic interactions between the flow and the housing medium plays a key role. The change of microvessel wall elasticity could be a potential indicator of cardiovascular disease at the very early stage, whilst monitoring the blood flow dynamics and associated temporal and spatial variations in vessel's wall shear stress could help predicting the possible rupture of atherosclerotic plaques. The results of feasibility studies of application of DOCT for the evaluation of mechanical properties of elastic vessel model are presented. The technique has also been applied for imaging of sub-cranial rat blood flow in vivo.

From the aerial parts of Salsola oppositofolia, S. soda and S. tragus an alkaloid extract was obtained and tested to evaluate antioxidant and anti-cholinesterase activities. The in vitro study of the antioxidant activity by the DPPH method revealed a significant activity of Salsola alkaloid extracts with IC(50) values ranging from 16.30 microg/mL for S. oppositifolia to 26.17 microg/mL for S. tragus. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibitory activities were evaluated. S. tragus alkaloid extract exerted the highest inhibitory activity against AChE (IC(50) of 30.2 microg/mL) and BChE (IC(50) of 26.5 microg/mL). Interestingly, S. soda and S. oppositifolia exhibited a selective inhibitory activity against BChE with IC(50) values of 34.3 microg/mL and 32.7 microg/mL, respectively. Tetrahydroisoquinoline alkaloids were identified and quantified by GC/MS analysis.

During the past decade, it has been reported that the consumption of certain foods and spices such as pepper may have a positive effect on health. The present study evaluates the influence of fruit ripening on total phenols, flavonoids, carotenoids and capsaicinoids content and antioxidant, hypoglycaemic and anticholinesterase activities of Capsicum chinense Jacq. cv Habanero. The chemical investigation showed a different composition between the two stages of ripening (immature and mature). Generally, the concentration of carotenoids and capsaicinoids increased as the peppers reached maturity, whereas the concentration of phenols declined. The immature fruits showed the highest radical scavenging activity (IC 50 of 97.14 μg/ml). On the contrary, the antioxidant activity evaluated by the β-carotene bleaching test showed a significant activity for mature peppers (IC 50 value of 4.57 μg/ml after 30 min of incubation). Mature peppers inhibited α-amylase with an IC 50 of 130.67 μg/ml. The lipophilic fractions of both mature and immature peppers exhibited an interesting and selective inhibitory activity against α-amylase with IC 50 values of 29.58 and 9.88 μg/ml, respectively. Both total extracts of mature and immature peppers inhibited butyrylcholinesterase selectively. The obtained results underline the potential health benefits as a result of consuming C. chinense Habanero and suggest that it could be used as new valuable flavour with functional properties for food or nutriceutical products on the basis of the high content of phytochemicals and found biological properties.