Search

The purpose of this study was to characterize ethanol extracts from leaves and flowers of two ecotypes (PL—intended for industrial plantations and KC—intended for cut flowers) of Lavandula angustifolia Mill. The plant was cultivated in 2019 in southern Poland as part of a long-term research plan to develop new varieties resistant to difficult environmental conditions. The collected leaves and flowers were used to prepare ethanol extracts, which were then analyzed in terms of phytochemical composition and antioxidant, bactericidal, and fungicidal properties. Using UPLC techniques, 22 compounds belonging to phenolic acids and flavonoids were identified. UPLC test results indicated that ethanol extracts from leaves and flowers differ in phytochemical composition. Lower amounts of phenolic acids and flavonoids were identified in leaf extracts than in flower extracts. The predominant substances in the flower extracts were rosmarinic acid (829.68–1229.33 µg/g), ferulic acid glucoside III (810.97–980.55 µg/g), and ferulic acid glucoside II (789.30–885.06 µg/g). Ferulic acid glucoside II (3981.95–6561.19 µg/g), ferulic acid glucoside I (2349.46–5503.81 µg/g), and ferulic acid glucoside III (1303.84–2774.17 µg/g) contained the highest amounts in the ethanol extracts of the leaves. The following substances were present in the extracts in trace amounts or at low levels: apigenin, kaempferol, and caftaric acid. Leaf extracts of the PL ecotype quantitatively (µg/g) contained more phytochemicals than leaf extracts of the KC ecotype. The results obtained in this study indicate that antioxidant activity depends on the ecotype. Extracts from the PL ecotype have a better ability to eliminate free radicals than extracts from the KC ecotype. At the same time, it was found that the antioxidant activity (total phenolic content, ABTS•+, DPPH•, and FRAP) of PL ecotype leaf extracts was higher (24.49, 177.75, 164.88, and 89.10 μmol (TE)/g) than that determined in flower extracts (15.84, 125.05, 82.35, and 54.64 μmol (TE)/g). The test results confirmed that leaf and flower extracts, even at low concentrations (0.313–0.63%), significantly inhibit the growth of selected Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and Candida yeasts. Inhibition of mold growth was observed at a dose extract of at least 1 mL/100 mL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorghum is a plant belonging to the Poaceae family. It is drought-resistant and has low soil requirements. In the face of climate change, it is increasingly cultivated in Europe. Poland is a country with great agricultural potential; it is thus important to develop effective and economic methods of agricultural production, which is confirmed by the introduction of sorghum into cultivation. The aim of this study was to characterize the composition of bioactive compounds (i.e., phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, and phytosterols) and VOCs in sorghum grain of two varieties, i.e., white 'Sweet Caroline' and red 'Sweet Susana' grown in the temperate climate (Pętkowo, Poland (52°12′40″ N 17°15′31″ E)). The following tests were carried out: analysis of phenolic acids, flavonoids, carotenoids, phytosterols, antioxidant activity (ABTS), free phenolic acids (FPAs); elemental analysis; and water, fat and starch content analysis. Based on the conducted research, it was concluded that Poland has appropriate conditions for growing sorghum, as the content of bioactive (antioxidant) compounds was at a similar level to those grown in tropical and subtropical climates. Of the nine phenolic acids and seven flavonoids determined, the highest concentrations in both sorghum grain varieties were found for ferulic, p-coumaric and protocatechuic acids. The content of ferulic acid was three times higher in Sweet Caroline grains than in Sweet Susana grains. Differences in the content of these compounds may be the result of genetic differences between the Sweet Susana and Sweet Caroline varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants contain bioactive substances and secondary metabolites that have a variety of functions, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. In this study, the content of bioactive compounds in five medicinal plants was determined, i.e., Plantago major L., Armoracia rusticana, Hypericum perforatum L., Rumex acetosa L., and Urtica dioica L., from 38 locations. Additionally, the antimicrobial effect of extracts of bioactive compounds from the above-mentioned plants was checked. The experiment used an original method of extracting bioactive compounds. Purpose of the research: the assessment of antimicrobial activity and chemical characterization of extracts obtained using our own method of isolating bioactive compounds from green parts of medical plants in Poland. Based on the research, the presence of bioactive compounds, i.e., phenolic acids and flavonoids, was found in the tested plant extracts. The results of this study suggest that the geographic parameters of the locations where these plants grow have different effects on their biochemical composition and biological activity. The results showed that all tested plants had significant antibacterial activities. Rumex acetose L. showed the highest antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Salmonella enteritidis. These studies supplement the existing literature on the subject with information about the antimicrobial properties of the tested plant extracts that can be used in herbal medicine. The results have significant implications for the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmetic sectors, establishing a foundation for future research in this area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, five varieties of hybrid grapes were processed into juice to assess the influence of variety, destemming process and enzyme addition on juice quality, including yield, physicochemical properties and bioactive compounds. The results highlighted that while the processing methods had some impact on juice quality, the inherent grape variety remained the most significant factor. Although similar treatments were applied to all varieties, there were differences in the quality attributes of the juice. In general, red grape juice had a higher polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity than white grape juice. Four phenolic acids, eleven flavonols, five flavan-3-ols and five anthocyanins were identified. While the polyphenolic profile of each sample depended on the treatment and the variety, regardless of the variety, destemming was found to increase the yield by around 10–15%, while the addition of enzyme improved the yield by around 20–30%. Although the addition of enzymes led to a higher polyphenol content, it changed the color profile of the juice as a result of the pigment's skin extraction. In contrast, the destemming process did not influence the color of the juice, but at the same time, it reduced the health benefits due to the removal of potential bioactive compounds from the stems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antioxidant properties and phenolic acid content in the pulp of five pumpkin species were evaluated. The following species cultivated in Poland were included: Cucurbita maxima 'Bambino', Cucurbita pepo 'Kamo Kamo', Cucurbita moschata 'Butternut', Cucurbita ficifolia 'Chilacayote Squash', and Cucurbita argyrosperma 'Chinese Alphabet'. The content of polyphenolic compounds was determined by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with HPLC, while the total content of phenols and flavonoids and antioxidant properties were determined by spectrophotometric methods. Ten phenolic compounds (protocatechuic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, syringic acid, ferulic acid, salicylic acid, kaempferol) were identified. Phenolic acids were the most abundant compounds; the amount of syringic acid was found to be the highest, ranging from 0.44 (C. ficifolia) to 6.61 mg∙100 g−1 FW (C. moschata). Moreover, two flavonoids were detected: catechin and kaempferol. They were found at their highest level of content in C. moschata pulp (catechins: 0.31 mg∙100 g−1 FW; kaempferol: 0.06 mg∙100 g−1 FW), with the lowest amount detected in C. ficifolia (catechins: 0.15 mg∙100 g−1 FW; kaempferol below the limit of detection). Analysis of antioxidant potential showed significant differences depending on the species and the test used. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of C. maxima was 1.03 times higher than C. ficiofilia pulp and 11.60 times higher than C. pepo. In the case of the FRAP assay, the multiplicity of FRAP radical activity in C. maxima pulp was 4.65 times higher than C. Pepo pulp and only 1.08 times higher compared to C. ficifolia pulp. The study findings show the high health-promoting value of pumpkin pulp; however, the content of phenolic acids and antioxidant properties are species dependent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat is of significant economic importance due to its high yield potential and high nutritional value as well as the technological usefulness of the grain. Field experiments were carried out in the years 2015–2018 in southeastern Poland. A three-factor experiment was used to study the influence of wheat cultivars (hybrid—cvs. Hybred and Hymack; common—cv. Batuta), cultivation systems (organic—ORG, integrated—INT, conventional—CON) and of environmental conditions (using two different locations: Dukla and Nowy Lubliniec) on wheat grains' phenolic acid (PA) content and grain yield. The research confirms the genetic determinants of grain yield and PA composition in wheat grains, and their different accumulation levels of ferulic acid and other PAs—with the exception of sinapic, p-coumaric, and salicilic—with hybrid cultivars performing better than common cultivars. The ORG system, compared to the INT and CON systems, caused a larger increase in total acids (TPAs)—especially of ferulic, vanillic, and syringic acids—in grains of cv. Hybred, and of caffeic acid in cv. Hymack, compared to cv. Batuta. The lack of interaction between the cultivation systems and the cultivars indicates that similar reactions to increases in grain yield due to increases in the intensity of cultivation take place in cultivars. The more favourable environmental conditions in Dukla favoured the accumulation of ferulic, p-coumaric, vanillic, syringic, p-hydroxybenzoic, and protocatechuic acids in the grains. TPAs were higher by 4.3% and the grain yield by 4.0% on average. Variable conditions in the season 2015/2016 resulted in higher yields of hybrid cvs. grains than of common cv., which proves the greater yielding stability of these cultivars in years with adverse weather conditions. The season 2016/2017 had less rainfall and faced high temperatures during grain ripening, favouring a higher PA content and TPAs, especially in the grains of cv. Hybred. This suggests a need to further assess the genetic progress of hybrid wheat cultivars cultivated under different environmental conditions in terms of their PA composition and content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of the work was to determine the intraspecific variability of the stinging nettle, in respect of the mass of leaves and their chemical composition, including the content of phenolic compounds and assimilative pigments. The objects of the study were 10 populations of nettle, originating from the eastern and southern part of Poland. The results obtained indicate a high level of variability between and within the populations investigated but not strictly related to their geographical locations. The mass of the leaves ranged from 0.19 to 0.28 kg dry weight (DW)/plant (Coefficient of variation (CV) = 16.33%). Using HPLC–DAD, four phenolic acids were detected, i.e., caffeoylmalic (570.97–1367.40 mg/100 g DW), chlorogenic (352.79–1070.83 mg/100 g DW), neochlorogenic (114.56–284.77 mg/100 g DW) and cichoric (58.31–189.52 mg/100 g DW) acids, with the last one differentiating populations to the highest degree (CV = 48.83%). All of the analyzed populations met the requirements of the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph Eur 10th) concerning the minimum content of caffeoylmalic and chlorogenic acids in nettle leaves (not less than 0.3%). Within the flavonoid fraction, two compounds were identified, namely rutoside (917.05–1937.43 mg/100 g DW, CV = 21.32%) and hyperoside (42.01–289.45 mg/100 g DW; CV = 55.26%). The level of chlorophyll a ranged from 3.82 to 4.49 mg/g DW, chlorophyll b from 1.59 to 2.19 mg/g DW, while the content of carotenoids varied from 2.34 to 2.60 mg/100 g DW. Given all the traits investigated, the level of a population's polymorphism (CV) was visibly higher within a population than between populations. Population no. 4 was distinguished by the highest mass of leaves, and the highest content of rutoside, while population no. 2 was distinguished by the highest content of hyperoside, caffeoylmalic and chlorogenic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant extracts are a source of valuable ingredients that can be used in many industries. This paper presents research on the content of selected bioactive compounds in extracts obtained from various plant materials. Raw materials have a documented use in traditional medicine not only in Poland. The tested plants were: bitter melon (fruit), elderberry (flowers, fruit, leaves), wild rose (fruit, flesh, seeds), mountain ash (fruit), guelder rose (fruit), and sea buckthorn (fruit, leaves, pomace). The main goal of these tests is to indicate the potential raw materials that may constitute an alternative source of bioactive compounds with antimicrobial activity. The plant material was tested for the content of bioactive antioxidant compounds and possible antimicrobial activity. The content of polyphenols (phenolic acids and flavonoids) was analyzed using UPLC/PDA, sterols, organic acids, and other bioactive compounds. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined. The total free phenolic acids (TPC) and total free flavonoids (TFC) of all plant raw materials was varied and ranged from 0.21 (mg RUTE/1 g of extract) to 38.30 mg RUTE/1 g of extract) for TFC. The concentration of sterols was, on average, about 10 mg/1 g of extract. The value of approx. 20 mg/1 g of the extract was recorded for bitter melon and beach rose. The content of organic acids was about 1.5 mg/1 g of the extract to even 13 mg/1 g of the extract for sea buckthorn berries. The most sensitive to the extracts' activity were the following bacteria: M. luteus, P. mirabilis, P. fragii, S. enteritidis, and E. coli. The tested plant materials can be used in various industries as a source of bioactive compounds of an antibacterial nature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the paper was to evaluate the phenolic acid content and antioxidant properties in potato cultivars with coloured flesh and bright flesh. The study material included eight cultivars of edible potato grown in a temperate climate in Poland. Five cultivars were potato tubers with coloured flesh: "Rote Emma", "Blue Salad", "Vitelotte", "Red Emmalie", and "Blue Congo"; and three were potato tubers with bright flesh: "Bella Rosa", "Lord", and "Tajfun". In all potato samples under study, four phenolic acids were identified: chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, p-coumaric acid, and caffeic acid. The predominant acid was chlorogenic acid, the levels of which ranged from 62.95 mg·100 g−1 FM to 126.77 mg·100 g−1 FM. The total concentration of the identified phenolic acids was diverse and depended on the genotype of the cultivar and the tuber flesh colour, with coloured-fleshed potatoes having higher phenolic acid contents in comparison to bright-fleshed potato cultivars. The average concentration of phenolic acids in the samples was 89.19 mg∙100 g−1 FM, and the average concentrations of the individual phenolic acids identified were as follows: chlorogenic acid (86.19 mg∙100 g−1 FM), gallic acid (1.18 mg∙100 g−1 FM), p-coumaric acid (0.64 mg∙100 g−1 FM), and caffeic acid (1.18 mg∙100 g−1 FM). In addition, three groups of anthocyanins were identified: pelargonidin-3,5-di-O-glucoside, peonidin-3,5-di-O-glucoside, and petunidin-3,5-di-O-glucoside. Anthocyanins were not found in the "Lord" or "Tajfun" varieties characterised by white tuber flesh. The predominant pigment was petunidin-3,5-di-O-glucoside, with an average content of 23.15 mg∙100 g−1 FM, and the highest value was observed in the "Vitelotte" variety (51.27 mg∙100 g−1 FM). The antioxidant activity of the flesh of the potatoes under study was diverse depending on flesh colour. The FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assay indicated higher antioxidant activity of coloured-fleshed potato cultivars. The highest concentration was identified in the "Vitelotte" cultivar flesh and was 114% higher than in the "Lord" cultivar. Similar dependencies were found in the case of the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay; however, in this case, the "Vitelotte" cultivar flesh demonstrated nearly 6.4 times higher antioxidant activity than the "Lord" cultivar. Summarizing our own research, we can conclude that potato varieties with coloured flesh are characterised by a higher content of biologically active substances, including phenolic acids, and antioxidant properties compared to potato tubers with bright flesh. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to describe the physicochemical properties, with particular emphasis on nutritional value, of apples 'Chopin' and clone 'JB'. The new cultivars were compared with the cultivars commonly cultivated in Polish orchards, namely 'Gala Brookfield', 'Šampion', 'Ligol' and 'Idared'. The study focuses on the evaluation of physicochemical characteristic (firmness, soluble solids content and titratable acidity) and the content of monosaccharides, sucrose and organic acids based on HPLC with an RI detector. In addition, the nutritional value of apples were described separately for the flesh and peel of the fruit, focusing on the assessment of the antioxidant activity and the content of total polyphenols, phenolic acids, flavonols using the HPLC technique. 'Chopin' and 'JB' clone apples are characterized by very high acidity, over 1%, which is related to the high content of malic acid. The red flesh 'JB' clone is characterized by a high content of bioactive compounds in both the peel and flesh of apples. High temperatures and a lack of precipitation contribute to a higher polyphenol content in apples, which proves that apart from the genetic features of the cultivars, the climatic conditions also determine the nutritional value of the fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, the roots of valerian (Valeriana officinalis L.) and lovage (Levisticum officinale Koch.) from the organic and low-input conventional cultivation systems were subjected to the analysis of selected groups of phenolic compounds (phenolic acids, flavonoids) and antioxidant activity. Plants were grown in two consecutive vegetation seasons in the experimental plots located in western Poland. Phenolic acids and flavonoids were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC/UV–Vis), while the antioxidant activity of the samples was measured with the use of DPPH radical scavenging activity assay. The concentrations of phenolic acids (sum) and flavonoids (sum) were found to be higher in the conventional lovage roots, as compared to the organically grown lovage roots, while in the case of valerian, no significant effects of the cultivation system on the levels of the sums of these analyzed compounds were found. Furthermore, no significant effect of the cultivation system on the antioxidant activity of herbs was observed. Additional efforts could be invested in enhancing the potential of organic medicinal plants to consistently present the expected high concentrations of health-promoting antioxidants, which could be effectively brought through their post-harvest handling, storage and processing, and thus meet consumers' expectations at the stage when they reach the market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenolic acids are an important component of honey. Literature data indicate their pro-health properties and diversified content in different varieties. Therefore, the aim of our study was to evaluate the content of phenolic acids in bee honey. The material for the research was 49 samples of honey obtained from beekeepers from Poland. Selected phenolic acids were determined by HPLC with PDA detection. Additionally, total phenolic content (TPC), color intensity, color on the Pfund scale, water content, electrical conductivity, and FRAP were assessed. A higher trans-ferulic acid content is accompanied by a stronger free radical scavenging ability. It was shown that buckwheat honeys are characterized by a high TPC value (196.59 mg GAE/100 g), color intensity (2109.2 mAU), color on the Pfund scale (159.8 mm Pfund), and high activity in the FRAP assay (0.403 equivalent of µmol Fe2+/mL). The median obtained in the DPPH test for this honey variety was 41.1%. Moreover, the highest median of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (3.129 mg/100 g) in buckwheat honey was shown. Buckwheat honeys have promising antioxidant properties and should be included in diets low in antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to determine phenolic profile and antioxidant activity of the selected edible flowers grown in Poland. A significant variation was observed in the both antioxidant activity and total phenolic content. Marigold flowers were characterized by the highest total phenolic content (89.22 mg GEA/g dry weight). In turn, begonia flowers exhibited the highest total flavonoids and phenolic acids content (21.96 mg QE/g dry weight, and 8.60 mg CAE/g dry weight, respectively). Taking into account the type of flowers, begonia and marigold flowers were the richest in phenolic acids. Caffeic and p-coumaric acids were the most frequent ones in the edible flowers grown in Poland. While gallic and p-coumaric acids were the prevalent ones in terms of their content. The begonia and marigold flowers contained quercetin and kaempferol, while hesperetin and naringenin were present in the chives flowers. The marigold flowers were characterized by a particularly high content of quercetin, and also exhibited the highest total antioxidant activity. The methanolic extracts of marigold and begonia flowers were characterized by the highest antioxidant activity, reducing activity, as well as the highest ability to neutralize free radicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The number of consumers seeking safe and health-beneficial foods is systematically increasing. Consumers demand more environmentally friendly and safe food options coming from organic farming. Blackcurrants fruits are a perfect source of biological active compounds, such as vitamin C, polyphenols and flavonoids as well anthocyanins. Organic agricultural practices have modified the level of bioactive compounds in blackcurrant fruits. The novelty and the aim of the presented study was to compare the concentrations of selected health-promoting antioxidants in fruits of three blackcurrants ('Ben Adler', 'Tiben' and 'Titania') grown in organic and conventional orchards in Poland. For bioactive compound determination, the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was used. The obtained results showed that organic blackcurrant fruits contained significantly more vitamin C (9.4 mg/100 g f.w.), total polyphenols (189.2 mg/100 g f.w.), total phenolic acids (10.3 mg/100 g f.w.), and total flavonoids (178.8 mg/100 g f.w.), as well anthocyanins (167.9 mg/100 g f.w.), compared to conventional ones. The selected cultivars and the years of cultivation system affect the concentration of the measured polyphenols, with strong interactions between these factors. The experiment confirms the hypothesis that organic blackcurrants should be a very important part of well-balanced, healthy diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research was to designate and identify the profile of fatty acids, sterols, and polyphenol compounds and to demonstrate the antidiabetic activity, in blue corn extracts (BCE) in comparison with the yellow variant of this raw material. All of the maize lines, including the blue corn, were grown in Europe (southwestern part of Poland) and not in the place of origin (South America). In the extracts of the blue corn variety, eight anthocyanin compounds were isolated. The compound found in the largest amount was pelargonidin, followed by cyanidin-3-glucoside and other glycoside derivatives. Unsaturated fatty acids were the main ones found in the lipid fraction of blue and yellow corn, including linoleic acid and oleic acid. Saturated fatty acids, such as stearic and palmitic acid, were present in smaller amounts. The blue corn's sterol profile was similar to other varieties of this corn, with β-sitosterol and campesterol occurring in the largest amount, alongside smaller amounts of stigmastanol and stigmasterol. The blue corn variety was characterized by a high content of polyphenolic compounds, which show several biological activities, including antidiabetic activity. The strongest in vitro antidiabetic effect was found in the blue corn lines. Among the polyphenolic compounds in both the blue and yellow corn varieties, in the largest amounts, were caffeic acid, procyanidin B2, and gallic acid. Despite the known and proven biological activity of polyphenolic compounds, the fat fraction showed the highest in vitro antidiabetic activity in the BCE studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently the interest in borage seeds (mericarps) as an important source of γ-linolenic acid and a good natural antioxidant has increased, yet the knowledge about these properties of seeds developed by borage grown in Poland remains very scanty. Seeds collected from borage plants cultivated in the south-eastern region of Poland in the years 2017 and 2018 were characterized by following parameters: length - 5.0 mm, width - 2.7-2.8 mm, thickness 2.2 mm, weight of 1000 seeds - 17.2-19.4 g. The seeds contained 93.7% of dry matter, and in this 32.0% of lipids, 23.7% of protein and 1.1-1.8% of total sugars on average. Seventeen compounds were identified in the lipids with linoleic acid (35.1%), oleic + elaidic acids (20.8%), γ-linolenic acid (17.9%), palmitic acid (11.4%), stearic acid (5.3%), cis-11-eicosenoic acid (4.1%), and erucic acid (2.6%) as major ones. Other fatty acids constituted less than 2%. Saturated fatty acids constituted 17.5% of the total fatty acids. Flavonoids and phenolic acids accounted for 0.012% and 1.60-1.73% of seeds dry weight respectively. Antioxidant activity measured by FRAP assay and Foli Ciocalteau method accounted for 1225 µmol of ferrous equivalent Fe (II) and 29.7 mg of polyphenols per gram of seeds dry weight respectively. Using antiradical activity against DPPH radical following average parameters were obtained: T 50% - 49, DPPH rem - 73.7%, AE - 0.024 dm3·(µmol·s)-1. 100 g of seeds d.w. contained 0.27-0.34 ml of essential oil. Content of four macroelements expressed as % of seeds d w. was following: P - 0.70, K - 0.48, Ca - 1.37 and Mg - 0.41. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) is one of the most widely cultivated temperate fruits globally, gaining scientific interest as a rich source of antioxidants with a demonstrated beneficial human health impact. Since a growing number of consumers are increasingly seeking safe and healthy food options, alternative fruit production systems such as organic farming, and their potential to provide safe and nutritious foods, have been gaining increasing attention in the last decades. The aim of the presented study was, therefore, to analyse and to compare the concentrations of selected health-promoting antioxidants, such as phenolic acids, flavonols, and vitamin C, in fruits of three apple cultivars (Champion, Gala, and Idared) grown in conventional and certified organic orchards in Poland. All analyses were performed using the high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. Organic apples tested within the study, compared to the conventionally grown ones, were characterised by significantly higher concentrations of phenolic acids (av. >31%) and flavonols (av. >66%) with the identified differences being consistent in all three cultivars and two seasons. The greatest production system effect was observed in the case of Idared. Significant cultivar and production season effects on the concentration of the measured fruit phenolics, with strong interactions between the two factors, were also identified. Vitamin C content in the fruits was strongly dependent on the year-to-year differences in the fruit growing conditions. The study suggests that the organic production system has a potential to provide apple fruits rich in selected health-promoting phenolic antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment with 66 spring biotypes and 9 winter biotypes of Camelina sativa was conducted in Poland in a two-year cycle (2016–2017). The quantitative profile of 8 flavonoid aglycones, 12 phenolic acids and the fatty acid profile were analysed. There were no significant differences in the concentration of total flavonoids, phenolic acids and fatty acids in the camelina seeds during the research years, but there were differences between the spring and winter cultivars. The total concentration of flavonoids in the spring forms amounted from 404 ± 38.5 to 429.9 ± 13.8 mg/kg; in the winter ones from 507.3 ± 51.4 to 526.4 ± 10.4 mg/kg. Similarly with phenolic acids, the concentration ranged from 2043.6 ± 62.5 to 2174.0 ± 145.2 mg/kg in the spring forms and from 3936.0 ± 210.8 to 3704.7 ± 195.4 mg/kg in the winter forms. The linoleic acid comprised 14% of total fatty acid content in spring biotypes and 16% in winter ones, while α-linolenic acid had similar content (37–38%). Camelina's adaptation to vast areas of the world, high oil concentration and its composition and properties makes it a suitable oil source for the production of biofuels, jet fuel, biobased-products, feed and food. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a continuation of investigating Impatiens L. genus, eight flavonoids, eriodyctiol, eriodyctiol 7-O-β-ᴅ-glucoside, kaempferol 3-O-β-ᴅ-glucoside, kaempferol 3-O-β-ᴅ-galactoside, kaempferol 3-rhamnosyl-di-glucoside, kaempferol 3-O-β-ᴅ-rutinoside, quercetin 3-O-β-ᴅ-glucoside and quercetin 3-O-β-ᴅ-galactoside, two phenolic acids – p-hydroxybenzoic acid and protocatechuic acid, and 2-methoxynaphthalene-1,4-dione were isolated from the aerial parts of I. glandulifera collected in Poland. The structures of the compounds were established by analysis of their spectroscopic (1H and 13C NMR) and spectrometric (MS) data, as well as by comparison of these with those reported in the literature. Quercetin 3-O-β-ᴅ-glucoside, kaempferol 3-O-β-ᴅ-galactoside and kaempferol 3-O-β-ᴅ-rutinoside were isolated for the first time from the investigated taxon. In addition, the antioxidant activities in different tests of all obtained compounds were evaluated. The results clearly showed that among analyzed constituents, quercetin 3-O-β-ᴅ-glucoside exhibited antioxidant activity comparable or better than ascorbic acid and Trolox which were used as a positive control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Dietary polyphenols have been studied for their potential effects on metabolic disorders, but studies on risk of hypertension are scarce. This study aimed to test the association between total and individual classes of dietary polyphenols and incidence of hypertension in the Polish arm of the Health, Alcohol and Psychosocial factors In Eastern Europe (HAPIEE) study.Methods: A total of 2725 participants free of hypertension at baseline were tested for blood pressure or taking hypertensive medication within the last 2 weeks at 2-4-year follow-up visit. A 148-item food frequency questionnaire and the Phenol-Explorer database were used to estimate dietary polyphenol intake. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of hypertension comparing the various categories of exposure (total and individual classes of polyphenol intake) with the lowest one (reference category) were calculated by performing age- and energy-adjusted and multivariate-adjusted logistic regression models.Results: During follow-up, 1735 incident cases of hypertension occurred. The highest quartile of total polyphenol intake was associated with 31% decreased risk of hypertension compared with the lowest intake (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.48, 0.98) in women. There was no significant association in men. Among main classes of polyphenols, flavonoids and phenolic acids were independent contributors to this association. The analysis of individual subclasses of polyphenol revealed that, among phenolic acids, hydroxycynnamic acids were independently associated to lower odds of hypertension (OR 0.66, 95% CI 0.47, 0.93), while among flavonoids, most of the association was driven by flavanols (OR 0.56, 95% CI 0.36, 0.87).Conclusion: Certain classes of dietary polyphenols were associated with lower risk of hypertension, but potential differences between men and women should be further investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to test the association between dietary content of total and individual classes of polyphenols and incident cases of type 2 diabetes in Polish adults participating to the Health, Alcohol and Psychosocial factors In Eastern Europe study. At baseline, diet by 148-item FFQ and health information were collected from 5806 participants free of diabetes. Self-reported incident type 2 diabetes was ascertained at 2–4-year follow-up visit. OR and 95 % CI of type 2 diabetes comparing the various categories of polyphenol intake to the lowest one (reference category) and as 1 sd increase modelled as continuous variable were calculated by performing age-, energy-, and multivariate-adjusted logistic regression models. During the follow-up, 456 incident cases of type 2 diabetes occurred. When comparing extreme quartiles, intake of total polyphenol was inversely associated with the risk of type 2 diabetes (OR 0·43; 95 % CI 0·30, 0·61); 1 sd increase was associated with a reduced risk of diabetes (OR 0·68; 95 % CI 0·59, 0·79). Among the main classes of polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and stilbenes were independent contributors to this association. Both subclasses of phenolic acids were associated with decreased risk of type 2 diabetes, whereas among subclasses of flavonoids, high intake of flavanols, flavanones, flavones and anthocyanins was significantly associated with decreased risk of type 2 diabetes. Total dietary polyphenols and some classes of dietary polyphenols were associated with lower risk of type 2 diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between total and individual classes and subclasses of dietary polyphenol intake and prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in the Polish arm of the Health, Alcohol and Psychosocial factors In Eastern Europe cohort study. Methods: A cross-sectional population-based survey including 8821 adults (51.4 % female) was conducted in Kraków, Poland. Dietary polyphenol intake was evaluated using food frequency questionnaires and matching food consumption data with the Phenol-Explorer database. MetS was defined according to the International Diabetes Federation definition. Linear and logistic regression models were performed to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Significant differences in age and energy intake among different categories of total dietary polyphenol intake were found. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), blood pressure, and triglycerides were significantly lower among individuals in the higher quartiles of polyphenol intake, but a linear association was found only for BMI and WC. After adjusting for potential confounding factors, individuals in the highest quartile of polyphenol intake were less likely to have MetS (OR 0.80; 95 % CI 0.64, 0.98 and OR 0.70; 95 % CI 0.56, 0.86 for both men and women, respectively). High total polyphenol intake was negatively associated with WC, blood pressure, high lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides in women, and fasting plasma glucose in both genders. Among individual classes of polyphenols, phenolic acids and stilbenes were significantly associated with MetS; lignans and stilbenes with WC; phenolic acids with blood pressure and triglycerides; and flavonoids with fasting plasma glucose. Among specific subclasses of polyphenols, hydroxycinnamic acids, flavanols, and dihydrochalcones had the most relevant role. Conclusions: Total and individual classes and subclasses of dietary polyphenols were inversely associated with MetS and some of its components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rootstocks are well known as the most efficient way to limit phylloxera. However, they can be useful in order to improve grape quality. This study aimed to compare the content of polyphenol compounds in vine fruits of the cultivar 'Regent' grafted on 'Couderc 161-49', 'Sori', 'Kober 125AA', 'Börner' or 'Kober 5BB' rootstocks, or planted on own-roots. Grape samples were collected in three consecutive seasons (2013-2015) at a research station of the West Pomeranian University of Technology Szczecin in Poland. Thirty-three phenolic compounds were determined in the juice of examined samples using ultra-pressure liquid chromatography with photodiode array and mass spectrometry (UPLC-PDA/MS) method. A significant influence of rootstock on the content of polyphenols in grapes has been proven. The highest content of polyphenols was shown in fruits from a scion grafted on 'Sori' and 'Kober 125AA' rootstocks (675 and 643 mg · 100 g-1 FW, respectively). 'Börner' and 'Kober 5BB' rootstocks did not have a significant influence on the creation of polyphenol compounds in comparison to own-root plants. In addition, the use of the 'Börner' rootstock resulted in fruits with an especially low content of phenolic acids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to investigate the chemical variability of small-leaved lime ( Tilia cordata Mill.) growing wild in the eastern area of Poland, in terms of content and composition of phenolic compounds (phenolic acids and flavonoids), composition of essential oil and content of mucilage in flowers. Analyzed populations differed significantly when regards the accumulation of biologically active compounds. The total content of phenolic acids ranged from 0.17 to 1.87 g × 100 g −1 , flavonoids from 0.09 to 0.52 g × 100 g −1 , and mucilage from 0.6 to 3.0 g × 100 g −1 . Using validated HPLC-DAD method, the chemical composition of phenolic acids and flavonoids were determined. Among phenolic acids, four compounds were identified with vanillic acid as the dominant one (391.5–1718.0 mg × 100 g −1 ). Among flavonoids, nine compounds were found. Rutoside and (−)-epicatechin (tannin precursor) were present in the highest amounts (1264.1–4654.6 mg × 100 g −1 and 1000.3–4745.6 mg × 100 g −1 , respectively). GC–MS and GC-FID were used to perform the qualitative and quantitative analyze of the essential oil. The major compounds were alkanes: tricosane (5.7–20.7%), pentacosane (3.0–6.1%) and heneicosane (1.1–6.1%), as well as acetophenon (3.5–6.9%), nonanal (1.3–7.8%) and nonanoic acid (3.9–18.2%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate phenolic profile and antioxidant activity of ten different meads of 1:1 and 1:2 types, produced with addition of fruit juices, root spices, and herbs. The total phenolic content in meads varied from 15.27 to 70.80 mg/dm3. The meads originated from dark honeys exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. The predominant phenolic compounds in meads were hydroxybenzoic acids, especially gallic and protocatechuic acid, originated mainly from honeys. Whereas, among the hydroxycinnamic acids, the major phenolic was chlorogenic acid, derived mainly from plant additives used in meads production. A principal component analysis was applied in order to differentiate the investigated meads. The 1:2 meads type could be best described by chlorogenic acid. Among the 1:1 meads type, those made from the dark honeys could be best described by gallic,p-coumaric, and protocatechuic acid while those made with addition of blackcurrant and raspberry juice could be described by caffeic and ferulic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mushrooms have been part of human diet for centuries. They possess great potential for both nutrition and therapeutic use. Amongst bioactive constituents occurring in mushrooms, phenolic compounds focus much attention due to their antioxidant activity. The aim of the present study was to determine the chemical composition of phenolic compounds in wild growing edible mushrooms traditionally eaten in Poland. For this purpose, LC-ESI-MS/MS and spectrophotometric tests were used. Our findings revealed the presence of benzoic acid (protocatechuic, 4-OH-benzoic, vanillic, salicylic) and cinnamic acid derivatives (caffeic, p -coumaric, ferulic) in mushroom extracts. The total phenolic content in different species ranged between 1.64 and 13.53 mg GAE/g of extract. Moreover, antiradical and antimicrobial potential of 19 Polish wild growing edible mushrooms was investigated. As a result, differentiated antiradical activity was disclosed (IC 50 from 12.39 to 108.38 mg/mg DPPH ). Moderate antimicrobial properties were found, as well. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study conducted among such a large number of wild edible mushroom species. The results obtained indicate that mushrooms might be used directly in diet and promote health as an easily accessible source of natural antioxidants and antimicrobial agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work the phenolic acids in the methanol extract from the flowering herbs of Cirsium vulgare (Savi) Ten. growing in Poland were isolated and identified. The samples containing free phenolic acids and those released after acid and alkaline hydrolyses were investigated by 2D TLC on cellulose. After purification by SPE, samples were also analyzed by RP-HPLC. Six phenolic acids such as gallic, protokatechuic, gentisic, hydrobenzoic, vanillic and caffeic acids were detected in the fraction of free phenolic acids of the methanol extract, irrespectively of the method used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Is it possible to characterize the types of honey based on their chemical composition, their content of bioactive substances, and their physicochemical properties? The objective of this study was a comparative analysis of four types of honey from the Carpathian Foothills area, located in south-east Poland, based on the content of the main phenolic acids and proline, the mineral composition, and selected physicochemical properties. Most analyses, such as those of phenolic acids, sugars, and proline content, in honey samples were performed using chromatographic methods. These experiments demonstrated that honeydew honeys were the richest in phenolic acids, minerals, as well as oligosaccharides, compared to other honeys. Dark-colored honeys were characterized by the highest proline content. The dominant elements in all types of honey were potassium and calcium. The results of the present study show that analyses of specific phenolic acids, minerals, proline, and sugar content, in combination with chemometrics analysis, may successfully differentiate between the biological origins of honey samples and allow the preliminary verification of the samples before performing time-consuming pollen analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The presented study examined the phenolic acids, flavonoids and salicylates contents in young, 3-month-old shoots of different willow (Salix spp.) cultivars. The contents of individual compounds were not identical and depended on the cultivar from which they were isolated. Then, the severity of foraging damage by deer to the analyzed willow cultivars was evaluated and correlated with the content of specific compounds from each analyzed group. The quantitative relationships of helicine and salicin from the group of salicylic compounds, and between ferulic, trans-cinnamic and synapinic acid from the group of phenolic acids, can determine the foraging attractiveness of willow shoots to cervids. This study examined the phenolic acids, flavonoids, and salicylates contents in young, 3-month-old shoots (including the leaves) of willow (Salix spp.). The cultivars were selected based on experiments carried out previously in Poland on fodder and energy willows. It was found, using the HPLC-MS/MS method, that the willow cultivars analyzed from three experimental plots, contained nine different phenolic acids, five salicylates and nine flavonoids, including four flavanols (quercetin, kaempferol, taxifolin and isorhamnetin), two flavanones (prunin, naringenin), two flavones (luteolin, apigenin) and one flavan-3-ol (catechin). The contents of individual compounds were not identical and depended on the cultivar from which they were isolated. The S. laurina 220/205 and S. amygdalina Krakowianka contained the greatest amounts of phenolic acids. The lowest quantities of these compounds were found in the S. viminalis Tur, S. pantaderana and S. cordata clone 1036. The highest concentration of flavonoids in young stems was found in S. fragilis clone 1043. The S. purpurea clone 1131 contained the highest amounts of salicylic compounds. Based on the results obtained from all experimental plots, it was shown that there is a negative correlation between the extent of browsing damage and the content of helicine and salicin from the group of salicylic compounds. A similar analysis between the phenolic acid concentration and the degree of willow browsing showed a positive correlation, especially between ferulic, trans-cinnamic, and synapinic acid. A negative correlation was found between the concentration of protocatechic acid content and browsing by cervids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Skin aging is a natural, unavoidable, and complex process caused by oxidative stress. As a consequence, it leads to an increase in the activation of extracellular matrix disruption enzymes and DNA damage. The search for natural sources that inhibit these mechanisms can be a good approach to prevent skin aging. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the composition of flavonoids and phenolic acids in the extracts obtained from the flowers, roots, and leaves of Eutrema japonicum cultivated in Poland. Then, the resultant extracts were subjected to an assessment of antioxidant, anti-collagenase, anti-elastase, anti-hyaluronidase, antibacterial, and cytotoxic properties. It was demonstrated that the extract from the flowers had the highest content of flavonoid glycosides (17.15 mg/g DE). This extract showed the greatest antioxidant, anti-collagenase, anti-elastase, and anti-hyaluronidase activities compared to the other samples. Importantly, the collagenase inhibitory activity of this extract (93.34% ± 0.77%) was better than that of positive control epigallocatechin gallate (88.49% ± 0.45%). An undeniable advantage of this extract was also to possess moderate antibacterial properties and no cytotoxicity towards normal human skin fibroblasts. Our results suggest that extracts from E. japonicum flowers may be considered as a promising antiaging compound for applications in cosmetic formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gluten-free products based on starch and hydrocolloids are deficient in nutrients and do not contain pro-health substances. Therefore, they should be enriched in raw materials naturally rich in antioxidants, especially if they are intended for celiac patients, prone to high oxidative stress. Apart from the traditionally used pseudo-cereals, seeds, vegetables and fruits, innovative substrates such as the by-product (especially in Poland) dry apple pomace could be applied. The study material consisted of gluten-free bread enriched with apple pomace. The content of individual polyphenols, the content of total polyphenol and flavonoids, and also the antioxidant potential of the bread were determined by the UPLC-PDA-MS/MS methods. It was observed that apple pomace was a natural concentrate of bioactive substances from the group of polyphenols. In summary, gluten-free bread with 5% content of apple pomace showed the highest organoleptic scores and contained high levels of phenolic compounds. The values of total phenolic content, and the amounts of flavonoids, phenolic acids and phloridzin in this bread were 2.5, 8, 4 and 21 times higher in comparison to control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris L., Lamiaceae) is regarded as one of the most important aromatic plant used both as a spice and medicine. The aim of this work was to investigate the yield and quality of common thyme grown for a fresh herb, cultivated in the organic farming system, within the temperate climate in Poland. Two methods of cultivation were applied: open field and foil tunnel. Three successive cuts of herb were possible to obtain during vegetation season, from the middle of July until the end of September. The raw material was analyzed for the content of essential oil (by hydrodestillation), phenolic acids and flavonoids according to Polish pharmacopeia (PP 6th). The composition of essential oil was determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Sensory evaluation was carried out by quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) with a trained panelist. The yield of fresh herb was visibly higher when regards cultivation under foil tunnel in comparison to open field, reaching up to 6.74 kg FW × 10 m2. The content of essential oil as well as the percentage share of thymol (a dominant constituent, achieving up to 57.08%) decreased with consecutive herbal cuts. The opposite result was observed for phenolic compounds (phenolic acids and flavonoids). It was shown that the amount of flavonoids was similar in both variants of cultivation, while phenolic acids were accumulated at higher level in the open field conditions. Sensory analysis indicated on slight differences in odor and taste attributes, between samples of fresh herb collected from open field and foil tunnel. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Background: Mycophenolate sodium (MPS) was designed to reduce the gastrointestinal side effects of mycophenolic acid. The aim of our study was to determine the safety and efficacy of MPS in de novo renal transplant recipients. Patients and Methods: This 6-month, multicenter, open-label, single-arm, prospective study was carried out in three centers in Poland. Thirty patients were recruited. Immunosuppressive regimen contained of MPS and cyclosporine (CsA) with or without steroids. Results: The 6-month graft and patient survival was 100%. The incidence of suspected acute rejection episodes (ARE) was 5/30 (16.7%), including biopsy-proven ARE in 2 (6.7%) cases. ARE reversed after therapy. At month 6, the mean serum creatinine level was 1.4 mg/dL, and the mean creatinine clearance (according to the Cockroft-Gault formula) was >70 mL/min. The most frequent adverse effects included diarrhea, delayed graft function, anemia, and lymphocele. Among infections, most common were infections of urinary tract, cytomegalovirus infections, and infections of respiratory tract. Only three patients (10.0%) terminated the study prematurely, including two who discontinuated because of an adverse event, and one because of noncompliance. Conclusions: An immunosuppressive regimen, including MPS and CsA, with or without steroids, provided effective antirejecton prophylaxis and was well tolerated. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The paper presents the comparison of quality of six different commercial apple juices produced in Poland. The apple juices came from two different Polish companies. From each manufacturer three various juices were selected: two cloudy and clarified one produced as a mixture of different apple varieties. The following properties were evaluated: density, soluble solid content, viscosity, total phenolic contents, phenolic acid, and antiradical activity. The obtained results showed that three from fourth cloudy juices (M1Sz, M1A and M2A) differed from clarified juices. The highest differences were noticed for total phenolic contents, phenolic acids, antiradical activity and viscosity. The values of these properties ranged between 60.72–103.6 mg GAE·100−1 mL−1 for phenolic contents, 78.3–90.9% for antiradical activity and 2.68–5.79 mPa·s for viscosity. The remaining cloudy juice (M2Sz) was more similar to the clarified ones. The strong correlation between total phenolic content and antiradical activity of apple juices was found. The high correlation coefficient obtained between these features indicates that both producers do not apply excessive amounts of vitamin C during the production of cloudy apple juices. There was also a strong interrelation between the density of juice and solid soluble content. However, no correlation was found between the solid soluble content and the viscosity of the tested juices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of multivariate techniques to predict antioxidant and cytotoxic activity of the selected lichens from the chromatographic data. A simple and reproducible HPLC-DAD technique has been used to obtain the chromatographic fingerprint profiles. Reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) linear gradient system with methanol, water and phosphoric acid (V) (pH 2.3) as the mobile phase was used (50 min). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) has been applied to the evaluation of the phytochemical similarity between studied samples, especially between the same species collected in various places of Poland (Cetraria islandica (L.) Ach., CI, Cladina mitis Sandst., CM, Hypogymnia physodes (L.) Nyl., HP). The ability to scavenge free radicals was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods and the total phenolic content was determined by Folin-Ciocalteu (F-C) test. In the case of DPPH % of inhibition was higher for selected species (Pseudevernia furfuracea (L.) Zopf, H. physodes in comparison to the literature data. The FRAP test showed that the H. physodes extract had higher ability to scavenge free radical in comparison to Cladonia furcata (Huds.) Schrader and Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach., whereas P. furfuracea extract showed higher ability than C. islandica. The high content of phenolics in P. furfuracea and H. physodes confirms their high antioxidant activity. The cytotoxic activity of studied extracts was tested by cell culture method using the human HL-60 / MX2 acute CKL-22 (CRL-2257) promyelocytic leukemia tumor cell line. The lowest values of IC50 [µg∙mL−1] were obtained for: H. physodes (HP1)—99.4; C. digitate—122.6; H. physodes (HP)—136.5, C. subulata—142.6; C. mitis—180.2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was the qualitative and quantitative analysis of the bioactive components present in the leaves of 9 sweet potato cultivars grown in the moderate climate in Poland, which were harvested at different growth stages according to the BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie) scale (14, 51, 89). It was found that sweet potato leaves contained 7 polyphenolic compounds, including 5 chlorogenic acids—neochlorogenic acid (5-CQA), chlorogenic acid (3-CQA), 4-cryptochlorogenic acid (4-CQA), 34-di-O-caffeoylqunic acid (3,4-CQA), 3,5-di-O-caffeoylqunic acid (3,5-CQA)—and 2 flavonoids, quercetin-3-O-galactoside (Q-3-GA) and quercetin-3-O-glucoside (Q-3-GL). Their content depended on the genotype of the examined cultivars and on the stage of leaf development. The mean content of the identified polyphenolic compounds in the examined cultivars ranged from 148.2 to 14.038.6 mg/100 g−1 DM for the leaves harvested at growth stage 14 according to the BBCH scale. In the case of leaves harvested at BBCH stage 51, the concentration of polyphenolic compounds ranged from 144.76 to 5026.8 mg/100 g−1 DM and at BBCH stage 89 from 4078.1 to 11.183.5 mg/100 g−1 DM. The leaves of the Carmen Rubin cultivar collected at stage 14 contained the highest amount of polyphenolic compounds, while Okinava leaves had the highest amount of these compounds at stage 51. The highest content of polyphenolic compounds in leaves at BBCH growth stage 89 was found in the Radiosa variety. The highest concentration levels were found for 3-CQA at all stages of leaf development. Significant correlations between polyphenol content and antioxidant activity measured by 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) were found. The results of this experiment revealed that the growth stages and genetic properties of cultivars have a very significant influence on the content of phenolic acids and flavonols in sweet potato leaves. The results are innovative and can have a practical application, as the knowledge of the content of the substances under study makes it possible to determine the optimal management practice of sweet potato leaf harvest in order to obtain more top-quality raw material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The white beetroot cv. Śnieżna Kula is the first betanin-free beetroot registered in the European Union. The aim of this study was to compare the phenolic acids profile and antioxidant capacity of leaves of white (SK) and red (CC) beetroots and red (LC) and white (BL) Swiss chard growing in Poland. LC leaves were the richest source of total phenolics (16.55 mg GAE/g FW) and phenolic acids (1.81 mg/g FW), while the highest content of flavonoids was determined in CC leaves (1.6 mg QE/g FW). The highest antiradical activity was observed for LC, whereas CC extract exhibited the highest chelating power. BL and CC leaf extracts demonstrated high LOX inhibitory potential (EC50 = 53.23 and 56.97 mg FW/mL, respectively). An uncompetitive type of LOX inhibition was obtained for all extracts. SK extracts demonstrated the highest XO inhibitory activity (EC50 = 81.04 mg FW/mL). A noncompetitive type of XO inhibition was obtained in both extracts from red leaves (CC and LC), whereas an uncompetitive mode of inhibition was observed in the case of white leaf (SK and LC) extracts. Thus, it can be assumed that the presence of betanin influences the XO inhibition mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hemerocallis plants are important vegetables with nutritional and health value, especially in eastern Asia, where they have been used as medicines to cure disease such as depression and inflammation for thousands of years. The present study concerns the determination of flavonoids and phenolic acids, as well as antioxidant, anti-collagenase, anti-elastase, anti-tyrosinase and antimicrobial properties of taxa cultivated in Poland. For chemical composition estimation, LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis and spectrophotometric assays were performed. The results show the presence of sixteen compounds in all analyzed species. Among the investigated cultivars, it was found that H. "Chicago Apache" and H. fulva var. kwanso have the highest total phenolic acid and flavonoid content. The most abundant compounds in all analyzed extracts were chlorogenic acid (209.8 to 1010.0 µg/g of DE) and quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (114.7 to 1049.7 µg/g of DE). The studied extracts exhibited moderate to high skin-related activities. These properties were correlated with a high concentration of polyphenols. The present study demonstrated that Hemerocallis cultivars contain significant amounts of phenolic compounds with good skin-related activities and could be interesting as novel sources of bioactive agents for the pharmaceutical, food and cosmetic industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the effect of adding a new step, termed conditioning, to the traditional processing of leaves from Morus alba var. zolwinska wielkolistna grown in Poland (WML-P). This step, modeled on tea leaves processing, was conducted in a controlled environment on a semi-technical scale. The primary goal was to evaluate the effect of the WML-P conditioning for 1–4 h at 32–35 °C on the content of bioactive compounds (total phenolics, phenolic acids, flavonols, 1-deoxynojirimycin) and antioxidant activity (radical scavenging against DPPH, antioxidant capacity, chelating activity and ferric reducing antioxidant potential) of the lyophilized extracts. For the first time WML-P extracts content was comprehensively characterized by assessing dietary fiber fractions, fatty acids, amino acids, macro- and microelements and chlorophyll content. Compared to the traditional process, adding the conditioning step to WML-P processing resulted in an increased total phenolics content, radical scavenging capacity, ability to quench 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) and iron-chelating ability in the lyophilized extracts. The beneficial effect depended on conditioning time. The highest flavonols and phenolic acids content were found after 2-h conditioning. We concluded that adding a 2-h conditioning step to traditional WML-P processing results in getting WML-P lyophilized extract with increased bioactive compounds content and high antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pharmacological activity of peppermint leaf (Menthae piperitae folium) for medical use is mainly attributed to the presence of essential oil, which, according to the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.), should constitute not less than 12 mL/kg of raw material. The content of polyphenols in peppermint-based preparations, except peppermint leaf dry extract, has not yet been considered as an essential parameter in the pharmacopeial assessment of peppermint quality. This study concerns the evaluation of the presence of representatives of polyphenolic compounds in 23 commercial peppermint tinctures (ethanolic extracts) purchased in pharmacies in Poland. The non-volatile polyphenolic fraction was investigated, and the presence of flavonoids and phenolic acids was quantified. High performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode-array detector (HPLC-DAD) and an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer (U(H)PLC-ESI-MS) were used in the experiment. The study showed that eriocitrin, luteolin-7-O-rutinoside, and rosmarinic acid were the main polyphenolic components of the peppermint tinctures, as previously reported for peppermint leaf. Despite this, the research shows the extremely diverse content of the mentioned compounds in analyzed commercial medicinal products. In light of these results, it seems that the pharmacopeial assessment for the peppermint leaf (Ph. Eur.) and peppermint tincture (Polish Pharmacopoeia (FP)) requires correction and supplementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to analyze in vitro biological activities as anti-oxidant, anti-α-amylase, anti-α-glucosidase, anti-lipase, and anti-lipoxygenase activity, relative to bioactive components (phenolic acids, flavonols, xanthophylls, carotenes, esterified carotenoids, tocopherols, tocotrienols, and fatty acids) and the basic chemical composition (sugars, organic acid, dry matter, soluble solid, pH, titratable acidity, ash, pectins, and vitamin C) of Hippophaë rhamnoides berries. Six sea buckthorn cultivars commonly grown in Poland were analyzed including Aromatnaja, Botaniczeskaja-Lubitelskaja, Józef, Luczistaja, Moskwiczka, and Podarok Sadu. Berries contained 1.34–2.87 g of sugars and 0.96–4.22 g of organic acids in 100 g fresh weight, 468.60–901.11 mg of phenolic compounds, and 46.61–508.57 mg of carotenoids in 100 g dry mass. The fatty acid profile was established: palmitic > palmitoleic > oleic and linoleic > stearic and linolenic acids. The highest anti-oxidant (34.68 mmol Trolox/100 g dry mass) and anti-α-amylase potential (IC50 = 26.83 mg/mL) was determined in Aromatnaja, anti-α-glucosidase in Botaniczeskaja-Lubitelskaja (IC50 = 41.78 mg/mL), anti-lipase in Moskwiczka and Aromatnaja (average IC50 = 4.37 mg/mL), and anti-lipoxygenase in Aromatnaja and Podarok Sadu fruits (100% inhibition). The studied sea buckthorn berries may be a raw material for the development of functional foods and nutraceutical products rich in compounds with high biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The triticale grain has high nutritive value and good technological suitability. Triticale flour can be a valuable raw material for bread-making. The aim of this work was to determine the profile of phenolic acids in triticale grain of selected Polish cultivars and its products. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC-PDA-MS/MS) was applied for separation and identification of these constituents. The grain of the examined triticale cultivars contained 13 phenolic acids, of which ferulic acid was determined in the largest amount and was constituted from 42-44% of the total content of phenolic acids in the grain. In addition, due to the large amounts of ferulic, di-ferulic, and sinapic acids, composition of the phenolic acids fraction in triticale grain of the tested cultivars varied in comparison with that of wheat and rye cultivars. In triticale flour, the number of phenolic acids was nearly 4 times lower than in the grain, as phenolic acids were removed along with bran, in which their proportion was almost 9 times higher than in the grain intended for grinding. The application of bran in the bread recipe resulted in a 3.5-fold increase in the fraction of phenolic acids compared to the bread produced from triticale flour without bran addition.

Background: The bread-making process influences bread components, including phenolics that significantly contribute to its antioxidant properties. Five bread model systems made from different rye cultivars were investigated to compare their impact on concentration of ethanol-soluble (free and ester-bound) and insoluble phenolics., Results: Breads produced by a straight dough method without acid addition (A) and three-stage sourdough method with 12 h native starter preparation (C) exhibited the highest, genotype-dependent concentrations of free phenolic acids. Dough acidification by direct acid addition (method B) or by gradual production during prolonged starter fermentation (24 and 48 h, for methods D and E) considerably decreased their level. However, breads B were enriched in soluble ester-bound fraction. Both direct methods, despite substantial differences in dough pH, caused a similar increase in the amount of insoluble ester-bound fraction. The contents of phenolic fractions in rye bread were positively related to activity level of feruloyl esterase and negatively to those of arabinoxylan-hydrolysing enzymes in wholemeal flour., Conclusion: The solubility of rye bread phenolics may be enhanced by application of a suitable bread-making procedure with respect to rye cultivar, as the mechanisms of this process are also governed by a response of an individual genotype with specific biochemical profile., (© 2014 The Authors. Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.)