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The present research explored the antioxidant capacities and phytochemical profile of Cistus ladanifer collected from North Morocco (Tangier), to identify potential medicinal sources of antioxidants. The antioxidant qualities of the extracts were assessed using a variety of analytical methods, such as 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP), 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) were employed to examine the chemical constituents present in the plant material. Finally, ICP-AES analysis was performed to characterize the nutritional components of the extract, providing detailed insights into its valuable nutrient content. The findings revealed that the methanolic extract displayed considerable antioxidant potential, as evidenced by its powerful scavenging activities against DPPH, with an IC50 value of 0.115 ± 0.003 mg/ml and IC50 of 0.251 ± 0.006 mg/ml ABTS radicals. Moreover, it displayed a higher reducing power using the FRAP test and excellent ORAC values, with 62.74 ± 0.07 mg/g and 40.21 ± 0.7 mg/g dry weight of extract, respectively. This research also assessed the total phenolic and total flavonoid compounds, while tannins were found in high concentrations in the methanolic extract, with 69.08 ± 1.69 mg of GAE/g dW, 47.86 ± 1.76 mg of QE/g dW, and 354.98 ± 15.29 mg of TAE/g dW, respectively. The presence of phenols, benzene rings, aromatic compounds, ethers, and methylene chains was verified by FTIR analysis. Finally, HPLC-MS and GC-MS analyses revealed a rich profile of bioactive phytochemicals. This study is the first of its kind to be conducted in Tangier, Northern Morocco, shedding light on the unique chemical composition of Cistus ladanifer in this region.

The present research explored the antioxidant capacities and phytochemical profile of Cistus ladanifer collected from North Morocco (Tangier), to identify potential medicinal sources of antioxidants. The antioxidant qualities of the extracts were assessed using a variety of analytical methods, such as 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were employed to examine the chemical constituents present in the plant material. Finally, ICP-AES analysis was performed to characterize the nutritional components of the extract, providing detailed insights into its valuable nutrient content. The findings revealed that the methanolic extract displayed considerable antioxidant potential, as evidenced by its powerful scavenging activities against DPPH, with an IC50 value of 0.115 ± 0.003 mg/ml and IC50 of 0.251 ± 0.006 mg/ml ABTS radicals. Moreover, it displayed a higher reducing power using the FRAP test and excellent ORAC values, with 62.74 ± 0.07 mg/g and 40.21 ± 0.7 mg/g dry weight of extract, respectively. This research also assessed the total phenolic and total flavonoid compounds, while tannins were found in high concentrations in the methanolic extract, with 69.08 ± 1.69 mg of GAE/g dW, 47.86 ± 1.76 mg of QE/g dW, and 354.98 ± 15.29 mg of TAE/g dW, respectively. The presence of phenols, benzene rings, aromatic compounds, ethers, and methylene chains was verified by FTIR analysis. Finally, HPLC-MS and GC-MS analyses revealed a rich profile of bioactive phytochemicals. This study is the first of its kind to be conducted in Tangier, Northern Morocco, shedding light on the unique chemical composition of Cistus ladanifer in this region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several Allium cepa L. varieties, representing a versatile set of vegetables widely utilized by consumers, are appreciated for their bioactive properties, including antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, and antioxidant capacities. The aim of this study is to compare the morphometric characteristics and biochemical profiles of four cultivars of A. cepa, two of them represented by the perennial Sicilian landrace "Cipudda agghiarola" (Allium × proliferum (Moench) Schrader), widely known as the Egyptian walking onion (WO), and by the landrace "Cipudduzza" belonging to the variety known as aggregatum (ON), which were compared with two commercial cultivars of A. cepa var. cepa (onion), Stoccarda (OS) and Rossa Carmen (OR). The experimental trial was conducted in Catania (Sicily), following organic growing practices. The randomized complete block experimental design was adopted with one experimental factor, the genotype (GE) effect. The harvested plants were characterized for their main morphometric parameters, according to the International Plant Genetic Resources (IGPR) descriptors. The biochemical activity was assessed by analyzing the total phenolic content (TPC) and the total flavonoid content (TFC). The antioxidant capacity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The sugar profile (total sugars, sucrose, glucose, fructose, and fructooligosaccharides—FOS) and the volatile compounds by headspace-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS-GC/MS) were also determined. The OR bulb exhibited the highest TPC (16.3 mg GAE/g d.w., p < 0.01) and TFC (8.5 mg QE/g d.w., p < 0.01), with the highest antioxidant capacity measured by the FRAP (27.1 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01) and DPPH assays (46.2 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01). The ON bulb showed the highest ORAC value (209 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01). Generally, the bulbs were richer in sugars (584 mg/g d.w., p < 0.01) than the leaf blade (239 mg/g d.w., p < 0.01), except for OR. Significant interaction between the genotype and plant organ was noted in the volatile compound profiles (p < 0.05) except for total ketones and carboxylic acids, where higher content was observed in the leaf blade compared to the bulb, regardless of the genotype. These findings highlight WO's potential for use in ready-to-eat products, enhancing its market value. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing interest in fermented dairy products is due to their health-promoting properties. The use of milk kefir grains as a starter culture made it possible to obtain a product with a better nutritional and biological profile depending on the type of milk. Cow, buffalo, camel, donkey, goat, and sheep milk kefirs were prepared, and the changes in sugar, protein, and phenol content, fatty acid composition, including conjugated linoleic acids (CLAs), as well as antioxidant activity, determined by ABTS and FRAP assays, were evaluated and compared. The protein content of cow, buffalo, donkey, and sheep milk increased after 24 h of fermentation. The fatty acid profile showed a better concentration of saturated and unsaturated lipids in all fermented milks, except buffalo milk. The highest content of beneficial fatty acids, such as oleic, linoleic, and C18:2 conjugated linoleic acid, was found in the cow and sheep samples. All samples showed a better antioxidant capacity, goat milk having the highest value, with no correlation to the total phenolic content, which was highest in the buffalo sample (260.40 ± 5.50 μg GAE/mL). These findings suggested that microorganisms living symbiotically in kefir grains utilize nutrients from different types of milk with varying efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Spirulina platensis has been known as a super food with a high nutrition and biological activity. The limited addition of S. platensis into the food is due to its unpleasant odour. S. platensis was soaked in basil (Ocimum basilicum) leaves extract (BLE) to decrease the unpleasant odour and its antioxidant activities after soaking were unknown. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of ratio S. platensis with BLE on colour and sensory characteristics and to determine the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity of extracted S. platensis without and with BLE using different solvents. Spirulina platensis was soaked in BLE at a ratio of S. platensis and BLE of 1:3, 1:4, and 1:5 (w/v) for 15 min and then dried at 40°C for 10 h. The resultant powder was analysed for colour and sensory characteristics. The selected S. platensis with the best sensory characteristic was further extracted in water and ethanol and was compared with the S. platensis control (unsoaked in BLE). The ratio of S. platensis and BLE had a significant effect on the colour characteristics (P < 0.05). Spirulina platensis soaked in BLE at a ratio 1:4 had higher L* (35.98), a* (−6.57) and b* values (5.95) than the control. The ratio of S. platensis and BLE at 1:4 had a higher overall sensory value (4.16) than the control (2.35). The water extract of S. platensis unsoaked and soaked in BLE showed a higher TPC (1.178 and 1.667 mg GAE g−1 extract, respectively), DPPH, ABTS and metal chelating, but lower in FRAP compared with the ethanol extract. Spirulina platensis soaked in BLE which were extracted in water and ethanol had higher ORAC (63.27 and 56.33 mmol Teq g−1 extract, respectively) than the control. Spirulina platensis soaked in BLE increased its sensory value while maintaining the antioxidant capacity. Therefore, it can potentially be added in more quantities to various foods as functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to assess the impact of dietary selenoprotein extracts from Cardamine hupingshanensis (SePCH) on the growth, hematological parameters, selenium metabolism, immune responses, antioxidant capacities, inflammatory reactions and intestinal barrier functions in juvenile largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides). The base diet was supplemented with four different concentrations of SePCH: 0.00, 0.30, 0.60 and 1.20 g/Kg (actual selenium contents: 0.37, 0.59, 0.84 and 1.30 mg/kg). These concentrations were used to formulate four isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets for juvenile largemouth bass during a 60-day culture period. Adequate dietary SePCH (0.60 and 1.20 g/Kg) significantly increased weight gain and daily growth rate compared to the control groups (0.00 g/Kg). Furthermore, 0.60 and 1.20 g/Kg SePCH significantly enhanced amounts of white blood cells, red blood cells, platelets, lymphocytes and monocytes, and levels of hemoglobin, mean corpuscular volume and mean corpuscular hemoglobin in the hemocytes. In addition, 0.60 and 1.20 g/Kg SePCH increased the mRNA expression levels of selenocysteine lyase, selenophosphate synthase 1, 15 kDa selenoprotein, selenoprotein T2, selenoprotein H, selenoprotein P and selenoprotein K in the fish liver and intestine compared to the controls. Adequate SePCH not only significantly elevated the activities of antioxidant enzymes (Total superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase), the levels of total antioxidant capacity and glutathione, while increased mRNA transcription levels of NF-E2-related factor 2, Cu/Zn-superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase and glutathione peroxidase. However, adequate SePCH significantly decreased levels of malondialdehyde and H2O2 and the mRNA expression levels of kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1a and kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1b in the fish liver and intestine compared to the controls. Meanwhile, adequate SePCH markedly enhanced the levels of immune factors (alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, lysozyme, complement component 3, complement component 4 and immunoglobulin M) and innate immune-related genes (lysozyme, hepcidin, liver-expressed antimicrobial peptide 2, complement component 3 and complement component 4) in the fish liver and intestine compared to the controls. Adequate SePCH reduced the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin 8, interleukin 1β and interferon γ), while increasing transforming growth factor β1 levels at both transcriptional and protein levels in the liver and intestine. The mRNA expression levels of mitogen-activated protein kinase 13 (MAPK 13), MAPK14 and nuclear factor kappa B p65 were significantly reduced in the liver and intestine of fish fed with 0.60 and 1.20 g/Kg SePCH compared to the controls. Histological sections also demonstrated that 0.60 and 1.20 g/Kg SePCH significantly increased intestinal villus height and villus width compared to the controls. Furthermore, the mRNA expression levels of tight junction proteins (zonula occludens-1, zonula occludens-3, Claudin-1, Claudin-3, Claudin-5, Claudin-11, Claudin-23 and Claudin-34) and Mucin-17 were significantly upregulated in the intestinal epithelial cells of 0.60 and 1.20 g/Kg SePCH groups compared to the controls. In conclusion, these results found that 0.60 and 1.20 g/Kg dietary SePCH can not only improve growth, hematological parameters, selenium metabolism, antioxidant capacities, enhance immune responses and intestinal functions, but also alleviate inflammatory responses. This information can serve as a useful reference for formulating feeds for largemouth bass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International provenance trials are a hot topic in forestry, and in light of climate change, the search for more resilient beech provenances and their assisted migration is one of the challenges of climate-smart forestry. The main aim of the study was to determine intraspecific variability in European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) among 11 beech provenances according to total antioxidant capacities estimated by various assays, such as DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid), FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assay, and radical scavenging capacity against nitric oxide (RSC-NO assays), as well as osmolyte content, primarily individual polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine), and free proline content. Polyamine amounts were quantified by using HPLC coupled with fluorescent detection after dansylation pretreatment. The highest values for radical scavenger capacity assays (ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP) were measured in the German provenances DE47 and DE49. Also, the highest NO inhibition capacity was found in the provenance DE49, while the highest content of proline (PRO), total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) was recorded in DE47. The Austrian AT56 and German provenance DE49 were most abundant in total polyamines. This research underlines the importance of the application of common antioxidant assays as well as osmolyte quantification as a criterion for the selection of climate-ready beech provenances for sustainable forest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The quality of fresh-cut produce, particularly sweet potatoes, is crucial for their value. Licorice extract is an optional additive in fresh-cut sweet potatoes. This study examined the impact of three licorice extracts (licorice acid, LA; licorice flavonoids, LF; and licorice polysaccharides, LP) on the quality of fresh-cut sweet potato slices (FCSPSs) for one week of storage. After one week of storage, the extracts showed varying effects on FCSPSs. LA and LF treatments reduced the area proportion of browning (APB), while LP treatments increased APB and decreased L* values. Antioxidant experiments revealed that LP treatments increased PPO and POD activity while reducing SOD activity. The concentrations of the three licorice extracts showed a strong negative correlation with SOD activity. In conclusion, LP harmed the appearance and antioxidant qualities of FCSPSs. LA and LF may be suitable additive components for FCSPSs, and 30 mg/mL LA and LF treatments were found to maintain the appearance and texture quality of FCSPSs during storage. Therefore, careful consideration should be given when using LP as a food additive for FCSPSs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumption of mushrooms in daily diet has become tremendously popular. This study was carried out to investigate the antioxidant capacities (DPPH radical scavenging, reducing power, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity) and total phenolic content on the heat treatments (boiling, steaming, microwave and pressure cooking) of fresh and oven-dried fruit body of Hericium erinaceus cultivated in tropical region. Samples exposed to 5 minutes to both steaming and pressure-cooking exhibited a significant increase in DPPH and reducing powers activities. The TEAC was also increased significantly in 5 minutes of both microwaving and pressure-cooking samples. Most of the cooked samples showed a high phenolic content. Weak correlation between the antioxidant activities and total phenolic content of samples indicates the antioxidant activity is not due to the amount of phenolic compounds. Thus, steaming and pressure-cooking might be the best cooking method to maintain high antioxidant content of H. erinaceus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The purpose of this study was to investigate the fermentation characteristics of five varieties of fig juices (Ficus carica cv. Siluhongyu, Siluhuangjin, Silufeicui, Jinaofen and Fengchanhuang) by two select strains (Lactobacillus plantarum and Lactobacillus acidophilus), based on the changes of physicochemical parameters, bioactive components, antioxidant activities and flavour volatiles. Viable counts were above 9.5 log CFU mL−1 throughout the fermentation process, indicating that fig juices were suitable substrates for strain proliferation. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were significantly enhanced during fermentation, particularly with Siluhuangjin by L. plantarum and Silufeicui by L. acidophilus, exhibiting the highest total phenolic (465 mg GAE L−1) and total flavonoid contents (152 mg RE L−1), respectively. Accordingly, antioxidant activities based on SOD, DPPH, ABTS and FRAP methods were significantly improved after fermentation (P < 0.05). SOD and ABTS were positively correlated with contents of protocatechuic acid and caffeic acid, respectively (P < 0.05). Furthermore, alcohols, ketones and terpenoids contents were increased, while aldehydes content was decreased significantly after fermentation (P < 0.05), suggesting the improved flavour characteristics of fermented fig juices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several Allium cepa L. varieties, representing a versatile set of vegetables widely utilized by consumers, are appreciated for their bioactive properties, including antimicrobial, anticarcinogenic, and antioxidant capacities. The aim of this study is to compare the morphometric characteristics and biochemical profiles of four cultivars of A. cepa, two of them represented by the perennial Sicilian landrace “Cipudda agghiarola” (Allium × proliferum (Moench) Schrader), widely known as the Egyptian walking onion (WO), and by the landrace “Cipudduzza” belonging to the variety known as aggregatum (ON), which were compared with two commercial cultivars of A. cepa var. cepa (onion), Stoccarda (OS) and Rossa Carmen (OR). The experimental trial was conducted in Catania (Sicily), following organic growing practices. The randomized complete block experimental design was adopted with one experimental factor, the genotype (GE) effect. The harvested plants were characterized for their main morphometric parameters, according to the International Plant Genetic Resources (IGPR) descriptors. The biochemical activity was assessed by analyzing the total phenolic content (TPC) and the total flavonoid content (TFC). The antioxidant capacity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). The sugar profile (total sugars, sucrose, glucose, fructose, and fructooligosaccharides—FOS) and the volatile compounds by headspace-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (HS-GC/MS) were also determined. The OR bulb exhibited the highest TPC (16.3 mg GAE/g d.w., p < 0.01) and TFC (8.5 mg QE/g d.w., p < 0.01), with the highest antioxidant capacity measured by the FRAP (27.1 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01) and DPPH assays (46.2 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01). The ON bulb showed the highest ORAC value (209 µmol TE/g d.w., p < 0.01). Generally, the bulbs were richer in sugars (584 mg/g d.w., p < 0.01) than the leaf blade (239 mg/g d.w., p < 0.01), except for OR. Significant interaction between the genotype and plant organ was noted in the volatile compound profiles (p < 0.05) except for total ketones and carboxylic acids, where higher content was observed in the leaf blade compared to the bulb, regardless of the genotype. These findings highlight WO’s potential for use in ready-to-eat products, enhancing its market value.

Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum L.) is a widely renowned herb for its abundance of bioactive compounds and medicinal applications. Nevertheless, there exists a dearth of knowledge regarding the variability among holy basil cultivars capable of yielding substantial bioactive compounds. This study aims to address this gap by shedding light on the diversity of antioxidant capacities within different accessions of Thai holy basil by employing a density-based clustering algorithm to categorize the holy basil cultivars that demonstrate notable antioxidant potential. The study involves the analysis of the anthocyanin, flavonoid, phenolic, and terpenoid content, as well as DPPH antioxidant activity, in 26 Thai holy basil accessions collected from diverse locations in Thailand. Among the 26 tested Thai holy basil cultivars, terpenoids were found to be the dominant class of compounds, with average values of 707 mg/gDW, while the levels of flavonoids and phenolic compounds remained below 65 mg rutin/gDW and 46 mg GAE/gDW, respectively. The DPPH assay in holy basil cultivars demonstrated that the antioxidant activity ranged between 50% and 93%. After standardizing the data, the clustering results revealed four distinct groups of cultivars: the first group, with low antioxidant levels; the second group, with high terpenoid content; the third group, with high flavonoid, DPPH antioxidant activity, and phenolic content; and the fourth group, with elevated levels of anthocyanin, DPPH antioxidant activity, and phenolic content. A strong positive correlation was observed among DPPH antioxidant activity, flavonoids, and phenolics. Specific cultivars: The Red, OC108, and OC106 holy basil cultivars in cluster 4 exhibited high anthocyanin and phenolic production. In cluster 3, the accessions OC113, OC057, OC063, and OC059 showed high DPPH antioxidant activity, flavonoids, and phenolics, while, in cluster 2, only accessions from Udon Thani, Thailand—namely OC194 and OC195—displayed high terpenoid content. Ultimately, this study significantly contributes to the inherent diversity in the antioxidant capacities among various Thai holy basil cultivars. It lays the foundation for targeted breeding strategies and informed choices regarding consumption. The comprehensive insights from this analysis hold the potential to accurately identify holy basil cultivars with promising applications in medicine, functional foods, and the nutraceutical industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the impact of incorporating Cissus quadrangularis (CQ) powder into Yanggaeng, a traditional Korean food, focusing on its functional properties. This study examined the proximate composition, physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant capabilities, sensory attributes, and consumer preferences of Yanggaeng when treated with different levels (CON [0%], CQ2 [2%], CQ4 [4%], and CQ6 [6%]) of CQ powder. Yanggaeng with CQ powder exhibited a significantly reduced pH, and among the CQ additive groups the highest °Brix value was observed in CQ2. The water holding capacity (WHC) decreased after adding CQ powder. The color properties of Yanggaeng with CQ powder, including L*, a*, and b*, were measured. L* values dose-dependently decreased as the amount of CQ powder increased. Conversely, a* values increased significantly with CQ powder addition compared with CON, and b* values were highest in CQ2. Similarly, the browning index (BI) increased in the CQ powder treatment groups compared with CON. The antioxidative properties of Yanggaeng with CQ powder were evaluated by measuring the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 1,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activities, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The antioxidant capacity dose-dependently increased with higher levels of CQ powder added. Regarding the texture profile of Yanggaeng, compared with the control group, adding CQ powder caused decreased hardness, gumminess, and chewiness. In consumer preference evaluations, CQ2 showed similarities to CON in all aspects (color, scent, flavor, sweetness, taste, chewiness, overall acceptance, and purchase intention). Therefore, incorporating CQ powder, a natural and edible antioxidative ingredient, into Yanggaeng may be acceptable to consumers despite significant changes in its physicochemical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

International provenance trials are a hot topic in forestry, and in light of climate change, the search for more resilient beech provenances and their assisted migration is one of the challenges of climate-smart forestry. The main aim of the study was to determine intraspecific variability in European beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) among 11 beech provenances according to total antioxidant capacities estimated by various assays, such as DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid), FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) assay, and radical scavenging capacity against nitric oxide (RSC-NO assays), as well as osmolyte content, primarily individual polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine), and free proline content. Polyamine amounts were quantified by using HPLC coupled with fluorescent detection after dansylation pretreatment. The highest values for radical scavenger capacity assays (ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP) were measured in the German provenances DE47 and DE49. Also, the highest NO inhibition capacity was found in the provenance DE49, while the highest content of proline (PRO), total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) was recorded in DE47. The Austrian AT56 and German provenance DE49 were most abundant in total polyamines. This research underlines the importance of the application of common antioxidant assays as well as osmolyte quantification as a criterion for the selection of climate-ready beech provenances for sustainable forest management.

This work aimed to determine the effect of freeze drying (FD), hot air drying (HD), vacuum drying (VD), and infrared hot air drying (IRD) on the quality of two key kinds of garlic varieties (white and purple garlic). The quality including colors, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacities of dried garlic slices were investigated. The highest whiteness of dried white and purple garlic was found in FD treatments with its values at 87.04 and 81.89, respectively. The higher active substances contents and antioxidant capacities was found in dried purple garlic slices compared to the white ones under the same drying methods. The allicin contents in FD and IRD treated purple garlic were 2.60 and 2.67 mg/g and the total phenolic in these two samples were 5.93 and 4.33 mg/g. Meanwhile, the highest DPPH, ABTS and FRAP (6.64, 2.85 and 5.70 mmol TE/g. DW) was found in the IRD treated purple samples. Principal component analysis revealed the higher allicin contents, total phenolic contents, and antioxidant capacities in purple garlic slices compared to the white one in different drying methods. These results suggested that dried purple garlic under IRD treatment is more suitable for drying industrials than white garlic.

In this paper, peptide was prepared from Cucumaria frondosa by enzymatic hydrolysis with complex protease, and its composition and antioxidant capacities were evaluated. Taking the degree of hydrolysis as the index, the enzymolysis parameters were optimized by single factor experiments and response surface experiment. The nutrients, amino acid composition, molecular weight distribution and in vitro antioxidant activity of the Cucumaria frondosa peptide were analyzed. The results showed that the optimized conditions were as follows: Material liquid ratio 1:1.5 (w:w), temperature 49 ℃, initial pH7.0, enzyme dosage 1052 U/g and enzymolysis time 4.7 h. Under these conditions, the degree of hydrolysis of Cucumaria frondosa was 30.51%±0.85%. The average relative molecular mass of the Cucumaria frondosa peptide was 403 Da, and the proportion of relative molecular mass less than 1 kDa was 92.81%. The content of total amino acids in peptide was 80.54%, and the proportion of hydrophobic amino acids and the umami acid were 38.00% and 44.10% respectively. So the Cucumaria frondosa peptide had high nutritional value and the characteristics of easy absorption because of its high content of small protein molecules. The antioxidant capacity test showed that the IC50 of the scavenging concentration of hydroxyl radical and superoxide anion were 0.19 and 0.49 mg/mL, respectively. This would provide a theoretical basis for the development and utilization and deep processing of Cucumaria frondosa.

Abstract Background Epichloë sinensis is a newly found endophyte species that is frequently involved in symbiosis with Festuca sinensis. There are a little reports on the characteristics of E. sinensis in vitro. Methods In the present study, five E. sinensis endophyte strains (strain ID 1, 2, 41D, 57D, 111D) isolated from different F. sinensis ecotypes were used to evaluate their antioxidant capacities and enzyme activities. Also, the growth of E. sinensis on potato dextrose agar (PDA) with different additives was investigated. Results The five strains had significantly different (p

In this study, the ultrasonic assisted high-temperature cooking extraction method of soluble dietary fiber from bamboo shoots was optimized by response surface methodology, and the effects of ultrasonic assisted high-temperature cooking extraction on the structural characteristics, physicochemical properties and antioxidant activity of soluble dietary fiber (SDF) from bamboo shoots were evaluated. The yield of modified UH-SDF11 UH-SDF: Extraction of soluble dietary fiber from Dendrocalamus brandisii Munro shoots by ultrasonic assisted high-temperature cooking method. was significantly higher than that of untreated D-SDF22 D-SDF: Untreated extracted soluble dietary fiber from Dendrocalamus brandisii Munro shoots.. FTIR and XRD confirmed that UH-SDF had more hydrophilic groups and higher crystallinity (28.73 %), resulting in better thermal stability. SEM observation showed that UH-SDF exhibited a more loose microstructure, and the particle size of UH-SDF (601.52 μm) was significantly smaller than that of D-SDF (242.59 μm), so UH-SDF had a larger specific surface area. In addition, UH-SDF has stronger water holding capacity, water swelling capacity and oil holding capacity than D-SDF. The DPPH radical and hydroxyl radical scavenging rates of UH-SDF were 8.91 % and 7.49 % higher than those of D-SDF. In addition, the reducing ability of UH-SDF was higher than that of D-SDF, which had better antioxidant activity. In summary, UH-SDF has the potential to be developed as an anti-inflammatory functional food.

The quality of fresh-cut produce, particularly sweet potatoes, is crucial for their value. Licorice extract is an optional additive in fresh-cut sweet potatoes. This study examined the impact of three licorice extracts (licorice acid, LA; licorice flavonoids, LF; and licorice polysaccharides, LP) on the quality of fresh-cut sweet potato slices (FCSPSs) for one week of storage. After one week of storage, the extracts showed varying effects on FCSPSs. LA and LF treatments reduced the area proportion of browning (APB), while LP treatments increased APB and decreased L* values. Antioxidant experiments revealed that LP treatments increased PPO and POD activity while reducing SOD activity. The concentrations of the three licorice extracts showed a strong negative correlation with SOD activity. In conclusion, LP harmed the appearance and antioxidant qualities of FCSPSs. LA and LF may be suitable additive components for FCSPSs, and 30 mg/mL LA and LF treatments were found to maintain the appearance and texture quality of FCSPSs during storage. Therefore, careful consideration should be given when using LP as a food additive for FCSPSs.

Selenylation Astragalus polysaccharides (Se-APS) was fabricated by an optimized microwave-assisted method. Their physicochemical properties, antioxidant capacities and selenium (Se) release rate under gastrointestinal conditions were determined. Se-APS with the highest Se content (18.8 mg/g) was prepared in 0.4 % nitric acid, under the microwave conditions of 90 min and 80 °C. FTIR and XPS spectra indicated that Se was bound to the polysaccharide chain in the form of O-Se-O and O-H···Se, and most of Se+4 was reduced to Se0. Meanwhile, the micromorphology of Se-APS became clusters, loose and porous, which decreased its hydrodynamic particle size and negative surface charges. Besides, Se-APS displayed strong scavenging capacities towards ABTS and superoxide anion free radicals than Na 2 SeO 3 , and showed higher Se release rate (12.52 ± 0.31 %) under intestinal fluid comparing with gastric fluid (3.14 ± 0.38 %) during 8 h in vitro digestion. The results provided efficient preparation method references for selenylation polysaccharides, and broaden the application fields of APS. [Display omitted] • The selenylation modification of APS by a microwave-assisted method was achieved. • The Se content under optimum Se-APS preparation condition was 18.8 mg/g. • The valence state of Se in Se-APS was composed of +4 and 0. • Se-APS had good ABTS and superoxide anion free radical scavenging capacities. • Se-APS had higher Se release rate (12.52 ± 0.31 %) under intestinal fluid in vitro. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the impacts of different drying technologies including microwave drying (MD), vacuum microwave drying (VMD), sun drying (SD), vacuum drying (VD), hot air drying (HAD), and vacuum freeze drying (VFD) on the physical characteristics, nutritional properties and antioxidant capacities of kiwifruit pomace in order to realize by-product utilization and improve energy efficiency. Results showed that both MD and VMD significantly reduced drying time by >94.6%, compared to traditional thermal drying which took 14–48 h. MD exhibited the highest content of soluble dietary fiber (9.5%) and the lowest energy consumption. Furthermore, VMD resulted in the highest content of vitamin C (198.78 mg/100 g) and reducing sugar (73.78%), and the antioxidant capacities ranked only second to VFD. Given the financial advantages and product quality, VMD was suggested to be advantageous technology in actual industrial production. [Display omitted] • Quality of kiwifruit pomace was influenced by different drying technologies. • Vacuum microwave drying (VMD) dramatically reduced drying time of kiwifruit pomace. • Microwave drying (MD) exhibited low energy consumption for kiwifruit pomace drying. • MD possessed high content of soluble dietary fiber in kiwifruit pomace. • VMD maintained high antioxidant capacities compared to conventional thermal drying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum L.) is a widely renowned herb for its abundance of bioactive compounds and medicinal applications. Nevertheless, there exists a dearth of knowledge regarding the variability among holy basil cultivars capable of yielding substantial bioactive compounds. This study aims to address this gap by shedding light on the diversity of antioxidant capacities within different accessions of Thai holy basil by employing a density-based clustering algorithm to categorize the holy basil cultivars that demonstrate notable antioxidant potential. The study involves the analysis of the anthocyanin, flavonoid, phenolic, and terpenoid content, as well as DPPH antioxidant activity, in 26 Thai holy basil accessions collected from diverse locations in Thailand. Among the 26 tested Thai holy basil cultivars, terpenoids were found to be the dominant class of compounds, with average values of 707 mg/gDW, while the levels of flavonoids and phenolic compounds remained below 65 mg rutin/gDW and 46 mg GAE/gDW, respectively. The DPPH assay in holy basil cultivars demonstrated that the antioxidant activity ranged between 50% and 93%. After standardizing the data, the clustering results revealed four distinct groups of cultivars: the first group, with low antioxidant levels; the second group, with high terpenoid content; the third group, with high flavonoid, DPPH antioxidant activity, and phenolic content; and the fourth group, with elevated levels of anthocyanin, DPPH antioxidant activity, and phenolic content. A strong positive correlation was observed among DPPH antioxidant activity, flavonoids, and phenolics. Specific cultivars: The Red, OC108, and OC106 holy basil cultivars in cluster 4 exhibited high anthocyanin and phenolic production. In cluster 3, the accessions OC113, OC057, OC063, and OC059 showed high DPPH antioxidant activity, flavonoids, and phenolics, while, in cluster 2, only accessions from Udon Thani, Thailand—namely OC194 and OC195—displayed high terpenoid content. Ultimately, this study significantly contributes to the inherent diversity in the antioxidant capacities among various Thai holy basil cultivars. It lays the foundation for targeted breeding strategies and informed choices regarding consumption. The comprehensive insights from this analysis hold the potential to accurately identify holy basil cultivars with promising applications in medicine, functional foods, and the nutraceutical industry.

This study investigated the impact of incorporating Cissus quadrangularis (CQ) powder into Yanggaeng, a traditional Korean food, focusing on its functional properties. This study examined the proximate composition, physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant capabilities, sensory attributes, and consumer preferences of Yanggaeng when treated with different levels (CON [0%], CQ2 [2%], CQ4 [4%], and CQ6 [6%]) of CQ powder. Yanggaeng with CQ powder exhibited a significantly reduced pH, and among the CQ additive groups the highest °Brix value was observed in CQ2. The water holding capacity (WHC) decreased after adding CQ powder. The color properties of Yanggaeng with CQ powder, including L*, a*, and b*, were measured. L* values dose-dependently decreased as the amount of CQ powder increased. Conversely, a* values increased significantly with CQ powder addition compared with CON, and b* values were highest in CQ2. Similarly, the browning index (BI) increased in the CQ powder treatment groups compared with CON. The antioxidative properties of Yanggaeng with CQ powder were evaluated by measuring the total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), 1,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activities, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The antioxidant capacity dose-dependently increased with higher levels of CQ powder added. Regarding the texture profile of Yanggaeng, compared with the control group, adding CQ powder caused decreased hardness, gumminess, and chewiness. In consumer preference evaluations, CQ2 showed similarities to CON in all aspects (color, scent, flavor, sweetness, taste, chewiness, overall acceptance, and purchase intention). Therefore, incorporating CQ powder, a natural and edible antioxidative ingredient, into Yanggaeng may be acceptable to consumers despite significant changes in its physicochemical properties.

Pullulan-based composite films incorporated with bacterial cellulose (BC) and ferulic acid (FA) were prepared by solution casting method. The rheological, morphological, barrier, optical, anti-fogging, and antioxidant properties of pullulan-based composite films doped with BC and FA were investigated. The rheological results showed that all film-forming solution was pseudoplastic fluid and its viscosity increased with the increase of BC content. An appropriate BC (2 %) and FA were uniformly dispersed in pullulan to form uniform and dense composite films. With the increase of BC content, the roughness and opacity of composite films increased while their UV–vis barrier performance was improved by incorporating BC and FA. Fourier transform infrared spectrometer analysis demonstrated that hydrogen bond interactions among pullulan, BC, and FA were found, and incorporating BC could increase the crystallinity of the composite films, thus enhancing their mechanical, barrier, hydrophobic, and thermal stability properties. Pullulan-based composite films incorporated with 2 % BC and FA (P-BC2-FA) showed better mechanical properties, water, oxygen, and carbon dioxide barrier performances, and its water contact angle value also increased compared with control, respectively. P-BC2-FA film showed superior anti-fogging and antioxidant activities. These results indicate that the P-BC2-FA film are expected to be a potential target of bioactive packaging. [Display omitted] • Composite films were prepared by pullulan, bacterial cellulose (BC), and ferulic acid (FA). • Pullulan composite films obtained better barrier, Uv-vis shielding, hydrophobicity, mechanical, and thermal stability properties. • A dense structure was formed between pullulan, BC, and FA through hydrogen bond interaction. • Pullulan-based composite films incorporated with 2 % BC and FA, obtained superior antioxidant and anti-fogging properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Shiitake mushrooms contain free phenolics (FPs) and bound phenolics (BPs). BPs embedded in mushrooms are generally neglected and underestimated. Methods of hydrolysis with acid, base and their combination in different sequences were developed to release BPs. The contents, compositions and antioxidant capacities of FPs and BPs were investigated. Results found that BPs yielded with combining base and acid hydrolysis received the highest value (25.67 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/100 g dry weight (DW)), which was higher than FPs (20.62 mg GAE/100 g DW). LC‐ESI‐QqQ‐MS/MS analysis demonstrated that gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, caffeic acid, and ferulic acid presented in all BPs fractions, whereas hesperidin, luteolin, quercetin, and cinnamic acid were affected by hydrolysis methods and procedures. BPs fractions with higher phenolic content showed strong antioxidant capacities. These results demonstrate the importance of BPs and can be applied to enhance the amount and bioavailability of BPs from shiitake mushrooms and other foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cysteine might scavenge free radicals and is a limiting substrate for the cellular synthesis of glutathione (GSH). We investigated the association of cysteine with oxidative stress and GSH-related antioxidant capacity in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Plasma samples were drawn from 66 patients 1 day before (pre-resection) and 4 weeks after resection (post-resection). Tumor and adjacent normal tissues were collected. We measured levels of plasma and tissue cysteine, homocysteine, oxidative stress indicators (malondialdehyde, MDA; advanced oxidation protein products, AOPP), GSH, and antioxidant enzyme activities. After tumor resection, patients had significantly higher levels of plasma cysteine, homocysteine, MDA, AOPP, and GSH-related antioxidant enzyme activities when compared with pre-resection. Levels of cysteine, homocysteine, AOPP and all antioxidant capacity indicators in tumor tissue were significantly higher than those levels in the adjacent normal tissue. Plasma cysteine levels measured at pre-resection were positively associated with MDA levels in the tumor and in the adjacent normal tissues. Cysteine levels in tumor and adjacent normal tissues were significantly associated with tissue levels of homocysteine, almost as indicators of oxidative stress and antioxidant capacities. Cysteine in the circulation was likely utilized to mediate GSH-related antioxidant capacity and further cope with increased oxidative stress in tumor and adjacent normal tissues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free, conjugated, and bound phenolic fractions of peel and pulp in four wampee varieties from South China were analyzed for their contents, composition, antioxidant capacities, and inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase. We found that there were significant differences in phenolic/flavonoid contents among diverse varieties and different parts (peel and pulp), and the contents were highest in the peel's bound form. The results of UHPL-Q-Exactive HF-X and HPLC showed that chlorogenic acid, gentisic acid, and rutin were abundantly distributed over the three phenolic fractions in peel and pulp of all wampee samples, while isoquercitrin was the most abundant in the conjugated form of peel/pulp and myricetin had the richest content in the free form of peel/pulp. Wampee peel had stronger antioxidant capacities of ABTS+, DPPH, ·OH, and FRAP than the pulp, and the bound phenolic fraction of the peel/pulp had much higher antioxidant activities than FP and CP fractions. It is interesting that the same phenolic fraction of the wampee peel displayed roughly close IC50 values of α-glucosidase inhibition to those from the pulp samples. The relationship between individual phenolic and TPC/TFC/the bio-activities and the similarity among the free, conjugated, and bound phenolic fractions in peel and pulp samples were explored by using Pearson correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and hierarchical cluster analysis. This work provides a systematic and comprehensive comparison of the three phenolic fractions of diverse wampee varieties and different parts, and a rationale for applying phenolics from wampee fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The TPC and TFC values of nBuOH fractions showed the highest values among all solvent fractions in the same sample, indicating that nBuOH fractions had the highest polyphenol and flavonoid contents, which is consistent with the antioxidant activity results. Among the five celery seed samples, the Shandong samples (nBuOH fractions) contained the highest TFC values of 652.57 mg RE/g. The TFC values of nBuOH fractions were 5-30 times higher than other solvent fractions. The TPC values of different fractions from the five celery seed samples ranged from 5.17 mg GAE/g to 80.17 mg GAE/g. The experimental results show that the nBuOH fractions contained much higher TPC values than the other solvent fractions, except for the Jiangsu samples. Celery (Apium graveolens L.) seed, different solvent fractions, main flavone glycosides, -amylase inhibitory activities, molecular docking, antioxidant capacities, -glucosidase inhibitory activities. [Extracted from the article]

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In this study, metal cefotaxime complexes of Ca(II), Cr(III), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Se(VI) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, conductance measurements, IR, electronic spectra, magnetic measurements, 1HNMR, and XRD, as well as by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The lower values for molar conductance refer to the nonelectrolyte nature of the complexes. The FTIR and 1H-NMR spectra for the metal complexes of cefotaxime proved that the free cefotaxime antibiotic ligand acted as a monoanionic tridentate ligand through the oxygen atoms of lactam carbonyl, the carboxylate group, and the nitrogen atoms of the amino group. From the magnetic measurements and electronic spectral data, octahedral structures were proposed for the Cr(III) and Se(VI) complexes, while the Cu(II) complex had tetragonal geometry. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cefotaxime and cefotaxime metal complexes on oxidative stress using antioxidant assays including DPPH, ORAC, FARAB, and ABTS, a metal chelation assay, as well as the inhibition of the viability of cancer cells (HepG-2). Regarding the antibacterial activity, the cefotaxime metal complexes were highly effective against both Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. In conclusion, the cefotaxime metal complexes exhibited highly antioxidant activities. The cefotaxime metal complexes with Zn and Se inhibited HepG-2 cellular viability. Thus, the cefotaxime metal complexes elicited promising results as potent antioxidant and anticancer agents against HepG-2, with potent antibacterial activities at a much lower concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this work was to investigate the volatile compositions of four Chinese functional liquors. For this purpose, volatile compounds of four liquors were extracted with head-space solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and analyzed with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) along with the determination of odor activity value (OAV) and relative odor contribution (ROC). Sixty volatiles were tentatively identified and categorized into the following seven groups: alcohols, esters, fatty acids, carbonyl compound, hydrocarbons, phenols, and other components. The differences in chemical composition of volatile compounds were visualized with heat maps. Odorants were compared with different samples using a statistical analysis of Venn diagrams and a multivariate principal component analysis, and ethyl hexanoate, ethyl acetate, and ethyl octanoate were found to be the key odorants. Besides, abundant phenolic contents and high antioxidant ability of four Chinese functional liquors could potentially bring better health-boosting effects.

To investigate the effect of Flammulina velutipes polysaccharides (FVPs) on mice intestinal inflammation, FVPs were extracted from Flammulina velutipes (FV) using a solid anaerobic fermentation technique. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities of FVP and fermented FVP (FFVP) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that the yield of FFVP (9.44%) was higher than that of FVP (8.65%), but the molecular weight (MW) of FFVP (15,702 Da) was lower than that of FVP (15,961 Da). The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities of FFVP were higher than that of FVP in preventing mice diarrhea, enhancing antioxidant capacities, and reducing the secretion and mRNA expression of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, IL-18, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The anti-inflammatory mechanisms of FVP and FFVP were analyzed by inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 signaling pathway using an LPS-induced mice model. This study indicated that FFVP could be used as a functional antioxidant, indicating a potential application in functional food and health products.

In this work, the selenylation Codonopsis pilosula polysaccharide (Se-CPPS) were synthesized using an optimized microwave-assisted method. Then, physicochemical properties, including molecular weight, particle size, valence state of selenium, antioxidant capacity, release mechanism of selenium under gastrointestinal conditions, as well as their effects on HT-29 cell viability were comprehensively investigated. The results demonstrated that Se-CPPS with the highest selenium content (21.71 mg/g) was synthesized using 0.8% nitric acid concentration under microwave conditions of 90 min at 70 °C. FTIR and XPS analysis revealed that Se was bound to the polysaccharide chain in the form of O-Se-O and O-H···Se, with a valence state of either 0 or +4. In vitro investigations on antioxidant activity and selenium release capacity indicated that selenization not only enhanced the antioxidant activity of CPPS but also endowed Se-CPPS with robust selenium release capability in simulated gastric digestion. The effects of Se-CPPS on HT-29 cells was further investigated by CCK-8 method. The results showed that the selenide modification effectively reduced the toxicity of Na 2 SeO 3 and enhanced the viability of CPPS. The findings of this study offer valuable methodological guidance for the synthesis of Se-polysaccharides with superior functional properties. • The valence state of Se in Se-CPPS prepared by microwave assisted was 0 and +4. • Se was bound to the CPPS chain in the form of O-Se-O and O-H⋯Se. • Se-CPPS had a low Se release rate under in vitro gastrointestinal condition. • The prepared Se-CPPS significantly improved the antioxidant activity and decreased the toxicity of Se4+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The goal of this study was to find out how much flavonoids and phenols were in propolis from different parts of Iraq (Haji Omeran, Rania, Baqubah, Nahrwan, Abu ghraib, Muhanawia, Al-Husainia and Hindiya), as well as how much antioxidant capacity it has. The content of flavonoids and phenols was determined by the aluminum nitrate method and the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The free radical scavenging activity of propolis evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and the IC50 (concentration required to obtain a 50% antioxidant effect) the results revealed that activity vitamin C 0.134mg/ml as free radical scavenging increased. when is compared with phenols compounds propolis from Al-Husainia 0.271mg/ml, Rania 0.281 mg/ml and Haji Omeran 0.323 mg/ml compared with another regions of Iraq. In this study, we characterized the chemical constituents of different propolis by HPLC compared them with 8 propolis from different regions of Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to determine the effect of freeze drying (FD), hot air drying (HD), vacuum drying (VD), and infrared hot air drying (IRD) on the quality of two key kinds of garlic varieties (white and purple garlic). The quality including colors, bioactive compounds, and antioxidant capacities of dried garlic slices were investigated. The highest whiteness of dried white and purple garlic was found in FD treatments with its values at 87.04 and 81.89, respectively. The higher active substances contents and antioxidant capacities was found in dried purple garlic slices compared to the white ones under the same drying methods. The allicin contents in FD and IRD treated purple garlic were 2.60 and 2.67 mg/g and the total phenolic in these two samples were 5.93 and 4.33 mg/g. Meanwhile, the highest DPPH, ABTS and FRAP (6.64, 2.85 and 5.70 mmol TE/g. DW) was found in the IRD treated purple samples. Principal component analysis revealed the higher allicin contents, total phenolic contents, and antioxidant capacities in purple garlic slices compared to the white one in different drying methods. These results suggested that dried purple garlic under IRD treatment is more suitable for drying industrials than white garlic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sanghuangporus sanghuang (SS) is a rare medicinal polypore fungus that grows solely on Morus trees. In this study, seven grains (oats, barley, millet, rice, buckwheat, corn, and coix seed) were used as solid substrates for SS fermentation and characterized in their nutrition, functional composition, and antioxidant activities. After fermentation, the nutrient compositions of crude protein (F1,41 = 111.1, P < 0.01), soluble protein (F1,41 = 595.7, P < 0.01), soluble sugar (F1,41 = 51.4, P < 0.01) and ash (F1,41 = 227.3, P < 0.01) increased significantly. Oats were one of the best grains for SS fermentation, SS-Oat produced 6.23 mg QE/g polyphenols, 21.8 mg rutin/g flavonoids, and 2.3% triterpene. In addition, the antioxidant capacities of the seven grains all increased. Principal component analysis analysis shows that the antioxidant properties of the grains were similar after SS fermentation. The changes of antioxidant activity due to SS fermentation were corrected with corresponding grain and remarked as ΔT-AOC/ABTS+/DPPH/DNAp, that was correlated to part of changes in polyphenol, carotenoid, triterpenoids, and flavonoid contents. In summary, oats have the greatest potential for use as a fermentation substrate for health food development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation with different types of Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation products (SCFP) on lactational performance, metabolism, acute phase protein response, and antioxidant capacities in dairy cows from -21 to 56 d in milk (DIM). One hundred and 80 multiparous Holstein dairy cows were blocked by parity, expected calving date, pre-trial body condition score, and previous 305-d ME yield, and then randomly assigned to 1 of 3 dietary treatments: basal diet (CON; n = 60), basal diet supplemented with 40 g/d of SCFP1 (XPC; n = 60; XPC, Diamond V, Cedar Rapids, IA), and basal diet supplemented with 19 g/d of SCFP2 (NTK; n = 60, NutriTek®, Diamond V, Cedar Rapids, IA). Blood (n = 15, 13 and 12 in the CON, XPC and NTK groups, respectively) was sampled at -7 ± 3, + 3, + 7, + 21, and + 28 d, and milk samples (n = 19, 18 and 15 in the CON, XPC and NTK groups, respectively) was sampled during 1-8 wk from a subset of cows from -21 to 56 d relative to calving. Data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure in SAS (SAS Institute Inc.). All data were subjected to repeated measures ANOVA. Dietary treatment (TRT), time, and their interaction (TRT × time) were considered as fixed effects and cow as the random effect. Cows fed XPC and NTK had greater energy-corrected milk (ECM). Supplementing NTK increased milk fat content and yield, and 3.5% fat-corrected milk (FCM) yield compared with CON. Milk urea nitrogen (MUN) was lower in XPC cows than CON. SCFP supplementation decreased plasma β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), ceruloplasmin (CER), haptoglobin (HPT), and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) concentrations, whereas increased plasma phosphorus (P) concentrations. In addition, cows fed NTK showed lower creatinine (CR) and cortisol (COR) concentrations but increased plasma calcium (Ca) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) concentrations than those in the CON cows. In addition, cows fed NTK and XPC both had reduced plasma concentrations of serum amyloid-A (SAA) at 3 DIM of lactation compared with CON fed cows. Furthermore, SCFP cows had greater concentrations of plasma glucose (GLU) and calcium (Ca) than CON cows at 7 DIM, and greater concentrations of plasma phosphorus (P) at 21 DIM. Between different SCFP type fed groups, plasma concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), MDA, creatinine (CR), SAA, and HPT were lower in cows fed NTK compared with cows fed XPC at 7 DIM. Overall, our results indicate the potential benefits of supplementing SCFP in transition dairy cows by modulating immunity, liver metabolic function and supporting ECM yield. The results also suggest that NutriTek at 19 g/d appears to support the performance and health of dairy cows better compared with XPC at 40 g/d, based on improved metabolic and inflammatory status during the transition period., (© 2024, The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of the American Dairy Science Association®. This is an open access article under the CC BY license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/).)

We investigated Cissus quadrangularis L. powder (C) use as a natural additive to Tteokgalbi, a traditional Korean meat-based dish. Five distinct Tteokgalbi samples were treated: one without any additives (negative control, NC), one with 1.00% C (C1), 2.00% C (C2), 4.00% C (C3), and 0.10% ascorbic acid (positive control, PC). C addition resulted in changes in composition, quality, and sensory attributes. Moisture content decreased with higher C levels; crude protein varied among the groups, with C1 having the highest crude protein levels and C3 the lowest. Crude fat decreased with increasing C concentration, whereas the carbohydrate content increased. The water-holding capacity notably decreased in the C3 group, resulting in increased cooking loss with higher C concentrations. C treatment altered color and texture, reducing CIE L* and increasing CIE a* before cooking and increasing CIE L* and CIE a* after cooking. CIE b* decreased before cooking but increased thereafter. C-treated Tteokgalbi was less cohesive, chewy, and brittle compared to the NC. The C treatment increased the total phenolic and flavonoid contents and enhanced radical scavenging capacities. It also affects storage characteristics, lowers pH, and increases 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values. The microbial counts were lower in C2 and C3 after 11 days. These findings suggest the potential use of C as a natural meat additive., Competing Interests: The authors declare no potential conflicts of interest., (© Korean Society for Food Science of Animal Resources.)

Vitex negundo L. var. cannabifolia (Sieb. et Zucc.) Hand.-Mazz. is an important medicinal plant rich in bioactive compounds. In vitro tissue culture can be used to produce high-quality starting materials for commercial cultivation. However, the micropropagation technique, especially the comprehensive evaluation of regenerants at the metabolite level, is not well known in this plant species. Employing dormant buds as explants, we developed direct and callus mediated indirect propagation protocols for this species and then evaluated the antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of regenerants. The highest multiple shoot induction frequency of 100%, with a proliferation coefficient of 20.3, was achieved using Murashige and Skoog basal medium with 4.4 µM 6-benzylaminopurine and 1.1 µM 1-naphthylacetic acid. The same medium supplemented with 31.5 µM copper sulfate was optimal for callus differentiation, with a shoot regeneration rate of 81.10%. Inter-simple sequence repeat analysis showed a high genomic fidelity of in vitro regenerants. Chemical, physiological, and cytotoxic analyses indicated that in vitro propagated plants at the adult stage are indistinguishable from wild-grown plants. In particular, the cytotoxicity of V. negundo var. cannabifolia to breast cancer cell line SUM159 reveals the potential of this species for use in treating human breast cancer, with cytotoxic compounds beyond vitexin also apparently observed. Our results indicate that V. negundo var. cannabifolia can be reliably micropropagated in vitro. Moreover, the regenerants have high cytotoxic activity against highly metastatic human breast cancer. Key message: We developed efficient micropropagation protocols for Vitex negundo var. cannabifolia, and found the regenerants were consistent with wild-grown plants according to the assessments at the genomic, metabolic, physiological, and cytotoxic levels. We also found the high anticancer activity of V. negundo var. cannabifolia, and confirmed that there are other cytotoxic compounds other than vitexin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elicitation is a biotechnological approach to improve phenolic compounds content and antioxidant properties of ready-to-eat functional foods. This study aimed to evaluate the chemical elicitation effects using salicylic acid (SA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in optimized-germination conditions on seedling vigor, phenolic content, and their antioxidant capacities in vitro and serum and urine of Wistar obese rats. Optimized-germination conditions of 26.5 °C and 178 h produced a 64% of germination and a sprout length of 56 mm. Only, the elicitation with H2O2 (20 mM) enhanced the germination (75%) and H2O2 (10 and 20 mM) the sprout length (69 and 59 mm, respectively). In contrast, both elicitors enhanced phenolic contents, being more significant total phenolic compounds content for SA (1 and 2 mM), up to 65.5–73.5%. SA and H2O2 improved total flavonoids content (36.5–64.1%), ABTS (19.3–61.1%), and DPPH capacities (51–86%), depending on SA and H2O2 concentration, compared with non-elicited chia sprouts. The QUENCHER antioxidant capacities of elicited chia sprouts increased up to three times more than extracts capacities, principally Q-ABTS, which could be attributed to phenolic bounds to dietary fiber. Rats fed with a high-fat and fructose diet (HFFD) and supplemented with chia sprouts, especially 1-mM SA, improve the obesity-related oxidative stress through an increase of antioxidant capacities, using DPPH and ABTS test, on serum (70–118%) and urine samples (80–116%). These results suggest that chia sprouts elicited with 1-mM SA are a source of antioxidant compounds that can be used to decrease obesity related oxidative stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Free, conjugated, and bound phenolic fractions of peel and pulp in four wampee varieties from South China were analyzed for their contents, composition, antioxidant capacities, and inhibitory activities against α-glucosidase. We found that there were significant differences in phenolic/flavonoid contents among diverse varieties and different parts (peel and pulp), and the contents were highest in the peel’s bound form. The results of UHPL-Q-Exactive HF-X and HPLC showed that chlorogenic acid, gentisic acid, and rutin were abundantly distributed over the three phenolic fractions in peel and pulp of all wampee samples, while isoquercitrin was the most abundant in the conjugated form of peel/pulp and myricetin had the richest content in the free form of peel/pulp. Wampee peel had stronger antioxidant capacities of ABTS+, DPPH, ·OH, and FRAP than the pulp, and the bound phenolic fraction of the peel/pulp had much higher antioxidant activities than FP and CP fractions. It is interesting that the same phenolic fraction of the wampee peel displayed roughly close IC50 values of α-glucosidase inhibition to those from the pulp samples. The relationship between individual phenolic and TPC/TFC/the bio-activities and the similarity among the free, conjugated, and bound phenolic fractions in peel and pulp samples were explored by using Pearson correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and hierarchical cluster analysis. This work provides a systematic and comprehensive comparison of the three phenolic fractions of diverse wampee varieties and different parts, and a rationale for applying phenolics from wampee fruits.

To extend the application of celery (Apium graveolens L.) seeds, the antioxidant and enzymatic inhibitory activities of different fractions and their main flavones were investigated. The n-butanol fractions possessed the highest total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) values. The n-butanol fractions from Northeast China samples exhibited the strongest free radical scavenging (DPPH IC50 = 20.27 μg/mL, ABTS IC50 = 15.11 μg/mL) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP 547.93 mg trolox (TE)/g) capacity, while those collected from Hubei China showed the optimal cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) values (465.78 mg TE/g). In addition, the dichloromethane fractions from Jiangsu samples displayed a maximum Fe2+ chelating capacity (20.81 mg ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid (EDTA)/g). Enzyme level experiments indicated polyphenolic compounds might be the main hypoglycemic active components. Subsequently, the enzyme inhibitory activity of nine main flavones was evaluated. Chrysoeriol-7-O-glucoside showed better α-glucosidase inhibitory activity than others. However, apigenin showed the best inhibitory effect on α-amylases, while the presence of glycosides would reduce its inhibitory effect. This study is the first scientific report on the enzymatic inhibitory activity, molecular docking, and antioxidant capacity of celery seed constituents, providing a basis for treating or preventing oxidative stress-related diseases and hyperglycemia.

Cysteine might scavenge free radicals and is a limiting substrate for the cellular synthesis of glutathione (GSH). We investigated the association of cysteine with oxidative stress and GSH-related antioxidant capacity in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Plasma samples were drawn from 66 patients 1 day before (pre-resection) and 4 weeks after resection (post-resection). Tumor and adjacent normal tissues were collected. We measured levels of plasma and tissue cysteine, homocysteine, oxidative stress indicators (malondialdehyde, MDA; advanced oxidation protein products, AOPP), GSH, and antioxidant enzyme activities. After tumor resection, patients had significantly higher levels of plasma cysteine, homocysteine, MDA, AOPP, and GSH-related antioxidant enzyme activities when compared with pre-resection. Levels of cysteine, homocysteine, AOPP and all antioxidant capacity indicators in tumor tissue were significantly higher than those levels in the adjacent normal tissue. Plasma cysteine levels measured at pre-resection were positively associated with MDA levels in the tumor and in the adjacent normal tissues. Cysteine levels in tumor and adjacent normal tissues were significantly associated with tissue levels of homocysteine, almost as indicators of oxidative stress and antioxidant capacities. Cysteine in the circulation was likely utilized to mediate GSH-related antioxidant capacity and further cope with increased oxidative stress in tumor and adjacent normal tissues.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of plant extracts (valerian Valeriana officinalis L., sage Salvia officinalis L., chamomile Matricaria chamomilla L., cistus Cistus L., linden blossom Tilia L., ribwort plantain Plantago lanceolata L., marshmallow Althaea L.) on the activity and growth of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) during the fermentation and passage of milk through a digestive system model. The tested extracts were also characterized in terms of their content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity. It was observed that the addition of the tested herbal extracts did not inhibit the growth of LAB in fermented milk drinks, such as yogurts. However, they can gradually inhibit fermentation when added at concentrations above 2% by weight, and hence should be used in limited amounts. The microflora of yogurts containing the tested herbal extracts did not die during digestion in model digestive juices, and no stimulating effect of the added plant extracts was noted either. Nevertheless, due to the antioxidant properties, a slight addition of the herbal extracts containing polyphenols to different kinds of food products can increase the nutritional quality, thus making them functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, metal cefotaxime complexes of Ca(II), Cr(III), Cu(II), Zn(II), and Se(VI) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, conductance measurements, IR, electronic spectra, magnetic measurements, 1HNMR, and XRD, as well as by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The lower values for molar conductance refer to the nonelectrolyte nature of the complexes. The FTIR and 1H-NMR spectra for the metal complexes of cefotaxime proved that the free cefotaxime antibiotic ligand acted as a monoanionic tridentate ligand through the oxygen atoms of lactam carbonyl, the carboxylate group, and the nitrogen atoms of the amino group. From the magnetic measurements and electronic spectral data, octahedral structures were proposed for the Cr(III) and Se(VI) complexes, while the Cu(II) complex had tetragonal geometry. This study aimed to investigate the effects of cefotaxime and cefotaxime metal complexes on oxidative stress using antioxidant assays including DPPH, ORAC, FARAB, and ABTS, a metal chelation assay, as well as the inhibition of the viability of cancer cells (HepG-2). Regarding the antibacterial activity, the cefotaxime metal complexes were highly effective against both Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. In conclusion, the cefotaxime metal complexes exhibited highly antioxidant activities. The cefotaxime metal complexes with Zn and Se inhibited HepG-2 cellular viability. Thus, the cefotaxime metal complexes elicited promising results as potent antioxidant and anticancer agents against HepG-2, with potent antibacterial activities at a much lower concentration.

The cadmium and lead binding capacities and antioxidant activities of Lactobacillus plantarum and Pichia kudriavzevii were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Lactic acid bacteria and yeasts obtained from fermenting cassava mash and maize slurry were screened for tolerance to cadmium and lead at 500–1050 mg ml−1 screened for probiotic potentials and antioxidant activities such as 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and ferric reducing antioxidant properties. The in vivo studies were carried out in male Wistar rats. The strains identified as Lactobacillus plantarum ML05 and Pichia kudriavzevii FY05 demonstrated the best probiotic potentials and antioxidant activities. Alterations in antioxidant capacities were positive in the treatment groups. The histopathology displayed positive changes in the renal tubules and glomeruli, hypertrophy, with normal capsular spaces without inflammation in the kidney, while the liver sinusoids appear normal in the rats administered with L. plantarum ML05 and P. kudriavzevii FY05 while the infected and not treated showed cell necrosis induced by toxicities. Our results provided new evidence that Lactobacillus plantarum and Pichia kudriavzevii have different biological actions on the heavy metals binding capacities and antioxidant activities in experimental animals. This study suggests that these microorganisms can be considered dietary therapeutics against cadmium and lead toxicities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]