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Stilbenes in the roots of Carex acuta and Carex lepidocarpa were studied. Root samples were extracted with 100% methanol and analyzed by HPLC and LC-MS. In this way, trans-resveratrol dimers (m/z 455 Da [M + H]+), trimers (m/z 681 Da [M + H]+) and tetramers (m/z 907 Da [M + H]+) were identified in the extracts. Using LC-NMR in stop-flow mode, pallidol and trans-ε-viniferin as dimers were identified. After the separation of individual peaks and their measurement by 1H NMR, cis and trans-miyabenol A as a tetramer and cis-miyabenol C as a trimer were identified. In the case of miyabenol A, it is a chromatographically inseparable mixture of cis and trans isomers in the ratio of 2:3 according to 1H NMR measurement. In the case of cis-miyabenol C, the Z-trans-trans-miyabenol C configuration was confirmed. The remaining unidentified peak with a practically identical UV-VIS spectrum to that of cis-miyabenol C is most likely another isomer of miyabenol C.

The main objective was to study the effect of sample preparation on the content of trans-resveratrol, trans-ε-viniferin and trans-δ-viniferin in young spring grapevine canes. The samples of six varieties of Vitis vinifera L. ('Hibernal', 'Malverina', 'Kolor', 'Fioletovij Augustovskij', 'Grüner Veltliner' and 'Blaufränkisch') were either lyophilised or slow dried at room temperature (three months), extracted and analysed by HPLC using DAD and FLD detectors and by LC-MS. The presence of trans-δ-viniferin was confirmed by comparison with trans-δ-viniferin prepared by dimerization of trans-resveratrol using laccase and its structure was verified by LC-NMR. The slow drying of the samples at room temperature enables the synthesis of a significant amount of stilbenes in all the studied varieties of V. vinifera canes resulting in a higher stilbene content compared to the lyophilised samples. The results of this study show the importance of the method of drying the cane sample before the extraction and analysis.

Proso millet (Panicum miliaceum) is neglected in human nutrition. Thanks to the composition of the grains, millet is suitable for people with celiac disease and it is also useful in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases. For screening the substances in all plant parts of millet via GC–MS, two varieties, Hanacká Mana and Unicum, were used. Substances from the group saccharides, amino acids, fatty acids, carboxylic acids, phytosterols and others were identified in the roots, leaves, stems, and seeds. The highest level of saccharides was found in the stems (83%); amino acids in the roots (6.9%); fatty acids in the seeds (24.6%); carboxylic acids in the roots (3%), phytosterols in the seeds (10.51%); other substances, such as tetramethyl-2-hexadecenol (1.84%) and tocopherols (2.15%), in the leaves; retinal in the roots (1.30%) and squalene in the seeds (1.29%). Saccharides were the dominant group in all plant parts of proso millet followed by fatty acids. The dominant saccharides in all parts of the millet plant were sucrose, fructose and psicose. On the contrary, turanose, trehalose, glucose and cellobiose belonged to the least represented sugars. Additionally, amyrin, miliacin, campesterol, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, and others were identified. Varietal variability can be assumed, e.g., in retinal, miliacin or amyrin content.

Grapevine is a worldwide crop and it is also subject to global trade in wine, berries and grape vine plants. Various countries, including the countries of the European Union, emphasize the role of product origin designation and suitable methods are sought, able to capture distinct origins. One of the biological matrices that can theoretically be driven by individual vineyards' conditions represents DNA methylation. Despite this interesting hypothesis, there is a lack of respective information. The aim of this work is to examine whether DNA methylation can be used to relate a sample to a given vineyard and to access a relationship between a DNA methylation pattern and different geographical origin of analysed samples. For this purpose, DNA methylation landscapes of samples from completely different climatic conditions presented by the Czech Republic (Central Europe) and Armenia (Southern Caucasus) were compared. Results of the Methylation Sensitive Amplified Polymorphism method confirm uniqueness of DNA methylation landscape for individual vineyards. Factually, DNA methylation diversity within vineyards of Merlot and Pinot Noir cultivars represent only 16% and 14% of the overall diversity registered for individual cultivars. On the contrary, different geographical location of the Czech and Armenian vineyards was identified as the strongest factor affecting diversity in DNA methylation landscapes (79.9% and 70.7% for Merlot and Pinot Noir plants, respectively).

(-)-Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid, which has unique pharmacological and biological activities.The aim of this study was to determine the CBD, cannabidiolic (CBDA), and canabigerolic acids (CBGA) content in parts of industrial hemp that are possible waste material in the production of hemp fiber, and could be used for CBD extraction. Two hemp varieties were sampled at the full-flowering stage, and at the ripening stage. The lyophilised material (leaves, roots, stems, and inflorescences/seeds) was extracted with ethylacetate and analyzed by HPLC. Hemp inflorescences and leaves are the most important source of CBD. CBDA and CBGA are the dominant compounds in these plant parts. They are the precursors of CBD. The CBD level is dependent on the variety and the environmental conditions. Dry cool weather with lower solar intensity increased the CBD level in 'Bialobrzeskie' - a monoecious variety potentially suitable as a material for CBD extraction with heat decarboxylation due to the high CBDA, CBGA, and CBD levels in the leaves and inflorescences.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a pervasive neurodevelopmental disorder with repetitive behaviour which affects interaction and communication. Sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate abundant in the seeds and sprouts of cruciferous vegetables, has been shown to be effective in alleviating autistic behaviour. We performed a prospective double-blind placebo-controlled study to examine the possible effect of SFN in a paediatric cohort aged three to seven years based on measurements of the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule-2 (ADOS-2), the Social Responsiveness Scale-2 (SRS-2), and the Aberrant Behaviour Checklist (ABC). The study consisted of three visits over the duration of 36 weeks (baseline, 18 weeks, and 36 weeks). Twenty-eight of the 40 randomized children completed the study. The mean total raw scores on ABC and SRS-2 improved in both groups, but none of the changes reached statistical significance (ABC: 0 weeks p = 0.2742, 18 weeks p = 0.4352, and 36 weeks 0.576; SRS-2: 0 weeks p = 0.5235, 18 weeks p = 0.9176, and 36 weeks 0.7435). Changes in the assessment of the ADOS-2 subscale scores also did not differ between the two study cohorts (ADOS-2: 0 weeks p = 0.8782, 18 weeks p = 0.4788, and 36 weeks 0.9414). We found no significant clinical improvement in the behavioural outcome measures evaluated in children with ASD aged 3–7 years that were treated with sulforaphane.

Onion skin is a waste produced in thousands of tons annually in the European Union. It is a rich natural source of flavonoids and its water extracts (as an environmentally friendly solvent) could be used as an antioxidant material for meat products. Therefore, antioxidant properties of onion skin water extracts (OSWEs) were tested on cooked pork patties. Pork patties were divided into five treatments: control (no antioxidant), 10 and 20% (w/w) of yellow OSWE, and 10 and 20% (w/w) of red OSWE. Antioxidant activity, total polyphenols, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and sensory analysis were assessed. Patties with added antioxidants showed significantly (P < 0.05) higher antioxidant activity and total polyphenol content. Samples with OSWEs, after 5-day storage (5°C), had significantly (P < 0.05) lower TBARS values compared to control. Two main phenolic compounds were identified in OSWEs by liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry using electrospray ionisation in negative mode: quercetin (m/z 301) and quercetin monoglucoside (m/z 463). OSWEs demonstrated the potential to be used as a source of natural antioxidants with strong antioxidant activity in meat products.

Polyploidization in plants, which involves doubling or further multiplying of genome, has the potential to improve the constituents that make medicinal plants, like Ajuga reptans, attractive to the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, and food production industries; botanical pesticide effects could also be derived. The aim of this study was to determine how artificial polyploidization in A. reptans plants affected the composition and quantity of biologically active substances from the glycoside and phytoecdysone families. Diploids and artificial tetraploids of A. reptans were analyzed. Changes in the contents of trans-teupolioside, trans-verbascoside, and 20-hydroxyecdysone were evident in the aboveground parts of the cultivated plants (e.g., leaves and flowers). The tetraploid lines of Ajuga plants displayed variability in, and increased levels of, trans-teupolioside and trans-verbascoside content. The 20-hydroxecdysone content was slightly higher in tetraploids. These findings indicated that Ajuga tetraploids could be used in breeding programs to enhance the yield of substances with potential medicinal and industrial applications.

Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is a notable herb found among medicinal and food plants. Its benefits stem from bioactive compounds that improve function of the immune system, thus preventing and curing many diseases and improve wellness. However, despite of the many potential health benefits, it is mainly used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Therefore, this review describes its biologically active compounds and the associated health benefits found in recent studies of this herb, particularly with regards to neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, and cancers along with the way of consumption, doses, and reasons for incorporating it into the diet. AM has positive effects on general health and reduces the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, type 1 and 2 diabetes and cancers development. It also helps improving disease treatments and reduces its side effects associated with food intake. Moreover, this herb has an acceptable organoleptic quality and characteristics that can improve general quality of food. This review is intended to shed light on the many potential benefits of including AM in the diet. However, further studies on specific food recipes for each disease, its effectiveness, as well as its side effects, need to be done to confirm these potential benefits.

Grapevine trunk diseases (GTDs) pose a major threat to the wine industry worldwide. Currently, efficient biological methods or chemical compounds are not available for the treatment of infected grapevines. In the present study, we used an extract from the knotwood of spruce trees as a biological control against GTDs. Our in vitro trial was focused on the antifungal effects of the extract against the most common GTD pathogens—Cadophora luteo-olivacea, Dactylonectria torresensis, Diaporthe ampelina, Diaporthe bohemiae, Diplodia seriata, Eutypa lata, and Phaeoacremonium minimum. Our in vitro trial revealed a high antifungal effect of the extract against all tested fungi. The inhibition rates varied among the different species from 30% to 100% using 1 mg·mL−1 extract. Subsequently, the efficiency of the extract was supported by an in planta experiment. Commercial grafts of Vitis vinifera were treated with the extract and planted. The total genomic DNA of grapevines was extracted 10 days and 180 days after the treatment. The fungal microbial diversities of the treated/untreated plants were compared using high-throughput amplicon sequencing (HTAS). Treated plants showed 76.9% lower relative abundance of the genus Diaporthe and 70% lower relative abundance of the genus Phaeoacremonium 10 days after treatment. A similar scenario was observed for the genus Cadophora 180 days after treatment, where treated plants showed 76% lower relative abundance of this genus compared with untreated grapevines.

The paper describes the preparation and evaluation of phenolic extracts from waste materials - pomace (grape marc), seeds and press oil cake of the white grape variety Irsai Oliver (Vitis vinifera L.) and their addition to apple and grape juices to increase the nutritional properties. The waste samples were extracted using 50 or 80% ethanol (v/v). Some of the samples were extracted for 60 min at boiling temperature under reflux; the remainder were processed for 24 h on a shaker at room temperature. The highest antioxidant capacity (as measured using DPPH (758 ± 28 mM Trolox/kg of extracted matter)) and content of total polyphenols (74 ± 0.7 g gallic acid/kg of extracted matter) were found in the extract of the seeds obtained through extraction using 50% ethanol (v/v) at boiling temperature for 60 minutes. The press oil cake extract obtained by means of 80% ethanol (v/v) at boiling temperature for 60 min was evaluated as the best for enriching the sensory quality of apple and grape juices. The addition of 1 g of freeze-dried press oil cake extract to 1 l of juice increased the antioxidant capacity and total polyphenol content two-fold

The stability of the main sugars and the organic acids neochlorogenic acid, p-coumaroylquinic acid and rutin was assessed in the Vanda, Napoleonova, Kordia, New Moon, Sweetheart, and Regina sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) cultivars during post-harvest storage. Neochlorogenic acid was the predominant phenolic acid in these sweet cherry cultivars followed by p-coumaroylquinic acid. Rutin concentrations ranged from 0.5 ± 0.38 to 12.35 ± 2.84 mg/kg of homogenate and its concentration was higher in the Sweetheart, Kordia, and Regina cultivars in the postharvest time.

Black garlic (BG) is a product originating from fresh garlic (FG) and substantially differs in many aspects from FG due to the process called ageing. During this thermal process, the health-promoting properties of FG are enhanced, and the sensory traits are altered. However, very little is known about how the physicochemical properties of different FG varieties affect these properties of BG. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the influence of seven FG varieties subjected to the thermal process on the physicochemical parameters of BG. To prepare the BG samples, a fifteen-day ageing process involving a temperature gradient ranging from 30 to 82 °C was used. It was found that the antioxidant activity, the total polyphenol content, and the total soluble solids increased during ageing, while the pH level, moisture content, and lightness decreased in all the garlic varieties. The varieties of garlic differed in the studied traits significantly, both before (FG) and after ageing (BG). In the sensory analysis, significant differences between the BG varieties were observed only in the pleasantness of texture, while the remaining sensory descriptors (pleasantness of color, odor, taste and intensity of the garlic aroma, and overall acceptability) were not affected by variety. The correlations suggest that most of the FG’s studied parameters in this study do not correlate with the properties of BG and cannot be used for the prediction of the quality of BG. Additionally, HPLC-MS/MS analysis revealed substantial changes in the composition of low molecular compounds.

The antifungal and insecticidal effect of the essential oil from Ocimum sanctum L. was evaluated using a model set of harmful organisms hazardous for health and the economy. Toxigenic and plant pathogenic filamentous fungi, including causal agents of human infections, were chosen as exemplary fungal groups—Fusarium verticillioides, Penicillium expansum and Aspergillus flavus. Spodoptera littoralis (African cotton leafworm), Culex quinquefasciatus (Southern house mosquito), the lymphatic filariasis vector and potential Zika virus vector, and the common housefly, Musca domestica were chosen as model insects. Major and minor active substances were detected and quantified using GC/MS analysis. Environmental safety was verified using the non-target useful organism Eisenia fetida. Significant antifungal and insecticidal activity, as well as environmental safety, were confirmed. The essential oil showed the highest efficacy against A. flavus according to MIC50/90, and against S. littoralis larvae according to LD50/90. The monoterpenoid alcohol linalool, t-methyl cinnamate, and estragole as phenylpropanoids were detected as effective major components (85.4%). The essential oil from Ocimum sanctum L. was evaluated as universal and significantly efficient, providing a high potential for use in environmentally safe botanical pesticides.

Broccoli sprouts contain 10–100 times higher levels of sulforaphane than mature plants, something that has been well known since 1997. Sulforaphane has a whole range of unique biological properties, and it is especially an inducer of phase 2 detoxication enzymes. Therefore, its use has been intensively studied in the field of health and nutrition. The formation of sulforaphane is controlled by the epithiospecifier protein, a myrosinase co-factor, which is temperature-specific. This paper studies the influence of temperature, heating time, the addition of myrosinase in the form of Raphanus sativus sprouts in constant ratio to broccoli sprouts, and other technological steps on the final sulforaphane content in broccoli sprout homogenates. These technological steps are very important for preserving sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts, but there are some limitations concerning the amount of sulforaphane. We focused, therefore, on the extraction process, using suitable β-cyclodextrin, hexane and ethanol, with the goal of increasing the amount of sulforaphane in the final extract, thus stabilizing it and reducing the required amount sulforaphane needed, e.g., as a dietary supplement.

This article has been retracted by Editorial Office, upon an approval of all authors. The Publisher apologized for any inconvenience this may cause. The contaminants present in the atmosphere have a substantial impact on public health. Among contaminants, the most important are polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). This paper is focused on the possibility of continuous PAHs monitoring and the description of their vertical distribution using filters, which serve to purify the air before the determination of the greenhouse gases (CO2, CH4, N2O, CO, ozone) and Hg in air, continuously sampled at 8, 50 and 230m at the atmospheric station Krešín near Pacov and elaboration of a simple and economical method of extraction of these filters. The station serves as a point for monitoring the occurrence and remote transport of greenhouse gases and selected atmospheric pollutants and for the measurements of basic meteorological characteristics. In December, 17, 2014, a sampling of 16 priority PAHs started and lasted until December, 9, 2015. Samples were taken approximately once a month. The maximum concentration of ΣPAHs was 15.905 ng/m3, measured at the height of 8 meters in the period of 11. 2. 2015–11. 3. 2015, the concentration of benzo[a]pyrene exceeded the immission limit in the period by more than 50%. By the sampling, the hypothesis about decreasing concentration of PAHs with increasing height was confirmed, especially the decrease of heavier PAHs. The sampling has shown that it is highly desirable to use the meteorological tower for sampling of PAHs using PTFE filters either by including the active sampler itself, or by using pre-filters for tropospheric ozone and gaseous elemental mercury analysers.

Lignans are bioactive substances which belong to polyphenols. This compounds can be found in plants including coniferous trees. Lignans are secondary plant metabolites with wide range of biological effects, such as antimicrobial, antivirus or anticancer. They also serve as antioxidants and are naturally occurring compounds which are found in food rich in fibre. There are more than 200 lignans that originate from more than 70 plant families. They can be found in all parts of the plant, mainly in seeds. Almost 37% of total lignan intake in human diet comes from drinking tea and coffee. Fruit and vegetable contain only about 1% of lignans, but they are also significant source of lignans because they are consumed in higher amounts than seeds. 7-hydroxymatairesinol is the main representative of lignans. It is white powder with great health benefits and it is present in the knots of coniferous trees, especially in knots of spruce. Lignans were extracted from the knots and used for fortifying fruit and vegetable spreads. Subsequently, the fortified products became subject to sensory analysis, their antioxidant capacity was measured by the FRAP method, total polyphenols content was found and lignan content determined using the HPLC method. The aim was enriching commonly consumed foods by healthy lignans to avoid negative effects on the sensory quality of these products by the bitter taste of the lignan extract. Of the tested foods, plum jam and red pepper paste are the best options as they best block the bitter taste of lignans. There was a positive increase in antioxidant capacity in food products fortified by the lignan extract. For plum jam, strawberry jam, strawberry spread and red pepper paste, the more lignans were added to the products, the greater was the level of antioxidant capacity. The highest antioxidant capacity was reached in samples with the added amount of 340 mg of lignan per kg of product. As with the antioxidant capacity, total polyphenols content is dependent on the quantity of added lignans. Plum jam is the only exception, for which there was no statistically evident difference between the doses of 170 mg and 340 mg of lignans per kg. The values of lignans measured for samples with added 340 mg of lignans per kg range from 313 mg to 339 mg. For samples with addition of 170 mg of lignans per kg the measured values range from 129 to 164 mg per kg. Although lignans are beneficial for health, they are not acceptable to deteriorate taste of the product. The samples containing the highest dose of lignans, i.e. 340 mg of lignans per kg, were rated as the least acceptable by consumer. Evaluated as the most suitable in this regard was plum jam with a dose of 170 mg of lignans per kg of product where lignans were not found to possess a sensory effect on the acceptability of the product.

Trans-pterostilbene, cis-pterostilbene and 2,4-dimethoxy-6-hydroxyphenanthrene were detected in the leaves of Parthenocissus tricuspidata (Siebold et Zuccarini) Planchon. It was recorded for this plant for the first time that in autumn, when the leaves change in colour, there is an increase in content of 2,4-dimethoxy-6-hydroxyphenanthrene (DMPH), which is a derivative of trans-pterostilbene.

Red and white wines [Grüner Veltliner white wine and Blue Limberger (Blaufränkisch) red wine (vintage 2013)] were enriched with lignan hydroxymatairesinol originated from spruce knots. These spruce knots with removed resin were extracted with ethyl alcohol of agricultural origin. Ethanol extracts of lignans were then used to enrich wine sorts. Enriched wines were stored for 13 months. At 2, 6, and 13 months, samples were taken and subjected to a variety of analyses and sensory evaluations. Analyses included 7-hydroxymatairesinol and alpha-conidendrin lignan content, antioxidant activity (as determined by FRAP), total polyphenols, and sensory evaluation. The obtained data were evaluated using the analysis of variance to determine which factors e.g. wine type, quantity of added lignan extracts, additional sugar, method of preservation, and storage time had the most significant influence on lignan content, antioxidant activity and polyphenol content. In all cases the lignan content in the wines was significantly influenced by the addition of lignan extracts. After one year of storage, lignan contents changed only moderately and added lignans were stable in stored wines. Total polyphenol content in wines and the antioxidant activity of wines were significantly influenced by the type of wine (i.e., red or white). The presented method of wine enrichment with lignans opens the door for the production of extra quality wines.

Red and white musts were enriched with the lignan hydroxymatairesinol, which is the main lignan contained in spruce knots. Chips from the milled spruce knots were then used to enrich grape musts. After enrichment, the musts were stored and samples were taken in 1, 5, 9, and 12 months. The samples were subjected to a variety of analyses and sensory evaluations. Analyses included hydroxymatairesinol and alpha-conidendrin content, antioxidant activity (determined by the FRAP method), content of total polyphenols, sensory evaluation (intensity of woody aroma, intensity of bitterness and astringent taste, and consumer acceptability), and must antimutagenicity. The analysis of variance allowed predicting which factors such as grape type, quantity of added wood chips, sugar addition, method of preservation, and storage time had the most significant influence on the analytical parameters (lignan content, antioxidant activity, and total polyphenol content). In all cases lignan content in the musts was significantly influenced by the addition of spruce wood chips. Total polyphenol content in the musts was significantly affected by the type of musts and by heat treatment (time of thermomaceration). Evaluation of must antimutagenicity showed that all samples, except the sample of white musts after thermomaceration without holding at temperature and without adding chips (10 g/20 kg mash), inhibited mutagenicity.

Hydroxymatairesinol (HMR) is the main lignan found in spruce knots. This lignan has been used for enrichment of musts and wines. Quality parameters of these products have been studied for several years and for storage times up to one year. Parameters included HMR concentration, antioxidant activities expressed as ferric reducing antioxidant power and 2,2-difenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, total polyphenols, and sensory parameters, i.e. consumer acceptability. The main goal of this work was to study and provide relationships between the above mentioned quality parameters. We analysed cross-correlations of all these parameters and found statistically significant correlations between lignan concentration and consumer acceptability, which can be phrased as a warning against high lignan concentrations. The strongest correlations were found between antioxidant parameters and total polyphenol content that supports the antioxidative behaviour.

Grapes from two varieties - Franc (red) and Green Veltliner (white) were processed using UV radiation at selected powers and times. Irradiated grapes were stored for 24, 48, and 72 h at room temperature. A second set of grapes was dipped into ozonised water. We tested the influence of ozone concentration, dipping time, and storage time. All experiments were performed using grapes harvested in 2009, 2010, and 2011. The two treatments were compared relative to trans-resveratrol content in grape skins and juices (prepared from treated grapes).

Grape cane, leaves and grape marc are waste products from viticulture, which can be used to obtain secondary stilbene derivatives with high antioxidant value. The presented work compares several extraction methods: maceration at laboratory temperature, extraction at elevated temperature, fluidized-bed extraction, Soxhlet extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and accelerated solvent extraction. To obtain trans-resveratrol, trans-ε-viniferin and r2-viniferin from grape cane of the V. vinifera variety Cabernet Moravia, various conditions were studied: different solvents, using powdered versus cut cane material, different extraction times, and one-step or multiple extractions. The largest concentrations found were 6030 ± 680 µg/g dry weight (d.w.) for trans-resveratrol, 2260 ± 90 µg/g d.w. for trans-ε-viniferin, and 510 ± 40 µg/g d.w. for r2-viniferin. The highest amounts of stilbenes (8500 ± 1100 µg/g d.w.) were obtained using accelerated solvent extraction in methanol.

Methanolic extract from lyophilized roots of Impatiens glandulifera Royle was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography using DAD and FLD detection and this revealed one dominant highly fluorescent very unstable substance. The stability of this derivative is strongly dependent on the plant material drying procedure and extraction procedure used. The structure of the substance was established as 1,2,4-trihydroxynaphthalene-1-O-glucoside (THNG) according LC-MS and NMR measurements. When lyophilized plant material was extracted with methanol an almost four times higher amount of THNG was found in the extract, compared to the amount of 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone obtained, while in the case of the same lyophilized plant material extracted with water there was no THNG in the extract. The main compounds in this case was 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone. In the plant material dried at the laboratory temperature and extracted by methanol there are only traces of THNG.

Trans-resveratrol ((E)-3,4',5-trihydroxystilbene) is a substance that is produced by a large number of plants as a phytoalexin and has a wide range of beneficial biological properties. Resveratrol has been credited as being potentially responsible for the "French paradox" - the observation that the French have a relatively low incidence of coronary heart disease, even though their diet is high in saturated fats. This review deals with the methods serving for the increase of the resveratrol content in wine products - wine and grape juices. The methods reviewed are UV irradiation of grapes and ozonisation of grapes. The discussed methods describe the ways of increasing resveratrol contents in grapes and wine using "natural" methods. Resveratrol is increased endogenously and therefore, it needs not be declared as the added substance on the product labels.

A method for identification of highly fluorescent compounds in vine leaves infected by Plasmopara viticola was developed using reversed phase liquid chromatography with simultaneous diode array and fluorometric detection. Fluorescent compounds were extracted from leaves with a methanol-water mixture (70:30). Separation by HPLC was performed using a C18 column and gradient elution with water-acetonitrile mixtures (20–80% of acetonitrile). The main unknown fluorescent compound was identified by line spectral comparison with a standard obtained by UV photoisomerization of trans-resveratrol glucoside, and its structure was confirmed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Identification and structural elucidation of the fluorescent compound in the leaves of Vitis vinifera allows early detection of Plasmopara viticola invasion.

The consumption of Cruciferous vegetables is important for the prevention of cancerous diseases, particularly colorectal cancer. The effects of technological treatments (freezing, pasteurisation, high-pressure treatment) on the content of isothiocyanates, considered to be the active substance, were observed in single-species vegetable juices prepared from cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, white and red cabbage). The contents of sulforaphane and total isothiocyanates were studied relative to the temperature, action period, and time delay after juice pressing. Sulforaphane and total isothiocyanates were determined by HPLC. Sulforaphane content in various parts of fresh broccoli was also assessed. Antimutagenic activity of the juices (frozen, pasteurised, and high-pressure treated) was evaluated using the Ames test and the following mutagens: AFTB1 (aflatoxin B1), IQ (2-amino-3-methyl-3H-imidazo-[4,5-f]quinoline), and MNU (2-nitroso-2-methylurea). Clastogenicity inhibition of the mutagens, in response to broccoli juice, as well as of pure sulforaphane, was observed using an in vivo experiment (the micronucleus test). It was shown that in terms of sulforaphane content, it is best to let broccoli juice stand for 60 min after pressing and pH adjustment. Sulforaphane content does not change under heating to 60°C. Its content decreases considerably (compared to fresh juice) with heating to higher temperatures than 60°C. High-pressure treatment preserves mutagenic inhibition to the same degree as juices freezing.

Algae are becoming a strategic source of fuels, food, feedstocks, and biologically active compounds. This potential has stimulated the development of innovative analytical methods focused on these microorganisms. Algal lipids are among the most promising potential products for fuels as well as for nutrition. The crucial parameter characterizing the algal lipids is the degree of unsaturation of the constituent fatty acids quantified by the iodine value. Here we demonstrate the capacity of the spatially resolved Raman microspectroscopy to determine the effective iodine value in lipid storage bodies of individual living algal cells. The Raman spectra were collected from three selected algal species immobilized in an agarose gel. Prior to immobilization, the algae were cultivated in the stationary phase inducing an overproduction of lipids. We employed the characteristic peaks in the Raman scattering spectra at 1,656 cm−1 (cis C=C stretching mode) and 1,445 cm−1 (CH2 scissoring mode) as the markers defining the ratio of unsaturated-to-saturated carbon-carbon bonds of the fatty acids in the algal lipids. These spectral features were first quantified for pure fatty acids of known iodine value. The resultant calibration curve was then used to calculate the effective iodine value of storage lipids in the living algal cells from their Raman spectra. We demonstrated that the iodine value differs significantly for the three studied algal species. Our spectroscopic estimations of the iodine value were validated using GC-MS measurements and an excellent agreement was found for the Trachydiscus minutus species. A good agreement was also found with the earlier published data on Botryococcus braunii. Thus, we propose that Raman microspectroscopy can become technique of choice in the rapidly expanding field of algal biotechnology.

The medicinal plant Swertia multicaulis D. Don was collected in Rasuwa District (Nepal) and the xanthone content of its ethyl acetate extracts was studied. The total amount of xanthones in S. multicaulis determined by HPLC reaches almost 13 g of xanthones per 1 kg of dry matter. The identification of xanthones in S. multicaulis was achieved by a combination of HPLC, LC–MS and LC–NMR. The final assignment of the individual chemical structures was provided by NMR, supported by preparative HPLC. In eight chromatographic peaks, four major xanthones were identified—1,3-dihydroxy-5,8-dimethoxyxanthone, 1-hydroxy-3,5,8-trimethoxyxanthone, bellidifolin (1,5,8-tri-hydroxy-3-methoxyxanthone), and decussatin (1-hydroxy-3,7,8-trimethoxyxanthone).

The effect of soil contamination by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and heavy metals on earthworms and enchytraeids was studied in urban parks, in Brno, Czech Republic. In spring and autumn 2007, annelids were collected and soil samples taken in lawns along transects, at three different distances (1, 5 and 30 m) from streets with heavy traffic. In both seasons, two parks with two transects each were sampled. Earthworms were collected using the electrical octet method. Enchytraeids were extracted by the wet funnel method from soil cores. All collected annelids were counted and identified. Basic chemical parameters and concentrations of 16 PAH, Cd, Cu, Pb, and Zn were analysed from soil from each sampling point. PAH concentrations were rather low, decreasing with the distance from the street in spring but not in autumn. Heavy metal concentrations did not decrease significantly with increasing distance. Annelid densities did not significantly differ between distances, although there was a trend of increase in the number of earthworms with increasing distance. There were no significant correlations between soil content of PAH or heavy metals and earthworm or enchytraeid densities. Earthworm density and biomass were negatively correlated with soil pH; and enchytraeid density was positively correlated with soil phosphorus.O efeito da contaminação do solo por hidrocarbonetos aromáticos policíclicos (PAH) e metais pesados em minhocas e enquitreídeos foi estudado em parques urbanos, em Brno, República Tcheca. Na primavera e outono de 2007, os anelídeos foram coletados, e amostras de solo foram retiradas de gramados ao longo de transectos, em três diferentes distâncias (1, 5 e 30 m) de ruas com muito tráfego. Nas duas estações, foram amostrados dois parques com dois transectos cada um. As minhocas com uso do método do octeto elétrico, e os enquitreídeos foram extraídos das amostras de solo pelo método do funil úmido. Todos os anelídeos coletados foram contados e identificados. Parâmetros químicos básicos e concentrações de 16 PAHs, Cd, Cu, Pb e Zn, de cada ponto de amostragem, foram analisados. As concentrações de PAH foram relativamente baixas, e decresceram na primavera, mas não no outono, com a distância da rua. As concentrações de metais pesados não diminuíram significativamente com o aumento da distância. As densidades de anelídeos não diferiram significativamente entre as distâncias, mas houve tendência de aumento no número de minhocas, com o aumento da distância. Não houve correlação significativa entre o conteúdo de PAH ou metais pesados do solo com as densidades de minhocas e enquitreídeos. A densidade e a biomassa das minhocas foram negativamente correlacionadas ao pH do solo; e a densidade de enquitreídeos foi positivamente correlacionada ao conteúdo de fósforo no solo.

The main chemoprotective polyphenolic compounds in the Vitis vinifera berries, rachis, and pedicels of 10 cultivars classified for the production of wine and growing in Southern Moravian vineyards, the Czech Republic, were studied. The following compounds were determined in the frozen fresh berries: gallic acid (1.8-13.3 mg/kg), catechin (70.3-659.1 mg/kg), epicatechin (67.1-237.2 mg/kg), trans-resveratrol (0.1-1.5 mg/kg), and pterostilbene (in traces); in the freeze-dried rachis and pedicels: rutin (10.5-68.6 mg/kg), isoquercitrine (29.8-218.3 mg/kg), catechin (283.7-2227 mg/kg), epicatechin (47.2-215.2 mg/kg), trans-resveratrol (2.6-37.1 mg/kg), and pterostilbene (0.01-0.13 mg/kg), respectively. The contents of polyphenolic compounds were different in various cultivars. The highest levels of catechin and epicatechin were found in the grapes of cv. Blauer Burgunder (3195 mg/kg), in which the second highest content of trans-resveratrol (33.2 mg/kg) was also found. The content of pterostilbene in the whole berries or stems was estimated for the first time. The rachis and pedicels could serve as a prospective source of polyphenolic compounds.

Grape canes are a waste product from viticulture that show potential as an industrially extractable source of stilbenes, which are valuable for medical and other purposes. In this work, grape canes collected in three consecutive years (2014–2016) at six different places in South Moravia, Czech Republic were extracted, and the contents of trans-resveratrol, trans-ε-viniferin, and r2-viniferin were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography. The study included three blue grape varieties of Vitis vinifera L. (Cabernet Moravia, Blaufränkisch, and Piwi variety Laurot) and four white grape varieties (Chardonnay, Green Veltliner, Piwi variety Hibernal, and Piwi variety Malverina). From the viewpoint of producing extracts with high stilbenes content, the Hibernal variety is clearly the best. The mean amounts of the stilbenes for this variety at all localities and for all three years were 4.99 g/kg for trans-resveratrol, 3.24 g/kg for trans-ε-viniferin, and 1.73 g/kg for r2-viniferin. The influence of vintage, locality, and variety on the amounts of stilbenes was studied using PCA analysis. In contrast to expectations, there was no strong impact of locality on stilbenes content. The differences were varietal for most varieties, regardless of the area of cultivation. Laurot and Hibernal varieties did differ significantly in that respect, however, as they exhibited clear dependence on location.

Antioxidant activity and free radicals were studied in various parts of Vitis vinifera plant in vivo and in wines using EPR spectroscopy. Antioxidative properties of polyphenolic substances play an important role for the evaluation of quality of natural products. Determination of antioxidant activity of experimental samples by EPR method was based on measuring the changes of EPR spectrum of stable nitroxide radicals as a result of their interaction with antioxidants. In the leaves of Vitis vinifera vine varieties for the production of red wines there was observed a higher decrease in free Tempol radicals as compared to the leaves of varieties used for the production of white wines. For all monitored wines there was established a clear decrease in free Tempol radicals to the average value of 75.5 ± 15.6% as compared to the original EPR spectrum. A higher antioxidant activity was observed in yeast sediments from the production of red wines than in those from white ones.

The effects of the pressing technology and clarification of white grape musts on concentrations of phenolic compounds and their antioxidative capacity were investigated. Four different varieties were processed by hydraulic or pneumatic pressing technologies. In the individual stages of pressing and after the application of different doses of the clarification agent, must samples were analysed for the content of polyphenols and the antioxidative capacity. The highest concentrations of caftaric acid were estimated in the musts made by hydraulic pressing from grapes of Welschriesling variety. On the other hand, musts made from grapes of Grüner Veltliner showed the highest contents of trans-piceid in both variants of pressing. The values of antioxidative capacity of the must samples analysed were not significantly different. The influence of clarification on the changes of phenolic substances in young red wines of Saint Laurent variety was also studied. Six various clarifiers were tested as applied in two different doses. Polyvinylpolypyrrolidone caused the highest losses of trans-resveratrol in the course of red wine clarification. The concentrations of catechin, epicatechin, and total anthocyanins as well as the colour parameters of red wines were influenced at most by the application of egg white.

The occurrence and content of some polyphenols and the antioxidant activity of compounds present in grape berries, stems and leaves of Vitis vinifera L. were evaluated. Three white and three blue varieties of grapevine were investigated. The contents were determined of trans-resveratrol, trans-piceid, caftaric acid, tryptophan, catechin, epicatechin, total polyphenols, and flavanols, both in healthy material and in the samples of the plant material infested with microorganisms (Botryotinia fuckeliana Whetzel anamorph Botrytis cinerea Pers.; Uncinula necator (Schw.) Burr; Plasmopara viticola (Berk. & M.A. Curtis) Berl & De Toni). The antioxidant activity of the extracts obtained was determined by different methods: FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power), DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical) and TAC-PCL (Total Antioxidant Capacity of Photochemiluminescence). The content of trans-resveratrol varied between 0.3-2.3 mg/kg and 0.7-12.1 mg/kg in non-infested and infested grape berries, respectively. The content of trans-piceid between 0.6-2.9 mg/kg and 1.5-6.3 mg/kg in non-infested and infested grape berries, respectively. The content of trans-resveratrol varied between 2.5-10.3 mg/kg and 3.7-20.9 mg/kg in healthy and in infected leaves, respectively. The content trans-piceid varied between 11.3-58.4 mg/kg and 18.5-60.9 mg/kg in the healthy and in the infected leaves, respectively. The highest content of trans-resveratrol was found in stems (16.3-276.3 mg/kg). In young lateral shoots, the highest levels of trans-piceid (12.6-99.7 mg/kg) and caftaric acid (474-2257 mg/kg) were determined. The infested grape berries showed a higher antioxidant activity, which was most closely correlated with the content of total polyphenols (correlation coefficient = 0.8336-0.9952).

The aim of this project was to study changes in the content of trans-resveratrol in berries and leaves of grapevine (Vitis sp.) infested by fungal diseases, especially by Botryotinia fuckeliana Whetzel, called as grey mildew, Plasmopara viticola (Berk. & M.A. Curtis) Berl & De Toni, called downy mildew and Uncinula necator (Schw.) Burr, called powdery mildew. In our experiments two white and two blue varieties were used. Contents of trans-resveratrol were determined in healthy and infested leaves and in healthy berries. Infested leaves of white varieties contained more trans-resveratrol than those of blue varieties. The content of trans-resveratrol in berries was lower than that in leaves.

The inhibition of mutagenicity was assessed by Ames test by bacterial strains Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 using two mutagens and methanolic extracts of healthy fresh berries of blue grapevine varieties - St. Laurent, Portugal, André and white varieties - Chardonnay, Welschriesling, Pinot Gris and berries infected with Botrytis cinerea fungus. As model mutagens, two compounds whose presence in food is real, 2-amino-3-methyl-3H-imidazo-(4.5-f-)-quinoline (IQ), arising from certain heat treatments of meat and acting as indirect mutagen after metabolic activation, and N-nitroso-N-methylurea (MNU) acting as a direct mutagen, were applied. An increased risk of MNU is due to its possible endogenous formation. Fermentation sediment after vinification of the varieties Chardonnay, Welschriesling and André was tested by similar experimental system. All extracts showed strong positive inhibition of mutagenicity, berries infested with Botrytis cinerea also in diluted extracts. Positive inhibition was demonstrated also by fermentation sludge.