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The Folin-Ciocalteu method is a well-established and widely used assay for measuring total (poly)phenol content in food/plant products. In recent years, there has been growing interest in applying this method to human samples due to its simplicity and efficacy. However, biological matrices such as blood and urine contain several interference substances that must be eliminated beforehand. This mini-review summarizes the current state of knowledge regarding the use of the Folin-Ciocalteu assay to measure total phenolic content in human urine and blood samples, as well as the preceding cleaning methods to remove interferences. Higher total (poly)phenol levels measured by the Folin-Ciocalteu method have been associated with a decrease in mortality and several risk variables. We focus on the application of this sustainable assay as a biomarker of poly(phenol) intake and its potential use as an anti-inflammatory biomarker in clinical laboratories. The Folin-Ciocalteu method, with a clean-up extraction step, is a reliable tool for determining total (poly)phenol consumption. Here, we also recommend using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay as means to measure anti-inflammatory activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reactive oxygen species are known to have a harmful activity in living systems. It attracts the attention of researchers due to their capability of damaging crucial biomolecules such as nucleic acids, lipids, proteins, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and carbohydrates and which results many human ailments: atherosclerosis, cancer, diabetes, inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders. Hence, the investigation of the already known compounds exhibiting antioxidant properties is still an important scientific challenge. So reaction with Co(II)-bound superoxo complex, [(NH3)5Co(O2)Co(NH3)5]5+ (MBSC) and Popofol (PPF), Ferulic Acid (FA) is chosen to study the antioxidant activity of PPF and FA. Redox properties of Popofol (PPF) and Ferulic Acid (FA) which are two phenolic antioxidants are studied through the reduction of Co(II)-bound superoxo complex, [(NH3)5Co(O2)Co(NH3)5]5+ (MBSC) in aqueous acidic media ([H+] = 0.02–0.70 M) under pseudo-first-order condition. For both the PPF and FA, the observed rate increase with the increase in [PPF] and [FA] and the decrease with media [H+] and ionic strength, I. The kinetic analysis reveals that the deprotonated conjugate bases from PPF and FA reduces MBSC with the diffusion-controlled rate of ~ 108 and ~ 1011 M−1 s−1. Since, the decrease in ko values with increase in V/V D2O were not significant, we can propose for a simple electron-transfer (ET) mechanism, rather than proton-coupled electron transfer (PCET) or hydrogen-atom transfer (HAT) mechanism for the reduction in bound superoxide by PPF and FA. The antioxidant property of propofol and ferulic acid has been evaluated by various methods but in our study, the novelty lies on the exploration of the real insight of their antioxidant property by studying the chemical mechanism of their redox properties with MBSC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By-products with remarkable bioactive properties are formed in extraction processes of essential oils from plant materials. In present study, it was aimed to determine the concentration of individual phenolic and organic acid compounds by LC-MS/MS of the by-product (wastewater) collected after the essential oil isolation from Pelargonium graveolens L. and to determine some bioactive properties of this by-product. In addition, the chemical analysis and antibacterial activity of the essential oil extracted from P. graveolens were determined and the histo-anatomical characterization of the glandular trichomes in the leaf sample was performed. As a result, quercetin (95862.22 μg/kg), myricetin (59834.32 μg/kg) and rutin (36522.90 μg/kg) were the phenolic compounds determined in the highest concentrations in the by-product extracted using two different extraction techniques (non-hydrolysis and hydrolysis methods). Moreover, the individual organic acids of the by-product screened in LC-MS/MS was found to be 4487.17 mg/kg in total. When the essential oil component profile of the plant sample was examined, the citronellol (38.78%) compound was found to be dominant, and it was also detected that the essential oil had remarkable bioactive properties. In conclusion, it can be stated that both the essential oil obtained from P. graveolens and the by-product obtained during essential oil isolation can be considered as a source of some bioactive components in many different industrial applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For centuries, medicinal plants have been used as sources of remedies and treatments for various disorders and diseases. Recently, there has been renewed interest in these plants due to their potential pharmaceutical properties, offering natural alternatives to synthetic drugs. Echinacea, among the world's most important medicinal plants, possesses immunological, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Nevertheless, there is a notable lack of thorough information regarding the echinacea species, underscoring the vital need for a comprehensive review paper to consolidate existing knowledge. The current review provides a thorough analysis of the existing knowledge on recent advances in understanding the physiology, secondary metabolites, agronomy, and ecology of echinacea plants, focusing on E. purpurea, E. angustifolia, and E. pallida. Pharmacologically advantageous effects of echinacea species on human health, particularly distinguished for its ability to safeguard the nervous system and combat cancer, are discussed. We also highlight challenges in echinacea research and provide insights into diverse approaches to boost the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites of interest in echinacea plants and optimize their large-scale farming. Various academic databases were employed to carry out an extensive literature review of publications from 2001 to 2024. The medicinal properties of echinacea plants are attributed to diverse classes of compounds, including caffeic acid derivatives (CADs), chicoric acid, echinacoside, chlorogenic acid, cynarine, phenolic and flavonoid compounds, polysaccharides, and alkylamides. Numerous critical issues have emerged, including the identification of active metabolites with limited bioavailability, the elucidation of specific molecular signaling pathways or targets linked to echinacoside effects, and the scarcity of robust clinical trials. This raises the overarching question of whether scientific inquiry can effectively contribute to harnessing the potential of natural compounds. A systematic review and analysis are essential to furnish insights and lay the groundwork for future research endeavors focused on the echinacea natural products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary aim was to observe the effect of processing type and compositional change on the antioxidant activity of the aqueous phase of O/W nano-emulsions during freeze-drying microencapsulation. So, olive oil-in-bitter orange juice nano-emulsions (O/W) were microencapsulated by freeze-drying with chia gum and xanthan gum. Physical (microstructure, droplet size, particle size distribution) and chemical (total antioxidant activity, total phenolic content, and structural characterization; FTIR spectroscopy) properties of different processed nano-emulsions were investigated. Solely freeze-drying of Tween80/Span20, Tween80/SMP, and Tween80/SL nano-emulsions caused a 39%, 13%, and 19% decrease in antioxidant activity accompanied by 65%, 52%, and 64% decrease in phenolic content, respectively. Microencapsulation with xanthan gum increased antioxidant activity of Tween80/Span20, Tween80/SMP, and Tween80/SL nano-emulsions by 17%, 47%, and 120% accompanied by a 5.8, 7.2, and 5.9 times rise in phenolic content, respectively. Microencapsulation with chia gum produced a 7.5, 7.13, and 9.3 times increase in antioxidant activity along with a 9.3, 12.4, and 10.1 times rise in phenolic content of Tween80/Span20, Tween80/SMP, and Tween80/SL nano-emulsions, respectively. Freeze-drying microencapsulation with chia gum and xanthan gum can be an effective method for increasing the antioxidant activity of the aqueous phase of O/W nano-emulsions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. To identify and quantify the active phenolic components in Lonicerae japonicae flos (LJF) for fever treatment and their mechanism of action using network pharmacology and molecular docking. Methods. Based on qualitative analysis of LJF, 194 phenolics were obtained, including 81 phenolic acids and 113 flavonoids. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses were used to identify potential targets for these components to interact with fever. Molecular docking with microsomal PGE2 synthase-1, EP1, EP2, EP3, and EP4 targets was used to determine antipyretic components. The antipyretic efficacy of the main components was verified by in vivo experiments. Finally, high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry was used to quantify the main antipyretic components of LJF. Results. Phenolics in LJF may prevent and treat fever by participating in calcium signaling, regulating TRP channels, and cAMP signaling. Luteolin-7-O-glucoside, apigenin-7-O-glucoside, 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid, luteolin, and other components have a good docking effect with PGE2 synthase-1 and its four subtypes. 3,5-O-dicaffeoylquinic acid, luteolin-7-O-glucoside, and apigenin-7-O-glucoside have good antipyretic effects in a yeast-induced pyrexia model. The content of these antipyretic components varies with the developmental period of LJF. Phenolic acids are the main components that distinguish the different developmental periods of LJF. Conclusion. The potential antipyretic components and molecular mechanisms of phenolics provide a basis for the traditional medicinal effects and future development and utilization of LJF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study is the characterization of the phenolic profile and antioxidant activity of elderberries (Sambucus nigra L.) from a collection of 79 wild specimens in northern Spain to assess variations in the species at the local level and evaluate its interest as a source of biocompounds. Also, a first study was carried out on the microflora present in this fruit, providing information relevant to its commercial exploitation. Moreover, the phenolic composition, antioxidant capacity and microbial composition in overripe fruits were determined, seeking a better use for this currently wasted resource. A wide variability in levels of phenolics was detected. Elderberries showed high antioxidant activity related to a high cyanidin derivative content, making them of interest to industry. Microflorae were present in very variable concentration ranges, so their levels should be monitored in those applications that require strict control. Overripe fruits are of interest as a source of anthocyanidins, since their concentration and antioxidant capacity remain after the optimal ripening period, promoting sustainability and a better use of natural resources. The database generated is of particular interest for further breeding trials based on the phenolic profile and antioxidant activity of the samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objectives of this study were to assess the inhibitory effects of Allium ampeloprasum L. extract (AAE) and its derived organosulfur and polyphenolic compounds on the enzymatic activities of cGMP-specific PDE V (PDE5) and aminopeptidase N (APN). Additionally, the study aimed to investigate their potential as inhibitors against these two target enzymes through kinetic analyses and molecular docking studies. The in vitro enzyme assays demonstrated that both AAE and its derived compounds significantly decreased the activity of PDE5 and APN. Further analyses involving kinetics and molecular docking provided insights into the specific inhibitor types of AAE and its derived compounds along with the proposed molecular docking models illustrating the interactions between the ligands (the compounds) and the enzymes (PDE5 and APN). In particular, AAE-derived polyphenolic compounds showed relatively stable binding affinity (−7.2 to −8.3 kcal/mol) on PDE5 and APN. Our findings proved the potential as an inhibitor against PDE5 and APN of AAE and AAE-derived organosulfur and polyphenolic compounds as well as a functional material for erectile dysfunction improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the current study we investigate the antifouling potential of three polyphenolic resveratrol multimers (–)-hopeaphenol, vaticanol B and vatalbinoside A, isolated from two species of Anisoptera found in the Papua New Guinean rainforest. The compounds were evaluated against the growth and settlement of eight marine microfoulers and against the settlement and metamorphosis of Amphibalanus improvisus barnacle cyprids. The two isomeric compounds (–)-hopeaphenol and vaticanol B displayed a high inhibitory potential against the cyprid larvae metamorphosis at 2.8 and 1.1 μM. (–)-Hopeaphenol was also shown to be a strong inhibitor of both microalgal and bacterial adhesion at submicromolar concentrations with low toxicity. Resveratrol displayed a lower antifouling activity compared to the multimers and had higher off target toxicity against MCR-5 fibroblasts. This study illustrates the potential of natural products as a valuable source for the discovery of novel antifouling leads with low toxicity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many natural substances and drugs are radical scavengers that prevent the oxidative damage to fundamental cell components. This process may occur via different mechanisms, among which, one of the most important, is hydrogen atom transfer. The feasibility of this process can be assessed in silico using quantum mechanics to compute Δ G HAT ○ . This approach is accurate, but time consuming. The use of machine learning (ML) allows us to reduce tremendously the computational cost of the assessment of the scavenging properties of a potential antioxidant, almost without affecting the quality of the results. However, in many ML implementations, the description of the relevant features of a molecule in a machine-friendly language is still the most challenging aspect. In this work, we present a newly developed machine-readable molecular representation aimed at the application of automatized ML algorithms. In particular, we show an application on the calculation of Δ G HAT ○ . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Melissopalynological and chemical analysis of honey provide us useful and valuable information about the botanical and geographical origin of honey. The data in question is very important for authentication as well as for testing the quality of honey, so this is considered the main method in honey regulation here, we have used chemical analysis and melissopalynology to evaluate different honey samples from two main Iranian hubs of honey. Sampling was carried out on two important poles in Iran's honey production, the central Alborz region, and the mountainous Zagros ecosystems in the years 2020 to 2021. Therefore, 52 samples from Alborz (Northern Iran), as well as 42 samples from the Zagrosian ecosystems (western Iran) belonging to different ecological habitats, were collected. In addition, samples were taken at 7 altitudes from 0 to 3500 m a.s.l. Furthermore, in this study, various chemical analyses such as the effect of antioxidant activity, the amount of total phenolic content, pH, and moisture content of honey samples were evaluated. Our results showed that all honey samples were classified as polyfloral honey. Based on our findings, 57 honey samples (61%) contained the standard amount of pollen. A total of 42 plant families and 55 genera were identified in the studied samples, with the highest presence of Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Rosaceae, Apocynaceae, and Apiaceae. Finally, an antioxidant activity ratio of 19% to 98%, total phenolic content from 0.08 to 0.51 ppm, pH from 1.90 to 5.21, and moisture content from 13% to 18.40%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The current study evaluated the efficiency of different solvent extractions on the yield of total phenolics and flavonoid content as well as antioxidant activity for different plant parts (root, stem, leaves, immature and mature fruits) of Cucumis prophetarum. Materials and Methods: The antioxidant activity of the extracts was assessed by using the following methods: Ferric reducing antioxidant power assay (FRAP assay), ferrous ion chelating activity, phosphomolybdenum reducing power assay and hydrogen peroxide radical scavenging assay. Results: The chemical examination of comparative extractive solvents of different plant parts (root, stem, leaves, immature and mature fruits) showed variations in the amount of active ingredients under investigation. Among the different plant parts analyzed for phenolics and flavonoid content, the aqueous extract of leaf material yielded highest content of phenolics (22.6 mg TAE/g dry weight) and flavonoids (3.15 mg RE/g dry weight) as compared to other plant parts. The aqueous extracts rich in phenolics and flavonoid content also exhibited potent antioxidant activity in all the assays and showed expected significant positive correlation with the phytochemical compounds. Conclusion: The study indicated that in phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant assays, the results were higher for aqueous extraction system than other extragents used. Hence, the aqueous extract represents a source of potential antioxidants that could be used in pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exocarpium citreic grandis is the immature outer peel of grapefruit and contains active ingredients such as naringin and rhoifolin. The drying temperature can have a significant effect on the constituents. In order to explore the rules of moisture and quality changes in exocarpium citreic grandis during microwave vacuum drying, this study investigated the effects of different microwave intensities (0.75, 1.25, 1.50, 1.75, 2.00 W/g) on the drying characteristics and main component content of exocarpium citreic grandis. The results showed that, at a microwave intensity of 0.75 W/g, the drying process was controlled by a constant speed stage. At microwave intensities of 1.25 W/g and 1.50 W/g, the drying process was divided into three parts including acceleration stage, constant speed stage, and deceleration stage. When the microwave intensity increased to 1.75 W/g and 2.00 W/g, the drying process was divided into acceleration and deceleration stages with no constant speed drying stage. The resulted data suggested that the thin-layer drying kinetics model of exocarpium citreic grandis was fitted. The selection principle of the model was analyzed from four aspects including modification of the original model, transformation of dependent and independent variables, complex model, and initial and terminal conditions. Lewis, Page, Two-term exponential, and Weibull distribution models were selected for fitting analysis. The optimal thin-layer drying models were the Page model and the Weibull distribution model. The scale parameter a of the Weibull distribution function decreased with the increase in microwave intensity. The shape parameter ß underwent slight changes with moisture migration mechanisms being the combined effect of surface moisture evaporation and internal moisture diffusion. The effective moisture diffusion coefficient Deff was increasing with the increase in microwave intensity. The activation energy Ea for microwave vacuum drying of exocarpium citreic grandis was 1.6799 kJ/mol·k. Microwave power had a significant effect on flavonoid compounds. When the microwave power was low, the main component content decreased with the increase in microwave intensity, but when the microwave power increased to 2.00 W/g, the drying temperature would produce small molecular phenolic compounds, leading to an increasing trend in total flavonoids, naringin, and rhoifolin contents. With the increase in microwave intensity, the surface of exocarpium citreic grandis presented more porous honeycomb structures, and the larger the pore size, the more evident the puffing effect. The study confirmed that microwave vacuum drying technology was suitable for the production and processing of exocarpium citreic grandis, which provided technical support for the high efficiency and high quality industrial production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the bark of the Aquilaria agallocha was extracted, and the phenolic content of A. agallocha extract was determined using high‐performance liquid chromatography–diode array detector. The A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible films were prepared by using a different amount of A. agallocha extract (0, 1, 4, and 8 mL) and chitosan solution. Some physical properties of A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible films, water vapor permeability, solubility, swelling ratio, humidity ratio, thickness, scanning electron microscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis were investigated. The antibacterial activities, total phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity analysis of the A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible films were performed. The total phenolic content (0, 1, 4, and 8 mL of A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible films 0.92 ± 0.09, 1.34 ± 0.04, 2.94 ± 0.10, and 4.62 ± 0.10 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g film, respectively) and antioxidant capacity (0, 1, 4, and 8 mL of A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible films 52.61 ± 2.85, 104.28 ± 4.78, 304.30 ± 18.23, and 592.11 ± 0.67 mg Trolox equivalent (TE)/g film, respectively) of A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible films increased with the increase in the amount of extract. At the same time, the increase in the amount of antioxidant capacity improved the physical features of the films. The results of the antibacterial activity studies showed that all of the A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible films prevented bacterial growth from Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus considering controlling group. Practical Applications: To investigate the activity of antioxidant extract–biodegradable film, the A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible film had prepared. The results showed that A. agallocha extract–chitosan edible film was antioxidant and antibacterial properties and was used as food packaging material successfully. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a comprehensive two-dimensional liquid chromatography system, comprised of a ZIC-HILIC and C18 columns in the first and second dimensions, respectively, was tuned and employed for attaining high resolution profiles of the polyphenolic pattern in seven commercial berry juices. The developed HILIC × RP-LC method was validated in terms of linearity range, correlation coefficients, limit of detection, limit of quantification, precision (intra- and inter-day), and recovery. A total of 104 polyphenolic compounds belonging to different chemical classes (hydroxybenzoic and cinnamic acid derivatives, flavone glycosides, flavonols, flavonol glycosides, dihydroflavonols, and anthocyanin glycosides) have been characterized and quantified in the juices investigated. Despite the constituents being similar, a notable quantitative variation among the analyzed berry species was observed. Elderberry contained the highest amount of polyphenols (918 ± 1.10 mg 100 mL−1), followed by chokeberry (516 ± 0.08 mg 100 mL−1). On the other hand, raspberry contained the lowest amount (104 ± 1.21 mg 100 mL−1). Further, total phenolic, flavonoid, and anthocyanin contents were determined spectrophotometrically, yielding consistent results. The free-radical scavenging activity (DPPH test) and reducing power of the juices, expressed as IC50 (μL mL−1) and mg ASE mL−1, varied from 2.79 ± 0.03 (honeyberry) to 31.66 ± 0.02 (blueberry) and from 1.71 ± 0.01 (blueberry) to 8.89 ± 0.12 (chokeberry), respectively. Such a ZIC-HILIC × C18 platform based on focusing modulation, never employed so far for berry juices, showed a remarkable separation capability with high values of corrected peak capacity (up to 1372) and orthogonality (Ao up to 0.80), thus providing a great applicability to be advantageously employed for other complex food samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Increasing evidence indicates a link between obesity and cognitive impairment. Furthermore, there is limited literature regarding the effect of polyphenols, a plant derived compounds, on executive functioning in an overweight/obese population at-risk of cognitive impairment. The aim of the present systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials is to examine the effect of polyphenol supplementation on executive functions in overweight and/or obese populations at risk of cognitive impairment. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted from inception to March 2023 using four electronic databases: PubMed/Medline, PsycInfo, Scopus and Cochrane trials library. Published primary research studies in English that compared the effect of polyphenols with placebo on executive function in overweight/obese adults were considered eligible for the meta-analysis. Jadad scale was used for the methodological quality rating of the included studies. Hedges g with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for endpoints were calculated using random effect model where applicable. Rosenthal's Fail-safe N, funnel plots, the Begg and Mazumdar's rank correlation test (Kendall's S statistic P-Q), Egger's linear regression test, and Duval and Tweedie's trim-and-fill test were identified for potential use as appropriate, to examine publication bias. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to examine the robustness of the results. Results and conclusion: A total of 23 RCT studies involving N = 1,976 participants were included in the review. The results of the meta-analysis revealed a non-significant effect for polyphenol supplementation on executive function (g = 0.076, CI = -0.018 to 0.170). Observations from primary studies within the meta-analysis showed a potential positive effect of polyphenol supplementation in a younger population at-risk of cognitive impairment and it is recommended to investigate this further in future studies. Moreover, the variability of the tasks used to examine executive functions as well as the adequate reporting of supplement's phenolic composition is a limitation that future work should also consider. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orange peel, which is a rich source of polyphenolic compounds, including hesperidin, is produced as waste in production. Therefore, optimization of the extraction of hesperidin was performed to obtain its highest content. The influence of process parameters such as the kind of extraction mixture, its temperature and the number of repetitions of the cycles on hesperidin content, the total content of phenolic compounds and antioxidant (DPPH scavenging assay) as well as anti-inflammation activities (inhibition of hyaluronidase activity) was checked. Methanol and temperature were key parameters determining the efficiency of extraction in terms of the possibility of extracting compounds with the highest biological activity. The optimal parameters of the orange peel extraction process were 70% of methanol in the extraction mixture, a temperature of 70 °C and 4 cycles per 20 min. The second part of the work focuses on developing electrospinning technology to synthesize nanofibers of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HPβCD) loaded with hesperidin-rich orange peel extract. This is a response to the circumvention of restrictions in the use of hesperidin due to its poor bioavailability resulting from low solubility and permeability. Dissolution studies showed improved hesperidin solubility (over eight-fold), while the PAMPA-GIT assay confirmed significantly better transmucosal penetration (over nine-fold). A DPPH scavenging assay of antioxidant activity as well as inhibition of hyaluronidase to express anti-inflammation activity was established for hesperidin in prepared electrospun nanofibers, especially those based on HPβCD and PVP. Thus, hesperidin-rich orange peel nanofibers may have potential buccal applications to induce improved systemic effects with pro-health biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we compared ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) and conventional extraction by agitation (AE) for total phenolic compounds (TPC) extraction from yerba mate leaves (Hex paraguariensis St. Hil). Water and 50% aqueous ethanol solution were used as solvent and the effect of solvent-to-solid ratio, particle size, stirring speed (AE) and ultrasound power amplitude (UAE) was examined. Two kinetic models (i.e. Peleg model and swelling / diffusion model) have been introduced to describe the kinetics of TPC extraction. The experimental data were adequately fitted by swelling/diffusion model R² > 0.98; EP < 10%; RMSE < 0,24) that considers two mechanisms coupled at different rates. The initial extraction rate increased at a higher volume of solvent (10 ml/g), smaller particle size (0.297 mm) higher ultrasound power amplitude (10056) and the use of 50% aqueous ethanol solution. Maximum equilibrium TPC concentration was observed with the synergic effect of 50% aqueous ethanol solution and the higher power amplitude (15,0 g GAO 100 g dm). This work would provide more information on the extraction mechanisms that occur in the microstructure of yerba mate leaves for the industrial production of TPC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheatgrass is a valuable source of nutrients and phytochemicals with therapeutic properties. However, its shorter life span makes it unavailable for use. So, storage-stable products must be developed through processing in order to enhance its availability. Drying is a very important part of the processing of wheatgrass. Thus, in this study, the effect of fluidized bed drying on the proximate, antioxidant, and functional properties of wheatgrass was investigated. The wheatgrass was dried in a fluidized bed drier at different temperatures (50, 55, 60, 65, 70 °C) using a constant air velocity of 1 m/s. With increasing temperature, the moisture content was reduced at a faster rate, and all drying processes took place during the falling rate period. Eight mathematical models under thin layer drying were fitted into the moisture data and were evaluated. The Page model was the most effective in explaining the drying kinetics of wheatgrass, followed by the Logarithmic model. The R2, chi-square, and root mean squared value for Page model was 0.995465–0.999292, 0.000136–0.0002, and 0.013215–0.015058, respectively. The range of effective moisture diffusivity was 1.23–2.81 × 10−10 m2/s, and the activation energy was 34.53 kJ/mol. There was no significant difference in the proximate composition of was seen at different temperatures. The total phenolic content (117.16 ± 0.41–128.53 ± 0.55 mgGAE/g), antioxidant activity (33.56 ± 0.08–37.48 ± 0.08% (DPPH), and FRAP (1.372 ± 0.001–1.617 ± 0.001 mgAAE/g) increased with the rise in temperature. A significant increase was observed in functional properties, except for the rehydration ratio, which decreased with rising temperature. The current study suggests that fluidized bed drying improves the nutritional retention of wheatgrass with good antioxidant activity and functional properties that can be used to make functional foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate heavy metal concentrations and oxidative status of plasma and erythrocytes in Angora cats at different ages and gender. Sixteen young (less than 1 year old) and 14 adult (1-6 years old) cats were also grouped according to gender as male (n = 17) and female (n = 13). The separated plasma samples from cat's blood were analyzed for selected heavy metals and total oxidant and antioxidant capacities (TOC and TAC) and calculated for oxidative stress index (OSI). The erythrocyte hemolysates were also evaluated for malondialdehyde (MDA), and super oxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Results of the study showed that most of the measured metals were not varied statistically according to age or gender. However, adult cats had significantly (P<0.01) higher Cu and lower Fe levels compared to young cats. Plasma levels of TOC, TAC and OSI, and erythrocyte MDA concentrations in young cats were significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of adults. While the SOD activity was decreased by the age, GPX activity was increased (P<0.05). However, the activity of CAT was changed by only gender, which was higher in males (P<0.01). In conclusion, metals, especially trace elements, are required for many kinds of physiological processes and the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes. Therefore, it can be suggested that the periodic measurement of metals and the addition of common antioxidant supplements to the diet of adult Angora cats will support weakening antioxidant mechanisms by age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Scorzonera has various medicinal values. Species belonging to this genus were traditionally used as drugs or in food. The current study aimed to determine the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and biological properties of the tuber, leaf, and flower of Scorzonera undulata extracts, collected from the southwest of Tunisia. Phenolic compounds from the three parts were extracted using two solvents (water and ethanol) and two extraction techniques (maceration and ultrasound). The total phenolic content was measured by the Folin–Ciocalteu assay. Furthermore, the chemical composition of Scorzonera undulata extract was also investigated by the LC-ESI–MS method using phenolic acid and flavonoid standards. The variation of the extraction methods induced a variation in the real potentialities of the three parts in terms of bioactive molecules. However, the aerial part of S. undulata (leaves and flowers) showed, in general, the highest phenolic contents. Twenty-five volatile compounds have been detected by GC-MS in S. undulata extracts; among them, fourteen were identified before derivatization. The DPPH test showed that the aerial part of the plant has a higher antioxidant activity compared to the tuber (25.06% at 50 µg/mL for the leaf ethanolic extract obtained by ultrasound extraction). For most biological activities (anti-Xanthine, anti-inflammatory, and antidiabetic (alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase)), the aerial parts (flowers and leaves) of the plant showed the highest inhibition than tubers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roasting is a critical process that affects the quality attributes of coffee beans; however, how roasting conditions affect the physical, chemical, biological, and organoleptic changes of coffee pulp needs more research. In the present study, we investigated the effects of roasting temperatures and times on chemical compositions and quality attributes of coffee pulp. The results showed that the contents of total soluble sugar (TSS) and free amino acid (FAA) followed a temporal pattern of first increasing and then decreasing under the roasting temperatures between 100 and 160°C. Total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity of coffee pulp significantly (p < 0.05) increased after roasting, reaching the maximum values of 83.09 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE) /g and 360.45 µM 6‐hydroxy‐2,5,7,8‐tetramethylchroman‐2‐carboxylic acid (Trolox) /g, respectively, when coffee pulp was roasted at 160°C for 18 min. Drying rates of coffee pulp fitted the Logarithmic kinetic model, while color (L*, a*, and b*) changes and 5‐caffeoylquinic acid degradation followed the first‐order kinetic model. Electronic nose analysis showed that the main aroma compounds of the coffee pulp are sulfur‐containing organics that were reduced with the extended roasting time. Scanning electronic microscopy analysis presented the loosened, shrunk, and cracked microstructure on the surface of the roasted coffee pulp, which might contribute to the increased TSS, FAA, TPC, and antioxidant activity of coffee pulp roasted under specific conditions. In conclusion, our research provides valuable information for preparing high‐quality coffee pulp tea. Practical Application: This article investigates the effects of roasting on the chemical composition, color, flavor, microstructure, and the kinetics of changes in the moisture, color, and 5‐caffeoylquinic acid (5‐CQA) of the coffee pulp. We have found that high‐temperature and short‐time roasting helps retain the total phenolic contents, antioxidant activity, and aroma. The drying kinetic fits the Logarithmic model, and the changes in color and 5‐CQA fit the first‐order kinetic model. This study provides meaningful information for preparing coffee pulp tea with high‐quality attributes and antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Trichloroisocyanuric acid (TCCA), a readily accessible, inexpensive, shelf‐stable, and non‐toxic reagent in combination with PPh3, has been used for dehydrative glycosylation reactions with furanose, pyranose, and deoxy‐sugar hemiacetals. The methodology provides a mild reaction condition, good functional group tolerance, featuring a wide variety of substrate scope using O‐, C‐, N‐, and S‐based nucleophiles with good to excellent yields and majority α‐selectivity in case of O‐glycosides while the stereoselectivity in case of C‐, N‐ and S‐ glycosides depends upon the nature of nucleophiles. Notably, this mild dehydrative glycosylation system also provides a reliable method for the synthesis of challenging phenolic glycosides. The progress of the dehydrative glycosylation reaction was monitored by mass and NMR spectroscopy and it is hypothesized that alkoxyphosphonium ions might be the reactive intermediate formed in this process, supported by 31P nuclear magnetic resonance studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of alkali-induced oxidation of three phenolic acids, namely gallic acid, epigallocatechin gallate, and tannic acid, on the structure and gelation of ginkgo seed protein isolate (GSPI) was investigated. A mixture of 12% (w/v) GSPI and different concentrations of alkali-treated phenolic acids (0, 0.06, 0.24, and 0.48% w/w) were heated at 90 °C, pH 6.0, for 30 min to form composite gels. The phenolic treatment decreased the hydrophobicity of the GSPI sol while enhancing their rheological properties. Despite a reduced protein solubility, water holding capacity, stiffness, and viscoelasticity of the gels were improved by the treatments. Among them, the modification effect of 0.24% (w/v) EGCG was the most prominent. Through the analysis of microstructure and composition, it was found to be due to the covalent addition, disulfide bond formation, etc., between the quinone derivatives of phenolic acids and the side chains of nucleophilic amino acids. Phenolic acid modification of GSPI may be a potential ingredient strategy in its processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessment of the antioxidant activity of different types of natural compounds is a complex research area that encompasses various in vitro tests and in vivo studies. Sophisticated modern analytical tools permit the unambiguous characterization of the compounds present in a matrix. The contemporary researcher, knowing the chemical structure of the compounds present, can carry out quantum chemical calculations that provide important physicochemical information assisting the prediction of antioxidant potential and the mechanism behind the activity of target compounds before further experimentation. The efficiency of calculations is steadily improved due to the rapid evolution of both hardware and software. It is possible, consequently, to study compounds of medium or even larger size, incorporating also models that simulate the liquid phase (solution). This review contributes to the establishment of theoretical calculations as an inherent part of the antioxidant activity assessment process, having as a case study the complex mixtures of olive bioactive secoiridoids (oleuropein, ligstroside, and related compounds). The literature indicates great variability in theoretical approaches and models used so far for only a limited number of this group of phenolic compounds. Proposals are made for standardization of methodology (reference compounds, DFT functional, basis set size, and solvation model) to facilitate comparisons and communication of findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Blechnum represents one of the most ecologically and therapeutically important groups of ferns that grow in tropical, subtropical and temperate regions. In this work, the chemical fingerprint of lyophilized extracts of Blechnum chilense, B. hastatum, B. magellanicum and B. penna-marina species, the determination of their antioxidant activity through ORAC, FRAP and DPPH assays and inhibition of cholinesterase enzymes (AChE and BChE), and an in silico analysis of selected majority compounds on cholinesterase enzymes were identified. Nineteen compounds were recorded for B. chilense, nine in B. hastatum, seventeen in B. magellanicum and seventeen in B. penna-marina by liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS). The content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, antioxidant activity and enzyme inhibition were variable among species, with best results for B. penna-marina. Molecular docking evidenced low toxicities, significant pharmacokinetic properties, and significant binding affinities of the tested compounds for the AChE and BChE enzymes. These fern species show high diversity of bioactive compounds and represent a promising resource in phytotherapy, especially for their optimal levels of phenolic compounds that support their antioxidant activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In addition to having different biological activities of interest, corn silks play a role in the defense of plants. While benzoxamines and flavonoids have already been identified as molecules of plant defense and growth mechanisms, knowledge on the phytochemical composition of corn silk is lacking. Such knowledge would make it possible to better select the most effective varieties to improve resistance or bioactive properties. In this article, an approach was implemented to map a corn silk extract in two complementary ways. The first one involved working with UHPLC/HRMS data and Kendrick and van Krevelen plots to highlight a homologous series of compounds, such as lipids from 17 to 23 carbons, monoglycosylated flavonoids from 21 to 24 carbons, diglycosylated flavonoids of 26 to 28 carbons and organic acids of 14 to 19 carbons. The second way was to analyze the sample in UHPLC/HRMS2 and to plot mass spectral similarity networks with the GNPS platform and Cytoscape software to refine identification. By combining the information obtained, we were able to propose an identification for 104 detected molecules, including 7 nitrogenous, 28 lipidic and 67 phenolic compounds, leading to the first detailed phytochemical analysis of corn silk extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study characterized "canudo de pito" honeys by melissopalynological analysis, physicochemical characteristics, sugars, minerals, aliphatic organic acids (AOA), phenolic compounds, and antioxidant capacity. Our results indicated the presence of five plant families, especially from Escalloniaceae (Escallonia sp.) with a contribution of 31.0–47.7%. The honeys were in accordance with international physicochemical standards, except for electrical conductivity, suggesting a relationship with the high levels of minerals, mainly potassium. Also, this floral honey can be characterized as water-white honey and has low sucrose content. Among the AOA investigated, gluconic acid was the major (up to 1.06 g 100 g−1), while benzoic, ferulic, and syringic acids (up to 140, 122, and 319 µg 100 g−1, respectively) were the major phenolic compounds. This study is the first report on the composition of this exotic Brazilian honey and demonstrated its high quality and potential for national and international marketing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pineapple juice clarification was performed by a continuous dead-end microfiltration process with low-cost ceramic membranes (M1-M3). Membranes were characterized using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), particle size distribution (PSD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Membranes were observed to have contact angle (34-42o), membranes porosity (56 − 48%), average pore size (0.87 − 0.56 μm), water permeability (3.00 × 10− 6 − 1.07 × 10− 6 m3/m2skPa), and corrosion resistance (1-1.2% weight loss) that are significant to be employed for juice clarification. Based on the comparative evaluations, membrane M3 was determined to be the best solution for juice clarification. The juice pH and total dissolved solids (TDS) remained unchanged during clarification, indicating that the membrane produced was promising. However, acidity density, total soluble solids (TSS), and vitamin C levels were reduced from 0.3072 ± 0.06–0.3063 ± 0.05%, 1.04 ± 0.08 to 0.94 ± 0.07 g/mL, 7.9 ± 0.08 to 6 ± 0.05oBrix, and 38.4 ± 0.02 to 36.6 ± 0.9 mg/100 mL, respectively. Also, minor changes in colour, and non–enzymatic browning index (NEBI) were observed. Total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity were dropped from 27.9 ± 0.83–76.92 ± 1.30 mg GAE/g, 79.23 ± 1.37– 24 ± 0.62 mg RE/g, and 85.52 ± 1.56–75.34 ± 1.26%, respectively. At a pressure of 345 kPa, the membrane provided a maximum permeate flux of 1.82 × 10− 4 m3/m2s. The cake filtration model depicts the relevant fouling mechanism, which is reversible and the membrane may be readily cleaned. As a result, a membrane made from low-cost raw materials is recommended for the microfiltration of pineapple juice without enzymatic treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the effect of different drying techniques (swirling fluidized bed drying [SFBD], oven drying [OD], and freeze drying [FD]) on the drying kinetics, antioxidant potential, and 6‐gingerol concentration of Bentong ginger (BG). Seven mathematical models were applied to the experimental data to determine the best thin‐layer drying models for drying applications Interaction between the drying methods and antioxidant properties has been evaluated using correlation coefficient (R). The Midilli–Kucuk model showed the best fit at explaining the thin layer drying behavior of the BG for OD and SFBD, whereas the Page model showed the best fit for FD. Correlation analysis revealed that the drying methods had a strong positive correlation with DPPH and a moderate negative correlation with 6‐gingerol concentration and total phenolic content. The experimental results showed that SFBD reduces the total drying time compared to OD and FD, which translates to a low energy consumption, high drying rate, and moisture diffusivity. In addition, the dried BG sample from the SFBD exhibited a slightly higher DPPH inhibition and total phenolic yield as well as the best option to preserve the 6‐gingerol compound in the Liquid Chromatography Quadrupole Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometry (LC‐QTOF/MS) analysis. Thus, the SFBD approach proved to be a feasible method for drying ginger. Practical applications: Ginger is considered to be highly perishable foods due to their high moisture content. The most common process for keeping shelf‐stable ginger is dehydration. Drying preserves the quality of ginger by lowering the moisture level, which prevents microbial growth and chemical changes during dried storage. The use of fluidized bed (FBD) dryers for agricultural products processing has grown in popularity in recent years. The modified and hybrid FBD systems were observed to be efficient for drying food products in previous studies. The outcome of this research showed that SFBD techniques attain better nutritional quality of ginger through less energy consumption and processing time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the antioxidant properties and chemical composition of the seeds, pulp and peels of Ungurahua (Oenocarpus bataua) and Pasu (Gustavia macarenensis)—fruits, native to the Ecuadorian Amazon. The antioxidant capacity was measured by 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and cyclic voltammetry (antioxidant index 50 (AI50)) assays; differential pulse voltammetry was used to evaluate antioxidant power using the electrochemical index. The total phenolic content, as well as the yellow flavonoid and anthocyanin content, were quantified via spectrophotometry. In addition, the trans-resveratrol and ascorbic acid content were evaluated through high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) was used to identify secondary metabolites with possible therapeutic properties. Results showed that the Pasu peel and seed extracts had the highest antioxidant capacity, followed by the Ungurahua peel; these results were consistent for both spectroscopic and electrochemical assays. HPLC and UPLC-MS analysis suggest that Oenocarpus bataua and Gustavia macarenensis are important sources of beneficial bioactive compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oxidative stress and inflammation have a role in the development of various diseases. Oxidative stress and inflammation are associated with many proteins, including Kelch ECH associating protein 1 (KEAP1) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) proteins. The active compounds contained in Holothuria scabra have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of sea cucumber's active compounds by targeting KEAP1 and iNOS proteins. 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and nitric oxide (NO) scavenging activity of H. scabra extract were measured spectrophotometrically. The 3-dimensional (3D) structures of sea cucumber's active compounds and proteins were obtained from the PubChem and Research Collaboratory for Structural Bioinformatics Protein Data Bank (RCSB PDB) databases. Molecular docking was performed using AutoDock Vina software. Molecular dynamics simulations were carried out using Yet Another Scientific Artificial Reality Application (YASARA) software with environmental parameters according to the cell's physiological conditions. The membrane permeability test was performed using the PerMM web server. The methanol extract of H. scabra had a weak antioxidant activity against DPPH and strong activity against NO radical. Scabraside and holothurinoside G had the most negative binding affinity values when interacting with the active site of KEAP1 and iNOS proteins. Molecular dynamics simulations also showed that both compounds were stable when interacting with KEAP1 and iNOS. However, scabraside and holothurinoside G were difficult to penetrate the cell plasma membrane, which is seen from the high energy transfer value in the lipid acyl chain region of phospholipids. Scabraside and holothurinoside G are predicted to act as antioxidants and anti-inflammations, but in their implementation to in vitro and in vivo study, it is necessary to have liposomes or nanoparticles, or other delivery methods to help these 2 compounds enter the cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Distinct parts of Solanum torvum Swartz. (Solanaceae) are popularly used for a variety of therapeutic purposes. This study determined the phytochemical composition of a phenolic fraction of S. torvum leaf aqueous extract and investigated its antioxidant and liver-protective properties. A phenolic compound-enriched fraction, or phenolic fraction (STLAE-PF) of an infusion (STLAE) of S. torvum leaves, was tested in vitro (antagonism of H2O2 in cytotoxicity and DCF assays with HepG2/C3A cells), and in vivo for antioxidant activity and protective effects against acetaminophen (APAP)-induced liver injury in mice. Thirty-eight compounds (flavonoids, esters of hydroxycinnamic acid, and chlorogenic acid isomers) were tentatively identified (high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution electrospray mass spectrometry) in the STLAE-PF fraction. In vitro assays in HepG2/C3A cells showed that STLAE-PF and some flavonoids contained in this phenolic fraction, at noncytotoxic levels, antagonized in a concentration-dependent manner the effects of a powerful oxidant agent (H2O2). In C57BL/6 mice, oral administration of STLAE (600 and 1,200 mg/kg bw) or STLAE-PF (300 mg/kg bw) prevented the rise in serum transaminases (ALT and AST), depletion of reduced glutathione (GSH) and elevation of thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARs) levels in the liver caused by APAP (600 mg/kg bw, i.p.). The hepatoprotective effects of STLAE-PF (300 mg/kg bw) against APAP-caused liver injury were comparable to those of N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC 300 or 600 mg/kg bw i.p.). These findings indicate that a phenolic fraction of S. torvum leaf extract (STLAE-PF) is a new phytotherapeutic agent potentially useful for preventing/treating liver injury caused by APAP overdosing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There are many similar counterfeit varieties in the medicinal materials of Gentiana and significant differences in their pharmacodynamics content. To accurately distinguish the Gentiana samples in northwestern China and identify its pharmacodynamics, in this study, 5 similar medicinal materials of Gentiana from Tibetan, Sichuan, Qinghai were identified using psbA-trnH sequences as the bar code. After gene sequencing, the homologous sequences of the medicinal materials were selected by sequence alignment in GenBank database, the Kimura 2-parameter genetic distance was calculated using MEGA 7.0 software, and the phylogenetic tree was constructed based on the neighbor-joining method to analyze the phylogenetic relationship of species. Additionally, gentiopicroside content and DPPH radical scavenging rate in the test samples were detected using ultraviolet spectrophotometry to evaluate gentiopicroside content and antioxidant capacity of medicinal materials in different regions. The results showed that in all five samples, three belonged to Gentiana crasicaulis, the other two belonged to G. straminea and G. officinalis, respectively, according to K2P distance, phylogenetic relationship, and psbA-trnH gene similarity. Gentiopicroside contents in the samples ranged from 8.56% to 12.76% (G. officinalis>G. straminea>G. crasicaulis), DPPH radical scavenging rates were 66.49%-90.68%(G. straminea>G. officinalis), and the DPPH radical scavenging rates in the samples of G. crasicaulis from three different regions were of difference. Based on research above, these results indicated that the gene psbA-trnH could be very effective on identification of Gentiana and phylogenetic study, the content of gentiopicroside in the test samples from different regions was high and the antioxidant capacity was strong. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drying is a key step that affects the chemical composition and quality of tea. In the present study, we reported the impacts of drying temperature and time on drying and color change kinetics, phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and surface microstructure of coffee leaves during hot‐air drying. The results showed that drying temperature was positively (p < 0.05) correlated with the drying rate (DR), color index a* and total color change ΔE, and total soluble sugar (TSS), while negatively correlated with color indexes b* and L*, soluble protein content, and the DPPH scavenging capacity. Drying time has similar impacts on the color indexes and soluble protein as drying temperature. The content of total free amino acid and TSS increased by 62.5% and 47.4%, respectively, when coffee leaves were dried at 160°C for 24 min, under which the total phenolic content and DPPH and ABTS scavenging capacities reached the maximum of 108.04 mg GAE/g, 515.07 µmol Trolox/g, and 606.70 µmol Trolox/g, respectively. Drying significantly decreased the contents of chlorogenic acids and mangiferin and antioxidant activity, while high‐temperature short‐time drying helped retain phenolic compounds in coffee leaves. The DR fitted Page kinetic model. The color changes fitted the first‐order kinetic models and the activation energies ranged from 16.00 to 31.06 kJ·mol−1. Prolonged drying time caused serious wrinkles on the surface of coffee leaves and the stomata closed. Practical Application: Drying decreased soluble protein while increasing free amino acid and soluble sugar. High‐temperature short‐time drying helps retain phenolics in the coffee leaves. The color change of coffee leaves during drying follows first‐order kinetic. Prolonged drying time resulted in loosened texture of coffee leaves. Our study suggested that drying coffee leaves at 160°C for 24 min results in the coffee leaf tea being of better quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to obtain fermented black glutinous rice (FBGR) powder using the foam‐mat freeze‐drying method and to evaluate the physicochemical, microstructural, and bioactive characteristics of FBGR powder. To obtain FBGR foams, maltodextrin (MD; 0%–40% w/w) and whey protein isolate (WPI; 7.5% w/w) were used. The results showed that MD concentration had a significant effect (p ≤.05) on powder recovery and bulk density which increased from 68.9% to 80.5% and 0.46% to 0.63 g/ml, respectively. The lowest moisture content (2.17%) and water activity (0.48) were found in powders produced with 20% MD. The solubility of FBGR powders ranged from 74% to 75% and increasing MD concentration gave higher lightness (L*) and yellowness (b*) readings in color properties of powders. Although the addition of the carrier agent caused reductions in total phenolic content and anthocyanins, the retention of these bioactive compounds rose with increasing MD content from 67% to 76% and 78% to 84%, respectively. FBGR produced with 40% MD had the most superior physical and technological properties, and foam‐mat freeze‐drying is a promising technology for retaining the bioactive compounds in FBGR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global interest in yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) is growing due to its potential as a functional food, attributable to its unique profile of bioactives and high fructooligosaccharide (FOS) content, which vary between cultivars. Our objective was to conduct a comprehensive chemical and nutritional analysis of New Zealand yacon concentrate (NZYC)—a sweet syrup derived from the roots of cultivar 'New Zealand', which was first grown in the 1980s. The major minerals in NZYC were potassium, phosphorus, and calcium. The FOS content ranged from 17.6 to 52.7 g/100g. Total phenolic content ranged from 565 to 785 mg gallic acid equivalents per 100 g; chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid were the major phenolic compounds. The major amino acids were L-arginine, L-glutamic acid, L-proline, L-aspartic acid, and asparagine. The major organic acids were citric, malic, quinic, and fumaric acids. Antioxidant activity ranged from 1084.14 to 3085.78 mg Trolox equivalents per 100 g depending on the assay used. The glycaemic index (GI) value was 40 ± 0.22, classifying it as a low-GI food. These results support the classification of NZYC as a nutraceutical food product for future diet therapy applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work aimed to estimate the mass transfer parameters of guabiju pulp under different temperatures of drying, modeling the kinetic curves using Fick's second law and the Lewis, Henderson–Pabis, Page, Modified Page, Logarithmic and Midilli models and to evaluate their biological properties and color. Guabiju pulp were dried at 313.15–373.15 K. The drying rate decreases over time, showing an exponential behavior with a significant influence of the operating temperature. Values of the effective diffusivity coefficient (Deff) between 1.578 and 10.755 × 10−9 m2 s−1 were observed, with an activation energy of 30.77 kJ mol−1 and an Arrhenius factor of 1962 × 10−4 m2 s−1. All models used showed good fit quality parameters (coefficient of determination—R2 (>0.9521), sum of squared error—SSE (<0.0049), root mean square error—RMSE (<0.0699) and chi‐square test—X2 (<0.0052)). The Midilli model showed the smallest deviations in relation to the experimental data. The values of the mass transfer constant (k6) ranged from 0.00036 to 0.01232 for the Midilli model. The best results for antioxidant activity, phenolic compounds and flavonoids were obtained at 353.15 K. The dehydrated guabiju pulp can be considered promising for human consumption and for food supplementation due to its biological activities, since the phenolic compounds act as pigments, flavor precursors and natural antioxidants. Practical applications: Drying systems have proved to be an important strategy for the conservation of natural resources. However, they still lack studies by society. In line with drying systems, the kinetic modeling of the data allows simulating and optimizing the process, reaching the maximum potential of the process and making the process viable, reducing losses and errors and increasing product quality, facilitating industrial implementation and scale‐up. Thus, studies on the drying of guabiju pulp (Myrcianthes pungens) help to understand the process. Considering that the fruit has bioactive compounds and can be used in a certain product within the pharmaceutical, chemical or food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By-products of essential oils (EOs) in the industry represent an exploitable material for natural and safe antioxidant production. One representative group of such by-products is distilled solid residues, whose composition is properly modulated by the distillation method applied for the recovery of EOs. Recently, in terms of Green Chemistry principles, conventional extraction and distillation processes are considered outdated and tend to be replaced by more environmentally friendly ones. In the present study, microwave-assisted hydro-distillation (MAHD) was employed as a novel and green method for the recovery of EOs from three aromatic plants (rosemary, Greek sage and spearmint). The method was compared to conventional ones, hydro-distillation (HD) and steam-distillation (SD), in terms of phytochemical composition of distilled solid residues, which was estimated by spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods. Total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC) and antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH and FRAP) results highlighted the distilled solid residues as good sources of antioxidants. Moreover, higher antioxidant activity was achieved for MAHD extracts of solid residues in comparison to HD and SD extracts. A metabolomics approach was carried out on the methanolic extracts of solid residues obtained by different distillation methods using LC-MS analysis followed by multivariate data analysis. A total of 29 specialized metabolites were detected, and 26 of them were identified and quantified, presenting a similar phenolic profile among different treatments, whereas differences were observed among different species. Rosmarinic acid was the most abundant phenolic compound in all extracts, being higher in MAHD extracts. In rosemary and Greek sage extracts, carnosol and carnosic acid were quantified in significant amounts, while trimers and tetramers of caffeic acid (salvianolic acids isomers) were identified and quantified in spearmint extracts, being higher in MAHD extracts. The obtained results pointed out that MAHD extracts of distilled solid by-products could be a good source of bioactives with potential application in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, contributing to the circular economy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, energy and exergy analyses of the closed‐cycle infrared (IR) convective walnut drying were performed. The effects of the combined heat transfer, product–source distance, and temperature–relative humidity (RH) control on the food quality of walnuts and performance were investigated. Experiments were conducted with and without an IR lamp. The temperature and RH of the drying air were set at 40°C and 20%, respectively. The distance between the product and the IR source was changed to 20 cm and 30 cm. The coefficient of performance values of the whole system changed between 1.56 and 2.34. Exergy efficiencies varied between 60.81% and 88.19% without IR and 72.73%–78.54% with IR. Energy and time savings increased by 14.7% and 26.1%, respectively, with using IR at a 20 cm distance compared with the convective system. The fatty acid composition of walnut samples and chemical properties of walnut samples such as total phenolic content, oil, ash, color, antioxidant activity, peroxide values, free fatty acid, conjugated trienes, conjugated dienes, saponification value, and iodine number parameters were analyzed. Food analysis results of all dried walnuts were in the acceptable range. As a result, energy and time savings were achieved with the desired food quality. Novelty impact statement: This application makes it possible to achieve the desired conditions with less energy. In this study, the effects of heat transfer mechanisms, the effect of using two mechanisms together, and the effects of the variables within each mechanism on the drying of walnuts were investigated. It has been observed that the addition of an infrared heat source with the right and suitable application shortens the drying time as well as saves energy. As a result of the food quality analysis, it was determined that all products dried without deteriorating the food quality. The closed‐cycle intermittent infrared convective drying system is recommended for industrial use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automatic detection of corrosion inhibition efficacy by processing the microscopic images of the sample surface by using image texture analysis is a very useful technique in the contemporary research field. The reported technique is less time consuming with the capability of pattern recognition via quantification with preferences of suitable software, coding and various numerical methods ultimately represents data (vide acquisition) more precisely and accurately at agiven condition. An optimal anisotropic diffusion-based pre-processing for image enhancement and run length statistics (RLS) based texture analysis for feature extraction are performed on the microscopic images of mild steel surface treated in 1 M HCl solution with different inhibitors viz., (E)-1-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)methylene)hydrazine (abbreviated as DHMP and represented as L1), (E)-1-(4-isocyanophenyl)-2-((pyridin-4-yl)methylene)hydrazine) (abbreviated as IMH and represented as L2) and (E)-1-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-2-((pyridin-4-yl)methylene)phenol (abbreviated as DMP and represented as L3). Extracted normalized or relative features can be quantified the corrosion inhibition efficiency in an excellent way using multi-regression analysis having R-square values in the range of 0.997 to 0.999. (E)-1-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-2-(pyridin-4-yl)methylene)hydrazine (abbreviated as DHMP and represented as L1), (E)-1-(4-isocyanophenyl)-2-((pyridin-4-yl)methylene)hydrazine) (abbreviated as IMH and represented as L2) and (E)-1-(2,4-dinitrophenyl)-2-((pyridin-4-yl)methylene)phenol (abbreviated as DMP and represented as L3) are used as three different corrosion inhibitors over the mild steel surface in presence of 1M HCl solution. Automatic detection of corrosion inhibition efficiency by processing the microscopic images of the targeted sample surface by via image texture analysis. An optimal anisotropic diffusion technique is adopted in this present study for image enhancement before processing the image. Run length statistics (RLS) based texture analysis has been incorporated in this present investigation for extracting run length features to detect the corrosion inhibition efficiency. After selecting the RLS-based features, a multivariable regression model is developed and correlations are set up with the features of conventional parameters of the different inhibitor's performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The determination of plywood bonding quality by shear testing is one of the most commonly used and informative tests, alongside bending strength, to characterise this compound material. Two types of birch plywood were studied: indoor use (class 1), thickness 18 mm, urea-formaldehyde glue; and exposed outdoor use (class 3), thickness 15 mm, phenolic formaldehyde glue. The corresponding pre-treatments indicated in standards UNE-EN 314-1 and -2 were applied to each type. To test the suitability of the method, the technique of digital image correlation (DIC) was used to obtain information about the complex modes of fracture present in compound materials such as plywood. Assessing the results based on the statistical extreme value theory provided more reliable and robust information about the failure strength values for low failure probabilities. The results confirm that DIC can be used to determine the true distribution of the deformations during the fracture process and, therefore, it provides greater knowledge of the details of the failure process. Statistical evaluation of the experimental data obtained with DIC indicates that test results exceeding the time limit of 30 ± 10 s should be evaluated, contrary to the operating procedure in standard UNE-EN 314-1, which states that they are invalid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To verfy their difference from isolated fatty acids, the absolute kinetics of peroxidation was studied for seven triglyceride-based oils of olive (OLI-1, OLI-2), high-oleic sunflower (SUN-HO), high-oleic and high-linoleic safflower (SAF-HO, SAF-HL) grapeseed (GRA) and borage (BOR), by oxygen uptake monitoring, using 2,6-di- tert -butyl-4-methoxyphenol and 2,2,5,7,8-pentamethyl-6-chromanol as reference inhibitors. Propagation constants (k p /M−1 s−1 at 303 K in PhCl) were respectively 34.8 ± 2.3, 35.1 ± 1.8, 40.6 ± 5.5, 36.0 ± 7.7, 160.8 ± 5.1, 145.1 ± 24.5, 275.1 ± 63.8, while oxidizability responded to empirical equation k p (2 k t)-½/M-½s-½ = 1.63 × 10−3[allyl >CH 2 /M] + 1.82 × 10−2[bisallyl >CH 2 /M], based on fatty acids residues assessed by GC–MS. Peroxidation kinetics was markedly different from that of isolated fatty acids. The H-bond basicity of all oils was measured by FT-IR affording Abraham's βH 2 values in the range 0.55 ± 0.03. H-bonding explained the protection of oils measured for seven reference phenolic antioxidants, except for the catechols quercetin and caffeic acid phenethyl ester, which were 2-to-4-folds more effective than expected, supporting a proposed different mechanism. • k p and 2 k t constants for triglycerides differ from those of their main fatty acids. • MUFA-rich triglycerides oxidize 40-folds faster than their isolated MUFAs. • A linear empirical equation predicted oxidizability from FAME analysis (r 2 = 0.992). • Protection and k i nh for antioxidants were explained by H-bonding to triglycerides. • Catechols quercetin and CAPE gave exceptional protection via different mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Generally, high levels of natural phenolic antioxidants, which are needed in meat products to exert equivalent antioxidant effects as synthetic antioxidants, can interact with myofibrillar proteins and cause aggregation of the proteins, giving rise to undesirable deterioration of gel quality. In this study, β-cyclodextrin-metal-organic frameworks (K-β-CD-MOFs) were synthesized based on β-CD and K+ ions using methanol vapor diffusion method, and used to inhibit excessive covalent and non-covalent interactions between gallic acid (GA) and myofibrillar proteins under oxidative stress without degrading the phenolic antioxidant activity. Results of zeta potential, scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) provided evidence for the formation of GA/K-β-CD-MOFs inclusion complexes. From sulfydryl content, surface hydrophobicity, tryptophan fluorescence, turbidity and particle size analyses, the presence of K-β-CD-MOFs dose-dependently prevented the sulfydryl loss, unfolding of the proteins and formation of insoluble aggregates caused by GA (180 μM/g protein). Dynamic rheology, cooking loss, gel strength, water distribution, microstructure and Raman spectrum were further tested to evaluate effects of K-β-CD-MOFs on the qualities of GA-treated myofibrillar protein gel. Results indicated that more proteins were involved in the formation of a more ordered and homogeneous gel structure with higher gel elasticity and strength, more immobilized water and decreased cooking loss. The overall gel properties of myofibrillar proteins were improved. K-β-CD-MOFs ameliorated the instability of protein structure, manifested as increase in β-sheet content and inter-chain hydrogen bonding and decrease in hydrophobic forces (p < 0.05). This paper provides a novel method to increase the loading amount of phenolic antioxidants without jeopardizing the gel quality of meat products. [Display omitted] • K-β-CD-MOFs were synthesized for encapsulation of gallic acid (GA). • K-β-CD-MOFs competed with myofibrillar proteins for GA binding. • K-β-CD-MOFs reduced protein aggregation caused by GA under oxidative stress. • GA-induced deterioration of gel quality was significantly improved by K-β-CD-MOFs. • K-β-CD-MOFs might coat on the protein surface to prevent protein-GA interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenolic compounds are highly valuable food components due to their potential utilisation as natural bioactive and antioxidant molecules for the food, cosmetic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. For this purpose, the development and optimisation of efficient extraction methods is crucial to obtain phenolic-rich extracts and, for some applications, free of interfering compounds. It should be accompanied with robust analytical tools that enable the standardisation of phenolic-rich extracts for industrial applications. New methodologies based on both novel extraction and/or analysis are also implemented to characterise and elucidate novel chemical structures and to face safety, pharmacology, and toxicity issues related to phenolic compounds at the molecular level. Moreover, in combination with multivariate analysis, the extraction and analysis of phenolic compounds offer tools for plant chemotyping, food traceability and marker selection in omics studies. Therefore, this study reviews extraction techniques applied to recover phenolic compounds from foods and agri-food by-products, including liquid–liquid extraction, solid–liquid extraction assisted by intensification technologies, solid-phase extraction, and combined methods. It also provides an overview of the characterisation techniques, including UV–Vis, infra-red, nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectrometry and others used in minor applications such as Raman spectroscopy and ion mobility spectrometry, coupled or not to chromatography. Overall, a wide range of methodologies are now available, which can be applied individually and combined to provide complementary results in the roadmap around the study of phenolic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the presented paper, a thermochemical conversion via pyrolysis of spent grain from the local brewery (Alternatywa, Ruda Śląska, Poland) for phenolic compounds and fatty acids recovery is presented. Thermogravimetric pyrolysis was carried out at non-isothermal conditions (1, 2, and 4 K/min), under an inert N 2 atmosphere. Deconvolution procedure for the kinetic modeling was implemented using own algorithm based on Gaussian function, using 3-stage kinetic mechanism, ascribed to the independent decomposition of the pseudo-components i.e. , hemicellulose, cellulose, and bulk lignin-extractives. Released volatiles during pyrolysis was evaluated and recognized using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, which confirmed the high content of fatty acids, phenolic compounds, and nitrogen compounds, with shares of 23.95%, 13.94%, and 25.10% respectively. Linkage of the desired product formations to the modeled kinetic stages of the BSG pyrolysis is a complex subject, and it is encouraged for future studies. [Display omitted] • BSG pyrolysis resulted in high shares of phenolics and fatty acids in the products. • 3 stage kinetic model of BSG pyrolysis based on Gaussian deconvolution is presented. • Isoconversional Eα varied from 44 to 228 kJ/mol showing complex decomposition pattern. • BSG pyrolysis was investigated at TGA and GC-MS FTIR method at low heating rates. • Kinetic computations were validated through kinetic predictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, self-made cat food attractant was prepared by Maillard reaction using hydrolysate of grass carp waste as raw material and glucose and cysteine hydrochloride as substrate. Its volatile compounds, antioxidant capacity, and pet palatability were investigated. The volatile compounds of attractants were analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) which showed that alcohols and aldehydes were the most volatile in self-made attractants, accounting for 34.29% and 33.52%, respectively. Furthermore, Maillard reaction could significantly increase the antioxidant activity of self-made attractant, including scavenging activity on OH and DPPH free radicals as well as the chelating ability of Fe2+. The acceptance and palatability of two kinds of cat food were studied by adding 3% self-made or commercial attractants. The results of this study also found that both attractants could remarkably improve the intake rate of cat food. However, the self-made group was significantly less than the commercial group in first smell, first bite, and feeding rate, which might be because of the absence of umami ingredients and spices in self-made attractants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objectives of this research were to carry out a chemical analysis of the base malts, to evaluate the effect of malting and roasting on both color and compounds associated with the antioxidant capacity (anthocyanins, phenolic compounds, melanoidins), and the capacity itself by ABTS and DPPH assays in base malt and caramel malt of blue corn. In order to provide styles of beers with different sensory characteristics as well as health benefits for the consumer, and since malt is the heart of beer, different cereals and pseudo-cereals have been malted. In addition to this, with the intention of taking advantage of the phenolic compounds present in the blue corn grain, and of developing color compounds as well as antioxidant activity through roasting, both blue corn base and caramel malts were developed. Results showed that the protein content was within the specified range for barley malt and, despite the malting not having a significant effect on the color parameters, a decrease in the anthocyanin content was observed. On the contrary, an increase in the content of phenolic acids as well as in the antioxidant capacity by DPPH assay in the base malt with respect to the grain was noticed. Additionally, the color of caramel malts increased in luminosity and chroma, and decreased in tone due to roasting. Likewise, the concentrations of anthocyanins and phenolic compounds depended on the roasting conditions. Moreover, the higher the roasting temperature was, the higher the concentrations of melanoidins were. Finally, malts that had a greater amount of phenolic compounds showed greater antioxidant capacity by ABTS assay, while malts that had a higher melanoidins content showed a greater antioxidant response by DPPH assay. In accordance with the results, it was concluded that the combined use of base and caramel malts to produce corn beer musts could provide significant amounts of compounds that will impact its color and antioxidant capacity, thereby favoring the chemical stability of the product. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Propolis samples from a geographical part of northwest Greece (Prespa National Park, PNP), which is characterized as a plant endemism center and biodiversity hotspot, were characterized through pollen analysis, chemically analyzed, and biologically evaluated. The majority of the studied propolis showed typical chemical constituents (phenolic acids, flavonoids, and chalcones) of European type, while a sample of Mediterranean-type propolis (rich in diterpenes) was also identified. The palynological characterization was implemented to determine the botanical origin and to explain the chemical composition. The total phenolic content and the DPPH assay showed that the European-type propolis samples possessed strong antioxidant activity (86–91% inhibition at 200 μg/mL). Moreover, promising antibacterial activity of the extracts (MIC values 0.56–1.95 mg/mL) and moderate antifungal activity (MIC values 1.13–2.40 mg/mL) were noticed, while the sample with the highest activity had a significant content in terpenes (Mediterranean type). Propolis samples from the PNP area represent a rich source of antibacterial and antioxidant compounds and confirm the fact that propolis is a significant natural product with potential use for improving human health and stimulating the body's defense. Finally, it is noteworthy that a significant chemical diversity was demonstrated, even in samples from a limited geographical area as this of PNP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]