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Featured Application: Incorporation of hemp flour as a natural antioxidant in minced meat products to enhance nutritional quality. Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about synthetic preservatives like nitrites in meat, prompting the meat industry to explore alternatives in order to lower nitrite levels. This study investigated the effects of incorporating hemp flour on the chemical and shelf-life characteristics of minced meat products with reduced nitrite content. Three types of products were prepared: HF0 (control) (0% hemp flour, 30 mg/kg NaNO2), HF4 (4% hemp flour, 15 mg/kg NaNO2), and HF6 (6% hemp flour, 15 mg/kg NaNO2). Analyses were conducted on proximate composition, fatty acid composition, antioxidant properties, lipid oxidation, colour, texture, and sensory characteristics. The addition of hemp flour at 6% reduced moisture content and influenced ash and sodium chloride levels in minced meat products. Despite the favorable fatty acid profile of hemp flour, its inclusion did not significantly alter the composition of the products. However, it did lead to significantly lower levels of lipid oxidation and modified the antioxidant capacity. Colour attributes were affected, with a higher hemp flour content resulting in colour deterioration. Cooking loss increased with a higher hemp flour content, and the minced meat products were significantly harder. Visual and olfactory sensory evaluation indicated that there were no significant differences in most traits, suggesting consumer acceptance of hemp-flour-enriched minced meat products. Overall, this study highlights the potential of hemp as a functional ingredient in minced meat products, also exhibiting the ability to reduce lipid oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Consumer perception of organic cow milk is associated with the assumption that organic milk differs from conventionally produced milk. This study examined the effect of the farming system and season on the quality attributes of retail cow milk. Over one year, milk samples originating from conventional and organic production systems were collected monthly and assessed for their nutritional content, proximate composition, fatty acid profile, nutritional value, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity, and physicochemical characteristics. Results show that nutrient content remained consistent across production systems, except for a slightly higher fat level in organic milk. Fatty acid composition varied between systems and seasons, with organically produced milk showing higher polyunsaturated fatty acids. Nutritional indices related to lipid quality showed no significant differences between production systems and seasons. Total phenolic content remained consistent, while antioxidant activity was system-dependent and seasonal. Season influenced both free radical-scavenging activity (DPPH) and ferric reducing-antioxidant power (FRAP). Milk physicochemical characteristics, including pH, electrical conductivity, and freezing-point depression, were mainly influenced by season. Overall, this study provides detailed insights into the multifaceted interactions between production systems, seasons, and diverse characteristics of retail cow milk. Consumers differentiate milk-quality characteristics in relation to the production system, but data on retail milk composition are limited. This study investigated how farming methods and seasons affect proximate composition, fatty acid profile, antioxidant activity, and physicochemical characteristics of commercial cow's milk. Milk samples, both conventional (n = 84, 7 manufacturers) and organic (n = 24, 2 manufacturers), were collected monthly over a year. Farming system did not significantly affect milk composition other than fat content, whereas seasonal effects were notable, impacting the contents of ash, protein, and added water. Fatty acid composition exhibited variations influenced by both production system and season. Compared to conventionally produced milk, organically produced milk exhibited higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (4.54 vs. 3.88, p < 0.01) and a lower atherogenicity index (2.23 vs. 2.50, p < 0.05). The antioxidant activity showed that conventionally produced milk exhibited better radical-scavenging activity (DPPH) (14.54 vs. 12.30 μM TE/mL, p < 0.01). Seasonal variations were evident in both free radical-scavenging activity (DPPH), with values of 12.29 μM TE/mL in winter and 15.58 μM TE/mL in spring (p < 0.05), and ferric reducing-antioxidant power (FRAP), with levels of 21.81 μM TE/mL in autumn and 27.94 μM TE/mL in spring (p < 0.05). Season significantly affected (p < 0.001) milk pH, electrical conductivity, refractive index, and freezing-point depression. In conclusion, this study showed that the farming system has a limited impact on retail milk quality compared to the significant influence of season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Dairy products derived from mountain-origin milk are recognized for their superior composition, which can positively impact sensory and nutritional attributes. This study delves into the alterations in milk composition, nutritional quality, and antioxidant properties within the context of semi-intensive goat farming in mountainous regions, specifically during the post-weaning to end-of-lactation phase. The research was conducted in Greece, a region known for its prevalent mountain livestock farming systems. The study unearthed noteworthy fluctuations in milk yield and gross composition over the data collection period. The composition of milk fatty acids, particularly polyunsaturated fatty acids, exhibited a discernible correlation with forage intake, leading to enhanced nutritional lipid quality indices with prolonged grazing duration. Additionally, the study identified an upswing in total phenolic content towards the study's conclusion, suggesting potential health benefits. Importantly, milk physicochemical properties remained relatively stable throughout the study, with no significant changes observed. In summary, this research offers valuable insights into the dynamics of milk composition and quality within semi-intensive goat farming systems situated in mountainous regions. These findings can prove invaluable to cheese manufacturers and farmers striving to elevate the quality of milk produced in mountainous regions under semi-intensive management systems. Dairy products from mountain-origin milk are known for their superior composition and quality. This study aimed to examine changes in composition, nutritional quality, and antioxidant properties of milk from semi-intensively managed goats in mountainous regions during the post-weaning to end-of-lactation period. Bulk tank milk samples from 10 farms were collected bi-weekly in the period from March to September. The farms were situated in regions with an average altitude of 772.20 m above sea level. The results revealed significant variations in milk composition, with fluctuations in fat, protein, lactose, and total solids. Milk yield per doe showed seasonal differences, with the highest yield in April and the lowest in September. Fatty acid composition exhibited changes throughout the sampling period, with variations in polyunsaturated fatty acids. Nutritional indices, such as the atherogenicity index and thrombogenicity index, remained within the recommended values. Antioxidant properties, including total phenolic content, DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS, showed significant differences, with higher values toward the end of the study. Milk pH, electrical conductivity, brix value, and refractive index also exhibited variations, while density and freezing point remained relatively stable. The study provided valuable information that can be used to develop breeding and feeding plans to achieve uniform milk quality in mountainous regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European countries have recently started experimenting with growing and producing their own teas in small quantities, mainly for the specialty tea sector. To characterize European teas, this study investigated a set of five tea types obtained from different Camellia sinensis varieties/cultivars, representing various oxidation grades (green, white, yellow, oolong, black), all grown and processed in the only tea garden in Europe (in Germany) that focuses on all five types. Hot and cold brews were studied by measuring the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC), the antioxidant capacity and UV-Vis spectra, also with the objective of discriminating between the different tea types and the different plant varieties. The dried leaves were analyzed to measure the content of essential and toxic elements and by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy to determine a chemical fingerprint for identifying the tea varieties and types. The average levels of TPC (hot brew = 5.82 ± 2.06; cold brew = 5.4 ± 2.46 mM GAEq), TFC (hot brew = 0.87 ± 0.309; cold brew = 0.87 ± 0.413 mM CAEq), and antioxidant capacity (ORAC assay-hot brew = 20.9 ± 605; cold brew = 21.8 ± 8.0 mM TXEq, ABTS assay-hot brew = 15.2 ± 5.09; cold brew = 15.1 ± 5.8 mM TXEq, FRAP assay-hot brew = 9.2 ± 3.84; cold brew = 10.4 ± 5.23 mM AAEq) observed compared well with those from other parts of the world such as China, Africa, and Taiwan. The hazard quotient <1 and the hazard index of 0.14 indicate that there is no non-carcinogenic risk from consumption of these teas. The obtained information is essential for elucidating the characteristics and the impact of tea processing and tea variety on the health benefits of these tea products coming from a single European tea garden. This multifaceted approach would help tea growers in Europe increase their knowledge on the health attributes of the teas they grow, ultimately leading to optimization of the nutraceutical properties of these teas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Consumers are becoming increasingly concerned about synthetic preservatives like nitrites in meat, prompting the meat industry to explore alternatives in order to lower nitrite levels. This study investigated the effects of incorporating hemp flour on the chemical and shelf-life characteristics of minced meat products with reduced nitrite content. Three types of products were prepared: HF0 (control) (0% hemp flour, 30 mg/kg NaNO2), HF4 (4% hemp flour, 15 mg/kg NaNO2), and HF6 (6% hemp flour, 15 mg/kg NaNO2). Analyses were conducted on proximate composition, fatty acid composition, antioxidant properties, lipid oxidation, colour, texture, and sensory characteristics. The addition of hemp flour at 6% reduced moisture content and influenced ash and sodium chloride levels in minced meat products. Despite the favorable fatty acid profile of hemp flour, its inclusion did not significantly alter the composition of the products. However, it did lead to significantly lower levels of lipid oxidation and modified the antioxidant capacity. Colour attributes were affected, with a higher hemp flour content resulting in colour deterioration. Cooking loss increased with a higher hemp flour content, and the minced meat products were significantly harder. Visual and olfactory sensory evaluation indicated that there were no significant differences in most traits, suggesting consumer acceptance of hemp-flour-enriched minced meat products. Overall, this study highlights the potential of hemp as a functional ingredient in minced meat products, also exhibiting the ability to reduce lipid oxidation.

Mango, including the type of Gedong gincu, is a seasonal fruit. This condition causes the number to be abundant during the harvest season but will become scarce in the months afterward. Efforts to increase the economic value, shelf life, and use of mangoes that are not acceptable to the market in the form of fresh fruit, can be done through product diversification in processed form. One alternative that can be done is to make dried gincu gedong mango powder which can be used as an intermediate product. The purpose of this study was to study the effect of heating temperature (steam temperature, drying temperature of 40, 50, 60 and 70 oC) on the quality of steamed mango puree and gedong gincu mango powder on several parameters: color, moisture content, ash content, vitamin C, beta-carotene and antioxidant activity (IC50). The results showed that the heating temperature increased the yellowish color and brightness of the mango powder. Increasing the drying temperature decreased the moisture content but increased the ash content of mango powder. The drying temperature that produces antioxidant activity (IC50) and the highest vitamin C content is 70oC. The drying temperature that produces the highest beta-carotene content is 60 oC.

The recognition and growing consumption of cold-pressed rapeseed oil (CPRO) is due to by its unique, health-promoting properties; it is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Nevertheless, the high content of unsaturated fatty acids and plant tissue particles makes CPRO more susceptible to oxidation. These pro-oxidant plant particles can be eliminated via centrifugation, thus improving the quality and stability of CPRO. Therefore, we aimed to determine whether the clarification of CPRO via centrifugation affects its quality parameters, pigment and phenolic profile, and antioxidant properties. These characteristics were analyzed and compared between centrifuged CPRO and CPRO clarified via natural decantation. Changes were monitored for 6 months of oil storage at 22 °C. Based on the results, no changes in the oxidation profile were found between centrifuged CPRO and decantated CPRO. When the storage is longer than 1 month, centrifugation is more beneficial with regard to delaying hydrolytic deterioration, while decantation provides slightly better pigment and polyphenol profiles. We did not observe that centrifugation improved the oil's antioxidant properties. Further research should be continued to establish the effects of centrifugation on CPRO quality, including parameters such as rapeseed quality, maturity degree, varieties, and stricter storage conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tea is grown around the world under extremely diverse geographic and climatic conditions, namely, in China, India, the Far East and Africa. However, recently, growing tea also appears to be feasible in many regions of Europe, from where high-quality, chemical-free, organic, single-estate teas have been obtained. Hence, the aim of this study was to characterize the health-promoting properties in terms of the antioxidant capacity of traditional hot brews as well as cold brews of black, green and white teas produced across the European territory using a panel of antioxidant assays. Total polyphenol/flavonoid contents and metal chelating activity were also determined. For differentiating the characteristics of the different tea brews, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry were employed. Overall, our findings demonstrate for the first time that teas grown in Europe are good quality teas that are endowed with levels of health-promoting polyphenols and flavonoids and that have an antioxidant capacity similar to those grown in other parts of the world. This research is a vital contribution to the characterization of European teas, providing essential and important information for both European tea growers and consumers, and could be of guidance and support for the selection of teas grown in the old continent, along with having the best brewing conditions for maximizing the health benefits of tea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, Carissa carandas fruit was utilized as a new source of pectic polysaccharides and the antioxidant activities of these polysaccharides were evaluated before and after modification comparatively. Hot water extraction at 90 °C for 2 h with 50 g fruit powder and 1 L of hot water, and ethanol precipitation was performed to prepare crude polysaccharides. After extraction and precipitation, the crude polysaccharides were purified using activated carbon and modified with the help of the alcoholic-ammonia method. The native Carissa carandas fruit polysaccharides (CCFP-1) and modified Carissa carandas fruit polysaccharides (CCFP-2) were characterized using UV, FTIR and SEM analytical techniques. Structural conformation analysis revealed that a triple helix structure was absent in both the CCFP-1 and CCFP-2 while morphological analysis showed that the smooth porous surface of CCFP-1 was transformed into a non-porous surface after sucessuful modification. At 100 µg/ml of polysaccharides dose, CCFP-1 displayed 56.26% DPPH, 36.83% OH and 51.51% inhibition of beta carotene bleaching while CCFP-2 performed 69.98% DPPH, 44.30% OH and 53.75% inhibition of beta carotene bleaching antioxidant activities. Statistical analysis revealed that modification has improved the antioxidant activities of Carissa carandas fruit polysaccharides significantly (p < 0.05). It is very reasonable to conclude that Carissa carandas fruit polysaccharides may be utilized as a preservative in different articles of food, pharmaceutics and other functional commodities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eight-hydroxyguanosine (8-OHdG) is considered as one of the principle forms of oxygen radicals that stimulated the oxidative stress and has been extensively utilized as a biomarker for oncogenesis. The primary goal of the present study was to investigate the alteration in the levels of 8-OHdG, antioxidant profile and proinflammatory cytokines levels in patients with lung carcinoma. Blood samples were collected from 40 cases with lung cancer (stage III) admitted before the treatment, for health examination at the Nanakaly Hospital in Erbil city and 45 healthy samples of controls with ages ranging between 38-69 years for both groups. Circulating concentration of 8-OHdG, tumor necrosis factor and interleukin-6 were evaluated by ELISA. Circulating levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POX) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C) levels were also analyzed by using ELISA. The current work proposes that (8-OHdG) can be used as a functional biological marker, considering oxidative stress among the patients with lung carcinoma. The obtained data also indicated a correlation between serum cytokine concentrations and the rate of survival in lung carcinoma patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper (Cu) and selenium (Se) are antioxidants and essential trace elements that have mutual interaction and are reported to have beneficial effects at supranutritional levels. The experiment was executed to evaluate the individual impact of supranutritional levels of targeted elements with the effect of their interactions in buffalo calves. Twenty male Murrah buffalo calves of about 8–9 months (bodyweight 112.1 ± 7.69 kg) were distributed into four groups of five calves in each group and fed either a control (C) diet or supplemented with supranutritional levels of Cu (T1), Se (T2), or combination of both (T3) for 120 days. Higher (P = 0.015) values of packed cell volume were observed in group T2 at day 120; otherwise, all other hematological parameters remained comparable among groups. Over the period (day 120 vs. day 0), an enhancement in the percentage of lymphocytes (P = 0.006) with a reduction in neutrophils (P = 0.028) and hemoglobin (P = 0.024) values was observed in the control group. An enhancement in the percentage of monocytes (P = 0.031), with a reduced percentage of neutrophils (P = 0.022), was reported in groups T2 and T3, respectively. Interaction of Cu and Se at supranutritional level (T3) dramatically reduced plasma Cu (P = 0.008) level against the control values, with an improvement in Se markers (i.e., plasma Se, P = 0.041 and enzyme glutathione peroxidase, P = 0.057) over the values in calves fed supplemental Se alone (T2). Additionally, Cu (T1 and T3) was forced to decline (P < 0.05) Zn level in the plasma of buffalo calves. Cu (T1, P < 0.05) and Se (T2 and T3, P ≤ 0.01) supplementation was able to improve their respective plasma levels. The interaction of two trace elements at the supranutritional level further helped in reducing the lipid peroxidation (P = 0.01) values as well. Though antioxidant vitamins and cell-mediated immunity remained unaffected, humoral immunity against antigen P. multocida was high (P = 0.005) in the group T2. The conclusion may be drawn that supranutritional Cu and Se were capable to influence certain blood parameters with an additional interaction effect due to simultaneous supplementation in buffalo calves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

European countries have recently started experimenting with growing and producing their own teas in small quantities, mainly for the specialty tea sector. To characterize European teas, this study investigated a set of five tea types obtained from different Camellia sinensis varieties/cultivars, representing various oxidation grades (green, white, yellow, oolong, black), all grown and processed in the only tea garden in Europe (in Germany) that focuses on all five types. Hot and cold brews were studied by measuring the total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC), the antioxidant capacity and UV-Vis spectra, also with the objective of discriminating between the different tea types and the different plant varieties. The dried leaves were analyzed to measure the content of essential and toxic elements and by ATR-FTIR spectroscopy to determine a chemical fingerprint for identifying the tea varieties and types. The average levels of TPC (hot brew = 5.82 ± 2.06; cold brew = 5.4 ± 2.46 mM GAEq), TFC (hot brew = 0.87 ± 0.309; cold brew = 0.87 ± 0.413 mM CAEq), and antioxidant capacity (ORAC assay-hot brew = 20.9 ± 605; cold brew = 21.8 ± 8.0 mM TXEq, ABTS assay-hot brew = 15.2 ± 5.09; cold brew = 15.1 ± 5.8 mM TXEq, FRAP assay-hot brew = 9.2 ± 3.84; cold brew = 10.4 ± 5.23 mM AAEq) observed compared well with those from other parts of the world such as China, Africa, and Taiwan. The hazard quotient

Tea is grown around the world under extremely diverse geographic and climatic conditions, namely, in China, India, the Far East and Africa. However, recently, growing tea also appears to be feasible in many regions of Europe, from where high-quality, chemical-free, organic, single-estate teas have been obtained. Hence, the aim of this study was to characterize the health-promoting properties in terms of the antioxidant capacity of traditional hot brews as well as cold brews of black, green and white teas produced across the European territory using a panel of antioxidant assays. Total polyphenol/flavonoid contents and metal chelating activity were also determined. For differentiating the characteristics of the different tea brews, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry were employed. Overall, our findings demonstrate for the first time that teas grown in Europe are good quality teas that are endowed with levels of health-promoting polyphenols and flavonoids and that have an antioxidant capacity similar to those grown in other parts of the world. This research is a vital contribution to the characterization of European teas, providing essential and important information for both European tea growers and consumers, and could be of guidance and support for the selection of teas grown in the old continent, along with having the best brewing conditions for maximizing the health benefits of tea.

This study evaluated the chemoprotective effect of scutellarin (SC) in vitro and in vivo against gastric carcinogenesis in rats and celllines and examined the underlying mechanism. Gastric cancer celllines (AGS) was used for the in vitro study and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) profile, histone deacetylase (HDAC) assay, cell cycle & apoptosis ratio and antioxidant parameters were measured. N-methyl-N'-nitro-N- nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) was used to induce gastric carcinogenesis in rats and the rats received the different doses of SC (10, 20 and 30 mg/kg). The body weight and tumor incidence were measured at regular time intervals. The antioxidant and pro-inflammatory cytokines were estimated. The finding of data showed that the drug was effective against AGS cell line. Supplementation of scutellarin revealed an upregulation in body weight compared with the MNNG group rats. Moreover, it also reduced the incidence of tumor. It also altered the significant DNA density, LDH content, mucus content and acidity. Scutellarin treated rats showed improved activity in enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant profile and reversed the content of cytokines compared with MNNG induced gastric cancer group rats. This research reveals the chemoprotective property of the scutellarin and highlights the promising role of drug by alteration of inflammatory pathway by minimizing its adverse effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to evaluate the microbiota, phytochemical, antioxidant profile and DNA fingerprinting of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Slovakia and R. North Macedonia. There were used two samples of grape berries (one sample from Slovakia and one from Macedonia). Each sample was analyzed in triplicate. The bacteria were cultivated on Plate count agar (PCA), microscopic filamentous fungi were cultivated on Malt extract agar (MEA). MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper mass spectrometry was used for the identification of microorganisms (bacteria and yeasts) and microscopic filamentous fungi with manuals. DPPH method was used to determine of antioxidant activity of grape berries. Phytochemical and antioxidant profiles were evaluated in grape berries samples. Total genomic DNA was extracted from mature grapes by GeneJET Plant Genomic DNA Purification Kit. The number of bacteria was higher in the sample of Macedonian grape (4.13 log CFU.g-1) in comparison to the grape from Slovakia as well as the number of yeasts was also higher in the Macedonian sample (2.57 log CFU.g-1). Antioxidant activity of Slovak grape berries was 0.55 mg TEAC.g-1 and of Macedonian grape, berries was 0.51 mg TEAC.g-1. Total polyphenol content was higher in grape from Slovakia (0.81 mg GAE.g-1) than in grape from Macedonia (0.77 mg GAE.g-1), while total flavonoid content was 0.57 and 0.17 mg QE.g-1 in Slovak grape and Macedonian grape, respectively. Total phenolic acid content was higher in the sample from Macedonia (0.40 mg CAE.g-1) compared to the grape from Slovakia (0.24 mg CAE.g-1). Total anthocyanin content was also higher in Macedonian grape (0.46 mg.g-1) compared to the Slovak sample (0.05 mg.g-1). The total polymorphism for all of the used primers of 87.5% was obtained for the Macedonian sample of Cabernet Sauvignon and 89.4% for the Slovak sample.

The current research aims at using canthaxanthin (CAX) and betaine (BET) as nutritional additives in the diets of aged Fayoumi laying hens to improve their persistency for post-peak egg production. A total of 160 Fayoumi hens were randomly distributed into 4 dietary treatment groups from 46-54 wk of age: a group that received a basal diet without supplementations (control), and the other groups received the basal diet supplemented with canthaxanthin at 6 mg/kg (CAX), betaine at 1 g/kg (BET) or a combination of canthaxanthin and betaine (MIX), Tentatively. Parameters of productive performance, egg quality and antioxidant prank were evaluated for all treatment groups. Results indicate that CAX and BET partially improve egg quantity and quality of aged Fayoumi chickens through modulating different pathways of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity. CAX and BET enhanced the egg numbers produced per hen and improved the feed conversion ratio compared to the control. In addition, CAX increased the total egg mass and the yolk color score, as well as the plasma total antioxidant capacity (TAOC) and glutathione peroxidase enzyme (GSH-Pc), while the malondialdehyde (MDA) was decreased in all supplementary groups of CAX and BET. It is concluded that dietary CAX and BET supplementation can support the productive performance of Fayoumi hens at the late phase of egg production through its protective effect against oxidative stress of aging process. This in turn can enhance the complementary role of such local or native chicken breeds to support the commercial sector of egg production especially in the rural areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The present research project was designed to evaluate the cholesterol lowering potential of different date varieties including one exotic (Ajwa) and three Pakistani varieties (Aseel, Khudravi, Hallawi). Methods The albino rats were divided into six groups on the basis of different diets which includes, control having basal diet, high cholesterol high sucrose diet, high cholesterol high sucrose diet plus Khudravi dates, high cholesterol high sucrose diet plus Hallawi dates, high cholesterol high sucrose diet plus Aseel dates, high cholesterol high sucrose diet plus Ajwa dates to evaluate maximum cholesterol lowering potential of each date variety. Results The results showed that Hallawi and Ajwa have lower crude fiber content as 2.02 ± 0.03% and 2.43 ± 0.04% however, lowest crude fat content (0.26 ± 0.01%) was also observed in ajwa. Mineral profile depicted that sodium (9.50–18.00 mg/100 g) was found to be in lesser amount among all varieties whereas, higher amount of potassium (465.00 to 887.20 mg/100 g) depicted that it is suitable for people having hypertension. Higher amount of reducing sugar was also observed in ajwa (79.45 ± 1.22%) followed by Hallawi (77.68 ± 1.42%). Total phenolic contents were found higher in Aseel (291.36 mg/100 g) whereas, minimum was observed in Khudravi (232.64 mg/100 g). Furthermore, date varieties were also examined rat modeling to evaluate their maximum cholesterol lowering efficiency. Ajwa and Hallawi were observed to suppress the cholesterol efficiently as 110 mg/dL and 103 mg/dL respectively. On the basis of chemical profiling and other parameters, two date varieties Ajwa and Hallawi showed almost similar results and found to have maximum serum cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride reduction potential with good kidney and liver functions. Functional date bar was also developed by using Hallawi variety andsubjected to sensory evaluation. Conclusion In nutshell, Hallawi date variety was considered as better cholesterol lowering potential among other indigenous varieties and very close to Ajwa variety. So that Hallawi can be used to suppress the deadly effects of obesity and allied discrepancies particularly hypercholesterolemia.

Background: Common sage (Salvia officinalis L., Lamiaceae) is an aromatic and medicinal plant well known for its antioxidant properties. This plant belongs to Lamiaceae family and has many pharmaceutical properties. Some in vivo studies have shown the biological antioxidant effects of sage. As a member of Salvia officinalis Labiatae, sage is also known as “Maryam flower” in Iran. Sage importance lies in its therapeutic potential. It has been exploited as an anti-spasmodic, astringent, sedative, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-inflammatory agent in Iranian medicine. Objective: Studying the anticancer effects of the compounds in Salvia officinalis extracts, such as cineol and camphor. Methods: Cancer was induced by DMBA (dimethyl-benzantheracene) dissolved in sunflower oil for 4 weeks. The case group was treated with sage leaf hydroalcoholic extract for 4 weeks; while the controls received distilled water. Result: Angiogenesis is a key process in cancer spread and metastasis. The hydroalcoholic extract of garden sage halted angiogenesis in the breast cell line of both human and mouse models; the highest impact was observed in hexane extract. Findings indicated the therapeutic effects of garden sage (i.e. its in vitro anti-angiogenesis activity and anti-migratory properties). Conclusion: Saliva officinalis can potentially prevent breast cancer.

Objective. To study measures of the plasma antioxidant profile in patients with paranoid schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease (AD). Materials and methods. The study included 33 patients with paranoid schizophrenia and 18 patients with AD. Groups of patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia and responding positively to treatment were identified. Measures of the antioxidant profile were determined by chemiluminometry and spectrofluorimetry. Results and discussion. Systemic oxidative stress due to lack of plasma low molecular weight antioxidants was not seen in AD though "thiol" protein oxidative stress was detected, providing indirect evidence of insufficiency of the glutathione system. Systemic oxidative stress was also not typical of patients with treatment-resistant paranoid schizophrenia while "thiol" oxidative stress was marked. Patients with paranoid schizophrenia and responding to therapy showed the opposite picture – systemic oxidative stress was more intense and "thiol" oxidative stress was less so. Of the neuroleptics studied, haloperidol, zuclopenthixol, risperidone, and ziprasidone had no antioxidant properties, while pericyazine, clozapine, and especially chlorpromazine had marked antioxidant properties, though they were unlikely have effects on plasma antioxidant potential. These results led to the conclusion that the glutathione component of the antioxidant system is most impaired in treatment-resistant paranoid schizophrenia and AD, while systemic antioxidant stress is minor. Oxidative impairments were less pronounced in successfully treated paranoid schizophrenia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This is the era of information and new technologies, among the brilliant inventions and advancement, Global system of mobile phone communication (GSM) makes the life as approachable as one can think. It changes the social relation and social network of an individual. Hence the mobile has two sides of a coin. Advantages and disadvantages are associated with every feasibility or inventions. But some time blessings bring some harmful effects on the human body. Mobile phone uses radio waves. Some part of the radio wave is also absorbed in the body. The ear is the most exposed part of the body. The salivary gland is very close to the ear. Hence, the affected part of the cellular phone radiations is a salivary gland. In the current study, we collected the unstimulated saliva sample from volunteers to estimate the antioxidant profile of the mobile phone user. The Uric acids, Catalase, C Reactive Protein (CRP), Reduced Glutathione (GSH), and Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) were included in the antioxidant profile. Uric acid, GSH, SOD was significantly decreased while CRP and Catalase were significantly increased. The result shows the increase the risk of inflammation and oxidative stress, which can predispose the cell phone user to a multitude of infectious & non-infectious oral diseases.

This study aimed to evaluate the microbiota, phytochemical, antioxidant profile and DNA fingerprinting of Cabernet Sauvignon grapes from Slovakia and R. North Macedonia. There were used two samples of grape berries (one sample from Slovakia and one from Macedonia). Each sample was analyzed in triplicate. The bacteria were cultivated on Plate count agar (PCA), microscopic filamentous fungi were cultivated on Malt extract agar (MEA). MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper mass spectrometry was used for the identification of microorganisms (bacteria and yeasts) and microscopic filamentous fungi with manuals. DPPH method was used to determine of antioxidant activity of grape berries. Phytochemical and antioxidant profiles were evaluated in grape berries samples. Total genomic DNA was extracted from mature grapes by GeneJET Plant Genomic DNA Purification Kit. The number of bacteria was higher in the sample of Macedonian grape (4.13 log CFU.g-1 ) in comparison to the grape from Slovakia as well as the number of yeasts was also higher in the Macedonian sample (2.57 log CFU.g-1 ). Antioxidant activity of Slovak grape berries was 0.55 mg TEAC.g-1 and of Macedonian grape, berries was 0.51 mg TEAC.g-1 . Total polyphenol content was higher in grape from Slovakia (0.81 mg GAE.g-1 ) than in grape from Macedonia (0.77 mg GAE.g-1 ), while total flavonoid content was 0.57 and 0.17 mg QE.g-1 in Slovak grape and Macedonian grape, respectively. Total phenolic acid content was higher in the sample from Macedonia (0.40 mg CAE.g-1 ) compared to the grape from Slovakia (0.24 mg CAE.g-1 ). Total anthocyanin content was also higher in Macedonian grape (0.46 mg.g-1 ) compared to the Slovak sample (0.05 mg.g-1 ). The total polymorphism for all of the used primers of 87.5% was obtained for the Macedonian sample of Cabernet Sauvignon and 89.4% for the Slovak sample. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The chicken egg is one of nature’s flawlessly preserved biological products, recognized as an excellent source of nutrients for humans. Selenium (Se) is an essential micro-element that plays a key role in biological processes. Organic selenium can be produced biologically by the microbial reduction of inorganic Se (sodium selenite). Therefore, the possibility of integrating Se enriched bacteria as a supplement in poultry feed can provide an interesting source of organic Se, thereby offering health-related advantages to humans. In this study, bacterial selenoproteins from Stenotrophomonas maltophilia was used as a dietary supplement with other Se sources in Lohman brown Classic laying hens to study the egg yolk color, egg yolk and breast antioxidant profile, oxidative stability, and storage effect for fresh and stored egg yolk at 4 ± 2 °C for 14-days. The results showed that dietary Se supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) improved egg yolk color, the antioxidant profile of egg yolk, and breast meat (total carotenoid and phenol content). When the Se treated groups were compared to control groups, there was a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in total cholesterol in fresh and stored egg yolk and breast muscle. In hens that were fed ADS18-Se, the primary oxidation products (MDA) concentrations in the eggs, breast, and thigh muscle, and plasma were significantly (p < 0.05) lower. However, the MDA content increased (p < 0.05) with an extended storage time in egg yolk. In comparison to inorganic Se and basal diets, egg yolk from hens fed organic Se remained fresh for two weeks. The egg yolk color, antioxidant profile, and oxidative status of egg yolk and tissue improve with dietary Se organic supplementation (ADS18 > Se-Yeast). The source of supplemented organic Se is critical for egg enrichment and antioxidant properties. As a result, ‘‘functional eggs’’ enriched with organic Se becomes possible to produce.

Abstract Minerals play important role in the diet of an animal. Bio-availability of minerals largely gets affected by absolute as well as the relative amount of each mineral present in the diet of an animal. Copper and selenium are two such an essential elements affect utilization of each other in the gastrointestinal tract. The present study elucidates the utilization of copper and selenium at supra-nutritional levels (higher than nutritional requirements). Male Murrah buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) calves (n = 10, 8–9 months, 111.7 ± 12.55 kg body weight) were divided equally into two groups and fed either a standard (Control) diet or the same diet supplemented with 0.3 ppm selenium (Se) and 10 ppm copper (Cu) (Treatment). Supplementation was made using liquid solutions of two inorganic mineral sources after mixing in the concentrate mixture and study lasts for a period of 80 days. Blood samples were collected just before starting supplementation (designated as 0 day of study) and at day 40 and 80 after starting supplementation. Blood samples were subjected to haematological parameters, plasma minerals and various oxidative stress-related parameters were determined with the cell-mediated and humoral immune response against antigen P. multocida (P 52 strain). Supra-nutritional Se with Cu had higher blood monocytes (P < 0.05) and plasma selenium (P < 0.01) levels, while other hematological parameters and plasma minerals (except zinc, which was lower (P = 0.025) at day 80 in the treatment group) remained unaffected. Among markers for oxidative stress in blood, levels of lipid peroxidation were lesser (P < 0.01), at day 80 and overall mean values of the enzyme glutathione peroxidase and catalase were higher (P < 0.05) in the supra-nutritional group against control values. The overall mean activity of other oxidative stress markers including reduced glutathione, ceruloplasmin as well as the concentration of α tocopherol, retinol, and β carotene remained unaffected due to supra-nutritional Se and Cu. Although cell-mediated immune response remained comparable (P > 0.05) between groups, higher (P < 0.05) overall mean antibody titer values, as well as the values at day 80, was reported in supra-nutritional Se + Cu group. The study concluded that supra-nutritional Se with Cu in the ration of growing Murrah buffalo calves was helpful to reduce the oxidative stress and to enhance the humoral immune response. Simultaneously, higher plasma Se level and number of monocytes in blood highlighted the additional role of selenium and copper in a ration of growing buffalo calves as compared to its normal recommended dose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionizing radiation (IR) causes biological effects either by directly damaging the molecules or by generating free radicals. Antioxidant mechanisms are believed to be involved in neutralising free radicals. Levels of antioxidants therefore assume significance in determining the extent of radiation damage. The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster) exhibits remarkable IR tolerance compared to mammals. Present study addresses the questions (1) Whether levels of antioxidants are high in radio-tolerant fruit fly D. melanogaster compared to mammals? (2) Does the antioxidant activity enhance adequately enough post-irradiation? We analysed enzymatic antioxidant profiles and their fluxes prior to and 60 min post-irradiation (50 Gy). Enzymatic antioxidants were analysed in all the developmental stages of D. melanogaster as the fruit fly shows dramatic changes in radiation resistance during development. Activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in Drosophila (pre-irradiation) was comparable to that of mammals. Catalase activity was lower than mammals while glutathione peroxidise (DmGPx) activity was significantly higher. Following irradiation SOD showed changes ranging from 1.40 to 1.62 folds only in larval stages. Catalase activity showed positive change of 1.25 folds only in adults. Activity of DmGPx was largely unaffected. Early pupae showed increased (3.67 fold) glutathione S-transferase activity post-irradiation. Non-enzymatic antioxidants such as total antioxidant capacity showed significant whereas reduced glutathione showed insignificant flux. In conclusion, the levels of enzymatic antioxidants in Drosophila compared to IR sensitive mammals and post-irradiation fluxes in antioxidant enzyme levels appear inadequate to explicate the dramatic radiation resistance observed in Drosophila. The observations are in agreement with the recent findings refuting the role of enzymatic antioxidants in radiation resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herbomineral formulations have been accepted world-wide due to its significant therapeutic outcomes. The study aimed to evaluate the immunomodulatory potential of novel herbomineral formulation (TEBEH) on Sprague Dawley rats using cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression. Major immune related parameters were monitored such haemagglutination assay, delayed type hypersensitivity reaction, cellular immune response (CD4 and CD8), IgG and IgM, hematological analysis, antioxidant profile, and estimation of major lipid biomarkers. The study results suggest herbomineral formulation significantly ( p ≤ 0.05) improved the concentration of primary and secondary titre by 41.18 and 68%. However, the rat paw edema at 24 h showed increased edema by 77.78% ( p ≤ 0.01). Herbomineral formulation exhibited increase in the CD4 and CD8 counts in animals by 28.03 and 60.70%, respectively. In addition, the concentrations of IgM and IgG were improved by 14.29 and 8.26% respectively. Besides, other supportive parameter such as hematology and antioxidant profile was significantly ( p ≤ 0.001) improved, while free radical, lipid peroxidation was decreased. Moreover, the major lipid biomarkers were improved such as decreased triglycerides, LDL and VLDL by 15.88, 3.65, and 16.01%, respectively. Overall, the promising results of this study indicated that the herbomineral formulation, TEBEH can be employed to improve the cellular and humoral immunity along with improved hematological, antioxidant, and lipid profile. Graphical abstract: [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we reported a detailed profiling of soluble components of two fermented varieties of Chinese green tea, namely raw and ripe pu-erh. The identification and quantification of the main components was carried out by means of mass spectrometry and UV spectroscopy, after chromatographic separation. The antioxidant capacity towards different radical species, the anti-microbial and the enzyme inhibition activities of the extracts were then correlated to their main constituents. Despite a superimposable qualitative composition, a similar caffeine content, and similar enzyme inhibition and antimicrobial activities, raw pu-erh tea extract had a better antioxidant capacity owing to its higher polyphenol content. However, the activity of raw pu-erh tea seems not to justify its higher production costs and ripe variety appears to be a valid and low-cost alternative for the preparation of products with antioxidant or antimicrobial properties.

The processing of Morinda citrifolia fruit normally results in a large number of waste leaves that hold many bioactive compounds with nutritional and pharmacological properties. This work aimed to evaluate the effects of a multi-stage block freeze concentration (BFC) via gravitational method on the physicochemical properties of the leaf extract (noni tea). The results in solid retention showed fractions almost 7 times most concentrated than the initial feed. In addition, when compared to the initial content, the BFC process showed an efficiency higher than 90% in the retention of phenolic compounds. Assays in liquid chromatography allowed the detection and quantification of phenolic compounds, in which the total amount increased by more than 1000% in relation to the initial content after each BFC step. Finally, it was also possible to observe a significant increase in the antioxidant activity of the concentrated product after the simulated in vitro digestion process. It was concluded that using a non-thermal, sustainable, low-cost processing, promoted the obtaining of concentrated fractions with high biological and nutritional values with promising properties for application in the development of functional foods from agroindustrial wastes. • The retention of bioactives from noni tea was performed by cryoconcentration. • The passive method, known as in blocks gravitational thawing, was explored. • The physicochemical properties, antioxidant profile and gastrointestinal bioavailability were evaluated. • Cryoconcentration showed high efficiency in the retention of phenolic compounds. • The increase in antioxidant activity resulted in a final product with wide nutritional properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study implements NMR metabolomics and spectrophotometric studies (Folin–Ciocalteu, FRAP, ABTS) to infusions and decoctions of ten plant species in order to assess and compare the metabolic and antioxidant profiles for each botanical family. Multivariate and univariate data analyses highlighted the differences among the samples and pinpointed specific classes of compounds for each plant species as well as infusions and decoctions. The identified phenolic compounds by NMR, as well as the antioxidant profile, framed a trend of increased values in infusions compared to the decoctions. Moreover, the infusion procedure positively affected the extractability of the phenolic compounds compared to decoctions. The highest total phenolic content was found in Mentha spicata , while the lowest in Matricaria chamomilla preparations , irrespective of the preparation method. The preparation time for the decoctions was examined showing that the 15 min preparations were generally found richer in phenolics and of higher antioxidant capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enzymatic activity assays, used mainly to show biochemical transformations in humans and mammals, have recently found increasing application in birds. Enzyme activity in birds is affected by numerous factors, including age, sex, species, breed, nutrition, physiological state, and farming techniques. In large-scale poultry breeding, in a flock that may number over ten thousand birds, individual birds may be in different stages of development of a disease process, and may respond differently to stress factors present during rearing. There is also high individual variation among birds, so that results of enzyme activity analyses fall within fairly broad ranges. The aim of this paper is to review experiments on the activity of selected antioxidant, liver and cardiac enzyme profiles in turkey tissues. The results of many years of measurements of the activity of selected enzymes, presented in this study, may be considered physiologically normal for this group of birds. Analyses of the activity of these enzymes are important in determining whether oxidative stress reactions are induced in cells and which cells or organs have been damaged. During oxidative stress, which leads to cell damage or organ dysfunction (of the liver or heart), there is generally an increase in the activity of AST, ALT, ALP, LDH, GGT, SORD, MDH, AC, G6PC, G6PD, Cp, CK and HBDH, and a decrease in that of SOD, GPx, CAT, ACHE, BCHE, SDH, Ca2+ATPase. On the basis of the literature reviewed it can be concluded that the use of feed components and supplements with antioxidant or immunostimulatory properties can mitigate oxidative stress, which is manifested as beneficial changes in the activity of these enzymes. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

This work emphasized on the co-extraction of turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) and dried coconut shreds (Cocos nucifera L.) by supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), a green extraction technique, vis-à-vis the conventional solvent extraction using n -hexane. The optimized parameters of co-extraction using SFE through central composite design (CCD) with response surface methodology (RSM) were found to be 350 bar/65 °C/20 min having a yield of 45 mg/g, and a total curcuminoid (curcumin, desmethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin) content of 723 μg/g. The yield of co-extract after 16 h of conventional soxhlet extraction using n -hexane was 42 mg/g and total curcuminoids in the co-extract were 339 μg/g. The SFE co-extracts showed 345 μg AAE/mg sample DPPH radical scavenging activity, 394 μg AAE/mg sample ABTS radical scavenging activity, 210 μM FeSO 4 7H 2 O/mg sample ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 89% anti-inflammatory activity as compared to the standard drug, and bactericidal effects against Bacillus cereus , Escherichia coli , and Salmonella typhi. The SFE co-extracts showed promising in vitro anti-cancerous activities in MCF7 (breast cancer) and CaCO2 cell lines. [Display omitted] • Turmeric and coconut were co-extracted by supercritical carbon dioxide (SFE). • Optimized extraction by SFE (350 bar/60 °C/20 min) produced 45 mg/g co-extract. • SFE co-extract (2:1.5, w/w) contained 723 μg/g of curcuminoids. • SFE co-extracts had high antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory activity. • Co-extracts showed 85% cell cytotoxicity against MCF7 and CaCO2 cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sorghum ( Sorghum bicolor L.) is a gluten-free cereal that has the highest content of phenolic compounds among cereals. It needs to be processed prior to use for human consumption, which may change its antioxidant profile. The knowledge on the effects of extrusion and dry heat in a conventional oven on flavones, flavanones, and proanthocyanidins is limited. Thus, the content and stability to dry heat in a conventional oven (DHCO) and extrusion cooking on phenolic compounds profile in sorghum genotypes were evaluated. Flavanones and flavones decreased after extrusion cooking (100%) and DHCO (31.7–61.6%). The 3-deoxyanthocyanidins were stable in DHCO but were susceptible to extrusion cooking (70.7–93.9%). Proanthocyanidins were identified only in the genotype SC391 and were reduced after both treatments (DHCO: 39.2% and extrusion cooking: 52.1%). Phenols decreased in the genotype SC319 submitted to DHCO (8.3%) and in all extruded genotypes (13.6–14.9%). The DHCO increased the antioxidant capacity in all genotypes, whereas extrusion cooking reduced antioxidant capacity in only two genotypes. In general, differential stability of the major flavonoids in sorghum was observed under DHCO and extrusion cooking, implying that different processing techniques can be selected to minimize losses of bioactive polyphenols in sorghum depending on the flavonoid composition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leaves of Sorbus L. have been used in various traditional medicine systems. Phenolic compounds determine the main pharmacological effects of Sorbus L. In this study, phytochemical and antioxidant profiles of Sorbus anglica, Sorbus aria, Sorbus arranensis, Sorbus aucuparia, Sorbus austriaca, Sorbus caucasica, Sorbus commixta, Sorbus discolor, Sorbus gracilis, Sorbus hostii, Sorbus semi-incisa and Sorbus tianschanica were determined. Twenty four constituents were identified in Sorbus L. species using ultra high performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadruple and time-of-flight mass spectrometers. Post-column FRAP assay identified compounds with reducing activity and revealed significantly greatest total antioxidant activity of 175.30 μmol TE/g DW, 169.20 μmol TE/g DW and 148.11 μmol TE/g DW in S. commixta, S. discolor and S. gracilis leaf samples, respectively, with neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acids being most significant contributors. Characteristic fingerprints of phytochemical and antioxidant profiles could be applied for the quality evaluation of various raw materials of Sorbus L. species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immune response to NDV vaccination and liver antioxidant profile of broilers fed with ochratoxin at 0.5ppm level under cover of two commercially available toxin binders were studied. NDV-B and NDV-L vaccinations were done on the 7th and 28th day respectively and the results are documented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study was undertaken to assess the immune response to NDV vaccination and liver antioxidant profile of broilers fed with aflatoxin at 1ppm level with two commercially available toxin binders. NDV-B and NDV-L vaccinations were done on the 7th and 28th day respectively and the results are documented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buckwheat ( Fagopyrum spp.) is a “pseudo-cereal” of great interest in the production of healthy foods since its flour, derived from achenes, is enriched with bioactive compounds and, due to the absence of gluten, may be used in composition of celiac diets. Amongst buckwheat species, F. tataricum achenes possess a larger amount of the antioxidant flavenol rutin than the common buckwheat F. esculentum . Ongoing climate change may favor plant susceptibility to the attack by pathogenic, often mycotoxigenic, fungi with consequent increase of mycotoxins in previously unexploited feeds and foodstuffs. In particular, Aspergillus flavus , under suitable environmental conditions such as those currently occurring in Italy, may produce aflatoxin B 1 (AFB 1 ), the most carcinogenic compound of fungal origin which is classified by IARC as Category 1. In this study, the viable achenes of two buckwheat species, F. tataricum (var. Golden) and F. esculentum (var. Aelita) were inoculated with an AFB 1 -producing A. flavus NRRL 3357 to analyze their relative performances against fungal invasion and toxin contamination. Notably, we sought the existence of a correlation between the amount of tocols/flavonols in the achenes of buckwheat, infected and non-infected with A. flavus , and to analyze the ability of the pathogen to grow and produce toxin during achene infection. Results suggest that achenes of F. tataricum , the best producer of antioxidant compounds in this study, are less susceptible to A. flavus infection and consequently, but not proportionally, to mycotoxin contamination compared with F. esculentum . Moreover, rutin-derived quercetin appears to be more efficient in inhibiting aflatoxin biosynthesis than the parent compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fruits of different Sorbus L. species have been traditionally used in food production and in the treatment of various ailments. Besides common antioxidant active phytochemicals such as ascorbic acid, tocopherols and carotenoids, fruits are rich in phenolic compounds that are of particular interest. In this study, profiles of separate antioxidant active compounds (reducing and radical-scavenging activities) were investigated using online assays with post-column reactions. Significant variations in phenolic acids and flavonoids contents and antioxidant activity values were observed in the fruits of Sorbus L. species studied. Neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acids were determined as markers of antioxidant activity. Characteristic patterns of antioxidant profiles obtained using HPLC post-column FRAP and ABTS assays significantly depend on specific Sorbus L. species and are suitable for equivalency research of Sorbus L. fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ovarian stimulation is used with IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles to obtain multiple oocytes and improve pregnancy rates; however, it also induces perturbation in the oxidant-antioxidant balance leading to oxidation stress. The present study monitored the plasma antioxidant status in women undergoing a long agonist protocol of ovarian stimulation at three different time points: at baseline (T0), after pituitary suppression (T1) and on the day of oocyte retrieval (T2). The antioxidant composition of follicular fluid samples collected on T2 was also evaluated. Significant decreases (P < 0.05) of plasma vitamin C, vitamin E and carotenoids were found between T1 and T2 but not between T0 and T1. At T2, high plasma vitamin E was associated with high numbers of total and mature oocytes retrieved per patient, which, in turn, were favourable for achieving pregnancy. Accordingly, women who became pregnant presented higher vitamin E concentrations both in plasma and FF than those who did not. In conclusion, this study confirmed the occurrence of significant modifications of the plasma antioxidant profile during ovarian stimulation with gonadotrophins; at the same time, it was found that both systemic and follicular antioxidant status may be related to IVF/ICSI outcome, [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About 20 % of breast cancer patients over-express the human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 (HER2), which is associated with enhanced tumor malignancy. The influence of HER2 overexpression on oxidant/antioxidant parameters in humans remains unknown; therefore, we investigated the oxidative profile in women according to their HER2 status. Fifty-two controls and 52 breast cancer (BC) patients were enrolled. The BC patients were subdivided into HER−, negative for HER2 overexpression, and HER+, positive for HER2 overexpression. Oxidative stress profilling was measured by malondialdehyde (MDA), free 8-isoprostane F2, protein carbonyl content, nitric oxide (NO), total radical antioxidant parameter (TRAP), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activity, and glutathione (GSH) levels. Total thiol content and lipoperoxidation were evaluated in HCC1954 and MCF-7. Cells overexpressing HER2 presented enhanced oxidative stress. Increased erythrocyte lipoperoxidation was found in BC patients, while plasma lipoperoxidation was detected in both the BC and HER− groups. Decreased MDA levels were found in the HER+ group, suggesting that HER2 overexpression may protects against plasma lipoperoxidation. No alteration was found for 8-isoprostane F2, NO, and carbonyl content. TRAP was decreased in BC patients, while HER2 overexpression increased SOD and prevented decreased GSH levels. These data help to understand the HER2 overexpression in oxidative signaling and may enable the development of new strategies for anti-HER2 therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An in vitro digestion/Caco-2 cell culture model was used to assess the stability and bioavailability of phenolic compounds in aqueous extracts of four herbal infusions, traditionally used as functional drinks in Portugal. Alterations in antioxidant power were monitored by ABTS·+, whereas the profile of phenolic compounds was ascertained by HPLC-DAD. The bioavailability of rutin – an important flavonoid present in such extracts, and thus a representative of those compounds, was assessed across Caco-2 cells via LC–MS/MS. Our results indicate that several antioxidant compounds are not affected by the (simulated) digestive process, whereas others undergo decreases in their activity throughout said process; a few have their antioxidant capacity hampered under stomach-like conditions. It was also found that rutin can be transported across the Caco-2 cell barrier. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of mineral sources on broiler breeders and their offsprings. Broiler breeding hens were fed with diets containing either organic or inorganic trace minerals at equal levels, i.e., (1) control group was fed with basal diet supplemented with inorganic trace minerals; (2) OZ group was fed with organic Zn instead of sulfate; and (3) OTM group was fed with organic Cu, Mn, Zn, and Se instead of inorganic sources. Results indicated that OTM supplementation decreased plasma cholesterol and triglyceride and increased yolk triglyceride via increasing high-density lipid protein cholesterol and decreasing low-density lipid protein cholesterol and very low-density lipid protein (VLDL) in plasma. OZ diets decreased plasma cholesterol and triglyceride mainly by reducing VLDL concentration. For control group, increased lipid concentrations resulted in increased lipid peroxidation in serum and malondialdehyde retention in yolk. Zn retention was not affected. Otherwise, OZ diet was observed to decrease Cu in yolk and albumen. While for OTM group, albumen Cu, albumen Se, and hepatic Se of hatched chicks were increased, but yolk Cu was decreased. Moreover, organic mineral supplementations improved broilers' growth performance. In conclusion, organic mineral supplementation in breeders' diets protected breeders from lipid peroxidation, increased egg nutrition retention, and benefit for growth of broilers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In this study, fish Rhamdia quelen, were exposed to different concentrations of herbicide clomazone: 0.0 (control), 0.45 and 0.91mgL−1. After exposure for 8days to herbicide, fish were transferred to clean water for a recovery period (8days). Oxidative stress indicators such as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels and protein carbonyl content, as well as antioxidant defenses, such as catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione S-transferase (GST), ascorbic acid and non-protein thiols levels were studied, using the liver, brain and muscle tissues. Herbicide exposure increased TBARS in muscle and in liver at higher concentration. In liver protein carbonylation increased and catalase activity did not change in fish exposed to herbicide. SOD enhanced in liver at concentration of 0.91mgL−1. GST, ascorbic acid and non-protein thiols levels increase at both concentrations. At the end of the recovery period the most of the parameters recovered whereas GST and ascorbic acid remain elevated. The present study demonstrates the occurrence of disorders in antioxidant parameters and importance in the assessment of the potential risk of herbicides as clomazone on fish species. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objectives:To investigate the antioxidative properties of sulfurous drinking water after a standard hydropinic treatment (500 ml day−1 for 2 weeks).Subjects/Methods:Forty apparently healthy adults, 18 men and 22 women, age 41–55 years old. The antioxidant profile and the oxidative condition were evaluated in healthy subjects supplemented for 2 weeks with (study group) or without (controls) sulfurous mineral water both before (T0) and after (T1) treatment.Results:At T1, a significant decrease (P<0.05) in both lipid and protein oxidation products, namely malondialdehyde, carbonyls and AOPP, was found in plasma samples from subjects drinking sulfurous water with respect to controls. Concomitantly, a significant increment (P<0.05) of the total antioxidant capacity of plasma as well as of total plasmatic thiol levels was evidenced. Tocopherols, carotenoids and retinol remained almost unchanged before and after treatment in both groups.Conclusions:The improved body redox status in healthy volunteers undergoing a cycle of hydropinic therapy suggests major benefits from sulfurous water consumption in reducing biomolecule oxidation, possibly furnishing valid protection against oxidative damage commonly associated with aging and age-related degenerative diseases.European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (2009) 63, 106–112; doi:10.1038/sj.ejcn.1602892; published online 22 August 2007 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The controlled addition of oxygen before malolactic fermentation involves stability of wine colour and an improvement in their organoleptic quality. This study has examined its effect on the “in vitro” antioxidant profile of a variety of Spanish red-single variety wines of different ages. Total antioxidant capacity scavenger activity and the biomarkers of oxidative stress were all analysed. Neither antioxidant capacity, nor scavenger activity were influenced by the microoxygenation. However, the biomarkers of oxidative stress showed some effect of this technique. The controlled addition of small amounts of oxygen produced an increase in the prevention of DNA-damage and seems to decrease the capacity to inhibit lipid peroxidation. The effect on the capacity to protect DNA-damages was statistically significant in the groups of young and one year old wines, where microoxygenated wines showed higher values than their respective control ones. Furthermore, the effect on the prevention of lipid peroxidation was only qualitative, any statistical significant difference was found. A varietal effect was observed in analyzing the results, being Tinta del País wines the most influenced by this technique. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]