Synthesis, characterization and cellular mineral absorption of nanoemulsions of Rhododendron arboreum flower extracts stabilized with gum arabic

Shaping the bioactive potential, health-promoting properties, and bioavailability of o/w nanoemulsions by modulating the dose of a carotenoid preparation isolated from Calendula officinalis L

The use of nanotechnology in food production (in particular protein base nanoemulsion) is a solution that is gaining popularity, which allows to design of smart food with targeted health-promoting properties. This study aimed to assess the impact of the dose of the phytochemical extract (1%; 3%; 5% w/w) comprising isolated lipophilic compounds from Calendula officinalis L. on selected physicochemical properties of the emulsion, antioxidant, antidiabetic and antiaging effects, and its impact on carotenoids content and their in vitro bioavailability. The results showed that the use of a 3% extract dosage appears to be optimal for obtaining a nanoemulsion. This variant was characterized by the highest antidiabetic activity and there was no overloading of the nanostructure. Additionally, the use of a pea protein - lipophilic compounds - sunflower/hemp oil matrix to create nanoforms seems to be a promising solution in the context of pro-health properties and bioavailability of bioactive compounds.

Green extraction of Milletia pinnata oil for the development, and characterization of pectin crosslinked carboxymethyl cellulose/guar gum herbal nano hydrogel

Milletia pinnata oil and Nardostachys jatamansi are rich sources of bioactive compounds and have been utilized to formulate various herbal formulations, however, due to certain environmental conditions, pure extract form is prone to degradation. Therefore, in this, study, a green hydrodistillation technology was used to extract M. pinnata oil and N. jatamansi root for the further application in development of pectin crosslinked carboxymethyl cellulose/guar-gum nano hydrogel. Both oil and extract revealed the presence of spirojatamol and hexadecanoic acid methyl ester. Varied concentrations (w/w) of cross-linker and gelling agent were used to formulate oil emulsion extract gel (OEEG1, OEG1, OEEG2, OEG2, OEEG3, OEG3, OEEG4, OEG4, OEEG5, OEG5), in which OEEG2 and OEG2 were found to be stable. The hydrogel displayed an average droplet size of 186.7 nm and a zeta potential of -20.5 mV. Endo and exothermic peaks and the key functional groups including hydroxyl, amide II, and amide III groups confirmed thermal stability and molecular structure. The smooth surface confirmed structural uniformity. Bactericidal activity against both Gram-positive (25.41 ± 0.09 mm) and Gram-negative (27.25 ± 0.01 mm) bacteria and anti-inflammatory activity (49.25%-83.47%) makes nanohydrogel a potential option for treating various infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms. In conclusion, the use of green hydrodistillation technology can be used to extract the bioactive compounds that can be used in formulation of biocompatible and hydrophobic nanohydrogels. Their ability to absorb target-specific drugs makes them a potential option for treating various infections caused by pathogenic microorganisms.

Enzyme-assisted polysaccharides extraction from Calocybe indica: Synergistic antibiofilm and oxidative stability of essential oil nanoemulsion

Recently, mushroom polysaccharides have been explored to attribute to vital biologically important functions, and several extraction techniques can be employed, therefore, polysaccharides were extracted from the edible mushroom Calocybe indica to explore its functionality. Multiple enzymes viz., cellulase, pectinase, and protease (1:1:1) at temperature 47 °C and pH 4.64 with an extraction time of 2 h yielded 7.24 % polysaccharide content. The thermograph curve of polysaccharides showed two-stage decomposition at a different temperature range and decomposition of polysaccharides initiated with an onset temperature of 226.77 °C and a maximum peak at 248.90 °C. Hydrodistillation processed Eucalyptus globulus leaf oil was characterized using the chromatography technique and eucalyptol, p-cymene, Γ-terpinene, 4-epi-cubebol, spathulenol, viridiflorol, and p-mentha-1,5-dien-8-ol was observed as major components. As well, we formulated nanoemulsion using mushroom polysaccharide and eucalyptus leaf oil with 140.8 nm and evaluated synergistic antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity. MIC and MBC values for Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, and S. typhi were 12.50-3.125 and 6.25-1.56, and for S. aureus were 6.25, 6.25, 3.125, and 3.125, 3.125, 1.56 and for C. albicans the values were 12.50,12.50, 6.250 and 6.25,6.25, and 3.125 μl/mL respectively. The polysaccharides, essential oil, and nanoemulsion showed remarkable antibiofilm activity against S.aureus with inhibition of 57.42 ± 0.19, 59.62 ± 0.15, and 69.34 ± 0.19 %, while E. coli showed the least antibiofilm activity. However, all three tested samples showed significant (p < 0.05) differences against tested pathogenic microorganisms with inhibition of biofilm formation. Therefore, it could be inferred that the synergistic properties of essential oils with mushroom polysaccharides are a promising strategy to enhance antimicrobial efficacy and control foodborne pathogens.

Woodfordia fruticosa extract nanoemulsion: Influence of processing treatment on droplet size and its assessment for in vitro antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity

Recently, plant-derived bioactive compounds have been utilized in the preparation of several functional food products; however, stability and water solubility are major constraints to these compounds. Therefore, to overcome this problem, the synthesis of nanoemulsion (oil in water) with varying concentrations of Woodfordia fruticosa flower extract (1%−10% w/v) was carried out and characterization of nanoemulsion was done. The average droplet size of nanoemulsion samples ranges from 149.25 to 244.33 nm. The control and WFNE3 nanoemulsion showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher thermal stability when correlated with average droplet size. An insignificant difference (p > 0.05) was observed in the average droplet size and zeta potential WFNE3 (−30.3mV) with the increased temperature rate. At varied pH ranges, WFNE3 showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) stability in comparison with the control nanoemulsion sample. In terms of ionic strength, WFNE3 nanoemulsion sample showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher stability, and with an increasing concentration of salt, the colloidal system of the WFNE3 sample showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher droplet size (318.91 nm). Therefore, the antimicrobial potential of WFNE3 nanoemulsion in comparison with extract of W. fruticosa flower extract was studied against Gram-positive Staphylococcus aureus, Gram-negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and fungal strain Candida albicans, respectively. WFNE3 nanoemulsion sample in comparison to flower extract showed a significantly higher (p < 0.05) zone of inhibition against gram-negative bacteria as compared to the control nanoemulsion sample upon storage for 7 days. WFNE3 nanoemulsion sample showed significant (p < 0.05) higher inhibition of protein denaturation (57.89%−87.65%) and (55.36%−83.58%) in comparison to control nanoemulsion sample (54.67%−80.28%) and flower extract (51.56%−79.36%), respectively. Due to these biological activities, the WFNE3 nanoemulsion sample could be scaled up to the industrial level for the formulation of varied types of functional foods.

Formulation and Characterization of Gum Arabic Stabilized Red Rice Extract Nanoemulsion

Interest in the utilization of plant-based bioactive compounds in foods has increased due to their biochemical activities and as alternatives in the reduction of high concentrations of chemical utilization. However, some of these additives are hydrophobic, thus being harder to disperse into the hydrophilic food matrix. Therefore, an oil-in-water nanoemulsion (RRE1-RRE10) was formulated with different concentrations of red rice extract (1-10% w/v). Nanoemulsion showed droplet sizes within the range of 157.33-229.71 nm and the best formulation (RRE5) was selected based on the creaming index which was stable to flocculation over a range of temperatures (30-90 °C), pH (2-9), and salt concentration (100-600 mM). It showed significantly improved antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity as compared to its other counterparts. Potential antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus was attributed to RRE5 nanoemulsion as compared to Escherichia coli. Therefore, due to the potential bioactivity of RRE5 nanoemulsion, it can be scaled up at the industrial level.

Rhododendron arboreum: A Critical Review on Phytochemicals, Health Benefits and Applications in the Food Processing Industries

Abstract:

Rhododendron is a resourceful, evergreen shrub or a small tree with an ornate display of scarlet red or pale pink flowers that belongs to the family Ericaceae. Rhododendron plants are traditionally used to treat numerous human ailments like blood dysentery, headache, asthma, cough, stomachache, fever, inflammation and fungal infections. Rhododendron also has economic, medicinal, and pharmacological importance. Rhododendron has been regarded as a rich source of secondary metabolites. Apart from aesthetic and sacred values, from past times, Rhododendron juice was prepared from the flowers to curb allergies, treat diabetes and deal with inflammations. Recent studies have shown several promising activities particularly relaxant, digestive enzyme, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, anticancer and antagonistic effects. With the rapidly growing popularity of Rhododendron arboreum, it is important to have a comprehensive reference for its nutritional benefits with the growing search for natural and healthy foods. This work aimed to review the recent advances in research carried out to date for the purposive evaluation of the nutritional quality and potential health benefits of Rhododendron arboreum for its utilization in food processing industries for composing novel value- added products, to achieve high consumer acceptability and health benefits.

Low-energy assisted sodium alginate stabilized Phyllanthus niruri extract nanoemulsion: Characterization, in vitro antioxidant and antimicrobial application

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The P. niruri based nanoemulsion was prepared using plant extract (1%), a fixed amount of oil (5%), sodium alginate solution (1%) (with 0.5% tween 80).

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The nanoemulsion loaded with P. niruri extract showed 192 nm average droplet size.

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The formulated nanoemulsion exhibited higher potency against bacterial and fungal pathogens with respect to P. niruri extract alone.

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The P. niruri nanoemulsion showed the potential to be utilized in pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries in near future.

In this study, we formulated an oil-in-water nanoemulsion of Citrullus lanatus seed oil in the presence of Phyllanthus niruri methanolic extract using a delivery system based on sodium alginate. The control nanoemulsion was prepared without plant extract and the nanoemulsion loaded with extract was further characterized based on their size, polydispersity index, morphology, and stability. The nanoemulsion showed an average droplet size of about 192 nm, with a polydisperse droplet size with a spherical shape and the zeta potential of -15.0 mV and -18.4 mV. In contrast to the control nanoemulsion, the drug release rate of the nanoemulsion formulation was found to be significant (p <0.05). Antibacterial activity was assessed against a variety of pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains and the formulated nanoemulsion exhibited significantly higher potency against them in comparison to P. niruri extract alone. The results revealed thermodynamically stable nanoemulsion which could be used for various therapeutic applications.

Biocompatible Nanomaterials in Food Science, Technology, and Nutrient Drug Delivery: Recent Developments and Applications

Nanomaterials exist as potential biocompatible materials in nature and are being synthesized to provide extraordinary characteristics in various food industry sectors. Synthesis of biocompatible nanomaterials requires modification in the shape, density, and size of nanomaterials. Biocompatible nanomaterials are synthesized to reduce toxicity, decrease adverse effects in the gastrointestinal tract, and enhance immune response. Nanomaterials can target organs and tissues. Nanomaterials are found to be effectively compatible by interacting with functional foods and nutraceuticals. Applications of these nanomaterials are novel strategies in food industries such as food safety, food processing, food quality, food packaging, and food labeling. Various functions like detection of toxins and pathogens; production of biocompatible packaging; enhancement in color, flavor, and aroma; processing edible film, and sensing authenticity of food product are being accomplished with no toxicity. This review provides a systematic study on the biocompatibility of nanomaterials. It highlights the synthesis of biocompatible nanomaterials and advanced functions of these nanomaterials in the production area, processing industry, safety improvement, quality control, edible packaging films, biocompatibility, current developments, legislations and regulations for Nano-products, health and safety concerns, toxicity and public perceptions for use of nanomaterials.

A Comprehensive Review on the Interaction of Milk Protein Concentrates with Plant-Based Polyphenolics

Functional properties and biological activities of plant-derived polyphenolic compounds have gained great interest due to their epidemiologically proven health benefits and diverse industrial applications in the food and pharmaceutical industry. Moreover, the food processing conditions and certain chemical reactions such as pigmentation, acylation, hydroxylation, and glycosylation can also cause alteration in the stability, antioxidant activity, and structural characteristics of the polyphenolic compounds. Since the (poly)phenols are highly reactive, to overcome these problems, the formulation of a complex of polyphenolic compounds with natural biopolymers is an effective approach. Besides, to increase the bioavailability and bioaccessibility of polyphenolic compounds, milk proteins such as whey protein concentrate, sodium caseinate, and milk protein concentrate act as natural vehicles, due to their specific structural and functional properties with high nutritional value. Therefore, milk proteins are suitable for the delivery of polyphenols to parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, this review reports on types of (poly)phenols, methods for the analysis of binding interactions between (poly)phenols-milk proteins, and structural changes that occur during the interaction.

Assessment of Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Potential of Ethanolic Extract of Woodfordia fruticosa Flowers: GC-MS Analysis

Currently, the potential utilization of natural plant-derived extracts for medicinal and therapeutic purposes has increased remarkably. The current study, therefore, aimed to assess the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity of modified solvent evaporation-assisted ethanolic extract of Woodfordia fruticosa flowers. For viable use of the extract, qualitative analysis of phytochemicals and their identification was carried out by gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy. Analysis revealed that phenolic (65.62 ± 0.05 mg/g), flavonoid (62.82 ± 0.07 mg/g), and ascorbic acid (52.46 ± 0.1 mg/g) components were present in high amounts, while β-carotene (62.92 ± 0.02 µg/mg) and lycopene (60.42 ± 0.8 µg/mg) were present in lower amounts. The antimicrobial proficiency of modified solvent-assisted extract was evaluated against four pathogenic bacterial and one fungal strain, namely Staphylococcusaureus (MTCC 3160), Klebsiellapneumoniae (MTCC 3384), Pseudomonasaeruginosa (MTCC 2295), and Salmonellatyphimurium (MTCC 1254), and Candidaalbicans (MTCC 183), respectively. The zone of inhibition was comparable to antibiotics streptomycin and amphotericin were used as a positive control for pathogenic bacterial and fungal strains. The extract showed significantly higher (p < 0.05) anti-inflammatory activity during the albumin denaturation assay (43.56-86.59%) and HRBC membrane stabilization assay (43.62-87.69%). The extract showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging assay and the obtained results are comparable with BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) with percentage inhibitions of 82.46%, 83.34%, and 84.23%, respectively. Therefore, the obtained results concluded that ethanolic extract of Woodfordia fruticosa flowers could be utilized as a magnificent source of phenols used for the manufacturing of value-added food products.

Metal and Metal Oxide Nanoparticle as a Novel Antibiotic Carrier for the Direct Delivery of Antibiotics

In addition to the benefits, increasing the constant need for antibiotics has resulted in the development of antibiotic bacterial resistance over time. Antibiotic tolerance mainly evolves in these bacteria through efflux pumps and biofilms. Leading to its modern and profitable uses, emerging nanotechnology is a significant field of research that is considered as the most important scientific breakthrough in recent years. Metal nanoparticles as nanocarriers are currently attracting a lot of interest from scientists, because of their wide range of applications and higher compatibility with bioactive components. As a consequence of their ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria, nanoparticles have been shown to have significant antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antiparasitic efficacy in the battle against antibiotic resistance in microorganisms. As a result, this study covers bacterial tolerance to antibiotics, the antibacterial properties of various metal nanoparticles, their mechanisms, and the use of various metal and metal oxide nanoparticles as novel antibiotic carriers for direct antibiotic delivery.

Characterization of Citrusnobilis Peel Methanolic Extract for Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Anti-Inflammatory Activity

Currently, the potential utilization of fruits and vegetable waste as a source of micronutrients and antioxidants has increased. The present study, therefore, aimed to determine the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of Citrus nobilis peel extract. A modified solvent evaporation technique was employed for peel extract preparation. For effective utilization of the natural product, quantitative analysis of phenolic compounds was carried out using liquid chromatography and mass spectroscopy technique. Phenolic and flavonoids were present in high amounts, while β-carotene and lycopene were present in vestigial amounts. The antimicrobial efficiency of peel extract was evaluated against four bacterial strains including Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 3160), Klebsiella pneumoniae (MTCC 3384), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 2295), and Salmonella typhimurium (MTCC 1254), and one fungal strain Candida albicans (MTCC 183), and zone of inhibition was comparable to the positive control streptomycin and amphotericin B, respectively. The extract of Citrus nobilis peels showed effective anti-inflammatory activity during human red blood cell membrane stabilization (HRBC) and albumin denaturation assay. The extracts also exhibited 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity ranging from 53.46 to 81.13%. Therefore, the obtained results suggest that Citrus nobilis peel could be used as an excellent source of polyphenols and transformed into value-added products.

Formulation, Characterization, and In Vitro Mineral Absorption of Ficus Palmata Fruit Extract Nanoemulsion

OBJECTIVE

Loss of vital bioactive components of Ficus palmata fruit extract during food processing is a major issue. Therefore, to retain the antioxidant potential and to increase the mineral bioavailability, gum arabic stabilized nanoemulsion of Fig fruit extract was prepared.

METHOD

. Nanoemulsion was formulated using three different levels (1, 3, and 5%) of fig extract, however, to optimize the fig extract concentration, the amount of gum arabic and linoleic acid was kept constant.

RESULTS

The average droplet size of nanoemulsion was observed in the range of 22.88-37.87 nm, whereas the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy confirmed the presence of functional groups in the emulsion system. Also, increased ionic concentration significantly (p < 0.05) increased the average droplet size and zeta potential of nanoemulsion during storage. Increased shear rate and temperature unveiled a slight decrease in apparent viscosity of the nanoemulsion. Non-significant (p < 0.05) difference in TBA value confirmed the oxidative stability of the emulsion. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher mineral bioavailability for calcium was observed as compared to iron and zinc.

CONCLUSION

Our results manifested improved anti-oxidant activity, mineral bioavailability, and oxidative stability of Fig extract nanoemulsion, suggesting its potential use as a therapeutic alternative.

A Comprehensive Review on Plant-Derived Mucilage: Characterization, Functional Properties, Applications, and Its Utilization for Nanocarrier Fabrication

Easily sourced mucus from various plant parts is an odorless, colorless and tasteless substance with emerging commercial potential in agriculture, food, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals due to its non-toxic and biodegradable properties. It has been found that plant-derived mucilage can be used as a natural thickener or emulsifier and an alternative to synthetic polymers and additives. Because it is an invisible barrier that separates the surface from the surrounding atmosphere, it is used as edible coatings to extend the shelf life of fresh vegetables and fruits as well as many food products. In addition to its functional properties, mucilage can also be used for the production of nanocarriers. In this review, we focus on mucus extraction methods and its use as a natural preservative for fresh produce. We detailed the key properties related to the extraction and preservation of food, the mechanism of the effect of mucus on the sensory properties of products, coating methods when using mucus and its recipe for preserving fruit and vegetables. Understanding the ecological, economic and scientific factors of production and the efficiency of mucus as a multi-directional agent will open up its practical application in many industries.

A comparative study of antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory efficiency of modified solvent evaporated and vacuum oven dried bioactive components of Pleurotus floridanus

In the present study, we compared vacuum microwave oven drying Vacuum Oven Drying (VOD) and modified solvent evaporation (MSE) assisted methanolic mushroom extracts for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory efficacy. MSE extract showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher total phenolic content (64.4 mg/g) followed by flavonoid content (20.62 mg/g), ascorbic acid (17.54 mg/g), β-carotene content (12.52 mg/g), and lycopene (9.57 mg/g) content than that of VOD extract. MSE showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher zone of inhibition against all selected microorganisms as compared to VOD extract. During the time-kill study, the MSE extract inhibited significantly (p < 0.05) higher growth of Staphylococcus aureus followed by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Escherichia coli than that of VOD extract. Also, MSE extract showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher anti-inflammatory activity in comparison with VOD extract during the Human Red Blood Cell (HRBC) membrane stabilization test and albumin denaturation test. MSE extract revealed significantly (p < 0.05) higher 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and N₂O₂ scavenging assay than that of VOD extract, however, statistically, MSE extract showed comparable results with Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT). During the characterization of the selected extract, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the functional groups of the flavonoid content, ascorbic acid, β-carotene, and lycopene. Quantitative analysis of gallic acid (54.32 mg/g) and rutin content (14.80 mg/g) was revealed using a high-pressure liquid chromatogram.

Nanocarriers for treatment of dermatological diseases: Principle, perspective and practices

Skin diseases are the fourth leading non-fatal skin conditions that act as a burden and affect the world economy globally. This condition affects the quality of a patient's life and has a pronounced impact on both their physical and mental state. Treatment of these skin conditions with conventional approaches shows a lack of efficacy, long treatment duration, recurrence of conditions, systemic side effects, etc., due to improper drug delivery. However, these pitfalls can be overcome with the applications of nanomedicine-based approaches that provide efficient site-specific drug delivery at the target site. These nanomedicine-based strategies are evolved as potential treatment opportunities in the form of nanocarriers such as polymeric and lipidic nanocarriers, nanoemulsions along with emerging others viz. carbon nanotubes for dermatological treatment. The current review focuses on challenges faced by the existing conventional treatments along with the topical therapeutic perspective of nanocarriers in treating various skin diseases. A total of 213 articles have been reviewed and the application of different nanocarriers in treating various skin diseases has been explained in detail through case studies of previously published research works. The toxicity related aspects of nanocarriers are also discussed.

In vitro bioactivity, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory efficacy of modified solvent evaporation assisted Trametes versicolor extract

In the present study, modified solvent evaporation assisted methanolic Trametes versicolor extract was evaluated for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory efficacy. Mushroom extract showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher total phenolic content (48.71 mg/g) followed by total flavonoid content (13.13 mg/g), ascorbic acid content (11.03 mg/g), β-carotene content (8.34), and lycopene content (6.85). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed the functional groups of the observed bioactive compounds, while HPLC chromatogram showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher gallic acid content (45.72 mg/g) as compared to rutin content (12.50 mg/g). Statistically, mushroom extract and artificial antioxidant (BHA) showed a non-significant (p < 0.05) difference in terms of percentage inhibition during DPPH and N₂O₂ scavenging assay. During the time-kill kinetics, the mushroom extract significantly inhibited the growth of S. aureus in comparison with the growth of P.aeruginosa, K. pneumonia, and E.coli. Mushroom extract showed effective anti-inflammatory activity during membrane stabilization (33.71-73.24%) and protein denaturation (23.11-74.56%) assays.

Solid state fermentation of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): implications on bioactive compounds, mineral content and in vitro bioavailability

In the present study, solid-state fermentation (SSF) of four fenugreek cultivars viz. HM-57, AFG-2, RMT-1 and RMT-303 were carried out using Aspergillus awamori and its effect on antioxidant properties, phenolic content and bioactive compounds were studied. Macro (Ca, K, and Na) as well as micro (Fe, Zn, and Cu) elements and in vitro bioavailability of the unfermented fenugreek (UFF) and Aspergillus-fermented fenugreek (AFF) samples were assessed with standard methods. On 5th day, total phenolic and condensed tannin contents showed significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase for all cultivars. Further, HPLC analysis confirmed formation of some new bioactive (vanillin, benzoic acid and catechin) compounds. Similarly, extracts from all AFF also showed an increase in the antioxidant potential such as inhibition of DPPH, hydroxyl free radical scavenging, reducing power, and total antioxidant capacity up to 5th day of SSF. Mineral in AFF were found with enhanced values when compared with respective UFF. In vitro bioavailability of Fe, Zn and Ca was also improved during SSF. Results from the present study may be helpful to food industry in developing new health foods and may provide a rational for development of functional ingredient in preparation of novel nutraceuticals.

Anti-obesity efficacy of the selected high altitude Himalayan herbs: in vitro studies

Obesity is a serious health problem for all age groups and it also promotes Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer and hypertension. Herbs are used for the weight reduction from ancient times, therefore, 12 herbs viz. Betula utilis, Bunium periscum, Angelica glauce, Saussurea lappa, Podophyllum hexandrum, Bergenia ciliate, Rumex acetosa, Aconitum heterophyllum, Centella asiatica, Andrographis paniculata, Dactylorhiza hatagirea and Bauhina variegate were selected as per literature. Rumex acetosa roots showed the highest extraction rate (39.5%), while C. asiatica leaf showed lowest extraction rate (1.25%) as compared to other herbs. As well, S. lappa leaf extract (396.52 mg GAE/g), R. acetosa root extract (181.5 mg QE/g), and B. ciliate leaf extract (79.19%) showed significantly higher Total Phenolic Content, Total Flavonoid Content and antioxidant activity, respectively. Furthermore, lipase and amylase inhibition activity and IC50 value of herb extract were higher in S. lappa root extract (75.75%, 75.41% and 62.47, 61.37, respectively). Bauhina variegate leaf extract showed a significantly higher glucose level, percentage of glucose movement (1.446 mg/dL and 63.85%) and (0.938 mg/dL and 76.55%). Based upon these experiments, 5 herbs were selected and different formulations were prepared and out of these, F3 herb formulation showed higher lipase and amylase inhibition activity (81.75% and 70.66%) and therefore, F3 herbal formulation was selected for treatment of obesity.

Red rice conjugated with barley and rhododendron extracts for new variant of beer

This study aimed to determine the effect and potential of red rice in conjunction with barley and rhododendron extracts to develop a new variant of beer. In this study red rice, barley, and rhododendron extracts were used in different combinations and the best combination was selected based on quality and sensory characteristics. The results showed that the developed beer was rich in antioxidant activity (47.68 ± 0.96) and contained a good amount of anthocyanin (35.12 ± 0.79), flavonoids (0.119 ± 0.002), and polyphenols (0.410 ± 0.002). The red rice has more dietary significance than that of polished or milled rice, further, the use of rhododendron provides a large number of secondary metabolites such as tannins, saponins, alkaloids, tannins, and flavonoids. Besides, the sensory profile of the developed beer was quite distinct in terms of aroma, taste, and color from other alternatives available in the market.

Improvement of Mineral Absorption and Nutritional Properties of Citrullus vulgaris Seeds Using Solid-State Fermentation

Objective: Citrullus vulgaris seeds are the most concealed oil seeds consist of vital therapeutic potential. Apart from nutritional and therapeutic indices, these seeds contain numerous anti-nutritional components.Method: Hence, solid-state fermentation was used as an alternative biotechnological contrivance to enhance the nutritional and functional properties of seeds. Fungal strain Aspergillus awamori was used for solid-state fermentation and uncoated watermelon seeds were used as a substrate for 144h. The range of bulk density was obtained from 0.39 to 0.72 g/cm³, however, fermentation significantly decreased the bulk density of the seed flours. Based upon soluble nitrogen content (79.81%) and functional properties, fermented seed samples of 120h was selected for FTIR analysis and in-vitro mineral bioavailability through Caco-2 cells.Results: FTIR spectrum confirmed the presence of amide groups (1200-1100 cm^-1) of the protein.Conclusion: Fermented seeds also unveiled significantly (p<0.05) higher iron (61.24%), zinc (62.36%), and calcium (61.89%) bioavailability and this significant increase in bioavailability confirmed significantly (p<0.05) higher cellular mineral uptake.

Effect of Rose Syrup and Marigold Powder on the Physicochemical, Phytochemical, Sensorial and Storage Properties of Nutricereals and Milk-Based Functional Beverage

ABSTACTAim: The present study aimed to investigate the effect of rose sirup and marigold powder on the physicochemical properties, bioactive potential, sensory acceptability and storage life of the nutricereals (finger millet, oats) and milk-based functional beverage (FB).Method: Preliminary trials were performed using different levels of rose sirup (8-14%) and marigold powder (0.40-0.55%) in the pre-standardized FB. The most acceptable concentration was selected on the basis of sensory analysis. Selected beverages were then subjected to the physicochemical analysis, assessment of bioactive compounds and FTIR characterization. The effect of flower extracts on the mineral content and storage life (4 ± 1 °C) of beverages was also studied. The significant difference in treatments was determined using Duncan's multiple range test, SPSS 25.0.Results: The best acceptable concentrations for rose sirup and marigold powder were 10% and 0.50%, respectively. A significant (p ≤ 0.05) decrease in the dietary fiber (6.50%) and β-glucan (3.95%) content was observed on the addition of rose sirup. Significant (p ≤ 0.05) increase in the total phenols (119.18-145.23%), β-carotene (0.37%), anthocyanins (78.82-230.58%) and antioxidant activity (4.98-7.17%) was observed on the addition of flower extracts. Strong peaks were observed in the regions of 3600-3200, 3000-2800 and 1700-1600 cm ^- 1 on FTIR characterization. A significant decrease in the mineral content of FB was also found on the addition of rose sirup. Rose flavored beverage had the highest overall acceptability (7.83 ± 0.23) and storage stability (50 days at refrigerated storage) among the prepared beverages.Conclusion: The addition of flower extracts significantly improved the acceptability of the prepared beverages. It not only improved the phytochemical profile but also had a substantial impact on storage stability.