Free radical scavenging properties of conjugated linoleic acids

Chemical Composition of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) Ethanol Extract and Its Antimicrobial Activities and Free Radical Scavenging Capacities

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is a perennial tuberous plant from the genus Curcuma (Zingiberaceae) and has been widely used in foods for thousands of years. The present study examined the ethanol extract of turmeric for its chemical composition, antimicrobial activity, and free radical scavenging properties. UHPLC-MS/MS analysis tentatively identified eight compounds in the turmeric extract. Potential antimicrobial effects of 0.1, 1.0, and 10 mg turmeric equivalents (TE)/mL were evaluated in vitro against a variety of Gram-negative bacteria (i.e., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas sp.) and Gram-positive bacteria (i.e., Enterococcus faecalis, Listeria innocua, and Staphylococcus aureus). Concentrations of 0.1 and 1.0 mg TE/mL inhibited the growth of S. aureus and significantly suppressed that of Pseudomonas sp., E. faecalis, and L. innocua. The growth of all strains, including E. coli, was inhibited by 10 mg TE/mL. Moreover, free radical scavenging capacities were determined using HO●, ABTS●+, and DPPH● (HOSC, ABTS, and RDSC, respectively) radicals. The turmeric ethanol extract had a TPC value of 27.12 mg GAE/g, together with HOSC, RDSC, and ABTS values of 1524.59, 56.38, and 1.70 μmol TE/g, respectively. Our results suggest that turmeric extract has potential applications for use in functional foods to reduce microbial burdens and oxidative stress-related health problems.

Fermented Whey Ewe's Milk-Based Fruit Smoothies: Bio-Recycling and Enrichment of Phenolic Compounds and Improvement of Protein Digestibility and Antioxidant Activity

This study aimed to recycle whey milk by-products (protein source) in fruit smoothies (phenolic compounds source) through started-assisted fermentation and delivering sustainable and healthy food formulations capable of providing nutrients that are unavailable due to an unbalanced diet or incorrect eating habits. Five lactic acid bacteria strains were selected as best starters for smoothie production based on the complementarity of pro-technological (kinetics of growth and acidification) traits, exopolysaccharides and phenolics release, and antioxidant activity enhancement. Compared to raw whey milk-based fruit smoothies (Raw_WFS), fermentation led to distinct profiles of sugars (glucose, fructose, mannitol, and sucrose), organic acids (lactic acid and acetic acid), ascorbic acid, phenolic compounds (gallic acid, 3-hydroxybenzoic acid, chlorogenic acid, hydrocaffeic acid, quercetin, epicatechin, procyanidin B2, and ellagic acid) and especially anthocyanins (cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin, peonidin, petunidin 3-glucoside). Protein and phenolics interaction enhanced the release of anthocyanins, notably under the action of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. The same bacterial strains outperformed other species in terms of protein digestibility and quality. With variations among starters culture, bio-converted metabolites were most likely responsible for the increase antioxidant scavenging capacity (DPPH, ABTS, and lipid peroxidation) and the modifications in organoleptic properties (aroma and flavor).

Dietary Grape Pomace Supplementation in Lambs Affects the Meat Fatty Acid Composition, Volatile Profiles and Oxidative Stability

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of supplementing grape pomace (GP) in lambs’ diets. A total of 30 lambs homogeneous for body weight (13.1 ± 2.1 kg) and age (25–30 days) were randomly allocated into two groups. The control group (CTR) received a standard diet for 45 days, while in the same period the experimental group (GP+) was fed with a diet containing 10% GP on a dry matter (DM) basis. The meat samples from the two groups showed no significant differences in drip loss, cooking loss, meat color and total lipid amount. However, the experimental feeding strategy influenced the meat fatty acid composition, with an increase in the relative percentages of stearic, vaccenic and rumenic acids. In particular, the increase in rumenic acids is associated with several health benefits attributed to its high bioactive properties. In cooked meat samples stored for 5 days at 4 °C, the dietary GP supplementation induced an increase in nonanal and 1-octen-3-ol and a significant reduction of hexanal, an indicator of oxidation; this improved resistance to oxidation in the GP+ samples and was also confirmed by the thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) test. In summary, the present study showed that the dietary GP supplementation was effective in improving the fatty acid composition and the oxidative stability of lamb meat. The use and valorization of the GP as a matrix of interest for zootechnical nutrition can, therefore, represent a suitable strategy for improving the qualitative aspects of animal production.

In vitro bioactivities and preparation of nanoemulsion from coconut oil loaded Curcuma aromatica extracts for cosmeceutical delivery systems

Curcuma aromatica (CA) is a herbaceous plant in the Zingiberaceae family. It has antioxidative activity and anti-inflammatory properties. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of solvents and extraction methods on CA rhizomes. The crude extracts were tested for phenolic and flavonoid contents, antioxidative activity by DPPH and lipid peroxidation assay, and protein denaturation inhibition. The crude extracts with 95% ethanol by maceration technique showed good results. It had phenolic content at 99.28 ± 1.09 mg GAE/g extract, flavonoid content at 397.00 ± 27.54 mg QE/g extract, antioxidative activity by DPPH assay and lipid peroxidation assay at IC₅₀ value of 0.55 ± 0.02 mg/ml and 0.60 ± 0.10 mg/ml, respectively. The percentage of protein denaturation inhibition was 65.97 ± 4.68%. The crude extract with 95% ethanol by maceration technique was selected to formulate nanoemulsion. Nanoemulsion formulation consisted of DI water, Tween 80, CA extract, coconut oil and Span 80 at 72.50, 12.93, 7.07, 5.00 and 2.5%w/w, respectively. Its appearance was an opaque yellow liquid with no precipitation and no phase separation at room temperature. The particle size, pH, and viscosity were 70.20 ± 0.38 nm, 5.87 ± 0.01 and 3.56 ± 0.24 cP, respectively. Nanoemulsion loaded CA extract had bioactivities and highly stable characteristics after heating–cooling test for 6 cycles. This study has demonstrated the potential of nanoemulsion from coconut oil loaded CA extract for further development to novel cosmetic products.

The effect of Conjugated Linoleic Acid intake on oxidative stress parameters and antioxidant enzymes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Conjugated Linoleic Acid (CLA) are thought to pose beneficial effects on inflammatory responses and oxidative stress (OS). Thus, the present systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to assess the net effects of CLA supplementation on various OS parameters and antioxidant enzymes. PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were searched for publications on CLA supplementation effects on OS parameters up to March 2021. The data extracted from eligible studies were expressed as standardized mean difference with 95% confidence intervals and then combined into meta-analysis using the random-effects model. Overall, 11 RCTs (enrolling 586 participants) met the inclusion criteria and were included in meta-analysis; however, since those trials evaluated different OS parameters, meta-analysis was carried out considering different sets for each parameter separately. According to our results, CLA supplementation significantly increases 8-iso-PGF_2α urinary concentration (SMD: 2; 95% CI: 0.74, 3.27; I²=87.7%). On contrary, the intervention does not seem to change 15-keto-dihydro-PGF_2α urinary concentration, nor the serum levels of CAT, SOD, GPx and MDA. Taken all together, CLA supplementation does not appear to have substantial effects on OS markers in general; albeit due to relatively small sample size and high level of heterogeneity between studies, the obtained findings should be interpreted with caution. Further large well-designed RCTs, investigating the impact of CLA and including various groups of patients, are still needed.

Antioxidant Interactions between S-allyl-L-cysteine and Polyphenols Using Interaction Index and Isobolographic Analysis

This work aims to study the antioxidant interactions between S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC) and six natural polyphenols (quercetin, caffeic acid, sinapic acid, catechin, ferulic acid, and 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid) through the measurement of free-radical-scavenging activity of 1,1-diphenyl- 2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), the radical-cation-scavenging activity of 2,2-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), and reducing power. Among the six natural polyphenols, caffeic acid showed the strongest synergistic effect with SAC according to DPPH and reducing power assays. Further investigations based on the results of interaction index and isobologram analysis showed that the antioxidant activity (DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power) of the combination of caffeic acid with SAC presented an increase with the raising of their individual concentrations in their mixture and along with a dose–response manner. The best synergistic effect between caffeic acid and SAC based on DPPH, ABTS, and reducing power assays were observed at the ratio of 1:20, 1:35, and 1:70, respectively. The excellent synergic antioxidant activity of the combination of caffeic acid with SAC in our study suggests SAC has a more broad and effective application prospects in food field.

Evaluation of Fatty Acid Compositions, Antioxidant, and Pharmacological Activities of Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) Seed Oil from Aqueous Enzymatic Extraction

Pumpkin seed oil is a by-product, abundant in nutrients and bioactive components that promote several health benefits. This study aimed to compare chemical compositions, antioxidant, and pharmacological activities of pumpkin seed oils extracted from Cucurbita moschata Duch. Ex Poir. (PSO1) and Cucurbita moschata (Japanese pumpkin) (PSO2) by aqueous enzymatic extraction. An enzyme mixture consisting of pectinase, cellulase, and protease (1:1:1) was used in the enzymatic extraction process. Fatty acid composition of the oils was determined using fatty acid methyl ester/gas chromatographic-mass spectrometry. Antioxidant activity assays were measured by using stable free radical diphenylpicrylhydrazyl, radical cation 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate, ferric reducing/antioxidant power, and ferric thiocyanate assay. Inhibition of enzymes involving skin aging and whitening process was investigated. Linoleic acid was a major component of all pumpkin seed oils. Additionally, there was also a significant amount of oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid detected. PSO2 possessed the highest antioxidant activities compared to PSO1 and commercial pumpkin seed oils (COM1 and COM2). Both PSO1 and PSO2 exhibited higher inhibitory effects on hyaluronidase, collagenase, and tyrosinase than the commercials. Therefore, aqueous enzymatic extraction could yield pumpkin seed oils with higher antioxidant, anti-aging, and whitening activities. This is beneficial for further pharmacological studies and can be used as a functional food for skin benefits.

Conjugated linoleic acid protects brain mitochondrial function in acrolein induced male rats

Acrolein (AC) is a toxic substance that can have a neurotoxic effect. It can cause oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction. Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a dietary supplement, has many biological functions. Limited information is available about the effect of CLA on AC-induced brain toxicity. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate the effect of CLA on mitochondrial oxidative stress, respiratory enzymes, krebs cycle enzymes and ATP levels in AC treated rat brain. Sprague Dawley male rats were given AC (5 mg/kg i.p.), CLA (200 mg/kg orally) and CLA with AC for six days per week for 30 days. Some oxidative stress parameters and mitochondrial enzymes such as manganese super oxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, NADP⁺-dependent isocitrate dehydrogenase (ICDH), alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase (α-KGDH), malate dehydrogenase, reduced glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxidation (LP), protein carbonyl (PC), oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) enzymes, and ATP levels were determined. AC significantly decreased the activities of GSH, antioxidant enzymes, OXPHOS enzymes (complex I and IV), TCA enzymes (ICDH and α-KGDH) and ATP levels. Significant increases were also observed in mitochondrial LP and PC levels in AC group. Co-treatment with AC + CLA improved oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction caused by AC. As a result of our findings, it was observed that CLA was effective in improving oxidative stress and impaired mitochondrial functions in brain tissue by the effect of AC. Considering the association between neurodegenerative diseases and mitochondrial dysfunction, CLA can play a role in the prevention and therapy of neurodegenerative disorders.

Antioxidant Activity of Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) Seed Oil in Drosophila melanogaster Larvae under Non-Stress and H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress Conditions

The oil extracted from hemp seeds has significant nutritional and biological properties due to the unique composition of polyunsaturated fatty acids and various antioxidant compounds. The potential of this oil for the prevention of oxidative stress and for the treatment of oxidative-stress-induced ailments is of increasing interest. Most studies of hemp seed oil were conducted in-vitro, meaning we lack information about effects and activity in vivo. In the present study, we evaluated the hypothesis that hemp seed oil at different concentrations improves the oxidative state of D. melanogaster, under non-stress as well as hydrogen-peroxide-induced stress. We analyzed the effects of hemp seed oil on oxidative stress markers and on the life cycle of D.melanogaster under non-stress and hydrogen-peroxide-induced stress conditions. D.melanogaster larvae were exposed to hemp seed oil concentrations ranging from 12.5 to 125 μL/mL. The results revealed that under non-stress conditions, oil concentrations up to 62.5 µL/mL did not induce negative effects on the life cycle of D. melanogaster and maintained the redox status of the larval cells at similar levels to the control level. Under oxidative stress conditions, biochemical parameters were significantly affected and only two oil concentrations, 18.7 and 31.2 µL/mL, provided protection against hydrogen peroxide stress effects. A higher oil concentration (125 μL/mL) exerted negative effects on the oxidative status and increased larval mortality. The tested oil was characterized chemically by NMR, transesterification, and silylation, followed by GC-MS analyses, and was shown to contain polyunsaturated fatty acid triglycerides and low levels of tocopherols. The high levels of linoleic and linolenic acids in the oil are suggested to be responsible for the observed in vivo antioxidant effects. Taken together, the results show that hemp seed oil is effective for reducing oxidative stress at the cellular level, thus supporting the hypothesis. The obtained results point to the potential of hemp seed oil for the prevention and treatment of conditions caused by the action of reactive oxygen species.

Impact of platelet-rich plasma versus selenium in ameliorating induced toxicity in rat testis: histological, immunohistochemical, and molecular study

This study was conducted on forty adult rats divided into four groups: Group I (control) that is divided into subgroups A, B, and C and Group II (methotrexate (MTX)-treated); the rats were injected intraperitoneally with MTX at a dose of 1 mg/kg/week, for 8 weeks. Group III (MTX-Se co-treated) was injected with MTX like Group II plus an oral administration of selenium at a dose of 10 μg/kg b.w/day, for 8 weeks. Group IV (MTX-PRP co-treated), rats were injected intraperitoneally with MTX like Group II plus platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection under the scrotum, three times with 2-week intervals (volume-0.1 ml per injection) and euthanized after 8 weeks. Histological, immunohistochemical, and genetic expression using qPCR and western blotting technique were conducted. There was improvement in histological structure of testes in most specimens of Group IV. The latter group revealed a significant decrease in Bax and an increase in Bcl-2. The regeneration of testicular tissue was more observed in Group IV as measured by an increase in mean number of PCNA. Moreover, Group IV revealed an increased genetic level of FSCN3, GCNF, UBQLN3, and DAZL. Both MTX-Se and MTX-PRP have an anti-inflammatory effect as measured by a reduction in NF-κb. The anti-oxidative effect of selenium and PRP was noticed by a decrease in the level of the iNos and an increase in eNos protein and the autophagy marker LC3. PRP has ameliorative effects on induced rat testicular toxicity as evaluated by morphological changes and confirmed by immunohistochemical reactions, genetic expression, and western blotting analyses including oxidative and anti- oxidative markers.

The Effects of Conjugated Linoleic Acids on Cancer

Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA) are distinctive polyunsaturated fatty acids. They are present in food produced by ruminant animals and they are accumulated in seeds of certain plants. These naturally occurring substances have demonstrated to have anti-carcinogenic activity. Their potential effect to inhibit cancer has been shown in vivo and in vitro studies. In this review, we present the multiple effects of CLA isomers on cancer development such as anti-tumor efficiency, anti-mutagenic and anti-oxidant activity. Although the majority of the studies in vivo and in vitro summarized in this review have demonstrated beneficial effects of CLA on the proliferation and apoptosis of tumor cells, further experimental work is needed to estimate the true value of CLA as a real anti-cancer agent.

Moringa oleifera Seed Oil Formulation Physical Stability and Chemical Constituents for Enhancing Skin Hydration and Antioxidant Activity

Moringa oleifera seed oil has been recognized for its benefits in relation to the skin. The objective of this study was to evaluate the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of moringa seed oil, to formulate a moringa seed oil cream, and to determine the efficacy of moringa seed oil cream in vivo. The chemical components of moringa seed oil were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography and gas chromatography. The antioxidant activity of the oil was determined by a 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free-radical scavenging assay. An oil-in-water cream containing moringa seed oil was developed and characterized for antioxidant activity. The moringa seed oil cream was further subjected to the accelerated stability test of heating–cooling cycles for six cycles and stored isothermally at 4, 30, and 45 °C for 28 days. The efficacy of moringa seed oil cream was investigated in 32 participants by measuring their skin hydration, erythema, melanin values, and visco-elasticity. The results showed that moringa seed oil contained α-tocopherol, plant sterols, and fatty acids. The oil had antioxidant activity with a 50% of initial concentration (IC50) value of 121.9 mg/mL. The stability study indicated that the pH, viscosity, and rheological behavior of the cream containing moringa seed oil were not significantly changed after storage at 4, 30, and 45 °C for 28 days and six heating–cooling cycles. The moringa seed oil cream exhibited in vitro antioxidant activity and increased the in vivo skin hydration level compared with the cream base. There was no report of skin irritation from moringa seed oil cream application, suggesting that the moringa seed oil cream developed in this study was appropriate for pharmaceutical and cosmetic uses. A M. oleifera seed oil cream was successfully developed. The moringa seed oil cream possessed antioxidant activity, enhanced the skin hydration level, and reduced skin erythema, but did not affect the melanin content and skin visco-elasticity. The moringa seed oil cream did not induce skin irritation and, thus, was safe to use.

Biotechnological re-cycling of apple by-products: A reservoir model to produce a dietary supplement fortified with biogenic phenolic compounds

This study is an example of apple by-products (AP) recycling through a designed fermentation by selected autochthonous Lactobacillus plantarum AFI5 and Lactobacillus fabifermentans ALI6 used singly or as binary cultures with the selected Saccharomyces cerevisiae AYI7. Compared to Raw-, Unstarted- and Chemically Acidified-AP, Fermented-AP promoted the highest levels of total and insoluble dietary fibers, DPPH scavenging capacity, and free phenolics. The binary culture of L. plantarum AFI5 and S. cerevisiae AYI7 had the best effect on the bioavailability phenolic compounds as resulted by the LC-MS/MS validated method. The accumulation of phenolic acids derivatives highlighted the microbial metabolism during AP fermentation. Bio-converted phenolics were likely responsible for the increased DPPH scavenging capacity. The potential health-promoting effects of Fermented-AP were highlighted using Caco-2 cells. With variations among single and binary cultures, fermented-AP counteracted the inflammatory processes and the effects of oxidative stress in Caco-2 cells, and preserved the integrity of tight junctions.

Utilization of optimized processing conditions for high yield synthesis of conjugated linoleic acid by L. plantarum AB20-961 and L. plantarum DSM2601 in semi-dry fermented sausage

The aim of this study was to utilize optimized processing conditions to obtain the highest conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) contents in semi-dry fermented sausages produced with L. plantarum AB20-961 and L. plantarum DSM 2601. Optimized conditions were 5.7 meat pH, 5% hydrolyzed safflower oil addition, 10⁸ CFU/g added starter culture, fermentation time of 73 h for L. plantarum DSM2601 and 79 h for L. plantarum AB20-961, 24 °C fermentation temperature, 65 °C internal cooking temperature and 90% relative humidity. Results indicated that CLA contents in sausages were increased 21% by L. plantarum AB20-961 and 121% by L. plantarum DSM2601 after fermentation compared to initial CLA level determined on manufacturing day (P < .05). After fermentation, an increased CLA content of sausages remained stable during heat processing and storage. Sausages incorporated with L. plantarum strains and hydrolyzed safflower oil had the highest TBARS and PUFA levels, and the lowest pH and moisture content (P < .05). Differences were not found in sensorial and other physicochemical properties among sausage treatment groups. This study demonstrated that high CLA content can be achieved in sausages by utilizing optimum processing conditions described above and starter cultures (L. plantarum AB20-961 and L. plantarum DSM2601) without any adverse effects on quality of the final product.

Antioxidant and a-amylase Inhibitory Activities and Phytocompounds of Clausena indica Fruits

Background: Clausena indica fruit is commonly used for food ingredients and traditional medicines in tropical countries, however, information about its biological activities and chemical profiles has been inadequately reported. Methods: In this study, a bio-guided fractionation of antioxidants and α-amylase inhibitors from hexane (MH) and ethyl acetate (ME) extracts of C. indica fruit (pericarp and seed) was carried out. Eleven fractions from MH (D1–D11) and 17 fractions from ME (T1–T17) were obtained from column chromatography over silica gel, which were then examined for anti-radical capacity by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays, and pancreatic α-amylase inhibition, a key enzyme linked to type 2 diabetes. Results: Of isolated fractions, the fraction T4 revealed the most potent anti-DPPH activity (IC50 = 0.13 mg/mL), whereas T2 exhibits the strongest ABTS cation scavenging ability (IC50 = 0.31 mg/mL). In the enzymatic assay, the fractions D3 and T4 significantly inhibit the α-amylase reaction with IC50 values of 0.34 and 0.86 mg/mL, respectively. Remarkably, α-amylase suppression of T4 is close to acarbose and over four times stronger than palmitic acid, which are the well-known α-amylase inhibitors (IC50 = 0.07 and 1.52 mg/mL, respectively). The active constituents from fractions were identified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results show that the fraction D3 contains five major compounds, which are grouped in five classes consisting of fatty acids, phenols, benzodioxoles, alcohols, and sesquiterpenes. Among them, palmitic acid is the most dominant compound (32.64%), followed by 2R-acetoxymethyl-1,3,3-trimethyl-4t-(3-methyl-2-buten-1-yl)-1t-cyclohexanol (16.69%). Whilst, six major compounds belonging to fatty acid and coumarin classes are identified in the fraction T4. The most abundant compound in T4 is dentatin (47.32%), followed by palmitic acid (15.11%). Conclusions: This is the first finding that C. indica fruit can be a promising source for the development of natural antioxidant and antidiabetic agents. Additionally, the outcome reveals that dentatin, a known natural antineoplastic agent, can be feasibly exploited from C. indica fruit.

Lactic acid fermentation enriches the profile of biogenic fatty acid derivatives of avocado fruit (Persea americana Mill.)

This study investigated the capability of selected autochthonous lactic acid bacteria to enrich the portfolio of bioactive compounds of avocado fruit (Persea americana Mill.), with the perspective of producing dietary supplements or pharmaceutical preparations. Fermented avocado puree resulted in high levels of total free amino acids. Fermentation also led to a marked increase of antioxidant activity, with the highest levels found in water and hexane soluble extracts. Bio-converted phenolic compounds and fatty acids derivatives resulting from bacterial metabolism were likely responsible for the increased antioxidant activity. Fermentation caused the fortification of avocado puree with some hydroxy fatty acids, which deserved marked attention due to their health-promoting activities. Oleic and linoleic acids were highly metabolized by Lactobacillus plantarum AVEF17, leading to high levels of mono, di-, and tri-hydroxy-octadecenoic acids.

Hemozoin-catalyzed precipitation polymerization as an assay for malaria diagnosis

Methods to diagnose malaria are of paramount interest to eradicate the disease. Current methods have severe limitations, as they are either costly or not sensitive enough to detect low levels of parasitemia. Here we report an ultrasensitive, yet low-resource chemical assay for the detection and quantification of hemozoin, a biomarker of all Plasmodium species. Solubilized hemozoin catalyzes the atom transfer radical polymerization of N-isopropylacrylamide above the lower critical solution temperature of poly(N-isopropylacrylamide). The solution becomes turbid, which can be observed by naked eye and quantified by UV-visible spectroscopy. The rate of turbidity increase is proportional to the concentration of hemozoin, with a detection limit of 0.85 ng mL-1. Malaria parasites in human blood can be detected down to 10 infected red blood cells μL-1. The assay could potentially be applied as a point-of-care test. The signal-amplification of an analyte by biocatalytic precipitation polymerization represents a powerful approach in biosensing.

Efficacy of dietary supplementation of fatty acid compound on performance and production in finishing pigs

The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of dietary supplementation of 0.5 and 1% of fatty acid (FA) compound containing conjugated linoleic acid as active component on growth performance, apparent nutrient digestibility, serum lipid profile, meat quality, and fatty acid profiles in muscle and adipose tissue in finishing pigs. A total of 90 finishing pigs ([Yorkshire × Landrace] × Duroc) were used in 5-week trial. The growth performance and nutrient digestibility were unaffected with FA supplementation. The lean percentage was greater (P = 0.05) in pigs fed FA-supplemented diet whereas the 2-thiobarbituric acid reactive substances value was reduced (P < 0.05) during the storage. The FA supplementation tended (P = 0.06) to reduce serum total cholesterol. However, it improved (P < 0.05) C14:0, C16:0, C18:0, saturated fatty acid, conjugated linoleic acid, and omega 3 levels and reduced (P < 0.05) C18:1, C18:2, unsaturated fatty acid, and omega 6 levels in muscle and subcutaneous adipose tissue. In conclusion, FA supplementation tended to reduce total serum cholesterol and improved lean percentage as well as meat value through enrichment of conjugated linoleic acid and omega 3 fatty acid in the muscle and adipose tissue.

Effect of Temperature, pH, Enzyme to Substrate Ratio, Substrate Concentration and Time on the Antioxidative Activity of Hydrolysates from Goat Milk Casein by Alcalase

The effect of hydrolysis temperature (45, 50, 55, 60 and 65°C), pH (7.0, 7.5, 8.0, 8.5 and 9.0), enzyme to substrate (E/S) ratio (1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0%), substrate concentration (2, 3, 4, 5 and 6%) and hydrolysis time (30-240min) on antioxidant peptides hydrolysated from goat’s milk casein by Alcalase was investigated using single factor experiment. In order to obtain high DPPH radical-scavenging activity, metal-chelating activity and superoxide radical scavenging activity, the optimal conditions were hydrolysis time of 150 min, temperature of 50°C, pH 8.0, E/S ratio of 2.0% and substrate concentration of 4.0%. The hydrolysis time, hydrolysis temperature, pH, E/S ratio and substrate concentration had a significant influence on degree of hydrolysis, metal-chelating activity, DPPH and superoxide radical scavenging activity on casein hydrolysate of goat milk by Alcalase, the results were beneficial for further provide theoretical basis for production of antioxidant peptides.

Gamma-tocopherol supplementation ameliorated hyper-inflammatory response during the early cutaneous wound healing in alloxan-induced diabetic mice

Delayed wound healing is one of the major diabetic complications. During wound healing process, the early inflammatory stage is important for better prognosis. One of antioxidant nutrient, gamma-tocopherol (GT) is considered to regulate inflammatory conditions. This study investigated the effect of GT supplementation on mechanism associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis during early cutaneous wound healing in diabetic mice. Diabetes was induced by alloxan injection in ICR mice. All mice were divided into three groups: non-diabetic control mice (CON), diabetic control mice (DMC), and diabetic mice supplemented with GT (GT). After two weeks of GT supplementation, excisional wounds were made by biopsy punches (4 mm). Diabetic mice showed increases in fasting blood glucose (FBG) level, hyper-inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and delayed wound closure rate compared to non-diabetic mice. However, GT supplementation reduced FBG level and accelerated wound closure rate by regulation of inflammatory response-related proteins such as nuclear factor kappa B, interleukin-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α, and c-reactive protein, and oxidative stress-related markers including nuclear factor (erythroid derived 2)-like 2, NAD(P)H dehydrogenase quinone1, heme oxygenase-1, manganese superoxide dismutase, catalase and glutathione peroxidase and apoptosis-related markers such as sirtuin-1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1- α, and p53 in diabetic mice. Taken together, GT would be a potential therapeutic to prevent diabetes-induced delayed wound healing by regulation of inflammatory response, apoptosis, and oxidative stress. Impact statement Gamma tocopherol has shown ameliorative effect on diabetic wound healing by regulation of inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis demonstrated by nuclear factor kappa B, nuclear factor (erythroid derived 2)-like 2, and sirtuin-1.

C-Glycosylated flavonoids from black gram husk: Protection against DNA and erythrocytes from oxidative damage and their cytotoxic effect on HeLa cells

C-Glycosyl flavones are present in different plant tissues and they exhibit health benefits. In the present study, it was found that C-glycosyl flavones are distributed in different milled fractions of black gram and among these fractions, husk had the highest content of C-glycosyl flavones. Two C-glycosyl flavones from black gram husk were extracted and purified by preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) column. The purity of each compound was assessed by analytical C18 column. The structure of each compound was confirmed by LC–MS/MS, NMR. The molecular mass of these compounds were found to be [M−H]⁻, m/z 431.36 and [M−H]⁻, m/z 431.35 and were identified as vitexin and isovitexin, respectively. Content of vitexin and isovitexin in aqueous ethanol extract was found to be 76 and 65 mg/g of extract, respectively. These C-glycosyl flavones protected DNA and erythrocytes from oxidative damage. The IC₅₀ values for vitexin, isovitexin and quercetin for hemolysis were 6, 5.7 and 2.37 μg, respectively. These compounds also triggered the process of apoptosis in HeLa cells by downregulating Bcl-2 level with the simultaneous upregulation of Bax and caspase-3 protein expression. Thus, C-glycosyl flavones from black gram husk protected DNA and erythrocytes from oxidative damage and exhibited anticancer activity.

Synthesis and Antitubercular Activity of New Benzo[b]thiophenes

In vitro and ex vivo efficacies of four series of benzo[b]thiophene-2-carboxylic acid derivatives were studied against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra (MTB). Benzo[b]thiophenes were also tested in vitro against multidrug resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Ra (MDR-MTB), and 7b was found to be highly active against A- and D-MDR-MTB/MTB (MIC ranges 2.73-22.86 μg/mL). The activity of all benzo[b]thiophenes against M. bovis BCG (BCG) was also assessed grown under aerobic and under conditions of oxygen depletion. Compounds 8c and 8g showed significant activity with MICs of 0.60 and 0.61 μg/mL against dormant BCG. The low cytotoxicity and high selectivity index data against human cancer cell lines, HeLa, Panc-1, and THP-1 indicate the potential importance of the development of benzo[b]thiophene-based 1,3-diketones and flavones as lead candidates to treat mycobacterial infections. Molecular docking studies into the active site of DprE1 (Decaprenylphosphoryl-β-d-ribose-2'-epimerase) enzyme revealed a similar binding mode to native ligand in the crystal structure thereby helping to understand the ligand-protein interactions and establish a structural basis for inhibition of MTB. In summary, its good activity in in vitro and ex vivo model, as well as its activity against multidrug-resistant M. tuberculosis H37Ra in a potentially latent state, makes 7b an attractive drug candidate for the therapy of tuberculosis.

The effect of conjugated linoleic acid supplements on oxidative and antioxidative status of dairy cows

Dairy cows develop frequently negative energy balance around parturition and in early lactation, resulting in excessive mobilization of body fat and subsequently in increased risk of ketosis and other diseases. Dietary conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) supplements are used in dairy cows mainly for their depressing effect on milk fat content, but are also proposed to have antioxidative properties. As negative energy balance is associated with oxidative stress, which is also assumed to contribute to disease development, the present study was conducted to examine effects of CLA on oxidative and antioxidative status of lactating dairy cows. German Holstein cows (primiparous n=13, multiparous n=32) were divided into 3 dietary treatment groups receiving 100g/d of control fat supplement, containing 87% stearic acid (CON; n=14), 50g/d of control fat supplement and 50g/d of CLA supplement (CLA 50; n=15), or 100g/d of CLA supplement (CLA 100; n=16). The CLA supplement was lipid-encapsulated and contained 12% of trans-10,cis-12 CLA and cis-9,trans-11 CLA each. Supplementation took place between d1 and 182 postpartum; d 182 until 252 postpartum served as a depletion period. Blood was sampled at d -21, 1, 21, 70, 105, 140, 182, 224, and 252 relative to calving. The antioxidative status was determined using the ferric-reducing ability of plasma, α-tocopherol, α-tocopherol-to-cholesterol mass ratio, and retinol. For determination of oxidative status concentrations of hydroperoxides, thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS), N'-formylkynurenine, and bityrosine were measured. Mixed models of fixed and random effects with repeated measures were used to evaluate period 1 (d -21 to 140) and 2 (d182-252) separately. Cows showed increased oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation during the periparturient period in terms of increased serum concentrations of hydroperoxides and TBARS, which decreased throughout lactation. During period 1, the supplemented cows had lower TBARS concentrations, which was not detectable in period 2. The other determined parameters were not affected by CLA supplementation. The obtained results show that dietary CLA supplementation in the chosen dosage, formulation, and application period had a marginal antioxidative effect in terms of lipid peroxidation in lactating dairy cows.

Assessment of total polyphenols, antioxidants and antimicrobial properties of aonla varieties

Phenolic content, antioxidant activities and antimicrobial activities of methanolic, ethanolic and ethyl acetate extracts of five different varieties of aonla (Emblica officinalis) fruits as well their powders were evaluated. Total polyphenolic content in fresh aonla fruit extracts varied from 70.6 to 159.4 mg GAE/g and their EC 50 (effective concentration) values for antioxidant activity ranged from 46.72 to 359.7 µg/ml. Significant varietal difference were observed in antioxidant activity of the extracts of fresh aonla fruit and powder. Among the variety analyzed, Desi variety exhibited significantly higher TPC (total polyphenol content) and antioxidant activity in fresh as well as dried form in all the extracts. Methanolic extracts of various varieties had maximum TPC and antioxidant activity. Variety NA-7 showed high TPC and antioxidant activity. Almost, similar trend was observed among the extracts of aonla powders for TPC and AOA (antioxidant activity). A high positive correlation coefficient existed between TPC and AOA of different aonla extracts. All the extracts analyzed, exhibited a strong antimicrobial potential against E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. This study suggests aonla as potential natural source of antioxidants and antimicrobial agents.

Antioxidant Efficacy of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) Pericarp Extract in Sheep Meat Nuggets

In the present study, the efficacy of litchi fruit pericarp (LFP) extract (0.5%, 1.0% and 1.5% concentration) in retarding lipid oxidation of cooked sheep meat nuggets was evaluated and compared to butylated hydroxyl toluene (BHT, 100 ppm). The total phenolic content and antioxidant potential of LFP extracts were determined. The thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) values were evaluated to assess the potential of LFP extracts as natural antioxidants for oxidative stability of cooked nuggets during 12 days of refrigerated storage. Results show that total phenolics content in 10 mg LFP powder was comparable to 100 ppm BHT, but 15 mg LFP powder had significantly higher (p < 0.05) total phenolics content and reducing power than the synthetic antioxidant. LFP extract did not affect pH, cooking yield and the sensory attributes of cooked nuggets. Non-treated control and nuggets with 1.0% LFP extract had significantly lower total phenolics than nuggets with 1.5% extract and BHT. TBARS values were significantly lower (p < 0.05) throughout the storage period in cooked meat nuggets containing either LFP extract or BHT than in non-treated control. Results indicate that LFP extracts are promising sources of natural antioxidants and can potentially be used as functional food additives in meat products at 1.5% without affecting products’ acceptability.

Shelf life of ground beef enriched with omega-3 and/or conjugated linoleic acid and use of grape seed extract to inhibit lipid oxidation

The shelf life and oxidative stability of refrigerated raw ground beef enriched with omega-3 and/or conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) were studied. Grape seed extract (GSE) was used to inhibit lipid oxidation in the ground beef. Eight treatments of ground beef were established according to the enrichment of beef (control, enriched with omega-3, with CLA, or with omega-3 plus CLA) and the use of GSE (0 and 250 mg GSE/kg product). Fresh beef was ground and mixed with GSE and salt. Treatments of beef were stored at 2 ± 1°C in aerobic packaging for 0, 1, 3, and 6 days under retail display conditions. Oxidation stability (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances [TBARS]), pH, instrumental color, metmyoglobin formation, and sensory attributes (color and odor) were measured. Omega-3-enriched beef increased the oxidation level at day 6 as determined by TBARS (P < 0.05), but the instrumental color was not affected. The enrichment of CLA improved the coordinates of color (P < 0.05) until day 3 and decreased the oxidation at day 6 (P < 0.05). There were no differences in color and odor values among the types of beef during display, except at day 3, when CLA treatments had the highest scores. Addition of GSE decreased the oxidation level (P < 0.001) and did not affect the instrumental color or the sensory parameters.

Synthesis, Characterization, Antimicrobial Screening and Free-Radical Scavenging Activity of Some Novel Substituted Pyrazoles

The present work deals with the synthesis of acetoxysulfonamide pyrazole derivatives, substituted 4,5-dihydropyrazole-1-carbothioamide and 4,5-dihydropyrazole-1-isonicotinoyl derivatives starting from substituted vanillin chalcones. Acetoxysulfonamide pyrazole derivatives were prepared from the reaction of chalcones with p-sulfamylphenylhydrazine followed by treatment with acetic anhydride. At the same time 4,5-dihydropyrazole-1-carbothioamide and 4,5-dihydropyrazole-1-isonicotinoyl derivatives were prepared from the reaction of chalcones with either thiosemicarbazide or isonicotinic acid hydrazide, respectively. The synthesized compounds were structurally characterized on the basis of IR, ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR spectral data and microanalyses. All of the newly isolated compounds were tested for their antimicrobial activities. The antimicrobial screening using the agar well-diffusion method revealed that the chloro derivatives are the most active ones. Moreover, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of these chloro derivatives are also studied using the DPPH radical scavenging and NO radical scavenging methods, respectively.

Synthesis and radical scavenger properties of novel spirochromenes derived from steroid sapogenins

Tandem aldol condensation between steroid sapogenins and hydroxylated benzaldehydes afforded steroidal spirochromenes. Compounds that bear a phenolic hydroxyl group at position C-6', obtained by a reaction with 2,5-dihydroxybenzaldehyde, showed approximately 80% of maximal radical scavenging activity in the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) assay at 288 nM. In contrast, the starting steroid sapogenins and the spirochromenes without a phenolic group in the side chain proved to be inactive.

Effect of conjugated linoleic acid enrichment on the quality characteristics of Turkish dry fermented sausage

The effects of conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) enrichment on lipid oxidation, the fatty acid profile, physico-chemical, sensory and microbiological features of sucuk were investigated. The control sucuk did not contain CLA, however, other groups contained 0.5 %, 1 %, 1.5 %, 2 %, 2.5 %, and 3 % CLA, respectively. The results indicated that CLA concentration was increased in sucuk with CLA addition (p < 0.05). CLA concentration decreased (p < 0.05) during the fermentation period, but did not alter during the storage. Lipid oxidation gradually increased with the increasing of storage in all treatments (p < 0.05). However, addition of CLA decreased lipid oxidation compared to control (p < 0.05). With regard to color, higher L* values were observed in 2 % CLA treatment group compared to other treatments during storage (p < 0.05). Moreover, CLA addition resulted in increased a* values in sucuk (p < 0.05). With the addition of CLA, saturated fatty acids in sucuk decreased and poly-unsaturated fatty acids and conjugated linoleic acids increased (p < 0.05).

Kocuran, an exopolysaccharide isolated from Kocuria rosea strain BS-1 and evaluation of its in vitro immunosuppression activities

In an ongoing survey for bioactive potential of microorganisms from different biosphere zones of India, a promising Kocuria rosea strain BS-1 was identified which produced an exopolysaccharide (designated as Kocuran) exhibiting in vitro antioxidant and immunosuppression properties. Kocuran was characterized as a heteropolysaccharide with repeating monosaccharide residues of glucose, galactose, mannose and glucuronic acid with an average molecular mass of 51.2 kDa. In RAW 264.7 macrophages, Kocuran significantly downregulated the LPS-stimulated ROS, NO, TNF-α, IL-6 and C3 complement component secretion to 4.71±0.08%, 4.11±0.06%, 11.19±0.06 pg ml⁻¹, 9.12±0.07 pg ml⁻¹ and 20.81±0.06 ng/10⁶ cells ml⁻¹, respectively. Furthermore, it inhibited the PHA-stimulated proliferation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells with IC₅₀ of 100.13±2.1 μg ml⁻¹. In addition, the classical and alternative pathway mediated hemolysis was also inhibited with CH₅₀ and AH₅₀ of 100.96±1.75 and 98.60±1.93 μg ml⁻¹, respectively. Kocuran did not inhibit the LPS-induced LAL enzyme and the binding of FITC-LPS to macrophages suggesting that Kocuran does not neutralize the LPS activity. These results demonstrate the in vitro suppression of activation and macrophage-derived inflammatory cytokines and complement mediated hemolysis indicating its in vitro immunosuppression activity.

Total phenolics and antioxidant capacity of indigenous vegetables in the southeast United States: Alabama Collaboration for Cardiovascular Equality Project

Collard greens, mustard greens, kale, okra, green onion, butter beans, butter peas, purple hull peas, rutabagas, and eggplant are frequently consumed by African Americans in the southeast United States. Sweet potato greens and purslane are two novel vegetables in this region. The objective of this study was to analyze total phenolics and antioxidant capacity in these indigenous vegetables. The total phenolic content was analyzed using the Folin-Ciocalteu method and ranged from 7.4 to 53.5 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram of dried sample. The antioxidant capacity was analyzed using the radical DPPH(•) scavenging capacity assay and oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay (ORAC). At a concentration of 10.0 mg dried vegetable equivalent/ml, the extract of these vegetables was able to quench 13.2-88.5% DPPH(•) radical in 30 min. The ORAC value ranged from 2.5 to 100.7 µmoles of trolox equivalents per gram of dried sample. The antioxidant capacity of the vegetable samples was highly related to their total phenolic content. The results suggest that these indigenous vegetables consumed by African Americans in the southeastern United States are good sources of the phenolic compounds, which might provide anti-oxidative protection against free radicals in the human body. Consumption of these vegetables might reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Physical and chemical stability of gum arabic-stabilized conjugated linoleic acid oil-in-water emulsions

Oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions have been used as a delivery system to protect conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a polyunsaturated fatty acid, from oxidation. Conventional gum arabic (GA) and two matured gum arabic samples (EM2 and EM10) were used as emulsifiers to prepare CLA-in-water emulsions. The emulsions have optimal physical and chemical stability at gum concentrations of 5% for all three gums. Emulsions with higher gum concentrations are more susceptible to lipid oxidation. This is attributed to reduced physical stability at higher gum concentrations because of the coalescence and depletion-induced flocculation of the emulsion droplets. The prooxidants iron and copper intrinsically contained in the gums could also contribute to this instability. Among the three gums, EM10 provides the most effective protection for CLA both physically and chemically, because of its superior interfacial properties over GA and EM2.

Solvent optimization extraction of antioxidants from foxtail millet species' insoluble fibers and their free radical scavenging properties

In this study, water and 80% of four organic solvents were employed to optimize the extraction of antioxidants from two species of foxtail millet's insoluble fibers under the same temperature, time, and solid/solvent ratio. The results showed that the acetone was able to extract the maximum amount of antioxidants (2.32 mg/g fiber for white specie and 3.86 mg/g fiber for yellow specie) followed by methanol and propanol from both samples. The neutral and the ethanol on the other hand extracted small amount of the antioxidants from the two fiber materials. While considerable level of Total Polyphenols Content (TPC) was recorded in both the water and the organic solvents' extracts, only traces of Total Flavonoid content (TFC) were observed in water, methanol and ethanol extracts. Propanol and acetone extracts was negative to the TFC test. The potency of both white and yellow foxtail millets' insoluble fibers antioxidant extracts was investigated using five different in vitro tests. It was realized that there was a variation in their capacities to quench DPPH and ABTS(+) radicals for the time running of 0-60 min. The samples from the yellow cereal exhibited high inhibition capacity against ABTS(+). No correlation was observed between TPC and radical scavenging capacities for DPPH and ABTS(+). In general, the yellow species contained more antioxidants in comparison with the white one and this accounted for its high antioxidant activity.

Application of Jatropha curcas L. seed oil (Euphorbiaceae) and microcurrent on the healing of experimental wounds in Wistar rats

PURPOSE

To investigate the effects of Jatropha curcas L. seed oil and microcurrent stimulation on the healing of wounds experimentally induced in Wistar rats.

METHODS

Forty-eight animals were divided into four groups: (A) control; (B) treated with microcurrent (10 µA/2 min); (C) treated with J. curcas seed oil, and (D) treated with J. curcas seed oil plus microcurrent. Tissues samples were obtained two, six, ten and 14 days after injury and submitted to structural and morphometric analyses.

RESULTS

The animals of groups A and C showed similar responses in terms of repair area, total number of cells, number of newly formed blood vessels, epithelial thickness, and percentage of area occupied by mature collagen fibers. Significant differences in all parameters analyzed were observed between animals of groups B and D and the control 10 and 14 days after experimentally induced injury. The morphometric data confirmed the structural findings

CONCLUSIONS

The application of J. curcas seed oil alone was not effective on experimental wound healing when compared to control, but microcurrent application alone or combined with the oil exerted significant differences in the parameters studied. These findings suggest that the positive results were due to microcurrent stimulation.