Effect of extraction conditions on measured total polyphenol contents and antioxidant and antibacterial activities of black tea

Fabrication, characterization, and bioactivity of self-assembled carrier-free colloidal dispersions from Citrus × Limon 'Rosso' essential oil and tea polyphenols

Carrier-free nanodelivery systems are fully self-assembled from active ingredients through interactions, offering the advantages of green, safe, and large-scale manufacturing. To improve the dispersion of Citrus × limon 'Rosso' peel essential oil (CEO) in water and boost the biological activity of CEO and tea polyphenols (TP), self-assembled CEO-TP colloidal dispersions (CEO-TP Colloids) were fabricated through sonication without surfactants or carriers. The optimal CEO and TP concentrations in the CEO-TP Colloids were determined to be 10.0 and 20.0 mg/mL by particle size and stability analyzer, respectively. The CEO self-assembled with TP to form spherical nanoparticles through hydrophobic and hydrogen-bonding interactions, whereas the CEO in CEO-TP Colloids weakened TP intramolecular aggregation. Meanwhile, the CEO-TP Colloids showed synergistic effects with better antibacterial, cellular antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities than single components. This study opens up the possibility of carrier-free co-delivery of hydrophobic and hydrophilic active components developed into food-grade formulations with multiple bioactivities.

Phytochemical Study and In Vitro Biological Activities of Hibiscus panduriformis Burm. f. (Malvaceae), Alternanthera pungens Kunth (Amaranthaceae), and Wissadula rostrata (Schumach.) Hook. f. (Malvaceae)

The present study investigated the phytochemical content of Hibiscus panduriformis, Alternanthera pungens, and Wissadula rostrata and assessed their radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory properties. n-Hexane, dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate, and methanol extracts were prepared from the powdered plant parts. The phytochemical analysis was performed using qualitative high-performance thin-layer chromatography, and polyphenols were quantified using well-established methods. The anti-inflammatory effect was by lipoxygenase inhibition, while the antiradical impact was evaluated through DPPH and ABTS radicals. Steroids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, and tannins were identified in the three plants. The highest phenolic content (95.67 ± 2.19 mg gallic acid equivalent/g) was obtained in the methanolic extract of W. rostrata, while the lowest was measured in H. panduriformis. H. panduriformis was found to be highly rich in flavonoids (61.22 ± 0.09 mg rutin equivalent/g), condensed tannins (62.53 ± 0.03 mg catechin equivalent/g), and hydrolyzable tannins (125.1 ± 1.02 mg tannic acid equivalent/g). The methanolic extract of H. panduriformis displayed the greatest antilipoxygenase activity with an IC50 value of 8.78 ± 1.05 μg/mL. It should be noted that although a moderate to low effect was observed, the extracts were more likely to scavenge DPPH (IC50 values ranged from 0.106 ± 0.010 to 1 mg/mL) than ABTS radicals. There was a strong to moderate correlation between the antilipoxygenase and DPPH radical scavenging effects of the methanolic extracts and total phenolic content (antilipoxygenase, r = 0.7175; DPPH, r = 0.9376). Furthermore, it is worth noting that this is the first report investigating the phytochemical analysis and in vitro biological properties of Hibiscus panduriformis. The results highlighted the richness of this plant in polyphenols and demonstrated its high and moderate effects on lipoxygenase and DPPH radicals, respectively. To this intent, further in vivo and in vitro studies on this plant, along with exhaustive phytochemical analysis, are needed.

Potential antibacterial and antioxidant inhibitory activities of Silybum marianum mediated biosynthesised He-Ne laser

A potentially beneficial method in laser irradiation is currently gaining popularity. The biosynthesis of low-power lasers has also been applied to the therapy of disease in biological tissues. This study used laser pre-treatments of Silybum marianum (S. marianum) fruit extract as a stabilising agent to bio-fabricate a low-power laser. The silybin A and silybin B of the S. marianum fruit, which are derived from seedlings before S. marianum undergoes therapy with an He-Ne laser at various intervals, were assessed for their expressive properties in this study. The findings revealed that 6-min laser pre-treatments increased silybin A + B and bacterial inhibition and improved the medicinal property of S. marianum. The analysis of the reaction records was performed using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) limit for the sphere dispersion approach's antimicrobial effect on the microorganisms under investigation was 50 to 100 g/mL. With an IC50 of 0.69 mg/mL, the laser-treated S. marianum (6 min) demonstrated radical scavenging activity. At MIC concentration, the laser-treated S. marianum (6 min) did not exhibit cytotoxicity in the MCF-7 cell line. Additionally, Salmonella typhi, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and E. coli were more susceptible to the antimicrobial effects of ethanolic fruit extract with a greater silybin level. It was observed that the laser-treated S. marianum (6 min) showed beneficial antioxidant and antibacterial properties and could be employed without risk in several medical applications.

From Aloe vera Leaf Waste to the Extracts with Biological Potential: Optimization of the Extractions, Physicochemical Characterization, and Biological Activities

In the study, the optimization of the extraction from Aloe vera leaf waste was performed via varying solid-to-solvent ratio, solvent type, extraction time, and technique (maceration, heat-, ultrasound-, and microwave-assisted extractions-HAE, UAE, and MAE, respectively). The optimal extraction conditions for achieving the highest polyphenol content are a 1:30 ratio, 70% ethanol, and 30 min of HAE. Total flavonoid and protein contents were significantly higher in the extract from MAE, while total condensed tannin content was the highest in HAE. LC-MS analysis quantified 13 anthraquinone and chromone compounds. The variations in the FT-IR spectra of the extracts obtained by different extraction procedures are minor. The influence of extraction conditions on the antioxidant ability of the extracts depended on applied antioxidant assays. The extracts possessed medium inhibition properties against Staphylococcus aureus and weak inhibitory activity against Enterococcus feacalis. The extracts had stimulative effect on HaCaT cell viability. Regarding the extraction yield, there was a significant difference between the used extraction techniques (MAE > HAE > maceration and UAE). The presented study is an initial step in the production of polyphenol-rich extracts from A. vera leaf waste aimed to be used for the potential preparation of pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations for the skin.

Characterization of Green and Yellow Papaya (Carica papaya) for Anti-Diabetic Activity in Liver and Myoblast Cells and Wound-Healing Activity in Fibroblast Cells

Obesity and diabetes, often characterized as "metabolic syndrome", have been recognized as two of the most important public health issues worldwide. The objective of the present research was to evaluate green and yellow papaya for anti-oxidation and anti-diabetic properties. Leaves, skin, pulp, and seed samples from papayas were freeze-dried and then extracted in water or 80% methanol. The extracts were used to determine total polyphenolic content and anti-oxidation activities, and to determine biological activities, including glucose uptake, Glut-2 expression, triglyceride reduction, and wound-healing activity. Our data demonstrated that methanol and water extracts of green and yellow papaya have similar concentrations of polyphenols in skin (10-20 mg/g dry powder), leaf (25-30 mg/g dry powder), and pulp (1-3 mg/g dry powder) fractions. However, both methanol and water extracts of seeds from yellow papaya have substantially higher concentrations of polyphenols compared to green papaya. Both water and methanol extracts of yellow papaya exhibited higher anti-oxidation activity compared to green papaya in skin (50-60%), pulp (200-300%), and seeds (10-800%). Old leaves also showed greater anti-oxidation activity (30-40%) compared to new leaves. Pulp extracts from both yellow and green papaya stimulated greater glucose uptake, but only pulp from green papaya stimulated glucose uptake in muscle cells. Similarly, pulp extract stimulated glucose transporter Glut-2 expression in liver cells. The skin, pulp, and seeds of green or yellow papaya showed triglyceride-lowering activity in liver cells by 60-80%, but samples taken from yellow papaya had a more potent effect. Seeds from both green and yellow papaya significantly stimulated the migration of fibroblasts in the wounded area by 2-2.5-fold compared to the untreated control. Consistent with these data, seeds from both green and yellow papaya also significantly stimulated collagen synthesis in fibroblast cells by almost 3-fold. In conclusion, our data indicate that different parts of papaya produce stimulatory effects on glucose uptake, Glut-2 expression, TG reduction, and wound-healing activities. This study concludes that different parts of the papaya can be beneficial for preventing diabetes and diabetes-related wound healing.

Blackthorn-A Valuable Source of Phenolic Antioxidants with Potential Health Benefits

Prunus spinosa L. fruit, commonly known as blackthorn, is a rich source of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, anthocyanins, phenolic acids, vitamins, minerals, and organic acids, which exhibit significant antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Notably, flavonoids such as catechin, epicatechin, and rutin have been reported to have protective effects against diabetes, while other flavonoids, including myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol, exhibit antihypertensive activity. Solvent extraction methods are widely used for the extraction of phenolic compounds from plant sources, owing to their simplicity, efficacy, and broad applicability. Furthermore, modern extraction techniques, such as microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), have been employed to extract polyphenols from Prunus spinosa L. fruits. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the biologically active compounds found in blackthorn fruits, emphasizing their direct physiological effects on the human body. Additionally, the manuscript highlights the potential applications of blackthorn fruits in various industries, including the food, cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and functional product sectors.

Phytochemical Analysis, Antifungal, and Antioxidant Properties of Two Herbs (Tristemma mauritianum and Crassocephalum bougheyanum) and One Tree (Lavigeria macrocarpa) Species

Phytochemicals present in medicinal plants (herbs, shrubs, and trees) are endowed with high antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. The aim of this work was to study the chemical composition, antioxidant, and antifungal activities of Tristemma mauritianum, Crassocephalum bougheyanum, and Lavigeria macrocarpa. Chemical composition of the plant extracts was determined using standard methods. The antioxidant activities were performed using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide (NO), and hydroxyl (OH) scavenging assays. The antifungal activity of plant extracts and their combinations with antifungals was evaluated against eleven Candida spp. using the broth microdilution method by determining the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC). The quantitative chemical analysis of the extracts of T. mauritianum, L. macrocarpa, and C. bougheyanum showed that they contain phenols, tannins, and flavonoids that vary according to the plant species and extracts. All the plant extracts presented promising antifungal (MIC = 64-2048 µg/mL) and antioxidant activities. The extract of T. mauritianum displayed the highest antifungal (MIC = 64-256 µg/mL) and antioxidant (IC₅₀ = 19.052 ± 1.11 μg/mL) activities which can be explained by its high phenolic content. Interestingly, extracts of T. mauritianum, L. macrocarpa, and C. bougheyanum displayed synergistic effects (fractional inhibitory concentration index, FICI ≤ 0.5) with ketoconazole against clinical resistant isolates. The results of the present study demonstrate promising antifungal and antioxidant activities of the tested plants that are associated to their phenol, tannin, and flavonoid contents. Hence, extracts of T. mauritianum and L. macrocarpa could be deeply investigated as antifungal alone and in combination with conventional antifungal drugs to treat infections caused by Candida spp.

Maceration and liquid-liquid extractions of phenolic compounds and antioxidants from Algerian olive oil mill wastewater

Olive oil mill wastewater (OMW) is a major waste stream generated in olive oil industry. It is highly polluted due to phenolic compounds. The present study focused on the physicochemical properties of OMW as well as the quantitative and qualitative effects of two extraction methods of phenolic compounds which were liquid-liquid and maceration methods. Spectrophotometry and high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS) were adopted to quantify the phytochemical contents and the phenolic compounds. The extract obtained by the maceration method showed the highest yields of total polyphenol, flavonoid, and tannin contents. The LC-MS results revealed the presence of 16 phenolic compounds in the macerated, and only 12 phenolic compounds were found in the extract of the second method. Quinic acid was identified as the most abundant compound. Moreover, the macerated extracts possessed the highest antioxidant potential as evidenced by their strong ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and their 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) radical scavenging activities. The phytochemical contents, as well as the antioxidant potentials of OMW after extraction using maceration, were significantly greater than using liquid-liquid method. Therefore, maceration seemed to be the most effective method for extracting phenolic compounds from OMW. The OMW constitute a rich source of natural phenolic compounds that could be used as a potential source of natural antioxidants.

Safety and Efficacy of Black Tea Extract in the Treatment of Acute Bacterial Conjunctivitis: A Rabbit Model

PURPOSE

To determine the safety and efficacy of black tea extract in the treatment of bacterial conjunctivitis in a rabbit model and compare it with that of gatifloxacin drops.

METHODS

Black tea extract was tested in vitro on bacterial cultures of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Forty-two rabbit eyes were cultured with either MRSA (n=21) or P. aeruginosa (n=21) and further divided into a control group (n=5), a tea group (n=8) treated with black tea extract, and a gatifloxacin group (n=8) treated with 0.3% gatifloxacin eye drops. Conjunctival swabs were collected on the third and fifth days.

RESULTS

The tea extract successfully inhibited the growth of both organisms at a concentration of 400 mg/mL. Rabbits in the treatment groups showed a reduction in the clinical index on day 2 (P<0.01), unlike the control group (P=0.1), for both organisms. Resolution of conjunctivitis was achieved on days 4 and 5 in the tea and gatifloxacin groups, respectively. On days 3 and 5, while the control group still showed considerable bacterial growth, the tea and gatifloxacin groups showed its inhibition.

CONCLUSION

Tea extract has antimicrobial effects similar to those of gatifloxacin in a rabbit model of conjunctivitis.

Association of food habit with the COVID-19 severity and hospitalization: A cross-sectional study among the recovered individuals in Bangladesh

Background: It was assumed that dietary habits might influence the status of COVID-19 patients. Aim: We aimed at the identification of association of dietary habits with the COVID-19 severity and hospitalization. Methods: It was a retrospective cross-sectional study (n = 1025). We used bivariate and multivariate analyses to correlate the association between self-reported dietary patterns and COVID-19 severity and hospitalization. Results: Dietary habits (black tea, milked tea, pickles, black caraway seeds, honey, fish, fruits, vegetables, garlic, onion and turmeric) were identified with lower risk of COVID-19 severity and hospitalization. Interestingly, the consumption frequency (one-, two- or three-times/day) of rice - the staple food in Bangladesh - was not associated with COVID-19 severity and hospitalization for comorbid patients. In contrast, a moderate rice-eating habit (two times/day) was strongly associated with the lower risk of severity and hospitalization for non-comorbid patients. However, for both comorbid and non-comorbid patients, consumption of black tea, milked tea, pickles and honey were associated with a lower likelihood of severity and hospitalization. Overall, a high consumption (three-times/day) of fish, fruits and vegetables, a moderate consumption of garlic, onion and turmeric spices and a daily intake of black/milked tea, and honey were associated with reduced risk of COVID-19 severity and hospitalization. Conclusions: To reduce the severity of COVID-19, a habitual practice of intaking black tea, milked tea, black caraway seeds and honey along with dietary habit (rice, fish and vegetables) and with a moderate consumption of ginger, garlic, onion, mixed aromatic spices (cinnamon + cardamom + cloves) and turmeric might be suggested.

Evaluation of Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Cytotoxic Activities and Correlation with Phytoconstituents in Some Medicinal Plants of Nepal

Traditional herbal medicines have been consumed in Nepal and other parts of the eastern hemisphere since ancient times. Many of these plants reportedly have been effective against ailments as well. This study aims to analyze the phytochemical constituents from the extracts of ten such plants and evaluate their antimicrobial, cytotoxicity, and antioxidant properties. In addition, the study aims to study the correlation of cytotoxicity and antioxidant activities with the total phenolic, flavonoid, and tannin contents. The plants investigated were Oroxylum indicum, Kalanchoe pinnata, Phragmites vallatoria, Ehretia acuminata, Cirsium wallichii, Ampelocissus tomentosa, Dichrocephala integrifolia, Boenninghausenia albiflora, Cynoglossum zeylanicum, and Clerodendrum serratum. Phytochemical analyses were performed to evaluate secondary metabolites, such as glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, alkaloids, and fats. The total phenolic contents of the extracts ranged from 14.94 to 229.89 mg GAE/g, the total flavonoid contents varied from 66.67 to 900 mg QE/g, and the total tannin contents were 42 to 168 mg GAE/g. The results of the antioxidant studies showed that the highest antioxidant activity was exhibited by the extract of A. tomentosa (IC50 = 7.89 µg/mL) followed by E. acuminata (IC50 = 24.82 µg/mL) and C. serratum (IC50 = 32.91 µg/mL). The extracts from P. vallatoria and A. tomentosa exhibited substantial antimicrobial activity. The extracts of A. tomentosa and B. albiflora showed lethality against brine shrimp with LC50 values of 33.11 µg/mL.

Green Orange Peel-Mediated Bioinspired Synthesis of Nanoselenium and Its Antibacterial Activity against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus

In this study, green orange peel (GOP) was feasibly evidenced in preparing selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs). Acting as reducing agents, polyphenolic compounds were extracted from GOP at the optimal extraction conditions (at 70 °C for 1.5 h, mass ratio of dried orange peel/distilled water of 5/100). The formation of SeNPs was observed at the wavelength range of 250-300 nm by ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), and their highest yield could be reached at the following conditions: volume ratio of extract/selenious acid solution (V _Ext/V _Se) of 40/10, synthesis duration of 4 h, selenious acid concentration (C _Se) of 80 mM, and reaction temperature of 120 °C. The highly crystalline structure of SeNPs in the hexagonal phase was characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) with a lattice parameter of 4.3 Å; meanwhile, their spheres with an average crystal size of 18.3 nm were estimated by high-resolution transmission electron microscope (HR-TEM). The rationale of bioreducing agents extracted from green orange peel for the formation of SeNPs was also recognized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The antibacterial investigation of the SeNP sample was assessed against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, typically methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), by executing the zone of inhibition and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) tests. The SeNP sample demonstrated excellent antibacterial activity with an average diameter of inhibition zones of 20.0 ± 0.7 mm and an MIC of 4.94 μg/L. A comparison of the physicochemical properties of SeNPs synthesized from GOP extract by the hydrothermal method with SeNP products from other green reducing agents and other methods as well as its antibacterial activity compared with other nanoparticles and some antibiotics was conducted to highlight the superiority of GOP-mediated green-synthesized SeNPs.

Indigofera tinctoria L. leaf powder promotes initiation of indigo reduction by inducing of rapid transition of the microbial community

Water-insoluble indigo is solubilized by the reducing action of microorganisms which occurs during fermentation. In natural indigo fermentation, composted leaves of Polygonum tinctorium L. (sukumo) are the raw material that has been used as both the indigo source and the bacterial inoculum. Ideally, indigo reduction occurs shortly after preparation of the fermentation vat. The time-to-reduction depends on the quality of the sukumo and the methods for preparation and management of the fermentation batch. We estimated the effect of adding Indigofera tinctoria L. leaf powder (LP) to indigo fermentation in two fermentations originally exhibiting either rapid or slow time-to-reduction (T-sukumo and D-sukumo, respectively). Alkalihalobacillus spp. (97.7%–98.4% similarities with Alkalihalobacillus macyae) were observed only in the LP-added T-sukumo fermentation liquor. They appeared from day 1 (0.7%) and increased to 24.4% on day 6, and their presence was related to indigo reduction. Differences in functional ratio between LP-added and its control batches revealed enhancement of pathways related to reconstitution of cellular functions and substrate metabolisms, to all of which Alkalihalobacillus spp. contributed intensively. In D-sukumo batch, appearance of bacteria necessary to initiate indigo reduction (principally Anaerobacillus/Polygonibacillus) was comparatively slower. LP promotes earlier indigo reduction in both T- and D-sukumo-based batches, owing to its promotion of microbiota transition. The effect of the LP was intensified from day 1 to day 2 in both sukumo using batches according to the assumed function of the microbiota. The initial effect of LP on the T-sukumo batches was more intense than that in the D-sukumo batches and was continued until day 3, while the duration in the T-sukumo batches was continued until day 5. Based on these observations, we propose that the LP functions through its phytochemicals that eliminate oxygen, stimulate the microbiota, and accelerate its transitional changes toward a suitable function that opens the pathway for the extracellular electron transfer using carbohydrates as a substrate.

Nébié RH, Palé E, Nacro M. HPTLC/HPLC-mass spectrometry identification and NMR characterization of major flavonoids of wild lemongrass (Cymbopogon giganteus) collected in Burkina Faso

Cymbopogon giganteus is a medicinal plant from Burkina Faso whose leaves are used in many traditional recipes to treat several diseases. However, no scientific studies have been reported on the analysis of bioactive molecules of the plant. It is therefore for the first time that flavonoids are isolated from the leaves of the Burkina Faso species. The aim was to quantify, isolate and characterize the major flavonoids in methanol extracts of the plant leaves by spectrophotometry, chromatography and NMR respectively. Flavonoid content analysis showed values ranging from 134 to 270 μg QE/mg extract. HPTLC-MS identified six peaks corresponding to phenolic compounds. By a succession of chromatography on column and by chemical, physicochemical and physical methods, we could isolate and characterize three flavonoids: epicatechin, luteolin 8-C-glucosid and luteolin 6-C-glucosid which structures were characterized by NMR. This study has provided relevant results to contribute to the knowledge of bio-active molecules of the local flora of Burkina Faso for their consideration as an alternative to synthetic products in various fields.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Effects of Essential Oil of Black Caraway (Nigella sativa L.) Seeds against Drug-Resistant Clinically Pathogenic Microorganisms

Nigella sativa (NS) is a plant that has long been utilized in traditional medicine as a treatment for certain diseases. The aim of this work was to valorize the essential oil (EO) of this species by phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial and antioxidant evaluation. EO was extracted by hydrodistillation from the seeds of Nigella sativa (EO-NS). Phytochemical content of EO-NS was evaluated by use of gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS). Antioxidant ability was in vitro determined by use of three assays: 2.2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing power (FRAP), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) relative to two synthetic antioxidants: BHT and quercetin. Antimicrobial effect was evaluated against four clinically important bacterial strains (Staphylococcus aureus, ATCC 6633; Escherichia coli, K12; Bacillus subtilis, DSM 6333; and Proteus mirabilis, ATCC 29906) and against four fungal strains (Candida albicans, ATCC 10231; Aspergillus niger, MTCC 282; Aspergillus flavus, MTCC 9606; and Fusarium oxysporum, MTCC 9913). Fifteen constituents that accounted for the majority of the mass of the EO-NS were identified and quantified by use of GC-MSMS. The main component was O-cymene (37.82%), followed by carvacrol (17.68%), α-pinene (10.09%), trans-sabinene hydrate (9.90%), and 4-terpineol (7.15%). EO-NS exhibited significant antioxidant activity with IC50, EC50, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of $0.017\pm 0.0002$ , $0.1196\pm 0.012$ , and $114.059\pm 0.97$  mg EAA/g, respectively. Additionally, EO-NS exhibited promising antibacterial activity on all strains under investigation, especially on E. coli K12 resulting in inhibition diameter of $38.67\pm 0.58$  mm and a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of $1.34\pm 0.00$  μg/mL. Also, EO-NS had significant antifungal efficacy, with a percentage of inhibition of $67.45\pm 2.31$ % and MIC of $2.69\pm 0.00$  μg/mL against F. oxysporum, MTCC 9913 and with a diameter of inhibition $42\pm 0.00$  mm and MIC of $0.67\pm 0.00$  μg/mL against C. albicans. To minimize development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, EO-NS can be utilized as a natural, alternative to synthetic antibiotics and antioxidants to treat free radicals implicated in microbial infection-related inflammatory reactions.

Metabolome and Microbiome Signatures in the Leaves of Wild Tea Plant Resources Resistant to Pestalotiopsis theae

Tea (Camellia sinensis) is an important crop that is mainly used in the food industry. This study using the metabolome and microbiome investigates the resistance factors of wild tea plant resources against tea gray blight disease, which is caused by Pestalotiopsis theae (Sawada) Steyaert. According to the interaction analysis of tea leaves and pathogenic fungus, the resistance of wild tea plant resource “R1” (Resistance 1) to tea gray blight disease was significantly higher than that of wild tea plant resource “S1” (Susceptibility 1). The difference between “R1” and “S1” in the metabolome was obvious. There were 145 metabolites that significantly changed. The phenolic acids and flavonoids were the major increased categories in “R1,” and it included 4-O-glucosyl-sinapate and petunidin-3-o-(6”-o-p-coumaroyl) rutinoside. Six metabolic pathways were significantly enriched, including aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, flavone, and flavonol biosynthesis. In terms of bacteria, there was no significant difference between “S1” and “R1” in the principal component analysis (PCA). Pseudomonas was the major bacterial genus in “S1” and “R1.” In addition, each of the two resources had its own predominant genus: Cellvibirio was a predominant bacterial genus in “S1” and Candidatus_competibacter was a predominant bacterial genus in “R1.” In terms of fungi, the fungal diversity and the abundance of the two tea plant resource samples could be distinguished clearly. The fungal component of “S1” was more abundant than that of “R1” at the genus level. Toxicocladosporium was the predominant fungal genus of “S1,” and Filobasidium was the predominant fungal genus of “R1.” The relative abundance of unclassified-norank-norank-Chloroplast and Penicillium were significantly different between “S1” and “R1.” Penicillium was identified as a potential biomarker. They correlated with some metabolites enriched in “S1” or “R1,” such as L-arginine and quercetin-3-o-(2”-o-rhamnosyl) rutinoside-7-o-glucoside. Overall, phenolic acids, flavonoids, and Penicillium could be functional metabolites or microorganisms that contributed to improving the resistance of wild tea plant resources to tea gray blight disease.

Effects of Manure Removal Frequencies and Deodorants on Ammonia and GHG Concentrations in Livestock House

In order to mitigate the concentration of NH3 and greenhouse gases (GHGs: CO2, N2O, CH4) in livestock houses, two experiments, one determining the ideal manure removal frequency by cleaning the feces from a livestock house once, twice, three, and four times a day, and one in which microbial deodorant and VenaZn deodorant were sprayed, were conducted in a rabbit breeding house. The NH3, CO2, N2O, and CH4 concentrations were monitored continuously with an Innova 1512 photoacoustic gas monitor during the experiments. The results were as follows: the manure removal frequency had a significant impact on the average concentrations of NH3, CO2, and CH4 in the rabbit house. Cleaning the feces in the rabbit breeding house two to three times a day significantly reduced the NH3 concentration, and, on the contrary, cleaning the feces four times a day increased the NH3 concentration in rabbit house; increasing the manure removal frequency significantly reduced the concentrations of CO2 and CH4 in the rabbit house. Considering the average concentrations of NH3, CO2, N2O, and CH4 in the rabbit house and economic cost, it was better to remove feces twice a day. The average NH3 and CO2 concentration declined significantly within 3 days in the summer and winter; the N2O concentration declined within 3 days in the summer but did not decline in the winter; and there was no effect on the CH4 concentration in the summer and in the winter after spraying the rabbit house with microbial deodorant. Therefore, it was better to spray microbial deodorant twice a week on Monday and Thursday to reduce the NH3, CO2, and N2O concentrations in rabbit houses. The NH3, CO2, N2O, and CH4 concentrations first showed a decreasing trend and then an increasing trend over 5 days in the summer and 7 days in the winter after VenaZn deodorant was sprayed in the rabbit house, and the NH3, CO2, N2O, and CH4 concentrations on day 3 and day 4 were significantly lower than they were on the other days.

Antimicrobial, antioxidant and antileishmanial activities of Ziziphus lotus leaves

The aim of this study was to investigate antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of different fractions obtained from edible Tunisian Ziziphus Lotus leaves of Tozeur region. Different organic extracts were tested: cyclohexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and water. Bio-guided fractionation revealed that dichloromethane fraction is the most active against S. aureus and Methicillin-resistant S. aureus strains. Moreover, this fraction showed the highest antileishmanial activity with IC₅₀ values of 20.55 ± 0.34 μg/mL and 15.37 ± 0.17 μg/mL against L. major and L. infantum, respectively. The potentialities of antibacterial and leishmanicidal activities found in dichloromethane could be explained by the presence of major flavonoids such as catechin, rutin and luteolin 7-O-glucoside as revealed by HPLC system. The observed moderate antifungal activity, which was only given by butanolic fraction against pathogen fungi, may be attributed to the presence of chlorogenic acid. Furthermore, dichloromethane and butanolic fraction showed a good DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl hydrazyl) scavenging activity and Ferric reducing power. These results suggest that Ziziphus lotus leaf fractions might be used as antioxidant and antimicrobialagent.

Comparison of Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Activity for Fermented and Unfermented Rooibos Samples Extracted with Water and Methanol

Rooibos is brewed from the medicinal plant Aspalathus linearis. It has a well-established wide spectrum of bio-activity properties, which in part may be attributed to the phenolic antioxidant power. The antioxidant capacity (AOC) of rooibos is related to its total phenolic content (TPC). The relation between TPC and AOC of randomly selected 51 fermented (FR) and 47 unfermented (UFR) rooibos samples was studied after extraction using water and methanol separately. The resulted extracts were assessed using two antioxidant assays, trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). The results were analyzed using both simple statistical methods and machine learning. The analysis showed different trends of TPC and AOC correlations of FR and UFR samples, depending on the solvent used for extraction. The results of the water extracts showed similar TPC and higher AOC of FR than UFR samples, while the methanolic extracted samples showed higher TPC and AOC of UFR than FR. As a result, the methanolic extracts showed better agreement between TPC and AOC than water extracts. Possible explanations are given for these observed results. Although, the current literature demonstrates direct correlations of the TPC and AOC of rooibos water extracts. This study showed deviation and highlighted the importance of solvent selection and analysis methodology as an important factor in determining the TPC/AOC correlation and subsequently the expectation of the actual health benefits of rooibos herbal tea. In particular, unfermented and fermented samples can be accurately identified on the basis of a combination of assays (any two of TPC, FRAP and TEAC), especially if methanol is the solvent used. Machine learning analysis of assay data provides nearly identical results with classical statistical analytical methods. This is the first report on machine learning analysis and comparison of the TPC and AOC of rooibos herbal tea extracted with methanol and water, and highlights the importance of using methanol as a solvent to evaluate its AOC.

Current extraction, purification, and identification techniques of tea polyphenols: An updated review

Tea, as a beverage, has been reputed for its health benefits and gained worldwide popularity. Tea polyphenols, especially catechins, as the main bioactive compounds in tea, exhibit diverse health benefits and have wide applications in the food industry. The development of tea polyphenol-incorporated products is dependent on the extraction, purification, and identification of tea polyphenols. Recent years, many green and novel extraction, purification, and identification techniques have been developed for the preparation of tea polyphenols. This review, therefore, introduces the classification of tea and summarizes the main conventional and novel techniques for the extraction of polyphenols from various tea products. The advantages and disadvantages of these techniques are also intensively discussed and compared. In addition, the purification and identification techniques are summarized. It is hoped that this updated review can provide a research basis for the green and efficient extraction, purification, and identification of tea polyphenols, which can facilitate their utilization in the production of various functional food products and nutraceuticals.

Mineral Composition, Phenolic Content, and In Vitro Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Properties of Aqueous and Organic Extracts of Haloxylon scoparium Aerial Parts

Haloxylon scoparium is a plant widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of diabetes. Hence, this study focuses on the mineralogical and chemical composition and evaluation of the antidiabetic and antioxidant activities of the aerial part of this species. The mineralogical analysis was done by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (ICP-AES). The phytochemical study consisted in the preparation of different extracts from the aerial part by aqueous and organic extraction using Soxhlet and cold maceration. Then, phytochemical screening was performed on the plant powder and on the extracts, which is completed by spectrophotometric quantification of total polyphenols, flavonoids, and catechic tannins. The evaluation of antidiabetic activity was done by three enzymes: a-amylase, a-glucosidase, and ß-galactosidase, and that of antioxidant activity was done by five methods: H₂O₂, DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and reducing power (RP). Mineralogical analysis revealed the presence of iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium, copper, calcium, strontium, selenium, and zinc. The studied part is rich in alkaloids, flavonoids, catechic tannins, and saponins. The methanolic extract is rich in total polyphenols (161.65 ± 1.52 Ug EAG/mg E), and the ethyl acetate extract has high levels of catechic tannins (23.69 ± 0.6 Ug EC/mg E). In addition, the decoctate expresses a high flavonoid content of 306.59 ± 4.35 Ug EQ/mg E. The in vitro evaluation of the antidiabetic activity showed that the decoctate has a higher inhibitory capacity on a-glucosidase (IC50 = 181.7 ± 21.15 ug/mL) than acarbose (IC50 = 195 ± 6.12 ug/mL). The results of the antioxidant activity showed that the methanolic extract and the decoctate present a percentage of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) scavenging (20.91 ± 0.27 and 16.21 ± 0.39%) higher than that of ascorbic acid (14.35 ± 0.002%). Positive correlations obtained between the total polyphenol content and the antioxidant activity of the extracts were studied. A positive correlation of a-amylase inhibitory activity was also recorded with the antioxidant activity tests.

Grape (Vitis vinifera L. cv. País) Juices Obtained by Steam Extraction

Vitis vinifera L. cv. País is an ancestral Chilean grape undervalued due to its undesirable oenological characteristics. In this study, steam extraction for the production of grape juice, a new product, according to our knowledge, is proposed as an alternative for the valorization of this fruit. The effect of the extraction time on the composition and antioxidant capacity of País grape juice obtained was evaluated, as well as the change in the phenolic profile during storage. The soluble solid values and total polyphenol and total anthocyanin content increased with the extraction time. However, a residence time of the juice in the extraction device higher than 10 min led to thermal degradation of anthocyanins and flavonols. The most abundant phenolic compound identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD in the País grape juice was cinnamic acid. The storage of juices had a greater effect on anthocyanin and flavonol losses than the residence time of the juice in the extraction device. The antioxidant capacity of juice measured by ABTS and ferric reducing power assays ranged from 3 to 5 mmol trolox/L and from 10 to 18 mM Fe2+/L, respectively. In summary, steam extraction is a viable method to produce País grape juice with antioxidant capacity.

Phytochemical Screening and Antioxidant and Cytotoxic Effects of Acacia macrostachya

Acacia macrostachya is used in Burkina Faso folk medicine for the treatment of inflammation and cancer. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of this plant. The cytotoxic effects of root (dichloromethane B1 and methanol B2) and stem (dichloromethane B3 and methanol B4) bark extracts of A. macrostachya were assessed on chronic K562 and acute U937 myeloid leukemia cancer cells using trypan blue, Hoechst, and MitoTracker Red staining methods. The antioxidant content of extracts was evaluated using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl) and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) methods. The root bark extracts B1 and B2 of A. macrostachya demonstrated higher cytotoxicity with IC₅₀ values in a low µg/mL range on both U937 and K562 cells, while the stem bark B4 extract selectively affected U937 cells. Overall, healthy proliferating peripheral blood mononuclear cells (pPBMCs) were not or barely impacted in the range of concentrations cytotoxic to cancer cells. In addition, A. macrostachya exhibited significant antioxidant content with 646.06 and 428.08 µg ET/mg of extract for the B4 and B2 extracts, respectively. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and terpenoids/steroids. The results of this study highlight the interest of A. macrostachya extracts for the isolation of anticancer molecules.

GC-MS analysis and molecular docking of bioactive compounds of Camellia sinensis and Camellia assamica

The methanol extract of Camellia sinensis (MES) and acetone extract of Camellia assamica (AEA) were subjected to the thin layer chromatography to separate the bioactive compounds. The antimicrobial activity of all the fractions was carried out against pathogenic microorganisms by the agar-well diffusion method. The most effective bioactive fraction of each plant species was analysed by GC-MS. Fraction L of methanol extract of C. sinensis (MES) and fraction 5 of acetone extract of C. assamica (AEA) were found very effective against selected pathogenic strains. GC-MS analysis of this fraction showed the presence of n-heptadecanol-1 (68.63%) in MES and 2',6'dihydroxyacetophenone, bis(trimethylsilyl) (17.58%) in AEA with the highest area. The compounds n-heptadecanol-1 and 2',6'dihydroxyacetophenone, bis(trimethylsilyl) ether were used for docking to analyse its therapeutic potential. The ligand compound n-heptadecanol-1 (HEP) from MES of C. sinensis and 2',6'dihydroxyacetophenone, bis(trimethylsilyl) ether from AEA of C. assamica were docked with the target protein dihydropteoate synthase (DHPS) active sites of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus active sites via Auto Dock Vina, thereby forecasting the finest binding position of ligands. AutoDock Vina docked results revealed the involvement of binding energy for the establishment of the protein-ligand structure complex, besides generating an interpretation of all apparent molecular interactions accountable for its activity. Further, the protein-ligand complex of MES, EcDHPS + HEP and SaDHPS + HEP exhibiting the best binding affinity were - 4.8 kcal/mol and - 3.6 kcal/mol. The protein-ligand complex of AEA, i.e., EcDHPS + DHA and SaDHPS + DHA exhibited the best binding affinity of - 4.8 kcal/mol and - 4.8 kcal/mol.

Correlation of Total Polyphenolic Content with Antioxidant Activity of Hydromethanolic Extract and Their Fractions of the Salvia officinalis Leaves from Different Regions of Morocco

The purpose of this study is to determine the total content of phenols, flavonoids, and condensed tannins, as well as on the antioxidant activity of the extract, and their fractions were measured by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), phosphomolybdate reduction (or total antioxidant capacity), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The hydromethanolic extract of Salvia officinalis showed the highest values of total phenolic (176 mgGAE/g of extract) and condensed tannins (162.53 mgEC/g of extract) from the Boulemane and Khenifra regions, respectively. The results showed that the best DPPH assay was found in the ethyl acetate fraction of Salvia officinalis leaves of the Boulemane region (IC50 = 0.002 mg/ml). For the ethyl acetate and butanolic fractions of Salvia officinalis leaves, those collected from different regions have a better reducing capacity (EC50 = 0.021 mg/ml, respectively). For the total antioxidant capacity, the best activity was found in the aqueous fraction of Salvia officinalis leaves of the Boulemane region (108 mgGAE/g of extract). By the cyclic voltammetry method, hydromethanolic extract of Salvia officinalis leaves from the Boulemane region showed an important result (288.8 mgGAE/g). There was a positive correlation between total phenol content (TPC), condensed tannin content (TCT), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (r = 0.932, r = 0.896, respectively). The main compounds that have been identified in the hydromethanolic extract of Salvia officinalis are ascorbic acid, gallic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, tannic acid, and rutin. Due to their antioxidant property, the leaf extracts from Salvia officinalis are used as natural preservative ingredients in food and/or pharmaceutical industries.

High-Throughput Screening and Characterization of Phenolic Compounds in Stone Fruits Waste by LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS and Their Potential Antioxidant Activities

Stone fruits, including peach (Prunus persica L.), nectarine (Prunus nucipersica L.), plum (Prunus domestica L.) and apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) are common commercial fruits in the market. However, a huge amount of stone fruits waste is produced throughout the food supply chain during picking, handling, processing, packaging, storage, transportation, retailing and final consumption. These stone fruits waste contain high phenolic content which are the main contributors to the antioxidant potential and associated health benefits. The antioxidant results showed that plum waste contained higher concentrations of total phenolic content (TPC) (0.94 ± 0.07 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g) and total flavonoid content (TFC) (0.34 ± 0.01 mg quercetin equivalents (QE)/g), while apricot waste contained a higher concentration of total tannin content (TTC) (0.19 ± 0.03 mg catechin equivalents (CE)/g) and DPPH activity (1.47 ± 0.12 mg ascorbic acid equivalents (AAE)/g). However, nectarine waste had higher antioxidant capacity in ferric reducing-antioxidant power (FRAP) (0.98 ± 0.02 mg AAE/g) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) (0.91 ± 0.09 mg AAE/g) assays, while peach waste showed higher antioxidant capacity in 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS) assay (0.43 ± 0.09 mg AAE/g) as compared to other stone fruits waste. Qualitative and quantitative phenolic analysis of Australian grown stone fruits waste were conducted by liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray-ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS) and HPLC-photodiode array detection (PDA). The LC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS result indicates that 59 phenolic compounds were tentatively characterized in peach (33 compounds), nectarine (28), plum (38) and apricot (23). The HPLC-PDA indicated that p-hydroxybenzoic acid (18.64 ± 1.30 mg/g) was detected to be the most dominant phenolic acid and quercetin (19.68 ± 1.38 mg/g) was the most significant flavonoid in stone fruits waste. Hence, it could be concluded that stone fruit waste contains various phenolic compounds and have antioxidant potential. The results could support the applications of these stone fruit wastes in other food, feed, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries.

From untargeted metabolomics to the multiple reaction monitoring-based quantification of polyphenols in chocolates from different geographical areas

Plants, including cocoa bean, are the main source of metabolites with multiple biological functions. Polyphenol extracts are widely used as a nutraceutical supplement for their well-known health-promoting role. In this paper, a preliminary untargeted metabolic screening was carried out by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI)-time of flight (TOF)/TOF on a pool of chocolate samples made by cocoa beans of different geographical areas. Then, a targeted approach was developed for polyphenol quantification by an optimized Liquid chromatography (LC)-tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) method multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) ion mode. Detection limit of polyphenol standard ranged between 1 and 25 pg/μl with variation coefficient lower than 15%. External calibration curves were used for quantification of polyphenols in 18 samples. Fifty polyphenols were detected in a single LC-MRM/MS run and quantified by monitoring almost 90 transitions in a 5-minute run. The polyphenols content of different cocoa beans from several countries was finally compared by principal component analysis (PCA) statistical analysis suggesting that the chocolate made by Ecuador cocoa beans showed the highest level of polyphenols.

Phytochemical screening, polyphenols, flavonoids and tannin content, antioxidant activities and FTIR characterization of Marrubium vulgare L. from 2 different localities of Northeast of Morocco

Chemical compositions, biological and antioxidant activities of plants are widely affected by several parameters and conditions, such as geographical and climatic conditions, type of extract (aqueous or organic), as well as the polarity of the extracting solvent. Therefore the present study was the first one designed to study the phytochemical composition, the content of polyphenols, tannins and flavonoids, the antioxidant activities and the chemical composition analysis by FTIR spectroscopic of organic (ethanol, methanol, ethyl Acetate, petroleum ether) and aqueous extracts of Marrubium vulgare L. leaves, collected from two different sampling localities in the North-East of Morocco: Oulad Daoud Zkhanine and the Cape Three Forks. A phytochemical screening was carried out by specific coloring and precipitation reactions. The colorimetric method Folin- Ciocalteu was used for the quantification of total phenolic content. The method of aluminum chloride was employed for the quantification of total flavonoid content and the method of vanillin for the determination of tannins. The antioxidant power was evaluated by the DPPH and ABTS methods. The chemical composition of the organic extracts was analyzed by the FTIR spectroscopy method. Depending on the sampling location of M.vulgare L., the type of extract (aqueous or organic), the polarity of the extracting solvent, and the phytochemical screening revealed the presence of the following secondary metabolites: catechic tannins, terpenoids, polyphenols and flavonoids. The total concentrations of total polyphenols, flavonoids and tannins varied respectively between 0.27 ± 0.1 and 86.91 ± 1.22 μg gallic acid equivalents/mg,6.08 ± 0.17 and 33.82 ± 0.90 μg quercetin equivalents/mg and 2.73 ± 1.15 and 252.68 ± 4.50 μg catechin equivalents/mg. The antioxidant activity that was evaluated by DPPH and ABTS method showed that ethanol extract, methanol and ethyl acetate extract had the highest percentages of inhibition, unlike petroleum ether extract. The inhibitory concentrations (IC₅₀) ranged from 324.55 ± 0.66 to 980 ± 0.62 μg/ml for DPPH and from 107.85 ± 0.19 to 890.74 ± 0.17 μg/ml for ABTS. FTIR spectroscopic analysis has revealed different characteristic peak values with various functional groups in the extracts such as amide, alcohol, phenol compounds. In general, the organic and aqueous extracts of M.vulgare L. that were harvested from Oulad Daoud Zkhanin were richer in secondary metabolites, and showed higher concentrations of polyphenol, flavonoids and tannins. In addition, they revealed a higher antioxidant capacity than the extracts of M. vulgare L.from the Cape Three Forks.

Overall this study highlighted the potential benefits and richness of M.vulgare L. harvested from the two study areas and suggested it as a potential source of natural antioxidants that could be used in the food and pharmaceutical fields.

Antioxidant Activity of Dictyotales from Tropical Reefs of Brazil

Macroalgae produce a large range of primary and secondary metabolites with ecological and economical importance. Studies on antioxidants from marine algae have increased notably, focusing on searching new sources of natural compounds for different applications, in which tropical species have been shown to have high potential, often improved by stressful environmental conditions during the tide cycle with periods of emersion and submersion. Therefore, in order to characterize the antioxidant activity and relate it to local environmental tide exposure, three species of brown marine algae, Canistrocarpus cervicornis, Dictyopteris delicatula, and Lobophora variegata from two beaches on the northeast coast of Brazil were studied. Dichloromethane:methanol (DCM:M) and aqueous extracts were tested for ferric reducing antioxidant power, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) antioxidant assays and total phenolic compounds. Aqueous extracts of C. cervicornis showed up to 10 times major antioxidant activity and phenolic compounds than DCM:M extracts. Different characteristic of antioxidant activity were identified among the beaches, species, and extracts, in which aqueous extracts from C. cervicornis and L. variegata showed the most promising matrices for future prospection of natural antioxidants.

Development of Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis Miller) probiotic lassi using Lactobacillus fermentum bacteria

The aim of this research was to investigate the effect of Aloe vera gel on the quality of probiotic lassi. Probiotic lassi was prepared by adding 15% of Aloe vera gel and inoculating with probiotic Lactobacillus fermentum strain. Results showed that physicochemical properties of fortified probiotic lassi were not affected by these modifications during the storage period (P>0.05), however, antioxidant activities, texture and aroma sensory parameters differed significantly (P<0.05). Lactobacillus and Streptococcus counts exhibited same behavior in Aloe vera probiotic lassi products as in control (P>0.05) after 21 days of storage. Aloe vera probiotic lassi has a beneficial effect on human health.

Evaluation of the level of biomolecules isolated from date palm seeds (Phoenix dactylifera) and in vitro Antioxidant property

Date palm fruits and by-products such as seeds are a source of various elements with significant nutritional values like fibres, minerals, essential fatty acids, amino acids and phenolic compounds. The experimental part was carried out on date palm seeds from Bent Kbala cultivar, the chemical composition of the organic fraction was determined using the method of UV-visible spectrophotometer, thin layer chromatography (TLC) and high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). The results revealed the presence of catechic tannins and approximately 17 phenolic compounds, including two compounds, which were identified for the first time in the date palm sub-product, especially in seeds such as naringenin and rutine. The assessment of the antioxidant potential shows that date palm seeds have a significant potential compared to standard antioxidants commonly used in cosmetics and neutraceutics industries.

Effect of preservation on the physical and chemical properties of the temporal fascia

OBJECTIVE

The temporal fascia has been widely used in tympanoplasty. In addition, the preserved fascia has been also used in the ear surgery. In this study, we planned the experiments to determine whether physical and chemical properties of the fascia preserved at a low temperature.

METHODS

Preserved temporal fasciae from 21 patients were used in this study. The thickness of the temporal fascia was measured under a 3D laser microscope. The tensile strength was evaluated using a tensile tester. In addition, the chemical property evaluated was the biologic antioxidative potential of samples.

RESULTS

The results showed that the strength of the fascia was not affected by the retention period. The thick fascia tended to show the less tensile strength. The intensity was highest in middle-aged donors when compared to young and older donor. The antioxidative potentials did not affect the preservation.

CONCLUSION

The results suggested that the preserved temporal fascia could be safely used for tympanoplasty.

Safety assessment of the ethanolic extract of Gongronema latifolium Benth. leaves: a 90-day oral toxicity study in Sprague Dawley rats

Background

The leaves of Gongronema latifolium Benth. have long been recognized traditionally as a remedy for a variety of ailments in Africa. This study was conducted to evaluate the safety profile of the ethanolic extract of G. latifolium (GLES) leaves through a repeated dose 90-day oral toxicity study in male and female of Sprague Dawley rats.

Methods

GLES was orally administered at doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg/day consecutively for 90 days.

Results

No behavioral or physiological changes and mortality were observed. GLES did not have a marked impact on general hematological parameters and did not precipitate nephrotoxicity. However, compared to the control, serum triglycerides, total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein levels were lower and white adipose tissue paired retroperitoneal fat depots were depleted in male rats treated with GLES3 by the end of the experiment. The liver was significantly enlarged in GLES-treated rats of both sexes. Negative gender-specific alterations were observed with the highest dose. Adverse risk was evident in the female rats mainly due to marked body weight gain and cerebrum weight reduction.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to reach more specific conclusions about to the safety of ingesting high doses of GLES for long periods of time.

Chemistry, pharmacology and new trends in traditional functional and medicinal beverages

Functional and medicinal beverages consumption plays an important role in human health, considering that metabolites, with a wide range of pharmacological effects, are inserted in the human diet. Nowadays, the most consumed beverages are obtained from Camellia sinensis leaves and coffee grain processing, and contain different classes of polyphenols and phenolic acids in their phytochemical composition. Besides C. sinensis and coffee, numerous plants have been receiving attention due to their phytochemical composition and pharmacological effects, such as yerba mate, hibiscus, chamomile, lemongrass, fennel and mentha. Furthermore, atomized or lyophilized medicinal plant extracts can be employed in many beverage formulations and the consumption of these products is an excellent delivery means for nutrients and bioactive compounds, such as: minerals, vitamins, terpenes, antioxidants, saponins, alkaloids and polysaccharides. Innovation in food processing in order to insert functional and medicinal beverages in the human diet poses a challenge for the coming years. The technological development of new processing forms and use of plants with bioactive metabolites could be an important tool in relation to this proposal. In this context, this review has aimed to summarize and analyze pharmacological, phytochemistry and technological aspects of species with classical ethnobotanical and traditional use.

Lipid peroxidation diminishing perspective of isolated theaflavins and thearubigins from black tea in arginine induced renal malfunctional rats

BACKGROUND

Recently oxidative stress induced maladies have amplified owing to sedentary lifestyle and monotonous diet. Introduction of plant based biomolecules may be a suitable strategy to cope with the lipid peroxidation. In this context, black tea polyphenols (theaflavin & thearubigins) are in fame among the scientific community as cost effective therapeutic agents owing to their safety, economics, structural diversity and ability to modulate various lipid peroxidation responses by halting the expression of different metabolic targets.

METHODS

The mandate of present investigation was to first time check the synergism among the isolated theaflavins & thearubigins against lipid peroxidative indicators both in vitro and in vivo. Purposely, theaflavins and thearubigins were isolated from black tea through solvent partition methods by using different solvents (Aqueous ethanol, Aqueous methanol & Water) and time intervals (30, 60 & 90 min) and subjected to in vitro characterization through different antioxidant indices to access the in vitro lipid peroxidation shooting effect of these bioactive moieties. Moreover, individual theaflavins contents also estimate through HPLC. For evaluation of in vivo antioxidant effect, renal malfunction was induced through arginine and forty rats were divided in four groups (10 each after power analysis) and 04 types of diets were given i.e. T0 (control diet without supplementation), T1 (Basic experimental Diet+ theaflavins supplementation @ 1 g), T2 (Basic experimental Diet+ Thearubigins supplementation @ 1 g) & T3 (Basic experimental Diet+ Supplementation of theaflavins+ thearubigins @ 0.5 + 0.5 g, respectively) for the period of 56 days. Alongside, a control study was also carried out for comparison by involving normal rats fed on arginine free diet. The body weight, lipid profile, glycemic responses, Renal function test, liver function test, antioxidant indices and hematological parameters were estimated at the termination of study.

RESULTS

The results indicated that theaflavins and thearubigins isolation was significantly affected by time of extraction and solvent. In this context, aqueous ethanol at 60 min extraction interval caused maximum extraction. Likewise, theaflavins isolate exhibited more antioxidant activity as compared to thearubigins. Moreover, the theaflavins and thearubigins based experimental diets imparted significant reduction in Lipid profile, glucose content, renal function tests and TBARS with enhancement in insulin, HDL and hematological parameters. In this context, theaflavin based diet caused maximum reduction in lipid profile and TBARS better as compared to thearubigins and theaflavins + thearubigins based. However, theaflavin+ thearubigins based diet caused highest glucose, urea & creatinine decline and maximum insulin increase & antioxidant indices as compared to other nutraceuticals.

CONCLUSIONS

It was deduced that theaflavins & thearubigins have strong antioxidative potential both in in vitro as well as in vivo to tackle the menace associated with lipid peroxidation.

Roselle Anthocyanins: Antioxidant Properties and Stability to Heat and pH

Roselle is rich in anthocyanins and is traditionally used to prepare a bright red beverage by decoction. However, heat treatment and different pH environments are often encountered during food processing, and these factors are often detrimental to anthocyanins. Therefore, it is very important to understand the influence of pH and heat treatment on anthocyanins for the application of roselle. This study determined the antioxidant properties of roselle extract, explored changes in the color and anthocyanin content in different pH environments, and evaluated the thermal stability of roselle anthocyanins using kinetic equations. The results showed that the roselle extract is rich in anthocyanins and has good antioxidant capacity (DPPH IC50 = 4.06 mg/mL, ABTS IC50 = 3.7 mg/mL). The anthocyanins themselves exhibited a certain degree of heat resistance and good color stability in an acidic environment. In contrast, they degraded very quickly and exhibited significant changes in color in a low-acid environment. The activation energy (Ea) ranges of the anthocyanins in the acidic and low-acid environments were quite different at 55.8–95.7 and 31.4–74.9 kJ/mol, respectively. Thus, it can be concluded that roselle anthocyanins are susceptible to heat treatment in a low-acid environment, affecting their quality and appearance; however, they can serve as a good source of functional ingredients and color in an acidic environment.

An Improved Weighted Partial Least Squares Method Coupled with Near Infrared Spectroscopy for Rapid Determination of Multiple Components and Anti-Oxidant Activity of Pu-Erh Tea

Background: Pu-erh tea is a unique microbially fermented tea, which distinctive chemical constituents and activities are worthy of systematic study. Near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) coupled with suitable chemometrics approaches can rapidly and accurately quantitatively analyze multiple compounds in samples. Methods: In this study, an improved weighted partial least squares (PLS) algorithm combined with near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) was used to construct a fast calibration model for determining four main components, i.e., tea polyphenols, tea polysaccharide, total flavonoids, theanine content, and further determine the total antioxidant capacity of pu-erh tea. Results: The final correlation coefficients R square for tea polyphenols, tea polysaccharide, total flavonoids content, theanine content, and total antioxidant capacity were 0.8288, 0.8403, 0.8415, 0.8537 and 0.8682, respectively. Conclusions: The current study provided a comprehensive study of four main ingredients and activity of pu-erh tea, and demonstrated that NIR spectroscopy technology coupled with multivariate calibration analysis could be successfully applied to pu-erh tea quality assessment.

Mixture Design and Doehlert Matrix for the Optimization of the Extraction of Phenolic Compounds from Spondias mombin L Apple Bagasse Agroindustrial Residues

In this study, we have determined, using RSM (mixture design and Doehlert matrix), the optimum values of the independent variables to achieve the maximum response for the extraction of total phenolic compounds from Spondias mombin L bagasse agroindustrial residues in order to preserve their antioxidant activity. The extraction of phenolic compounds, as well as their antioxidant capacity and the capacity to scavenge ABTS, was determined by the modified DPPH method at different periods of time, temperature, velocity of rotation and solvents concentration. We observed that the optimum condition for the highest antioxidant yield was obtained using water (60.84%), acetone (30.31%), and ethanol (8.85%) at 30°C during 20 min at 50 rpm. We have also found that the maximum yield of total phenolics was 355.63 ± 9.77 (mg GAE/100 g), showing an EC₅₀ of 3,962.24 ± 41.20 (g fruit/g of DPPH) and 8.36 ± 0.30 (μM trolox/g fruit), which were measured using DPPH and ABTS assays. These results suggest that RSM was successfully applied for optimizing the extraction of phenolics compounds thus preserving their antioxidant activity.

Antimutagenic and anticlastogenic effects of Turkish Black Tea on TA98 and TA100 strains of Salmonella typhimurium (in vitro) and mice (in vivo)

CONTEXT

Black tea has been reported to have significant antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties associated with its polyphenols theaflavins (TF) and thearubigins (TR). Similarly, Turkish black tea (TBT) also contains a considerable amount of TF and TR.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the mutagenic, antimutagenic and anticlastogenic properties of TBT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The mutagenic and antimutagenic effects of TBT (10 to 40000 μg/plate) were investigated in vitro on Salmonella strains TA98 and TA100 with and without S9 fraction. Anticlastogenic effect was studied at concentrations of 300-1200 mg/kg TBT extract by chromosomal aberrations (CA) assay from bone marrow of mice.

RESULTS

The results of this study did not reveal any mutagenic properties of TBT. On the contrary, TBT extract exhibited antimutagenic activity at >1000 μg/plate concentrations in TA98 strain with and without S9 activation (40% inhibition with S9 and 27% without S9). In TA100 strain, the antimutagenic activity was observed at >20,000 μg/plate TBT extracts without S9 activation (28% inhibition) and at >1000 μg/plate with S9 activation (59% inhibition). A significant decrease in the percentage of aberrant cells (12.33% ± 1.27) was observed in dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) plus highest concentration (1200 mg/kg) of TBT extract-treated group when compared to only DMBA-treated group (17.00% ± 2.28).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Results indicated that TBT can be considered as genotoxically safe, because it did not exert any mutagenic and clastogenic effects. As a result, TBT exhibited antimutagenic effects more apparently after metabolic activation in bacterial test system and had an anticlastogenic effect in mice.