Influence of Bioactive Compounds Incorporated in a Nanoemulsion as Coating on Avocado Fruits (Persea americana) during Postharvest Storage: Antioxidant Activity, Physicochemical Changes and Structural Evaluation

The objective of the present study was to determine the effect of the application of a nanoemulsion made of orange essential oil and Opuntia oligacantha extract on avocado quality during postharvest. The nanoemulsion was applied as a coating in whole fruits, and the following treatments were assessed: concentrated nanoemulsion (CN), 50% nanoemulsion (N50), 25% nanoemulsion (N25) and control (C). Weight loss, firmness, polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity, total soluble solids, pH, external and internal colour, total phenols, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity by 2,2'-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), while the structural evaluation of the epicarp was assessed through histological cuts. Significant differences were found (p < 0.05) among the treatments in all the response variables. The best results were with the N50 and N25 treatments for firmness and weight loss, finding that the activity of the PPO was diminished, and a delay in the darkening was observed in the coated fruits. Furthermore, the nanoemulsion treatments maintained the total phenol and total flavonoid contents and potentiated antioxidant activity at 60 days. This histological study showed that the nanoemulsion has a delaying effect on the maturation of the epicarp. The results indicate that using this nanoemulsion as a coating is an effective alternative to improve the postharvest life of avocado.

Antioxidant and antibacterial activities of a starch film with bioextracts microencapsulated from cactus fruits (Opuntia oligacantha)

The use of unconventional sources is very relevant in the food area. In the present study the development of active films with the addition of bioextract (BE) or microencapsulated bioextract (MBE) from xoconostle (Opuntia oligacantha) on chayotextle starch was investigated. The film formulations were: 4 g of chayotextle starch, 2 g of glycerol and 180 g of water, three films with BE added (0.4, 0.8 and 1.2 g) and three films with MBE added (0.4, 0.8 and 1.2 g). Total phenols, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity (ABTS and DPPH), Salmonella typhimurium inhibition, color and mechanical properties of the films were analyzed. The film with 1.2 g of MBE showed high concentration of total phenols (54.12 ± 0.77 mg EAG/100 g), total flavonoids (16.65 ± 0.10 mg QE/100 g) and antioxidant activity (29.11 ± 0.48 and 41.42 ± 1.81 mg EAA for ABTS and DPPH respectively). The addition of bioextract from xoconostle is an option for the development of active films with antioxidant properties.

Encapsulation Preserves Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Activities of Cactus Acid Fruit Bioactive Compounds under Simulated Digestion Conditions

Cactus acid fruit (Xoconostle) has been studied due its content of bioactive compounds. Traditional Mexican medicine attributes hypoglycemic, hypocholesterolemic, anti-inflammatory, antiulcerogenic and immunostimulant properties among others. The bioactive compounds contained in xoconostle have shown their ability to inhibit digestive enzymes such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Unfortunately, polyphenols and antioxidants in general are molecules susceptible to degradation due to storage conditions, (temperature, oxygen and light) or the gastrointestinal tract, which limits its activity and compromises its potential beneficial effect on health. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the stability, antioxidant and antidiabetic activity of encapsulated extract of xoconostle within double emulsions (water-in-oil-in-water) during storage conditions and simulated digestion. Total phenols, flavonoids, betalains, antioxidant activity, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition were measured before and after the preparation of double emulsions and during the simulation of digestion. The ED40% (treatment with 40% of xoconostle extract) treatment showed the highest percentage of inhibition of α-glucosidase in all phases of digestion. The inhibitory activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase related to antidiabetic activity was higher in microencapsulated extracts than the non-encapsulated extracts. These results confirm the viability of encapsulation systems based on double emulsions to encapsulate and protect natural antidiabetic compounds.

Multiple Emulsions with Extracts of Cactus Pear Added in A Yogurt: Antioxidant Activity, In Vitro Simulated Digestion and Shelf Life

Consumers demand so-called natural in which additive and antioxidant preservatives are from natural origin. Research focuses in using extracts from plants and fruits that are rich in bioactive compounds such as phenolics and betalains, but these are also prone to interact with proteins and are exposed to suffer degradation during storage. In this work, we developed a fortified yogurt with the addition of betalains and polyphenols from cactus pear extract encapsulated in a multiple emulsion (ME) (W1/O/W2). Different formulations of ME were made with two polymers, gum arabic (GA) and maltodextrin (MD) and with the best formulation of ME four types of yogurt were prepared using different % (w/w) of ME (0%, 10%, 20% and 30%). Bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity, color and lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were analyzed in the different yogurts over 36 days of shelf life. Furthermore, in vitro simulated digestion was evaluated. The yogurts had significant (p < 0.05) differences and the ME protected the bioactive compounds, activity of antioxidants and color. The ME did not affect the viability of LAB during 36 days of storage. The in vitro digestion showed the best bioaccessibilities of antioxidant compounds with the yogurts with ME.

Nanomaterials modify the growth of crops and some characteristics of organisms from agricultural or forest soils: An experimental study at laboratory, greenhouse and land level

Currently, some concerns regarding the potential toxicity of nanoparticles (NP) on the environment have emerged. The effect of ZnO, TiO2, and Fe2O3 NP on corn (Zea mays L.), common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), nanobioremediation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), and soil organisms from agricultural or forest soils was studied at laboratory, greenhouse, and land level. The samples were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy with X-ray energy dispersion spectrometry (FESEM-EDS), scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) gas chromatography (GC), ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS) and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry with attenuated total reflectance (FTIR-ATR). ZnO-NP did not harm the mycorrhizal root colonization but, the presence of ZnO-NP decreased the degradation of PAH. The synthesis of metabolites from corn was more affected by the PAH than by ZnONP. FTIR spectra showed that NP affected the synthesis of compounds from specific functional groups in common bean plants. Fe2O3-NP were attached to the body of forestsoil organisms and significantly increased the concentration of Fe in their body, while TiO2-NP changed the morphological tissue of roots and stems of common bean as witnessed by micrographs of longitudinal and cross-sections. The NP used in this research significantly changed some response variables on the experiments carried-out at laboratory, greenhouse, and land level.

Ecological Drawbacks of Nanomaterials Produced on an Industrial Scale: Collateral Effect on Human and Environmental Health

Currently, hundreds of different nanomaterials with a broad application in products that make daily lives a little bit easier, in every aspect, are being produced on an industrial scale at thousands of tons per year. However, several scientists, researchers, politics, and ordinary citizens have stated their concern regarding the life cycle, collateral effects, and final disposal of these cutting-edge materials. This review summarizes, describes, and discusses all manuscripts published in the Journal Citation Reports during the last 10 years, which studied the toxicity or the effects of nanomaterials on human and environmental health. It was observed that 23.62% of the manuscripts analyzed found no ecological or human risks; 54.39% showed that several nanomaterials have toxicological effects on the ecosystems, human, or environmental health. In comparison, only 21.97% stated the nanomaterials had a beneficial impact on those. Although only 54.39% of the manuscripts reported unfavorable effects of nanomaterials on ecosystems, human, or environmental health, it is relevant because the potential damage is invaluable. Therefore, it is imperative to make toxicological studies of nanomaterials with holistic focus under strictly controlled real conditions before their commercialization, to deliver to the market only innocuous and environmentally friendly products.

The Application of Ultrasound in Honey: Antioxidant Activity, Inhibitory Effect on α-amylase and α-glucosidase, and In Vitro Digestibility Assessment

In the present study, the effects of ultrasound (10, 20, and 30 min) on the bioactive compounds, antioxidant capacity, enzymatic inhibition, and in vitro digestion of six honey extracts from the Oaxaca state, Mexico, were analyzed. Significant differences were found in each honey extract with respect to the ultrasonic treatment applied (p < 0.05). In the honey extract P-A1 treated with 20 min of ultrasound, the phenols reached a maximum concentration of 29.91 ± 1.56 mg EQ/100 g, and the flavonoids of 1.92 ± 0.01 mg EQ/100 g; in addition, an inhibition of α-amylase of 37.14 ± 0.09% was noted. There were also differences in the phases of intestinal and gastric digestion, presenting a decrease in phenols (3.92 ± 0.042 mg EQ/100 g), flavonoids (0.61 ± 0.17 mg EAG/100 mg), antioxidant capacity (8.89 ± 0.56 mg EAG/100 mg), and amylase inhibition (9.59 ± 1.38%). The results obtained from this study indicate that, in some honeys, the processing method could increase the concentration of bioactive compounds, the antioxidant capacity, and the enzymatic inhibition; however, when subjected to in vitro digestion, the properties of honey are modified. The results obtained could aid in the development of these compounds for use in traditional medicine as a natural source of bioactive compounds.

Nutritional Parameters, Biomass Production, and Antioxidant Activity of Festuca arundinacea Schreb. Conditioned with Selenium Nanoparticles

Festuca arundinacea Schreb. is a widely used type of forage due to its great ecological breadth and adaptability. An agricultural intervention that improves the selenium content in cultivated plants has been defined as bio-fortification, a complementary strategy to improve human and non-human animals’ nutrition. The advancement of science has led to an increased number of studies based on nanotechnologies, such as the development of nanoparticles (NPs) and their application in crop plants. Studies show that NPs have different physicochemical properties compared to bulk materials. The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the behavior of F. arundinacea Schreb. plants cultivated with Se nanoparticles, (2) to identify the specific behavior of the agronomic and productive variables of the F. arundinacea Schreb. plants, and (3) to quantify the production and quality of the forage produced from the plant (the bioactive compounds’ concentrations, antioxidant activity, and the concentration of selenium). Three different treatments of SeNPs were established (0, 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 mg/mL). The effects of a foliar fertilization with SeNPs on the morphological parameters such as the root size, plant height, and biomass production were recorded, as well as the effects on the physicochemical parameters such as the crude protein (CP), lipids (L), crude fiber (CF), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), carbohydrates (CH), the content of total phenols, total flavonoids, tannins, quantification of selenium and antioxidant activity 2,2′-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH). Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found between treatments in all the response variables. The best results were obtained with foliar application treatments with 3.0 and 4.5 mg/mL with respect to the root size (12.79 and 15.59 cm) and plant height (26.18 and 29.34 cm). The F. arundinacea Schreb. plants fertilized with 4.5 mg/L had selenium contents of 0.3215, 0.3191, and 0.3218 mg/Kg MS; total phenols of 249.56, 280.02, and 274 mg EAG/100 g DM; and total flavonoids of 63.56, 64.96, and 61.16 mg QE/100 g DM. The foliar biofortified treatment with a concentration of 4.5 mg/mL Se NPs had the highest antioxidant capacities (284.26, 278.35, and 289.96 mg/AAE/100 g).

Bioactive Compounds of Opuntia spp. Acid Fruits: Micro and Nano-Emulsified Extracts and Applications in Nutraceutical Foods

The acid fruit of the "xoconostle" cactus belongs to the genus Opuntia family of cacti. It is used as a functional food for its bioactive compounds. Several studies reported that xoconostle fruits have a high amount of ascorbic acid, betalains, phenols, tannins, and flavonoids. These compounds confer antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective gastroprotective activity. Xoconostle fruit extracts were tested by in vitro assays where the digestion conditions were simulated to measure their stability. At the same time, the extracts were protected by encapsulation (microencapsulation, multiple emulsions, and nanoemulsions). Applications of encapsulated extracts were probed in various food matrices (edible films, meat products, dairy, and fruit coatings). The xoconostle is a natural source of nutraceutical compounds, and the use of this fruit in the new food could help improve consumers' health.

Decrease of Greenhouse Gases during an In Vitro Ruminal Digestibility Test of Forage (Festuca arundinacea) Conditioned with Selenium Nanoparticles

The Festuca arundinacea Schreb. is one of the most used forage grasses due to its duration, productivity, great ecological breadth, and adaptability. Livestock has been criticized for its large production of greenhouse gases (GHG) due to forage. The advancement of science has led to an increase in the number of studies based on nanotechnologies; NPs supplementation in animal nutrition has found positive results in the fermentation of organic matter and the production of fatty acids and ruminal microorganisms. The objectives of this study were (1) to evaluate the in vitro digestibility of forage containing selenium (Se) nanoparticles (NPs), and to identify the specific behavior of the ruminal fermentation parameters of F. arundinacea Schreb. and (2) quantify the production of greenhouse gases (total gas and methane) (3) as well as the release of bioactive compounds (phenols, flavonoids, tannins, and selenium) after fermentation. Three treatments of SeNPs were established (0, 1.5, 3.0, and 4.5 ppm). The effects of foliar fertilization with SeNPs son digestion parameters were registered, such as the in vitro digestion of dry matter (IVDM); total gas production (A_{total gas}) and methane production (A_CH4); pH; incubation time(to); the substrate digestion rate (S); t_Smax and the lag phase (L); as well as the production of volatile fatty acids (VFA), total phenols, total flavonoids, and tannins in ruminal fluid. The best results were obtained in the treatment with the foliar application of 4.5 ppm of SeNPs; IVDMD (60.46, 59.2, and 59.42%), lower total gas production (148.37, 135.22, and 141.93 mL g DM^-1), and CH₄ (53.42, 52.65, and 53.73 mL g DM^-1), as well as a higher concentration of total VFA (31.01, 31.26, and 31.24 mmol L^-1). The best results were obtained in the treatment with the foliar application of 4.5 ppm of SeNPs in the three different harvests; concerning IVDMD (60.46, 59.2, and 59.42%), lower total gas production (148.37, 135.22, and 141.93 mL g DM^-1), and CH₄ (53.42, 52.65, and 53.73 mL g DM^-1), as well as a higher concentration of total VFA (31.01, 31.26, and 31.24 mmol L^-1). The F. arundinacea Schreb. plants fertilized with 4.5 ppm released-in the ruminal fluid during in vitro fermentation-the following contents: total phenols (98.77, 99.31, and 99.08 mgEAG/100 mL), flavonoids (34.96, 35.44, and 34.96 mgQE/100 g DM), tannins (27.22, 27.35, and 27.99 mgEC/100g mL), and selenium (0.0811, 0.0814, and 0.0812 ppm).

Potential Antidiabetic Activity of Apis mellifera Propolis Extraction Obtained with Ultrasound

Recent studies have linked phenolic compounds to the inhibition of digestive enzymes. Propolis extract is consumed or applied as a traditional treatment for some diseases. More than 500 chemical compounds have been identified in propolis composition worldwide. This research aimed to determine Mexican propolis extracts' total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, antioxidant activity, and digestive enzyme inhibitory activity (ɑ-amylase and ɑ-glucosidase). In vitro assays measured the possible effect on bioactive compounds after digestion. Four samples of propolis from different regions of the state of Oaxaca (Mexico) were tested (Eloxochitlán (PE), Teotitlán (PT), San Pedro (PSP), and San Jerónimo (PSJ)). Ethanol extractions were performed using ultrasound. The extract with the highest phenolic content was PE with 15,362.4 ± 225 mg GAE/100 g. Regarding the flavonoid content, the highest amount was found in PT with 8084.6 ± 19 mg QE/100 g. ABTS•+ and DPPH• radicals were evaluated. The extract with the best inhibition concentration was PE with 33,307.1 ± 567 mg ET/100 g. After simulated digestion, phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity decreased by 96%. In contrast, antidiabetic activity, quantified as inhibition of ɑ-amylase and ɑ-glucosidase, showed a mean decrease in enzyme activity of approximately 50% after the intestinal phase. Therefore, it is concluded that propolis extracts could be a natural alternative for treating diabetes, and it would be necessary to develop a protective mechanism to incorporate them into foods.

Comparative efficiency of Geotrichum candidum microcapsules prepared with alginate and in combination with other polymers: In vitro evaluation

Microencapsulation is utilized to protect probiotics, such as Geotrichum candidum, ensuring their survival, stability, and targeted release. The encapsulation efficiency depends on factors such as the type and concentration of the polymers and the encapsulation method. In this study, G. candidum was encapsulated using alginate (Alg) combined with starch (AlgS) or xanthan (Alg-X) and coated with chitosan aand chitosan nanoparticles (AlgC, Alg-S-C, Alg-X-C, Alg-CN, Alg-S-CN, and Alg-X-CN) using a simple extrusion technique. The structural characteristics and surface morphology of the microcapsules were analyzed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Encapsulation efficiency (EE) and pH and temperature tolerances were assessed using in vitro assays. SEM results showed that the Alg-CN microcapsules were notably spherical and smooth, in contrast to the irregular and rough textures of the uncoated forms. Notably, Alg-CN exhibited the highest EE (99.3 %), followed by Alg-C (96.6 %) and Alg-X-CN (96.03 %). Moreover, chitosan-coated microcapsules, particularly Alg-CN, demonstrated superior viability at various pH levels and after exposure to 60 °C, along with extended shelf life at room temperature and 4 °C. These findings suggest that a 2 % alginate and 0.4 % chitosan combination is optimal for preserving G. candidum's viability in various applications.

Potential of Trichoderma asperellum as a Growth Promoter in Hydroponic Lettuce Cultivated in a Floating-Root System

The genus Trichoderma is widely used in agriculture as a biological agent and biofertilizer, enhancing crop yield and quality. However, its use in hydroponic systems is limited. This study evaluated the potential of Trichoderma asperellum as a growth promoter for lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) cv. Starfighter RZ in a floating-root hydroponic system (FHS). T. asperellum strains (TaMFP1 and TaMFP2) were isolated from soil and identified morphologically and molecularly. The experiment used a completely randomized design with the following four treatments (n = 4): root spraying with TaMFP1, TaMFP2, T. harzianum (Trichospore®), and uninoculated plants (control). After 30 days, morphological, biochemical, and quality parameters were analyzed. All Trichoderma treatments significantly increased plant height (19.0%), root length (25.7%), total fresh biomass (76.4%), total dry biomass (82.63%), and number of leaves (18.18%). The nitrate levels in leaves were unaffected by TaMFP1 and TaMFP2, while Trichospore® reduced the nitrate content by 24.94%. The foliar nitrogen content increased with specific treatments, though the phosphorus and magnesium levels decreased. Visual quality traits, including appearance and firmness, remained unchanged. T. asperellum strains TaMFP1 and TaMFP2 enhanced vegetative growth without compromising quality, demonstrating their potential as sustainable tools for hydroponic lettuce production in controlled environments.

From root to Recovery: The role of herbs in polycystic ovary syndrome management

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent complicated endocrine condition affecting women, caused by both hereditary and environmental factors. It often emerges during the reproductive years (15-35 years) and now affects 1 out of 10 women worldwide. PCOS is distinguished by high androgen levels, particularly testosterone, as well as the appearance of many ovarian cysts (more than 10), which result in anovulation, infertility, and irregular menstrual periods. Furthermore, PCOS is associated with a variety of endocrine and metabolic abnormalities, including obesity, hirsutism, acne, diabetes, insulin resistance, and poor glucose tolerance. PCOS treatment includes allopathic, Ayurvedic, and natural therapies, as well as lifestyle changes. In comparison to allopathic treatments, herbal medicines are recognized for their cost-effectiveness, efficacy, and favourable role in PCOS management/treatment. This literature review briefly examines PCOS diagnosis, symptoms, hormonal imbalance, causes, related risk factors, and management, with a particular emphasis on the role of herbal remedies in PCOS treatment. This review highlights several medicinal plants with potential therapeutic benefits for various health conditions. These herbs have demonstrated efficacy in managing ailments such as hypothyroidism, hyperplasia, obesity, diabetes, menorrhagia, sleep disturbances, cardiovascular disorders, hyperlipidemia, hirsutism, infertility, and irregular menstrual cycles. The information was sourced from PubMed and multiple review articles. Various herbs, whether used individually, in combination, or as extracts, may help reduce risk factors associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Nutritional and Nutraceutical Properties of Mexican Traditional Mole Sauce

Mole sauce is one of the traditional Mexican foods; it is a complex mixture of ingredients of diverse origins that directly influence its nutritional value. The objective of this study was to investigate the antioxidant properties and nutritional components in five varieties of mole from Hidalgo in Mexico namely verde (V), ranchero (R), almendrado (A), casero (C), and pipian (P). Proximal chemical analysis and determination of the color index and the content of total starch, dietary fiber, mineral content (Ca, Na, K, and Mg), total phenolic content, and antioxidant activity by ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) and DPPH (2,2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl) were carried out. All the five varieties of mole reported less than 25% moisture content while fat content varied from 42.9% to 58.25%. The color index ranged from a deep orange to a deep red color. A fair percentage of dietary fiber was found in all mole varieties with a low amount of starch as well. The presence of mostly insoluble dietary fiber, high phenolic content (36.13–79.49 mg GAE/100 g), and high antioxidant activity could be considered important strengths to boost the consumption of these traditional preparations. This research will contribute to a better scientific knowledge of traditional Mexican sauces as functional foods or nutraceuticals that could be used to avoid health disorders.