Phenolic profile, antioxidant potential and DNA damage protecting activity of sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum)

Cytogenotoxicity and inflammatory response in liver of rats exposed to different doses of cannabis nano emulsions

Cannabis is the most used illicit substance for recreational purposes around the world. However, it has become increasingly common to witness the use of approved cannabis preparations for symptoms management in various diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of cannabis nano emulsion in the liver of Wistar rats, with different proportions of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). For this, a total of 40 male Wistar rats were distributed into 5 groups, as follows (n = 8 per group): Control: G1, Experimental group (G2): treated with cannabis nano emulsion (THC and CBD) at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg, Experimental group (G3): treated with cannabis nano emulsion (THC and CBD) at a dose of 5 mg/kg, Experimental group (G4): treated with cannabis nano emulsion (CBD) at a dose of 2.5 mg/kg; Experimental group (G5): treated with cannabis nano emulsion (CBD) at a dose of 5 mg/kg. Exposure to the nano emulsion was carried out for 21 days, once a day, orally (gavage). Our results showed that cannabis nano emulsions at higher doses (5 mg/kg), regardless of the composition, induced histopathologic changes in the liver (G3 and G5) in comparison with the control group. In line with that, placental glutathione S-transferase (GST-P) positive foci increased in both G3 and G5 (p < 0.05), as well as the immune expression of Ki-67, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and p53 (p < 0.05). Also, the nano emulsion intake induced an increase in the number of micronucleated hepatocytes in G5 (p < 0.05) whereas G3 showed an increase in binucleated cells (p < 0.05). As for metanuclear alterations, karyolysis and pyknosis had an increased frequency in G3 (p < 0.05). Taken together, the results show that intake of cannabis nano emulsion may induce degenerative changes and genotoxicity in the liver in higher doses, demonstrating a clear dose-response relationship.

In silico guided pre-treatment of sugarcane juice with natural inhibitors of polyphenol oxidase (PPO) is a new and effective strategy for development of spray-dried formulation

Sugarcane juice is a popular beverage and is also processed to produce sugar. The polyphenol oxidase (PPO) in sugarcane juice causes enzymatic browning and makes the process of sugar production complex and cumbersome. Storage of sugarcane juice is also hampered by the high sugar content and rapid microbial fermentation. The present research assessed the potential of lemon juice (LJ) and ginger extract (GE) as natural inhibitors of PPO. Enzyme kinetics and the mechanism of inhibition of LJ and GE were studied. Primary investigation was carried out using molecular docking approach to assess the inhibitory potential of LJ and GE and to determine the nature of interaction between the enzyme and inhibitors. Extracts were used as inhibitors and studies revealed that both reduced the PPO activity. Subsequently, pure bioactive inhibitors such as ascorbic acid, citric acid, and 6-shogaol present in these natural extracts were used to study the mode of inhibition of PPO. Citric acid decreased PPO activity by lowering pH, while ascorbic acid was found to be a competitive inhibitor of PPO with a Ki of 75.69 µM. The proportion of LJ and GE required in sugarcane juice was optimized on the basis of browning index and sensory acceptance. Further, the sugarcane cane juice after inhibition of PPO under optimized conditions was spray dried and evaluated for reconstitution properties. The product formulated in the present study is a new and effective approach to address quality-compromising issues associated with long-term storage of cane juice.

Flavonoids and phenolic acids from sugarcane: Distribution in the plant, changes during processing, and potential benefits to industry and health

Sugarcane (Saccharum sp.) plants are grown in warmer climates throughout the world and processed to produce sugar as well as other useful byproducts such as molasses and bagasse. Sugarcane is rich in (poly)phenols, but there has been no attempt to critically evaluate the published information based on the use of suitable methodologies. The objective of this review is to evaluate the quantitative and qualitative (poly)phenolic profiles of individual parts of the sugarcane plant and its multiple industrial products, which will help develop new processes and uses for sugarcane (poly)phenols. The quantitative analysis involves the examination of extraction, concentration, and analytical techniques used in each study for each plant part and product. The qualitative analysis indicates the identification of various (poly)phenols throughout the sugarcane processing chain, using only compounds elucidated through robust analytical methodologies such as mass spectrometry or nuclear magnetic resonance. In conclusion, sugarcane (poly)phenols are predominantly flavonoids and phenolic acids. The main flavonoids, derivatives of apigenin, luteolin, and tricin, with a substantial proportion of C-glycosides, are consistently found across all phases of sugarcane processing. The principal phenolic acids reported throughout the process include chlorogenic acids, as well as ferulic and caffeic acids mostly observed after hydrolysis. The derivation of precise quantitative information across publications is impeded by inconsistencies in analytical methodologies. The presence of multiple (poly)phenols with potential benefits for industrial applications and for health suggests sugarcane could be a useful provider of valuable compounds for future use in research and industrial processes.

Plant-based hydrocolloids for efficient clarification of cane juices: rheological analysis and solidification studies

The present study is designed to study the efficiency of plant-based hydrocolloids for the efficient clarification of sugarcane juice and subsequent production of non-centrifugal sugars (NCSs). NCSs are generally produced with lime or other inorganic solids as a clarification agent, often leading to products with a bland taste and dark color. This work is a first of its kind, where plant-based hydrocolloids such as starch, xanthan gum, and guar gum are used for clarification studies. Clarification efficiency was evaluated in terms of separation efficiency, turbidity removal, sucrose content, color transmittance, and rheology studies. Preliminary studies revealed that starch showed a better separation efficiency of 78% compared to other hydrocolloids, and further rheology studies of starch-clarified juice showed a favourable shear-thickening (dilatant, n = 1.382) behaviour, whereas the other two hydrocolloids showed an unfavourable shear-thinning (pseudo plastic, n < 0.9) behaviour. Eventually, starch was found to be a better clarification agent and is proposed as an alternative to lime-based clarification. Solidification studies were performed with starch at various concentrations (0.02-0.04%), pH (6.8-7.2), and temperature (80 °C-100 °C), and it was found that NCSs produced via starch clarification showed superior properties compared with traditional lime-based clarification processes.

Bifunctional of Fe3O4@chitosan nanocomposite as a clarifying agent and cationic flocculant on different sugar solutions as a comprehensive semi industrial application

In the sugar industry, eliminating side impurities throughout the manufacturing process is the most significant obstacle to clarifying sugar solutions. Herein, magnetic chitosan (MCS) nanocomposite was Fabricated to be used as a biodegradable, environmentally friendly clarifying agent throughout the cane juice and sugar refining processes. Fe3O4 was synthesized using the coprecipitation procedure, and then MCS was combined using a cross-linking agent. Furthermore, 14.76 emu g-1 was the maximum saturation magnetization (Ms) value. Because MCS is magnetically saturated, it may be possible to employ an external magnetic field to separate the contaminant deposited on its surface. Additionally, zeta potential analysis showed outstanding findings for MCS with a maximum value of (+) 20.7 mV, with improvement in color removal % up to 44.8% using MCS with more than 24% in color removal % compared to the traditional clarification process. Moreover, utilizing MCS reduced turbidity from 167 to 1 IU. Overall, we determined that MCS nanocomposite exhibits considerable effectiveness in the clarifying process for different sugar solutions, performing as an eco-friendly bio-sorbent and flocculating material.

Pickering emulsions prepared using zein-sugarcane leaves polyphenol covalent crosslinking nanoparticles via ultrasonication: Capacities in storage stability, lipid oxidation, in vitro digestion and safety evaluation

This study firstly used sugarcane leaf polyphenols (SGLp) to modify zein to form covalent nanoparticles (SGLpZ) and used SGLpZ as an emulsifier to stabilize pickering emulsions (SZP) via ultrasonic method. The results showed that the addition of SGLp could alter the physicochemical properties of zein, including improving increasing the hydrophilicity of zein and the antioxidant properties of zein (three basic antioxidant activities test in vitro). SGLpZ could be able to form a dense film on the surface of the pickering emulsions which inhibited lipid oxidation as the concentration of SGLp increased at 4 ℃ for 20 days, thus stabilizing pickering emulsions (SZP). Further assessment of storage stability of pickering emulsions stabilized by SGLp was evaluated via measuring the free fatty acids (FFA) release in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. The results showed that the FFA release of SZP decreased from 20.61 ± 0.10% to 16.14 ± 0.69%. In addition, SGLp gave SZP a yellow color, which inspired that SZP could be used in the food industry to make yellow-colored functional foods. Finally, the safety of SZP initially assessed by in-vitro hemocompatibility and cytotoxicity (MTT) assays. In conclusion, our fingdings were beneficial for the further design and development of SGLp in food fields and enabled the development a new type in functional protein-plant polyphenols food pickering emulsions.

Chemical Characterization and In Vitro Gas Production Kinetics of Alternative Feed Resources for Small Ruminants in the Maltese Islands

The ever-increasing human population, the problem associated with climate change and recent crises-COVID-19 disease and trade conflicts-all impacted on the availability and cost of animal feed raw materials. This is clearly visible in realities which heavily rely on importation such as islands and small states, where producers involved in the agricultural sector were strongly affected by the sharp increase in prices. To deal with these global issues, alternative resources are perceived to replace conventional ingredients. This work aimed at assessing the nutritive value of different resources (sheep feed, mature carob, Maltese bread, wild asparagus, prickly lettuce, and loquat) for small ruminants present in the Maltese Islands, analyzing their chemical composition, gas production kinetics and antioxidant properties. In general, the variation in chemical composition resulted in different rumen fermentation kinetics (p < 0.007). The ratio between GP-24 h and GP-48 h was higher in Maltese bread than other substrates; loquat, prickly lettuce and wild asparagus showed lower fermentation kinetics in accordance with their high NDF and ADF contents. The antioxidant activity may be partially related to the polyphenolic content that was higher in wild asparagus, prickly lettuce and loquat. All feed characteristic confirmed their potential to be included as ingredients in ruminant diets and as a source of fiber.

Effect of Different Extraction Methods on the Total Phenolics of Sugar Cane Products

The health benefits of sugar cane products are attributed to certain antioxidant compounds in plant materials. The presence of antioxidants in plant materials depends on the extraction method in terms of yield and the number of phenolic compounds identified. This study was carried out to evaluate the performance of the three extraction methods, which were selected from previous studies to show the effect of the extraction method on the content of antioxidant compounds in different types of sugar. This study also evaluates the potential of different sugar extracts in anti-diabetic activity based on in vitro assays (α-glucosidase and α-amylase). The results showed that sugar cane extracted with acidified ethanol (1.6 M HCl in 60% ethanol) was the best condition to extract a high yield of phenolic acids compared to other methods. Among the three types of sugar, less refined sugar (LRS) showed the highest yield of phenolic compounds, 57.72 µg/g, compared to brown sugar (BS) and refined sugar (RS) sugar, which were at 42.19 µg/g and 22.06 µg/g, respectively. Whereas, among the sugar cane derivatives, LRS showed minor and BS moderate inhibition towards α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity compared to white sugar (RS). Thus, it is suggested that sugar cane extracted with acidified ethanol (1.6 M HCl in 60% ethanol) is the optimum experimental condition for antioxidant content determination and provides a basis for further exploitation of the health-beneficial resources of the sugarcane products.

Protective effects of sugarcane phenolic extract against lipid oxidative damages in raw ground pork and beef during refrigerated storage conditions

The study evaluated the bioactive components and antioxidant properties of sugarcane phenolic extracts (SCPE) against lipid oxidation in raw ground pork and beef during refrigerated storage conditions. Results showed that SCPE has a high total phenolic content of 35.9 g GAE/100 g sample majority of which are vanillic (799.77 mg/100 g), sinapic (434.38 mg/100 g), and coumaric (342.37 mg/100 g) acids. These phenolic compounds exhibited strong radical scavenging activities against DPPH (191.00 mg TE/g) and ABTS (359.80 mg TE/g) radical, ferric reducing capacity (97.80 mg TE/g), and lipid peroxidation inhibition (120.20 mg TE/g) activities which are comparable to BHT. Supplementation of SCPE at 400 mg/kg fresh weight of ground pork and ground beef improved the antioxidant activities of meat samples, leading to the delay in TBARS formation, lower reduction in heme iron content, and minimal increase in metmyoglobin content during 14-day refrigerated storage as compared to BHT-treated and control. Moreover, the redness of meat was preserved in SCPE- and BHT-treated samples as measured by a* color value. Correlation heat maps showed that TBARS, metmyoglobin, and ΔE are positively correlated with each other, and at the same time showed negatively correlated with heme iron and a*. This study revealed that antioxidant extracts from sugarcane presented a positive effect on the oxidative stability of raw ground pork and beef during refrigerated storage.

Bioactive compounds as an alternative for the sugarcane industry: Towards an integrative approach

Here, a comprehensive review of sugarcane industrialization and its relationship with bioactive compounds (BCs) detected in various products and by-products generated during its processing is presented. Furthermore, it is discussed how these compounds have revealed important antioxidant, antineoplastic, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial activities. From this bibliographic research highlights the significance of two types of BCs of natural origin (phenolic compounds (PCs) and terpenoids) and a group of compounds synthesized during industrial transformation processes (Maillard reaction products (MRPs)). It was found that most of the studies about the BCs from sugarcane have been conducted by identifying, isolating, and analyzing ones or a few compounds at a specific period, this being a conventional approach. However, given the complexity of the synthesis processes of all these BCs and the biological activities they can manifest in a specific biological context, novel approaches are needed to address these analyses holistically. To overcome this challenge, integrating massive and multiscale methods, such as omics sciences, seems necessary to enrich these studies. This work is intended to contribute to the state of the art that could support future research about the exploration, characterization, or evaluation of different bioactive molecules from sugarcane and its derivatives.

Replacement of refined sugar by natural sweeteners: focus on potential health benefits

Refined sugar is a processed product containing 99% sucrose, which is obtained from sugarcane (70%) or sugar beet (30%). In modern societies, sugar continues to play a significant role in the diet, recognised not only for its flavour and special sweetening properties but also for its role in food preservation. On the other hand, a high consumption of refined sugar is associated with non-communicable diseases and many health issues such as a high risk of dental caries, overweight and neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Alternatives like unrefined sugars have generated a lot of interest as a healthy substitute due to their nutraceutical properties. This paper is aimed to review the beneficial effects of sugar derived from natural sources and highlight health problems that could be caused by refined processed sugar. Refined sugar is frequently used in variety of items including processed foods, soft drinks or ice creams although it is considered unhealthy due to its high salt and sugar content as well as added fats and artificial coloring. Natural sugars are preferred because they have a high nutritional value and a high concentration of healthy compounds, which offset the negative effects of refined sugar. Therefore, removing refined sugar or at least reducing its consumption should be promoted as a healthier option in food choices.

Moringa seed-supplemented diets modulate ACE activity but not its gene expression in L-NAME-induced hypertensive rats

Introduction: We investigated the effect of dietary inclusions of Moringa seed (5% and 10%) on blood pressure, angiotensin-1 converting enzyme (ACE) activity, and gene expression, as well as redox status in hypertensive rats.Material and methods: Wistar strain albino rats were fed moringa seed-based diets for two weeks prior L-NAME (40 mg/kg/day, p.o.) administration for another ten days. Subsequently, the blood pressure was monitored. Furthermore, the kidney homogenates were assayed for ACE activity and gene expression, as well as oxidative stress markers.Results: The increased (systolic =297 ± 59.30 mmHg; diastolic= 242 ± 51.96 mmHg) blood pressure, arginase activity, and reduced nitric oxide level were significantly ameliorated in hypertensive rats treated with the seed. However, the elevated ACE activity was significantly reduced but not the upregulated ACE1 gene. Also, the reduced antioxidant enzyme activities were ameliorated with a significant downregulation in their regulator-Nrf2. Rutin (4.07 ± 0.02 mg/g) and quercitrin (4.06 ± 0.01 mg/g), among others, were found in the seed.Discussion: This study suggests that moringa seed offers its antihypertensive properties by acting as an ACE inhibitor but not its gene modulator, and also modulates the antioxidant system through interaction with Nrf2.Conclusion: Moringa seed could act as an ACE inhibitor and not its gene modulator.

Polynesian medicine used to treat diarrhea and ciguatera: An ethnobotanical survey in six islands from French Polynesia

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In French Polynesia, many pathologies common or endemic to the territory cause diarrhea. This is the case for rotavirus gastroenteritis, salmonella food poisoning, ingestion of water contaminated by bacteria, and ciguatera. To treat these ailments, the population may employ traditional medicine for cultural reasons, geographical isolation, and poor health coverage. Polynesian remedies are often used without medical consultation and there is no data on their benefit-risk balance. A few ethnobotanical studies have been carried out in order to identify the traditional remedies used for various ailments, but few studies have focused on gastrointestinal pathologies. In this context, an ethnobotanical survey was carried out to identify treatments used for diarrhea and ciguatera, inventory the plants used, better understand the local representation of these remedies, and provide efficacy and safety data on these uses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From February to April 2021, a semi-structured survey was conducted on six islands in French Polynesia, including one island in the Windward Islands archipelago (Tahiti), three islands in the Marquesas archipelago (Hiva Oa, Nuku Hiva, Tahuata), and two islands in the Leeward Islands archipelago (Raiatea, Tahaa). A total of 133 people was interviewed including 34 specialists (of which 29 experts in herbalism).

RESULTS

These people mentioned the use of 27 plants for the treatment of diarrhea, and 24 for the treatment of ciguatera. Citrus aurantiifolia, Psidium guajava and Cordyline fruticosa were the three most cited plant species used for treating diarrhea, while Cocos nucifera, Punica granatum and Barringtonia asiatica were the most cited for ciguatera. A large majority of plants are widespread and introduced plants, which is congruent with the history of Polynesian people. While some plants are well known for similar uses (e.g. Psidium guajava for diarrhea, Heliotropium arboreum for ciguatera), others are less well known and may present toxicity risks (e.g. Barringtonia asiatica for ciguatera).

CONCLUSION

Traditional Polynesian medicine is an integral part of the local culture so important to be preserved and valued. However, more pharmacological and toxicological studies are still needed to determine the benefit-risk balance of some of these remedies and to allow their official integration into the Polynesian health system.

Arsenic concentrations in soil, water, and rice grains of rice-growing areas of Punjab, Pakistan: multivariate statistical analysis

Arsenic (As), a class-A human carcinogen, is ubiquitously present in the earth's crust and soil and may enter the air, water, and surface environments through different natural and anthropogenic sources. In this experiment, soil, irrigation water, and rice grains were sampled from conventional rice-growing areas of Punjab, Pakistan. Soil samples were collected from 0 to 15 cm surface soil of rice growing fields, and rice grains were collected from the same field at crop maturity. Irrigation water samples were collected from the source used to irrigate the respective rice fields. Coordinates of sampling locations were noted using a global positioning system, and a locations map was made using ArcGIS. Soil samples were digested in a microwave digester using aqua regia, and plant samples were block digested using nitric acid. Arsenic concentration was determined using an inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer coupled with an auto-sampler and integrated samples introduction system. The mean concentration of As in rice grains, soil, and water samples was found within the safe limit set by WHO except for a sample from Narowal (148.54 µg l^-1) that exceeded the irrigation water standard limit, i.e., 100 µg l^-1 for irrigation water. Principal component analysis was performed to reduce the multidimensional space of variables and samples. Through the calculations of estimated daily intake, it has been revealed that the As levels measured in this study would only contribute a small amount (less than 5%) of the total recommended daily intake allowance.

The inhibitory effect of Cannabis Sativa L. and Morus nigra L. against lipid peroxidation in goat liver and brain homogenates

The present study was aimed to evaluate the antioxidant potential and inhibitory effect ofCannabis sativa and Morus nigra against lipid peroxidation in goat brain and liver homogenates. The formation of free radicals, highly reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) is a normal metabolic process for cellular signaling and countering the antigens. However, they may cause serious damage if they produced at amplified tolls. In addition, metabolic disorders also serve as sources of these reactive species. Although the issue can be addressed through supplements and other phytochemicals. In this study, two plant species were evaluated for their biological potential by employing a spectrum of antioxidant assays. The antioxidant activity was performed by lipid peroxidation assay. The water extract prepared from leaves of Cannabis sativa and Morus nigra showed significant (P<0.05) inhibition as compared to control i.e., 522.6±0.06 and 659.97±0.03 µg/mL against iron-induced lipid peroxidation in goat brain homogenate while the inhibitions were 273.54±0.04 and 309.18±0.05 µg/mL against nitroprusside induced lipid peroxidation of the brain. The iron and nitroprusside induced lipid peroxidation was also significantly inhibited by leaf extracts of Cannabis sativa and Morus nigra in liver homogenates such as 230.63±0.52 and 326.91±0.01 µg/mL (iron-induced) while 300.47±0.07 and 300.47±0.07 µg/mL (nitroprusside induced), respectively. The extracts of Cannabis sativa extract showed promising activity (96.04±0.060%) against DPPH radicals while Morus nigra showed a moderate activity (34.11±0.120%). The results suggest that different accessions ofCannabis sativa and Morus nigra are a potential source of antioxidants and have a therapeutic effect against disease induced by oxidative stress and hence can be used for novel drug discovery and development.

Effects of radiation and role of plants in radioprotection: A critical review

Radiation can be lethal at high doses, whereas controlled doses are useful in medical applications. Other applications include power generation, agriculture sterilization, nuclear weapons, and archeology. Radiation damages genetic material, which is reflected in genotoxicity and can cause hereditary damage. In the medical field, it is essential to avoid the harmful effects of radiation. Radiation countermeasures and the need for radioprotective agents have been explored in recent years. Considering plants that evolve in radiative conditions, their ability to protect organisms against radiation has been studied and demonstrated. Crude extracts, fractioned extracts, isolated phytocompounds, and plant polysaccharides from various plants have been used in radioprotection studies, and their efficiency has been proven in various in vitro and in vivo experimental models. It is important to identify the mechanism of action to develop a potent plant-based radioprotective agent. To identify this protective mechanism, it is necessary to understand the damage caused by radiation in biological systems. This review intends to discuss the effects of ionizing radiation on biological systems and evaluate plant-based radioprotectants that have tested thus far as well as their mechanism of action in protecting against the toxic effects of radiation. From the review, the mechanism of radioprotection exhibited by the plant-based products could be understood. Meanwhile, we strongly suggest that the potential products identified so far should undergo clinical trials for critically evaluating their effects and for developing an ideal and compatible radioprotectant with no side-effects.

Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Properties of Non-Centrifugal Cane Sugar and Other Sugarcane Derivatives in an In Vitro Induced Parkinson's Model

Non-centrifugal cane sugar (NCS) is a traditional sweetener in most sugarcane regions of the world. In Colombia, this product has a socio-economic importance due to the extensive cultivation area and the high consumption rate per capita. NCS traditional processing involves consecutive stages of thermal processing that begin with juice extraction, clarification, evaporation, and finish with syrup crystallization into a solid commercial product, identified as NCS. Sugarcane is known to have a natural content of polyphenols, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and complex sugars, some of which are reported as antioxidant and antiproliferative agents thought to be responsible for the product's bioactive profile. There is evidence to suggest that traditional thermal processing to obtain NCS leads to a considerable decrease in the contents of these bioactive compounds, mainly due to uncontrolled process variables such as temperature. Accordingly, the aim of this study was to assess and compare the bioactivity of sugarcane (SC) derivatives produced under controlled thermal conditions versus the traditional method. To achieve this goal, we evaluated the cytotoxic, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects of varying concentrations of SC derivatives in an in vitro induced Parkinson's model. Results demonstrate non-cytotoxic activity on the cellular model by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and LDH assays, even at the highest tested concentration of 8 mg/mL, for all SC derivatives. The effect of SC derivatives on the induced oxidative stress model showed a biological reversion and recovering effect of the mitochondrial membrane potential and a halting of the progress into the early apoptosis phase. In conclusion, we demonstrated that the bioactive compounds present in SC derivatives obtained by a process under controlled temperature conditions are largely preserved, and even their biological activities are enhanced compared with SC derivatives obtained by the traditional thermal evaporation of SC-juice.

A randomized and comparative study to assess safety and efficacy of supplemental treatment of a herbal formulation - Aayudh Advance comprising essential oils in patients with corona virus 2019 (COVID-19)

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of herbal formulation - Aayudh Advance on viral load as well as recovery duration in mild symptomatic patients diagnosed with Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). It also aimed to study the effect of Herbal formulation - Aayudh Advance in terms of clinical improvement of various sign and symptoms in mild symptomatic COVID-19 patients.

METHOD

Once the patient suffice the requirement of inclusion, exclusion criteria of the study than as per the method of 'Covariate Adaptive Randomization' technique, patient was assigned in either Aayudh Advance arm (Test arm) or Control Arm. Here standard of Care treatment was given to all patients of both the arms. Treatment was given for the period of 14 days or till patient turned COVID-19 negative, which ever was earlier. Clinical signs and symptoms viz. body temperature, SpO 2, Scoring of Cough & Scoring of Shortness of breath were recorded on all 5 Clinical visits along with biochemical testing like RT-PCR (with CT value of E gene and RDRP gene), serum ferritin, CRP and NLR observed on weekly Visit.

RESULT

Total 74 patients were enrolled in the present study. Out of which 60 patients (30 patients in each group) have completed study as per the protocol, whereas 14 patients have voluntarily withdrawn from the study due to getting early discharge from the hospital. All patients in Aayudh Advance treatment group recovered (100%) after 14 days. This observed recovery was 15.38% more as compared to Standard of Care treatment alone. Further, there was statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in viral load as indicated by significant increase in CT value of E-gene and RDRP gene. Further, no patients reported any Adverse Reaction as well as no drug to drug interaction was observed with supplemental treatment with Aayudh Advance.

CONCLUSION

The Aayudh Advance was found safe as well as more effective in terms of reduction of viral load. % recovery was more in Treatment arm as compared to Control arm in mild symptomatic COVID-19 patients.

Utilization of sugarcane bagasse aqueous extract as a natural preservative to extend the shelf life of refrigerated fresh meat

Abstract This study aimed to investigate the extraction of total phenolic compounds of sugarcane bagasse using various solvents. In addition, the Sugarcane Bagasse Water Extract (SBWE) was used in refrigerated fresh meat as natural preservative. The fresh meat was dipped into water solutions containing various phenolic compounds concentrations (T1:125, T2:250 and T3:500 ppm). During 10 days of storage at 4 °C for all the treated samples were compared with untreated one. The results revealed that SBWE showed relevant values of total phenolic compounds (17.90 mg/g) and total flavonoids content (4.50 mg/g), as well as 45.90% of antioxidant content. On the other hand, microbiological examination and sensory evaluation have turned out to be the best treatment for T3:500 ppm. The SBWE showed an antibacterial impact on Staphylococcus sp. and a reduction in the Total Plate Count and in the group of Psychrotrophs. The shelf-life of refrigerated fresh meat treated with SBWE by dipping it into water solutions was also extended to more than 10 days.

Biogenic platinum from agricultural wastes extract for improved methanol oxidation reaction in direct methanol fuel cell

Platinum is the most commonly used catalyst in fuel cell application. However, platinum is very expensive, thus limits the commercialisation of fuel cell system due to the cost factor. This study introduces a biosynthesis platinum from plant extracts that can reduce the cost of platinum production compared to the conventional method and the hazardous during the production of the catalyst. The biogenic platinum was tested on a Direct Methanol Fuel Cell. Advanced biogenic of Pt nano-cluster was synthesized through a novel and facile of one-pot synthesis bio-reduction derived from natural source in the form of plant extracts as reducing agent. Several selected plant extracts drawn from agricultural waste such as banana peel, pineapple peels and sugarcane bagasse extracts were comparatively evaluated on the ability of phytochemical sources of polyphenols rich for the development of single-step synthesis for Pt NPs. Notably, the biogenic Pt NPs from sugar cane bagasse has superior electro-catalytic activity, the enhanced utilization efficiency of Pt and appreciable stability towards methanol oxidation reaction, whose ECSA value approximates 94.58 m²g⁻¹, mass activity/specific activity (398.20 mAmg⁻¹/0.8471 mA/cm²_Pt) which greater than commercial Pt black (158.12 mAmg⁻¹/1.41 mA/cm²_Pt).

Tannic Acid with Antiviral and Antibacterial Activity as A Promising Component of Biomaterials-A Minireview

As a phenolic acid, tannic acid can be classified into a polyphenolic group. It has been widely studied in the biomedical field of science because it presents unique antiviral as well as antibacterial properties. Tannic acid has been reported to present the activity against Influeneza A virus, Papilloma viruses, noroviruses, Herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2, and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as well as activity against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pyogenes, Enterococcus faecalis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Yersinia enterocolitica, Listeria innocua. Nowadays, compounds of natural origin constitute fundaments of material science, and the trend is called "from nature to nature". Although biopolymers have found a broad range of applications in biomedical sciences, they do not present anti-microbial activity, and their physicochemical properties are rather poor. Biopolymers, however, may be modified with organic and inorganic additives which enhance their properties. Tannic acid, like phenolic acid, is classified into a polyphenolic group and can be isolated from natural sources, e.g., a pure compound or a component of a plant extract. Numerous studies have been carried out over the application of tannic acid as an additive to biopolymer materials due to its unique properties. On the one hand, it shows antimicrobial and antiviral activity, while on the other hand, it reveals promising biological properties, i.e., enhances the cell proliferation, tissue regeneration and wound healing processes. Tannic acid is added to different biopolymers, collagen and polysaccharides as chitosan, agarose and starch. Its activity has been proven by the determination of physicochemical properties, as well as the performance of in vitro and in vivo studies. This systematics review is a summary of current studies on tannic acid properties. It presents tannic acid as an excellent natural compound which can be used to eliminate pathogenic factors as well as a revision of current studies on tannic acid composed with biopolymers and active properties of the resulting complexes.

Effects of Water Regime, Genotype, and Formative Stages on the Agro-Physiological Response of Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) to Drought

Drought during the formative stages of a plant's growth triggers a sequence of responses to maintain optimal growing conditions, but often at the expense of crop productivity. Two field experiments were conducted to determine the effect of drought on 10 high-yielding sugarcane genotypes at two formative stages (the tillering stage (TS) and stalk elongation (SS)), within 30 days after treatment imposition. The experiments followed a split-plot in a randomized complete block design with three replicates per genotype. Agro-physiological responses to drought were observed to compare the differences in the response of sugarcane during the two formative stages. Drought significantly reduced total chlorophyll content (Chl) and stomatal conductance (Gs) for both formative stages, while significantly increasing total scavenging activity (AOA) and electrolyte leakage (EC). A higher level of Chl was observed in the stalk elongation stage compared to the tillering stage; however, lower AOA coupled with higher EC in the stalk elongation stage suggests higher drought susceptibility. Pearson's correlation analysis revealed a stronger correlation between plant height, internode length, Chl, AOA, EC, and Gs at the tillering stage relative to the stalk elongation stage. Moreover, results from the multivariate analysis indicate the different contribution values of each parameter, supplementing the hypothesized difference in response between the two formative stages. Multivariate analysis clustered the 10 genotypes into groups based on the traits evaluated, suggesting the ability of these traits to detect differences in a sample population. The observed relationship among traits during the two formative stages of sugarcane will be significant in screening and identifying drought-susceptible and drought-tolerant genotypes for variety development studies.

Saccharum officinarum molasses adversely alters reproductive functions in male wistar rats

The widely reported anti-androgenic effects of refined sugar led to the exploration of safer alternatives. Saccharum officinarum molasses (SOM), a byproduct of sugar processing is gaining popularity as a substitute. This study investigated the effects of SOM and compared them to those of refined sugar on male reproductive functions. Blackstrap® Saccharum officinarum molasses were subjected to phytochemical screening and proximate analysis and fractionated to obtain methanol (SOMMF) and aqueous (SOMAqF) fractions. Twelve groups (n = 5) of adult male Wistar rats received distilled water (Control); 0.8, 2.5, 7.9 g/kg SOM; 0.0064 g/kg sugar (Dangote®); 0.0064 g/kg sugar+7.9 g/kg SOM; 1.0, 3.2, 10.0 g/kg SOMMF and 0.6, 2.0, 6.4 g/kg SOMAqF, respectively. Administrations were done daily by oral gavage for eight weeks. Sperm profile and testicular and epididymal histology were assessed using microscopy. Serum testosterone was quantified using ELISA. Testicular malondialdehyde (MDA) was assayed by spectrophotometry. Data were analyzed using ANOVA at p < 0.05 significance. Sperm count and viability reduced with 7.9 g/kg SOM, Sugar, 3.2 and 10.0 g/kg SOMMF, 2.0 and 6.4 g/kg SOMAqF. Abnormal sperms increased with 7.9 g/kg SOM, Sugar, 2.0 and 6.4 g/kg SOMAqF. Testosterone level reduced with 6.4 g/kg SOMAqF. Testicular MDA increased with SOM, 3.2 and 10.0 g/kg SOMMF and 6.4 g/kg SOMAqF. Seminiferous tubules and epididymal ducts of 7.9 g/kg SOM, Sugar and SOMAqF-treated rats showed anomalies. Saccharum officinarum molasses altered testicular and epididymal integrity via lipid peroxidation, thus reducing sperm quality and androgen levels in male Wistar rats.

High Oxygen Treatments Enhance the Contents of Phenolic Compound and Ganoderic Acid, and the Antioxidant and DNA Damage Protective Activities of Ganoderma lingzhi Fruiting Body

Ganoderma lingzhi is a famous medicinal mushroom used as Chinese medicine or functional food and has been accepted across the globe. It is important to enhance the contents of bioactive compounds, which in turn improves the quality and biological activity of G. lingzhi fruiting body. In this work, freshly harvested G. lingzhi fruiting bodies were treated continuously with air or with 60 and 80% oxygen for 6 days. Samples were collected and determined initially and at 1 day interval during treatment. A high total ganoderic acid content of 29.44 g kg^–1 was obtained in samples treated with 60% oxygen at day 3. Quantitative reverse transcriptase (qRT)-PCR and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis showed that the expression levels of hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA synthase, squalene synthase, and oxidosqualene cyclase genes were substantially increased, resulting in the increase of ganoderic acids A, B, and C2 and ganoderenic acid B. The scavenging activities with 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) radical, hydroxyl radical, and superoxide radical and the DNA damage protective activity were also enhanced by high oxygen treatment. The results of this work provided a potential method to enhance the active metabolite synthesis in the fruiting body of G. lingzhi.

An Evaluation of the DNA-Protective Effects of Extracts from Menyanthes trifoliata L. Plants Derived from In Vitro Culture Associated with Redox Balance and Other Biological Activities

Menyanthes trifoliata L. is a valuable medical plant found in Europe, North America, and Asia, which grows on peat bogs and swamps. It has long been used in folk medicine as a remedy for various ailments. This is the first report to demonstrate the protective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of aqueous methanolic extracts derived from the aerial parts (MtAPV) and roots (MtRV) of in vitro grown plants on human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). It describes the influence of the tested extracts on the expression of antioxidant (HO-1, NQO1, NRF2, kEAP1, and GCLC) and inflammation-related genes (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IFN-γ) in cells stimulated with H₂O₂ or LPS, respectively. In addition, M. trifoliata extracts were found to moderately affect the growth of certain bacterial and fungal pathogens, with the strongest antibacterial effect found against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Enterococcus faecalis. M. trifoliata extracts demonstrated protective effects against mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and nuclear DNA (nDNA) damage caused by ROS, decreasing the numbers of mtDNA lesions in the ND1 and ND2 genes and nDNA damage in the TP53 and HPRT1 genes and reducing cleavage in PARP1- and γ-H2A.X-positive cells. The root extract of in vitro M. trifoliata (MtRV) appears to have better anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and protective properties than the extract from the aerial part (MtAPV). These differences in biological properties may result from the higher content of selected phenolic compounds and betulinic acid in the MtRV than in the MtAPV extract.

Ethnomedicinal Uses of Plant Resources in the Machhapuchchhre Rural Municipality of Kaski District, Nepal

Background: Medicinal plants are being used by the majority of the population throughout the world for their primary health care needs. The reliance is also prevalent in Nepal, aided by its ethnic and biological diversity. This study aimed to catalogue the ethnomedicinal knowledge of plants used by local people of Machhapuchchhre Rural Municipality of Kaski district. Methods: Data were collected between February 2017 and April 2018 from eight different villages of the Kaski district by using semi-structured interviews, guided field works, focus group discussions, and in-depth interviews. The reported traditional uses were supported by local assistants, cataloguing vernacular names and crosschecking with the earlier published and gray literature. Results: A total of 105 medicinal plants, belonging to 58 families and 99 genera were documented to treat 70 different diseases and ailments. The highest numbers of plants (37) were used for gastrointestinal disorders and the lowest (4) were used for female genital disorders. Commonly used parts were underground portions (28 species) followed by fruits and seeds (25 species each). The most preferred dosage form was juice, used for 50 ailments, and the oral route was the most favored route of administration (77 species). The medicinal properties of 22 plant species were found hitherto unreported in the district. Conclusions: The study area was found to be rich in plant resources and the people have ample knowledge on the use of medicinal plants. Due to a lack of proper documentation, conservation, and cultivation practices, valuable plant species are at risk of extinction. Thus, appropriate conservation measures and scientific assessment of plant-lore in the district is immediately required.

Kinetic modeling of high-pressure induced inactivation of polyphenol oxidase in sugarcane juice (Saccharum officinarum)

BACKGROUND

Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) is the main enzyme in sugarcane juice associated with rapid browning and degradation of organoleptic properties. High-pressure processing (HPP) (300-600 MPa) of sugarcane juice in combination with moderate temperatures (30-60 °C) for different processing times (10-25 min) has shown promising results in minimizing PPO activity while preserving the juice's freshness.

RESULTS

A maximum PPO inactivation of 98% was achieved at 600 MPa/60 °C/25 min, while the corresponding value for thermal treatment at 0.1 MPa/60 °C was only 66%. The nonlinearity in the inactivation data was well described by the Weibull distribution model with a high adjusted R² and reduced χ² values at all levels of pressure and temperature. The PPO inactivation data were fitted at shape parameter, β = 1 (log linear) and β ≠ 1. A refitted Weibull model was used to predict kinetic parameters such as the inactivation rate constants (k), activation energy (E_a ) and activation volume (V_a ), which govern PPO inactivation in HPP-treated sugarcane juice. A secondary kinetic model was formulated to predict the k values as a function of pressure (P) and temperature (T), incorporating E_a and V_a .

CONCLUSIONS

Combined high-pressure and temperature processing has been considered a reliable alternative to conventional heat treatment for inhibiting PPO activity in sugarcane juice. While the isothermal inactivation of PPO followed first-order kinetics, inclusion of high pressure resulted in a strong deviation from log linear kinetics. Identification of suitable kinetic models describing these inactivation processes is expected to aid product development and process control of high-pressure processed sugarcane juice. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Distribution and potential ecological risk assessment of trace elements in the stream water and sediments from Lanmuchang area, southwest Guizhou, China

Trace elements contamination in sediment is regarded as the global crisis with a large share in developing countries like China. Water and sediment samples were collected during (2016) from Qingshui Stream and analyzed for major physicochemical properties and trace elements by using ICP-MS. Our result of sediments showed that studied trace elements (except Pb, Cd, Co) had a concentration higher than Chinese sediment guideline as well as stream water data for studied trace elements (except Cr, Pb, Cd, Cu, and Zn) had a higher concentration than the maximum permissible safe limit of WHO. Contamination factor (CF) confirmed a moderate to high contamination in the sediment samples due to As and Tl, respectively. The values of pollution load index (PLI) were found above one (> 1), describing the progressive sediment quality decline. Pearson correlation showed that there was a significant positive association between Tl and As (r = 0.725, p < 0.05) in sediment samples. Results revealed that water-rock interaction, weathering of Tl sulfide mineralization, and hydrogeological conditions were major sources of stream water and sediments contamination in the study area. This experimental study contributes to a better understanding of the geochemistry and prevention of trace element contamination in sediments from Lanmuchang area.

Ilex paraguariensis modulates fat metabolism in Caenorhabditis elegans through purinergic system (ADOR-1) and nuclear hormone receptor (NHR-49) pathways

Ilex paraguariensis is a well-known plant that is widely consumed in South America, primarily as a drink called mate. Mate is described to have stimulant and medicinal properties. Considering the potential anti-lipid effects of I. paraguariensis infusion, we used an extract of this plant as a possible modulator of fat storage to control lipid metabolism in worms. Herein, the I. paraguariensis-dependent modulation of fat metabolism in Caenorhabditis elegans was investigated. C. elegans were treated with I. paraguariensis aqueous extract (1 mg/ml) from L1 larvae stage until adulthood, to simulate the primary form of consumption. Expression of adipocyte triglyceride lipase 1 (ATGL-1) and heat shock protein 16.2, lipid accumulation through C1-BODIPY-C12 (BODIPY) lipid staining, behavioral parameters, body length, total body energy expenditure and overall survival were analyzed. Total body energy expenditure was determined by the oxygen consumption rate in N2, nuclear hormone receptor knockout, nhr-49(nr2041), and adenosine receptor knockout, ador-1(ox489) strains. Ilex paraguariensis extract increased ATGL-1 expression 20.06% and decreased intestinal BODIPY fat staining 63.36%, compared with the respective control group, without affecting bacterial growth and energetic balance, while nhr-49(nr2041) and ador-1(ox489) strains blocked the worm fat loss. In addition, I. paraguariensis increased the oxygen consumption in N2 worms, but not in mutant strains, increased N2 worm survival following juglone exposure, and did not alter hsp-16.2 expression. We demonstrate for the first time that I. paraguariensis can decrease fat storage and increase body energy expenditure in worms. These effects depend on the purinergic system (ADOR-1) and NHR-49 pathways. Ilex paraguariensis upregulated the expression of ATGL-1 to modulate fat metabolism. Furthermore, our data corroborates with other studies that demonstrate that C. elegans is a useful tool for studies of fat metabolism and energy consumption.

Optimization of nutritional beverage developed from radish, sugarcane and herbal extract using response surface methodology

Purpose

Radish (Raphanus sativus) is valued for its nutritive and medicinal properties, but its juice is not palatable because of the pungent flavor. The purpose of this study is to optimize the blending process of radish juice by using sugarcane juice, herbal extract and salt concentration.

Design/methodology/approach

The statistical design provided 20 formulations; where herbal extract concentration varied from 0.5 to 2.5 per cent, sugarcane juice concentration from 20 to 50 per cent and salt concentration from 0 to 1.5 per cent.

Findings

The p = 0.05 was used to designate the statistical significance of all the responses under study. Different product formulations had total soluble solids (TSS) that ranged from 9.7 to 15.0°Brix, titratable acidity from 0.6 to 1.3%, pH from 3.3 to 4.0, reducing sugars from 0.6 to 0.8%, total sugars from 9.4 to 3.1%, total protein from 172.9 to 304.8 mg/100 ml, total phenols from 25.5 to 29.8 mg/100 ml, ascorbic acid from 10.4 to 19.8 mg/100 ml, antioxidant activity from 77.3 to 83.6% and overall acceptability from 5.6 to 7.7. Sugarcane juice concentration of 30%, herbal extract mixture and salt concentrations of 1 and 1.5%, respectively, were the optimized process conditions for the preparation of nutritional radish juice achieved with the best fit of desirability, i.e. 0.88. Cluster analysis revealed that concentration of sugarcane juice had the maximum significant effect on the quality characteristics of nutritional radish beverage as compared to the other two variables under study.

Originality/value

The developed product can help to promote the use of radish as a substrate for the beverage industry.

Revalorization of wild Asparagus stipularis Forssk. as a traditional vegetable with nutritional and functional properties

The nutritional values, phytochemical composition and bioactive properties of young shoots of wild Asparagus stipularis Forssk. from Tunisia were determined in this study.

Anti-fibrotic activity of polyphenol-enriched sugarcane extract in rats via inhibition of p38 and JNK phosphorylation

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.), which is one of the most important sources of sugar, is also rich in polyphenolic compounds.

The yerba mate intake has a neutral effect on bone: A case-control study in postmenopausal women

Nutritional factors have been associated with osteoporosis and fractures. The intake of coffee may increase the risk of fracture whereas the intake of black and green tea is associated with its reduction. Recently, consumption of yerba mate was associated with increased bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. Nonetheless, its influence on fracture is not known. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of yerba mate tea intake on fractures, bone markers, calcium homeostasis, and oxidative stress in postmenopausal women. A case-control study was carried out in South Brazil, 46 women with fractures and 49 controls completed the study. There was no significant difference between the frequency of fractures in women who drank mate tea and women who did not (48.3% vs. 48.5%, p = .99). Moreover, there was no significant difference concerning the serum levels of total calcium, phosphorus, PTH, vitamin D, P1NP, and CTX in the subjects with the history of yerba mate use when compared to controls. Higher serum levels of NOx were found in women who drank the yerba mate infusion. In conclusion, the yerba mate intake is not associated with fracture, and it appears to have a neutral effect on the bone metabolism.