Optimization of phenolics extraction from sesame seed cake

Optimizing Green Extraction Methods for Maximizing the Biological Potential of Dandelion, Milk Thistle, and Chamomile Seed Extracts

This study investigates the underutilized potential of agri-crops from the Asteraceae family by employing sustainable and green technologies (supercritical fluid, ultrasound, and Soxhlet extractions) to enhance the recovery of bioactive compounds. A total of 21 extracts from native and waste seeds of dandelion, milk thistle, and chamomile were systematically compared utilizing a combination of solvents (supercritical CO2 and absolute or aqueous ethanol). Supercritical CO2 extraction yielded up to 281 mg/g of oils from native seeds, while conventional techniques with ethanol recovered an additional 142 mg/g of extracts from waste seeds. Notably, waste seed extracts exhibited superior biological activity, including potent antioxidant properties (IC50 values as low as 0.3 mg/mL in the DPPH assay) and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against 32 microbial strains, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Gram-negative bacteria, and yeast strains. Phenolic compounds were abundant, with up to 2126 mg GAE/g, alongside 25.9 mg QE/g flavonoids, and 805.5 mg/kg chlorophyll A. A selective anticancer activity of waste milk thistle extracts was observed, with a selectivity index of 1.9 to 2.7. The oils recovered from native seeds demonstrated lower bioactivity and are well-suited for applications in food. The potent bioactivity of the smaller quantities of waste seed extracts positions them as valuable candidates for pharmaceutical use.

Protective Effects of Sesame Glycoproteins on Ultraviolet-Induced Skin Aging: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a primary factor in skin photoaging, leading to wrinkles, reduced elasticity, and pigmentation changes due to damage to cellular DNA, proteins, and lipids. Glycoproteins from sesame cake (SPE) have potential protective effects against UV-induced skin aging. This study investigated the anti-photoaging effects of SPE on UV-induced damage in human keratinocyte HaCaT cells and SKH-1 hairless mice.

METHODS

SPE was evaluated for its ability to mitigate UV-induced damage in HaCaT cells by assessing MMP-1 protein and mRNA expression levels, as well as the activity of transcription factors AP-1 and NF-κB. The phosphorylation of AKT and MAPK pathways was also analyzed. In vivo, SKH-1 hairless mice were exposed to UV radiation, and the effects of SPE on wrinkle formation and skin structure were assessed by measuring wrinkle length, area, and volume.

RESULTS

SPE significantly inhibited UV-induced MMP-1 protein and mRNA expression in HaCaT cells, indicating suppression of AP-1 and NF-κB transcription factors involved in MMP-1 production. Additionally, SPE reduced UV-induced phosphorylation of AKT and MAPK pathways. In SKH-1 hairless mice, SPE treatment led to significant reductions in wrinkle length, area, and volume, preserving skin structure in UV-exposed mice.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings demonstrate that SPE has protective effects against UV-induced photoaging by inhibiting key molecular pathways associated with skin aging. SPE shows promise as a natural anti-photoaging agent, providing a foundation for future skincare product development. Further studies are warranted to explore the molecular mechanisms in detail and to validate these effects through clinical trials.

Effect of sesame cake fertilizer with γ-PGA on soil nutrient, water and nitrogen use efficiency

γ-polyglutamic acid (γ-PGA), as an environmentally sustainable material, is extensive applied in agriculture for enhancing water and fertilizer utilization efficiency, augmenting crop yield, and ameliorating soil conditions. However, the effect of γ-PGA in conjunction with sesame cake fertilizer on the soil environment remains uncertain.The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of γ-PGA on soil nutrients, water use efficiency (WUE) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), and maize yield across various levels of sesame cake fertilizer. Additionally, the study seeks to identify the optimal ratio to establish a theoretical and practical foundation for sustainable agricultural development and the promotion of ecological agriculture. Through field experiments, nine treatments were established, comprising three levels of sesame cake fertilizer application rates (B1 = 900 kg/hm2 for low fertility, B2 = 1100 kg/hm2 for medium fertility, and B3 = 1300 kg/hm2 for high fertility) and three levels of γ-PGA application rates (R1 = 200 kg/hm2, R2 = 400 kg/hm2, and R3 = 600 kg/hm2). The results can be outlined as follows: (1) When γ-PGA application rate increased, total nitrogen (TN) exhibited a synergistic effect under B1 treatment, but an antagonistic effect under B2 and B3 treatments. At the 6-leaf stage (V6), 12-leaf stage (V12), and tasseling stage (VT), available phosphorus (AP) exhibited antagonistic effects. However, at the filling stage (R2) and maturity stage (R6), AP in B1 and B2 treatments at various depths underwent partial transformation into a synergistic effect. The levels of available potassium exhibited a notable antagonistic effect, leading to a decrease in harvest index (HI). B2 treatment demonstrated superior results compared to the B1 and B3 treatments, with the highest levels observed under B2R1 treatment; (2) TN content in the 0-40 cm soil layer increased during the filling period, and it was uniformly distributed in the 40-60 cm soil layer. When the soil AP was located in the 0-60 cm soil layer, there was an increase in AP content during the mature period. Following the tasseling period, different treatments exhibited varying patterns of increase in response to the presence of potassium within the 0-60 cm soil layer. Consequently, in cases where the sesame cake fertilizer content is low, the interaction between γ-PGA can compensate for the deficiency of fertilizer, thereby enhancing water and nitrogen utilization efficiency. The optimal fertilization strategy for enhancing soil nutrient distribution, WUE and NUE, and yield is proposed to be the application of 1100 kg/hm2 sesame cake fertilizer and 200 kg/hm2 γ-PGA.

The Effect of Extraction by Pressing at Different Temperatures on Sesame Oil Quality Characteristics

Sesame oil has been widely used in the daily diet due to its high nutritional value. Sesame oil is extracted at industrial scales and also in small scale by cold pressing at different temperatures. In this research, sesame oil was extracted by pressing at four temperatures, namely, 30 (control sample), 60, 90 and 120 °C, to evaluate its effects on the quality of extracted oils. Oil extraction yields were increased from 38 to 51% by increasing the pressing temperature. The highest amount of peroxide and acid values were related to the oil extracted at 120 °C. Tocopherols and total phenol content were reduced by the increasing the pressing temperature, and the highest amounts of these bioactive components were related to the control sample. The results of the fatty acids profile showed that the composition of oils extracted at different temperatures did not differ significantly (p > 0.05). The results of the present study give a clear picture about the effects of different pressing temperatures on the sesame oil quality and extraction yield, and can be useful in the extraction unit optimization.

Influence of sesame cake on physicochemical, antioxidant and sensorial characteristics of fortified wheat breads

Incorporation of two sesame cake preparations, differing in fat, 11 % (LF) and 17 % (HF), and protein, 51 % (LF) and 44 % (HF), contents, respectively, into breads at 6, 12 and 20 % wheat flour substitution levels, led to enriched end-products with antioxidants, suitable also to carry the 'high protein' and 'fiber source' nutrition claims (at ≥ 12 % substitution level). Sesame cake decreased wheat dough resistance to mixing and extension, and peak viscosity (empirical rheology), in a concentration-dependent manner, being more pronounced for LF formulations. Breads with LF incorporation ≥ 12 % had lower specific volumes and harder crumb (texture analysis) throughout storage, than control (100 % wheat flour); however, such adverse effects were diminished in HF bread formulations due to the plasticizing and emulsifying action of the sesame cake fat. Calorimetry showed that the sesame cake had no effect on starch retrogradation, but enhanced amylose-lipid complex formation. Antioxidant activity (ABTS, DPPH and FRAP assays), and phenolic acids (ferulic, p-coumaric and sinapic) and lignan (sesaminol glucosides and sesamolin) contents, determined by HPLC-DAD-MS, were higher in LF breads than their HF counterparts. The presence of some sulfur (off-flavor) and pyrazine (nutty flavor) compounds (SPME-GC-MS), as well as the sesame flavor and bitterness (sensory analysis) were of higher intensity in HF breads, while the 6 % LF product received the highest overall acceptability score among all fortified products. Overall, the sesame cake can be a promising ingredient for production of functional wheat bread depending on its composition and fortification level.

Green Extraction of Hodgsonia heteroclita Oilseed Cake Powder to Obtain Optimal Antioxidants and Health Benefits

Most biowaste produced by domestic food preparation and food processing has no value, is difficult to manage, and is detrimental to the environment. Oil extraction from Hodgsonia heteroclita seeds produces large amounts of oilseed cake powder (OCP) as biowaste. The extraction of residual phytochemicals using simple and eco-friendly methods can increase the economic utility of OCP. This study optimized the extraction process for Hodgsonia heteroclita OCP using a Box-Behnken design and response surface methodology. The optimized extraction condition was 30 °C for 5 h in 50% (v/v) ethanol, giving a total phenolic content (TPC) of 414.23 mg of gallic acid equivalent/100 g dry weight (DW). Phytochemical profiles of OCP using liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (LC-ECI-MS/MS) identified 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and ferulic acid as the major compounds. Antioxidant activities and enzyme inhibitory activities toward the major enzymes involved in obesity (lipase), diabetes (α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP IV)), Alzheimer's disease (acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), and β-secretase-1 (BACE-1)), hypertension (angiotensin-converting enzyme, ACE), and genotoxicity were also investigated. Results showed that H. heteroclita OCP possessed antioxidant activity and potential inhibitory activities against BACE-1 and ACE, while also being genome-safe. A simple extraction method for H. heteroclita OCP was developed, demonstrating the enhanced value of its phytochemical and health-promoting qualities.

Antioxidant Properties of Maqui Berry Extract (Aristotelia chilensis (Mol.) Stuntz) and Its Potential Photoprotective Role on Human Skin Fibroblasts

Maqui berry (Aristotelia chilensis) is characterized by antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of maqui berry extracts on human skin fibroblasts (NHSFs) exposed to ultraviolet radiation (UVB). The photoprotective properties of the extracts were investigated via the determination of the total polyphenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity (DPPH), and the chemical composition was assessed. The chemical purity of the extracts was studied via the evaluation of the toxic elements level. The water extract (MWE 57.75 ± 0.44 mg GAE/g) had the highest mean polyphenol content. The water (MWE) and ethanol (MEE70) extracts had the highest inhibitory activities against DPPH radical formation (283.63 ± 7.29 and 284.60 ± 4.31 mg Tx/L, respectively). The analyzed extracts were found to be safe in terms of toxic elements (arsenic, cadmium, lead). The tested extracts of maqui berry did not cause a cytotoxic effect on NHSF cells after 24, 48, and 72 h of incubation. When the NHSF cells were exposed to UVB radiation in the presence of maqui extracts, their viability was increased or maintained. The maqui berry extracts had a slightly protective effect against skin damage caused by UVB radiation. These were preliminary studies that require further research to determine which maqui compounds correspond with the photoprotective activity.

Use of titanium dioxide doped multi-wall carbon nanotubes as promoter for the growth, biochemical indices of Sesamum indicum L. under heat stress conditions

The behavior of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) as plant growth enhancers was still unclear; however, in this study, the effects of MWCNTs, TiO2NPs, 5%TiO2@MWCNTs, 10%TiO2@MWCNTs and 15%TiO2@MWCNTs on physical and biochemical contents in Sesamum indicum L. under heat stress conditions were studied. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) concentrations were reduced by the spraying MWCNTs and TiO2 NPs on plants. The hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) content was reduced by 49.02% in plants treated with 15%TiO2@MWCNTs while 42.14% reduction was found in plants treated with 10%TiO2@MWCNTs. The proportion of oil and the peroxidase enzyme activity in plants treated with 15%TiO2@MWCNTs were increased by 48.99%, for the oil content, and 2.39 times for POD activity respected to the stressed plants. The proportion of unsaturated fatty acids increased in plants treated with 15%TiO2@MWCNTs, 10%TiO2@MWCNTs and TiO2 NPs by 2.7, 2.52, and 2.09 times, respectively, greater than the control of the Shandweel-3 variety. Finally, plants treated with 15%TiO2@MWCNTs showed increases in seed yield and weight 1000-seeds by 4.42 and 1.67 times, respectively. These findings suggest that TiO2@MWCNTs more effective than separated MWCNTs and TiO2 NPs in improve plant growth. In addition, the cultivar Shandweel-3 showed an improvement in growth indicators more than the Giza-32 cultivar.

Innovative applications and therapeutic potential of oilseeds and their by-products: An eco-friendly and sustainable approach

The risk of inadequate management of agro-waste is an emerging challenge. However, the economic relevance of agro-waste valorization is one of the key strategies to ensure sustainable development. Among the agro-waste, oilseed waste and its by-products are usually seen as mass waste after the extraction of oils. Oilseed by-products especially oilseed cakes are a potential source of protein, fiber, minerals, and antioxidants. Oilseed cakes contain high value-added bioactive compounds which have great significance among researchers to develop novel foods having therapeutic applications. Moreover, these oilseed cakes might be employed in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. Thus, as a result of having desirable characteristics, oilseed by-products can be more valuable in wide application in the food business along with the preparation of supplements. The current review highlights that plentiful wastes or by-products from oilseeds are wasted if these underutilized materials are not properly valorized or effectively utilized. Hence, promising utilization of oilseeds and their wastes not only assists to overcome environmental concerns and protein insecurity but also helps to achieve the goals of zero waste and sustainability. Furthermore, the article also covers the production and industrial applications of oilseeds and by-products along with the potential role of oilseed cakes and phytochemicals in the treatment of chronic diseases.

Effects of natural nitrite sources from arugula and barberry extract on quality characteristic of heat-treated fermented sausages

This study was designed to compare the effects of natural nitrite sources from the arugula leaves (arugula extract and pre-converted arugula extract) and the use of barberry extract (BE) in heat-treated fermented sausage formulations. Eight different sausages were manufactured as follows: pre-converted arugula extract (PA), arugula extract (A), pre-converted arugula extract + BE (PAB), arugula extract + BE (AB), nitrite +BE (POB), no nitrite+ BE (NEB), also positive and negative control groups were prepared with (POC) or without nitrite (NEC). The addition of arugula and barberry extracts reduced the residual nitrite content, in fact PAB had the lowest value with a reduction ratio of 47%. The addition of BE lowered the lipid oxidation compared to other counterparts. The use of arugula extract or pre-converted arugula extract resulted in a lower carbonylation than nitrite free samples. The use of natural extracts lowered the a* and b* values compared to control. At the end of the storage, no differences were observed on the overall acceptability of all samples. Combined use of barberry extract with arugula and pre-converted arugula extracts could be used as alternative novel curing agent in heat-treated fermented sausages.

Valorization of mustard and sesame oilseed cakes for food application through eco-innovative technologies

Agricultural waste valorization is currently getting attention across the world owing to its environmental impact and rich phytochemistry. The mandate of the current investigation was the extraction and characterization of bioactive moieties from the mustard oilseed cake/meal MOC and sesame oilseed cake/meal SOC through ultrasound extraction (UE) techniques due to its higher yield and less burden on the environment as compared to conventional extraction (CE). Purposely, the MOC and SOC were initially subjected to compositional analysis. Thereafter, bioactive moieties were extracted by using different solvents, that is, ethanol and distilled water, and by applying conventional and ultrasonic extraction techniques. The outcomes indicated that among the techniques, ultrasound exhibited the highest results, and in solvents, ethanol performed better. The treatment extracted with ethanol with UE at 10 min showed the best result for total phenolic contents (TPC) as (6.07 ± 0.03 09 g GAE/100 g MOC) and (7.09 ± 0.04 g GAE/100 g SOC), DPPH radical scavenging activity (67.3 ± 1.9 TE/100 g MOC) & (72.68 ± 1.9 TE/100 g SOC), and FRAP was recorded as (2.83 ± 0.02 g TE/100 g MOC) & (3.56 ± 0.03 g TE/100 g SOC). The higher antioxidant potential showed that the mustard and sesame waste holds significant therapeutic potential owing to its rich antioxidant profile and thus should be utilized for the development of functional products against lifestyle-related disorders. In conclusion, ultrasound is a better technique for maximum as well as accurate extraction, with ethanol exhibiting as a better solvent for this process with more yields as compared to distilled water.

Turning Food Protein Waste into Sustainable Technologies

For each kilogram of food protein wasted, between 15 and 750 kg of CO2 end up in the atmosphere. With this alarming carbon footprint, food protein waste not only contributes to climate change but also significantly impacts other environmental boundaries, such as nitrogen and phosphorus cycles, global freshwater use, change in land composition, chemical pollution, and biodiversity loss. This contrasts sharply with both the high nutritional value of proteins, as well as their unique chemical and physical versatility, which enable their use in new materials and innovative technologies. In this review, we discuss how food protein waste can be efficiently valorized not only by reintroduction into the food chain supply but also as a template for the development of sustainable technologies by allowing it to exit the food-value chain, thus alleviating some of the most urgent global challenges. We showcase three technologies of immediate significance and environmental impact: biodegradable plastics, water purification, and renewable energy. We discuss, by carefully reviewing the current state of the art, how proteins extracted from food waste can be valorized into key players to facilitate these technologies. We furthermore support analysis of the extant literature by original life cycle assessment (LCA) examples run ad hoc on both plant and animal waste proteins in the context of the technologies considered, and against realistic benchmarks, to quantitatively demonstrate their efficacy and potential. We finally conclude the review with an outlook on how such a comprehensive management of food protein waste is anticipated to transform its carbon footprint from positive to negative and, more generally, have a favorable impact on several other important planetary boundaries.

A, Almasoudi AG, Mekawi E. Phytochemical Profile and Antioxidant Activity of Sesame Seed (Sesamum indicum) By-Products for Stability and Shelf Life Improvement of Refined Olive Oil

The by-product of sesame seed coats from the tahini industry was used for the extraction of bioactive compounds as novel antioxidants. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of a natural antioxidant on the quality of refined olive oil (ROO) stored at 60 ± 1 °C for up to 48 days. The lyophilized sesame seed coats extract (LSSCE) was placed into fresh ROO at three levels, i.e., 200, 400, and 600 mg kg−1, and compared with 200 mg kg−1 BHT (reference) and without antioxidant (control). LSSCE exhibited high phenolic (105.9 mg GAE g−1) and lignin (6.3 mg g−1) contents as well as antioxidant activity based on HPLC/DAD. In ROO samples, Including LSSCE, the values of peroxide, p-anisidine, K232, and K270 were remarkably lower than control during storage. The kinetic rate constant (k) of oxidation indicators was the lowest in ROO samples containing BHT and LSSCE 600 mg kg−1compared with other treatments. LSSCE improved the organoleptic acceptability of ROO samples up to 48 days of storage. Moreover, the shelf life (assuming a Q10 value of 2.0 for lipid oxidation) of ROO treated with LSSCE was increased. The findings revealed that LSSCE is a promising natural antioxidant in delaying oxidation, enhancing oil stability, and prolonging the shelf life (~475 days at ambient temperature).

Reduction of phosphate content in frankfurters by up to 50% using micronized cold-pressed sesame seed cake

Our study assessed the effects of micronized cold-pressed sesame seed cake (MCPSSC) incorporation as a potential phosphate replacement on the textural and gel properties of 50% reduced-phosphate frankfurters. Our results indicated that moderate MCPSSC addition (4%) resulted in the strongest inhibition of textural quality deficits in reduced-phosphates frankfurters, which was confirmed via scanning electron microscopy. Moreover, although some differences were perceived in the sensorial parameters and flavour profile of reduced-phosphate frankfurters prepared with MCPSSC, all of them were deemed acceptable. Therefore, incorporating moderate amounts of MCPSSC is a feasible strategy to reduce the phosphate contents of frankfurters and promote "clean label" practices.

Whole or Defatted Sesame Seeds (Sesamum indicum L.)? The Effect of Cold Pressing on Oil and Cake Quality

Whole sesame seeds and sesame oil, which is obtained after cold pressing the seeds, are foodstuffs globally consumed due to their nutritional characteristics. The press cake that remains from the oil extraction process can be ground to form a defatted flour that can be incorporated into the human diet, contributing to the valorisation of this product. The nutritional comparison between the whole seeds and the press cake reveals the potential of this by-product to be incorporated in the formulation of diverse foodstuff, since it is richer than the seeds in proteins (30%) and fibre (25%) and still contains a proportion of oil (32%) with a fatty acid pattern characterized by the abundance of unsaturated fatty acids. The protein fraction of both the seeds and the cake shows a balanced composition regarding amino acid composition, with all the essential amino acids included. On the other hand, the oil obtained by cold pressing is shown as a high-quality oil, where the predominant fatty acids are oleic (42.66%) and linoleic (41.25%), which are essential fatty acids because they are not synthetised in the organism and must be obtained through the diet. In addition, it is rich in vitamin E, especially in γ-tocopherol, that was the main isomer found. Regarding these results, all products (sesame seeds, oil and press cake) are components suitable to be included in a healthy diet.

Specialty seeds: Nutrients, bioactives, bioavailability, and health benefits: A comprehensive review

Seeds play important roles in human nutrition and health since ancient time. The term "specialty" has recently been applied to seeds to describe high-value and/or uncommon food products. Since then, numerous studies have been conducted to identify various classes of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols in specialty seeds. This review discusses nutrients, fat-soluble bioactives, polyphenols/bioactives, antioxidant activity, bioavailability, health benefits, and safety/toxicology of commonly consumed eight specialty seeds, namely, black cumin, chia, hemp, flax, perilla, pumpkin, quinoa, and sesame. Scientific results from the existing literature published over the last decade have been compiled and discussed. These specialty seeds, having numerous fat-soluble bioactives and polyphenols, together with their corresponding antioxidant activities, have increasingly been consumed. Hence, these specialty seeds can be considered as a valuable source of dietary supplements and functional foods due to their health-promoting bioactive components, polyphenols, and corresponding antioxidant activities. The phytochemicals from these specialty seeds demonstrate bioavailability in humans with promising health benefits. Additional long-term and well-design human intervention trials are required to ascertain the health-promoting properties of these specialty seeds.

Development of an ultrasonic system for industrial extraction of unheated sesame oil cake

Sesame is a popular functional food in Asia. However, research on sesame seed oil cake compounds and their extraction methods is lacking. Ultrasound technology was applied to develop an efficient extraction method for this purpose. First, pilot-scale extraction from sesame oil cake was performed and optimized using response surface methodology. The extract obtained using optimized conditions (0% ethanol for 4 h at 20°C) showed the highest yield (45.1%) and inhibitory effect on reactive oxygen species (ROS; 55.1%). Compared to extracts obtained by conventional extraction methods, those obtained by ultrasound technology exhibited a higher extraction yield, greater antioxidant effect, and increased lignan content. Based on pilot-scale experiments, an industrial-scale ultrasonic extraction system was designed to extract a 2.1-ton solution at once. The extract contained sesaminol 1,2-diglucoside (4.6 mg/g) as the major component and showed 28.3% ROS inhibition activity. Our industrial ultrasound-assisted extraction method has potential application for other compounds.

Oil Press-Cakes and Meals Valorization through Circular Economy Approaches: A Review

The food industry generates a large amount of waste every year, which opens up a research field aimed at minimizing and efficiently managing this issue to support the concept of zero waste. From the extraction process of oilseeds results oil cakes. These residues are a source of bioactive compounds (protein, dietary fiber, antioxidants) with beneficial properties for health, that can be used in foods, cosmetics, textile, and pharmaceutical industries. They can also serve as substrates for the production of enzymes, antibiotics, biosurfactants, and mushrooms. Other applications are in animal feedstuff and for composites, bio-fuel, and films production. This review discusses the importance of oilseed and possible valorization methods for the residues obtained in the oil industry.

A Quick, Green and Simple Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction for the Valorization of Antioxidant Phenolic Acids from Moroccan Almond Cold-Pressed Oil Residues

Almond (Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D.A. Webb) is one of the most important nut crops both in terms of area and production. Over the last few decades, an important part of the beneficial actions for health associated with their consumption was attributed to the phenolic compounds, mainly accumulated in almond skin. Interestingly, after cold-pressed oil extraction, most of these antioxidant phenolic compounds are retained in a skin-enriched by-product, a so-called almond cold-pressed oil residue. In Morocco, the fifth highest ranking producer in the world, this production generates an important part of this valuable byproduct. In the present study, using a multivariate Box–Behnken design, an ultrasound-assisted extraction method of phenolic compounds from Moroccan almond cold-pressed oil residue was developed and validated. Response surface methodology resulted in the optimal extraction conditions: the use of aqueous ethanol 53.0% (v/v) as a green solvent, applying an ultrasound frequency of 27.0 kHz for an extraction duration of 29.4 min. The present ultrasound-assisted extraction allowed substantial gains in terms of extraction efficiency compared to conventional heat reflux extraction. Applied to three different local Beldi genotypes growing at three different experimental sites, the optimal conditions for ultrasound-assisted extraction led to a total phenolic content of 13.86 mg/g dry weight. HPLC analysis revealed that the main phenolic compounds from this valuable byproduct were: chlorogenic acid followed by protocatechuic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and p-coumaric acid. The accumulation of these phenolic compounds appeared to be more dependent on the genetic background than on the environmental impact here represented by the three experimental culture sites. Both in vitro cell free and cellular antioxidant assays were performed, and revealed the great potential of these extracts. In particular, correlation analysis provided evidence of the prominent roles of chlorogenic acid, protocatechuic acid, and p-hydroxybenzoic acid. To summarize, the validated ultrasound-assisted extraction method presented here is a quick, green, simple and efficient for the possible valorization of antioxidant phenolic compounds from Moroccan almond cold-pressed oil residues, making it possible to generate extracts with attractive antioxidant activities for future nutraceutical and/or cosmetic applications.

Determination and Daily Intake Estimation of Lignans in Sesame Seeds and Sesame Oil Products in Korea

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is a plant that belongs to the Pedaliaceae family which was first classified as a food source around 4000 years ago. Lignans (sesamin, sesamolin, sesamol, and sesaminol) present in sesame are the primary functional compounds that impart important health benefits. However, very little information is available on the lignan intake from sesame seeds and sesame oil products. Sesame oil is frequently and highly consumed in Korea and therefore is one of the important lignan intake sources due to the food eating habits of Koreans. Herein, we studied the distribution of lignans in sesame seeds (n = 21) and oil (n = 34) to estimate the daily lignan intake by the Korean population. High-performance liquid chromatography, in conjunction with statistical analysis, was used to determine the lignan content of seeds and oil. The estimated daily intake of total lignans from sesame seeds and oil, as estimated from the available domestic consumption data (Korea Nutrition and Health Examination Survey), is 18.39 mg/person/day for males and 13.26 mg/person/day for females. The contributions of lignan intake from sesame seeds and oil are 23.0% and 77.0%, respectively. This study provides preliminary information on lignan intake from sesame seeds and oil in the Korean population.

Free Radical Scavenging Capability of Various Defatted Sesame Seed Cakes and Hulls Using EPR Compared with In Vitro Testing and HPLC Analysis

The free radical scavenging activities of black and white sesame seed hulls and the powder of black and white sesame seed cakes were investigated using noninvasive continuous wave electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and antioxidant assays. With black sesame seed hulls and the powder of black sesame seed cakes, EPR detected the very strong single-line signal intensities that correspond to the stable organic radicals, while the spectrum of the white sesame seed hulls and the white sesame seed cakes showed no signal. The in vitro antioxidant activities of black and white sesame seed cake extract were evaluated by DPPH free radical scavenging activity, hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The results indicated that the extract from black sesame seed cake possessed a greater DPPH radical inhibitory activity and hydrogen peroxide inhibitory activity than white sesame seed cake extract, with IC₅₀ values of 0.847 ± 0.011 mg/mL and 0.338 ± 0.007 mg/mL, respectively. Black sesame seed cake extract also showed a strong reducing power with a FRAP value of 1.307 ± 0.037 mM Fe (II)/g of extract weight and an EC₁ value of 0.683 ± 0.002 mg/mL. The main compounds from the black and white sesame seed cake extracts were analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The results revealed that the main compounds in black and white sesame seed cake extracts were in a group of water-soluble lignans, mainly sesaminol triglucoside and sesaminol diglucoside. However, sesaminol diglucoside was found in large amounts in the black sesame seed cake extract, while it was found in a very small amount in the white sesame seed cake extract. Therefore, these results demonstrated considerable antioxidant capacity of the sesame seed, especially in the black strain.

Recovery of Sesamin, Sesamolin, and Minor Lignans From Sesame Oil Using Solid Support-Free Liquid-Liquid Extraction and Chromatography Techniques and Evaluation of Their Enzymatic Inhibition Properties

In this study, an integrated process for the recovery of sesamin and sesamolin, two high added-value lignans of sesame oil (SO) was developed, using synchronous extraction and chromatography techniques. The extraction of SO phenolic content was studied using two different extraction techniques: Annular centrifugal extraction (ACE) and centrifugal partition extraction (CPE). The derived data of each experiment were compared in terms of revealing the yields, time, and solvents consumption showing that CPE is the most effective technique, concerning the solvent consumption. The isolation of lignans was achieved using centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC) both on semi-preparative and preparative scale. The biphasic system used for this purpose consisted of the following solvents: n-Hex/EtOAc/EtOH/H₂O in proportion 2:3:3:2 (v/v/v/v) and direct recovery of the two major lignans sesamin and sesamolin was achieved. In parallel the CPC analysis resulted in the isolation of four minor lignans of sesame oil, i.e., samin, sesamol, sesaminol, and episesaminol. Structure elucidation of isolated lignans was based on HRMS/MS and NMR experiments. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed for quantitative analysis of the obtained extracts to determine the purity of the isolated compounds as well. The results of this study demonstrated that sesamin and sesamolin were recovered in purity higher than 95%, verifying the effectiveness of the purposed separation methodology. Finally, due to the general application of sesame oil in cosmetic industry, all the pure compounds were evaluated for their tyrosinase, elastase, collagenase, and hyaluronidase inhibition activity.

Subcritical Fluid Extraction of Antioxidant Phenolic Compounds from Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) Nuts: Experiments, Modeling, and Optimization

A process to obtain phenolic compounds with antioxidant properties from pistachio nuts using water/ethanol mixture under high temperature and pressure conditions was carried out. To optimize extraction conditions and antioxidant activity of bioactive compounds, theoretical models were scanned against experimental data. Phenolic profile was dominated by several flavonoids and gallic acid derivatives. A fitted model for phenolic compounds extraction presented a maximum predicted value under the following conditions: 220 °C extraction temperature, 6.5 MPa pressure, and 50% ethanol. Beneath these conditions, phenolic extracts gave the highest radical scavenging capacity, similar to that reached by using commercial antioxidants. A mathematical model, namely two-site desorption kinetic model, showed to be suitable for the description of extraction kinetics under the optimal operation conditions. Overall, the process described in this study shows a potential alternative method for extraction of pistachio bioactive compounds. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Pistachio nuts are known to contain a vast array of phenolic and polyphenolic substances having strong antioxidant properties. Currently, the use of natural antioxidants in the food industry has increased, in consequence there is a growing interest in improving the extraction processes using GRAS (general recognize as safe) solvents. This study describes a safe, inexpensive, and short-time method (subcritical fluid extraction) to obtain antioxidant extracts from defatted pistachio nuts. This type of process may be adapted toward applications at industrial scale.

Optimisation of an ultrasound-assisted extraction method for the simultaneous determination of phenolics in rice grains

Fifteen phenolic compounds were determined in rice grains by ultrasound assisted extraction and ultra-performance liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection. Primarily, an UAE method has been developed and validated for the extraction of phenolics from rice grains. For the optimization, a Box-Behnken Design based on six factors including extraction temperature (10-70 °C), solvent composition (0-50% methanol in water), cycle (0.2-0.7 s^-1), ultrasound amplitude (30-70%), and solvent to sample ratio (2.5:1 to 5:1) was employed. Multi-response optimization (MRO) was performed to develop a simultaneous extraction method of 15 phenolics. The optimal UAE conditions were: extraction temperature 45 °C, time 25 min, cycle 0.4 s^-1, ultrasound amplitude 47%, solvent composition 80% methanol in water at pH 4.25, and sample to solvent ratio 1:5. Linearity, LODs, LOQs, precision and recovery were determined. In addition, the method was successfully applied to analyse a number of rice samples with different varieties.

Optimizing extraction conditions of crude fiber, phenolic compounds, flavonoids and antioxidant activity of date seed powder

The objective of this study was to optimize the extraction conditions of crude fiber, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant activity from date seeds powder, using Response Surface Methodology. A central composite design with four independent variables; concentration of ethanol (X1 = 25, 50 and 75% v/v), solvent: sample ratio (X2 = 40:1, 50:1 and 60:1 v/w), temperature (X3 = 45, 55 and 65 °C), and extraction time (X4 = 1, 2 and 3 h) and a three level face centered cube design were used. A total of twenty nine experimental runs with five replicates at the central point were used to study the response variables using two extraction cycles. Maximum phenolic compound content (71.6 mg GAE/100 g) was extracted using 50% ethanol solution with 40:1 solvent: sample ratio for 1 h at 55 °C. While the maximum antioxidant activity (55.02 µmol Fe(II)/g) was obtained using similar ethanol concentration and solvent: sample ratio except at lower temperature (45 °C) for 2 h. On other hand, the maximum flavonoids content (455.77 mg CEQ/100 g) was reached by using 50% concentration, 50:1 solvent: sample ratio at 65 °C for 3 h. In contrast, the content of fiber was not affected by the different extraction conditions. Results indicate that using combination of extracted conditions, have a great potential for extracting all depending compounds except crude fiber.

Biochemical and Antioxidative Properties of Unprocessed and Sterilized White and Black Sesame By-product from Northern Thailand

The objectives of this research were to determine the effects of sterilization on storage stability of white and black sesame by-products. Results showed that sterilization at 120 ºC for 10 min had no effect on proximate compositions and mineral contents of both sesame seed cakes, but the significant reductions of thiamine, riboflavin, sesamin, sesamolin, total phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity (DPPH and FRAP assays) were observed. During the storage at 37 ºC, all bioactive components and antioxidant properties apparently tended to decrease when the storage time rose. At the end of storage, PV (peroxide value) and TBARS (thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances) values of stored black sesame seed cakes were shown to be significantly lower than that in white sesame seed cakes. This study may suggest the application of black and white sesame seeds cakes as functional food ingredients in the future production.

Optimization of the antioxidant polyphenolic compounds extraction of yellow passion fruit seeds (Passiflora edulis Sims) by response surface methodology

The conditions for the solid-liquid extraction of the antioxidant polyphenol compounds from yellow passion fruit seeds were optimized by response surface methodology with the following variables as the extraction parameters: extraction time (12.8-147.2 min), ethanol concentration (13-97%), and temperature (16.4-83.6 °C). The polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity, which were assessed by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity, oxygen radical absorbance capacity, β-carotene bleaching assay, and ferric reducing antioxidant power assay, were considered dependent variables. The association of the dependent variables was effective for explaining the effect of the independent variables within a determination coefficient (R²) range of 0.88-0.96. A moderate-to-strong correlation for the polyphenol content and antioxidant capacity by the investigated methods was established, and optimized conditions were employed to maximize this response. Extraction was carried out at 80 °C using 70% ethanol concentration for 30 min, which was the most efficient condition to obtain an extract with high concentrations of polyphenolic compounds (3.12 g gallic acid equivalent/100 g seed dry basis) and a strong antioxidant capacity. The stilbene piceatannol was the major compound identified by liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (3.68 g/100 g seed dry basis). These results reinforce that agro-industrial waste demonstrates potential as a source of bioactive compounds, with implications in human health as well as in food and chemical industries.

Extraction of bioactive compounds from sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) defatted seeds using water and ethanol under sub-critical conditions

Sesame seeds contain a vast array of lignans and phenolic compounds having important biological properties. An optimized method to obtain these seed components was designed by using water and ethanol at high pressure and temperature conditions. The maximum concentrations of lignans, total phenolics, flavonoids and flavonols compounds were achieved at 220°C extraction temperature and 8MPa pressure, using 63.5% ethanol as co-solvent. Under these conditions, the obtained sesame extracts gave the best radical scavenging capacity. Kinetic studies showed a high extraction rate of phenolic compounds until the first 50min of extraction, and it was in parallel with the highest scavenging capacity. The comparison of our results with those obtained under conventional extraction conditions (normal pressure, ambient temperature) suggests that recovery of sesame bioactive compounds may be markedly enhanced using water/ethanol mixtures at sub-critical conditions.

Optimization of Ultrasonic-Assisted Enzymatic Extraction Conditions for Improving Total Phenolic Content, Antioxidant and Antitumor Activities In Vitro from Trapa quadrispinosa Roxb. Residues

Stems are the important residues of Trapa quadrispinosa Roxb., which are abundant in phenolic compounds. Ultrasonic-assisted enzymatic extraction (UAEE) is confirmed as a novel extraction technology with main advantages of enhancing extraction yield and physiological activities of the extracts from various plants. In this study, UAEE was applied to obtain the highest yield of phenolic content, strongest antioxidant, and antitumor activities and to optimize the extraction conditions using response surface methodology (RSM). The extracts from the stems of T. quadrispinosa were characterized by determination of their antioxidant activities through 2,2-azinobis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazxyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), ferric reducing antioxidant capacity (FRAC) methods and of their antitumor activity by MTT method. The selected key independent variables were cellulase concentration (X₁: 1.5%–2.5%), extraction time (X₂: 20–30 min) and extraction temperature (X₃: 40–60 °C). The optimal extraction conditions for total phenolic content (TPC) value of the extracts were determined as 1.74% cellulase concentration, 25.5 min ultrasonic extraction time and 49.0 °C ultrasonic temperature. Under these conditions, the highest TPC value of 53.6 ± 2.2 mg Gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g dry weight (DW) was obtained, which agreed well with the predicted value (52.596 mg GAE/g·DW. Furthermore, the extracts obtained from UAEE presented highest antioxidant activities through ABTS, DPPH, TAC and FRAC methods were of 1.54 ± 0.09 mmol Trolox equivalent (TE)/g·DW; 1.45 ± 0.07 mmol·TE/g·DW; 45.2 ± 2.2 mg·GAE/g·DW; 50.4 ± 2.6 μmol FeSO₄ equivalent/g·DW and lowest IC₅₀ values of 160.4 ± 11.6 μg/mL, 126.1 ± 10.8 μg/mL, and 178.3 ± 13.1 μg/mL against Hela, HepG-2 and U251 tumor cells, respectively. The results indicated that the UAEE was an efficient alternative to improve extraction yield and enhance the antioxidant and antitumor activities of the extracts. The phenolic extracts from the stems of T. quadrispinosa had significant antioxidant and antitumor activities, which could be used as a source of potential antioxidant and antitumor agents.

Phenolic content, antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of six varieties of white sesame seeds (Sesamum indicum L.)

This article investigates the total phenolics, antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of six varieties of white sesame seed.

Structural Characterization of Oligochitosan Elicitor from Fusarium sambucinum and Its Elicitation of Defensive Responses in Zanthoxylum bungeanum

Oligosaccharide elicitors from pathogens have been shown to play major roles in host plant defense responses involving plant-pathogen chemoperception and interaction. In the present study, chitosan and oligochitosan were prepared from pathogen Fusarium sambucinum, and their effects on infection of Zanthoxylum bungeanum stems were investigated. Results showed that oligochitosan inhibited the infection of the pathogen, and that the oligochitosan fraction with a degree of polymerization (DP) between 5 and 6 showed the optimal effect. Oligochitosan DP5 was purified from fraction DP5-6 and was structurally characterized using electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Oligochitosan DP5 showed significant inhibition against the infection of the pathogenic fungi on host plant stems. An investigation of the mechanism underlying this effect showed that oligochitosan DP5 increased the activities of defensive enzymes and accumulation of phenolics in host Z. bungeanum. These results suggest that oligochitosan from pathogenic fungi can mediate the infection of host plants with a pathogen by acting as an elicitor that triggers the defense system of a plant. This information will be valuable for further exploration of the interactions between the pathogen F. sambucinum and host plant Z. bungeanum.

The Effect and Action Mechanisms of Oligochitosan on Control of Stem Dry Rot of Zanthoxylum bungeanum

In this report, the effects of two oligochitosans, i.e., oligochitosan A (OCHA) and oligochitosan B (OCHB), on control of dry rot of Zanthoxylumbungeanum (Z. bungeanum) caused by Fusariumsambucinum (F. sambucinum) were evaluated. First, both oligochitosans show desirable ability to decrease the infection of F. sambucinum. Second, the oligochitosans strongly inhibit the radial colony and submerged biomass growth of F. sambucinum. Lastly, these oligochitosans are capable of increasing the activities of phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL), polyphenoloxidase (PPO) and peroxidase (POD) significantly, as well as enhancing the content of total phenolics in Z. bungeanum stems. These findings indicate that the protective effects of OCHA and OCHB on Z. bungeanum stems against dry rot may be associated with the direct fungitoxic function against pathogen and the elicitation of biochemical defensive responses in Z. bungeanum stems. The outcome of this report suggests that oligochitosans may serve as a promising natural fungicide to substitute, at least partially, for synthetic fungicides in the disease management of Z. bungeanum.