ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF ALMOND SEED EXTRACT AND ITS FRACTIONS

Almond By-Products: A Comprehensive Review of Composition, Bioactivities, and Influencing Factors

One of today's major environmental and economic challenges is the fight against both agro- and industrial-waste. Almond production and industrial processing exemplifies this issue, as it generates tons of waste and by-products, with hulls and shells accounting for about 70% of the total fruit's weight while skins represent about 6% of the shelled kernel. Since the edible kernel, about 23% of the total fruit weight, holds the highest commercial value, there has been growing interest within the scientific community in exploring the potential of these by-products. However, almond by-products contain a wide range of phytochemicals, mainly phenolic compounds (flavonoids and non-flavonoids), and triterpenoids, with great potential as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and prebiotic properties. Although these by-products are being explored as alternative sources in the textile, pharmaceutical/cosmetic, and food industries, their primary use remains in livestock feed or bedding, or as biofuel. This review compiles recent scientific data on almond by-products' phytochemical composition and bioactivities aiming to support sustainable and holistic agricultural practices.

Exploring the Role of Apigenin in Neuroinflammation: Insights and Implications

Neuroinflammation, a hallmark of various central nervous system disorders, is often associated with oxidative stress and neuronal or oligodendrocyte cell death. It is therefore very interesting to target neuroinflammation pharmacologically. One therapeutic option is the use of nutraceuticals, particularly apigenin. Apigenin is present in plants: vegetables (parsley, celery, onions), fruits (oranges), herbs (chamomile, thyme, oregano, basil), and some beverages (tea, beer, and wine). This review explores the potential of apigenin as an anti-inflammatory agent across diverse neurological conditions (multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease), cancer, cardiovascular diseases, cognitive and memory disorders, and toxicity related to trace metals and other chemicals. Drawing upon major studies, we summarize apigenin's multifaceted effects and underlying mechanisms in neuroinflammation. Our review underscores apigenin's therapeutic promise and calls for further investigation into its clinical applications.

Condensed tannins-Their content in plant foods, changes during processing, antioxidant and biological activities

Condensed tannins are considered nutritionally undesirable, because they precipitate proteins, inhibit digestive enzymes, and can affect the absorption of vitamins and minerals. From the consumer's point of view, they impart astringency to foods. Yet, they are viewed as a double-edged sword, since they possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Intake of a small quantity of the right kind of tannins may in fact be beneficial to human health. This chapter reports on the chemical structure of condensed tannins, their content in plants and food of plant origin, how they are extracted, and methods for their determination. A description of the effects of processing on condensed tannins is discussed and includes soaking, dehulling, thermal processing (i.e., cooking, boiling, autoclaving, extrusion), and germination. The astringency of condensed tannins is described in relation to their interactions with proteins. Finally, details about the biological properties of condensed tannins, including their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-obesity activities, are reviewed.

In vitro digestion and colonic fermentation of phenolic compounds and their bioaccessibility from raw and roasted nut kernels

Roasting and digestion affect nut kernel phenolic compounds' bioaccessibility and bioactivity. In this study, three types of raw and commercially roasted nut kernels (almonds, cashews, and walnuts) were treated by in vitro digestion and colonic fermentation. The objective was to analyze the effect of roasting on their phenolic content, associated antioxidant potential, bioaccessibility, and short chain fatty acid (SCFA) synthesis altering. Among these, raw and roasted walnuts performed best, with significantly higher total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), free radical scavenging (2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay) values, and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) values after completing gastrointestinal digestion. With the exception of cashews, roasting had no significant effect on antioxidant capacity during digestion from oral to small intestinal phase. Almonds showed the highest DPPH values after 16-hour colonic fermentation, reaching above 7.60 mg TE per g. Roasting had a positive effect on the free radical savagery capacity of walnuts within 16-24 hours of fecal fermentation. Significant differences were found in the bioaccessibility of individual compounds in raw and roasted nuts. As for almond and walnut, roasting increases the release and breakdown of phenolic compounds during colonic fermentation and have a positive impact on the bioaccessibility of specific phenolic compounds. The colonic bioaccessibility of most phenolic compounds was the highest. Due to heat polysaccharide breakdown, the total SCFAs produced were limited up to 0.03 mM. Raw almonds produced the most SCFAs at 16-hour fermentation and illustrated more benefits to gut health.

Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction, LC-MS/MS Analysis, Anticholinesterase, and Antioxidant Activities of Valuable Natural Metabolites from Astragalus armatus Willd.: In Silico Molecular Docking and In Vitro Enzymatic Studies

The Astragalus armatus Willd. plant’s phenolic constituent extraction and identification were optimized using the ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method and the LC–MS/MS analysis, respectively. Additionally, cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), beta carotene, reducing power, DMSO alcalin, silver nanoparticle (SNP)-based method, phenanthroline, and hydroxyl radical tests were utilized to assess the extract’s antioxidant capacity, while the neuroprotective effect was examined in vitro against acetylcholinesterase enzyme. This study accurately estimated the chemical bonding between the identified phenolic molecules derived from LC–MS/MS and the AChE. The extract was found to contain sixteen phenolic substances, and rosmarinic, protocatechuic, and chlorogenic acids, as well as 4-hydroxybenzoic, hyperoside, and hesperidin, were the most abundant substances in the extract. In all antioxidant experiments, the plant extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity and a significant inhibitory impact against AChE (40.25 ± 1.41 μg/mL). According to molecular docking affinity to the enzyme AChE, the top-five molecules were found to be luteolin, quercetin, naringenin, rosmarinic acid, and kaempferol. Furthermore, these tested polyphenols satisfy the essential requirements for drug-like characteristics and Lipinski’s rule of five. These results highlight the significance of the A. armatus plant in cosmetics, as food additives, and in the pharmaceutical industry due to its rosmarinic and chlorogenic acid content.

Identification of Cyclic Sulfonamides with an N-Arylacetamide Group as α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase Inhibitors: Biological Evaluation and Molecular Modeling

Diabetes mellitus (DM), a complicated metabolic disorder, is due to insensitivity to insulin function or reduction in insulin secretion, which results in postprandial hyperglycemia. α-Glucosidase inhibitors (AGIs) and α-amylase inhibitors (AAIs) block the function of digestive enzymes, which delays the carbohydrate hydrolysis process and ultimately helps to control the postprandial hyperglycemia. Diversified 2-(3-(3-methoxybenzoyl)-4-hydroxy-1,1-dioxido-2H-benzo[e][1,2]thiazin-2-yl)-N-arylacetamides were synthesized and evaluated for their in vitro inhibitory potential against α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes. The compounds with chloro, bromo and methyl substituents demonstrated good inhibition of α-glucosidase enzymes having IC50 values in the range of 25.88-46.25 μM, which are less than the standard drug, acarbose (IC50 = 58.8 μM). Similarly, some derivatives having chloro, bromo and nitro substituents were observed potent inhibitors of α-amylase enzyme, with IC50 values of 7.52 to 15.06 μM, lower than acarbose (IC50 = 17.0 μM). In addition, the most potent compound, N-(4-bromophenyl)-2-(4-hydroxy-3-(3-methoxybenzoyl)-1,1-dioxido-2H-benzo[e][1,2]thiazin-2-yl)acetamide (12i), was found to be a non-competitive and competitive inhibitor of α-glucosidase and α-amylase enzymes, respectively, during kinetic studies. The molecular docking studies provided the binding modes of active compounds and the molecular dynamics simulation studies of compound 12i in complex with α-amylase also showed that the compound is binding in a fashion similar to that predicted by molecular docking studies.

Antidiabetic and antiradical effects of Garcinia kola seeds in dexamethasone-induced hyperglycemic rats

Background

In traditional medicine, the maceration of seeds of Garcinia kola (GK) is used to treat various diseases including diabetes. In traditional pharmacopoeia, GK seeds are used to strengthen the immune system and as a stimulant and aphrodisiac.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic free radical scavenging effects of the hydroalcoholic extract of GK seeds (HAEGS) in a dexamethasone-induced hyperglycemic (DexIH) rat model.

Settings and Design

This study was an interventional study.

Subjects and Methods

Here using in vivo model, we assessed some pharmacological properties of HAEGS in DexIH rat. Hypoglycemia, antihyperglycemia, spasmolytic and laxative activities were also evaluated in DexIH. In vitro study assessed antiradical activity. The HAEGS was obtained by decoction introducing 250 g with water–ethanol mixture (30:70). The plant extract was administered to the animals at doses of 50 (GK50) and 100 (GK100) mg/kg body weight. All animal experiments were in accordance with ARRIVE guidelines and were performed in accordance with the scientific procedures of UK Animals. Antiradical activity of GK was assessed in vitro by inhibition of the activity of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl.

Statistical Analysis Used

Statistical analysis was performed using GraphPad Prism 5.03 software, and P values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

At doses 50 and 100 mg/kg, GK significantly (P < 0.001) regulated DexIH after two weeks of treatment compared to the normoglycemic control and hyperglycemic rats. The extract at both doses significantly (P < 0.001) inhibited the spasmolytic activity in both normoglycemic and hyperglycemic rats compared to Imodium^®. In rats DexIH rats, only dose 100 mg/kg significantly (P < 0.05) increased laxative effects when compared to the negative control. In vitro antiradical activity of GK revealed vitamin C-like antiradical activity.

Conclusions

This study justifies the traditional use of GK seeds as an antidiabetic.

Synthesis and α-Glucosidase Inhibition Activity of 2-[3-(Benzoyl/4-bromobenzoyl)-4-hydroxy-1,1-dioxido-2H-benzo[e][1,2]thiazin-2-yl]-N-arylacetamides: An In Silico and Biochemical Approach

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disorder and has affected a large number of people worldwide. Insufficient insulin production causes an increase in blood glucose level that results in DM. To lower the blood glucose level, various drugs are employed that block the activity of the α-glucosidase enzyme, which is considered responsible for the breakdown of polysaccharides into monosaccharides leading to an increase in the intestinal blood glucose level. We have synthesized novel 2-(3-(benzoyl/4-bromobenzoyl)-4-hydroxy-1,1-dioxido-2H-benzo[e][1,2]thiazin-2-yl)-N-arylacetamides and have screened them for their in silico and in vitro α-glucosidase inhibition activity. The derivatives 11c, 12a, 12d, 12e, and 12g emerged as potent inhibitors of the α-glucosidase enzyme. These compounds exhibited good docking scores and excellent binding interactions with the selected residues (Asp203, Asp542, Asp327, His600, Arg526) during in silico screening. Similarly, these compounds also showed good in vitro α-glucosidase inhibitions with IC₅₀ values of 30.65, 18.25, 20.76, 35.14, and 24.24 μM, respectively, which were better than the standard drug, acarbose (IC₅₀ = 58.8 μM). Furthermore, a good agreement was observed between in silico and in vitro modes of study.

Tree Nuts and Peanuts as a Source of Natural Antioxidants in our Daily Diet

Tree nuts and peanuts are healthy foods with a proven track record of helping to reduce the incidence of chronic diseases, most notably cardiovascular disease. At the point of consumption, all nuts contain low moisture and ≥ 50% lipid contents, but this is where similarities end. The levels of key nutrients and bioactives including vitamin C, vitamin E, L-arginine, minerals (such as selenium and zinc), and phenolics can differ markedly. Distinctions in the types and quantities of phenolic constituents for tree nut species, as well as the impact of digestion, will affect the nuts' antioxidant potential in vivo. This work provides some insight into the different types of phenolics found in tree nuts and peanuts, the antioxidant potential of their phenolic extracts using in vitro chemical assays, the effect of thermal processing on the stability of the nuts' endogenous phenolics, and the impact on biomarkers of human health arising from randomized clinical trials. Key biomarkers include measures in the reduction of LDL oxidation as well as increases in the levels of vitamin E and selected phenolic compounds in blood plasma postprandially from those of baseline.

Review about Non-Lipid Components and Minor Fat-Soluble Bioactive Compounds of Almond Kernel

This work presents a bibliographic review about almond kernel non-lipid components, in particular about the protein fraction, the carbohydrates and the mineral fraction. In addition, other fat-soluble phytochemicals which are present in minor concentrations but show important antioxidant activities are reviewed. Almond kernel is a rich protein food (8.4-35.1%), in which the globulin-albumin fraction dominates, followed by glutelins and prolamins. Within the almond kernel protein profile, amandine dominates. Free amino acids represent a small amount of the total nitrogen quantity, highlighting the presence of glutamic acid and aspartic acid, followed by arginine. Carbohydrates that appear in almond kernels (14-28%) are soluble sugars (mainly sucrose), starch and other polysaccharides such as cellulose and non-digestible hemicelluloses. Regarding the mineral elements, potassium is the most common, followed by phosphorus; both macronutrients represent more than 70% of the total mineral fraction, without taking into account nitrogen. Microminerals include sodium, iron, copper, manganese and zinc. Within the phytochemical compounds, tocopherols, squalene, phytosterols, stanols, sphingolipids, phospholipids, chlorophylls, carotenoids, phenols and volatile compounds can be found.

Evaluation of various levels of sweet almond meal as a source of protein on the production variables and immune response of broiler chickens

This study was conducted to evaluate effects of a sweet almond meal (SAM) as a source of protein on performance and immune responses of broiler chickens. Treatments consisted of different levels of SAM (7%, 14%, 21% and 28% of diet) and control diet that was performed in a completely randomized design in 42 days. Body weight gain (BWG) and feed intake (FI) were recorded weekly. Carcass characteristics and blood variables were measured on the 42 day of age. Immune response to sheep red blood cell (SRBC) was assessed at d 35 and d 42 (7 days after each injection). White blood cell count was done at d 28. The results showed that chickens fed 28% of SAM had lowest FI during the experiment. During grower period and also whole period of experiment, BWG was highest in chickens that consumed 7% SAM. Feed conversion ratio (FCR) significantly increased in chickens fed 28% SAM compared to the other treatments during grower period and also whole period of the experiment. The relative weight of thigh and breast significantly decreased and the relative weight of GIT increased by increasing levels of SAM in the diet. The concentration of cholesterol and LDL significantly decreased in chickens that consumed SAM in the diet. However, the highest glucose and HDL concentration were observed in chickens fed 28% SAM in the diet. Treatments did not have a significant effect on the immune response of broilers (primary and secondary SRBC antibody titres, relative weights of spleen and bursa of fabricius and white blood cell count) (p > 0.05). The results of this study show that a diet supplemented with SAM at the level of 14%, due to the improved FCR and decreased blood cholesterol and LDL concentration, can be a good replacement for soybean meal in broiler chicken's nutrition.

A One-Pot Ultrasound-Assisted Almond Skin Separation/Polyphenols Extraction and its Effects on Structure, Polyphenols, Lipids, and Proteins Quality

Almond skin is an important by-product in the almond processing industry, rich in potentially health-promoting phenolic compounds. The objective of this present study is to separate the skin from the almond and extract its polyphenol contents using Ultrasound-Assisted Extraction (UAE) at room temperature. Optimization was performed according to a two-variable central composite design (CCD), and the optimum combination of ultrasonic intensity and extraction temperature was obtained through multi-response optimization: ultrasonic intensity (UI), 9.47 W.cm−2; and temperature, 20 °C for an extraction time of 20 min. Under the above-mentioned conditions, total phenolic content was 258% higher with UAE than silent experiment. Mathematic modelling and microscopic investigations were achieved to enable understanding physical and structural effects of ultrasound on almond skins and comprehension of the mechanism behind the enhancement of mass transfer phenomena. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) showed different acoustic cavitation impacts including fragmentation, sonoporation, and erosion. Extracts were analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS), identifying a combination of flavanols, flavanones and non-flavonoids. UAE shows no negative effect on almond proteins and lipids when compared to natural almonds (NS).

Tannin fraction of pistachio green hull extract with pancreatic lipase inhibitory and antioxidant activity

Polyphenolic compounds (present in different parts of the plant) have beneficial properties such as antioxidant and inhibition of key enzymes. In this research, antioxidant and anti-lipase activity of pistachio green hull (PGH) extract was investigated. Fractionation of PGH on Sephadex LH-20 furnished a tannin enriched fraction with higher antioxidant activity respect to that of the extract and of the non-tannin fraction. UHPL/MS² analyses showed the presence of phenolic compounds including galloyl-O-hexoside, galloyl-shikimic acid, galloylquinic acid, and gallic acid in tannin fraction. PGH-extract was an un-competitive inhibitor against porcine pancreatic lipase so that its IC₅₀ value was 2.26 mg/ml. In the same phenol amount (490 µg), anti-lipase activity of the tannin fraction was also more than non-tannin fraction and crude PGH-extract. This is probably due to the presence of some active polyphenolic compounds such as gallic acid. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Pistachio is native to the arid regions of Central and West Asia including Iran. The green hull is main by-product of pistachio industry that has numerous phenolic compounds. Our results showed that the pistachio green hull extract has antioxidant and anti-lipase activity and these activities in its tannin fraction were higher than non-tannin fraction. Therefore, the PGH extract and its tannin fraction can be used as potential substitutes of anti-obesity drugs. This allows the use of pistachio processing waste and reduces the amount of waste.

The anthocyanins in black currants regulate postprandial hyperglycaemia primarily by inhibiting α-glucosidase while other phenolics modulate salivary α-amylase, glucose uptake and sugar transporters

The hypoglycaemic effects of two Ribes sp. i.e., anthocyanin-rich black currants (BC) were compared to green currants (GC), which are low in anthocyanins to establish which compounds are involved in the regulation of postprandial glycaemia. We determined the effect of the currants on inhibiting carbohydrate digestive enzymes (α-amylase, α-glucosidase), intestinal sugar absorption and transport across CaCo-2 cells. The digestion of these currants was modelled using in vitro gastrointestinal digestion (IVGD) to identify the metabolites present in the digested extracts by LC-MS/MS. Freeze-dried BC and IVDG extracts inhibited yeast α-glucosidase activity (P<.0001) at lower concentrations than acarbose, whereas GC and IVDG GC at the same concentrations showed no inhibition. BC and GC both showed significant inhibitory effects on salivary α-amylase (P<.0001), glucose uptake (P<.0001) and the mRNA expression of sugar transporters (P<.0001). Taken together this suggests that the anthocyanins which are high in BC have their greatest effect on postprandial hyperglycaemia by inhibiting α-glucosidase activity. Phytochemical analysis identified the phenolics in the currants and confirmed that freeze-dried BC contained higher concentrations of anthocyanins compared to GC (39.80 vs. 9.85 g/kg dry weight). Specific phenolics were also shown to inhibit salivary α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and glucose uptake. However, specific anthocyanins identified in BC which were low in GC were shown to inhibit α-glucosidase. In conclusion the anthocyanins in BC appear to regulate postprandial hyperglycaemia primarily but not solely by inhibiting α-glucosidase while other phenolics modulate salivary α-amylase, glucose uptake and sugar transporters which together could lower the associated risk of developing type-2 diabetes.

Characterization of Polyphenolic Compounds Extracted from Different Varieties of Almond Hulls (Prunus dulcis L.)

Ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) was applied as a pretreatment technique to improve the recovery of polyphenols from the almond hulls of four Tunisian and three Italian almond varieties, followed by the characterization with HPLC-DAD. The operating parameters (solid/liquid ratio, extraction time, and ethanol concentrations) were optimized using a Response Surface Methodology. A polynomial equation was calculated to describe the relationship between the operating parameters and dependent variables as total polyphenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant activity (RSA). A desirability function approach was used to determine the optimum conditions for operating parameters: a solid:solvent ratio of 2 g/100 mL, an extraction time of 13 min, and an ethanol concentration of 51.2%. Among the almond varieties, Pizzuta and Fakhfekh showed the highest polyphenol content and antioxidant activity. HPLC-DAD analysis of almond hull extracts confirmed that chlorogenic acid, catechin, and protocatechuic acid were the most important polyphenols in almond hull. The results highlighted that UAE could be an effective technique for the recovery of phenolic compounds from almond hull, thereby making this byproduct a promising source of compounds with potential applications in food and healthcare sectors.

Phenolic and fatty acid profiles, α-tocopherol and sucrose contents, and antioxidant capacities of understudied Portuguese almond cultivars

Almonds have recognized health benefits, which are largely attributed to their chemical composition, including fatty acids, phenolics, vitamin E, and sucrose. This study was carried with the aim of providing information on the levels of the aforementioned bioactive compounds and antioxidant activities in six understudied Portuguese cultivars (Amendoão, Bonita, Casanova, Molar, Pegarinhos-Moncorvo, Pegarinhos-Murça and Refêgo), in comparison with two foreign cultivars (Ferragnès and Glorieta). A cultivar effect was observed for all the parameters evaluated, with some Portuguese cultivars comparing well and even favorably with the foreign ones. A multivariate analysis of the data allowed a clear discrimination of cultivars and that statistical tool could be used for authenticity purposes, especially for cultivars included in the Protected Designation of Origin "Amêndoa Douro." PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Almonds are among the most consumed nuts worldwide, with a considerable number of cultivars recorded around the world, although research has been neglecting the local cultivars. This work studies the chemical composition of several understudied cultivars and compares them to two widespread commercial ones. The results not only provide new information about these neglected cultivars, but also provide data for stakeholders to select more interesting cultivars with particular characteristics/or rich in compounds of interest.

Natural antioxidants of plant origin

Interest in the content of natural antioxidants in plant-based foods can be from the human health perspective, in terms of how these compounds might help promote one's health and wellness, or from the storage point-of-view, as the endogenous antioxidant constituents aid to extend a foodstuff's shelf-life. This chapter reports essential information about the mechanism of antioxidant action and methods employed for determination of their activity, classes of phenolic compounds (phenolic acids, flavonoids, lignans, stilbenes, tannins), sources of plant antioxidants (oil seeds, cereals, legumes, plants of the Lamiaceae family, tea and coffee, tree nuts, fruits, and berries), extraction strategies of phenolic compounds from plant material, and the influence of processing and storage on the content of natural antioxidants in foods and their antioxidant activity. Thermal processing, if not releasing bound phenolics from the structural matrices of the food, tends to decrease the antioxidant potential or, in the best case scenario, has no significant negative impact. Gentler sterilization processes such as high-pressure processing tend to better retain the antioxidant potential of a foodstuff than thermal treatments such as steaming, boiling, or frying. The impact of processing can be assessed by determining the antioxidant potential of foodstuffs either at the point of formulation or after different periods of storage under specified conditions.

Clinical cosmeceutical repurposing of melatonin in androgenic alopecia using nanostructured lipid carriers prepared with antioxidant oils

BACKGROUND

The present work aims to formulate nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) exhibiting high skin deposition and high inherent antioxidant potential to repurpose the use of melatonin hormone and some antioxidant oils in the treatment of androgenic alopecia (AGA).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

NLCs were characterized for their size, charge, drug entrapment, anti-oxidant potential, physical stability, in vitro release, surface morphology, and ex-vivo skin deposition. Their merits were clinically tested on patients suffering from AGA by calculating the degree of improvement, conduction of hair pull test, histometric assessment, and dermoscopic evaluation.

RESULTS

Results revealed that melatonin NLCs showed nanometer size, negatively charged surface, high entrapment efficiency, and high anti-oxidant potential, in addition to sustained release for 6 h. Furthermore, NLCs displayed good storage stability and they were able to increase the skin deposition of melatonin 4.5-folds in stratum corneum, 7-folds in epidermis, and 6.8-folds in the dermis compared to melatonin solution. Melatonin NLCs displayed more clinically desirable results compared to the melatonin solution in AGA patients, manifested by increased hair density and thickness and decreased hair loss.

CONCLUSIONS

The aforementioned system was shown to be a very promising treatment modality for AGA, which is worthy of futuristic experimentation.

Influence of Catechin Fraction and High Molecular Fraction from Green Tea Extract on Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium and Streptococcus Strains

Green tea is known for its health-promoting properties. It is a complex mixture of polyphenols, and as interest in finding new possibilities for plant extracts as food additives grows, there is a need to investigate the potential interactions of these additives with food ingredients such as microorganisms. Lactic acid bacteria are widely used in food technology. The catechin fraction (CF) and high molecular weight fraction (HMW) from green tea extracts were obtained from Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography and characterized by SE-HPLC-DAD, with CF also characterized by RP-HPLC-DAD. To investigate the antimicrobial properties of green tea fractions, the dilution plating method was performed. SE-HPLC demonstrated clear differences between two of the fractions. The addition of the fractions to growth medium demonstrated that the HMW was a less selective anti-microbial agent than CF, which unequally modulated the growth of the tested strains. Growth of Lactobacillus bulgaricus 151 was promoted after the addition of both fractions. Bifidobacterium animalis 25527 was identified as the most sensitive strain.

Valorization Challenges to Almond Residues: Phytochemical Composition and Functional Application

Almond is characterized by its high nutritional value; although information reported so far mainly concerns edible kernel. Even though the nutritional and commercial relevance of the almond is restricted to almond meat; to date; increasing attention has been paid to other parts of this fruit (skin; shell; and hull); considered by-products that are scarcely characterized and exploited regarding their properties as valuable sources of bioactive compounds (mainly represented by phenolic acids and flavonoids). This lack of proper valorization procedures entails the continuation of the application of traditional procedures to almond residues that nowadays are mainly addressed to livestock feed and energy production. In this sense; data available on the physicochemical and phytochemical composition of almond meat and its related residues suggest promising applications; and allow one to envisage new uses as functional ingredients towards value-added foods and feeds; as well as a source of bioactive phytochemicals to be included in cosmetic formulations. This objective has prompted investigators working in the field to evaluate their functional properties and biological activity. This approach has provided interesting information concerning the capacity of polyphenolic extracts of almond by-products to prevent degenerative diseases linked to oxidative stress and inflammation in human tissues and cells; in the frame of diverse pathophysiological situations. Hence; this review deals with gathering data available in the scientific literature on the phytochemical composition and bioactivity of almond by-products as well as on their bioactivity so as to promote their functional application.

Pistachio oil (Pistacia vera L. cv. Uzun): Characterization of key odorants in a representative aromatic extract by GC-MS-olfactometry and phenolic profile by LC-ESI-MS/MS

Volatile, aroma-active, and phenolic compounds of pistachio oil obtained from cv. Uzun were investigated in the current study. To obtain a representative aromatic extract, three of the most widely used extraction methods were compared using a representative test; the solvent-assisted flavour extraction (SAFE) aromatic extract from pistachio oil was found to be the most representative. A total of 50 aroma compounds were determined in pistachio oil and it was found that terpenes, aldehydes, and alcohols were the most abundant volatile compounds. Applying GC-MS-olfactometry and aroma extract dilution analysis (AEDA) resulted in a total of 14 aroma-active areas being detected in the extract of pistachio oil. In the phenolic fraction obtained by the LC-ESI-MS/MS method, a total of 12 phenolic compounds was found in the pistachio oil, of which seven compounds were reported for the first time. Eriodictyol-7-O-glucoside and protocatechuic acid were the most dominant phenolic compounds.

Antifungal Potential and Antioxidant Efficacy in the Shell Extract of Cocos nucifera (L.) (Arecaceae) against Pathogenic Dermal Mycosis

Background: Coconut is a tropical fruit well known for its essential oils that have been recognized for their biological activities since ancient times. There have been no previous investigations on the essential oils from coconut shells. Method: The shell extract of Cocos nucifera (L.) was prepared by the Soxhlet method and total phenolic content (TPC) in the extract was determined by Folin-Ciocalteu (FC) assay. The antioxidant potential of the coconut shell extract was evaluated by using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract was determined by the strip method against clinically isolated dermal mycosis of 20 infected patients. Result: Total antioxidant activity varied from 92.32% to 94.20% and total phenolic content was found at 5.33 ± 0.02 mg/g in the coconut shell extract. The extract was found to be most effective as an antifungal against human pathogenic fungi, including A. niger, A. flavus, T. rubrum, M. canis, M. gypseum, A. fumigates, T. mentagrophyte and T. vercossum. The crude shell extract was highly effective against all dermal mycosis tested with the MIC ranging from 62 mm to 90 mm, whereas all fungal samples showed good inhibitory effect. Conclusion: The results of the present study provide a potential cure for microbial infections.

Recovery potential of cold press byproducts obtained from the edible oil industry: physicochemical, bioactive, and antimicrobial properties

Physicochemical, bioactive, and antimicrobial properties of different cold press edible oil byproducts (almond (AOB), walnut (WOB), pomegranate (POB), and grape (GOB)) were investigated. Oil, protein, and crude fiber content of the byproducts were found between 4.82 and 12.57%, between 9.38 and 49.05%, and between 5.87 and 45.83%, respectively. GOB had very high crude fiber content; therefore, it may have potential for use as a new dietary fiber source in the food industry. As GOB, POB, and WOB oils were rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, AOB was rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. Oil byproducts were also found to be rich in dietary mineral contents, especially potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. WOB had highest total phenolic (802 ppm), flavonoid (216 ppm), and total hydrolyzed tannin (2185 ppm) contents among the other byproducts. Volatile compounds of all the byproducts are mainly composed of terpenes in concentration of approximately 95%. Limonene was the dominant volatile compound in all of the byproducts. Almond and pomegranate byproduct extracts showed antibacterial activity depending on their concentration, whereas those of walnut and grape byproducts showed no antibacterial activity against any pathogenic bacteria tested. According to the results of the present study, walnut, almond, pomegranate, and grape seed oil byproducts possess valuable properties that can be taken into consideration for improvement of nutritional and functional properties of many food products.

Phenolic compounds in Rosaceae fruit and nut crops

The demand for new fruit cultivars with high levels of phytochemicals, in particular phenolic compounds, has received increasing attention from biochemists, pharmaceutical companies, plant breeders, and the general public due to their health benefits. This review focuses on the economically important Rosaceae, which contains varying proportions and concentrations of these compounds. The paper discusses the common phenolics in the Rosaceae including phenolic acids, flavonols, flavanols, anthocyanins, and dihydrochalcones. The nonextractable phenolics are also presented but not discussed in detail. The metabolism and bioavailability of phenolics, as well as human and environmental factors that affect their concentration and composition, are highlighted. Furthermore, the paper presents different approaches for biofortification and posits that breeding may be the most viable and sustainable option as it improves other fruit quality traits simultaneously and increases confidence in adoption of new cultivars with enhanced consumer appeal.

α-Glucosidase inhibitory activity of polyphenols from the burs of Castanea mollissima Blume

Polyphenol extracts from the burs of Castanea mollissima Blume (CMPE) exhibited potential antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of CMPE were assessed as a means of elucidating the mechanism behind its hypoglycemic activities. In vitro studies showed that CMPE significantly inhibited both yeast α-glucosidase, through a noncompetitive mode with an IC₅₀ of 0.33 μg/mL, and rat intestinal α-glucosidase. In vivo studies revealed that oral administration of CMPE at doses of 600 mg/kg significantly reduced postprandial blood glucose levels by 27.2% in normal rats following sucrose challenges. Gel permeation chromatography revealed that CMPE exhibited typical characteristics of high-molecular-mass polymers with mean (Mn) and weight (Mw) average molecular weights of 35.4 and 50.7 kDa, respectively, and a polydispersity (Mw/Mn) of 1.432. Acid hydrolysis analysis indicated the presence of ellagitannins. These data suggest that CMPE, enriched with ellagitannins, would be an efficacious dietary supplement for diabetes management through the inhibition of alpha-glucosidase.

Punica granatum L. protects mice against hexavalent chromium-induced genotoxicity

This study investigated the chemoprotective effects of Punica granatum L. (Punicaceae) fruits alcoholic extract (PGE) on mice exposed to hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)]. Animals were pretreated with PGE (25, 50 or 75 mg/kg/day) for 10 days and subsequently exposed to a sub-lethal dose of Cr(VI) (30 mg/kg). The frequency of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes in the bone marrow was investigated and the Cr(VI) levels were measured in the kidneys, liver and plasm. For the survival analysis, mice were previously treated with PGE for 10 days and exposed to a single lethal dose of Cr(VI) (50 mg/kg). Exposure to a sub-lethal dose of Cr(VI) induced a significant increase in the frequency of micronucleated cells. However, the prophylactic treatment with PGE led to a reduction of 44.5% (25 mg/kg), 86.3% (50 mg/kg) and 64.2% (75 mg/kg) in the incidence of micronuclei. In addition, the 50 mg/kg dose of PGE produced a higher chemoprotective effect, since the survival rate was 90%, when compared to that of the non-treated group. In these animals, reduced amounts of chromium were detected in the biological materials, in comparison with the other groups. Taken together, the results demonstrated that PGE exerts a protective effect against Cr(VI)-induced genotoxicity.

Scientific evaluation of edible fruits and spices used for the treatment of peptic ulcer in traditional Iranian medicine

In traditional Iranian medicine (TIM), several edible fruits and spices are thought to have protective and healing effects on peptic ulcer (PU). The present study was conducted to verify anti-PU activity of these remedies. For this purpose, edible fruits and spices proposed for the management of PU in TIM were collected from TIM sources, and they were searched in modern medical databases to find studies that confirmed their efficacy. Findings from modern investigations support the claims of TIM about the efficacy of many fruits and spices in PU. The fruit of Phyllanthus emblica as a beneficial remedy for PU in TIM has been demonstrated to have antioxidant, wound healing, angiogenic, anti-H. pylori, cytoprotective, antisecretory, and anti-inflammatory properties. The fruit of Vitis vinifera has been found to be anti-H. pylori, anti-inflammatory, wound healing, angiogenic, cytoprotective, and antioxidant. The fruit and aril of seed from Myristica fragrans exert their beneficial effects in PU by increasing prostaglandin, modulation of nitric oxide and inflammatory mediators, wound healing, antisecretory, antacid, antioxidant, and anti-H. pylori activities, and improving angiogenesis. Pharmacological and clinical studies for evaluation of efficacy of all TIM fruits and spices in PU and their possible mechanisms of action are recommended.

Nutritional evaluation and health promoting activities of nuts and seeds cultivated in Greece

Available data suggest that genetic as well as environmental factors may influence nuts and seeds nutrients content. In this context nuts and seeds cultivated in Greece were studied. Macronutrients content was in agreement with that from other areas. Total phenolics content was in the range of 43.0 ± 2.1-1512.7 ± 60.7 mg GAE/100 g for chestnut and walnut, respectively. Thirteen to 22 individual phenolics were identified in the studied species. Oleanolic acid was in the range of 0.10-9.03 mg/100 g. Pumpkin seeds contained the higher squalene content (71.6 mg/100 g). β-Sitosterol predominated in all samples except pumpkin seeds. Tocopherols ranged from 8.9 mg/100 g (chestnut) to 29.3 mg/100 g (almond). Nuts and seeds hydrophilic extracts at quantities corresponding to the estimated daily consumption by the Greeks succeeded in inhibiting LDL oxidation in vitro by increasing lag time 1.1-14.1 times. One serving of nuts or seeds may cover a significant fraction of health promoting microconstituents daily intake.

Antioxidant capacities of phlorotannins extracted from the brown algae Fucus vesiculosus

A process for the effective extraction and fractionation of phlorotannins from Fucus vesiculosus with high antioxidant potentials was investigated. The antioxidant activity of F. vesiculosus extract/fractions was assessed by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging, reducing power, and ferrous ion-chelating assays. Among the crude extract and different polarity fractions, the phlorotannin-enriched ethyl acetate fraction possessed the highest DPPH scavenging activity and reducing power. This fraction was further fractionated by Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography or ultrafiltration. The antioxidant properties were evaluated by both the above chemical antioxidant tests and a mononuclear cell-based bioassay. Sephadex subfractions LH-2 and LH-3 with high total phlorotannin content exhibited strong DPPH quenching activity, comparable to those of ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene and significantly higher than that of α-tocopherol. Polyphenols in F. vesiculosus were found to consist mainly of high molecular weight phlorotannin polymers. There were no clear relationships between the degree of polymerization, molecular size, and antioxidant activity. All the subfractions separated by Sephadex LH-20 column chromatography and ultrafiltration showed a high ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species generated by mononuclear cells. Further characterization of the phlorotannin compounds was performed on six Sephadex subfractions. Several phlorotannin oligomers were tentatively identified on the basis of HPLC-ESI-MS(n) analyses.

Assessment of flavonoids contents and in vitro antioxidant activity of Launaea procumbens

BACKGROUND

Launaea procumbens (LP) has been used as a food supplement in Pakistan. In this study methanolic crude extract (LPME) of the whole plant and its different fractions; n-hexane (LPHE); ethyl acetate (LPEE) and chloroform (LPCE) were studied for the determination of total flavonoid and phenolics contents along with multifaceted in vitro scavenging assays.

RESULTS

Considerable amount of flavonoid and phenolics contents were found in all the fractions. Methanol and chloroform fraction exhibited efficient scavenging of DPPH·, ABTS·+, ·OH, superoxide, lipid peroxide and nitric oxide free radicals. Significant correlation was found between DPPH·, ABTS·+, superoxide radical, β-carotene bleaching restraint and phosphomolybdenum assay with total flavonoids and phenolics contents. High performance chromatography (HPLC) of LPME revealed the presence of vitexin, orientin, rutin, hyperoside, catechin and myricetin.

CONCLUSION

These results reveal the presence of bioactive compounds in LPME, which might be contributed towards the various in vitro scavenging.