Efficacy and safety of lasers versus topical medications for acanthosis nigricans and pseudo-acanthosis nigricans treatment: a systematic review

Acanthosis nigricans (AN) is a cutaneous disorder identified by well-defined pigmented plaques mostly detected on skin folds. Timely diagnosis and treatment of AN is essential as it could be an early manifestation of an underlying condition. The treatment of choice for AN has not been determined yet. Our study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of various lasers with topical medications, including cream and peel. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, as well as the Google Scholar search engine, were thoroughly searched until May 1st, 2023. Study selection was restricted to clinical trials published in English language comparing lasers with topical treatments. This study followed the PRISMA guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Out of 1748 studies, Six clinical trials met our inclusion criteria, with 133 patients. We examined laser therapies, including fractional CO2 laser, 1550-nm erbium fiber laser, and long-pulsed alexandrite laser, while the topical treatments comprised glycolic acid (GA) peel, retinoic acid peel, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel, and tretinoin cream. In two studies, GA peel demonstrated favorable results compared to fractional CO2 laser. Besides, fractional CO2 laser exhibited efficacy, surpassing TCA peel in AN management. Additionally, a fractional 1550-nm erbium fiber laser displayed superiority over tretinoin cream in reducing average roughness. Similarly, a long-pulsed alexandrite laser demonstrated its effectiveness in axillary AN treatment compared to the combination of tretinoin and ammonium lactate. Overall, the findings revealed that laser therapy was associated with superior results. Moreover, topical treatments are safe and efficacious in AN management.

Phytochemical analysis, GC-MS profile and determination of antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activities of peel and seeds extracts (chloroform and ethyl acetate) of Tamarindus indica L

Tamarindus indica L., is widely used tree in ayurvedic medicine. Here, we aimed to understand the presence of important constituents in seeds and peel of Tamarind fruits and their biological activities. Hence, seeds and peel of Tamarind fruits are used for further extraction process by soxhlet method (chloroform and ethyl acetate solvents). Results suggest that the ethyl acetate extract (seeds) consists of terpenoids (72.29 ± 0.513 mg/g), phenolic content (68.67 ± 2.11 mg/g) and flavonoids (26.36 ± 2.03 mg/g) whereas chloroform extract (seeds) has terpenoids (42.29 ± 0.98 mg/g). Similarly, chloroform extract (peel) has terpenoids (25.96 ± 3.20 mg/g) and flavonoids (46.36 ± 2.03 mg/g) whereas ethyl acetate extract (peel) has terpenoids (62.93 ± 0.987 mg/g). Furthermore, anti-inflammation activity results revealed that the chloroform extract of peel was found to be more effective with IC50 of 226.14 µg/ml by protein denaturation analysis and with IC50 of 245.5 µg/ml on lipoxygenase inhibition activity. Chloroform extract (peel and seeds) shown better antioxidant activity using DPPH than ethyl acetate extract (peel and seeds). Ethyl acetate extract of seeds showed impressive potency by inhibiting the growth of fungus, Candida albicans. Additionally, ethyl acetate extract of seeds showed impressive potency inhibiting the growth of Escherichia coli than Bacillus cereus. GC-MS analysis shown the existence of diverse set of phytochemicals in each extract. Overall, comparative studies highlight the effectiveness of seeds extracts than peel extracts. Moreover, GC-MS results suggest that the seeds and peel extracts (chloroform and ethyl acetate) contains a wide range of compounds (including flavonoids, isovanillic acid, fatty acids and phenolic compounds) which can be utilized for therapeutic purpose.

Comprehensive in situ and ex situ β-glucosidase-assisted assessment reveals Indian mangoes as reservoirs of glycosidic aroma precursors

Mango, a valued commercial fruit in India is popular mostly because of its attractive flavour. Glycosidically bound volatiles (GBV), an underrepresented warehouse of aroma, remain completely unexplored in Indian mangoes. In this study, GBV were profiled in pulps and peels of 10 Indian mango cultivars, leading to detection of 66 GBV which were dominated by monoterpenoids and phenolics. Peels were quantitatively and qualitatively richer in GBV than pulps. Hierarchical clustering and principal component analysis indicated higher contribution of peel GBV to the distinctness of cultivars. Linalool, geraniol, and eugenol were the significant contributors based on the odour units. Direct β-glucosidase treatment to the juice resulted in the release of lesser number of volatiles than those released from the purified GBV extracts. Apart from providing a comprehensive catalogue of GBV in mangoes, our data suggests the need of critical assessment of the usefulness of β-glucosidases in aroma improvement of fruit juices.

Effects of Freeze-Dried Banana and Watermelon Peel Powders on Bile Salt Resistance, Growth Kinetics, and Survival of Probiotic Bacteria

Fruit peels have potential as prebiotic sources thanks to their dietary fiber contents. This study aimed to determine the effects of freeze-dried banana (BPP) and watermelon (WPP) peel powders on bile salt resistance, growth kinetics, and survival of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum. In the presence of 0.5-1% bile salt, L. plantarum counts were 0.52-1.13 log CFU/mL higher in MRS broth added with 5% peel powder than without peel powder. Lactobacillus acidophilus population was 2.47-2.79 log CFU/mL higher in MRS broth added with 5% peel powder than without peel powder in the presence of 0.5% bile salt. Both peel powders did not affect the growth kinetics of L. acidophilus in milk. Conversely, the growth of L. plantarum was promoted in milk supplemented with peel powders and yielded a shorter generation time (P < 0.05). The maximum population density of L. plantarum in milk supplemented with BPP (8.68 log CFU/mL) was higher than in milk without peel powder (7.72 log CFU/mL; P < 0.05). Survival of L. acidophilus improved during storage at 4 °C in milk added with peel powders. The results suggest that BPP and WPP can be functional ingredients in probiotic foods and may be used to improve the growth and survival of probiotic cultures.

Eating with peel or not: Investigation of the peel consumption situation and its nutrition, risk analysis, and dietary advice in China

Nutritious, balanced, tasty and easy to eat, fruit is an indispensable health food for consumers. With consumers' increasing respect for the concept of health, green and nutrition, the peel, which has higher nutritional value compared to the pulp, is gradually being emphasized in the consumption process. The suitability of fruit peels for consumption is influenced by various factors, such as the amount of pesticide residues, nutrient content, ease of peeling, and fruit texture, but there is a lack of relevant studies to guide consumers' scientific intake of fruit peels. This review first investigated chineses consumers consumption of common fruits with peels, especially eight fruits that are controversial in terms of whether to consume them with peels, and the results showed that whether people consume peels depends mainly on their nutritional value and pesticide residues. Based on this, the paper discusses the common methods of pesticide detection and removal from fruit peels, as well as the nutrients contained in different fruit peels and their physiological activities, if the peels usually have stronger antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor activities than the pulp. Finally, reasonable dietary recommendations are made on whether fruits should be consumed with their peels, with a view to guiding chineses consumers towards scientific consumption and provide theoretical basis for relevant research in other countries.

Insight into the phenolics and antioxidant activity of Indian jujube (Ziziphus mauritiana Lamk) peel and pulp subjected to the simulated digestion

To evaluate the release and activity of Indian jujube phenolics in vivo, its peel and pulp were subjected to simulated digestions. The phenolics content and antioxidant activity of the digested samples were determined. The results showed that the total phenolics/flavonoids in the peel were respectively 4.63 and 4.48 times higher than that in the pulp. The release of phenolics and flavonoids respectively increased by 79.75% and 39.98% in the peel and 86.34% and 23.54% in the pulp after the intestinal digestion. The correlation between the total phenolics/flavonoids and antioxidant activity was higher in the peel (r > 0.858, p < 0.01) than that in the pulp. The phenolics profiles of the peel were almost the same after the digestion, and four phenolics including naringenin tri-glycoside, quercetin-3-O-[(2-hexosyl)-6-rhamnosyl] -hexoside, quercetin-3-O-pentosylhexoside and quercetin-3-O-(2-pentosyl -rhamnoside)-4'-O-rhamnoside were found to be the main flavonoids of Indian jujube peel, and they showed high recovery (>89.88%) during the digestion, implying that these phenolics may play a vital role in the function of Indian jujubes.

Development and evaluation of transdermal delivery system of tranylcypromine for the treatment of depression

Tranylcypromine (logP = 1.34, MW = 133.19 g/mol) is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor used in treating major depressive disorder and is available only as oral tablets. Transdermal delivery of tranylcypromine minimizes hepatic and gastrointestinal side effects associated with oral dosing and prevents systemic side effects improving patient compliance. A two-day suspension-based transdermal delivery method was developed in this study, and the delivery of tranylcypromine across dermatomed porcine ear skin was evaluated. Different penetration enhancers were screened, namely, isopropyl myristate, oleyl alcohol, oleic acid, and a combination of oleic acid and oleyl alcohol. Isopropyl myristate was chosen as the penetration enhancer, and suspension-based transdermal patches were formulated with acrylate and polyisobutylene pressure-sensitive adhesives by the solvent evaporation method. The release liner and backing membrane were chosen, and the drying time for each patch was optimized. The optimized patches were characterized for their adhesive properties, drying time, peel test, shear strength, and uniformity in drug content. In vitro permeation studies were performed on dermatomed porcine ear skin using vertical static Franz diffusion cells, and the receptor samples were collected at predetermined time points for 48 h. The samples were analyzed in a validated UPLC method. Acrylate-based suspension patch delivered a significantly higher amount of drug (712 ± 21.46 μg/cm²) as compared to passive delivery from drug dissolved in propylene glycol (461.49 ± 75.55 μg/cm²), reaching the two-day therapeutic target. However, the PIB-based suspension patch delivered 559.25 ± 12.37 μg/cm² of tranylcypromine across the skin but did not reach the required target.

A comparison of the mineral element content of 70 different varieties of pear fruit (Pyrus ussuriensis) in China

Background

Pyrus ussuriensis (Maxim.) is a unique pear tree that grows in northern China. The tree has strong cold resistance and can withstand low temperatures from -30 °C to -35 °C. Due to its unique growth environment, its fruit is rich in minerals and has much higher levels of minerals such as K, Ca and Mg than the fruit of Pyrus pyrifolia (Nakai.) and Pyrus bretschneideri (Rehd.) on the market, and many say the ripe fruit tastes better than other varieties. A comprehensive analysis of the characteristics of mineral elements in the fruits of different varieties of P. ussuriensis will provide a valuable scientific basis for the selection, breeding and production of consumer varieties of P. ussuriensis, and provide a more complete understanding of nutritional differences between fruit varieties.

Methods

In this study, 70 varieties of wild, domesticated and cultivated species of P. ussuriensis from different geographical locations were compared. Targeting four main mineral elements and eight trace mineral elements contained in the fruit, the differences in mineral content in the peel and pulp of different varieties of P. ussuriensis were analyzed, compared and classified using modern microwave digestion ICP-MS.

Results

The mineral elements in the fruit of P. ussuriensis generally followed the following content pattern: K > P > Ca > Mg > Na > Al > Fe > Zn > Cu > Cr > Pb > Cd. The mineral element compositions in the peel and pulp of different fruits were also significantly different. The four main mineral elements in the peel were K > Ca > P > Mg, and K > P > Mg > Ca in the pulp. The mineral element content of wild fruit varieties was higher than that of cultivated and domesticated varieties. Correlation analysis results showed that there was a significant positive correlation between K, P and Cu in both the peel and pulp of P. ussuriensis fruit (P < 0. 01). Cluster analysis results showed that the 70 varieties of P. ussuriensis could be divided into three slightly different categories according to the content of the peel or pulp. According to the contents of the fruit peel, these varieties were divided into: (1) varieties with high Na, Mg, P, K, Fe and Zn content, (2) varieties with high Ca content and (3) varieties with medium levels of mineral elements. According to the fruit pulp content, these varieties were divided into: (1) varieties with high Mg, P and K content, (2) varieties with low mineral element content, and (3) varieties with high Na and Ca content. The comprehensive analysis of relevant mineral element content factors showed that 'SSHMSL,' 'QYL,' 'SWSL' and 'ZLTSL-3' were the best varieties, and could be used as the focus varieties of future breeding programs for large-scale pear production.

Phenotypic diversity of nutritional quality attributes and chilling injury symptoms in four early peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] cultivars grown in west central Tunisia

The present study aimed to characterize the phenotypic diversity of agronomical and biochemical fruit quality traits in four early peach cultivars. The sensibility to chilling injury symptoms (CI) was studied after two cold storage periods (2 and 4 weeks) at 5 ºC and 95% relative humidity (RH) followed by 2 days at room temperature. Agronomical attributes such as fruit weight, firmness, soluble solids content (SSC), pH, titratable acidity (TA) and color parameters were recorded. Antioxidant compounds such as anthocyanins, flavonoids, total phenolics, vitamin C and relative antioxidant capacity (RAC) were evaluated. Chilling injury symptoms such as mealiness, graininess, flesh browning, flesh bleeding, leatheriness and off-flavor were analyzed. Results revealed high antioxidant compounds in peel regarding to flesh fruit. The antioxidant compounds content in both peel and pulp decreased during cold storage except anthocyanins which exhibited different pattern. After 2 weeks of storage, fruits presented high SSC and low score of chilling injury symptoms. At the end of the trial, the studied cultivars were unacceptable for consumption due to the severity of CI. PCA analysis showed that the cultivars Plagold 5 and Plagold 10 had less sensibility to chilling injury.

Graphical abstract

Total xanthone in mangosteen inhibits cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and inflammatory response in gastric cancer cells by regulating miR-338-3p

BACKGROUND

Total xanthone in mangosteen has antitumor effect, but its effect on the biological behavior of gastric cancer cells is still unknown. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) can play an important regulatory role in the occurrence and development of gastric cancer and may be a potential target for gastric cancer treatment, but whether they could be potential targets for total xanthone in mangosteen in the treatment of gastric cancer is unknown.

AIM

To explore the effect of total xanthone in mangosteen on the biological behavior of gastric cancer AGS cells and the possible mechanism involved.

METHODS

Human gastric cancer AGS cells were randomly divided into the following groups: NC group, low-dose xanthone group, medium-dose xanthone group, high-dose xanthone group, miR-NC group, miR-338-3p group, high-dose xanthone + anti-miR-NC group, and high-dose xanthone group + anti-miR-338-3p group. MTT and Transwell assays were used to detect cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. ELISA was used to detect the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. qRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-338-3p.

RESULTS

After treatment with total xanthone in mangosteen, cell viability and the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were decreased (P < 0.05), the number of migrating and invasive cells was decreased (P < 0.05), and the expression of miR-338-3p was increased (P < 0.05). After transfection with miR-338-3p mimic, cell viability and the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were decreased (P < 0.05), and the number of migrating and invasive cells was decreased (P < 0.05). Transfection with anti-miR-338-3p could reverse the effect of total xanthone in mangosteen on the biological behavior of AGS cells.

CONCLUSION

Total xanthone in mangosteen can inhibit the proliferation, migration, invasion, and inflammatory response of gastric cancer cells by promoting the expression of miR-338-3p.

Kitchen-Scale Treatments for Reduction of Listeria monocytogenes in Prepared Produce

ABSTRACT

Listeriosis, a foodborne illness caused by Listeria monocytogenes, has relatively low incidence, but a substantial mortality rate, particularly in immunocompromised populations. Because of the known risk of L. monocytogenes and other pathogens in produce, immunocompromised individuals are often placed on neutropenic diets that exclude fresh produce. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate several kitchen-scale treatments as potential interventions to reduce L. monocytogenes in prepared produce. Cucumbers, apples, and celery were dip inoculated with a three-strain cocktail of L. monocytogenes and dried for 24 h. Inoculated products were subjected to the following treatments as applicable: commercial sanitizer soak (90 s, with agitation), tap water rinse (15 s), tap water soak (90 s, with agitation), surface blanching (25 s), tap water rinse (15 s) followed by peeling, and surface blanching (25 s) followed by peeling. In addition, inoculum uptake in celery and the impact of two types of peelers (mechanical crank and manual) were assessed. Treated samples were plated on differential media and incubated for 48 h at 37°C. L. monocytogenes populations were then enumerated and compared with the untreated control (in log CFUs per gram). All treatments lacked efficacy for celery, with reductions significantly less (P < 0.05) than in other products, likely because of inoculum internalization. The sanitizer soak, tap water rinse, and tap water soak did not differ in efficacy (P > 0.05), which was low for cucumbers (<1.5 log CFU/g), apples (<1.3 log CFU/g), and celery (<0.7 log CFU/g). The two types of apple peelers did not differ in efficacy (P > 0.05). Surface blanching and surface blanching followed by peeling were the most effective treatments for both cucumbers and apples (P < 0.05), with average reductions of 4.2 to 5.1 and 3.5 to 5.9 log CFU/g, respectively.

HIGHLIGHTS

Silicon influenced ripening metabolism and improved fruit quality traits in apples

The benefits of silicon against abiotic stress in different annual plant species have been described in many studies, however the regulation of ripening of fruit tree crops by silicon remains largely uncharacterized. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the impact of foliar silicon application in the apple (cv. 'Fuji') fruit ripening traits along with the effect of silicon in the nutrient and metabolic changes in the fully expanded leaves, annual shoots, fruit outer pericarp (peel) and fruit mesocarp (skin) tissues. Data indicated that fruit firmness and apple peel color attributes, such as redness (a*) and percentage of red-blushed surface were induced by silicon application. Moreover, several fruit ripening traits, such as titratable acidity, soluble solid content and respiration rate were unaffected by silicon. Endogenous silicon level in leaves shoots and peel tissues were increased by exogenously applied silicon while several elements (i.e., P, Mg, Mn, Fe and Cu) were altered in the tested tissues that exposed to silicon. In addition, silicon increased the accumulation of total phenolic and total anthocyanin compounds in the various apple tissues. The level of various primary metabolites including sorbitol, fructose, maltose cellobiose, malic acid, phosphoric acid and gluconic acid was also notably affected by silicon in a tissue-specific manner. Overall, this study provides a valuable resource for future research, aiming in the elucidation of the role of silicon in fruit tree physiology.

Comparison Study of Synthesized Red (or Blood) Orange Peels and Juice Extract-Nanoflowers and Their Antimicrobial Properties on Fish Pathogen (Yersinia ruckeri)

Abstract

In this work, we synthesized blood orange peel extract-copper (II) (Cu²⁺) ions nanoflower (NFs) and blood orange juice extract-copper (II) (Cu²⁺) ions nanoflower examine their antimicrobial properties on the fish pathogen (Yersinia ruckeri). The main compounds of the blood orange peel extract and the blood orange juice extract were organic components, and the copper (II) (Cu^{2 +}) ions were inorganic components. BOPE-Cu^{2 +} nanoflowers are quite compact, porous, and uniform as compared to BOJE-Cu²⁺ nanoflowers. Scanning Electron Microscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometry, and Energy-Dispersive X-ray spectroscopy were used to observe the structures of the NFs. The findings of FT-IR show Cu-O and Cu-N bonds in NF, which may be an indicator of the development of NFs. Although the antimicrobial actions of BOPE-hNFs and BOJE-hNFs against Yersinia ruckeri (NCTC 12,268) have been confirmed.

Graphic Abstract

High-fat diet-induced memory impairment and anxiety-like behavior in rats attenuated by peel extract of Ananas comosus fruit via atheroprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions

BACKGROUND

Pineapple peel is a waste component of pineapple with valuable source of metabolites as phytoactive compounds in ameliorating metabolic-related disorders. This study investigated the atheroprotective and neuroprotective effects of peel extract of Ananas comosus fruit (PEAC) in normal diet (ND) and high-fat diet (HFD) fed rats.

METHODS

Male Wistar rats were fed ND or HFD for 9 weeks, and beginning from the 6th week animals were also orally treated with PEAC (200 mg/kg). Memory performance was assessed using Y-maze test (YMT) and novel object recognition test (NORT) while anxiolytic-like effect was assessed on the elevated plus maze (EPM). Serum cholesterol, triglycerides and HDL-C were determined, while LDL-C and atherogenic risk calculated. Serum and brain tissue malondialdehyde, reduced glutathione, catalase were determined. Brain acetylcholinesterase activity and interleukin-6 level were also determined.

RESULTS

PEAC significantly attenuated HFD-induced reduction in correct alternation in YMT, and discrimination index in NORT. Also, PEAC demonstrated anxiolytic-like activity in EPM test. PEAC significantly improved lipid profile and decreased risk of atherogenicity in ND and HFD-fed rats. In addition, PEAC improves serum and brain antioxidant status by decreasing malondialdehyde and increasing GSH and catalase. PEAC significantly impaired HFD-induced brain acetylcholinesterase activity and IL-6 levels.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that peel extract of Ananas comosus fruit may protect against diet-induced behavioral disturbances via atheroprotective, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory activities.

Identification of punicalagin as the bioactive compound behind the antimicrobial activity of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) peels

Extracts from 'Zhéri' and 'Hicaznar' varieties of pomegranate, Punica granatum L., were obtained by subjecting powdered peels to extraction using water, water/ethanol (1:1; v/v), ethanol, acetone and heptane. Using the agar diffusion assay, extracts with water and/or ethanol were shown to display significant antimicrobial activity with diameters of inhibition zones up to 20 mm. Ethanolic extracts, which were the most active, were fractionated using SPE, HPLC and UHPLC, and the active compounds they contain were identified by mass spectrometry. Punicalagin, under its α and β anomeric forms, was identified as the antibacterial compound in pomegranate peel extracts. Both forms were active with MIC values between 0.3 and 1.2 µg.ml^-1, and they easily converted from one to the other with an α/β equilibrium ratio of 3/7. Their spectrum of activity targeted 10 out of 13 Gram positive and two out of three Gram negative bacteria as well as a yeast strain.

Bioconversion by gut microbiota of predigested mango (Mangifera indica L) 'Ataulfo' peel polyphenols assessed in a dynamic (TIM-2) in vitro model of the human colon

Gut microbiota bioconversion of polyphenols in predigested mango 'Ataulfo' peel was studied using a validated, dynamic in vitro human colon model (TIM-2) with faecal microbial inoculum. Dried peels were predigested with enzymatic treatment, followed by TIM-2 fermentation (72 h). Samples were taken at 0, 24, 48 and 72 h and analyzed by HPLC-QToF. Derivatives of hydroxyphenylpropionic, hydroxyphenylacetic and hydroxybenzoic acids, as well as, pyrogallol were the main polyphenols identified. These metabolites might derivate from flavonoid (flavanols and flavonols), gallate and gallotannin biotransformation. Despite the high content of ellagic acid in mango peel, low amounts were detected in TIM-2 samples due to transformation into urolythins A and C, mainly. Xanthone and benzophenone derivatives, specific to mango, remained after the colonic biotransformation, contrary to flavonoids, which completely disappeared. In conclusion, microbial-derived metabolites, such as xanthone and benzophenone derivatives, among others, are partially stable after colonic fermentation, and thus have the potential to contribute to mango peel bioactivity.

Preparation and characterization of bacterial cellulose produced from fruit and vegetable peels by Komagataeibacter hansenii GA2016

This study focused on the investigation of bacterial cellulose production potency of some fruit and vegetable peels (cucumber, melon, kiwifruit, tomato, apple, quince and pomegranate) with Komagataeibacter hansenii GA2016. Fruit and vegetable peels were hydrolyzed, used for bacterial cellulose (BC) production and their chemical, physical, thermal and structural features were compared to BC from Hestrin-Schramm medium (HSBC) and plant cellulose (CP). Except for pomegranate peel hydrolysate, all the fruit and vegetable peel hydrolysates supplied to K. hansenii GA2016 supported the BC production. Among the fruit and vegetable peel hydrolysates, the highest BC production was observed in kiwifruit peel hydrolysate (11.53%), while the lowest production was observed in apple peel hydrolysate (1.54%). Water-holding capacities of the BCs were ranged from 627.50% to 928.79% and higher than HSBC (609.30%), average fiber diameters were ranged from 47.64 nm to 61.11 nm and thinner than HSBC (74.29) and CP (10,420 nm), crystallinities were ranged from 80.27% to 92.96%, thermal capacities BCs were higher than HSBC and CP. For the BC productions, utilization of the fruit and vegetable peels as the sole nutrient source could reduce the production costs and among the polysaccharides, increase the use of BC in industry.

Microwave and ultrasound assisted extraction of pectin from various fruits peel

Pectin, found in the cell walls of fruits and vegetables, is a complex colloidal polysaccharide. In this study, pectin was extracted using ultrasound and microwave-assisted extraction methods from waste lemon, mandarin, and kiwi peel to investigate their use as alternative source of pectin. Hydrochloric acid (HCl) and nitric acid (HNO₃) were used as the extracting agents. The effects of microwave power (360-600 W) and irradiation time (1, 2, 3 min) for microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and of temperature (60 and 75 °C) and sonication time (15, 30, 45 min) on ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) on the yield of extracted pectin from the peels were investigated. Optimum conditions were determined for the extraction of pectin from all of the peel samples with the two extraction methods. The produced pectin yield and the degree of esterification were determined and, FT-IR and SEM analyses were performed. Kiwi peel gave the highest yield of extracted pectin using HCl as the solvent with 17.30% yield via UAE at 75 °C for 45 min and 17.97% yield via MAE at 360 W for, 3 min. It was concluded that lemon, mandarin, and kiwi peels all contained pectin and that MAE gave a better yield than UAE and could thus be used as an efficient and rapid technique for the extraction of pectin from the peels. The chemical structures of the pectin obtained using the two different extraction methods were similar and showed a high degree of methoxylation.

Mineral Content of the Pulp and Peel of Various Citrus Fruit Cultivars

The aim of the study was to compare the mineral content between the peel and the pulp of citrus fruits and to determine which citrus fruit, among orange (Citrus sinensis), pomelo (Citrus maxima), mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco), lemon (Citrus limon), key lime (Citrus aurantifolia), and red, yellow, or green grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), is the richest in minerals. The research material consisted of fresh citrus fruits belonging to the genus Citrus L in the family Rutaceae. The fruits were purchased at a supermarket at one time. To prepare laboratory samples, each fruit was cut in half, and one half was homogenized, treating the sample as a whole (peel + flesh), while the other half was peeled and the pulp (F) and peel (P) were homogenized separately. To determine the content of minerals (Na⁺, K⁺, Ca⁺², Mg⁺², Fe⁺², Zn⁺², Cu⁺², Mn⁺², and Se⁺²), the samples were mineralized and analyzed using an Analytik Jena PlasmaQuant PQ 9000 inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometer. The content of macro- and micronutrients in the peel of most of the fruits far exceeded their quantity in the pulp. Oranges and pomelos are the fruits richest in iron and copper, so they could be recommended in cases such as hemoglobin production disorders resulting from a deficiency of these elements. Oranges can additionally enrich the body with potassium, phosphorus, and manganese, while lime can be a source of calcium, zinc, sodium, and especially potassium. It should also be noted that all citrus fruits are a very valuable source of potassium, which is needed to ensure the water and electrolyte balance.

Nutritional, chemical and bioactive profiles of different parts of a Portuguese common fig (Ficus carica L.) variety

This study aims to give an unprecedented contribution on the chemical composition and bioactivities of the most produced and appreciated Portuguese fig variety ("Pingo de Mel") with the view of expanding the knowledge on its potentialities. An advanced characterization of its peel and pulp parts was carried out. Four free sugars (glucose, fructose, trehalose and sucrose), 5 organic acids (oxalic, quinic, malic, citric, and succinic acids), tocopherols in all their 4 forms, besides 23 fatty acids were detected in the samples. Fifteen different phenolic components were found in the peel hydroethanolic extract; whereas 12 were detected in the pulp hydroethanolic extract. Quercetin-3-O-rutinoside (rutin) was the major constituent of the peel, accounting for 33.8% of its phenolic content, followed by 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid and vanillic acid malonyl di-deoxyhexoside. Caffeic acid derivatives, such as caffeic acid hexosides, were the major components of pulp, followed by vanillic acid derivatives and O-caffeoylquinic acid. Both extracts displayed promising antioxidant capacities in all methods used, namely the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical-scavenging, the reducing power, the inhibition of β-carotene bleaching assays, the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances assay and the oxidative haemolysis inhibition assay; however, the peel presented significantly lower IC₅₀ values than pulp. The extracts showed practically identical antibacterial capacities, being effective against methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus (MICs = 2.5 mg/mL), besides methicillin-resistant S. aureus, Escherichia coli and Morganella morganii (MICs = 5 mg/mL). The obtained results evidence that the fig peel is superior to the corresponding pulp as it relates to nutritional and phenolic profiles as well as bioactivities, endorsing the urgency in valorising and exploiting this usually discarded industrial by-product.

reticulatus

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis and Cucumis melo var. reticulatus are the most famous varieties of netted muskmelon or cantaloupe in Egypt. Cantaloupe has a great reputation as an anti-inflammatory drug for hot inflammation of liver, cough, eczema, and kidney disorders such as ulcers in the urinary tract, and our objective was to confirm this use scientifically.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Inflammation was induced in adult male Sprague Dawley rats by subcutaneous injection of 0.05 ml of carrageenan (1% solution in saline) into the plantar surface of the right hind paw 30 min after oral pretreatment of the rats with 95% ethanolic extracts of Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis peels (CCP) and pulps (CCU) and Cucumis melo var. reticulatus peels (CRP) and pulps (CRU) at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg. Indomethacin (10 mg/kg) was used as a standard drug. The effect of the tested samples was measured on the oedema volume, as well as PGE-2, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β levels. Metabolic profiling of the extracts was performed using UPLC-MS/MS analysis.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of rats with the ethanol extract of the pulps and peels of the two varieties at doses of 25 and 50 mg/kg significantly inhibited the carrageenan-induced increase in the oedema volume of the rat paws after 3 h, except for the low dose of the French cantaloupe pulp. CRP at 50 mg/kg caused the most significant reductions in both TNF-α (P < 0.05) and IL-1β (P < 0.001) levels, while CCP caused the most significant reductions in PGE-2 and IL-6 (P < 0.05) levels. Increases in PGE-2, TNF-α, IL-6 and IL-1β levels were also significantly prevented by indomethacin (10 mg/kg). UPLC-MS/MS facilitated the identification of 44 phenolic compounds, including phenolic acids and flavonoids.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report of the chemical and biological study of the peels of Cucumis melo var. cantalupensis and Cucumis melo var. reticulatus.

Changes on physicochemical and rheological properties of biscuits substituted with the peel and alcohol-insoluble solids (AIS) from cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica)

Cactus pear fruit consists of the peel, seeds and pulp. The peel is a major waste in cactus pear pulp based products accounting about 37.72% of the fruit weight. The aim of this study was to utilized and characterized the physicochemical and rheological properties of biscuits substituted with extracted cactus pear peel (CPP) and alcohol-insoluble solids (AIS) from cactus pear (Opuntia ficus-indica). To prepare AIS, peels were shredded and dropped in ethanol (70%) for 15 min. The mixture was boiled at 70 °C for 30 min, filtered and washed with ethanol 70% and the washing repeated until no sugars. The residue was washed and dried at room temperature. Changes in physiochemical and rheological properties of extracted CPP and AIS from cactus pear to qualify determine their use in the production of them to produce a fiber-rich food product. The water-holding capacity was 3.7 ml/g for the peel and 1.5 ml/g for the AIS, and the oil-holding capacity was approximately the same for both the CPP and AIS. The protein content was 3.5% for the CPP and 3.72% for the AIS. The CPP and AIS contained little fat (1.22% and 1.44%, respectively). Potassium and calcium in the AIS had the highest concentration, at 21.49 g/kg and 44.04 g/kg, respectively, and these minerals were found at 22.07 g/kg and 16.66 g/kg, respectively, in the CPP. The dominant phenolic compounds found in the CPP were pyrogallol, catechol, catechin, and alpha-coumaric acid. The results showed that the AIS contained pyrogallol (61.67 ppm), benzoic acid (10.68 ppm), vanillic acid (7.66 ppm), catechin (4.65 ppm) and salicylic acid (4.51 ppm). The CPP was rich in glucose (25.95%) and fructose (21.36%) compared to the AIS. The sensory evaluation indicated that 7.5% dried cactus pear peel or 7.5% AIS can be successfully used in substitution of wheat flour biscuits. It could be conducted cactus pear as major by-product can be important for the industrial utilization.

Anthocyanin and Oil Contents, Fatty Acids Profiles and Antioxidant Activity of Mexican Landrace Avocado Fruits

Mexican landrace avocados are naturally distributed mainly in high areas of central Mexico, where they have been produced and consumed since pre-Hispanic times. However, trees of these species are being replaced by improved varieties with greater global demand, and many species have been lost due to the destruction of their natural habitats. Many people in Mexico like to consume the pulp and peel of these fruits and have done so since pre-Hispanic times. This is because the peel of Mexican landrace avocados, unlike the peel of Hass avocados, is very thin and flavorful. The peel color may be bluish-purple or dark reddish due to the presence of anthocyanins, which are compounds with antioxidant activity. The objective of this study was to assess the oil and anthocyanin contents and to evaluate the antioxidant activity in fruits of 11 accessions collected from producing-regions of Mexico. The oil content was 16.2 to 32.3 g 100 g^-1 in pulp, and the main unsaturated fatty acids were oleic, linoleic and palmitoleic acids, depending on the accession. The anthocyanin contents in peels ranged from 0.64 to 47 mg g^-1 fresh weight. The highest antioxidant activity was found in the peel (53.3-307.3 mmol g^-1 fresh weight). The results confirm that the pulp and peel of dark-peel Mexican landrace avocados could be important nutraceuticals for humans.

Extraction of bioactive compounds from pomegranate peel (Punica granatum L.) with pressurized liquids assisted by ultrasound combined with an expansion gas

In this study it is proposed the introduction of an expansion gas in high pressure water to maximize the cavitation caused by the application of ultrasound to improve the extraction of phenolic compounds from pomegranate peel. Different combinations of ultrasound power (US-Pwr), expansion gas initial pressure (N₂-Pi), system pressure (SP) and particle size of sample were evaluated using water as solvent. The use of US-Pwr and N₂-Pi individually or combined improved the extraction process proving higher yields. SP was an important parameter affecting extraction yield, showing an inverse relation between its increase and extraction yield. Although higher yields were produced with samples with smaller particles, the combination of ultrasound and expansion gas had a positive effect on the process independently of particle size, promoting an increase of 20-26% in yield. These results suggest an enormous potential to be explored with the introduction of an expansion gas in pressurized liquids in processes assisted by ultrasound for the extraction of phenolic compounds from natural products using green solvents.

Microparticles based on natural and synthetic polymers for cosmetic applications

Most peeling products (exfoliators) available on the market, used in cosmetic and aesthetic dermatology applications, contain synthetic microbeads as abrasive agents. After being released into the natural environment, these non-biodegradable microparticles have an adverse impact on it, especially on aquatic ecosystems. Cosmetics consisting of solid plastic particles will be prohibited in the European Union from 2020. Therefore, there is a great need to develop effective abrasive substances for cosmetic industry. An alternative to synthetic beads may be beads based on biopolymers. Spherical microparticles of sodium alginate and mixture of sodium alginate and starch were obtained using encapsulator BÜCHI B-395 Pro. The obtained microparticles were added to the developed peeling formulation. Subsequently, the evaluation of skin condition after application of peelings with alginate, alginate-starch and synthetic microparticles was made, including topography, skin's barrier quality, hydration, colour, and the level of sebum. The peeling containing sodium alginate and sodium alginate with starch beads does not irritate the skin - redness of skin, itching and dryness did not appear. Microparticles of sodium alginate and sodium alginate with starch act on the skin as effectively as commercial synthetic particles, therefore they may be successfully used as abrasive ingredients in the developed recipe.

A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels: A Review of Fundamentals and Step-by-step Algorithmic Protocol for Treatment

Background: Chemoexfoliation, also known as chemical peeling, is a method of targeted cutaneous ablation using specific caustic agents that allow for rapid, predictable, and uniform thickness of chemoablation to a desired cutaneous depth, ultimately resulting in an improved appearance of skin. Objective: In this review, we provide an up-to-date analysis of all currently available chemical peels for dermatologic use, as well as a step-by-step instructional protocol for an algorithmic approach to treatment. Methods: A comprehensive search of the Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, and PUBMED databases was performed to identify relevant literature investigating chemical peeling agents. In addition, a search of all commercially available, prescription-based peeling agents was performed to identify all products currently available in the United States market. Results and Conclusion: Chemical peels are the third most commonly performed noninvasive cosmetic procedure in the United States, with over 1,300,000 procedures performed in 2016 alone. There has been a paradigm shift in recent years, with lasers largely supplanting deep peels. Despite this shift, superficial peels have proliferated in both popularity and product diversity. When used for the appropriate indication and with proper technique, nearly all peeling agents have demonstrated excellent clinical efficacy and remain an indispensable cost-effective tool in the dermatologist's aesthetic toolbox.

Clinical Efficacy and Safety on Combining 20% Trichloroacetic Acid Peel with Topical 5% Ascorbic Acid for Melasma

Introduction

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is a versatile peeling agent for treatment of melasma. However, Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is reported to be the most common side-effect associated with TCA peel. Topical Ascorbic Acid (AA) due to its effect as antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitor helps to prevent PIH and maintains the response.

Aim

To assess the clinical efficacy, safety and reduction in Melasma Quality of Life (MELASQOL) on combining 20% TCA peel with 5% ascorbic acid cream in epidermal melasma.

Materials and Methods

This study was conducted in the Department of Dermatology, Pt. Bhagwat Dayal Sharma University of Health Sciences, Rohtak. This was an open labelled prospective randomized study in which 60 patients of epidermal melasma were enrolled for 12 weeks. Patients were divided into two groups: Combination group received 20% TCA peel every two weeks with once daily 5% ascorbic acid cream and Control group received only 20% TCA peel. Melasma Area Severity Index (MASI) was used for evaluating clinical improvement of melasma. Improvement in Quality Of Life (QoL) was assessed by MELASQOL scale in both groups. Adverse effects were evaluated at each visit. All statistical analysis was carried out with SPSS 20^th version. The difference in change in mean MASI scoring and MELASQOL scores between the two groups were analysed using Mann-Whitney test. The side effects between the two groups were compared using Chi-square test.

Results

The combination group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in MASI, percentage decrease in MASI and quality of life as compared to control group after treatment. At the baseline there was no statistically significant difference in MASI between the two groups (i.e., MASI in combination group and control group were 23.55±4.61 and 23.613±4.088 respectively). However, it was statistically significant at the end of therapy (i.e., MASI in combination group was 9.50±5.31 and in control group was 15.10±4.44). When the results were analysed in terms of percentage decrease in MASI from baseline, there was statistically significant difference in combination group (i.e., 10.87±4.11) as compared to control group (i.e., 6.3±1.97) after 2^nd week of therapy. When the mean MELASQOL scores were compared between the two groups at the end of therapy (i.e., 12 weeks), it was found to be statistically significantly lower in combination group (16.60±8.03) as compared to control group (25.90±8.17). Minor adverse effects like post peel erythema, pruritus, burning and stinging sensation were observed in some of the patients, which didn't necessitate termination of the therapy.

Conclusion

Combination of 20% TCA peel with topical 5% ascorbic acid is a highly effective, safe and promising therapeutic option in treatment of melasma which significantly improves the QoL.

Characterization and quantification of fruit phenolic compounds of European and Tunisian pear cultivars

The flesh and peel of 19 pear cultivars (8 Tunisian dessert cultivars, 8 European dessert cultivars and 3 French perry pear cultivars) were studied for their phenolic composition. Phenolic compounds were identified by HPLC/ESI-MS² and individually quantified by HPLC-DAD. Five classes of polyphenols were present: flavan-3-ols, phenolic acids, flavonols, anthocyanins and simple phenolics (hydroquinones). The total phenolic content ranged between 0.1g/kg Fresh Weight (FW) ('Conference' cultivar) and 8.6g/kg FW ('Plant De Blanc' cultivar) in the flesh and between 1.6g/kg FW ('William vert' cultivar) and 40.4g/kg FW ('Arbi Chiheb' cultivar) in the peel. Procyanidins, analyzed after thioacidolysis, were the main phenolic compounds in all pear cultivars either in the pulp or the peel, their constitutive units being essentially (-)-epicatechin. Tunisian dessert pears and French perry pears are richer in procyanidins with very high degree of polymerization (>100) for Tunisian pears. Peel procyanidins were less polymerized (from 4 to 20). Pear peel phenolic profile was more complex especially for Tunisian cultivars, with flavonols and in some cultivars anthocyanins.

[Management protocol in gastroschisis]

AIM

There are two classical managements in gastroschisis: primary or delayed closure. From 2007 on, a multidisciplinary approach protocol based in preterm caesarean delivery at 34-35th gestational age (in order to minimize peel injury) plus primary closure is followed in our institution. Prior to this, term delivery, either by caesarean section or not, was the rule.

METHODS

Retrospective study of gastroschisis's patients before (1978-2006) and after (2007-2016) protocol approval. Complex gastroschisis frequency, peel's presence, primary or delayed closure, complications, re-interventions, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) length of stay, age at onset of enteral nutrition, total parenteral nutrition's length and length of stay were compared.

MAIN RESULTS

Study groups: before (12 patients) and after (13 newborns) the protocol implantation (pre/post). Nine complex gastroschisis were observed in the pre-protocol period, compared to one in the post-protocol era (p= 0.001). The re-interventions also decreased: 58.33% in the pre-protocol vs. 15.38% in the post-protocol group (p= 0.025). Complications rate were 66.67% before protocol vs. 23.07% after protocol (p= 0.028). NICU length of stay decreased from 40 ± 32 to 17 ± 12 days (p= 0.025). Parenteral total nutrition length was 61 ± 36 in the pre-protocol vs. 15 ± 6 in the port-protocol eras, respectively (p= 0.043). The age at onset of enteral nutrition was 34 ± 26 vs. 9 ± 5 days (p= 0.004) and hospitalization length was 98 ± 81 days pre vs. 35 ± 15 days post protocol implantation (p= 0.011).

CONCLUSIONS

The protocol implantation has allowed primary closure, decreased hospitalization; reduced complications and mortality rate as well.

'Criolla') by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with diode array and mass spectrometric detection

Pink guava (Psidium guajava L.) is a highly consumed fruit in tropical countries. Despite of interesting research on health effects of this fruit, investigations into the profile of secondary plant metabolites are scarce. In this study, the phenolic compounds in the peel and flesh of pink guava were characterized by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with diode array and mass spectrometric detection. Sixty phenolic compounds were characterized by MS² and classified as ellagitannins, flavones, flavonols, flavanols, proanthocyanidins, dihydrochalcones, and anthocyanidins, and non-flavonoids such as phenolic acid derivatives, stilbenes, acetophenones, and benzophenones. Forty-two polyphenols are reported for the first time in both peel and flesh, and twenty-four compounds were detected for the first time in P. guajava, e.g., phlorizin, nothofagin, astringin, chrysin-C-glucoside, valoneic acid bilactone, cinnamoyl-glucoside, and two dimethoxycinnamoyl-hexosides.

[Chemical peel treatments in dermatology]

Chemical peel treatments, which utilize a number of chemical peeling solutions subject to patient indication, are an easy to learn therapeutic technique suited for, in particular, various types of acne, acne scars, actinic keratosis and "sun-damaged skin". Especially the positive and long-lasting results of deep peels in the area of skin rejuvenation are deemed the gold standard against which other techniques, including lasers, must compare themselves. Other benefits of chemical peels include the flexibility to mix and match chemical solutions to custom design the treatment best suited for the desired degree of skin penetration, as well as the relatively low cost.

Valorization of pomegranate peel from 12 cultivars: dietary fibre composition, antioxidant capacity and functional properties

The dried powdered fruit peels of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) (PomP) from 12 cultivars were used to extract and characterise their dietary fibre (DF) and to assess their functional and antioxidant properties. The total DF content varied between 33.10 and 62/100 g. The cellulose, Klason lignin, uronic acid and total neutral sugars (NS) composition of DF was: 16.53-22.71, 20.59-41.86, 13.98-23.31 and 16.88-19.66/100g, respectively. Arabinose and xylose were the most present NS with more than 60% of total NS content. The ratio of insoluble to soluble DF was around 1, reflecting the balanced composition of PomP's DF. Besides, PomP powder showed intermediate values for water- and oil-holding capacities: 2.31-3.53 and 2.80-4.05 mL/g, respectively, and strong retardation effect on the dialysis of glucose, reaching ∼60%. Also, it has been shown that most of the antioxidants can be extracted, based on the strong soluble antioxidant activity (2018-2649 μmol Trolox/g) compared to the insoluble one (13-23 μmol Trolox/g).

Water-insoluble fiber-rich fraction from pineapple peel improves intestinal function in hamsters: evidence from cecal and fecal indicators

Pineapple peel, a byproduct of agricultural processing, contains high levels of water-insoluble fiber-rich fraction (WIFF) (~42%, wt/wt). Our previous work has demonstrated that cellulose, hemicellulose (xylan and xyloglucan), and pectic substances are the major polysaccharides of pineapple-peel WIFF. Based on its chemical composition and unique characteristics, we hypothesized that daily consumption of WIFF would improve intestinal function in hamsters. Male Golden Syrian hamsters were fed a diet supplemented with either 5% cellulose or various amounts of WIFF (2.5%, 5%, or 10%). Activities of fecal bacterial enzymes, short-chain fatty acid concentrations, and microbial number in the cecal content, and also biochemical indicators in the cecal and feces of hamsters, were evaluated in all groups. The supplementation of WIFF in a diet at a level of 2.5% significantly (P < .05) decreased the daily fecal ammonia output; shortened the gastrointestinal transit time; reduced the activities of β-D-glucosidase, β-D-glucuronidase, mucinase, and urease in feces; and also enhanced the total amounts of short-chain fatty acid in the cecal content and the growth of gut microflora such as Lactobacillus spp and Bifidobacterium spp. These results indicate that WIFF could improve cecal ecosystem function of hamsters by reducing the toxic compounds excreted by intestinal microflora. Therefore, pineapple-peel WIFF could be a promising candidate for a functional ingredient beneficial to human intestinal function and health.

Assessment of by-products from fresh-cut products for reuse as bioactive compounds

The fresh-cut industry is constantly growing and generating wastes. The major challenge for this industry consists in an environmentally sustainable production through re-utilization of by-products, for instance, in extraction of bioactive compounds. In this paper, the nutritional and functional compounds of apple, potato, cucumber, melon and watermelon by-products were investigated. The amount of by-product produced was of 10.10 to 30.80% of initial fresh weight depending on the product. By-products were characterized by low protein (<20 g/kg fresh weight) and fatty acid content (<5 g/kg fresh weight) and high levels of minerals. Carbohydrates content ranged from 43.7 to 235 g/kg fresh weight, while total dietary fibre was between 20 and 150 g/kg fresh weight The content of antioxidants (53.6 to 3453.2 mg/kg fresh weight) and total polyphenols (124.5 to 4250.2 mg/kg fresh weight) depended strongly on the type of by-product. In most cases, the nutritional and bioactive content was higher in the peel than in whole product. Apple peel was rich in carbohydrates, total dietary fibre, antioxidants and total polyphenols. Potato peel was high in iron. Melon was rich in magnesium. Watermelon peel was characterized by the level of potassium, and cucumber peel was rich in manganese, zinc, phosphorous, calcium and sodium. All these data demonstrate than natural by-product from fresh-cut industry could potentially be utilized as ingredients to design new functional foods with a future market.

Antioxidant effects of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm) juice and peel extract on LDL oxidation

BACKGROUND

We studied the antioxidant effects of fresh juice and peel extract of Citrus aurantifolia (Christm).

METHODS

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) was separated from one hypercholesterolemic human serum by modified Bronzert and Brewer procedure. Oxidation of LDL was measured at 234 nm against 0, 5, 10, 20, 25, 30 and 40 μl of fresh lime juice and 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 μl of peel polyphenolic extract solution in DMSO.

RESULTS

5 μl of lime juice didn't change LDL oxidation. 10 μl of juice inhibited LDL oxidation, and with increasing the juice concentration, LDL was oxidized faster. The higher concentrations of peel extract prevented LDL oxidation better than the lower ones.

CONCLUSIONS

Both juice and peel demonstrated antioxidant properties, but the excessive consumption of lime juice seems not to be beneficial. Regarding the intensity and type of flavonoids, lime juice and peel may show different effects.

The new Genetico-Racial Skin Classification: How to maximize the safety of any peel or laser treatment on any Asian, Caucasian or Black patient

The popular skin classifications, notably the 'Fitzpatrick' and 'Obaji' classifications, are primarily based on skin colour. Other criteria are occasionally considered, such as the degree of skin oiliness, thickness, sensibility, etc. Although these classifications are easy to understand and apply, their simplicity limits their precision, sophistication and applicability.The new genetico-racial skin classification proposed herein suggests that skin response to any peel or laser treatment is genetically programmed and is, therefore, linked to the genetic and racial origin of the patient. In other words, in addition to skin colour, the patient's facial features and ancestry should be taken into account when classifying any skin.The new genetico-racial skin classification enables the physician to determine with great precision, and before any peel or laser treatment, the level of the patient's suitability and the expected postoperative outcomes; therefore, reducing the likelihood of complications.