Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power Methods Research Articles

Dietary and serum antioxidant capacity is inversely associated with patients in osteoarthritis: a case-control study

This study aimed to examine dietary antioxidant and serum antioxidant capacity in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA). This case-control study consisted of 47 patients with OA (case group) and 30 healthy subjects (control group). The control and case group were matched age, gender, and body mass index (p > 0.05). A food frequency questionnaire was administered to participants, and dietary total antioxidant capacity (DTAC) was estimated using the ferric reducing antioxidant power method (FRAP). Participants’ serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidant capacity (TOC) measurements were performed, and the oxidative stress index (OSI) was calculated. DTAC of case group was found to be lower than the control group (p < 0.05). The daily consumption of red meat and butter of the individuals in the case group was higher than that of the control group, and their fish consumption, dietary vitamin A and carotene intakes were found to be lower (p < 0.05). In addition, OA patients have TAC and OSI was also found to be significantly higher than in control group (p = 0.001 and p < 0.001). Since low dietary total antioxidant capacity and high serum total oxidant capacity, individuals with OA should pay more attention to their diet to increase serum antioxidant status.

Physicochemical Characterization of Moroccan Honey Varieties from the Fez-Meknes Region and Their Antioxidant and Antibacterial Properties.

Honey, with its varied and extensive characteristics, is a complex and diverse biological substance that has been used since ancient times. The aim of this study is to thoroughly characterize the physicochemical, phytochemical, and biological properties of four floral honey varieties from the Fez-Meknes region in Morocco, with the goal of promoting the valorization of Moroccan honey in skincare and cosmetic products. The analyses of their physicochemical characteristics encompass various parameters such as pH, acidity, density, water content, Brix index, conductivity, ash content, hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content, and color. The levels of polyphenols range from 22.1 ± 0.4 to 69.3 ± 0.17 mg GAE/100 g of honey, measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu method for polyphenol quantification. Additionally, the estimation of flavonoid quantities in 100 g of honey, conducted using the aluminum trichloride method, reveals values ranging from 3.6 ± 0.2 to 7.2 ± 0.6 mg QE. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that honey exhibits high levels of glucose and relatively low concentrations of proteins. The quantitative evaluation of antioxidant effects, carried out through the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free-radical-scavenging method and the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method, highlights the strong antioxidant capacity of multifloral honey, characterized by low inhibitory concentration values (IC50 = 30.43 mg/mL and EC50 = 16.06 mg/mL). Moreover, all honey varieties demonstrate antibacterial and antifungal properties, with multifloral honey standing out for its particularly pronounced antimicrobial activity. The correlation analyses between phytochemical composition and antioxidant and antibacterial activities reveal an inverse relationship between polyphenols and IC50 (DPPH) and EC50 (FRAP) concentrations of honey. The correlation coefficients are established at R2 = -0.97 and R2 = -0.99, respectively. Additionally, a significant negative correlation is observed between polyphenols, flavonoids, and antifungal power (R2 = -0.95 and R2 = -0.96). In parallel, a marked positive correlation is highlighted between antifungal efficacy, DPPH antioxidant activity (R2 = 0.95), and FRAP (R2 = 0.92). These results underscore the crucial importance of phytochemical components in the beneficial properties of honey, meeting international quality standards. Consequently, honey could serve as a natural alternative to synthetic additives.

Effect of Gamma Irradiation on the Antimicrobial and Free Radical Scavenging Activities of Solvents-Based Extracts of Cucurbitaceae Seeds

The effect of gamma irradiation upon the bioactive potentials of selected Cucurbitaceae seeds commonly known as Char Magaz was investigated. The seeds were irradiated in triplicate at doses of 1, 5, 10, and 20 kGy gamma rays in a cobalt-60 irradiator. These were extracted with n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate and methanol and the extracts were concentrated by rotary evaporation. The antimicrobial effects of the irradiated and non-irradiated samples against bacterial strains and the fungal strains were assessed by the agar-well diffusion method and the minimal inhibitory concentration technique. The antioxidant activities were determined via 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. The chloroform extract of cucumber seeds exhibited the greatest zone of inhibition (18.0 mm) against S. aureus. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for antibacterial and antifungal activities ranged from 320.0 to 1280 µg/mL, and 0.50 to 16.0 µg/mL, respectively. Seeds exposed up to 10 kGy gamma irradiation increased DPPH and ABTS scavenging activities. Comparatively, all seed extracts showed high antioxidant potentials in the FRAP assay at all doses. The results suggested that gamma irradiation up to 10 kGy enhances bioactivities of the analyzed seeds.

Analisis In Vitro Aktivitas Antioksidan Ekstrak Aseton dari Ranting Horsfieldia macrothyrsa Menggunakan Beragam Metode

Horsfieldia macrothyrsa (Miq) Warb. is a plant that contains secondary metabolite compounds that can act as antioxidants. This research aims to determine the antioxidant potential of the acetone extract of the H. macrothyrsa plant by looking at the IC50 value. Twigs of the H. macrothrysa plant were extracted using the maceration method using acetone solvent. The results of the antioxidant activity test using the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) method showed very strong antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 6.348 µg/ml whereas the IC50 value of the standard antioxidant quercetin is and quercetin 1.261 µg/ml. In antioxidant testing using the ABTS (2,2-azinobis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) method, an IC50 value of 12,772 µg/ml was obtained and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) obtained an IC50 value of 7,511 µg/ml. Based on the results, it can be concluded that the acetone extract of H. macrothrysa plant twigs has very strong antioxidant activity towards reducing DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) compared to using the ABTS and FRAP methods.

Imidazole-thiadiazole hybrids: A multitarget de novo drug design approach, in vitro evaluation, ADME/T, and in silico studies.

A library of imidazole-thiadiazole compounds (1-24) was synthesized to explore their therapeutic applications. The compounds were subjected to meticulous in vitro evaluation against α-glucosidase, α-amylase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes. Compounds were also investigated for antioxidant activities using cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assays. Derivatives 5-7, 9-11, 18, and 19 displayed potent inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 1.4 ± 0.01 to 13.6 ± 0.01 and 0.9 ± 0.01 to 12.8 ± 0.02 µM against α-glucosidase, and α-amylase enzymes, respectively, compared to the standard acarbose (IC50 = 14.8 ± 0.01 µM). Compounds 11-13, 16, 20, and 21 exhibited potent activity IC50 = 8.6 ± 0.02 to 34.7 ± 0.03 µM against AChE enzyme, compared to donepezil chloride (IC50 = 39.2 ± 0.05 µM). Compound 21 demonstrated comparable inhibition IC50 = 45.1 ± 0.09 µM against BChE, compared to donepezil chloride (IC50 = 44.2 ± 0.05 µM). All compounds also demonstrated excellent antioxidant activities via CUPRAC, FRAP, and DPPH methods. Complementing the experimental studies, extensive kinetics, ADME/T, and molecular docking analysis were also conducted to unravel the pharmacokinetics and safety profiles of the designed compounds. These studies supported the experimental findings and facilitated the prioritization of hit candidates for subsequent stages of drug development.

LC−MS/MS−based metabolite profiling and antioxidant evaluation of three Indonesian orange varieties

The orange peel contains bioactive components with health−promoting effects, a rich source of antioxidants, and could be used for functional food. However, due to many factors, the composition and concentration of bioactive compounds from orange peels differ because of their variety. This study aims to identify the metabolite and evaluate the antioxidant activity of peels from Indonesian orange varieties, i.e., Rimau Gerga Lebong (RGL, Bengkulu), Brastagi (JBM, North Sumatra), and Garut (JSG, West Java). The metabolite profile was analyzed using LC−MS/MS and discriminated based on orange variety using principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA). Antioxidant activity was measured using the 2,2 −diphenyl− 1 −picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), cupric ion−reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), and ferric−reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. In this study, the metabolite profile of orange peel proved to be rich in flavonoids like hesperidin, rutin, nobiletin, polyphenol−organic acids like p − coumaric acid, citric acid, quinic acid, and other metabolites from the class terpenoids, amino acids, and sugars. PCA separated each variety and HCA heatmaps showed variations in the distribution of identified metabolites. In the RGL variety, 47 metabolites were identified, dominated by flavonoids and terpenoids. As many as 44 metabolites in the JBM variety contain many amino acids and flavonoids. In JBM, 44 metabolites were identified with carboxylic and amino acids as the main compounds. RGL orange peel extract had the highest antioxidant activity using the DPPH and CUPRAC methods, whereas the FRAP method did not show significant differences. Regarding metabolites and antioxidant activity, RGL, JBM, and JSG orange peels can be developed as alternative functional foods.

Research on Phenolic Content and Its Antioxidant Activities in Fermented Rosa rugosa 'Dianhong' Petals with Brown Sugar.

Fermented Rosa rugosa 'Dianhong' petals with brown sugar, a biologically active food popularized in Dali Prefecture, Northwest Yunnan, China, are rich in bioactive compounds, especially polyphenols, exhibiting strong antioxidant activity. This study evaluated their antioxidant activities, total phenolic contents, and concentrations of polyphenols at different fermentation conditions using different assays: DPPH free-radical scavenging activity, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), Folin-Ciocalteu assays, and HPLC-MS/MS and HPLC-DAD methods. The results indicated that fermentation significantly increased (p < 0.05) the antioxidant activity and polyphenol concentration of R. rugosa 'Dianhong'. Furthermore, Saccharomyces rouxii TFR-1 fermentation achieved optimal bioactivity earlier than natural fermentation. Overall, we found that the use of Saccharomyces rouxii (TFR-1) is a more effective strategy for the production of polyphenol-rich fermented R. rugosa 'Dianhong' petals with brown sugar compared to natural fermentation.

New penta-Coordinated Cadmium(II) Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization, Thermal, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant and Cytotoxicity Properties.

In this paper, a new tridentate Schiff base ligand (L) with nitrogen donor atoms and its cadmium(II) complexes with the general formula of CdLX2 (X=Cl-, Br-, I-, SCN-, N3 -, NO3 -) have been synthesized and characterized by physical and spectral (FT/IR, UV-Vis, Mass, and 1H, 13C NMR spectroscopies) methods. Also nano-structured cadmium chloride and bromide complexes were synthesized by sonochemical method and then used to prepare nanostructured cadmium oxide confirmed by XRD and SEM techniques. Thermal behavior of the compounds was studied in the temperature range of 25 to 900 °C under N2 atmosphere at a heating rate of 20 °C/ min. Moreover, thermo-kinetic activation parameters of thermal decomposition steps were calculated according to the Coats-Redfern relationship. Antimicrobial activities of the synthesized compounds against two gram-positive and two gram-negative bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and two fungi of Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger were investigated by well diffusion method. SEM technique was used to monitor the morphological changes of the bacteria treated with the compounds. The 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH) and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods were used to evaluate the antioxidant ability of the ligand and its cadmium(II) complexes. In final, the cytotoxicity properties of the ligand and some cadmium(II) complexes against PC3 cancer cells were evaluated by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide) bioassay and nitric oxide (NO) level measurement. The morphological changes of prostate cancer (PC3) cells due to treatment with the ligand and its complexes confirmed their anticancer effectiveness.

Citrus limon Wastes from Part of the Eastern Cape Province in South Africa: Medicinal, Sustainable Agricultural, and Bio-Resource Potential.

The fruits of Citrus limon are often purchased for their vitamin C-rich juice, while the fruit peel and the tree leaves are discarded as wastes. This study obtained the chemical profiles of the essential oils (EOs) of C. limon wastes (the peel and leaves), evaluated their medicinal value as antioxidants, their potential for sustainable use in agriculture as an insecticide for post-harvest preservation of grains, and their potential as a bioresource in livestock feed formulations. The EOs were isolated from C. limon leaves and peel using a hydro-distillation method on a Clevenger apparatus. The oil constituents were identified using the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) hyphenated technique. The oils were evaluated for their in vitro antioxidant activity using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power methods. An insecticidal study was conducted using contact toxicity, fumigation, and repellence bioassay methods against Sitophilus zeamais (maize weevils). Finally, the predicted income from using lemon peel as an alternative or substitute ingredient for maize in livestock feed formulations was obtained through a conventional simulation method. Chemically, limonene was found to be present in all the EOs analyzed (12-52%), while α-pinene was only found in the fresh leaf and peel oils (13.3% and 10.6%). Caryophyllene oxide was identified as the major component of the dried leaf oil (17.7%). At 20 µg m, the dry peel oil exhibited the highest inhibitory activity (52.41 ± 0.26%) against the DPPH radical, which was comparable to L-ascorbic acid (a standard antioxidant) at 54.25 ± 3.55%. The insecticidal study revealed that the dry peel oil is a better insect repellent (73.33 ± 6.95% at 10 µL) and fumigant (LC50 = 0.17 µL g-1 after 48 h) natural agent compared to the peel oil. Conversely, the dry peel oil showed a better contact activity (LC50 = 1.69 µL g-1) against the maize weevils compared to the dry leaf oil. The simulation study showed the cost of using dry lemon peel as an alternative to maize in livestock feed formulation to be ZAR 2.8 billion, compared against the higher cost of feed formulation with maize, which currently stands at ZAR 24.9 billion. This study has shown that C. limon wastes (the peel and leaves) contain EOs with unique chemical profiles, valuable medicinal properties as free radical scavengers, and considerable insecticidal properties for agricultural use in post-harvest grain preservation, presenting a cost-effective and promising bioresource for livestock feed production.

Comparison of different methods for evaluating the antioxidant activity of instant Torbangun (Coleus amboinicus L.) drinks

Torbangun (Coleus amboinicus L.) is a natural breast milk stimulant with antioxidant activity. This study aimed to compare the antioxidant activity of instant Torbangun drinks (ITD) ethanolic extract using DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil), ABTS (2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid), and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) methods. Ethanolic extract of commercial Torbangun tea (CTT) and lactation booster milk (CLM) was also included in all analyses as a product reference. At the same time, vitamin C was used as an antioxidant standard. The antioxidant activity was expressed as EC50 value. Among breastmilk booster drinks, the sample with the highest antioxidant activity obtained from ABTS and FRAP methods was ITD (EC50 18.26 mg/mL) and CLM (EC50 0.187 mg/mL), respectively. Assessing with the DPPH method, the activity of ITD and CLM was not significantly different (EC50 35.200 mg/mL and 33.035 mg/mL, respectively), and those were higher than that of CTT (EC50 52.22 mg/mL). However, the antioxidant activity of all products was significantly lower than vitamin C in all analysis methods (EC50 < 0.05 mg/mL). This finding was proposed due to different antioxidant compounds and antioxidant mechanisms among breast milk booster products. This study also revealed that ABTS and FRAP were the most suitable methods for determining antioxidant properties in all samples.

Production of Cheese and Ice Cream Enriched With Biomass and Supernatant of Spirulina platensis With Emphasis on Organoleptic and Nutritional Properties

Background: Spirulina platensis contains natural pigments along with phenolic and flavonoid compounds that may be excreted to the supernatant in addition to biomass during culture. Objectives: We prepared enriched cheese and ice cream using biomass and supernatant of S. platensis microalgae extract. We aimed to evaluate these algae’s organoleptic and nutritional properties. Methods: After preparing a 30-day culture of Spirulina, different concentrations of its biomass and supernatant extract were prepared to enrich cheese and ice cream. In the next step, the physicochemical and antioxidant properties of the products were measured by FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) and DPPH (2,2-diphenyl 1-picryl hydroxyl) methods. Expert evaluators performed the sensory analysis according to the Iranian national standard method in terms of color, odor, taste, texture, and general acceptance on a scale of 0 to 5. Finally, statistical analysis of the data obtained from each experiment was performed with a one-way analysis of variance three times using SPSS software, version 24. Results: The results showed that the content of protein, fat, ash, and biomass was higher in enriched foods. However, in enriched ice creams, the content of protein, fat, sugar, and aeration rate increased significantly compared to the supernatant. In addition, cheese and ice cream fortified with supernatant had significantly greater antioxidant activity than biomass. The results of the hedonic test showed that with increasing concentrations of these agents in fortified cheeses and ice creams, the level of satisfaction in odor, taste, color, texture, and general acceptance factors was increased. Conclusion: The study results showed that adding biomass and supernatant of S. platensis to ice cream and cheese increased the nutritional value and improved the taste of these foods. Because these substances play an essential role in children’s diet, this microorganism can be used to combat malnutrition and a diet without micronutrients.

Comprehensive Analysis of Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant Potential, and Antibacterial Activity of T. polium

This study aims to thoroughly examine the chemicals and effects of the ethanol extract from T. polium’s upper parts. We used the Soxhlet method for extraction, resulting in an extract with a significant yield of 20.6%. Qualitative analysis identified a variety of compounds, such as tannins, saponins, reducing compounds, terpenoids, quinones, and alkaloids. In quantitative analysis using the colorimetric method, we found the extract was rich in total flavonoids (20.78 mg equivalent QE/g DW extract) and total polyphenols (227.43 mg equivalent GAE/g DW extract). To assess antioxidant potential, we used the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method, with ascorbic acid and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as standards. The extract showed moderate activity in both the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and FRAP methods at concentrations of 65 µg/mL and 21 mg/mL, respectively. Additionally, we tested the ethanolic extract against various bacteria using the disk diffusion technique on agar medium. The results indicated that the T. polium extract had moderate effectiveness against Gram-negative bacteria like Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 9027 and Escherichia coli ATCC 8739, as well as Gram-positive bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538 and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633. We further investigated the composition of the ethanolic extract through LC-MS/MS analysis, establishing a detailed profile of phenolic compounds, with six flavonoids identified as the main polyphenolic constituents. This thorough evaluation provides insights into the potential therapeutic uses of T. polium.

In Vitro Test of Antioxidant Activity of Leilem Leaf Ethanol Extract (Clerodendrum minahassae) Using DPPH and FRAP Methods

The risk of degenerative diseases is increasing due to unhealthy lifestyles. Many people consume junk food, smoke, and do not protect themselves from sun exposure and pollution, exposing their bodies to free radicals. Free radicals can cause oxidative stress, necessitating the need for antioxidants to neutralize them. The leilem plant (Clerodendrum minahassae) is an endemic plant from North Sulawesi that is often used in traditional dishes and medicine. Moreover, leilem leaves are believed to be a source of natural antioxidants. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of leilem leaf ethanol extract as a source of antioxidants. The antioxidant potential was evaluated using phytochemical screening and antioxidant assays such as 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) methods, with ascorbic acid as a comparison. The level of antioxidant activity was measured by determining the IC50 value, which corresponds to the concentration of extract required to inhibit 50% of free radicals. The results of phytochemical screening showed that the ethanol extract of leilem (Clerodendrum minahassae) leaves contains active compounds such as phenols, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroids/triterpenoids, and alkaloids, indicating a high potential for antioxidant activity. The IC50 value for the DPPH method was 78.799 ppm, and the IC50 value for the FRAP method was 92.127 ppm. These results demonstrate that the ethanol extract of leilem leaves has strong antioxidant activity in both the DPPH and FRAP methods.

Biorefining of legume and grass biomasses: Technological properties and bioactivities of the green juice

Five legume species (fodder galega, green pea, faba bean, red clover, and white clover) and one grass (timothy) grown under field conditions were investigated as potential future foods. Technological characteristics, such as emulsifying and foaming properties and nitrogen solubility indices, were determined from the green juices pressed from the whole plants. Secondly, the juices were evaluated for their antioxidative, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Faba bean green juice showed the highest emulsion stability and capacity, 66.0 ± 3.3 % and 18.0 ± 2.7 g/mg respectively, and second highest emulsion activity (58.4 ± 0.92 %). Considering the foaming properties, the highest activity was shown by white clover (433 ± 0.0 %) and green pea juices (411 ± 19.2 %). At the same time, the foam stability was remarkable for green pea juice (1078 ± 181.9 min) when compared to the other juices studied. The juices showed nitrogen solubility indices of about 50 % at pH 8, which were rather similar to those shown for the seeds of the same species in the literature. The antioxidant activities correlated with the total phenolic content. The highest antioxidant activity was shown by faba bean green juice both in the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) method. In addition, a weak positive correlation was observed between the total phenolic content and the antibacterial properties using Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus strains, although mainly in the case of the latter strain, high inhibition readings were observed for all other plants than white clover. All juices showed some anti-inflammatory activity on human monocyte activation: the faba bean and red clover were the most efficient materials (IC50 concentrations 49 ± 41 and 206 ± 68 mg/L, respectively).- These results suggest that the green juices tested may provide novel health-promoting food and feed ingredients in the future.

A natural approach to breast cancer treatment: investigation of chemical features of aerial parts of endemic Onosma sintenisii Hausskn. ex Bornm and its antioxidant properties, in vitro cytotoxic and apoptosis induction on MCF-7 cells

ABSTRACT Onosma sintenisii Hausskn. ex Bornm. (O. sintenisii) belongs to the Boraginaceae family and it is an endemic species from Irano-turanian phytogeographical region (central and eastern Anatolia) that distributes in steppe areas. This study aimed to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant, in vitro cytotoxic and apoptosis induction of methanol extract of aerial parts of O. sintenisii. As a result of GC/MS analysis, 14 components were identified, and the major compounds of the extracts are retronecine (13.94%), α.-D-Glucopyranosiduronic acid (10.86%), melaniline (7.5%) and 1,2-Butanediol (4.02%), respectively. Antioxidant properties of O. sintenisii were determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and superoxide radical scavenging activity methods. While the DPPH free radical scavenging activity results of O. sintenisii extract varied between 62.49% and 32.27%, reducing power activity and superoxide radical scavenging activity were found to be low. The result of the MTT assay revealed strong anticancer activity of O. sintenisii extract. The most significant cytotoxic effect was noted at a concentration of 1000 µg/mL after 48 hours. These findings together with flow cytometry analysis suggest that apoptosis can be the main mechanism underlying cell death after O. sintenisii extract treatment.

Formulation of Functional Liquid Diets Under IDDSI Levels 0 to 2 for Dysphagia Patients: Physico-Chemical, Sensory, Antioxidant and Electromyographic Oral Processing Analyses.

Dysphagia is a significant health concern especially amongst the old age population. It is an ailment brought on by the weakening of the swallowing muscles. To reduce the risk of choking in dysphagia patients, the food is usually diluted to suit their swallowing ability. But dilution results in reducing the nutritional density of the foods thus causing undernutrition and malnutrition in patients. In this study, functional liquid diets were formulated under International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI) levels 0-2. The developed diets were analysed for their proximate composition, colour, antioxidant and sensory properties. Antioxidant activities were determined using 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and total phenolic content (TPC) methods. The highest ABTS+ value was observed in pumpkin puree (level-2) i.e. 98.59%. Black carrot juice (level-1) showed the highest DPPH free radical scavenging activity and FRAP value viz. 88.43% and 689.33µM TE/g, respectively. Electromyography (EMG) is an upcoming technique of food texture evaluation which provides real-time information about food oral processing. In this study, an EMG was conducted to measure the myoelectrical activity of human suprahyoid and masseter muscles by placing electrodes on the skin's surface during the oral processing of liquid. The EMG parameters correlated significantly with viscosity, ease of swallowing and IDDSI levels of the formulated diets. Hence EMG can be used as a tool for design and development of textured-modified diets for dysphagia patients. The sensory scores of formulated diets in this study were high indicating that these liquid diets may be incorporated into the diet plans of dysphagia patients.

Alkaloidal Extracts from Avicennia africana P. Beauv. (Avicenniaceae) Leaf: An Antiplasmodial, Antioxidant, and Erythrocyte Viable.

The emergence of drug-resistant parasites impedes disease management and eradication efforts. Hence, a reinvigorated attempt to search for potent lead compounds in the mangroves is imperative. This study evaluates in vitro antiplasmodial activity, antioxidant properties, and cytotoxicity of A. africana leaf alkaloidal extracts. The A. africana leaves were macerated with 70% ethanol to obtain a total crude extract. Dichloromethane and chloroform-isopropanol (3 : 1, v/v) were used to extract the crude alkaloids and quaternary alkaloids from the total crude. The antiplasmodial activities of the alkaloidal extracts were performed against 3D7 P. falciparum chloroquine-sensitive clone via the SYBR Green I fluorescence assay with artesunate serving as the reference drug. The alkaloidal extracts were further evaluated for antioxidant properties via the total antioxidant capacity (TAC), the total glutathione concentration (GSH), the DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay, and the ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. The cytotoxic activity of the alkaloidal extracts was tested on erythrocytes using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide-MTT assay with little modification. The phytocompounds in the alkaloidal extracts were identified via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques. The total crude extract showed good antiplasmodial activity (IC50 = 11.890 µg/mL). The crude and quaternary alkaloidal extracts demonstrated promising antiplasmodial effects with IC50 values of 6.217 and 6.285 µg/mL, respectively. The total crude and alkaloidal extracts showed good antioxidant properties with negligible cytotoxicity on erythrocytes with good selectivity indices. The GC-MS spectral analysis of crude alkaloidal extracts gave indole and isoquinoline alkaloids and several other compounds. Dexrazoxane was found to be the main compound predicted, with an 86% peak area in the quaternary alkaloidal extract. The crude and quaternary alkaloidal extracts exhibited antiplasmodial activities and ability to inhibit oxidative stress with negligible toxicity on erythrocytes. This may be good characteristics to avoid oxidative stress related to Plasmodium infection in the treatment of malaria.

Comprehensive In Silico Analysis of Uncaria Tomentosa Extract: Chemical Profiling, Antioxidant Assessment, and CLASP Protein Interaction for Drug Design in Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Uncaria tomentosa is a traditional medicinal herb renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-enhancing properties. In the realm of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDS), CLASP proteins, responsible for regulating microtubule dynamics in neurons, have emerged as critical players. Dysregulation of CLASP proteins is associated with NDDS, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's diseases. Consequently, comprehending the role of CLASP proteins in NDDS holds promise for the development of innovative therapeutic interventions. The objectives of the research were to identify phytoconstituents in the hydroalcoholic extract of Uncaria tomentosa (HEUT), to evaluate its antioxidant potential through in vitro free radical scavenging assays and to explore its potential interaction with CLASP using in silico molecular docking studies. HPLC and LC-MS techniques were used to identify and quantify phytochemicals in HEUT. The antioxidant potential was assessed through DPPH, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), nitric oxide (NO) and superoxide (SO) free radical scavenging methods. Interactions between conventional quinovic acid, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, corynoxeine, rhynchophylline and syringic acid and CLASP were studied through in silico molecular docking using Auto Dock 4.2. The HEUT extract demonstrated the highest concentration of quinovic acid derivatives. HEUT exhibited strong free radical-scavenging activity with IC50 values of 0.113 μg/ml (DPPH) and 9.51 μM (FRAP). It also suppressed NO production by 47.1 ± 0.37% at 40 μg/ml and inhibited 77.3 ± 0.69% of SO generation. Additionally, molecular docking revealed the potential interaction of quinovic acid with CLASP for NDDS. The strong antioxidant potential of HEUT and the interaction of quinovic acid with CLASP protein suggest a promising role in treating NDDS linked to CLASP protein dysregulation.

ASSESSMENT OF THE INFLUENCE OF HEALTHY FOODS ON THE ANTIOXIDANT CAPACITY AND IMMUNE RESPONSE OF THE ORGANISM

The analyzes carried out in this research were performed on meadow and mountain honey samples from Bosnia and Herzegovina. The geographical origin of the analyzed honey samples is the area of Mount Majevica in the Tuzla Canton and the area of Livno, Canton 10, Sarajevo, Sarajevo Canton and Vlašić, Central Bosnia Canton. Honey samples were collected from 8 different localities. During the analysis, all honey samples were up to one year old. With the aim of testing the antioxidant capacity of honey, the polyphenol content and total antioxidant capacity were determined. The total antioxidant capacity of honey was determined by the indirect FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) method, and the polyphenol content by the Folin-Ciocalteu method. The results showed that there is a significant correlation between the antioxidant capacity of the analyzed honey samples and the content of polyphenols in them. In order to compare the antioxidant activity and polyphenol content of pure honey samples (without additives) with honey mixtures (additions: ginger, garlic, sweet wormwood, propolis), mixtures were prepared for all samples, namely 5 mixtures of honey and ginger; 5 mixtures of honey and garlic, 5 mixtures of honey and sweet wormwood and 3 mixtures of honey and propolis. Analyzing the results, a comparative analysis of the polyphenol content and total antioxidant capacity in honey samples before and after the addition of wormwood, ginger, garlic and propolis was performed, and the influence of the mixture's standing time on the tested parameters was also examined. The results of these analyzes showed that additives to honey significantly affect its antioxidant activity and polyphenol content, and that standing the prepared mixtures can lead to an additional increase or decrease of the tested parameters.

The chemical composition and the preservative, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects of Thymus broussonetii Boiss. essential oil: an in vitro and in silico approach.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and preservative efficacy of Thymus broussonetii Boiss. essential oil (EO) in a topically applied formulation using a challenge test. The essential oil was extracted from the aerial part of T. broussonetii using hydrodistillation, and the obtained EO was further analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The antioxidant effect of the EO was evaluated using three methods: the inhibition of free radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), β-carotene-linoleic acid, and the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) methods. The antimicrobial activity and the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of this EO were assayed by the disk-diffusion method and the broth microdilution method, respectively. The preservative efficacy of T. broussonetii EO was assayed at 1% and 2% (v/w) in a topical cream formulation using a challenge test against standard-specific microorganisms recommended by the European Pharmacopoeia. Furthermore, the identified phytochemical compounds were docked for their effect on nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase, human casein kinase 1 alpha 1 (CSNK1A1), glycogen synthase kinase 3, Staphylococcus aureus nucleoside diphosphate kinase, Escherichia coli beta-ketoacyl-[acyl-carrier protein] synthase, Pseudomonas aeruginosa LasR ligand-binding domain, and sterol 14-alpha demethylase (CYP51) from Candida albicans. The ADME/toxicity was predicted by analyzing the absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion parameters. chemical composition of the EO revealed the presence of thymol (63.09%), p-cymene (11%), and γ-terpinene (8.99%) as the major components. The antioxidant assays revealed that the essential oil exhibited strong antioxidant activity, as indicated by the minimum inhibitory concentration IC50 (IC50 = 210 ± 0.3μg/mL for the DPPH assay, IC50 = 145 ± 0.1μg/mL for the β-carotene assay, and IC50 = 84 ± 0.21μg/mL for the FRAP assay) when compared to quercetin and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) as controls. The investigated essential oil exhibited important antimicrobial activity against all the tested microorganisms, and the MICs of the EO against bacteria and fungi were 0.02%-1%. Moreover, the EO of T. broussonetii evaluated at 2% (v/w) in a cream formulation succeeded in satisfying the A criteria for preservation efficacy against S. aureus, E. coli, and Aspergillus brasiliensis but exhibited less efficacy against P. aeruginosa (1.78 log reduction in the number of CFU/g after 7days of evaluation) and C. albicans (1.09 log reduction in the number of CFU/g after 14days of evaluation) when compared to the synthetic preservative phenoxyethanol 1% (v/w). In silico results showed that the antimicrobial activity of T. broussonetii EO is mostly attributed to thymol, terpinen-4-ol, and aromadendrene, while the antioxidant activity is attributed to thymol. These results indicate that the EO of T. broussonetii possesses important antimicrobial and antioxidant properties and can, therefore, be used as a natural preservative ingredient in the cosmetic industry.