Flavonoid Content Research Articles

Evaluation of the pharmacognostic parameters, qualitative phytochemical profile and investigation of the toxicity of Sacoglottis ceratocarpa Ducke containing Bergenin, a gallic acid derivative

Trunk barks of Sacoglottis ceratocarpaDucke (ScTB) are used in Amazonian folk medicine against hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia, although scientific information on efficacy and quality control is lacking. Thus, pharmacognostic parameters, qualitative phytochemical profile, antioxidant properties (DPPH, TEAC and FRAP), toxicity and cytotoxicity were evaluated. The purity tests in the quality control performed for the vegetable raw material showed compliance with the specifications in official compendiums. Tannins, catechins, terpenes and steroids were characterized. Bergenin, a gallic acid derivative, was isolated and identified. The ScTB was rich in total phenolic (0.420-0.562 g/g) and flavonoid (11.37-24.31 mg/g) content, and considerable antioxidant potential. ScTB did not demonstrate cytotoxicity for human erythrocytes and renal fibroblasts, nortoxicity for brine shrimp. The results demonstrated the importance of the pharmacognostic study for the immediate knowledge of the quality and qualitative chemical profile of the trunk barks, contributing to the safe and effective use of the species.

Physiological, biochemical, and molecular characterization of some cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) genotypes

ABSTRACT This study aimed to determine the morphological, pomological, biochemical contents, and molecular characterization of 11 cucumber genotypes of Egyptian origin and to reveal their molecular characterization. As a result it was determined that the highest fruit weight, the highest fruit length, and the highest fruit width were in the “Rahaf” genotype (respectively, 337.39 g, 23.25 cm, 53.97 mm). Biochemical analyses of the genotypes revealed that the highest total phenolic content was in the “Madayın” genotype (1938 mg gallic acid equivalent 100 g−1), the highest total antioxidant content was in the “C.5” genotype (59.25% inhibition), and the highest total flavonoid content was in the “Gazir” genotype (752.78 mg catechin equivalent 100 g−1). The highest Chlorophyll (a) content and Chlorophyll (a+b) was in the “Madayın” genotype (respectively, 4.33 mg g−1, 20.92 mg g−1), the highest Chlorophyll (b) content was in the “Iskay” genotype (6.59 mg g−1). It was determined that there were differences between genotypes in terms of other biochemical parameters examined. Using ten Inter Simple Sequence Repeat primers, 119 bands were obtained and the polymorphism rate was determined as 90.75%.

Ephedra alenda from the Algerian Sahara: Ethnobotanical Investigation, Evaluation of Total Polyphenols, Antioxidant Potential and Antibacterial Properties

Background: This study is part of the contribution to the development of the medicinal plant Ephedra alata from the region of Bechar, Algeria. This work aimed to measure yields, total phenols, total flavonoids, antioxidant capacity and antibacterial evaluation. Methods: In this laboratory investigation during March 2023 to December 2023, the samples were macerated; total phenolic and flavonoids contents were analyzed using a colorimetric method, while antioxidant capacity was assessed through DPPH. The antibacterial essay was carried out by the disc diffusion method on a solid medium using Muller Hinton. Result: Phytochemical screening confirms the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, free quinones, reducing sugars, saponins, sterols, tannins and terpenes. Methanol extract represents the highest yield (4.41%), followed by butanol extract (3.3%), ethyl acetate extract (1.25%) and dichloromethane extract (0.69%). The dosage carried out revealed the content of plyphenols and flavonoids in the methanol extract was (175.73±0.25 μg EAG/mg DE) and (35.2±0.17 μg QE/mg DE), respectively. The evaluation of the antioxidant effect of the crude extracts by free radical scavenging DPPH gave the IC50 values of the extracts methanol, butanol, ethyl acetate and dichloromethane (0.170, 0.244, 0.324 and 2.23 mg/mL), respectively. The investigation into antibacterial activity revealed that the methanol extract significantly inhibited all tested bacteria, while the dichloromethane extract showed the lowest inhibition of Escherichia coli.

A comprehensive analysis of morphological and biochemical parameters of <i>Medicago sativa</i> during biotic stress

Background: Parasitism is an abiotic stress that significantly threatens plant growth and severely impacts crop productivity. Plants have developed complicated regulatory mechanisms to cope with stressful conditions, undergoing morphological and biochemical changes. Objective: The article presents the first comprehensive analysis of the Medicago sativa response to the penetration of flowering parasites Orobanche lutea and Cuscuta alba. The outcome of this study aim to enhance crop quality comprehend their bioactive properties and pinpoint optimal strategies for their utilization in preventing and treating human and animal health issues. Methods: Medicago sativa, Orobanche lutea and Cuscuta alba were collected in the Ararat province, located in southeastern Armenia. The plants’ morphological structures and leaf parameters were observed. The prooxidant activity was determined by the potentiometric method. The content of total phenols, flavonoids and catechins were determined by a spectrophotometric method. Pigments were separated and identified using thin layer chromatography and a spectrophotometric method. Results: The in-situ observations of M. sativa plant and ex-situ measurements of its leaves infected by O. lutea and C. alba reveal a significant negative impact on both the reproductive success and the vegetative aspects. Infected plants exhibited minimal inflorescence development, also, substantial reductions in leaf dimensions were observed. The analysis of prooxidant activity revealed that M. sativa exhibits inherent prooxidant properties, which are amplified in the presence of parasites. The influence of dodder on prooxidant activity is much more significant (14-38%) than that of broomrape (8-42%). The percentage changes in total phenolic content were more pronounced in the presence of C. alba, but flavonoid decline was more pronounced in the presence of O. lutea, suggesting a differential impact of the two parasites. Although catechin content was not affected, photosynthetic pigments of the host plant were significantly (28-57%) reduced by the parasites. Conclusion: Findings indicate a clear morphological alteration induced by parasitic infestation. The parasites, particularly O. lutea can cause temporal isolation and allochronic speciation in M. sativa populations. Biochemical analysis highlighted a complex interplay between the host and the parasite. The biochemical impact of the parasite is reflected on the host’s primary and secondary metabolism. The observed morphological and biochemical changes highlight the need for further research to explore potential mitigation strategies, selective herbicide development, and biocontrol measures against parasitic plant infestations in agricultural ecosystems. Keywords: alfalfa; Orobanche lutea; Cuscuta alba; parasites plants; morphophysiological observations; bioactivity.

Green light enhances the phytochemical preservation of lettuce during postharvest cold storage.

The postharvest lighting environment is a main factor that influences quality preservation for harvested biomass. The objective of this study was to evaluate postharvest changes in bioactive compounds of lettuce with different storage light spectra. The effects of green LEDs with peaks at 500 nm and 530 nm, white LEDs (400-700 nm), and dark storage were evaluated, where light intensity (10 μmol m-2 s-1) and photoperiod (12 h per day) were constant with air temperature at 5°C over the 14 d treatment period. Lettuce stored with 500 nm and 530 nm green LEDs exhibited 1474.5% and 1451.8% (approximately 15.7 and 15.5 times) higher antioxidant activity, respectively, compared to dark storage. Significant improvements in total phenolic content, and 67.5% and 64.8% increases in total soluble solids with 530 nm and 500 nm green LEDs over dark storage were discerned. Exposure to 530 nm green LEDs led to 128.2% (approximately 2.28 times) higher anthocyanin content, a 26.2% increase in carotenoids, and a 95% rise in flavonoid content compared to dark storage. Increases of 26.4% and 16.0% in chlorophyll a content in lettuce stored under 500 nm and 530 nm green LEDs, respectively, and 65.6% and 46.6% rises in the Chlorophyll a/b ratio were observed. Compared to dark storage, green LEDs (500 nm) resulted in a 13.5% higher total chlorophyll content. Findings underscore the positive impact of green LEDs on the nutritional quality of lettuce, providing insight for postharvest practices.

Phytochemical screening, nutritional, antinutritional, antioxidant, GCMS and mineral analysis of Zanthoxylum rhetsa (Roxb.) DC: Insights from tribal consumption in Mizoram, Northeast India

The plant Zanthoxylum rhetsa Roxb, a member of the Rutaceae family, holds dual significance in certain communities, particularly in Mizoram, Northeast India, where it is valued for its medicinal properties and consumed as a vegetable. This study comprehensively analyzes the phytochemical, nutritional, antinutritional, and antioxidant properties and the mineral content of Z. rhetsa, a plant traditionally consumed by tribal communities in this region. Minerals such as aluminum, copper, iron, manganese, nickel, and zinc were measured using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS). Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis was conducted to determine the chemical composition of the samples. Phytochemical screening revealed the existence of several bioactive components, such as tannins and flavonoids, while nutritional studies validated the plant's abundance of key nutrients. Among the minerals, manganese was found in the highest concentration (481.356 mg/100 g of DW), while nickel was present in the lowest concentration (1.614 mg/100 g of DW). The total calorific content was ascertained to be 51.344 Kcal/100g, adequate for dietary requirements. Additionally, the total phenolic content measured was 8.28 mg/g in gallic acid equivalent, and the total flavonoid content was 43.04 mg/g in quercetin equivalents. The existence of antinutritional compounds in differing amounts necessitates meticulous evaluation, particularly with the intake of fruits that may possess elevated levels of these substances. This comprehensive assessment highlights the nutritional significance of Z. rhetsa in local diets, emphasizing its dual role as a source of beneficial nutrients and potential antinutritional factors.

Comparative Study of Phenolic Content and Antioxidant and Hepatoprotective Activities of Unifloral Quillay Tree (Quillaja saponaria Molina) and Multifloral Honeys from Chile

Honey is a natural sweet element that bees make with flower nectar, revered for its distinct flavor, nutritional value, and potential health benefits. Chilean beekeeping has a diverse range of honey varieties, many of which are unique. The quillay (Quillaja saponaria Molina, soapbark tree) is a Chilean endemic tree whose honey has not been studied in depth. We characterized various Chilean honeys with different botanical origins, with a particular focus on quillay tree honey, analyzing its total phenolic and flavonoid content and its antioxidant activities. Cytotoxicity and hepatoprotective activity were also evaluated using HuH-7 cells. The Spearman correlation between the percentage of quillay pollen in the honey samples and the total phenolic content (R = 0.72; p < 0.05), plus the oxygen radical absorbance capacity, suggests that compounds from quillay contribute to the overall antioxidant capacity of honey. Unifloral quillay honey extracts also protect hepatic cells from oxidative damage induced by peroxyl radicals generated by AAPH. This analysis sheds light on the potential of quillay tree honey, underscoring its significance as a natural source of bioactive phenolic compounds with possible hepatoprotective effects.

Genotype and Organ-Specific Variability in Antioxidant Capacities as Well as Polyamine and Osmolyte Levels in Eleven Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum Raf.) Cultivars with Different Flowering Periods

Lisianthus (Eustoma grandiflorum Raf. Shinn.) is a valued plant known for its diverse flower colors and long vase life. Despite considerable research on the physiological roles of osmolytes, polyamines, and phenolic compounds, there is a lack of understanding regarding their specific accumulation patterns across various lisianthus cultivars and organs. This study aims to compare eleven lisianthus cultivars with varying flowering periods according to their accumulation of osmolytes, polyamines, phenolic content, and antioxidant capacities and measure their resistance to abiotic stress factors. High-performance liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescent detection was employed to quantify putrescine (PUT), spermidine (SPD), and spermine (SPM). In addition, proline (PRO), glycine betaine (GB), antioxidant capacities, phenolic content, and flavonoid contents were assessed spectrophotometrically. This comprehensive analysis allowed for a detailed understanding of the biochemical markers. The result indicates a significant genotype and organ-dependent variation in accumulation patterns of inspected metabolites and antioxidant activities. The petals of Rosita Green exhibited the highest levels of phenols and flavonoids, whereas the petals of Rosita Blue Picote demonstrated the highest concentrations of osmolytes. Polyamines were found to be more concentrated in the petals than in the leaves. The average values indicated high levels of polyamines in the Mariachi Carmine (PUT 186.72 nmol g−1 DW) and Mariachi Pink (SPD 227.4 nmol g−1 DW) cultivars. These findings underscore the significance of inspected compounds in stress tolerance among cultivars with different flowering periods, providing insights for optimizing cultivation strategies for lisianthus.

The Application of 1-MCP in Combination with GABA Reduces Chilling Injury and Extends the Shelf Life in Tomato (Cv. Conquista)

Tomatoes have a short shelf life, and refrigeration is commonly used to extend tomato quality. However, suboptimal temperatures can lead to chilling injury (CI), reducing their marketability. In this study, the combined application of 10 mM γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and 0.5 µL L−1 of 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) were used as strategies to reduce postharvest CI and prolong storability during tomato commercialization. Both treatments have individually demonstrated their effectiveness in lowering physiological disorders in tomatoes. When applied, the combined treatment resulted in the lowest CI and rot incidence levels compared with the control and individual treatments. Additionally, the combined application effectively delayed weight loss, fruit softening, respiration rate, ethylene production, and increased chlorophyll and flavonoid content. The synergistic application of these substances improved the postharvest quality during storage, reducing quality losses. For this reason, the combination of GABA and 1-MCP could be an effective tool to minimize tomato waste during commercialization by increasing resilience to cold storage and extending the overall fruit shelf life during refrigerated storage.

Comparative volatiles profiling of two marjoram products via GC-MS analysis in relation to the antioxidant and antibacterial effects.

Marjoram (Origanum majorana L.), also known as "sweet marjoram" or "sweet oregano" is a Mediterranean herbaceous perennial herb cultivated in Egypt and widely consumed as an herbal supplement for treatment of several ailments. The main goal of this study was to assess volatiles' variation in marjoram samples collected from two different widely consumed commercial products using two different extraction techniques viz. head space solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and petroleum ether using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis and multivariate data analysis. A total of 20 major aroma compounds were identified in samples extracted with HS-SPME found enriched in monoterpene hydrocarbons and oxygenated compounds. The major volatiles included β-phellandrene (20.1 and 14.2%), γ-terpinene (13.4 and 11.7%), 2-bornene (12.3 and 11.5%), p-cymene (9.8 and 4.6%) terpenen-4-ol (16.4 and 7.5%), sabinene hydrate (16.02 and 8.8%) and terpineol (4.2 and 3.2%) in MR and MI, respectively. Compared with HS-SPME, 51 aroma compounds were identified in marjoram samples extracted with petroleum ether, found more enriched in aliphatic hydrocarbons (42.8 and 73.8%) in MR and MI, respectively. While a higher identification score was observed in the case of solvent extraction, SPME appeared to be more selective in the recovery of oxygenated terpenes to account more for marjoram aroma. Multivariate data analysis using principal component analysis (PCA) revealed distinct discrimination between volatile composition of both marjoram samples. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents in marjoram samples were at (111.9, 109.1µg GA/mg) and (18.3, 19.5µg rutin eq/mg) in MR and MI, respectively. Stronger antioxidant effects were observed in MR and MI samples with IC50 at 45.5 and 56.8µg/mL respectively compared to IC50 6.57µg/mL for Trolox as assayed using DPPH assay. Moderate anti-bacterial effect was observed in MR and MI samples and expressed as a zone of inhibition mostly against Bacillus subtilis (16.03 and 15.9mm), B. cereus (12.9 and 13.7mm), Enterococcus faecalis (14.03 and 13.97mm), and Enterobacter cloacae (11.6 and 11.6mm) respectively.

Assessing light spectrum impact on growth and antioxidant properties of basil family microgreens.

Understanding the influence of light spectra on plant growth and antioxidant activities is crucial for optimizing cultivation practices and enhancing crop quality. In this study, we investigated the effects of different light treatments on growth parameters and antioxidant activities in five plant species: peppermint, Thai basil, cumin, lemon basil, and green holy basil. Our results revealed distinct responses to varying light spectra, with green light consistently promoting taller plant heights across all species. Additionally, blue light induced notable increases in plant width for certain species. Analysis of antioxidant activities demonstrated dynamic fluctuations in Total Phenolic Content (TPC) and Flavonoid Content (TFC) among different light treatments and plant species. While white and red light generally promoted higher TPC levels, blue light unexpectedly exhibited the highest TPC levels at specific time points. Moreover, investigation into DPPH Radical Scavenging activity revealed diverse temporal responses to light spectra, with blue light demonstrating exceptional activity at early stages and white and red light showing heightened activity at later time points. These findings underscore the importance of tailored light regimes in optimizing growth parameters and enhancing antioxidant activities in cultivated plants, thereby offering promising avenues for sustainable agriculture and food production practices.

Chemical Composition of Extracts from Various Parts of Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.) and Their Antioxidant, Protective, and Antimicrobial Activities

Tanacetum parthenium is a medicinal plant from the Asteraceae family that can be applied externally in the case of various skin diseases. The aim of the study was to perform a phytochemical analysis of hydroethanolic extracts from the aerial parts (herb), flower heads, and leaves of feverfew and to assess their biological properties. Hydrodistilled oils were analyzed using GC-MS. The chemical composition of the extracts was estimated using spectrophotometry and the HPLC method. Moreover, the extracts were evaluated to determine their antioxidant potential using DPPH and FRAP and measuring the intracellular level of ROS. The cytotoxicity of extracts toward keratinocytes and fibroblasts was also analyzed, as well as their antimicrobial properties against 12 microorganisms. The results of the research revealed that chrysanthenone and α-thujone were the dominant volatile compounds in the essential oil from the flowers, while camphor, trans-chrysanthenyl acetate, and camphene were predominant in the essential oil from the leaves and herb. The results of HPLC showed that the major polyphenol compounds present in the hydroethanolic extracts from various parts of T. parthenium were 3,5-dicaffeoyl-quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, and 3,4-dicaffeoyl-quinic acid. The extract from feverfew flowers was shown to have the highest content of total polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, as well as the highest antioxidant potential. In turn, the herb extract had the highest content of condensed tannins and terpenoids and exhibited the most effective antimicrobial properties against the 12 bacterial and fungal strains. Moreover, the hydroethanolic extracts from different parts of T. parthenium plants were shown to have a potent protective effect on skin cells. The present study supports the potential applications of Tanacetum parthenium in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.

Cultivation conditions and their impact on yerba mate ecophysiology and antioxidant potential

This work aimed to evaluate the effect of light and shading on yerba mate's ecophysiology and antioxidant potential. To this end, an experiment was carried out in an entirely randomized design, with three treatments, being cultivated in full sun (Ts), in agroforestry (Ta), and in native forest (Tm). Photosynthesis activity and chlorophyll, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tannins , and antioxidant activity were analyzed to determine the best cultivation environment that influences the ecophysiology and antioxidant potential of Yerba mate. Ts environment yielded higher concentrations of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and tannins. Shaded environments showed greater antioxidant activity. Chlorophyll and photosynthesis indices differed in shaded environments, with Tm having higher concentration and photosynthetic activity and Ta having lower concentration and photosynthetic activity. The results show that PAR positively influenced the biochemical parameters. Shading was more efficient for antioxidant activity, and agroforestry contributed to greater antioxidant activity. The highest concentrations of chlorophyll and highest photosynthetic activity were found in yerba mate in native forests.

Identification of Enzymes and Their Key Action Sites for Histamine Degradation in Mulberry Fruit Wine by Lactiplantibacillus plantarum.

In this study, the glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and multicopper oxidase (MCO) of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum W155 with histamine degradation ability were expressed. The mulberry fruit wine (MFW) histamine degradation abilities of GAPDH and MCO were 20.81% and 37.67%, respectively. Compared with the control group, the MFW treated by GAPDH showed higher total phenolic (1.17 g GAE/L) and total flavonoid (0.31 g RE/L) contents, while MFW treated by MCO presented similar total phenolic (1.00 g GAE/L) and total flavonoid (0.29 g RE/L) concentrations. Furthermore, the optimal pH and temperature of GAPDH were 6.0 and 40 °C, respectively, while the optimal pH and temperature of MCO were 3.0 and 50 °C, respectively. Meanwhile, the key action sites for histamine degradation of GAPDH and MCO were minded via homology modeling, molecular docking, and site-directed mutagenesis. Val209 and Ile290 were confirmed as the key action sites for GAPDH, while Qln402 and Leu420 were the pivotal action sites for MCO. Above findings indicated that both GAPDH and MCO of L. plantarum W155 could be used to control the histamine of MFW, and the key action sites of these two enzymes could be used as targets for their subsequent modification.

Odontites linkii subsp. cyprius Ethanolic Extract Indicated In Vitro Anti-Acanthamoeba Effect

This study aims to investigate three endemic ethanolic leaf extracts from Cyprus for anti-Acanthamoeba activities: Odontites linkii subsp. cyprius (Boiss.) Bolliger, Ptilostemon chamaepeuce subsp. cyprius (Greuter) Chrtek & B. Slavík, and Quercus alnifolia Poech. Screening for radical scavenging activity, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) were performed by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABST) methods, Folin–Ciocalteu method, and aluminum chloride method, respectively. An antibacterial-susceptibility test (AST) was performed using a broth microdilution assay to estimate the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) using iodonitrotetrazolium chloride (INT). Trypan blue (0.5%) was used to assess in vitro anti-Acanthamoeba cell viability of the ethanolic leaf extracts after 24-, 48-, and 72-h exposure—screening of ethanolic leaf extracts with liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for known compounds with biological activity. The ethanolic leaf extract of Odontites linkii subsp. cyprius demonstrated the highest anti-Acanthamoeba activity, with an inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 7.02 mg/mL after 72 h. This extract also showed an in vitro minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.625 mg/mL against Enterococcus faecalis, a common nosocomial pathogen. The LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of bioactive iridoid compounds in O. linkii subsp. cyprius, further highlighting its potential as a source for new drug compounds. The ethanolic extract of O. linkii subsp. cyprius demonstrated a dose-dependent and time-dependent anti-Acanthamoeba effect in vitro. This study is the first to report the presence of iridoid compounds and anti-Acanthamoeba activities in the ethanolic extract of O. linkii subsp. cyprius. These promising findings highlight the potential of plant extracts, particularly O. linkii subsp. cyprius, as a source for new drug compounds for Acanthamoeba infections.

Efficacy of soil drench and foliar application of iron nanoparticles on the growth and physiology of Solanum lycopersicum L. exposed to cadmium stress.

Cadmium (Cd) can harm the yield and quality of vegetables, threatening food safety. Essential microelements such as iron are crucial for plant growth and can help alleviate heavy metal stress. Recently, nanoparticles have been studied as eco-friendly solutions for mitigating heavy metal stress in plants. In the present study, iron nanoparticles (FeNPs) at 0, 100, and 300mg/L were applied as soil drenches and foliar sprays to tomato plants under cadmium stress. A comparison was made between the application methods of FeNPs by evaluating the growth parameters of tomato plants, including shoot length (SL), root length (RL), number of branches (NB), number of leaves per plant (NL), and leaf area (LA), as well as by assessing biochemical and antioxidant enzyme parameters. In the Cd stress treatment, the protein content decreased by 24.71%, and the phenolic and flavonoid content of the tomato plants also decreased due to cadmium stress, with levels decreasing from 16.07 to 6.9µg and from 0.36 to 0.16µg, respectively. Compared with the soil drench, 100mg/L FeNPs significantly improved the parameters of Cd-stressed plants when used as a foliar spray, leading to increases in shoot length, root length, fruit weight, number of fruits, number of leaves, and number of branches by 42%, 66%, 24%, 66%, 173%, and 45%, respectively. Tomato plants treated with this spray presented increased carotenoid and lycopene contents. FeNP foliar spray also reduced Cd accumulation in plant tissues. This technique shows promise in alleviating Cd stress in vulnerable vegetable plants such as tomatoes.

Nutritional, Functional, and Microbial Quality of Wheat Biscuits Enriched With Malted Pearl Millet and Orange Peel Flours

ABSTRACTIn this study, composite biscuits were produced by combining wheat flour (WF) with different proportions of malted pearl millet (MPM) flour (8%, 16%, 24%, and 32%) and orange peel (OP) flour (2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%), using 100% WF as a control. The investigation covered the functional properties, viscosity, and thermal properties of the flours, along with the proximate composition, antioxidant, physical properties, color attributes, and microbial quality of the composite biscuits. As MPM and OP flour (OPF) contents increased, water absorption capacity, dispersibility, and foaming power increased, while the viscosities of both hot and cold pastes decreased. The thermal properties of the composite flours, including onset, peak, and final temperatures (ranging between 74.19°C and 100.76°C), showed an upward trend with increasing proportions of MPM and orange peel flour (OPF). There was an increase in moisture content (3.43%–4.93%), ash (4.50%–5.59%), crude protein (11.70%–13.41%), and crude fiber (11.44%–16.24%) of biscuits with the incorporation of MPM and OPF. Similarly, the diameter (4.12–4.60 mm), thickness (9.00–10.00 mm), and hardness (7.53–8.75 N) of the biscuits were increased. Antioxidant properties were evident, with an increased total phenolic content (1.40–3.56 mg GAE/100 g), total flavonoid content (2.91–6.79 mg QUE/100 g), vitamin C (0.79–1.01 mg/g), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (1.78–8.64 mg GAE/g). Conversely, color attributes—L* (31.90), a* (10.82), b* (19.59), hue angle (30.42), and chroma (53.66)—were found to decrease with higher levels of MPM and OPF. Microbial quality showed decreased total counts, coliforms, yeasts, and mold in biscuits containing MPM and OPF. Overall, the inclusion of MPM and OPF enhanced the nutritional quality of the biscuits and could reduce reliance on imported wheat.

Development and quality evaluation of a finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.) flour incorporated set yoghurt.

Nutritional and therapeutic properties of yoghurts can be enhanced by incorporating bioactive food components. The present study was focused on formulating a finger millet flour incorporated set yoghurt to deliver the inherent health benefits of finger millet to consumers in a ready-to-eat way. Ten yoghurt samples were formulated incorporating different percentages of finger millet flour. Physicochemical and microbiological properties of the yoghurts were evaluated. When considering organoleptic properties, 7% finger millet flour incorporated yoghurt was selected as the most preferable yoghurt among the tested finger millet flour incorporated yoghurts. It was complying with the physicochemical requirements and microbiological limits mentioned in the Sri Lanka Standard - Specification for yoghurts. Incorporation of 7% finger millet flour enhanced the nutritional composition of the yoghurt in terms of total dietary fibers (1.04%), total phenolic content (54.09 mg Gallic acid equivalents/100 g of yoghurt), total flavonoid content (8.00 mg Quercetin equivalents/100 g of yoghurt) and antioxidant properties including ABTS radical scavenging activity (190.81 mg Trolox equivalents/100 g of yoghurt) without affecting the sensory properties. Since it was formulated without adding gelatine, the 7% finger millet flour incorporated yoghurt is suitable for lacto-vegetarians. When stored in a refrigerator at 4 °C, the 7% finger millet flour incorporated yoghurt could be stored satisfactorily for four weeks. The finger millet flour incorporated yoghurt is capable of not only fulfilling the consumer demands for finger millet-based ready-to-eat foods and diversified yoghurt products, but also delivering additional health benefits, beyond the basic nutritional functions of a yoghurt, to consumers.

Research on technological process for production of muskmelon juice (Cucumis melo L.)

Abstract The effects of hydrolysis of muskmelon pomace on fruit juice recovery efficiency, transmittance, total phenolic content, total ascorbic acid content, total flavonoid content, and total carotenoid content have been studied. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential use of pectinase enzyme in the hydrolysis process, specifically looking at the effects of pH, temperature, time, and enzyme concentration on the production of effective muskmelon juice. Additionally, the optimal mixing ratio of ingredients such as melon juice content, Brix level, citric acid, and additives (pectin, sodium carboxymethyl cellulose [CMC], xanthan gum) was investigated to create a high-quality muskmelon juice product. The results showed that using a pectinase enzyme concentration of 0.2%, a pH of 5.0, and a hydrolysis temperature of 45°C for 120 min resulted in a muskmelon juice product with a hydrolyzed juice content of 20%, a Brix level of 12%, and a citric acid addition rate of 0.04%. The addition of xanthan gum at a rate of 0.03% also contributed to the desired flavor and color of the juice. These findings provide valuable insights for the development of effective muskmelon juice processes.

UPLC-QToF-MS/MS screening and characterization of Symphorema polyandrum Wight and in vitro assessment of its antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-inflammatory potential.

Symphorema polyandrum belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is locally known as Badichang or mahasindhu. In this study, we performed Soxhlet extraction to prepare methanolic and hydromethanolic extracts, followed by quantification of their total phenolic content and total flavonoid content. Qualitative analysis of both the extracts was conducted to determine the presence of different phytochemicals. In addition, we aimed to identify the important phytochemical constituents in the methanolic extracts of S. polyandrum (SPM) using ultra-performance liquid chromatography hyphenated with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-QTOF-MSE). Furthermore, this study investigated the antioxidant, anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties of SPM and its safety profile in the normal fibroblastcell line L929. A colony proliferation assay and a Griess assay were performed to evaluate the effects of SPM on colony formation and nitric oxide (NO) production. A total of 13 important phytochemicals were identified and reported. The methanolic extract of SPM demonstrated significant antioxidant activity. SPM also showed substantial antiproliferative activity on MDA-MB-231 triple-negative breast cancer cells, with an IC50 value of 45.53± 1.63µg/ml, and also reduced the survival of these cancer cells by promoting nuclear fragmentation and condensation without causing harm to normal cells. SPM inhibits the colony formation and reduces the nitric oxide (NO) production. The anti-inflammatory potential of SPM was assessed utilizing the murine alveolar macrophages (J774.A.1) as an in vitro model, and SPM effectively lowered the levels of proinflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. These findings emphasized the antiproliferative potential of SPM to cancer cells, along with its anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant capabilities, indicating the therapeutic efficacy of this medicinal plant.