Highest Flavonoid Content Research Articles

Contact toxicity and feeding deterrent activity of Dennettia tripetala Bak. and Jatropha curcas L. leaf extracts against Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith

BackgroundMaize (Zea mays L.) is an important annual cereal crop with nutritional benefits, but its production is constrained by activities of insect pests. The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) is one of the important economic pests that limits the production of maize, causing several damages on maize fields. Synthetic insecticides are commonly used to manage fall armyworm, but they have undesirable side effects on human and the environment. This study aimed to evaluate the contact toxicity and feeding deterrent activities of ethyl acetate and methanol leaf extracts of Dennettia tripetala and Jatropha curcas against fall armyworm.ResultsIn the contact toxicity of Dennettia tripetala and Jatropha curcas extracts, larval mortality increased with an increase in exposure time and concentrations. The extracts possessed significant contact insecticidal effects that ranged between 20.00 ± 13.94% and 100.00 ± 0.00%. Also, in the feeding deterrent activity test, extracts revealed significant differences (p < 0.05) in larva mortality and duration. Larva duration ranged from 56.67 ± 14.91% to 100.00 ± 0.00%. The larval stages of S. fruiperda that were artificially treated with the concentrations of the extract were shorter than those that were exposed to the control treatments. The methanol leaves extracts of Dennettia tripetala and Jatropha curcas showed no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the pupal mortality and pupal weight among the treatments. Jatropha curcas ethyl acetate and Jatropha curcas methanol extracts had high flavonoid content, and tannin and phenol content was higher in Dennettia tripetala ethyl and methanol extracts.ConclusionsFrom this study, ethyl acetate and methanol leaf extracts (75% and 100% v/v concentrations) are effective as contact and stomach poisons against fall armyworm and suitable replacements for synthetic pesticides.

Genome-wide association study of metabolic traits in the giant duckweed Spirodela polyrhiza.

The exceptionally high growth rate and high flavonoid content make the giant duckweed Spirodela polyrhiza (L.) Schleid. (Arales: Lemnaceae Martinov) an ideal organism for food production and metabolic engineering. To facilitate this, identification of the genetic basis underlying growth and metabolic traits is essential. Here, we analysed growth and content of 42 metabolites in 137 S. polyrhiza genotypes and characterized the genetics underpinning these traits using a genome-wide association (GWA) approach. We found that biomass positively correlated with the content of many free amino acids, including L-glutamine, L-tryptophan, and L-serine, but negatively correlated with specialized metabolites, such as flavonoids. GWA analysis showed that several candidate genes involved in processes such as photosynthesis, protein degradation, and organ development were jointly associated with multiple metabolic traits. The results suggest the above genes are suitable targets for simultaneous optimization of duckweed growth and metabolite levels. This study provides insights into the metabolic diversity of S. polyrhiza and its underlying genetic architecture, paving the way for industrial applications of this plant via targeted breeding or genetic engineering.

Plantago boissieri: Phytochemical Assessment, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing Potential.

Plantago is a large genus under family Plantaginaceae. Several Plantago species were noted for potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and wound healing activities. The current research investigated the potential bioactivities as well as the metabolic content of Plantago boisserei extract. Results highlighted the rich content of phenolics (450.93±7.4 mg GAE/g extract) and flavonoids (144.2±3.6 mg RE/g extract) in this species. HPLC analysis enabled the detection of 17 phenolic constituents among which ellagic acid was found in highest concentration (52.94 mg/g) followed by rutin (6.72 mg/g). Furthermore, P. boisserei extract exhibited a potent antioxidant activity evidenced by the IC50 values in ABTS and H2O2 assays (10.95 and 10.87 μg/mL, respectively) as well as in TAC assay (67.94 mg AAE/g). The anti-microbial activities of the extract revealed a moderate activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Proteus vulgaris. In vitro testing of the anti-inflammatory potential indicated a characteristic inhibition against COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes with IC50 62.8 and 14.23 μg/mL, respectively, compared to ibuprofen (IC50 8.07 and 6.58, respectively). Additionally, P. boisserei extract achieved a potent wound healing activity using in vivo rat model, this might be attributed to its high content of flavonoids together with other polyphenolic compounds that have a great free radical scavenging potential. In conclusion, P. boisserei is a promising candidate for more extensive phytochemical and biological exploration.

Effect of habitat variation on physiological response, chemical compositions and antioxidants, of Ephedra alata (stapf) Andr

Ephedra alata is a widespread shrub found in various countries that originates from Southwestern North America, Southern Europe, and North Africa. This medicinal plant is part of the Ephedra genus, family Ephedraceae. The plant was collected from Wadi Arar, Northern Regions, and Wadi Hagul, Cairo/Suez Road, to investigate how the plant's chemical composition and antioxidant capacities are affected by habitat variation. The findings revealed notable variations in the total phenolic, total flavonoid, antioxidant activity, and soil analysis aspects between the two regions under investigation. The reducing ability of ferric ion of the plant extracts is present as 858.0 ± 38.95 μMTE/mg extract of plant growing in Arar region, while the reducing ability of E. alata growing in Egypt has Ec50 (650.0 ± 29.85) by FRAB methods. The plants extract of E. alata quench both ABTS and DPPH free radical. The sample showed higher ABTS scavenging activity (228± 195 μMTE / mg for the plant growing in Arar region while the plant ephedra growing in Wadi Hagul showed lower scavenging activity 185± 285 Umte/MG) in addition the two-plant showed high antioxidant activity when evaluated by DPPH radical scavenging test with IC50 (458.0 ± 38.95 ug/mL and 425± 28.9/mL). Total phenolic was determined by Folin-Ciocalteau method, However, the aluminum chloride consider was additionally employed to estimate the total flavonoid., the results showed high phenolic content (62.177 mg GAE), and high flavonoid content (39.6148± 3.816mg/g extract) for plant growing in Arar region than plant growing in Wadi Hagul, which have (45.60 mg GAE and 29.615 mg rutin/ mg Extract). Finally, the study reflects high variation between two habitats, this corresponding to two variations in climate change and different environmental conditions.

Assessing Syzygium aromaticum: From Chemical Profiling to Antioxidant, Antistaphylococcal, and Biocompatibility Attributes.

Staphylococcal infections challenge current treatments due to adverse effects and drug resistance, prompting the exploration of plant-derived compounds for their promising properties. This study aimed to analyze Syzygium aromaticum essential oil, aqueousand ethyl acetate extracts for antioxidant and antistaphylococcal effects against sensitive and resistant clinical isolates. Erythrocytes were used as model cells for biocompatibility. The SA-EO was extracted via hydrodistillation and compounds were identified using GC-MS. The antioxidant activity was assessed using various tests, while antimicrobial activity was evaluated through disk diffusion and microdilution assays. Results showed Eugenol as the major compound in SA-EO. The AE exhibited high phenolic and flavonoid content. SA-EO demonstrated antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 84.63 ± 1.94 µg/mL (TAC) and 52.88 ± 1.44 µg/mL (FRAP). The AE-SA showed scavenging effects with EC50 values of 266.52 ± 50.62 µg/mL (DPPH) and 140.67 ± 44.36 μg/mL (NO). The antistaphylococcal activity revealed significant sensitivity of SA-EO with MIC and MBC values ranging from 0.316 to 1.266 mg/mL. SA-EO showed low hemolytic activity even at high concentrations. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of Syzygium aromaticum in combating multidrug-resistant bacteria and underscore its role as a source of bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties.

The Anti-ulcer Potential of Weissella cibaria Assisted Bio-fermented Product of Citrus limetta Waste Peel in Wistar Albino Rats.

There are patents available related to fermented food and beverages which enhance to human health. Citrus limetta (Mosambi) has a high content of flavonoids and exhibits antioxidant activity, which could stimulate the digestive system and be useful for gastroprotective activity. It supports digestion by neutralizing the acidic digestive juices and reducing gastric acidity. This study explored the potential of using waste peel extract from Citrus limetta to prevent ulcers. The study specifically sought to assess the anti-ulcer properties of fermented and non-fermented extracts and compare them. Further, the study looked at the potential benefits of treating or preventing ulcers with Citrus limetta waste peels and whether fermentation affected the efficacy of the treatment. Thirty female Wistar albino rats were equally distributed into five different groups. Group 1 received distilled water (20 ml/kg/b.w); Group 2 received indomethacin (mg/kg/b.w); Group 3 received omeprazole (20 mg/kg/b.w); Group 4 received aqueous extract of Mosambi peel (400 mg/kg/b.w) and Group 5 received fermented product of extract of Mosambi peel (400 mg/kg/b.w). Findings explored that, compared to non-fermented citrus fruit juice, biofermented exhibited less gastric volume (1.58 ± 0.10 ml vs. 1.8 ± 0.14 ml), reduced MDA levels (355.23 ± 100.70 μmol/mg protein vs. 454.49 ± 155.88 μmol/mg protein), and low ulcer index (0.49 ± 0.07 vs. 0.72 ± 0.14). The results suggest that the bio-fermented product of Citrus limetta peel has better anti-ulcer potential against peptic ulcer induced by indomethacin in Wistar albino rats compared to non-fermented.

Microencapsulation of Hibiscus sabdariffa extract in taro starch: Determination of optimal conditions of bioactive compound retention using response surface methodology

Hibiscus sabdariffa (HS) extract contains a large amount of bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anticarcinogenic, and antihypertensive effects. The extraction of total phenols, flavonoids, and anthocyanins is more efficient at boiling temperature (~91 °C) than that performed at room temperature (~27 °C). In this study, a central composite rotatable design (CCRD) was used to optimize the inlet temperature conditions of a spray dryer and the concentration of taro starch solids to obtain microcapsules with the highest retention of bioactive compounds in hibiscus extracts. Optimized microcapsules (OM) were obtained at an inlet temperature of 118 °C and solid concentration of 26.5 %. Low moisture content (4.54 %) and water activity (0.2) and high content of total phenols (3374.91 mg GAE/100 g), flavonoids (372.81 mg QE/100 g), monomeric anthocyanins (36.74 mg C-3-GE/100 g), and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitory activity (80.01 %), were determined in OM using response surface methodology. OM showed a range of spherical agglomerate sizes (10––32 μm). These results indicate that CCRD is a good tool for establishing the optimal conditions for solid concentration and drying temperature to maximize the protection of bioactive compounds using taro starch as the wall material.

Rhizospheric soil chemical properties and microbial response to a gradient of Chromolaena odorata(L) invasion in the Mount Cameroon Region.

Chromolaena odorata is a noxious alien invasive weed species with an enormous impact on the terrestrial ecosystem. The allelopathic potentials of this weed have had little attention, leading to changes in soil properties and microbial communities. This study investigates the impacts of Chromolaena odorata invasion gradients on rhizospheric soil chemical properties and microbial response in the Mount Cameroon Region. Forty-eight soil samples at four different degrees of invasion (uninvaded, low degree invasion, moderate degree invasion and high degree invasion) based on species coverage within subplots in four study areas were collected and rhizospheric soil chemical properties, microbial load, phosphatases activities and secondary metabolites were evaluated. At medium-degree invasion, rhizospheric soil concentrations of P, K and Fe increased with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) colonization and phosphatases enzyme activities. Soil C, N and organic matter were significantly increased at high-degree invasion, supporting the use of the plant as a fallow crop. Acid phosphatase activity ranged from 0.69 to 0.90 mmol h-1 kg-1 and was significantly different at different degrees of invasion. AMF colonization ranged from 23.33 to 50.00%, with a strong positive correlation between AMF colonization and phosphatase activity. Soil bacterial load was high (46 × 105 CFU/g- 67 × 105 CFU/g), with mostly Staphylococcus having health concerns about its spread. The invasion situation had no significant effect on soil bacterial load, but high-degree invasion significantly increased fungal load. Low-degree invaded soils had high saponin (24.55±0.00 mg/g), flavonoid (47.7 mg/g) and tannin (28.68 mg/g) concentrations. The investigation reveals that Chromolaena odorata invasion altered rhizospheric soil properties and microbial communities significantly, thereby influencing ecosystem dynamics and soil nutrient availability. However, further studies elucidating kinds of secondary metabolites, identifying microbial communities, and monitoring soil changes influenced by C. odorata are essential for effective ecosystem management.

Integration of 2,3-butanediol production and extraction of active components from Chinese herbs by Bacillus licheniformis and evaluation of fermentation products in vitro

The aim of this work was to develop an integrated process of 2,3-butanediol production and extraction of active components from Chinese herbs via fermentation, and evaluate their potential as cosmetic ingredients in vitro. A GRAS strain DL2–2 of Bacillus licheniformis was isolated and the fermentation medium was optimized using the ingredients that could be used in cosmetics. Four types of Chinese herbs were added solely or in combination into the fermentation medium to perform 2,3-butanediol production and active components extraction simultaneously. The release of polysaccharides and flavonoids was promoted, and the antioxidant, whitening and antibacterial abilities were improved. The highest antioxidant and antibacterial activity was obtained from the ferment filtrate of Dendrobium devonianum and Gastrodia elata f. glauca, resulting from the highest contents of flavonoids (0.44 g/L) and polyphenols (0.31 g/L), and 42.2 g/L 2,3-butanediol was also produced. The highest polysaccharide concentration was obtained from the ferment filtrate containing Polygonatum kingianum, which exhibited the highest inhibitory effect on tyrosinase (65 %), similar to that of 1 g/L arbutin. Therefore, the filtrate of 2,3-butanediol-Chinese herbal fermentation broth is promising as an ingredient in the production of natural high-value cosmetics.

LC-HRMS Profiling of Phytochemicals with Assessment of Antioxidant, Anticholinesterase, and Antimicrobial Potentials of Astragalus brachystachys DC.

This study provides the first comprehensive report on the chemical constituents and biological activities of an important medicinal plant, Astragalus brachystachys DC. The aerial part samples were collected from Adana, Türkiye, and an ethanol extract was prepared with these parts. The secondary metabolites of the extract were determined by an LC-HRMS analysis. The LC-HRMS analysis showed the presence of 39 different constituents, hyperoside (303.419±10.50 μg/g extract), p-coumaric acid (256.975±8.51 μg/g extract), and rutin (72.684±2.23 μg/g extract) were determined as major compounds in the aerial parts ethanol extract. Attributed to its high total phenolic (58.53±1.30 μg PEs/mg extract) and total flavonoid content (29.98±0.83 μg QEs/mg extract), the extract demonstrated strong antioxidant activity according to three different assays namely DPPH free (IC50: 33.08±0.61 mg/mL), and ABTS cation radical scavenging (IC50: 15.39±0.72 mg/mL) and CUPRAC activity (A0.5: 36.25±0.28 mg/mL) methods. In vitro assays showed that cholinesterase inhibitory activity results were found to be exceptional with 85.95±0.52 % inhibition on acetylcholinesterase and 66.32±1.33 % inhibition on butyrylcholinesterase at 200 mg/mL. Regarding antimicrobial properties, Astragalus brachystachys DC extract was found to be effective against Enterococcus faecalis with a MIC value of 39.06 μg/mL.

The Influence of Temperature on the Antioxidants of Aronia mitschurinii Fruit Juice and Drinks.

Aronia mitschurinii is a cultivated species originating from crossbreeding the wild species Aronia melanocarpa, also known as the black chokeberry, and European mountain ash Sorbus aucuparia. The aronia fruit is dark purple, which can be attributed to the high content of anthocyanins, other flavonoids, and polyphenols. Aronia's reputation as a superberry entices small farms to use it as a prospective specialty crop. The fruit's high antioxidant content is a likely ingredient in several new products, such as jellies, jams, vitamin supplements, and beverages. Food applications of any fruit require high-temperature pasteurization as a major step in fruit processing. Many also require cooking. However, there are some major effects higher temperatures may have on antioxidants, such as isomerization and decomposition, both of which result in a loss of bioavailability of these key compounds. Here, we present a detailed investigation of the effect of temperature and time on the antioxidant content of Aronia mitschurinii juice and power aid drink. UV/vis methods were used to determine the total concentrations of anthocyanins, flavonoids, polyphenols, and tannins and to determine the optimal pasteurization and/or thermal processing conditions that would prevent significant loss in the antioxidant content in aronia products.

Star Anise (Illicium verum Hook. f.): Dual Therapeutic and Nutritional Potential in Food and Medicine

Star anise (Illicium verum Hook. f., SA) is a well-known culinary seasoning in China and Vietnam. Actually, SA also has been widely used as a traditional Chinese medicine in China with a long history. Phytochemical analysis has revealed that SA contains a high concentration of essential oils, phenols, flavonoids, and other bioactive compounds that contribute to its diverse pharmacological properties. These properties include anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and analgesic, anti-oxidation, anti-viral, anti-cancer, anti-diabetes, anti-diarrheal and promoting hair growth. Various preclinical studies have shown that SA extracts and their active constituents may have potential therapeutic applications in preventing and treating various diseases. However, a comprehensive report on the relationship between the active ingredient, biological activity and food characteristics of SA is rare. The medicinal value of SA has not been well valued and developed. This review provides an overview of the botanical chemistry and pharmacological properties of SA, as well as its potential innovative applications in food and personal care products, aiming to provide theoretical support for its further development and utilization. Graphical abstract: http://links.lww.com/AHM/A138

Development of Mussaenda frondosa sepal infused functional tea with enhanced antioxidant and alpha-amylase inhibitory activities

Mussaenda frondosa (MF) is an edible species of the genus Mussaenda (Rubiaceae) that contains a wide array of medicinal compounds. The present study was conducted to evaluate the physicochemical and functional properties of the MF sepals and to develop a novel herbal tea with improved functional properties. Remarkably high antioxidant and α-amylase inhibitory activities were exhibited by water and ethanol extracts of MF, attributed to their high phenolic and flavonoid contents. None of the extracts showed toxicity, as evaluated by the brine shrimp lethality assay. A tea was formulated by blending different proportions (30, 40 and 50%) of dry sepals of MF with black tea. The sensory analysis showed a significantly high level of acceptance for the formula containing 40% MF (MFT-40) with augmented phenolic contents (138.82 ± 0.21 mg GAE/g), antioxidant (DPPH scavenging activity with IC50 of 12.23 ± 0.45 µg/mL), and hypoglycemic activities (α-amylase inhibition with IC50 of 104.80 ± 0.59 µg/mL) compared to the black tea control (with the values of 128.47 ± 0.13 mg GAE/g, 18.70 ± 0.68 µg/mL and 153.07 ± 0.61 µg/mL respectively). This study revealed the potential use of MF as a source of antioxidants for the development of new functional teas with enhanced health benefits.

Integrated Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Provide Key Molecular Insights into Floral Stage-Driven Flavonoid Pathway in Safflower.

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb renowned for its high flavonoid content and significant medicinal value. However, the dynamic changes in safflower petal flavonoid profiles across different flowering phases present a challenge in optimizing harvest timing and medicinal use. To enhance the utilization of safflower, this study conducted an integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analysis of safflower petals at different flowering stages. Our findings revealed that certain flavonoids were more abundant during the fading stage, while others peaked during full bloom. Specifically, seven metabolites, including p-coumaric acid, naringenin chalcone, naringenin, dihydrokaempferol, apigenin, kaempferol, and quercetin, accumulated significantly during the fading stage. In contrast, dihydromyricetin and delphinidin levels were notably reduced. Furthermore, key genes in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway, such as 4CL, DFR, and ANR, exhibited up-regulated expression with safflower's flowering progression, whereas CHI, F3H, and FLS were down-regulated. Additionally, exposure to UV-B stress at full bloom led to an up-regulation of flavonoid content and altered the expression of key flavonoid biosynthetic genes over time. This study not only elucidates the regulatory mechanisms underlying flavonoid metabolism in safflower but also provides insights for maximizing its medicinal and industrial applications.

Phytochemical profile, antioxidant and contractile activity of plants extracts used by parturients to manage childbirth in Niger

The widespread use of herbal preparations during childbirth and postnatal care in some developing countries is generating interest in scientific research about their standardized use. This study aims to compare the phytochemical profiles, the antioxidant properties, and the contractile effects of plants used to manage the childbirth of seven samples of plants (bark of Acacia senegal (L.) Willd, leaves and bark of Sclerocarya birrea, leaves of Lawsonia inermis L, whole plant of Sesamum alatum, whole plant of Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl. and brak of Ficus platyphylla). Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening was carried out using HPTLC and colorimetric methods. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH, ABTS and FRAP methods. Enzyme inhibition was performed on lipid peroxidation (LPO) and 15-Lipoxygenase (15-LOX). The contractile effect of uterine smooth muscle in NMRI mice was assessed ex vivo. The screening revealed the presence of several phytoconstituents, such as tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, saponins, sterols, and triterpenes. The highest content of phenolic compounds and tannins, respectively 980.61 ± 0.60 and 764.80 ± 0.54 µg GAE/mg dE, were obtained with the ethanolic extract of bark of Sclerocarya birrea (eth‑Dn-e). The highest content of flavonoids (456.95 ± 0.89 µg QE/mg dE) was obtained with the ethanolic extract of Ceratotheca sesamoides (eth‑Y). The ethanolic extract of Ficus platyphylla bark (eth‑G) effectively reduced DPPH, with an IC50 of 1.46 ± 0.06 µg/mL. The highest ferric ion-reducing power was obtained with Sclerocarya birrea bark decoction (Da-Dn-e), (78.95 ± 5.74 mmol AAE/g). Ethanolic macerate of Acacia senegal bark (eth‑D) showed the lowest IC50 against 15-LOX at 32.18 µg/mL. The aqueous macerate of Ceratotheca sesamoides (Ma-Y) gave the highest percentage inhibition of LPO, at 62.07 ± 0.01 %. The highest uterine contraction at 10 mg/mL was 1.38 [A(cm)/uterus(cm)], obtained with ethanolic maceration of the whole plant of Ceratotheca sesamoides Endl. (eth‑Y). The traditional use of plants during childbirth could be linked to the antioxidant and/or uterotonic effects of phytoconstituents. These constitutes a scientific basis that could justify the use of these plants in the management of childbirth.

A Comprehensive Review of the Antimicrobial Effects of Hibiscus Species.

Hibiscus, particularly Hibiscus sabdariffa, is a flowering plant known for its bright red calyxes and diverse uses in traditional medicine. Historically, cultures throughout Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean have utilized hibiscus for its health benefits, including its role in treating high blood pressure, digestive problems, and skin conditions. The rich phytochemical profile of hibiscus, particularly its high content of anthocyanins and flavonoids, has attracted increasing scientific interest, particularly with regard to its antimicrobial properties. Research shows that hibiscus extracts possess significant antimicrobial activities against various pathogens, including bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and fungi such as Candida albicans. The active ingredients in hibiscus are believed to disrupt microbial membranes, inhibit enzyme activity, and effectively scavenge free radicals, thereby exerting a broad spectrum of antimicrobial effects. The promising antimicrobial properties of hibiscus suggest numerous potential applications, particularly in food preservation, natural antimicrobial agents, and adjunctive therapies for infection control. Future research should focus on elucidating the specific mechanisms of action, optimizing extraction methods for maximum effectiveness, and conducting clinical trials to validate effectiveness in different settings. Additionally, exploring the inclusion of hibiscus in health products, such as wound dressings and topical treatments, could open up new avenues for natural health solutions. Overall, hibiscus represents a valuable opportunity to advance antimicrobial strategies in a world increasingly wary of antibiotic resistance.

Eudermic Properties and Chemical-Physical Characterization of Honeys of Different Botanical Origin.

Background: Honey is a natural product that, thanks to its composition, particularly the high sugar content, is highly appreciated as an energy nourishment. In addition to sugars, it contains many other substances (carbohydrates, free amino acids, enzymatic proteins, organic acids, polyphenols) from which the therapeutic properties of honey arise: hydrating and osmotic activity, antimicrobial action, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory power. Objectives: The present work aims to deepen our knowledge/understanding of the activity of skin protection exerted by honey, as a synergic result of its multiple therapeutic effects. Moreover, this study wants to find possible correlations between biological properties and the chemical-physical traits of honey. Methods: To carry out this research, five varieties of citrus honey, one of acacia honey, one of chestnut honey, and one of multifloral honey were used. The honeys were first characterized by chemical-physical analysis and then were subjected to qualitative melissopalynological analysis. Tests were also carried out to evaluate both their antioxidant power and the effect on collagenase, an enzyme involved in the degradation of collagen present in the extracellular matrix and, therefore, in the processes of skin aging. Finally, honey samples were then used in in vitro experiments to assess their action in stimulating cell viability and proliferation on human keratinocytes. Results: Chemical-physical analysis demonstrated a good water content (about 17%), an important sugar content (with the monosaccharides glucose and fructose being the most represented in all the honey samples), various amino acids (with proline remarkably being the highest in all honeys), and a high concentration of polyphenols and total flavonoids (the maximum in chestnut honey, 762 mg/kg and 514 mg/kg, respectively). Conclusions The results obtained in this work confirm the ethnopharmacological use of honey in wound care, bring new scientific knowledge on the use of honey in dermatology, and highlight two fields of excellence, particularly incitrus and chestnut honey.

Investigation of the Influence of Different Filler Contents of Wine Pomace in PBS on Fracture Mechanics Properties

Biobased polybutylene succinate (PBS) represents a promising alternative to petrochemical-based polymers. The use of this biopolymeris limited in many areas by its low resilience against environmental influences. With the help of bio-based stabilizers the thermo-oxidative degradation process can be slowed down. Suitable stabilizing additives are natural antioxidants present in plant extracts with a high flavonoid content, which can be found in grapes, wine and wine by-products. PBS was modified with two different bio-stabilizers based on wine grape pomace. The highest filler content tested was 20 wt.-%. In addition to improving stability, the additives also impact the polymer’s mechanics. The influence of these functional fillers on the fracture mechanical properties was examined in a quasi-static test. The crack growth was recorded using integrated video monitoring. Based on the results, the corresponding crack resistance curve and tearing modulus were determined depending on filler type and content. Additional optical analysis was used to correlate fracture mechanics and structure. The two bio-stabilizers based on red (RWP) and white wine pomace (WWP) differs distinctly in terms of their influence on fracture mechanical properties. The Influence of RWPon the fracture toughness is significantly higher than that of WWP. Especially at lower filler contents with RWP, there is a strong increase in the fracture mechanics parameter tearing modulus (TJ) and an increase in the slope of the R-curve. With 5 wt.% RWP DOM the TJ is 13.64 x 102, whereas with WWP Silv a value of only 6.39 x 102 can be achieved. This difference is also reflected in the increase in the R-curves. With 5 wt.% a slope of the fitted R-curve of 265.59 (RWP DOM) and 121.02 (WWP Silv) could be determined with the first derivative. In the optical analysis it was noticeable that the RWP particles were more homogeneously dispersed in the matrix while the WWP filler tended to agglomerate. The inhomogeneous distribution and strong agglomeration tendency can be attributed to a higher sugar content of WWP and a higher particle size distribution. The top cut (D97) of WWP Silv is 62.37 ± 0.05 µm and that of RWP DOM is 51.97 ± 0.09 µm.

Enhancing composition and functionality of jelly candies through apple and beetroot pomace flour addition

The functionalization of food products with agri-industial residues is of great interest. Apple and beetroot pomace flour, abundant in dietary fiber and antioxidants, were incorporated into jelly candies using agar, pectin, or gelatin. Three functional formulations were devised for each flour type at the pilot scale, resulting in jelly candies with desirable sensory properties and texture. The high content of total polyphenolics, flavonoids, betacyanins, and betaxantines was determined upon in vitro digestion. The influence of different matrices on these bioactives, crucial for exerting antioxidant activity, was evaluated using DPPH and FRAP assays on both fresh and nine-month stored jelly candies, showcasing good bioavailability and retention. Enrichment with APF and BPF also led to reduced postprandial glucose levels, glycemic index, and load determined in vivo. These findings affirm that compositionally optimized innovative formulations of jelly candies facilitate the efficient delivery of compounds with anti-obesity effect from upcycled raw materials.

Agribusiness Prospects of Kachai Lemon Produced in Ukhrul District of Manipur, India: Status, Issues and Way Forward

Kachai lemon (Citrus jambhiri Lush.) is a variety of citrus, known for its rich nutritional and medicinal benefits due to its high flavonoid content and ascorbic acid. It has played a significant role in enhancing the socio-economic development of the tribal communities by generating income and employment opportunities. The Geographical Indication (GI) tag awarded to Kachai lemon has increased its commercial cultivation and market value. This recognition and growing attention have led to the emergence of agripreneurs and farmer producer organizations (FPOs) for production, value addition and marketing of Kachai lemon in an organized manner. The present study is aimed to compile the success stories, challenges of farmers and explore various Kachai lemon brands available on online platforms. A SWOT (Strength, Weakness, Opportunities and Threats) analysis on production and marketing of kachai lemon was performed. For the study, descriptive analysis was carried out to assess its potential, current status and challenges. The study suggests that in order to compete globally, it is crucial to develop strong post-harvest processing and marketing systems with support from agencies and institutions to provide valuable resources and market linkages to enhance efficiency and gain economic benefits.