Higher Levels Of Phenolics Research Articles

Nutritional, Phytochemical, and Antimicrobial Properties of Carica papaya Leaves: Implications for Health Benefits and Food Applications.

Papaya leaves (PLs) are known for their therapeutic benefits and traditional use in treating inflammation, infections, and various health conditions. Rich in bioactive compounds, PLs are studied for their potential applications in functional foods. This study analyzed their nutritional, phytochemical, structural, thermal, and antimicrobial properties to evaluate their role as a health-promoting ingredient. Phytochemicals were quantified spectrophotometrically and identified via GC-MS. Antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH and FRAP assays. Mineral content was determined using ICP-OES. Structural and thermal properties were evaluated using FTIR, XRD, and calorimetry, and antimicrobial activity was tested via the agar well diffusion method. PLs contained 25.75% crude protein, 41.49% carbohydrates, and high levels of flavonoids (21.00 mg QE/g), phenolics (8.85 mg GAE/g), and tannins (430 mg TAE/g). Antioxidant assays confirmed strong free radical scavenging potential. Mineral analysis showed abundant K, Ca, Mg, Na, and Fe (4071, 1079, 789.2, 361.2, and 228.2 mg/kg, respectively). Structural and thermal analysis revealed bioactive functional groups, 23.9% crystallinity, and thermal degradation characteristics. PLs exhibited antimicrobial activity, inhibiting E. coli, S. aureus, B. subtilis, and K. pneumoniae with zones of 22.05-25.15 mm. PLs demonstrate strong nutritional, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, supporting their inclusion in functional food.

Introduction of a Fallow Year to Continuous Rice Systems Enhances Crop Soil Nitrogen Uptake

ABSTRACTRice grown in California constitutes 20% of total U.S. rice production and is typically grown in a continuous rice monoculture system. In recent years, growers have been forced to fallow their lands often due to winter droughts leading to water restrictions or spring rains leading to prevented planting. Increased soil aeration due to fallowing creates knowledge gaps in soil nitrogen (N) availability. A two‐year field study was conducted to evaluate differences in crop N uptake between rice cultivation following a fallow season, fallow rice (FR) and continuous rice (CR) systems. Crop uptake of soil N (N uptakesoil) and fertiliser N (N uptakefertilizer) were quantified using 15N‐enriched ammonium sulfate applied in microplots as a preplant (150 kg N ha−1) or topdress (30 kg N ha−1) application. In both seasons when N was applied as a preplant fertiliser, the FR treatment had a higher grain yield than did the CR treatment, with yield differences of 2.3 Mg ha−1 in 2021 (p < 0.05) and 1.7 Mg ha−1 in 2022 (p < 0.05). Examining the sources of crop N uptake for preplant applied N, on average, N uptakesoil in the FR treatment was 16.7 kg N ha−1 higher than the CR treatment at maturity (p < 0.05). In contrast, N uptakefertilizer was similar between treatments. Additionally, comparable soil and crop fertiliser N recoveries in CR and FR preplant N suggested that the pathways and magnitudes of fertiliser N losses were similar in both systems. These results indicate that N uptakesoil was primarily responsible for lower N uptake in CR. Similar results were found when N was applied as a topdress, where FR had increased N uptakesoil in both years. We further investigated the reason for lower rates of N uptakesoil in CR. Soil phenols, which have been documented to accumulate in continuously flooded rice systems and stabilise soil N, were quantified in the field study. Complementing the rigorous field study, a regional survey study that incorporated nine paired fields was conducted to quantify regional phenol levels. In both the field and the regional survey studies, soil phenols were higher in CR than in FR fields. Together, higher phenol levels and lower N uptakesoil in CR provide mechanistic evidence that the introduction of a season‐long fallow to continuous rice systems enhances soil N availability by reducing organic substrate recalcitrance. Future work should identify the duration needed for soil phenol accumulation to impair soil N cycling under continuous rice cultivation, as well as any roles of soil microbial populations in these soil N cycling patterns.

In Vitro and In Silico Biological Activities Investigation of Ethyl Acetate Extract of Rubus ulmifolius Schott Leaves Collected in Algeria.

This investigation aimed to assess the in vitro and in silico biological properties of the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extract obtained from leaves of Rubus ulmifolius Schott collected in Algeria. The phytochemical screening data disclosed that flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, saponins, and anthocyanins were abundant. High levels of total phenolics, total flavonoids and flavonols (523.25 ± 3.53 µg GAE/mg, 20.41 ± 1.80, and 9.62 ± 0.51 µg QE/mg respectively) were detected. Furthermore, GC-MS analysis was performed to identify low molecular weight compounds. d-(-)-Fructofuranose, gallic acid, caffeic acid, and catechin were detected as main metabolites of the EtOAc extract. The outcomes revealed that the extract exerted a potent antioxidant apt, and ensured significant bacterial growth inhibitory capacity, where the inhibition zone diameters ranged from 20.0 ± 0.5 to 24.5 ± 0.3 mm. These outcomes were confirmed through molecular docking against key bacterial enzymes that revealed significant interactions and binding affinities. d-(-)-Fructofuranose was identified as the most polar and flexible compound. Gallic acid and caffeic acid demonstrated higher unsaturation. Caffeic acid was well absorbed in the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and human intestine. Catechin was well absorbed in CaCO3, and can act as an inhibitor of CYP1A2. These results highlight how crucial it is to keep looking into natural substances in the quest for more potent and targeted pathology therapies.

Phenolic and volatile compounds, total protein content, antioxidant and antidiabetic activities of leaves of Palicourea padifolia (Rubiaceae)

Background and Aims: Information on the chemical composition and biological activities of Palicourea padifolia is scarce. This study aimed to 1) measure the total content of nutrients, macroelements, proteins, and secondary metabolites, 2) conduct metabolomic analyses on phenolic and volatile compounds, and 3) assess the antioxidant and antidiabetic activities from the leaves of this species. Methods: The total content of nutrients and macroelements was determined by spectroscopic, spectrometric, and spectrophotometric approaches. The total content of alkaloids, terpenes, phenols, flavonoids, tannins, and proteins was determined by spectrophotometric approaches. Volatile and phenolic compounds were identified by gas and liquid chromatography, respectively, coupled to mass spectrometers. The antioxidant activity was determined by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2’-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) assays, and the antidiabetic potential was determined by the inhibition of α-glucosidase. Key results: The leaves of P. padifolia were rich in Ca, Na, and Mg and exhibited a low protein content. The leaf methanolic extract (LME) contained high levels of alkaloids, phenols, and terpenes, while flavonoids were present at low concentrations. The major phenolic compounds identified were chlorogenic acid, scopoletin, trans-cinnamic acid, and (-)-epicatechin. In addition, a leaf petroleum ether extract (LPE) contained mainly phytol, palmitic acid, (Z)-7-tetradecenal, octadecanoic acid and linoleic acid. The leaves exhibited a high antioxidant capacity, inhibiting DPPH and ABTS radicals, and the LME showed low inhibition of α-glucosidase enzyme. Conclusions: Palicourea padifolia leaves had a rich composition of cations such as Ca, Na, and Mg. In addition, the LME contained alkaloids, terpenes, lipids, and phenolics, which support the potent antioxidant capacity. In contrast, the LME exhibited a low inhibition of the α-glucosidase enzyme.

Yogurt Susu Kambing Etawa (Capra aegagrus hircus) dengan Penambahan Daging Buah Alpukat (Persea americana mill.) Sebagai Minuman Fungsional

Yogurt is a drink resulting from fermented milk using lactic acid bacteria. Yogurt production using Etawa goat's milk (Capra aegagrus hircus) was chosen because its nutritional content is quite good and low in lactose. The addition of avocado (Persea americana mill.) flesh to yogurt is expected to increase antioxidant activity and vitamin E levels. This research aims to produce goat's milk yogurt with the addition of avocado flesh as a functional drink that is liked by consumers, has antioxidant activity, and has high levels of high total phenolics and rich in vitamin E. The method used in this research includes the production of yogurt without the addition of avocado flesh as a control yogurt and yogurt with the addition of avocado in various variants. Then sensory analysis was carried out using the hedonic test, analysis of total phenolic content using the Follin-Cicocalteu method, analysis of antioxidant activity using the DPPH method and analysis of vitamin E levels using a spectrometer. The research results showed that the control yogurt was white in color, in the form of a thick, semi-solid liquid, had a distinctive smell, a sour taste, a homogeneous consistency and had a pH value of 4.3–4.8. The results of the sensory analysis test of yogurt with the addition of 20% avocado flesh (Y1) was the product most preferred by the panelists based on the color and aroma attributes, while for the texture and taste attributes the panelists preferred 40% (Y2). The total phenolic compound, antioxidant activity, and vitamin E test results of goat's milk yogurt reached 91.2%, the more avocado flesh was added, the yogurt with the addition of avocado flesh increased significantly with the addition of avocado pulp concentration

Direct enrichment through conventional and ultrasound-assisted maceration of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) oil with saffron (Crocus sativus L.) stigmas as a natural antioxidant

The flavoring of vegetable edible oils (VEO) with extracts from aromatic plants improves their acceptance, oxidative stability, and nutritional value. This study investigates the direct enrichment of sunflower oil (SO) with saffron stigmas (SS) using both conventional maceration (CM) and ultrasound-assisted maceration (UAM) at different concentrations (0.2, 0.4, and 0.6%). Antioxidant properties, oxidative stability, and quality indices were evaluated. SS exhibited high levels of phenolics (52.4 ± 0.6 mg of GAE/g DM), flavonoids (100 ± 2 mg of QE/g DM), and antioxidant activity (16.77 ± 0.27 mg of TE/g DM for ABTS and 55.0 ± 0.6 mg of TE/g DM for FRAP). The enriched oils demonstrated significantly higher antioxidant and stability levels compared to non-enriched oils. No significant differences were found in oxidative stability indices or Rancimat test results between CM (5.5 ± 0.3 h with 0.6% of SS) and UAM (5.4 ± 0.2 h with 0.6% of SS). The control oil exhibited the lowest induction time at 4.5 ± 0.2 h. However, UAM resulted in lower pigments content, with chlorophyll and carotenoid levels measuring of 0.15 ± 0.03 and 0.26 ± 0.04 mg/kg respectively, for 0.6% of SS. Antioxidant activity and oxidative stability were found to be dose-dependent. UAM effectively enhanced oil stability without affecting the fatty acid composition. By reducing processing time and eliminating the need for chemicals, this innovative method demonstrates that SS can be used directly as a natural antioxidant, particularly at a concentration of 0.6%, to improve the sunflower oil stability.

Functional, Antioxidant, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Activity of Edible Flowers.

Edible flowers have been used since ancient times, but their potential for improving human health has not been explored. This study aimed to evaluate the profile of bioactive compounds (organic acids, phenolics, and carotenoids) and the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of nine flower varieties with high concentrations of carotenoids or total phenolic compounds. Ninety-three edible flowers were analysed for physicochemical characteristics, total phenolic and carotenoid concentrations, and antioxidant activity (ABTS). Bioactive profiles were determined by rapid resolution liquid chromatography (RRLC), and antimicrobial activity was determined against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Streptococcus mutans, and Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis. Chrysanthemum x hybrid orange, Helianthus annuus yellow, Tagetes patula orange, Canna indica red, and Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (orange1 and yellow) showed significant concentrations of total carotenoids. In contrast, Pelargonium hortorum orange2, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis red1, and Rosa x hybrid variety medium yellow showed high levels of total phenolics. The predominant compounds in these species were citric acid (991.4 mg/g DW in Hibiscus rosa-sinensis red1), 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (936.2 mg/100 g DW in P. hortorum orange2), kaempferol (971. 9 mg/100 g DW in T. patula orange), quercetin glucoside (958.8 in C. x hybrid), quercetin (919.3 mg/100 g DW in T. patula), α-carotene, and β-carotene in T. patula orange (989.5 and 601.2 mg/100 g DW, respectively). Regarding antimicrobial activity, T. patula orange and P. hortorum orange2 inhibited bacterial growth, while C. x hybrid orange and P. hortorum orange2 inhibited Candida albicans, and the latter inhibited Candida tropicalis. These results indicate the potential of edible flowers as a natural source of bioactive compounds and as a tool in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

Evaluation of SO2, glutathione, and glutathione-rich inactive dry yeast as antioxidants on the fermentation properties of Roxburgh rose wine

Cili (Roxburgh rose) wine, which is rich in ascorbic acid, flavones, and polyphenols, presents unique challenges in wine production, including oxidation, aroma loss, and SO2 residues. This study investigated the effects of three antioxidants (SO2, glutathione (GSH), and GSH-rich inactive dry yeast (g-IDY)) on the fermentation properties of cili wine and evaluated the potential of g-IDY for addressing the aforementioned issues. g-IDY significantly enhanced the fermentation rate, as evidenced by increased CO2 production within 48 h, and maintained high levels of GSH, total phenolics, total flavones, and ascorbic acid, contributing to the antioxidant capacity and overall stability of the wine. g-IDY also improved the retention and concentration of key aromatic compounds, including higher alcohols, esters, and terpenes, thereby enhancing the sensory profile of the wine. Principal component analysis confirmed that different antioxidants significantly altered the volatile profile, with g-IDY demonstrating distinct improvements. The optimal concentration was 400 mg/L g-IDY. Compared with traditional antioxidants like SO2 and pure GSH, g-IDY offers a safer and more effective solution for preserving the quality of cili wine. This study provides experimental evidence for refining the fermentation process and promotes the use of g-IDY for enhancing the antioxidant capacity and sensory attributes of cili wine.

Comparison of Protective Effects of Polyphenol-Enriched Extracts from Thinned Immature Kiwifruits and Mature Kiwifruits against Alcoholic Liver Disease in Mice.

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD) is regarded as one of the main global health problems. Accumulated evidence indicates that fruit-derived polyphenols can lower the risk of ALD, this attributed to their strong antioxidant capacities. Thinned immature kiwifruits (TIK) are the major agro-byproducts in the production of kiwifruits, which have abundantly valuable polyphenols. However, knowledge about the protective effects of polyphenol-enriched extract from TIK against ALD is still lacking, which ultimately restricts their application as value-added functional products. To promote their potential applications, phenolic compounds from TIK and their corresponding mature fruits were compared, and their protective effects against ALD were studied in the present study. The findings revealed that TIK possessed extremely high levels of total phenolics (116.39 ± 1.51 mg GAE/g DW) and total flavonoids (33.88 ± 0.59 mg RE/g DW), which were about 7.4 times and 4.8 times greater than those of their corresponding mature fruits, respectively. Furthermore, the level of major phenolic components in TIK was measured to be 29,558.19 ± 1170.58 μg/g DW, which was about 5.4 times greater than that of mature fruits. In particular, neochlorogenic acid, epicatechin, procyanidin B1, and procyanidin B2 were found as the predominant polyphenols in TIK. In addition, TIK exerted stronger in vitro antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects than those of mature fruits, which was probably because of their higher levels of polyphenols. Most importantly, compared with mature fruits, TIK exhibited superior hepatoprotective effects on alcohol-induced liver damage in mice. The administration of polyphenol-enriched extract from TIK (YK) could increase the body weight of mice, reduce the serum levels of ALP, AST, and ALT, lower the levels of hepatic TG and TC, and diminish lipid droplet accumulation and hepatic tissue damage. In addition, the treatment of YK could also significantly restore the levels of antioxidant enzymes (e.g., SOD and CAT) in the liver and lower the levels of hepatic proinflammatory cytokines (e.g., IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α), indicating that YK could effectively ameliorate ALD in mice by reducing hepatic oxidative stress and hepatic inflammation. Collectively, our findings can provide sufficient evidence for the development of TIK and their extracts as high value-added functional products for the intervention of ALD.

EFFECT OF LIQUID SMOKE FROM LIGNOCELLULOSE WASTE ON THE GROWTH OF Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq. UNDER A HYDROPONIC WICK SYSTEM

Liquid smoke is a by-product of the lignocellulosic pyrolysis process and has long been used for various purposes, including as a plant growth stimulant. The use of liquid smoke for the growth of medicinal plants, especially Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq., is yet to be widely carried out. This study aimed to determine the effect of liquid smoke concentration on the phytotoxicity of cat whiskers, the growth response of cat whiskers in a wick hydroponic system for sustainable production practices, and the phenol and acetic acid contents in the liquid smoke solution. The measured growth response parameters included leaf, stem, root, total biomass, plant height, root length, stem diameter, and sinensetin levels. This study used liquid smoke collected using the stratification technique at 200 ⁰C and 400 ⁰C from three raw waste materials: pine wood, teak wood, and bamboo. The concentrations of liquid smoke in the hydroponic solution media were 0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%. The results showed that liquid smoke at 400 ℃ and concentrations of ≥3% caused significant phytotoxicity, including leaf wilting, necrosis, chlorosis, and plant death, owing high phenol and acetic acid levels. Furthermore, Andong bamboo liquid smoke (ABLS) at a concentration of 0.25% collected at 200 ⁰C generally gave better results for the growth of the cat whiskers plant on hydroponics. It increased sinensetin content compared to the control and other treatments. These findings suggest that stratifying pyrolysis temperatures and properly diluting liquid smoke can be used as growth stimulants while minimizing phytotoxicity. Keywords: cat whiskers, hydroponic, liquid smoke, plant growth, pyrolysis

Effects of Micronutrients on the Growth and Phytochemical Composition of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) in the Field and Greenhouse (Hydroponics and Soil Culture).

The current research was conducted to compare the growth, yield, and phytochemical composition of basil (Ocimum basilicum) in the open field and the soil and hydroponic cultivation in a greenhouse. Furthermore, the effect of foliar spraying of micronutrients on this crop was also evaluated. In each of the cultivation systems, foliar spraying of one micronutrient, either iron sulfate (Fe), zinc sulfate (Zn), copper sulfate (Cu), manganese sulfate (Mn), or boric acid (B), at a concentration of 0.1% was applied in a randomized complete block design. Plants grown in the hydroponic system had higher yield and biomass. The concentration of the elements K, Ca, Mg, N, P, Mn, Fe, B, and Zn in the leaves of hydroponic plants was higher. Contrarily, plants cultivated in the field showed higher stem dry weight, essential oil content, phenolic and flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity. The level of methyl chavicol was higher in the hydroponic culture, but the level of 1,8-cineole was much lower in this cropping system. Foliar spraying of Cu, Mn, Zn, Fe, or B significantly increased leaf dry weight and anthocyanin content. In field conditions, the highest levels of phenolics, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity were observed with Zn or Mn application. In the hydroponic system, foliar spraying of Zn or B led to the highest antioxidant capacity, and total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Overall, the basil plants cultivated in the field showed higher bioactive ingredients. However, the essential oil of plants cultivated in the hydroponic system had a higher economic value due to its higher percentage of methyl chavicol.

Xeroderris stuhlmannii (Taub.) Mendonça & E.P.Sousa (Fabaceae): Evidence of the antihypertensive and antioxidant activities of its leaf aqueous extract in cadmium chloride hypertensive rats

Xeroderris stuhlmannii (Fabaceae) is a medicinal reported in Cameroonian herbal medicine to treat hypertension. The aim of the study was to assess the antihypertensive and antioxidant activities of X. stuhlmannii aqueous leaf extract (AEXS) on cadmium chloride-induced hypertensive rats. The in vitro antioxidant activities of AEXS were investigated for their radical scavenging potency using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), Ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2′-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid (ABTS), Nitric oxide (NO) and OH- assays completed with oxidative stress markers analyses. Antihypertensive activity of AEXS (35, 100, and 300 mg/kg) was assessed in CdCl2 induced-hypertensive rats. Antihypertensive activities performed include systolic (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and heart rate (HR) variation, followed by evaluation of selected biochemical parameters in urine, blood (Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST)), creatinine, urea and total protein) and histological examination of tissue samples (aorta, heart, kidneys and liver). The amount of the phenols of the leaf extract was estimated in mg gallic acid equivalent and identification of some compounds was done by UPLC-UV-ESI-TOF-MS. Accordingly, the identified phenols were stuhlmannione A (1), formononetin (2), stuhlmarotenoid A (3), 9-methoxymaackiain (4), 4-hydroxymaackiain (5) and 7-hydroxy-3′,4′-methylenedioxy-isoflavone (6). The extract exhibited a significant (P < 0.05–0.001) decrease of SBP, DBP and HR when compare to control. AEXS also reduced (P < 0.05) serum rates of ALT, AST, and urea. The extract showed beneficial effects on alterations observed in the histological structures of the aorta, heart, kidneys and liver. AEXS highlighted high level of phenols (26.48 ± 2.89 mg GAE/g) and a strong antiradical activity on DPPH, ABTS+, OH− and NO with IC50 of 148.8 μg/mL, 27.83 μg/mL, 22.29 μg/mL, 29.84 μg/mL respectively. An optical density of 1.79 nm was obtained with FRAP test. Thus, X. stuhlmannii leaf extract has in vitro antioxidant and antihypertensive effects that may support its use against hypertension.

Sage (Salvia macrochlamys): LC-HRMS for phytochemical analysis, cytotoxicity, enzyme inhibition, antioxidant activity, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulations

This study primarily aims to evaluate the phenolic content and biological activity of Salvia macrochlamys both in vitro and in silico. The antioxidant activities of Salvia macrochlamys were assessed using various methods. Additionally, cytotoxic effects and the α-amylase, α-glucosidase, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme inhibitory abilities of ethanolic extract of the aerial parts of Salvia macrochlamys (EESM) were evaluated. Then, the molecular docking interactions and molecular dynamic calculations of EESM against α-amylase, α-glycosidase, and AChE enzymes were carried out. High antioxidant activity was determined in both ethanol and water extracts. The IC50 values of EESM against AChE (EC 3.1.1.7), α-glycosidase (E.C.3.2.1.20), and α-amylase (E.C.3.2.1.1) were determined as 1.622 μg/mL, 0.530 μg/mL, and 1.320 μg/mL, respectively. High enzyme-inhibiting properties of EESM were determined in also in silico. Rosmarinic acid was identified as one of the most abundant phenolic compounds in both EESM and water extract of the aerial parts of Salvia macrochlamys (WESM) (3919.65 mg/kg and 10520.77 mg/kg, respectively). Their high level of flavonoids and phenolics, as well as the potent antioxidant and enzyme-inhibitory properties displayed by extracts, may contribute to broadening the use of Salvia macrochlamys in both traditional and modern therapeutic applications.

Biochemical analysis of three red grapevine varieties during three phenological periods grown under Mediterranean climate conditions.

In Mediterranean regions, severe summers are becoming more common, leading to restrictions to vine productivity and yield quality, requiring sustainable practices to support this sector. We assessed the behaviour of three red grapevine varieties from the Douro Region to examine their tolerance to summer climate stress from the perspective that the less common varieties may have potential for increased use in a climate change scenario. Leaf and fruit biochemical profile, antioxidant activity and fruit colorimetric parameters were assessed at different phenological stages in Aragonez (AR), Tinto Cão (TC) and Touriga Nacional (TN) grape varieties. All three varieties exhibit significant variability in phenological timing, influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Photosynthetic pigment strategies differed among varieties. Chlorophyll content in AR was high to cope with high radiation, while TN displaying a balanced approach, and TC had lower pigment levels, with higher levels of phenolics, antioxidants, and soluble sugars, particularly during stress. The variations in berry biochemical profile highlight the distinct characteristics of the varieties. TC and TN show potential for coping with climate change, having elevated total acidity, while AR has larger and heavier berries with distinct coloration. These findings reinforce the need to study the behaviour of different varieties in each Terroir, to understand their diverse strategies to deal with summer climate stress. This will help in selecting the most suitable variety for these conditions under vineyard management in the Douro Region.

BIOCHEMICAL BASIS OF RESISTANCE IN VIGNA RADIATA (L.) WILCZEK AGAINST CALLOSOBRUCHUS CHINENSIS L. AND CALLOSOBRUCHUS MACULATUS FAB. (COLEOPTERA: BRUCHIDAE)

The present study was conducted on the biochemical basis of resistibility and susceptibility of Callosobruchus chinensis (L.) and Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.) against twenty-five different genotypes of Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek. Results revealed that C. maculatus and C. chinensis were most susceptible to mungbean genotypes except for two cultivars, 174No.302 and PLU-1050. From biochemical analysis, it has been concluded that the total protein, carbohydrates and lipids had a non-significant and positive relation with development parameters in all the mungbean genotypes. The results showed that genotypes 174No.302 and PLU-1050 were highly resistant to the bruchids and had high levels of flavonoids, phenol and tannin. These anti-nutritional factors negatively affected the growth, development period and adult emergence.. KEYWORDS :Biochemical resistance, Callosobruchus chinensis, Callosobruchus maculatus, Genotypes, Mungbean cultivars

Comprehensive Analysis of Antioxidant and Phenolic Profiles of Thai Medicinal Plants for Functional Food and Pharmaceutical Development.

Medicinal plants, are resources of traditional medicines, have played a significant role in human culture throughout history. The connect of traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific findings, display the potential of these plants for nutritional and pharmaceutical applications. This study aimed to investigates the antioxidant activity and phenolic compositions of seven medicinal plants (Kaempferia parviflora, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Phyllanthus emblica, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia bellirica, Gynostemma pentaphyllum, and Stevia rebaudiana) from Kalasin Province, Thailand. 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays were used to evaluate the the antioxidant activities. The qualitative method was used for the phytochemical screening. Additionally, reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) analysis reveals their phenolic compositions. Results revealed that phenols, flavonoids, and terpenoids were found in all medicinal plants studied, with flavonoids and phenols most predominant. Notably, P. emblica and T. bellirica show significant antioxidant properties and high levels of phenolics and flavonoids. P. emblica had the highest phenolic acid concentrations, with ρ-coumaric (79.43µg/g), chlorogenic (45.22µg/g), and ferulic acid (29.58µg/g) being dominant. The research emphasizes the value of these plants in developing functional foods and pharmaceuticals, underlining the importance of conserving biodiversity and traditional knowledge for future health product innovation.

Nutritional and antioxidant potential of Pleurotus djamor (Rumph. ex Fr.) Boedijn produced on agronomic wastes banana leaves and sugarcane bagasse substrates.

Global food production faces challenges concerning access to nutritious and sustainably produced food. Pleurotus djamor, however, is an edible mushroom that can be cultivated on agricultural waste. Considering that nutritional and functional potential of mushrooms can change based on cultivation conditions, we examined the influence of substrates with different compositions of banana leaf and sugarcane bagasse on the nutritional, mycochemical, and antioxidant properties of P. djamor. The mushrooms were grown for 120 days and dried in a circulating air oven at 45°C for three days. We conducted bromatological analyses and mycochemical characterization (1H-NMR, total phenolics, and flavonoids) of the mushrooms and assayed the antioxidant activity of extracts from the dried mushrooms using an ethanol/water solution (70:30 v/v). In general, the substrates produced mushrooms with high protein (18.77 ± 0.24% to 17.80 ± 0.34%) and dietary fiber content (18.02 ± 0.05% to 19.32 ± 0.39%), and with low lipid (0.28 + 0.08% to 0.4 + 0.6%), and caloric content (maximum value: 258.42 + 8.49), with no significant differences between the groups (p ≥ 0.05). The mushrooms also exhibited high levels of total phenolics and flavonoids. The mushrooms cultivated on sugarcane bagasse substrates presented the highest values (p < 0.05). Analysis of the 1H-NMR spectra indicates an abundant presence of heteropolysaccharides, β-glucans, α-glucans, and oligosaccharides, and all the mushroom extracts exhibited high antioxidant activity. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that agricultural residues permit sustainable production of edible mushrooms while maintaining nutritional and functional properties.

CTAB Protocol for Obtaining High-Quality Total RNA from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and Other Related Plants of the Family Malvaceae.

Malvaceae family, also known as the Mallow family, is a family of flowering plants containing Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and other plants of high medicinal value. This study focuses on the challenges associated with high-quality RNA extraction from Hibiscus rosa-sinensis and its related plants characterized by high levels of mucilage and phenolic compounds in their tissues. High mucilage and secondary metabolite content pose obstacles in obtaining high-quality RNA, negatively impacting downstream applications, such as gene expression analysis. Our research aimed to develop an efficient RNA extraction method tailored to the unique characteristics of Malvaceae family plants especially Hibiscus rosa-sinensis. Through the substitution of NaCl with KCl, a crucial component of the CTAB buffer, our methodology successfully addressed the challenges posed by high mucilage and phenolic compound levels. This modification led to a significant reduction in sample viscosity, which is because of the high mucilage in these plants. Our modified CTAB extraction method yielded significantly more RNA with higher purity than the conventional CTAB methods alone. The extracted RNA was largely intact, as indicated by 28S/18S ratios and RIN values, yielding high-quality RNA with improved purity suggested by the 260/280 and 260/230 ratios. The proposed approach not only serves as a solution to the specific challenges encountered in Hibiscus rosa-sinensis but also holds promise for broader applications across different plants within the family.

The approximate mineral and phytochemical content of the leaves, stem bark, and roots of Pterocarpus erinaceus in India

Proximate analysis of dried Pterocarpus erinaceus leaves (DPE), stem bark (DSB) and root (DSR) contained moisture (9.11%, 7.61%, 7.02%), crude protein (7.60%, 5.11%, 4.33%), crude fibre (12.2%, 25.6%, 18.5%), ether extracts (0.58%, 0.42%, 0.30%), ash (12.6%, 10.5%, 10.2%) and carbohydrates (45.4%, 38.0%, 37.2%) respectively. Mineral composition of DPE revealed the presence of calcium (108.6 mg/100 g), phosphorus (60.38 mg/100 g), potassium (39.7 mg/100 g), magnesium (12.51 mg/100 g), zinc (10.44 mg/100 g), manganese (8.55 mg/100 g), cobalt (1.16 mg/100 g), copper (4.58 mg/100 g), sodium (25.2 mg/100 g) and iron (16.13 mg/100 g) while those of DSB and DSR contained calcium (90.60, 91.55 mg/100 g), phosphorus (40.11, 43.80 mg/100 g), potassium (30.2, 30.0 mg/100 g), magnesium (9.93, 8.90 mg/100 g), zinc (7.55, 7.00 mg/100 g), manganese (5.20, 4.88 mg/100 g), cobalt (1.11, 1.00 mg/100 g), copper (2.40, 2.21 mg/100 g), iron (19.6, 18.4 mg/100 g) and iron (11.0, 10.67 mg/100 g). The phytochemical analysis of DPE, DSB, and DSR revealed that it contains high levels of flavonoids (11.20, 7.51, 7.20 mg/g), tannins (8.81, 4.91, 4.10 mg/g), steroids (1.61, 1.14, 1.02 mg/g), glycosides (4.42, 1.20, 6.19 mg/g), phenols (41.5, 30.4, 31.2 mg/g), saponins (28.6, 15.1, 14.0 mg/g), alkaloids (19.6, 15.8, 25.3 mg/g), flavonoids (11.20, 7.51, 7.20 mg/g), tannins (8.81, 4.91, 4.10 mg/g), and terpenoids (1.40, 0.65, 0.55 mg/g), respectively. According to the findings, DPE, DSB, and DSR are rich in minerals and phytochemicals, and they can be utilized as a natural substitute for antibiotics in animal production.

ULTRASOUND-ASSISTED DEEP EUTECTIC SOLVENT EXTRACTION OF PHENOLIC COMPOUNDS FROM ROSE MYRTLE

Rose myrtle fruits contain high levels of phenolics and other bioactive compounds. To increase the extraction efficiency of phenolic compounds, ultrasound-assisted- deep eutectic solvents (DESs) was proposed. First of all, six different DESs were used in this research and compared with traditional solvents (ethanol, methanol, and water), and the most suitable solvents for extracting phenolic compounds from rose myrtle fruits was choline chloride: urea (molar ratio of 1:2). Then, the Box–Behnken design was used to find the optimal extraction conditions (ultrasonic power (X1), solid to liquid ratio (X2), and extraction time (X3)) for the achievement of high total phenolic contents (TPC) and antioxidant activity (IC50). The results showed that the optimum ultrasound assisted-DES extraction parameters to achieve the highest TPC and antioxidant activity (IC50) (85.19 mgGAE/g fresh fruit and 2.31 mg/g, respectively) were X1 of 233 W, X2 of 440 mg/ml, and X3 of 55 min. Compared with traditional maceration extraction, ultrasound-assisted-DES has a higher TPC and antioxidant activity (IC50) and shorter extraction time. Scanning electron microscopy images (SEM) revealed that the dissolution of bioactive components was enhanced from the disrupted cells after ultrasound-assisted-DES extraction. Consequently, the combination of ultrasound-assisted-DESs extraction provide an excellent extraction method for efficient extraction of bioactive components of rose myrtle fruit.