Morus Nigra Research Articles

Effect of Vacuum Impregnation with Anthocyanin rich Fruit Juices on the Quality Characteristics of Chicken Cubes

This study was aimed to determine the effects of various fruit juices used as impregnation solutions on the physicochemical, textural and sensory properties of dried chicken meat cubes. The pH, color parameters, total phenolic, antioxidant activity, water holding capacity, textural (TPA) and sensorial properties of the cubes were tested. Impregnation solutions used in the treatment groups were prepared with pomegranate, black grape and black mulberry juices, and salt solution (control). Impregnation was performed in two replicates and two samples were analyzed per replicate. The cubes were immersed in the solutions and the 10 min vacuum (250 mbar absolute pressure) − 10 min atmospheric pressure cycle was repeated at 4 °C for 2 h. pH values decreased (P < 0.01) by impregnation with various anthocyanin-rich fruit juices. Total phenolic and antioxidant activity were the highest (P < 0.01) in samples impregnated with pomegranate juice and were 720.71 mg GAE/kg and 840.22 mg TE/kg, respectively. The use of anthocyanin-rich fruit juices as impregnation solution decreased a* and b* values of samples (P < 0.01; P < 0.05, respectively). The TPA results indicated that impregnation with pomegranate, black grape and black mulberry juices induced lower (P < 0.01) hardness and higher (P < 0.05) adhesiveness values compared to the control. Consequently, the impregnation with anthocyanin-rich fruit juices such as pomegranate, black grape and black mulberry has the potential to improve the quality properties of dried chicken cubes.

Genome characterization of Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides UTNElla29 isolated from Morus nigra (L.) fruits: A promising exopolysaccharides producing strain

Lactic acid bacteria produce various natural polysaccharides that are secreted into the cellular matrix and bonded to the cell surface or released into the surrounding environment. Due to their broad applications in the food industry, the search for novel polysaccharide producer strains remains of interest. In this study, we report the genome sequencing and characterization of Leuconostoc pseudomesenteroides strain UTNElla29 isolated from Morus nigra (L.) fruits. Using in silico different “genome mining” tools we prospect their genetic potential. The genome size was estimated at 2,272,560 bp and a GC content of 39.26%. Of the total proteins, 2170 matched in the EggNOG database. The key genes related to amino acid biosynthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, exopolysaccharide (EPS) production, were annotated. The genome harbors one intact prophage, one CRISPR array, and two putative gene sequences associated with CAS3 Type I, and no plasmids indicating its stability. Moreover, no acquired resistance genes, virulence and pathogenic factors, nor biogenic amines were predicted, suggesting its safety. In vitro preliminary studies showed that EPS yield from 0.4 to 10.2 (g/L) dry biomass and the production varied with the inoculum size and sugar type MRS containing medium. Furthermore, several polyketides and terpenes were predicted, indicating the possibility of generating a wide range of naturally compounds with broad biological functions. However, these promising results suggest that Ella29 is a beneficial strain to be further exploited in vitro for various technological use.

Antidepressant-like and antioxidant effects of Morus nigra L. in rats subjected to the unpredictable chronic mild stress model

This study aimed to evaluate the antidepressant-like and antioxidant potential of the aqueous leaf extract of Morus nigra L. in rats subjected to unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS). Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups, control and stressed, and treated with saline or aqueous extract of M. nigra. The dose administered was 10 mg/kg daily by gavage for 5 weeks concurrently with UCMS. M. nigra extract which showed syringic acid, quercetin, and rutin, as major phenolic compounds decreased the immobility time without changes in locomotor activity of stressed rats, in the forced swimming and open field tests, respectively. In addition, the extract diminished carbonylated proteins, lipid peroxidation, and nitrite levels in the brains of rats subjected to UCMS. These data reinforced antidepressant-like properties with the involvement of oxidative stress modulation by M. nigra extract pointing it as a possible new adjuvant treatment for depression.

Comparative profiling of secondary metabolites and antioxidant properties of twelve Morus varieties: Insights into the diversity of M. alba and M. nigra grown in Sicily

This work analyzed potential phytochemical differences in bioactive compounds, antioxidant activity and metabolic profiles of 12 different varieties of Morus alba and Morus nigra fruits grown in Sicily by Liquid chromatography coupled to High Resolution Mass Spectrometry. Through UV/Vis assays, variations in in bioactive compounds were observed, recording higher contents of polyphenols and anthocyanins in M. nigra species. Spectrophotometric assays also revealed the absence of ellagitannins and proanthocyanidins in the same samples, while the amount of anthocyanins varied not only among species but also among cultivars. From a functional point of view, both scavenging and radical-reducing abilities were evaluated by biochemical assays, while Cellular Antioxidant assay was used to monitor antioxidant properties on a human cell-based biological system. These assays confirmed that M. nigra varieties possessed higher antioxidant activity in terms of radical scavenging and reducing antioxidant power. On the other hand, the cellular model system provided insights into the potential health implications of Morus spp. with values comparable to other common berries. Finally, metabolomic analysis illuminated the chemical diversity within Morus spp. by highlighting distinct metabolic fingerprints and allowing discrimination between species and varieties. Anthocyanins emerged as key metabolites for this discrimination, with additional compounds contributing to genotype-specific profiles. Overall, these results underscore the importance of genetic diversity in assessing the health properties of Morus spp. with implications for improving their nutritional and medicinal value in Mediterranean areas, particularly Sicily.

Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticle Using Black Mulberry and Characterization, Phytochemical, and Bioactivity.

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using plant extracts has been proposed as a more advantageous and environmentally friendly alternative compared to existing physical/chemical methods. In this study, AgNPs were synthesized from silver nitrate using black mulberry (BM) extract. The biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized through an UV-visible spectrometer, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, BM-AgNPs were subjected to antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. AgNPs biosynthesized from BM extract were dark brown in color and showed a strong peak at 437 nm, confirming that AgNPs were successfully synthesized. The size of AgNPs was 170.17 ± 12.65 nm, the polydispersity index was 0.281 ± 0.07, and the zeta potential value was -56.6 ± 0.56 mV, indicating that the particles were stable. The higher total phenol, flavonoid, and anthocyanin content of BM-AgNPs compared to BM extract indicates that the particles contain multiple active substances due to the formation of AgNPs. The DPPH and ABTS assays showed decreased IC50 values compared to BM extract, demonstrating improved antioxidant activity. AgNPs inhibited the growth of S. aureus and E. coli at 600 μg/mL, with minimum bactericidal concentrations determined to be 1000 and 1200 μg/mL, respectively. The anti-inflammatory activity was 64.28% at a BM-AgNPs concentration of 250 μg/mL. As the concentration increased, the difference from the standard decreased, indicating the inhibitory effect of AgNPs on bovine serum albumin denaturation. The viability of MCF-7 cells treated with BM-AgNPs was found to be significantly lower than that of cells treated with BM extract. The IC50 value of BM-AgNPs was determined to be 96.9 μg/mL. This study showed that BM-AgNPs have the potential to be used in the pharmaceutical industry as antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer agents.

Determination of Some Antioxidant Enzyme Activities in Plum (Prunus domestica), Black Mulberry (Morus Nigra) and Carob (Ceratoniasiliqua L.) Fruits

Objective: Antioxidants prevent and/or slow down many adverse effects on the body, especially oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Phenolic compounds in fruits and vegetables have beneficial effects by neutralizing free radicals. Since most phenolic compounds have antioxidant effects, they help to protect cells against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. In our study, we aimed to determine some enzyme activities thought to be present in black plum, carob and black mulberry plants. Material and Methods: In this study, antioxidant enzyme activities were determined using the spectrophotometric method. The extracts of the fruits used in the study were measured manually by preparing reagent solutions. Statistical significance level was taken as 5%, and SPSS 26 statistical package program was used for calculations. Results: Plum (prunus domestica), black mulberry (morusnigra) and carob (ceratoniasiliqua) fruits were found to have higher Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT) values. SOD and CAT values were much higher in black mulberry than in white mulberry. CAT activity was low in black plum and high in green plum. Similarly, SOD activity was low in black plum and high in green plum. Green plum was significantly higher than black plum in terms of both CAT and SOD activity. SOD activity measured in carob was almost twice as high as CAT activity. Conclusion: Antioxidants, which are known to be effective against diabetes, the disease of our age, and many various diseases, protect the body against diseases. Due to the high amounts of antioxidants found in black mulberry, carob and plum, adding extracts to the treatment of chronic patients can stop and/or slow the progression of diseases.

Recombinant production of Morus alba lipid transfer protein and prediction of its allergenic epitopes

BackgroundWhite mulberry (Morus alba) pollen grains trigger allergic diseases including asthma, allergic rhinitis, and allergic conjunctivitis. Non-specific lipid transfer proteins (nsLTPs) are robust allergens found in higher plants. Although it was isolated and immunologically characterized in the fruits of Morus nigra, it has not yet been determined whether nsLTP is one of the M. alba pollen allergens. ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the possible allergenicity of M. alba pollen nsLTP by producing it recombinantly, followed by immunoblotting. MethodsTotal RNA was isolated from M. alba pollen grains, and the nsLTP gene was obtained by reverse transcriptase polymerase reaction. It was cloned into Escherichia coli using pQE2 plasmid and purified by immobilized metal affinity chromatography following the expression. To confirm the immunoreactivity of the purified r-nsLTP, immunoblotting was performed with the serum of patients allergic to M. alba pollen. B-cell epitopes of nsLTP were also predicted using the bioinformatics tools, namely Bioinformatics Predicted Antigenic Peptides, BepiPred-2.0, and the Immune Epitope Database, whereas T-cell epitopes were estimated by using NetMHCIIpan-4.0 and NetMHCII-2.3 servers. ResultsThe r-nsLTP showed positive results in immunoblotting with sera of 7/7 (100%) of M. alba allergic patients. Five B-cell epitopes (26–31, 43–50, 65–71, 92–100, 105–115) and three T-cell epitopes (57–65, 78–86, 105–113) were predicted by in silico analyses. ConclusionData obtained in this study are expected to support the use of r-nsLTP in solutions for diagnosis and treatment of M. alba allergy and cross-reactivities between nsLTPs, as well as recombinant allergen production for vaccination.

Biochemical characterization of mulberry (Morus spp.) genotypes from the Türkiye (Hizan, Bitlis): A comprehensive analysis of fruit properties and bioactive compounds

AbstractThe present study was carried out to assess the fruit traits and phytochemical properties of 39 mulberry genotypes [Morus alba L. (16 white mulberry), Morus rubra L. (11 red mulberry), and Morus nigra L. (12 black mulberry)] selected in Bitlis province (Hizan) of Türkiye. Approximately, 1 kg fruit were hand‐harvested from each genotype. The fruit size, fruit color, pH, titratable acidity, soluble solids content (SSC), vitamin C, total phenolics, total flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and individual phenolic compounds were determined. The fruit weight varied between 1.80 and 5.84 g in black mulberry, 1.22 and 4.18 g in red mulberry, and 1.29 and 3.10 g in white mulberry. In white mulberry, SSC was determined to be between 19.00% and 38.86%, and in black and red mulberry it was between 11.86% and 21.90% and 12.60% and 18.90%, respectively. The titratable acidity rate, which varied depending on the species, was lower in white mulberry, but the highest acidity rate was recorded in red mulberry. Vitamin C was determined as 33.13 mg 100 g−1 in red mulberry, 24.10 mg 100 g−1 in black mulberry, and 14.03 mg 100 g−1 in white mulberry. Total phenolics in mulberries varied depending on the species, and the red mulberry fruit contained higher phenolic substances, followed by black and white mulberries. The total flavonoids varied between 0.27 and 7.83 g QE kg−1, whereas the flavonoids varied depending on the species and genotype. The highest values in terms of bioactive compounds were recorded in fruits of the 13HZN23 and 37 genotypes. Black and red mulberry fruit were found to have higher levels of individual phenolic content than the white mulberrry fruit.

Identification, quantification, and antidepressant‐like evaluation of anthocyanin‐rich extracts from different dietary berries

AbstractBerries are highly valued for their rich phenolic content, particularly anthocyanins, which are known for their antioxidative properties and potential effectiveness against depression. This study identified and quantified anthocyanin profiles in blueberry, blackberry, black mulberry, and cranberry using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS), followed by in vivo evaluation of their antidepressant‐like activities. Blueberry and black mulberry showed significant levels of cyanidin‐3‐galactoside and cyanidin. Acute supplementation with these berries decreased serum corticosterone levels and increased monoamine neurotransmitters, while chronic supplementation enhanced antioxidative activity and reduced neuroinflammation in the hippocampus of mice. These findings indicate that the neurochemical, antioxidative, and anti‐inflammatory effects of blueberry and black mulberry mediate their therapeutic role against depression. Berries rich in cyanidin‐3‐galactoside and cyanidin may be valuable in developing functional foods, dietary supplements, and pharmacological formulations for mental health improvement.

Contribution of Extracellular Particles Isolated from Morus sp. (Mulberry) Fruit to Their Reported Protective Health Benefits: An In Vitro Study.

Morus sp. (mulberry) has a long tradition of use as a medicinal treatment, including for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, being shown to have antioxidant properties and to promote wound healing. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are sub-micron, membrane-enclosed particles that were first identified in mammalian bodily fluids. EV-like particles have been described in plants (PDVs) and shown to have similar characteristics to mammalian EVs. We hypothesised that some of the health benefits previously attributed to the fruit of Morus sp. could be due to the release of PDVs. We isolated PDVs from Morus nigra and Morus alba via ultracentrifugation and incubated THP-1 monocytes, differentiated THP-1 macrophages, or HMEC-1 endothelial cells with pro-oxidant compounds DMNQ (THP-1) and glucose oxidase (HMEC-1) or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the presence of different fractions of mulberry EVs. Mulberry EVs augmented ROS production with DMNQ in THP-1 and caused the downregulation of ROS in HMEC-1. Mulberry EVs increased LPS-induced IL-1β secretion but reduced CCL2 and TGF-β secretion in THP-1 macrophages. In scratch wound assays, mulberry EVs inhibited HMEC-1 migration but increased proliferation in both low and high serum conditions, suggesting that they have opposing effects in these two important aspects of wound healing. One of the limitations of plant-derived therapeutics has been overcoming the low bioavailability of isolated compounds. We propose that PDVs could provide the link between physiological dose and therapeutic benefit by protecting plant active compounds in the GIT as well as potentially delivering genetic material or proteins that contribute to previously observed health benefits.

New molecular and macroscopic understandings of novel green chemicals based on Xanthan Gum and bio-surfactants for enhanced oil recovery

This research investigates the interactions between a novel environmentally friendly chemical fluid consisting of Xanthan gum and bio-based surfactants, and crude oil. The surfactants, derived from various leaves using the spray drying technique, were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, zeta potential analysis, Dynamic light scattering, and evaluation of critical micelle concentration. Static emulsion tests were conducted to explore the emulsification between crude oil and the polymer-surfactant solution. Analysis of the bulk oil FTIR spectra revealed that saturated hydrocarbons and light aromatic hydrocarbons exhibited a higher tendency to adsorb onto the emulsion phase. Furthermore, the increased presence of polar hydrocarbons in emulsion phases generated by polar surfactants confirmed the activation of electrostatic forces in fluid–fluid interactions. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy showed that the xanthan solution without surfactants had a greater potential to adsorb asphaltenes with highly fused aromatic rings, while the presence of bio-based surfactants reduced the solution's ability to adsorb asphaltenes with larger cores. Microfluidic tests demonstrated that incorporating surfactants derived from Morus nigra and Aloevera leaves into the xanthan solution enhanced oil recovery. While injection of the xanthan solution resulted in a 49.8% recovery rate, the addition of Morus nigra and Aloevera leaf-derived surfactants to the xanthan solution increased oil recovery to 58.1% and 55.8%, respectively.

Characteristic of species Morus alba L. and Morus nigra L. by some basic vegetative traits

Characteristic of species Morus alba L. and Morus nigra L. by some basic vegetative traits

Equilibrium and Thermodynamic Studies for the Removal of Eriochrome Black T dye from its Aqueous Solutions using Nano Carbon Prepared from Morus Nigra (Mulberry) Stem through two Stages of Carbonization

Equilibrium and Thermodynamic Studies for the Removal of Eriochrome Black T dye from its Aqueous Solutions using Nano Carbon Prepared from Morus Nigra (Mulberry) Stem through two Stages of Carbonization

Nutritional composition and anti-nutritional properties of wild edible fruits of northeast India

Forageable fruits are an untapped wealth of nutrients and minerals, and huge numbers are found in the vast wilderness of northeast India, including the hilly state of Mizoram. However, their nutritional properties still need to be explored. Hence, the present study was carried to assess the nutritional and anti-nutritional aspects along with the mineral contents of seven selected wild edible fruits, viz. jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus), rough lemon (Citrus jambhiri), false mangosteen (Garcinia xanthocymus), mulberry (Morus nigra), thereju (Prunus jenkinsiii), wild raspberry (Rubus treutleri) and wild ber (Zizyphus mauritiana) to uncover their immense nutritional values, which could solidify their promising potential for an alternate source of nutrition and increase their economic importance. The research demonstrates that Garcinia xanthocymus contains significant amount of total sugars, reducing sugars, and vitamin E. Artocarpus heterophyllus exhibited higher levels of non-reducing sugar, total soluble solids, chlorophyll, carbohydrate and starch. Citrus jambhiri is rich in moisture, vitamin C, acidity, N, and P. Prunus jenkinsii has high anthocyanin, total carotenoid, K and Mn. Rubus treutleri is a rich source of crude fibre, Mg, Na, Co, Cu, and Fe. Ziziphus mauritiana has higher protein. The Morus nigra has higher fat, energy, Ca, and Zn. These findings suggest that all examined wild edible fruits are rich in vitamins and minerals, which makes them vital in combating malnutrition and highlights their potential for use in the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical sectors in futuristic research works. The outcomes of this present study will provide a database about the nutritional composition, potential health benefits, and economic values of these fruits and raise public consciousness about the conservation and enrichment of biodiversity.

A Proximity-Based Approach for the Identification of Fallen Species of Street Trees during Strong Wind Events in Lisbon

The benefits of urban trees are very well known, but they can fall and cause damage, putting people’s lives at risk. There are few studies on the vulnerability of species to falling. In Lisbon (Portugal), fallen trees have been recorded since 1990 without, however, the identification of the species, knowledge of which is fundamental for improving their management. This study aimed to identify the tree species most vulnerable to falling in Lisbon through a proximity-based approach of known species, since the city has 47,713 inventoried trees, of which only 26,595 (55.7%) were identified. Four criteria were designed to presume the species: (i) the tree must be within 15 m from the street median axis; (ii) at least three individuals within 30 m from the occurrence must belong to the same species; (iii) the surrounding species must be representative in the street (&gt;50%); and (iv) visual identification of avenue medians. Through this approach, considering 3767 fallen trees, it was possible to identify 736 cases, representing 19.5% of all occurrences throughout the studied time and representing 43 different species. Species like Morus nigra L., Tipuana tipu (Benth.) Kuntze, Liriodendron tulipifera L., Prunus cerasifera Ehrh., and Koelreuteria paniculata Laxm. were most vulnerable. Additionally, in 57.7% of cases (425 fallen trees), the wind speed 12-h before the occurrence was greater than 7 m s−1. This research will provide important data for urban planners seeking to maximize the ecosystem services of urban trees.

Study on the total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity of Morus nigra Linn. from different origins in Xinjiang

Optimization of the extraction process of total flavonoids from Morus nigra Linn. based on response surface design, to compare the differences in total flavonoid content of Morus nigra Linn. from different origins in Xinjiang and its relationship with antioxidant activity. A one-way test was used to investigate the effects of ethanol volume fraction, material-liquid ratio, ultrasonic power and ultrasonic time on total flavonoid content analysis of Morus nigra Linn. , Box-Behnken response surface design optimisation was used to derive the optimal extraction process parameters. Meanwhile, the in vitro antioxidant activity of Morus nigra Linn. was evaluated by antioxidant activity indexes such as hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity and ferric ion reducing capacity. The optimal extraction condition was 45% ethanol by volume, 1∶20 g/mL material-liquid ratio, 300W ultrasound power and 60 min ultrasound time. The total flavonoid content of Morus nigra Linn. s from six origins was detected and the result showed that Kuche &gt;Kashgar &gt;Kuche Wuqia Town&gt;Hetian &gt;Ying jisha &gt;Yutian, in which the total flavonoid content of mulberry in Kucha city was(27.159±0.091)mg/g. The difference in the total flavonoid content of Morus nigra Linn. s in different origicns was statistically significant(P&lt;0.05). In vitro antioxidant activity analysis showed that the antioxidant activity of mulberry from Kuche and Hetian was stronger, and the hydroxyl radical scavenging capacity, ferric ion reducing capacity, and total antioxidant capacity of mulberry from various origins were statistically significant(P&lt;0.05). The correlation analysis showed that the total flavonoid content of Morus nigra Linn. was correlated with the antioxidant capacity to improve the scavenging of hydroxyl radicals. The ultrasonic-assisted method of extracting total flavonoids from Morus nigra Linn. is simple, and the model constructed has a high degree of fit, which can better compare the total flavonoids content of Morus nigra Linn. from different origins in Xinjiang.

The Effect of Phenolic-Rich Extracts of Rubus fruticosus, R. ulmifolius and Morus nigra on Oxidative Stress and Caco-2 Inhibition Growth.

Currently, a clear interest has been given to berries due to their richness in active metabolites, including anthocyanins and non-coloured phenolics. Therefore, the main aim of the present work is to investigate the phenolic profile, antioxidant abilities, and antiproliferative effects on normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and human colon carcinoma cell line (Caco-2) cells of phenolic-rich extracts from three red fruits highly appreciated by consumers: two species of blackberries (Rubus fruticosus and Rubus ulmifolius) and one species of mulberry (Morus nigra). A total of 19 different phenolics were identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD-ESI/MSn and HPLC-DAD, respectively. Focusing on the biological potential of the phenolic-rich extracts, all of them revealed notable scavenging abilities. Concerning the antiproliferative properties, R. fruticosus presented a cytotoxic selectivity for Caco-2 cells compared to NHDF cells. To deeper explore the biological potential, combinations with positive controls (ascorbic acid and 5-fluorouracil) were also conducted. Finally, the obtained data are another piece of evidence that the combination of phenolic-rich extracts from natural plants with positive controls may reduce clinical therapy costs and the possible toxicity of chemical drugs.

Improvement of Quality Characteristics and Shelf Life Extension of Raw Chicken Meat by Using Black Mulberry Leaf (Morus nigra L.) Extracts

The objective of this study was to examine the impact of different concentrations of black mulberry leaf extract (BMLE) on the microbial quality, lipid oxidation, biogenic amine content, color stability, and sensory attributes of raw chicken meat during a 12-day chilled storage period. The raw chicken meat was treated with 0.1% BHT (positive control), 0.1%, 0.3%, and 0.5% BMLE, and the outcomes were then compared to the results obtained from raw chicken meat with no additive (control). In comparison to the control group, the inclusion of BMLE resulted in a decrease (P&lt;0.05) in pH and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), as well as an improvement in redness (a∗) (P&lt;0.05). The addition of BMLE significantly extended the shelf life of raw chicken meats compared to the control, as it limited microbiological development and lipid oxidation during storage (P&lt;0.05). Additionally, the BMLE exhibited the most potent inhibitory impact on the buildup of these four BAs (tyramine, cadaverine, histamine, and tyramine) in raw chicken samples at the 12-day storage period (P&lt;0.05). Despite the 0.5% BMLE groups’ lowest results for microbial counts, TBARS, and biogenic amines, the concentration of 0.3% BMLE proved to be the most advantageous in terms of sensory acceptability. These findings suggested that BMLE, rather than artificial chemicals, could be utilized in raw chicken products as a promising natural antioxidant and antibacterial agent.

Study of the drying kinetics of black mulberry (Morus nigra L.) leaves

Black mulberry leaves have been used to promote health and prevent diseases due to their biological properties. Drying leaves allows greater stability during storage and marketing. However, studying this operation is important to ensure that the properties are maintained. Therefore, the objective of this study was to use mathematical modeling to define the model that best fits to the experimental data of the drying kinetics at temperatures of 40, 50, 60, and 70°C. Liquid diffusion, leaf surface area, the relationship between temperature increase and diffusion coefficient, and energy activation were also determined. Among the mathematical models studied, the Page model was the one that best described the drying process of black mulberry leaves. As for the diffusion coefficient, the values increase as the drying temperature increases. The activation energy was 65.418 kJ mol-1, and it was observed that the lower the activation energy, the greater the water diffusivity in the product. The drying kinetics data of black mulberry leaves allowed a better understanding of this operation in a matrix with wide application potential. Drying black mulberry leaves at different temperatures altered their color. Considering the evaluations, temperatures of 40 and 50°C are the most indicated for drying black mulberry leaves.

Elemental Characterization of Leaf Extracts of Three Different Species of Mulberry: Morus. alba L., Morus. nigra L. and Morus. indica L., Using Inductively Coupled Plasma -Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES)

The present study aimed to compare the elemental composition of leaf extracts from three different plant species of Mulberry, Morus alba L., Morus nigra L., and Morus indica L. The results showed that ten essential elements of biological importance for human metabolism, such as Copper, Chromium, Iron, Manganese, Sodium, Zinc, Calcium, Nickel, Lead, and Cadmium, were present in varying concentrations, well below the World Health Organization, (WHO's) daily intake limits. Mulberry leaves are an economical and readily available source of essential mineral elements vital for human health, which can be used to fortify functional foods, treat various diseases, and act as nutraceuticals. The information obtained could be used to determine the efficacy and dosage of herbal drugs manufactured from the leaf extracts of the Mulberry plant, making it a new contributor to food supplements and nutraceutical products.