Natural Sources Research Articles

Combining the Strengths of MS and NMR in Biochemometrics: A Case Study on Buddleja officinalis.

Biochemometrics has emerged as promising strategy for the targeted identification of bioactive constituents from natural sources. It is based on the correlation of bioactivity data with chemical data to reveal constituents contributing to activity. Providing complementary data and structural information, MS- and NMR-based biochemometric approaches have both been separately applied in the past. The herein presented study is dedicated to the evaluation of a combined MS- and NMR-based biochemometric workflow for the unambiguous identification of bioactives. As an example, a flower extract of Buddleja officinalis Maxim. was selected to unravel bioactive constituents in the context of dry eye disease pathology. While NMR-based biochemometrics relies on heterocovariance analysis (HetCA) of 1H NMR spectra using the previously established ELINA approach, a biochemometric molecular network was generated for the MS-based approach. Both analyses were performed in parallel and were ultimately combined to increase their power to identify the bioactive constituents from the complex mixture. As a result, phenylethanoid glycosides and triterpene saponins were discovered as main contributors for the antioxidant and cytotoxic effects of the extract. This article illustrates the advantages, opportunities, and limitations of MS and NMR in the context of biochemometrics.

Heavy metal contamination in soils of industrial estates of Tamil Nadu, India and source identification by magnetic susceptibility.

An increase in erratic industrial activity has been a major contributing factor to the significant contamination in environmental matrices. This study aimed to ascertain the level of heavy metal contamination in soils in major industrial estates of Tamil Nadu as well as the threats to human health and the environment that concomitant with it. This led to the use of the total reflection X-ray fluorescence (TXRF) spectroscopy technique to analyse 31 soil samples. Thus, the mean heavy metal concentrations were found to be in the ascending order: As < Ni < Pb < V < Cu < Zn < Cl < Mn < Sr < Cr < Al < Fe. Pb, Cr, Cu, As, and Zn have been identified as predominantcontaminants in the study area using the conventional pollution indices such as geo-accumulation index (Igeo), contamination factor (CF), and enrichment factor (EF). The magnetic susceptibility measurements indicates that the percentage of frequency dependence of magnetic susceptibility of the studied soil samples varied from 0.88 to 11.15 and that represents the presence of admixture ofsuperparamagnetic (SP) particles in the soil samples. From the results of multivariate statistical analyses, the sources ofidentified heavy metals were classified as anthropogenic sources(Cr, Cu, Pb, As, and Zn),natural sources(V, Mn, Fe, Ni, and Sr ),and intermediate sources (Al and Cl).

Nanobiopolymers in cancer therapeutics: advancing targeted drug delivery through sustainable and controlled release mechanisms.

Nanobiopolymers have emerged as a transformative frontier in cancer treatment, leveraging nanotechnology to transform drug delivery. This review provides a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted landscape of nano-based biopolymers, emphasizing their diverse sources, synthesis methods, and classifications. Natural, synthetic, and microbial nanobiopolymers are scrutinized, along with elucidation of their underlying mechanisms and impact on cancer drug delivery; the latest findings on their deployment as targeted drug delivery agents for cancer treatment are discussed. A detailed analysis of nanobiopolymer sources, including polysaccharides, peptides, and nucleic acids, highlights critical attributes like biodegradability, renewability, and sustainability essential for therapeutic applications. The classification of nanobiopolymers based on their origin and differentiation among natural, synthetic, and microbial sources are thoroughly examined for inherent advantages, challenges, and suitability for cancer therapeutics. The importance of targeted drug release at tumour sites, crucial for minimizing adverse effects on normal tissues, is discussed, encompassing various mechanisms. The role of polymer membrane coatings as a pivotal barrier for facilitating controlled drug release through diffusion is elucidated, providing further insight into efficient methods for cancer treatment and thus consolidating the current knowledge base for researchers and practitioners in the field of nanobiopolymers and cancer therapeutics.

The Role of Cacao Powder in Enhancing Skin Moisture and Reducing Wrinkles: A 12-Week Clinical Trial and In Vitro Study

Skin aging is driven by a combination of internal and external mechanisms, with ultraviolet (UV) radiation being a prominent external factor contributing to photoaging. Photoaging manifests through several signs, including decreased skin hydration, diminished elasticity, coarse wrinkles, and dyspigmentation. Cacao beans, known for their flavonoids and polyphenols, offer potential anti-aging benefits. To explore this, we conducted a study using both in vitro experiments and clinical trials. Our results demonstrated that cacao powder significantly improved skin hydration and moisture retention in both experimental settings. Specifically, in UVB-damaged human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) and H2O2-treated keratinocytes (KCs), cacao powder displayed notable antioxidant properties. Furthermore, cacao powder enhanced the activity of antioxidant enzymes and promoted the production of hyaluronic acid in KCs, contributing to better skin hydration. It also effectively inhibited the expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1, an enzyme associated with wrinkle formation, and stimulated collagen synthesis in HDFs. Clinical trials conducted on participants with aged skin revealed a significant improvement in skin hydration and a reduction in skin wrinkles after 12 weeks of cacao powder consumption, supporting the in vitro findings. These results suggest that cacao powder holds promise as a natural ingredient for improving skin hydration and reducing wrinkles, underscoring its potential in anti-aging skincare.

A Study of the Potential of Solidago virgaurea Extract as a Raw Material for Cosmetic Macroemulsions

The use of Solidago virgaurea extract as a raw material for cosmetics production fits the eco-tendency prevalent in the cosmetic industry for many years now perfectly. The study reported in this paper included an evaluation of the potential of the above-mentioned plant extract as a natural cosmetic ingredient applied in the form of cosmetic macroemulsions. The physicochemical parameters (pH, viscosity, particle size distribution) and physical stability (multiple light scattering) of the cosmetic formulations containing Solidago virgaurea (1.0 wt.%) were studied. An in vivo study was carried out on a group of 20 female volunteers. The results showed a high compatibility of the tested extract with the other components in the macroemulsion in the form of a serum for the body, which was the formulation containing Sorbitan Stearate as an emulsifier. Analysis of the results revealed a relation between the compatibility of the investigated herbal extract with the components of the cosmetic base and the effectiveness of this extract as an active substance. As a result of an improvement in the application parameters, an over 70% increase in the level of epidermis moisturization was observed along with other beneficial changes in the parameters of skin macrorelief and topography.

Unraveling Water-Soluble Constituents of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) in Relation to Their Toxicity and Anti-Typhoidal Activity in Mouse Models.

Plants are the major source of natural flavour ingredients reported for their wide applications in food and pharmaceuticals, oral care and wellness products, etc. We have investigated the water-soluble fractions (WSF) of basil tetraploid (O. basilicum L.) for their toxicity and biological potential against Salmonella Typhimurium, a pathogen causing around one million cases of illnesses in the United States every year. The WSF obtained using a Clevenger-type apparatus was further divided into two equal parts, one each for in-vivo toxicity evaluation and quality assessments, respectively. The proportions of major phenylpropanoid identified as meta-eugenol in the WSF were found in the range of 42.8-57.9%, which was substantially in higher proportion as compared to essential oil (20.9-23.0%). Based on sub-acute oral toxicity data, WSF has not shown any adverse effect with levels as high as 500 µL/25g body weight in Swiss albino mice. Besides, the WSF also exhibited a maximum reduction in bacterial load in mice infected with Salmonella Typhimurium in a dose-dependent manner. We have shown the biological potential of basil water-soluble fraction as an effective bacterial load-suppressing agent for the prevention of Salmonella infections in animal model.

The efficacy of nano‐cellulose‐based composites in heavy metal removal from wastewater: a comprehensive review

AbstractThis comprehensive study delves into the innovative application of nano‐cellulose‐based composites for addressing the multifaceted challenges of wastewater treatment. This review introduces the innovative use of nano‐cellulose composites, particularly highlighting the novel synthesis routes that enhance their pollutant adsorption capabilities beyond conventional materials. These materials stand out for their regenerative properties and integration with functionalized matrix materials, marking significant advancements in sustainable wastewater treatment technologies. As the environmental and public health risks associated with untreated wastewater escalate, the development of efficient and sustainable treatment technologies has become crucial. Nano‐cellulose composites, derived from natural and renewable sources, offer significant advantages, including high surface area, superior mechanical strength, and notable biodegradability. This review explores various synthesis methods—mechanical, chemical, and enzymatic—that enhance the adaptability of nano‐cellulose composites to meet specific treatment needs. Main findings demonstrate these composites' effectiveness in removing a wide array of pollutants, including heavy metals, organic compounds, dyes, and microbial contaminants, with detailed removal capacities provided for each pollutant category in comparative tables. The potential for regeneration and reuse highlights their practical sustainability and economic viability. Future research should focus on improving production scalability and cost‐effectiveness, assessing environmental impacts and ensuring regulatory compliance to advance the application of nano‐cellulose composites in wastewater treatment. This study paves the way for these materials to become central to innovative, efficient, and eco‐friendly wastewater management strategies. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).

Aromatic plants as cosmeceuticals: benefits and applications for skin health.

This review highlights the potential of aromatic plants as natural antioxidants in cosmeceuticals to combat skin aging and promote health and rejuvenation. Aromatic plant extracts, essential oils, or their phytoconstituents have a long history of use in skincare, dating back centuries. Currently, these plant-based sources are extensively researched and utilized in the cosmeceutical industry to formulate products that enhance skin health and promote a youthful appearance. These plants' diverse bioactivities and sensory properties make them ideal ingredients for developing anti-aging agents recommended for maintaining healthy skin through self-care routines, offering a natural alternative to synthetic products. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in the dermis, attributed to intrinsic and extrinsic aging factors, particularly prolonged sun exposure, is identified as the primary cause of skin aging. Plant extracts enriched with antioxidant compounds including flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, stilbenes, terpenes, and steroids, are fundamental to counteract ROS-induced oxidative stress. Noteworthy effects observed from the use of these natural sources include photoprotective, senolytic, anti-inflammatory, anti-wrinkle, anti-acne, and anti-tyrosinase activities, encompassing benefits like photoprotection, wound healing, skin whitening, anti-pigmentation, tissue regeneration, among others. This review highlights several globally distributed aromatic plant species renowned for their benefits for skin, including Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (Apiaceae), Calendula officinalis L. and Matricaria chamomilla L. (Asteraceae), Thymus vulgaris L. (Lamiaceae), Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers. (Lauraceae), Althaea officinalis L. (Malvaceae), Malaleuca alternifolia (Maiden y Betche) Cheel (Myrtaceae), Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf (Poaceae), Rubus idaeus L. (Rosaceae), and Citrus sinensis L. Osbeck (Rutaceae), emphasizing their potential in skincare formulations and their role in promoting health and rejuvenation.

Potential of silk proteins in cosmetics

Synthetic and inorganic chemical ingredients in cosmetic products pose serious health impacts on skin and hair. Much emphasis has been laid on the development of cost-effective, eco-friendly and user-friendly cosmetic products from time to time. Manufacturing cosmetics using natural ingredients is considered as a viable alternative to overcome the side effects of synthetics. Silk is a natural biopolymer obtained from cocoons of sericigenous insects like silkworms. It constitutes two proteins, viz., fibroin and sericin. Fibroin is the central core protein glued with sericin protein forming silken cocoons together. Both the proteins possess remarkable attributes viz, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, anti-tyrosinase activity, efficient UV resistance, kinase activity, excellent release and absorption of moisture. The silk protein attributes are advantageous for body skin, hair and nails. It possesses a wide range of cosmetic applications such as facilitation of hair growth, improvement in softening and lustre of hair, rejuvenation of body and skin cells, UVB protection, prevention of chapping and brittleness of nails, and skin brightening. Due to its low molecular weight, easily penetrates the hair strands and skin cells, binds the keratin in hair and forms a protective layer to prevent moisture loss. A wide range of products have been developed for use in cosmetics viz., SILKPRO, SILKALL, SILKPRO 1000. These products are used as natural ingredients due to their potent applications in cosmetics. The cosmetic industry can be developed by proper utilization of silk in its organic products while promoting value addition to sericulture industry.

Structured Fruit Cube Snack of BRS Vitoria Grape with Gala Apple: Phenolic Composition and Sensory Attributes

This study developed a structured fruit cube (FC) snack using only natural ingredients, specifically red grape and apple, without hydrocolloids and sucrose. After development, physicochemical characterization and analysis of phenolic compounds (PCs), including anthocyanins, flavonols, and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives, using HPLC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS, were conducted. Sensory quality was also assessed through an acceptance and sensory profile analysis using the rate-all-that-apply methodology. The results showed that the FC had physicochemical characteristics similar to other structured fruits that use hydrocolloids. Additionally, they presented a complex composition of PCs, predominantly including anthocyanins derived from malvidin (tri-substituted methoxylated anthocyanins), notably cumarylated ones. Flavonols compounds comprised the 3-glucoside series of myricetin, quercetin, laricitrin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and syringetin; the 3-galactoside series of myricetin and quercetin; and the 3-glucuronic acid series of myricetin and quercitin, along with rutin. The presence of caftaric acid, coutaric acid, fertaric acid, and p-coumaroyl-glucose was also detected, alongside caffeic acid-O-glucoside 1, caffeic acid-O-glucoside 2, chlorogenic acid, 4-O-p-coumaroylquinic acid, and dicaffeoylquinic acid. In conclusion, the selection of natural ingredients was technologically suitable for obtaining an FC. Despite using conventional drying at 60 °C, the product showed notable concentrations of PCs and also achieved great sensory acceptance.

Effects of Natural Carotenoid Source Enriched Feed on the Growth, Flesh Carotenoid, Composition, and Palatability of a Silver Barb (Barbonymus gonionotus)

Aim: The study compared the effects of different natural carotenoid-enriched feeds with a commercial carp feed on the growth, flesh carotenoid, composition, and palatability of Barbonymus gonionotus. Study Design: The study was conducted with four feeds treated as four treatments where, a commercial carp grower feed was used as control feed (CF) and three test feed were made by adding the powder of three carotenoid sources, viz., tomato (TMP), carrot (CRP), and beetroot (BRP) in the control feed at a rate of 2g/kg. Fifteen juveniles of B. gonionotus were stocked in each cage. The fish were fed with test feed twice a day at the rate of 5% (2.5% + 2.5%) of body weight and weighed fortnightly to adjust the ration size. Place and Duration of Study: The trial was conducted in twelve cages set in a pond at the Department of Fisheries, University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh, for 90 days. Methodology: At the end of the trial, the growth and feed utilization parameters, viz., weight gain (WG), specific growth rate (SGR), feed conversion ratio (FCR), and protein efficiency ratio (PER), flesh carotenoid and composition, and palatability indicators of the fish were evaluated according to standard formulae, spectrophotometry, AOAC, and organoleptic sensory technique, respectively. Results: The higher WG (193.89±12.31 g) and SGR (1.41±0.08 %), better FCR (1.59±0.16) and PER (3.07±0.31), and higher carotenoids content (4.31±0.29 mg/g) were found in the fish fed with carrot-enriched feed, followed by the fish fed with tomato-enriched feed (WG: 174.86±11.50 g, SGR: 1.33±0.01 %, FCR: 1.74±0.04, PER: 2.78±0.06 and Carotenoids: 1.59±0.09 mg/g) and the beetroot-enriched feed (WG: 168.56±12.87 g, SGR: 1.30±0.08 %, FCR: 1.84±0.19, PER: 2.66±0.28 and carotenoids: 1.44±0.40 mg/g) when compared to the control fish. No significant difference in the flesh composition was found among the treatments. A significantly higher organoleptic sensory score (25.54±0.57) was recorded in the fish fed with carrot-enriched feed and lower in the control feed (19.52±0.77). Conclusion: The study concludes that 2g/kg carrot powder supplementation in feed is better for enhancing the growth, carotenoid deposition, and palatability of B. gonionotus.

Trade-Off Between Growth Regimes in Chlorella vulgaris: Impact on Carotenoid Production

With the increasing awareness of socio-environmental issues, a global trend has emerged emphasizing the valorization of natural ingredients that promote health and well-being within sustainable production systems, such as microalgae-based carotenoids. Currently, little is understood about the correlation between biomass productivity and carotenoid content, which is a fundamental parameter for facilitating the immediate expansion of microalgae bioprocesses and ensuring the availability and industrial viability of these compounds. In this context, this study aims to investigate the carotenoid profile of Chlorella vulgaris through growth curve experiments conducted under photoautotrophic and heterotrophic regimes. Additionally, a trade-off analysis was performed for the production of carotenoids from microalgae. Carotenoids were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array and mass spectrometry detectors (HPLC-PDA-MS/MS). The performance of kinetic phases and energy demands across growth regimes was assessed to provide insights into production trade-offs. The results indicated that a total of 22 different carotenoids were identified in all the extracts. The all-trans-lutein and all-trans-β-carotene were the majority compounds. The total carotenoid content of Chlorella vulgaris revealed significant differences in the kinetic phases of carotenoid production, indicating that carotenoid volumetric production is only viable if the cultures are conducted until the log and stationary phases, based on the function of the biomass volumetric production (weight.volume−1). Therefore, the best trade-off for the process was to provide photoautotrophic growth until the exponential phase (log). Under this condition, the maximum carotenoid and lutein content was 2921.70 µg.L−1, reaching a maximum cell biomass of 1.46 g.L−1. From an environmental/economic point of view, the energy demand was 7.74 kWh.L−1. Finally, the scientific advances achieved in this study provide a holistic view of the influence of the main cultivation methods on the production of microalgae carotenoids, suggesting a viable initial direction for different industrial applications.

A Novel Delivery System for the Combined Use of Natural Ingredients: The Preparation of Berberine Hydrochloride–Matrine Liposomes and Preliminary Exploration of Their Anti-Tumor Activity

Berberine hydrochloride (BH) extracted from Coptis chinensis (CC) and Matrine (MT) separated from Sophora flavescens (SF) are alkaloids with potent anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-tumor effects. Motivated by the clinical practice of using CC and SF together, we aimed to demonstrate that the synergistic application of the natural compounds BH and MT could enhance therapeutic effects and minimize side effects. Two types of liposomes, liposomes containing only BH (BH-LP) and liposomes containing both BH and MT (BH-MT-LP), were successfully prepared via the reverse evaporation method. The liposome preparation process was optimized by single-factor screening and the Box–Behnken experimental design method. The results showed that the liposomes had particle sizes in the range of 222.7 to 235.4 nm, polydispersity indicated in the range of 11.8% to 23.3%, and zeta potentials in the range of −35.9 to −31.1 mv. BH-MT-LP showed superior anti-tumor activity against MDA-MB-231, HepG-2, and HGC-27 cells in vitro. The incorporation of MT effectively promoted the anti-tumor effect of BH, while the controlled release from liposomes further enhanced the therapeutic efficacy of BH. Furthermore, based on the flow cytometry results, we speculated that BH-MT-LP might promote apoptosis by blocking the G1 phase of cells and inducing cell death. In conclusion, BH-MT-LP provides evidence for the combined use of natural compounds as a stable, safe, and practical drug delivery system for the treatment of potential cancers. Meanwhile, the successful preparation for BH-MT-LP also provides a new approach to the combined use of traditional Chinese medicine ingredients.

Phytochemical composition, antioxidant activities and anti‐obesity potential of selected vegetables as affected by drying methods

AbstractObesity has reached epidemic statistics worldwide and there is an urgent need to explore more available options in addressing the condition. The potential of vegetables as natural sources of enzyme inhibitors that can regulate the progression of obesity is of great interest particularly due to possible synergistic antioxidant activities. In this study, we evaluated the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activities, and in vitro enzyme inhibition properties of selected vegetables as influenced by sun and cabinet drying methods. While a significant increase was observed in the phytochemical composition of most of the vegetables, the two drying methods had varying effects on all parameters. Cabinet drying yielded higher saponin (2.86–4.67 mg/100 g), phenolics (19.30–57.02 mg/100 g), and alkaloids (31.58–37.61 mg/100 g) contents while sun drying gave better results for flavonoids (88.13–234.15 mg/100 g). The DPPH (11.45%–29.61%) and ABTS (22.70%–35.48%) antioxidant activities varied significantly. Cabinet‐dried cabbage and sun dried carrot flours displayed the highest inhibition against alpha amylase and pancreatic lipase, respectively. A strong positive correlation was observed between phenolics and amylase inhibition and also between saponin and pancreatic lipase inhibition. Consequently, vegetable flours could serve as versatile products for the therapeutic management of obesity and related diseases.

Investigation of Algerian Crataegus monogyna Jacq Phenolic Compounds (Using LC-ESI-MS/MS Analysis, Antioxidant Activity, and Enzyme Inhibition) and Their Potential Implications for Food and Nutraceutical Applications

Investigations into the phenolic constituents of the butanolic fraction of Crataegus monogyna were optimized using LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis, identifying and quantifying at least 23 fingerprint phytochemical compounds. The major phenolic compounds were epicatechin (99.916 ± 2.208 mg/g), isoquercetrin (53.31 ± 1.172 mg/g), chlorogenic acid (47.457 ± 1.010 mg/g), quinic acid (37.819 ± 1.406 mg/g), rutin (29.98 ± 0.740 mg/g), hesperidin (5.296 ± 0.177 mg/g, detected for the first time in the C. monogyna species), astragalin (1.774 ± 0.020 mg/g), and nicotiflorin (1.482 ± 0.016 mg/g). The antioxidant properties of the lyophilized butanolic fraction were evaluated using DPPH, GOR, ABTS, CUPRAC, and reducing power assays, all of which demonstrated that there was strong activity. Additionally, the neuroprotective effect was evaluated in vitro, showing a potent inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) with an IC50 of 43.65 ± 2.10 µg/mL. The antidiabetic effect was investigated through α-amylase inhibition (IC50 = 91.19 ± 0.10 µg/mL), showing high inhibitory activity. In addition, the butanolic extract exhibited significant urease inhibition with an IC50 of 26.36 ± 0.05 µg/mL. These results suggest that Algerian C. monogyna has potential as a therapeutic agent for managing diabetes complications and as a natural source of AChE inhibitors, making it a promising subject for the treatment of urease-related conditions. Its high concentrations of natural antioxidants, such as epicatechin, isoquercetrin, chlorogenic acid, quinic acid, rutin, hesperidin, and astragalin, make it suitable for integration into medicine, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and the food sector.

Evaluating the potability of domestic water supply sources using water quality index in Kilombero district, Tanzania

ABSTRACT The decline in water quality in various bodies of water has led to significant health risks for individuals relying on these sources for drinking and domestic use. The prevalence of waterborne diseases in some areas is attributed by inadequate water quality assessments of supply sources. This study focused on evaluating the potability of domestic water sources in the Kilombero district of Tanzania, where approximately 70% of the population depends on untreated natural sources. Two models were utilized: the Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index (WAWQI) and the Canadian Council of Ministers of Environment Water Quality Index (CCME WQI), analysing 15 water quality parameters. The WAWQI identified three groundwater sources as poor quality for consumption, while indicating seasonal improvements in water quality – from 12 in the wet season to 13 in the dry season. Conversely, the CCME WQI classified all 15 sources as potable, with an increase in ‘Excellent’ ratings from 9 to 13 between seasons. The findings showed that all surface water sources were deemed potable, while 67% of groundwater sources met quality standards. The remaining 33% of boreholes were categorized as having poor quality. Overall, both models indicated better water quality during the dry season, with surface water generally exhibiting higher quality than groundwater.

The Processing of a Novel Health Beverage Based on Extracts from Green Tea and Chios Mastiha

In the present study, the processing, characterization, and assessment of novel non-alcoholic and sugar-free drinks based on bioactive extracts from valuable natural sources, such as green tea enriched with Chios mastiha, are considered. Currently, the transition towards the consumption of healthy and sustainable food and beverages promoting human health and well-being is strongly encouraged and biologically active compounds from natural resources have a broad range of ap-plications in this sector. In this context, three beverages (all non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, and sugar-free) were created, including extracts of green tea with Chios mastiha, matcha green tea with Chios mastiha and louisa green tea with Chios mastiha, and an evaluation of their biological potential was performed. Specifically, an analysis of water, extracts, and additives for the beverage production was carried out. Microbiological and nutritional value determination was also conducted in samples of the three products. According to the experimental results, the novel health beverage produced from green tea enriched with Chios Mastiha extracts was found to have improved organoleptic characteristics and was microbiologically stable and safe for a period of 180 days from the production date at 25 °C. It is also considered stable and safe for 3 days after production, even if it remains open at 25 °C. In view of a possible scale-up of this application, safety, and preservation control should continue for at least 540 days from the date of production. In conclusion, the current research findings support the development of a novel non-alcoholic sugar-free health drink based on bioactive extracts from green tea enriched with Chios mastiha, to contribute to maintaining human health and also to strengthen the economy.

A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF RECENT ADVANCEMENTS IN VIGNA RADIATA RESEARCH: INSIGHTS INTO PHYSIOLOGY, AGRONOMIC, NUTRITIONAL, AND HEALTH PERSPECTIVES

Aims: The primary aim of this research is to provide a better comparative understanding of the Physiology, Agronomic, Nutritional, and Health-modulating effects observed in the reviewed studies related to Vigna radiata consumption. The review paper typically highlights the antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects of Vigna radiata (mung bean). The fact that there exist inconsistencies and gaps in evidence against certain effects of mung bean &amp; places where further research is needed is also addressed in the review paperPlace and Duration of Study: Department of Biotechnology, Techno India University, West Bengal, India; between August 2023 and July 2024.Methodology: The paper has been prepared by conducting a comprehensive search of various mung bean-related scientific literature databases across the internet mung beans, followed by extracting relevant data from selected studies, evaluating quality assessment factors &amp; finally summarizing and synthesizing the extracted data, including the main findings related to Vigna radiata's beneficial effects.Results: The review work seems to be beneficial for reaffirming the significance of Vigna radiata as a natural source of immunity support and summarizing the key takeaways from the review.Conclusion: The mung bean (Vigna radiata) is a leguminous fodder crop which is rich in nutrients and bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, polysaccharides, and polypeptides. Studies conducted in vitro and in vivo highlight the variety of mung bean's health benefits. It portrays antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. However, it is imperative to delve deeper into the mechanisms underlying their role in preventing diseases. There are substantial knowledge gaps regarding the bioactive compounds and biological functions of mung beans. Further investigation is crucial to pinpoint additional essential components responsible for their health advantages and underscore these various components' combined effects on biological processes.

The effect of twelve weeks of high-intensity functional training and Ginkgo biloba consumption on the serum levels of some inflammatory cytokines in operational male firefighters of Yazd city

Introduction: functional exercises and consumption of the medicinal plant Ginkgo biloba, a natural source of flavonoids and polyphenolic compounds, have beneficial effects in improving the inflammatory state and physical performance of people exposed to occupational stress. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 12 weeks of high-intensity functional training and consumption of Ginkgo biloba extract on the serum levels of interleukin-8 and interleukin-1β in operational male firefighters of Yazd city. Materials and Methods: For this purpose, 48 male firefighters were randomly divided into four groups including high-intensity functional training (HIFT), high-intensity functional training with ginkgo biloba consumption, ginkgo biloba extract consumption, and control-placebo. The training was carried out for 12 weeks and 4 sessions per week. Ginkgo biloba extract (80 mg) was administered as two capsules once a day after breakfast for 12 weeks. Blood samples were taken before and 48 hours after the last training session. Data were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance with SPSS-26 software. Results: The results showed that the interaction effect of exercise and ginkgo biloba extract, as well as the effect of exercise and ginkgo biloba extract alone, caused a significant decrease in the serum levels of interleukin-8 and interleukin-1β (p&lt;0.05). The highest percentage of changes in interleukin-8 and interleukin-1β were obtained following exercise intervention along with the consumption of Ginkgo biloba extract. Conclusion: Performing high-intensity functional exercises with Ginkgo biloba extract had the greatest effect in reducing serum levels of inflammatory indicators and improving oxidative stress conditions in firefighters.

Multi-functional reinforced food packaging using delivery carriers: A comprehensive review of preparation, properties, and applications.

With the rapid development of globalization, food packaging takes on more responsibility, while guaranteeing product quality and safety. In this context, the health risks associated with chemically synthesized additives and inorganic nanoparticles have opened a new chapter in the reinforcement of food packaging with natural active ingredients. Various delivery carriers have been developed to overcome the limitations of poor stability, uneven dispersion, and low bioavailability of natural active ingredients. The combination of encapsulation technologies can increase the biocompatibility of the active ingredient with the packaging material. Moreover, the protective and slow-release effects of the carrier matrix on the active ingredients are desirable for the reinforcement of food packaging. This review presents the latest advances in the application of delivery systems in food packaging, including the types of delivery systems used in food packaging, reinforced properties of food packaging, and potential applications in the food industry. Previous scientific studies found that active ingredient-loaded delivery carriers increased the effectiveness of food packaging in preventing food spoilage. Furthermore, the integration of active packaging with smart food packaging exhibits the synergistic effects of freshness monitoring and quality preservation. This review also discusses the challenges and trends in reinforcing food packaging with delivery carriers under a synergistic strategy that will provide new ideas and insights for the development and application of innovative food packaging.