Optimal Extraction Conditions Research Articles

Natural deep eutectic solvents for efficient recovery of bioactive compounds from by-product of industrial hemp processing: Pretreatment, modeling and optimization

Hempseed hull, an underutilized by-product of the hemp processing industry, is a valuable bio-based material. This study aims to optimize phenolic compound extraction by natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) with enhanced antioxidant properties (DPPH, FRAP, ABTS). By utilizing a chemometric approach, the research was conducted in three stages: selecting high-extractability NADES, identifying crucial extraction variables via screening, and optimizing conditions using response surface methodology (RSM). Fractional factorial experimental design was employed to identify the important variables, while a face-centered central composite experimental design (CCD) was utilized in combination with response surface methodology (RSM) to determine the optimal extraction conditions. The optimal conditions were found using NADES based on L-proline and lactic acid (1:2 ratio) at 39°C for the liquid-solid ratio, 70°C for temperature, and 135 minutes for extraction time. By optimizing extraction conditions this study contributes to advancing our understanding of hempseed hulls' biochemical composition and its potential as bio-based material.

Extraction of polyphenols from Apocynum venetum leaves using customized deep eutectic solvents: Process optimization and antioxidant evaluation

To encourage the commercial utilization of A. venetum polyphenols as bio-colorant on textile, five different combinations of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) were evaluated using a single-factor approach and the extraction of polyphenols from A. venetum leaves by ultrasound-assisted DESs was optimized. At the same time, the antioxidant activity of polyphenols prepared were investigated. The DESs composed of choline chloride and glycerol with a molar ratio of 1:2 and a water content of 20 % showed higher extraction performance than other DESs and traditional solvents (water, 60 % ethanol and 60 % methanol). With the most effective solvent the maximum yield 8.24 % of polyphenols was obtained under the optimal extraction conditions were as follows: the ratio of liquid volume (mL) to solid mass (g) is 49:1, extraction temperature of 77 ℃, and extraction time of 55 min. In addition, the polyphenols that have been separated and purified from the DESs extract exhibited antioxidant activities in three kinds of assays including 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl stable free radical (DPPH), 2,2’-azino-bis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic) acid free radicals (ABTS) and hydroxyl radical (•OH) scavenging activity. Therefore, this paper demonstrates that DESs are effective and environmentally friendly solvents extraction of antioxidant polyphenols pigments from the leaves of A. venetum.

Optimization and evaluation of biologically active compound with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties from peony seed meal

Peony seed meal is produced annually on a large scale in China, resulting in considerable solid residue. Unfortunately, most of this residue is discarded, thereby creating environmental pressure. However, the untapped medicinal value of peony seed meal prompted us to establish an efficient methodology for optimizing the extraction and purification of total alkaloid, followed by a detailed analysis of its biological activities. A single-factor experiment and an orthogonal test were used to identify the optimal extraction parameters. Then, further optimization was performed using the response surface methodology. The extract was enriched using D-101 macroporous adsorption resin. Subsequently, silica gel column chromatography was used for separation, and high-performance liquid chromatography was used for further separation and quantification. Meanwhile, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) was used to identify alkaloid components. Finally, the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory were evaluated. The optimal extraction conditions substantially improved the yield of alkaloids. A total of 15 alkaloids were separated. GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of Sophoridine, which accounted for 91.88 % of the total alkaloid content. The antibacterial activity of the total alkaloid was tested, and the lowest inhibitory concentrations of E. coli ATCC 25922 and S. aureus ATCC 29213 were 0.04516 and 0.05645 mg/mL, respectively. Additionally, total alkaloid had an inhibitory effect on ear swelling induced by xylene and toe swelling induced by egg white, reducing by 80 % and 24 %, respectively. The current research discovered the antibacterial activity of PSM alkaloid, which has important practical significance for the research and development of new plant-derived antibacterial agents.

Fabrication of a 3D Printer Filamnet Extruder

3D printing, an additive manufacturing process, transforms digital designs into physical objects by layering material. This mechanization adds consecutive layers to build up the complete entity, resulting in a 3D object. It develops objects progressively to formulate the preferred look. Filaments are the main component in a die cast model (FDM) 3D printer, these are thermoplastic substances that are injected through a hot die to form the object. These filaments are available in different types such as PLA, ABS, PETG, HDPE each of which has specific characteristics that offer different applications and material options in 3D printing. This paper depicts about fabricating and developing a design of a 3D filament extruder that can produce 1.75 mm diameter filaments from recycled HDPE material. The extruder consists of a motor, a speed controller, a cylinder, a hopper, band heaters, a thermocouple, a temperature controller, a fan, a nozzle and a winder. This system works in the correct temperature range of 350-370 degrees Celsius for melting thermoplastic materials (recycled HDPE). Extruder function is to feed the material from the nozzle into the hot cylinder. A motor screw pushes the metal into the nozzle, where it becomes the filament. This filament is then injected onto a substrate for later use in 3D printing. The temperature is determined using thermocouples and a temperature controller, which ensures optimal extraction conditions. A fan is designed to quickly cool the removed filament. The objective of this research is to create an economical as well as efficient filament to produce high quality filaments. Extruder performance is evaluated based on filament diameter consistency, material penetration and energy efficiency.

The Testing Results of ACORGA, LIX Extractants and CR60 Crud Mitigation Reagent Influence during SX-EW Copper Extraction

Research analysis reveals factors influencing third-phase crud formation and composition during metal extraction, including solution composition, solid suspensions, organic compounds, colloidal compounds (e.g., silicic acid), and extractant purity. Compositional analysis of copper-containing sulfuric acid solutions (1.25 g/dm3 copper) identifies principal sulfate-forming components. Copper extraction was studied using extractants LIX 984N, ACORGA M5774, and M5640 at different ratios of the organic phase to the aqueous O:A (from 1:2 to 1:10). Suppressive impact of 10 vol.% CR60 additive on third-phase crud formation during copper extraction with LIX 984N, ACORGA M5774, and M5640 is analyzed, with ACORGA M5774 being the most effective. Physicochemical analysis characterizes CR60’s active substance as poly(sodium 4-styrenesulfonate) with steel-suppression properties, and its structural formula is determined. Optimal copper extraction conditions establish ACORGA M5640’s 24% efficiency, followed by ACORGA M5774 at 15%. CR60 reduces crud formation, with 5 cm3 of ACORGA CR60 added to sulfuric acid solution reducing interfacial crud formation by 2–3 times. Optimal extraction parameters include 1:2 O:A ratio, 20 ± 5 °C temperature, 5 cm3 CR60 additive, 5 min process duration, and 1-day settling time. ACORGA M5774 (10 vol.% in kerosene) is recommended as an extractant, with 2–3 stages of countercurrent extraction.

Optimizing the Extraction of Bioactive Compounds (Polyphenols, Lipids, and Alpha-Tocopherol) from Almond Okara to Unlock Its Potential as Functional Food.

Almond okara, a by-product of almond milk production, is rich in bioactive components, such as polyphenols, lipids, and alpha-tocopherol, making it a valuable functional food ingredient. This work aimed to investigate its composition while exploring two main aspects: (i) the impact of extraction time, solid-to-solvent ratio, ethanol concentration, and temperature on polyphenol recovery, and (ii) the quantification of okara's triglycerides (TG) and alpha-tocopherol contents. The polyphenols' optimal extraction conditions were 90 min, a 1:30 solid-to-solvent ratio (w/v), 50% ethanol, and 60 °C. These conditions achieved a total polyphenol yield of 523 mg GAE, tannin yield of 340 mg GAE, total flavonoid yield of 548 mg CE, and a total antioxidant capacity of 779 mg AAE per 100 g dry okara. The Peleg model effectively described the extraction kinetics. Additionally, TG levels, quantified by UHE/LPSFC-APCI-MS, in okara were comparable to those in almonds, and alpha-tocopherol levels, quantified by LC-UV, were 14,400 µg/100 g in almonds and 15,600 µg/100 g in okara. These findings highlight the potential of okara as a valuable resource, with a straightforward, scalable, and cost-effective solid-liquid extraction (SLE) method for polyphenols and a supercritical fluid extraction method for TG, for use in the functional food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries.

Research on the Cell Wall Breaking and Subcritical Extraction of Astaxanthin from Phaffia rhodozyma.

This study focused on developing an effective cell wall-breaking method for Phaffia rhodozyma, followed by utilizing subcritical fluid extraction to isolate, extract, and concentrate astaxanthin from the complex fermentation products of P. rhodozyma. A comprehensive comparison of seven distinct methods for disrupting cell walls, including dimethyl sulfoxide treatment, lactic acid treatment, sodium hydroxide treatment, β-glucanase enzymatic digestion, β-mannanase enzymatic digestion, and a combined enzymatic treatment involving both β-mannanase and β-glucanase was conducted. The results identified the lactic acid method as the most effective in disrupting the cell walls of P. rhodozyma. The software, Design Expert, was used in the process of extracting astaxanthin from cell lysates using a subcritical extraction method. Through fitting analysis and response surface optimization analysis by Design Expert, the optimal extraction conditions were determined as follows: an extraction temperature of 41 °C, extraction frequency of two times, and extraction time of 46 min. These parameters facilitated the efficient extraction, concentration, and enrichment of astaxanthin from P. rhodozyma, resulting in an astaxanthin concentration of 540.00 mg/L. This result can establish the foundation for its high-value applications.

Ultrasound-assisted extraction of withanolides from Tubocapsicum anomalum: Process optimization, isolation and identification, and antiproliferative activity

Tubocapsicum anomalum, a Chinese medicinal plant rich in anti-tumor withanolides, requires efficient extraction methods. In this paper, an HPLC method was first established for the detection of withanolides, and gradient elution was carried out using a methanol–water solvent system. It was found that the content of withanolides was the highest in the leaves of T. anomalum, followed by the stems and fruits, and almost none in the roots. During the actual picking process, the quantity of leaves collected was relatively small, while the number of stems was the highest. Therefore, the Box-Behnken response surface method was used to optimize the ultrasonic-assisted extraction process of withanolides from the stems of T. anomalum. The optimal extraction conditions were determined as follows: the liquid–solid ratio was 20:1, the extraction solvent was 70 % ethanol, the ultrasonic power was 250 W, the ultrasonic time was 40 min, and the ultrasonic temperature was 50 °C. Under these conditions, the average yields of tubocapsenolide A (Te-A) and tubocapsanolide A (Ta-A) can reach 2.87 ± 0.12 mg/g and 1.18 ± 0.05 mg/g, respectively. We further compared extraction rates of two withanolides from different parts of T. anomalum using ultrasonic and traditional extraction methods. Ultrasonic extraction significantly increased rates, with the highest yields from leaves, followed by stems and fruits. The results show that ultrasonic optimization can improve extraction rate, reduce time, lower costs, enhance quality, and increase yield. Therefore, the optimized ultrasonic-assisted extraction process was adopted to extract the aerial parts of T. anomalum and separate the components. After optimization, the extract underwent several chromatographic separations to isolate eight previously undescribed withanolides (1–8) and two artificial withanolides (9–10), in addition to fifteen known compounds (11–25). Their structures were established through extensive spectroscopic data analysis. The compounds were evaluated for their antiproliferative effects against multiple cancer cell lines, including human hepatocellular carcinoma cells (HepG2, Hep3B, and MHCC97-H), human lung cancer cells (A549), human fibro-sarcoma cancer cells (HT1080), human chronic myeloid leukemia cells (K562), and human breast cancer cells (MDA-MB-231 and MCF7). Compounds 1–3, 5, 7, 11, 13, 15–16, and 22 displayed significant activity with IC50 values of 5.14–19.87 μM. The above results indicate that ultrasonic-assisted extraction technology can be used to obtain new withanolides more efficiently from T. anomalum, thereby enhancing the utilization rate of T. anomalum resources.

Theoretical exploration and experimental investigation of acidic deep eutectic solvents as green solvents to separate carbazole from model crude anthracene oil

Carbazole is a highly value-added compound derived from crude anthracene. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) have been extensively used as promising green solvents for the separation of target compounds from mixture. In this work, 135 acidic DESs, formed by combining 9 quaternary ammonium salts with 15 common acids, were screened based on the conductor-like screening model for real solvents (COSMO-RS) model. The four top-ranked DESs, including tetraethylammonium chloride (TEAC)/2 acetic acid (AA), TEAC/2 propionic acid (PA), tetrapropylammonium chloride (TPAC)/2AA, and TPAC/2PA were identified as suitable extractants for carbazole separation based on their performance index (PI). Among them, TEAC/2AA had the best separation performance for carbazole due to its highest PI value (1448.19). Liquid–liquid extraction experiments were performed, and the results were in good accordance with those predicted by COSMO-RS calculations. Therefore, TEAC/2AA was determined as the most promising DES for the carbazole separation. The extraction conditions of TEAC/2AA were optimized. The extraction efficiency (EE) and selectivity (SE) of carbazole were 97.67 % and 66.64 %, respectively, under the optimal extraction conditions (25 ℃, 5 min of extraction time, DES-oil mass ratio of 1:5, initial carbazole concentration of 5000 ppm). Additionally, the deionized water was employed to regenerate the DES and recovery of carbazole. The recycling performance of promising DES was also investigated. Finally, quantum chemical calculations and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) analysis were conducted to explore the separation mechanism. The results indicated that the separation of carbazole by DESs were predominantly dominated by hydrogen bonds and van der Waals interaction. This work provided a valuable reference for the selection and design of DES extractants to separate other high value-added components from mixture.

Flexible and designable metal–organic framework-based electrospun nanofibrous for highly sensitive recognition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in water samples

In this study, a novel functionalized electrospun nanofibrous material was developed through a straightforward and robust approach that combines polydopamine (PDA) mediation and hydrothermal growth. This material was utilized as a SPME probe for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) analysis. Under optimal extraction conditions, the proposed method exhibited higher enrichment factors (1362–4563) and lower detection limits (0.003–0.35 ng mL−1), with relative standard deviations (RSDs) below 6.7 %. Applied to water samples, the stability and reproducibility of the nanofibrous have been validated with the intra- and inter-assay RSD in 2.3–9.8 % and 1.5–9.9 %, respectively. Acceptable recoveries of 87.1–109.2 % were achieved. Furthermore, the developed SPME-GC method was successfully applied to the analysis of PAHs in water samples.

The Effect of the Extraction Conditions on the Antioxidant Activity and Bioactive Compounds Content in Ethanolic Extracts of Scutellaria baicalensis Root.

Ethanolic extracts of Baikal skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) root were obtained using various techniques, such as maceration, maceration with shaking, ultrasound-assisted extraction, reflux extraction, and Soxhlet extraction. The influence of the type and time of isolation technique on the extraction process was studied, and the quality of the obtained extracts was determined by spectrophotometric and chromatographic methods to find the optimal extraction conditions. Radical scavenging activity of the extracts was analyzed using DPPH assay, while total phenolic content (TPC) was analyzed by the method with the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Application of gas chromatography with mass selective detector (GC-MS) enabled the identification of some bioactive substances and a comparison of the composition of the particular extracts. The Baikal skullcap root extracts characterized by both the highest antioxidant activity and content of phenolic compounds were obtained in 2 h of reflux and Soxhlet extraction. The main biologically active compounds identified in extracts by the GC-MS method were wogonin and oroxylin A, known for their broad spectrum of biological effects, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticancer, and others.

Investigating the potential of aqueous enzymatic extraction of safflower (Carthamus tinctorius L.) seed oil: Process optimization and oil characterization

Safflower seed oil was extracted by aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE) with a combination of three enzymes: hemicellulase, pectinase, and protease. A Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was performed to optimize the operating conditions: Temperature, pH, and incubation time. Analysis of variance allowed studying the variables' linear, quadratic, and interaction effects. The optimized extraction conditions resulted in 85% oil recovery referring to the conventional Soxhlet extraction (SE). Subsequently, a comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate the quality and composition of oils obtained by SE and AEE. The results revealed that the two oils had similar values of peroxide index, conjugated dienes and trienes, and fatty acid composition. AEE-oil had a lighter yellow color (L* = 31.8 Vs. 24.7) and was richer in polyphenols (147 Vs. 101 mg GAE/Kg of oil), but it was more acidic (2.75% Vs. 1.56% linoleic acid) and less stable (2.86h Vs. 5.66h induction time) with less tocopherol (302 Vs. 409 mg/kg oil) and carotenoid content (0.42 Vs. 0.57 mg/kg oil) than SE-oil. Our findings demonstrated that RSM-based optimization is an efficient and time-saving approach, which significantly improved oil extraction. Finally, we suggested several solutions to further improve the quality and quantity of the obtained AEE-safflower seed oil, paving the path for other future research possibilities.

Extraction optimisation and characterisation of Artocarpus integer peel pectin by malonic acid-based deep eutectic solvents using response surface methodology

Traditional pectin extraction methods involve strong acids, which are environmentally harmful. This study explores an innovative approach using Malonic Acid (MA)-based Deep Eutectic Solvents (DES) to extract pectin from Artocarpus integer Peel (AIPP), optimised through Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The extracted AIPP-A and AIPP-B from ChCl-MA and ChDHCit-MA DES, respectively, were characterised for yield, pH, solubility, Degree of Esterification (DE), Water and Oil Holding Capacity (WHC and OHC). The experimental values aligned with RSM model predictions, with low standard deviations: 0.7300 for ChCl-MA and 0.1531 for ChDHCit-MA. Optimal extraction conditions for AIPP-A were 3.27 % ChCl-MA, 1.28 h extraction time, 50.44 °C temperature, and a 1:40 g/mL solid-to-liquid ratio. For AIPP-B, the conditions were 4.95 % ChDHCit-MA, 2.04 h extraction time, 79.65 °C temperature, and a 1:50 g/mL solid-to-liquid ratio. ChCl-MA yielded 30.97 % AIPP, which was higher than that of ChDHCit-MA (27.99 %). Both AIPP demonstrated desirable properties such as low pH, high solubility, and significant DE. AIPP-A exhibited a greater DE (58.40 %) compared to AIPP-B (32.4 %) contributed to its lower WHC and higher OHC. In conclusion, RSM-based optimisation of AIPP extraction with DES is effective in producing pectin that is suitable for use as a gelling agent, preservative, and stabiliser in the food industry.

Extraction, Characterisation and Utilisation of Bioactive Compounds from Date Fruit

Date fruit (Phoenix dactylifera L.), known for its rich bioactive compounds, was the focus of this study, which aimed to optimize microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) methods for isolating these compounds and developing fortified milk with added date syrup. The research evaluated total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) under varying microwave frequencies, extraction times, and plant-to-solvent ratios. Date fruits were procured, cleaned, processed into powder, and subjected to various MAE conditions, with standard spectrophotometric methods used to quantify TPC and TFC. Optimal extraction conditions for maximum TPC (37±1.1 mg GAE/g) and TFC (460±0.6 mg QE/g) were identified at a microwave frequency of 720 W, an extraction time of 5 minutes, and a plant-to-solvent ratio of 1:15, highlighting the significant influence of microwave power and extraction time on phenolic and flavonoid contents. Furthermore, the research explored the nutritional enhancement of milk through fortification with date syrup, assessing the fortified milk for total soluble solids (TSS), pH, TPC, and TFC, which demonstrated an improved nutritional profile. This research provides valuable insights into the MAE of date fruits and the potential of date syrup in developing functional food products, guiding future studies and industrial applications aimed at enhancing the nutritional and functional properties of food products.

Optimization and extraction of annatto pigments obtained from Bixa orellana L. using supercritical fluid extraction

Traditionally, various techniques like water, vegetable oil, and solvent extraction are used to extract annatto pigments, a natural coloring agent derived from the Bixa orellana L. shrub. These traditional extraction methods can be time consuming and yield minimal pigment concentrations. This study explores an innovative approach to extract the maximum pigments from the annatto seed using supercritical fluid extraction (SFE). Fresh, extracted aqueous, and peeled samples of annatto powder were used at different temperatures (40, 45, and 50 °C) using different solvents of ethanol, methanol, and ethyl acetate with 99 % purity. The optimal extraction condition in supercritical fluid extraction is obtained with an aqueous sample treated with methanol solvent at 45 °C that yields 4.62 % norbixin, 2.49 % bixin, and a hue angle of 24.85⁰, achieving a high desirability value (0.949). Response surface method (RSM) was used to optimize the extraction procedure to obtain a higher yield of annatto pigments. In addition, for optimized conditions, the total phenols and antioxidants assay yielded 3.8 mg GAE/g and 51 % inhibition. HPLC analysis confirmed norbixin in the extracts obtained with a retention time of 38.40 min. This method offers a significant boost in pigment extraction efficiency, but also minimizes processing time. These combined advantages position it as a potentially superior approach for producing annatto pigments with enhanced concentration and purity.

Combined pulsed electric field-ultrasound assisted extraction of yarrow phenolic-rich ingredients and their nanoliposomal encapsulation for improving the oxidative stability of sesame oil

In this research, yarrow phenolic-rich extract was produced using pulsed electric field (PEF)-ultrasound assisted technology. The highest extraction efficiency (5.99 %) was obtained at 6.25 kV/cm of PEF and the sonication time of 60 min. As the PEF intensity and sonication time rose, the total phenolic content (TPC) and ferric-reducing power (RP) of the extracts increased. The PEF intensity of 2.70 kV/cm and sonication time of 45.83 min were the optimum extraction conditions resulting in the highest extraction efficiency, TPC, and RP. Then, this optimum extract was loaded into nanoliposomes. At higher extract levels, the encapsulation efficiency lowered, while the particle size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential of the nanoliposomal samples elevated. The results of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) confirmed the successful encapsulation of yarrow extract into nanoliposomal carriers; the sample containing the extract had the highest enthalpy (3600 J/g) and nanoliposomes loaded with yarrow antioxidant extract (0.11 mL/mg) was the optimum sample. Finally, the sesame oil containing 500 ppm free and nanoliposome extract, as well as the sample with 200 ppm BHT were evaluated for oxidative stability. The highest oxidation stability (14.21 h) belonged to the oil containing nanoliposomal yarrow phenolic extract.

The potential of mango, papaya, and melon seed dietary fibre extracts for functional food

Fruit seeds were previously discarded as waste, which could lead to an environmental burden. In this research, dietary fibre (DF) was extracted from mango, papaya, and honeydew seeds, and the optimum extraction conditions were determined. Analyses revealed that all DF extracts exhibit low moisture, fat, ash, and protein contents and present high amounts of total sugar, starch, and total DF. Mango seed DF extract produced the highest amounts of starch (28.68 g/100 g dry extract) and total sugar (41.77 g/100 g dry extract) whilst honeydew seed dietary fibre extract (HSDFE) revealed the highest total DF content (81.96 g/100 g dry extract). A great difference in the ratio of insoluble DF to soluble DF contents was found in papaya seed DF extract and HSDFE. Besides slightly acidic and low bulk density, all DF extracts were yellowish and showed high waterholding (WHC), water swelling (WSC), and oil-holding capacities (OHC). Results indicated all three DF extracts have good physicochemical and functional properties. However, honeydew seed had the best potential functional food due to its low-fat content and bulk density, high insoluble DF and total DF content, nearly neutral pH, and excellent WSC, OHC, emulsion ability (EA), and emulsion stability (ES).

A Sustainable Approach to Valuable Polyphenol and Iridoid Antioxidants from Medicinal Plant By-Products.

Supply chain waste gives rise to significant challenges in terms of disposal, making upcycling a promising and sustainable alternative for the recovery of bioactive compounds from by-products. Lignocellulosic by-products like STF231, which are derived from the medicinal plant extract industry, offer valuable compounds such as polyphenols and iridoids that can be recovered through upcycling. In an unprecedented study, we explored and compared conventional hydroethanolic extraction, ultrasound hydroethanolic extraction, and natural deep eutectic solvents-ultrasound extraction methods on STF231 to obtain extracts with antioxidant activity. The extraction profile of total polyphenols (TPCs) was measured using the Folin-Ciocalteu test and the antioxidant capacity of the extracts was tested with FRAP and DPPH assays. HPLC-UV was employed to quantify the phenolic and iridoid markers in the extracts. Additionally, the sustainability profile of the process was assessed using the green analytical procedure index (GAPI), AGREEprep, and analytical GREEnness metric approach (AGREE) frameworks. Our findings indicate that a choline chloride and lactic acid mixture at a 1:5 ratio, under optimal extraction conditions, resulted in extracts with higher TPC and similar antioxidant activity compared with conventional hydroethanolic extracts. The innovative aspect of this study lies in the potential application of sustainable upcycling protocols to a previously unexamined matrix, resulting in extracts with potential health applications.

Polysaccharides from Hericium erinaceus and its immunomodulatory effects on RAW 264.7 macrophages

This study aimed to optimize the extraction of Hericium erinaceus polysaccharides (HEP) using ultrasound-assisted enzymatic extraction combined with Plackett-Burman design (PBD) and response surface methodology (RSM). The optimal extraction conditions were identified as: 33 min extraction time, 30:1 liquid to material ratio, 38 °C extraction temperature, 9 g/kg cellulase amount, pH 4, and 20 % ethanol concentration. Under these conditions, the extraction yield of HEP was 5.87 ± 0.16 %, consistent with the predicted results. Additionally, the potential immunomodulatory activity of HEP on RAW 264.7 macrophage was evaluated. The results revealed that HEP improved the immunostimulatory activity of RAW264.7 cells, evident from increased production of IL-6 and TNF-α. These findings suggest that HEP is capable of enhancing the immune activity of RAW 264.7 macrophage.

Investigation of the Effects of Energy-Efficient Drying Techniques and Extraction Methods on the Bioactive and Functional Activity of Banana Inflorescence

Plant-derived foods with therapeutic potential have strong connection with both the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries. The effectiveness of these therapeutic properties is heavily influenced by the thermal treatment during drying and extraction methods. Traditional convective drying is a very energy incentive and lengthy process. Although some advanced and hybrid drying methods have been developed, these have not been applied in drying of banana inflorescence. In this study, we investigated the effects of freeze-drying (FD) and intermittent microwave convective drying (IMCD), as well as traditional convective oven drying (CD), on the polyphenol profile of banana inflorescence when extracted using the energy-efficient Accelerated Solvent Extraction method (ASE). Our findings revealed that the freeze-dried banana inflorescence powder exhibited the highest extraction of bioactive compounds when using 75% methanol at 100 °C as a solvent. It recovered 2906.3 ± 20.83 mg/100 g of the phenolic compounds and 63.12 ± 0.25% antioxidant activity under the optimal extraction conditions. While IMCD was found to be the second-best drying method in terms of preserving bioactive compounds, its operational time and cost were significantly lower compared to freeze-drying. Furthermore, our study confirmed the presence of medicinal compounds such as gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, caffeic acid, coumaric acid, catechin, ferulic acid, kaempferol, and quercetin in banana inflorescence. The development of innovative functional foods and pharmaceutical ingredients through green extraction methods and optimal drying conditions holds significant potential to save energy in the process, enhance human health, and promote environmental sustainability and circular economy processes. These efforts align with supporting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 and 12.