Total Antioxidant Power Research Articles

Impact of MaNu dietary counselling on Oxidative Stress and Gestational Weight Gain during pregnancy

Abstract According to the WHO guidelines, to counteract the excessive weight gain during pregnancy and to mitigate the increase in oxidative stress (OS) which naturally increases during pregnancy, a healthy lifestyle and a correct diet are crucial as preventive measures to promote health. The MaNu project was conceived precisely to control these factors through dietary counselling. We expect that pregnant women who voluntarily undergo an educational program consisting of specific and accurate dietary advice will be able to emphasize weight control and contain the increase in OS. Our randomized controlled trial (RCT) has a parallel group design and takes place in the Obstetrics and Clinical Nutrition Departments of Michele and Pietro Ferrero Hospital (Verduno, north-western Italy), where physiological pregnant women are enrolled between 12-17 gestational weeks (GWs). The educational intervention takes place between 12-24 GWs. Dietary habits were collected with a questionnaire and urine samples were analysed to quantify the OS using 15-F2t-isoprostane, malondialdehyde and total antioxidant power. The descriptive analyses are based on paired t-tests. Preliminary analyses on 76 women who completed two out of three time points (T0 and T1) indicate that, of women who received the intervention, 35% experienced excessive weight gain (based on guidelines), compared to 39% shown by controls. Following the counselling, the 15-F2t-isoprostane decreased significantly (mean T0=5.1 ng/ml vs. mean T1=3.5 ng/ml, p = 0.02). Concerning nutrient intake, a statistically significant reduction in sugar consumption has been found in the intervention group (mean T0=92.2 g vs. mean T1=83.3 g, p = 0.03). Conversely, no correlations have been detected between OS and the main pro and anti-oxidant macronutrients. Although promising, our findings need further verification since the RCT is still ongoing, and it is imperative to attain the anticipated sample size before drawing any definitive conclusions. Key messages • Dietary counselling during pregnancy should be implemented as a preventive strategy used to counteract potential pregnancy complications and ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. • Healthy diet is essential to control the increase in oxidative stress levels during pregnancy and to prevent excessive weight gain, factors that can lead to the onset of pregnancy complications.

Unlocking the potential of biostimulants in sustainable agriculture: Effect of wood distillate on the nutritional profiling of apples

In this work, we report the investigation of the effect of exposure of apple trees to the bioeffector wood distillate (WD), a plant biostimulant used for improving the nutritional profiling of crop plants. We measured the effect by evaluating the biochemical and nutritional profile of both pulps and skin of fruits. WD (0.2 %, v/v) was applied once a week by foliar application, from May 2023 until September 2023. The results indicate that the WD-treated apples have a significant increase in several analyzed parameters (i.e., phenols, flavonoids, tannins, total antioxidant power, sugars, pectin, free amino acids, and mineral element content), especially in the pulp. These data were also confirmed by NMR and LC-ESI-MS techniques. This study pointed out that WD could be a handy tool for the cultivation of fruit trees.

Biochar-mediated bioremediation: a sustainable strategy to increase Avena sativa L. tolerance to crude oil soil contamination

The present work investigated the effects of different doses of biochar (2.5%, 5%, 10%), a by-product of the pyrolysis of woody biomass, on the growth of oat plants (Avena sativa L., cv “Danko”) grown under different crude oil concentrations (0.5%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 6%) added to the soil, evaluating both biometric (i.e. fresh weight) and biochemical (i.e., content of malondialdehyde and proline, and total antioxidant power) parameters. The findings indicate that biochar positively influences the fresh weight of oat plants across all concentrations of crude oil investigated. On the other hand, regarding oxidative stress, measured by malondialdehyde and proline content, biochar led to a significant reduction, with statistical significance observed at biochar concentrations > 2.5% and crude oil levels > 2% (malondialdehyde: ranging from -25% to -38%; proline ranging from -33% to -52%). Soil amendment with biochar increased the total antioxidant power, particularly at biochar concentrations > 2.5% and crude oil levels > 2% (ranging from + 20% to + 98%). These results suggest that biochar has a great potential in mitigating the negative effects of crude oil contamination on plant growth and oxidative stress levels, thereby highlighting its value as a conditioner in contaminated soils.

Gastroprotective Effect of Abelmoschus esculentus (Ex-Maradi Okra Fruit Variety) Against Ethanol-Induced Ulcers in Rats

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt The study evaluates the gastroprotective properties of the Ex-Maradi variety of Abelmoschus esculentus (okra) against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage in Wister rats, specifically comparing fresh okra mucilage (FOM) and dried okra powder (DOP). The significant ulcer inhibition and antioxidant effects of DOP, particularly at a 500 mg/kg dosage, indicate its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for peptic ulcer disease. The research highlights the potential for developing green anti-ulcer formulations derived from okra, expanding the scope of nutraceutical applications for this commonly consumed vegetable. Full Abstract Peptic ulcer disease, a notable gastrointestinal disorder, results from an imbalance between gastric acid secretion and the factors maintaining gastric mucosal integrity. Abelmoschus esculentus, commonly known for its mucilaginous and nutraceutical properties, also exhibits an antacid effect. This research aimed to examine the antacid properties of fresh okra fruit mucilage (FOM) and dried okra fruit powder (DOP) of the Ex-Maradi okra fruit variety against ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage in Wister rats. Rats were randomly assigned to seven groups consisting of six rats each. Rats in the FOM and that of the DOP group were pretreated orally with 250 and 500 mg/kg body weight of the FOM and DOP, respectively; the drug control (DC) group was pretreated orally with 20 mg/kg body weight of Cimetidine while the normal control (NC) group and the ulcer control (UC) group were pretreated orally with normal saline (2 mL/kg body weight). All the treatments were done for seven days before the induction of the ulcer. Ulcer index (UI), percentage inhibition (PI), gastric volume, gastric pH, total acidity, and total antioxidant power (TAP) were evaluated to assess the gastro-protective effect of the FOM and DOP in the rats. Both FOM and DOP groups demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) protection with a low ulcer index (2.41 ± 0.12) and high ulcer inhibition (75.6 %) against the damaging effect of ethanol on the gastric mucosa of the animals. Additionally, DOP also exhibited a strong antioxidant effect with a good percentage inhibition value (56.53 ± 2.1%) compared to the ulcer control group. These results were further supported by the histopathological findings from the rats’ stomachs. In conclusion, the Ex-Maradi okra fruit, especially the DOP500, demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) gastro-protective effects and maintained a relatively intact and continuous epithelial surface of the rats’ stomachs. Overall, its gastroprotective effects may be possibly mediated by its potential to modulate the antioxidant system and gastric acid levels. Hence, the dried okra fruit could be suitable for the development of green anti-ulcer formulations.

Nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, and pharmacological activities of tossa jute sprout (Corchorus olitorius L.): A potential functional food

This study investigated the food properties, phytochemical profiles, and pharmacological activities of tossa jute sprout, underscoring the exploration of its potential as a functional food. Tossa jute sprout is rich in protein, carbohydrate, fiber, total soluble solids, color content, total energy, vitamins, and minerals, with a lower fat and sugar content. Bioactive compound profiling found that it contains a significant quantity of total phenolics and flavonoids. The HPLC-DAD polyphenol profile detected ten compounds, with 3,4 dihydroxybenzoic acid being the most abundant compound, followed by (−) epicatechin, rosmarinic acid, kaempferol, catechin hydrate, caffeic acid, myricetin, catechol, trans-ferulic acid, and rutin hydrate. It has strong radical scavenging, reducing power, metal chelating power, and total antioxidant power, suggesting this sprout's ability to repair cellular oxidative damage or restore impaired cellular oxidative homeostasis. It also possesses strong α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase inhibition activities, but mild α-amylase, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) inhibition activities support the sprout's ability to lower blood sugar, suppress postprandial hyperglycemia, downregulate fat metabolism, and maintain or restore acetylcholine. Overall findings established tossa jute sprout's high potential as a functional food in eliminating malnutrition, maintaining quality health, and eradicating or moderating ailments, including diabetes, obesity, and Alzheimer's.

Ultraviolet-C Light and Peracetic Acid Extend the Shelf Life of Fresh and Frozen Strawberries

The postharvest life of strawberries is short, and disinfection processes for fresh-cut and frozen strawberries are needed to address the risk posed by foodborne pathogens in this kind of product. For this, a process involving immersion in a 40 mg L−1 peracetic acid (PA) solution accompanied by the use of an emerging technology, ultraviolet-C for 2 min, was studied for its impact on strawberry quality and microbial load as a novel alternative method to chlorine sanitation. The shelf life of the washed strawberries was evaluated in fresh (whole or fresh-cut) product for 11 days at 4 °C and in product that had been frozen for 12 months at –20 °C (air or modified atmosphere, 20% CO2, 5% O2, and 75% N2). After washing, total aerobic mesophylls, yeast, and mold decreased by 0.5–1.0 log units and these counts remained low during storage. The fresh and fresh-cut fruits’ firmness (2.3 ± 0.5 N at day 11) and lightness (expressed by L*, averaging 31.0 ± 0.1) were maintained. Although antioxidant activity, expressed by the amount of radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), decreased during storage in fresh-cut samples, total ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), total phenolic content, and total anthocyanin content were maintained in all the formats during storage (averaging 1.33 ± 0.04 g kg−1 ascorbic acid equivalents, 0.212 ± 0.01 g kg−1 gallic acid equivalents, and 0.03 ± 0.01 g kg−1 pelargonidine-3-glucoside). An increase in red color (from 32.1 to 39.3 a* values) and a loss of firmness of up to 46.8% was observed after the first month of frozen storage with no changes in the nutritional quality. Considering the sanitizing effect of water UV-C with peracetic acid (WUVPA) and the results obtained in the present study, the addition of this process in the production chain of strawberries could be an effective method to maintain the shelf life of the fruits, especially for fresh-cut strawberries.

Effect of increasing ambient temperature on physiological changes, oxidative stress, nitric oxide, total antioxidant power, and mitochondrial activity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linn.)

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of high ambient temperature on physiological changes of live Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linn.) and biochemical parameters in Nile tilapia blood cells. Live Nile tilapia and Nile tilapia blood cells were maintained at temperature ranges from 24 to 34 °C and 24–38 °C, respectively. Then, physiological parameters (body temperature, body color score, pulse rate, ventilation rate, oxygen saturation) of the live Nile tilapia and biochemical parameters (total antioxidant power, hydrogen peroxide, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, and mitochondrial activity) of the Nile tilapia blood cells were measured for every 2 °C increase. It was found that when the ambient temperature increases, body temperature of live Nile tilapia continually increased. Total antioxidant power and hydrogen peroxide, pulse rate, body color score, malondialdehyde, ventilation rate and mitochondrial activity commenced to increase at 26, 28, 30, 32, 34 °C (P < 0.05), respectively. Blood oxygen saturation decreased at 32 °C (P < 0.05). The response of nitric oxide of Nile tilapia blood cells responded to increased temperature in two phases. In the first phase, nitric oxide decreased at 28–32 °C (P < 0.05), then increased and decreased again at a temperature of 38 °C (P < 0.05). These phenomena indicated that when the live Nile tilapias and the Nile tilapia blood cells were exposed to high ambient temperature, they were under heat stress and oxidative stress. In addition, physiological responses in the live Nile tilapia and biochemical changes in their blood cells when exposed to high ambient temperature occurred in a consistent manner when the temperature continually increased.

Effect of antioxidant-rich kindergarten meals on oxidative stress biomarkers in healthy 5–6-year-old children: a randomized controlled trial

As children spend up to 9 h a day in kindergarten, the main purpose of our study was to evaluate the effect of antioxidant-rich kindergarten meals on oxidative stress biomarkers (OSBs) in healthy children. In the randomized control trial with a follow-up, healthy 5–6-year-old children from six kindergartens were randomly divided into a prototype group (PG, n = 40) and a control group (CG, n = 17). PG followed a 2-week antioxidant-rich kindergarten meal plan (breakfast, lunch, and two snacks), and CG followed their standard kindergarten meal plans. Outside the kindergartens, participants ate as usual. We used a consecutive 7-day dietary record inside and outside the kindergarten and the national dietary assessment tool OPEN to assess the total dietary antioxidant capacity (dTAC) of the consumed foods. Malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), and four F2-isoprostane were measured in fasting urine on days 1 and 15. We also measured total antioxidant power (PAT) and hydroperoxides (d-ROMs) in fasting serum on day 15 and obtained the value of the oxidative stress index (OSI). We used a Welch two-sample t-test and multiple regression analysis to compare the prototype and control groups and a nonparametric Wilcoxon signed rank exact test to compare pre- and post-intervention results in urine. Antioxidant-rich kindergarten meals contributed to a significantly (p < 0.05) higher intake of dTAC in PG participants compared to standard meals in CG participants (8.6 vs. 2.8 mmol/day). We detected a negative correlation between dTAC intake and d-ROMs and between dTAC intake and OSI (r = − 0.29, p = 0.043 and r = − 0.31, p = 0.032, respectively). A significant decrease in urinary 8-iso-15-prostaglandin-F-2 alpha was detected in PG participants between days 1 and 15; however, no other intra-individual significant differences in urinary OSBs were found. Conclusion: Antioxidant-rich food in kindergarten is warranted due to its potential health-protective effect. Additionally, we present original data on the average levels of urinary and serum OSBs in healthy 5–6-year-old children. Trial registration: The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, on February 5, 2020 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04252105).What is Known:• Kindergartens are recognized as promising environments for public health measures.• A diet rich in antioxidants can reduce OSBs and, consequently, the risk of developing NCDs.What is New:• Antioxidant-rich kindergarten diet can ensure a protective intake of dTAC in children.• Original data on serum oxidative stress biomarkers (d-ROMs, PAT, and OSI) and urinary oxidative stress biomarkers (MDA, 8-OHdG, and F2 isoprostanes) in healthy 5–6-year-old children.

Influence of Silicon Supplementation on Growth, Immunity, Antioxidant, Hormonal Profile and Bone Health Biomarkers in Pre-ruminant Crossbred Calves.

Silicon (Si), a newer trace element, is believed to be important for healthy bone formation and to decrease bone resorption, improving the quality of bone by manipulating several hormones and enzymes. Therefore, the current investigation was conducted to determine the impact of Si supplementation on growth, immunity, antioxidant, hormonal profile and biomarkers of bone health in pre-ruminant crossbred calves. Twenty-four crossbred calves (5-7 days) were selected on the basis of their body weight (BW 31.65 ± 0.46 kg) and divided into 4 groups (n = 6) and fed as per ICAR (2013) feeding standards except that these were additionally supplemented with 0 (Si0), 50 (Si50), 100 (Si100) and 150 (Si150) mg of Si/kg dry matter (DM) in four respective groups for 90 days. Every month, peripheral blood samples were drawn (0, 30, 60 and 90 days post supplementing with Si) and analysed for antioxidant status, hormonal profile and bone health biomarkers. It is reported that dietary Si supplementation improved (P < 0.05) net body weight gain (kg), average daily gain (g) and average dry matter intake (kg), whereas feed intake (kg/100 kg BW), was not altered due to Si supplementation. Structural growth measurements were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in Si100 and Si150 groups as compared to Si50 and control groups. However, immune response (humoral as well as cell-mediated immunity), erythrocytic antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, SOD, glutathione peroxidase, GPx and catalase), plasma ferric reducing total antioxidant power (FRAP) activity and the plasma concentration of total immunoglobulins (TIg) remained unaffected by Si supplementation. Silicon increased (P < 0.05) the concentration of plasma growth hormone (GH), vitamin D3, bone alkaline phosphatase (BALP) and osteocalcin (OCN) in Si100 and Si150 groups, but the levels of calcitonin, parathyroid hormone (PTH) and hydroxyproline (HYP) remained similar among all the groups. As a result of the current investigation, it can be inferred that the inclusion of 100 and 150 mg of Si/kg DM was effective in improving the growth performance, growth hormone, vitamin D3 and bone health status in pre-ruminant calves. However, supplementation of 150 mg of Si/kg DM had no additional benefit; therefore 100 mg of Si/kg DM is the optimum level of Si supplementation in pre-ruminant calves.

Vitamin E: An assistant for black soldier fly to reduce cadmium accumulation and toxicity

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal associated with osteoporosis, liver, and kidney disease. The black soldier fly (BSF) Hermetia illucens may be exposed to Cd during the transformation of livestock manure. The BSF has a high tolerance to Cd. In the previous work of the laboratory, we found that vitamin E (VE) may play a role in the tolerance of BSF to Cd exposure. The main findings are as follows: The BSF larvae pretreated with exogenous VE had heavier body weight, lower content and toxicity of Cd under similar Cd exposure. Even in high Cd exposure at the concentrations of 300 and 700 mg/kg, the BSF larvae pretreated with exogenous VE at a concentration of 100 mg/kg still reduced the Cd toxicity to 85.33 % and 84.43 %, respectively. The best-fitting models showed that metallothionein (MT) content, oxidative damage (8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine content, malondialdehyde content), antioxidant power (total antioxidant power, peroxidase activity) had a great influence on content and toxicity of Cd bioaccumulated in the larvae. The degree of oxidative damage was reduced in the larvae with exogenous VE pretreatments. This variation can be explained by their changed MT content and increased antioxidant power because of exogenous VE. These results reveal the roles of VE in insects defense against Cd exposure and provide a new option for the prevention and therapy of damage caused by Cd exposure.

Hormetic Effect of Wood Distillate on Hydroponically Grown Lettuce

The addition of biostimulants to nutrient solutions of hydroponically grown crops to speed up plant growth and improve plant yield and quality has been attracting more and more attention. This study investigated the effects of wood distillate (WD) addition to hydroponically grown lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plants. Two concentrations of WD, 0.2% and 0.5%, were added to the nutrient solution, and biometric (i.e., leaf fresh weight, root fresh weight, root length and root surface area), photosynthetic (i.e., chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid content) and biochemical (i.e., electrolyte leakage, total polyphenols, total flavonoids, and total antioxidant power content) parameters were evaluated. The effects of WD were hormetic, as the 0.2% concentration stimulated biometric and biochemical parameters, while the 0.5% concentration inhibited plant growth. Based on these results, it can be suggested that the addition of 0.2% WD to the nutrient solution has a stimulating effect on the growth of lettuce plants, and could be a successful strategy to boost the yield of crops grown hydroponically.

Can lettuce plants grow in saline soils supplemented with biochar?

Salt stress is presently a major environmental concern, given the huge number of soils affected by the presence of dissolved salts. Therefore, it is necessary to find solutions, preferably nature-based ones, to deal with this problem. In this study, biochar, a product made from plant biomass residues through the process of pyrolysis, was tested to alleviate salt stress on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) plants. Six different concentrations of NaCl were tested: 0, 50, 100, 200, 300 and 400 mM with and without the addition of 5% (w/w) biochar. Biochar ability to mitigate salinity damage was assessed by means of both biometric (fresh weight), physiological (chlorophyll content), and biochemical (i.e., electrolyte leakage, total antioxidant power, total soluble proteins, free amino acids, and mineral content) parameters. The experiment lasted four weeks. The results showed that NaCl has a negative effect from the concentration of 100–200 mM and that biochar was to some extent effective in mitigating the negative effects of salt on plant physiology; nevertheless, biochar failed to counteract Na accumulation. Similarly, biochar did not influence the content of free amino acids in lettuce leaves, but enhanced the expression of several parameters, such as total antioxidant power, fresh weight, chlorophyll content, total soluble protein, K content, although only clearly evident in some cases. Overall, the present study showed that biochar is a viable solution to counteract the damage caused by high salt concentrations on plant growth.

Effect of dietary antioxidants on free radical damage in dogs and cats.

Alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) is an antioxidant that is largely involved in immune defense and enhancing the ability of biological systems to respond to oxidative stress. During the process of free radical scavenging, vitamin C supports the regeneration of vitamin E. Although the functions of antioxidants and their importance have been widely studied, the intricate interplay between antioxidants has yet to be fully elucidated, especially in dogs and cats. As such, the objective of the present study was to determine the effect of a combination of dietary antioxidants on DNA damage and antioxidant status in dogs and cats. Forty adult mixed-breed dogs and 40 adult domestic shorthair cats were randomly assigned to one of four treatment groups per species. Dogs and cats remained in these groups for the 84-d duration of the study. The food differed in antioxidant supplementation with the control food meeting all of the Association of American Feed Control Officials requirements for complete and balanced nutrition, including sufficient vitamin E to exceed the published minimum. The treatment diets were targeted to include either 500, 1,000, or 1,500 IU vitamin E/kg as well as 100ppm of vitamin C and 1.5ppm of β-carotene in the food. The effect of vitamin E supplementation level on serum vitamin E concentration, DNA damage, and total antioxidant power was evaluated. Feeding diets enriched with antioxidants resulted in an increased (P < 0.05) circulating vitamin E concentration, increased (P < 0.05) immune cell protection, reduced (P < 0.05) DNA damage in dogs, and an improved (P < 0.05) antioxidant status. Overall, these data demonstrated that feeding a dry kibble with an antioxidant blend inclusive of vitamin E, vitamin C, and β-carotene enhanced cell protection and improved antioxidant status in dogs and cats.

GC-FID spectroscopic analysis and antioxidant activities of methanolic fraction of Cassia tora leaves

IntroductionFrom time immemorial, different parts of Cassia tora (Jue ming zi) have found application in Chinese medicine. There is a reputation for the therapeutic properties of the plant's leaves, seeds, and roots. The objective of this study is to ascertain the antioxidant properties and bioactive compounds found in Cassia tora leaf. Materials and methodPhytochemical and antioxidant studies were carried out using standard analytical techniques. Bioactive compounds were analysed using GC FID. ResultsResults of the quantitative phytochemical analysis of the methanolic fraction of Cassia tora leaves indicated the presence of saponins (71,760±943.2µg/ml), terpenoids (47,466.70±46.2µg/ml), tannins (21,253.30±46.2µg/ml), flavonoids (14,682.70±40.3µg/ml), phenols (30,986.70±46.2µg/ml), steroids (13,557.30±24.4µg/ml), alkaloids (9770.67±9.2µg/ml), glycosides (5434.67±139.8µg/ml). Using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) to analyze the antioxidant properties of the methanolic fraction of Cassia tora leaves, it was discovered that the higher the scavenging power of the fraction, the lower the concentration of the standard (ascorbic acid). In comparison to the standard (ascorbic acid), the fraction had the maximum antioxidant capacity at 6.86mg/ml. Total antioxidant power in the fraction ranged from 1.78mg/ml to 16mg/ml. Twenty (20) bioactive chemicals were found in the methanol fraction of Cassia tora leaves, according to the results of the gas chromatography flame ionization detector (GC-FID) investigation. ConclusionThe findings of this current study demonstrate that the leaves of Cassia tora are rich in numerous bioactive compounds and are natural sources of antioxidants.

The antioxidant activity, total phenolic and monomeric anthocyanin content of &lt;em&gt;Gymnema sylvestre&lt;/em&gt; leaf aqueous extract

The Gymnema sylvestre is a widely recognized medicinal plant, particularly for its effectiveness in treating diabetes. Aim of this study is to measure the antioxidant property, polyphenol and anthocyanin content of G. sylvestre aqueous extract using various in-vitro techniques. The aqueous extract was prepared and total phenolic compounds (TPC), DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl) radical scavenging ability, total antioxidant activity using ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), ferric reducing power and monomeric anthocyanin content were estimated. Correlation analyses were performed for TPC and anthocyanin against the antioxidant activity. The TPC was 4.55±0.34 mg g-1 of fresh leaf weight (FLW) and the IC50 value for DPPH radical scavenging ability was 2.40 mg mL-1 of leaf extract concentration. The percentage of inhibition strongly correlated (R2 = 0.99) with the concentration of the leaf extract. The total antioxidant power of the leaf extract was 21.06±1.74 μmol g-1 of FLW.The ferric-reducing power showed a positive correlation with the leaf concentration (R2 = 0.99). The anthocyanin content of the leaf extract was 167.84±1.45 mg per 100 g of leaf. The TPC and anthocyanin exhibited strong positive correlations with total antioxidants and DPPH, but a weak correlation with reducing power. The antioxidant properties of leaf extract could be ascribed to the presence of TPC and anthocyanin as it showed a strong correlation with antioxidant activity. This is the first study that reported the anthocyanin content of G. sylvestre leaf extract. This study found G. sylvestre leaf water extract has antioxidant properties and contains a significant amount of TPC and monomeric anthocyanin.

Occupational exposure to nanomaterials and biomarkers in exhaled air and urine: Insights from the NanoExplore international cohort

The current evidence on nanomaterial toxicity is mostly derived from experimental studies making it challenging to translate it into human health risks. We established an international cohort (N = 141 workers) within the EU-LIFE project “NanoExplore” to address possible health effects from occupational exposures to nanomaterials. We used a handheld direct-reading optical particle counter to measure airborne nanoparticle number concentrations (PNC) and lung-deposited surface areas (LDSAs). Airborne particles were characterized by TEM and SEM-EDAX. We assessed oxidative/nitrosative stress with a panel of biomarkers in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) (8-isoprostane, malondialdehyde, nitrotyrosine), inflammation (high-sensitivity C reactive protein (hs-CRP), IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10) and KL-6 (considered as biomarker of interstitial lung fibrosis) and urine (total antioxidant power (TAP), 8-isoprostane, and malondialdehyde). Exhaled breath sampled in gas-sampling bags were assessed for oxidative potential. These biomarkers were quantified pre-shift at the beginning of the workweek and post-shift the 4th day. Relationships between airborne nanoparticle concentration and biomarkers were assessed by multiple linear regression with log-transformed exposure and biomarker concentrations adjusted for potential confounders. We found a positive dose–response relationship for three inflammation biomarkers (IL-10, IL-1β and TNF-α) in EBC with both PNC and LDSA. A negative dose–response relationship was observed between PNC and TAP. This study suggests that occupational exposures to nanoparticles can affect the oxidative balance and the innate immunity in occupationally exposed workers. However, owing to the intrinsic variability of biomarkers, the observed changes along with their health significance should be assessed in a long-term perspective study.

Melatonin-mediated alleviation of drought stress by modulation of physio-biochemical and metabolic status in Dracocephalum kotschyi Boiss. (Lamiaceae)

Dracocephalum kotschyi Boiss., a fragrant perennial plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, contains many bioactive substances, including essential oil, terpenoids, phenolics, and flavonoids that possess a wide range of biological and pharmaceutical properties. Due to the importance of plant exploitation in dry and low-yield lands, the present study was conducted to explore the effect of the exogenous application of melatonin (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 μM) on physiological, biochemical, and phytochemical traits of the plant subjected to different levels of water deficit stress (80 %, 60 %, and 40 % of field capacity). The results showed that the application of 150 μM melatonin caused the highest content in the relative growth rate (1.84 g/g d), chlorophyll content (14.55 mg/g FW), relative water content (93 %), and chlorophyll fluorescence (0.9) at different irrigation regimes. Reduced irrigation significantly reduced chlorophyll content and fluorescence, while exogenously applied melatonin enhanced their contents at all levels. Reduced irrigation caused a significant increase in the levels of malondialdehyde (7.47 µmol/g FW) and hydrogen peroxide (51.86 nmol/g). Total phenol content, antioxidant activity, and antioxidant power were increased by applying of melatonin up to 200 μM, while the irrigation rate decreased. The essential oil content was increased by reducing irrigation, so the highest content (3.0 % w/w) was observed at 40 % FC and 150 μM melatonin. Geranyl acetate (44.6–60.4 %), α-pinene (9.0–19.1 %), and geranial (6.2–16.2 %) were the major essential oil components of the treated plants. Reduced irrigation and application of melatonin up to 150 μM caused an increase in coumaric acid, rosmarinic acid, and rutin despite a decrease in the content of chicoric acid and apigenin. The highest oleanolic acid content (52.69 mg/g DW) was measured in the plants subjected to 40 % FC. The highest (132 mg/g DW) and lowest (43.58 mg/g DW) ursolic acid content was measured in 40 % FC with 200 μM melatonin and 80 % FC without melatonin treatment, respectively.

Evaluation of antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of silver nanoparticles biosynthesized using weed (Dactyloctenium aegyptium) extracts for sustainable environment, agriculture and ethnomedicine

In order to maintain a sustainable environment, one of the strategies available for weed management is their conversion for use in pharmacological applications.Aqueous and ethanol extracts of Dactyloctenium aegyptium was utilized for silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) synthesis following established protocol. Techniques including Scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX), UV–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, and Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used to analyze the synthesized AgNPs. The antioxidant as well as antibacterial activities of activity of aqueous (AE), ethanol (EE) extracts of Dactyloctenium aegyptium and the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs-AE and AgNPs-EE) were evaluated using standard methods.The first indication of successful AgNPs synthesis were the color changes observed after the addition of AgNO3 solution to the aqueous and ethanol extracts of Dactyloctenium aegyptium respectively. The UV spectrum of AgNPs-AE and AgNPs-EE were both observed to be 550 nm which is characteristic of silver nanoparticles.The reduction of silver ions (Ag+) to silver nanoparticles was revealed by the FT-IR analysis to involve biomolecules including flavonoids and phenolic acid. The SEM analysis revealed that the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles were irregularly spherical with diameters ranging from 14.35 μm-20 μm. The formation of silver nanoparticles were further confirmed by the EDX spectrum which revealed signals from Ag (0.3 and 3 keV).The result of the antioxidant activity of the samples (AE, EE, AgNPs-AE, and AgNP-EE) showed that AgNPs-EE had the highest total phenol and flavonoid content, as well as total antioxidant power followed by AgNPs-AE and ethanol extract and then the aqueous extracts. The antibacterial activity also revealed that for all the test pathogens,AgNPs-EE showed the greatest inhibitory capacity, followed by AgNPs-AE and then Levofloxacin. All the test pathogens used were however resistant to AE and EE. Silver nanoparticles biosynthesized using Dactyloctenium aegyptium can therefore be explored as an antioxidant and antibacterial agent after proper pharmacological evaluations.

Evaluation of oxidative stress and its association with drug therapy in inpatients treated for cocaine dependence

The use of cocaine affects several systems and organs of the human body and the consumption of this substance leads to an increase in the production of reactive oxygen species, and to the reduction of antioxidant defenses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the oxidative stress (OS), biochemical and hematological parameters in patients hospitalized for treatment of cocaine addiction, comparing levels at hospital admission and discharge. Forty patients were included in the study. OS was evaluated using catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GPx), total antioxidant power (FRAP), malondialdehyde (MDA), and sulfhydryl group (GS). The medications used during hospitalization were registered and their influence on the parameters of OS was analyzed. After the hospitalization period, there was an increase in GGT levels, a reduction in SOD activity, and an increase in GPx activity and FRAP levels. Carbamazepine users had higher SOD values and lower FRAP values at hospital discharge. The use of chlorpromazine caused differences in creatinine and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) serum leves, and the levels of glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (TGO), MDA, and FRAP were increased at hospital discharge. Haloperidol and thiamine during hospitalization interfered with alkaline phosphatase levels. The use of risperidone caused an increase in the levels of SOD, and folic acid use was associated with lower levels of GPx and higher levels of glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (TGP) and alkaline phosphatase. Drug rehabilitation treatment was effective in decreasing oxidative damage represented by the reduction of biological markers.

Dietary Total Antioxidant Capacity, a Diet Quality Index Predicting Mortality Risk in US Adults: Evidence from the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study.

Dietary total antioxidant capacity (TAC) is an index representing the total antioxidant power of antioxidants consumed via the diet. This study aimed to investigate the association between dietary TAC and mortality risk in the US adults using data from the NIH-AARP Diet and Health Study. A total of 468,733 adults aged 50-71 years were included. Dietary intake was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire. Dietary TAC from diet was calculated from antioxidants including vitamin C, vitamin E, carotenoids, and flavonoids, and TAC from dietary supplements was calculated from supplemental vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. During a median follow-up of 23.1 years, 241,472 deaths were recorded. Dietary TAC was inversely associated with all-cause (hazard ratio (HR) for quintile 5 vs. quintile 1: 0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.96-0.99, p for trend < 0.0001) and cancer mortality (HR for quintile 5 vs. quintile 1: 0.93, 95% CI: 0.90-0.95, p for trend < 0.0001). However, dietary supplement TAC was inversely associated with cancer mortality risk only. These findings indicate that consuming a habitual diet high in antioxidants may reduce the risk of all-cause and cancer mortality and TAC from foods might confer greater health benefits than TAC from dietary supplements.