Total Carbohydrate Content Research Articles

Protective effects of nutrients and antioxidant-rich seed oil and sprouted seed oil of Benincasa hispida against formaldehyde-induced hepatic and renal damage

IntroductionIn traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Benincasa hispida, commonly referred to as wax gourd, winter melon, or ash gourd, has been used extensively for managing fever, urinary dysfunction, cough with viscous mucus, pulmonary and periappendicular abscesses, edema, spermatorrhea, gonorrhea, discharge pus, and expel dampness. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant, macro- and micronutrients as well as the protective effects of Benincasa hispida seed oil (BHSO) and sprouted seed oil (BHSSO) against formaldehyde (FA)-induced liver and kidney damage in mice. MethodsThe in vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated using the DPPH radical scavenging assay. Protein, fat, fiber, and total carbohydrate contents were assessed, and micronutrients were determined using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. BHSO, BHSSO, and Vitamin E (3485 mg/kg, 3485 mg/kg, and 30 mg/kg p.o., respectively) were administered once daily shortly after formaldehyde exposure (10 mg/kg, I.P.) to separate groups of Swiss albino male mice for a period of 26 days to investigate their protective effects against hepatic and renal damage. The normal control group was given access to sterile tap water and a balanced diet, whereas the disease control group was given only 10 mg/kg of formaldehyde intraperitoneally. Results and DiscussionSerum ALT, AST, and creatinine levels were significantly elevated after formaldehyde (FA) administration. Histopathological examinations of liver and kidney tissue revealed degenerative changes in both organs. However, mice pretreated with BHSO and BHSSO showed a significant reduction in FA-induced elevations of serum ALT, AST, and creatinine levels and retained normal liver and kidney tissue histology. BHSO and BHSSO exhibited the ability to scavenge free radicals, as shown in vitro antioxidant studies. Essential micronutrients like zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), calcium (Ca), and chromium (Cr) were also found in both oils. These micronutrients may prevent the inactivation of antioxidant enzymes, thereby increasing free radical scavenging and preserving oxidation and antioxidant equilibrium. Moreover, both oils were found to contain crude fat and carbohydrates that are essential in safeguarding against formaldehyde-induced hepatic and renal damage by offering structural and metabolic support to cells and preserving membrane integrity. ConclusionBenincasa hispida seed oil and sprouted seed oil have significant protective effects against formaldehyde-induced hepatic and renal damage and serve as a valuable source of antioxidants, as well as macro- and micronutrients.

Physiological parameters dictate bearing pattern in different mango cultivars: Study from Sub-tropical India

The bearing habit of mango has long been a subject of interest for pomologists. The difference in bearing pattern among various mango cultivars is attributed to complex physiological interaction. Despite multiple studies on mango bearing, detailed investigations in this area remain limited. This study aims to explore the interrelationship between the bearing patterns and the associated physiological changes in different mango cultivars. The physiological parameters were examined at various growth stages in Baramasi (a perennial bearer), Amrapali (a regular bearer) and Langra and Alphonso (irregular bearer) of mango (Mangifera indica L.). Significant variations were observed in chlorophyll content, internal carbon dioxide concentration, photosynthetic rate and flowering intensity. An increase in internal carbon dioxide concentration led to reduced carbon dioxide uptake, which impacted net photosynthesis production. A direct correlation between flowering intensity and photosynthetic rate was identified, while a nonlinear relationship between photosynthetic rate and total carbohydrate content was also noted. The study suggests that variations in the photosynthetic rate and the subsequent source-sink relationship may contribute to the differences in bearing patterns across mango cultivars. While further studies are needed for more conclusive results, this research can be valuable for pomologists, physiologists and breeders working with mango.

Influence of cooking methods and times on purple eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) bioactive compounds

In several countries of Africa, purple eggplants are added in cooking meals. However, during cooking, high temperature and long time can affect the nutrients and the bioactive compounds. Thus, a study has been conducted to assess the cooking methods and time which better preserve purple eggplant nutrients losses. So, purple eggplant samples were cooked and steamed for 10, 20 and 30 minutes. The analyses were focused on the determination of physicochemical parameters, macro and micronutrients, phytochemical compounds and antioxidant activity. The results showed that protein content, initially 14.11% in fresh eggplants, rosed to 14.73% and 15.60% in eggplants boiled and steamed for 20 mins, respectively. Total carbohydrate content increased from 63.75% in fresh eggplant to 68.17% in eggplant steamed for 20 mins. The fiber content of fresh eggplant (24.75%) rosed to 28.95% and 29.84% in eggplant cooked in water and steamed for 20 mins, respectively. Polyphenol content in fresh eggplant which was about 47.84 mg EAG /100mg increased to 60.57 and 62.85 mg EAG /100 mg in eggplant cooked in water and steamed during 20 mins, respectively. The antioxidant inhibitory concentration of 50% DPPH activity (IC50) was about 0.42 mg/mL for purple eggplants boiled and steamed during 20 mins. These IC50 revealed an antiradical power of 238.09 µmol of reduced DPPH/mg of sample. Morever, purple eggplant steamed during 30 minutes present an antiradical power of 400 µmol of reduced DPPH/mg of sample. Steaming purple eggplant favored nutrient preservation and high antioxidant potentialities.

Analysis of the reducing sugar and carbohydrates total of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) resistant to drought stress

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is the third most important crop in the world and a staple food source throughout the tropics. Cassava land centers in Indonesia are controlled by Lampung Province. This situation makes Lampung a supplier of one-third of the national cassava production of the national production. However, there are still many production constraints in cassava cultivation, including drought stress. Drought stress is one of the main factors causing cassava plant death. So far, there is no drought-resistant cassava cultivar. The use of cassava seeds which are resistant to drought stress with high yields is expected to be an important alternative for drought stress control by using polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG 6000). The purpose of this study was to analyze the reducing sugar content and the total carbohydrate content of cassava plants which were effective and resistant to drought stress. This study used a completely randomized design with one factor, namely the concentration of PEG 6000 consisting of 5 levels 0%, 10%, 20%, 30% and 40%. The results showed that the higher the concentration of PEG 6000, the total dissolved carbohydrate content and reducing sugar content in cassava plants which were resistant to drought stress increased. The highest reducing sugar content and carbohydrate content were found in the treatment of 40% PEG 6000 concentration.

Biostimulants for enhancing productivity, bioactive components, and the essential oils of garlic with the potential antifungal activity

To feed the world’s growing population, the agriculture sector has recently had to strike a balance between reducing its detrimental effects on ecosystems and human health and boosting resource efficiency and production. In reality, pesticides and fertilizers are vital to agriculture and are useful instruments that farmers can employ to increase yield and guarantee steady productivity throughout the seasons under both favorable and unfavorable conditions. Therefore, in the present study, fertilizing with potassium citrate as a foliar spray and humic acid (HA) as a soil application allowed for the evaluation of vegetative growth parameters (plant height, number of leaves/plant), total phenolic content, total carbohydrate, antioxidant activity, the essential oil (EO) composition, and bulb yield of garlic (Allium sativum L.). These were carried out in two field experiments throughout the 2020–2021 and 2021–2022 growth seasons. A gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) apparatus was performed to determine the chemical composition of the isolated EOs. The antifungal activity of the EOs was assessed against two fungi, Fusarium proliferatum and Macrophomina phaseolina, that cause geranium plants to wilt and decay. The findings indicated that applying HA at a rate of 2 g/L with potassium citrate at a rate of 5 or 10 mL/L produced garlic bulbs with the highest levels of productivity and diameter. The diverse treatments between HA with potassium citrate resulted in significant variations in the bioactive components, such as total phenol content, antioxidant activity, total carbohydrate, and sulfur content. The analysis of the EOs revealed the presence of dimethyl trisulfide, diallyl disulfide, methyl 2-propenyl trisulfide, allitridin, and methyl allyl disulfide and allyl tetrasulfide as main compounds. By gradually increasing the concentration of the garlic EO to 4000 µg/mL compared to the control, the inhibition percentage of fungal growth of F. proliferatum and M. phaseolina was increased. In conclusion, a high concentration of HA with potassium citrate (5 or 10 mL/L), may be suitable and highly appreciated as a fertilizer application to enhance the productivity and EOs content of garlic plants.

Biochemical Analysis of Fruiting Bodies of Cordyceps Militaris Grown on Brown Rice

Cordyceps militaris is a medicinal fungus known for its diverse biofunctional properties. This subject has been extensively analyzed over the past decade. The diverse pharmacological potential of C. militaris has garnered significant global interest recently. This research aims to determine the proximate composition of in vitro cultivated C. militaris fruit bodies. The analysis of proximate composition included measurements of crude protein, fat, crude fiber, ash, total carbohydrate, and moisture content. The research focused on quantifying the overall nutritional value of the fruit bodies and evaluating biological efficiency, in addition to key bioactive compounds including cordycepin, ergosterol, and Vitamin D2. The results demonstrated that the carbohydrate content constituted 47.67% of dry weight, the protein content was 30.41%, and the fiber content accounted for 15%. The fruit bodies contained 39.82 mg/kg of cordycepin and 61.73 mg/100g of ergosterol, whereas vitamin D2 was absent in the cordyceps mushroom sample. The findings demonstrate that in-vitro-cultivated C. militaris fruit bodies exhibit considerable nutritional and therapeutic potential.

Potential utilization of paddy straw and coconut coir for the cultivation of Pleurotus eous: effects on nutritional composition and antioxidant capacity

Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus species), which are valued for their medicinal and nutritional properties, are the predominantly cultivated mushroom variety in Sri Lanka. The most commonly used substrate to cultivate Pleurotus species in Sri Lanka is sawdust. However, due to the availability of many other agricultural wastes in Sri Lanka, the aim of this study was to determine which substrate from paddy straw (PS), coconut coir (CC), and combinations of PS and CC in the ratios of 50 PS:50 CC, 75 PS:25 CC, and 25 PS:75 CC would be the best to grow Pleurotus eous. The weight of each mushroom harvested was measured to determine the highest yield. Lowry and phenol-sulphuric assays were carried out to determine the total protein and total carbohydrate content respectively. DPPH and phophomolybdenum assays were used to analyse the antioxidant activity. The total phenolic content was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method. All mushrooms tested positive for qualitative tests of terpenoids, steroids, saponins and polyphenols. 100% PS produced mushrooms with the highest yield (34.72 ± 5.23 g). 50 PS:50 CC produced mushrooms with a significantly high total protein content (5.28 ± 0.24 g/100 g) and total carbohydrate content (31.12 ± 5.64 g/100 g). They also had a high total antioxidant capacity (4.51 ± 0.07 mg AAE/g) and total phenolic content (5.45 ± 0.34 mg GAE/g). Therefore, to cultivate Pleurotus eous, the 50 PS:50 CC combination can be utilized. Based on the mushroom yield, 100% PS can also be recommended for cultivation of Pleurotus eous.

Evaluation of in vitro simulated digestion and fermentation characteristics of the crude exopolysaccharide from Levilactobacillus brevis M-14.

The present study employed an in vitro static digestion model to simulate the saliva-gastrointestinal digestion and fecal fermentation of exopolysaccharides (EPSs) extracted from Levilactobacillus brevis M-14, aiming to understand the dynamic changes in physicochemical properties, biological potential of EPS, as well as their impact on the human enteric microorganism. EPS was mainly composed of polysaccharides. The molecular weight (Mw) showed that EPS comprised two parts with a high Mw and a low Mw fraction of 42.81 × 104 and 1.23 × 104 Da, respectively. EPSs mainly consisted of mannose, rhamnose, galacturonic acid, glucose, and galactose in a molar ratio of 0.42∶0.13∶0.21∶0.13∶0.11. In the simulated digestion process, EPS was relatively stable. Furthermore, simulated digestion increased the antioxidant and hypoglycemic capacities of EPS. During the fermentation stage, the total carbohydrate contents of EPS decreased by 20.19%. The Mw of the two components of EPS decreased by 16.37% and 61.67%, respectively, and accompanied by the production of free monosaccharides. EPS had the potential to modulate the composition of gut microbiota, increasing the relative abundance of Enterococcus and Parabacteroides, while decreasing the relative abundance of Bacteroides. The pH decreased and total short-chain fatty acids contents increased, especially acetic acid and propionic acid. This research provided valuable insights into the potential application of EPS as a prebiotic agent.

Phytonutrient formulation using gum Arabic and Adansonia Digitata pulp: Lessons for boosting the human immune system - part 1

BackgroundThe human innate immune system (HIIs) defends the body against pathogens and relies on the energy obtained from food sources to increase its metabolic activity. AimIn this study, a new blended 3 in1 formula comprising A. senegal, A. seyal, and Adansonia digitata at a ratio of 5:3:2 was proposed as a potential aid in the management of Covid-19 patients with Metabolic Syndrome (MeT-S) disorders, with a specific focus on those presenting with impaired health. MethodsThe utilization of Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-MS) was employed to analyze 3 blended ingredient combinations, including the 3in1 formula, A. senegal, A. seyal, and A. digitata pulp, for the presence of elements by detecting the levels of moisture, ash, minerals, protein, amino acids, carbohydrates, sugars, prebiotic polysaccharides, energy, dietary fibers, and crude fibers. This advanced technique has replaced the titration method used in previous studies. ResultsThe mineral content of the blended 3in1 sample was found to be dominated by potassium (70.56±2.35), Calcium (68.54±3.12), Magnesium (16.60±4.80), Phosphorus (11.50±2.50), Sodium (31.4±4.80), Zinc (19.19±2.10), Iron (19 ± 0.14), Copper (15.12±1.81), and selenium (0.037 ± 0.005) g/100 g DW. The blended 3 in1 sample also had a higher hydroxyproline content (30.17 g/100 g and a higher total protein and carbohydrate content than the blended 2 in1 sample. Additionally, arabinose was identified as the major reducing sugar with up to 48.23 and 49.97g/100 gDW. The prebiotic polysaccharide content was 88.61±3.12g/100 gDW for the blended 3 in1 sample, which was significantly higher than that of the blended 2 in1 sample. Furthermore, the energy value of the blended 3 in1 sample was significantly higher at 350.12±5.210 kcal/100 g than the blended 2 in1 sample at 340.67±3.155 kWh. The Insoluble Dietary Fibers (IDFs) and Soluble Dietary Fibers (SDFs) of the blended 3 in1 sample were 12.6±2.10 g/100 gDW and 87±2.124 g/100 g DW, respectively, which were significantly higher than those of the blended 2 in1 sample. ConclusionThe discovery of distinct molecular compositions of A. senegal and A. seyal when combined with Adansonia Digitata Pulp (ADLP) in the 3 in1 blend demonstrated enhanced HIIs among Covid-19 patients with compromised MeT-S disorders. This may be considered a valuable natural antiviral agent for the treatment of such individuals.

Enhancing tamarind quality and shelf-life through improved storage techniques

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) is a versatile spice crop with economic significance, known for its diverse applications in pulp, seed and timber. Thriving in challenging conditions like poor soils and drought, it has become crucial in various uses, particularly in wastelands. In this post-harvest study, tamarind pods underwent deshelling, deseeding and defibering before applying treatments to extend the shelf life of the pulp. Five additives and four packaging materials, under 2 storage conditions, were tested in a factorial design. Results of over 6 months revealed that treating tamarind pulp with 0.2 % sulphur fumes, packed in aluminium foil, and stored refrigerated minimized browning and moisture content. This treatment also showed lower total carbohydrate, reducing sugar, protein, amino acid and total phenol content. Conversely, pulp treated with 2.0 % ascorbic acid, packed in palmyrah leaf bags and stored refrigerated exhibited higher acidity. Pulp treated with 0.2 % sulphur fumes, packed in palmyrah leaf bags and stored under ambience showed consistently higher total soluble solids. The findings suggest that treating pulp with 0.2 % sulphur fumes, using aluminium foil for packing and refrigerated storage can significantly reduce browning, making it an ideal choice for extended stability and potential export markets. Furthermore, adopting aluminium foil as a packing material in Indian conditions proves economically feasible, ensuring better pulp quality during prolonged storage, particularly for small-scale tamarind growers.

Impact of cocoa variety on merchant quality and physicochemical characteristics of raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa mass

Cocoa, a widely cultivated crop in tropical countries, is a crucial raw material in the food industry, particularly in chocolate production. Its quality is influenced by various factors, including variety, cultivation practices, fermentation, and drying. The aim of this work was to investigate the impact of the cocoa variety on the merchant quality and the physicochemical properties of raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa mass produced in the urban commune of Pokola (Republic of the Congo) . Cocoa pods were sorted into three varieties (Criollo, Forastero, and Trinitario) according to the physical identification criteria given in the literature. Cocoa samples were prepared according to the same process: each variety was separated into three 50-kg samples placed in cubic crates with 40 cm edges covered with banana leaves for 6 days of fermentation, then sun-dried at 28–32 °C for 7 days, leading to dried cocoa beans. Roasted cocoa masses were obtained by roasting at 140 °C followed by grinding. Merchant quality analyses were carried out on raw cocoa beans and physicochemical analyses were performed on raw cocoa beans and roasted cocoa masses. Cocoa variety had the greatest impact on graining, Villtrop swelling index, proportion of brown beans, pH, total acidity, and protein content. The beans of all cocoa varieties were of intermediate merchant quality (grade II). Roasting resulted in an increase in pH and total carbohydrate content, and a decrease in water content, total acidity, protein content, and colorimetric parameters. Overall, the cocoa variety had a weaker influence on the quality and physicochemical properties of raw and roasted cocoa than roasting.

Rootstock affects phytotechnical attributes, gas exchange, and carbohydrate accumulation in mango scion

ABSTRACT The market demand for grafted mango seedlings is increasing because they provide uniformity and precocity for orchards and gain in productive performance. However, studies on suitable rootstocks for mango seedling production of the main mango cultivars of economic interest in the Sao Francisco Valley, Brazil, are incipient. In this context, the objective of the present study was to evaluate growth, gas exchange, and carbohydrate accumulation in the 'Palmer', 'Tommy Atkins', 'Kent', and 'Keitt' mango scions grafted onto polyembryonic rootstocks ('Capucho', 'Coquinho', and 'Espada'). The experiment was carried out under nursery conditions, with 50% shading. A randomized block experimental design was used, in a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement, consisting of three mango rootstocks ('Espada', 'Capucho', and 'Coquinho') and four mango scion cultivars ('Palmer', 'Keitt', 'Kent', and 'Tommy Atkins'), with five replications and five plants per plot. Graft success was evaluated 28 days after grafting (DAG) to determine the effects of the rootstocks on each scion. Growth, photosynthetic parameters, and total soluble carbohydrate (TSC) and starch content were evaluated 227 DAG. The rootstocks used affected the growth, photosynthetic pigments, contents of TSC and starch, and gas exchange of the mango scions. The higher graft success percentages were found for the cultivars 'Keitt', 'Palmer', and 'Kent' grafted on 'Espada' rootstocks. The cultivar 'Tommy Atkins' showed the highest graft success percentages when grafted on 'Espada' and 'Capucho' rootstocks. 'Capucho' rootstocks showed higher performance for most of the analysed variables, mainly when using 'Palmer' and 'Tommy Atkins' cultivars as scions.

Exploring the bioactivity potential of indigenous Ganoderma species from Northern Serbia: insights into antioxidant and anti-acetylcholinesterase properties.

This study explores the bioactivity potential of four indigenous Ganoderma species from northern Serbia (G. applanatum, G. lucidum, G. pfeifferi, and G. resinaceum), comparing antioxidant and anti-acetylcholinesterase (anti-AChE) properties. The mycochemical profile, including ethanol (EtOH), water (H2O), and chloroform (CHCl3) extracts, was analysed, revealing significant phenolic compounds, such as 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid. Highest total phenolic content (TP) was in EtOH extracts (205 - 380 mg GAE/g d.w.), and total carbohydrate content peaked in G. pfeifferi CHCl3 extracts (1895 ± 0.29 mg GluE/g d.w., 439 ± 0.42 mg FruE/g d.w.). DPPH and FRAP activities were prominent in G. applanatum H2O extracts, while CHCl3 extracts excelled in the NO assay, and EtOH extracts were superior in the ABTS assay. The most effective AChE inhibitors were polar extracts from G. pfeifferi. These findings emphasise the potential therapeutic use of Ganoderma species, particularly G. pfeifferi, in combating oxidative stress and acetylcholine deficiencies.

Beneficial impact of AgNPs on fucoxanthin production and evaluation of phytochemical variations in Isochrysis sp.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are commonly transformed into various engineered nanomaterials for various applications, leading to their unavoidable disposal in the environment. Despite their toxicity, knowledge gaps remain regarding the metabolic perturbations induced by AgNPs on phytoplankton, which play a crucial role in global biogeochemical cycles and food-web dynamics. This study aimed to utilize AgNPs to elicit stress response of Isochrysis sp. KRJ-105, for enhancing fucoxanthin production, a valuable pigment with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The microalgae were treated with different AgNP concentrations (10, 30, 50, 70, and 100 mg/L) for 12 days, and the results showed that the addition of 50 mg/L AgNPs significantly promoted cellular fucoxanthin biosynthesis (34.61 ± 0.50 mg/g), a 5.94 mg/g higher production compared to the control (28.67 ± 1.01 mg/g). This study represents the first-time report of higher fucoxanthin production in Isochrysis sp. compared to previous reports in the last decade. Furthermore, AgNPs induced stress conditions in Isochrysis sp., also reflected in growth rates and alterations in biochemical composition, including total carbohydrate, total protein, lipid, carotenoid, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) content. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDAX) analysis revealed the interaction of AgNPs with the cell surface of Isochrysis sp. KRJ-105. These findings provide novel insights into microalgal interactions with nanoparticles, offering fundamental knowledge on physiochemical changes induced in Isochrysis sp., and its future development in cultivation aspects for superior commercial fucoxanthin production.

Biosynthetic capabilities of Antarctic yeast Sporobolomyces roseus AL103: Temperature influence on intracellular metabolites and characterization of the exopolysaccharide

The purpose of the study was to investigate the biosynthetic properties of the Antarctic yeast strain Sporobolomyces roseus AL103 in response to temperature changes, to perform intracellular metabolic profiling, and to reveal the chemical and functional characteristics of the synthesized exopolysaccharide (EPS). The results show that the yeast strain needed a shorter time to reach a stationary phase at 22 °C contrary to that of 5 °C. An NMR analysis revealed differences in metabolic profiles of amino acids, glucose, trehalose, glycerol, uridine, etc. EPS (2.9 g/L) was characterized by high–molecular-weight with total carbohydrate, uronic acids, and protein content of 66 %, 10.5 %, and 2.5 %, respectively. Mannose (74 mol%) and galactose (19 mol%) were the major constituents. The FT-IR data suggested the presence of β-(1–4)-mannan. DSC thermogram, WVTR, mechanical properties, and moisture sorption of the EPS film showed thermal stability up to 220 °C and hydrophilic behavior. The newly obtained polymer film was studied for the first time and the data showed possibilities for its successful application as a film-forming material in the preparation of packaging materials. In conclusion, the temperature influenced the metabolic profile of the Antarctic yeast producer. The biotechnological process could be directed to obtain the target intracellular or extracellular metabolites.

The Optimization of the Hot Water Extraction of the Polysaccharide-Rich Fraction from Agaricus bisporus

The optimization of extraction parameters, including the process time, temperature, and liquid-to-solid ratio, was conducted in order to obtain the polysaccharide-rich fraction from the lyophilized Agaricus bisporus fruiting body. The efficiency of extraction for polysaccharides and antioxidant activity was determined by analyzing the extracts for total carbohydrate content, the reducing sugars content, and the antioxidant activity employing DPPH, ABTS, and hydroxyl radical scavenging assays. The results showed that all parameters, except for the extraction time, impacted differently on the extraction efficiency of polysaccharides and antioxidant activity. The highest total carbohydrate content was observed at the longest process time, highest temperature, and a liquid-to-solid ratio of 118 mL/g. To minimize the reducing sugar level, a lower temperature is required, while the highest antioxidant activity requires a moderate temperature and the lowest liquid-to-solid ratio. The optimization of antioxidant activity by means of the DPPH and H2O2 method failed, which shows that the specific mechanism of polysaccharides as antioxidants needs further investigation. The aqueous extraction method demonstrated to be an efficient and simple approach to recover the potentially bioactive polysaccharide fractions from Agaricus bisporus that are also active as antioxidants.

Carbohydrate composition of cow's milk and plant-based milk alternatives

The prevalence of lactose intolerance is one of the factors driving consumers toward plant-based milk alternatives (PBMA). This study aimed to analyze the carbohydrate profile of cows' milk (regular and lactose-free from both pasteurized and UHT milks; n = 80) and PBMA (n = 60) by HPLC. The study revealed that there was no significant difference in the energy content and total carbohydrate content between regular milk and lactose-free milk. Although milk and PBMA are entirely different food matrices, some PBMA types, as soya and coconut, may have energy contents and total carbohydrate contents comparable to those of milk. Furthermore, the variability observed in total carbohydrate content, as well as in carbohydrate profile, both between PBMA types and within samples of the same type, arises not only from variations in raw materials but also from the number of dilutions of the vegetable extract and the addition of different types and levels of carbohydrates, such as sucrose, fructose, or sorbitol, during PBMA manufacture. Although, milk presents a regular carbohydrate composition, differing solely between presentations (regular/lactose-free), the PBMA differs significantly between types and among the same type, not being for that reason regarded as a milk substitute.

Exploring the biochemical and productivity implications of incorporating mustard cake in Hypsizygus ulmarius (Bull.) cultivation

The study aimed to evaluate the biological efficiency and nutritional composition of Hypsizygus ulmarius (Bull.), an edible and medicinal mushroom species often overlooked by Indian farmers. The mushrooms were cultivated on wheat husk as the control substrate from October to February. The substrate was enriched with mustard cake (M) at concentrations of 10 % (M500), 20 % (M1000) and 30 % (M1500) by dry weight to assess the impact on yield. The growth parameters, including the size and weight of fruiting bodies from each type of substrate were recorded. The control substrate, consisting of wheat straw alone, required the shortest period for mycelium growth at 33.125 ± 0.99 days, while wheat straw supplemented with 30 % mustard cake (M1500) took the longest time at 46.6 ± 1.5 days. However, the M1000 substrate (20 % mustard cake) had the shortest time span for pin head formation, taking 46 ± 1.41days and for maturation to fully grown fruiting bodies, requiring 50.25 ± 2.12 days. The M1000 substrate also produced the highest yield of 5533.2 kg with the greatest biological efficiency of 92.2 %, but comparatively least values were obtained in M1500, with a yield of 2088.28 kg and a biological efficiency of 51.28 %. The highest total carbohydrate content was found in M500 (10 % mustard cake), at 71.91 %, along with a fiber content of 13.19 %. The highest protein (38.06 %) and fats (2.73 %) contents were observed in M1500. The results of this study suggest that mustard cake can be used as an effective supplement to enhance the nutritional content, biological efficiency and productivity of Hypsizygus ulmarius.

Phytochemical Analysis and Antioxidant Activities of Various Extracts from the Aerial Part of Anemone baicalensis Turcz.: In Vitro and In Vivo Studies.

Anemone baicalensis Turcz., a botanical species with a rich historical background in traditional medicine for detoxification and insecticidal applications, possesses a vast, yet largely unexplored, therapeutic potential. This study primarily focused on conducting a qualitative phytochemical analysis of the plant, determining the active ingredient content and antioxidant activity of various solvent extracts. The qualitative phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of 12 different types of phytochemicals within the plant. Utilizing ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometry, we identified 11 active ingredients in 4 solvent extracts. Notably, the methanol extract was found to contain high concentrations of total carbohydrate, total monoterpenoid, total phenolic, total tannin, and total triterpenoid. In the antioxidant experiment, the methanol extract demonstrated superior scavenging abilities against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonicacid) diammonium salt, superoxide anion radical, and hydrogen peroxide, outperforming other extracts in chelation experiments aimed at reducing iron and metal ions. Consequently, the methanol extract was selected for further investigation. Subsequent ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry analysis revealed that the methanol extract contained 39 compounds, primarily phenolic compounds and triterpenoid saponins. Three stability assessments confirmed the extract's stability under high temperatures, varying pH levels, and simulated gastrointestinal processes. Additionally, oil stability testing demonstrated its antioxidant capacity in extra virgin olive oil and cold-pressed sunflower seed oil media. An oral acute toxicity experiment conducted on mice not only confirmed the absence of acute toxicity in the methanol extract but also provided a dose reference for subsequent gastric protection experiments. Notably, the methanol extract exhibited significant gastroprotective effects against ethanol-induced gastric lesions in rats, as evidenced by histopathological and biochemical analyses. Specifically, the extract reduced levels of malondialdehyde, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase while increasing glutathione, nitric oxide, and catalase, indicating its gastroprotective mechanism. These findings suggest that the methanol extract from the aerial part of Anemone baicalensis could be a promising therapeutic agent for conditions associated with oxidative imbalances. They underscore the plant's potential therapeutic benefits and offer valuable insights into its antioxidant properties, thereby broadening our understanding of its medicinal potential.

Differential Biochemical Content and Free Radical Scavenging Potency of Three Solvent Extracts of Porodaedalea pini

Porodaedalea pini, a non-edible mushroom, is a notable source of bioactive compounds with traditional medicinal uses. Solvent selection is crucial in research and development of natural products. This study examined how solvent polarity affects the biochemical composition and antioxidant properties of P. pini. Crude extracts were prepared from whole mushrooms using chloroform, methanol, and ethyl acetate through cold extraction. Total carbohydrate, flavonoid, and phenolic contents were measured, and free-radical scavenging activities against DPPH and superoxide anion were assessed by employing standard protocols. Methanolic extracts yielded significantly more than ethyl acetate (p<0.05) and chloroform (p<0.001) extracts, showing higher levels of carbohydrates, proteins, flavonoids, and phenolics (p<0.001). All extracts displayed notable free-radical scavenging activity, with methanol being the most potent, followed by ethyl acetate and chloroform. Thus, solvent polarity greatly affects the biochemical constituents and antioxidant activity of P. pini extracts, highlighting the importance of solvent choice in optimising their bioactive potential.