Total Flavonoid Content Research Articles

Enhancing biscuits with muskmelon seed flour: a study of physicochemical, textural, and nutritional characteristics

The baking industry is continuously innovating to develop new product formulations that appeal to consumers through both taste and enhanced nutritional value. Biscuits, one of the most popular bakery products globally, serve as an ideal medium for the fortification of essential nutrients. Muskmelon seeds, rich in protein, oil, vitamins, min-erals, and amino acids, offer a natural source for the fortification of various food products. This research focuses on incorporating muskmelon seed flour into biscuit formulations to enhance protein, dietary fiber, mineral, and phytochemical content while preserving textural quality. Five formulations were tested, with T0 (control) containing 100% wheat flour, T1 containing 95% wheat flour and 5% muskmelon seed flour, T2 containing 90% wheat flour and 10% muskmelon seed flour, T3 containing 85% wheat flour and 15% muskmelon seed flour, and T4 containing 80% wheat flour and 20% muskmelon seed flour. The effect of substituting wheat flour with muskmelon seed flour on bis-cuit development was assessed by examining physical, proximate, textural, nutritional, and sensory characteristics. The inclusion of muskmelon seed flour significantly increased biscuit thickness (from 53.66 ± 0.68 mm to 73.00 ± 0.36 mm) and hardness (from 18.57 ± 0.03% to 47.61 ± 0.02%) to maintain its proper shape and texture while also enhancing crude protein (from 5.69 ± 0.07% to 16.41 ± 0.08%), ash (1.13 ± 0.01% to 1.70 ± 0.05%), and dietary fiber content (from 1.58 ± 0.03% to 1.88 ± 0.04%). Additionally, the substitution improved total phenolic content (TPC, from 85.52 ± 0.05 to 210.54 ± 0.04 mg GAE/mL), total flavonoid content (TFC, from 54.84 ± 0.09 to 142.28 ± 0.03 mg CE/g), and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) inhibition (from 48.63 ± 0.04% to 65.54 ± 0.05%). Among various treatments, T2, which incorporated 10% muskmelon seed flour, was the most acceptable treatment. Further research is recommended to assess sensory characteristics more precisely using trained panelists.

Bellevalia pseudolongipes Plant: Comprehensive Analysis of the Elemental Composition and Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents

Bellevalia pseudolongipes is a recently described plant species, whose mineral and biochemical composition have not yet been reported. Thus, this study examined the mineral composition and total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the B. pseudolongipes plant. Elemental analysis revealed that the plant contained high levels of calcium (22379.556 ± 025 ppm) and potassium (19721.157 ± 005 ppm). Phenolic compound analysis demonstrated a high total phenolic content (0.24 ± 0.004 mg gallic acid equivalent/g sample), thus highlighting the antioxidant capacity of the plant. Additionally, the assessment of flavonoid content (0.043 ± 0.001 mg catechin equivalent/100 g sample) indicated the potential use of the B. pseudolongipes plant as a source of antioxidants. These findings underscore B. pseudolongipes as a valuable natural resource for human health because it is rich in antioxidants, minerals, and phenolic compounds, while also providing a crucial foundation for researchers interested in exploring its pharmacological, medical, and industrial potential. The results of this study contribute to our understanding of the biological and health values of plants, thereby providing support for the development of products that are derived from natural sources and innovative solutions that contribute to human health.

Anti-Hyperglycemic Effects of Thai Herbal Medicines

This study aims to investigate selected medicinal plants’ anti-oxidative and antihyperglycemic activities to develop an effective remedy for lowering blood glucose levels and/or reducing diabetes complications. Thai medicinal plants, reported to have blood sugar-lowering effects, were selected for the study: Coccinia grandis, Gymnema inodorum, Gynostemma pentaphyllum, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Momordica charantia, Morus alba, and Zingiber officinale. Each species was extracted by Soxhlet’s extraction using ethanol as solvent. The ethanolic crude extract of each species was then evaluated for its phytochemicals, anti-oxidant, and antihyperglycemic activities. The results showed that the extract of Z. officinale gave the highest values of total phenolic and total flavonoid content (167.95 mg gallic acid equivalents (GAE)/g and 81.70 mg CE/g, respectively). Anti-oxidant activity was determined using DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activity. Among the ethanolic extracts, Z. officinale exhibited the highest anti-oxidant activity with IC50 values of 19.16 and 8.53 µg/mL, respectively. The antihyperglycemic activity was assessed using α-glucosidase inhibitory and glucose consumption activities. M. alba and G. pentaphyllum demonstrated the highest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity among the ethanolic extracts, with IC50 values of 134.40 and 329.97 µg/mL, respectively. Z. officinale and H. sabdariffa showed the highest percentage of glucose consumption activity in induced insulin-resistant HepG2 cells at a concentration of 50 µg/mL with 145.16 and 107.03%, respectively. The results from α-glucosidase inhibitory and glucose consumption activities were developed as an effective antihyperglycemic remedy. Among the remedies tested, the R1 remedy exhibited the highest potential for reducing blood glucose levels, with an IC50 value of 122.10 µg/mL. Therefore, the R1 remedy should be further studied for its effects on animals.

In vitro antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Ajuga integrifolia leaf extracts obtained with different solvents

BackgroundMany diseases are increasingly recognized as public health concerns worldwide because of the increasing incidence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Recently, interest in the use of indigenous medicinal plants to treat infectious illnesses has increased, highlighting the need to find new bioactive phytochemicals. Ajuga integrifolia is a plant commonly utilized in traditional drugs to treat a wide range of diseases, although its effectiveness has not been scientifically validated. The present study aimed to evaluate the total phenolic and flavonoid contents and assess the biological activities of A. integrifolia leaf extracts produced via different solvent systems.MethodsSoxhlet extraction was employed to obtain crude extracts from different solvents (methanol, ethanol and water). The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and ferric-reducing power assays were used to measure the antioxidant activity, and the antibacterial activity of the extract was evaluated on the basis of its minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against two gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli (ATCC-25922) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC-43495)) and two gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC-25923) and Streptococcus pyogenes (ATCC-19615)) via the agar disk-diffusion technique.ResultsA significant amount of total phenolic content (TPC) and flavonoid content (TFC) were present in all the extracts. The extracts presented powerful antioxidant activity in all the assays. The disc diffusion and MIC results revealed the ability of the methanol and ethanol extracts of A. integrifolia leaves to inhibit S. aureus growth at a concentration of 3.125 mg/mL. However, the water extracts were ineffective against E. coli and P. aeruginosa.ConclusionsThese findings indicate that A. integrifolia leaf extracts have reasonable biological activities. These findings underscore the importance of A. integrifolia leaves as a source of health benefits.

Combined effects of deficit irrigation and mulching on fruit quality and bioactive compounds of VNR Bihi guava (Psidium guajava)

The present study was carried out during 2019–20 and 2020–21 at Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand to assess the combined effects of deficit irrigation and mulching on a 5-year- old VNR Bihi guava (Psidium guajava L.) orchard. The experiment consisted of three irrigation regimes, viz. deficit irrigation at 50% ETc (DI50); deficit irrigation at 75% ETc (DI75); and full irrigation at 100% ETc (FI100); and four mulching treatments, viz. silver-black mulch (MSB); black mulch (MB); organic mulch (MOM); and without mulch (MWM) laid out in a factorial randomised block design (F-RBD) with three replications. Results showed that fruit number and yield/tree were recorded highest in trees irrigated with DI75 and mulched with silver-black mulch. Under treatment DI50 fruit had the highest concentration of soluble solids, with Brix levels of 12.35°B and 12.78 °B during the years 2019–20 and 2020–21, respectively. Total sugars content was significantly increased under DI50 by 7.73 and 7.36%, respectively as compared to FI100 during both the years of experimentation. The biochemical properties such as total phenolics, total flavonoids and antioxidant (DPPH) activity also increased as irrigation regimes decreased from FI100 to DI50. The total phenolic and flavonoids content were improved by 19.19 and 33.44%, respectively under DI50 when compared to FI100. Significant differences among different mulch treatments with respect to quality parameters were also observed except DPPH activity. Silver-black mulch followed by black mulch resulted in higher soluble solids content, total sugars, ascorbic acid, total phenolic content, total flavonoids and DPPH activity. These findings demonstrate the positive effect of water deficit practice on bioactive compounds and the appropriateness of deficit irrigation and mulching as irrigation management strategies in the fruit orchards that improve fruit commercial value and conserve water.

Electron beam irradiation shortened the processing cycle of Chinese solo-bulb black garlic: Changes in critical physicochemical properties

Electron beam irradiation (EBI) was used to pretreat the solo-bulb fresh garlic (SBFG) to shorten the production cycle of solo-bulb black garlic (SBBG). The critical physicochemical indicators were analyzed and compared between EBI pretreated and commercial SBBG in this study. The results showed that EBI pretreatment significantly accelerated the browning reactions by destroying the cell structure of SBFG, and obviously shortened the production cycle of SBBG to 9 days. The total acid (TA), total polyphenol (TP), and total flavonoid (TF) contents in the EBI pretreated SBBG were all obviously increased compared with those of the control without EBI pretreatment, which were beneficial to improving the quality of SBBG. Meanwhile, the 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde (5-HMF) and acrylamide contents as potentially harmful substances to human health were also significantly increased within the safe levels. The alliin content was more affected by the EBI pretreatment than other amino acids in SBBG as the irradiation dose exceeded 6 kGy. These results indicate that EBI pretreatment can be an alternative technology to improve the production efficiency of SBBG and apply in industrial production.

HPLC analysis and antimicrobial activity of Vitex altissima leaves extracts

The exploration of ethnomedicinal plants for phytochemical and pharmacological properties is crucial for developing novel therapeutics for chronic diseases. Vitex altissima, known as the Peacock chaste tree, is a significant member of the Verbenaceae family, is widely utilized in traditional medicine. This study investigates the phytochemical composition and antibacterial properties of V. altissima, a plant recognized for its medicinal use by various indigenous communities, including the Malayali tribes of Servarayan hills. The study involved extracting phytochemicals from the leaves of V. altissima using hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol through soxhlet extraction. The extracts were analyzed for secondary metabolites, including carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, steroids, glycosides, alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, anthraquinones, oils and resins, diterpenes, phlobatannins and coumarins. Quantitative assessments of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and alkaloids were performed. Column chromatography was employed to fractionate the methanolic extract, resulting in 12 distinct fractions. These fractions were screened for antibacterial activity against E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus using the agar well diffusion method. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined through a 2-fold serial dilution technique. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was utilized to identify the polyphenolic compounds responsible for antibacterial activity. Phytochemical screening revealed a diverse array of bioactive compounds in the extracts, with methanol extracts showing the highest total phenolic content (218 ± 7.21 mg GAE/g of extract) and significant antibacterial activity. The ethyl acetate extract exhibited the highest total flavonoid content (40.67 ± 6.65 mg QE/g of extract). Among the fractions, the column fraction from the chloroform-methanol gradient (VACF) demonstrated superior antimicrobial activity, particularly against S. mutans and P. aureginosa. The MIC values for VACF were 427 µg/mL for P. aeruginosa and 400 µg/mL for S. aureus, indicating potent antibacterial properties. HPLC analysis identified key polyphenolic compounds, including p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid and elagic acid, as the primary contributors to the antibacterial activity. The presence of these compounds aligns with the observed antimicrobial efficacy and highlights the potential of V. altissima extracts as a source of natural antibacterial agents.

Appraisal of chemical composition and biological activities of thyme essential oil: an insight to in-silico molecular docking studies

The current study aims to ascertain the chemical composition and biological activities of thyme leaves essential oil (TEO), with an emphasis on its in silico molecular docking studies targeting the antibacterial properties of its constituents. TEO was extracted from dried leaves using a standardized procedure, with a yield of 0.75%. The chemical constituents of TEO were identified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). The primary compounds detected included carvacrol, o-acetyl thymol, α-pinene, and spathulenol. Subsequently, the antioxidant activity of the isolated oil was measured, and the results showed that the total phenolic contents (TPC) was 4.69 ± 0.17 GAE mg/100 g, the total flavonoid contents (TFC) was 1.45 ± 0.04 CE mg/100 g, the ferric reducing antioxidant potential (FRAP) ranged from 0.07-0.81, and the DPPH radical scavenging activity was 42.88-86.94%. TEO exhibited notable antibacterial activity against certain strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The molecular docking studies were then conducted to further investigate the interaction of TEO’s potent metabolites with key bacterial enzymes, identifying spathulenol and caryophyllene as the best-interacting ligands. Hemolytic activity tests of TEO indicated negligible cytotoxic effects. These findings support that TEO holds great potential for the development of functional food and nutra-pharmaceuticals.

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi Ameliorate Selenium Stress and Increase Antioxidant Potential of Zea mays in Seleniferous Soil.

The indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) spores were isolated from rhizosphere soil associated with maize plants grown in natural selenium-impacted agricultural soils present in north-eastern region of Punjab, India (32°46' N, 74°46' N), with selenium concentration ranging from 2.1 to 6.1 mg kg-1 dry weight, and their role in plant growth promotion, mitigation of selenium stress and phytochemical and antioxidant potential of host maize plants in natural seleniferous soil were examined. Soils with selenium content between 2 and 200 mg kg-1 and producing plants with 45 mg selenium kg-1 dry weight are considered seleniferous soils. AMF inoculum consisting of indigenous AMF spores multiplied in pot cultures were inoculated to maize seeds at the time of sowing alongside control maize seeds in a total of 12 plots (6 replicates) made in seleniferous agricultural fields and sampled at maturity, i.e. 3 months. Asignificant difference was observed in plant growth parameters between control and AMF-inoculated maize plants. AMF-inoculated plants had 24.0 cm and 101.1 cm higher root and shoot length along with 27.2 g, 119.4 g and 28.1 g higher root, shoot and maize cob biomass in comparison to control plants. Se uptake studies through measurement of the emission spectrum of piazselenol complex by fluorescence spectrometry revealed that AMF inoculation led to 6.3 µg g-1 more selenium accumulation in mycorrhizal maize roots in comparison to control roots but lesser translocation to shoots and seeds, i.e. 17.17 µg g-1 and 19.58 µg g-1 lesser. AMF increased total phenolic content by 13 µg GAE mg-1 and total flavonoid content by 13.4 µg QE mg-1 in inoculated maize plants when compared to control plants. Antioxidant studies revealed that AMF inoculation also led to significant rise in enzyme activities by a difference of 115 and 193 EU g-1 in catalase, 140 and 93 EU g-1 in superoxide dismutase, 15 and 37 EU g-1 in ascorbate peroxidase and 19.8 and 23.6% higher DPPH radical scavenging activities, respectively, in shoots and roots of plants with AMF inoculation. The findingsof this study imply that AMF inoculated to maize plants in seleniferous field boost their plant growth and phytochemical and antioxidant properties, as well as minimize Se bioaccumulation in shoots and seeds of plants inoculated with AMF in comparison to control plants.

Hypoglycemic and antioxidant activities of Jasminum officinale L. with identification and characterization of phytocompounds

The utilization of plant-derived chemicals with anti-diabetic properties is widely promoted for its advantageous tactics in managing diabetes, as they are cost-effective and have minimal or no adverse effects. Therefore, this work investigates the medicinal plant Jasminum officinale L. leaves by extraction and bio-guided fractionation. The ethyl acetate fraction showed a higher yield of 36.4 %. A phytochemical test on Jasminum officinale confirmed flavonoids, saponins, phenols, and tannins. The highest total phenol and flavonoid contents in the ethyl acetate fraction of J. officinale are 103.01 ± 1.1 mg GAE/g and 80.29 ± 1.03 mg QUE/ value found in methanol crude extract. Furthermore, HPTLC analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction detected the existence of flavonoids (kaempferol) and phenols (gallic acid, quercetin, and rutin). The compounds detected at the greatest concentrations in the LC-M/MS analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction were cirsiliol, kaempferol, and 2-tridecanone. Additionally, J. officinale (IC50 33.845 ± 1.09 μg/mL) demonstrated the highest DPPH scavenging activity in EAF like that of ascorbic acid (IC50 22.27 ± 0.96 μg/mL). Also, in the FRAP assay, the IC50 of this fraction is 15.14 ± 0.25 μM Fe equivalents. In the range of alpha-amylase deactivating action, from 13.25 % to 74.51 %, and IC50 value (47.40 ± 0.29 μg/mL) was significantly higher in the ethyl acetate fraction of J. officinale leaf extract. Moreover, J. officinale leaf extract had a substantially higher retention of glucose level (23.92 ± 0.85 % to 87.21 ± 0.6 %), significantly higher anti-inflammatory activity with the lowest IC50 value (66.00 ± 1.84), and lipid peroxidation (IC50 value 34.67 ± 1.69) by utilizing egg yolk as a substrate for lipids. Overall, the study revealed that J. officinale has considerable anti-diabetic characteristics. However, further comprehensive research is necessary to ascertain the medicinal purposes of J. officinale and its chemical components, pharmacological effects, and clinical uses.

Fermentation by Penicillium polonicum improves the functional components and biological effects of orange peel via producing β-glucosidase without the risk of potential mycotoxins

This paper presented the initial investigation into the impact of Penicillium polonicum fermentation on the functional components and bioactivities of navel orange peel. The fermentation process resulted in a notable enhancement of the total flavonoid content (TFC), total phenolic content (TPC), antioxidant capacity, antibacterial activity, and antiglycation activity of orange peel. Eighteen flavonoids were isolated and identified from the ethanolic extract of fermented orange peel (FEE) by employing chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques. The results of the HPLC analysis showed that three flavanones (naringenin, hesperetin, and isosakuranetin) were newly produced and present in high concentrations in FEE, with hesperetin being the most abundant component (39.74 mg/g) in comparison to the ethanolic extract of unfermented orange peel (EE). The TPC, TFC, antioxidant, and antiglycation activities of FEE, as well as the enzymatic activity of β-glucosidase in the fermented orange peels, showed a gradual increase with the progression of fermentation time over a five-month period. HPLC analysis revealed that the fermentation metabolites generated by P. polonicum in rice and orange peel media exhibited distinct profiles, indicating that the fermentation of orange peel by P. polonicum did not result in the production of potential mycotoxins. The findings of this study provided a scientific basis for the high-value utilization of navel orange peels and established a reference point for the potential applications of other peel byproducts via microbial fermentation.

Active packaging coating based on Lepidium sativum seed mucilage and propolis extract: Preparation, characterization, application and modeling the preservation of buffalo meat.

Buffalo meat is naturally perishable, making it susceptible to spoilage due to its high moisture content and vulnerability to microbial contamination. Edible coatings have attracted attention as a packaging method that can prolong the shelf life of meat. The study aimed to examine the impact of a combination of Lepidium sativum mucilage (LS) coating and propolis extract (PE) on prolonging the shelf life of buffalo meat. The chemical characteristics (chemical compounds, total phenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant activity, and cytotoxicity) and antimicrobial activity of the PE (disk diffusion agar, well diffusion agar, minimum inhibitory concentration, and minimum bactericidal concentration) were investigated. The effect of the PE on the cell wall of pathogenic bacteria was examined using a scanning electron microscope. Biological properties of LS (TPC, TFC, antioxidant activity and antimicrobial effect (pour plate method)) was investigated. Different concentrations of PE (0, 0.5, 1.5, and 2.5%) were added to the coating mixture containing LS, and their effects on extending the shelf life of buffalo meat samples stored at 4°C for 9 days were assessed. The PE included gallic acid, benzoic acid, syringic acid, 4-3 dimethoxy cinnamic acid, p-coumaric acid, myricetin, caffeic acid, luteolin, chlorogenic acid, and apigenin. The PE was determined to have a TPC of 36.67 ± 0.57 mg GAE/g and a TFC of 48.02 ± 0.65 mg QE/g. The extract's radical scavenging activity ranged from 0 to 76.22% for DPPH radicals and from 0 to 50.31% for ABTS radicals. The viability of C115 HeLa cell was observed to be 94.14 μg/mL. The PE and LS, exhibited strong antimicrobial properties against pathogenic bacteria. The LS was determined to have a TPC of 15.23 ± 0.43 mg GAE/g and a TFC of 11.51± 0.61 mg QE/g. The LS was determined to have a DPPH of 429.65 ± 1.28 μg/mL and a ABTS of 403.59 ± 1.46 μg/mL. The microbiological analysis revealed that the LS+2.5%PE treatment was the most effective in inhibiting the growth of total viable count (6.23 vs. 8.00 log CFU/g), psychrotrophic bacteria count (3.71 vs. 4.73 log CFU/g), coliforms count (2.78 vs. 3.70 log CFU/g), and fungi count (2.39 vs. 3.93 log CFU/g) compared to the control sample. The addition of PE to the edible coating also demonstrated a concentration-dependent effect on preserving the moisture, pH, color, and hardness of the buffalo meat. Sensory evaluation results suggested that incorporating PE into the edible coating extended the shelf life of buffalo meat by three days. In the second stage of this paper, this investigation employed two distinct forecasting methodologies: the Radial Basis Function (RBF) and the Support Vector Machine (SVM), to predict a range of quality indicators for coated meat products. Upon comparison, the RBF model exhibited a higher level of accuracy, showcasing its exceptional capacity to closely match the experimental outcomes. Therefore, this type of food coating, renowned for its strong antimicrobial properties, has the potential to effectively package and preserve perishable and delicate food items, such as meat.

Comprehensive evaluation on phenolic derivatives and antioxidant activities of diverse yellow maize varieties

The main phenolic derivatives and antioxidant capacity of ninety-three yellow maize varieties were investigated, together with their color parameters. Sixteen phenolics were identified in the free extract by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS, N′, N″-diferuloyl putrescine and N′, N″-dicoumaryl spermidine were the major phenolic derivatives. Fourteen phenolic compounds were found in the bound extract, with trans-p-coumaric acid, trans- and cis-ferulic acid being the predominant phenolic acids. The orange-yellow maize varieties presented the highest total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC), along with significantly higher antioxidant potential. Correlation analysis showed that b* value (corresponding to yellow degree) was positively correlated with the total carotenoid content (TCC), phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). Through Hierarchical Clustering Analysis (HCA), the 93 maize varieties could be divided into three categories according to b* value and antioxidant activity. The heatmap visualization further underscored the component differences across various varieties, unveiling the intricate phytochemical profiles of these maize varieties.

Evaluation of the effect of ultrasound-assisted hot air drying on the drying characteristics and physicochemical properties of cherries based on the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method.

To address the challenges associated with prolonged traditional hot air drying (HAD) times and significant nutrient loss in cherries, this study employs ultrasound-assisted hot air drying (USA-HAD) technology. The study investigates the impacts of various ultrasound (US) frequencies, US powers, and hot air temperatures on the drying kinetics, physicochemical properties, texture attributes, and microstructure of cherries during drying. Cherry physicochemical quality serves as the evaluation criterion, with the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method used to identify the optimal drying parameters. The findings indicate that USA-HAD accelerates the drying process, reduces drying time, and enhances drying efficiency. In comparison to natural drying, USA-HAD significantly preserves polysaccharides, total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and organic acids in cherries, while boosting antioxidant activity. Concurrently, it reduces color intensity, as well as the hardness, chewiness, and gumminess of dried cherry products. Microstructural observations under different drying methods reveal an increase in surface micropores and relatively intact tissue structure. Under conditions of 55°C, 48W, and 28kHz, cherries exhibit superior overall quality based on the TOPSIS relative closeness degree. This study offers practical insights for optimizing post-harvest processing of cherries. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: In this rapidly evolving era, the application of combination drying technology is clearly on the rise. The USA-HAD treated cherries had better nutritional and bioactive than HAD. The conclusions obtained indicate that the USA-HAD technology has more potential for development.

Assessment of bioactive compounds, antioxidant properties and morphological parameters in selected microgreens cultivated in soilless media

The study investigated the effect of soilless media (burlap), on the morphological traits and antioxidant activities of microgreens from Brassicaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Linaceae families. The results revealed significant variations were observed in the selected morphological, biochemical composition, and antioxidant capacity of the microgreens. The radish sango and microgreens showed superior morphological characteristics compared to other microgreens. The elemental composition analysis revealed consistent moisture, ash, fat, fiber, and protein content across all families. The results revealed significant variations in the biochemical composition and antioxidant capacity of the microgreens, depending on the growing medium and between microgreens. Notably, microgreens differed in photosynthetic pigment profiles, with flaxseed and cabbage showing the highest chlorophyll content of 26.59 to 27.18 µg/g, FW and carotenoid content in a range of 3.74 to 6.39 µg/g, FW was observed in microgreens. The radish sango and beetroot microgreens exhibited elevated anthocyanin levels of 27.94–28.25 µmol/100 g, FW. Biochemical analysis indicated varying levels of ascorbic acid (177.58 to 256.46 mg/100 g, FW), total glucosinolate content (4.09 to 47.38 µmol/g, FW), phenolic content (131.44 to 298.56 mg GAE/100 g, FW), and flavonoid content (10.94 to 18.14 mg QUE/100 g, FW) were observed in selected microgreens families. Radish sango microgreens demonstrated the highest DPPH (76.82%, FW) and ABTS (88.49%, FW) radical scavenging activities, indicating superior antioxidant potential. The study showed that Brassicaceae microgreens are particularly rich in bioactive and antioxidant properties. Additionally, studies could assess the economic feasibility and scalability of soilless cultivation methods for microgreens to support their inclusion in sustainable agricultural practices and health-promoting diets.

Green synthesis of silver/silver oxide nanostructures using the Malva sylvestris extract prior to simultaneous distillation extraction: synthesis, phytochemical and biological analysis.

Nanotechnology and nanoscience are due to their numerous uses in medicine, engineering, and water pollution sensors and their expanding research fields. In this study, the essential oil, methanolic extract, and biosynthesized silver/silver oxide nanostructures (Ag/AgO NSs) using the aqueous extract of the plant were prepared. The phytochemical compounds of the extract and essential oil were analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), respectively. The GC/MS technique identified 34 compounds in the essential oil of the plant with the major constituents including oleic acid (18.5%), palmitic acid (11.08%), phytone (6.64%), p-vinylguaiacol (6.4%), and phytol (4.23%). After the phytochemical identification, the total flavonoid and polyphenol contents of the extract was determined, too. Prodelphinidin B3 compound in the Malva sylvestris extract was analyzed and detected by high-performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet detector (HPLC-UV), at a retention time of around 10 min. In addition, M. sylvestris extract was used for green synthesis of Ag/AgO NSs. The as-prepared NPs were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV-visible absorption spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM/EDS), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET), Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BJH), and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analyses. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption at λmax 320 nm in the UV-vis spectra confirms the formation of Ag/AgO NSs. The crystalline structure of Ag/AgO NSs was confirmed by XRD analysis.The nanoparticles were found to have a small size, measuring 64.16 nm, 44.33 nm, and 50 nm using the Williamson-Hall, Scherrer, and SEM/EDS methods, respectively. Besides, that spherical shape of Ag NPs with good size distribution was observed in the SEM/EDS analysis. The small size, around 50 nm, and spherical shape of Ag/AgO NSs with good size distribution were observed in the SEM/EDS analysis. Besides, the antibacterial activity of the extract was evaluated against three pathogenic bacteria, by disk diffusion method. Significant antibacterial activity was observed for the prepared extracts of M. sylvestris against the bacteria (Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and the results were compared with the known antibiotics such as amoxicillin, cephalexin, erythromycin, and fluconazole.

Influence of microwave processing on nutritional, anti-nutritional, antioxidant and sensory characteristics of kachnar powder and supplemented flatbreads

This study examines the impact of microwave processing on Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata) powder and its application in flatbreads. Microwave treatment reduced anti-nutrient levels of alkaloids, phytates, tannins, and saponins by 83–90 %, enhancing safety. Incorporation of microwaved kachnar powder (MwKP) into flatbreads at 2.5–10 % replacement levels improved nutritional profiles, with increases in ash (0.4–0.9 g/100 g), dietary fiber (2–3 g/100 g), protein (8–9 g/100 g), and minerals such as Fe (3–4 mg/100 g), Zn (3.2–3.9 mg/100 g), Na (3–10 mg/100 g), K (378–388 mg/100 g), Ca (30–45 mg/100 g), and Mg (125–145 mg/100 g). Antioxidant activity also increased significantly (p < 0.05) as measured by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Sensory evaluation showed a decline in acceptability for MwKP levels ≥7.5 %, though 5 % supplementation was well-received. The findings suggest that microwave processing is an effective method for reducing anti-nutrient content in Kachnar while improving its nutritional and antioxidant properties, making it a viable ingredient for enhancing baked goods.

The Impact of Exogenous Sodium Selenite Treatment on the Nutritional Value and Active Constituents of Pueraria lobata

Moderate amounts of Se can promote crop growth, enhance stress resistance, increase yield, and improve nutritional quality. In the present study, kudzu seedlings were used as experimental materials, and their physiological indicators, antioxidant activity, nutritional components, and flavonoid content were measured after being treated with Na2SeO3 hydroponics. Transcriptome sequencing analysis was used to reveal the relevant genes involved in regulating the effects of exogenous Se on the content of Se-compounds and flavonoids in kudzu. The results indicated that treatment with 20 mg/L Na2SeO3 significantly increased stem and root lengths, dry and fresh weight, lateral root development, and chlorophyll b content. However, at higher concentrations (30–40 mg/L), lateral root abundance and chlorophyll levels decreased. Na2SeO3 treatment also augmented the antioxidant capacity and enhanced the content of major nutrients in kudzu seedlings. The total Se content in kudzu escalated with increasing Na2SeO3 concentration, with selenomethionine emerging as the primary organic-Se species. After treatment with Na2SeO3, the content of puerarin in both aboveground and underground parts decreased, while the content of total flavonoids increased. Daidzin increased in the roots. Differential expression gene analysis revealed that genes such as TRXB2, SYM, MMT1, and METE were involved in Se uptake and transformation in kudzu, while bZIP43 and WRKY47 played a role in flavonoid biosynthesis.

Methyl jasmonate effects on Lactuca serriola L.: Antioxidant defense and bioactive compound changes.

The effect of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) foliar spray on the activity of antioxidant enzymes-Superoxide dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT), Ascorbate peroxidase (APX), and Guaiacol peroxidase (GPX)-along with assessments of total phenolic and flavonoid contents and antioxidant activity (IC50), was examined in Prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola L.). The study involved treating plants with three MeJA solutions (0, 200, and 400 µM) and harvesting samples at four distinct time intervals. Varied MeJA concentrations and time intervals resulted in a substantial increase in the activity of all the antioxidant enzymes investigated in this study. Both concentration levels and time courses exhibited progressive outcomes. Moreover, MeJA treatment led to elevated levels of total phenolic and flavonoid contents, reaching peaks of 17.02 (mg GAL/g DW) and 8.3 (mg QUE/g DW), respectively, particularly in response to the 400 µM concentration. However, the total flavonoid content did not show any significant variation between the two concentrations. Based on the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values, the antioxidant activity in MeJA-treated plants was found to be lower compared to the controls. However, our findings suggest that, under specific conditions discussed in this study, MeJA has the potential to enhance the nutritional value of L. serriola.

Exploring health beneficial effects of poisonous mushroom Paxillus involutus Batsch Fr.

In the present study, phenolic and flavonoid composition and biological properties of methanolic extract of wild growing Paxillus involutus collected in Serbia have been investigated. Ellagic acid was the most abundant phenolic compound (34.92 µg g−1), followed by 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid (4.51 µg g−1), whereas isoorientin was the most abundant flavonoid (3.42 µg g−1). P. involutus turned out to be a rich source of phenolic compounds (74.67 mg GAE g−1 d.w.), whereas total flavonoid content was significantly lower (4.05 mg QE g−1 d.w.). As for the various investigated biological activities, methanolic extract exerted high level of antioxidant, antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities. The highest antioxidative potential was measured by TAC (350 TE mg g−1 d.w.), whereas evaluation of antimicrobial properties showed selective antimicrobial potential toward tested pathogenic microorganisms, with resistant strain of E. coli being the most susceptible to the activity of the extract (MIC 0.08 mg mL−1, MBC 0.16 mg mL−1). Furthermore, methanolic extract of P. involutus demonstrated genotoxicity, severe hemolysis effects and selective cytotoxicity against colon cancer cells. From the obtained data, it may be concluded that investigated mushroom albeit being toxic for human consumption, may be considered as a source of highly bioactive components with potential application in drug development.