Search

Background: The Apiaceae or Umbelliferae is one of the largest families in terms of species representation in the plant kingdom. It is also a prominent family in the field of phytochemicals and pharmacology. The family is also quite prominent in the production of spices and condiments and food supplements in nutrition, aside from the potential of species in the family to induce apoptotic, antimicrobial, antitumor, and hepatoprotective activities. Objective: This work presents a detailed structural elucidation and functional aspects of phytochemicals from the Apiaceae or Umbelliferae family. Method: Furthermore, the application of members of this family in traditional and modern pharmacology is emphasized. This review also highlights the linkage of phytochemicals used in the conventional system of medication for the development of novel therapeutics through a chain of pre-clinical and clinical trials. Conclusion: This study may represent a valuable step ahead in the clinical development of natural drugs for curing several ailments, including respiratory and virus-related diseases.

Tiliacora triandra (Colebr.) Diels (Menispermaceae family) is a Southeast Asian angiosperm herb. Traditional medicine in these areas often includes the use of plant parts. Plant extracts are highly effective against various infections including bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic. The leaves and root extracts are used to treat gastrointestinal diseases, hypertension, diabetes, skin diseases, and malaria as an antipyretic, detoxification agent, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and immunomodulator. Bioactive compounds contained in T. triandra include phenolic compounds, alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, fatty acids, essential amino acids, peptides, carbohydrates, vitamins, and nucleic acid precursors. Despite the plant species’ abundance of bioactive compounds, there is very little in vivo and clinical proof of its pharmacological significance. The present review focuses on the phytochemical configurations, extraction methods for major bioactive compounds, and pharmacology of T. triandra, in light of its potent medicinal values.

The objective of this study was to quantify four polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH4) in herbal medicine products in Korea. The PAH4 (benzo[

Environmental pollutants such as fine dust are increasingly linked to premature skin aging. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of higenamine, a natural plant alkaloid, against fine-dust-induced skin aging in human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells). We found that higenamine significantly attenuated fine-dust-induced expression of matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1), a key enzyme involved in collagen degradation. Furthermore, higenamine was found to modulate fine-dust-induced AP-1 and NF-κB transactivation, which are crucial factors for MMP-1 transcription. Higenamine also impeded fine-dust-induced phosphorylation in specific pathways related to AP-1 and NF-κB activation, and effectively alleviated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, a key factor in oxidative stress caused by fine dust exposure. These results suggest that higenamine exerts protective effects against fine-dust-induced skin aging, primarily through its MMP-1 inhibitory properties and ability to mitigate ROS-induced oxidative damage. Our data highlight the potential of higenamine as an effective ingredient in skincare products designed to combat environmental skin damage.

Abstract: Sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) to quantify monoclonal antibody (B[a]P-13) Background: Only a few studies have focused on the analysis using specific antibodies in the sandwich ELISA method to each B[a]P in herbal medicine products. In contrast to the sandwich ELISA method, many competitive ELISA methods using specific antibodies such as benzo[a]pyrene monoclonal antibody (B[a]P-13) and a goat anti-mouse IgG (H+L) cross-adsorbed secondary antibody, horseradish peroxidase (HRP) were developed. Introduction: The objective of this study was to develop and validate the method for the response of the benzo[a]pyrene monoclonal antibody (B[a]P-13) and goat anti-mouse IgG (H+L) cross-adsorbed secondary antibody (HRP) to prepare the immunogen and its application to detect the benzo[a]pyrene in various herbal medicine products. Methods: This research method includes preparation of B[a]P-protein conjugates, sampling and extraction procedure for herbal medicines, sandwich ELISA procedure, evaluation of cross-reactivity for determination, matrix effect of the organic solvents, correlation of benzo[a]pyrene detection ELISA compared to HPLC-FLD in herbal medicine products. Results: The sandwich ELISA method for B[a]P was validated in linearity (R2 > 0.99), the limit of detection (LOD) (0.080.19 μg/kg) and limit of quantification (LOQ) (0.240.57 μg/kg), accuracy (95.58117.06 %), and precision (3.8010.26 %). The cross-reactivity (CR) was found for B[a]P (100%), CHR (39%), B[b]F (27%), and B[a]A (41%). As a solvent, acetonitrile (MeCN) was used to express the normalized sandwich ELISA calibration curves with benzo[a]pyrene monoclonal antibody (B[a]P-13). The antigen-antibody binding in sandwich ELISA was decreased about 10 times with increasing the salt content (0.0060.18 mol/L phosphate to 20400 mmol/L). The pH range from 6 to 9 was not considered to affect the performance of the sandwich ELISA. Correlation of B[a]P detection in herbal medicines with ELISA compared to HPLC-FLD expressed good correlation (R2 = 0.991) and the slope of the graph for the ELISA (B[a]P-equivalents μg/kg) value divided by the HPLC-FLD (B[a]P μg/kg) value was 0.7292. Conclusion: Therefore, sandwich ELISA method using benzo[a]pyrene monoclonal antibody (B[a]P-13) could be an alternative screening method for detection of B[a]P in herbal medicine products.

This study aims to develop a freshness indicator for fish products that changes color to indicate ammonia among volatile base compounds (TVB-N) generated during storage. Through an optimization experiment, we observed the indicator’s color change relative to the ammonia concentration standard, finally selecting cresol red and bromocresol purple for the indicator mixture. In addition, eco-DEHCH and Breathron film were applied to the freshness indicator, considering environmental and economic values. For the storage experiment, Chub mackerel (Scomber japonicus), Spanish mackerel (Scomberomorus niphonius), and Largehead hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus) samples were stored at three different temperatures (4, 10, and 20 °C) for seven days, and we measured pH, TVB-N, total bacterial count, and ammonia content every 24 h. The pH-sensitive sensors’ color changes monitor amine release, especially ammonia, from decomposing fish. The chromatic parameter ∆E value increased significantly with fish product storage periods. We confirmed that when the freshness limit and bacterial spoilage level were reached, the color of the indicator changed from yellow to black and sequentially changed to purple as the storage period increased. Therefore, a developed freshness indicator can be used for determining the quality of fish products quickly and non-destructively by reflecting the freshness and spoilage degree of fish products during storage.

Java plum is widely recognized as a plant with valuable medical properties, originating from Indonesia and India and distributed globally in the tropics and sub-tropics. The plant is rich in alkaloids, flavonoids, phenyl propanoids, terpenes, tannins, and lipids. The phytoconstituents of the plant seeds possess various vital pharmacological activities and clinical effects including its antidiabetic potential. The bioactive phytoconstituents of java plum seeds includes jambosine, gallic acid, quercetin, β-sitosterol, ferulic acid, guaiacol, resorcinol, p-coumaric acid, corilagin, ellagic acid, catechin, epicatechin, tannic acid, 4,6 hexahydroxydiphenoylglucose, 3,6-hexahydroxy diphenoylglucose,1-galloylglucose, and 3-galloylglucose. Considering all the potential benifical effects of the major bioactive compounds of the seeds of this plant species, in the current investigation, the specific clinical effects and the mechanism of action of the major bioactive compounds along with the extraction procedure are discussed.

Benzyl chloride is a harmful chemical that contaminates air, water, and food. A static headspace GC–MS method for determining benzyl chloride in food was developed and validated. Two food matrices (fat/oil and chicken) were used for method validation. Sample preparation involved ultrasonication extraction and purification (syringe filtration). Linearity (R(2)) was > 0.99, accuracy ranged from 86.91% to 110%, the limit of detection was 0.04–0.17 mg/kg, and the limit of quantification was 0.13–0.52 mg/kg. Recovery varied from 88.19% to 111.77%, and precision ranged from 0.10% to 1.17% in intraday and interday analyses. Among 102 food items (oils, fats, meat, marine, and egg products) distributed in Korea, benzyl chloride was only detected in six of the marine products. The validated analytical method can be used for routine monitoring of benzyl chloride residues in food and thereby prevent the human health risks associated with the consumption of food contaminated with this chemical.

Background: Active principles from natural sources, in the form of extracts and natural compounds, provide an infinite number of bioactive compounds with consummate disposal of chemical diversity. These compounds and active principles are of utmost importance in the discovery of drugs of biological origin particularly, from plants. Objective: Development of resourceful technology for the isolation and extraction of bioactive compounds of medicinal importance is considered as an important task for researchers. There are a number of extraction, isolation, and characterization techniques currently utilized; however, most are laborious and use toxic chemicals and huge quantities of raw materials with a very low output. There are a number of abiotic and biotic factors that affects the quality and the quantity of plants bioactive compounds. Considering this, the objectives of the current review are to discuss the various extraction and characterization techniques used to isolate the essential bioactive compounds from three plant species and the biotic and abiotic factors that affect the quantity and quality of the plants secondary metabolites. Methods: Many advanced technologies have been developed and tested for extraction, characterization, and their capacity for high yield products, and those requiring less application of toxic solvents are investigated continuously. Conclusion: In this context, the present review summarizes the different types of extraction and characterization techniques utilized commercially by the food, drug, and pharmaceutical industries for better output and environmentally- and healthbenefiting products with special reference to three industrially important plants: Leonotis leonurus (L.) R.Br. (Lamiaceae) and Santalum album L. (Santalaceae) and Aloe vera (L.) Burm. f. (Aloaceae or Asphodelaceae).

Nutritional supplementations are a form of nutrition sources that may help in improving the health complexities of a person throughout his or her life span. Being also categorized as food supplementations, nutraceuticals are products that are extracted from edible sources with medical benefits as well as primary nutritional values. Nutraceuticals can be considered as functional foods. There are evidences that nutraceutical supplementations can alter the commensal gut microbiota and help to prevent or fight against chronic non-communicable degenerative diseases in adults, including neurological disorders (Autism Spectrum Disorder [ASD], Parkinson’s disease [PD], Multiple sclerosis [MS]) and metabolic disorders (Type-II diabetes, obesity and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease). They can even lessen the complexities of preterm babies like extra-uterine growth restriction, necrotizing enterocolitis, infant eczema and allergy (during pregnancy) as well as bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Molecular perception of inflammatory and apoptotic modulators regulating the pathogenesis of these health risks, their control and management by probiotics and prebiotics could further emphasize the scientific overview of their utility. In this study, the pivotal role of nutraceutical supplementations in regulating or modulating molecular pathways in the above non-communicable diseases is briefly described. This work also gives an overall introduction of the sophisticated genome-editing techniques and advanced delivery systems in therapeutic activities applicable under these health risks.

Gitishree Das,1 Sujin Seo,2 In-Jun Yang,3 Ly Thi Huong Nguyen,3 Han-Seung Shin,2 Jayanta Kumar Patra1 1Research Institute of Integrative Life Sciences, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyangsi, Republic of Korea; 2Department of Food Science & Biotechnology, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyangsi, Republic of Korea; 3Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Dongguk University, Gyeongju, Republic of KoreaCorrespondence: Jayanta Kumar Patra, Research Institute of Integrative Life Sciences, Dongguk University-Seoul, Goyangsi, 10326, Republic of Korea, Tel +82-31-961-5625, Email jkpatra@dongguk.eduIntroduction: A number of biological wastes and factory waste materials have been tested recently for the eco-friendly biosynthesis of nanoparticles. Sericin protein (SSP) is usually removed from the silk cocoon during the degumming process in the process of making the silk, and this sericin protein is normally thrown away by the sericulture industries as waste materials. It is found that this sericin protein possesses a number of biological properties.Methods: Considering this, in the present study, an effort has been made to biosynthesize gold nanoparticles (SSP-AuNPs) using the waste sericin solution as the reducing and capping agent and investigate its biopotential in terms of its wound healing, antioxidant and antibacterial activities.Results: The synthesis of SSP-AuNPs was perceived by the visual color change and confirmed by UV-Vis spectroscopy with absorption maxima at 522 nm. Further characterization of SSP-AuNPs was done by TEM, EDS, XRD, FTIR, DLS, zeta potential, TGA, AFM, etc. The size of SSP-AuNPs was found out to be 54.82 nm as per the particle size analyzer and the zeta potential is − 19.8 mV. The SSP-AuNPs displayed promising wound healing potential of 70.96 and 69.76% wound closure rate at 5 and 10 μg/mL respectively as compared to 74.91% by the Centella asiatica taken as a positive control. It also exhibited promising antioxidant potential in terms of the DPPH, ABTS free radical scavenging, reducing power potential, and total antioxidant capacity. Besides, the SSP-AuNPs also displayed significant antibacterial activities against the tested pathogenic bacterial with the diameter of inhibition zones ranging between 12.10 and 14.96 mm as compared to the positive control cephalexin that displayed inhibition zones ranging between 12.08 and 13.24 mm.Discussion: Taken together, SSP-AuNPs could serve as an interesting candidate for food, cosmetics, and biomedical fields in the applications of wound healing, cosmetics, antibacterial bandages, and ointments, etc.Keywords: silk cocoon, biowaste, sericin, silk protein, biosynthesis, wound healing, antioxidant, antibacterial, gold nanoparticles, wound healing

Background: Mushrooms are consumed worldwide due to their high nutritional and nutraceutical values. In addition to the presence of various vitamins, low-fat, and proteins, they are also an important source of trace elements, dietary fibers, and bioactive compounds. Their potential therapeutic properties are due to their multiple biological effects, such as antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, anticancer, immune-modulating, cardioprotective, and antidiabetic properties. The global market of mushroom farming is anticipated to witness remarkable progress for its potential application in health products, profitable production and a rising demand for the healthy foods across the globe. The Asia Pacific marketplace seems to represent the major market of mushrooms, due to the higher per capita consumption of culinary and medical purposes. Objective: Mushrooms have generally low calories, low levels of cholesterol, fats, gluten and sodium. Several biological effects of mushroom are due to the presence of phenolic components, polysaccharides, terpenoids, terphenyl-related compounds, and many other lower molecular weight molecules. This review aims at describing the chemical characterization of several mushrooms species and their biological effects. Conclusion: The current review describes different secondary metabolites found in several mushrooms and mushrooms extracts, and the molecular mechanisms underlying the biological activities. Also the antimicrobial activities of mushrooms, mushrooms extracts and isolated compounds from mushrooms were described. The description of these activities, related to the presence of specific classes of secondary metabolites and isolated compounds, may lead to the identification of mycomplexes and mushrooms compounds that may be further studied for their potential application in nutraceutical products.

Background Korean traditional food (KTF), originated from ancestral agriculture and the nomadic traditions of the Korean peninsula and southern Manchuria, is based on healthy food that balances disease prevention and treatment. Fermented foods that include grains, herbs, fruits, and mushrooms are also an important practice in KTF, providing high levels of Lactobacilli, which confer relevant health benefits, including antiviral properties. Some of these probiotics may also protect against the Influenza virus through the modulation of innate immunity. Scope and approach The emerging of the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to other diseases of viral origin, and the problems associated with other respiratory disorders, highlight how essential is a healthy eating pattern to strengthen our immune system. Key Findings and Conclusions: The present review covers the information available on edible plants, herbs, mushrooms, and preparations used in KTF to outline their multiple medicinal effects (e.g., antidiabetic, chemopreventive, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial), emphasizing their role and effects on the immune system with an emphasis on modulating properties of the gut microbiota that further support strong respiratory immunity. Potential functional foods commonly used in Korean cuisine such as Kimchi (a mixture of fermented vegetables), Meju, Doenjang, Jeotgal, and Mekgeolli and fermented sauces, among others, are highlighted for their great potential to improve gut-lung immunity. The traditional Korean diet and dietary mechanisms that may target viruses ACE-2 receptors or affect any step of a virus infection pathway that can determine a patient's prognosis are also highlighted. The regular oral intake of bioactive ingredients used in Korean foods can offer protection for some viral diseases, through protective and immunomodulatory effects, as evidenced in pre-clinical and clinical studies.

An analytical method was validated and developed to determine the levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) including 1,3-butadiene, isoprene, acrylonitrile, benzene, toluene, and styrene from smoking cessation aids using by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Seventeen non-ignitable cigarette type of smoking cessation aids, liquid-phase of smoking cessation aids, gas-phase of smoking cessation aids, and ignitable cigarette type of smoking cessation aids were analyzed for levels of six VOCs. The proposed method for six VOCs was validated in satisfactory linearity (R

This current investigation was designed to synthesize Ag nanoparticles (AgNPs) using both the fresh (Fbf) and boiled (Bbf) Korean mountain vegetable fern (named Gosari) extracts and make a comparative evaluation of its multi-therapeutic potentials. The screening of phytochemicals in the fern extract was undertaken. The synthesized fern-mediated silver nanoparticles are characterized and investigated for their bio-potential like α-glucosidase inhibition, antioxidant, and cytotoxicity prospects. The obtained AgNPs were characterized by the UV-Vis Spectra, SEM, EDS, XRD, FTIR, DLS, Zeta potential analysis, etc. The synthesis of the Fbf-AgNPs was very fast and started within 1 h of the reaction whereas the synthesis of the Bbf-AgNPs synthesis was slow and it started around 18 h of incubation. The UV-Vis spectra displayed the absorption maxima of 424 nm for Fbf-AgNPs and in the case of Bbf-AgNPs, it was shown at 436 nm. The current research results demonstrated that both Fbf-AgNPs and Bbf-AgNPs displayed a strong α-glucosidase inhibition effect with more than 96% effect at 1 µg/mL concentration, but the Bbf-AgNPs displayed a slightly higher effect with IC50 value slightly lower than the Fbf-AgNPs. Both Fbf-AgNPs and Bbf-AgNPs displayed good antioxidant effects concerning the in vitro antioxidant assays. In the case of the cytotoxicity potential assay also, among both the investigated Fbf-AgNPs and Bbf-AgNPs nanoparticles, the Bbf-AgNPs showed stronger effects with lower IC50 value as compared to the Fbf-AgNPs. In conclusion, both the fern-mediated AgNPs displayed promising multi-therapeutic potential and could be beneficial in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical sectors. Though the synthesis process is rapid in Fbf-AgNPs, but it is concluded from the results of all the tested bio-potential assays, Bbf-AgNPs is slightly better than Fbf-AgNPs.

Biocatalysts, including live microbial cells/enzymes, have been considered a predominant and advantageous tool for effectively transforming biomass into biofuels and valued biochemicals. However, high production costs, separation, and reusability limit its practical application. Immobilization of single and multi-enzymes by employing different nano-supports have gained massive attention because of its elevated exterior domain and high enzymatic performance. Application of nanobiocatalyst can overcome the drawbacks mainly, stability and reusability, thus reflecting the importance of biomass-based biorefinery to make it profitable and sustainable. This review provides an in-depth, comprehensive analysis of nanobiocatalysts systems concerning nano supports and biocatalytic performance characteristics. Furthermore, the effects of nanobiocatalyst on waste biomass to biofuel and valued bioproducts in the biorefinery approach and their critical assessment are discussed. Lastly, this review elaborates commercialization and market outlooks of the bioconversion process using nanobiocatalyst, followed by different strategies to overcome the limitations and future research directions on nanobiocatalytic-based industrial bioprocesses.

Seeds from mustard (genera Brassica spp. and Sinapsis spp.), are known as a rich source of glucosinolates and omega-3 fatty acids. These compounds are widely known for their health benefits that include reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cancer. This review presented a synthesis of published literature from Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Sci Finder, and Web of Science regarding the different glucosinolates and omega-3 fatty acids isolated from mustard seeds. We presented an overview of extraction, isolation, purification, and structure elucidation of glucosinolates from the seeds of mustard plants. Moreover, we presented a compilation of in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies showing the potential health benefits of glucosinolates and omega-3 fatty acids. Previous studies showed that glucosinolates have antimicrobial, antipain, and anticancer properties while omega-3 fatty acids are useful for their pharmacologic effects against sleep disorders, anxiety, cerebrovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease, hypercholesterolemia, and diabetes. Further studies are needed to investigate other naturally occurring glucosinolates and omega-3 fatty acids, improve and standardize the extraction and isolation methods from mustard seeds, and obtain more clinical evidence on the pharmacological applications of glucosinolates and omega-3 fatty acids from mustard seeds.

This study analyzed four polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from frequently consumed home meal replacement (HMR) products in Korea and evaluated their chemical analysis methods. The PAHs investigated were benzo[a]anthracene, chrysene, benzo[b]fluoranthene and benzo[a]pyrene. Chrysene-d12 and benzo[a]pyrene-d12 served as internal standards. The sample was dissolved in dichloromethane before extraction. Liquid–liquid extraction, microwave extraction, alkali digestion and GC–MS were used for analysis. Method validation was conducted on four matrices: fatty solid, fatty liquid, non-fatty liquid, non-fatty solid. Linear correlation coefficients (R(2)) were all above 0.99 and accuracy ranged from 80.03 to 119.65%. The LOD and LOQ were in the range of 0.03–0.15 and 0.09–0.44 μg/kg, respectively. The recoveries varied from 81.09 to 116.42% and precision ranged from 0.07 to 10.73% in both intraday and interday analysis. All concentrations of total PAHs from HMR products were detected at relatively low concentration. This study could provide the PAHs content from HMR products in Korea.

Scientists are grabbing huge attention as well as consciousness on non-renewable energy sources for the global energy crises because of gradual increase in oil price, fast depletion or low availability of resources, and the release of more toxic-gases (CO

Bioelectrochemical systems (BES) have the potential to be used in a variety of applications such as waste biorefinery, pollutants removal, CO

Jayanta Kumar Patra,1 Han-Seung Shin,2 Gitishree Das1 1Research Institute of Biotechnology & Medical Converged Science, Dongguk University-Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, 10326, Republic of Korea; 2Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Dongguk University‐Seoul, Gyeonggi‐do, 10326, Republic of KoreaCorrespondence: Gitishree DasResearch Institute of Biotechnology & Medical Converged Science, Dongguk University-Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, 10326, Republic of KoreaEmail gitishreedas@gmail.comBackground: The dragon tongue beans are a legume belonging to the Fabaceae family, are rich in protein, starch, fiber, and other micronutrients that have numerous health-promoting benefits. Its peel commonly the waste parts also contains lots of bioactive compounds.Materials and Methods: In the current research, dragon tongue bean peels (DtbP) extract is tested for the existence of phytochemicals. Ag nanoparticles are biosynthesized using DtbP extract. The generated DtbP silver nanoparticle characterization was accomplished using UV-Vis spectral analysis, FTIR spectral analysis, SEM analysis, EDX analysis, XRD analysis, zeta potential, and DLS study. Furthermore, comparative assessment on multi-biological activities of the biosynthesized Ag nanoparticles was accomplished by employing cytotoxicity (inhibition against HepG2 cancer cells), antidiabetic (α-glucosidase inhibition assay), and antioxidant (free-radical scavenging) analysis.Results: The characterization result of the DtbP-AgNPs demonstrated that the AgNPs synthesized within 24 h. The AgNPs are nearly spherical. The biological effect assay of AgNPs displayed that DtbP-AgNPs is having significant cytotoxicity, antidiabetic, and moderate antioxidant effect. This study results as a whole report the biosynthesis of DtbP-AgNPs utilizing the legume dragon tongue bean waste peel and assessment of their multiple biological activities. The synthesized DtbP-AgNPs could serve as a potential candidate in the pharmaceutical industries in the formulation of drugs for the treatment of several medical ailments concerning cancer, diabetes, etc.Keywords: antidiabetic, antioxidant, cytotoxicity, legume peel, silver nanoparticles, green nano-synthesis

There is growing concern about the use of plastic in packaging for food materials, as this results in increased plastic waste materials in the environment. To counter this, alternative sources of packaging materials that are natural and based on eco-friendly materials and proteins have been widely investigated for their potential application in food packaging and other industries of the food sector. Sericin, a silk protein that is usually discarded in large quantities by the sericulture and textile industries during the degumming process of manufacturing silk from silk cocoons, can be explored for its application in food packaging and in other food sectors as a functional food and component of food items. Hence, its repurposing can result in reduced economic costs and environmental waste. Sericin extracted from silk cocoon possesses several useful amino acids, such as aspartic acid, glycine, and serine. Likewise, sericin is strongly hydrophilic, a property that confers effective biological and biocompatible characteristics, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, and anti-tyrosinase properties. When used in combination with other biomaterials, sericin has proved to be effective in the manufacture of films or coating or packaging materials. In this review, the characteristics of sericin materials and their potential application in food-sector industries are discussed in detail.

Presently, photo-mediated optimized synthesis of SNPs (CS-AgNPs) was carried out with the help of aqueous extracts of coconut (Cocos nucifera) outer shell fibre. Green synthesis of CS-AgNPs was undertaken under laboratory light conditions and characterized by several standard techniques such as UV–visible spectrophotometer (UV–Vis), X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDX). UV–Vis spectra displayed a surface plasmon resonance peak at 468 nm equivalent to CS-AgNPs, and the FT-IR spectra confirmed the association of biological molecules from the extract in the synthesis process. The SEM image data confirmed the round and circular nature of CS-AgNPs. The EDX data presented the elemental configuration with a solid peak at 3 KeV that matched with the Ag. The synthesized CS-AgNPs exhibited substantial cytotoxicity potential against the HepG2 cells with (effective concentration (IC50) value of 15.28 µg/ml along with robust antioxidant potential, with respect to its 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging (IC50 of 96.39 µg/ml) and reducing assay (IC0.5 of 209.96 µg/ml). The CS-AgNPs demonstrated encouraging antimicrobial potential against four different pathogenic bacteria and one Candida sp. with inhibition zone diameter ranged between 8.87 and 13.07 mm. Overall, the existing investigation suggested that CS-AgNPs can be an attractive, cost-effective, and environment-friendly candidate for its possible uses in the food, cosmetics, and therapeutic fields.

Background The natural food waste peels/shells discarded as waste materials are ample sources of natural bioactive compounds. The natural food waste mediated silver (Ag) nanoparticle (NPs) synthesis will be advantageous over chemical synthesis. Materials and methods Using the various phytochemical-rich ripe P. americana peel (PAP), fresh Beta vulgaris peel (BVP), and rawArachis hypogaea shell (AHS) extracts, the bio-synthesis of PAP-AgNPs, BVP-AgNPs, and AHS-AgNPs, respectively, were carried out and its characterization was completed by standard procedures. The three biosynthesized AgNP's multiple biological effects were accomplished by evaluating their cytotoxicity, antidiabetic, and antioxidant effects. Results The biosynthesis of the three generated Ag nanoparticles was confirmed through UV-vis spectrum analysis while the X-ray diffraction outlines revealed the generated AgNPs nature. The morphological structure and elemental information of the three AgNPs were obtained through SEM (scanning electron microscopy) and EDX (energy-dispersive X-ray) study. Multiple biological assays exhibited that the three generated AgNPs have significant cytotoxic, antidiabetic, and moderate antioxidant activity. In a comparative analysis, the PAP-AgNPs displayed higher anticancer potential than BVP and AHS-AgNPs, whereas AHS-AgNPs exhibited a higher antidiabetic effect with the lowest IC50 value (1.68 µg/mL) than PAP and BVP AgNPs. All three generated AgNPs displayed moderate antioxidant effects, among them BVP-AgNPs were more effective than PAP and AHS AgNPs. More than two effects of the three biosynthesized AgNPs specifies that they have ample perspective in therapeutic applications in pharmaceutical and other related industries in controlling cancer and diabetes.

An indicator for freshness and quality measurement was utilized to perceive changes in freshness quality while storing chicken breasts. Visible color changes of the indicator shows spoilage and freshness of the packaged products. In addition, changes in pH, volatile basic nitrogen (VBN), and Pseudomonas spp. were monitored. The color change sensor (ΔE) reflected the headspace pH during the chicken breasts' packaging process. After storing chicken breast at 20 °C for 24 h, the color change (ΔE) of the indicator for freshness and quality measurement changed. The color change (ΔE) values were correlated with quality characteristics such as sensory, microbiological, and chemical properties that were popularly used to settle the freshness of chicken breast. In conclusion, the results showed that the indicator for freshness and quality measurement was useful in settling the shelf life of chicken breast products by physicochemical changes and monitoring microbial safety. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-022-01034-x.

In the search for novel, natural melanogenesis inhibitors, a new sesquiterpene, inularin, was isolated from the flowers of Inula britannica, and the structure was determined using spectroscopic and chemical methods. The antimelanogenic effects of inularin on B16F10 melanoma cells and zebrafish embryos were evaluated. Inularin dose-dependently reduced melanocyte-stimulating hormone-induced melanin production and L-DOPA oxidation in B16F10 cells. Zebrafish embryos were used to confirm the antimelanogenic activity. Inularin significantly decreased the pigmentation of embryos compared with untreated controls.

Gitishree Das,1 Han-Seung Shin,2 Jayanta Kumar Patra1 1Research Institute of Integrative Life Sciences, Dongguk University-Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, 10326, Republic of Korea; 2Department of Food Science and Biotechnology, Dongguk University‐Seoul, Gyeonggi‐do, 10326, Republic of KoreaCorrespondence: Jayanta Kumar Patra, Research Institute of Integrative Life Sciences, Dongguk University-Seoul, Gyeonggi-do, 10326, Republic of Korea, Email jkpatra@dongguk.eduIntroduction: Nowadays, in nanotechnology and material science, biosynthesis of the metal nanoparticle is a promising approach.Methods: In the current research, the extract of the Korean Ueong dry root (BdkR), which belongs to the Asteraceae family, was used as a reducing and capping agent, for the green synthesis of the BdkR-Ag nanoparticles in a cost-effective and highly efficient manner. In this study for the reaction measures, UV-Vis spectroscopy was applied. SEM, EDX, FTIR, XRD, mean size distribution, and zeta potential were used for the characterization of the green synthesized BdkR-AgNPs. In the beginning, the primary phytochemical screening of BdkR extract was estimated and the cytotoxicity, antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of the green synthesized BdkR-AgNPs were evaluated.Results: According to the results, the BdkR extract is rich in various phytochemicals and the generated AgNPs were crystalline in nature. The surface plasmon resonance value of the BdkR-AgNPs was 444 nm confirming the synthesis of AgNPs. The BdkR-AgNPs displayed four clear diffraction peaks at 2 theta angles (38.22); (46.15); (64.88); (76.83), respectively, which are equivalent to (111), (200), (220) and (311). The obtained nanoparticles have a zeta potential of − 17.0 mV. Furthermore, the generated BdkR-AgNPs exhibited considerable antidiabetic effect in terms of the inhibition of α-glucosidase with a maximum inhibition value of 95.41% at 5.0 μg/mL and more than 86% inhibition at 2.5 μg/mL and the estimated IC50 value was found to be 0.653 μg/mL. Further, it also displayed a significant cytotoxicity activity against the HepG2 cancer cell lines at 10 μg/mL and 100 μg/mL concentrations with 86% and 88% of inhibition, respectively. Besides this, the synthesized AgNPs also displayed promising antioxidant activities in terms of the DPPH (IC50 value - 56.26 μg/mL), ABTS (IC50 value - 171.43 μg/mL) and reducing power (IC0.5 value - 227.42 μg/mL).Discussion: The multipotential effects of the synthesized BdkR-AgNPs might be attributed to the presence of the bioactive compounds in the BdkR extract that acted as the capping and reducing agent in the synthesis process. The green synthesized BdkR-AgNPs exhibited promising bioactive potential for their future applications in the food and biomedical field.Keywords: antidiabetic, antioxidant, cytotoxicity, silver nanoparticle, green synthesis

Solar ultraviolet (sUV) radiation remains a major cause of skin aging. Nelumbo nucifera (lotus) is a well-known edible plant widely grown in Asia, including Korea, China, and Japan. The lotus consists of flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds, and all parts reportedly possess nutritional and medical values. Traditionally, lotus flowers, leaves, stems, and seeds have been used as antidiarrheal agents, diuretics, antipyretics, and antimicrobial and antihyperlipidemic agents. In addition, the Nelumbo nucifera lotus embryo has been shown to possess sedative and antipyretic properties and can relieve hemostatic thirst and treat eye diseases. Recently, Nelumbo nucifera lotus flower extract has been widely used in cosmetics due to its ability to reduce wrinkles and its whitening effects. Numerous cosmetics using Nelumbo nucifera lotus embryo extracts are commercially available. However, the active components of Nelumbo nucifera remain elusive. Lotusine is a phytochemical and soluble alkaloid found in lotus embryos. Herein, we examined the anti-wrinkle effect of lotusine using sUV-exposed human keratinocytes. We observed that lotusine reduced sUV-induced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 expression and modulated transcriptional activities of activator protein (AP)-1 and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). sUV-induced AP-1 and NF-κB activity could be activated via multiple signal transduction cascades, including the p38 MAPK, JNK, ERK1/2, and Akt pathways in the skin. Lotusine inhibited the MEK1/2-ERK1/2-p90RSK, MKK3/6-p38, and Akt-p70S6K pathways. Overall, our findings suggest that lotusine has potential benefits related to MMP-1 expression and skin aging following sUV exposure. Hence, the lotus can be developed as a valuable functional food and cosmetic material.

This study explored the potential of abundantly available sodium lignosulfonate (LS) as a reducer and fabricating agent in preparing silver nanoparticles (LS–Ag NPs). The operational conditions were optimized to make the synthesis process simpler, rapid, and eco-friendly. The prepared LS–Ag NPs were analyzed via UV–Vis spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Results demonstrated that LS–Ag NPs were of crystalline structure, capped with LS constituents, and spherical in shape with a size of approximately 20 nm. Under optimized conditions, LS–Ag NPs exhibited significant photocatalytic activity in Reactive Yellow 4G degradation. The effects of photocatalyst (LS–Ag NPs) dosage, dye concentration, and its reusability for dye degradation were studied to make the process practically applicable in textile wastewater treatment. Additionally, the synthesized LS–Ag NPs displayed significant free radical scavenging against 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) with an IC50 value of (50.2 ± 0.70 µg/mL) and also exhibited antidiabetic activity in terms of inhibition in the activity of carbohydrate-degrading marker enzyme α-glucosidase with an IC50 value of (58.1 ± 0.65 µg/mL). LS–Ag NPs showed substantial antibacterial potential against pathogenic strains, namely E. coli and S. aureus. In conclusion, LS–Ag NPs can be a reliable and eco-friendly material for their possible application in the treatment of dye-containing wastewater and have a great perspective in the biomedical and pharmaceutical sectors.

Cinnamon from the bark of Cinnamomum species is one of the most important spices used worldwide in food and as a traditional medicine for centuries. It has substantial benefits for human health including its protective role on cardiovascular diseases. This review provides an overview of the cardiovascular protective effects of cinna-mon and its major bioactive constituents. Reviewed literature showed sufficient evidence that cinnamon can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including cardiac ischemia, cardiac hypertrophy, and myocardial infarction. Furthermore, cinnamon exhibited beneficial effects on cardiovascular-related comorbidities like diabetes, and other metabolic disorders, and showed antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Cinnamon contains several bioactive compounds such as phenolics and volatile compounds. Cinnamaldehyde and cinnamic acid are among the main cinnamon compounds with protective effects on cardiovascular diseases through different molecular mechanisms. Although the protective effects of cinnamon and its main compounds have been extensively reported, more preclinical and clinical studies are still required before its use as a biopharmaceutical agent. 2020R1G1A1004667 info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

In nanoscience, the “green” synthesis approach has received great interest as an eco-friendly and sustainable method for the fabrication of a wide array of nanoparticles. The present study accounts for an expeditious technique for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) utilizing fruit waste grape pomace extracted tannin. Grape pomace tannin (Ta) involved in the reduction and capping of AgNPs and leads to the formation of stable Ta-AgNPs. Various conditions were attempted to optimize the particle size and morphology of Ta-AgNPs which was further analyzed using various analytical tools for different characteristic motives. UV-visible spectroscopy showed a characteristic peak at 420 nm, indicating successful synthesis of AgNPs. Energy disperses spectroscopy (EDS) analysis proved the purity of the produced Ta-AgNPs and manifested a strong signal at −2.98 keV, while Fourier-transform infrared spectrophotometer (FTIR) spectra of the Ta-AgNPs displayed the existence of functional groups of tannin. Zeta potential measurements (−28.48 mV) showed that the Ta-AgNPs have reasonably good stability. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis confirmed the average dimension of the synthesized NPs was estimated about 15–20 nm. Ta-AgNPs potentials were confirmed by in vitro antidiabetic activity to constrain carbohydrate digesting enzymes, mainly α-amylase and α-glucosidase, with a definite concentration of sample displaying 50% inhibition (IC50), which is about 43.94 and 48.5 μg/mL, respectively. Synthesized Ta-AgNPs exhibited significant antioxidant potential with respect to its 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothi-azoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) (IC50 of 40.98 µg/mL) and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (IC50 of 53.98 µg/mL) free radical scavenging activities. Ta-AgNPs exhibited extraordinary antibacterial activity against selected pathogenic strains and showed comparable antimicrobial index against ampicillin as a positive control.

Global energy consumption has been increasing in tandem with economic growth motivating researchers to focus on renewable energy sources. Dark fermentative hydrogen synthesis utilizing various biomass resources is a promising, less costly, and less energy-intensive bioprocess relative to other biohydrogen production routes. The generated acidogenic dark fermentative effluent [e.g., volatile fatty acids (VFAs)] has potential as a reliable and sustainable carbon substrate for polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) synthesis. PHA, an important alternative to petrochemical based polymers has attracted interest recently, owing to its biodegradability and biocompatibility. This review illustrates methods for the conversion of acidogenic effluents (VFAs), such as acetate, butyrate, propionate, lactate, valerate, and mixtures of VFAs, into the value-added compound PHA. In addition, the review provides a comprehensive update on research progress of VFAs to PHA conversion and related enhancement techniques including optimization of operational parameters, fermentation strategies, and genetic engineering approaches. Finally, potential bottlenecks and future directions for the conversion of VFAs to PHA are outlined. This review offers insights to researchers on an integrated biorefinery route for sustainable and cost-effective bioplastics production.

Acrylic acid (AA) chemical that endangers human health through contamination of water, soil, and foods. In this study, the extraction, purification, and detection of AA in various food products were established. The contamination level of AA in food products was investigated as well. Food matrices that were used for method validation were crop, fruit, vegetable, seaweed, beverage, sauce, paste, and pickled food, where the validation was confirmed through cross-checking between two different laboratories by checking the accuracy and precision. Furthermore, sample volume for analysis was optimized. Sonication and syringe filtering were all steps preparing headspace analyzer (HA) before GC-MS analysis. Linearity (RThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-022-01131-x.

Alternaria mycotoxins including alternariol (AOH), alternariol monomethyl ether (AME), altenuene (ALT), altertoxin-I (ATX-I), tentoxin (TEN), and tenuazonic acid (TeA), are ubiquitous contaminants in agricultural products. A method for the simultaneous determination of these six toxins by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) with solid phase extraction (SPE) was validated in rice, sesame, tomato, and apple juice matrices. The performance of the method was evaluated in terms of linearity (R2 > 0.999), the limit of detection (0.04–1.67 μg/kg), the limit of quantification (0.12–5.06 μg/kg), recovery (80.0–114.7%), and precision (

In the present study, we investigated the effects of Galla Rhois (GR) on obesity and gene expression. We prepared a GR extract and various solvent fractions and evaluated the degree to which they inhibited adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis in vitro. Among them, the GR ethyl acetate fraction (GE) had the lowest EC50 for adipocyte differentiation and adipogenesis and thus was selected for in vivo experiments. We induced obesity in C57BL/6 mice by providing them a high-fat diet (HFD). Then, GE (10-40 mg/kg) or orlistat (positive control, 4 mg/kg) was orally administered daily for six weeks. Mean body weights and weight gain were significantly lower in the GE40 group (40 mg/kg of GE) compared with the HFD group (p < 0.05). The most significant changes in serum glucose, total cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were confirmed in the GE40 group (p < 0.05). Epididymal fat was weighed and stained for body fat measurement, and significant differences were recorded from GE10 to GE40 (p < 0.05). Finally, 3T3-L1 pre-adipocytes were treated with GE, and cDNA from these cells was used for microarray analysis and qRT-PCR. Microarray analysis revealed 13 genes up-regulated and 21 genes down-regulated by GE. From the qRT-PCR analysis, we found that GE altered the mRNA expression of eosinophil peroxidase, glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor, and apolipoprotein B. Based on this study, we suggest that GR could be developed as an anti-obesity therapeutic agent.

Highest third worldwide production of the agricultural product namely rice causes a huge quantity of waste residues especially, rice bran concurrently with rice husk. It fabricates the residual wastes nearly of about 31.9 MMT annually throughout the world and owing to the thermal point of view they are not easily upgradable due to high silica content. Meanwhile, rice bran after extrusion in broilers have been used to extract oil containing free fatty acids (FFAs) (15–30%) such as cis–9–, & cis–12–octadecadienoic and cis–9, cis–12 & cis–15–octadecatrienoic oils. Rice bran fatty oil methyl esters are suitably converted into biodiesel for compression ignition (CI) engines via transesterification path in the presence of Ni/H2 heterogeneous basic catalytical environment along with 4–methoxy–2–hydroxybenzalidene–p–toluidine promoter. Owing to significant viscous and volatile nature drawbacks of potential alternative first and second generation biofuels, there occur some troubles in their long application in CI engines could effectively minimized by such a catalytical pathway. The literature has been found a very little research on this oil as a potential substitute for petro–diesel. Finally, the produced rice bran based biodiesel was analyzed for its appropriateness as a fuel for CI engines. The outcomes explored the characteristics for the biodiesel extracted, under the most promising circumstances are resembling those of the petro–based fuels. The observed yields are high when compared to other enzymatic transesterification and homogeneous catalysis. In addition, in vitro microbial and antioxidant potentialities of RBOB were tested and compared with standard controls. Alternatively, low value by–products for the biodiesel industries like glycerol were also obtained and it gave oil suitable to feed the power generators.

Background The synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using food waste materials and their biomedical applications have garnered considerable attention recently. Methods Here, we investigated the synthesis of AgNPs using an aqueous extract of outer peel of Pisum sativum under different lighting conditions using standard procedures and explored their antidiabetic, cytotoxicity, antioxidant, and antibacterial potential. Results Characterization of AgNPs was done by Ultra Violet (UV-VIS) spectroscopy that showed absorption maxima at 456 nm for the samples exposed to laboratory lighting and at 464 nm for the samples exposed to direct sunlight, by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis that showed the surface nature and their elemental composition with a strong peak at 3 keV that corresponded to Ag (61.85 wt%), by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy that predicted the functional groups involved, and by X-ray powder diffraction that showed the structural properties. The average diameter of the synthesized AgNPs was calculated to be in the range of 10-25 nm. AgNPs exhibited promising antidiabetic activity as determined by inhibition of α-glucosidase (95.29% inhibition at 10 µg/mL and IC50 value of 2.10 µg/mL) and cytotoxicity (IC50 value 4.0 µg/mL as calculated from the slope equation) against HepG2 cells. Furthermore, they also exhibited moderate antioxidant activity (50.17% reduction of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl at 100 µg/mL) and antibacterial activity against four human pathogenic bacteria (as indicated by 8.70-11.10 mm inhibition zones on agar plates). Conclusion In conclusion, the results confirm that food waste can be used in the synthesis of AgNPs and that the latter have the potential for applications in various fields including diabetic and cancer treatments as well as in biomedicine for the manufacture of antibacterial coatings in medical devices and instruments.

Background Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.(Ib) has high content of various beneficial nutrients which helps in improving and maintaining human health. It is well known as a functional food and also a valuable source of unique natural products. It contains various phenolic and flavonoid bioactive compounds.

Kenaf biomass (KB) was employed as feedstock for the synthesis of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) using Ralstonia eutropha to replace conventional petroleum-derived polymers. Various pretreatments followed by enzymatic saccharification were applied to release monomeric sugars from KB for PHB production. The effects of increasing concentration of Na2CO3 + Na2SO3 (NaC + NaS) pretreated KB hydrolysates (20–40 g/L) on PHB production were investigated. NaC + NaS pretreated KB hydrolysates (30 g/L) exhibited maximum 70.0% PHA accumulation, with PHB titers of 10.10 g/L and PHB yields of about 0.488 g/g of reducing sugar produced within 36 h of fermentation. PHA accumulation, PHB yield and R. eutropha growth performance using KB hydrolysates were found to be comparable with those of synthetic sugar mixture. Characterization of the produced PHB in terms of crystalline structure, and thermal properties was done using various analytical techniques and results coincide with standard PHB. Thus, green liquor pretreated KB hydrolysates deliver a promising and economically feasible carbon substrate for PHB production.

In this study, a green approach by utilizing Acacia nilotica leaves (ANL) extract to produce silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has been made. The biosynthesized AgNPs displayed surface plasmon resonance (SPR) centered at 430 nm. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and energy-dispersive spectra (EDS) results showed the contribution of phyto-constituents of ANL in the reduction, capping and stabilizing matrix for AgNPs. The AgNPs were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) revealed the synthesized ANL-AgNPs were crystalline and spherical forms having about ∼20 nm average particle size. ANL-AgNPs exhibited significant antineoplastic efficacy towards SKOV3 ovarian cancer cells (LD50; 66.5 µg/mL) thus could be useful to treat the cancer and to trounce limitations of conventional chemotherapy treatment. The synthesized AgNPs unveiled substantial antioxidant activity represented by common enzyme markers 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) (IC50; 48.4 µg/mL) and 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (IC50; 55.2 µg/mL) activity. The ANL-AgNPs displayed substantial anti-bacterial activity against human pathogenic bacterial strains and also studied their minimum inhibitory and minimum bactericidal concentration (MIC and MBC) for individual strain. Additionally, the synthesized ANL-AgNPs exhibited colorimetric detection of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) with better selectivity which showed its viability in determining reactive oxygen species in biological and environmental samples. Overall, the ANL-AgNPs could be used in multitasking biomedical applications, including anticancer, antioxidant, and antibacterial potential and also in sensing application.

Determination of eight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in ready-to-eat food products by using a GC-MS method was described. The methodology included saponification, liquid-liquid extraction...

Background: Cancer remains a major health concern throughout history and is responsible for huge numbers of deaths globally. The sensitivity of cancer cells to anticancer drugs is a crucial factor for developing effective treatments. Methods: Pyrrolo[1,2-a]azepines coupled with benzothiazole and fluorinated aryl thiourea scaffolds have been synthesized, and their potential as cytotoxic agents was investigated against different cancer cell lines such as human ovarian cancer (SK-OV-3), cervical cancer (HeLa), colon adenocarcinoma (HT-29) and non-small-cell lung carcinoma (A549). Cytotoxicity of new compounds was confirmed using SRB assay against non-cancer MDCK cell line. In addition, free radical scavenging activity of new pyrrolo[1,2-a]azepines was examined by adopting DPPH and ABTS assays. Results: The results concluded that the presence and position of fluorine atom(s) on the thiourea unit played a significant role in order to gain anticipated efficacies. Results of the cytotoxic assay against non-cancer MDCK cells showed that these new derivatives are safe to study further. New structures were confirmed using spectral and elemental analyses. Conclusion: Pyrrolo[1,2-a]azepines endowed with a benzothiazole entity and fluorinated aryl thiourea substituents were derived aiming to furnish remarkable antioxidant and anticancer activities. New molecules generated showed interesting biological result correlated with the structure and substituent of the final derivatives. Specifically, numbers and position of fluorine atoms on the thiourea unit influenced the biological profile of the mentioned compounds.

In the original publication [...]

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are produced during incomplete combustion of organic matter. Many of them are likely to be carcinogenic and cause mutations. In this study, the PAH4 (benzo[a]pyrene (BaP), benz[a]anthracene (BaA), chrysene (CHR), benzo[b]fluoranthene (BbF)) content in deep-fat fried pork was evaluated according to temperature and time, and a risk assessment was conducted. The high performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence detection (HPLC-FLD) method for PAH4 analysis was validated by determining linearity (R2), recovery, limit of detection (LOD), and limit of quantitation (LOQ). The linearity was R2 ≥ 0.99. The PAH4 level was dependent on the temperature, time, and nature of the edible oil. Before heat treatment, the PAH4 content of pork was 0.38 μg/kg. The PAH4 content of deep-fat fried pork ranged from 0.86 to 6.86 μg/kg according to temperature (160, 180, 200 °C) and time (3, 6, 9 min). Exposure to PAH4 via the consumption of deep-fat fried pork for different age groups among the Korean population was 0.01–0.89 μg-TEQBaP/kg/day, with the margin of exposure calculated as 7.88 × 104–5.22 × 106. The PAH4 content and risk of exposure increased proportionally with the heat treatment temperature and time. The survey provided important information in terms of evaluating the health risks that PAH compounds can cause in people’s diets due to the heat treatment of pork.

Background Entrepreneurs involved in the commercialization of natural products are currently displaying significant interests in herbal drugs, medicines, and natural product-based herbal products. A broad range of bioactive chemical compounds have been derived from medicinal plants, either in their pure form or as homogenous extracts. As these compounds have broad structural and functional diversities, they offer pharmaceutical companies numerous opportunities for the development of new drug leads. They also represent an excellent source of molecules for the production of food additives, functional foods, nutritional products, and nutraceuticals for the growing number of natural food companies. Scope and approach A number of bioactive compounds, including polyphenols, are present in high concentrations in plant species whereas a number of other important compounds such as saponin are present at very low levels. Several identification, extraction, and isolation techniques are currently used to extract bioactive compounds from plants. However, as these techniques are generally laborious and very expensive, there is an urgent need for new advanced techniques for identification, extraction, and isolation of plant bioactive compounds in quantities sufficient for their potential applications in various sectors. Key findings and conclusions The aim of this review is to collate and present information on the identification, extraction, and isolation of the most widely used bioactive compounds from selected commercial medicinal plants, thereby providing a useful resource for medicinal scientists and pharmaceutical and food-related industries seeking to generate high yields at low cost to meet market requirements.