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The present study aimed to analyze the linear correlation between the production variables of biofuel based on cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) mucilage in the city of Calceta - Manabí. The issue addressed was the generation of waste from cocoa farming, leading to contamination of aquifers and the land surface. The CCN-51 cocoa variety was used for the research, following the guidelines of the Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with the proportion of yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) as the studied factor, in three quantities: 0.5 kg, 0.1 kg, and 0.025 kg, and two methods of sample dehydration: saline distillation and molecular sieves the interaction between factors generated six treatments, each of which was repeated three times. The study found significant differences in the variables of alcohol content and yield, while there were no differences in pH and ratio/biomass. Treatment T6 was identified as the most feasible for biofuel production, with a pH of 5.86, 83% alcohol content, 76.67 mL ratio/ biomass, and 58.10% yield. Regarding the relationship between the production variables, the analysis of linear correlation revealed a strong, directly proportional correlation for all variables, with values ranging from 0.94 to 0.98. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the possible utilization of Malva sylvestris extract as an effective natural preservative was investigated. For this purpose, a bio-edible coating based on Lallemantia iberica seed mucilage (LM) enriched with M. sylvestris bioactives (LM/MS) was produced to extend oxidative stability of turkey meatballs during cold storage (4 ± 1 °C). MS were extracted using microwave-assisted extraction using microwave power of 500 W and radiation time of 17 min. Bio-edible coatings at different concentrations of bioactive compounds (1–3% w/v) were produced. According to spectrophotometric and RP-HPLC analysis, MS bioactive compounds were a potential source of free radical scavengers and genistein (63.10 ± 0.15 mg g− 1). Physicochemical (pH, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs), peroxide value (PV), instrumental colorimetry (L*, a*, and b*)), and sensory (odor, color, texture, and preference) properties of samples were determined. PV and TBARs results revealed the application of bio-edible coating containing 3% w/v of MS (LM/MS3) enhanced the oxidative stability of samples. Considering color parameters, b* and L* increased, while a* decreased. Moreover, application of LM/MS3 significantly (p < 0.05) improved the sensory characteristics and pH values of the coated samples. These results confirmed that the application of LM/MS3 could be considered a promising technique to delay the oxidative deterioration of refrigerated turkey meat. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Ornithogalum cuspidatum mucilage complex with zein nanofiber in the proportions 25:75, 50:50, and 75:25 in the encapsulation of Teucrium polium L. essential oil (TPEO) and incorporate coacervate in wheat gluten film. The use of hydrolyzed mucilage at 25 and 50% levels reduced particle size. Encapsulation efficiency with equal amounts of mucilage and zein nanofiber was 83%. FT-IR spectroscopy showed that electrostatic, hydrogen, and hydrophobic interactions were established between biopolymers and TPEO. The antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the encapsulated samples was significantly lower than that of free TPEO (p < 0.01). In the second stage, the effect of incorporating free and encapsulated TPEO at three levels (2.5, 5 and 7.5%wt.) in equal amounts of hydrolyzed mucilage and zein nanofiber as carriers was investigated on the physicochemical properties of wheat gluten film. The effect of free TPEO on increasing the antioxidant property was greater than that of encapsulated TPEO. SEM images showed that the addition of TPEO created a porous and rough structure in gluten films. Elasticity, tensile strength, and elastic modulus decreased with the addition of encapsulated TPEO. The encapsulation of essential oil provided a significantly slower release profile in the film samples compared to the free essential oil. In conclusion, it is possible to use TPEO in an encapsulated form in gluten film. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aim: The purpose of this study was to design and prepare floating in situ gel to sustain Carvedilol (CVD) release and enhance oral bioavailability. Various floating in situ gel formulations of the CVD were prepared by ionic gelation method. Materials and Methods: A systematic approach in the design of the formulations was adopted, were using Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC K4M), Hydroxypropyl Methyl Cellulose (HPMC 100LV), Sodium alginate, Mimosa pudica seed mucilage and Limonia acidissima gum in various concentrations along with gas generating agent (sodium bicarbonate) were investigated for its physicochemical properties (in vitro floating behavior, drug release profile, etc.). Subsequently, a final optimization step is involved based on the physicochemical properties to achieve the desired effect. Results: Based on the study, the formulation with HPMC K4M, HPMC 100LV, Sodium alginate, and Mimosa pudica seed mucilage (F17) showed good floating properties (60 sec floating lag time) with drug release of 96.98 ± 2.1% for 12 hr and the drug release mechanism was found to be zero order (R2 = 0.894). In vivo X-ray studies of F17 in albino rabbits showed a good floating ability up to 8 hr. Bioavailability of optimized and control (CARLOC) was found to be 41.95 ± 0.8892 µg.hr/ mL and 26.36 ± 1.1603 µg.hr/mL respectively. The accelerated stability study was performed with optimized formulation and it was observed stable during the study. Conclusion: It was concluded that the floating in situ gel of Carvedilol developed with natural polymer is suitable for GRDDS to enhance oral bioavailability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, optimum removal conditions of the cress seed mucilage by a chemical method were deter-mined. Moreover, proximate analysis (moisture, fat, protein, ash and total carbohydrate) of the cress seed was carried out. The independent process variables were sodium bicarbonate concentration (0-0.5 M), solvent-to-seeds ratio (25-75 ml/g) and soaking time (3-9 hours). A central composite design having 24 points for given independent variables was used and the optimization of the process conditions was done by desirability function approach. The results showed that proximate analysis results of the cress seed were in accordance with the previous reports in literature, and fat and protein percentage was found to be higher than 20%. The mucilage removal study results showed that higher concentrations of sodium bicar-bonate enhanced the mucilage removal. Also, higher soaking times increased the solubility of the seed coat polysaccharides of the cress seeds, resulting in better mucilage removal. The optimum chemical mucilage removal conditions were determined as 0.43 M sodium bicarbonate, solvent-to-seeds ratio of 75 ml/g and 8.96 hours of soaking time. At these conditions, total carbohydrate (determined using Anthrone method) in the final extract was predicted as 2.47 g/ml. Verification tests were carried out at the optimum conditions and there was no statistical difference between experimental (2.64±0.43 mg/ml) and predicted values.

Mucilage formation is a very complex phenomenon involving various biological and hydrological interactions. Mucilage is formed as a result of bacterial and phytoplankton-based activities in the environment. Oceanic shifts can provide an environment favorable for mucilage development; however, other factors also play a role in forming mucilage. Mucilage's microbiological structure and morphology, which have been studied in many waters and habitats since the 17th century, are also distinct. This is due to the fact that mucilage development is largely taxon-specific, and mucilage thickness and texture vary depending on environmental conditions. In mucilage studies, phytoplankton is the main component. A high level of organic matter and nutrients in the environment stimulates the formation of phytoplankton and the microenvironment. Furthermore, various water properties, such as temperature, fluidity, and so on, have an increasing effect on mucilage production. The purpose of this review is to describe how aggregates and mucilage are produced by dissolved organic matter (DOM) and microbial populations. Then, living groups discovered in the structure of mucilage during microbial ecology researches are discussed. Several examples of living organisms negatively affected by the development of mucilage were discussed following a detailed description of the dominant species observed in mucilage regions and case information.

Okra is a common vegetable in the African cuisine, known for its distinctive slimy texture. Plant cell walls include hydrocolloids, especially pectin, which contribute to their sliminess. This textural property is known to become lost during thermal treatment. In this research, okra hydrocolloid is extracted and used to produce a model medium at a pH of 6.0, representing okra’s natural state. This medium is subjected to various controlled thermal treatments (70–130 °C) to evaluate their impact on pectin degradation. At the same time, the texture of okra puree is also assessed using an instrumental method under the same conditions. The two main products of pectin degradation—reducing end sugars from depolymerization and methanol from a demethylation—are measured and found to show an increase as a function of time and temperature. Kinetic modeling indicates that a first-order reaction fits well with the experimental concentrations of both products. The rate constants, as a function of temperature, aligns with the Arrhenius model, confirming the chemical basis of the degradation. Instrumental results correlate well with the production of methanol and reducing end sugars, indicating that pectin degradation is the primary cause of texture changes during the thermal treatment of okra and that this change can be controlled by adjusting the temperature.

Abstract Myxospermy, the release of seed mucilage upon hydration, plays multiple roles in seed biology. Here, we explore whether seed mucilage occurs in a suite of temperate grassland species to test if the prevalence of species producing seed mucilage is associated with habitat type or seed characteristics. Seventy plant species found in wet or dry North American temperate grasslands were tested for the presence of seed mucilage through microscopic examination of seeds imbibed with histochemical stain for mucilage. Mucilage production was compared among species with different moisture requirements and seed mass. In this study, 43 of 70 of species tested produced seed mucilage. Seed mucilage did not differ based on habitat type, species moisture requirements, or seed mass. Most seed mucilage was non‐adherent and did not remain stuck to the seed after extrusion. Seed mucilage was a common trait in the surveyed temperate grassland species and was observed in 61% of evaluated species. Surprisingly, seed mucilage was more common in temperate grasslands than in previous ecological surveys from arid/semiarid systems, which found 10%–31% myxospermous species. Given the high prevalence, seed mucilage may influence seedling ecology in temperate grasslands and requires further investigation.

Pectin and alginate are well-established biopolymers used in natural film development. Single-polymer mucilage films were developed from freeze-dried native mucilage powder of two cultivars, 'Algerian' and 'Morado', and the films' mechanical properties were compared to single-polymer pectin and alginate films developed from commercially available pectin and alginate powders. The casting method prepared films forming solutions at 2.5%, 5%, and 7.5% (w/w) for each polymer. Considerable variations were observed in the films' strength and elasticity between the various films at different polymer concentrations. Although mucilage films could be produced at 5% (w/w), both cultivars could not produce films with a tensile strength (TS) greater than 1 MPa. Mucilage films, however, displayed > 20% elongation at break (%E) values, being noticeably more elastic than the pectin and alginate films. The mechanical properties of the various films were further modified by varying the pH of the film-forming solution. The various films showed increased TS and puncture force (PF) values, although these increases were more noticeable for pectin and alginate than mucilage films. Although single-polymer mucilage films exhibit the potential to be used in developing natural packaging, pectin and alginate films possess more suitable mechanical attributes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biocompatible polymers are attractive material for the manufacturing of surgical implants which break down in vivo without the necessity for a consequent operation for removal. Elaboration of composite biomaterials scaffolds as artificial bone graft materials remains a major task in bioengineering. Flaxseed mucilage was used as bioactive polysaccharide for preparing composite scaffolds made of calcium phosphate embedded in mucilage matrix. Calcium chloride was mixed with mucilage followed by the addition of phosphate precursor to stimulate the in situ formation of calcium phosphate. The obtained scaffolds mucilage/calcium phosphate at different pHs (5 and 8) were characterized using FTIR, XRD, TGA, SEM/EDX and TEM. The results showed the formation of two phases: mucilage/dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (MU/brushite) and mucilage/hydroxyapatite (MU/HA). MTT test was applied to evaluate viability of MC3T3-E1 osteoblasts cells, and the formed hybrids at various pH conditions were classified as non-cytotoxic. These findings establish the potential of developed composite to be used as bone graft substitute materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, the interest of edible films formulated with new ingredients, which allow improving its properties has increased. An interesting option is mucilage, which contains water-soluble polysaccharides and proteins, which may help film formation. According to recent investigations, mucilage-based films may be used in foods to extend shelf-life. The aim of this article is to provide information about mucilage-based films, mechanical and barrier properties as well as food applications. In addition, it will present general information about elaboration films, main materials used to produce films and coatings, as well as the production methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maize (Zea mays) requires substantial amounts of nitrogen, posing a challenge for its cultivation. Recent work discovered that some ancient Mexican maize landraces harbored diazotrophic bacteria in mucilage secreted by their aerial roots. To see if this trait is retained in modern maize, we conducted a field study of aerial root mucilage (ARM) in 258 inbred lines. We observed that ARM secretion is common in modern maize, but the amount significantly varies, and only a few lines have retained the nitrogen‐fixing traits found in ancient landraces. The mucilage of the high‐ARM inbred line HN5‐724 had high nitrogen‐fixing enzyme activity and abundant diazotrophic bacteria. Our genome‐wide association study identified 17 candidate genes associated with ARM across three environments. Knockouts of one candidate gene, the subtilase family gene ZmSBT3, confirmed that it negatively regulates ARM secretion. Notably, the ZmSBT3 knockout lines had increased biomass and total nitrogen accumulation under nitrogen‐free culture conditions. High ARM was associated with three ZmSBT3 haplotypes that were gradually lost during maize domestication, being retained in only a few modern inbred lines such as HN5‐724. In summary, our results identify ZmSBT3 as a potential tool for enhancing ARM, and thus nitrogen fixation, in maize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Cacao mucilage exudate (CME) is a highly nutritious by‐product of cacao fruit processing containing up to 15 wt% simple sugars and organic acids. We investigate the CME dehydration process to produce cacao syrup (CS) under varying temperatures (60 °C and 70 °C) and pH (4.0 and 5.0) using a 22‐factorial design with a central point (65 °C, pH 4.5). Neither temperature nor pH significantly (P < 0.05) impacts CS chemical composition. Average concentrations of fructose, glucose, and sucrose in the syrups reached 27.79, 25.56, and 12.46 wt%, respectively. Organic acids—citric, malic, lactic, tartaric, and fumaric—represent 5.12, 3.01, 0.20, 0.16, and 0.002 wt%, respectively. Although the heating treatment results in the formation of 5‐(hydroxymethyl)furfural (HMF) (12.8–13.7 mg L−1), its concentration remains below the limits of the regulatory standard. These findings have significant implications for using CME as a sustainable and nutritious source of ingredients for the food industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although nopal cladodes are a valuable bioactive compound source, they have historically been underused. This review draws a parallel between quantitative and qualitative data from the most outstanding scientific research concerning nopal cladodes in the last five years by implementing a bibliometric analysis. Italy, Mexico, Brazil, and Morocco accounted for approximately 55% of the 111 articles selected for this review. Nopal cladodes are a great source of nourishing ingredients such as mucilage, pectin, insoluble fibers, minerals, ascorbic acid, and bioactive compounds such as carotenoids (e.g., β-carotene, lutein, and cryptoxanthin), flavonoids (e.g., isorhamnetin, quercetin, rutin, and catechin), phytosterols (e.g., β-sitosterol and β-campesterol). Additionally, they offer technological benefits as a food ingredient, allied to good sensory acceptability. The findings suggest that medium-aged cladodes (20 days) have the highest concentration of soluble fiber, protein, and bioactive compounds, rendering them the optimal maturity stage for consumption and processing. Therefore, nopal cladodes can be exploited for several industries, including biotechnology, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, and they have attracted attention as a promising ingredient for the food industry in the concept of the next generation of innovative and functional vegetable foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant extracts have been shown to effectively inhibit metal corrosion. Using the Box-Behnken design, gravimetric, and electrochemical techniques, analyses were designed to investigate the anti-corrosion potential of okra in a 1M HCl medium. The inhibition performances derived from the various methods were in good agreement, demonstrating that physio-chemisorption was effective and adhered to the Langmuir isotherm model. The efficiency of okra mucilage extract was 96% at a much lower concentration compared to 91.2% and 88.4% for the unsieved extract and gelly-okra filtrate, respectively. FTIR results showed the presence of several functional groups in the okra mucilage extract that are associated with adsorption, and TGA analysis revealed that the extract has high thermal stability. FESEM analysis also supported evidence of adsorption. It was determined that corrosion inhibition by okra mucilage extract was primarily influenced by temperature, followed by extract concentration, with immersion time having the least effect. From the model optimization, it was observed that okra mucilage extract at 200 ppm, 60°C, and 24 h gave an inhibition efficiency of 89.98% and high desirability. These results demonstrate the high capacity of natural okra as an efficient biodegradable corrosion inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to extract mucilages from chia (CM) and okra (OM), followed by their comprehensive chemical and physicochemical characterization, assessment of bioactive compounds, and antioxidant activities. The mucilages were dried at temperatures (50, 60, and 70 °C), and their drying kinetics were analyzed using mathematical models, along with thermodynamic attributes. Mucilage extraction involved aqueous processing: material comminution with water, immersion, filtration, and subsequent ethanol-induced precipitation. Preceding drying, mucilages showed high water content and activity, reduced ascorbic acid and lipids. CM had high mineral and starch content, while OM displayed elevated proteins, phenolic compounds, tannins, anthocyanins, and flavonoids. OM exhibited superior antioxidant activity (ABTS, FRAP, and DPPH). Among the various mathematical models considered, the Diffusion Approximation model best fitted the experimental data for CM, while the Two-Term model yielded the optimal fit for OM. The effective diffusivity and activation energy for CM were determined to be approximately 10−9 m2/s and 38.60 kJ/mol, respectively. Conversely, for OM, these values were calculated as 10−8 m2/s and 17.21 kJ/mol, respectively. The thermodynamic characteristics of both drying processes indicated a non-spontaneous nature. This investigation divulged distinctive attributes of the mucilages derived from chia and okra, highlighting their potential utility as valuable raw materials within diverse industries, encompassing the realms of both food and pharmaceutical sectors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research aimed to extract flaxseed mucilage (FM) and investigate its rheological properties (static and dynamic tests) compared with animal oil. In the next stage, the D-optimal design was applied to investigate the effect of FM (0–60%) and FF (0–30%) replacements with animal oil and cake flour, respectively on the sponge cake's physicochemical, textural, and sensory properties. According to the flow behavior test, FM showed Newtonian behavior while animal oil had pseudoplastic behavior. The results of the dynamic test showed with an increase in frequency, the loss modulus (G״) and storage modulus (Gʹ) of samples increased. However, Gʹ was higher than G״ in all samples. By replacement of FM and FF, the moisture content, water activity, antioxidant capacity, crumb hardness, and cohesiveness of the samples increased while springiness, crust hardness, and specific volume decreased (P < 0.05). Lightness of samples with replacement of FF decreased (P < 0.05). The overall acceptance score was enhanced with an increase in FM substitution while it was decreased with the replacement of FF (P < 0.05). The amounts of fat, calories, and peroxide values were decreased in sponge cake with the incorporation of FF and FM (P < 0.05). In general, the substitution of FM (60%) and FF (28%) in the cake formulation as an optimized sample to make new products with low-calorie content is possible without significant decreases in product quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Pereskia aculeata Miller and Pereskia grandfolia Haw, known as 'ora-pro-nobis', are unconventional vegetables belonging to the Cactaceae family, native to the Americas and common in the northeast and southeast regions of Brazil. This review attempts to present a balanced account of both the methods used for obtaining extracts from the diverse parts of the plants and the results that were obtained in terms of their applicability to foods and other products with biological activities. Attention will also be devoted to the properties of their bioactives and their applications to real food products. Methods for obtaining extracts from the diverse parts of the plants will be analyzed, as well as the chemical nature of the bioactives that were hitherto identified. Next, the applicability of ora-pro-nobis in either its integral form or in the form of extracts or other products (mucilages) to the production of food and dietary supplements will be analyzed. The species have been extensively investigated during the last few decades. But, the determination of chemical structures is frequently incomplete and there is a need for new studies on texture determination and color evaluation. Further studies exploring the fruit and flowers of P. aculeata are also required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to synthesize and characterize hydrogels prepared with alginate (ALG) and ora-pro-nobis mucilage (MOPN) by ionic gelation. The hydrogels were produced from solutions containing 0.5, 0.75, 1.0, and 1.25% (w/v) sodium alginate, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, 1.0 and 1.25% (w/v) MOPN and 1.5 and 3.0% (w/v) CaCl2. The hydrogels were characterized in terms of mechanical strength, degree of swelling, morphology, chemical groups by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and x-ray diffraction (XRD); and their thermal properties were assessed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric and differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA). The results indicated that MOPN acted with ALG in chain crosslinking, confirming its ability to interact with other polymers to form gels. The control hydrogel, composed of only ALG (1.5%), showed a more crosslinked and less amorphous structure with greater thermal resistance, while the hydrogel composed of ALG (1.25%) and MOPN (0.25%) showed a more amorphous, porous structure with lumps. However, these treatments were statistically equal in terms of mechanical strength and degree of swelling, indicating that ALG and MOPN hydrogels are an economically viable alternative to ALG-only hydrogels, where 0.25% (w/v) of the ALG can be replaced by MOPN without significant changes in its mechanical and swelling properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this research was to prepare a drink based on mucilage and cocoa powder infected with 25% of Moniliophthora roreri (monilla), adding a tropical fruit such as Guava (Psidium guajava L.). A completely randomized design was applied, with five treatments and four repetitions. giving a total of 20 study objects. To determine differences between treatments, Tukey's multiple range test was used at 5% probability, the treatments were prepared from five experimental clones (T1-Testigo EET-103, T2-CCAT-46-57, T3-CCAT-46-75, T4-CCAT-46-88, T5-CCAT-49-98) said varieties were obtained from the Experimental Farm" "The Dam." For the evaluation of the physical-chemical parameters, the following variables were analyzed (acidity, °Brix, pH, potassium, fat, protein, fiber and energy), sensory variables (flavor, color, taste, smell and texture). In the analysis of variance (ANDEVA) it is concluded that in the bromatological analyzes T2 contains the greatest amount of energy with a value of 403.57kcal/100g, in T1 a value of 0.46% protein was determined and in T4 8.51% mg/potassium. 100 g were obtained; These variables are important indicators for an energy drink. In the sensory evaluation of the drink, the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis test was applied, showing that the best treatment was T1 (CCAT-46-57), where the intensity of each of the attributes established for this organoleptic test was evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plantago albicans L. (Plantaginaceae) grows in wastelands, slopes, and stony pastures, with dry and sun‐exposed soils. Its seeds produce a mucilaginous coat. The main aim of this study was to evaluate intraspecific variation of osmotic and salinity stress response and mucilage production in P. albicans seeds. The relationships between osmotic and salinity stress, germination characteristics, and mucilage expansion were studied in eight populations of P. albicans. Seeds were germinated in distilled water, 20% (w/v) polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG), or 100 mM NaCl solutions. In most populations, PEG and NaCl reduced final germination. Also, germination was slowed more significantly under osmotic stress than under salinity, while mucilage expansion was more affected by salinity. Therefore, there was an inverse correlation between mucilage expansion and germination under salinity and osmotic stress. Seed populations with similar climatic parameters showed different germination response; however, a correlation was found between mucilage expansion and some climatic parameters. Seeds from drier habitats germinated faster under water stress and produced more mucilage under control and water stress than populations from more humid areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current air-conditioning and refrigeration systems utilize active cooling technology, which consumes a lot of energy from fossil fuels, thereby increasing global warming and depletion of the ozone layer. Passive cooling is considered an alternative to active cooling because it is effective and less expensive and does not require the use of electricity, so cooling can be achieved in locations where there is no electricity. Hydrogels are flexible and soft 3-dimensional networks with high water content and evaporative and radiative cooling properties that make them suitable for use in passive cooling technology. Natural hydrogels are considered alternatives to synthetic hydrogels because they are biodegradable, biocompatible, sensitive to external environments and mostly sourced from plant-based sources. There are limited studies on the application of mucilage-based hydrogel for passive cooling, despite its excellent thermal, mechanical and physiochemical properties. Therefore, this study evaluates the properties of mucilage-based hydrogel as a plausible alternative to synthetic hydrogel for passive cooling. The possibility of using mucilage-based hydrogel in passive cooling technology depends on the mucilage biomass feedstock, mucilage extraction techniques, polymerization techniques and additives introduced into the hydrogel matrix. Different mucilage extraction techniques; mucilage percentage yield; the effects of crosslinkers, polymers and nanoparticle additives on the properties of mucilage-based hydrogel; and the potential of using mucilage-based hydrogel for passive cooling technology are examined in this review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectin and alginate satisfy multiple functional requirements in the food industry, especially relating to natural packaging formulation. The continuous need for economic and environmental benefits has promoted sourcing and investigating alternative biomaterials, such as cactus pear mucilage from the cladodes of Opuntia spp., as natural packaging alternatives. The structural and mechanical properties of mucilage, pectin and alginate films developed at a 5% (w/w) concentration were modified by treating the films with calcium (Ca) in the calcium chloride (CaCl2) form. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed the 5% (w/w) 'Algerian' and 'Morado' films to display considerable microstructure variation compared to the 5% (w/w) pectin and alginate films, with calcium treatment of the films influencing homogeneity and film orientation. Treating the alginate films with a 10% (w/w) stock CaCl2 solution significantly increased (p < 0.05) the alginate films' tensile strength (TS) and puncture force (PF) values. Consequently, the alginate films reported significantly higher (p < 0.05) film strength (TS and PF) than the pectin + Ca and mucilage + Ca films. The mucilage film's elasticity was negatively influenced by CaCl2, while the pectin and alginate films' elasticity was positively influenced by calcium treatment. These results suggest that the overall decreased calcium sensitivity and poor mechanical strength displayed by 'the Algerian' and 'Morado' films would not make them viable replacements for the commercial pectin and alginate films unless alternative applications were found. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Researchers are looking for sustainable alternatives to address current issues related to water quality because developing countries often lack access to suitable water treatment technologies and pose health dangers in both rural and urban areas. Plant species have shown promising results for use in turbid water treatment. In this context, Opuntia ficus-indica was tested for its ability to reduce the turbidity of surface water and synthetic kaolinite suspensions. The field and experimental research was carried out was conducted from February 2021 to March 2022. Coagulation tests were performed as part of the experimental investigation in the Laboratory of the Biology Department of Madda Walabu University. Total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, temperature, turbidity, and pH were measured for water physicochemical examination according to the protocol. Doses ranging from 10 mg/L to 50 mg/L were used to investigate how the dose affects the reduction in turbidity. The impact of initial turbidity on the effectiveness of coagulation was studied using surface (33 ntu) and synthetic water (60 and 100 ntu) samples. All experiments were conducted in duplicate and the means were calculated. According to the study findings, O. ficusindica reduced turbidity to 5ntu at the optimal dose of 20 mg / L in 33 ntu, 40 mg / L in 60 ntu and 100 ntu using 0.5 NaCl as a solvent. The efficiency of O. ficus indica removal in turbid river water was 85%. Using synthetic turbid water, O. ficus-indica extracts showed 91.6% turbidity removal efficiency at 60 ntu, whereas at 100 ntu, the extracts showed 95% turbidity removal efficiency. At pH 8, O. ficus-indica performed best (87% turbidity removal efficiency). The pH of the river water samples was only minimally altered by coagulation with extracts of O. ficus-indica. The same river water that was treated with alum had a pH that was reduced from 6.5 to 3.45, making the water acidic. According to the results of the present study, O. ficus indica is a viable substitute for turbid surface water because it effectively eliminates turbidity. By guaranteeing water availability and sustainable management, this species can be crucial to achieving one of the Sustainable Development Goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research paper presents the development and evaluation of pioneering nanocomposites (NCs) based on the combination of k-carrageenan and linseed mucilage. When loaded with macela extract nanoemulsion they present an innovative approach for the sustained release of antimicrobial herbal constituents, specifically tailored for bovine mastitis treatment. The NCs, encompassing various ratios of k-carrageenan and linseed mucilage polymers (8:2, 7:3, and 5:5 w/w) with 1.25 mg of macela extract/g of gel, underwent in vitro assessment, emphasizing viscosity, degradation speed, release of herbal actives from macela nanoemulsion and antimicrobial activity. The NCs exhibited thermoreversible characteristics, transitioning from liquid at 60°C to a gel at 25°C. NCs allowed a gradual release of phenolic compounds, reaching approximately 80% of total phenolics release (w/v) within 72 h. NCs inhibited the growth of MRSA (ATCC 33592) until 8 h of incubation. No toxic effect in vitro of NCs was found on MAC-T cells. Thus, the developed materials are relevant for the treatment of bovine mastitis, especially in the dry period, and the data support future evaluations in vivo. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Taro rhizomes are a rich source of polysaccharides, including starch and mucilage. However, mucilage has excellent anti-microbial efficacy, and unique gel-forming and techno-functional properties. Therefore, this study aimed to extract and utilize taro mucilage (TM), which is viscous and has a gel-like texture, for the shelf-life enhancement of fresh-cut brinjals (eggplants). Mucilage was extracted using hot-water extraction and the yield was calculated to be 6.25 ± 0.87% on a dry basis. Different formulations of coating gel solutions were prepared: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7%. The selection of the coating gel solution was carried out based on particle size. The smallest particle size was observed in treatment T5 (154 ± 0.81 nm) and zeta potential −27.22 ± 0.75 mV. Furthermore, cut brinjals were coated with the prepared mucilage gel solution and this showed a significant effect on the overall physicochemical properties of cut brinjals. Maximum weight loss occurred on the 10th day (12.67 ± 0.24%), as compared with coated brinjals (8.99 ± 0.42%). Minor changes were observed in pH, for the control sample significantly decreased from 4.58 ± 0.45 to 2.99 ± 0.75 on the 0th day to the 10th day, respectively. Titrable acidity of coated and uncoated cut brinjals was found to be at 0.31 ± 0.44% on the 0th day, which increased up to 0.66 ± 0.20% for the control and 0.55 ± 0.68% for coated brinjals on the 10th day. The taro mucilage coating gel (TMCG) solution showed pseudo-plastic behavior or shear-thinning fluid behavior. FTIR data confirmed the existence of several functional groups including various sugars, proteins, and hydroxylic groups. Antioxidant activity of coated and uncoated cut brinjals was found to be 22.33 ± 0.37% and 22.15 ± 0.49%, respectively. The TMCG solution showed effective results towards the various food pathogenic microorganisms. Overall, it is a natural, renewable resource that is biodegradable. This makes it an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic additives or thickeners. It is cost effective, easily available, eco-friendly, and non-toxic. This can be an attractive feature for consumers looking for sustainable and eco-friendly options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bioactive compounds in red fruits, such as strawberries, are vulnerable to digestion, and encapsulation has become an alternative for their protection. This study aims at encapsulating strawberry juice (SJ) by freeze-drying with pea protein and okra mucilage (SJPO), pea protein and psyllium mucilage (SJPP), and pea protein, psyllium mucilage, and okra mucilage (SJPPO) and investigating the in vitro release. The highest encapsulation efficiency was observed in capsule SJPPO (95.38%) and the lowest efficiency in SJPO (82.45%). Scanning electron microscopy revealed an amorphous glassy structure for the structure of the strawberry microcapsules, and X-ray diffraction confirmed that observation. However, X-ray diffraction further showed that SJPPO was crystalline, indicating a tighter crosslinking density than the other microcapsules. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy showed peaks at 3390 and 1650 cm−1, confirming the presence of polyphenols and polysaccharides in the strawberry microcapsules. Thermal stability was higher for SJPPO, and the observed thermal transitions were due to the bonds formed between the polymers and polyphenols. Pelargonidin 3-glucoside, cyanidin 3-glucoside, cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin 3-glucoside, ellagic acid, chlorogenic acid, catechin, and kaempferol were identified in the strawberry microcapsules. Digestion affected the compounds' content; the bioaccessibility for SJ was 39.26% and 45.43% for TPC and TAC, respectively. However, encapsulation improved the bioaccessibility of both TPC (SJPP, 51.54%; SJPO, 48.52%; and SJPPO, 54.39%) and TAC (SJPP, 61.08%; SJPO, 55.03%; and SJPPO, 71.93%). Thus, encapsulating pea protein isolate, psyllium mucilage, and okra mucilage is an effective method to facilitate targeted release and preserve the biological activities of fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carnivorous plants are mixotrophs that have developed the ability to lure, trap, and digest small organisms and utilize components of the digested bodies. Leaves of Drosophyllum lusitanicum have two kinds of glands (emergences): stalked mucilage glands and sessile digestive glands. The stalked mucilage glands perform the primary role in prey lure and trapping. Apart from their role in carnivory, they absorb water condensed from oceanic fog; thus, plants can survive in arid conditions. To better understand the function of carnivorous plant emergences, the molecular composition of their cell walls was investigated using immunocytochemical methods. In this research, Drosophyllum lusitanicum was used as a study system to determine whether cell wall immunocytochemistry differs between the mucilage and digestive glands of other carnivorous plant species. Light and electron microscopy were used to observe gland structure. Fluorescence microscopy revealed the localization of carbohydrate epitopes associated with the major cell wall polysaccharides and glycoproteins. The mucilage gland (emergence) consists of a glandular head, a connecting neck zone, and stalk. The gland head is formed by an outer and inner layer of glandular (secretory) cells and supported by a layer of endodermoid (barrier) cells. The endodermoid cells have contact with a core of spongy tracheids with spiral-shaped thickenings. Lateral tracheids are surrounded by epidermal and parenchymal neck cells. Different patterns of cell wall components were found in the various cell types of the glands. Cell walls of glandular cells generally are poor in both low and highly esterified homogalacturonans (HGs) but enriched with hemicelluloses. Cell walls of inner glandular cells are especially rich in arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs). The cell wall ingrowths in glandular cells are significantly enriched with hemicelluloses and AGPs. In the case of cell wall components, the glandular cells of Drosophyllum lusitanicum mucilage glands are similar to the glandular cells of the digestive glands of Aldrovanda vesiculosa and Dionaea muscipula. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During Arabidopsis seed coat development, copious amounts of mucilage polysaccharides are produced in the epidermal cells. When hydrated on imbibition, these polysaccharides expand and are released to encapsulate the seed as a two-layered hydrogel. Polysaccharides are synthesized from UDP-sugars by glycosyltransferases (GTs) and several GTs, with differing activities, have been identified that contribute to mucilage polysaccharide synthesis. How these GTs orchestrate production of the complex polysaccharides found in mucilage remains to be determined. In this study, we generated a range of multiple GT mutants using either CRISPR/Cas9 targeted mutation or genetic crosses of existing T-DNA insertion mutants. Four traits for mucilage amounts or macromolecular properties were examined for four replicate seed lots from 31 different GT mutant combinations. This data provides a valuable resource for future genetic, biochemical, structural, and functional studies of the roles and properties of polysaccharides present in Arabidopsis mucilage and the relative contributions of different GTs to mucilage production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy recovery is an environmentally, economically and socially acceptable approach for the management of mucilage biomass. In this study, electricity generation potential of mucilage biomass by microbial fuel cell was evaluated. Mucilage biomass was used as electron donor substrate in the anode chamber and azo dye was used as electron acceptor in the cathode chamber. The maximum power density value (16.3 mW/m2) obtained in the raw mucilage is considerably lower than the power density (57.9 mV/m2) obtained from the mucilage biomass thermochemically pre-treated at high pressure and temperature. In the cathode chamber, over 87% azo dye removal was obtained. During operation under anaerobic conditions, an increase in soluble COD was observed with electron transfer due to the simultaneous continuation of dehydrogenation and biodegradation processes in the mucilage biomass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, persimmon powder (PP) was substituted in concentrations of 0, 5 and 10% per 100 g of einkorn flour (EF) in Turkish noodle production. Quince seed mucilage (QSM) was used as an egg replacer at levels of 20, 30 and 40%. The cooking properties, chemical composition, color values, texture characteristics, and sensory properties of Turkish noodles were determined. The lowest cooking time (8.33 min) was found in Turkish noodles substituted with 10% PP. When 40% QSM was added to the formulation, both volume increase and water absorption values increased. Turkish noodles produced with a higher concentration of PP resulted in increased ash, crude fiber, mineral contents, especially in potassium, and total phenolic content. The lowest firmness and work of shear were obtained when PP and QSM substitutions were increased up to 10% and 40%, respectively. The sensory evaluation indicated that Turkish noodles substituted with 10% PP were greatly appreciated by the panelists in terms of taste, odor, and overall acceptability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many seeds are consumed by granivores despite numerous adaptations to prevent detection or exploitation. The environment can influence the efficacy of these defensive traits. Understanding the mechanisms by which environmental factors modify defensive efficacy is important for understanding spatial patterns of granivory and seed recruitment. Seed mucilage is a sticky coating that binds imbibed seeds to substrates; this attachment has been demonstrated to lessen exploitation by granivores. Seed mucilage as a defense has been recognized for decades, though rarely studied. Here, we investigated whether the environment alters this seed defense by addressing two questions: (1) Does substrate particle size affect attachment strength? (2) Does a change in particle size lead to changes in granivore-related mortality? In the field experiment, ants removed more seeds from finer substrates than their coarser counterparts. Across that same grit range, seeds took less force to dislodge when mucilage-bound to fine sandpaper; however, an investigation across a wider range of grits demonstrated nonlinearities occurred for many species, probably due to structural and chemical mucilage properties. Small differences in substrate grit lead to differential mortality in mucilaginous seeds due to alterations in attachment strength, suggesting that the defensive efficacy of this trait differs across the landscape. This work paves the way for a more integrative look at mucilaginous seeds. Seed mucilage is a widespread trait that is easily studied and has important demographic implications. It represents an ideal system to examine dispersal, germination, and granivory to gain a more holistic view of seed ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: The optimal management of plant nutrition is an effective strategy for sustainable agriculture under various conditions. Soil drying is one of the main limiting factors for plant nutrient acquisition. Plants imposed to these limitations have evolved several strategies such as modifying root-to-shoot ratio, modifying their root anatomy, modifying microbial diversity, and engineering their surrounding soil via rhizodeposition and rhizosheath formation. Rhizosheath is referred to as the soil that remained attached to the root system after being removed from the soil and shacked. Here we reviewed the processes contributing to rhizosheath formation and the mechanisms underlying how it affected the plant's ability to uptake water and nutrients. Methods: To shed light on the unexplored aspects of rhizosheath and identify potential research directions, we conducted a comprehensive review of the relevant literature on the mechanisms of rhizosheath formation and its impacts on water and nutrient uptake. Results: The results showed that the presence of mucilage, root hairs and dry-rewetting cycles play a vital role in the formation and strength of rhizosheath. Rhizosheath enables plants to adapt to their environment by keeping the soil and roots hydraulically connected during a soil drying cycle and promoting water and nutrients uptake at the roots-soil interface. Conclusion: It is concluded that the rhizosheath is the most chemically and biologically active part of the soil. Breeding plants to strengthen their ability to form stable rhizosheath may be one solution to achieving a sustainable agricultural system and maintaining agricultural production under drought stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The possibility of using materials from the waste of agricultural products for the conservation of cultural and artistic heritage has led to important technological developments on mortars, plasters, colors, and other applications. In this experimental work, we investigated the binding properties of mucilage obtained from two different species of the genus Opuntia, both collected in Sicily, Italy: Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. and Opuntia stricta (Haw.) Haw. Through chemical acid hydrolysis, and subsequent spectroscopic analysis conducted at 13C-NMR, the main monosaccharide composition of both mucilage was studied, identifying considerable compositional differences. In fact, the mucilage of O. ficus indica had similar total amounts of arabinose (23.65%), galactose (20.87%), and glucose isomers (23.89%), while that of O. stricta was characterized by significant amounts of arabinose (36.48%) and galactose (32.31%) units. The samples were obtained by dispersing pigments on the mucilage and applying the obtained tempera by a brush onto both paper and chalk supports, in order to observe if the colors changed with different substrates. Colorimetric analysis, measuring ΔE, showed how the same pigment modifies its aspect depending on the binder used. After a two-week UV ageing process, pigments that had dispersed in O. stricta changed their aspect more than those dispersed in O. ficus-indica. Overall, it is also evident how ΔE data for organic pigments are higher than those for inorganic ones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the extraction of mucilage from okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) and evaluate its functional properties. Response Surface Methodology, based on a 3-factored 3-leveled Box Behnken design was employed. Independent variables were extraction temperature (25–80 °C), extraction time (1–7 h) and water to the raw material ratio (4:1–10:1). The optimum extraction conditions were as follows: extraction time is 1.52 h, the ratio of water to okra is 7.2:1 and extraction temperature is 50.51 °C. At these optimum conditions; extraction yield, swelling capacity, emulsion capacity, emulsion stability, antioxidant capacity and total phenolics content were predicted as 23.24%, 44.2 (ml/g), 47.05%, 50.18%, 38.95% and 36.75, respectively. Mucilage decreased oiling off of the mixture by 95.4%. Okra mucilage was used in pistachio nuts paste as a stabilizer. It increased product stability from 80.80 ± 1.05% (control sample) to 97.19 ± 1.52%. Results showed that okra mucilage can be used as an additive in food formulations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bromeliaceae display many water-use strategies, from leaf impounding tanks to Crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) photosynthesis and absorbing trichomes. Recent studies show that trichomes in inflorescences of bromeliads can exude viscous secretions, protecting against various stresses, including excessive water loss. In light of this, and considering the knowledge gap regarding inflorescence trichomes in bromeliads, we aimed to investigate the presence, source and chemical nature of inflorescence secretions in species of the Tillandsioideae (Bromeliaceae) and to describe the anatomy of their floral bracts focusing on trichome structure and position. We conducted a prospection of secretory activity and anatomy in floral bracts in 52 species of Tillandsioideae and 1 early divergent Bromeliaceae species. We used histochemical tests to investigate the presence and nature of secretion combined with standard light microscopy methods. Secretion appears in all studied species of tribe Vrieseeae, in Guzmania species, Wallisia cyanea , Tillandsia streptopylla (Tillandsieae) and Catopsis morreniana (Catopsideae). It is absent in Vriesea guttata (Vrieseeae), Racinaea crispa and various Tillandsia species (Tillandsieae). Secretion is produced by peltate trichomes on the adaxial surface of young bracts and comprises hydrophilic and lipophilic substances. Bract anatomy revealed an internal mucilage-secreting tissue with wide distribution within the subtribe Vrieseinae. Our results point to a broad occurrence of secretion associated with bracteal scales in inflorescences of Tillandsioideae. Secretory function is strongly related to trichomes of the adaxial surface, whereas the indumentum of the abaxial side is lacking or likely associated with water absorption; the latter case is especially related to small, xeric plants. Exudates might engage in colleter-like roles, protecting against desiccation, high-radiation and herbivores. Directions for future research are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flexible energy storage device of high demand in wearable and portable electronics. Flexible supercapacitors have benefits over flexible batteries, and their development relies on the use of flexible components. Gel polymer electrolytes have the merits of liquid and solid electrolytes and are used in flexible devices. In this study, a gel derived from chia seed was used as a flexible electrolyte material, and its rheological, thermal, and electrochemical properties were investigated. High thermal stability and shear thinning behavior were observed via the electrolyte state of the chia mucilage gel. Compared to the conventional salt electrolyte, the chia mucilage gel electrolyte-based supercapacitor exhibited a more rectangular cyclic voltammetry (CV) curve, longer discharging time in galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) analysis, and low charge transfer resistance in electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The maximum specific capacitance of 7.77 F g−1 and power density of 287.7 W kg−1 were measured, and stable capacitance retention of 94% was achieved after 10,000 cycles of charge/discharge with harsh input conditions. The biodegradability was also confirmed by the degraded mucilage film in soil after 30 days. The plant-driven chia mucilage gel electrolyte can facilitate the realization of flexible supercapacitors for the energy storage devices of the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inhibition exerted by ethanolic extracts of coffee mucilage on the growth of bacteria was studied by microdilution in agar. The growth inhibition effect was evaluated for pathogenic or food spoilage related bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853), Alcaligenes sp. (UCR277), Serratia sp. (UCR299), Micrococcus luteus (ATCC4698), Escherichia coli (ATCC35150), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC25923), Bacillus cereus (ATCC14579), Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica (ATCC 13311) and Listeria monocytogenes (SLCC4013)) and for bacteria associated with human intestinal biota (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum subsp. plantarum). The most effective growth inhibition was observed for B. cereus (ATCC14579). The content of chlorogenic acid and caffeine in the ethanolic extracts was quantified by HPLC/DAD. The chlorogenic acid content in the extracts ranged from 2.67 to 4.76 mg/ml, while the caffeine content ranged from 1.24 to 6.48 mg/ml. Although ethanolic extracts of coffee berry mucilage inhibited the growth of B. cereus, this inhibition does not seem to be related to the caffeine or chlorogenic acid contents.

Background and aims: Wound healing is one of the most important issues in medical science. Synthetic drugs have long been introduced and used to speed up the healing process of wounds, but most of them have many side effects. The present study was performed to evaluate the healing efficiency of watercress seed mucilage (Lepidium sativum L.) on wounds. Methods: In this study, the animals were randomly divided into five groups. The treatment groups were (1), (2), (3), sham (4), and control (5). The treatment groups were treated with 20%, 10%, and 5% watercress seed mucilage in the Eucerin base, respectively, and the sham was treated with Eucerin, while the control received no treatment. Then, 5 pairs of full-thickness wounds with a diameter of 7 mm were created on both sides of the rabbit’s spine. Macroscopic and wound area studies were performed on days 4, 7, and 14 after surgery. Results: According to the analysis of variance, there was a significant difference between groups 1, 2, 3, sham, and control (P=0.001), but no significant difference was observed between group 3, sham group, and control group (P=0.993). Based on these findings, at the end of the treatment period, group 1 had the highest healing rate and the lowest wound area (1.12±0.77) compared to group 2 (4.42±0.30) and 3 (7.05±0.35), as well as the sham (8.34±1.10) and control (8.50±1.90) groups. Thus, the treatment method of this group has been more effective in wound healing than that of the other treatment groups. Conclusion: It seems that watercress seed mucilage can treat wounds due to its important compounds such as flavonoids, phenols, and vitamins A and C.

This study aimed at investigating the synthesis of biopolymer films based on the Camelina sativa cake, an agricultural waste which remains after cold pressing of the oil from seed. During the film synthesis, three different granulations of the camelina cake were used: the whole cake, fractions with a size of 180-250 µm and fractions smaller than 180 µm. Half of the samples were pre-treated with an ultrasonic bath in order to examine the influence of the native mucilage from the cake on the properties of the obtained films. The biopolymer film samples were tested for mechanical, barrier, physicochemical and structural properties. The obtained films were dark, firm and flexible. Application of mucilage removal pre-treatment contributed to lower tensile strength and higher elongation at break. Significantly lower water vapour permeability was recorded in the samples not pre-treated regarding mucilage removal. A foil with optimal physicochemical characteristics was produced using oilcake with a particle size less than 180 µm, regardless of the pre-treatment application. There were no structural differences or differences in thermal behaviour among the tested samples. Statistical analysis (Z-Score analysis) showed the sample CSoC˂180,wo was optimal due to good mechanical, barrier and physicochemical properties.