Mitochondria mediated inhibitory effect of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (L.) flower extract against breast adenocarcinoma and T-cell lymphoma: An in vitro and in vivo study.

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: The flowers of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis (L.) heals mouth ulcers. Its tinctures promote gastric secretions, and improve lung expectoration when taken orally. It has traditionally been used to treats scabies and other skin problems. The leaves of NAT(L.) plant are used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat sciatica, chronic fever, rheumatism, internal worm infections, and as a laxative, diaphoretic, and diuretic. The bark used in treatment of snakebite and bronchitis. In addition to traditional uses, pharmacologically this plant has potent antimalarial, antiarthritic, anticancer and antidiabetic activity. However, the mechanistic antiproliferative potentials of NAT(L.) flower as anticancer therapeutics has not yet been explored. AIM OF THE STUDY: The current study is based on a broad range of scientific literature that highlights the nutritional and therapeutic benefits of NAT (L.). Present investigation was carried out to determine the therapeutic efficacy of NAT (L.) against breast adenocarcinoma cells and T-cell lymphoma. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The ethyl-acetate extract of NAT(L.) was tested against breast cancer cells to assess the anticancer potential. To evaluate apoptosis, intracellular ROS levels and mitochondrial dynamics, fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry were employed. Additionally, cell cycle analysis and western blotting were also performed. Furthermore, in vivo antitumor efficacy of flower extracts was investigated in T-cell lymphoma-bearing BALB/c mice model. RESULTS: Our present study revealed that NAT (L.) exert anticancer activity against breast cancer cells effectively at IC50 320 µg/ml while having less impact on normal cells with IC50 more than 480 µg/ml. Fluorescence imaging showed that NAT (L.) treatment elicits a concentration-dependent rise in the occurrence of apoptotic cell deaths with altered mitochondrial dynamics and was subsequently confirmed by flow cytometry. Further, flow cytometric analysis delineates ethyl acetate flower extract exposure promotes arrest of cells in S phase of the cell cycle. The differential expression of apoptotic proteins such as Bax, Bcl-2, cleaved PARP-1, cleaved caspase 3, Cytochrome-c, p53 and VEGF A were influenced by NAT (L.) treatment. The in vivo antitumor activity study delineates that NAT(L.) therapy significantly increased the life span of T-cell lymphoma bearing mice while reducing tumor load and belly size growth pattern without causing significant other distinct side effects as evident by histopathological studies. CONCLUSION: Our current findings unveil that NAT(L.) ethyl acetate flower extract potentially induces mitochondrial pathway of apoptosis, promote cell cycle arrest, reduces tumor load of mice, enhances survivability and could be a promising agent against the triple negative breast cancer and lymphoma.

Comparative Study of Callistemon citrinus (Bottlebrush) and Punica granatum (Pomegranate) Extracts for Sustainable Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Their Oral Antimicrobial Efficacy.

A comparative study was applied to investigate the potential of Callistemon citrinus (bottlebrush) flower extract (BBE) and Punica granatum (pomegranate) peel extracts (PPE) for the sustainable synthesis of the silver nanoparticles, Ag-BBE and Ag-PPE, respectively. The synthesis process of Ag NPs using the selected extracts was applied under optimized conditions. Hence, the effect of the selected plant's type on the different characteristics of the synthesized green Ag NPs was investigated. The UV-Vis spectroscopy revealed the presence of the characteristic silver peaks at 419 and 433 nm of the Ag-BBE and Ag-PPE, respectively. The XRD spectra reported the fcc phase formation of Ag NPs. The TEM results highlighted the morphological features of the synthesized Ag NPs. with a size range of 20-70 nm, and with 10-30 nm for Ag-BBE and Ag-PPE, correspondingly. The Raman spectra revealed characteristic silver bands in the Ag-PPE and reflected some bands related to the natural extract in the Ag-BBE sample. The antimicrobial activity and statistical analysis investigation were conducted against four selected oral pathogens (Staphylococcus aureus (SA), Candida albicans (CA), Staphylococcus epidermidis (S. epi), and Enterococcus faecalis (EF)). Both tested extracts, BBE, and PPE, revealed potential effectivity as reducing and capping agents for Ag NP green synthesis. However, the synthesized NPs demonstrated different features, depending on the used extract, reflecting the influence of the plant's biomolecules on the nanoparticles' properties.

Nelumbo nucifera flower extract incorporated alginate/polyvinyl alcohol films as a sustainable pH indicator for active food packaging applications.

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for environmentally friendly smart packaging materials. Therefore, in this study, we developed an eco-friendly pH-sensitive indicator film through the solvent casting process, incorporating alginate, polyvinyl alcohol, garlic, and Nelumbo nucifera flower extract. The effect of extract on the chemical and physical properties of the film were extensively studied using various characterization techniques. XRD and FTIR reveal the strong interaction between the polymers and the extract. The incorporation of the extract influenced various parameters such as swelling behavior, water solubility, and moisture content, while also improving the film's thermal stability, biodegradability, as well as its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Interestingly, the film exhibited a color change in response to pH change. During shrimp storage, the film showed a visible transition from purple to green, indicating shrimp spoilage. Additionally, the film's ability to detect freshness was confirmed by measuring total volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN). These findings suggest that the PVA/alginate/garlic/Nelumbo nucifera film shows promise as an intelligent packaging material for real-time food monitoring applications.

Whey Protein Isolate as a Substrate to Design Calendula officinalis Flower Extract Controlled-Release Materials.

The use of natural active substances and the development of new formulations are promising directions in the cosmetic and pharmacy industries. The primary purpose of this research was the production of microparticles based on whey protein isolate (WPI) and calcium alginate (ALG) containing Calendula officinalis flower extract and their incorporation into films composed of gelatin, WPI, and glycerol. Both swollen and dry microparticles were studied by optical microscopy and their sizes were measured. Water absorption by the microparticles, their loading capacity, and the release profile of flower extract were also characterized. The films were analyzed by mechanical tests (Young's modulus, tensile strength, elongation at break), swelling capacity, contact angle, and moisture content measurements. The presented data showed that the active ingredient was successfully enclosed in spherical microparticles and completely released after 75 min of incubation at 37 °C. The incorporation of the microparticles into polymer films caused a decrease in stiffness and tensile strength, simultaneously increasing the ductility of the samples. Moreover, the films containing microparticles displayed higher swelling ability and moisture content compared to those without them. Hence, the materials prepared in this study with Calendula officinalis flower extract encapsulated into polymeric microspheres can be a starting point for the development of new products intended for skin application; advantages include protection of the extract against external factors and a controlled release profile.

Prebiotic Systems Containing Anthocyanin-Rich Pomegranate Flower Extracts with Antioxidant and Antidiabetic Effects.

Pomegranate flower extract, rich in anthocyanins, demonstrates beneficial health-promoting properties such as an anti-diabetic and antioxidant effect, among others. However, the potential health-promoting properties may be hindered by the low stability of anthocyanins. Therefore, the aim of our study was to assess whether stabilizing carriers, namely HP-γ-cyclodextrin (HP-γ-CD), α-cyclodextrin (α-CD), Methyl-ß-cyclodextrin (Me-ß-CD), Inulin (Inu) and Arabic gum (AGu) affect the antioxidant and antidiabetic activity of lyophilized pomegranate flower extract, how they influence stability, release profile, and whether the systems exhibit prebiotic activity. Interactions between pomegranate flower extract and these factors were analyzed using FT-IR. The structures were examined through microscopic imaging while for the prepared prebiotic systems, antidiabetic activity was determined and confirmed by the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase; antioxidant activity was expressed by DPPH and CUPRAC assays. The content of pelargonidin-3,5-glucoside in these systems was assessed using the HPLC method. The release profiles of pelargonidin-3,5-glucoside were examined in a medium at pH = 6.8 and pH = 1.2, and the stability was assessed after subjecting the systems to high temperatures (T = 90 °C). The prebiotic potential was evaluated for 10 prebiotic bacterial strains (Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus brevis Lactobacillus rhamnosus gg, Lactobacillus reuteri, Pediococcus pentosaceus, Lactococcus lactis, Lactobacillus fermentum lf, Streptococcus thermophilus). As a result of the conducted research, better functionalities of the obtained systems containing Pomegranate flower extract were proven in terms of prebiotic and antidiabetic effects. The obtained delivery systems for pelargonidin-3,5-glucoside allow for better use of its health-promoting effects.

In Vitro Evaluation of Extracts From Ixora Species for a Potential Phytosomal Formulation.

Background Ixora species are perennial shrubs and flowering plants belonging to the family Rubiaceae. The leaf and flower parts of Ixora coccinea (I. coccinea) andIxora alba (I. alba) were aimed at isolating their active fractions. The present study was to determine in vitro antitumor activity against malignant melanoma cell lines for phytosome formulation. Materials and methods Two species, I. coccinea (red flowers and leaves) and I. alba (white flowers and leaves), were selected, and this study focused on determining the active fraction by comparing the in vitro antimicrobial and antioxidant potentials of petroleum ether, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and hydroalcoholic (ethanol:water, 70:30 v/v) extracts. The identified potent extract was subjected to in vitro anticancer activity in malignant melanoma cell lines. Results A phytochemical study revealed phytosterols, flavonoids, proteins, amino acids, alkaloids, carbohydrates, phenols, tannins, and diterpenes. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay was used to evaluate the antioxidant effect of I. coccinea and I. alba leaf and flower extracts. In the DPPH assay, I. coccinea flower hydroalcoholic extract (ICFHA) had an IC50 value of 248.99 µg/mL, and I. coccinea leaf hydroalcoholic extract (ICLHA) had an IC50 value of 268.87 µg/mL. These two extracts had a lower value with a higher antioxidant effect. In the total antioxidant assay, I. coccinea leaf ethyl acetate extract (ICLEA) and I. coccinea leaf chloroform extract (ICLCE) have 77.4 ± 0.05 and 68.9 ± 0.03 mg of ascorbic acid equivalent per gm of extract, respectively. These two extracts exhibited a high antioxidant effect. The antimicrobial potential was evaluated using selected bacterial and fungal strains using the agar-well diffusion method. Petroleum ether and chloroform extracts of I. coccinea and I. alba leaves and flowers did not possess antimicrobial activity with any of the bacterial or fungal strains. An ethyl acetate extract and a hydroalcoholic extract of I. coccinea leaves and flowers showed antimicrobial activity against Enterococcus faecalis, Candida albicans, and Staphylococcus aureus. An ethyl acetate extract of I. coccinea flower and a hydroalcoholic extract of I. alba leaf showed a significant zone of inhibition when compared with standard chloramphenicol for all three selected strains, which may be due to the presence of active phytoconstituents. ICLHA showed a MIC of ≤300 µg/mL for Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus and ≤400 µg/mL for Candida albicans microbial strains. The high total flavonoid content was reported in ICLEA at 771.31 µg/mL and in I. coccinea flower ethyl acetate extract (ICFEA) at 694.69 µg/mL. High-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis showed a high quercetin (QCE) content in the ICLEA extract. To prove the in vitro skin anticancer activity, an MTT assay was performed for the ICLEA extract in a malignant melanoma cell line, and the IC50 value was reported as 7.96 µg/mL. Conclusion I. coccinea leaf ethyl acetate extract revealed a significant total flavonoid content in analysis through the aluminum chloride method, and the presence of a high QCE content was confirmed by HPTLC analysis. The in vitro skin anticancer activity of ICLEA was confirmed by the MTT assay; therefore, it was concluded that the ICLEA extract was a potent fraction and was selected to develop a phytosome.

Magnolia biondii flower extract attenuates UVB-induced skin damage through high-mobility group box protein B1.

OBJECTIVE: Magnolia biondii, a plant containing many magnolian-like compounds in its flowers or buds, exhibits anti-inflammatory and antiallergic effects; however, no study has addressed its effect on alleviating ultraviolet light (UV)-induced skin damage. We thus aimed at studying the effects of M. biondii flower extract (MB) on UVB-induced skin damage and determine the relationship between cell damage and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). METHODS: Reconstructed epidermal models and foreskin samples were selected to detect cellular reactions after UVB irradiation and MB treatment. MTT, haematoxylin-eosin and immunofluorescence staining were used to examine total viability, sunburned cells and expression and migration of DAMPs at 16 or 48 h. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE-2) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. A clinical UVB-damaged test was carried out on human arms subjected to MB pre- or post-treatment. Human skin probes were used to measure erythema, melanin, ITA° and transepidermal water loss (TEWL), while skin photos were captured using the VISIA system. RESULTS: MB is rich in lignans such as magnolin, pinoresinol dimethyl ether and fargesin, and shows weak UV absorption at 280-320 nm. Coculturing with MB for 16 or 48 h after UVB irradiation improved the tissue viability and structure of Skinovo-Epi, and reduced the expression and migration of high mobility group box protein B1 (HMGB1) as well as the expression of IL-8 and PGE-2. In the excised foreskin treated with MB after UVB irradiation, the generation of 8-hidroxy-2-deoxyguanosine and nuclear transfer of HMGB1 were reduced. When pre-treated with MB for 3 days, UVB-induced skin erythema and ITA° were significantly decreased. When post-treated with MB for 5 days, a decrease in skin erythema, melanin and TEWL values and an increase in skin ITA° were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with MB attenuated UVB-induced skin damage, such as erythema, pigmentation and skin barrier function, by improving the tissue viability and structure and reducing sunburned cells and skin inflammation. This effect may be related to DNA damage, which causes the migration of HMGB1 from the nucleus to the outside of the cell to induce skin inflammation.

OBJECTIF: Magnolia biondii, une plante dont les fleurs et les bourgeons contiennent de nombreux composés de type magnolien, possède des effets anti­inflammatoires et antiallergiques. Cependant, aucune étude n'a abordé son effet sur la réduction des lésions cutanées induites par la lumière ultraviolette (UV). Dès lors, nous avons cherché à étudier les effets de l'extrait de fleur de M. biondii sur les lésions cutanées induites par les UVB et à déterminer le lien entre les lésions cellulaires et les profils moléculaires associés aux lésions (PMAL). MÉTHODES: Des modèles épidermiques reconstruits et des échantillons de prépuce ont été sélectionnés pour détecter les réactions cellulaires après une irradiation aux UVB et un traitement par extrait de fleur de M. biondii. Le test MTT, l'hématoxyline­éosine (HE) et la coloration par immunofluorescence ont été utilisés pour examiner la viabilité totale, les cellules brûlées par le soleil, ainsi que l'expression et la migration des PMAL à 16 ou 48 h. Les taux de prostaglandine E2 (PGE­2) et d'interleukine 8 (IL­8) ont été mesurés par dosages immuno­enzymatiques (ELISA). Une analyse clinique des lésions dues aux UVB avant ou après traitement a été effectuée sur des bras humains traités par extrait de fleur de M. biondii. Des sondes cutanées humaines ont permis de mesurer l'érythème, le taux de mélanine, l'ITA° et la perte en eau transépidermique, tandis que la peau a été photographiée à l'aide du système VISIA. RÉSULTATS: L'extrait de fleur de M. biondii est riche en lignans, comme la magnoline, le pinorésinol diméthyléther et la fargésine, et montre une faible absorption des UV à une longueur d'onde de 280 à 320 nm. La mise en culture de l'extrait de fleur de M. biondii pendant 16 ou 48 h après irradiation aux UVB a amélioré la viabilité et la structure des tissus de Skinovo­Epi et réduit l'expression et la migration de la protéine B1 du groupe à haute mobilité (HMGB1), ainsi que l'expression de l'IL­8 et de la PGE­2. Dans le prépuce excisé traité par extrait de fleur de M. biondii après irradiation aux UVB, la génération de 8­hidroxy­2­désoxyguanosine et le transfert nucléaire de HMGB1 étaient réduits. Lors d'un prétraitement par extrait de fleur de M. biondii pendant 3 jours, l'érythème cutané induit par les UVB et l'ITA° avaient diminué significativement. Lors d'un post­traitement par extrait de fleur de M. biondii pendant 5 jours, une diminution des valeurs de l'érythème cutané, de la mélanine et de la perte en eau transépidermique et une augmentation de l'ITA° cutané ont été observées. CONCLUSIONS: Le traitement par extrait de fleur de M. biondii a atténué les lésions cutanées induites par les UVB, comme l'érythème, la pigmentation et la fonction de barrière cutanée, en améliorant la viabilité et la structure des tissus et en réduisant les cellules brûlées par le soleil et l'inflammation cutanée. Cet effet peut être lié à une altération de l'ADN, qui entraînent la migration du HMGB1 du noyau vers l'extérieur de la cellule, induisant ainsi une inflammation cutanée.

Tegumental surface change in Paramphistomum epiclitum caused by Bombax ceiba flowers and black pepper seed extract.

Rumen flukes, parasites of the superfamily Paramphistomoidea, are found in cattle rumen. Heavy infections can cause symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, and poor body condition, resulting in a decrease in milk and meat production. This study compares the tegumental surface change of Paramphistomum epiclitum as a response to ethanolic extracts of Bombax ceiba flowers and black pepper seeds. Adult flukes were subjected to various concentrations of crude extracts, including 12.5, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL for 12, 18, and 24 h incubation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) exhibited that the ethanolic extracts of both Bombax ceiba flowers and black pepper seeds caused tegumental surface changes in adult P. epiclitum. Based on the results, Bombax ceiba flower extract has anthelmintic activity, compared with black pepper seed extract, towards adult P. epiclitum due to the deformation of the tegument at lower concentrations than black pepper extract.

Aristolochia bracteolata flower extract based phytosynthesis and characterization of AgNPs: Antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and antioxidant activities potential assessment.

The study was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of the Aristolochia bracteolata water flower extract-mediated AgNPs synthesis and assess their antimicrobial potential. According to the experimental and analytical results, A. bracteolata flower extract can produce valuable AgNPs. The characteristic features of these AgNPs were assessed with UV-visible spectrophotometer, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, Transmission Electron Microscope, Scanning Electron Microscopy, as well as. Under UV-vis. spectrum results, showed major peak at 430 nm and recorded essential functional groups responsible for reducing, capping, and stabilizing AgNPs by FT-IR analysis. In addition, the size and shape of the synthesized AgNPs were found as 21.11-25.17 nm and spherical/octahedral shape. The A. bracteolata fabricated NPs showed remarkable antimicrobial activity against fish bacterial pathogens (V. parahaemolytics, Serratia sp., B. subtilis, and E. coli) as well as common fungal pathogens (A. niger, C. albicans, A. flavus, and A. terreus) at the quantity of 100 µg mL-1 than positive controls. Nevertheless, it was not effective against human bacterial pathogens. It concludes that AgNPs synthesized from A. bracteolata aqueous flower extract have excellent antimicrobial activity and may have a variety of biomedical applications.

Evaluation of efficacy of Silybum marianum flower extract on the mitigating hair loss in vitro and in vivo.

BACKGROUND: Natural components that can exert a wide range of anti-hair loss activity with fewer side effects are in high demand. The objective of this study was to investigate the anti-hair loss potential of Silybum marianum flower extract (SMFE) in vitro and in vivo. METHODS: The effect of SMFE on dermal papilla cells was evaluated by measuring cell proliferation and VEGF production in hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs). In addition, to confirm the effect of SMFE on dermal papilla senescence, SA-ß-gal staining and senescence associated secretory phenotype (SASP) production such as IL-6 was observed in both replicative and hydrogen peroxide (H2 O2 )-induced senescence models. In a clinical study, hair growth was determined by reconstitution analysis after shaving the hair of the clinical subject's scalp and hair area. RESULTS: SMFE increased the proliferation and VEGF production of HFDPCs. It also suppressed cellular senescence of HFDPCs and IL-6 production in replicative senescence and oxidative stress-induced senescence models. The hair density and total hair count at 16 and 24 weeks after using hair shampoo containing SMFE were significantly increased compared with those of the placebo group. CONCLUSION: SMFE has the potential to be used as a natural ingredient for alleviating hair loss.

Biosynthesis of green CuO@C nanocomposite using Combretum indicum flower extract for organic dye removal: adsorption performance, modeling, and recyclability studies.

Water contamination becomes one of the most high-priority environmental concerns, calling for the efficient treatment techniques. Bionanocomposites can be robust adsorbents, but the synthesis requires toxic chemicals or energy consuming and cause the secondary pollution. Green nanocomposites can be biogenically synthesized using the plant extract to end up with a critically safe strategy. Herein, we used the flower extract of Combretum indicum plant as a bio-based reductant and carbonaceous source for the green CuO@C nanocomposite. This green nanoadsorbent obtained a specific surface area of 17.33 m2/g, good crystallinity, and functional group-containing surface, i.e., -OH and -CONH-. We also conducted the optimization of parameters, i.e., concentration, CuO@C dose, pH, time, and temperature, and reached removal efficiencies towards malachite green (MG, 83.23%), Congo red (CR, 84.60%), brilliant blue (BB, 71.39%), and methylene blue (MB, 23.67%). The maximum adsorption capacities were found as ordered, MG (46.387 mg/g) > MB (23.154 mg/g) > BB (22.8 mg/g) > CR dye (11.063 mg/g). Through the intra-particle diffusion kinetic model, MG and BB adsorption endured a three-step process, while CR and MB adsorption was a two-step process. The recyclability of the green CuO@C nanocomposite was three cycles with 67.54% for the final cycle of BB removal. Moreover, the nanoadsorbent displayed a high stability, checked by X-ray diffraction, FT-IR analysis, EDX spectra, and SEM images. It is recommended that the green CuO@C nanocomposite biosynthesized using the Combretum indicum flower extract can be a good alternative for the dye treatment from wastewater.

A pH-sensitive intelligent packaging film harnessing Dioscorea zingiberensis starch and anthocyanin for meat freshness monitoring.

Abundant starch was isolated from Dioscorea zingiberensis C.H. Wright, a novel and underutilized industrial crop resource. In this study, an intelligent packaging film able to indicate food freshness was developed and characterized. D. zingiberensis starch (DZS) was bleached first, and its particle size, total starch content, amylose content, and gelatinization temperature were then measured. Butterfly pea (Clitoria ternatea Linn.) flowers were selected as the source of polyphenols, which rendered the prepared film intelligent and progressively blue-violet. SEM and FT-IR analyses showed the homogeneous dispersion of butterfly pea flower extract (BPE) in the film. The BPE-loaded film showed improved flexibility and resistance to UV and oxidation while maintaining sufficient mechanical strength and physical properties. Moreover, the film underwent a distinguishable color change from red to blue-violet and finally to green-yellow with increasing pH from 2 to 13. Similar color alteration also occurred when the film was exposed to ammonia. When the film was used to monitor the freshness of chicken stored at room temperature, it exhibited an obvious color change, implying its deterioration. Therefore, the newly developed BPE-DZS film, which was produced from readily accessible natural substances, can serve as an intelligent packaging material, indicating food freshness and prolonging shelf life.

Development and characterization of active packaging based on chitosan/chitin nanofibers incorporated with scallion flower extract and its preservation in fresh-cut bananas.

The aim of this study was to develop a novel active packaging using chitosan (CS) and esterified chitin nanofibers (CF) combined with different contents (1, 2 and 4 wt% on CS basis) of scallion flower extract (SFE) to protect banana samples. The addition of CF significantly improved the barrier and mechanical properties of the CS films (p < 0.05) due to hydrogen bonds and electrostatic interactions. Moreover, the addition of SFE not only improved the physical properties of the CS film but also improved the CS film biological activity. The oxygen barrier property and antibacterial ability of CF-4%SFE were approximately 5.3 and 1.9 times higher than those of the CS film, respectively. In addition, CF-4%SFE had strong DPPH radical scavenging activity (74.8 ± 2.3 %) and ABTS radical scavenging activity (84.06 ± 2.08 %). Fresh-cut bananas stored in CF-4%SFE showed less weight loss, starch loss, color and appearance change than those stored in traditional polyethylene film, which indicated that CF-4%SFE was much better at storing fresh-cut bananas than conventional plastic packaging. For these reasons, CF-SFE films have great potential as a candidate to replace traditional plastic packaging and extend the shelf life of packaged foods.

Alleviation of Alcoholic Fatty Liver by Dendrobium officinale Flower Extracts due to Regulation of Gut Microbiota and Short-Chain Fatty Acids in Mice Exposed to Chronic Alcohol.

Alcoholic fatty liver disease (AFLD) is caused by long-term heavy alcohol consumption; therefore, useful and practical methods for the prevention of AFLD are urgently needed. The edible flower of Dendrobium officinale contains diverse flavonoids, and has shown antioxidant activity as well as antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory effects. In this study, an AFLD model was established, the protective effect of D. officinale flower (DOF) ethanol extract on AFLD was evaluated, and its mechanisms were investigated by analyzing gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). DOF extract (DOFE) supplementation promoted alcohol metabolism, restored hepatic antioxidant capacity, alleviated oxidative stress, reduced inflammatory factor levels, and inhibited dyslipidemia induced by alcohol intake in chronic alcohol-exposed mice, especially in the high DOFE group. Moreover, DOFE supplementation increased the diversity, structure, and composition of the gut microbiota in mice, restored some of the abnormal SCFA levels caused by AFLD, and helped restore intestinal function. DOFE supplementation significantly increased the relative abundance of Akkermansia, suggesting that Akkermansia may be a potential target of the protective effect of DOFE. Therefore, DOFE supplementation to improve the composition of the gut microbiota may be an effective therapeutic strategy for the prevention of AFLD.

Technological characteristics of tofu from soybean coagulated with cardoon flower extract.

The objective of the present study was to develop tofu with soybean-water soluble extract coagulated with cardoon flower (F1) and magnesium chloride (MgCl2, F2). The produced tofu was characterized in terms of physical, chemical, microbiological, and sensory properties during 14 days of storage. The yield of F1 was higher (p < 0.05) (195 g/100 soybean seeds) than F2 (162 g/100 soybean seeds). F1 presented higher moisture, protein, acidity, syneresis, and lipids when compared with F2, and a reduction of these contents during the storage. F1 presented lower hardness, stickiness, springiness, and cohesiveness compared with F2. The acceptability of F1 showed a score of 6.00 and F2 of 4.68, and the purchase intention was 3.22 for F1 and 2.23 for F2. This study recommended the use of cardoon flower at 35% level as it has great potential as a coagulant for the elaboration of tofu with higher yield, and acceptability and reasonable purchasing intention.

Exploring of the ameliorative effects of Nerium (Nerium oleander L.) ethanolic flower extract in streptozotocin induced diabetic rats via biochemical, histological and molecular aspects.

BACKGROUND: Nerium oleander L. is ethnopharmacologically used for diabetes. Our aim was to investigate the ameliorative effects of ethanolic Nerium flower extract (NFE) in STZ-induced diabetic rats. METHODS: Seven random groups including control group, NFE group (50 mg/kg), diabetic group, glibenclamide group and NFE treated groups (25 mg/kg, 75 mg/kg, and 225 mg/kg) were composed of forty-nine rats. Blood glucose level, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin level, liver damage parameters and lipid profile parameters were investigated. Antioxidant defense system enzyme activities and reduced glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and immunotoxic and neurotoxic parameters were determined in liver tissue. Additionally, the ameliorative effects of NFE were histopathologically examined in liver. mRNA levels of SLC2A2 gene encoding glucose transporter 2 protein were measured by quantitative real time PCR. RESULTS: NFE caused decrease in glucose level and HbA1c and increase in insulin and C-peptide levels. Additionally, NFE improved liver damage biomarkers and lipid profile parameters in serum. Moreover, lipid peroxidation was prevented and antioxidant enzyme activities in liver were regulated by NFE treatment. Furthermore, anti-immunotoxic and anti-neurotoxic effects of NFE were determined in liver tissue of diabetic rats. Histopathogically, significant liver damages were observed in the diabetic rats. Histopathological changes were decreased partially in the 225 mg/kg NFE treated group. SLC2A2 gene expression in liver of diabetic rats significantly reduced compared to healthy rats and NFE treatment (25 mg/kg) caused increase in gene expression. CONCLUSION: Flower extract of Nerium plant may have an antidiabetic potential due to its high phytochemical content.

Clitorea ternatea flower extract induces platelet-derived growth factor(PDGF) and GPx gene overexpression in ultraviolet (UV) B irradiationinduced collagen loss.

Aim To determine the effect of Clitorea ternatea flower extract (CTFE) in the gel dosage form on the expression of GPx and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) in ultraviolet (UV) - B irradiation-induced collagen loss rat model. Methods This is experimental research with post-test control group design. Twenty healthy male Wistar rats were divided into four treatment groups: a sham group, UVB control group, two treatment groups with gel of CTFE 5% and gel of CTFE 10%, respectively. Each group was treated with UVB at 302 nm with a MED of 160 mJ/cm2 for 5 days, whereas the sham group did not receive UVB. In the treatment groups CTFE 5% and CTFE 10% gel were given on the 6th to the 14th day. On day 14 all treatment groups were terminated, and GPx and PDGF gene expression were analysed using qRT-PCR. Results In the group of gel of CTFE 10%, there was a significant increase in GPx gene expression (9.51±1.83) and PDGF (4.36±1.18) compared to the UVB control group which had GPx and PDGF gene expression of 4.90±1.64) and 0.032±0.01, respectively. Conclusion The administration of CTFE gel showed an increase of the expression of GPx and PDGF g.

Multi-well plate as headspaces for paper-based colorimetric detection of sulfur dioxide gas: An alternative method of sulfite titration for determination of formaldehyde.

This work describes the analysis of formaldehyde using a 96-well microplate as multiple headspaces for the separation of sulfur dioxide gas generated from the sulfite remaining after its reaction with the formaldehyde in the sample. The quantitation of the gas is by colorimetric detection of an indicator paper placed over the microplate. The samples are aqueous extracts of various foods that are possibly adulterated with formaldehyde. A known excess amount of sulfite is added to the extract solution aliquoted in the well. The remaining sulfite is acidified with hydrochloric acid to generate sulfur dioxide gas which diffuses through the headspace above the solution to be absorbed at the moist strip of the indicator paper placed over the mouth of the wells. Anthocyanins extracted from the butterfly pea flower is used as the pH indicator giving a color change from the increase of hydrogen ions by hydrolysis of the absorbed sulfur dioxide gas. The exposed paper strip is scanned, and the digital images of the colored region analyzed using ImageJ software. The optimized method has a linear range of 200-1000 mg L-1 formaldehyde with limit of detection ((2.57*SD of intercept)/(slope of calibration line)) of the aqueous extract of 40 mg L-1 and coefficient of determination (r2) > 0.9979. Samples of fresh produce, such as seafood, meat, and vegetables, and various processed food were analyzed for their possible formaldehyde content. The results obtained from the headspace paper-based colorimetric detection are not statistically different from the values obtained from the titration method by paired t-tests.

Exploring the potential of Crotalaria juncea flower extracts as a source of antioxidants, antimicrobials, and cytoprotective agents for biomedical applications.

Plants provide an unlimited source of bioactive compounds, possessing tremendous applications in the pharmaceutical industry. In the search for sources of antioxidants and antimicrobial agents against human pathogens, ethanol extracts of Crotalaria juncea flowers (CJ flower extract) were evaluated. The highest total phenolic (5.65 µg GAE/ml) and flavonoid (0.43 µg QE/ml) contents were observed in the 100 µg/ml CJ flower extract. To assess antioxidant activity, three in vitro antioxidant tests were employed: DPPH radical-scavenging, ABTS+ radical-scavenging, and hydroxyl radical-scavenging assay. The CJ flower extract demonstrated significant (P < 0.05) antioxidant activity, dependent on the percentage of solvent extraction and the specific assays utilized. The highest antioxidant activity was obtained with 100% ethanol extraction and using the hydroxyl radical-scavenging assay (56.63%). Antimicrobial activity was assessed against six human pathogens, including the fungi Microsporum gypseum and five Gram-positive bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Streptococcus mutans), as well as one Gram-negative bacterium (Escherichia coli ). The CJ flower extract inhibited the growth of both fungal and bacterial pathogens. The cytotoxicity of the CJ flower extract was measured using a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, and the highest concentration of the extract (100 µg/ml) did not affect L929 cell viability. Moreover, the CJ flower extract demonstrated the ability to suppress H2O2-induced toxicity in L929 cells. Overall, the CJ flower extract has potential as an alternative source for exploring new antioxidants, antimicrobial agents, and cytoprotectants that could prove valuable for biomedical applications.

Comparison of the Formulation, Stability and Biological Effects of Hydrophilic Extracts from Black Elder Flowers (Sambucus nigra L.).

Elderflower preparations have long been used to treat colds and flu, but their use is undeservedly reduced, and only dried flower teas, less often ethanolic extracts, can be purchased in pharmacies. In the case of homemade teas, the medicinal plant material is extracted with hot water for a relatively short time, thus only a small part of the active substances is extracted. The industrially produced ethanolic extract is rich in active substances, but its use is limited since ethanol in many countries is undesirable and unsuitable for children and geriatric patients. Therefore, the aim of this work was to produce extracts from elder flowers using water as extractant and a mixture of water + polyethylene glycol (PEG) 20%, to compare their chemical composition and stability, and to study the ability to neutralize reactive oxygen species (ROS) and to sustain the viability of C6 glial cells under oxidative stress conditions. The ethanolic extract was used as a standard. Thus, the extract with PEG contained more than two times higher amount of total phenolics (PC) than the aqueous one, and the stability at 6-8 °C was comparable to the stability of ethanolic extract. All three extracts showed an antioxidant effect in a concentration-dependent manner in vitro. However, only the PEG containing extract (at 20-40 µg/mL PC) was the most effective in reducing the intracellular level of ROS and sustaining the viability of glial cells. The results suggest that the co-solvent PEG increases the yield of phenolics in the extract, prolongs the stability, and enhances positive biological effects.