Applied Sciences

Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

6 pages, 208 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products

by Teresa Leszczyńska, Joanna Kapusta-Duch and Ewa Piątkowska

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(19), 9634; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12199634 - 26 Sep 2022

Viewed by 1089

Abstract

Natural, i.e., unprocessed products are becoming more and more popular amongconsumers and food producers [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

10 pages, 913 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phenolic Compounds, Antioxidant Activity, Ascorbic Acid, and Sugars in Honey from Ingenious Hail Province of Saudi Arabia

by Ghedeir Muslem Alshammari, Mohammed Asif Ahmed, Tawfiq Alsulami, Mohammed Jamal Hakeem, Mohamed Abdrabo Ibraheem and Doha M. Al-Nouri

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(16), 8334; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12168334 - 20 Aug 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3569

Abstract

Bioactive compounds are responsible for biological activities in honey. The botanical and regional sources of honey contribute to the variable concentration of bioactive compounds. This paper reports the analysis of bioactive compounds such as phenolic compounds, vitamin C, total phenolic contents (TPC), radical [...] Read more.

Bioactive compounds are responsible for biological activities in honey. The botanical and regional sources of honey contribute to the variable concentration of bioactive compounds. This paper reports the analysis of bioactive compounds such as phenolic compounds, vitamin C, total phenolic contents (TPC), radical scavenging activity (RSA), and sugars of five honey samples (Talh, Athel, Sidr, Spring flower, and Langnese) from the ingenious Hail region (Saudi Arabia) using HPLC-RID and DAD. Talh has the highest TPC level of 26.9 mg GAE/100 g, whereas Spring flower has the lowest level of 8.2 mg GAE/100 g. Quercetin levels in all samples ranged from 0.28 to 2.68 mg GAE/100 g. Gallic acid, a phenolic compound, was found in three samples of honey at concentrations ranging from 0.81–1.08 mg/100 g. DPPH radical scavenging activity (RSA) of Talh and Sidr honey sample are found to be high as compared to other samples. The Sidr honey sample had the highest vitamin C content, 2.59 mg/100 g. Fructose and glucose sugar concentrations ranged from 28.35–37.81 g/100 g and 20.21–32.28 g/100 g, respectively, with a higher fructose ratio. Sucrose was not found in any of the five samples. These findings point to the high quality of honey produced in Saudi Arabia’s ingenious Hail province, and therefore may contribute in therapeutic use of these types of honey, such as in complementary and alternative medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 2033 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nutritional Value and Antioxidant Activity of Fresh Pumpkin Flowers (Cucurbita sp.) Grown in Poland

by Renata Bieżanowska-Kopeć, Anna Magdalena Ambroszczyk, Ewa Piątkowska and Teresa Leszczyńska

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(13), 6673; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12136673 - 1 Jul 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 4364

Abstract

Pumpkin flowers, in their composition, contain many bioactive ingredients that have a beneficial effect on the human body. The aim of the research was to evaluate the antioxidant activity and chemical composition of flowers of various species and varieties of pumpkins: Amazonka, Ambar, [...] Read more.

Pumpkin flowers, in their composition, contain many bioactive ingredients that have a beneficial effect on the human body. The aim of the research was to evaluate the antioxidant activity and chemical composition of flowers of various species and varieties of pumpkins: Amazonka, Ambar, Atlantic Giant, Bambino (Cucurbita maxima L.), Butternut, Muscade de Provence, Rouge vif d’Etampes (Cucurbita moschata Duch.), and Miranda (Cucurbia pepo L.). The flowers came from flowering pumpkin shoots, grown in Poland (Krakow). The total polyphenols, carotenoids, total sugar contents, antioxidant activity, and fatty acid composition were determined. The content of dry matter, protein, ash, fat, and selected minerals were also determined. Pumpkin flowers of the Atlantic Giant variety were characterized by the highest content of total polyphenols and sugars and antioxidant activity. They also showed the highest percentage of n-myristic acid (C14:0) and docosanoic acid (C22:0). The energy value of fresh pumpkin flowers, of all varieties, was low and averaged 22 kcal/100 g. Fresh pumpkin flowers are a significant source of iron, covering 60–80% of the EAR standard for adults (Atlantic Giant and Bambino varieties). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 249 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Total Polyphenols and Antioxidant Properties of Selected Fresh and Dried Herbs and Spices

by Renata Bieżanowska-Kopeć and Ewa Piątkowska

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(10), 4876; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12104876 - 11 May 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3599

Abstract

In this study, the content of total polyphenols (TP) and the antioxidant activity (AA) of fresh herbs (13 in total) and those subjected to the freeze-drying process (stems and leaves separately) were compared. Moreover, the content of TP and AA of retail, commercial [...] Read more.

In this study, the content of total polyphenols (TP) and the antioxidant activity (AA) of fresh herbs (13 in total) and those subjected to the freeze-drying process (stems and leaves separately) were compared. Moreover, the content of TP and AA of retail, commercial food spices (19 in total) of the two leading companies on the Polish market were compared. The novelty of our studies is the comparison between fresh and dried forms of herbs and spices and additionally between dried in a freeze-drying process and commercially available (in dried forms). It was found that fresh herbs and spices showed a large accumulation of polyphenolic compounds (from 466.55 to 17.23 CAE/100 g, respectively, for lemon balm and ginger). For freeze-dried herbs and spices, the highest TP content was found for marjoram (3052.34 CAE/100 g—leaves). Among commercial herbs and spices, sage (971.28 CAE/100 g) deserves attention. Fresh herbal spices, in particular oregano, (236.21 µM TE/g) had the highest AA. AA of freeze-dried herbs and spices was much lower (5.27–1.20 µM TE/g). The average value obtained for commercially available herbs and spices purchased was 1.44 µM TE/g. In the case of AA measured by the DPPH radical, thyme was characterized by the highest activity among fresh marjoram for freeze-dried herbs and spices. For dried commercial spices, the highest levels of AA were found for cumin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

13 pages, 2068 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Elemental Profiles of Wild Thymus L. Plants Growing in Different Soil and Climate Conditions

by Irina E. Vasil’eva, Elena V. Shabanova, Byambasuren Tsagaan and Khuukhenkhuu Bymbaa

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(8), 3904; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12083904 - 13 Apr 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1899

Abstract

Plants of the genus Thymus L. are traditionally used in medicine and cooking due to the presence of biologically active compounds in them that have fungicidal, antibacterial and other medicinal properties and original taste qualities. Genetic features and growing conditions cause the elemental [...] Read more.

Plants of the genus Thymus L. are traditionally used in medicine and cooking due to the presence of biologically active compounds in them that have fungicidal, antibacterial and other medicinal properties and original taste qualities. Genetic features and growing conditions cause the elemental composition, responsibly of the synthesised medicinal compounds. However, information on the contents and distributions of elements in the organs of Thymus L. is very limited. This study was to set and compare the elements in organs of wild thyme for different soil and climatic conditions. Two species of wild Thymus L. from Mongolian steppe and on the coast of Lake Baikal were collected during flowering. Twenty-four elements, including Si, in soils, roots, stems, leaves and flowers were simultaneously determined by atomic emission spectrometry. Elemental profiles of two species of wild Thymus L. are described. It is assumed that Si is a necessary element of the plant. The predominance of the genetic resistance of plants over the influence of soil and climatic conditions is shown. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

17 pages, 20396 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short-Term Treatment of Metformin and Glipizide on Oxidative Stress, Lipid Profile and Renal Function in a Rat Model with Diabetes Mellitus

by Abdel-Moneim Hafez Abdel-Moneim, Mohamed Faisal Lutfi, Ashwag Saleh Alsharidah, Gehan Shaker, Waleed Faisal, Ahmed A. H. Abdellatif, Osamah Al Rugaie, Khalid M. Mohany, Safaa Yehia Eid, Mahmoud Zaki El-Readi and Mansour Alsharidah

Appl. Sci. 2022, 12(4), 2019; https://doi.org/10.3390/app12042019 - 15 Feb 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4935

Abstract

Background: Oxidative stress, lipid profile and renal functions are well-known conventional risk factors for diabetes mellitus (DM). Metformin and gliclazide are popularly used monotherapy drugs for the treatment of DM. Aims: This study aims to assess the short-term treatment of single and dual [...] Read more.

Background: Oxidative stress, lipid profile and renal functions are well-known conventional risk factors for diabetes mellitus (DM). Metformin and gliclazide are popularly used monotherapy drugs for the treatment of DM. Aims: This study aims to assess the short-term treatment of single and dual therapy of glipizide/metformin on oxidative stress, glycemic control, serum lipid profiles and renal function in diabetic rats. Methods: DM was induced in rats with streptozotocin (STZ), then five different treatments were applied, including group I (untreated healthy control), group II (diabetic and untreated), group III (diabetic and treated with metformin), group IVI (diabetic and treated with glipizide) and group V (diabetic and treated with a combination of metformin and glipizide. Lipid peroxidation (LPO), nitric oxide (NO), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), fasting blood glucose (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), total cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), creatinine and urea were measured. Results: Compared to the untreated DM group, FBG and HbA1c were significantly reduced in the DM groups (p < 0.01) treated with metformin (159.7 mg/dL & 6.7%), glipizide (184.3 mg/dL & 7.3%) and dual therapy (118 mg/dL & 5.2%), respectively. Treatment with dual therapy and metformin significantly decreased LPO and NO levels but increased TAC in diabetic rats more than glipizide compared to untreated diabetic rats. Furthermore, metformin (19.8 mg/dL, p < 0.001), glipizide (22.7 mg/dL, p < 0.001), and dual therapy (25.7 mg/dL, p < 0.001) significantly decreased urea levels in the treated rats compared to untreated DM rats (32.2 mg/dL). Both drugs and their combination exhibited a substantial effect on total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and atherogenic index. Conclusions: These results suggest that the therapeutic benefits of metformin and glipizide are complementary. Metformin exhibited superior performance in improving glycemic control and decreasing oxidative stress, while glipizide was more effective against dyslipidemia. These findings could be helpful for the treatment of future vascular patients, antilipidemic medicines and antioxidant therapy to improve the quality of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1892 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Young Shoots and Mature Red Cabbage Inhibit Proliferation and Induce Apoptosis of Prostate Cancer Cell Lines

by Mariola Drozdowska, Teresa Leszczyńska, Ewelina Piasna-Słupecka, Dominik Domagała and Aneta Koronowicz

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(23), 11507; https://doi.org/10.3390/app112311507 - 4 Dec 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3416

Abstract

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Recent dietary and epidemiological studies have suggested the benefit of dietary intake of cruciferous vegetables in lowering the incidence of cancer. The health promoting effects of red cabbage are attributed to their [...] Read more.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Recent dietary and epidemiological studies have suggested the benefit of dietary intake of cruciferous vegetables in lowering the incidence of cancer. The health promoting effects of red cabbage are attributed to their mixture of phytochemicals known for their antioxidant and anticancer activity. In the current study, we investigated whether young shoots and mature red cabbage had any effect on prostate cancer cell lines (DU145 and LNCaP). Attempts were also made to identify the potential molecular mechanism(s) by which plant material elicits its biological effects on prostate cancer cell lines. Here we report that the studied vegetable inhibited the proliferation of cancer cells and that this process was associated with the induction of apoptosis via caspase-dependent and both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways. In addition, we also observed the regulation of genes and proteins associated with cell survival and apoptotic events. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 455 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

The Quality and Composition of Fatty Acids in Adipose Tissue-Derived from Wild Animals; A Pilot Study

by Jadwiga Hamulka, Joanna Bryś, Agata Górska, Monika Janaszek-Mańkowska and Magdalena Górnicka

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(21), 10029; https://doi.org/10.3390/app112110029 - 26 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3301

Abstract

The aim of this work was to study the quality (oxidative stability), fatty acids (FAs) profile and their distribution in triacylglycerol (TAG) molecules of hunted game wild fat (HGWF) obtained from wild boar, badger, and wild goose. Health lipid indices were calculated. The [...] Read more.

The aim of this work was to study the quality (oxidative stability), fatty acids (FAs) profile and their distribution in triacylglycerol (TAG) molecules of hunted game wild fat (HGWF) obtained from wild boar, badger, and wild goose. Health lipid indices were calculated. The determination of FAs composition was carried out by gas chromatographic analysis of fatty acid methyl esters (FAME). Enzymatic hydrolysis and thin layer chromatography were used to determine the positional distribution of FAs in the internal and external positions of triacylglycerols (the regiospecific structure of triacylglycerols) of the obtained HGWF. A pressure differential scanning calorimeter (PDSC) was used to determine the oxidative stability of tested HGWF. The lipid fraction isolated from subcutaneous adipose tissues was dominated by MUFA, on average 46–50% of total FAs, and by SFA, on average 32–36% of total FAs. Palmitic acid was located mainly in the internal position of TAGs of the analyzed HGWF, whereas external positions were occupied by unsaturated oleic acid. Such a structure is responsible for normal fat absorption from food and it prevents the formation of insoluble calcium salts. Considering FAs profile, quality and the oxidation stability among all tested fat samples, the boar fat seems to be the most favorable. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Brewing with 10% and 20% Malted Lentils—Trials on Laboratory and Pilot Scales

by Jonas Trummer, Hellen Watson, Jessika De Clippeleer and Aleksander Poreda

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(21), 9817; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11219817 - 20 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2237

Abstract

Lentils, a popular foodstuff worldwide, are gaining more interest for their use in alternative diets. In addition, we are observing an ever-growing demand for new raw materials in the malting and brewing industry and an overall rising interest in a low-gluten lifestyle. Therefore, [...] Read more.

Lentils, a popular foodstuff worldwide, are gaining more interest for their use in alternative diets. In addition, we are observing an ever-growing demand for new raw materials in the malting and brewing industry and an overall rising interest in a low-gluten lifestyle. Therefore, in this study, malt was produced from green lentils and used in both laboratory- and pilot-scale brewing trials. Malted lentils were used as 10% and 20% adjuncts at the laboratory scale, following the Congress mash procedure, and the most important parameters (e.g., filtration time, pH, color, extract, fermentability) of the wort and beer samples were analyzed with a special focus on the concentrations of metal ions (Mg²⁺, Ca²⁺, Zn²⁺, Fe) in wort. The production of beer with lentil malt as an adjunct was then scaled up to 1 hl, and several beer parameters were analyzed, including the gluten content and foam stability. The results showed that the gluten content was decreased by circa 35% and foam stability was enhanced by approximately 6% when adding 20% lentil malt. Furthermore, the use of lentil malt reduced the filtration time by up to 17%. A trained panel evaluated the sensorial qualities of the produced beers. Overall, the use of green lentil malt shows promising results for its potential use in brewing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 867 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Nutritional Habits and Moderate Red Wine Consumption in PON1 Status in Healthy Population

by Fidel Navarro-García, Néstor Ponce-Ruíz, Aurora Elizabeth Rojas-García, Gabriela Ávila-Villarreal, José Francisco Herrera-Moreno, Briscia S. Barrón-Vivanco, Yael Y. Bernal-Hernández, Cyndia Azucena González-Arias and Irma Martha Medina-Díaz

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(20), 9503; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11209503 - 13 Oct 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2721

Abstract

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) plays a role as antioxidant on HDL. Including in diet additionally ingest of polyphenolic compounds can stimulate PON1 transcription and increase its activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary intake, red wine consumption, and [...] Read more.

Paraoxonase 1 (PON1) plays a role as antioxidant on HDL. Including in diet additionally ingest of polyphenolic compounds can stimulate PON1 transcription and increase its activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of dietary intake, red wine consumption, and PON1 genotypes (Q192R, L55M and C-108T) on the specific activity of PON1 in a healthy population. A descriptive and analytical pilot study was conducted in Mexican volunteers clinically healthy (n = 45) aged from 21–59 years. Over 6 weeks, the study participants ingested 120 mL of red wine per day. PON1 concentration, PON1 activities, genetic polymorphisms and dietary intake were evaluated. The preliminary fingerprinting of the wine was determined to corroborate the presence of phenolic compounds such as tannins and gallotannins. Neither dietary intake nor PON1 genotypes showed an effect on the specific activity of PON1. However, a significant increase in specific AREase activity after red wine consumption period was observed in the study participants. Our data suggest that the moderate consumption of red wine has a beneficial effect on PON1 specific AREase activity in this healthy Mexican population. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 3800 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Health Promoting Effect of Phyllanthus emblica and Azadiractha indica against Advanced Glycation End Products Formation

by Mohammed A. Alsahli, Shehwaz Anwar, Faisal M. Alzahrani, Ahmad Almatroudi, Hani Alfheeaid, Amjad A. Khan, Khaled S. Allemailem, Saleh A. Almatroodi and Arshad Husain Rahmani

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(19), 8819; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11198819 - 23 Sep 2021

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3560

Abstract

Oxidative stress is linked with inflammation, diabetic complications, and advanced glycation end products formation. Intake of flavonoid-rich foods has been reported to have a beneficial effect on human health. The aim of this study was to verify the therapeutic potential of Phyllanthusemblica [...] Read more.

Oxidative stress is linked with inflammation, diabetic complications, and advanced glycation end products formation. Intake of flavonoid-rich foods has been reported to have a beneficial effect on human health. The aim of this study was to verify the therapeutic potential of Phyllanthusemblica and Azadiractha indica against glycation and other oxidative stress-induced complications such as inflammation using in vitro study. Ethanol extracts of Phyllanthus emblica fruit pulp and dried leaf of Azadiractha indica were prepared to investigate in vitro anti-inflammatory and anti-glycating potentials. In a DPPH assay, the EC₅₀ value of extract of P. emblica and A. indica was found to be 1532.36 ± 0.17 and 1380.61 ± 0.27 µg/mL, respectively. The FRAP value of P. emblica and A. indica extract was 86.6 and 32.12 µg ascorbic acid/100 mg dry weight of the extract. The maximum percentage of H₂O₂ scavenging activity was 71.30% and 67.38%, respectively. Extracts of P. emblica and A. indica showed maximum inhibition of heat-induced BSA denaturation by 62.42% and 53.00%, heat-induced denaturation of egg albumin, by 50.84%% and 44.31%, and heat-induced hemolysis by 54.44% and 50.21%. Both extracts (600 µg/mL) significantly reduced the browning, structural changes, aggregation, and AGEs formation. Our biophysical studies confirmed the AGEs formation was inhibiting the potential of extracts. Thus, our findings confirm that these extracts are a rich source of antioxidants and may be utilized to prevent the oxidative stress-induced destruction of biomolecules, glycation, and in the therapy of a variety of health problems, including inflammation. Further, a combination of extracts of P. emblica and A. indica may be extremely useful in preventing and treating health problems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 439 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Basic Chemical Composition and Concentration of Selected Bioactive Compounds in Leaves of Black, Red and White Currant

by Magdalena Ziobroń, Aneta Kopeć, Joanna Skoczylas, Kinga Dziadek and Jerzy Zawistowski

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(16), 7638; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11167638 - 20 Aug 2021

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3085

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the basic chemical composition, the content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in currant leaves. The leaves of black, red and white currant shrubs were collected in May, and in the beginning of June, July [...] Read more.

The aim of this study was to determine the basic chemical composition, the content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity in currant leaves. The leaves of black, red and white currant shrubs were collected in May, and in the beginning of June, July and August, for two years between 2018 and 2019. The proximate analysis, including dry matter, protein, fat, ash and total carbohydrates, was determined. In addition, the content of the polyphenols and the total antioxidant activity using ABTS, DPPH and FRAP assays were conducted. The highest concentration of protein was detected in the whitecurrant leaves harvested in May in both years, while the highest content of crude fat was found in the blackcurrant leaves harvested in both years, with the exception of the August harvest. Extracts from the blackcurrant leaves collected in June/July 2019 had the highest antioxidant activity that was measured by the ABTS method (about 7000 µmol Trolox/g DM) and confirmed by other methods, while extracts from the whitecurrant leaves produced from the August 2018 collection had the lowest antioxidant activity (1884 µmol Trolox/g DM). Currant leaves are a rich source of bioactive compounds and contain higher amounts of polyphenols as compared with currant fruits. These compounds may play a very important role in the risk reduction and even prevention of the most chronic non-communicable diseases. Therefore, further research is needed to identify currant leaves as a source of bioactives for functional foods and natural health products. The highest antioxidant activity was in the redcurrant leaves from all the harvest times in 2018 as measured by the ABTS and FRAP methods. On the contrary, blackcurrant leaves from all the harvest times in 2019 had the highest antioxidant activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2800 KiB

Open AccessArticle

by Yeon Ho Kim, Dahye Im, Kyung-Hee Lee, Saemi Yoon and Yun Beom Ham

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(16), 7486; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11167486 - 15 Aug 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2642

Abstract

Recently, interest in collagen products has increased in the industries However, collagen products that are taken orally have the problem of being degraded by digestive enzymes. Therefore, a collagen peptide buccal delivery film (C-BDF) was developed to enhance the absorption without destruction and [...] Read more.

Recently, interest in collagen products has increased in the industries However, collagen products that are taken orally have the problem of being degraded by digestive enzymes. Therefore, a collagen peptide buccal delivery film (C-BDF) was developed to enhance the absorption without destruction and a clinical trial was conducted. A C-BDF was developed as a double layer and the permeation of collagen peptide (CP) through swine mucosa was investigated. This clinical study was performed on 43 healthy women, who were divided into either a control (n = 21) or test group (n = 22), over the course of 4 weeks. Skin assessments analyzed the hydration, elasticity, and roughness. In addition, the production of peroxynitrite and IL-1α in RAW 264.7 cells in supernatant media was conducted. A total of 1 kDa of CP in BDF showed significantly stronger permeation through swine mucosa compared to 3 kDa of CP in BDF. The C-BDF significantly enhanced skin hydration, elasticity, and roughness, and it removed wrinkles with no side effects after 2 weeks of intake. In addition, the production of peroxynitrite and IL-1α after the treatment with CP was significantly increased. Therefore, this study showed that collagen peptides could be completely absorbed into mucosa via a buccal delivery system and homeopathic effects might occur. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2698 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effect of Sucrose on Physicochemical Properties of High-Protein Meringues Obtained from Whey Protein Isolate

by Maciej Nastaj, Stanisław Mleko, Konrad Terpiłowski and Marta Tomczyńska-Mleko

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(11), 4764; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11114764 - 22 May 2021

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4802

Abstract

This study reports the possibility of obtaining the WPI-based meringues with the small sucrose content (0–15%). The whey protein isolate (WPI) solution (20%, w/v) was whipped and sucrose was added to foam at the concentrations of 5, 10 and 15%. [...] Read more.

This study reports the possibility of obtaining the WPI-based meringues with the small sucrose content (0–15%). The whey protein isolate (WPI) solution (20%, w/v) was whipped and sucrose was added to foam at the concentrations of 5, 10 and 15%. The surface tension, viscosity, zeta potential of the pre-foam solutions, foam overrun, foam stability and their rheological properties (G′, G″ and tan (δ)) were evaluated. To produce meringues, liquid foams were solidified at 130 °C for 2 h. The surface properties (roughness, contact angles, apparent free surface energy) as well as microstructural ones were determined for the solid foams (meringues). The 15% sugar concentration was detrimental for overrun, stability and rheological properties of liquid foams. The meringue production without sugar was infeasible. The addition of the smallest amount of sucrose (5%) enabled preservation of the aerated structure of the liquid foam during solidification. The 10% sugar concentration increased the stability of liquid foam, its rheology and it was the most effective for air bubbles stabilization during the foam solidification, however, its largest addition (15%) resulted in an increase in the final meringue volume. Larger sucrose concentrations produced a smoothing effect on the meringue surfaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 2732 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Amelioration of Diabetes-Induced Nephropathy by Loranthus regularis: Implication of Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Hyperlipidaemia

by Ahmed Z. Alanazi, Mohamed Mohany, Fawaz Alasmari, Ramzi A. A. Mothana, Abdulaziz O. A. Alshehri, Khalid Alhazzani, Mohammed M. Ahmed and Salim S. Al-Rejaie

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(10), 4548; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11104548 - 17 May 2021

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2251

Abstract

In traditional Yemeni medicine, various preparations of Loranthus regularis (L. regularis), such as powder, decoctions and infusions are commonly used to treat diabetes, kidney stone formations and inflammation. In the present study, we evaluated the antinephrotoxic effects of L. regularis extract [...] Read more.

In traditional Yemeni medicine, various preparations of Loranthus regularis (L. regularis), such as powder, decoctions and infusions are commonly used to treat diabetes, kidney stone formations and inflammation. In the present study, we evaluated the antinephrotoxic effects of L. regularis extract in experimentally-induced diabetes in male Wistar rats. A single dose (60 mg/kg/day) of Streptozotocin (STZ) was used to induce type 1 diabetes. Animals were then treated for four weeks with L. regularis extract (150 or 300 mg/kg/day) by oral gavage. Renal and blood samples were subsequently harvested. Several biochemical indices, oxidative stress and inflammatory markers were assessed. Additionally, histological alterations in the renal tissue were examined. Serum glucose levels were significantly (p < 0.01) lowered while insulin levels were enhanced in L. regularis-treated diabetic animals. The increased renal markers in diabetic rats were decreased by L. regularis treatment. Serum elevated lipid profiles were markedly decreased by the plant extract. The serum and renal cytokines that were significantly increased (p < 0.001) by STZ were diminished by L. regularis treatment. Finally, renal tissue antioxidant enzymatic activity was enhanced with L. regularis treatment. Taken together, the data here indicate that L. regularis possesses therapeutic ability to reduce the development of diabetic nephropathy (DN) by minimizing oxidative injury and inflammation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1377 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Thymoquinone, but Not Metformin, Protects against Gentamicin-Induced Nephrotoxicity and Renal Dysfunction in Rats

by Mansour Alsharidah, Abdel-Moneim Hafez Abdel-Moneim, Ashwag Saleh Alsharidah, Mugahid A. Mobark, Arshad Husain Rahmani, Ahmed Shata, Ahmed A. H. Abdellatif, Mahmoud Zaki El-Readi, Khalid M. Mohany and Osamah Al Rugaie

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(9), 3981; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11093981 - 27 Apr 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3175

Abstract

Background: Gentamicin (GM) is an antibiotic that is widely used to treat many Gram-negative bacteria, such as those involved in urinary tract infections. However, being nephrotoxic, GM dose adjustment and reno-protective elements must be concurrently administered with GM to minimize kidney damage. Oxidative [...] Read more.

Background: Gentamicin (GM) is an antibiotic that is widely used to treat many Gram-negative bacteria, such as those involved in urinary tract infections. However, being nephrotoxic, GM dose adjustment and reno-protective elements must be concurrently administered with GM to minimize kidney damage. Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of GM-induced nephrotoxicity. Thymoquinone (TQ) is a promising therapeutic substance, that is being extensively studied in many diseases, such as diabetes mellitus, cancer, hypertension, and others. The powerful antioxidant properties of TQ may greatly help in minimizing GM nephrotoxicity. Metformin (MF) is a well-known, clinically approved oral hypoglycaemic drug that has many other actions, including antioxidant properties. The aim of this work was to evaluate the possible antioxidant and reno-protective effects of TQ and metformin in GM-induced nephrotoxicity in the same model (rats) at the same time. In addition, we aimed to further understand the effects underlying GM-induced nephrotoxicity. Methods: Twenty male rats were randomly divided into four equal groups: the first group (control) received distilled water; the second group received GM only; the third group received concurrent oral TQ and GM; and the fourth group received concurrent oral MF and GM. After 4 weeks, renal function and histopathology, as well as levels of the oxidative markers glutathione peroxidase-1 (GLPX1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the kidney tissues, were assessed. Results: Compared with the control group, and as expected, the GM-injected rats showed significant biochemical and histological changes denoting renal damage. Compared with GM-injected rats, the concurrent administration of TQ with GM significantly reduced the levels of serum creatinine, serum urea, and tissue MDA and significantly increased the levels of GLPX1 and SOD. Concurrent metformin administration with GM significantly increased the levels of both GLPX1 and SOD and significantly decreased the levels of tissue MDA but had no significant effect on serum creatinine and urea levels. Compared with GM-injected rats, the addition of either TQ or MF resulted in a reduction in endothelial proliferation and mesangial hypercellularity. Conclusions: Both TQ and MF effectively alleviated the oxidative stress in GM-induced nephrotoxicity in rats, with TQ but not MF producing a complete reno-protective effect. Further studies for evaluation of different reno-protective mechanisms of TQ should be conducted. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 616 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Comparative Assessment of the Basic Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni Dried Leaves, Grown in Poland, Paraguay and Brazil—Preliminary Results

by Teresa Leszczyńska, Barbara Piekło, Aneta Kopeć and Benno F. Zimmermann

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(8), 3634; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11083634 - 20 Apr 2021

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2612

Abstract

This study compares the content of basic nutrients (proteins, fats, digestible carbohydrates, dietary fiber and ash), steviol glycosides, selected antioxidants (vitamin C, total polyphenols) and antioxidant activity in dried leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni cultivated in Poland, Paraguay and Brazil and available in [...] Read more.

This study compares the content of basic nutrients (proteins, fats, digestible carbohydrates, dietary fiber and ash), steviol glycosides, selected antioxidants (vitamin C, total polyphenols) and antioxidant activity in dried leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni cultivated in Poland, Paraguay and Brazil and available in the direct sale. The basic chemical composition was determined by standard AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Chemists) methods. Content of steviol glycosides was determined by the UHPLC-UV chromatographic method. Total polyphenols content was expressed as gallic acid equivalent (GAE) and catechins equivalent (CE). Antioxidant activity was measured as ABTS^●+ free radical scavenging activity. Dried leaves of S. rebaudiana grown in Poland had significantly higher contents of dietary fiber, and lower protein and ash content, compared to those derived from Paraguay and Brazil. The former had, however, considerably higher contents of total steviol glycosides, stevioside and rebaudioside D, compared to the remaining two plants. In the Paraguay-derived dried leaves, the content of rebaudioside A, C, E and rubusoside was found to be significantly lower. Dried leaves of S. rebaudiana Bertoni, cultivated in Poland, contained substantially more vitamin C and a similar content of total polyphenols, compared to those from Brazil and Paraguay. The examined material from Brazil and Paraguay plantations showed similar antioxidant activity, while that obtained from Polish cultivation was characterized by a significantly lower value of this parameter. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 260 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Directions of Changes in the Content of Selected Macro- and Micronutrients of Kale, Rutabaga, Green and Purple Cauliflower Due to Hydrothermal Treatment

by Joanna Kapusta-Duch, Adam Florkiewicz, Teresa Leszczyńska and Barbara Borczak

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(8), 3452; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11083452 - 12 Apr 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2687

Abstract

Little is still known about macro- and micronutrients in processed selected Brassica vegetables such as purple and green cauliflower, rutabaga and kale. This study evaluates the influence of different processing conditions (blanching and boiling) on the stability of selected macro- and micronutrients in [...] Read more.

Little is still known about macro- and micronutrients in processed selected Brassica vegetables such as purple and green cauliflower, rutabaga and kale. This study evaluates the influence of different processing conditions (blanching and boiling) on the stability of selected macro- and micronutrients in the aforementioned vegetables. Results indicated that blanching and boiling affect the mineral content of Brassica vegetables. Of the examined Brassica vegetables, the largest losses were found for potassium and iron (on average by 39.72%). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

15 pages, 349 KiB

Open AccessReview

Addition of Bee Products in Diverse Food Sources: Functional and Physicochemical Properties

by Gloria Isabel Camacho-Bernal, Nelly del Socorro Cruz-Cansino, Esther Ramírez-Moreno, Luis Delgado-Olivares, Quinatzin Yadira Zafra-Rojas, Araceli Castañeda-Ovando and Ángela Suárez-Jacobo

Appl. Sci. 2021, 11(17), 8156; https://doi.org/10.3390/app11178156 - 2 Sep 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3480

Abstract

The growing interest of consumers to find products with greater health benefits has led to multiple research works focused on product developments with antioxidant-rich foods by creating safe, acceptable, and high-value nutrition, even in those foods susceptible to deterioration, in order to replace [...] Read more.

The growing interest of consumers to find products with greater health benefits has led to multiple research works focused on product developments with antioxidant-rich foods by creating safe, acceptable, and high-value nutrition, even in those foods susceptible to deterioration, in order to replace synthetic preservatives with natural ones. Bee products are an alternative addition for food products (dairy and meat products, coating fruits, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks), which can improve the final quality of the food for the benefit of the consumer. The aim of this review was to provide detailed information on the main findings of innovative food products based on the addition of bee products by highlighting their physicochemical and functional properties and their behavior throughout storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products)

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

New Perspectives in Chemical and Functional Properties of Natural Products

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (19 papers)

Editorial

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI