Salvia sclarea Essential Oil Chemical Composition and Biological Activities.

Salvia sclarea essential oil (SSEO) has a long tradition in the food, cosmetic, and perfume industries. The present study aimed to analyze the chemical composition of SSEO, its antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity in vitro and in situ, antibiofilm, and insecticidal activity. Besides that, in this study, we have evaluated the antimicrobial activity of SSEO constituent (E)-caryophyllene and standard antibiotic meropenem. Identification of volatile constituents was performed by using gas chromatography (GC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) techniques. Results obtained indicated that the main constituents of SSEO were linalool acetate (49.1%) and linalool (20.6%), followed by (E)-caryophyllene (5.1%), p-cimene (4.9%), a-terpineol (4.9%), and geranyl acetate (4.4%). Antioxidant activity was determined as low by the means of neutralization of the DDPH radical and ABTS radical cation. The SSEO was able to neutralize the DPPH radical to an extent of 11.76 ± 1.34%, while its ability to decolorize the ABTS radical cation was determined at 29.70 ± 1.45%. Preliminary results of antimicrobial activity were obtained with the disc diffusion method, while further results were obtained by broth microdilution and the vapor phase method. Overall, the results of antimicrobial testing of SSEO, (E)-caryophyllene, and meropenem, were moderate. However, the lowest MIC values, determined in the range of 0.22-0.75 µg/mL for MIC50 and 0.39-0.89 µg/mL for MIC90, were observed for (E)-caryophyllene. The antimicrobial activity of the vapor phase of SSEO (towards microorganisms growing on potato) was significantly stronger than that of the contact application. Biofilm analysis using the MALDI TOF MS Biotyper showed changes in the protein profile of Pseudomonas fluorescens that showed the efficiency of SSEO in inhibiting biofilm formation on stainless-steel and plastic surfaces. The insecticidal potential of SSEO against Oxycarenus lavatera was also demonstrated, and results show that the highest concentration was the most effective, showing insecticidal activity of 66.66%. The results obtained in this study indicate the potential application of SSEO as a biofilm control agent, in the shelf-life extension and storage of potatoes, and as an insecticidal agent.

Emerging Protein Sources for Food Production and Human Nutrition.

It is estimated that by 2050, the world's population will be up to 9 billion [...].

Effect of Heating Temperature of High-Quality Arbequina, Picual, Manzanilla and Cornicabra Olive Oils on Changes in Nutritional Indices of Lipid, Tocopherol Content and Triacylglycerol Polymerization Process.

The aim of the study was to determine the stability and heat resistance of extra premium olive oil. The study material consisted of six extra virgin olive oils (EVOO) obtained from Spain. Four samples were single-strain olive oils: Arbequina, Picual, Manzanilla, and Cornicabra. Two samples were a coupage of Arbequina and Picual varieties: Armonia (70% Arbequina and 30% Picual) and Sensation (70% Picual and 30% Arbequina). Olive oil samples were heated at 170 °C and 200 °C in a pan (thin layer model). In all samples, changes in indexes of lipid nutritional quality (PUFA/SFA, index of atherogenicity, index of thrombogenicity, and hypocholesterolemic/hypercholesterolemic ratio), changes in tocopherol, total polar compounds content, and triacylglycerol polymers were determined. Heating olive oil in a thin layer led to its degradation and depended on the temperature and the type of olive oil. Increasing the temperature from 170 to 200 °C resulted in significantly higher degradation of olive oil. At 200 °C, deterioration of lipid nutritional indices, total tocopherol degradation, and formation of triacylglycerol polymers were observed. A twofold increase in the polar fraction was also observed compared to samples heated at 170 °C. The most stable olive oils were Cornicabra and Picual.

The Use of DArTseq Technology to Identify Markers Linked to Genes Responsible for Seed Germination and Seed Vigor in Maize.

Seed vigor and seed germination are very important traits, determined by several factors including genetic and physical purity, mechanical damage, and physiological condition, characterized by maintaining a high seed vigor and stable content after storage. The search for molecular markers related to improvement in seed vigor under adverse condition is an important issue in maize breeding currently. Higher sowing quality of seeds is necessary for the development of the agriculture production and better ability to resist all kinds of adversity in the seeds' storage. Condition is a very important factor affecting the yield of plants, thanks to the construction of their vitality. Identification of molecular markers associated with seed germination and seed vigor may prove to be very important in the selection of high-yielding maize varieties. The aim of this study was to identify and select new markers for maize (SNP and SilicoDArT) linked to genes influencing the seed germination and seed vigor in inbred lines of maize (Zea mays L.). The plant material used for the research was 152 inbred maize lines. The seed germination and seed vigor were analyzed. For identification of SNP and SilicoDArT markers related to the seed germination and seed vigor, the SilicoDarT technique developed by Diversity Arrays Technology was used. The analysis of variance indicated a statistically significant differentiation between genotypes for both observed traits. Positive (r = 0.41) correlation (p < 0.001) between seed germination and seed vigor was observed. As a result of next-generation sequencing, the molecular markers SilicoDArT (53,031) and SNP (28,571) were obtained. Out of 81,602 identified SilicoDArT and SNP markers, 15,409 (1559 SilicoDArT and 13,850 SNP) were selected as a result of association mapping, which showed them to be significantly related to the analyzed traits. The 890 molecular markers were associated with seed vigor, and 1323 with seed germination. Fifty-six markers (47 SilicoDArT and nine SNP) were significant for both traits. Of these 56 markers, the 20 most significant were selected (five of these markers were significant at the level of 0.001 for seed vigor and at the level of 0.05 for seed germination, another five markers were significant at the level of 0.001 for seed germination and at the level of 0.05 for seed vigor, five markers significant at the level of 0.001 only for seed vigor and five significant at the level of 0.001 only for seed germination also selected). These markers were used for physical mapping to determine their location on the genetic map. Finally, it was found that six of these markers (five silicoDArT­2,435,784, 4,772,587, 4,776,334, 2,507,310, 25,981,291, and one SNP­2,386,217) are located inside genes, the action of which may affect both seed germination and seed vigor. These markers can be used to select genotypes with high vigor and good seed germination.

Delving into the Therapeutic Potential of Carica papaya Leaf against Thrombocytopenia.

Thrombocytopenia is a clinical manifestation that refers to the low platelet count, i.e., <150 × 103/µL, of blood, resulting in imbalanced hemostasis, which leads to several fatal complications. The causative factors vary greatly, but, as a consequence, they interfere with platelet production and promote destruction, leading to death. Carica papaya leaf has unique therapeutic and medicinal characteristics against thrombocytopenia, and this is supported by scientific studies. Secondary metabolites and minerals in the leaf, such as carpaine and quercetin, promote platelet production, inhibit platelet destruction, and maintain platelet membrane through gene expression activity and the ceasing of viral proteases, respectively. This review explores the scientific studies that support the role of papaya leaf in the form of juice, extract, or powder against thrombocytopenia through animal modeling and clinical trials. Phytochemical profiles of C. papaya leaf revealed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, cardiac glycosides, tannins, terpenes, and saponins, which impart therapeutic potential to the leaf. The therapeutic benefits of the leaf include immunomodulatory, antiviral, antidiabetic, anticancer, antimalarial, antiangiogenic, antibacterial, and antioxidant activities. Several conducted scientific research studies have proved the efficacy of C. papaya leaf against thrombocytopenia, expanding the implication of natural sources to eradicate numerous ailments.

Clinical, Nutritional, and Functional Evaluation of Chia Seed-Fortified Muffins.

Health-protective functional foods are gaining popularity in the world of nutrition because they promote excellent health while decreasing pharmaceutical burdens. Chia seeds (CS) (Salvia hispanica L.), the greatest vegetative source of α-linolenic acid, bioactive proteins, and fibers, are among the top unconventional oilseeds shown to have bounteous benefits against various non-communicable diseases. Purposely, this study was designed to integrate roasted CS powder into white-flour-based ordinary bakery goods to improve their nutritional and nutraceutical profiles. CS efficacy in normal and hyperlipidemic Sprague-Dawley rats resulted in mitigating blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol while elevating high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, hematocrit, hemoglobin, red blood cell counts, and platelets. The nutritional profiling of chia-fortified muffins indicated significant increases of 47% in fat, 92% in fiber, 15% in protein, and 62% in minerals. The farinographic experiments of CS-blends revealed generally improved dough quality features with a significant rise in the degree of softening as fortification levels increased. A marketable recipe for CSF-muffins with several degrees of fortification demonstrated a significant rise in fat, 92% rise in fiber, 15% rise in protein, and 62% rise in minerals. Sensorial evaluation by trained taste panelists revealed a maximum appraisal of the 15% chia-fortified muffins due to aroma, appearance, and overall acceptability, and were forwarded for being acceptable for commercialization.

DArTseq-Based High-Throughput SilicoDArT and SNP Markers Applied for Association Mapping of Genes Related to Maize Morphology.

Today, agricultural productivity is essential to meet the needs of a growing population, and is also a key tool in coping with climate change. Innovative plant breeding technologies such as molecular markers, phenotyping, genotyping, the CRISPR/Cas method and next-generation sequencing can help agriculture meet the challenges of the 21st century more effectively. Therefore, the aim of the research was to identify single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and SilicoDArT markers related to select morphological features determining the yield in maize. The plant material consisted of ninety-four inbred lines of maize of various origins. These lines were phenotyped under field conditions. A total of 14 morphological features was analyzed. The DArTseq method was chosen for genotyping because this technique reduces the complexity of the genome by restriction enzyme digestion. Subsequently, short fragment sequencing was used. The choice of a combination of restrictases allowed the isolation of highly informative low copy fragments of the genome. Thanks to this method, 90% of the obtained DArTseq markers are complementary to the unique sequences of the genome. All the observed features were normally distributed. Analysis of variance indicated that the main effect of lines was statistically significant (p < 0.001) for all 14 traits of study. Thanks to the DArTseq analysis with the use of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in the studied plant material, it was possible to identify 49,911 polymorphisms, of which 33,452 are SilicoDArT markers and the remaining 16,459 are SNP markers. Among those mentioned, two markers associated with four analyzed traits deserved special attention: SNP (4578734) and SilicoDArT (4778900). SNP marker 4578734 was associated with the following features: anthocyanin coloration of cob glumes, number of days from sowing to anthesis, number of days from sowing to silk emergence and anthocyanin coloration of internodes. SilicoDArT marker 4778900 was associated with the following features: number of days from sowing to anthesis, number of days from sowing to silk emergence, tassel: angle between the axis and lateral branches and plant height. Sequences with a length of 71 bp were used for physical mapping. The BLAST and EnsemblPlants databases were searched against the maize genome to identify the positions of both markers. Marker 4578734 was localized on chromosome 7, the closest gene was Zm00001d022467, approximately 55 Kb apart, encoding anthocyanidin 3-O-glucosyltransferase. Marker 4778900 was located on chromosome 7, at a distance of 45 Kb from the gene Zm00001d045261 encoding starch synthase I. The latter observation indicated that these flanking SilicoDArT and SNP markers were not in a state of linkage disequilibrium.

Nutritional Value and Biological Activity of Gluten-Free Bread Enriched with Cricket Powder.

Cricket powder, described in the literature as a source of nutrients, can be a valuable ingredient to supplement deficiencies in various food products. Work continues on the implementation of cricket powder in products that are widely consumed. The aim of this study was to obtain gluten-free bread with a superior nutritional profile by means of insect powder addition. Gluten-free breads enriched with 2%, 6%, and 10% of cricket (Acheta domesticus) powder were formulated and extensively characterized. The nutritional value, as well as antioxidant and ß-glucuronidase activities, were assessed after simulated in vitro digestion. Addition of cricket powder significantly increased the nutritional value, both in terms of the protein content (exceeding two-, four-, and seven-fold the reference bread (RB), respectively) and above all mineral compounds. The most significant changes were observed for Cu, P, and Zn. A significant increase in the content of polyphenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in the enriched bread was also demonstrated; moreover, both values additionally increased after the digestion process. The total polyphenolic compounds content increased about five-fold from RB to bread with 10% CP (BCP10), and respectively about three-fold after digestion. Similarly, the total antioxidant capacity before digestion increased about four-fold, and after digestion about six-fold. The use of CP also reduced the undesirable activity of ß-glucuronidase by 65.9% (RB vs. BCP10) in the small intestine, down to 78.9% in the large intestine. The influence of bread on the intestinal microflora was also evaluated, and no inhibitory effect on the growth of microflora was demonstrated, both beneficial (Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus) and pathogenic (Enterococcus and Escherichia coli). Our results underscore the benefits of using cricket powder to increase the nutritional value and biological activity of gluten-free food products.

Membrane Filtration-Assisted Enzymatic Hydrolysis Affects the Biological Activity of Potato Juice.

The results of recently published studies indicate that potato juice is characterized by interesting biological activity that can be particularly useful in the case of gastrointestinal symptoms. Moreover, the studies also described the high nutritional value of its proteins. This article is a report on the impact of the enzymatic hydrolysis of proteins combined with membrane filtration. The obtained potato juice protein hydrolysate (PJPH) and its concentrate (cPJPH) were characterized in terms of their nutritional value and biological activity. The amino acid profile and scoring, the content of mineral compounds, and the antioxidant and in vitro cytotoxic activity were assessed. The study proved that the antioxidant activity of PJPH is higher than that of fresh potato juice, and the cytotoxicity against human gastric carcinoma cell line (Hs 746T), human colon cancer cell line (Caco-2), human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (HT-29), and human normal colon mucosa cell line (CCD 841 CoN) showed biological activity specifically targeted against cancer cells. Therefore, it can be concluded that the membrane filtration-assisted enzymatic hydrolysis of potato juice proteins may increase their biological activity and allow for potato juice to be used in the production of medicinal preparations.

Whey Proteins as a Potential Co-Surfactant with Aesculus hippocastanum L. as a Stabilizer in Nanoemulsions Derived from Hempseed Oil.

The use of natural surfactants including plant extracts, plant hydrocolloids and proteins in nanoemulsion systems has received commercial interest due to demonstrated safety of use and potential health benefits of plant products. In this study, a whey protein isolate (WPI) from a byproduct of cheese production was used to stabilize a nanoemulsion formulation that contained hempseed oil and the Aesculus hippocastanum L. extract (AHE). A Box-Behnken experimental design was used to set the formulation criteria and the optimal nanoemulsion conditions, used subsequently in follow-up experiments that measured specifically emulsion droplet size distribution, stability tests and visual quality. Regression analysis showed that the concentration of HSO and the interaction between HSO and the WPI were the most significant factors affecting the emulsion polydispersity index and droplet size (nm) (p < 0.05). Rheological tests, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis and L*a*b* color parameters were also taken to characterize the physicochemical properties of the emulsions. Emulsion systems with a higher concentration of the AHE had a potential metabolic activity up to 84% in a microbiological assay. It can be concluded from our results that the nanoemulsion system described herein is a safe and stable formulation with potential biological activity and health benefits that complement its use in the food industry.

Applications of Cannabis Sativa L. in Food and Its Therapeutic Potential: From a Prohibited Drug to a Nutritional Supplement.

Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) is a herbaceous anemophilous plant that belongs to the Cannabinaceae family. The cannabis seed (hemp) has long been utilized as a food source and is commercially important as an edible oil source. In this review, the positive and negative health effects of cannabis, the relationship between cannabis and various diseases, and the use of cannabis in various food products have been discussed. In addition, the scientific literature on the potential use of cannabis and its derivatives as a dietary supplement for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory and chronic degenerative diseases in animals and humans has been reviewed. Cannabis is being developed as a key ingredient in a variety of food items, including bakery, confectionery, beverages, dairy, fruits, vegetables, and meat. Hemp seeds are high in readily digestible proteins, lipids, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), insoluble fiber, carbs, and favorable omega-6 PUFA acid to omega-3 PUFA ratio and have high nutritional value. The antioxidants of cannabis, such as polyphenols, help with anxiety, oxidative stress, and the risk of chronic illnesses, including cancer, neurological disorders, digestive problems, and skin diseases. Cannabis has been shown to have negative health impacts on the respiratory system, driving, and psychomotor functions, and the reproductive system. Overall, the purpose of this research is to stimulate more in-depth research on cannabis's adaptation in various foods and for the treatment of chronic illnesses.

A Critical Review on Pulsed Electric Field: A Novel Technology for the Extraction of Phytoconstituents.

Different parts of a plant (seeds, fruits, flower, leaves, stem, and roots) contain numerous biologically active compounds called "phytoconstituents" that consist of phenolics, minerals, amino acids, and vitamins. The conventional techniques applied to extract these phytoconstituents have several drawbacks including poor performance, low yields, more solvent use, long processing time, and thermally degrading by-products. In contrast, modern and advanced extraction nonthermal technologies such as pulsed electric field (PEF) assist in easier and efficient identification, characterization, and analysis of bioactive ingredients. Other advantages of PEF include cost-efficacy, less time, and solvent consumption with improved yields. This review covers the applications of PEF to obtain bioactive components, essential oils, proteins, pectin, and other important materials from various parts of the plant. Numerous studies compiled in the current evaluation concluded PEF as the best solution to extract phytoconstituents used in the food and pharmaceutical industries. PEF-assisted extraction leads to a higher yield, utilizes less solvents and energy, and it saves a lot of time compared to traditional extraction methods. PEF extraction design should be safe and efficient enough to prevent the degradation of phytoconstituents and oils.

Low-Field NMR Study of Shortcake Biscuits with Cricket Powder, and Their Nutritional and Physical Characteristics.

The growing human population renders challenges for the future supply of food products with high nutritional value. Here, we enhanced the functional and nutritional value of biscuits, a popular sweet snack, by replacing the wheat flour with 2%, 6%, or 10% (w/w) cricket powder. Consumer acceptance ratings for reference and 2% augmented cookies were comparable, whereas the higher levels of enhancement received inferior consumer scores. This relatively small change in biscuit recipe provided significant and nutritionally desirable enhancements in the biscuits, observed in a series of analyses. An increase in the protein content was observed, including essential amino acids, as well as minerals and fat. This conversion also affected the physical properties of the biscuits, including hardness, and water molecular dynamics measured by 1H NMR. Cricket powder-augmented biscuits join the line of enhanced, functionally superior food products. This and similar food augmentation provide a viable scenario to meet the human food demands in the future.

In Vitro Antagonistic Effect of Gut Bacteriota Isolated from Indigenous Honey Bees and Essential Oils against Paenibacillus Larvae.

The aim of study was to isolate and identify the gut bacteria of Apis mellifera and to evaluate antagonistic effect of the bacteriota against Paenibacillus larvae, which causes American foulbrood (AFB) in honeybees. The dilution plating method was used for the quantification of selected microbial groups from digestive tract of bees, with an emphasis on the bacteriota of the bees' intestines. Bacteria were identified using mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS Biotyper). Overall, five classes, 27 genera and 66 species of bacteria were identified. Genera Lactobacillus (10 species) and Bacillus (8 species) were the most abundant. Gram-negative bacteria were represented with 16 genera, whereas Gram-positive with 10 genera. Delftia acidovorans and Escherichia coli were the most abundant in the digestive tract of honey bee. Resistance to a selection of antimicrobials was assessed for the bacterial isolates from bee gut and confirmed against all antimicrobials included in the study, with the exception of cefepime. Lactobacillus spp., especially L. kunkeei, L. crispatus and L. acidophilus. showed the strongest antimicrobial activity against P. larvae, the causal pathogen of AFB. Antimicrobial activity of essential oils against isolated bacteria and two isolates of P. larvae were assessed. Application of a broad selection of plant essential oils indicated that Thymus vulgaris had the highest antimicrobial activity against P. larvae.

Influence of Abiotic Stress Factors on the Antioxidant Properties and Polyphenols Profile Composition of Green Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.).

The influence of stress factors on the plant can, on the one hand, lead to worse functioning of the plant and loss of its crop, but on the other, it can have a positive effect on the metabolism of compounds with documented biological activity. In this study, the effect of light and drought intensity on photosynthetic activity and physiological status of two barley varieties, as well as the antimicrobial, antioxidant properties and profile of polyphenolic compounds of green barley were analysed. It was shown that under the conditions of water shortage, the KWS Olof variety showed a smaller decrease in CO2 assimilation and transpiration and higher values of these parameters at both light intensities. Only in the KWS Olof variety increased stress as a result of increased light intensity. It has also been shown that both the intensity of radiation and drought-related stress have a significant impact on the profile of polyphenolic compounds from green barley, without a simple relationship between the impact of stress factors on the content of polyphenols. Changes in the profile of polyphenolic compounds augmented the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of the material. This, in turn, proposes the possibility of reducing the applied doses of herbal material thanks to a greater content of active substances in extracts obtained from the plants used to produce medicinal preparations.

Properties of Ginkgo biloba L.: Antioxidant Characterization, Antimicrobial Activities, and Genomic MicroRNA Based Marker Fingerprints.

The aim of this study was to characterize extracts from the leaves of Ginkgo biloba L. from selected Slovakian localities in terms of the content of bioactive constituents, antioxidants and their antimicrobial properties. The results indicated that the content of antioxidants was sample-specific, and this specificity was statistically significant. Ginkgo biloba L. from the locality of Kosice had the best activity determined by the free radical scavenging activity (DPPH) (1.545 mg Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity (TEAC)/g fresh matter (FM)) as well as the molybdenum-reducing antioxidant power (35.485 mg TEAC/g FM) methods. The highest content of total polyphenols (2.803 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/g FM) and flavonoids (4.649 µg quercetin equivalent (QE)/g FM) was also detected in this sample. All samples of G. biloba leaf extracts showed significant antimicrobial activity against one or more of the examined bacterial species, and Staphylococcus aureus subsp. aureus CCM 2461 was found to be the most susceptible (minimal inhibition concentration MIC50 and MIC90 values of 64.2 and 72.2 µg/mL, respectively). Based on the results it was concluded that Ginkgo biloba L. extracts can be used as antimicrobial and antioxidant additives. Selected miRNA-based molecular markers were used to examine the environmental adaptability of Ginkgo biloba L. An almost-complete genotype clustering pattern based on locality was determined in the analysis that involved a species-specific gb-miR5261 marker. Morphologically specific exemplar, cv. Ohatsuki, was excluded.

Characterization of Rosa canina Fruits Collected in Urban Areas of Slovakia. Genome Size, iPBS Profiles and Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities.

The studies of plant bacterial endophytes, colonizing the plant tissues without any signs of diseases, are essential for understanding of ecological interactions. The aim of our study is to detect microbiological contamination and to assess the antimicrobial, antioxidant activity, total phenolic, carotenoid content, genome size, and ploidy of non-cultivated Rosa canina sampled from urban areas. Samples of Rosa canina fruits were collected in three locations in Slovakia. The highest total viable count and the Enterobacteriaceae count in fruits were 4.32 log CFU/g and 4.29 log CFU/g, respectively. Counts of the mesophilic anaerobic sporulating bacteria, Pseudomonas spp., and of the microscopic fungi and yeasts were 3.00, 2.15 log CFU/g, 3.65 log CFU/g, and 2.76 log CFU/g, respectively. Regarding the antimicrobial activity, Escherichia coli and Klebsiela oxytoca were the most sensitive species among the assayed microorganisms to the treatment with the ethanolic extracts of Rosa canina fruits. The fruits were rich in bioactive compounds, polyphenols, and carotenoids, that could be related to their antioxidant activity. Genome sizes of analyzed samples ranged from 2.3 to 2.96. DNA-based fingerprinting obtained by iPBS markers of the Rosa canina var. lapidicola Heinr. Braun., was characterized by some distinctive inserted loci. An interdisciplinary study was performed for the dog roses from different parts of Slovakia that resulted in deeper characterization of this species.

Antioxidant Activities and Volatile Flavor Components of Selected Single-Origin and Blend Chocolates.

The biological activity of chocolates gains more and more attention of consumers. Its antioxidant properties depend, among other factors, mainly on the origin of cocoa and the characteristics that this origin gives to the final product. Therefore, the aim of the study was to measure and compare the total content of polyphenols, antioxidant activity, and key odorants of commercial chocolates made from blend cocoa with single-origin ones. The highest content of polyphenols was found in 90% blend cocoa chocolate and single-origin samples, while the lowest content was exhibited by 100% chocolate from blend cocoa mass. The highest antioxidant activity measured by 2,2'-Azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS) and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assays was observed in the sample of chocolate with 90% cocoa solids from blend mass, followed by single-origin chocolates. A high positive correlation between ABTS assay and the total polyphenol and phenolic acids' content, as well as among the total content of polyphenols, flavonoids, and phenolic acids was found. Mineral composition analysis showed that dark chocolate is a valuable source of some elements, especially Mg, Fe, and Zn. Potentially toxic elements were not detected or below permitted limits. Moreover, it was noticed that the main volatile compound in all tested samples was acetic acid, but pyrazines were considered the most important group of chocolate odorants.

Biological Activity and Antibiofilm Molecular Profile of Citrus aurantium Essential Oil and Its Application in a Food Model.

The main aim of the study was to investigate the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antibiofilm activity of Citrus aurantium essential oil (CAEO). The biofilm profile of Stenotrophonomonas maltophilia and Bacillus subtilis were assessed using the mass spectrometry MALDI-TOF MS Biotyper and the antibiofilm activity of Citrus aurantium (CAEO) was studied on wood and glass surfaces. A semi-quantitative composition using a modified version was applied for the CAEO characterization. The antioxidant activity of CAEO was determined using the DPPH method. The antimicrobial activity was analyzed by disc diffusion for two biofilm producing bacteria, while the vapor phase was used for three penicillia. The antibiofilm activity was observed with the agar microdilution method. The molecular differences of biofilm formation on different days were analyzed, and the genetic similarity was studied with dendrograms constructed from MSP spectra to illustrate the grouping profiles of S. maltophilia and B. subtilis. A differentiated branch was obtained for early growth variants of S. maltophilia for planktonic cells and all experimental groups. The time span can be reported for the grouping pattern of B. subtilis preferentially when comparing to the media matrix, but without clear differences among variants. Furthermore, the minimum inhibitory doses of the CAEO were investigated against microscopic fungi. The results showed that CAEO was most active against Penicillium crustosum, in the vapor phase, on bread and carrot in situ.

Plant Extracts Containing Saponins Affects the Stability and Biological Activity of Hempseed Oil Emulsion System.

In this study, two saponins-rich plant extracts, viz. Saponaria officinalis and Quillaja saponaria, were used as surfactants in an oil-in-water (O/W) emulsion based on hempseed oil (HSO). This study focused on a low oil phase content of 2% v/v HSO to investigate stable emulsion systems under minimum oil phase conditions. Emulsion stability was characterized by the emulsification index (EI), centrifugation tests, droplet size distribution as well as microscopic imaging. The smallest droplets recorded by dynamic light scattering (droplets size v. number), one day after the preparation of the emulsion, were around 50-120 nm depending the on use of Saponaria and Quillaja as a surfactant and corresponding to critical micelle concentration (CMC) in the range 0-2 g/L. The surface and interfacial tension of the emulsion components were studied as well. The effect of emulsions on environmental bacteria strains was also investigated. It was observed that emulsions with Saponaria officinalis extract exhibited slight toxic activity (the cell metabolic activity reduced to 80%), in contrast to Quillaja emulsion, which induced Pseudomonas fluorescens ATCC 17400 growth. The highest-stability samples were those with doubled CMC concentration. The presented results demonstrate a possible use of oil emulsions based on plant extract rich in saponins for the food industry, biomedical and cosmetics applications, and nanoemulsion preparations.