Journal of microbiology, biotechnology and food sciences

INHIBITION OF ESTROGEN RECEPTOR ALPHA (ERα) BY BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS FROM TERMINALIA ARJUNA (Roxb. ex DC.) Wight & Arn.: A MOLECULAR DOCKING STUDY

Padmavathy Balachandran — 2024-10-16

Estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) plays a critical role in breast cancer. Its overabundance can be driven by factors that stimulate estrogen hormone gene expression in living organisms. This, in turn, can lead to the development of several desirable properties by the cancer cells, impairing the maintenance of a regular mammary gland in females. Consequently, ERα offers a wide range of potential biochemical therapeutic targets for clinical research. Terminalia arjuna, a widely accepted medicinal plant in traditional medicine, has shown promise in treating various critical diseases. Our previous studies using swissADME identified 20 bioactive compounds in T. arjuna with favorable pharmacokinetic properties. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of these bioactive compounds against ERα (PDB ID: 3ERT) using molecular docking studies with Autodock 4.2.6. The docking results revealed high binding affinities for the designed compounds, ranging from -3.1 to -9.4 kcal/mol. These findings suggest that T. arjuna derived compounds could be significant for the development of novel and improved anti-breast cancer agents.

BIOACTIVE COMPONENTS AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF RAW AND BOILED EGYPTIAN PEPPER

Shaimaa G. Abdel Salam — 2024-10-01

In the current study, two cultivars of pepper (Capsicum annuum and Capsicum frutescens) at two maturity stages (green and red) were evaluated for their contents of some bioactive compounds and antibacterial activities for their ethanolic and aqueous extracts in both raw and heat-treated forms (boiling). Boiling treatment was performed under the Egyptian household conditions. Proximate analyses of the tested samples were determined, and the resulted data showed that ash and crude protein were declined after boiling treatment, while crude fat and total carbohydrate increased. Vitamin C, β-carotene and vitamin E as well as capsaicin contents were also estimated by HPLC, and the obtained data showed that all of those components were lowered by boiling treatment. Antioxidant activity of fresh and heat-treated pepper samples was carried out by using of 2,2-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS•) assay. Data showed that all pepper samples had high antioxidant activities which were increased because of boiling treatment. Finally, the antibacterial activity of all ethanolic and aqueous extracts as well as capsaicin standard was tested against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative pathogenic bacteria. Only, ethanolic extracts partially inhibited all the tested organisms except, Bacillus cereus which was completely inhibited by both ethanolic and aqueous extracts.

Production of invertase from Penicillium spp. under solid state fermentation and its immobilization on magnetic nanoparticles

KACHCHHAVA BHARATBHAI — 2024-10-09

Invertase is an industrially significant enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of sucrose into glucose and fructose. The present work aimed to produce invertase from Penicillium spp. under solid-state fermentation, utilizing banana peel waste as the substrate, and to characterize and immobilize the enzyme using chitosan-coated magnetic nanoparticles. The partially purified invertase was obtained via ammonium sulfate precipitation. The stability of crude, partially purified, and immobilized invertase was assessed for various parameters such as pH, temperature, thermal stability, metal ions, and chemical inhibitors. Invert syrup was produced via continuous bioconversion. The optimal incubation period for invertase production was observed to be four days, resulting in a maximum invertase activity of 75 U/ml. The maximum activities of the crude and partially purified invertase were observed at pH 6, temperature 50°C, and metal ion KCl, while the chemical inhibitor EDTA enhanced the activity. Partial purification of the crude invertase with 70% ammonium sulfate yielded 49 U/ml, and immobilization on chitosan-coated magnetic nanoparticles resulted in a 59.01% immobilized yield. The maximum immobilized invertase activity was observed at 70°C, and the immobilization procedure did not significantly influence pH, metal ions, or chemical inhibitor activity. Invert syrup production via continuous bioconversion resulted in an enzyme activity of 31 U/ml. This study highlights the potential applications of invertase in the food industry, pharmaceuticals, confectionaries, and related fields.

SAFETY OF BLACK SOLDIER FLY LARVAE: MICROBIAL AND HEAVY METAL RISKS

Zuzana Barboráková — 2024-11-25

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) are considered a sustainable protein source and an effective means of recycling organic waste. They are rich in nutrients, including proteins and lipids, making them suitable for animal feed and potentially for human consumption. In addition to their nutritional benefits, BSFL also have environmental benefits, i.e., reducing waste and greenhouse gas emissions. However, concerns about their safety persist, particularly regarding contamination by pathogenic microorganisms, toxins, and heavy metals. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of different feedstuffs on heavy metal accumulation and on the microcenosis (Enterobacteriaceae, aerobic bacterial endospores, microscopic filamentous fungi) of BSFL. BSFL were fed four feed treatments (I: egg pasta cooked in whole milk; II: cooked rice with peas; III: poultry feed; and IV: cooked couscous, boiled eggs, and raw carrot peels). The results of our study showed that feed variants significantly affect the microbial safety of BSFL. Using MALDI-TOF, we identified 13 species of family Enterobacteriaceae in BSFL, including facultative pathogenic species Enterobacter cloacae, Klebsiella aerogenes, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Morganella morganii, and Proteus mirabilis. Our research confirmed that BSFL fed different feed variants under experimental laboratory conditions contained heavy metals, including cadmium, copper, manganese, molybdenum, nickel, lead, and zinc. Cadmium concentrations in BSFL ranged from 0.12 to 0.18 mg.kg^-1, with the highest values measured in BSFL in variant IV.

BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS POTENTIATION AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITIES OF A PETALONIA FASCIA EXTRACT ON METHICILLIN-RESISTANT STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS STRAINS

Rabia Alghazeer — 2024-11-20

The bioactive algal components that contribute to their antimicrobial properties have garnered significant attention, particularly in light of the rising incidence of antibiotic resistance. The current study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial activity of a Petalonia fascia methanolic extract and to explore the potentiation action of extract–antibiotic combinations with the available antibiotics, as well as the effects of their mixture on multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria, namely, five methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) strains. The algal crude extract displayed antibacterial activity against all assayed isolates, with an inhibition zone ranging from 16 to 21 mm and the best spectrum of bactericidal effect with a ratio of MBC/MIC < 4 obtained on the five tested bacterial strains. Amoxicillin–extract mixtures decreased the bacterial growth rate dramatically on all five S. aureus isolates in a time-dependent manner. These results indicate the ability of the extract to modulate antibiotic activity. However, the possibility of its use to solve the issue of antibiotic-resistant bacterial strains and their application as therapeutic agents against infectious diseases warrants further investigation.

PREPARATION, CHARACTERIZATION, AND ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY OF NEWLY BIOSYNTHESIZED AMPICILLIN/CHITOSAN/SELENIUM NANOCOMPOSITE (AMP/CS/SENC) USING FUSARIUM FUJIKUROI PP794203 AGAINST MULTIDRUG-RESISTANT ESCHERICHIA COLI PP797596

Mayada F. El-Fawal — 2024-11-05

Nowadays, nanobiotechnology is being used to restrict the development of bacterial resistance, particularly multidrug-resistant strains. Applications for selenium nanoparticles (Se NPs) are becoming progressively more widespread due to their broad bioactivity and antibacterial action, although few studies report their use as nanoparticles (NPs) in combination with antibiotics. The present study evaluated the combined effects of ampicillin (AMP), chitosan (CS) and Se NPs (AMP/CS/SeNC) against the multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli PP797596. Se NPs were biosynthesized using Fusarium fujikuroi (PP794203) in a green, safe, and fast method. AMP/CS/SeNC was characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Zeta potential, and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analyses. AMP/CS/SeNC revealed a characteristic peak at 280 nm. FTIR confirmed the presence of proteins as stabilizing and capping agents. Zeta potential refers to the high stability of AMP/CS/SeNC due to an intensive positive net surface charge (+44.3 mV). AMP/CS/SeNC appeared as crystalline-shaped NPs with an average particle size of 85.32 ± 1.8 nm. AMP/CS/SeNC showed strong antibacterial activity against the tested E. coli and displayed an inhibition zone of 21 ± 0.06 mm and a significantly minimum inhibitory concentration of 25 µg/ml. In addition, the prepared nanocomposite completely destroyed the tested E. coli cells, including the cytoplasmic membrane and cell wall, according to TEM studies. The current study provides a new nanocomposite that might be applied to different pharmaceutical products and an exceptional antibacterial potential against multidrug-resistant bacteria.

WEEDS AND WILD PLANTS AS NATURAL HOSTS OF CUCUMBER MOSAIC VIRUS: A CASE STUDY FROM WESTERN SLOVAKIA

Michaela Mrkvová — 2024-10-14

Cucumber mosaic virus (Bromoviridae) is a worldwide widespread pathogen affecting more than 1200 plant species. Although more attention is paid to CMV research on agricultural crops, vegetables or ornamental plants, this work was focused on the analysis of several weeds and wild plants as potential natural hosts of CMV. For this purpose, samples from two different agroecological locations were tested by DAS-ELISA using CMV-specific antibodies, revealing nine CMV-positive plant species. CMV isolates from greater burdock (Arctium lappa L.), rough hawksbeard (Crepis biennis L.), wood avens (Geum urbanum L.), prickly lettuce (Lactuca serriola L.), black medick (Medicago lupulina L.), bitter dock (Rumex obtusifolius L.), field sowthistle (Sonchus arvensis L.), white clover (Trifolium repens) and white violet (Viola alba Besser.) were further characterized by sequencing the complete CP gene, disclosing their affiliation to the CMV Group II. We have shown that weeds and wild plant species can be effective hosts for CMV and can serve as virus reservoirs from which the virus can be spread to cultivated crops.

IN VITRO ANTIBACTERIAL ACTION OF ZINGIBER OFFICINALE ROSCOE CRUDE EXTRACT IRRIGATION AGAINST STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS ISOLATED FROM INFECTED HUMAN ROOT CANALS

Hasnaa El-Gohary — 2024-10-16

Root canal irrigating solutions with strong antibacterial properties are crucial for effective endodontic therapy by preventing recurrent and persistent infections. The question now is not so much whether microbes play a role in the pathophysiology of pulpitis and apical periodontitis, but rather whether species of microbes play a role. The list of microorganisms linked to periodontitis is still growing and could get more precise in future years. Conventional antibacterial agents such as sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) have failed to overcome a variety of Staphylococcus aureus moreover its toxicity and the occasional report of pain when higher concentrations are used. 7 S. aureus strains were isolated from infected root canals and identified using the VITEK^® 2 compact system. An aqueous crude extract of Zingiber officinale Roscoe was prepared and used as a safe and effective antibacterial agent against the S. aureus isolates and S. aureus ATCC 25923. The gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of Z. officinale Roscoe extract exhibits 14 different biochemical compounds including gingerol (46.11%), zingiberene (17.12%), and thymol (11.20%) as the main constituents. The antibacterial activity of Z. officinale Roscoe extract and NaOCl was investigated against S. aureus strains compared to ciprofloxacin as a standard drug using agar well diffusion method, minimum inhibition zone concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). The Z. officinale Roscoe extract revealed higher antibacterial activity than NaOCl and ciprofloxacin with inhibition zones averages of 18 ± 0.03, 16 ± 0.06, and 15 ± 0.14 mm, respectively. The MIC and MBC values of Z. officinale Roscoe extract were 40 and 40 µg/mL compared to NaOCl (55 and 65 µg/mL, respectively). This study provides an alternate antibacterial irrigation root canal solution, Z. officinale Roscoe extract against human pathogenic S. aureus.

MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION AND DETERMINATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL POTENTIAL OF PROBIOTIC BACTERIA ISOLATED FROM TRADITIONAL DAIRY AND COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS

Niharika Thapliyal — 2024-09-19

The objective of the present study was to isolate, identify, and characterize probiotic Lactic acid bacterial strains from traditional dairy and commercial products and determine their antagonistic activity against pathogenic bacteria. Fifty-five lactic acid bacterial (LAB) strains were isolated, and fifteen strains were selected based on probiotic potential after that antimicrobial activity was measured against bacterial pathogens. Among fifteen isolates, five isolates showed good (above 15 mm zone) antimicrobial activities against the tested pathogenic strains of humans. After the preliminary antimicrobial activity, the best five isolates were selected for the production of different antibacterial compounds such as bacteriocin, hydrogen peroxide, and organic acid. Two isolates showed bacteriocin production and one isolate gave maximum bacteriocin activity against most pathogens and was further identified as Enterococcus faecalis JY32 using 16 S rRNA sequencing. The study reveals that in comparison to commercial products, traditional products of dairy could be an alternative and readily available resource for probiotic bacteria with interesting functional characteristics.

ANTILISTERIAL ACTIVITY OF CBD FOR THE PREVENTION OF LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES IN DAIRY PRODUCTS

Kazi Tahsin — 2024-10-16

Research background. Herbal antimicrobials exist in plants and their derived compounds. One such compound is cannabidiol (CBD) extracted from the plant, Cannabis Sativa, also referred to as hemp or marijuana, has drawn interest for its alleged antibacterial and antioxidant abilities. With the increasing problem of antibiotic resistance and the desire to reduce antibiotics in the food industry, researchers are exploring the potential of cannabinoids as an alternative antimicrobial agent. The use of cannabidiol (CBD) in food and beverage products is a growing trend, it is also important for manufacturers to approach this new area with more studies. Milk is a key component in the production of most dairy produce. The products made from milk usually undergo various processes such as pasteurization, fermentation, curdling, and aging to create the final product. This study aims to examine the potential of CBD isolate as a antimicrobial agent which can be used in dairy products to reduce microbial growth and extend their shelf life.

Experimental approach. This paper investigated the antilmicrobial properties of CBD against L. monocytogenes in milk as the key solvent to perform studies. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) of CBD in TSB was carried out at 37 °C in 24 h. CBD’s antilisterial activity was found for whole milk and skim milk at 4°C for 3 days by analyzing their respective growth and kill curves.

Results and conclusions Both the MIC and MBC for L. monocytogenes was found to be 2 µg/mL measured by dilution series and plating, respectively. CBD significantly slowed the growth of listeria populations in milk but its effectiveness of CBD was dependant on the fat content of milk. In this paper, we have discussed the potential for using and improving CBD as a preservative to combat L. monocytogenes in dairy products that use milk as a primary ingredient.

POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE PRETREATMENT OF NAPIER GRASS: CONDITIONS FOR ENHANCED REDUCING SUGAR AND BIOETHANOL PRODUCTION

Poludasu Rama Mohan — 2024-11-25

The recalcitrance of lignocellulosic feedstock needs to be altered for to produce fuels and chemicals. Pretreatment is used to enhance the reactivity of cellulose and the digestibility of biomass, resulting in the effective generation of fermentable sugars. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) is particularly effective at selectively removing lignin from biomass without excessively degrading cellulose and hemicellulose. Moreover, KOH is generally less corrosive than sodium hydroxide (NaOH), leading to lower maintenance costs for pretreatment equipment. In present study, Napier grass was utilized as the substrate for reducing sugar production. Proximate analysis indicated that Napier grass contains approximately 28.50±0.12% hemicellulose, 34.15±0.08% cellulose and 26.41±0.04% lignin. With the use of the Box-Behnken Design (BBD) method, pretreatment conditions were improved. The ideal conditions for KOH pretreatment of Napier grass were determined to be 6% KOH, 180 °C temperature, and a pretreatment time of 120 min. Higher yields of reducing sugars (43.29 g/L) were achieved by this optimized condition. By analyzing the experimental data, ANOVA helps in developing a reliable model that predicts the ideal conditions for increasing reducing sugar yield. Desirability functional studies were employed in optimization to identify ideal conditions that satisfy multiple criteria simultaneously, and the design was validated by trial experiments to ensure accuracy. Desirability studies confirmed that the optimal yield of reducing sugars, approximately 43.72 g/L, was achieved with 6.79% KOH concentration, at a temperature of 178.4°C, and a pretreatment duration of 119.6 min. The results are closely resembles the experimental values predicted by the response surface model. Substrates pretreated with higher KOH concentrations yielded more ethanol (72 g/L) from Saccharomyces cerevisiae in SSF tests compared to those pretreated with lower KOH concentrations.

BIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF ZnO PHYTONANOPARTICLES OBTAINED FROM Annona muricata L. FRUIT PULP FOR POSSIBLE CO-ADMINISTRATION WITH PROBIOTICS STRAINS

María Candelaria Morales-Ruiz — 2024-10-16

Phytonanotechnology represents a new approach that uses plant extracts to synthesize metal oxide nanoparticles with higher biocompatibility. Recently, the production of ZnO phytonanoparticles (ZnO PTNPs) for food fortification has gained attention due to their lower risk and outstanding properties. Inclusion of ZnO PTNPs might have some effects as antimicrobial properties against pathogens strains, however, could result in challenges when intended to add probiotics in a nanofortified food matrix. For this reason, the co-administration of ZnO PTNPs with probiotics represents a new scenario for the development of modern functional food. This study aimed to evaluate the biological properties including the antioxidant activity, cytotoxicity, stability during gastrointestinal conditions, and the biological effect on the viability of a probiotic strain of ZnO phytonanoparticles obtained from soursop (Annona muricata L.) pulp for possible co-administration in food applications. The synthesis resulted in the formation of polydisperse ZnO nanowires with thicknesses ranging from 82 to167 nm and ζ potential values + 27.5 mV and +41.8, before and after sonication and stabilization protocol. ZnO PTNPs exhibited an improved antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ = 6.14 mg/mL) compared with the ethanolic extract of Annona muricata L. Non-hemolytic activity in human erythrocytes was evidenced, whereas the interaction between ZnO PTNPs and Lactiplantibacillus fabifermentans BAL-27-ITTG allows the preservation of adequate viable counts of the probiotic microorganism (>1.2X10⁹UFC/mL), suggesting biocompatibility. Moreover, ZnO PTNPs were shown to be highly stable in stomachal and intestinal conditions with maximum rates of dissolution of 20% and 12%, respectively. Finally, it was confirmed a contribution of 45% of zinc for every dose of ZnO PTNPs used. The present study offers a promising path for the production of functional phytonanoparticles and suggests further investigation for future applications in food matrices.

EVALUATING THE BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF SILVER AND ZINC OXIDE NANOPARTICLES BIOSYNTHESIZED BY NEOWESTIELLOPSIS PERSICA A1387

Omid Sabzevari Joopari — 2024-10-16

In this research, the antimicrobial properties of zinc oxide (ZnO NPs) and silver (AgNPs) nanoparticles, synthesized biologically using Neowestiellopsis persica through various methods (such as wet biomass, boiling biomass, supernatant, extracellular polysaccharides, and phycocyanin), were examined against fish pathogens including Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Pseudomonas putida. The nanoparticles were successfully created using all methods and characterized employing techniques like UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The antibacterial activity of the nanoparticles was assessed using agar-well diffusion assays, while transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was utilized to analyze the ultrastructural interactions between the nanoparticles and the pathogens. Cytotoxicity was evaluated via the trypan blue exclusion method. Notably, nanoparticles generated through the boiling-biomass method demonstrated significantly enhanced characteristics. The analysis revealed two distinct populations of AgNPs measuring 78.82 nm (41.2%) and 91.28 nm (45.5%), along with a pronounced absorption peak at 68.6 nm (80.1%) for ZnO NPs. AgNPs exhibited the strongest growth inhibition against Pseudomonas putida and Edwardsiella tarda, whereas ZnO NPs showed the largest inhibition zone against Yersinia enterocolitica, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Aeromonas hydrophila. TEM imagery illustrated the binding of nanoparticles to the outer membranes of Yersinia enterocolitica, compromising their structural integrity. The application of 25 µg/ml of AgNPs and 6.25 µg/ml of ZnO did not lead to significant cell death, but higher concentrations resulted in a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect. Ultimately, the findings of this study confirm that the antibacterial and cytotoxic attributes of silver and zinc oxide nanoparticles, produced through the biosynthesis of Neowestiellopsis persica A1387, can be leveraged to meet future needs in aquaculture.

DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF NEW SPECTROPHOTOMETRIC PROCEDURES FOR THE ANALYSIS OF ROXITHROMYCIN IN BULK AND DOSAGE FORMS

Abdelghani MAHMOUDI — 2024-11-19

Novel sensitive spectrophotometric techniques were developed and validated for a quantitative estimation of roxithromycin (ROX) in bulk and pharmaceuticals. In alkaline medium, procedure (A) was performed by ion-pairs formation between the studied macrolide and 1,2-naphthoquinone-4-sulphonate to formed orange - products with maxima absorption at 454 nm. While the second method (B) was carried out for coupling the amino group of the cited macrolide with phylloquinone using the charge transfer reaction to form coloured products with λ_max at 457 nm.

The methods presented good linearity in the range of concentrations between 1.0 - 28.8 μg/mL. Regression coefficients were 0.9997 and 0.9998 for methods (A) and (B), respectively, as well the detection limits were cited in 0.26-0.23 μg/mL. Validation measurements were rebuts, accurate and precise within %RSD values lower than 3.5%. These methods were successfully used to investigate roxithromycin quantitatively in tablets. Recoveries were 98.94–101.01% and no interferences were detected from excipients. Both procedures are rapid, simple and cost-effective and it can adopted quality control application of this antibiotic.

IN SILICO DOCKING AND DYNAMICS OF SELECTED SECONDARY METABOLITES OF ALBIZIA LEBBECK AGAINST ANDROGEN RECEPTOR (AR) FOR THE TREATMENT OF PROSTATE CANCER

Ashina Jawahar Nuziba Begum — 2024-11-19

Prostate cancer, one of the life-threatening cancers worldwide diagnosed in most elderly men and is influenced by ethnicity, genetic factors, and family history. This article focuses on molecular docking and dynamics simulation for the secondary metabolites (13 compounds) obtained from the methanolic extract of Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth against human androgen receptor which plays a crucial role in the progression of cancer and metastasis. Initially, ADMET properties and bioactivity of the ligands were analyzed followed by molecular docking of these ligands and their interactions with the target protein (Androgen Receptor). The compounds 1, 1, 1-Trifluoroheptadecan-2-one and 1-(5-Methylthiophen-2-yl)-N-[(5-methylthiophen-2-yl) methyl] were observed to have the highest binding affinity of -6.8 kcal/mol and -6.5 kcal/mol respectively when compared against the standard, Darolutamide (FDA approved drug) which had a score of -5.1 kcal/mol were taken into consideration. 1, 1, 1-Trifluoroheptadecan-2-on (FLU) and 1-(5-Methylthiophen-2-yl)-N-[(5-methylthiophen-2-yl) methyl] (UND) along with the protein complex were further proceeded with dynamic simulation. The binding energy of FLU and UND system throughout the simulation was studied with an explicit MM-PBSA comparison and was found to be -99.618+14.446 KJ/mol and -117.833+14.838 KJ/mol, influenced by the van der waals energy which was greater in the UND system i.e.-144.227+13.814 KJ/mol than that of the FLU system i.e.-117.054+11.774 KJ/mol. Both the systems were relatively stable with exemplary flexibility and there were no changes in the protein at the structural level during the dynamic simulation. Both FLU and UND systems could become potential therapeutic drugs with further studies.

IN VITRO CHARACTERIZATION AND ANALYSIS OF RICE VARIETIES AGAINST VARIOUS LEVELS OF SALT STRESS

Kalsoom Jehan — 2024-09-19

Salinity is a significant environmental factor that greatly impacts plant yield, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. The study examined the response of two rice varieties (Swat-1 and Pakhal) to salinity stress on the callus. Various salt concentrations were utilized. Among the two varieties, Swat-1 displayed the highest rate of callogenesis in the initial results. The Calli were exposed to varying concentrations of salt (50mM, 100mM, and 150mM), with each concentration tested in three replicates. Under the influence of stress, Swat-1 experienced a decrease in its Relative growth rate (RGR), whereas Pakhal remained steady at 50mM and 100mM. It was only at 150mM that Pakhal also exhibited a decline in RGR. Regarding water content, the stress caused a decrease in the content. At the highest stress level (150mM), the lowest water content was observed. The impact on soluble sugars was also noteworthy. As stress levels rose, concentrations of total sugars also increased. Similar findings were noted for proline, with stress leading to an increase in its concentration. Out of the two varieties, Pakhal appeared to have the highest proline accumulation. Similarly, there was a noticeable upward trend observed in catalase activity. There was a significant increase in catalase activity in both varieties after being exposed to stress for 30 and 60 days. The findings indicate that both varieties effectively developed strategies to combat salinity stress. They exhibited high concentrations of total soluble sugars and proline, as well as demonstrated significant catalase activity.

A LIPOSOMAL CONTROLLED DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR PLANTAGO MAJOR L. EXTRACTS AND THEIR BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITY FOR WOUND HEALING

Ozlem ERDAL ALTINTAS — 2024-11-20

The objectives of this study are to determine the effective features of water and aqueous-ethanol extracts of Plantago major L. (Pm-dH₂O and Pm-EtOH, respectively) in wound healing, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant potential, and fibroblast proliferation. Furthermore, it was targeted to obtain liposome structures loaded with Pm-extract for controlled release, characterize the obtained liposomes, and determine their release profiles. Antimicrobial activity (inhibition zone and minimum inhibition concentration), total antioxidant and oxidant (TAS, TOS, and OSI) potentials, total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) of Pm extracts were tested. The radical scavenging activity of Pm extracts was quantified by the DPPH assay. Antioxidant capabilities of Pm extracts were determined with ABTS, CUPRAC, and FRAP. In vitro cytotoxicity tests of Pm extracts were examined on dermal fibroblast cells with MTT assay. Liposome structures loaded with Pm extracts were obtained using the ethanol injection method. Plant extract-loaded liposomes were characterized, and in vitro release kinetics were revealed by dialysis technique.

Pm-EtOH extract inhibited the growth of microorganisms at lower concentrations than Pm-dH₂O extract. According to TAS, TOS, and OSI values, it was concluded that there was a moderate antioxidant effect in Pm extracts in general. TPC and TFC of the Pm-EtOH extract are higher than the Pm-dH₂O extract. Inhibition percentages of Pm-EtOH extract are higher than Pm-dH₂O extracts against DPPH free radicals. The ABTS, CUPRAC, and FRAP antioxidant capacities of the Pm-EtOH extract are higher than that of the Pm-dH₂O extract. Furthermore, according to dynamic light scattering and microscopy images, these plant extracts loaded liposomes had a high entrapment efficiency, a wide size range, and good stability.

Pm extracts showed high cell viability and no cytotoxic effect on HDF cells. Liposome structures loaded with Pm extracts are fine alternatives for effective and controlled release to the wound site due to high entrapment efficiency, a wide size range, and good stability.

INOCULATION OF MULTI-TRAIT PLANT GROWTHPROMOTING RHIZOBACTERIA FOR WHEAT GROWTH PROMOTION IN POTHOUSE CONDITIONS

Raina Singhmar — 2024-11-19

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are commonly used as inoculants to improve the growth and yield of wheat crops. Thus, the present study focused on the isolating and screening of effective isolates with multi-traits PGPR activities related to plant growth and development. Bacterial strains RA4, RA11 and RA26 were showing plant growth promoting activities like potassium solubilization, phosphate solubilization, indole acetic acid production (IAA), hydrogen cyanide production (HCN), ammonium production, zinc solubilization, anti-fungal activity. The antibiotic pattern showed that bacterial isolates RA11 and RA26 were resistant against azithromycin, ampicillin and gentamicin. Identification of multi trait PGPR was carried out by 16s rRNA sequencing. Bacterial strains RA4, RA11 and RA26 were showing 99.93 %, 100 % and 99.97 % similarity and identified as Pseudomonas paraeruginosa, Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa respectively. A pot house experiment was conducted in order to check the efficacy of multi-trait PGPR as inoculants for wheat growth. In our study, bacterial strain Bacillus cereus (RA11) was showing maximum plant growth promotion in the presence of the RDK of NPK in pot house conditions. Generally, results of this study revealed that use of bio fertilizers had an effective and significant role in the growth of plants.

MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN LEYDIG TM3 CELLS INDUCED BY NEONICOTINOID ACETAMIPRID

Lucia Zuščíková — 2024-11-27

Numerous studies demonstrate the vulnerability of the male reproductive system to various exogenous environmental factors, including agrochemicals such as pesticides, herbicides, and insecticides. Acetamiprid, a widely used chlornicotinyl insecticide of a new generation, was developed as a safer alternative to harmful organophosphates and carbamates for controlling insect pests. Our study aimed to investigate the impact of acetamiprid on Leydig TM3 cells cultivated as three-dimensional (3D) cultures after prolonged repeated exposure. The 3D model was treated with acetamiprid in a concentration range of 4 to 500 µM. Morphological parameters, specifically the size and shape of the cell spheroids, were evaluated for up to 7 days. Using a Zeiss Z1 Observer automated inverted microscope and TissueFAXS software, the development of spheroids was monitored. Three separate iterations yielded the experimental findings. Microsoft Office 365 and GraphPad Prism 8.01 were used to process the results. The obtained results showed no statistically significant changes (P>0.05) in morphological parameters at any of the tested acetamiprid concentrations.

MEAT PERFORMANCE AND MEAT QUALITY OF WILD DUCKS (ANAS PLATYRHYNCHOS) REARED IN DOMESTIC CONDITIONS

Peter Hascik — 2024-09-19

The aim of the work was to evaluate the meat performance, colour and basic chemical composition (g.100 g^-1 of water, protein, fat, and cholesterol) of the breast and thigh muscles (n=20) of the wild ducks reared in domestic conditions. The L* values of the wild ducks ranged from 32.86 (breast muscle) to 36.88 (thigh muscle). The a* value ranged from 10.70 (thigh muscle) to 11.96 (breast muscle). By evaluating the b* parameter, we observed a similar tendency as with the L* value. The highest b* values were measured in the thigh muscle (10.13) and lower in the breast muscle (7.49). The proportion of breast (36.41%) and thigh (21.33%) from the carcass weight of wild ducks is relatively high, and a high average carcass yield (74.03%) was also found. The water content varied from 71% (thigh muscle) to 72.52% (breast muscle). The average protein content of breast 24.11 g.100 g^-1and thigh muscle was 22.84 g.100 g^-1. The higher fat content was measured in breast muscle (1.82 g.100 g^-1) and lower (1.45 g.100 g^-1) in thigh muscle. The cholesterol content in meat from wild ducks ranged from 0.049 g.100 g^-1 (thigh muscle) to 0.051 g.100 g^-1 (breast muscle).

TOTAL POLYPHENOL CONTENT AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY OF RUTABAGA (BRASSICA NAPUS L. VAR. NAPOBRASSICA) ROOTS

Monika Cifrová — 2024-12-02

This study aims to determine the total content of polyphenols and the antioxidant activity by DPPH spectrophotometrically in rutabaga (Brassica napus L. var. napobrassica) samples, cultivated in the Trenčín region, in the Púchov district, at the border of the White Carpathian and Javorníky mountains, Slovakia. For analysis were used three types of rutabaga, named after the collection sites (Mestečko, Lúky 1, Lúky 2). The total polyphenol content in rutabaga was ranging from 2.41 (Mestečko) to 2.82 mg GAE.g^-1 dry weight (Lúky 2). It was established that that the studied rutabaga samples do not show a significant difference in the total content of polyphenols between the collection locations. In the antioxidant activity of rutabaga, differences were confirmed in AAs. A statistical difference was established between locations Lúky 2 and Mestečko. DPPH radical scavenging activity values were from 5,19 (Mestečko) to 7,49 µmol TE.g-1 DW (Lúky 2). Spearman's test showed a positive relationship between both methods used. These results confirm the promising potential of rutabaga use in functional food preparation.

THE TOMATO POMACE AS A POTENTIAL NATURAL ANTIOXIDANT IN THE RAW COOKED MEAT PRODUCT

Andrea Mesárošová — 2024-11-25

One of the most significant vegetable crops grown globally is the tomato. Tomato pomace, a waste product that makes up around 4% (w/w) of the total tomato processed into tomato products, is wasted during the industrial processing of tomatoes into juice. Tomato pomace is a rich source of bioactive compounds that could be further used in the meat industry. Since there is a growing interest in replacing synthetic antioxidants with natural ones, tomato pomace has the potential for further use. In this paper, we focused on the possibility of adding tomato pomace to raw cooked meat products. We added 3 and 5 mL.kg^-1 of extract to these products. The total antioxidant capacity of the extract was 12.07% and the total polyphenols content was at the level of 16.68 mg GAE.g^-1. The addition of the extract had no significant effect on the pH of the meat products. The amount of MDA produced in the experimental groups was comparable to the group with the addition of ascorbic acid.

EFFECT OF CRICKET POWDER ADDITION ON TECHNOLOGICAL PROPERTIES AND QUALITY OF SAUSAGES

Adam Kovál — 2024-11-05

Edible insects are increasingly explored as alternative protein sources for the feed and food industry due to their potential for sustainable, high-quality protein production. The use of a powdered form of an insect in a ready-to-eat food can increase the willingness to consume insects. This study evaluates the chemical composition, colour, texture and sensory properties of sausages with the addition of cricket powder (3%, 6%, and 12% of cricket powder). The addition of cricket powder significantly increased the protein content of the sausages (p < 0.05). As the addition of cricket powder increased, the sausages became darker both on the surface and on the cut (p < 0.05). The textural properties were not affected by the addition of cricket powder (p > 0.05). For sensory descriptors, sausages without cricket powder scored the highest, and the scores decreased as the amount of cricket powder increased (p < 0.05) except odour where no significant differences were found (p < 0.05). The results showed that cricket powder can be used at lower levels in meat products without affecting sensory quality.

A MINI REVIEW ON APPLICATION OF NON-THERMAL TECHNIQUES FOR PROTECTION OF FRUIT JUICES

Samreen Ahsan — 2024-11-20

Abstract: Globally, fruit juices are widely consumed due to their nutritional and health benefits. With increased consumer knowledge about health and safety demand for nutritious fresh like juices is also increased. Fruit juices are more susceptible to spoilage mostly by spoilage microorganisms or by intrinsic enzymatic reactions that adversely affect the sensory attributes of juices. Conventional thermal pasteurization is effective to control spoilage, but it also affects heat sensitive functional compounds and the nutritional value of juices. Therefore, to meet increased consumer demand and requirements, it is necessary to process a variety of fruits for juice preparation with improved preservation techniques to control spoilage. Non-thermal preservation like high pressure processing, pulse electric field, ultraviolet radiations and cold press, etc., are recognized as best alternatives to thermal pasteurization as they have substantial potential to completely inactivate spoilage microbes by causing cell disruption either during processing or after juice has packaged. One of the promising features of employing non-thermal preservation methods is that they do not affect nutritional and organoleptic characteristics of processed juice. Also, most of the methods are relatively less expensive and efficient cause maximum microbial load reduction and improve shelf life.

INCREASING THE SHELF-LIFE TROUT FILLETS BY SODIUM CASEINATE-PERSIAN GUM BIOCOMPOSITE FILM INCORPORATED WITH GINGER EXTRACT

Arezou Khezerlou — 2024-10-08

The effects of sodium caseinate (SC)-Persian gum (PG) films enriched with Zingiber officinale extract (ZOE) were investigated on the quality of rainbow trout over a 16 day at 4°C. The trout filets were divided to 4 groups as uncoated, coated with SC-PG, SC-PG-1% ZOE and SC-PG-1.5% ZOE. Sensorial, chemical and microbial characteristics of trout samples were evaluated on 0, 4, 8, 12 and 16 days of storage. GC-MS analysis exhibited that ZOE is rich in phenolic compounds including zingiberene and cis-6-shogaol. Active films embedded with 1.5% of ZOE revealed a remarkable decline in bacterial growth over the storage time. Wrapping with SC-PG-1.5%ZOE composite film tended to delay the elevation of thiobarbituric acid and peroxide value. Samples containing 1.5% ZOE were mostly preferred by sensory panelists. Based on the results of the present study, the edible films were suitable candidates for preserving quality properties and extending the shelf life of rainbow trout fillets.

NUTRITIONAL AND THERAPEUTIC POTENTIAL OF BIOACTIVE COMPOUNDS FROM MELONS: A MINI REVIEW

Lakshmi Narayanan — 2024-10-01

Fruit wastes are one of the major sources of municipal waste, however they are a source of bioactive useful compounds which possess numerous health benefits. The fruit processing industry generates 10-60% waste or by-products in solid (peel, seed) and liquid (fruit juice) waste. Melon is a prevalent fruit, consumed worldwide, containing significant quantities of by-products (seed, peel, rind) that have been discarded. Melon is an excellent source of biologically active compounds for humans due to its good taste and rich chemical composition. Various bioactive compounds present in fruit waste (seed and rind) of melon is responsible for its numerous biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-microbial activity.

OXIDATION AND PHTHALATE CONTENT IN RELATION TO FAT IN FRANKFURTERS

Juraj Cubon — 2024-11-27

The work analyzes the content of MDA, TVB-N, DBP and DEHP in frankfurters and primary and secondary packaging on the day of purchase and at the end of the expiration date. Frankfurters 1 (F1), fat content of 10.49 g.100g^-1, Frankfurters 2 (F2), fat content of 8.01 g.100g^-1 and Frankfurters 3 (F3) with a fat content of 6.49 g.100g^-1 are evaluated in the experiment. The MDA content at the beginning of the experiment was 0.07 mg.kg^-1 in F1, 0.06 in F2 and 0.08 mg.kg^-1 in F3. During storage for 10 days, the MDA content in all analysed groups of frankfurters increased nonsignificant to the value of 0.08 in F1, 0.07 in F2 and 0.09 mg.kg^-1in F3. The increase in TVB-N content was almost the same in all groups. In F1, TVB-N content in frankfurters increased by 1.95 mg.100g^-1, in F2 by 2.03 mg.100g^-1and in F3 by 2.05 mg.100g^-1. From the purchase to the end of the consumption period 10 days), the content of TVB-N in F1 increased by 18.2%, in F2 by 14.17% and in F3 by 14.31%. The content of DBP and DEHP corresponded to the fat content of the frankfurter, at the beginning of the experiment it was the highest in F1, DBP content in F1 was 12.71 µg.g^-1, lower in F2 6.62 µg.g^-1 and lowest in F3 5.46 µg.g^-1. DEHP content was 10.15 µg.g^-1 in F1, 8.14 µg.g^-1in F2 and 5.29 µg.g^-1 in F3. DBP content in sausages increased by 12.35% in F1, by 24.17% in F2 and by 28.58% in F3 during the experiment. The DEHP content increased during the experiment by 12% in F1, by 8.85% in F2 and by 5.45% in F3. However, the increase in DEHP content was consistent with the fat content of the frankfurter, with the highest increase in F1 with the highest fat content and the lowest in F3 with the lowest fat content in secondary packaging, the content of DBP and DEHP decreased by 35-45% during storage at a temperature of 4°C until the expiration date.

INSTRUMENTAL COLOUR, TEXTURE AND SENSORY PROPERTIES OF PLJESKAVICA (TRADITIONAL SERBIAN MEAT PRODUCT) AFFECTED BY ADDITION OF FRESHLY EXTRACTED Allium ursinum L.

Slaviša Stajić — 2024-11-11

Pljeskavica is a traditional Serbian burger-type meat product that is also very popular across the Balkan countries. The use of natural supplements containing various bioactive compounds, such as wild garlic (Allium ursinum L.) extracts, has gained more importance in the last several decades and has promising results for the prevention of the processes leading to detoriation. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of Allium ursinum L. freshly squeezed extract (FSAULE) on colour, texture and sensory attributes of raw and grilled pljeskavica during cold (10 days) and freeze storage (90 days). Control (CON) and three experimental treatments containing different concentrations of FSAULE were prepared – AUL1 (1.32 mL/kg), AUL2 (4.40 mL/kg) and AUL3 (8.79 mL/kg). Redness and yellowness of raw meat and backfat particles were not altered after the addition of different amounts of FSAULE throughout cold and freeze storage. Meat and backfat particles of raw AUL3 were significantly darker compared to CON and other AULs. The results of texture profile analysis indicate that the addition of different amounts of FSAULE did not alter instrumental texture properties. According to the check-all-that-apply analysis of sensory properties, AUL3 was mostly characterized by affirmative attributes – pleasant odour, taste, saltiness, softness, juiciness and ideal texture. The affirmative attributes that were not present in AULs, but were present in CON, were detected by a small number of consumers – from 2.8% (pleasant colour) to 15.0% (pleasant odour). Most consumers found that intense garlic odour (85.0%) and intense garlic-like taste (83.9%) were not present in either CON or AULs.