Journal of microbiology, biotechnology and food sciences

MOLECULAR IDENTIFICATION USING 16S rRNA GENE TO IDENTIFY BACTERIA SYMBIONT-Agelas sp. SPONGE WITH ANTIBACTERIAL ACTIVITY

Endang Sulistyarini Gultom — 2025-01-21

Sponge (Agelas sp.) are complex marine organisms that form symbiotic relationships with bacterial communities. These bacterial symbionts produce bioactive secondary metabolites with various therapeutic potentials, including anticancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. This study aims to identify bacterial symbionts associated with Agelas sp. sponge from Sibolga, North Sumatera, that have antibacterial activity, using the 16S rRNA gene. The antibacterial activity of these symbionts was evaluated against Staphylococcus lugdunensis ESBL, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ESBL, and Klebsiella pneumoniae ESBL. Ten bacterial isolates exhibiting significant antibacterial activity were identified. Sequencing gen 16S rRNA result showed that these isolates included Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Alcaligenes, and Vibrio species, demonstrating efficacy against the tested pathogenic bacteria. The results showed the potential of Agelas sp. symbiotic bacteria as a source of natural antibacterial compounds that can be used to develop new antibacterial agents. This study offers a valuable foundation for future exploration of bioactive compounds from sponges with antibacterial applications.

SCREENING AND DNA IDENTIFICATION OF THREE NEWLY ISOLATED BACTERIAL STRAINS FROM VARIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL BIOTOPES IN ALGERIA, PRODUCING EXTRACELLULAR POLYSACCHARIDES (EPSs)

Farid Bensalah — 2025-01-27

Exopolysaccharides (EPSs) of microbial origin exhibit substantial advantages compared to their synthetic equivalents, due to their lower toxicity, higher selectivity, and better degradability. In this context, this study aimed to characterize three newly isolated strains producing extracellular polysaccharides, which are indigenous to different biotopes in Algeria. The EPSs-producing bacteria were preliminarily screened according to the red ruthenium coloration. The production of EPSs was evaluated by measured viscosities of the enriched biomass in HJL broth medium and by studying the effect of pH and temperature. Phylogenetic analysis of the three best performing strains, based on partial sequences of their PCR amplified 16S rRNA genes was used to distinguish the individual isolates. As a result, three genetically distinct strains designated LGM-TAM3, LGM-TAM4, and LGM-TAM5 were found to belong to the genera Serratia and Aeromonas. Specifically, these strains were found closely related to Serratia marcescens subsp. Sakuensis, Aeromonas media, and Serratia nematodiphila with16S rRNA similarities to type strains, of 86.20, 99.70, and 99.85%, respectively. Furthermore, the best EPSs production was recorded by the strain LGM-TAM5 at pH 7.5 and 30 °C with a viscosity value of 1289 cP. Based on FTIR spectroscopic analyses, functional groups of polysaccharides were identified in the crude EPSs of each strain, which mainly include a hydroxyl group (-OH stretching), (C-H) of aliphatic groups, and carboxylate groups (-COO-). These interesting results are encouraging as the study's first phase and will be supported by additional research to better understand the biological fonctions and the potential uses of the investigated EPSs.

PARTIAL PURIFICATION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF A KERATINOLYTIC ENZYME FROM PSYCHROBACTER PULMONIS AND ITS APPLICATIONS

Jehan Hawas — 2024-12-02

This study focused on isolating and characterizing bacteria that produce the keratinase enzyme. Enrichment technique was employed using natural sources, including chicken feathers, soil, and compost. Screening was performed on 14 soil isolates, and the most efficient isolates were selected. Hydrolysis zones were observed on agar-based media at 30°C for 72 hours. Through morphological, cultural, biochemical, and molecular characterization, the potent keratinolytic isolate was identified as Psychrobacter pulmonis. The optimum pH and temperature for bacterial growth and enzyme activity were 7 and 30°C, respectively. Keratinolytic activity was detected during growth in liquid basal media containing 1% of the feathers, which were completely degraded within 8-9 days. The crude keratinase was partially purified by 40% ammonium sulfate precipitation at pH 7. SDS-PAGE analysis revealed a single band, indicating a pure enzyme with a molecular weight of 63 kDa. The total protein concentration in the concentrated keratinase was 3.8 mg/ml, which was 12.7 times higher than the crude keratinase based on the Bradford assay.

EXPLORING THE IMPACT OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE: SPREAD AND IMPLICATIONS

Ananya Workman — 2025-01-27

Antibiotics are drugs that have been used to treat bacterial infections since their discovery in the early 20th century. However, antibiotics are becoming less effective or even ineffective for treating bacterial infections due to bacterial mutation and adaptation. Nowadays, antibiotic resistance is becoming a global threat as it increases continuously, while antibiotic development remains stagnant due to high research costs and slow approval processes. Antibiotic resistance correlates with antibiotic overdoses, which can be caused by many factors, for instance, self-medication, overuse, etc. Therefore, we should consider this condition a serious issue that we should be aware of. To control or reduce the rate of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, we need improved infection prevention measures and more accurate diagnostic tools. These can help cope with the currently available antibiotic agents. The main purpose of this article is to summarize current knowledge about antibiotics and provide up-to-date data on the antibiotic resistance crisis, which has caused millions of deaths worldwide, including over three hundred thousand in South Asia. This review article mentions the causes, the environmental factors, the consequences, the mechanisms, the transmissions, the strategies, and lastly, case studies focusing on Southeast Asia. Moreover, future directions are also discussed for further discussion and alternative purposes.

LISTERIA MONOCYTOGENES IN THE FOOD CHAIN – RECENT ADVANCEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGIES FOR RAPID DETECTION AND IDENTIFICATION

Konduru Balakrishna — 2024-12-02

Listeria monocytogenes (Lm) is an opportunistic non-sporing foodborne pathogen that has been responsible for several outbreaks in India and other countries due to consumption of contaminated food and causes a disease called listeriosis. This disease is rare but life-threatening with severe symptoms and a high mortality rate of 20-30%. Lm can easily adapt to adverse environmental and stress conditions, making it a causative agent for major foodborne diseases. The classical culture methods for detection of Lm are simple and inexpensive but they are time consuming, laborious, and slow in providing results. Several alternative methods for identification of this pathogen are being used, which take short time for analysis, require less sample, cost effective and helpful in routine food sample testing. More sophisticated detection approaches are also needed to genetically discriminate strains for epidemiological investigations and to study listeriosis infections. In this review, we provide latest information on rapid and analytical methods for the detection and identification of Lm in foods. An emphasis is also given on techniques for subtyping of Lm strains, which are essential to determine evolutionary relationships between different strains and to track the source of food contamination. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first review paper to compile the most recent insights for testing presence of Lm in foods.

PRODUCTION OF BIODEGRADABLE PLASTIC FILM FROM POTATO AND SAGO STARCH

Dr. Abhishek Kumar Singh — 2025-01-27

The increasing focus on biodegradable plastic is attributed to their non-hazardous characteristics, distinguishing them from synthetic plastics. The present work focuses on the development of potato and sago starch-based bioplastic film with sorbitol and glycerol as plasticizer glycerol as plasticizers, along with the incorporation of acetic acid and sodium bicarbonate as an antimicrobial agent. In this study, a method was employed involving the mixing of 10 grams each of potato starch and sago starch with varying concentrations of plasticizers (10%, 20%, 30% sorbitol and 20%, 30%, 40% glycerol), along with 10%, 20%, 30% acetic acid and 5%, 10%, 15% sodium bicarbonate relative to the total starch amount. The mixture was then heated with stirring. The resulting products underwent characterization through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), chemical resistance testing, swelling testing, water solubility testing, solubility testing in chemical solvents, biodegradability testing, and mechanical analysis. The outcomes revealed that the highest tensile strength, reaching 5.81 MPa, was achieved with a combination of 6 mL acetic acid, 6g sorbitol, and 8 mL glycerol. FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the formation of starch bioplastics by identifying functional groups O–H, C–H, and C=O. Potato and sago starch-based bioplastics were found to degrade effectively when buried in soil. Overall, this study underscores the significant potential of the potato and sago starch mixture in bioplastic production, highlighting its favorable miscibility and compatibility.

ASSOCIATION ANALYSIS OF IGF-1 AND GH GENE SNPs WITH GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT PERFORMANCE IN SHEEP

Shuaitong Li — 2024-12-04

IGF-1 and GH genes have been proven to be important genes that affect animal growth and development. The purpose of this experiment was to analyse the effect of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of sheep IGF-1 and GH genes on their growth and development performance. The results showed that a SNP site T5299C was detected in the IGF-1 gene, while two SNP sites C408G and T364C were detected in the GH gene. At the T5299C site, the CC genotype in the Charolais ewes, rams, and ram lambs, as well as the TT genotype in the Charolais ewe lambs and the CT genotype in the Australian White rams were dominant genotypes. At the C408G site, the CG genotype in the Charolais ewes and ram lambs, CC genotype in the Charolais rams and Australian White rams, and GG genotype in the Charolais ewe lambs were dominant genotypes. At the T364C site, the CT genotype in the Charolais ewes, ram lambs, and Australian White rams, CC genotype in the Charolais ewe lambs, and TT genotype in the Charolais rams were dominant genotypes. And we found the dominant haplotype combinations of each breed of sheep through the haplotype combinations of different loci. This provides a certain reference for future research on the influence of IGF-1 and GH genes on the growth and development performance of sheep.

IN VITRO EVALUATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL, ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND CYTOTOXIC PROPERTY AGAINST HEPG2 CELL LINE OF ESSENTIAL OIL EXTRACTED FROM THYMUS VULGARIS LEAVES

Kaviranjana Kathirvel — 2025-01-27

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, is being used as a versatile herb with both culinary and medicinal applications. It also incorporated into skincare and haircare products due to its antimicrobial and soothing properties. Recent studies highlighted its potential therapeutic benefits. Thyme essential oil was extracted via the hydro-distillation method. Gas chromatography (GC-MS) analysis revealed bioactive substances found in the essential oil. Additionally, leaf extracts were evaluated for various biological functions, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Total phenol content was examined through the Folin-Ciocalteau's method, and Antioxidant activity was measured through DPPH assay. Antimicrobial activity against various bacterial and fungal pathogens was tested using the disc diffusion method. Furthermore, cytotoxicity activity was evaluated by assessing the cell viability of the HEPG2 cell line. These findings underscored the potential of thyme as a provider of therapeutically useful bioactive properties.

the THE MOLECULAR EFFECTS OF BIOSYNTHESIZED COLICIN ON PATHOGENIC BACTERIA

Nadhim Mushtaq Hashim Al-Bderee — 2025-01-27

Infectious diseases caused by pathogenic bacteria are recognized worldwide as a significant and pressing concern for human health. The misuse and overuse of antibiotics have further exacerbated the issue by giving rise to the emergence of multidrug-resistant bacteria, rendering infections caused by these strains virtually untreatable. The objective of the study was to assess colicin's capability to prevent the growth of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogenic bacteria. Forty E. coli samples were obtained and subjected to diagnostic and confirmatory tests to verify their purity and ability to produce colicin. Isolates producing colicin were identified using the agar plate diffusion method. Colicin was subsequently isolated, purified, and its approximate molecular weight was determined. The activity of colicin was then assessed on 10 antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria, resulting in different inhibition rates. The gene expression of blaCTX and blaSHV genes was determined using RT-qPCR analysis, revealing significant effects on the gene expression level. The responses of blaCTX and blaSHV genes to colicin treatment were found to be significant. The impact of colicin varied among pathogenic bacterial isolates, with some showing a strong response to colicin treatment, while others did not exhibit significant differences after treatment. In summary, the findings of this study suggested that the colicin protein in E. coli has the potential to be an alternative to traditional antibiotics for addressing antibiotic-resistant pathogenic bacteria.

IMPACT OF ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS ON THE MITOCHONDRIAL-DEPENDENT APOPTOTIC PATHWAY IN NICKEL-INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY IN RATS

Abdelkarim Benkhedir — 2024-12-02

Nickel and its compounds are common environmental pollutants that may induce hepatotoxicity. Oxidation stress has been proposed as a possible mechanism implicated in this toxicity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of Rosmarinus officinalis (RO) extract against NiCl₂-induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis. To achieve this objective, 24 male rats were divided into four groups, each containing six rats. The first group was used as a control, the second was treated with RO extract (RO-E), the third was treated with NiCL₂(10 mg/kg b.w.), and the fourth group was pre-treated with RO-E and then re-treated with NiCl₂ after 2 hours for 28 days. Oral administration of NiCl₂ disrupts the redox state of liver tissue through the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), depletion of glutathione (GSH), breakdown of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), and release of cytochrome c. This leads to the activation of the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. The activity of proteins from the BcL-2 family can be modulated by inhibiting the expression of the anti-apoptotic protein BcL-2 and increasing the expression of the pro-apoptotic proteins Bax and Bad. This leads to an increase in the activity of caspase-3 and 9, and alters the membrane integrity of hepatocytes, resulting in histohepatic changes and an increase in AST, ALT and LDH levels. Pre-treatment with Rosmarinus officinalis extract can ameliorate oxidative hepatotoxicity and NiCl₂-induced apoptosis due to its antioxidant capacity. These findings suggest that Rosmarinus officinalis has the potential to protect liver tissue and could be used as a preventive agent against oxidative stress and NiCl₂-induced apoptosis.

EVALUATION OF ANTICANCER ACTIVITY OF CINNAMOMUM ZEYLANICUM AGAINST BLOOD CANCER CELL LINE

Sayali Hatte — 2025-01-16

Worldwide, leukemia is a major health concern. It ranks as one of the prevalent forms of cancer, particularly among children and adults. It affects individual of all age. The prevalence of leukemia varies geographically, with higher rates reported in developed countries where diagnostic capabilities and healthcare infrastructure are more advanced. The goal of present study was to calculate the antioxidant activity. The antiangiogenic activity was also performed using chick chorioallantoic membrane assay. Further, the decoction was evaluated against the leukemia cancer cell line K-562 for anti-cancer activity. The EC₅₀ of DPPH (162.77±6.59%, p≤0.0001) and FRAP (133.65±6.00 mg) activity for Cinnamomum zeylanicum decoction was found to be higher as compared to standard (51.31±1.29% and 115.81±7.6 mg, respectively). The total phenol and flavonoid content of Cinnamomum zeylanicum decoction were 49.66±1.23 mg/GAE/100g and 12.67±0.03 mg/ RTE/ 100g, respectively. In the CAM assay, Cinnamomum zeylanicum decoction treatment shows less veins formation as compare to negative control. The Cinnamomum zeylanicum decoction treated group showed decrease in hemoglobin content than both the positive and negative controls. The decoction showed major anticancer activity against k 562 in contrast with Adriyamycin, a standard drug. The IC50 value observed for ADR was similar to cinnamon which is standard anti-cancer drug. Cinnamon was discovered to be the most potent cytotoxic agent, inhibiting K-562 cell proliferation by more than 50% at concentrations. Based on the study, we recommended the use of Cinnamomum zeylanicum as a possible remedy and preventative measure for cancer.

MICROBIOLOGICAL AND NUTRITIONAL ASPECTS OF BLACK SOLDIER FLY (HERMETIA ILLUCENS) LARVAE AFTER BIOCONVERSION OF DIFFERENT FOOD WASTES

Zuzana Maskova — 2025-01-22

Black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), Hermetia illucens, have shown remarkable potential for food waste bioconversion, contributing to sustainability and waste management efforts. This study evaluated the effects of different food waste compositions (three types of diets: egg pasta in milk, rice with peas, and couscous mixture with egg, spinach, and carrot peels) and their microbial quality (fresh vs. spoiled) on BSFL bioconversion efficiency, microbiology, and nutritional value. Microbiological analyzes of the larvae were performed using the plate dilution method and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometer. All test variants spotted successful bioconversion. However, bioconversion efficiency (BE) and waste reduction rate (WR) were highest for couscous-based diets, with fresh couscous yielding a highest BE of 27.41% and WR of 81.34%. Nutritionally, larvae reared on mixture of couscous, egg, spinach, and carrot peels displayed the highest protein content (up to 35.5%). Microbial analysis indicated increased microbial counts, particularly Enterobacteriaceae and spore-forming bacteria, in larvae fed spoiled diets. Potentially pathogenic microorganisms such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, and Morganella morganii were detected, underscoring the need for microbial safety measures in BSFL-based applications. This study highlights the critical role of feed composition and quality in determining the efficiency and safety of BSFL bioconversion, providing valuable insights for optimizing their use in sustainable food waste management and as a resource in feed or food production.

ENHANCING LACCASE ENZYME PRODUCTION BY CO-CULTURE OF ENDOPHYTIC FUNGI WITH POTENTIAL APPLICATION IN BIOREMEDIATION OF DYES

Abeer Abd El Aty — 2025-01-27

In the search for safe and economical methods for laccase enzyme production with high levels, the co-cultivation of two endophytic fungi Alternaria tenuissima MG975633 and Alternaria arborescens MK629314 was examined. In-vitro antagonistic characteristics indicated the ability of both Alternaria spp. to grow together without affecting each other. Maximum laccase production obtained from the co-culture fermentation reached 49.5 U.ml^-1using rice bran medium under shaking conditions, that increased about 2.44-fold than the synthetic medium (20.31 U.ml^-1), and increased 1.50 & 1.21-folds compared to Alternaria tenuissima MG975633 and Alternaria arborescens MK629314 monocultures, respectively after incubation for 12 days. The fungal isolates exhibited degradative and decolourization potential against the different dyes tested at varying degree. On solid medium the highest decolorization zones were obtained by A. arborescens MK629314 for Trepan blue (90 mm), followed by Brilliant green (85 mm), Rimazol brilliant blue R and Methyl red (80mm). Application of the crude laccase enzyme exhibited the highest decolorization rate in Rimazol brilliant blue R (15.57%) and Trepan blue (13.71%), followed by Methyl red (11.12) and Congo red (8.83%). The potential performance of A. tenuissima MG975633 and A. arborescens MK629314 in improving laccase production and biodegradation of different textile dyes encourage the use of laccase based production for environmental decontamination in future.

DEVELOPMENT OF EDIBLE FILMS CONTAINING ARONIA (Aronia melanocarpa) AND PROBIOTIC

Ali SAGLAM — 2025-01-27

The application of herbal extracts and probiotics to edible films has the potential to improve food safety. This study aims to investigate the usage possibility of food packaging film prepared by combining aronia fruit ethanol extract (AEE) and probiotic candidate strain Limosilactobacillus fermentum MA-7 in the food industry. Firstly, the antimicrobial activity of AEE was determined. The extract showed antimicrobial activities against all tested microorganisms except Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 7644. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal or fungicidal (MBC or MFC) concentration values of the extract against test microorganisms were determined between 12.5 mg/mL and 50 mg/mL. Secondly, inhibitory activity of AEE on lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains from human milk was determined. Then, the antimicrobial activity of the films obtained by adding AEE (10%) or L. fermentum MA-7 separately or together was determined. The results showed that the AEE and probiotic mixture showed a synergistic effect and the highest antimicrobial activity was determined to be in the Gum-Extract-Probiotic (GEP) group. The thickness, density, moisture content, transparency, swelling degree, water solubility and light transmittance of the developed edible film were also determined. The mechanical properties of the films have improved the quality in food applications and prevented food spoilage. The GEP group extended the shelf life of its fruits by reducing mass loss by 35.88% at +4°C and 40.96% at +25°C compared to the control. The developed film can be used as bioactive antimicrobial food packaging as an alternative to synthetic packaging in the food industry.

SCREENING AND COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PESTICIDE – MICROBE DYNAMICS FROM PHYLLOSPHERE OF OKRA AND EGGPLANT

Shifa Chaudhary — 2024-12-02

Agroecosystems and phyllosphere microbiomes can be the potential indicators of differential segregation expected for organic and pesticide-sprayed fields. The pesticide interaction with the niche phyllosphere microbiota would serve to convey the characteristic role of the phyllosphere in biomass changes, degradation profiling, and approximation of the synthetic residues contributing towards further complexation with soil microbiome. We present the effects of differential spraying of Chlorpyrifos and Cypermethrin pesticides on the phyllosphere of Okra and Eggplant compared with control plants. Highly sensitive and discrete analysis using GC-MS and microbial enrichment followed by 16s RNA identification were conducted to report the overall biochemical and molecular quantifications on the selected plants. GC-MS studies indicate the rate at which pesticides dissipate from plants over time. In our study, dissipation was followed for 10 and 16 days, where chlorpyrifos disappeared by 95% after 16 days in okra plants, while it disappeared by 92% after 10 days in eggplants. Similarly, after 16 days, cypermethrin vanished completely from okra and it had reduced by 89% after 10 days from eggplant. The prolonged periods of pesticide dissipation indicating danger to both humans and animals led researchers to investigate the role of bacteria from polluted surfaces in accelerating the breakdown of pesticides as these are difficult to break down naturally. Scientific studies evidently configure that in contrast to plants not exposed to pesticides, bacterial proliferation on plants exposed to pesticides is enhanced. Our study design implies pesticide – microbe dynamics with survival strategies employing pesticides for their growth on plant phyllosphere.

EFFECTIVELY EXPLOIT SPECIALTIES OF THE CENTRAL HIGHLANDS REGION OF VIETNAM AND POTENTIAL UTILIZE BY-PRODUCTS TO CREATE VALUE-ADDED PRODUCTS

Nguyen Minh Thuy — 2024-12-02

The Central Highlands is a key agricultural production region of Vietnam with many high-value export agricultural products such as coffee, pepper, rubber, and valuable fruits such as avocado, durian, and passion fruit, and some other agricultural products. However, the commercial value of edible agricultural products for human consumption is limited due to lack of attention to storage and processing conditions. Therefore, applying and investing in advanced preservation and processing techniques suitable for available raw materials in the Central Highlands is a highly feasible activity. Recent studies from international and domestic researchers showed various application could apply, which were presented in this paper including irradiation technology, steam/hot water treatment technology, zeolite technology, cold/cold storage technology combined with controlled atmosphere storage. When these activities are successful, it would reduce post-harvest loss of agricultural products, meeting the demand for food for the whole country and for export. For high nutritional value raw materials, it is necessary to invest more in potential preservation, processing, and utilization of waste by-products to increase diversity, improve quality, and ensure food hygiene and safety value-added products. The utilization of waste from agricultural product also was well-known that suitable for Sustainable Development Goals of United Nations. The quality of input materials and output products must be strictly controlled when applying advanced technology. This activity was controlled, that would ensure the safety of processed products, creating good conditions for the national and global agricultural value chain. Thanks to that, effectively taking advantage of the region's specialties and food processing is no longer a weakness of Central Highlands agricultural products in Vietnam, making an important contribution to the socio-economic development and stability of the region and the whole country.

ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITY, POLYPHENOL, AND ANTHOCYANIN CONTENT OF BLACK CHOKEBERRY (ARONIA MELANOCARPA L.)

Judita Lidikova — 2025-01-21

Black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) attracts scientific interest due to its high content of bioactive compounds with beneficial effects on human health. Presented work aimed to determine the total polyphenol content (TPC), total anthocyanin content (TAC), and antioxidant activity by methods ABTS, DPPH, FRAP of black chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) variety Nero, from 4 localities (Holovousy, Bašnice, Choteč, Veľký Lapáš), fresh, and conserved (with addition of sucrose and subsequent freezing for 3 months). TPC determined by spectrophotometry using the Folin-Ciocalteau reagent were in the range 8646-13213 mg GAE.kg^-1 (fresh chokeberry) and 5068-7047 mg GAE.kg^-1 (preserved chokeberry). The TAC values, determined spectrophotometrically by lowering the pH of the extract, were in the range 489-875 mg.kg^-1 (fresh chokeberry) and 620-1026 mg.kg^-1 (preserved chokeberry). The AA values (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP) were 2.35-2.97; 1.79-2.18; 2.01-2.67 mmol TE.kg^-1 (fresh chokeberry) and 2.79-3.45; 2.15-2.57; 2.42-2.60 mmol TE.kg^-1 (preserved chokeberry). The results obtained show that the location of cultivation has a significant influence on the chemical parameters monitored. The addition of sucrose and freezing resulted in lower TPC and higher TAC in all samples, while it had no clear effect on the AA levels determined by all three methods.

ANALYSIS OF RISK ELEMENTS IN HERBAL TEA SAMPLES

Melánia Feszterová — 2025-01-10

Tea is one of the most popular drinks in the world. Other infusions and decoctions of various plant herbs are also known under this name. We refer to these infusions as herbal teas. Herbal teas are prepared mainly for the active substances contained in the given herb. They have curative or preventive effects. It is often a mixture of various meadow and forest herbs (flowers, leaves), but there are also herbal teas using the effects of only one plant. Many sources point to the possible presence of risk elements in herbal teas. These are risk elements that, at certain concentrations, have a harmful effect on human health and other biotic components of the ecosystem. Due to the development of industry, large amounts of these risk elements entered the biosphere. However, the problem is that they mainly get into the soil and water. The work describes the content of risk elements (copper, lead, nickel, arsenic) in herbal materials - herbal teas - alchemilla vulgaris (Alchemilla vulgaris), turnip (Agrimonia eupatoria), horsetail (Equisetum arvense), stinging nettle (Urtica dioica L.), chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla), peppermint (Mentha piperita). Three methods were used for the analysis of herbal materials: method I (based on the action of acid for 24 hours), method II (acid treatment for 30 minutes at 90 °C) and method III (acid treatment for 30 minutes at room temperature). Risk elements in individual herbal tea samples were measured using an atomic absorption spectrometer. The impact and importance on human health was also evaluated. The mean of risk elements concentration, using methods, data distribution, and samples, were applied to generate data from the articles. The results indicated that all commonly consumed herbal teas included risk elements.

FRYING STABILITY ASSESSMENT OF PALM OLEIN BLENDS OF SUNFLOWER AND SOYBEAN OILS HAVING BALANCED FATTY ACID PROFILE

Shiva Shanker Kaki — 2025-01-27

Edible oil blends prepared from palm olein and sunflower/soybean oils (6:4 w/w) with desired fatty acid profile as per American Heart Association (AHA) recommended SFA:MUFA:PUFA ratio of 1:1:1 were used for frying of food products to assess their frying stability against native oils. Frying was carried out with two popular snacks namely, poori and French fries with low and higher moisture content respectively. The oil retention/absorption was more in the snack with high moisture content compared to the snack with low moisture. Physico-chemical parameters like acid value, peroxide value and total polar matter were analyzed for the fried oil samples. The analysis revealed that oxidation occurred more rapidly compared to hydrolysis during deep-fat frying and that blending with palm olein attributed higher stability to oils which were rich in unsaturated fatty acids. The total polar matter of the fried oils was found to be below 25% under the present frying conditions.

FORMULATION OF PROTEIN & IRON-RICH CRACKERS USING BIOWASTE AND THE STUDY OF IRON BIO-ACCESSIBITLITY IN THE SNACK

Pallavi R — 2024-12-04

Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) and anemia are the major health and nutritional problems in India. Not only they are an important cause of childhood morbidity and mortality but also leads to permanent impairment of the physical and mental growth of those who survive. A considerable amount of biowaste is generated while processing foods in the form of peel, seed and inedible pulp material, which can be re-used for edible purposes after appropriate processing because of the nutrient density. Two variations of crackers were developed using sattu flour & soy flour along with other ingredients (seeds, vegetable peels). Nutritional composition was analysed, Moisture sorption isotherm, iron bioaccesibility, organoleptic evaluation (9 point hedonic scale) was studied. The results of the present study demonstrated that the protein content of the crackers ranged from 12.65 to 27.02%, the total dietary fibre ranged from 32.56 to 46.93%, the iron content was high among the developed crackers 7.08±0.56 and 6.06±0.66mg/100g compare to the control crackers. Overall, both the products developed (Sattu & Soy crackers) had better acceptability compared to control crackers. The in-vitro iron bioaccessibility of sattu crackers and soy crackers was 6.27% and 6.35% respectively. The products developed were good sources of protein and iron. Therefore the waste part of fruits and vegetables, having high iron content, can be used as a natural source to improve the iron bioaccessibility by the nutraceutical industries, so this will not only act as value-added but also helps in reducing environmental problems.

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).

AMINO ACID PROFILE AND EFFECT OF BAKING AND FROZEN STORAGE ON THE FORMATION OF BIOGENIC AMINES IN THE MEAT OF COMMON CARP (CYPRINUS CARPIO)

Jozef Golian — 2025-01-21

This study examines the amino acid composition and biogenic amine formation in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) meat subjected to baking and frozen storage for one and three months. Amino acids were analyzed using cation-exchanged liquid chromatography in hydrolysates, while biogenic amines were determined via reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography with pre-column derivatization using dansyl chloride. The analysis focused on 15 amino acids, with glutamic acid being the most abundant and tyrosine the least present in both fresh and baked samples. The total amino acid content decreased from 364.5 g/kg DW in fresh carp meat to 314.2 g/kg DW in baked samples.

Biogenic amines, organic compounds formed through amino acid breakdown, were also evaluated due to their implications for food quality and consumer health. Four biogenic amines—2-phenylethylamine, putrescine, spermidine, and spermine—were detected. Their levels increased in the following order: fresh meat < frozen meat (1 month) < frozen meat (3 months) < baked meat. Initial concentrations of putrescine (2.80 mg/kg DW) and spermidine (15.23 mg/kg DW) in fresh carp meat rose significantly after freezing and baking, with spermine also detected after one month of storage. Tyramine levels increased significantly in baked samples. Statistical analysis using Tukey’s test showed significant differences (p<0.05) among the variables under described experimental conditions, indicating the need for further studies to monitor biogenic amine trends in processed freshwater fish products.

PRODUCTION OF LACTIC ACID FROM BREWER’S SPENT GRAIN BY USING DIFFERENT NITROGEN SOURCES AND DIFFERENT LACTOBACILLUS PENTOSUS STRAINS

Sakine Ayhan — 2024-12-04

Brewer's spent grain (BSG), which is released as a by-product from brewing process, has attracted the attention of scientific research as a low-cost raw material for biotechnological applications. In this study, BSG was used as fermentation medium for production of lactic acid by using different Lb. pentosus strains (Lactobacillus pentosus O157, Lactobacillus pentosus O18, Lactobacillus pentosus O19). Initially, BSG was diluted with 1.25% of H₂SO₄, a solid/liquid ratio (1:8 g/g) for hydrolysis of the medium containing hemicellulose sugars. Lactic acid production conditions by using Lactobacillus pentosus strains were optimized as: pH 6.0, 96 hours at 31°C and 20.0 % of xylose concentration. The maximum amount and yield for lactic acid (22.4 g/L; 13.80 %) was produced with a strain of Lactobacillus pentosus O18, respectively. In the second part of the study, different nitrogen sources (yeast extract, corn steep water, peptone, urea and tryptone) were used for production of lactic acid by using Lactobacillus pentosus O18 strain. In order to meet the complex organic matter needs of lactic acid bacteria, different nitrogen sources were calculated on the basis of equivalent nitrogen (10 g/L of yeast extract) amount. Among used sources the highest yield was obtained with yeast extract followed by peptone.

OPTIMIZATION OF COLD PLASMA TREATMENT FOR MICROBIAL DECONTAMINATION IN LICORICE (GLYCYRRHIZA GLABRA L.) AS A MEDICINAL PLANT

Peyman Yari — 2025-01-22

The cold plasma treatment is a novel, non-thermal, and environmentally safe technique to reduce the microbial population of pathogenic microorganisms in various food packaging materials and agriculture products. This research investigated the effect of cold plasma treatment on the microbial population of licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.). Samples of licorice root were treated with cold plasma in different conditions. The effect of main variables such as energy generator, power, exposure time, pressure, temperature, injected gas, frequency, and the amount of injected gas was optimized. Also, the effect of cold plasma on the glycyrrhizic acid in samples at the highest cold plasma level was studied. The results illustrated that cold plasma technology reduced the undesirable biological contamination in the treated samples. In the current study, the lowest microbial population in treated samples was shown in conditions with cold-vacuumed plasma systems, pressure at 10^-2TORR, injected gas with oxygen and argon (60 L/min), radio frequency energy (RF) with a frequency of 13.56 MHz, exposure time of 3 min, the temperature at 30^oC, and power of 100w. This treatment had high efficiency in microbial population reduction and growth inhibition, with 69.6% and 97.38%, respectively. Also, the results of HPLC methods demonstrated that there were not any significant differences between the glycyrrhizic acid of the control sample and cold-plasma-treated samples. The results of this study indicate that cold plasma technology can be used as an important antibacterial method for medicinal plants to reduce microbial population and minimize food quality losses.

TECHNOLOGICAL, PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF MALT WORT ENRICHED WITH COCOA SHELLS

Dušan Straka — 2025-01-22

This article discusses the production of malt wort enriched with cocoa bean shells, a by-product of chocolate production, and the subsequent evaluation of its technological, physicochemical, and antioxidant properties. Cocoa bean shells contain dietary fiber and phenols, which are useful for producing low-calorie dietary and fiber-rich products. Addition of 2%, 4%, 6%, 8%, 10%, and 20% cocoa bean shell powder was added to milling malt to prepare the malt wort. A control variant without addition was also prepared to compare the results. The color, density, viscosity, antioxidant activity, total polyphenol content, and nitrogen/protein content of the wort were analyzed. The results showed that the malt wort enriched with cocoa bean shell had higher antioxidant activity and total polyphenol content than the control variant without significant impact on protein content. However, deterioration of quality parameters of the wort as density and viscosity was recorded too. The study provides insights into the potential use of cocoa bean shells as a valuable ingredient in the beverages industry.

CASCARA, THE UNUSUAL ANTIOXIDANT OPTION FOR MEAT INDUSTRY

Marek Bobko — 2025-01-21

The modern-day meat industry is facing increased customer demand to abandon synthetic additives and move towards healthier natural options. Multiple fruits, vegetables, and spices were recently evaluated for their potential use in the meat industry. We also must consider the economic side; therefore, food scientists have become interested in polyphenol-rich co-products. Our study was focused on enhancing the antioxidant properties of a popular meat product – pork sausage with cascara extract at 5 mL/kg and powder at 5 g/kg. As cascara polyphenols and antioxidant capacity are highly variable depending on multiple factors, we evaluated total polyphenolic content and total antioxidant capacity at 21.26 ± 0.17 g GAE/kg and 37.65 ± 1.84%, respectively. During our experiment, we observed that cascara powder addition significantly reduced malondialdehyde production (by approx. 30%) compared to negative control. Even though cascara powder caused the difference in the pH values of sausage samples, the sensory panel did not negatively reflect this fact during the sensory evaluation. Based on our results, we believe cascara addition in powdered form presents a natural antioxidant option with high potential to be used in the meat industry.

INTEGRATIVE INVESTIGATION OF MANILKARA KAUKI PHYTOEXTRACT: ELUCIDATING MULTIFACETED ANTINEOPLASTIC MECHANISMS FROM CELLULAR VIABILITY MODULATION TO IN VIVO TUMOR REGRESSION

Medha Mohan Hegde — 2025-01-27

Cancer, a complex and profound ailment, needs new treatment ideas to address its pervasive worldwide implications. Within this context, Manilkara kauki, a relatively unexplored tropical botanical plant, emerges as a reservoir of significant potential due to its inherent bioactive properties. Its traditional uses and preliminary investigations suggest it might open up a new path in cancer treatment. The present study investigated the promising antitumor activity of the ethanolic extract of Manilkara kauki (EEMK) by undertaking an integrated investigation via in vitro and in vivo assessments. The cytotoxic effect of EEMK was meticulously evaluated by 2 discrete assays, namely Trypan Blue and MTT at doses of 50,100,200,400 and 800 µg/ml, and apoptosis induction on EAC cells was studied by DAPI staining at dose IC50 value ~265 µg/ml. Further antitumor activity was tested at 200 and 400 mg/kg in Erlich ascites carcinoma-bearing mice. The outcomes from both cytotoxic assays consistently revealed a concentration-dependent decline in cell viability, as discerned from IC50 values ~265 µg/ml and ~276 µg/ml respectively. DAPI staining confirmed the apoptosis induction in EAC cells. Transitioning to an in vivo milieu, EEMK demonstrated pronounced antitumor efficacy in mice bearing experimentally induced tumors by substantial reductions in tumor volume, and tumor weight, alongside a commendable extension in mean survival time and bringing back the hematological parameters to normal. Furthermore, EEMK exhibited hepatoprotective attributes, effectively mitigating SGPT and SGOT levels. These findings serve as a pivotal cornerstone in unraveling the multifaceted mechanisms underlying EEMK's interventions within cancer management.

INSILICO DOCKING STUDIES OF VARIOUS COMPOUNDS OF Euphorbia hirta L., PLANT ON FERRITIN, OXYHEMOGLOBIN, HEPCIDIN, AND TRANSFERRIN RECEPTORS

C Mohammed Yaseen — 2025-01-27

Anemia is characterized as having a lower hemoglobin (Hb) level than normal. Iron supplements are currently prescribed as a medicine for treating anemia. As iron supplements have more side effects such as CNS toxicity and cancer herbal medications are majorly preferred for the treatment of the disease. Euphorbia hirta L., is a plant that is majorly available worldwide and helps treat various diseases. The current research aimed to study the docking analysis of various compounds of the plant Euphorbia hirta L., on receptors such as Ferritin, Oxyhemoglobin, Transferrin, and Hepcidin and to evaluate the results obtained using PyRx software. Alongside docking, Toxicity and ADME analysis is done using Protox 2 and the Swiss ADME website. The ADME results showed that except for camphol, and phenylhydrazine there is no BBB penetration for any compound. The docking result showed that on receptor Ferritin, camphol has the highest binding score of -4.6. For protein Oxyhemoglobin, phenylhydrazine has the highest score of -5.3. For protein Hepcidin -4.7 is the highest score for phenylhydrazine and citronellol. For protein transferrin, citronellol has the highest score of -4.4. It is hypothesized from the current docking research that the chemical compounds of the Euphorbia hirta L., plant have an anti-anemic effect on various individuals and it can also be used in designing new drugs used for anemic therapy.