In this study,Opuntia ficus-indica cladode powder(OFIC),locally sourced from Rabta in Tunis,was utilized as a novel,eco-friendly adsorbent in both raw and iron(III)chloride-modified forms.The presence of iron in the m...In this study,Opuntia ficus-indica cladode powder(OFIC),locally sourced from Rabta in Tunis,was utilized as a novel,eco-friendly adsorbent in both raw and iron(III)chloride-modified forms.The presence of iron in the modified material was confirmed by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy(XRF).The neat and modified biomass were characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FTIR),thermogravimetric analysis(TGA)and scanning electron microscopy(SEM),and their usefulness as adsorbent for cationic Neutral Red(NR)and anionic Congo Red(CR)dyes were explored under batch conditions.Equilibrium studies revealed that the iron-modified Fe(OH)_(x)@Cellulose adsorbent exhibited superior adsorption capabilities for both dyes compared to the raw material.Moreover,CR dye was more effectively adsorbed by Fe(OH)_(x)@Cellulose than NR.The adsorption isotherms for both dyes were fitted.The results demonstrated that the adsorption of both NR and CR dyes onto the biosorbent Fe(OH)_(x)@Cellulose was closely followed by the Langmuir model,with R^(2) values of 0.980 and 0.973 for NR and CR,respectively,and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model better depicted the adsorption kinetic.Thermodynamic analysis revealed a negative enthalpy value(−67.15 kJ/mol)forNR adsorption,suggesting an exothermic process,while a positive enthalpy value(3.99 kJ/mol)was observed for CR adsorption,indicating an endothermic process.展开更多
Objective:To extract,quantify,and evaluate the phenolic content in Opuntia ficus-indica skin for their antioxidant capacity with three different methods(ABTS,DPPH,and lipid oxidation)and to optimize the extraction con...Objective:To extract,quantify,and evaluate the phenolic content in Opuntia ficus-indica skin for their antioxidant capacity with three different methods(ABTS,DPPH,and lipid oxidation)and to optimize the extraction conditions[time,temperature and ethanol concentration)in a reflux system.Methods:The extraction process was done using a reflux system.A San CristobalⅡexperimental design with three variables and three levels was used.The variables evaluated were time of extraction(h),concentration of ethanol(%,v/v)and temperature(°C).The extraction process was optimized using a response surface methodology.Results:It was observed that at higher temperature more phenolic compounds were extracted,but the antioxidant capacity was decreased.The optimum conditions for phenolic compounds extraction and antioxidant capacity mixing the three methods were as Follows:45%of ethanol,80℃and 2 hours of extraction.Values obtained in our results are little higher that other previously reported.Conclusions:It can he concluded the by-products of Opuntia ficus-indica represent a good source of natural antioxidants with possible applications in food,cosmetics or drugs industries.展开更多
Objective: To investigate the diuretic, hypotensive and renal effect of Opuntia ficusindica in two different species in oral and intravenous administration.Methods: Diuretic activity was evaluated in rats with the pla...Objective: To investigate the diuretic, hypotensive and renal effect of Opuntia ficusindica in two different species in oral and intravenous administration.Methods: Diuretic activity was evaluated in rats with the plant cladode gel and aqueous extract administrated orally, and was evaluated in rabbits with plant extract administered intravenously. Single and repeated doses of cladode gel or aqueous extract of cladode were tested. Urine volume and blood and urine creatinine, sodium and potassium were measured, and creatinine clearance was calculated. The hypotensive effect of lyophilized extract of cladode was evaluated in rabbits. Two polyethylene PE50 catheters were used:one in the jugular vein for the infusion of the plant extract and the other in the carotid for the evaluation of the arterial pressure.Results: The cladode gel or aqueous extract increased urine volume, creatinine clearance and urinary excretion of sodium and potassium without significant effect on serum creatinine or blood urea. Furosemide, gel and aqueous extract of cladode insignificantly lowered plasma potassium in rats. Intravenous administration of the lyophilized extract caused a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure in rabbits with a significant increase in urine volume and urine sodium and potassium; the effect was dose dependent.Intravenous administration of lyophilized extract did not affect plasma sodium or potassium.Conclusions: Gel and aqueous extract of Opuntia ficus-indica cladode have a significant diuretic effect on rats, and the lyophilized extract has a diuretic and hypotensive effect on normotensive rabbits without deterioration in renal function test. Additional studies on active ingredients are essential to pave the way for clinical studies on diuretic and hypotensive effect of the plant.展开更多
Endomycorrhizal fungi play an important role in the survival of plants on poor soils. Planting seeds into lunar soil at a lunar colony will be a challenge for seeds of any plant. The seeds will need a special microbi...Endomycorrhizal fungi play an important role in the survival of plants on poor soils. Planting seeds into lunar soil at a lunar colony will be a challenge for seeds of any plant. The seeds will need a special microbial “tool kit” that will help them germinate and the young seedlings establish themselves. In this study, seeds of the prickly pear cactus, Opuntia ficus-indica, were chosen to examine the presence of fungus spores in the soil, inside the seeds and after germination in the rhizosphere, roots and other tissues of the young seedlings. The nutrient poor lunar regolith simulant JSC-1A was used as autoclaved or untreated growth medium. The mycorrhizal fungus Trichoderma viride was predominantly identified on the roots of new seedlings. This fungus also demonstrated the strongest effect on the germination rate of the seeds in comparison with other fungi isolated from the rhizosphere of Opuntia plants. T. viride was not detected within seeds and also not within seedlings, besides the root tips, whereas an arbuscular mycorrhizal Glomus species was seed-borne and present throughout most of the seedling. A close association between T. viride and a Glomus species associated with O. ficus-indica is demonstrated through light microscopic and electron microscopic images of the outside and inside root tips of the seedlings.展开更多
Objective:To examine the effect of fruit extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica on epinephrine-induced myocardial injury in rats.Methods:Rats were pre-treated with hydroalcoholic and anthocyanin-rich extracts(250,500,and 10...Objective:To examine the effect of fruit extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica on epinephrine-induced myocardial injury in rats.Methods:Rats were pre-treated with hydroalcoholic and anthocyanin-rich extracts(250,500,and 1000 mg/kg)orally for 16 days.Epinephrine(2 mg/kg)was injected subcutaneously on days 15 and 16.Then ECG,heart rate,RR interval,cardiac histopathology,and serum parameters of cardiac damage and oxidative stress were evaluated.Results:Pretreatment with the hydroalcoholic and anthocyanin-rich extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica at doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg reversed epinephrine-induced changes in ECG,heart rate,RR interval,and cardiac histopathology,and attenuated creatine phosphokinase-MB activity and malondialdehyde level.The extracts at all doses diminished heart weight,lactate dehydrogenase,and aspartate aminotransferase,and also elevated total antioxidant capacity.However,1000 mg/kg of the anthocyanin-rich extract was more effective than the hydroalcoholic extract.Conclusions:Supplementation with fruit extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica,especially anthocyanin-rich extract,could protect against epinephrine-induced cardiac injury in rats by alleviating electrocardiographic,biochemical,histopathological,and oxidative stress parameters,and may be used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.展开更多
Indicaxanthin is a betalain that is abundant in Opuntia ficus-indica orange fruit and has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, very little is known about the neuroprotective potential of indicaxa...Indicaxanthin is a betalain that is abundant in Opuntia ficus-indica orange fruit and has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, very little is known about the neuroprotective potential of indicaxanthin. This study investigated the impact of indicaxanthin on neuronal damage and gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by a high-fat diet in mice. The mice were divided into three groups according to different diets: the negative control group was fed a standard diet;the high-fat diet group was fed a high-fat diet;and the high-fat diet + indicaxanthin group was fed a high-fat diet and received indicaxanthin orally(0.86 mg/kg per day) for 4 weeks. Brain apoptosis, redox status, inflammation, and the gut microbiota composition were compared among the different animal groups. The results demonstrated that indicaxanthin treatment reduced neuronal apoptosis by downregulating the expression of proapoptotic genes and increasing the expression of antiapoptotic genes. Indicaxanthin also markedly decreased the expression of neuroinflammatory proteins and genes and inhibited high-fat diet–induced neuronal oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide levels. In addition, indicaxanthin treatment improved the microflora composition by increasing the abundance of healthy bacterial genera, known as producers of short-chain fatty acids(Lachnospiraceae, Alloprovetella, and Lactobacillus), and by reducing bacteria related to unhealthy profiles(Blautia, Faecalibaculum, Romboutsia and Bilophila). In conclusion, indicaxanthin has a positive effect on high-fat diet–induced neuronal damage and on the gut microbiota composition in obese mice.展开更多
This research aims to investigate the potential of a plant cellulose developed from Opuntia ficus-indica(OFI)cladode as a sustainable and renewable adsorbent for the removal of neutral red(NR),a cationic dye pollutant...This research aims to investigate the potential of a plant cellulose developed from Opuntia ficus-indica(OFI)cladode as a sustainable and renewable adsorbent for the removal of neutral red(NR),a cationic dye pollutant,from aqueous environments.Analysis of raw and treated OFI using X-ray diffraction(XRD),scanning electron microscopy(SEM),and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FTIR)demonstrated the successful extraction of type I_(β)cellulose.The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller(BET)analysis of the nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm revealed an improved specific surface area of 12.4 m^(2)/g after treatment.A systematic study of key parameters in batch adsorption experiments revealed removal rates greater than 90%at pH=3,an adsorbent dosage of 3 g/L and an initial dye concentration of 100 mg/L with equilibrium achieved within 2 h.The high correlation coefficient(R^(2)=0.98)obtained with the Langmuir isotherm model suggests that the adsorption behavior is consistent with monolayer surface adsorption.A maximum adsorption capacity(Qm)of 357.1 mg/g for neutral red dye was achieved,demonstrating a significant adsorption capacity relative to other materials such as chitosan-modified activated carbon and halloysite nanotubes.The pseudo-second-order model effectively described the kinetics of the adsorption phenomena.Thermodynamic analysis revealed an exothermic and spontaneous adsorption process,with an enthalpy change(ΔH)of−24.886 kJ/mol,indicative of predominantly physisorption-driven interactions.Moreover,the regenerated cellulose exhibited a retention of over 70%efficiency after multiple adsorption-desorption cycles,highlighting its potential as an excellent reusable adsorbent.The outcomes of this research present an environmentally conscious alternative to synthetic adsorbents,facilitating the effective NR dye removal through renewable and sustainable means.展开更多
Bananas are one of the most significant tropical fruits in the world market.However,their short postharvest life,particularly under retail conditions exceeding 20℃,results in significant economic losses and food wast...Bananas are one of the most significant tropical fruits in the world market.However,their short postharvest life,particularly under retail conditions exceeding 20℃,results in significant economic losses and food waste.This study investigated the efficacy of Opuntia ficus-indica mucilage(OFIM)as an edible coating to enhance the antioxidant defense mechanisms and prolong the postharvest life of bananas under simulated retail conditions(21±1℃,85±2%relative humidity).The experimental design included untreated(control)bananas and those coated with 1%,2%,or 3%OFIM.Key quality parameters,including water vapour permeability,reactive oxygen species(ROS;superoxide[O_(2)^(-)]and hydrogen peroxide[H_(2)O_(2)]),total phenolic content(TPC),total flavonoid content(TFC),ascorbic acid(AA),and antioxidant activities(DPPH,FRAP,ABTS^(+)),were assessed every three days for 18 days.Enzymatic activities of catalase(CAT),peroxidase(POD),superoxide dismutase(SOD),poly-phenol oxidase(PPO),and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase(PAL)were also monitored.The results demonstrated that OFIM coatings significantly extended banana shelf life by up to six days compared to untreated samples.Coated bananas exhibited enhanced antioxidant activities(DPPH,FRAP,ABTS^(+)),increased levels of TPC,TFC,and AA,and elevated enzymatic activities of CAT,SOD,and PAL.Additionally,PPO and POD activities were suppressed,reducing oxidative damage caused by ROS.Among the tested concentrations,3%OFIM exhibited superior preservation efficacy.These findings demonstrate that OFIM is a sustainable,cost-effective,and envi-ronmentally friendly solution for reducing postharvest losses and promoting food security in commercial banana markets.展开更多
The liver is one of the most important organs in the body,performing a fundamental role in the regulationof diverse processes,among which the metabolism,secretion,storage,and detoxification of endogenous and exogenous...The liver is one of the most important organs in the body,performing a fundamental role in the regulationof diverse processes,among which the metabolism,secretion,storage,and detoxification of endogenous and exogenous substances are prominent.Due to these functions,hepatic diseases continue to be among the main threats to public health,and they remain problems throughout the world.Despite enormous advances in modern medicine,there are no completely effective drugs that stimulate hepatic function,that offer complete protection of the organ,or that help to regenerate hepatic cells.Thus,it is necessary to identify pharmaceutical alternatives for the treatment of liver diseases,with the aim of these alternatives being more effective and less toxic.The use of some plants and the consumption of different fruits have played basic roles in human health care,and diverse scientific investigations have indicated that,in those plants and fruits so identified,their beneficial effects can be attributed to the presence of chemical compounds that are called phytochemicals.The present review had as its objective the collecting of data based on research conducted into some fruits(grapefruit,cranberries,and grapes)and plants[cactus pear(nopal)and cactus pear fruit,chamomile,silymarin,and spirulina],which are consumed frequently by humans and which have demonstrated hepatoprotective capacity,as well as an analysis of a resin(propolis)and some phytochemicals extracted from fruits,plants,yeasts,and algae,which have been evaluated in different models of hepatotoxicity.展开更多
Objective: To evaluate the in vitro antioxidant power of cactus pear seed oil [Opuntia ficusincida L. MILL.(CPSO)] and its protective effect against chemically induced diabetes mellitus in mice. Methods: The in vitro ...Objective: To evaluate the in vitro antioxidant power of cactus pear seed oil [Opuntia ficusincida L. MILL.(CPSO)] and its protective effect against chemically induced diabetes mellitus in mice. Methods: The in vitro antioxidant effect of CPSO was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH) scavenging assay. The preventive effect was conducted on Swiss albino mice treated with CPSO(2 m L/kg, per os), before and after a single intraperitoneal alloxan administration(100 mg/kg). Survival rate, body weight and fasting blood glucose were measured and histopathological analysis of pancreas was performed to evaluate alloxaninduced tissue injuries. Results: CPSO exhibited an antioxidant effect in DPPH scavenging assay. Moreover, the administration of CPSO(2 m L/kg) significantly attenuated alloxaninduced death and hyperglycemia(P<0.001) in treated mice. Morphometric study of pancreas revealed that CPSO significantly protected islets of langerhans against alloxan induced-tissue alterations. Conclusions: Based on theses results, CPSO can prevent alloxan-induced-diabetes by quenching free radicals produced by alloxan and inhibiting tissue injuries in pancreatic β-cells.展开更多
There is currently an increasing interest in obtaining bioactive components and natural pigments by novel extraction technologies.Betalains are plant-derived secondary metabolites with functional characteristics,suit-...There is currently an increasing interest in obtaining bioactive components and natural pigments by novel extraction technologies.Betalains are plant-derived secondary metabolites with functional characteristics,suit-able for use in food products.Conventional(CE)and ultrasound-assisted extraction(UAE)have been studied to extract betalain-rich bioactive compounds from prickly pear fruit(Opuntia ficus-indica L.).Box-Behnken design was used in response surface methodology to predict the optimal conditions for each parameter based on total betalain content(TBC),total phenolic content(TPC),and antioxidant capacity(TAC).In addition,the antimi-crobial activity of the extracts at optimal conditions was investigated against Salmonella enteritidis(ATCC 13076),Escherichia coli O157:H7,and Listeria monocytogenes.Results indicated that optimal conditions for CE were achieved at 2.05-h extraction time,50℃,80%ethanol concentration,and a 1/22.60 solid/solvent ratio,while for UAE,optimal conditions were at 30-min extraction time,49.99℃,40%ethanol concentration,and a 1/30 solid/solvent ratio.The predicted and experimental TBC values for CE were 419.449 and 418.829 mg betalain/kg dry matter,respectively,and for UAE,they were 472.883 and 471.818 mg betalain/kg dry matter.The ex-tracts demonstrated antimicrobial activity solely against Salmonella enteritidis(ATCC 13076).UAE proved more efficient,extracting betalain-rich bioactive compounds in 75%less time compared to CE.Therefore,UAE emerges as a promising novel technology for obtaining natural pigments and bioactives from prickly pear.展开更多
In recent years,silver nanoparticles(Ag NPs)had produced by biological methods such as plant extract due to their efficiency,low cost,being non-toxic,and ecofriendly nature.Ag NPs have antibacterial,anti-mold,and anti...In recent years,silver nanoparticles(Ag NPs)had produced by biological methods such as plant extract due to their efficiency,low cost,being non-toxic,and ecofriendly nature.Ag NPs have antibacterial,anti-mold,and anti-fungi because of their high surface area to volume ratio.In this study,Opuntia ficus-indica(Prickly pear)extract was used to produce green synthesized Ag NPs.Different techniques had adopted to describe the generated nanoparticles,such as an ultraviolet spectrophotometer,Transmission Electron Microscopy(TEM),Dynamic Light Scattering(DLS),and Zeta Potential Analysis.Escherichia coli(E.coli),separated from sediment and water of the Hillah River in Babylon city in Iraq,was utilizedto estimate the antibacterial activities of Ag NPs at different concentrations.Both broth microdilution assay and well diffusion assay were applied.The Congo Red Agar implied to investigate the ability of E.coli isolates to form a biofilm.The TEM images of Ag NPs illustrated spherical morphology with a diameter of approximately 22±4 nm.The antibacterial activity tests showed that the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration(MIC)ranged from 0.0125 mg·L^(-1) to 0.05 mg·L^(-1),whereas Minimum Bactericidal Concentration(MBC)was from 0.025 mg·L^(-1) to 0.05 mg·L^(-1).5 h ofexposure to the 0.025 mg·L^(-1) concentrations of the Ag NPs had a bactericidal impact on 92%of the E.coli isolates.In our study,we found silver nanoparticles synthesized by Opuntia ficus-Indica have antibacterial activity against waterborne Escherichia coli isolates and it could be utilizedtoreduce microbial growth in contaminated water.展开更多
文摘In this study,Opuntia ficus-indica cladode powder(OFIC),locally sourced from Rabta in Tunis,was utilized as a novel,eco-friendly adsorbent in both raw and iron(III)chloride-modified forms.The presence of iron in the modified material was confirmed by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy(XRF).The neat and modified biomass were characterized by X-ray diffraction(XRD),Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FTIR),thermogravimetric analysis(TGA)and scanning electron microscopy(SEM),and their usefulness as adsorbent for cationic Neutral Red(NR)and anionic Congo Red(CR)dyes were explored under batch conditions.Equilibrium studies revealed that the iron-modified Fe(OH)_(x)@Cellulose adsorbent exhibited superior adsorption capabilities for both dyes compared to the raw material.Moreover,CR dye was more effectively adsorbed by Fe(OH)_(x)@Cellulose than NR.The adsorption isotherms for both dyes were fitted.The results demonstrated that the adsorption of both NR and CR dyes onto the biosorbent Fe(OH)_(x)@Cellulose was closely followed by the Langmuir model,with R^(2) values of 0.980 and 0.973 for NR and CR,respectively,and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model better depicted the adsorption kinetic.Thermodynamic analysis revealed a negative enthalpy value(−67.15 kJ/mol)forNR adsorption,suggesting an exothermic process,while a positive enthalpy value(3.99 kJ/mol)was observed for CR adsorption,indicating an endothermic process.
基金Supported by the Universidad Autonoma de Coahuila and the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnologia(CONACYT).Grant number:COAH-2010C13-147563
文摘Objective:To extract,quantify,and evaluate the phenolic content in Opuntia ficus-indica skin for their antioxidant capacity with three different methods(ABTS,DPPH,and lipid oxidation)and to optimize the extraction conditions[time,temperature and ethanol concentration)in a reflux system.Methods:The extraction process was done using a reflux system.A San CristobalⅡexperimental design with three variables and three levels was used.The variables evaluated were time of extraction(h),concentration of ethanol(%,v/v)and temperature(°C).The extraction process was optimized using a response surface methodology.Results:It was observed that at higher temperature more phenolic compounds were extracted,but the antioxidant capacity was decreased.The optimum conditions for phenolic compounds extraction and antioxidant capacity mixing the three methods were as Follows:45%of ethanol,80℃and 2 hours of extraction.Values obtained in our results are little higher that other previously reported.Conclusions:It can he concluded the by-products of Opuntia ficus-indica represent a good source of natural antioxidants with possible applications in food,cosmetics or drugs industries.
文摘Objective: To investigate the diuretic, hypotensive and renal effect of Opuntia ficusindica in two different species in oral and intravenous administration.Methods: Diuretic activity was evaluated in rats with the plant cladode gel and aqueous extract administrated orally, and was evaluated in rabbits with plant extract administered intravenously. Single and repeated doses of cladode gel or aqueous extract of cladode were tested. Urine volume and blood and urine creatinine, sodium and potassium were measured, and creatinine clearance was calculated. The hypotensive effect of lyophilized extract of cladode was evaluated in rabbits. Two polyethylene PE50 catheters were used:one in the jugular vein for the infusion of the plant extract and the other in the carotid for the evaluation of the arterial pressure.Results: The cladode gel or aqueous extract increased urine volume, creatinine clearance and urinary excretion of sodium and potassium without significant effect on serum creatinine or blood urea. Furosemide, gel and aqueous extract of cladode insignificantly lowered plasma potassium in rats. Intravenous administration of the lyophilized extract caused a significant decrease in mean arterial pressure in rabbits with a significant increase in urine volume and urine sodium and potassium; the effect was dose dependent.Intravenous administration of lyophilized extract did not affect plasma sodium or potassium.Conclusions: Gel and aqueous extract of Opuntia ficus-indica cladode have a significant diuretic effect on rats, and the lyophilized extract has a diuretic and hypotensive effect on normotensive rabbits without deterioration in renal function test. Additional studies on active ingredients are essential to pave the way for clinical studies on diuretic and hypotensive effect of the plant.
文摘Endomycorrhizal fungi play an important role in the survival of plants on poor soils. Planting seeds into lunar soil at a lunar colony will be a challenge for seeds of any plant. The seeds will need a special microbial “tool kit” that will help them germinate and the young seedlings establish themselves. In this study, seeds of the prickly pear cactus, Opuntia ficus-indica, were chosen to examine the presence of fungus spores in the soil, inside the seeds and after germination in the rhizosphere, roots and other tissues of the young seedlings. The nutrient poor lunar regolith simulant JSC-1A was used as autoclaved or untreated growth medium. The mycorrhizal fungus Trichoderma viride was predominantly identified on the roots of new seedlings. This fungus also demonstrated the strongest effect on the germination rate of the seeds in comparison with other fungi isolated from the rhizosphere of Opuntia plants. T. viride was not detected within seeds and also not within seedlings, besides the root tips, whereas an arbuscular mycorrhizal Glomus species was seed-borne and present throughout most of the seedling. A close association between T. viride and a Glomus species associated with O. ficus-indica is demonstrated through light microscopic and electron microscopic images of the outside and inside root tips of the seedlings.
基金supported by Vice-Chancellery for Research and Technology of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(research project No.240256).
文摘Objective:To examine the effect of fruit extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica on epinephrine-induced myocardial injury in rats.Methods:Rats were pre-treated with hydroalcoholic and anthocyanin-rich extracts(250,500,and 1000 mg/kg)orally for 16 days.Epinephrine(2 mg/kg)was injected subcutaneously on days 15 and 16.Then ECG,heart rate,RR interval,cardiac histopathology,and serum parameters of cardiac damage and oxidative stress were evaluated.Results:Pretreatment with the hydroalcoholic and anthocyanin-rich extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica at doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg reversed epinephrine-induced changes in ECG,heart rate,RR interval,and cardiac histopathology,and attenuated creatine phosphokinase-MB activity and malondialdehyde level.The extracts at all doses diminished heart weight,lactate dehydrogenase,and aspartate aminotransferase,and also elevated total antioxidant capacity.However,1000 mg/kg of the anthocyanin-rich extract was more effective than the hydroalcoholic extract.Conclusions:Supplementation with fruit extracts of Opuntia ficus-indica,especially anthocyanin-rich extract,could protect against epinephrine-induced cardiac injury in rats by alleviating electrocardiographic,biochemical,histopathological,and oxidative stress parameters,and may be used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
基金funding from the European Union -NextGenerationEU through the Italian Ministry of University and Research under PRIN PNRR REG D.R.1718-2022– Project number PRJ-1575 INDICA。
文摘Indicaxanthin is a betalain that is abundant in Opuntia ficus-indica orange fruit and has antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, very little is known about the neuroprotective potential of indicaxanthin. This study investigated the impact of indicaxanthin on neuronal damage and gut microbiota dysbiosis induced by a high-fat diet in mice. The mice were divided into three groups according to different diets: the negative control group was fed a standard diet;the high-fat diet group was fed a high-fat diet;and the high-fat diet + indicaxanthin group was fed a high-fat diet and received indicaxanthin orally(0.86 mg/kg per day) for 4 weeks. Brain apoptosis, redox status, inflammation, and the gut microbiota composition were compared among the different animal groups. The results demonstrated that indicaxanthin treatment reduced neuronal apoptosis by downregulating the expression of proapoptotic genes and increasing the expression of antiapoptotic genes. Indicaxanthin also markedly decreased the expression of neuroinflammatory proteins and genes and inhibited high-fat diet–induced neuronal oxidative stress by reducing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, malondialdehyde, and nitric oxide levels. In addition, indicaxanthin treatment improved the microflora composition by increasing the abundance of healthy bacterial genera, known as producers of short-chain fatty acids(Lachnospiraceae, Alloprovetella, and Lactobacillus), and by reducing bacteria related to unhealthy profiles(Blautia, Faecalibaculum, Romboutsia and Bilophila). In conclusion, indicaxanthin has a positive effect on high-fat diet–induced neuronal damage and on the gut microbiota composition in obese mice.
文摘This research aims to investigate the potential of a plant cellulose developed from Opuntia ficus-indica(OFI)cladode as a sustainable and renewable adsorbent for the removal of neutral red(NR),a cationic dye pollutant,from aqueous environments.Analysis of raw and treated OFI using X-ray diffraction(XRD),scanning electron microscopy(SEM),and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy(FTIR)demonstrated the successful extraction of type I_(β)cellulose.The Brunauer–Emmett–Teller(BET)analysis of the nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm revealed an improved specific surface area of 12.4 m^(2)/g after treatment.A systematic study of key parameters in batch adsorption experiments revealed removal rates greater than 90%at pH=3,an adsorbent dosage of 3 g/L and an initial dye concentration of 100 mg/L with equilibrium achieved within 2 h.The high correlation coefficient(R^(2)=0.98)obtained with the Langmuir isotherm model suggests that the adsorption behavior is consistent with monolayer surface adsorption.A maximum adsorption capacity(Qm)of 357.1 mg/g for neutral red dye was achieved,demonstrating a significant adsorption capacity relative to other materials such as chitosan-modified activated carbon and halloysite nanotubes.The pseudo-second-order model effectively described the kinetics of the adsorption phenomena.Thermodynamic analysis revealed an exothermic and spontaneous adsorption process,with an enthalpy change(ΔH)of−24.886 kJ/mol,indicative of predominantly physisorption-driven interactions.Moreover,the regenerated cellulose exhibited a retention of over 70%efficiency after multiple adsorption-desorption cycles,highlighting its potential as an excellent reusable adsorbent.The outcomes of this research present an environmentally conscious alternative to synthetic adsorbents,facilitating the effective NR dye removal through renewable and sustainable means.
基金supported by the National Research Foundation of South Africa(SPAR231013155231)the University Research Committee at the University of Johannesburg.
文摘Bananas are one of the most significant tropical fruits in the world market.However,their short postharvest life,particularly under retail conditions exceeding 20℃,results in significant economic losses and food waste.This study investigated the efficacy of Opuntia ficus-indica mucilage(OFIM)as an edible coating to enhance the antioxidant defense mechanisms and prolong the postharvest life of bananas under simulated retail conditions(21±1℃,85±2%relative humidity).The experimental design included untreated(control)bananas and those coated with 1%,2%,or 3%OFIM.Key quality parameters,including water vapour permeability,reactive oxygen species(ROS;superoxide[O_(2)^(-)]and hydrogen peroxide[H_(2)O_(2)]),total phenolic content(TPC),total flavonoid content(TFC),ascorbic acid(AA),and antioxidant activities(DPPH,FRAP,ABTS^(+)),were assessed every three days for 18 days.Enzymatic activities of catalase(CAT),peroxidase(POD),superoxide dismutase(SOD),poly-phenol oxidase(PPO),and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase(PAL)were also monitored.The results demonstrated that OFIM coatings significantly extended banana shelf life by up to six days compared to untreated samples.Coated bananas exhibited enhanced antioxidant activities(DPPH,FRAP,ABTS^(+)),increased levels of TPC,TFC,and AA,and elevated enzymatic activities of CAT,SOD,and PAL.Additionally,PPO and POD activities were suppressed,reducing oxidative damage caused by ROS.Among the tested concentrations,3%OFIM exhibited superior preservation efficacy.These findings demonstrate that OFIM is a sustainable,cost-effective,and envi-ronmentally friendly solution for reducing postharvest losses and promoting food security in commercial banana markets.
文摘The liver is one of the most important organs in the body,performing a fundamental role in the regulationof diverse processes,among which the metabolism,secretion,storage,and detoxification of endogenous and exogenous substances are prominent.Due to these functions,hepatic diseases continue to be among the main threats to public health,and they remain problems throughout the world.Despite enormous advances in modern medicine,there are no completely effective drugs that stimulate hepatic function,that offer complete protection of the organ,or that help to regenerate hepatic cells.Thus,it is necessary to identify pharmaceutical alternatives for the treatment of liver diseases,with the aim of these alternatives being more effective and less toxic.The use of some plants and the consumption of different fruits have played basic roles in human health care,and diverse scientific investigations have indicated that,in those plants and fruits so identified,their beneficial effects can be attributed to the presence of chemical compounds that are called phytochemicals.The present review had as its objective the collecting of data based on research conducted into some fruits(grapefruit,cranberries,and grapes)and plants[cactus pear(nopal)and cactus pear fruit,chamomile,silymarin,and spirulina],which are consumed frequently by humans and which have demonstrated hepatoprotective capacity,as well as an analysis of a resin(propolis)and some phytochemicals extracted from fruits,plants,yeasts,and algae,which have been evaluated in different models of hepatotoxicity.
基金supported by grants from CNRST,Morocco(Project URAC-40)Belgium(Program 3,CUD Project)
文摘Objective: To evaluate the in vitro antioxidant power of cactus pear seed oil [Opuntia ficusincida L. MILL.(CPSO)] and its protective effect against chemically induced diabetes mellitus in mice. Methods: The in vitro antioxidant effect of CPSO was evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH) scavenging assay. The preventive effect was conducted on Swiss albino mice treated with CPSO(2 m L/kg, per os), before and after a single intraperitoneal alloxan administration(100 mg/kg). Survival rate, body weight and fasting blood glucose were measured and histopathological analysis of pancreas was performed to evaluate alloxaninduced tissue injuries. Results: CPSO exhibited an antioxidant effect in DPPH scavenging assay. Moreover, the administration of CPSO(2 m L/kg) significantly attenuated alloxaninduced death and hyperglycemia(P<0.001) in treated mice. Morphometric study of pancreas revealed that CPSO significantly protected islets of langerhans against alloxan induced-tissue alterations. Conclusions: Based on theses results, CPSO can prevent alloxan-induced-diabetes by quenching free radicals produced by alloxan and inhibiting tissue injuries in pancreatic β-cells.
基金supported by The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey(TUBITAK,Project no:222O444).
文摘There is currently an increasing interest in obtaining bioactive components and natural pigments by novel extraction technologies.Betalains are plant-derived secondary metabolites with functional characteristics,suit-able for use in food products.Conventional(CE)and ultrasound-assisted extraction(UAE)have been studied to extract betalain-rich bioactive compounds from prickly pear fruit(Opuntia ficus-indica L.).Box-Behnken design was used in response surface methodology to predict the optimal conditions for each parameter based on total betalain content(TBC),total phenolic content(TPC),and antioxidant capacity(TAC).In addition,the antimi-crobial activity of the extracts at optimal conditions was investigated against Salmonella enteritidis(ATCC 13076),Escherichia coli O157:H7,and Listeria monocytogenes.Results indicated that optimal conditions for CE were achieved at 2.05-h extraction time,50℃,80%ethanol concentration,and a 1/22.60 solid/solvent ratio,while for UAE,optimal conditions were at 30-min extraction time,49.99℃,40%ethanol concentration,and a 1/30 solid/solvent ratio.The predicted and experimental TBC values for CE were 419.449 and 418.829 mg betalain/kg dry matter,respectively,and for UAE,they were 472.883 and 471.818 mg betalain/kg dry matter.The ex-tracts demonstrated antimicrobial activity solely against Salmonella enteritidis(ATCC 13076).UAE proved more efficient,extracting betalain-rich bioactive compounds in 75%less time compared to CE.Therefore,UAE emerges as a promising novel technology for obtaining natural pigments and bioactives from prickly pear.
文摘In recent years,silver nanoparticles(Ag NPs)had produced by biological methods such as plant extract due to their efficiency,low cost,being non-toxic,and ecofriendly nature.Ag NPs have antibacterial,anti-mold,and anti-fungi because of their high surface area to volume ratio.In this study,Opuntia ficus-indica(Prickly pear)extract was used to produce green synthesized Ag NPs.Different techniques had adopted to describe the generated nanoparticles,such as an ultraviolet spectrophotometer,Transmission Electron Microscopy(TEM),Dynamic Light Scattering(DLS),and Zeta Potential Analysis.Escherichia coli(E.coli),separated from sediment and water of the Hillah River in Babylon city in Iraq,was utilizedto estimate the antibacterial activities of Ag NPs at different concentrations.Both broth microdilution assay and well diffusion assay were applied.The Congo Red Agar implied to investigate the ability of E.coli isolates to form a biofilm.The TEM images of Ag NPs illustrated spherical morphology with a diameter of approximately 22±4 nm.The antibacterial activity tests showed that the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration(MIC)ranged from 0.0125 mg·L^(-1) to 0.05 mg·L^(-1),whereas Minimum Bactericidal Concentration(MBC)was from 0.025 mg·L^(-1) to 0.05 mg·L^(-1).5 h ofexposure to the 0.025 mg·L^(-1) concentrations of the Ag NPs had a bactericidal impact on 92%of the E.coli isolates.In our study,we found silver nanoparticles synthesized by Opuntia ficus-Indica have antibacterial activity against waterborne Escherichia coli isolates and it could be utilizedtoreduce microbial growth in contaminated water.
