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: POLLEN PROFILES, PHYSICOCHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS, AND ANTIOXIDANT ACTIVITIES OF TWO HONEY SAMPLES FROM JIJEL CITY (ALGERIA)
(The Annals of the University Dunarea de Jos of Galati Fascicle VI – Food Technology_Galati University Press, 2021-07-28) RABHA AYAD ; NADIA AMESSIS-OUCHEMOUKH ; SALIM OUCHEMOUKH ; KHODIR MADANI et LILA BOULEKBACHE-MAKHLOUF
Honey is a sweet and flavorful animal product that comes from nectar and/or honeydew. It is used in different nutritional and therapeutic fields. This study aimed at the determination of the botanical origin, the physicochemical characteristics, and the antioxidant activities of two honey samples from two locations in Jijel City (Algeria). The analyzed honey complies with the standards of the Codex Alimentarius Commission. Pollen analysis showed that honey sample H1 was polyfloral and honey sample H2 was monofloral. Quality parameter analysis revealed that moisture content varied from 13.21 to 16.44%. The average pH was 4.34, and the electrical conductivity was 0.56 mS/cm. Protein, proline, and HMF contents were 32.08 mg EBSA/ 100 g, 435.47 mg/kg, and 3.49 mg/kg, respectively. Both analyzed kinds of honey were levorotatory. Phenolic compounds and flavonoids were found to be higher in honey H1 with 60.93 mg of EAG/100g and 20.92 mg of EC/100g, respectively. Results of antioxidant activities showed that honey H1 was much more effective in reducing iron and copper than honey H2 and gave the best total antioxidant capacity. In addition, the study of the antiradical activity against DPPH and ABTS revealed that honey H1 was able to scavenge DPPH and ABTS radicals with 48.88 and 18.21 %, respectively.
Comparative mapping approach of energy intake and expenditure of obesity prevalence among school adolescents
(Clinical Nutrition ESPEN_ ELSIVIER, 2021-04-07) Fouzia Yous; Salim Zaabar; Omar Aoun; Nawel Adjeroud-Abdellatif et Khodir Madani
Objective: This study aims to describe the prevalence of overweight and obesity in an obesogenic environment among adolescents in the wilaya of Bejaia (eastern Algeria), and to assess their Physical Activity Level (PAL), Daily Energy Expenditure (DEE) and Total Energy Intake (TEI). Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out on a sample of 3038 adolescents consisting of 1635 girls and 1403 boys in middle and high schools in 19 regions of Bejaia. The average age was 14.78 ± 2.53. Two questionnaires were assigned to collect data on their nutritional habits (24-h dietary call) and physical activity levels. BMI measurement was adopted in this study to determine the weight status of this sample and to assess the distribution of BMI, PAL, DEE, TEI over geographical areas of an administrative territory using the Student test descriptive statistical method (p < 0.05). Results: The prevalence of obesity and overweight was equal to 3.3%, the physical activity level in adolescents was 1.72 ± 0.21, with boys more likely to participate in sports than girls (16.5% for boys and 6% for girls). However, energy intake (3775.44 ± 719.07 kcal/day), energy expenditure (3144.13 ± 850.54 kcal) and body mass index (30.51 ± 2.99 kg/m2 ) were high. Body mass index (BMI) is negatively correlated with PAL (r ¼0.05) and positively correlated with TEI (r ¼ 0.31) and DEE (r ¼ 0.30), these results show that DEE and TEI factors play an important role in the prevalence of BMI with excessive consumption of high carbohydrate (614.55 g) and fat (98.9 g) foods, which is due to poor diet and are related to insufficient level of physical activity. The mapping shows that there is a disparity between the studied parameters: high BMI, low PAL and consumption of unhealthy foods (DEE, TEI). Conclusion: The lack of physical activity and the imbalance between energy intake and expenditure are the main factors that could lead to an increased risk of obesity in adolescents
Microwave-assisted hydrodistillation of essential oil from fennel seeds: Optimization using Plackett–Burman design and response surface methodology
(Journal of Applied Research on Medicinal and Aromatic Plants_ ELSEVIER, 2021-04-05) Hayet Boudraa ; Nabil Kadri ; Lotfi Mouni et Khodir Madani
The study aims to optimize the microwave-assisted hydrodistillation (MAHD) of Foeniculum vulgare seed essential oil (FSEO), for the purposes of maximizing efficiency and reducing costs in terms of time and energy. Plackett–Burman design (PBD) was investigated to screen the six different variables affecting FSEO extraction and select the most significant ones. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used to evaluate the interactions of the significant parameters and to determine optimal conditions. MAHD and the traditional hydrodistillation (HD) techniques were compared in terms of extraction efficiency, economic and environmental impacts, and chemical composition of the FSEO. The optimum conditions of the studied responses were particle size less than 333.4673 μm, at the irradiation time of 20 min and a microwave power of 305.9282 W with a solid-liquid ratio of 0.1477 g/mL. Gas Chromatography (GC) analysis showed that the FSEO composition in MAHD and HD is similar with slight differences. Therefore, the results show that the microwave-assisted hydrodistillation method is an innovative, economical and environmentally friendly approach to efficiently and safely extract essential oil an economic and green innovative approach to extract efficiently and safely the essential oil (EO).
Phenolic compounds from an Algerian medicinal plant (Pallenis spinosa): simulated gastrointestinal digestion, characterization, biological and enzymatic activities
(Food & Function_Royal Society of Chemistry, 2021-02-07) Hanane Amrani-Allalou ; Lila Boulekbache-Makhlouf ; Luana Izzo ; Lynda Arkoub-Djermoune ; Mohamed Lamine Freidja ; Khokha Mouhoubi ; Khodir Madani et Gian Carlo Tenore
Pallenis spinosa is a medicinal plant which is used in folk medicine as curative or preventive remedies for various diseases. Individual phenolic compounds from the methanolic extracts of its flowers, leaves and stem were determined by high performance liquid chromatography method (HPLC) and total phenolic contents (TPC) was evaluated by Folin-Ciocalteu assay. The stability and bioactivity (antioxidant activity, micellar cholesterol solubility, α-amylase, and angiotensin converting enzymes (ACE) inhibitory effects) of these extracts in the gastrointestinal environment was determined before and after their protection hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC) capsules. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of thirteen phenolic compounds with nine flavonoids and four phenolic acids. Except for Kaempferol, the twelve other compounds have not previously detected in the aerial part of the studied plant. Quantification of phenolics by HPLC and Folin Ciocalteu methods revealed that the greatest TPC was detected in the flower extracts (104.31 ±0.80 and 145.73 ±0.48 mg EGA/g of extract, repectively). Leaves extracts displayed the best antioxidant capacity against the two tested radicals DPPH and ABTS (IC50=1.24 ±0.03 and 0.94 ±0.02 mg/mL, respectively), FRAP assay (IC50=0.50 ±0.02 mg/mL), α-amylase inhibitory (IC50=1.25 43 ±0.00 mg/mL) and angiotensin activity with an inhibitory percent of 30.10 ±0.12%. The best activity shown by stem extracts was against micellar cholesterol solubility (67.57 ±0.00%). A strong decrease in TPC and their bioactivity were observed after the gastrointestinal digestion (GID) in non encapsulated extracts. These results showed that P. spinonsa is a good source of phenolic compounds and the GID affects significantly their composition, content and bioactivity.
LC-DAD-ESI-MS/MS analysis and cytotoxic and antiproliferative effects of chlorogenic acid derivative rich extract from Nerium oleander L. pink flowers
(Food & Function_ Royal Society of Chemistry, 2021-03-31) Sheila Cristina Oliveira-Alves; Ana Teresa Serra; Khalef Lefsih; Madani Samah; Andreia Bento da Silva; Khodir Madani et Maria Rosário Bronze
This study compared antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS, FC) and anticarcinogenic (MTT test) 3 activities of three hydroethanolic extracts from different morphological parts of Nerium 4 oleander lin, (leaves (LE), pink (PFE) and white flowers (WFE).All of the extracts exhibited 5 different antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activities based on their antioxidant presence in the 6 extract. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to understand the relationship 7 between the antioxidant and anticarcinogenic activity, and to gain insight into the similarities 8 and differences between the three extracts. Basing on the set data, this analysis clearly 9 indicate that WFE have more potent antioxidant activity and a potential to inhibit HT29 10 colorectal cancer cell growth than LE and PFE respectively. The FTIR analysis indicated the 11 presence of various functional groups such as alcohol, phenol, alkane derivatives, aromatic 12 compound, that are responsible for the biological properties of studied extracts.
A sustainable valorization of industrial tomato seeds (cv Rio Grande): Sequential recovery of a valuable oil and optimized extraction of antioxidants by microwaves
(Journal of Food Processing and Preservation_ WILEY, 2021-10-19) Toufik Ouatmani; Hayate Haddadi- Guemghar; Lila Boulekbache- Makhlouf; Djamila Mehidi- Terki; Azzedine Maouche et Khodir Madani
Tomato seeds are a major waste of tomato paste manufacturing. In this study, an in- teresting yield of oil was obtained (21.69%) from the seeds of an industrial tomato by- product (Rio Grande variety), after a Soxhlet extraction. The fatty acid profile of the extracted oil was established by gas chromatography and the tomato seed oil (TSO) was rich in unsaturated fatty acids (79.83%). After that, microwave- assisted extrac- tion (MAE) was used to recover phenolic compounds from the defatted tomato seeds (DTS). The effect of three independent variables (microwave power, irradiation time, and solvent fraction) on the total phenolic content (TPC) and the antioxidant activity (AA) was estimated by using response surface methodology (RSM). The approach of desirability was applied to define the best operative conditions for the simultaneous extraction of TPC and AA which resulted in 700 W for microwave, 70 s for irradiation time, and water as extracting solvent. Practical applications By adopting a sustainable development approach, agro- industrial manufactories could earn the challenge of turning their waste into a source of additional income while also saving on disposal costs. In this study, a process by exhaustion following a smart and green approach was designed to recover added- value nutrients from an industrial tomato byproduct. First, tomato seeds were used as a feedstock to extract a multi- useful oil (edible, biofuel, cosmetic, etc.). Then, the residue was extracted again with hydro- ethanol as a safe and green solvent, by using microwaves as a green and cheap technology to optimize the extraction of antioxidants. In addition, com- putational tools (RSM and desirability approach) were applied for optimization and modeling of the operative conditions.
Effect of novel bottle inner surface coatings made with polylactic acid and plant extracts on the physiological status of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in real liquid foods using flow cytometry
(Packaging Technology and Science_WILEY, 2021-11-22) Saliha Oussaid ; Khodir Madani ; Karim Houali ; Ismael Marcet ; Tahar Amrouche ; Manuel Rendueles et Mario Diaz
Polylactic acid (PLA) was used, together with a novel optimized mixture (OM) of Thymus fontanesii essential oil (EO d ) and the ethyl acetate (EA) fraction from Scirpus holoschoenus extract, to develop antimicrobial coatings for the inner surface of bottles for the preservation of food liquids against the pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The effect of these coatings on the physiological status of P. aeruginosa was tested by flow cytometry (FC), filling coated bottles with previously contaminated fish soup or egg whites. As was expected, the release of phenolic compounds (PCs) from the inner coatings of the bottles to the liquid was temperature dependent. Although their antimicrobial activity in contaminated egg whites was negligible, probably due to the neutralization of bioactive substances by ovalbumin, the PLA-OM-coated bottles had a high antimicrobial effect when they were filled with fish soup. In this latter case, the percentage of viable cells greatly decreased, and the percentage of dead cells, killed by membrane damage, increased.
Ultrasound and heat treatment effects on Staphylococcus aureus cell viability in orange juice
(Ultrasonics Sonochemistry _ELSEVIER, 2021-09-07) Akila Amir Tahi ; S´ergio Sousa ; Khodir Madani ; Cristina L.M. Silva et Fatima A. Miller
Ultrasounds are being considered an excellent alternative technology in juice preservation. Yet, when combined with heat treatment, the process seems to be further intensified. This work aimed to evaluate and compare the impact of ultrasounds and heat treatments, when applied alone or in combination, on Staphylococcus aureus survival in orange juice. Inoculated commercial pasteurized orange juice was treated at different times at 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 ◦C. SEM analyses were applied to identify morphological changes in S. aureus cells appearance. The microbial inactivation data were fitted using two mathematical models, depending on the behaviour observed. Sonication at 20, 30, and 40 ◦C induced 4.02 ± 0.52, 3.80 ± 0.49 and 4.30 ± 0.74 log cycles reduction of S. aureus after treatments of 90, 60 and 60 min, respectively. The heat treatments at the same temperatures had no impact on S. aureus survival. When 50 and 60 ◦C were applied, more than 5-log reductions were attained for both thermosonication and heat treatments alone. A synergistic effect was observed between sonication and high temperatures. At 50 ◦C, the thermosonication reduced the treatment time from 60 to 35 min and the microbial load from 5.14 ± 0.08 to 10.76 ± 0.28 log cycles reduction, compared to heat treatment alone. Results from SEM images showed that cells undergo membrane damage during sonication exposure. This was observed by collapsed cells, cell disruption, and holes in the cell’s membrane. Thermosonication proved to be a viable alternative to thermal pasteurization of orange juice since milder treatments can be safely applied, improving the final product quality.
OPTIMIZATION OF THE MICROWAVE ASSISTED EXTRACTION AND BIOLOGICAL ACTIVITIES OF POLYPHENOLS FROM LEMON VERBENA LEAVES
(The Annals of the University Dunarea de Jos of Galati Fascicle VI – Food Technology_Galati University Press, 2021-02-02) ZOHRA TOUATI; MENANA GUEMGHAR; KENZA BEDJAOUI; NABILA DJERRADA1; KAHINA DJAOUD1 ; NAWEL ADJEROUD1; KHODIR MADANI et LILA BOULEKBACHEMAKHLOUF
The present study aims to optimize the extraction of phenolics by microwaveassisted extraction (MAE) using the response surface methodology (RSM), from Lemon verbena leaves. The optimized extract was tested for its antioxidant activity using two methods (DPPH and reducing power) and its antibacterial efficiency by using disk diffusion assay and broth microdilution, against two Gram-negative (Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853) and two Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923, Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633) strains. Under the optimized conditions (40% (v/v): of ethanol concentration, 188 s of irradiation time, 600 W of microwave power and 1:40 g/mL of solid-to-liquid ratio) the total phenolic content (TPC) was 67.87±1.61 mg GAE/g DW. The IC50 of the extract was 139.65±1.44 µg/mL and 56.60±2.79 µg/mL for DPPH inhibition and reducing power, respectively. The best antibacterial activity was shown by the extract obtained by MAE with lower MBC (1.56 to 18.75 mg/mL) and MBC/MIC ratio. Lemon verbena extract can be used as an ingredient in cosmetics, food supplements and herbal medicinal products due to its interesting biological properties.
Identification of some Opuntiaspp. from two Algerian regions and ultrasound assisted extraction of their phenolic compounds
(Journal of the Professional Association for Cactus Development_Professional Association for Cactus Development, 2021-06-29) Amokrane Mahdeb; Nawel Adjeroud-Abdellatif; Azzedine Mazari3; Liberato Portillo; Kamelia Ait Abdelouhab; Dounia Ait Maamer et Khodir Madani
Much attention has been paid to cacti for their distinctive characteristics. The nopal Opuntiaficus-indicaand relatedspecies are found inarid and semi-arid regions around the world. O.ficus-indica shows considerable variability in response to environmental conditions through variation of areola and spine attributes, among other traits. Therefore, the present study sought to morphologically identify some cactuspear plants in two areas of Algeria (Bejaia and Souk-Ahras)in orderto evaluate the cactus pears by optimizing the extraction conditions of the phenolic compounds of the cladode, to evaluate the antioxidant activity of these compounds,to measure the total flavonoid content,and to compare the yields among three Opuntiaspp. (O. ficus-indica, O. megacanthaand O. amyclae) from the sites within the study regions. These three Opuntiaspp. were subjected to extraction of polyphenols using a conventional method, and an ecofriendly process using ultrasound-assisted extraction(UAE)technique.Once the extractionswas completed, the total phenolic contentandflavonoids of the extracts were characterized. In addition, the antioxidant capacityof the total phenolic compounds (TPC)wasdetermined. The UAEwas better than conventional extraction for the recovery of TPC. The use of a solvent mixture (50% water/ethanol, v/v) improved the TPC extraction efficiency. Theseresults show thatUAE was a useful tool for the extraction of phytochemicals from cactuspear cladodes. Other factors and conditions that influence the optimization of TPC extractionshould also be studied, such as pH, ultrasound frequencyas well asecological factors that could possibly influence extraction efficiency
Effect of different compatibilization routes on the mechanical, thermal and rheological properties of polypropylene/cellulose nanocrystals nanocomposites
(Polymer Bulletin, 2024-03-21) Lilia Benchikh, Tahar Aouissi, Yazid Aitferhat, Hichem Chorfi, Ilyes Abacha, Maya Kebaili, Melia Guessoum, Abdelhafid Merzouki, Yves Grohens, Mauro Carraro & Souad Djellali
The combination of cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) with synthetic polymers like polypropylene (PP) offers the opportunity to create advanced nanocomposites with significant advantages in terms of mechanical properties, improved thermal stability, enhanced barrier properties, and sustainability. However, a major drawback for incorporation of CNCs in polymer matrices is their poor dispersion and incompatibility with industrial processing of many composites. This work aims to improve the dispersion of hydrophilic CNCs in a hydrophobic matrix using a method which could be adapted for the industrial level. CNCs are extracted from Ampelodesmos mauritanicus (El Diss plant) (CNCD) and incorporated in a polypropylene matrix using the masterbatch method. A first nanocomposite (PP/CNC-Gr) was prepared by adding maleic anhydride (MA) to a CNCD/PP suspension, while the second nanocomposite (PP/CNC-Co) was achieved by using a MA-grafted PP (PP-g-MA) as a third component. Concentrated masterbatch underwent solution casting followed by homogenization in a Brabender mixer. Mechanical properties comparison showed that PP/CNC-Co nanocomposites exhibited greater resistance relatively to PP/CNC-Gr nanocomposites. Moreover, PP/CNC-Co nanocomposites revealed an improved thermal stability and a higher complex viscosity, particularly with 3% of CNCD. Properties enhancements are attributed to the reaction between MA groups grafted to PP chains and hydroxyl groups of CNCDs, which enables an improved interfacial adhesion, leading to more continuous materials, as perceived from the increase in viscosity and morphology observation. On the other hand, MA reaction with PP chains and CNCD induced only a partial coverage of CNCDs during nanocrystals treatment, conferring relatively lower properties to PP/CNC-Gr nanocomposites.
Response Surface Methodology: An Optimal Design for Maximising the Efficiency of Microwave-Assisted Extraction of Total Phenolic Compounds from Coriandrum sativum Leaves
(Process, 2024-05-19) Soraya Hihat ,Noureddine Touati, Abdelhakim Sellal and Khodir Madani
The optimization of total phenolic compounds (TPC) extraction yield and maximization of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) from coriander leaves were investigated using response surface methodology. The extraction of TPC was carried out using microwave-assisted extraction. A Box-Behnken design was used to study the effects of the three independent variables, solvent concentration (ethanol/water 20–80%), microwave power (100–500 watt) and irradiation time (30–150 s) on the response. A second-order polynomial model was used to predict the reaction. The regression analysis showed that about 99% of the variations could be explained by the models. The predicted values were 50.97 GAE/g dw and 5.75 mg GAE/g dw for TPC and TAC, respectively. The reaction surface analysis showed that the optimum extraction parameters that maximized the extraction of antioxidants yield were 52.62% ethanol, 452.12 watt and 150 s. Under optimal conditions, the experimental values for TPC and TAC were 49.63 ± 0.93 mg GAE/g dw and 5.55 ± 0.07 mg GAE/g dw, respectively. The experimental values are in agreement with the predicted values, indicating the suitability of the model used and the success of the response surface methodology in optimizing the extraction conditions.
Anti-inﬂammatory and prolonged protective effects of Artemisia herba-alba extracts via glutathione metabolism reinforcement
(South African Journal of Botany_ ELSEVIER, 2021-07-09) Nadjet Bouchara; Fran¸cois Senejoux; Didier Fraisse; Catherine Felgines; Florence Caldéﬁe-Chezet; Marie-Paule Vasson; Khodir Madani et Adrien Rossary
Artemisia herba-alba (AHA) is a medicinal plant known for its preventive capacities against chronic diseases. Inﬂammation is a naturally occurring cellular response to noxious stimuli, and both acute and chronic inﬂammation are involved in human disorders. Preventing and limiting the negative impact of inﬂammation by using phytocompounds has attracted a lot of attention. Here, we show that AHA extracts are potent anti- inﬂammatory products at low doses in white blood cells, treated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA), a pro-inﬂammatory trigger. Regardless of the mode of extraction, i.e. maceration or microwave, all extracts reduced on dose-dependent manner reactive oxygen species (ROS) production induced by the pro-inﬂam- matory compound PMA in white blood cells and leukemic Jurkat cell line. The induction of the anti-inﬂam- matory effect was evaluated by the measurement of glutathione metabolism (glutathione reductase, transferase, and peroxidase), and protein-free thiols in Jurkat cells. Jurkat cells incubated with low to high concentrated AHA extracts, ranged from 10 to 100 g/mL, induced a fast cell response measured at one and six hours. Interestingly, extracts from the microwave showed a stronger induction, 5 to 10 fold changes at early time points, and maintained over 72 h. On the other hand, AHA extracts showed a moderate anti-prolif- erative effect in the leukemic Jurkat line. We concluded that AHA extracts enhance directly anti-inﬂamma- tory cell response, earlier via ROS induction. Later, however, vigorously maintained, independently from ROS, suggesting the intervention of the cellular metabolism in enhancing these effects. Considering the pre- ventive and anti-inﬂammatory potential of AHA, regular consumption is advisable, and phytotherapeutic applications are encouraged to treat local inﬂammations.
Physicochemical Properties and Antioxidant Activity of the Seeds Oil of Two Cucurbita Species From Bejaia (Algeria): Comparative Study
(phytotherapie_JIE Lavoisier, 2022-08-01) S. Mindjou ., F. Brahmi ., W. Belkhiri ., N. Adjeroud ., L. Benali ., L. Boucetta ., K. Madani et L. Boulekbache
Cucurbita species are delicious, nutritious, and delightful products. Cucurbita seeds remain in large quantities as a waste product that could be valorized since they are excellent sources of oil. The aim of this study was to compare the seed oil of two Cucurbita species (Cucurbita pepo and Cucurbita moschata) harvested in Bejaia (Algeria). The oil quality was evaluated by the determination of some physicochemical parameters, and the content of phenolic compounds. The antiradical capacity of the antioxidants present in the oils was also assessed using two methods. The oil yield was 42.85% and 40.47% from the seeds of Cucurbita pepo and Cucurbita moschata, respectively. The determined physicochemical parameters were close to those defined by the international standards. The phenolic contents of the methanolic extracts of both oils were 5.53 and 4.45 mg GAE/100 g for Cucurbita moschata and Cucurbita pepo, respectively. The best anti-DPPH power was attributed to the oil of Cucurbita moschata (44.7%), while the methanolic extract of the seed oil of Cucurbita pepo showed the highest percentage (41.02%) of the ABTS•+ radical inhibition. By this study we confirmed that the Cucurbita seeds oil are highly nutritious and offer some medicinal benefits.
Evaluation of Algerian’s honey in terms of quality and authenticity based on the melissopalynology and physicochemical analysis and their antioxidant powers
(Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism_ SageJournals, 2021-05-19) Nadia Amessis-Ouchemoukha; Nacera Maoucheb; Amar Otmanib; Anass Terrabc; Khodir Madani et Salim Ouchemoukh
Abstract BACKGROUND: Honey is a vegetable and animal product which comes from nectar and/or honeydew. It is used in different nutritional and therapeutic fields. OBJECTIVE: Melissopalynology and physicochemical analysis of Algerian honeys, determination of their phenolic compounds and authenticity parameters and the evaluation of their antioxidant properties. METHODS: Twenty Algerians honey were studied for their physicochemical parameters (moisture, pH, proteins, proline, hydroxymethylfurfural, ash, color, electrical conductivity, and optical rotation), floral origin and phenolic compounds contents. Antioxidant activities were tested too. RESULTS: Melissopalynologycal analyses revealed that the studied honeys were twelve multifloral, seven Fabaceae, and one Myrtaceae. All honeys were acidic (3.65≤pH≤4.35) and most of them were low in moisture content. The electrical conductivity varied between 0.29 mS/cm and 1.78 mS/cm. Ash, protein and proline contents results showed that the majority of honeys were in agreement with the legislation and were authentic. The color varied from mimosa yellow to dark brown. The specific rotation was levorotatory in most honey samples and the hydroxymethylfurfural values (from 1.5 mg/kg to 34.73 mg/kg) agreed with the international requirements. Honeys were rich in total phenolic compounds, 22.41 (Honey11) to 96.16 (Honey15) mg gallic acid equivalents/100 g, and flavonoids, 8.90 (Honey11) to 80.02 (Honey02) mg quercetin equivalents/100 g. Honey samples 15, 03, 05, 01, and 06 exerted more than 50% reduction of DPPH and ABTS radicals and were able to reduce iron while honey samples 12, 18, 19, 14, and 11 chelate efficiently iron. High significant correlations between physicochemical parameters and antioxidant activities were found. CONCLUSION: The Algerian honeys analyzed were authentic and variations in their quality parameters and phenolics composition were directly associated with their demonstrated antioxidant properties
Phenolic content, antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory activities of some Algerian olive stone extracts obtained by conventional solvent and microwave‑assisted extractions under optimized conditions
(Journal of Food Measurement and Characterization_ Springer, 2021-06-08) Kenza Djemaa‑Landri; Sabrina Hamri‑Zeghichi; Wassila Belkhiri‑Beder; Stéphanie Krisa; Stéphanie Cluzet; Tristan Richard; Josep Valls; Nabil Kadri et Khodir Madani4
The recovery of food waste is a stimulating opportunity for and competitive development of agroindustries. In this context, the objective of this study was to report the antioxidant potential and phenolic compounds content of olive stones (OS) of six Algerian cultivars. Two extraction methods were used: microwave assisted extraction (MAE) and conventional solvent extraction (CSE) in order to improve the recovery of total phenolic content (TPC) and the maximization of the two extraction processes by the Box-Behnken design (BBD) from olive stone of Olea Europaea L. cv Ayemele. The optimal processing parameters obtained were (i) for MAE: 22% (v/v) ethanol, 40 s, 500 W, and ratio 65:1 (mL/g) and (ii) for CSE: 33% (v/v) ethanol, 24 min, 71 °C, and ratio 60:1 (mL/g). Phenolic compounds were then extracted from olive stones of six Algerian cultivars with MAE best extraction conditions, as it was the best strategy in term of TPC recovery. The phenolic content was different according to the olive variety. The stones of Chemlale were the richest in TPC (7.23 mg GAE/g) followed by Azeboudj (6.33 mg GAE/g), Atefah (6.04 mg GAE/g), Agraraz (5.63 mg GAE/g), Azeradj (5.35 mg GAE/g) and Ayemel (5.14 mg GAE/g). A similar profile was observed with total flavonoids content and antioxidant activities. The anti-inflammatory effects of the optimized extracts by MAE were assessed regarding their ability to prevent lipopolysaccharide-induced of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide production in a macrophage cell line (RAW 264.7). Olive stones that are issued from the production of olive oil, and table olives can therefore be considered as renewable by-products thanks to their compounds with high added value. These bioactive compounds can target the food natural additives markets, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, all of which are currently very receptive such natural products
Phage–Antibiotic Combinations Against Mature Multidrug-Resistant Biofilms: A Critical Narrative Review of Synergy Determinants, Treatment Sequencing, and Translation
(Microbiology Research, 2026) Touati Abdelaziz ,Kirat Hassina , and Bellil Zahra
Background: Phage–antibiotic combinations (PACs) are increasingly proposed for difficult biofilm infections, but planktonic synergy does not reliably predict activity in mature multidrug-resistant (MDR) biofilms. Objective: To identify the biological, pharmacological, evolutionary, methodological, and translational determinants that govern whether phage–antibiotic synergy (PAS) persists in mature MDR biofilms. Methods: This critical narrative review used a structured evidence map updated through 21 August 2026. Fifty-four primary studies met the final operational core criteria after endpoint-eligibility and publication-status verification and were evaluated for biofilm maturity, phage and antibiotic exposure, treatment sequence, resistance evolution, assay choice, and translational level. Main Results: Twenty of 54 studies (37.0%) included at least one qualifying biofilm/PAC condition aged 48 h or longer, and 14 directly compared treatment order. Interaction direction depended on phage identity, bacterial strain, matrix, absolute phage exposure, antibiotic concentration, timing, and endpoint; the schedule maximizing immediate killing did not necessarily best suppress resistance. Nine core studies reached animal models and four human cases met the defined translational criteria, but uncontrolled cases support feasibility rather than comparative efficacy. Negative, antagonistic, and indeterminate outcomes were retained, and CFU, biomass, metabolic, and lysis-based assays could classify the same regimen differently. Conclusions: PAS should be treated as a context-dependent phenotype requiring direct mature-biofilm validation, factorial dose-sequence testing, longitudinal resistance assessment, and site-matched translational confirmation.
study of the quality and fertility of the soil of the plain of bounamoussa el taref algeria
(Fresenius Environmental Bulletin, 2022-12) Samia Ibtissem, Samia Djamel, Remita Feriel, Talbi Amina, Mefglaoui Zoubeida, Anguel Ibtissem
The quality of natural land in the world has deteriorated greatly in recent years due to several urban, industrial, and natural factors (such as erosion) exerted on these lands. To this end, the proposed study concerns the region of El Tarf, which is located in the extreme northeast of Algeria. The latter suffers from a real threat to the natural environment, which is the plain of Bounamoussa, and precisely to the fertility and quality of these soils, which are drained and irrigated by the waters of Oued Bounamoussa, which crosses this entire plain. The analysis of the points of the samples taken at the level of the plain of Bounamoussa, which are the soils of the communes of Ben M'Hidi, the commune Asfour, and the commune Bouhadjar, has highlighted the existence of high values in electrical conductivity with potentials of alkaline hydrogen, which become a risk of salinization of the soils and which degrade the quality and fertility of the soils of this plain and generate poor yields in the cultivation practices and on the harvest of the farmers. To this end, we suggest controlling the factors that degrade this plain, especially by analyzing the irrigation water, which leads us to a proposal for a water treatment plant to remedy the problems posed.
Study of microwave and convective drying kinetics of pea pods (Pisum sativum L.): A new modeling approach using support vector regression methods optimized by dragonfly algorithm techniques
(The Journal of Food Process Engineering, 2022-12-12) Lynda Hadjout-Krimat, Amine Belbahi, Farid Dahmoune, Mohamed Hentabli, Asma Boudria, Sabiha Achat, Hocine Remini, Sonia Oukhmanou-Bensidhoum, Giorgia Spigno, Khodir Madani
Abstract Machine learning and mathematical modeling techniques have been conducted to model the thin layer drying kinetics of pea pods, under either microwave or conventional air drying,. The effect of nine different microwave output powers (200–1000 W) and five different ventilated oven temperatures (40, 60, 80, 100, and 120°C) on drying kinetics was studied. The experimental drying rates were fitted to 11 literature semi-empirical models to determine the kinetic parameters, finding the higher goodness-of-fit for the Midilli et al. model (average R2 = 0.999 for both drying methods). Moreover, the data were modeled using support vector machine (SVM) for regression which was optimized with dragonfly algorithm (DA) technique. The best result was obtained by Gaussian kernel with the optimal parameters σ, C, and ε values estimated as 0.2871, 78.45, and 0, respectively. The small root mean square error (RMSE = 0.0132) and the high determination coefficient (R2 = 0.9983) values proved how robust the SVM model is. DA-SVM techniques can reliably be utilized to describe the thin layer drying kinetics of pea pods. It is useful to provide models that can assist in the development of food process control algorithms, and provided insights into complex processes, for the technological design of microwave or convective drying for pea pods preservation. Practical applications Drying of by-products from pea processing industry was investigated as a critical step prior to their valorization. The drying of pea pods has never been investigated before which is the case of the present study whose objective was to study and model the microwave and convective drying kinetics of pea pods. Our research work reported that the Midilli et al. model was the most appropriate to describe the thin layer drying kinetics of pea pods for both drying methods, but mathematical drying models, although a useful tool, remains empirical in nature and product specific. Because of these limitations the new model DA-SVM, developed using artificial intelligence techniques, can reliably be used to describe the nonlinear behavior of pea pods drying. These results could be further used for scale up calculation, which would further allow industrial scale preservation by microwave or convective drying of pea pods.
Assessment of Four Plant-Derived Extracts as Potential Control Agents Against Varroa destructor with Safety Evaluation in Honey Bees (Apis mellifera)
(Parasitologia, 2026) Abdelhanine Ayad ,El-Hacene Balla ,Keltoum Ichalal,Meriem Amrane-Abider,Massissilia Ayad ,Anissa Mozaoui ,andNadir Boudjlal Dergal
This study evaluated the acaricidal efficacy of extracts from Salvia officinalis (SO), Marrubium vulgare (MV), Ruta graveolens (RG), and Opuntia ficus-indica (OFI) against Varroa destructor, together with their acute toxicity to Apis mellifera. The extracts were characterized for their phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Honey bee toxicity was assessed at 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/mL using three application methods, while acaricidal activity was determined by the drip method. Survival data were analyzed using Kaplan–Meier, the log-rank test, and Abbott’s correction. The extracts differed markedly in their phenolic composition, with RG showing the highest total phenolic content, whereas all extracts exhibited strong antioxidant activity. Toxicity assays revealed significant differences among plant species. SO was the most toxic to honey bees, particularly following drip application, whereas MV and OFI caused minimal mortality. RG showed moderate toxicity that varied with the application method. In contrast, all extracts achieved complete mortality of V. destructor within 4 h, with corrected efficacy exceeding 89%. MV and OFI exhibited the lowest LC50 values, indicating the greatest acaricidal potency. Overall, MV and OFI emerged as the most promising candidates, combining high efficacy against V. destructor with low toxicity to honey bees. However, further validation under field conditions is required.

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