bioaccumulation of heavy metals by non-living rhodococcus
TRANSCRIPT
Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals by Non-living Rhodococcus
Erythropolis B4.
A. Djefal-Kerrar1+
, K. Abdoun-Ouallouche
1, L. Khadraoui
2, A. Belounis
2.
1Division of Nuclear Applications, Nuclear Research Centre of Algiers.
02, Bd Frantz Fanon, Algiers, Algeria. 2Faculty of Science, M'Hamed Bougara University of Boumerdes, Algeria.
Abstract. The sorption of lead and mercury ions from aqueous solutions by dead biomass of Rhodococcus
erythropolis B4 was investigated in the batch mode. The influence of initial pH, initial concentration of ions
and contact time were studied. The metal concentration was analyzed by Atomic Absorption
Spectrophotometry (AAS). Analyses by The Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Scanning
Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX) were performed to show the interactions
between cells and metals ions. Maximum sorption capacities of lead and mercury were found to be 75 mg.g-1
and 300mg.g-1
respectively. The Langmuir and Freundlich models were applied to the experimental data and
the Langmuir model was found to be in better correlation with experimental data. Competitive biosorption
experiments were performed with Pb2+
together with Hg2+
.
Keywords: waste-water treatment; Biosorption; Rhodoccocus erythropolis; Modelling; Adsorption; Heavy
metals.
1. Introduction
The pollution of the environment with toxic heavy metals is spreading through the world along with
industrial progress [1], [2]. The toxicity produced by lowest concentrations of heavy metals ions in industrial
wastewaters is a subject of public concerns, since these ions can reach food chain and persist in nature [3].
According to the water standards used in most countries, levels of heavy metals ions in waste waters must be
controlled and reduced to permissible limits [4]. Several methods are available for removing heavy metals,
such as chemical precipitation, membrane filtration and ion exchange [2]-[5]. Since these traditional methods
are often ineffective and/or very expensive when used for removal of heavy metals at very low
concentrations, using of microorganisms offers a potential alternative[3], [4]. Biological process for removal
of metal ions from liquids can be done by accumulation by viable microorganisms or by adsorption onto
dead microorganism’s surface [6]. Biosorption by dead biomass is relatively rapid and can be reversible. It
involves physicochemical interactions between the metal and functional groups as ketones, aldehydes,
carboxyls present on the microorganism’s surface [2]-[7]. Among the group of bacteria, we can distinguish
Gram positive and Gram negative. Cell wall of Gram negative bacteria which contains peptidoglycan are
somewhat thinner and also not heavily cross-linked like the Gram positive ones which contains moreover
teichoic acids, thus Gram positive bacteria have more potential binding sites for metal ions and are better
biosorbent [8], [9]. The Rhodococcus genus, an aerobic gram positive, non motile, mycolate containing and
belonging to the class of actinomycetes has a considerable importance in biotechnology applied to the
environment, because of its high metabolic diversity and his wide range of enzymatic capacities[1]-[10].
+Corresponding author. Tel: 213 021 43 44 44 ; Fax: 213 021 43 42 80
E-mail address : [email protected]
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 2
7
The objective of this work was the study the adsorption capacity of dead biomass of Rhodococcus
erythropolis B4 strain for lead and mercury, as a function of initial pH, initial metal ions concentrations and
contact time.
2. Material and Methods
2.1. Microorganism and growth conditions Rhodococcus erythropolis B4 strain was grown at 30°C under agitation of 150 rpm, in a liquid medium
containing 10 g l-1
glucose, 5g.l-1
peptone, 3g.l-1
yeast extract as well as 3 g. l-1
malt extract. Biomass was
harvested after 24 h of incubation.
2.2. Metal solutions Lead and mercury solutions were obtained by dissolving an accurate quantity of lead acetate (CH3COO)2
Pb, 3H2O, and mercury chloride (HgCl2) in deionized water to obtain stock solutions of 1g l-1
.
2.3. Batch biosorption experiment Factors affecting lead and mercury adsorption rate and biosorption capacity by Rhodococcus
erythropolis B4 were examined in a batch system. Kinetics of biosorption, isotherms of adsorption and
influence of pH on the biosorption capacity of biomass were studied. The concentrations of non adsorbed
metal ions by Rhodococcus erythropolis B4 biomass were determined by means of AAS. Analysis by FTIR,
SEM and EDX were performed to show interactions between cells and metals ions.
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Effect of pH The results presented in figure 1 show an adsorption increase with increasing pH values for both metals.
At very acidic pH (2 and 3) we observe a low yield of biosorption, about 3% and 5% for Pb and 7% and 17%
for Hg. It’s only at pH 4 that we observe a significant biosorption increase of about 78% for Pb with a
capacity of 139.37 mg g-1
and 85% for Hg with a capacity of 115.15 mg g-1
respectively. This allows us to
say that the biosorption of metals by dead biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis is strongly dependent on pH.
0 2 4 6 80
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
160
qe(m
g.g
-1)
pH
Pb
Hg
Fig. 1: Effect of pH on the biosorption capacity of Pb and Hg by dead biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis (agitation
speed: 150 rpm, weight of biomass: 0.01g, initial concentration of Pb and Hg: 10 mg l-1
, room temperature, contact time:
5h)
The Gram-positive cell walls are composed of linear polymers of peptidoglycan covalently tied together
around the cell membrane [11]. The peptidoglycan forms a carboxyl and hydroxyl rich giant macromolecule
[11]. The presence of these acid groups, especially the carboxylic ones, confers to the surface a very pH-
dependent charge [12].
3.2. Effect of contact time initial metals concentration
8
The results presented in figure 2 show that more than 52 % of Hg and 92 % of Pb are absorbed only after
15 min of contact. The maximal elimination takes place after 5 hours of contact for Pb (97%) with a capacity
of 45.90 mg g-1
and for Hg (93%) with a capacity of 75.72 mg g-1
.
In Fig. 3, it is shown that the increase of initial metal concentrations results in an increase of the
biosorption capacity for both Pb and Hg. This behavior is explained by the fact that for high metals
concentrations, there are a high number of ions in solution, implying thus a high adsorption capacity. Dursun
(2006) [4] reported that the initial metal concentration provides a driving force to overcome mass transfer
resistances between the biosorbent and biosorption medium. A stable biosorption capacity is observed
beyond 75 mg l-1
concentration for Pb and 300 mg l-1
for Hg. This stability is due to the insufficient
availability of sites for sorption in comparison to the number of molecules to be adsorbed. The phase of
saturation is thus attained [13], [14].
0 200 400 600 800 1000 1200 1400 1600
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
qe(m
g.g
-1)
contact time (min)
Pb
Hg
0 50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140 Pb
Hg
qe
(m
g.g
-1)
C0 (mg.l
-1)
Fig. 2: Effect of contact time on the biosorption capacity
of lead and mercury from dead biomass of Rhodococcus
erythropolis (agitation speed: 150 rpm, biomass weight:
0.01g, initial concentration of Pb and Hg: 10 mg l-1
, pH:
5, room temperature).
Fig. 3: Effect of initial concentration of metallic solutions
on the biosorption capacity of Pb and Hg by dead biomass
of Rhodococcus erythropolis (agitation speed: 150 rpm,
weight of biomass: 0.01g, pH: 5, room temperature,
Contact time: 24).
3.3. SEM and EDX analysis SEM micrographs and EDX spectra obtained before and after contact of the dead biomass of
Rhodococcus erythropolis with Pb and Hg are presented in figures 5 and 6.
a b c
Fig. 4: Micrographs of the dead biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis observed by SEM before (a) and after contact
with the metal ions Pb (b) and Hg (c) (x G 12000).
The coccobacillar form of Rhodococcus erythropolis cells is well seen by SEM observations in Fig. 4.
We distinguish a clear and distinct cluster of morphologically uniform cells (fig. 5a). These micrographs do
not clearly reveal the presence of new particles on the cell surface after contact (Fig. 5 b and c). However,
EDX analysis confirms the adsorption of metal ions. The characteristic peaks of Pb and Hg appear distinctly
9
and confirm that the biomass has well fixed the metal ions (Fig.6).
a b c
Fig. 5: Dead biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis analyzed by EDX before (a) and after contact with Pb metal ions
(b) and Hg metal ions (c).
3.4. FT-IR analysis The FT-IR spectra of Rhodococcus erythropolis before and after contact with Pb and Hg are presented in
Fig. 7.
a b
Fig. 6: FT-IR spectrum of dead biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis before and after contact with Pb (a) and Hg ions
(b).
The model of the IR biomass spectrum shows a distinct and a strong absorption at 3575 and 3293 cm-1
indicative of the existence of OH groups and NH groups [15]. The absorption peak at 2924 cm-1
can be
assigned to a C–H group and the absorption peak at 1733 cm-1
is indicative of the C=O group . The
absorption peak at 1077 cm-1
can be assigned to a –C–OH group [16] and the peak at 637 cm-1
represents the
group C–SH2. According to the obtained results, no difference is observed between the Rhodococcus
erythropolis spectra before and after contact with the metal ions except that the absorbance of the peaks in
the Pb and Hg loaded biomass is slightly lower than in the native one which indicate that there is a metal
binding process taking place on that surface of the biomass.
3.5. Modeling of adsorption The equilibrium sorption isotherms are one of the most important data to understand the mechanism of
the biosorption (Fig. 8 a and b).
Results (Table 1) indicate that the Langmuir model describes well the data of lead and mercury
equilibrium adsorption by dead biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis. Maximum loading capacities obtained
are 95,23 mg.g-1
for lead and 147, 05 mg.g-1
for mercury .These values approximate the experimental ones
which are 98, 43 mg.g-1
for Pb and 134, 07 mg.g-1
for Hg. Lead and mercury adsorption occurs on a
homogeneous surface by monolayer sorption with interactions between adsorbed molecules.
4. Conclusion
It is demonstrated that dead biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis B4 is a potential candidate for
biosorption of lead and mercury from aqueous solutions. The process is pH, initial metal concentration and
637,
8
1033
,910
77,9
1241
,1
1316
,11403
,614
48,8
1549
,5
1627
,816
37,5
1643
,7
1660
,917
33,5
2854
,1
2924
,7
3293
,8
3575
,9
3708
,837
37,1
Biomasse morte + Pb
Biomasse morte
-0,00
0,05
0,10
0,15
0,20
0,25
0,30
0,35
0,40
0,45
0,50
0,55
0,60
0,65
0,70
0,75
0,80
Abso
rban
ce
500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500
Nombre d'onde (cm-1)
637,
8
1033
,910
77,9
1241
,11403
,614
48,8
1549
,5
1637
,516
60,9
2924
,7
3293
,8
Biomasse morte + Hg
Biomasse morte
0,05
0,10
0,15
0,20
0,25
0,30
0,35
0,40
0,45
0,50
0,55
0,60
0,65
0,70
0,75
Abso
rban
ce
500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500 4000
Nombre d'onde (cm-1)
10
contact time dependant. Sorption of Pb and Hg on this strain is found to follow a monolayer type of
adsorption. The experimental data fit well to the Langmuir isotherm model.
0 50 100 150 200 250 3000,0
0,5
1,0
1,5
2,0
2,5 Hg
Pb
Ce
/qe
(g
.l-1)
Ce(mg.l-1)
Fig. 7a: Linear transformation of the Langmuir
biosorption of lead (●) and mercury (■) by dead
biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis B4
Fig. 7b: Linear transformation of the Freundlich
biosorption of lead (●) and mercury (■) by dead
biomass of Rhodococcus erythropolis B4
Table 1: Adsorption constants obtained from Langmuir and Freundlich models of dead biomass of Rhodococcus
erythropolis B4.
Adsorbat
Langmuir model Freundlich model
qmax (mg. g-1
) b (l. mg-1
) R2
KF (mg.g-1
) n R2
Pb2+
95,23 0,085 0,94 4,75 5,37 0,60
Hg2+
147,05 0,040 0,98 3,38 2,56 0,69
5. References
[1] H. Aurelio, A. Jaureguibeitia, M. Begona Prieto, R. F. Concepcion, J. L. Serra and MJ, Llama, Biological treatment
of phenolic industrial wastewaters by Rhodococcus erythropolis UPV-1. Enzyme and Microbial Technology
31(2002) 221–226.
[2] B. Bueno, M.Torem, F.Molina and L.Mesquita, Biosorption of lead (II) and copper (II) by R.opacus: Equilibrium
and Kinetic studies. Minerals Engineering 21 (2008) 65-75.
[3] C. J. E. Basurco, R. J.deCarvalho, M. L. Torem, Evaluation of equilibrium, kinetic and thermodynamic
parameters for biosorption of nickel(II) ions onto bacteria strain, Rhdococcus opacus. Minerals Engineering. 22
(2009) 1318-1325.
[4] A. Y. Dursun, G. Uslu, O. Tepe, Y. Cuci, H. I. Ekiz, A comparative investigation on the bioaccumulation of
heavy meatl ions by growing Rhizopus Arrhizus and Aspergillus niger. Minerals Engineering 15 (2003) 87-92
[5] I. Kiran, T. Akar, S. Tunali, Biosrption of Pb (II) and Cu (II) from aqueous solutions by pretraited biomass of
Neurospora crassa. Process Biochemistry 40 (2005) 3550-3558.
[6] B. Preetha, T. Viruthagiri, Bioaccumulation of chromium(VI), copper(II) and nickel(II) ions by growing Rhizopus
arrhizus, Biochemical engineering journal 34 (2007)131-135.
[7] Y. Goksungur, S. Uren, U. Guvenç, Biosorption of cadmium and lead by ethanol treated waste baker’s yeast
biomass. Bioresource technology 96 (2005) 103-109.
[8] N. Das, R. Vimala and P. Karthika, Biosorption of heavy metals. An overview. Indian journal of biotechnology. 7
(2008) 159-169.
[9] K. Chojnacka, Biosorption and bioaccumulation – the prospects for practical applications Environment
International 36 (2010)299–307.
[10] L. Martinkova, B. Uhnakovaun, M. Patekun, J. Nesveraun and V. Krenun, Biodegradation potential of the genus
Rhodococcus. Center of Biocatalysis and Biotransformation, Institute of Microbiology, Academy of Sciences of
0,6 0,8 1,0 1,2 1,4 1,6 1,8 2,0 2,2 2,4 2,6
1,2
1,4
1,6
1,8
2,0
2,2
Hg
Pb
Lo
gq
e
Log Ce
11
the Czech Republic. 35(1) (2009) 162-177.
[11] S. Kelly, K. Kemner, J. Fein, D. Fowle, M. Boyanov, B. Bunker, and N. Yee, X-ray absorption one structure
determination of pH-dependent U-bacterial cell wall interactions. Geochemica et Cosmochimica Acta, 66(22)
(2002) 3855-3871.
[12] A. Plette, M. Benedetti, and W. Van Riemsdjik, Competitive binding of protons, calcium, cadmium and zinc to
isolated cell walls of a Gram-positive soil bacterium. Environmental Science and Technology, 30 (1996)
1902.1910.
[13] T. Akar, S. Tunali, I. Kiran, Botrytis cinerea as a new fungal biosorbant for removal of Pb(II) from aqueous
solutions, Biochem. Eng. J. 25 (3) (2005) 227-235.
[14] M. Isik, Biosorption of Ni (II) from aqueous solutions by living and non-living ureolytic mixed culture. Colloids
and surface B : Biointerfaces 62 (2008) 97-104.
[15] H. Li, Y. Lin, W. Guan, J. Chang, L. Xu, J. Guo, G. Wei, Biosorption of Zn (II) by live and dead cells of
Streptomyces ciscaucasicus strain CCNWHX 72-14. Journal of Hazardous Materials 179 (2010) 151-159.
[16] J. Pan, G. Xiaopeng, L. Ruixia, and T. Hongxiao, Characteristic features of Bacillus cereus cell surfaces with
biosorption of Pb (II) ions by AFM and FT-IR. Colloids and Surfaces B: Biointerfaces. 52(1) (2006) 89-95.
12
Treatment Comparison Efficiency of Microbial Amended Agro-waste
Biochar Constructed Wetlands for Reactive Black Textile Dye
Beenish Saba1,2
, Madeeha Jabeen 2, Tariq Mahmood
2 and Irfan Aziz
3
1Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Geodetic Science, The Ohio State
University Columbus Ohio, USA 2Department of Environmental Sciences
3Department of Agronomy, PMAS Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi
Abstract. Textile effluents are chief industrial polluters because of color content, salts and high chemical
oxygen demand. The intensive release of dyes leads to diffuse contamination of non target environments. For
instance contamination of ground water, nearby irrigation land and surface water bodies threaten human,
animals and plants health. The primary objective of this study is to explore potential of rice husk as an
agricultural waste and biochar of rice husk as natural adsorbent to sorb color from effluent and efficiency of
constructed wetlands (CWs) in dye contaminated water treatment. The experiment was divided into four
levels. Study 1 was a lab scale study in which we study the adsorption of reactive black dye on rice husk and
biochar. Study 2 was done to determine comparative dye removal in constructed wetland system. Study 3
was done to evaluate the dye removal ability of Ks-23, Ks-26 and I-15 in laboratory. Study 4 was taken in
constructed wetland for evaluating the microbial assisted dye removal efficiency of the system.The results of
study reveal that there was significant reduction in COD of the systems leading up to 40% to 50% with
maximum reduction in constructed wetland containing microbes and biochar as medium. Color is the major
problem regarding wastewater textile effluents. A considerable color reduction was observed in CWs. The
color removal increases with the passage of time. 70% to 90% color removal was observed in this study with
an HRT of 30.24hours. A strong negative correlation was observed between COD and color removal.
Maximum removal was observed at the end of the two months duration. Rice husk system has a COD of 95
mg/L with 78.74% color removal (-0.36359) compared to 93mg/L COD and 75% color removal (-0.56083)
in Biochar system. Similar trend was observed in systems containing microbes along with rice husk and
biochar. Ricehusk+ks-23 have a COD of 373mg/L with 90.069% color removal (-0.6652) and biochar+ks-23
have 358mg/L COD and 94.062% color removal (-0.85642).
Keywords: rice husk, constructed wetlands, reactive black, dye removal
1. Introduction
Industrial activities are releasing a number of hazardous chemical species polluting wastewater
effluents. Dyes must be treated as they account for the most part of perilous chemical present in
industrial effluents lessening light penetration, hence disturbing the photosynthetic activity and
biological processes of aqueous flora [1]. The technologies available for dye removal such as
physicochemical and biological are very expensive and resulted in sludge formation which cause
secondary pollution. Adsorption is the most appropriate and proficient method for dye removal in
effluents [2]-[4]. A significant role was played by phytoremediation in contaminant removal
through filtration, adsorption, cation exchange, and throughout plant-induced chemical
transformations in rhizosphere [5]. Plants generally have optimistic outcome on decontamination
and play a promising role in CWs [6]. Rice husk is a key agricultural waste throughout the world;
therefore its appropriate management is very indispensable to lessen its effect on environment. Rice
Corresponding Author: Tel.: +92-51-9290757; fax: +92-51-9290160.
E-mail address: [email protected]
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 3
13
husk, rice bran and rice ash was used to destroy a number of dyes including methylene blue [3],
crystal violet [7], Brilliant Vital Red [8], Direct Red-31 and Direct Orange-26 [9] and Congo red
[10]. So a combination of microbes, plants and constructed wetland would establish itself as an
efficient system.
The objectives of the study will be as follows.
1. To compare rice husk media and biochar on treatment of wastewater.
2. To evaluate adsorption, removal and degradation of the dye related contaminants
3. To assess dye removal efficiency at different level of studies
4. To reuse the treated wastewater for irrigation purpose
2. Materials and Methods
In this study two systems of wetland were constructed and assigned as system 1 and 2. System 1
consisted of mixture of soil and ricehusk in 1:1 and system 2 contained of soil and biochar of
ricehusk in the same ratio. Wetland encompassed of plastic boxes with a height and volume of
28cm and 15.12L respectively. Prescaria barbata was planted in both systems and acclimatize with
water before application of synthetic dye wastewater. Plant density in both systems was 12
plants/system. The graduated influent container was positioned at height of 1 foot above these
systems. The treated wastewater was collected in another container with a capacity of 10 liters.
Wetland (system 1) was constructed with horizontal layer of gravel at the bottom, mixture of soil
and ricehusk (1:1) as the main substratum and then again covers with fine gravel at the top. System
2 was also constructed in the same way having soil and biochar of ricehusk. Soil and ricehusk was
sieved with a mesh size of 0.5 mm. Effluent samples were taken on every tenth day; on twelfth hour
when dye wastewater was fed to the systems. Water samples are collected in plastic bottles and
transferred to laboratory and kept at 4°C.
3. Result and Discussion
This study was conducted to determine the degradation of synthetic dye wastewater by using
constructed wetland system comprising of ricehusk and its biochar as a substratum. The COD of the
influent was 167mg/L which was greatly reduced to 95mg/L in case of rice husk and 93mg/L in case
of biochar. A significant reduction of COD was observed in the constructed wetland systems with
the passage of time till end of two months (P<0.000014). Similarly the COD of the influent and
yeast was 672mg/L which was decreased up to 373mg/L in case of inoculated ricehusk wetland and
358mg/L in inoculated biochar system. A negative gradient was observed with the passage of time
(p<0.006). There was significant reduction in COD of the systems leading up to 40 percent to 50
percent with maximum reduction in constructed wetland containing microbes and biochar as
medium (figure 1).
Fig. 1: Comparison of percent COD removal of the systems
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
10 20 30 40 50 60
% C
OD
Re
mo
val
Time (Days)
Ricehusk
Biochar
Ricehusk+KS-23
Biochar+KS-23
14
Color is the major problem regarding wastewater textile effluents. A considerable colour
reduction was also observed in CWs. The color removal increases with the passage of time. 70
percent to 90 percent color removal was observed in this study with an HRT of 30.24 hours (figure
2) with maximum colour removal was observed in biochar system assisted with KS-23. [11] also
noted that the decolorization of Reactive Black was maximum by bacterial strains at 250 mg/L
dye liquid medium when yeast extract was applied at the rate of 0.4 percent as a
cosubstrate.
Fig. 2: Colour removal rate of the four CWs at different time interval
A strong negative correlation was observed between COD and color removal in all the four
systems (figure 3). Maximum removal was observed at the end of the two months duration. Rice
husk system has a COD of 95mg/L with 78.74 percent color removal (-0.36359) compared to
93mg/L COD and 75percent color removal (-0.56083) in Biochar system. Similar trend was
observed in systems containing microbes along with ricehusk and biochar. Ricehusk+ks-23 have a
COD of 373mg/L with 90.069 percent color removal (-0.6652) and biochar+ks-23 have 358mg/L
COD and 94.062 percent color removal (-0.85642). In another study maximum decolorization of
Reactive Black was 80 to 100 percent in 24 hours by using selected strains of bacteria at 250 mg/L
dye concentration assisted with 4 g/L yeast [12]. Another study showed a great COD reduction up
to 88 percent when a combination of bacterial communities was used as compared to 36 percent and
48 percent for individual strains. He also analyzed that the consortium could nearly completely
mineralize the dye with nontoxic residual metabolites evaluated by phyto toxicity and microbial
toxicity tests. The Consortium was tested to decolorize and mineralize mixture of reactive dyes and
actual dye wastewater shows significant efficiency in the color removal as well as the reduction of
TOC and COD. The ability of consortium to utilize cheap cosubstrate such as rice husk and rice
straw for dye decolorization represents an advantage for treatment of textile industry wastewaters
[13].
Fig. 3: Comparison of COD and colour removal in effluents obtained from CW system containing Biochar+KS-23
0
50
100
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
% C
olo
r R
em
ova
l
Time (days)
Ricehusk
Biochar
Ricehusk+KS-23
Biochar+KS-23
0
20
40
60
80
100
0
200
400
600
800
0 10 20 30 40 50 60
% C
olo
r R
em
ova
l
CO
D (
mg/
L)
Time (Days)
COD
Color
15
The following conclusion can be drawn from this study:
The dye removal rate is directly affected by pH, adsorbent dose, contact time, agitation rate
and initial dye concentration.
Highest efficiency was observed in a system containing microbes and biochar with 90 percent
colour removal.
A strong negative correlation was observed between COD and colour removal for all the
systems.
4. References
[1] Y. S. Al-Degs, M. I. El-Barghouthi, A. H. El-Sheikh and G. M. Walker. 2008. Effect of solution pH, ionic strength,
and temperature on adsorption behavior of reactive dyes on activated carbon. Dyes Pigments, 77(1): 16-23.
[2] M. Anbia, and S. Salehi. 2012. Removal of acid dyes from aqueous media by adsorption onto amino-functionalized
nanoporous silica SBA-3. Dyes Pigments, 94(1): 1-9.
[3] M. N. Ashiq, M. Najam-Ul-Haq, T. Amanat, A. Saba, A. M. Qureshi and M. Nadeem. 2012. Removal of
methylene blue from aqueous solution using acid/base treated rice husk as an adsorbent. Desalination Water
Treatment, 49(1-3): 376-383.
[4] W. Zhang, H. Yang, L. Dong, H. Yan, H. Li, Z. Jiang, X. Kan, A. Li and R. Cheng. 2012. Efficient removal of
both cationic and anionic dyes from aqueous solutions using a novel amphoteric straw-based adsorbent.
Carbohydrate Polymers.
[5] J. Nouri, N. Khorasani, B. Lorestani, M. Karami, A. Hassani and N. Yousefi. 2009. Accumulation of heavy metals
in soil and uptake by plant species with phytoremediation potential. Environmental Earth Sciences, 59(2): 315-323.
[6] L. Kong, Y. B. Wang, L. N. Zhao and Z. H. Chen. 2009. Enzyme and root activities in surface-flow constructed
wetlands. Chemosphere, 76(5): 601-608.
[7] T. Depci, A. R. Kul, Y. Onal, E. Disli, S. Alkan, Z. F. Tukmenoglu, 2012. Adsorption of crystal violet from
aqueous solution on activated carbon derived from gölbaşi lignite. Physicochemical Problems in Mineral
Processing, 48(1): 253-270
[8] R. Rehman, J. Anwar, T. Mahmud, M. Salman and U. Shafique. 2011a. Influence of Operating Conditions on the
Removal of Brilliant Vital Red Dye from Aqueous Media by Biosorption using Rice Husk. J. Chem. Soc. Pak.,
33(4): 515.
[9] Y. Safa, and H. N. Bhatti. 2011. Kinetic and thermodynamic modeling for the removal of Direct Red-31 and Direct
Orange-26 dyes from aqueous solutions by rice husk. Desalination, 272(1): 313-322.
[10] X. S. Wang, and J. P. Chen. 2009. Biosorption of Congo Red from Aqueous Solution using Wheat Bran and Rice
Bran: Batch Studies. Separation Science and Technology, 44(6): 1452-1466.
[11] D. Mahne, 2012. Combination of constructed wetland and TiO2 photocatalysis for textile wastewater treatment.
Unpublished Doctoral Thesis. Univerza v Novi Gorici, podiplomski študij.
[12] M. Shah, K. Patel, S. Nair and A. Darji. 2013. Optimization of Environmental Parameters on Microbial
Degradation of Reactive Black Dye. J. Bioremed. Biodeg, 4(183): 2.
[13] R. Saratale, G. Saratale, J. Chang, and S. Govindwar. 2010. Decolorization and biodegradation of reactive dyes and
dye wastewater by a developed bacterial consortium. Biodegradation, 21(6): 999-1015.
16
Effects of Bio-Based Ingredients on the Development and Quality of
Food Wrapper from Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) Seed
Flour
Mylene A. Anwar1+
and Roberta D. Lauzon2
1 Department of Food Science, College of Home Economics, Central Mindanao University, University Town,
Musuan, Maramag 8710, Bukidnon, Philippines 2 Departmet of Food Science and Technology, College of Agriculture and Food Science, Visayas State
University, Visca 6521-A, Baybay City, Leyte, Philippines
Abstract. The use of edible food wrappers with antimicrobial properties is becoming popular nowadays.
However, due to some complexities in its production and components, making it expensive, its use is often
limited only to consumers who have the capacity to purchase at a relatively higher value. This can be
answered by developing food wrapper using locally available bio-based ingredients known to exhibit
antimicrobial properties. This study was conducted to develop food wrapper utilizing jackfruit seed flour and
to assess its quality as affected by levels of malunggay leaf extract, cassava starch and garlic slurry as bio-
based ingredients. Level combination of 120 % malunggay leaf extract, 80 % garlic slurry and 40 g cassava
starch is the optimum level combination that satisfies the optimum formulation requirement based on
product’s general acceptability, production cost and nutritional value. Aroma and general acceptability of
food wrapper was significantly affected by malunggay leaf extract levels and the texture acceptability of the
product by cassava starch levels. The food wrapper showed no cracks when subjected to folding test and has
a water and oil absorption capacity of 18.36 % and 10.76 %, respectively. It has a microbial load of 7 x 101
cfu/g after 35 days storage at chilling condition and bacterial pathogens (Salmonella and E. coli) were not
detected in the product. Overall consumer preference of 81% indicates that it has a strong potential to
compete as a low cost healthy alternative with the existing food wrappers in the market.
Keywords: bio-based, jackfruit seed flour, food wrapper
1. Introduction
Consumers’ attitude towards bio-based food products and ingredients are in demand at present. High
demand for these products is driven by the never-ending food-safety issues associated with synthetic
chemical components along with environmental concerns. Furthermore, with the increase in knowledge on
the benefits of bio-based ingredients, consumers nowadays are becoming more conscious on their
consumption choices. Among these ingredients includes malunggay and garlic, which are known to
contribute significant health benefits aside from being a natural antimicrobial agent. Cassava starch also is
known to contribute in improving product quality in many food formulations.
Though varieties of product forms are already available in the market which contains bio-based
ingredients, a lot of consumers, especially those seriously affected by poverty cannot access these products
due to high cost. Thus, there is a need to develop food products utilizing these ingredients without the need
of sophisticated equipment for processing and that production can be done at home level.
This study was conducted to maximize the use of jackfruit seeds and to utilize locally available bio-
based ingredients in the development of food wrapper that can serve as a healthy alternative to existing food
wrappers in the market.
+Corresponding author: Tel: (088) 356-1910 local 122/ +63984957262
E-mail address: [email protected]
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 4
17
2. Methods
2.1. Procurement of raw materials
Jackfruit seeds were collected from the Department of Food Science and Technology vacuum and
dehydrated jackfruit processing area for the production of jackfruit seed flour. Cassava starch was purchased
from the PhilRootcrops Research and Training Center in Visayas State University, Visca, Baybay City,
Leyte. All other raw materials needed including eggs, garlic, malunggay leaves and salt were purchased at
Baybay City Public Market.
2.2. Variable screening
Screening of variables was conducted using Plackett-Burman Design with seven (7) input variables for
eight (8) runs [2] (Gacula, 1993). Response variables include the descriptive and acceptability of the
products’ color, aroma, texture, pliability, taste, and general acceptability.
2.3. Experimental design for formulation optimization
A 33 fractional factorial design, Central Composite Design (CCD), was employed with 15 treatments for
experimental combinations.
2.4. Production of bio-based food wrapper for product optimization
Filtrate from the malunggay leaves and the homogenized garlic slurry was gradually added to the
previously sifted jackfruit seed flour and cassava starch in appropriate volumes. The mixture was added with
constant amount of whole egg and iodized salt and was mixed thoroughly until a smooth consistency is
achieved. Appropriate amount of the mixture was poured into a non-stick pan over medium heat. Doneness
was determined when edges loosens from the pan and when surface looks completely dry. The final product
was removed from the pan using spatula.
2.5. Sensory evaluation for product optimization
Presentation of the samples was carried out following the Incomplete Block Design (IBD) set plan 13.7
laid out by [1] Cochran and Cox (1957).
2.6. Statistical analysis and modeling
Data obtained from sensory evaluation for variable screening was analyzed using STATISTICA
version 6. Data from the optimization process was subjected to Response Surface Regression (RSReg)
analysis using SAS Statistical Software to determine the effects of independent variables on the sensory
qualities of the product.
2.7. Verification and consumer preference test
Verification test was conducted using the optimum formulation and a treatment having level
combination that falls outside the optimum region. Consumer preference test was carried out by subjecting
the optimized food wrapper and a commercial counterpart to 100 randomly selected consumer panelists.
2.8. Physico-chemical and nutritional value analysis
Physico-chemical analysis includes folding test, water and oil absorption capacity and the determination
of the food wrapper’s nutritional value, including fat, protein, total dietary fiber and food energy value by the
Regional Standards and Testing Center (RSTC), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Lahug,
Cebu City.
2.9. Microbiological analysis and shelf life determination
The microbiological quality of the food wrapper stored at chilling condition was periodically (every after
seven days) examined for 35 days. A prepared vegetable for lumpia filling was wrapped using the food
wrapper to assess its application. The product was stored at chilling temperature and was subjected to
microbial analysis to determine its shelf life.
3. Results and Discussion
18
3.1. Variable screening
Based on the result of variable screening as shown in Table 1, levels of cassava starch, malunggay leaves
extract and garlic slurry are the variables that significantly affect the product’s quality, thus, appropriate to
be used in the optimization process. These variables are believed to improve the physico-chemical, sensory,
nutritional and antimicrobial property of the food wrapper.
Table 1. Statistical analysis of Plackett-Burman design expressed as effect estimates
Parameter Parameter Estimates
Color Aroma Texture Pliability Taste Gen. Accept.
Mean/Interc. 7.05357** 7.12946** 6.964286** 6.79017** 6.63839** 6.84821**
JSF -0.26785* 0.22321* -0.17857ns
-0.29464* -0.22321 ns
-0.37500**
CS 0.17857ns
0.22321* 0.87500ns
-0.09821 ns
-0.06250 ns
-0.01785 ns
MLE 0.48214** -0.29464** 0.08928ns
0.06250 ns
0.16964 ns
0.10714 ns
Garlic 0.42857** 0.72321** 0.05357ns
-0.00893 ns
0.08035 ns
0.07143 ns
Whole Egg -0.46428** 0.13392ns
-0.03571ns
-0.06250 ns
0.18750 ns
0.14285 ns
Salt 0.01785ns
-0.09821ns
-0.21429* -0.06250 ns
-0.04464 ns
-0.03571 ns
JSF (jackfruit seed flour) MLE (malunggay leaves extract) CS (cassava starch) GS (garlic slurry) *significant (p<0.05) ** significant (p<0.01) ns not significant
3.2. Sensory qualities of the food wrapper
Statistical analysis (Table 2) revealed that malunggay leaves extract affects the product’s aroma and
general acceptability. Texture acceptability is significantly affected by cassava starch level.
Table 2. Parameter estimates for the response of sensory acceptability of the food wrapper
Parameter Parameter Estimates
Color Aroma Texture Pliability Taste Gen. Accept.
MLE -0.04875ns
-0.13295** -0.00681ns
-0.09089ns
-0.08092ns
-0.11482*
CS 0.04643ns
-0.01696 ns
-0.08110ns
0.00366 ns
-0.05164ns
0.02786ns
GS -0.21024ns
-0.03744 ns
0.24319ns
0.09875ns
0.17915ns
0.21220ns
MLE*MLE 0.00034ns
0.00064ns
0.00027ns
0.00040ns
0.00056 ns
0.00099**
CS*MLE 0.00004ns
0.00016 ns
-0.00021ns
0.00009ns
0.00010 ns
-0.00001ns
CS*CS -0.00010ns
-0.00012ns
0.00064* -0.00004ns
0.00034 ns
-0.00012ns
GS*MLE 0.00009ns
0.00062ns
-0.00016 ns
0.00054ns
0.00011ns
-0.00007ns
GS*CS -0.00054ns
0.00031ns
0.00020 ns
-0.00004ns
0.00002ns
-0.00025ns
GS*GS 0.00173ns
-0.00012ns
-0.00175 ns
-0.00089ns
-0.00133ns
-0.00137ns
MLE (malunggay leaves extract) CS (cassava starch) GS (garlic slurry) *significant (p<0.05) ** significant (p<0.01) ns not significant
3.3. Optimum formulation
Superimposed contour plots (Figure 1) showed that higher product acceptability is obtained at low level
of cassava starch. Thus, a 40 grams cassava starch is used for the optimum formulation. Since the optimum
shaded region for garlic is located within the set levels of the variables except at the region about 62.9-68.7%,
a percentage level of 80% (64ml) garlic is used in the optimum formulation. This value maximizes the use of
garlic and its contribution in enhancing the nutritional value of the product in addition to being a natural
antimicrobial agent. To maximize also the use of malunggay leaves extract, a level beyond the set maximum
value (beyond 80%) is used in the optimum formulation since product acceptability increases at levels below
and beyond the set minimum and maximum values respectively. It is wise to utilize the high level of
malunggay leaves extract in order also to enhance the nutritional value of the product. Thus, a level of 120%
malunggay leaves extract is used in the optimum formulation.
19
Fig. 1: Superimposed contour plots showing the optimum region
3.4. Verification and consumer preference test T-test analysis comparing the predicted and observed values (Table 3) showed that the observed
sensory acceptability rating of the optimum formulation is significantly different from the predicted
values. This, however, does not imply that the predicted values are not dependable but only shows
that the level combination of variables used in the optimum formulation is the most acceptable as
indicated by the increase in the sensory acceptability rating range from 7.28- 8.00 (“like
moderately” to “like very much”) based on the 9-point hedonic scale.
Table 3. T-test results for comparing predicted and observed sensory acceptability of the optimum treatment and
treatment outside the optimum region (Treatment 7)
Optimum Formulation Treatment 7
Parameter Sensory Acceptability
Prob > |T|
Sensory Acceptability
Predicted Observed Predicted Observed Prob > |T|
Color 7.48 8 0.00353** 6.6466 6.5357 0.25809ns
Aroma 7.23 7.8214 0.00002** 6.6749 6.7143 0.73095ns
Texture 7.21 7.5357 0.03861* 6.5891 6.1071 0.00092**
Pliability 6.63 7.6429 0.00002** 6.4771 6.0714 0.00143**
Taste 6.92 7.2857 0.01728* 5.92148 5.5714 0.04450**
Gen. Accept. 7.04 7.8214 0.00000** 6.6351 6.25 0.00171** N=28 *significant (p< 0.05) **significant (p< 0.01) ns not significant
Range of scores: 9-like extremely 6-like slightly 3-dislike moderately
8-like very much 5-neither like nor dislike 2-dislike very much 7-like moderately 4- dislike slightly 1-dislike extremely
The higher overall preference of the bio-based food wrapper (81%) than the commercial
counterpart (19%) implies that the biobased food wrapper form jackfruit seed flour has great market
potential and a healthy alternative to existing food wrappers that are commonly used especially in
home cooking. It is also an ideal channel to introduce vegetable (the malunggay leaf) and spice
(garlic) to individuals who do not usually consume it.
3.5. Physico-chemical properties The negative result of the folding test for the occurrence of cracks or any mechanical damage
implies that pliability of the food wrapper in its optimum formulation is efficient enough to serve its
purpose and to function well in wrapping foods.
Result in water and oil absorption evaluation revealed that the food wrapper had the capacity to
absorb 18.36% and 10.76% water and oil respectively. With this amount of water absorbed, the
Cas
sav
a S
tarc
h (
g)/
Gar
lic
Slu
rry
(m
l)
Malunggay Leaves Extract (%)/ Garlic Slurry (ml)
20
food wrapper remains intact but its efficiency in wrapping decreases because texture and pliability
are negatively affected.
3.6. Nutritional value Result of nutritional quality analysis showed that the food wrapper contains an appreciable amount of fat
(0.647%), protein (4. 36%), total dietary fiber (2.27%), total carbohydrates (34.1%) and food energy value of
160 kcal/100g. This indicates that the food wrapper can serve as a healthy alternative to existing food
wrappers in the market.
3.7. Microbiological analysis and shelf-life study Result in the microbiological analysis revealed that the food wrapper had 7x10
1 microbial count
expressed as colony-forming units per gram of sample (cfu/ g) after 35 days of storage at chilling
condition. The result indicates that the microbial load of the product is low and is within the set
guideline level of ≤104
and ≤106
for determining the microbiological quality of ready-to-eat food [3]
(NSW Food Authority, 2009). The microbial quality status of the product can be attributed to
several factors, including the composition of the food product having garlic and malunggay leaves
extract, which are known to exhibit antimicrobial activity, its storage condition, and most
importantly the good manufacturing practices applied during the process.
Result of pathogen test revealed that the bio-based food wrapper was free from pathogens,
specifically Salmonella and E. coli. This implies that the bio-based food wrapper is safe for
consumption, and that it does not pose a risk for any possible food borne illness caused by these
pathogens.
4. Acknowledgements
This study was funded by the Department of Science and Technology – Science Education Institute
(DOST-SEI) under the Accelerated Science and Technology Human Resource Development Program
(ASTHRDP) through the National Science Consortium (NSC). Likewise, jackfruit seeds provided by the
Department of Food Science and Technology of the Visayas State University are greatly appreciated and
acknowledged.
5. References
[1] W. G. Cochran and G.M. Cox. Experimental Designs. Second Edition. New York. 1957, p. 163.
[2] M.C. Gacula, 1993. Design and Analysis of Sensory Optimization. Food and Nutrition Press, Trumbull,
Connecticut, USA. pp. 133- 137.
[3] NSW Food Authority. Microbiological quality guide for ready-to-eat foods: a guide to interpreting microbiological
results. 2009. Retrieved September 12, 2009 from,
http://www.foodauthority.nsw.gov.au/_Documents/science/microbiological_quality_guide_for_RTE_food.pdf.
21
Anti-inflammatory activities of cellulose nanofibers made from adlay
and seaweed in an inflammatory bowel-disease model
Kazuo Azuma 1
, Shinsuke Ifuku 2, Tomohiro Osaki
1, Ichiro Arifuku
3, Yoshiharu Okamoto
1
1 Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-minami Tottori, 680-8533, Japan
2 Graduated School of Engineering, Tottori University, 4-101 Koyama-minami Tottori, 680-8533, Japan
3 Department of Applied Biotechnology, Food Developing Laboratory, Tottori Institute of Industrial
Technology, Sakaiminato,Tottori 684-0041, Japan
Abstract. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is one of the common diseases all over the world. In this
study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of cellulose nanofibers made from adlay (A-CNF) and
seaweed (S-CNF) on colon inflammation using the mouse model of IBD. A-CNF and S-CNF improved the
histological tissue injury in mice. A-CNF and S-CNF also suppressed activation of nuclear factor-kappa B in
the colon. Furthermore, A-CNF and S-CNF suppressed myeloperoxidase activities of inflammatory cells
such as leukocytes. On the other hand, cellulose nanofibers made from wood did not improve the histological
tissue injury and colon inflammation in mice. These results revealed that A-CNF and S-CNF have
suppressive effects on colon inflammation in an experimental IBD mouse model. Furthermore, our results
indicate that A-CNF and S-CNF may be a potential source of dietary fiber for patients with IBD.
Keywords: dietary fiber, cellulose nanofiber, inflammatory bowel disease, adlay, seaweed
1. Introduction
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gut [1]. Incidences of
IBD have increased and it may be because of changes in dietary habits in recent years, particularly diets with
low fiber content [2]. Recently, Abe et al. (2007) described an efficient method for isolation of cellulose
nanofibers with a uniform width of approximately 15 nm from wood [3]. This nanofiber preparation method
can be used to isolate cellulose nanofibers from any natural plant such as flax, sugarcane bagasse, wheat
straw, and pear [4]-[6] Recently, we reported that nanofibrillated chitin has anti-inflammatory effects on IBD
mouse model [7], [8]. Furthermore, we also reported the anti-inflammatory effects of cellulose nanofiber
made from pear in IBD mouse model [9]. This result indicate that nanofibrillation confers beneficial and new
aspects to materials. In this study, we evaluated cellulose nanofibers made from adlay and seaweed as new
types of dietary fibers [10].
2. Materials and Methods
2.1. Preparation of cellulose nanofibers
Cellulose nanofibers from adlay (Coix lacryma-jobi) chaff (A-CNF) and Hijiki seaweed (Saragassum
fusiforme) (S-CNF) were prepared by methods described previously [6] with some modifications. Briefly,
dried Hijiki and adlay chaff were soaked in water and roughly crushed in a domestic blender. The
suspensions were passed through a grinder (MKCA6-3; Masuko Aangyo Co. Ltd., Saitama, Japan) set at
1500 rpm. Grinding was performed with a clearance gauge of −1.5 (corresponding to a 0.15 mm shift) from
the zero position, which was determined by the point of slight contact between the grinding stones. The
samples were placed in a pressure-tight glass vessel and hydrothermally treated at 150°C for 120 min in a
Corresponding author. Tel.: +81-857-31-5433; fax: +81-857-31-5433.
E-mail address: kazu-azumamuses.tottori-u.ac.jp.
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 5
22
high-pressure cooker (VS-2416; Koyo Engineering Corp., Saitama, Japan) to break down the matrix
substances such as hemicellulose polysaccharides, the pectin matrix, and phenolic polymer lignin embedded
in the cellulose nanofibers of the cell wall. The thermally treated wet samples were then passed through the
Star Burst system (Star Burst Mini, HJP-25001S; Sugino Machine Co., Ltd.) equipped with a ball-collision
chamber. The slurry was ejected from a small nozzle with a diameter of 100 μm under high pressure (245
MPa) and collided with a ceramic ball with a diameter of 12.7 mm. The suspensions were passed through 10
(adlay chaff) or 5 (Hijiki seawood) mechanical treatments. Concentrations of A-CNF and S-CNF
homogeneous slurries were 3 and 1 wt%, respectively. Before the oral administration experiment, A-CNF
and S-CNF were diluted to 0.1 w% of homogeneous slurries in water. Each 0.1 w% diluted A-CNF and S-
CNF were used for the oral administration experiment. Isolation of cellulose nanofibers from wood (W-CNF)
was performed according to a previous report (Abe et al., 2007). Wood powder from Radiata Pine (Pinus
radiata D. Don) was used for this study. Before the oral administration experiment, A-CNF, S-CNF and E-
CNF were diluted to 0.1 w% of homogeneous slurries in water.
2.2. Animals and reagents
Twenty-five C57BL/6 mice (female, 5 weeks old) were purchased from CLEA Japan (Osaka, Japan).
The animals were maintained under conventional conditions. Mice were used in experiments after 7 days of
acclimation. Animal procedures were approved by the Animal Research Committee of Tottori University.
DSS (molecular weight: 36–50 kDa; reagent grade) was purchased from MP Biomedicals LLC (Solon, OH,
USA).
2.3. Animals and reagents
Mice (n = 25) were randomized into 5 groups: the control (−) group was administered tap water (n = 5),
the control (+) group was administered 3% DSS dissolved in tap water (n = 5), the A-CNF (+) group was
administered A-CNF and 3% DSS dissolved in tap water (n = 5), the S-CNF (+) group was administered S-
CNF and 3% DSS dissolved in tap water (n = 5), and the wood cellulose nanofiber (W-CNF) (+) group was
administered W-CNF and 3% DSS dissolved in tap water (n = 5). To elicit colitis, mice were administered
with 3% DSS ad libitum for 5 days. A-CNF, S-CNF, and W-CNF were diluted to 0.1 w% in water. The A-
CNF (+), S-CNF (+), and W-CNF (+) groups, 0.1 w% diluted A-CNF, S-CNF, and W-CNF were also
administered ad libitum for 5 days. Colon sampling was performed at day 5 in all groups.
2.4. Histological evaluation of colitis
Colon tissues were fixed in 10% buffered formalin. Thin sections (3 μm) were prepared from each
sample for histological observation after hematoxylin-eosin staining. Each section was examined
microscopically, and histological scoring was performed as described by us [7]. Histological scoring was
performed in 10 fields at ×100 magnification using 3 mice in each group. The mean score for 30 fields was
considered as the histological score for each group. Counting of MPO-positive cells in the submucosal layer
was performed as described previously [7]. Immunohistochemical detection of NF-κB was performed by
methods described previously [8]. Quantitative digital morphometric analyses of NF-κB-positive areas of
colonic sections were performed according to methods described previously [8].
2.5. Statistical analysis
The data are expressed as the mean ± S.E. Statistical analyses were performed using Steel-Dwass test. A
p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
3. Results
3.1. Effects of A-CNF and S-CNF on histological changes in IBD model mice
The damage of the intestinal mucosa was microscopically evaluated by histological scoring. In control (+)
and W-CNF (+) groups, we observed erosions, shorting or destruction of the crypts, and edema. In A-CNF (+)
and S-CNF (+) groups, we observed some erosion and marked suppression of shorting or destruction of the
crypts, and slight suppression of edema. The results of the histological scoring are shown in Figure 1. In the
control (+) group, the histological scores were significantly higher than those in the non-treated control
23
(control (−)) group were (p < 0.01). In addition, histological scores of the A-CNF (+) and S-CNF (+) groups
were significantly lower than those of the control (+) and W-CNF (+) groups were (p < 0.01).
Fig. 1: Effects of A-CNF and S-CNF on histological changes in IBD model mice. Data represent the mean ± S.E. in
each group. Statistical analysis was performed with the Steel-Dwass test. **p < 0.01.
3.2. Effects of A-CNF and S-CNF on colon MPO-positive cells in IBD mouse model
The results of the numbers of MPO-positive cells are shown in Figure 2. In the control (+) group, the
numbers of MPO-positive cells were significantly higher than those of the non-treated control (control (−))
group were (p < 0.01). In A-CNF (+) and S-CNF (+) groups, the numbers of MPO-positive cells were
significantly lower than those of the control (+) and W-CNF (+) groups were (p < 0.01).
Fig. 2: Effects of A-CNF and S-CNF on colon MPO-positive cells in IBD mouse model. Data represent the mean ± S.E.
in each group. Statistical analysis was performed with the Steel-Dwass test. **p < 0.01.
3.3. Effects of A-CNF and S-CNF on NF-κB expression in the colon epithelium
In the control (+) group, the positive areas of NF-κB were significantly increased compared with those of
the non-treated control (control (−)) group (p < 0.01). In A-CNF (+) and S-CNF (+) groups, the positive
areas of NF-κB were significantly decreased compared with those of the control (+) and W-CNF (+) groups
(p < 0.01) (Figure 3).
4. Discussion
Intake of dietary fiber reduces the risk of developing certain gastrointestinal disorders [11]. In this study,
we evaluated the potential of A-CNF and S-CNF as new types of dietary fiber using the IBD mouse model.
In A-CNF (+) and S-CNF (+) groups, histological scores were significantly lower than those of the control (+)
and W-CNF (+) groups were. Being a marker of oxidative stress, high MPO activities were observed in a
24
IBD mouse model [12], [13]. In the A-CNF(+) and S-CNF (+) groups, MPO-positive cells were significantly
fewer than in the control(+) and W-CNF(+) groups. Therefore, we can infer that P-CNF suppresses the
inflammation caused by acute UC by decreasing the MPO activation of inflammatory cells such as
leukocytes. On the other hand, W-CNF did not suppress the clinical symptoms and colon inflammation in the
IBD mouse model. These data indicated that A-CNF and S-CNF suppressed colon damage in the
experimental IBD mouse model. NF-κB is a critical transcription factor needed to express genes associated
with proinflammatory responses [14]. It stimulates expression of cyclooxygenase-2, prostaglandin E2, and
pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and monocyte chemotactic protein-1) [15]. In A-CNF (+) and S-
CNF (+) groups, positive areas of NF-κB in colon epithelia were significantly decreased compared with
those of the control (+) and W-CNF (+) groups. Our results indicated that A-CNF and S-CNF had anti-
inflammatory effects via suppression of NF-κB activation in the IBD mouse model.
Fig. 3: Effects of A-CNF and S-CNF on NF-κB expression in the colon epithelium. Data represent the mean ± S.E. in
each group. Statistical analysis was performed with the Steel-Dwass test. **p < 0.01.
In conclusion, A-CNF and S-CNF suppress shortening of colons and increases the colon weight/length
ratio. A-CNF and S-CNF also suppress colon inflammation. Our data indicate that the cellulose nanofibers
made from adlay and seaweed have the potential to be considered new types of beneficial dietary fibers for
IBD patients.
5. Acknowledgements
This work was supported by a Tottori prefecture-financed aid project for beauty & health products
(2012–2013).
6. References
[1] G. Morrison, B. Headon, P. Gibson. Update in inflammatory bowel disease. Aust. Fam. Physician. 2009, 38, 956–
961.
[2] D.J. Rose, M.T. DeMeo, A. Keshavarzian, B.R. Hamaker. Influence of dietary fiber on inflammatory bowel
disease and colon cancer: importance of fermentation pattern. Nutr. Rev. 2007, 65, 51–62.
[3] K. Abe, S. Iwamoto, H. Yano. Obtaining cellulose nanofibers with a uniform width of 15 nm from wood.
Biomacromolecules. 2007, 8, 3276–3278.
[4] K. Abe, H. Yano. Comparison of the characteristics of cellulose microfibril aggregates of wood, rice straw and
potato tuber. Cellulose. 2009, 16, 1017–1023.
[5] K. Abe, H. Yano. Comparison of the characteristics of cellulose microfibril aggregates isolated from fiber and
parenchyma cells of Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens). Cellulose. 2010, 17, 271–277.
[6] S. Ifuku, M. Adachi, M. Morimoto, H. Saimoto. Fabrication of cellulose nanofiber from parenchyma cells of pear
and apple. Seni Gakkaishi. 2011, 67, 34–38.
25
[7] K. Azuma, T. Osaki, T. Wakuda, S. Ifuku, H. Saimoto, T. Tsuka, T. Imagawa, Y. Okamoto, S. Minami. Beneficial
and preventive effect of chitin nanofibrils in a dextran sulfate sodium-induced acute ulcerative colitis model.
Carbohydr. Polym. 2012, 87, 1399–1403.
[8] K. Azuma, T. Osaki, S. Ifuku, H. Saimoto, T. Tsuka, T. Imagawa, Y. Okamoto, S. Minami. α-Chitin nanofibrils
improve inflammatory and fibrosis responses in mice with inflammatory bowel disease. Carbohydr. Polym. 2012,
90, 197–200.
[9] K. Azuma, T. Osaki, S. Ifuku, M. Morimoto O. Takashima, T. Tsuka, T. Imagawa, Y. Okamoto, H. Saimoto, S.
Minami. Anti-inflammatory effects of cellulose nanofiber made from pear in inflammatory bowel disease model.
Bioactive Carbohydrate and Dietary Fibre, 2014, 3, 1-10.
[10] K. Azuma, T. Osaki, S. Ifuku, H. Maeda, M. Morimoto O. Takashima, T. Tsuka, T. Imagawa, Y. Okamoto, H.
Saimoto, S. Minami. Suppressive effects of cellulose nanofibers—made from adlay and seaweed—on colon
inflammation in an inflammatory bowel-disease model. Bioactive Carbohydrate and Dietary Fibre, 2013, 2, 65-72.
[11] L. Petruzziello, F. Iacopini, M. Bulajic, S. Shah, G. Costamagna. Review article: uncomplicated diverticular
disease of the colon. Aliment. Pharmacol. Ther. 2006, 23, 1379–1391.
[12] Y. Naito, T. Takagi, T. Yoshikawa. Neutrophil-dependent oxidative stress in ulcerative colitis. J. Clin. Biochem.
Nutr. 2007, 41, 18–26.
[13] R.K. Schindhelm, L.P. van der Zwan, T. Teerlink, P.G. Scheffer. Myeloperoxidase: a useful biomarker for
cardiovascular disease risk stratification? Clin. Chem. 2009, 55, 1462–1470.
[14] C.O. Elson, Y. Cong, V.J. McCracken, R.A. Dimmitt, R.G. Lorenz, C.T. Weaver. Experimental models of
inflammatory bowel disease reveal innate, adaptive, and regulatory mechanisms of host dialogue with the
microbiota. Immunol. Rev. 2005, 206, 260–276.
[15] T. Karrasch, T. Jobin. NF-κB and the intestine: friend or foe? Inflamm. Bow. Dis.2008, 14, 114–124.
26
Suppressive Effects of Onion Peel Extract Tea in Experimental Obese
Mice
Yoshiharu Okamoto 1
, Kazuo Azuma 1, Tomohiro Osaki
1,Norihiko Itoh
1 and Mayumi Watanabe
2
1 Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8553, Japan
2 FINARL co. Inc., Tottori 680-1167, Japan
Abstract. In this study, it was examined the effects of onion peel tea (OPT) in a high-fat-diet-induced
obese mouse model. Mice were fed a high-fat diet for 3 weeks, then a normal diet with or without OPT for 28
days. OPT suppressed the increase in body weight and level of epididymal fat tissue; it also significantly
reduced the serum concentrations of total-cholesterol on day 14 and that of glucose and leptin on day 28. Our
results indicate that OPT has anti-obesity effects in an experimental high-fat-diet-induced obese mouse
model.
Keywords: Onion peel, tea, anti-obesity, leptin, functional food
1. Introduction
Obesity is a growing health problem worldwide, and it has been associated with metabolic syndrome
(MetS), diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and cancer [1]. The increasing incidence of obesity
suggests that this epidemic will worsen in the future [2]. Animal models are useful tools to evaluate the
efficacy of potential compounds for the prevention and treatment of obesity. It has been reported that rodents
fed a high-fat diet are excellent models of obesity, in which the dietary environment is a major contributor
[3].
It has been previously reported that some foods are beneficial for the suppression or prevention of MetS,
including tea [4]. Green tea is already a popular beverage and can be easily incorporated as part of a diet
designed to mitigate or prevent the symptoms of MetS [4]. Catechins, in particular, are one of the major
polyphenolic compounds in tea and are beneficial for the treatment of the main MetS conditions, including
obesity, type-2 diabetes, and cardiovascular risk factors [5]. Another potentially beneficial food is onion.
Onion has the capacity to regulate lipid metabolism and suppress hyperglycemia and diabetes [6]. Many
reports have attributed anti-obesity effects to quercetin, one of the flavonoids present in onion peel [7]-[9].
Tea extracted from onion peel (onion peel tea; OPT) could thus be expected to have beneficial effects for
MetS.
In this study, we evaluated the anti-obesity effects of OPT in mice that were fed a high-fat diet. We also
examined the effects of OPT on blood parameters in these mice [10].
2. Materials and Methods
2.1. Onion peel tea
Freeze dried OPT containing 1.15 mg/g quercetin (Saratto Tamatya, Fainaru, Tottori, Japan) was used in
this study.
2.2. Animals and diets
Corresponding author. Tel: + 81-857-31-5440; fax: +81-857-31-5440.
E-mail address:[email protected]
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 6
27
Twenty BALB/c mice (male, 4 weeks old) were purchased from CLEA Japan (Osaka, Japan). The
animals were maintained under conventional conditions. The use of these animals and the procedures they
were subjected to were approved by the Animal Research Committee of Tottori University. Throughout the
experimental period, the mice had unrestricted access to food and water.
2.3. Study design
Mice were randomized into 2 groups; a control group and an OPT group (n = 10 mice per group). After
habituation, all mice were fed a high-fat diet (HFD: High Fat Diet-32, CLEA Japan, Osaka, Japan) from day
-21 to day 0. The control group was then fed a normal powdered diet (CE-2, CLEA Japan, Osaka, Japan)
from day 0 to day 28, while the OPT group was fed a normal powdered diet supplemented with 5% (w/w)
OPT. The mice were weighed every 7 days from day -21 to day 28.
Blood and epididymal fat tissue were harvested on days 14 and 28 (n = 5 at each time-point). Blood was
collected via cardiac puncture under isoflurane inhalation anesthesia. After 1 h at room temperature, serum
was recovered by centrifugation of the blood at 1,000 × g for 10 min at 4°C. The serum samples were stored
at -80°C prior to analysis. After blood collection, animals were immediately sacrificed by cervical
dislocation, and their epididymal fat tissue was harvested and weighed.
2.4. Blood chemical analysis
Blood chemicals were measured using a blood chemical auto analyzer (DRY-CHEM 7000, FUJIFILM
Inc., Tokyo, Japan). Serum triglyceride (TG), total-cholesterol (T-cho), glucose (Glu), alanine transaminase
(ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), geranylgeranyltransferase (GGT),
and albumin (Alb) levels were measured.
2.5. Measurement of serum leptin concentration
A sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit (MIoBS Inc., Yokohama, Japan) was used to
measure leptin, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
2.6. Statistical analysis
Statistical analyses were performed on all results by using Student’s t-test or one-way ANOVA and the
Tukey–Kramer test. All data are reported as mean ± S.D. A p value of <0.05 was considered statistically
significant.
3. Results
3.1. Effects of dietary OPT on body weight and epididymal fat tissue
In the OPT group, mice were fed 5–6 mg/kg/day quercetin during the experimental period. During the
experimental periods, the body weights of mice increased in both the control and OPT groups (Figure 1). In
the OPT group, however, the gain in body weight was mitigated compared to that of the control group. On
days 14 and 21 particularly, body weights in the OPT group were significantly lower than those of the
control group (p < 0.05). The epididymal fat tissue weights were evaluated. On day 14, there was no
significant difference between the control group (0.2 ± 0.0 g) and the OPT group (0.2 ± 0.1 g). On day 28,
however, the mean epididymal fat tissue weight of the OPT group (0.3 ± 0.1 g) was significantly lower than
that of the control group (0.5 ± 0.0 g) (p < 0.01).
3.2. Effects of OPT on blood chemical parameters
On day 28, the mean serum Glu concentration in the OPT group was significantly lower than that of the
control group (p < 0.01). On day 14, however, there was no significant difference in serum Glu concentration
between the groups. On day 14, the mean serum concentration of T-cho in the OPT group was significantly
lower than that of the control group (p < 0.05). On day 28, however, there was no significant difference in
mean serum T-cho concentration between the groups. On day 28, the mean serum ALP concentration in the
OPT group was significantly higher than that of the control group (p < 0.01), although there was no
28
difference on day 14. In the OPT group, mean serum TG concentrations were lower than those of the control
group on days 14 and 28, although these differences were not statistically significant. There were no
statistically significant differences between the groups with regard to serum concentrations of ALT, AST,
GGT, or Alb, on days 14 or 28.
Fig. 1: Effects of OPT on body weight changes in diet-induced obesity model.
Data were shown by mean ± S.D. n=5, **:p<0.01 compared with the control group by student’s t-test.
3.3. Effects of OPT on serum leptin levels
The leptin results are shown in Figure 2. On day 14, there was no significant difference between the
control group (1.9 ± 0.5 ng/mL) and the OPT group (1.6 ± 0.2 ng/mL). The mean serum leptin concentration
in the control group was significantly higher on day 28 than that on day 14 (p < 0.01). On day 28, the mean
serum leptin concentration in the OPT group (2.7 ± 0.4 ng/mL) was significantly lower than that of the
control group (4.9 ± 1.0 ng/mL) (p < 0.05).
Fig. 2: Effect of OPT on serum leptin concentration.
Data were shown by mean ± S.D. n=5, **:p<0.01 by Turkey-Kramer’s test.
4. Discussion
In this study, dietary OPT evidently suppressed the increase in body weight and level of epididymal fat
tissue in an experimental mouse model. It has been reported that in rodents, a high-fat diet is a major
contributor to obesity [3]. Our data indicated that dietary OPT can reduce body weight in an experimental
high-fat-diet-induced obesity model.
Previous reports indicate that adipocytes in adipose tissue secrete a variety of proteins known as
adipocytokines, including tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, resistin, leptin, and adiponectin [11].
Plasma leptin concentrations are positively correlated with adiposity (excessive body fat) and body weight
changes in humans and rodents [12]. Adiponectin contributes to insulin sensitivity and fatty acid oxidation,
29
and circulating concentrations of adiponectin are inversely correlated with body mass [13]. Our results
indicate that OPT suppresses the secretion of leptin from adipocytes. Suppression of the secretion of leptin
may have contributed to the reduction in body weight and the weight of epididymal fat tissue observed in the
OPT group.
Quercetin is a major flavonol that is abundant in plant products, particularly onions, and it has been
reported to possess antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-regulating properties [14]. Numerous studies
involving human clinical investigation, animal trials, and in vitro experiments have demonstrated that
phenolic substances, including quercetin have important anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity properties [14].
OPT is rich in quercetin (1.15 mg/g). One possible mechanism by which OPT exerts anti-obesity effects may
be the action of quercetin. In the previous reports, experimental animals were fed more amounts of quercetin
than our study [9]. Our data suggest that another mechanism of action of OPT may exist. To understand
additional mechanisms of action of OPT, analysis of all of the components of it may be required.
In conclusion, OPT suppressed the increase in body weight and epididymal fat tissue weight normally
associated with a high-fat-diet-induced obesity model. It also significantly reduced serum levels of total-
cholesterol and glucose. Furthermore, in the OPT group, the level of serum leptin on day 28 was
significantly reduced. Collectively, our results indicate that OPT may be a potent functional food for the
treatment, management, or prevention of obesity.
5. References
[1] I.Vucenik, J.P. Stains JP. Obesity and cancer risk: evidence, mechanisms, and recommendations. Ann. N Y Acad.
Sci. 2012, 1271: 37-43.
[2] D.W. Haslam, W.P. James. Obesity. Lancet. 2005, 366 (9492): 1197-1209.
[3] M. Bullo, P. Casas-Agustench, P. Amigo-Correig, J. Jranceta, Salas-Salvado. Inflammation, obesity and
comorbidities: the role of diet. Public. Health. Nutr. 2007, 10 (10A): 1164-1172.
[4] S. Sae-tan, K.A. Grove, J.D. Lambert. Weight control and prevention of metabolic syndrome by green tea.
Pharmacol. Res. 2011, 64 (2): 146-154.
[5] F. Thielecke, M. Boschmann. The potential role of green tea catechins in the prevention of the metabolic
syndrome - a review. Phytochemistry. 2009 70 (1): 11-24.
[6] M. Corzo, N. Corzo, M. Villamiel. Biological properties of onions and garlic. Trends. Food. Sci. Technol. 2007,
18 (12): 609-625.
[7] J. Ahn, H. Lee, S. Kim, J. Park, T. Ha. The anti-obesity effect of quercetin is mediated by the AMPK and MAPK
signaling pathways. Biochem. Biophys. Res. Commun. 2008, 373 (4): 545-549.
[8] F.R. Seiva, L.G. Chuffa, C.A. Braga, J.P. Amorim, A.A. Fernande. Quercetin ameliorates glucose and lipid
metabolism and improves antioxidant status in postnatally monosodium glutamate-induced metabolic alterations.
Food. Chem. Toxicol. 2012, 50 (10): 3556-3561.
[9] O.Y. Kim, S.M. Lee, H. Do, J. Moon, K.H. Lee, Y.J. Cha, M.J. Shin. Influence of quercetin-rich onion peel
extracts on adipokine expression in the visceral adipose tissue of rats. Phytother. Res. 2012, 26 (3): 432-437.
[10] S. Matsunaga , K. Azuma, M. Watanabe, T. Tsuka, T. Imagawa, T. Osaki, Y. Okamoto. Onion peel extract tea
ameliorates obesity and affects blood parameters in high-fat-diet-induced obese mice. Exp. Ther. Med. 2013, in
press
[11] M. Fasshauer, R. Paschke. Regulation of adipocytokines and insulin resistance. Diabetologia. 2003, 46: 1594-
1603.
[12] M. Gnacińska, S. Małgorzewicz, M. Stojek, W. Łysiak-Szydłowska, K. Sworczak. Role of adipokines in
complications related to obesity: a review. Adv. Med. Sci. 2009, 54: 150-157.
[13] E.D. Rosen, B.M. Spiegelman. Adipocytes as regulators of energy balance and glucose homeostasis. Nature. 2006,
444: 847-853.
[14] L. Rivera, R. Morón, M. Sánchez, A. Zarzuelo, M. Galisteo. Quercetin ameliorates metabolic syndrome and
improves the inflammatory status in obese Zucker rats. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2008, 16: 2081-2087.
30
Strength Parameters of Packaged Roma Tomatoes at Peak Point
under Compressive Loading
F.A. Babarinsa1
and M. T. Ige
2
1 Nigerian Stored Products Research Institute, P.M B. 1489, Ilorin, Nigeria
2 Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Abstract. Compression test was conducted to investigate the peak stress and deformation induced in
packaged Roma tomatoes under compressive loading and the effects of ripeness stage, vibration level and
type of container on the two strength parameters. Tomatoes of three ripeness stages: unripe (5.6 Brix%), half-
ripe (3.9 Brix%) and full-ripe (3.2 Brix%), were packed in plastic crate and raffia basket. Using a laboratory
vibrator, the fruit bulks were subjected to three levels of vibration: non-vibrated, low vibration (frequency 3.7
Hz) and high vibration (frequency 6.7 Hz). These were then compressed in a Universal Testing Machine at a
loading rate of 2.50mm/min and deformation and stress at peak point in the fruit bulk were measured. Level
of vibration significantly (P=0.001) reduced maximum deformation and the corresponding stress at peak
point. Stage of ripeness, however, showed no significant effects on both deformation and stress at peak.
Rather, it induced minimal overall differences in stress, ranging from 8.123 E-03 N/mm2 to 9.956E-03
N/mm2. Effects of container types on stress were significant (P=0.001) but were not significant on
deformation. Average peak deformation of the fruit ranged from 43.688 N to 50183N while peak stress
ranged from 5.917E-03 N/mm2 to 6.936E-02 N/mm
2. The three levels of vibration exhibited stress values
ranging from 1.274E-02 N/mm2 to 8.988E-03 N/mm
2.
Keywords: strength parameter, packaged Roma tomatoes, peak point, compressive loading,
1. Introduction
The tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is a tender and compression-sensitive fruit. The fruit
contains a considerable amount of water and other liquid-soluble materials surrounded by semi-solid cell
wall and pectic middle lamella materials. It is thus susceptible to mechanical damage, especially
compression injury, during handling and road transportation, in Nigeria, as the handlers sometimes subject
the packaged produce to various forms of compressive loading in lorry truck.
In Nigeria raffia baskets are the most used packaging containers in commercial transportation of fresh
tomato fruit but other packaging materials such as fiberboard cartons are used. The handlers usually stack
these containers one over the other whereby greater part of the compression load is transmitted directly into the fruit via
packaging. Much compression damage is therein encountered due to cracking and squeezing of the fruit in
multi-layers. This contributes much to the mechanical damage inflicted on the fresh fruit in transit.
Mechanical properties such as compressive strength are important engineering data needed to study fruit
resistance to cracking and breaking. The key measurements of mechanical behavior under compression force
can be made in terms of three strength parameters: maximum load, deformation and stress. These are
measured at three points of deformation - bioyield, break and peak points. These basic strength parameters
have been measured and studied in Roma tomatoes at the bioyield point and break point [1], [2]. Other
important strength parameters studied include energy absorption capacity and Young’s modulus [3], [4] of
the fruit. The strength parameters at the peak point denote the properties leading to the point of maximum
load sustained by the vegetative tissues. The evaluation of strength parameters of tomatoes at this point is
Corresponding author: F.A. Babarinsa. Tel.: +2348033769653
E-mail address: [email protected]
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 7
31
essential for a clear understanding of the maximum stress which the tissues can withstand. It is useful
therefore to study these properties from compression testing.
This work investigated the peak (maximum) stress and corresponding deformation induced in packaged
Roma tomatoes under compressive loading. Compression test was conducted to study the effects of ripeness
stage, vibration level and type of container on the two strength parameters.
2. Materials and Method
2.1. Experimental material Fresh tomatoes of the Roma variety used were hand-harvested at three stages of maturity/ripeness from a
local market farm in the suburb of Ilorin, Nigeria. The three stages The unripe stage is the mature
green/breaker (or green pink) stage, consisting of the first point of skin colour change from complete green
to about 30% pink. The half-ripe stage will consist of 30-70% pink to red skin while the ripe (or table ripe)
stage with of 70-100% red skin but still firm. Stages of tomato ripeness were determined subjectively by skin
colour rating [5]-[7] and objectively (using digital hand-held refractometer), as described in our previous
work [2],
Table.1: Statistical Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) of data on deformation at peak of Roma tomato fruit under
compression
Source Type III Sum
of Squares
Df Mean Square F Sig.
Corrected Model 884,971a 11 80,452 .956 .499
Intercept 115044,065 1 115044,065 1367,043 .000
Vibration 446,809 2 223,404 2,655 .082
Container 35,676 1 35,676 .424 .519
Ripeness 24,089 2 12,045 .143 .867
Vibration*Container 172,913 2 86,457 1,027 .367
Vibration*Ripeness 155,322 4 38,830 .461 .764
Container*Ripeness .000 0 , , ,
Vibration*Container*Ripeness .000 0 , , ,
Error 3534,528 42 84,155
Total 121967,518 54
Corrected Total 4419 499 53
2.2. Compression testing
Compression tests were conducted, in a 2 x 32 factorial experiment, with a Testometric Universal Testing
Machine installed in the Engineering Material Testing Laboratory at the National Center for Agricultural
Mechanization (NCAM), Ilorin, Nigeria. This was applied in studying the effects of three ripening stages,
three vibration levels and two containers on load, deformation and stress at peak point of Roma tomatoes
under compressive loading. Roma tomatoes of three ripeness stages of 1) unripe (5.6 Brix%), 2) half-ripe
(3.9 Brix%) and 3) full-ripe (3.2 Brix%), were packed in plastic crate [6]-[8], and raffia basket. A laboratory
vibrator was used to apply vibration onto the fruits. The three levels of applied vibration are 1) non-vibrated
2) low vibration (frequency 3.7 Hz) and 3) high vibration (frequency 6.7 Hz).
The basic methodology for compression testing of the packaged tomatoes (at a speed of 2.50mm/min) to
obtain measurements of deformation (mm) and stress was described by Babarinsa and Ige [1], The measured
values, at the peak point, were recorded on a computerized PC data acquisition system in a personal
computer. Load-deformation plots were obtained directly as produced with the aid of the PC during
compression.
2.3. Statistical Analysis
32
Data collected from compression test runs were subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS 110 software
package in a randomized complete block design based on a 32
x 2 factorial experiment. Treatment means
were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (P< 0.05).
Table 2: Statistical Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) of data on Stress at peak of Roma tomato fruit under compression.
Source Type III Sum
of Squares
Df Mean Square F Sig.
Corrected Model 9,562E-04a 11 8,693E-05 8,448 .000
Intercept 4,351E-03 1 4,351E-03 422,818 .000
Vibration 3,619E-04 2 1,809E-04 17,582 .000
Container 4,322E-04 1 4,322E-04 41,999 .000
Ripeness 3,565E-04 2 1,782E-04 17,320 .000
Vibration*Container 1,174E-04 2 5,870E-05 5,705 .006
Vibration*Ripeness 1,142E-04 4 2,856E-05 2,776 .039
Container*Ripeness .000 0 , , ,
Vibration*Container*Ripeness .000 0 , , ,
Error 4,322E-04 42 1,029E-05
Total 5,730E-03 54
Corrected Total 1,388E-03 53
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Load-deformation curve Force-deformation curves yielded by the compression test for all stages of ripeness, levels of vibration
and containers indicated that deformation for the bulk is non-linear viscoelastic. The generated curves show
sharp peaks at the end of each compression, rather than rounded peaks. This observed behavior in
compression has been attributed to soft, weak brittle materials [9]. It is particularly noted that the point of
maximum force or rupture could also occur at bioyield point.
3.2. Effects of stage of ripeness Fruit ripeness is an important factor that affects tomato compression tolerance. Stress was highest in the
unripe stage regardless of containers and levels of vibration. Pereira & Calbo [10] reported that the riper the
fruit the bigger is the effects of fruit compression, because ripe fruits have lager plasticity and elasticity.
However the compressive measurements in this study demonstrated that ripeness stage did not have
significant effect on deformation at peak (Table 1) of fruit at the three ripeness stages tested. Average
deformation of the fruit at peak point showed minimal or no overall differences within comparative
treatments. This was quite at variance with reported response of deformation in tomato when measured at
both bioyield point [1] and break point [2], whereby deformation (at both bioyield and break points) reduced
significantly with stage of ripeness. An apparent little or no variation in measured deformation with stage of
ripeness may be explained by the fact that application of force (hence stress) beyond the peak point leads to
rupture rather than further deformation.
A study of ripening-related changes of the mechanical properties of the tomatoes by Andrews et al. [11])
shows that the epidermal cell walls contribute to a large extent to the mechanical properties of the tomato
fruit exocarp. The epidermis also presumably plays a major role in resistance to turgor-driven tomato fruit
growth ([6]-[11). The observed ripening-related changes of the mechanical properties of the skin seem to be
determined mainly by modifications of the chemical composition of the cuticular membrane. Several studies
have been carried out ([6]-[11]) noting that the mechanical properties of tomato fruit exocarp strips resulted
from increasing fruit age, especially during ripening. A macromolecular explanation for the biomechanical
behavior of fruit CM describes (i) greater stiffness associated with a glass state below the transition ripeness
and (ii) plastic characteristics, being associated with a more viscous state, above the transition ripeness [12].
The strength properties at peak point of whole tomato fruit can be recognized as a limiting point to effect
of imparted force in increasing deformation in the fruit. This point marks the beginning of energy dissipation 33
towards structural failure in the form of fracture leading to bruising, cracking or cutting ([6]-[11]). The
amount of deformation of 43.688 to 47.323 mm, stress at peak point ranged from 8.123 E-03 N/mm2 to
9.956E-03 N/mm2 at the three levels of ripeness. In most cases, the packaged tomatoes became cosmetically
unacceptable, at the point of peak and this determined failure. The lowering of mechanical strength is an
important part of the ripening process in tomatoes, as changes in cell walls accompany fruit softening [13].
For example, tomato fruit ripening is accompanied by significant degradation of cell wall pectin [14]. At
both bioyield and break points ([1], [2]), deformation and stress reduced significantly with stage of ripeness,
but the strength parameters at the peak point were unaltered by stage of ripening.
3.3. Effects of Vibration
The increasing level of vibration caused an apparently little variation in measured deformation ranging
from 43.688 mm to 50.183 mm with minimal differences among treatments. Increase in deformation
recorded following the application of low-vibration to fruits was higher than increase in deformation caused
by subsequent application of high-vibration. This is probably because the initially measured deformation
seemed to be driven, in part, by the existence of interspaces’ (void) volumes within the bulk, the larger
amount of which has been removed during the initial application of low-vibration.
The analysis of results presented in Table 2 indicates that the level of vibration had highly significant (p
= 0.001) effects on peak strength (or stress at peak). Stress at peak point decreased with increasing level of
vibration level, with values ranging from 5.917E-03 to 1.274E-02 N/mm2. Level of vibration, thus, displayed
a tendency to decrease for both peak stress and deformation in unripe to fully ripe fruits. The decrease in
stress at peak and increase in deformation at peak at high level vibration might be influenced by the breaking
(or cracking) of fruit skin resulting from weakening of the cuticle at high level of vibration. The tissues of
vibrated tomatoes had earlier undergone yielding, in which its ability to resist applied load was drastically
reduced [1]. In particular, the observed relationship here between vibration and strength would indicate the
effect of vibration on the structural relation of skin components. It has been reported that strength in a
composite biomaterial, like tomato fruit cuticular membrane (CM), depends on the biomaterial
components
[12], [13], Bargel and Neinhuis [15] and Mattas et al. [14] particularly reported that CM contributes to the
resistance of Cherry tomato fruit to tension mechanically.
Application of vibration to bulk tomatoes, caused settlement to set in as the immediate effect of the
rotational and relocational movement of the respective fruit in multilayer in vibration. Vibration force then
relocates the individual fruits relative to other fruits in the bulk, leading to an initial compaction of the fruit
bulk. Thus, application of external load (or force) first and foremost causes contact compression. The
resulting self compaction increases the number of contact points, and eventually changes the distribution of
energy dissipated into the fruit layers during subsequent inter-layer compression.
4. Conclusion
Compression testing was used to characterize peak strength of the packaged tomatoes. This work has
demonstrated that strength parameters at peak
of the Roma tomato fruit depend more on level of imparted
vibration and less on stage of ripeness, which both affected the structural component. Maximum deformation
at peak was found to be constant at the range of ripeness and vibration tested. The peak strength parameters
lead to a point where further compressive loading does not increase deformation.
Our result demonstrates that the combined effect of ripeness and vibration seems critical in explaining
the
biomechanics of the fruit, and provides the basis for explaining mechanical failure such as fruit bruising and
skin cracking. These findings can provide useful information about the influence of fruit properties (for
example ripeness) on mechanical damage susceptibility, whereby bruise prediction, for example, can be
made for cultivar ‘Roma”. Recorded test results could provide expected control limits for tomato fruit
strength and provide a good baseline for material or design modifications. They would provide an accurate
way of assessing the overall strength of a fruit bulk in filled container.
5. References
[1] F. A. Babarinsa and M. T. Ige, “Strength parameters of packaged Roma tomatoes at bioyield under compressive
34
loading,” Food Science and Quality Management, vol. 4, pp. 16-23, 2012a.
[2] F. A. Babarinsa and M. T. Ige. Strength parameters of packaged Roma tomatoes at break point under compressive
loading, International Journal of Scientific and Engineering Research, 3 (10):240-247. 2012b.
[3] F. A. Babarinsa and M. T. Ige. Energy absorption capacity of packaged Roma tomatoes under compressive loading,
International Journal of Scientific and Engineering Research, 3 (10) 17-23, 2012c.
[4] F. A. Babarinsa and M.T. Ige, “Young's Modulus for Packaged Roma Tomatoes under Compressive Loading”
International Journal Of Scientific & Engineering Research, 3 (10):314-320. Research Volume 3, Issue 10,
October -2012d.
[5] N. N. Mohsenin, Physical Properties of Plant and Animal Materials. Gordion and Breach Science Publ., N. Y.,
1996.
[6] A. K. Thompson, Fruit and Vegetables. Harvesting, Handling and Storage. (2nd
Edn). Blackwell Publishing Ltd.
Oxford, UK, pp 33-34, 2003.
[7] W. B. McGlasson, B.B. Beattie, and E.E. Kavanagh, “Tomato ripening guide,” Agfact, H8.45, NSW Department of
Agriculture, 1985. W. B. McGlasson, B.B. Beattie, and E.E. Kavanagh, “Tomato ripening guide,” Agfact, H8.45,
NSW Department of Agriculture, 1985.
[8] NSPRI, Storing Your Produce, Advisory Booklet No.4: Fruits and Vegetables. Nigerian Stored Products
Research Institute, Ilorin, Nigeria, pp. 20-25, 1990.
[9] P. J. Fellows, Food Processing Technology, Principles and Practice. Woodhead Publishing Company Limited,
Great Abington Press, San Diego, CA, pp. 101-102, 2002.
[10] A. V. Pereira, and A.G. Calbo, “Elastic stresses and plastic deformations in ‘Santa Clara’ tomato fruits caused by
box dependent compression.” Pesquisa Agropecuária Brasileira, Brasília, 35(12): 2429-2436, 2000.
[11] J. Andrews, S. R. Adams, K. S. Burton, and R. N. Edmondson (2002). Partial purification of tomato fruit
peroxidase and its effect on the mechanical properties of tomato fruit skin. Journal of Experimental Botany 53,
2393–2399.
[12] J. Matas, E. D., Cobb, J. A Bartsch,. D. J. Paolillo, and K. J. Niklas, Biomechanics and anatomy of Lycopersicon
Esculentum fruit peels and enzyme – treated samples. Am. J. Bot., 91(3): 352–360, 2004.
[13] K.J., Nunan, I.M. Sims., A. Bacic, S.P. Robinson, and G.B. Fincher, Changes in cell wall composition during
ripening of grape berries. Plant Physiol. 118, 783–792, 1998.
[14] Errington, J. N. R. Mitchell, and G.A. Tucker, “Changes in the force relaxation and compression responses of
tomatoes during ripening: The effect of continual testing and polygalacturonase activity.” Postharvest Biol.
Technol. 11, 141–147, 1997.
[15] H. Bargel, and C. Neinhuis Altered tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) fruit cuticle biomechanics of a
pleiotropic non ripening mutant. J Plant Growth Regul. 2004, 23:61–75.
35
Monitoring Mango Fruit Ripening after Harvest using Electronic
Nose (zNoseTM
) Technique
Farhad Gholizadeh Nouri1, Zhiyuan Chen
1 and Mehdi Maqbool
2
1 School of Computer Science, Faculty of Science, The University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus, Jalan
Broga, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia 2 Crops For the Future Research Centre, Level 2 Block B, The University of Nottingham Malaysia Campus,
Jalan Broga, 43500 Semenyih, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
Abstract. Over the past few years, electronic nose technology is offering a non-destructive method to sense
aroma, which can be used to determine fruit ripening stages after harvesting. The objective of this study was
to monitor mango fruit ripening after harvest using electronic nose (zNoseTM
). Data acquisition was started
using an electronic nose for a total of one hundred locally grown mangoes cv. Chokanan. The fruits were
divided into two different groups, unripe and ripe mangoes. Concentration of volatiles was measured using
electronic nose for each of the two groups during storage. However, to be able to classify the mangoes into
three classes, namely unripe, ripening and ripe, the experiment was carried out with the unripe samples for
three more days, every 48 hrs from the starting day. Besides, observation of new volatiles from the unripe
mangoes as they were ripening indicated trend of volatiles during mango ripening, proving the efficacy of
electronic nose for the formation of climacteric crops profiles in terms of volatiles liberated during ripening.
Keywords: Maturity analysis, climacteric fruits, Non-destructive method, zNoseTM
1. Introduction
To monitor the ripening process in fruits during storage has become a very important issue to manage
fruits because the quality of fruits and other properties are dependent on the ripening stages. There have been
many methods or techniques to monitor the ripening of fruits during storage and most of them are basically
dependent on firmness and texture [1]. Some of the other techniques require destructive analysis of the
samples which is one the major limitation or disadvantage and therefore, they are not practically feasible to
use. Thus, the estimation of the right ripening stage is completely dependent on hands-on experience or
visual observations such as colour change, which is sometimes less correlated with the actual ripening.
Although testing firmness or measuring starch, sugar and acid content of fruits are among available
methods of maturity determination, they are all considered as destructive methods [2]. However, an
excessive research has been carried out to develop non-destructive methods for measuring fruit maturity. In
fact, it has been reported that an alternative method to determine maturity level of fruits during their ripening
stages is the utilization of electronic olfactory systems to sense the volatiles liberated [3].
Being classified as climacteric fruit, mango undergoes some chemical reactions during its ripening stages
and therefore, liberate certain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can be measured non-destructively
using electronic nose technology [4]. Based on this idea, a relatively different electronic nose (zNose™) has
been used in this study to measure the concentration of volatile compounds liberated by mango during
ripening stages. The main objective of this study was to gather volatile compounds data in mangoes using
electronic nose and then decide the right time of harvest so that the fruits can stay longer in the market
without losing the important nutrients.
Corresponding author. Tel.: + 6 (03) 8924 8799; fax: +6 (03) 8924 8798.
E-mail address: [email protected].
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 8
36
2. Materials and Methods
2.1. Fruit material
A total of one hundred local mango fruits (cv. Chokanan) were divided into two groups: 50 unripe
mangoes with an average weight of 244.7 g, and 50 ripe mangoes with an average weight of 197.9 g. Using
an electronic nose (zNose™), concentration of volatiles was measured for each of the two groups during two
separate days. However, to be able to classify the mangoes into three classes, namely unripe, ripening, and
ripe, the experiment was carried out with the unripe samples for three more days, every 48 hours from the
beginning day, so as to measure the concentration of volatiles liberating during mango ripening stages.
2.2. Electronic nose
“Electronic nose systems are sensor arrays which mimic the operation of a human nose. When an
atmosphere loaded with volatile components flows over it, each sensor generates a signal. The combined
signal of all sensors is then statistically related to, e.g. the response of a human taste panel. Sensors that rely
on chemical properties of the target molecule, whether it can adsorb at a particular surface or be oxidized or
reduced, have been developed for a variety of analytes. Popular at present are sensors based on the
conduction of semiconductors, such as in tin oxide, or polymers such as polypyrrole” [5].
2.3. How zNoseTM
works
Unlike other electronic noses whose detector unit contain an array of metal oxide semi-conductor sensors,
each being responsible for detecting one or more volatiles [3], zNose™ Model 4200 used in this project uses
an electronic detector. The system consists of a sensor head, a support chassis, and a system controller and its
basis is (gas) chromatography.
2.4. Kovats Retention Indices
Kovats index of a sample component is defined as “a number, obtained by interpolation (usually
logarithmic), relating the adjusted retention volume (time) or the retention factor of the sample component to
the adjusted retention volumes (times) of two standards eluted before and after the peak of the sample
component” [6] (Table 1).
Table 1: List of volatile compounds verified during different ripening stages along with their corresponding Kovats
Retention Index for DB-5 column [7].
Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOCs)
Kovats Retention Index Volatile Organic Compounds
(VOCs)
Kovats Retention
Index
Ethanol 668 α-Pinene 934
Toluene 773 β-Pinene 990
Hexanal 801 3-Carene 1011
Myrcene 994 α-Terpinene 1018
Limonene 1036 γ-Terpinene 1074
cis-3-Hexenal 795 o-Cymene 1020
p-Cymene 1033 α-Terpinolene 1096
Octanal 1006 Heptenal 957
cis-3-Hexenol 858 Decanal 1209
Methyle Decanoate 1328 α-Copaene 1391
β-Caryophyllene 1467 α-Humulene 1452
Cedrol 1596
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Trend of VOCs liberated
Results obtained for unripe, ripe, and ripening mangoes indicate that a total of 17 volatiles out of the 23
expected volatiles were liberated during five days of measurements (Fig. 1). The most probable reason for
observing less VOCs than expected is that VOCs listed in table one are collectively liberated from different
types of mangoes, whereas the mangoes tested in this experiment were all of one local type, i.e. ‘Chokanan’.
37
Although some of the volatiles were uniquely liberated from the ripe and unripe mangoes (on the first day
measurements), results obtained on the following days indicated that as unripe mangoes were ripening, some
of the VOCs liberated from the ripe mangoes were also liberated from the ripening mangoes (Table 2).
Fig. 1: Number of VOCs liberated based on sample maturity.
Table 2: List of VOCs liberated based on samples ripeness.
VOC name Samples
Ripe Unripe Ripening
γ-Terpinene
α-Terpinolene
Decanal
α-Humulene
Octanal
3-Carene
Cedrol
Methyle Decanoate
α-Copaene
β–Caryophyllene
β-Pinene
Ethanol
α-Pinene
Myrcene
Toluene
p-Cymene
As one would expect, the range of maximum peaks observed for each of the VOCs was quite wide (Fig.
2). In fact, the least maximum concentration measured with a value of 170 was the maximum amount of
Ethanol liberated from a ripe mango. Whereas the most maximum concentration measured was the amount
of Decanal liberated from an unripe mango. It is not quite obvious from the graph, γ-Terpinene is the
prominent VOC among the ripe mangoes, whereas Decanal and α-Terpinolene are the most prominent VOCs
among the unripe mangoes. While α-Terpinolene was never observed in the ripe mangoes, Decanal was
observed in all ripe samples; but with a drastic decrease in value. Values of γ-Terpinene and Decanal in the
data acquired indicated that the value of Decanal among the unripe samples is always (much) more than the
value of its corresponding γ-Terpinene value for each of the samples.
However, this situation reverses in all but three of the ripe samples. Although the number of ripe
mangoes’ volatiles is roughly twice as much as that of the unripe mangoes, of the eight volatiles observed
38
specifically in the results obtained for the ripe samples, only Methyle Decanoate was present in all the 50
mangoes (Fig. 3).
Fig. 2: Maximum amount of each of the VOCs liberated from ripe and unripe mangoes.
Fig. 3: Ripe-Only Volatiles Count.
Finally, comparison of the first and third columns of table 2 reveals that during the ripening stages of the
mangoes, six more volatiles (that were not present on first day measurements) were liberated. However, the
bar charts (Fig. 4), indicates that the peaks of some of the volatiles liberated from the ripe mangoes, such as
methyle decanoate or beta-pinene, are by no means comparable to those of the ripening mangoes.
Fig. 4: Comparison of the peaks of common volatiles in ripe and ripening samples.
4. Conclusion
It can be concluded from the results that the trend of liberating VOCs during ripening using zNoseTM
could potentially be used to predict mango fruit maturity which can help to harvest the fruits on a right
maturity stage. However, using reverse engineering method, zNose™ can be used to form an initial list of
volatiles for any unripe, ripening, and ripe crop. Once the list is ready, it can be verified using chemical
methods and if correctly distinguished, the volatiles can be used in an experiment similar to the one used in
this study for the predication of any crop’s maturity and help farmers plan for optimal harvest time.
39
5. Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the Crops For the Future Research Centre for providing partial financial
support for the studies and Mr Tibby Lim from Ameritech Sdn Bhd for his guidance to understand the
working mechanism of electronic nose (zNoseTM
).
6. References
[1] J. Wang, B. Teng, Y. Yu. Pear dynamic characteristics and firmness detection, Eur. Food Res. Technol. 2004, 218
(3): 289-294.
[2] A. Kader. Postharvest Technology of Horticultural Crops. 3rd
ed., University of California Publication, 2002.
[3] A.H. Gómez, G. Hu, J. Wang, A.G. Pereira. Evaluation of tomato maturity by electronic nose. Comput. Electron.
Agric. 2006, 54(1): 44-52.
[4] M. Lebrun, A. Plotto, K. Goodner, M. Ducamp, E. Baldwin. Discrimination of mango fruit maturity by volatiles
using the electronic nose and gas chromatography. Postharvest Biol. Technol. 48(1): 122-131.
[5] W.J. Florkowski, S.E. Prussia, R.L. Shewfelt, B. Brueckner. Postharvest Handling. 2nd ed. A Systems Approach
(Food Science and Technology) Academic Press, 2009.
[6] A.D. McNaught, A. Wilkinson. IUPAC Compendium of Chemical Terminology. 2nd ed. International Union of
Pure and Applied Chemistry, 1997.
[7] NIST Chemistry WebBook. http://webbook.nist.gov/chemistry/ 2011.
40
16s rRNA Gene Sequencing and Analysis of Marine Bacterium for
Biomedical Applications
C.Chellaram1
, R.Sivakumar2, G.Murugaboopathi
3, A. Alex John
1 and M.M.Praveen
1
1Dept. of Biomedical Engineering,
2Dept. of Electrical and Electronic Engineering,
3Dept. of Information Technology, Vel Tech Multitech Dr.Rangarajan Dr.Sakunthala Engineering College,
Chennai, Tamilnadu. India
Abstract. A marine epibiotic bacterial strain A4 was isolated from the coral Subergorgia suberosa from
Tuticorin coast, Gulf of Mannar region, south east coast of India. Phylogenetic identification based on
comparative sequence analysis of 16S rRNA gene indicated that the stain A4 fell under the genera
Marinobacterium. The initial screening using agar overlay method the Marinobacterium strain A4 was found
to exhibit broad spectral activity against Escherichia coli and Candida albicans.The highest zones of 8mm
and 9mm were noted against the strain Escherichia coli and Candida albicans respectively. The culture broth
was ethanol precipitated, and the activity was noted in the precipitate (crude extract). This present study
highlights the importance of epibiotic bacteria associated with corals as a potential source for the discovery
of novel antimicrobial and other natural products.
Keywords: bacillus, Epibiotic, Subergorgia suberosa, Candida albicans, Antimicrobial activity
1. Introduction
Surface-attached bacteria grow on submerged biotic and abiotic surfaces in the marine environment [1],
[2]. Marine invertebrates in particular have diverse communities of attached bacteria on their surfaces [3], [4].
The microbial compounds are most prominent source for discover and production for new drugs [5], [6].
Antibiotics from marine microorganisms have been reported, including loatins from Bacillus produce both
antibiotics and several bioactive substances [7]. The ocean remains as an unexploited source for many drugs
and for the pharmacologically active substances [8]. The Marine organisms that are present in the
environments are extremely rich in source of bioactive compounds [9]-[11].Marine bacteria are important for
maintenance of carbon dynamics in marine ecosystem. The presence of variety of heterotrophic bacteria and
their importance is very well recognized for sustained ecological and biogeochemical cycle in marine
environment [12]-[14]. In this study, we have isolated and identified a marine bacterium from sea coral
Subergorgia suberosa, in Gulf of mannar, Southeast coastal region waters of India. The strain was found to
possess antimicrobial compounds against E.coli and Candida albicans. Initial screening was done against
five human pathogens by Agar overlay method. Ehanol extract of the strain was obtained and tested against
the test organisms by well diffusion method.
2. Materials and Methods
2.1. Collection of coral samples
The bacterial strains were collected from surface of gorgonian coral Subergorgia suberosa by SCUBA.
2.2. Isolation of bacteria
Corresponding author. Tel.: +91-9944040538; fax: 044-26840181.
E-mail address:[email protected]
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 9
41
The cotton swab was then directly swabbed on to Zobell marine agar plates. Plates were incubated at
room temperature for 7 days and from the 5th day on colonies of different morphotypes were isolated and
repeatedly streaked on to Zobell marine agar plates to obtain pure cultures. The pure cultures were then
stored at 4°C in marine agar slants until further studies.
2.3. Screening for antibiotic production
Antibiotic production by marine bacteria was carried out by following the standard agar-overlay method.
Initially the marine strain were spotted on Zobell marine agar plates and allowed to grow for 5 days. Test
strains E. coli, K.pnemoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Candida albicans were
gently overlaid using soft agar over the marine strain. The soft agar was prepared by inoculating 1ml of test
strain in 100 ml of soft agar (0.75% agar) and mixing thoroughly. For marine strains 1.5% NaCl was added
to the soft agar. The overlaid plates were then incubated at 37°C for 24h and the zones of inhibition
(measured from the edge of the colony to the edge of the clear zone) were recorded.
2.4. Cold-ethanol precipitation
The cold–ethanol precipitation of the culture broth was carried out following the slightly modified
method of Schubert and Finn (1981). The Bacillus strainSG3culture was prepared as mentioned above. To
the supernatant two volumes of ice-cold ethanol was added gradually simultaneously agitating with a
magnetic stirrer. When the solvent addition was complete, the culture was agitated at 4˚C for at least 60min.
The culture was then placed in an ice bucket and left overnight inside a cold room (4˚C). The precipitate was
separated from the supernatant by centrifugation at 7000rpm for 30min in 4˚C. The precipitate was dried in
room temperature to remove the ethanol and then dissolved in 5ml of MilliQ water. The antimicrobial
activity of the ethanol precipitate was carried out using agar-well diffusion method.
2.5. Agar well diffusion assay
The agar well diffusion assay was carried out using the modified Stein et al., (2002) method. Tryptic Soy
Agar (TSA) was used as the assay medium. TSA was prepared by adding 3g Tryptic Soy broth powder (Hi-
media, Mumbai, India) and1g of low electro end osmosis (EEO) Agarose in 100ml of double distilled water.
Hundred micro liters of the extracts (ethanol precipitate/ crude biofilm) were poured into wells (6-mm
diameter) of TSA plates previously seeded with the test strains. Plates were placed at 4˚C for 4 to 6h to allow
diffusion of the substance into the agar, and their contents were subsequently incubated for 12 to 18 h at
37˚C. The presence or absence of inhibition zones around the wells was recorded.
2.6. Molecular identification and phylogenetic analysis
Single isolated colony of the strain was taken from the agar plate and suspended in 50μl of lysis buffer
(10mM Tris-HCl, pH 7.5; 10mM EDTA and 50μl/ml of proteinaseK). The reaction mixture was then
incubated at 55°C for 15min followed by proteinaseK inactivation at 80°C for 10 min. The reaction mixture
was then centrifuged at 15,000 rpm at 4°C for 15 min. The supernatant that contains genomic DNA was
directly used as template in PCR reaction. PCR amplification of almost full-length16Ss rRNA gene was
carried out with eubacteria specific primer set 16F27N (5’-CCAGAGTTTGATCMTGGCTCAG-3’) and
16R1525XP (5’-TTCTGCAGTCTAGAAGGAGGTGWTCCAGGC-3’) (Pidiyar et al., 2002). A 25l
reaction volume PCR was performed using about 10ng of the genomic DNA, 1X reaction buffer (10mM
Tris-HCL, pH 8.8 at 25°C, 1.5mM MgCl2, 50mM KCl and 0.1% Triton X-100), 0.4mM deoxynucleoside
triphosphates (Invitrogen), 0.5U DNA Polymerase (New England Labs, UK). The PCR was performed in an
automated Gene Amp PCR system 9700 thermal cycler (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, USA) under the
following conditions. The amplification conditions were as follows: 94°C for 1 min (denaturation), 55°C for
1 min (annealing), 72°C for 1.30 min (elongation) at and 72°C for 10 min final elongation. Expected PCR
product of around 1.5 Kb was checked by electrophoresis with 5μl of the PCR product on 1% agarose gel in
1X TBE buffer and stained with ethidium bromide 0.5 μl/ml. The PCR product was precipitated by PEG-
NaCl (20% PEG in 2.5 M NaCl) precipitation at 37°C for 30 min. The reaction mixture was centrifuged at
12,000 rpm for 30 min at room temperature. The supernatant was discarded and the pellet was washed twice
with 70% ethanol. After drying the pellet was resuspended in 5μl of sterile nuclease-free water. One
microliter (~ 50ng) of purified PCR product was sequenced as described earlier (Pidiyaret al., 2002). The
analysis of the sequence was done at NCBI server (http:// www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/BLAST) whereas the
42
alignment of the sequence was done using CLUSTALW programmed at European Bioinfomatics site (http://
www.ebi.eic.uk/clustalw). Trees were constructed using the MEGA Software version 3.1.
3. Results
3.1. Bioactivity
The Bacillus strain A4 was found to exhibit broad-spectral activity (agar-overlay method), inhibiting the
growth of Escherichia coli and Candida albicansstrain. The bacteria secreted metabolites that were both
antibacterial (Figure.1) as well as antifungal in activity. Maximum antibacterial activity was found against
Candida albicans (Figure 2)
Fig. 1: Strain Serinicoccus marinus
Fig. 2: Activity of A4 strain against E.coli
3.2. Ethanol extract
The crude extract (ethanol) was found to be active against E. coli and Candida albicans.
3.3. Molecular identification and phylogeny
The strain initially designated as A4 when isolated, was identified in the genus Marinobacterium,
employing 16Ss rRNA gene sequence method. Phylogenetic analysis based on comparative analysis of the
sequenced 16Ss rRNA indicated that the strain was closely related to Serinicoccus marinus strain (Figure 3).
4. Discussion
The discovery of new antibiotics is so important due to the increasing incidence of multiple resistant
pathogenic microorganisms to drugs that are currently using in clinical treatment. In the marine environ-ment,
90% of bacteria are Gram-negative with different characteristics and the Gram-negative cell wall is better
adapted for survival in the marine environment [15-16]. We have successfully culture a strain designated A4,
isolated from the surface of a coral. Using molecular phylogeny tools such as 16s rRNA sequencing, which
confirmed that the strain A4 was closely related to Serinicoccusmarinusstrain. We have shown that the
recently discovered marine natural product A4 possesses potent in vitro antimicrobial activity against strain
of E.coli and Candida albicans.Future studies will further re-find the activity of A4 analogs from marine-
derived actinomycetes for characterization and optimization of activity toward further preclinical
development.Further study is necessary for purification of compound using High PerformanceLiquid
Chromatography (HPLC) and for structure and functional group elucidation of thecompound by using
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) and Infra-red (IR) spectroscopy, inorder to practice it for
pharmacological advantage.
43
Fig. 3: Phylogenetic tree of the strain A4
5. Acknowledgements
Authors deliver their sincere gratitude to SERB-DST (Young Scientist Award, No.SR/FT/LS-23/2010)
Govt. of India for financial support.
6. References
[1] C. Chellaram, T. Prem Anand, G. Kuberan, A. Alex John, G. Priya, B. Arvind Kumar. Anti-inflammatory and
analgesic effects of coral reef associated gastropod, Trochus tentorium from Tuticorin coastal waters, Southeastern
India. African Journal of Biotechnology, 2012, 11(80): 14621-14626.
[2] WM. Dunne. Bacterial adhesion: seen any good biofilms lately. Clinical Microbiology Reviews. 2002, 15(2):155–
66.
[3] F. Rohwer, V. Seguritan, F. Azam, N. Knowlton. Diversity and distribution of coral-associated bacteria. Marine
Ecology Progress Series. 2002, 243: 1–10.
[4] C. Chellaram, R. S. Sreenivasan, T. P. Anand, S. Kumaran, D. Kesavan, G. Priya. Antagonistic Bacteria From Live
Corals, Tuticorin Coastal Waters, Southeastern India. Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Science. 2011, 24:175-
181.
[5] C. Chellaram, R. S. Sreenivasa, S. Jonesh, T. Prem Anand, JKP. Edward. In vitro Antibiotic bustle of coral reef
associated gastropod, Drupa margariticola (Broderip 1832) of Tuticorin coastal waters, Southeastern India,
Biotechnology. 2009, 8 (4), 456–461.
[6] W. Zhang, ZY. Li, XL. Miao, FL. Zhang. The screening of antimicrobial bacteria with diverse novel nonribosomal
peptide synthetase (NRPS) genes from South China sea sponges. Mar Biotechnol. 2009, 11: 346-355.
[7] JM.Gerard, P.Haden, MT.Kelly, RJ. Andersen. Loloatins A-D, cyclic decapeptide antibiotics produced in culture by
a tropical marine bacterium. J. Nat. Prod. 1999, 62: 80–85.
[8] K. Sivasubramanian, S.Ravichandran, M. Vijayapriya. Antagonistic activity of marine bacteria Pseudo alteromonas
tunicate against microbial pathogens. Afr J Microbiol Res. 2011, 5: 562-567.
[9] C. Chelllaram, T. Prem Anand, C. Felicia Shanthini, B. Arvind Kumar. Sidharth P Sarma. Bioactive peptides from
epibiotic Pseudoalteromonas strain P1, APCBEE Procedia, 2012, 2: 37-42.
[10] R. Solanki, M. Khanna, R. Lal. Bioactive compounds from marine actinomycetes. Indian J Microbiol 2008. 48:
410-431.
[11] K. Hong, AH. Gao, QY. Xie, H. Gao, L. Zhuang, HP. Lin. Actinomycetes for marine drug discovery isolated from
mangrove soils and plants in China. Mar Drugs. 2009, 7: 24-44.
[12] WB. Whitman, DC. Coleman, WJ. Wiebe, Prokaryotes: the unseen majority. Proc Natl Acad Sci. 1999, 95: 6578–
44
6583.
[13] MC. Austen, PJD. Lambshead, PA. Hutchings, G. Boucher, PVR. Snelgrove. Biodiversity links above and below
the marine sediment water interfacethat may influence community stability. Bio divers Conserv. 2002, 11: 113–
136.
[14] L. Zinger, LA. Amaral-Zettler, JA. Fuhrman, MC. Horner-Devine, SM. Huse. Global patterns of bacterial beta-
diversity in seafloor and seawater ecosystems. Plos one. 2011, 6: e24570.
[15] AR. White, Effective antibacterials: at what cost? The economics of antibacterial resistance and its control. J
Antimicrob Chemother. 2011, 66: 1948–53.
[16] C. Chellaram, TP. Anand, MM. Praveen, G. Murugaboopathi, R. Sivakumar, B. Arvind Kumar, S. Krithika. Self-
life Studies on an Underutilized Sea Food from Southeast Coast of India, International Conference on Agriculture
and Animal Sciences, (CAAS 2013), APCBEE Procedia, 2013, 8: In Press .
45
Neuroprotective Effects of Soybean Oligopeptides (SOPs) Against
H2O2-induced Oxidative Stress in PC12 Cells
Jingbo Liu 1, Wenchao Liu
1, Dan Liu
1, Menglei Xu
1 and Yan Zhang
1
Laboratory of Nutrition and Functional Food, Jilin University, Changchun, 130062, P.R. China
Abstract. In the study, soybean protein isolate was hydrolyzed with Alcalase, hydrolysates were separated
by membrane ultrafiltration to obtain SOPs. We examined the antioxidant properties of SOPs, including Fe2+
chelating capacity, free radical scavenging activities against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH),
oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC), and inhibiting the autoxidation of linoleic acid capacity. Then
the neuroprotective effect of SOPs against H2O2-induced lipid peroxidation and cell death in PC12 cells was
evaluated. The PC12 cell line pretreated with different concentrations (0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/mL) of the SOPs
and then treated with H2O2 to induce lipid peroxidation and neurotoxicity. The neurotoxicity was assessed by
cell viability, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release and morphological characteristics. The results indicated
that SOPs exhibited potent antioxidant activities, and pretreatment of PC12 cells with SOPs, prior to H2O2
exposure, significantly increased the survival of cells, and reduced the levels of LDH. These findings suggest
that SOPs can protect PC12 cells against H2O2-induced lipid peroxidation and cell death as a neuroprotective
agent.
Keywords: neuroprotective, PC12 cells, Soybean oligopeptides, Oxidative stress
1. Introduction
The number of people suffering from neurological disorders has been increased worldwide, especially in
the developed countries [1]. Oxidative stress as a result of aberrant production of reactive oxygen species
(ROS) is the major culprit in neuronal cell degeneration observed in neurodegenerative diseases, such as
Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease [2]. The imbalance between oxidants and antioxidants leads to
disruption of redox signaling leading to accumulation of ROS. Excessive generation of free radicals causes
damage to all kinds of biomolecules, such as lipids, proteins and DNA, in addition, lipid peroxidation is the
main nerve toxic [3]. Therefore, current attention has been dedicated to find natural neuroprotective agents
that can reduce oxidative stress in neurons, might be an appropriate choice for the treatment of
neurodegenerative diseases [4].
Soybean based food has a long lasting tradition, especially in Asia. Moreover, soybean protein is a
potential dietary source of bioactive peptides, enzymatic hydrolysis of proteins is one effective approach that
can be used to release various bioactive peptides [5]. The soybean protein-derived peptides have been
reported to possess a wide variety of biological activities such as antihypertensive, antithrombotic, opioid,
antiamyloid and antioxidant activities. Previous studies have also shown that SOPs through Alcalase have
relatively higher antioxidant activities and antiamyloid effects [6], and indicate that SOPs may reduce
oxidative stress in neurons as neuroprotective agents. However, the direct effect of SOPs on the
neuroprotective efficacy has not been investigated. Accordingly, the present study aimed to evaluate the
potential neuroprotective effect of SOPs on H2O2-induced oxidative stress and neurotoxicity and in PC12
cells.
2. Materials and methods
Corresponding author. Tel.: + 86 18946638728; fax: + 86 0431 87835760.
E-mail address: [email protected].
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 10
46
2.1. Materials
The soybean protein isolate was obtained from Harbin Hi-Tech Soybean Food co.,Ltd (Harbin China).
Alcalase 2.4 L (2.4 AU/g) was purchased from Novo Nordisk (Bagsvaerd, Denmark). The lactate
dehydrogenase (LDH) assay kits was purchased from Beyotime Institute of Biotechnology (Haimen, China).
Dulbecco's Modified Eagle's Medium (DMEM) and Fetal bovine serum (FBS) was purchased from Gibco
BRL, Life Technologies (USA). EDTA, DPPH, Fluorescein, AAPH, Trolox were purchased from Sigma-
Aldrich (USA). MTS from Promega (Msdiso, USA) and other chemicals were purchased from Beijing
Chemical Plant (Beijing, China).
2.2. Preparation of SOPs
Soybean protein isolate was dispersed in distilled water to obtain 10% protein slurry (w/v) was
hydrolyzed in a 1000 mL reactor under the controlled temperature and pH. The mixture was heated to 90℃,
for 10 min, in order to denature the protein. The pH value was adjusted to 8.0 using 1 mol/L NaOH and
incubated in 55℃ water bath. The protein hydrolysis was initiated by the addition of a 0.052 AU/g dosage of
Alcalase based on protein content and stirred for 3 h. After the hydrolysis reaction was terminated by boiling
for 10min and the solutions were centrifuged at 10000 rpm for 15min at 4℃ to obtain soybean protein isolate
hydrolysates. The hydrolysates were ultra-filtered through a membrane with 1 kDa nominal molecular
weight limit to obtain the soybean oligopeptides. The SOPs were freeze-dried and stored at -20℃ before
further analysis.
2.3. DPPH radical-scavenging activity
The DPPH radical-scavenging activity of SOPs was measured according to the previously reported
method with some modifications [7]. An aliquot of 100 μL 0.1 mM DPPH (dissolved in 95% ethanol) was
mixed with the same volume of sample solution. The mixture was shaken and left for 30 min at room
temperature. The absorbance of the resulting solution was measured at 517 nm. The blank substituted 100 μL
of buffer solution instead of the sample, and Trolox was used as a standard.
2.4. Metal ion-chelating activity
The ability of SOPs to chelate Fe2+
ions was evaluated according to the previously reported method with
some modifications [8]. Briefly, 50 μL sample solution was mixed with 50 μL of 0.2 mM ferrous chloride
solution. After 3 min the reaction was initiated by the addition of 200μL of 0.5 mM ferrozine. The mixture
was shaken vigorously and left at room temperature for 10 min. Absorbance was measured at 522 nm to
determine chelating activity using EDTA as a standard.
2.5. Measurement of oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC)
The ORAC assay was conducted to kinetically measure the peroxyl radical scavenging activity of SOPs
with Trolox as the antioxidant standard [9]. Fluorescein was used as the fluorescent probe and the peroxyl
radicals were generated from AAPH in 75 mmol/L phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). Excitation and emission
wavelengths were 485 and 530 nm, respectively. Trolox equivalents (TE) were calculated using the relative
area under the curve for samples compared to a Trolox standard curve prepared under the same experimental
conditions.
2.6. Inhibition of linoleic acid autoxidation
The lipid peroxidation inhibition activity of SOPs was measured in a linoleic acid model system
according to the method of Osawa and Namiki [10] with some modifications. The sample dissolved in 5 mL
of 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 7.0) was added to a solution of 65 μL of linoleic acid and 5 mL of 99.5%
ethanol. The total volume was then adjusted to 12.5 mL with distilled water. The mixture was incubated in at
60 ± 1 ℃ for 7 days in a dark room. The degree of oxidation of linoleic acid was measured using the ferric
thiocyanate method. Briefly, 0.1mL of the reaction mixture was mixed with 4.7 mL of 75% ethanol, 0.1 mL
of 300 g/L ammonium thiocyanate and 0.1 mL of 20 mM ferrous chloride solution in 35% HCl. After 3 min
of incubation the colour development, which represents linoleic acid oxidation, was measured at 500 nm.
2.7. Cell culture
47
The PC12 cell line was obtained from the Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, SIBS, CAS
(Shanghai, China). Cells cultured in DMEM supplemented with 10% FBS, 100 units/mL penicillin and 100
μg/mL streptomycin in an incubator aerated with 5% CO2 at 37 °C.
2.8. Analysis of cell survival
The metabolic status of the mitochondria of PC12 cells was analyzed by the MTS assay. The cells were
seeded (5×104 cells/800 μL/well) and cultured in 24-well plates. The cells were then pre-incubated with
SOPs for 24 h followed by incubation with or without 200 μM H2O2 for 12 h. After that, 100 μL of MTS (0.5
mg/mL) was added to each well and then incubated for 1h at 37 ℃, the absorbance was determined at 490
nm using a microplate reader. The value for cell viability was converted to the percentage of control culture
value. The morphology of the cells was also observed and photographed under a microscope.
2.9. LDH leakage
The LDH leakage was detected with an assay kit (Beyotime, Haimen, China) according to the
manufacturer’s protocol. The culture medium was collected and retained for LDH determination. The
adherent cells were washed twice with PBS and then lysed by the cell lysis buffer to release the intracellular
LDH of the living cells into the new supernatant. After the reaction, each sample was measured at
wavelength of 450 nm. LDH leakage was calculated as the ratio of released LDH to total LDH.
2.10. Statistical analysis
The results were expressed as means ± SD. Differences among different experimental groups were tested
for significance using one-way analysis of variance, taking **P < 0.01 as significant.
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Antioxidant capacity of SOPs
The antioxidant activities of SOPs were estimated by various antioxidant methods, including DPPH
scavenging, Fe2+
chelating, ORAC and inhibition of linoleic acid autoxidation assays. As shown in Fig. 1A
Fig. 1: Antioxidant activities of SOPs, DPPH scavenging activity (A), Fe2+
chelating capacity (B), ORAC (C),
inhibiting the autoxidation of linoleic acid capacity (D). The results are expressed as mean ± SD of three experiments.
and B, SOPs exhibited DPPH radical-scavenging activity and Fe2+
-chelating activity, in addition, the activity increased
48
with increasing peptide concentration. The ORAC value of SOPs was 446.1 μmol Trolox equivalents per gram dried
weight (Fig. 1C). As shown in Fig. 1D, SOPs showed lipid peroxidation-inhibitory activity in a linoleic acid model
system. Lower absorbance at 500 nm indicated higher lipid peroxidation inhibition. Overall, the results suggest SOPs
exhibited potent antioxidant activity.
3.2. Protective effect of SOPs against H2O2 induced cytotoxicity
As the major ROS, H2O2 has been extensively used to induce oxidative stress, resulting in apoptosis or
necrosis of PC12 cells. In our preliminary experiments, different concentrations of H2O2 (25 - 800 μM)
induced injury on PC12 cells was assessed by MTS assay. As shown in Fig. 2A, the H2O2 treatment
decreased the cell viability in a dose-dependent manner with 31.5 % viability at 200 μM H2O2 challenge
which was used for further experiments. Then the neuroprotective effects of SOPs were investigated. The
cells pretreated with different concentrations of SOPs (0.1, 0.5, 1 mg/mL) for 24 h before 200 μM H2O2
treatment (12 h) showed significant improvement in cell survival up to 49.2 ± 3.1% with 1 mg/mL of SOPs,
as shown in Fig. 2B. These data shows that SOPs could increase cell viability and offer the protection against
H2O2-induced cell death.
Fig. 2: A Cytotoxic effects of H2O2 on PC12 neuronal cell. B Dose dependent protective effect of pretreatment of SOPs
for 24 h on 12 h treatment of 200 μM H2O2-induced cytotoxicity in PC12 cells, the cell viability was determined by
MTS assay. C The plasma membrane damage was analysed by LDH leakage and D H2O2-induced morphological
alterations in PC12 neurons by phase contrast microscopy. The data are represented as mean ± SD of three independent
experiments, *P<0.05 versus 200 μM H2O2 treated group, **P<0.01 versus 200 μM H2O2 treated group.
3.3. Protective effect of SOPs against plasma membrane damage
The cytotoxicity of H2O2 and the protective activity of SOPs were further evaluated by LDH assay. PC12
cells were pretreated with 1 mg/mL of SOPs for 24 h, before treatment with 200 μM H2O2 for 12 h (Fig. 2C).
The results show that the release of LDH of 71.4 % of total enzyme with 200 μM H2O2 challenge which
49
indicates that H2O2 induces cytotoxicity in the PC12 cells. In contrast, SOPs pretreatment lowered the LDH
release up to 29.4 % as compared with 200 μM H2O2-treated cells. The observed results demonstrate the
protective effect of SOPs against 200 μM H2O2-induced neurotoxicity. The protective effect of SOPs was
further more confirmed morphologically by bright field microscope. The 200 μM H2O2-challenged neurons
exhibited cell shrinkage and disappearance of the cellular processes which was partially protected with
pretreatment of SOPs (Fig. 2D).
4. Discussion
In the present study we observed the antioxidant and neuroprotective effects of SOPs. SOPs showed
stronger inhibition of the autoxidation of linoleic acid and higher scavenging activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-
picrylhydrazyl, superoxide free radicals, and highly capable of inhibiting H2O2-induced oxidative damage in
PC12 cells. However, further work is being conducted to isolate and purify the bioactive peptides from SOPs,
and clarify their structure-function relationship in order to elucidate the specific antioxidant pathway for cell
protection.
5. Acknowledgements
The authors acknowledge the financial support provided by the Project of National Key Technology
Research and Development Program (2012BAD33B03).
6. References
[1] X.-W. Zhou, et al., Methyl 3, 4-dihydroxybenzoate protects primary cortical neurons against A beta(25-35)-
induced neurotoxicity through mitochondria pathway. Journal of Neuroscience Research, 2013. 91(9): p. 1215-
1225.
[2] A. Karpinska, and G. Gromadzka, Oxidative stress and natural antioxidant mechanisms: the role in
neurodegeneration. From molecular mechanisms to therapeutic strategies. Postepy Higieny I Medycyny
Doswiadczalnej, 2013. 67: p. 43-53.
[3] B. Halliwell, Free radicals and antioxidants: updating a personal view. Nutrition Reviews, 2012. 70(5): p. 257-265.
[4] Jimenez-Del-Rio, M. and C. Velez-Pardo, The Bad, the Good, and the Ugly about Oxidative Stress. Oxidative
Medicine and Cellular Longevity, 2012.
[5] J.-T. Hwang, et al., Black soybean peptide mixture purified from Rhynchosia volubilis exerts antioxidant activity
against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity and improves thrombosis. Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 2011. 5(29):
p. 6477-6483.
[6] M. Ravichandran, and N. Hettiarachchy, Preparation of Soy Protein Hydrolysates through alcalase treatment using
Response Surface Methodology with Alzheimer's beta-amyloid (A beta 1-42) Peptide Aggregation inhibition
property. Faseb Journal, 2013. 27.
[7] Z. Yu, et al., Primary and secondary structure of novel ACE-inhibitory peptides from egg white protein. Food
Chemistry, 2012. 133(2): p. 315-322.
[8] H. Zhuang, et al., Optimisation of antioxidant peptide preparation from corn gluten meal. J Sci Food Agric, 2013.
93(13): p. 3264-70.
[9] S. Hogan, et al., Development of antioxidant rich peptides from milk protein by microbial proteases and analysis
of their effects on lipid peroxidation in cooked beef. Food Chemistry, 2009. 117(3): p. 438-443.
[10] H. Zhuang, et al., Optimisation of antioxidant peptide preparation from corn gluten meal. J Sci Food Agric, 2013.
93(13): p. 3264-3270.
50
Determination of Antioxidant Activity for Seven Types of Macroalgae
A.W. Sarini, H. Nor’Aishah and N. Mohd Zaini
Department of Biology, Faculty of Applied Science, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Malaysia
Abstract. The present study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant activity of seven types of
macroalgae extract from Malaysia. The extract was prepared with methanol respectively. 1,1-diphenyl-2-
picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and reducing power were used to study their antioxidant activity while total
phenolic content was measured using Folic-Ciocalteu method. The macroalgae extracts were compared with
commercial antioxidant, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA). Total phenolic content of macroalgae extracts
were expressed in Gallic acid equivalent, mg/L. Caulerpa racemosa showed the highest total phenolic
content with the value of 19.711 mgGAE/L ± 0.2546. In DPPH free radical scavenging activity assay,
Turbinaria conoides showed the highest scavenging activity in 50 mg/ml extract concentration with the value
of 73.57 % ± 0.5739 compared to another macroalgae extracts. The IC50 value of Turbinaria conoides
extracts is 2.46 mg/ml. Low IC50 value will indicates the strong ability of the macroalgae extract to act as a
DPPH scavenger. Caulerpa lentillifera showed the highest absorbance reading in 50 mg/ml extract
concentration with the value of 0.603 ± 0.0015 in reducing power assay. Increased absorbance of the reaction
mixture indicates greater reducing power.
Keywords: antioxidant, DPPH, Macroalgae, Reducing Power, Total Phenolic Content
1. Introduction
Macroalgae are included in the non-flowering plants those whose body is generally undifferentiated into
leaves, stem and roots. Marine macroalgae extracts have been demonstrated to have strong antioxidant
properties [1], [2]. Macroalgae are known as functional food because of their richness in lipids, minerals and
certain vitamins and also several bioactive substances like polysaccharides, protein and polyphenols [3]. Free
radicals are responsible for aging and causing various human diseases. The antioxidant substances which
scavenge free radicals play an important role in the prevention of free radical-induced diseases. The primary
radicals are reduced to nonradical chemical compounds and then converted to oxidize antioxidant radicals by
donating the hydrogen radicals [4]. This action helps in protecting the body from degenerative diseases. The
macroalgae have been used for centuries in the preparation of salads, soups and also as low-calorie foods in
Asia [5]. Most Malaysians exhibit little interest in consuming edible macroalgae, but it is still consumed by
small pockets of the population along the coastal areas of Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia [6]. Six
types of macroalgae such as Caulerpa racemosa, Caulerpa lentillifera, Padina gymnospora, Sargassum
baccularia, Sargassum binderi and Turbinaria conoides reported contain a high nutritional value. From the
result, Turbinaria conoides showed higher content of ash (4.7%), vitamin A (24.1 mg/kg), niacin (274
mg/kg), sodium (13085 mg/kg), potassium (21137 mg/kg), calcium (2353 mg/kg), magnesium (4026 mg/kg),
copper (25.2 mg/kg) and zinc (49.1 mg/kg) [7]. Macroalgae constitutes a commercially important renewable
resource. Macroalgae such as Sargassum, Padina, Dictyota and Gracilaria sp. can be used as fertilizers, food
additives and animal feed [8]. This research was conducted to explore the ability of several types of
macroalgae as a potential antioxidant resource by a recent interest of macroalgae as a source of natural and
healthy food.
2. Materials and Methods
Corresponding author. Tel.: + 60123610694; fax: +6064842449.
E-mail address: [email protected]
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 11
51
2.1. Algal materials and preparations of macroalgae extracts
Collection of macroalgae was done along the shore line of Cape Rachado during the low tide. Cape
Rachado is a fringing coral reef located at Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan, West Coast of Peninsular
Malaysia. Six types of macroalgae namely Caulerpa racemosa (Forsskal) J. Agardh, Caulerpa lentillifera J.
Agardh, Padina gymnospora (Kützing) Vickers, Sargassum baccularia C. Agardh, Sargassum binderi
Sonder and Turbinaria conoides (J. Agardh) Kützing were sampled in Cape Rachado. The edible red
macroalgae namely Eucheuma cottonii were purchased from cultivation area at Sabah, Malaysia. All the
samples were rinsed with distilled water to remove salt and debris and then dried. The dried samples were
cut into small pieces and ground into fine powder using a grinder. The ground samples were sieved to get
uniform particle size, then kept in an air-tight container and stored in a freezer (-200C) until further analysis.
Each ground sample was weighed and transferred into a beaker. Methanol was added in a concentration of
50 mg/ml sample. The extract was separated from the residue by filtration through Whatman No. 1 filter
paper. The residual solvent of methanolic extract was removed under reduced pressure at 400C using rotary
evaporator.
2.2. Total phenolic content (TPC)
The total phenolic content of macroalgae extracts was measured using Folin Ciocalteu method [9]. A
0.02 ml aliquot of crude extracts dissolved in water was pipetted into a test tube containing 1.58ml of
distilled water and 0.1ml of Folin-Ciocalteu’s reagent. After mixing the contents, 0.3ml of saturated sodium
carbonate (Na2CO3) was added to the mixture. The contents were vortexed for 15 seconds and then left to
stand at 40oC for 30 min. Absorbance measurements were recorded at 765nm using a spectrophotometer.
Estimation of the phenolic compounds was carried out in triplicate. The results were mean values and were
expressed as mgGAE (gallic acid equivalents)/L. The calibration equation for gallic acid was y = 0.073x +
0.057 (R2 = 0.914).
2.3. Reducing power assay
The reducing power of the prepared extracts was determined according to reducing power assay [10].
Each extract (10 mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg and 50mg) was dissolved in 1.0 ml of distilled water to which was
added 2.5 ml of a 0.2 M phosphate buffer (pH 6.6) and 2.5 ml of a 1% (w/v) solution of potassium
ferricyanide (Sigma). The mixture was incubated in a water bath at 500C for 20 min. Then, 2.5 ml of a 10%
(w/v) trichloroacetic acid solution (Sigma) was added and the mixture was then centrifuged at 650 x g for 10
min. A 2.5 ml aliquot of the upper layer was combined with 2.5 ml of distilled water and 0.5 ml of a 0.1%
(w/v) solution of ferric chloride. Absorbance of the reaction mixture was read spectrophotometrically at
700nm. Mean values from three independent samples were calculated for each extract.
2.4. DPPH free radical scavenging assay
The scavenging activity of macroalgae extracts were measured using DPPH (1,1-diphenyl-2-
picrylhydrazyl) radical assay [11]. An aliquot of 100-975μl of macroalgae extract (0-50 mg/ml), were
mixed with 0 - 875μl of methanol. The mixture was then added to 1 ml of 25μl DPPH (8 mg/ml). The
reaction mixture were incubated at room temperature and allowed to react for 30 minutes. The optical
density was measured at 520nm using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. BHA was used as a positive control.
DPPH was expressed in terms of ascorbic acid equivalent antioxidant capacity which was calculated based
on its concentration of extract required to reduce DPPH radicals by 50%. The capability of macroalgae
extracts to scavenge the DPPH radical was calculated by using Eq.1:
Scavenging activity (%) 100520
5201
nmatcontrolofAbsorbance
nmatsampleofAbsorbance (1)
IC50 value was determined from the plotted graph of scavenging activity versus the concentration of
macroalgae extracts, which is defined as the amount of antioxidant necessary to decrease the initial DPPH
radical concentration by 50%. Triplicate measurements were carried out and their activity was calculated by
the percentage of DPPH scavenged. IC50 value of macroalgae extracts was calculated based on tread line
equation y = 7.038x + 1.383 (R2 = 0.949).
52
3. Results and Discussions
There is a considerable interest in the food industry as well as pharmaceutical industry for the
development of antioxidants from natural sources such as marine flora and fauna. The marine macroalgae
represent one of the richest sources of natural antioxidant [12]. In this study, we found that the all seven
types of macroalgae extract contain an antioxidant properties. Thus, the extracts can be recommended for its
application as a safe antioxidant in food processing industry.
3.1. Total phenolic content (TPC)
The Folin-Ciocalteu reagent is a mixture of phosphomolybdate and phosphotungstate. It is used for the
colorimetric assay of phenolic antioxidants and polyphenol antioxidants [9]. The amount of the substance
being tested needed to inhibit the oxidation of the reagent was measured in this assay [13]. Total phenolic
compounds are found to be well correlated with antioxidant potential [14]. BHA act as a positive control,
showed the highest total phenolic content (48.654 mgGAE/L ± 0.4194) and Caulerpa racemosa also show
high total phenolic content with the value 19.711 mgGAE/L ± 0.2546 compared to another types of
macroalgae. (Table 1).
Table 1. Mean of total phenolic content (mgGAE/L) of BHA and seven types of macroalgae
Sample Mean ± SD
BHA 48.654 ± 0.4194
Caulerpa racemosa 19.711 ± 0.2546
Padina gymnospora 15.320 ± 0.4334
Caulerpa lentillifera 14.423 ± 0.3331
Sargassum binderi 5.897 ± 0.0560
Turbinaria conoides 5.545 ± 0.0554
Sargassum baccularia 4.359 ± 0.2217
Eucheuma cottonii 2.82 ± 0.018
3.2. Reducing power assay
Fig. 1 shows the absorbance reading in 700 nm of seven types of macroalgae and BHA (positive control)
on reducing power assay. From the result, it showed the highest absorbance reading (1.561 ± 0.0049) in 50
mg/ml BHA. BHA exhibited a stronger reducing power compared to macroalgae. The increased absorbance
of the reaction mixture will indicates greater reducing power because the antioxidant compound are reducing
agents and capable of donating a single electron or hydrogen atom for reduction.
3.3. DPPH free radical scavenging assay
DPPH is a compound that possesses a nitrogen free radical and is readily destroyed by a free radical
scavenger. The antioxidative compounds act as proton radical scavenger was measured by this assay [15].
DPPH has been used extensively as a free radical to evaluate reducing substances [16]. Table 2 shows the
scavenging activity (%) of DPPH radical of seven types of macroalgae, ascorbic acid (standard reference)
and BHA (positive control) at different concentration (mg/ml). For DPPH radical scavenging activity assay,
BHA showed highest scavenging activity in 50 mg/ml concentrations with the value of 97.56 % ± 0.2145.
while ascorbic acid also show high scavenging activity with the value 88.9 % ± 0.265 compared to the
Turbinaria conoides that 73.57 % ± 0.5739. The comparison of the mean concentration for 50% free radical
scavenging activity (IC50) of ascorbic acid and macroalgae extracts also shown in Table 2. The IC50 of
Turbinaria conoides is 2.46 mg/ml. Low IC50 value indicates strong ability of the extract to act as DPPH
scavenger.
53
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1
1.2
1.4
1.6
0 10 20 30 40 50Concentration (mg/ml)
Abs
orba
nce
in 7
00 n
m S. binderi
S. baccularia
P. gymnospora
T. conoides
C. racemosa
C. lentillifera
BHA
E. cottonii
Fig. 1: Absorbance reading in 700 nm of seven types of macroalgae and BHA on reducing power assay
Table 2. IC50 value of seven types of macroalgae extracts and ascorbic acid
Sample/Extract Scavenging activity (%) IC50 value (mg/ml)
Ascorbic acid 88.9 ± 0.265 0.832
Turbinaria conoides 73.6 ± 0.574 2.46
Padina gymnospora 54.3 ± 1.157 4.89
Caulerpa racemosa 52.8 ± 0.578 4.91
Sargassum baccularia 45.9 ± 0.427 4.98
Sargassum binderi 44.1 ± 0.224 5.27
Caulerpa lentillifera 37.4 ± 0.815 6.74
Eucheuma cottonii 67.63 ± 0.153 7.3
3.4. Correlation between DPPH scavenging assay, reducing power and total phenolic content
The reducing power assay and total phenolic content have showed a positive significant correlation at the
0.01 level with the value of 0.889. At 0.05 levels, the reducing power assay and DPPH free radical
scavenging activity assay have a positive correlation with the value of 0.661. It is difficult to decide in a
screening for antioxidants from natural sources which of the macroalgae species studied can be considered as
best, as each of them exhibits different antioxidant and/or scavenging activities.
4. Conclusion
The macroalgae have the potential as radical scavenger, power reducer and contained total phenolic
compound. Seven types of macroalgae extracts showed moderate to good antioxidant properties, making it as
potential health ingredient for human nutrition. More research is needed to establish the nutritional value of
macroalgae especially in the fields of biochemical analysis that can contribute to human health.
5. Acknowledgement
The authors are grateful to Universiti Teknologi MARA for the facilities, support and financial aids
during the research work. Research was supported by DANA KECEMERLANGAN UiTM (600-
RMU/ST/DANA 5/3/Dst 10/2012).
6. References
[1] T. Kuda, M. Tsunekawa, H. Goto, and Y. Araki. Antioxidant properties of four edible algae harvested in the Noto
Peninsula, Japan. Journal of Food Composition and Analysis. 2005. vol. 18, pp. 625-633.
[2] Y.V. Yuan and N.A. Walsh. Antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of extracts from a variety of edible
54
seaweeds. Food and Chemical Toxicology. 2006. vol. 44, pp.1144-1150.
[3] N. Farideh, M. Rosfarizan, B. Javad, Z.B. Saeedeh, F. Fahimeh and S.R. Heshnu. Antioxidant, antiproliferative,
and antiangiogenesis effects of polyphenol-rich seaweed (Sargassum muticum). BioMed Research International.
2013.Vol 2013, Article ID 604787
[4] T. Yamaguchi, H. Takamura, T. Matoba and J. Terao. HPLC method for evaluation of the free radical-scavenging
activity of foods by using 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem,. 1998. vol. 62, pp. 1201-
1204.
[5] A. Jiménez-Escrig and F. J. Sánchez-Muniz. Dietary fibre from edible seaweeds: Chemical structure,
physicochemical properties and effects on cholesterol metabolism. Nutrition research (New York, N.Y.), 2000. vol.
20, pp. 585-598.
[6] M. H. Norziah and C. Y. Ching. Nutritional composition of edible seaweed Gracilaria changii. Food Chemistry.
2000. vol. 68, pp. 69-76.
[7] A. Salleh and A.W. Sarini, Nutritional composition of macroalgae in Tanjung Tuan, Port Dickson, Malaysia. 2008.
Malaysian Journal of Science vol. 27 (1), pp. 19-26.
[8] P. Vijayabaskar and V. Shiyamala. Antioxidant properties of seaweed polyphenol from Turbinaria ornata (Turner)
J. Agardh, 1848. Asian Pasific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine. 2011. S90-S98.
[9] V. L. Singleton, R. Orthofer, and R. M. Lamuela-Raventos. Analysis of total phenols and other oxidation
substrates and antioxidants by means of folin-ciocalteu reagent. Methods in enzymology. 1999. vol. 299, pp. 152-
178.
[10] M. Oyaizu. Studies on product of browning reaction prepared from glucose amine. Jpn. J. Nutr. vol. 44, pp. 307-
315, 1986.
[11] L. M. Cheung, P. C. K. Cheung, and V. E. C. Ooi, Antioxidant activity and total phenolics of edible mushroom
extracts. Food Chemistry. 2003. vol. 81, pp. 249-255.
[12] S. Veeraperumah, S. K. Namasivayam, M. Pitchai, P. Perumal, R. Ramasamy and A. Chinnathambi. Antioxidant
properties of sequential extracts from brown seaweed, Sargassum plagiophyllum, C. Agardh. Asian Pasific
Journal of Tropical Disease. 2012. S937- S939
[13] J. Vinson, L. Zubik, P. Bose, N. Samman N, and J. Proch. Dried fruits: excellent in vitro and in vivo antioxidants.
J Am Coll Nutr. 2005. vol. 24, pp. 44–50.
[14] V. Katalinić, M. Milos, D. Modun, I. Musić, and M. Boban. Antioxidant effectiveness of selected wines in
comparison with (+)-catechin, Food Chemistry. 2004. vol. 86, pp. 593-600.
[15] N. Singh and P.S. Rajini. Free radical scavenging activity of an aqueous extract of potato peel. Food Chemistry.
2004. vol. 85, pp. 611–616.
[16] N. Cotelle, J.-L. Bernier, J.-P. Catteau, J. Pommery, J.-C. Wallet, and E. M. Gaydou. Antioxidant properties of
hydroxy-flavones, Free Radical Biology and Medicine, 1996.vol. 20, pp. 35-43.
55
56
Jatropha Curcas Oil Characterization and Its Significance for
Feedstock Selection in Biodiesel Production
Nurudeen Ishola Mohammed1, Nassereldeen Ahmed Kabbashi
1, Md Zahangir Alam
1 and
Mohammed Elwathig Mirghani1
1 Bioenvironmental Engineering research Centre (BERC), Department of Biotechnology Engineering,
Faculty of Engineering, International Islamic University Malaysia,
Jalan Gombak, 50728 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Abstract. Over time, the quest for alternative fuel devoid of environmental degradation has intensified
research on biodiesel synthesis from diverse feedstock. Biodiesel is an environmental friendly alternative
liquid fuel that can be used in any diesel engine with little or no engine modification. There has been kindled
interest in vegetable oils consideration for making biodiesel on account of its less polluting nature and
benefits of its renewability compared to fossil diesel fuel. Once biodiesel is accorded the needed support and
incentive, it stands to offer enormous benefits for the environment and the local population in terms of
employment opportunity as well as provision of modern energy carriers for the use of rural communities.
Moreover, non-edible oil such as jatropha curcas oil has experienced ongoing inquiry due to food-energy
feud of some edible oils utilized as feedstock in biodiesel synthesis. In producing biodiesel which can be
economically viable, it is imperative that the characteristic features of the feedstock are determined in order
that all the available alternative approaches to produce the fuel are weighted before there can be any
consideration for a particular method. In this paper, three jatropha curcas oil species were characterized and
the implication of the various characteristic features in choosing the feedstocks for consideration in biodiesel
synthesis are evaluated and discussed.
Keywords: Biodiesel, Jatropha curcas, Characterization, Properties.
1. Introduction
The world have witness continual increment in the production and consumption of vegetable oil due to
growing population, technological advancement and industrialization. For instance, there was tremendous
increase in the utilization of vegetable oil either for food or use as fuel to about 27% in just one decade [1].
The world dependency on petroleum and fossil fuel has caused a renewed interest in the quest for alternative
energy sources and among the energy sources that have recorded enormous research is biodiesel.
Of concern is the energy security which deepen inquisition for alternative energy sourced basically from
renewable biomass. In producing biodiesel, vegetable oils, animal fats and waste cooking oil are some of the
many feedstocks that have been use in the process [2], adopting a myriad of production processes. The
method to be used for a particular production process depends on the purity of the feedstock in order that
unwanted product may be avoided.
Biodiesel according to the ASTM definition is a diesel engine fuel comprising monoalkyl esters and
long-chain fatty acids which are derived from vegetable oils and fats. It is referred to as B100 and expected
to meets the requirement of ASTM D 6751[3].
Fatty acids alkyl esters (Biodiesel) are characterized by their physical and fuel properties such as density,
viscosity, iodine value, acid value, cloud point, pure point, gross heat of combustion, and volatility [3].
Corresponding author. Tel: + 60122593936; fax: +60361964442.
E-mail address: [email protected].
2014 5th International Conference on Food Engineering and Biotechnology
IPCBEE vol.65 (2014) © (2014) IACSIT Press, Singapore
DOI: 10.7763/IPCBEE. 2014. V65. 12
57
Biodiesel fuels produce slightly lower power and torque and consume more fuel than conventional diesel
fuel. Biodiesel is more advantageous to diesel fuel in terms of its sulfur content, flash point, aromatic content,
biodegradability and environmental sustainability [4].
The cost of biodiesels is subject to the feedstock utilized in the production processes which is also
dependent on the purity the oil. Of importance is the effect of geographical location, diversity in crop
production in season, the cost of crude petroleum, and some other factors in biodiesel costing. Currently,
biodiesel is much more expensive than petroleum diesel. The high cost of biodiesel is in large part due to the
high price of the feedstock of high purity requirement. However, biodiesel can be synthesized using other
feedstocks of solid state such as beef tallow, pork lard, and yellow grease [5], materials considered as low
cost feedstocks.
Commercially, most of the biodiesel currently synthesized utilizes soybean oil in Brazil, rape seed oil in
Europe and United States, palm oil in Malaysia and Indonesia, -depending on the relative abundance of the
feedstock- methanol, and an alkaline catalyst. The value of soybean and palm oil as a food product makes
production of a cost effective fuel very challenging. Nevertheless, there exist many low cost oils and fats
such as restaurant waste, animal fats and non-edible vegetable oil such as jatropha curcas oil that could be
transformed into biodiesel. The problem with processing these low-cost oils and fats is that they often
contain large amounts of free fatty acids (FFAs) that cannot be converted into biodiesel using an alkaline
catalyst [6], [7].
Jatropha curcas oil is a non-edible vegetable oil that has witness renewed interest due to some of its
advantages like its propagation over other non-edible oils [8]. It is a perennial crop with high oil content of
about 30-50% wt % [9] and capable of growth potential in tropical and semi tropical region of the world [10].
India is presently known to be the highest producer of biodiesel from jatropha curcas oil. This plant oil has
some characteristics that determine the quality and quantity of the yield when used as feedstock for biodiesel
production depending on the climatic condition of where it is grown and conditions in extracting the oil.
The crude jatropha curcas oil from different location of the world is known to possess diverse
characteristics features, which consign it to only some specific production process that eschew formation of
unwanted product such as soap and some other impurities that can impact greatly on the downstream
processes and thereby reduce the product yield.
In this research, three variety of jatropha curcas oils were characterized for their various
physicochemical properties such as density, viscosity, iodine value, saponification value, peroxide value and
acid value were determined and the implication of the various properties were discussed in details.
2. Materials and Methods
2.1. Materials Three Jatropha curcas oils species were used in the research, one was sourced from Sudan, the other two
were sourced from two different industries in Malaysia namely Bionas Sdn Bhd and UKM plantation.
Analytical reagents such as potassium hydroxide, phenolphthalein, potassium iodide, sulfuric acid etc with
all reagents being of analytical grade were sourced from local suppliers in Malaysia such as Bumi Telus,
Next Gene etc.
2.2. Sample preparation The three oil samples were dried in oven at temperature of 105
0C and were identified as BD (oil sample
from Bionas Sdn Bhd.), UK (oil sample from UKM) and SD (oil sample from Sudan).
2.3. Test procedure 2.3.1. Determination of saponification value
To determine the saponification values of the samples, ethanolic potassium hydroxide (0.5 N) was
pipetted into conical flasks containing 1.0 g of sample. The content of each flask was reflux for 45 min with
occasional shaking, then cooled to room temperature, after which it was titrated with sulfuric acid (0.5 N)
58
using phenolphthalein as indicator. A blank was subjected to the same process. Results were expressed as mg
KOHg-1
. The saponification values of the oil samples were determined as follows [11].
Saponification value = ( )
(1)
Where Vb = titre value for blank, Vs = titre value for sample and W = weight of sample in gram.
2.3.2. Determination of peroxide value
In determining the peroxide values, oil samples (0.5 g) were added into a boiling tubes containing 1 g of
powdered potassium iodide. Glacial acetic acid/chloroform mixture (20 mL; 2:1) was added, the boiling
tubes was placed in boiling water for 1 min after which the content were poured into conical flasks
containing potassium iodide solution (20 mL; 5 %). The boiling tubes were rinsed twice with distilled water
(25 mL) and content added into the conical flasks. The whole content was titrated with sodium thiosulphate
(0.002 M) solution to colourless end points using starch as indicator. Results were expressed as mMol/kg
[11]. Peroxide values of the oil samples were calculated as follows:
Peroxide value = ( )
(2)
Where Vb = Titre for blank; Vs = Titre for sample; W= weight of sample in grams.
2.3.3. Determination of acid value
The number of mg of potassium hydroxide required to neutralize the free acids in 1 g of the sample was
determined by placing 0.5 g of samples in conical flasks containing mixture of ether and ethanol (50 mL; 95%
v/v). The resulting solutions were titrated with 0.1 N potassium hydroxide solution using phenolphthalein as
indicator [11]. The acid values were expressed as KOH g-1
and calculated as follows:
Acid value = ( )
(3)
Where Vb = Titre for blank, Vs = Titre for sample and W = weight of sample in gram.
2.3.4. Determination of iodine value
The samples (2%) were prepared in chloroform, titrated with Wij’s solution (5 mL), mixed thoroughly
and allowed to stand in the dark for 3 min. Potassium iodide solution (5 mL; 7.5%) was then added and
titrated to a light straw colour using 0.1 N sodium thiosulphate solution. Starch indicator (3 drops) was
thereafter added and titration continued to a colourless (white or milky) end point. Results were expressed as
I2/100 [11]. Iodine values of the oil samples were calculated as follows:
Iodine value = ( )
(4)
Where Vb = Titre value for blank, Vs = Titre value for sample and W = weight of sample in gram.
3. Results and Discussion
3.1. Results Table 1: physical properties of the selected jatropha curcas oils
Jatropha oil samples Units BD UK SD
Moisture content % 0.06 0.23 0.17
Density g/cm3 3.40 3.60 3.60
Viscosity Pa.s 0.053 0.078 0.054
Phase at room temp (26 0C)) Liquid Liquid Liquid
Table 2: chemical properties of the selected jatropha curcas oils
Properties Units BD UK SD
Saponification value mgKOH-1
220.01 215.99 218.79
Peroxide value mMol/kg 31.84 53.84 24.64
Acid value KOH g-1
14.60 8.42 17.20
Iodine value I2 100 g-1
4.38 2.10 4.28
3.2. Discussion
59
3.2.1. Moisture content
The formation of soap, caused majorly by the water content in biodiesel feedstock can hinder the
separation of biodiesel from glycerol fraction [12]. In catalyzed methods, the presence of water has negative
effects on the yields of methyl esters because the feedstock is prone to soap formation rather than biodiesel.
From the result presented, it is seen that sample BD has the lowest water content while sample UK has the
highest, hence, UK has greater propensity for soap formation compared to other samples.
Nevertheless, when supercritical alcohol method route is employed, presence of moisture aids biodiesel
formation [13] and thus sample UK will be the better feedstock. Besides, the amount of moisture present in
the oil or fuel is needed for estimation of the actual fuel in transaction, taxation, exchanges and custody
transfer [14]. Thus sample UK will cost more in transport and taxation when compared to other samples.
3.2.2. Acid value
Acid value indicates the amount of free fatty acids found in fat or oil. Acid value provides information
about the age of oil sample; also it signifies the effect of oil exposure to atmospheric oxygen, hot moist air or
action of microorganisms and records how much generation of free fatty acids has taken place. A high acid
value implies a stale oil or fat which has been stored under inappropriate storage condition.
Technically, acid value is the mass of potassium hydroxide (KOH) in milligrams that is needed to
neutralize one gram of chemical substance. More acid value implies more amount of free fatty acid (FFAs),
the presence of which interferes with methanol in transesterification process. The yield of biodiesel is
dependent on the acid value as lower acid value produce higher biodiesel throughput. It thus implies that
sample UK with the least acid value will be better feedstock for transesterification process, while sample BD
and SD with high acid values are better candidate for hydroesterification.
3.2.3. Peroxide value
The peroxide value (PV) of fat or oil is employed to measure the extent to which the oil or fat has
become rancid during the storage process. Autoxidation in fat and oils is subject to the molecular structure of
the fat or oil with the level of unsaturation a factor promoting the autoxidation. Estimation of peroxide value
allows for determination of oxidative rancidity (autoxidation) of fat or oil samples as peroxides are
intermediate in the autoxidation reaction. It shows from the result that sample UK is more rancid while
sample SD is the least rancid. This is an indication of the extent to which the sample UK has been either
exposed to the atmosphere or the age of it extraction is longer while that of sample SD is more recent.
Oxidative rancidity is a reaction involving oxygen which results in deterioration of fats and oils affecting
the flavor and odour of the fat or oil sample. Peroxide value is employed for assessment of spoilage level in
oil sample as it records the concentration of peroxides in an oil or fat. The peroxide value is the quantity of
peroxide oxygen present in one kilogram of fat and oil at a particular period in time. Traditionally, it is
measured in units of milliequivalents, which has been usually abbreviated as mequiv or meq.
Besides, different oil or fat samples have diverse peroxide value and correlation of rancid taste. The
odour and flavors associated with typical oxidative rancidity are as a result of carbonyl-type compounds. It is
pertinent to be aware that peroxide value changes with time and proper cognizance should be accorded in
handling and testing oil samples. No model available relating peroxide value to rancidity is almost always
accurate. Peroxide value of virgin oil is expected to be less than 10milliequivalents/kg but when the value is
about 30-40 milliequivalents/kg a rancid taste is imminent, high peroxide value implies a high degree of
rancidity but moderate values may be due to depletion of peroxides after attaining high concentration.
3.2.4. Saponification value
This is the hydrolysis of fats and oils in the presence of an alkaline such as potassium hydroxide or
caustic soda to produce glycerol and corresponding salt of fatty acids. Saponification value indicates the
nature of fatty acids available in triacylglycerol. The longer the carbon chain of the fat hydrolyzed, the
reduced the quantity of acid liberated per gram of sample and hence the reduced the saponification value of
such oil sample. This feature implies that the propensity of soap formation is higher in sample UK while
lowest in sample BD.
3.2.5. Iodine value
60
Iodine value is the measure of the degree of unsaturation in fats acids available in triacylglycerol. The
longer the carbon chain of the fat hydrolyzed, the reduced the quantity of acid liberated per gram of sample
and hence the reduced the saponification value of such oil sample. This feature implies that the possibility of
soap formation is higher in sample UK while lowest in sample BD. Unsaturation of fatty acid composition
determines the yield in biodiesel therefore sample BD with the highest iodine value is expected to produce
highest yield when used in biodiesel synthesis while sample UK is expected to produce least yield relative to
the production route employed.
3.2.6. Viscosity
Vegetable oil viscosity is an indication of the internal fluid friction of the oil. It is in other words the
resistance offered to the flow of the oil which as a result inhibits any dynamic change in the fluid motion [15].
Temperature effect on the viscosity of oil is an inverse relationship implying that when the temperature of
the oil is raised there is corresponding decrease in the viscosity of the oil and hence the ease with which the
oil flows. This property is a significant feature for flow of oil in the injector nozzles and orifices [16].
Viscosity remains the most significant among the fuel properties of biofuel due to its effect on the
operation of fuel injection equipment especially at reduced temperature when the fluidity of the fuel is
adversely dependent on the viscosity.Islam et al., 2004 reported that the combustion efficiency of fuel
relative to formation of atomized and finer droplet which is produced by the ease with which the oil-flow is a
measure of the fuel viscosity [16].
3.2.7. Density
Another important biofuel property is the density which is defined as the mass per unit volume of the oil
at a particular temperature. Of importance is the density of oil as it determines the performance of the diesel
engine [15] and this feature is used in the determination of fuel Cetane index [3]-[14].
4. Conclusion
This study reported the physico-chemical properties of three jatropha curcas oil sample sourced from
different locations. Results show that the prospect of jatropha curcas oil in biodiesel production cannot be
under estimated. Findings revealed that the detailed scientific knowledge relative to the physico-chemical
properties of the seed oil is of immense significant for feedstock selection relative to the production
technique adopted in biodiesel synthesis.
5. References
[1] Willerding, André Luis, Carvalho Neto, Francisco Geraldo Mello da Rocha, Gama, Auricé Matos da, Carioca,
Cláudia Regina Ferreira, & Oliveira, Luiz Antonio de. (2012). Hydrolytic activity of bacterial lipases in amazonian
vegetable oils. Química Nova, 35(9), 1782-1786.
[2] B. R. Moser, 2009. Biodiesel production, properties and feedstocks. Invitro cell. Dev. Biol-Plant. 45:229-266.
[3] A. Demirbas, (2008). Biodiesel: ‘A realistic Fuel Alternative for Diesel Engine. DOI 10. 1007/978-1-84628-995-8.
Springer. ISBN-13: 9781846289941.
[4] B. K. Bala, (2005). Studies on biodiesels from transformation of vegetable oils for diesel engines. Energy Edu Sci
Technol 5:145.
[5] A. Demirbas, (2005). Biodiesel production from vegetable oils via catalytic and non-catalytic supercritical
methanol transesterification methods. Progress Energy. Combust. 31:466-487.
[6] A. Demirbas, (2003). Biodiesel fuels from vegetable oils via catalytic and non-catalytic supercritical alcohol
transesterifications and other methods: A survey. Energy Conver. Manage. 44: 2093-2109.
[7] M. Canakci, and J. Van Gerpen, (2001). Biodiesel production from oils and fats with high free fatty acids. Trans:
Am Soc Agric Eng 44: 1429-1436.
[8] H. C. Ong, T. M. I. Mahlia, H. H. Masjuki and R. S. Norhasyima, 2011. Comparison of palm oil, jatropha curcas
and calophyllum inophyllum for biodiesel: A review. Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, 15:3501-3515.
[9] K. Pramanik (2003). Properties and use of jatropha curcas oil and diesel fuel blends in compression ignition
engine. Renewable Energy. 28:239–48.
61
[10] S. A. R aja, D. S. Robinson-Smart, and C. Lindon Robert Lee, (2011). Biodiesel production from jatropha oil and
its characterization. Research journal of chemical science. 1(1) 81-87.
[11] H. A. Ogbunugafor, F. U. Eneh, A. N. Ozumba, M. N. Igwo-Ezikpe, J. Okpuzor, I. O. Igwilo, S. O. Adenekan,
and O. A. Onyekwelu (2011). Physico-chemical and Antioxidant Properties of Moringa oleifera Seed Oil.
Pakistan Journal of Nutrition. 10 (5): 409-414.
[12] G. Madras, C. Kolluru, and R. Kumar, (2004). Synthesis of biodiesel in supercritical fluids. Fuel 83:20292033.
[13] D. Kusdiana, and S. Saka, (2004). Effects of water on biodiesel fuel production by supercritical methanol
treatment. Bioresorce Technol. 91:289-295.
[16] M. N. Islam, M. N. Islam, M. R. A. Beg, 2004. The fuel properties of pyrolysis liquid derived from urban solid
wastes in Bangladesh. Bioresour Technol 92:181186.
[14] A. Srivastava, and R. Prasad, (2000). Triglycerides-based diesel fuels. Renew. Sust. Energ. Rev.4:111-133.
[15] C. Song, (2000). Introduction to chemistry of diesel fuels. In: C. Song, C. S. Hsu, I. Moshida, (eds.) Chemistry of
Diesel Fuels. Taylor and Francis, London, p.13.
62
Author Index
A
A. Alex John 41
A. Belounis 7
A. Djefal-Kerrar 1, 7
A.W. Sarini 51
B
Beenish Saba 13
C
C. Chellaram 41
D
Dan Liu 46
F
F.A. Babarinsa 31
Farhad Gholizadeh Nouri 36
G
G. Murugaboopathi 41
H
H. Nor’Aishah 51
I
Ichiro Arifuku 22
Irfan Aziz 13
J
Jingbo Liu 46
K
K. Abdoun-Ouallouche 1, 7
Kazuo Azuma 22, 27
L
L. Khadraoui 7
M
M. M. Praveen 41
M. T. Ige 31
Madeeha Jabeen 13
Mayumi Watanabe 27
Mehdi Maqbool 36
Menglei Xu 46
Mylene A. Anwar 17
Md Zahangir Alam 63
Mohammed Elwathig Mirghani 63
N
N. Mohd Zaini 51
Norihiko Itoh 27
Nurudeen Ishola Mohammed 63
Nassereldeen Ahmed Kabbashi 63
R
R. Sivakumar 41
Roberta D. Lauzon 17
S
S. Amrani 1
S. Zerrouki 1
Shinsuke Ifuku 22
T
Tariq Mahmood 13
Tomohiro Osaki 22, 27
W
Wenchao Liu 46
Y
Yan Zhang 46
Yoshiharu Okamoto 22, 27
Z
Zhiyuan Chen 36
63