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The culture of a cyanobacterium 'Anabaena' sp. was isolated from alluvial meadow soils in the south of Russia and deposited in the IPPAS collection of cultures of microalgae and cyanobacteria, Timiryazev Institute of Plant Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, under the number IPPAS B-2020. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the studied strain belongs to a clade comprising the genera Sphaerospermopsis, Amphiheterocytum, Raphidiopsis, Wollea, and Neowollea, but cannot currently be assigned to any of them. The phytotoxicity and fungicidal and antioxidant activities of the strain were studied. The culture turned out to be non-toxic. Water–alcohol extract and biomass of 'Anabaena' sp. IPPAS B-2020 completely suppressed the micromycetes Fusarium culmorum, F. graminearum, and F. sporotrichioides with the maximum diameter of growth inhibition zone of 2.5 cm. The water extract of cyanobacteria 'Anabaena' sp. IPPAS B-2020 had a pronounced antioxidant activity (39.3%). Among the metabolites of 'Anabaena' sp. IPPAS B-2020, there were organic acids (citric, lactic, acetic), terpenes, alkanes, alcohols, and other low molecular weight organic compounds. The 'Anabaena' sp. IPPAS B-2020 culture is of interest for biotechnology as a producer of such important biologically active compounds as tributyl phosphate, D-limonene, squalene, and α-pinene. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study aimed to investigate the transcriptomic response to virus simulant (polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid, poly I:C), and to determine if the aqueous leech (Whitmania pigra) extract has the function of interfering with the transcriptomic response in primary culture cells from the embryo of Chinese soft-shelled turtle (Pelodiscus sinensis). The results showed that the transfection with poly I:C and treatment with leech extract reduced cell viability. A total of 468 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) was induced by poly I:C, including 272 upregulated genes and 196 downregulated genes. A total of 965 DEGs were induced by leech extract, including 209 upregulated genes and 756 downregulated genes. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis showed that 43 GO terms and 12 pathways were significantly enriched by poly I:C, including immune response and immune system processes, nucleotide-binding and oligomerization domain (NOD)–like receptor signaling pathway, RIG-I-like receptor signaling pathway, and Toll-like receptor signaling pathway. Leech extract significantly enriched 50 GO terms and 56 pathways, including translation, peptide biosynthetic process, ribosome, and oxidative phosphorylation pathway. In addition, qRT-PCR of seven DEGs from poly I:C transfection and four DEGs from leech extract treatment verified the reliability of transcriptome analysis. Immunofluorescence analysis indicated poly I:C transfection enhanced the generation of DDX58 protein in cytoplasm and the nuclear translocation of NF-κB(p65), while the leech extract inhibited above action to DDX58 and NF-κB(p65). In conclusion, this study improved the understanding of immune system response to the virus in primary culture cells of Chinese soft-shelled turtle, and suggested that aqueous leech extract from W. pigra may inhibit immune response genes induced by poly I:C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique starch-green tea extract composite was synthesized following a bio-inspired 'green' method under ultrasonication. The polar hydroxyl organofunction over the starch is coordinated with the polyphenolic phytochemicals of green tea extract to form a stable composite hydrogel. The materials were structurally analyzed through several instrumental methods such as FT-IR, UV-Vis spectroscopy, SEM, TEM and EDX. Towards biological application, the composite hydrogel was used in controlling the inflammation of adenomyosis in mice. In the in vivo design, tamoxifen was used to induce the experimental adenomyosis model in mice. After treatment, the thymus, spleen, uterine, and body weights of all the animal samples were measured. Western blotting, qRT-PCR, and immuno histochemical (IHC) staining were applied to analyze the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway protein expression in adenomyosis mice. Then, inflammatory factors expression and the myometrial infiltration were determined by qRT-PCR, ELISA, and histology examination in the uterus. The adenomyosis amelioration of starch-green tea extract composite was gained by preventing the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway including decreasing the expressions of protein and mRNA of p-p38/p38, p-JNK/JNK, and p-ERK/ERK in the uterus. The raised levels of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β in adenomyosis model mice uterus and serum were also reduced after starch-green tea extract composite treatment. Starch-green tea extract composite ameliorated the adenomyosis symptoms by raising the thymus and spleen index and decreasing myometrial infiltration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study used lemon peel and Fe3O4 nanocomposite (LE-Fe3O4) to remove Congo red (CR) from the aqueous solution in batch adsorption techniques. The main factors influencing the adsorption process studied were pH, dose, contact time, and initial concentration. The results have shown the optimum conditions for making LE-Fe3O4 a suitable adsorbent were pH 6, 25 mg/50 mL dose, 90 ppm initial CR concentration, and 30-min contact time. The experimental data best fit with the Langmuir isotherm model with 16.28 mg/g max adsorption capacity and pseudo-second-order kinetic model, which indicates the monolayer chemisorption adsorption process. The properties of the nanocomposite adsorbent were established through X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), and Barrett-Joyner-Halenda (BJH). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tigernuts seeds (Cyperus esculentus L.) contain an abundance of phytochemicals, especially germinated ones, which exhibit higher biological activities. This study aimed to investigate chemical compositions, antioxidant and anti-cancer activities of tigernuts in three states: raw (ungerminated) (RE), germinated with either water (WGE) or with Bacillus velezensis fermentation supernatant (SGE). Compared to other two groups, germinated tigernuts (especially SGE) significantly increased the content of syringetin, eriodictyol, jujuboside B, and pseudoprotodioscin, while was positively consistent with their corresponding antioxidant capacities (including ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activities). In addition, extract from sample SGE had more content of phloretin, pseudoprotodioscin, and jujuboside B than that of WGE, which was positively correlated with the cell inhibitory effect, demonstrating that effect of SGE group was greater than that of either WGE or RE on cells property. Specifically, SGE treatment increased reactive oxygen species and the number of apoptotic cells, followed by arrested cell cycle at the G2/M phase and enhanced related mRNA expression. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first evidence for demonstrating the induction of apoptosis in HCT116 cells by the extract of germinated tigernuts, especially the fermentation supernatant of B. velezensis. These findings provide a scientific basis for the use of key compounds from germinated tigernuts in the treatment of cancer, although further in vivo studies are still required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the effect of Co(0) and Co-B NP catalysts synthesized by the green synthesis method using Rheum ribes shell extract on the NaBH4 hydrolysis process for the first time, and determined the role of the green synthesis method in the catalyst activity. The investigation of the structure and surface morphology of the catalysts was evaluated using XRD, SEM–EDX, TEM, FTIR, and XPS analyses. The effect of catalysts on NaBH4 was examined at different catalyst amounts, different NaBH4/NaOH concentrations, and different temperature values. The Co(0) and CoB NPs catalysts achieved the greatest HGR values at a solution temperature of 30 °C, with values of 7326 mLmin−1g−1cat and 12,524 mLmin−1g−1cat, respectively. The calculated activation energies for Co(0) and Co-B NPs catalysts are 37.68 kJmol−1 and 21.28 kJmol−1, respectively. The green synthesis method synthesized Co(0) and Co-B catalysts significantly increased hydrogen production activity compared to the cobalt-based catalysts synthesized by other methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The review explored the potential of cola acuminata (cola-nut) as a natural and eco-friendly dye source for textiles, taking into account its characteristics, and prospective applications on textile materials. Moreover, the review discusses the various techniques used to extract the dye from cola acuminata, the dye yield, the compound responsible for the color yield of the cola, its various applications, and prospect for sustainable management. There has been limited research on the sustainability of cola acuminata dye extract where there has also been a growing interest in the use of natural dye in the textile industry. Additionally, the production and use of synthetic dyes have been associated with several environmental issues, including water pollution, waste generation, carbon emissions, as well as health related problems for textile workers, particularly in developing countries. However, the dye extract of cola acuminata has been found to possess good color fastness properties and has proven to be a sustainable alternative to synthetic dye since it contains tannins, which are a type of polyphenolic compound that can be used as a natural dye. The tannins in the extract have been shown to have flavonoids properties, so that textiles dyed with the extract may be very resistant to microbial growth. Although, the tannin content of the seeds has been reported to be higher than that of some cola such as cola nitida, despite its lower dye yield. Moreso, the review emphasized on the importance of continued research in this field to optimize the dyeing process and contribute also to the enhancement of sustainable practice in the textile sector. It further provides valuable insights into the potential applications of cola acuminata dye extract particularly in the textile industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Doum palm and turmeric are traditional medicinal plants with a rich history of use. This study investigated the phytochemical composition, proximate analysis, and GC-MS characterization of doum palm and turmeric blends at different ratios (100%, 80:20%, 60:40%, and 50:50%) using ethanol and warm-water extracts. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of various bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, anthraquinones, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, tannins, terpenoids, and phenols, in the blends at ratios of 80:20%, 60:40%, and 50:50%. Alkaloids were absent in the 100% doum palm sample. Proximate analysis showed significant variations in moisture, ash, fat, and protein content among the samples. GC-MS characterization identified at most 30 phytochemical compounds in sample A and more additional 9 bioactive compounds in samples B, C and D, including two new compounds, eucalyptol and carotol, found in the doum palm-turmeric blends. These compounds have been known to possess various antioxidant and therapeutic potential. The findings suggest that doum palm and turmeric blends have improved potential health benefits due to their high content of phytochemical compounds and balanced proximate composition. Further research is warranted to determine the most effective doum palm to turmeric ratio (Optimal Blending Ratios) for specific health applications. This includes identifying the blend ratios that maximize the therapeutic benefits for particular conditions or diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, several studies have demonstrated the benefits of medicinal plants in managing type 2 diabetes. In this work, we evaluated the beneficial effects of the polyphenolic extract (PESB) from Salvia blancoana subsp. mesatlantica in the management of hypercaloric-feeding and small-dose alloxan-brought type 2 diabetes in rats. We analyzed the chemical constituents of the extract, including flavones and flavonols content, to understand its biological action. The antioxidant activities were evaluated by total antioxidant action, scavenging effect of the free radical DPPH, and reducing power. The obtained results showed that the value of TFC was estimated at 31.90 ± 0.34 mgEQ/g in the PESB extract. The total antioxidant capacity was estimated at 593.51 ± 4.09 mg (EAA)/g, the value of DPPH IC50 was 7.3 ± 0.00 μg/mL, and the value of EC50 of reducing power was estimated at 6.43 ± 0.01 μg/mL. In total, 14 phenolic compounds were identified and the naringin was the most dominant (63.19%) while the vanillin was the less recorded (0.10%). Serum glucose decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in rats given PESB (100 mg/kg) after four weeks. Glibenclamide (GLB) and PESB reduced HbA1c and increased plasma insulin in diabetic rats, restoring HOMA-β and HOMA-IR levels to near-normal. Additionally, diabetic rats treated with GLB or PESB showed statistically equivalent results to those of non-diabetic rats regarding hepatic enzymes, renal and lipid markers, as well as cardiovascular indices. The weight loss was significantly lower in diabetic rats receiving a dose of PESB (100 mg/kg), and GLB compared to corresponding untreated diabetic rats (p < 0.01). PESB and GLB showed a prominent protective function in the pancreas, liver, and kidney tissues. This investigation demonstrates the capacity of extracts from leaves of S. blancoana subsp. mesatlantica to manage diabetes mellitus due to their richness in a wide range of bioactive compounds. Therefore, more investigations are required to estimate the safety of the plant use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Echinophora platyloba DC. is one of the two exclusive species from Iran belonging to the Umbelliferae family. This plant has medicinal properties such as antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal and is effective in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome. Despite the great medicinal importance of this plant, it has been little studied phytochemically. In this study, E. platyloba plant collected from Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, Iran was examined phytochemically for volatile compounds in the essential oil and natural compounds in the extract. Essential oil of E. platyloba was extracted by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus and analyzed by GC-MS and evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. The constituents of the essential oil were identified and quantified using the Kovats retention index (KI) and retention time (RT) values, eight-peak information, and reference spectra. The extract of E. platyloba was extracted by maceration and deffated. The obtained extract was analyzed and purified regarding its constituents using column and thin layer chromatography (TLC) techniques. In all, 92.84% of the essential oil of the plant was identified as having the highest concentration of the essential oil of E. platyloba related to monoterpenes (91.77%), while trans-â-ocimene with a concentration of 81.05 as a hydrocarbon monoterpene had the highest concentration in this essential oil. The molecular structure of naringenin (5,7-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl)chroman-4-one) was identified as a trihydroxy flavanone according to FT-IR, 1H NMR, 13C NMR and DEPT spectroscopy. The results of phytochemical tests showed the presence of flavonoids, tannins and alkaloid compounds in this plant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Continuously escalating energy demand and depletion of conventional fossil fuels has challenged and urged our globe to search for alternative resources which are economically viable, renewable and sustainable. Microalgae has emerged as an excellent resource in this regard but the excessive cost of nutrients is a vital restriction for producing economically viable algal fuels. In this study, waste banana peels were used as the feedstock for cultivation medium for microalgae after proper pre-treatment and hydrolysis. Various pre-treatment techniques were executed and the best conditions (40 min, autoclaving) furnishing the higher glucose concentration were chosen for further investigation. Rationale for the enzyme hydrolysis of the pre-treated peels was created through central composite design (CCD) using response surface methodology (RSM) to attain higher concentration of glucose to optimize the hydrolysis parameters. Temperature (°C), time (h) and the rotation frequency or agitation speed (revolutions per min, RPM) of the incubator were the three chosen parameters. 29.84 ± 0.57 g L−1 glucose was obtained from the banana peels. The peel extract after hydrolysis was used as the medium for microalgal growth, and the growth kinetics of the two microalgal isolates (Chlorella sorokiniana KMBM_I and Chlorella sorokiniana KMBM_K) cultivated in the waste peel hydrolysate were evaluated. Chlorella sorokiniana KMBM_K and Chlorella sorokiniana KMBM_I displayed a biomass yield of respectively 1.72 and 1.53 g L−1 with a lipid content of 22.83% and 22.17% respectively. This study demonstrated that this organic peel waste can act as an effective, eco-friendly, efficient and natural substrate for cost effective microalgal cultivation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Medicinal plants can be potential sources of therapeutic agents. Traditional healers use a medicinal plant from Ethiopia, Bersama abyssinica Fresen, to treat various diseases. This study aimed to investigate the phytochemical components and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of B. abyssinica seed extracts (BASE). Gas chromatography coupled to mass spectroscopy (GC–MS) analysis was used to determine the phytochemical compositions of BASE. The antioxidant activities were assessed by using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay, thiobarbituric acid-reactive species (TBARS) assay, ferric chloride reducing assay and hydroxyl scavenging capacity assay. Antimicrobial activity was investigated using the agar well diffusion method. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of saponins, glycosides, tannins, steroids, phenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. GC–MS analysis revealed the presence of 30 volatile compounds; α-pinene (23.85%), eucalyptol (20.74%), β-pinene (5.75%), d-limonene (4.05%), and o-cymene (5.02%). DPPH-induced free radical scavenging (IC50 = 8.78), TBARS (IC50 = 0.55 µg/mL), and hydroxyl radicals' scavenging capacities assays (IC50 = 329.23) demonstrated high antioxidant effects of BASE. Reducing power was determined based on Fe3+–Fe2+ transformation in the presence of extract. BASE was found to show promising antibacterial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and P. aeruginosa (zone of inhibition 15.7 ± 2.5 mm, 16.0 ± 0.0 mm, and 16.7 ± 1.5 mm, respectively), but excellent antifungal activities against C. albican and M. furfur (zone of inhibition 22.0 ± 2.0 mm and 22.0 ± 4.0 mm, respectively). The seeds of B. abyssinica grown in Ethiopia possess high antioxidant potential, promising antibacterial and superior antifungal activity. Therefore, seeds of B. abyssinica provide a potential source for drug discovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The utilization of plants for the production of metallic nanoparticles is gaining significant attention in research. In this study, we conducted phytochemical screening of Alstonia scholaris (A. scholaris) leaves extracts using various solvents, including chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-hexane, methanol, and water. Our findings revealed higher proportions of flavonoids and alkaloids in both solvents compared to other phytochemical species. In the methanol, extract proteins, anthraquinone and reducing sugar were not detected. On the other hand, the aqueous extract demonstrated the presence of amino acids, reducing sugar, phenolic compounds, anthraquinone, and saponins. Notably, ethyl acetate and chloroform extracts displayed the highest levels of bioactive compounds among all solvents. Intrigued by these results, we proceeded to investigate the antibacterial properties of the leaf extracts against two major bacterial strains, Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). All extracts exhibited significant zones of inhibition against both bacterial isolates, with S. aureus showing higher susceptibility compared to E. coli. Notably, the methanol extract displayed the most potent I hibitory effect against all organisms. Inspired by the bioactivity of the methanol extract, we employed it as a plant-based material for the green synthesis of copper nanoparticles (Cu-NPs). The synthesized Cu-NPs were characterized using Fourier infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV–visible spectroscopic analysis, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The observed color changes confirmed the successful formation of Cu-NPs, while the FTIR analysis matched previously reported peaks, further verifying the synthesis. The SEM micrographs indicated the irregular shapes of the surface particles. From the result obtained by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopic analysis, Cu has the highest relative abundance of 67.41 wt%. Confirming the purity of the Cu-NPs colloid. These findings contribute to the growing field of eco-friendly nanotechnology and emphasize the significance of plant-mediated approaches in nanomaterial synthesis and biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gabirobeira fruits are known for their rich nutrient content and bioactive phytochemical compounds that contribute to significant biological activities. Despite these attributes, the antioxidant potential and stability of phenolic compounds in gabiroba by-products after digestion have yet to be studied. The objective of this work was to evaluate the physical-chemical composition, antibacterial activity, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitory effects, as well as the in vitro digestibility of total phenolic compounds, total flavonoids, and antioxidant activity of powder and extract from gabiroba to valorize these byproducts. The gabiroba powder had low moisture, high carbohydrate and fiber content. The extraction using 80% ethanol demonstrated higher antioxidant, antibacterial, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibition activities compared to the 12% ethanol and water extracts. Catechin and ferulic acid were the major phenolic compounds identified by HPLC-DAD. After digestion, both the powder and the gabiroba extract exhibited a bioaccessibility of more than 30% for total phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity during the gastric phase. However, the dry ethanol extract displayed higher total phenolic compounds after both the gastric and intestinal phases compared to the flour. Processing gabiroba into powder and extract is a promising approach to fully utilize this seasonal fruit, minimize waste, concentrate health-beneficial compounds, and valorize a by-product for use as a functional ingredient and raw material within the food and pharmaceutical industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food needs a step ahead technology to store food fresh and safe for a more extended period. At the same time, ecological awareness and consumers' demand for safe food and quality products have led us to explore emerging food preservation techniques, including active food packaging. Antioxidant and antimicrobial are emerging practices in the active packaging segment. The chemical additives adversely affected the food and were not economical for commercial production. The active packaging with natural additives such as natural antioxidants and antimicrobial agents could bring a sustainable solution to this concern. Plant (herbs, spices), animals, mushrooms, enzymes, and microorganisms are considered the natural active component's reservoirs. The active compounds from natural sources were recently utilized to develop active packaging materials. Here we reviewed various natural sources as an antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds for food packaging application. We present the mechanism of active compounds methods of incorporation of active compounds into packaging. Further, we discussed the food packaging applications and challenges in the utilization of natural antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds for food packaging industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyalomma dromedarii is the predominant tick species parasitizing camels in Egypt which leads to mortalities in young animals that result in economic losses. It can transmit a lot of pathogens to animals and humans, such as the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, the Dhori virus, Kadam virus, Theileria annulata and spotted fever rickettsia. The continuous use of chemical acaricides has negative impact on the environment and almost led to acaricidal resistance, and hence the plant extracts represent alternative methods for controlling ticks. The present study was carried out to assess the histopathological effects on the ovary of fed female Hyalomma dromedarii following immersion in the ethanolic extract of fruits of Citrullus colocynthis (100 mg/mL). Light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy observations provided evidence that Citrullus colocynthis caused extensive damage to oocytes. Destruction of the internal organelles of oocytes, along with delay and/or inhibition of vitellogenesis were demonstrated. This is the first histological study that points to damage in H. dromedarii ovaries following treatment with the ethanolic extract of fruits of C. colocynthis. The data presented suggest that the plant extract affects the ovary either directly by entering the oocytes and/or indirectly by damaging the gut cells and digestion of blood that interfere with the development of oocytes, so it can be used as a promising agent for tick control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water is the most valuable resource of human civilization and other earth beings. Industrial wastes and dyes are the major threat to these water assets. Untreated industrial wastewater drained into the rivers and oceans results in the water pollution. Therefore, prior to release of these industrial effluents into natural water resources, it is necessity of time to make it environment friendly. For this purpose, various physical and chemical methods have been in practice. But, these methods are more time consuming, expensive and less effective. Consequently, in modern nanotechnology era, use of nanoparticles for the treatment of wastewater has been considered as a better option due to their excellent surface properties which facilitate the catalytic degradation of toxic dyes into environmental benign products. Thus, use of some biological materials for the successful fabrication of metal nanoparticles as well as metal oxides nanoparticles and their use as catalyst for various organic reactions are gaining attention nowadays because of their eco-friendliness nature and easy availability. Here, this review article provides the updated role played by phytocompounds present in plants extract toward the preparation of different metal and metal oxide NPs along with their use as catalyst for photo- and chemical degradation of different toxic pollutants present in water sources. Different conditions to optimize the activity of nanomaterials in cleaning water process have also been reviewed critically. Future prospective of green-synthesized nanomaterials role as water cleaner has also been enlighten here in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study explores the silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2) green production via employing Eucalyptus globulus leaf extract and potassium metasilicate. Characterization methods, including FTIR, dynamic light scattering, SEM, Brunauer‒Emmett‒Teller analysis, and XRD. All these approaches were applied to get an in-depth comprehension of the nanoparticle's properties. It was determined that the nanoparticles' average size was 127 nm and 218 m2g–1 surface area. In addition, the tests verified the SiO2 nanoparticles' purity and demonstrated the surface existence of many reactive groups. The effectiveness of the reactive SiO2 nanoparticle groups were then assessed in a batch-mode adsorption under various operating parameters for the removal of malachite green dyes from aqueous solutions. The investigation examined the contact duration, pH, temperature, agitation speed, starting dye concentration, and quantity of nanomaterial on adsorption effectiveness. Experimental results demonstrated a remarkable removal efficiency of 96% for malachite green dye at an initial concentration of 100 ppm in the contaminated solution. Interestingly, the percentage removal exhibited an inverse relationship with dye concentration and temperature, while being directly proportional to other factors. Overall, the green-synthesized silicon dioxide nanoparticles proved to be a promising adsorbent for the effective removal of malachite green dye from aqueous environments. The results highlight the potential application of these nanoparticles in wastewater treatment and pollution mitigation, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for environmental challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of the ethyl acetate extract from A. ludoviciana (EALM) and artemisinin against adult parasites and eggs of F. hepatica. For the ovicidal assay, cell culture plates with 24 wells were used, and 90 to 110 F. hepatica eggs were placed in each well. The eggs were exposed to concentrations of 100, 200, 300, 400, and 500 mg/L EALM and incubated for 16 days. Additionally, triclabendazole (TCBZ) was used as a reference drug at concentrations of 10 and 50 mg, and the response of artemisinin at concentrations of 10 and 20 mg was simultaneously assessed. Adult flukes were exposed to concentrations of 125, 250, 375, and 500 mg/L EALM. The results of the ovicidal action of EALM on the eggs showed that concentrations greater than 300 mg/L were significant, with ovicidal percentages greater than 60% observed on day 16 of incubation (p < 0.05). The maximum efficiency of EALM on adult flukes was reached 72 h post-exposure at a concentration of 125 mg/L (p < 0.05). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ganoderma lucidum has a high concentration of flavonoid compounds. The extraction procedure was optimized using a response surface methodology to achieve a high concentration of flavonoids from G. lucidum using ethanol as the extracting solvent, and the antioxidant activities were investigated. The highest flavonoids content was 0.56 ± 0.03 mg/g when the solid-liquid ratio, extraction temperature, extraction time and ethanol concentration were 1:25 mg/L, 75 °C and 1.5 h and 65%, respectively. The most influential factor was shown to be the solid-liquid ratio. FT-IR and 1H NMR analysis of the purified ethanol extracts (PEE) revealed that it was primarily a 5, 7-Dihydroxyflavone. PEE exhibited significant DPPH• and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, as well as stronger reducing capacity. Notably, in the presence of PEE, cell viability increased by 13.76% when compared to H2O2 treatment (p < 0.05), reaching 72.5%. In addition, when treated with the PEE, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH-Px) had significantly increased when compared to the H2O2-treated group (p < 0.01), which were 36.93, 15.01 and 15.11 U/g-protein. More importantly, PEE treatment could upregulate the expression of PI3K, Akt and downregulate the expression of Caspase-3 in PC12 cells stimulated with H2O2. As a result, PEE could be used as a novel source of natural antioxidants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To solve the problem of inaccurate entity extraction caused by low application efficiency and big data noise in telemedicine sensing data, a deep learning-based method for entity relationship extraction in telemedicine big data is proposed. By analyzing the distribution structure of the medical sensing big data, the fuzzy function of the distribution shape is calculated and the seed relationship set is transformed by the inverse Shearlet transform. Combined with the deep learning technology, the GMM-GAN data enhancement model is built, the interactive medical sensing big data features are obtained, the association rules are matched one by one, the noiseless medical sensing data are extracted in time sequence, the feature items with the highest similarity are obtained and used as the constraint to complete the feature entity relationship extraction of the medical sensing data. The experimental results show that the extracted similarity of entity relations is more than 70%, which can handle overly long and complex sentences in telemedicine information text; the extraction time is the shortest and the volatility is low. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract—Plant polyphenols are characterized by a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant properties, and have a high geroprotective potential. The purpose of this work was to investigate the effect of the extract of rowan berries (Sorbus aucuparia L.) on the lifespan and stress resistance of Drosophila melanogaster with the identification of possible mechanisms of its biological activity. It has been established that an ethanol extract of S. aucuparia berries, the main components of which are rutin and cyanidin-3-rutinoside, has a pronounced antioxidant activity in vitro. At the same time, treatment with rowan berry extract increased the resistance of D. melanogaster males to starvation, but reduced resistance to hyperthermia. In females, the extract reduced resistance to oxidative stress but increased resistance to hyperthermia. The effects of rowan berry extract on longevity depended both on its concentration and on the sex of fruit flies. In response to treatment with rowan berry extract, D. melanogaster males and females showed slight differences in the background level of expression of cellular stress response genes, including heat shock genes (hsp27, hsp68, and hsp83), oxidative stress resistance genes (hif1, nrf2, and sod1), circadian rhythm genes (clk and per), and the longevity gene sirt1, which may explain the differences in the observed effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of natural antioxidant extracts in food processing is a growing trend, aligning with increasing ecological awareness and meeting consumer demands for safe, high-quality food products. Plants play a significant role in human health owing, in part, to their antioxidant properties. Analyzing the antioxidant properties of complex natural extracts requires simple, cost-effective tools. The cupric reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) method is a reference for evaluating plant extract antioxidant capacity. A new CUPRAC thin-layer chromatography (TLC) assay, involving agarose immobilized reagents, was developed and applied to investigate the antioxidant properties of Solanum sisymbriifolium Lam., Sinapis arvensis L., and Cichorium intybus L. The best results were obtained by pouring a solution containing agarose, copper(II) chloride, 2,2-azino-bis[3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid] (ABTS), and neocuproine in ammonium acetate buffer over a TLC plate at 40 °C (with final concentrations of 0.485 µmoles/cm2 copper(II) chloride and 0.368 µmoles/cm2 neocuproine) and incubating for 15 min. The limits of detection and quantification for Trolox® were 0.09 and 0.30 µg, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Annona squamosa leaf extract has a promising curing property. The phytochemicals present in the extract contain antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and antiageing properties. The aim of this work is to investigate the antitumor properties of the methanol extract of the leaves of Annona squamosa and the niosomes loaded with the extract. The preparations were characterised by TEM; then, tumor-bearing mice were treated with free Annona squamosa leaf extract and the niosomes were loaded with the extract. To evaluate the potential anticancer activity of Annona squamosa leaf extract and niosomes loaded with the Annona squamosa leaf extract in Ehrlich ascites carcinoma, tumor size, inflammatory markers, and histopathological investigation were evaluated. The treated groups showed significant results, as the tumor volume was lowered in size compared to the positive control. Also, the data represented that there was a decrease in inflammatory markers and histopathological changes. Annona squamosa leaf extract has been shown to be an effective cancer treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Toxoplasmosis is a cosmopolitan parasitic infection caused by Toxoplasma gondii which is commonly treated by pyrimethamine (PYR) plus sulfadiazine (SDZ) with several adverse side effects. The present study evaluated the therapeutic effects of Urtica dioica L. aqueous extract (UDE) on acute and chronic toxoplasmosis in mice. Methods: For this purpose, mice were infected with 20 cysts (acute infection) or 10 cysts (chronic infection) of T. gondii (Me49 strain). The mice were treated with 200 mg/kg of UDE intraperitoneally (IP) and intragastric route (IG). The UDE-treated mice were compared with the PYR + SDZ treatment. The histopathological changes, cyst count, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) assay, and serum INF-γ were also evaluated. Results: In the acute toxoplasmosis, UDE by IP and IG administration significantly reduced the number of brain cysts by 93.74 and 92.55%, respectively, and increased the survival rate to 80% compared with 60% in untreated controls. In the chronic infection, cyst burden decreased at 88.2 and 83.4%, respectively, for IP and IG treatments. Moreover, UDE significantly increased INF- γ levels in acute and chronic toxoplasmosis. Tissue inflammatory lesions were reduced in the UDE-treated subgroups compared to the untreated group. UDE treatment significantly reduced MDA levels and elevated TAC in both acute and chronic infections. Conclusion: The results show that U. dioica possesses significant immunostimulant and antioxidant activity with a higher cyst reduction in the brain during acute toxoplasmosis. Further studies are required to investigate the fractionations of UDE against T. gondii and its combination with other standard drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Musa basjoo Siebold leaves extract (MBSLE) was utilized as green corrosion inhibitor for mild steel in 1 M H3PO4 solution. The inhibition behavior was studied through electrochemical tests. The chemical structure of extract was investigated by FTIR and UV–Vis spectra. The element compositions in adsorption film on the surface of mild steel were analyzed by XPS technique. The corrosion morphology of mild steel was observed. The adsorption mechanism of typical components in extract were theoretically calculated by DFT and MD. The results showed that the inhibition efficiency of MBSLE on mild steel increased with extract concentration and MBSLE acted as a mixed corrosion inhibitor. MBSLE contained carbonyl, carboxyl, hydroxyl, heterocyclic ring, benzene ring and other polar groups, and successfully adsorbed on mild steel to form the protective film. DFT simulations proved that the active components possessed the synergistic adsorption ability to donate and receive electrons. MD calculations demonstrated the parallel adsorption of typical ingredients on steel surface, the presence of physical adsorption and the inhibition mechanism of geometric coverage effect. Irenolone in MBSLE with more aromatic rings and polar groups shows an excellent corrosion inhibition performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The search for new drugs to reduce the toxic effects of alcohol on the body is based on the creation of various pharmaceutical agents that affect the toxicokinetics and/or toxicodynamics of ethanol. A differentiated approach is needed in the pharmacotherapy of alcoholism due to the different clinical typologies of the condition. Compared with synthetic drugs, herbal remedies have multiple types of activity, which complement their efficacy. Research and development of technology for the manufacture of new drugs based on the hairy agrimony (Agrimonia pilosa) are promising. Experimental studies in which white outbred mice were tested in an open field showed that a hairy agrimony extract reduced orientational-exploratory behavioral activity and contributed to adaptation of the animals to stress. Mice treated with agrimony extract showed a reduction in sensitivity to administration of ethanol: the latent period of falling asleep was reduced by a factor of 1.6 and the duration of sleep decreased by a factor of 3 compared with the group of mice given starch paste. Rats treated with agrimony extract at doses of 100 and 150 mg/kg showed reductions in the duration of ethanol-induced sleep by factors of 1.8 – 2.4 as compared with animals treated with St. John's wort extract, indicating that the extract had a detoxifying effect. Hairy agrimony extract significantly reduced grooming in all groups of animals, this being associated with its anti-anxiety effect and of great importance in terms of reducing the development of delirium in acute alcohol intoxication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the acaricidal activity of a paste made from freeze-dried methanolic extracts of air-dried leaf powders of Azadirachta indica, Eucalyptus hybrid, Saraca asoca, and Murraya koenigii against Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus on cellulose paper. The extracts were tested in both single form (100% and 50% concentration) and dual combination (prepared by mixing equal proportions of the extracts in 100% concentration). The results showed a direct proportional relationship (p < 0.05) between the concentration of the extracts and the mortality percentage at 72 h post-treatment, as well as the inhibition of oviposition (I.O.) percentage. The highest mortality rate of 98.75 ± 1.25% and I.O. of 44.47 ± 0.87% was observed with the A. indica extract at 100% concentration, followed by E. hybrid, S. asoca, and M. koenigii. The combination of A. indica and E. hybrid extracts had a mortality rate of 87.5 ± 5.59% and I.O. of 42.91 ± 0.44%, followed by the combinations of S. asoca: E. hybrid, A. indica: S. asoca, E. hybrid: M. koenigii, and A. indica: M. koenigii. The extracts of A. indica and E. hybrid demonstrated the highest mortality and inhibition of oviposition percentages compared to the other extracts in both single and dual combinations. These extracts required 72 h to reach their maximum mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aedes aegypti L. and Culex pipiens L. are among the world's most common and medically important mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae). Each year, millions of people are infected with pathogens transmitted by these mosquitoes and thousands of people die from mosquito-borne diseases. Although chemical insecticides are widely used for vector control, most of them are highly toxic to the environment and human health. The harmful effects of chemical pesticides have led scientists to search for the less toxic, natural, and eco-friendly products. In this regard, lichens, a symbiotic association, are one of the organisms studied in the search for new insecticidal active substances. In this research, the toxicity of acetone, ethanol and methanol extracts from oakmoss lichen, Evernia prunastri (L.) Ach., a widely available epiphytic macro-lichen species, was investigated in of Ae. aegypti and Cx. pipiens. The extracts showed varying levels of toxic effect on the two mosquito species depending on the concentration and it is clear that methanol and ethanol extracts of E. prunastri were more toxic than the acetone extract according to the LC50 values. The LC50 values of methanol, ethanol and acetone extracts for Cx. pipiens older instar (third–fourth) larvae at 48 h were 104.3, 153.9 and 490.0 ppm, for young instars (first–second), they were 203.4, 326.6 and 606.9 ppm, respectively. The LC50 values of methanol, ethanol and acetone extracts for 48 h on Ae. aegypti young instar larvae were 390.9, 440.0 and 2934.8 ppm, and 537.1, 515.3 and 1837.1 ppm for older instar larvae, respectively. The highest contents of total flavonoids and phenolic compounds were determined in acetone extract of E. prunastri. The phenolic compounds in extracts range from 7.48 to 10.28 mg gallic acid/g and the flavonoid content of extracts range from 37.68 to 91.76 mg catechin/g. This is the first study on the toxic effect of E. prunastri extracts on mosquitoes and indicates that lichen extracts can be a source for developing environmentally friendly larvicides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on the composition of phenolic compounds in extracts of leaf blades of cloudberry (Rubus chamaemorus L.) populations from Lonno, Yelnya, Boloto Mokh, and Zhada reserves was conducted. The highest content of phenolic compounds was observed in the female clone of the Lonno population and amounted to 651.54 ± 21.64 mg-equiv of gallic acid per g of extract, of which 53.5 ± 5.01 mg-equiv of rutin per g of flavonoid extract. The following phenolic compounds were identified in the extracts using chromatography–mass-spectrometry: quercetin-3-O-xyloside, ellagic acid, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, kaempferol-3-β-D-glucopyranoside, chlorogenic acid, and rutin. The contents of kaempferol-3-β-D-glucopyranoside, quercetin-3-O-glucoside, ellagic acid, and rutin were determined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strain K-11 was isolated from the highly saline brown semi-desert soil of the Astrakhan region. Based on analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence, this strain was identified as Streptomyces carpaticus K-11 RCAM04697 (SCPM-O-B-9993). Whole genome sequencing of the strain was performed. Phytotoxicity, antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal, and insecticidal activities of the strain were studied. All extracts and suspensions of S. carpaticus strain RCAM04697 had plant-stimulating activity. Antiviral properties was exhibited as suppression of development and propagation of viral pathogens in laboratory conditions: Tomato mosaic virus (ToMV)—26.3%, Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV)—33.8%, Y-Potato virus (Potato Y potyvirus, PVY)—51.3%, Potato X-virus (PVX) (Potato X potyvirus, PVX)—41.3%. The highest antioxidant activity was shown by a suspension of S. carpaticus strain RCAM04697 (88.8%) and its aqueous-alcoholic (20 : 80) extract (76.0%). The strain inhibited growth of the phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium sporotrichioides to varying degrees. The insecticidal activity against Aphis fabae after 6 h of treatment was 100% in the variants with suspension treatment, water-alcohol (80 : 20, 50 : 50), methanol, and hexane extracts. The metabolites of the S. carpaticus RCAM04697 strain included flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, organic acids (isocitric, acetic, fumaric, lactic, pyruvic, and malic), alcohols, aldehydes, hydrocarbons, ethers, sulfur-containing compounds, and other groups of low-molecular weight organic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pistachio green hull (PGH) contains considerable amount of polyphenolic compounds, which are the most important natural antioxidants. In this research, the antioxidative activity of PGH crude extract and polyphenolic fraction, as the alternatives to synthetic antioxidants, were evaluated. Polyphenol fraction was isolated with Amberlite XAD16 resin from the crude extract. Effects of the crude extract, polyphenol fraction, and synthetic antioxidant (BHT) to inhibit the sunflower oil oxidation were studied under the heat accelerated storage (60 °C) for 16 days. Thermal stability was performed with Rancimat at 110 °C. The results showed that polyphenol fraction of PGH at 200 and 600 ppm had the same effects to retard oxidative processes in sunflower oil and even more potent than BHT and crude extract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the prophylactic and therapeutic activities of thyme extract at different concentrations against experimental Cryptosporidium parvum infection in immunosuppressed rats were investigated. Thyme extract was prepared at four different concentrations (10%, 30%, 50%, and 100%) and administered as a single oral dose of 1 mL for evaluation of its prophylactic efficacy. Five consecutive days after infection was detected in all rats, therapeutic evaluations were also performed. According to the results obtained by daily counting of oocysts in stools, the prophylactic and therapeutic effects of thyme extract administration were significant in comparison to the control group (P˂0.01). Oocyst shedding continued in the control group at high numbers from the beginning to the end of the study, while oocyst counts in the prophylaxis groups remained low throughout the study. On the other hand, oocyst excretion rates were high in the therapeutic groups and decreased rapidly after thyme extract administration. At the end of the study, oocyst excretion had completely stopped for some rats administered thyme extract. There was no group in which oocyst shedding ceased for all rats. No significant differences were observed in the therapeutic or prophylaxis groups regarding the doses administered (P > 0.01). Renal and hepatic functions were monitored by measuring urea, creatinine, alanine transaminase, and aspartate transaminase levels ​​before and after thyme extract administration. As a result, it was concluded that oral thyme extract administration at the doses applied in this study is effective and safe in the prophylactic and therapeutic treatment of experimental cryptosporidiosis in rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The leaf of Ficus exasperata has been used locally in managing liver toxicity. Hence, this study was designed to assess the effect of ethanol leaf extract of Ficus exasperata in acetaminophen (paracetamol)-induced albino rats. Hence, qualitative phytochemical screening and HPLC analysis of this extract were carried out using an established protocol. Toxicity was achieved when 2 g/kg body weight of acetaminophen was administered to the albino rats. In addition, different biochemical parameters of liver and kidney were assessed to determine the efficacy of ethanol leaf extract of Ficus exasperata in acetaminophen-induced albino rats. The results obtained showed that phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, phlobatannins, phenols, terpenoids and reducing sugars were detected. The HPLC further revealed compounds such as orientin, α-caryophyllene, quercetin and myricetin, among others. Furthermore, for in vivo studies, there was a significant (P < 0.05) reduction in the activities of ALP, AST and ALT as well as concentrations of uric acid, urea and creatinine kinase when compared with positive control. Also, a significant (P < 0.05) increase in the activities of antioxidant biomarkers in both liver and kidney of the acetaminophen-induced albino rats administered extract in groups III–VIII were observed when compared with the positive control group I. The extracts were able to reverse the damage caused in the histopathological architectures of the liver and kidney of acetaminophen-induced albino rats. The ethanol leaf extract of F. exasperata was able to ameliorate the toxicity induced by acetaminophen in rats. This observation therefore supports its traditional use in the treatment of liver problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bamboo tableware became popular as ecofriendly material. However, industrial tableware products made of bamboo-melamine–formaldehyde resin material are not biodegradable. In addition, harmful compounds were detected if such consumer articles were used with hot drinks or hot food, and risk assessment found that maximum daily dosages of melamine and formaldehyde were exceeded. High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) methods for analysis of such samples have not been demonstrated so far, despite available HPTLC methods for the mentioned analytes. In this work, the potential and limitation of HPTLC analysis for bamboo-melamine–formaldehyde resin tableware was studied regarding the extractable presence of melamine, formaldehyde and genotoxins. The bamboo tableware was extracted with a food simulant, i.e. aqueous acetic acid simulating hot beverages, and analyzed neutralized and non-neutralized, directly without sample preparation to ensure sample integrity and to avoid loss of sample components. As a result, melamine was not detected in the acidic food simulant. Unfortunately, the existing formaldehyde method was not applicable due to the acidic milieu of the food simulant. The non-target HPTLC−(S9)-SOS-Umu-C bioassay with and without simulated S9 liver enzyme metabolization found no genotoxic substances in 50 µL food simulant, which volume and thus acidity was the maximum tolerated by the Salmonella cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comparative study of changes in the microelemental composition and distribution in resins, asphaltenes, and kerogens from Tatarstan Domanik rocks, occurring under the action of supercritical water (SCW) at 374°С and a pressure of 22–24 MPa, was made. The samples studied belong to different lithological types; they were taken from carbonate–siliceous deposits of the Romashkino and Tavel oilfields and from carbonate deposits of the Bavly oilfield. The specific features of distribution of different microelements (MEs) in rocks and rock organic matter (OM) components were revealed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The major MEs are Fe > Ti > Ni > Zn > V > Cr > Cu with the concentrations from 100 to 8600 ppm. The total ME content of rocks from these deposits is 1.14, 0.23, and 0.38%, respectively. The ME content of resins and asphaltenes does not exceed 0.3 and 2%, respectively. The highest ME content, 8%, is observed in kerogens. The carbonate–siliceous rocks from different deposits with Сorg 7.07 and 1.90% differ from the carbonate rock with low Сorg (0.33%) in that the ME concentration in them is maximal. On the other hand, the ME content of resins and asphaltenes from the carbonate rocks is higher compared to the carbonate–siliceous rock samples. The concentrations of Fe, Cu, As, Se, Pb, and Bi in kerogens of all the types decrease under the action of SCW. In the transformed resins and asphaltenes from carbonate–siliceous rocks, the V and Ni concentrations appreciably decrease, whereas in kerogens their concentrations do not change noticeably. The demetalation processes lead to the ME redistribution between the OM components and mineral surface of the rocks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extracts and their concentrates can be considered as a source of biologically active ingredients of food products and as food additives to increase the consumption of useful substances of berries. The benefits gained from their use lead to the development of advanced technologies that can allow them to be extracted from the feedstock without significantly compromising the biological activity of the feedstock. In this paper, we studied the content of antioxidants and their activity in concentrated extracts of cranberry (Vaccinium oxycoccus), sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.), blackberry (Rubus fruticosus), guelder rose (Viburnum opulus L.) and mountain ash (Sorbus aucuparia L.) berries. For all extracts, the total content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and anthocyanins, antioxidant activity according to the DPPH method and iron-reducing antioxidant activity (FRAP) were determined. Concentrated extracts of guelder rose contain the largest amount of phenolic compounds (9.3 ± 0.3 mol HA/L) , flavonoids (1.96 ± 0.08 mol K/L) and anthocyanins (0.26 ± 0.02 mol CG/L) among the studied extracts. There is also a high total content of phenolic substances and flavonoids in blackberry and rowan extracts (5.7 mol HA/L, 1.33 mol K/L and 4.7 mol HA/L, 192 mol K/L, respectively). The antioxidant activity of the extract of guelder rose berries showed a directly proportional dependence on the content of biologically active compounds in it: DPPH-method, 2.4 mg/mL; FRAP-method, 39.99 mmol Fe2+/kg. Also, high levels were found in concentrated extracts of blackberries, sea buckthorn and mountain ash. It is the extracts of guelder rose, blackberry and mountain ash that are recommended to be used in the production of food products to enrich them with biologically active substances and give them antioxidant properties. Cranberry and sea buckthorn extracts can be used in combination with other extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hyssopus officinalis L. is one of the most important medicinal plants in traditional medicine used to treat seizures. In this study, we assessed the effects of H. officinalis hydroalcoholic extract against pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-induced seizures in rat. The anti-seizure activity of the extract was assessed in three doses of 25, 50, and 100 mg/kg. Kindling was induced by intraperitoneal injection of PTZ (35 mg/kg) every 48 h, and H. officinalis extract was administered daily and behavioral tests performed. The possible involvement of GABA receptors in the extract activity was investigated using flumazenil. Tonic seizure threshold and mortality rate were measured following intraperitoneal injection of 60 mg/kg PTZ on the 14th day, following 14 days administration of H. officinalis hydroalcoholic extract. Blood and hippocampus samples were prepared to measure brain and serum antioxidant capacity, malondialdehyde (MDA), and nitric oxide (NO). Finally, the expression of GABA receptor gene in brain tissue was investigated. H. officinalis extract increased tonic seizure threshold and decreased mortality due to PTZ. Flumazenil, as a GABA receptor antagonist, reduced the tonic seizure threshold. Extract treatment significantly improved memory and learning, increased brain antioxidant capacity, decreased brain MDA and NO in kindled rats. It also increased GABA receptor gene expression in pre-treated groups compared to the negative control group. H. officinalis extract probably exerts potential antiepileptic effects through the GABAergic system. Also, H. officinalis extract has a supportive effect against hippocampal neuronal damage and improves memory and learning in kindled rats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, in addition to the study of the nutritional composition of mushrooms, the study of biologically active compounds occupies an important place. However, there is a need to find new and lesser known mushrooms species that have biological activity and potential for application in industrial conditions. The aim of this research is to determine the biological activity of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Suillus granulatus wild mushroom through the determination of the content of total carbohydrates, total, α and β-glucans, as bioactive compounds, as well as determination of cytotoxic activity. Total carbohydrate content was determined using spectroscopic method, total, α and β-glucans were analysed using specific kits, and MTT test (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) was used for cytotoxic activity. IR-ATR (infrared spectroscopy - attenuated total reflection) spectra of mushroom extracts were performed, too. Aqueous extracts had a higher content of total carbohydrates as well as glucan and had better cytotoxic activity against HeLa cells, while ethanolic extract of Suillus granulatus was characterized with better cytotoxic activity against HepG2 cells. Based on IR-ATR, the presence of different types of carbohydrates, glucans, proteins, phenols and flavonoids can be observed in aqueous and ethanolic, which is one of the reasons for the differences in their anticancer activity. The analysed extracts are an excellent basis for their further application in various products in order to obtain functional food with enriched biological value. Thus, using natural dietary supplements can significantly affect the positive changes in the health of consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi L.) is a perennial plant of the heather family (Ericaceae). The leaves are dominated by arbutin, phenol carbonic acids flavonoids, saponins, etc. It was previously shown that the bearberry leaves extract reduced blood glucose level in healthy animals under glucose overload, so it need to be studied more detail. The aim of the study was to investigate the chemical composition and the effect of dry alcohol extract from bearberry leaves, which enriched with cysteine, on the rats pancreas under experimental dexamethasone-induced insulin resistance (IR). Arctostaphylos uva-ursi L. leaves extract and its modified cysteine preparation were obtained according to the developed method with 50% ethanol solution. Their phytochemical profile, hypoglycaemic and pancreatic protective effect were investigated. Phenologlycoside (arbutin), phenolic carboxylic acid (gallic acid), 5 flavonoids and 4 hydroxycinnamic acids were identified and quantified in the extracts by HPLC. Present data revealed that bearberry leaves alcoholic dry extract enriched with cysteine has a hypoglycaemic and pancreatic protective effect in treated animals under dexamethasone-induced IR model. Treatment improved hyperglycaemia, insulin resistance and beta cell reduction induced by dexamethasone injections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This investigation tested the in vitro acaricidal activity of essential oils and raw extracts of Juniperus communis and Origanum majorana compared with the synthetic acaricide amitraz against various stage of Hyalomma scupense cattle tick. The hydrodistilation technique was used to extract essential oils, while chemical components in the plants were obtained using solvents of increasing polarity (hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol). The evaluation on H. scupense was performed with the adult immersion test at concentrations ranging from 1.25 to 10 mg/mL and the larval packet test from 0.625 to 10 mg/mL. Qualitative analysis of J. communis essential oil showed α-pinene (52.31%), δ 3-carene (12.77%), β-phellandrene (7.60%), 1,8 cineole (6.95%) and α- terpinenyl acetate (6.58%) as the major chemical components. O. majorana oil was mainly composed of 4-terpineol (23.05%), Cis-Thujan-4-ol (18.30%), δ-terpinene (13.61%), α-terpinene (9.16%) and sabinene (7.96%). In adult immersion test, J. communis essential oil, at 10 mg/mL concentration exhibited strong acaricidal efficacy and reproductive inhibitory effects on treated ticks (100%) than O. majorana oil (91.95%). In larval packet test, J. communis oil had 100% mortality at 10 mg/mL, 24 h of exposure, whereas O. majorana oil had 90.64% mortality of H. scupense larvae. J. communis essential oil showed greater efficacy than all tested extracts and amitraz on both female adults and larvae of H. scupense. Quantitative analysis showed that J. communis methanolic extract had the greatest ability to extract such phenolic compounds, with a total phenol content of 188.17 (mg gallic acid equivalent/g dry weight) and also had the highest acaricidal activity against engorged females and larvae of H. scupense with LC50 values of 2.46 and 4.12 mg/mL, respectively). The results showed that both plants, particularly J. communis considered as potential candidates for biocontrol of H. scupense in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ways to intensify the main extraction processes in multistep production of base oils from petroleum feedstock are considered. These include the use of N-methylpyrrolidone containing 10 wt % triethylene glycol as an extractant in the step of selective treatment of oil distillates; the use of isopropyl alcohol as the base solvent component in the step of low-temperature dewaxing; use of aromatic extracts applied as softeners and plasticizers in rubber industry in the step of extractive treatment to remove carcinogenic compounds; and the use of the microwave electromagnetic field energy for the activation of the extraction feed. Implementation of these approaches allows the yield of the base oil to be increased (by 9.5 wt % in the step of selective treatment and by 2.1 wt % in the step of low-temperature dewaxing) and the product quality to be improved (in the step of selective treatment, the aniline point and the conventional ratio of aromatic structures to paraffin structures decrease; in the step of low-temperature dewaxing, the viscosity–temperature characteristic and the refractive index decrease). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The influence of alginate edible coatings enriched with black cumin (BC) extract was investigated to preserve the quality of guava fruits for 16 days at 11 ± 1 °C and 85 ± 2% relative humidity. The analysis of polyphenolic compounds in BC extract confirmed the TPC (28.43 ± 1.11 mg GAE/g DM) and TFC (4.83 ± 0.17 mg QE/g DM) with strong antioxidant activity (161.69 ± 2.31 µM Trolox/g DM in DPPH and 889.19 ± 36.45 µM Fe (II)/g DM in FRAP assays). The antibacterial activity of BC extract was also proved against Staphylococcus hominis and Escherichia coli with the inhibition zone diameter. The application of alginate coatings enriched with BC extracts suppressed the respiration rate, weight loss, firmness loss, and changes in the skin color of guavas. Fruits treated with alginate coating in a combination of BC extract retarded the ripening index of guavas till the end of the storage period compared to control samples (fruits treated with distilled water). The content of vitamin C, total phenolics, and total flavonoid in fruits treated with BC extract–loaded alginate coating was significantly higher than control, alginate with CaCl2, and alginate itself treatments. The antioxidant and antidiabetic activities in guava fruits coated with BC extract-based alginate coating were also comparatively higher than control and other treatments. The application of alginate coating enriched with BC extract was significantly delayed in total carotenoid formation in guavas since it delayed the ripening of fruits. Moreover, the concentrations of BC extract were worked in a dose-dependent manner in the coating systems in retarding respiration rate, weight loss, firmness loss, and ripening processes. These results proved that BC extract as a novel functional ingredient in alginate coatings was efficient in improving the quality of guava fruit and prolonging its shelf life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, new nanocomposites were fabricated based on NiO, multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT), and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). Next, they were characterized using several techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The presence of MWCNT and SDS can be applied as adsorption sites for Ni (II) ions. These ions oxidize to NiO nanoparticles (NiO NPs) in the presence of Gundelia tournefortii extract. Then, the electrocatalytic responses of carbon paste electrode (CPE) modified with different modifiers (MWCNT/CPE, NiO/CPE, NiO-MWCNT/CPE, and NiO-MWCNT-SDS/CPE) were recorded in the presence of methanol by cyclic voltammetry. NiO NPs exhibit catalytic properties for electrooxidation of methanol and the presence of MWCNT and SDS promotes current density. The results revealed that NiO-MWCNT-SDS/CPE has a high electrocatalytic activity for methanol electrooxidation. The current density of NiO-MWCNT-SDS/CPE for 0.6 M methanol was 82 mA cm−2 in optimal conditions. According to the chronoamperometric technique, the catalytic rate constant between NiO-MWCNT-SDS and methanol was about 2.6 × 103 cm3 mol−1 s−1. In conclusion, this nanocomposite is a simple, cheap, and efficient catalyst for methanol electrooxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twelve ionic liquids were synthesized and used as solvents to extract rose essential oil from rose slag. Tetrabutylammonium bromide propionic acid ionic liquid was selected as the best solvent. Five factors (feed to liquid ratio, extraction temperature, reflux time, stripping agent amount, and repeated extraction times) were considered in the reaction. The results showed that the optimum process conditions were 1:4 mass ratio of material to liquid, the temperature 75 °C, reflux time 4 h, and the amount of stripping agent 100 g; the highest yield of essential oil is 1.6095%. The yield did not show an obvious decline after repeating extraction three times. Comparing the yield, solvent consumption, and extraction time with other organic solvents, using tetrabutylammonium bromide propionic acid ionic liquid can effectively reduce energy and reduce environmental burden, which proves that the technology is sustainable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the major strategic crops in Ethiopia. Average yield is low due to low-yielding varieties, biotic and abiotic constraints. Farmers are concerned with quantity while the malting industries need to ensure quality. There has been a general belief by the industry that two-row barleys are better than the six-row types in terms of quality but farmers are inclined to six-rows for higher yield. Evaluation was performed to identify a variety with desirable yield and quality standards. Single-trait selection for yield or quality traits has so far been the breeders' target with less emphasis on multiple traits' selection. The current research aims to identify a high-yielding variety with acceptable quality based on multiple selection criteria. Analysis of variance showed higher location variance for yield with no interaction effect. Stability analysis exhibited significant interaction effect for malt extract and protein content. Two genotypes MOATA and IBON-HI68 were identified with stable malt extract and protein content. 'MOATA' has been released with a higher mean yield (5.1 t/ha), lower protein (10.2%) and beta glucan (2.5%) contents, higher friability (73%) and malt extract (81.3%) while IBON-HI68 has been maintained as a parent material for future crossing program. MOATA is less susceptible to shoot fly damage (22%), scald and net blotch (44%). Its peculiar compact spike and dropping awns imply quality merits. In conclusion, multiple traits selection index has proved successful in identifying the first six-row malting barley variety in Ethiopia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Open cast mining is well known as a concerning source of environmental and public health problems. This work aimed to obtain a hydroethanolic coal dust extract (≤ 38 µm) and to characterize its composition with particular regard to content of organic compounds by GC/MS, as well as describe its toxicity in vitro on Calu-1 after exposure to several concentrations (0–500 μg/mL). Materials and results: Cytotoxicity was measured with MTT assay and DCFH-DA probe was employed to estimate the amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in Calu-1 cells. RT-PCR was employed to quantify relative expression of genes associated with inflammation, oxidative stress, as well as metals, and lipid metabolism. Seventeen organic compounds were identified in the extract, highlighting undecane, dodecane, pentadecane and benzo[a]anthracene, 6,12-dimethyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-. Cytotoxicity test showed a decrease trend in the cell viability after 24 h hours from the concentration of 62.5 µg/mL. Further, the extract raised intracellular ROS when compared with control. Expression levels of CYP1A1, IL-8, IL-6, MT1X, and NQO1 were up-regulated when cells were exposed to 125 µg/mL of coal dust, whereas PPAR-α was down-regulated, likely involving aryl hydrocarbon receptor regulation. Conclusions: In short, this study shows that despite hydroethanolic coal dust extract is not cytotoxic to Calu-1 cells, it produces an elevation of intracellular ROS and alters the expression in marker genes of oxidative stress, inflammation, metal transport, xenobiotic and lipid metabolism. These findings suggest that chemicals present in coal dust are biologically active and may interfere key biochemical process in the living organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considering the growing environmental concerns about the discharge of saline water coming from desalination systems, the present work is of significant interest. The effect of LEO (Lycium Essential Oils) as green inhibitors of calcium carbonate scale has been investigated in this study. We used conductivity measurements, nanoparticles-doped membranes technologies, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and chronoamperometry techniques. The calcium carbonate scale was deposited from the brine solution by cathodic polarization of the steel surface. The observed anti-scaling property can be partly explained by the presence of plant antioxidants. Antioxidants retarded calcium carbonate precipitation via the formation of a complex with the calcium cations. Without LEO, adherent film formed over the steel surface, under cathodic polarization, by the deposition of the calcium complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for nanoparticles has been increasing rapidly in recent years due to their unique properties of interest for a wide range of applications. Several physical, chemical, or microorganisms-based methods can be employed in the synthesis of nanoparticles. However, classical processes are time-consuming, complicated, and raise environmental concerns due to the use of high energy and toxic chemicals. Synthesis using plant extract outweighs some classical methods because it is rapid, simple, and eco-friendly. Therefore, plant extract appears promising to produce nanoparticles. Here we review the use of extracts from various species and plant parts of Garcinia for the green synthesis of metal nanoparticles. Garcinia gummi-gutta is a tropical species of Garcinia native to Indonesia. Common names include Garcinia cambogia, as well as brindleberry, Malabar tamarind, Goraka, and kudam puli. The fruit looks like a small pumpkin and is green to pale yellow. We present the major metabolites responsible for metal ions reduction and nanoparticles stabilisation, the synthesis mechanism, the types of metal nanoparticles formed, and their potential applications. Advantages and challenges of Garcinia extract utilisation are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]